Tom Brady suffers embarrassing moment live on Fox as NFL legend's mind goes completely blank READ MORE: Terry Bradshaw shocks fans with Kansas City Chiefs prediction By ERIC BLUM Published: 03:44, 30 December 2024 | Updated: 03:49, 30 December 2024 e-mail View comments There are no re-dos on live television, which Tom Brady found out on Sunday afternoon as his mind went completely blank when trying to present a key figure to build up the Vikings-Packers matchup. Heading into the NFC North clash, Green Bay only had four losses, as Brady pointed out. There was a pair of defeats coming at the hands of the Detroit Lions . Also, the Packers lost their season opener in Brazil to the Eagles. And the fourth loss was... exactly when Brady's mind went black. If Brady had looked out of his broadcast booth and out into the US Bank Stadium crowd, he may have figured out the answer. In Week 4, Minnesota defeated Green Bay at Lambeau Field, before Sunday's rematch which yielded the same result. The Packers are now 11-5 and locked into either the No 6 or 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, meaning a road game is coming in the Wild Card round, and if they make it that far, the Divisional round. Tom Brady's mind went completely blank during the lead-in for Vikings-Packers on Sunday Brady is in his first season as Fox's top football color commentator after signing a lucrative deal Tom Brady with a bit of a slip up during the open of Packers-Vikings... pic.twitter.com/kEjp5Yi0Fi — The Comeback NFL (@TheComebackNFL) December 29, 2024 Brady is in his first season as Fox's top football color commentator, signing a lucrative 10-year, $375million contract back in 2022, which was only enacted this season. Read More BREAKING NEWS Watch the insane moment NFL star produces 'one of the best catches ever' with fans left in disbelief Paired with Kevin Burkhardt, Brady typically gets one of the biggest NFL games every week. It was no exception on Sunday, as Brady called the only weekend matchup containing two teams with double-digit wins. Based on which game gets flexed by the NFL into the Sunday night slot could see Brady calling an all-NFC North matchup for a second straight week with the Vikings and Lions set to face in the final week of the regular season. Brady has shown plenty of improvements in the broadcast booth this season. Maybe Sunday can be considered two steps forward, one step back. Green Bay Packers Minnesota Tom Brady Brazil Share or comment on this article: Tom Brady suffers embarrassing moment live on Fox as NFL legend's mind goes completely blank e-mail Add commentServe Robotics Inc. ( NASDAQ:SERV – Get Free Report )’s stock price dropped 7.1% during trading on Friday following insider selling activity. The stock traded as low as $16.01 and last traded at $16.39. Approximately 5,596,455 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 41% from the average daily volume of 9,467,164 shares. The stock had previously closed at $17.64. Specifically, CEO Ali Kashani sold 7,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, December 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.50, for a total value of $123,750.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 3,283,490 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $54,177,585. This represents a 0.23 % decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website . Also, CEO Ali Kashani sold 5,000 shares of Serve Robotics stock in a transaction on Tuesday, December 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $14.55, for a total transaction of $72,750.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 3,290,990 shares in the company, valued at $47,883,904.50. This represents a 0.15 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In other news, CEO Ali Kashani sold 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, December 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $14.70, for a total value of $36,750.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 3,295,990 shares in the company, valued at $48,451,053. This represents a 0.08 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades SERV has been the subject of several analyst reports. Seaport Res Ptn upgraded shares of Serve Robotics to a “strong-buy” rating in a research note on Monday, October 7th. Northland Securities started coverage on Serve Robotics in a research report on Friday, October 18th. They set an “outperform” rating and a $16.00 price target for the company. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH assumed coverage on Serve Robotics in a research report on Monday, October 28th. They issued a “buy” rating and a $16.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Northland Capmk raised Serve Robotics to a “strong-buy” rating in a research report on Friday, October 18th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and three have assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Serve Robotics has a consensus rating of “Strong Buy” and a consensus price target of $16.00. Serve Robotics Stock Down 7.7 % The business’s fifty day moving average is $10.83 and its 200 day moving average is $8.78. Institutional Trading of Serve Robotics Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Yong Rong HK Asset Management Ltd purchased a new stake in Serve Robotics in the 3rd quarter worth about $9,636,000. Thomist Capital Management LP purchased a new position in shares of Serve Robotics in the second quarter worth about $407,000. PFG Investments LLC purchased a new position in shares of Serve Robotics in the second quarter worth about $110,000. Bfsg LLC bought a new stake in shares of Serve Robotics in the third quarter valued at approximately $38,000. Finally, GSA Capital Partners LLP bought a new position in Serve Robotics in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $152,000. Serve Robotics Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Serve Robotics Inc designs, develops, and operates low-emission robots that serve people in public spaces with food delivery in the United States. It builds self-driving delivery robots. The company was formerly known as Patricia Acquisition Corp. and changed its name to Serve Robotics Inc in July 2023. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Serve Robotics Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Serve Robotics and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .

Cheers and beers for Ruud van Nistelrooy as Leicester reign starts with winThe Greens will wave through two Labor housing bills, ending a lengthy stand-off after attempting to pressure the Albanese government to dig deeper for the housing crisis. What we know: The Greens will vote for Labor's Help to Buy scheme, which will allow up to 40,000 first home buyers to co-purchase homes with the government ( ABC ); The minor party will also vote for the Build to Rent legislation, which offers a tax incentive for apartment complexes designed for renters, and commits at least 10% of the dwellings to affordable housing; Greens leader Adam Bandt said: “There comes a point where you’ve pushed as far as you can. We tried hard to get Labor to shift on soaring rents and negative gearing, but we couldn’t get there this time” ( The Conversation ); The Greens had made a final effort to negotiate on the bill to secure more money for social housing, but Labor rebuffed the offer; Housing Minister Clare O’Neil welcomed the shift but said it “did not excuse” the Greens’ lengthy delay; It comes as the Better Renting group sounds the alarm on rental conditions, finding that 59% of renters feared retaliation and failed to report issues with their homes as a result in the last 12 months alone ( SBS ); Meanwhile experts warn that governments are ignoring the role of shrinking households in exacerbating the housing crisis, which are also contributing to social isolation ( The Saturday Paper ). The federal government has responded to the Senate inquiry into missing and murdered First Nations women and children, as the NT coroner hands down a report into the deaths of four Aboriginal women. What we know: Three months after the release of the inquiry, Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy vowed the findings would “inform a range of work currently under way to address the horrific rates of violence against First Nations women and children” ( NIT ); She specified that the inquiry findings would guide the inaugural National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Family Safety Plan to be launched next year ( ABC ); McCarthy also vowed to write to the Australian Press Council on clear guidance for coverage, with the report highlighting “disproportionately little media coverage ... given to missing and murdered First Nations women and children”; She also referenced the $4.4bn announced in September to tackle gender-based violence and other initiatives, including $194m set aside to support the safety of First Nations women and children; At the time the package was met with scepticism by frustrated peak bodies across the sector, who claimed the funding has, in reality, gone backwards ( The Saturday Paper ); Greens senator Dorinda Cox, who established the inquiry, said she was “somewhat disappointed” that the government only addressed two of the 10 recommendations, with no mention of the inquiry’s call to review police practices; Nationally, First Nations women are seven times more likely to be homicide victims than non-Indigenous women, and 33 times more likely to be hospitalised due to family and domestic violence; It comes as NT Coroner Elisabeth Armitage handed down her findings into the inquest of four Aboriginal women who were killed due to domestic violence ( NITV ); Armitage made 35 recommendations, including better funding for frontline services, changes to the way police follow up domestic violence reports and targeted training for police and health workers. The Albanese government is set to establish a new university watchdog to crack down on excessive salaries for vice-chancellors.In the coming days Federal Education Minister Jason Clare will announce a national expert university governance council ( The Australian $). The body will set independent rules for executive ­remuneration, and also crack down on systemic wage theft from academics and lecturers. “It will focus on making sure universities demonstrate and maintain a rigorous and transparent process for developing ­remuneration policies and settings for senior university staff,’’ a spokesperson for Clare said. It follows a report by the National Tertiary Education Union last week that revealed 306 senior academic leaders are paid more than state premiers, amid widespread wage theft issues for lower-level staff. Australian vice-chancellors are among the world’s highest paid, pocketing an average of $1.048m across 37 universities last year. Stolen wages for university staff has risen to $388m, while staff are increasingly employed under tenuous conditions, with casual or fixed-term contracts now the dominant form of employment ( The Saturday Paper ). A Senate inquiry into the Albanese government’s proposed ban on children using social media has been flooded with 15,000 submissions in just one day. Most submissions are reportedly variants of a template response, with Senate inquiries more typically receiving tens or hundreds of submissions ( ABC ). The surge of responses may also be linked to an Elon Musk X post about the bill that was viewed by millions of X users. Musk suggested the bill seemed “like a backdoor way to control access to the internet by all Australians”. His company made a formal submission claiming the bill would have a negative impact on the rights of children and breaches international human rights treaties ( The Guardian ). Other respondents included Google, who urged that the legislation should be delayed until the government’s trial of age-assurance technology is completed. Facebook owner Meta backed Google’s call for a delay, warning the bill would be “inconsistent and ineffective” without more consultation, as the government rushes to pass the legislation this week before parliament rises for the year. Internal analysis by the Reserve Bank of Australia has found that Donald Trump’s plan for an “extreme” trade war between the US and China would drive down Australian share prices and push the dollar lower. The research, released under freedom of information laws, found that Chinese economic growth would slow due to the sharp rise in tariffs, in turn delivering “relatively strong negative implications for Australia given the strength of export trade links” ( AFR $). “In the extreme scenario, weaker export demand, and slower growth would be disinflationary, putting downward pressure on policy rate expectations, government bond yields and the Australian dollar,” the RBA analysis said. It comes as Trump’s victory emboldens Gina Rinehart in her plan to cultivate a right-wing network with sympathy for her own political objectives ( The Saturday Paper ). NSW Police Minister Yasmin Catley criticises kayakers who blockaded coal ships at the Port of Newcastle over the weekend. As it happens, “all over red rover” is also the official climate forecast if those coal ships keep hauling for many years longer ( ABC ). The machine resembles a jet fighter (or a massive helmet), with a transparent canopy that opens from the back. Once you settle into the central seat, sensors monitor your vitals to ensure the perfect wash temperature. There's even an AI system that analyses if you're feeling calm or excited, then projects custom visuals on the inside of the transparent cover to help the person feel refreshed. The whole wash and dry process takes 15 minutes ( Techspot ).Will the "Fateful Eight" Stocks Outperform the "Magnificent Seven" in 2025?

By WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS NEW YORK (AP) — Sneaking a little ahead of line to get on that plane faster? American Airlines might stop you . In an apparent effort to reduce the headaches caused by airport line cutting, American has rolled out boarding technology that alerts gate agents with an audible sound if a passenger tries to scan a ticket ahead of their assigned group. This new software won’t accept a boarding pass before the group it’s assigned to is called, so customers who get to the gate prematurely will be asked to go back and wait their turn. As of Wednesday, the airline announced, the technology is now being used in more than 100 U.S. airports that American flies out of. The official expansion arrives after successful tests in three of these locations — Albuquerque International Sunport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Tucson International Airport. The initial response from customers and American employees “has exceeded our expectations,” Julie Rath, American’s senior vice president of airport operations, reservations and service recovery, said in a statement. She added that the airline is “thrilled” to have the technology up and running ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday . American got lots of attention when it unveiled its gate-control testing last month. Analysts say that isn’t surprising. It’s no secret that line cutting in airports hits a nerve. Whether intentional or not, just about every air traveler has witnessed it, noted Henry Harteveldt, an airline industry analyst with Atmosphere Research Group. It can add to frustrations in what can already be a tense environment, with particular anxiety around passengers wanting to sit together or rushing for some overhead bin space. Harteveldt doesn’t see American’s recent move as “shaming” customers who cut the line. “What it is intended to do is bring order out of chaos,” he said. “And I hope it will defuse any potential flare ups of anger (from) people who simply think they’re entitled to board out of turn .... It’s just not fair.” Harteveldt added that he thinks this change will enhance the experiences of both customers and gate agents. Others say more time will tell. Seth Miller, editor and founder of air travel experience analysis site PaxEx.aero, said he can see the benefits of more orderly and universal gate-control enforcement, particularly for airlines. But he said he isn’t “100% convinced this is perfect for passengers” just yet. Families, for example, might be booked on several different reservations across more than one group, he said. Airlines typically have workarounds for that, and American noted Wednesday that customers traveling with a companion in an earlier group can simply have a gate agent “override the alert” to continue boarding. Still, Miller said, “you have to go through the extra hoops.” And a difficult customer still might choose to hold up the line and argue when they’re not allowed to board, he added. Related Articles National News | A Mexican cartel leader arrested in the US faked his death and assumed a phony name, prosecutors say National News | Major storm drops record rain, downs trees in Northern California after devastation further north National News | SEC Chair Gary Gensler, who led US crackdown on cryptocurrencies, to step down National News | ACLU sues government for records detailing Trump’s mass deportation plan National News | Jussie Smollett’s conviction in 2019 attack on himself is overturned Another question is whether customers who encounter a beep will walk away feeling embarrassed. But Harteveldt said he was happy to learn that American’s alert is “not a bellowing sound that can be heard throughout the terminal,” or accompanied by your name read over a loudspeaker, noting that this is important to avoid feelings of shame. Expanding this technology just a week before peak Thanksgiving travel could be “both good and bad,” Harteveldt adds. On one hand, the tech could help significantly improve the boarding process during such a busy time, he said, but airport employees might also have appreciated more time to prepare. Both Miller and Harteveldt said they wouldn’t be surprised if other carriers soon follow American’s lead. Headaches over airport line cutting are far from new. While maybe not to the extent of American’s new tech, Miller noted he’s seen gate agents from other airlines ask people to leave a line and wait for their group. Harteveldt added that he’s been to some airports in Asia and Europe with “sliding doors” that ensure passengers are in the right group before boarding a plane. The more than 100 airports that American is now using its gate-control technology in are all spoke, or non-hub, locations — including Austin-Bergstrom International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The airline says it expects to further expand to its hubs and other airports in the coming months.The Latest: Former President Jimmy Carter is Dead at age 100WEST POINT, N.Y. (AP) — Jalen Rucker's 27 points helped Army defeat UTSA 78-75 on Sunday night. Rucker added six rebounds for the Black Knights (6-6). Ryan Curry scored 15 points while shooting 4 for 9 (3 for 8 from 3-point range) and 4 of 5 from the free-throw line and added five assists. AJ Allenspach shot 4 of 4 from the field and 4 for 5 from the foul line to finish with 12 points, while adding eight rebounds. The Roadrunners (6-6) were led by Amir "Primo" Spears, who recorded 22 points and nine rebounds. Tai'Reon Joseph added 16 points and two steals for UTSA. Raekwon Horton finished with 15 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Army went into halftime ahead of UTSA 39-35. Rucker scored 11 points in the half. Rucker scored 16 points down the stretch in the second half to help lead Army to a three-point victory. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .

A judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women’s volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * A judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women’s volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? A judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women’s volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. Monday’s ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews in Denver will allow the player, who has played all season, to continue competing in the Mountain West Conference women’s championship scheduled for later this week in Las Vegas. The ruling comes after a lawsuit was filed by nine current players who are suing the Mountain West Conference to challenge the league’s policies for allowing transgender players to participate. The players argued that letting her compete was a safety risk and unfair. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans women’s volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player’s name because she has not publicly commented on her gender identity. School officials also have declined an interview request with the player. Judge Crews referred to the athlete as an “alleged transgender” player in his ruling and noted that no defendant disputed that San Jose State rosters a transgender woman volleyball player. He said the players who filed the complaint could have sought relief much earlier, noting that the individual universities had acknowledged that not playing their games against San Jose State this season would result in a forfeit in league standings. He also said injunctions are meant to preserve the status quo. The conference policy regarding forfeiting for refusing to play against a team with a transgender player had been in effect since 2022 and the San Jose State player has been on the roster since 2022 – making that the status quo. The player competed at the college level three previous seasons, including two for San Jose State, drawing little attention. This season’s awareness of her identity led to an uproar among some players, pundits, parents and politicians in a political campaign year. The tournament starts Wednesday and continues Friday and Saturday. San Jose State is seeded second. The judge’s order maintains the seedings and pairings for the tournament. 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. Several teams refused to play against San Jose State during the season, earning losses in the official standings. Boise State and Wyoming each had two forfeits while Utah State and Nevada both had one. Southern Utah, a member of the Western Athletic Conference, was first to cancel against San Jose State this year. Nevada’s players stated they “refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes,” without providing further details. Crews served as a magistrate judge in Colorado’s U.S. District Court for more than five years before President Joe Biden appointed him to serve as a federal judge in January of this year. ____ Gruver reported from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and Hanson from Helena, Montana. Advertisement AdvertisementThe King and the Prime Minister have paid tribute to Jimmy Carter following the former US president’s death on Sunday aged 100. In a message to the American people, the King expressed “great sadness” at the news of Mr Carter’s death, describing him as “a committed public servant” who “devoted his life to promoting peace and human rights”. He added: “His dedication and humility served as an inspiration to many, and I remember with great fondness his visit to the United Kingdom in 1977. “My thoughts and prayers are with President Carter’s family and the American people at this time.” Mr Carter, a former peanut farmer, served one term in the White House between 1977 and 1981 and spent his post-presidency years as a global humanitarian, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Carter had “lived his values in the service of others to the very end” through “decades of selfless public service”. Praising a “lifelong dedication to peace” that saw him win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, Sir Keir added: “Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad.” Tributes to Mr Carter followed the announcement of his death by his family on Sunday, more than a year after he decided to enter hospice care. His son, Chip Carter, said: “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.” Very sorry to hear of President Carter’s passing. I pay tribute to his decades of selfless public service. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. pic.twitter.com/IaKmZcteb1 — Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) December 29, 2024 US President Joe Biden, one of the first elected politicians to endorse Mr Carter’s bid for the presidency in 1976, said the world had “lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian”. He said: “Over six decades, we had the honour of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what’s extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well. “With his compassion and moral clarity, he worked to eradicate disease, forge peace, advance civil rights and human rights, promote free and fair elections, house the homeless, and always advocate for the least among us.” Vice President Kamala Harris said Mr Carter “reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion”. “His life and legacy continue to inspire me — and will inspire generations to come,” she said. “Our world is a better place because of President Carter.” Other UK politicians also paid tribute to Mr Carter. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said he was “an inspiration” who “led a truly remarkable life dedicated to public service with a genuine care for people”. Scottish First Minister John Swinney described the former president as “a good, decent, honest man who strove for peace in all that he did”, while Welsh First Minister said he was “a remarkable man” and “a humanitarian and scholar”. Former prime minister Sir Tony Blair said Mr Carter’s “life was a testament to public service”. He added: “I always had the greatest respect for him, his spirit and his dedication. He fundamentally cared and consistently toiled to help those in need.” Gordon Brown, another former prime minister, said it was a “privilege” to have known Mr Carter, who “will be mourned, not just in America, but in every continent where human rights are valued”. Mr Carter is expected to receive a state funeral featuring public observances in Atlanta, Georgia, and Washington DC before being buried in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. A moderate democrat born in Plains in October 1924, Mr Carter’s political career took him from the Georgia state senate to the state governorship and, finally, the White House, where he took office as 39th president in the wake of the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War. His presidency saw economic disruption amid volatile oil prices, along with social tensions at home and challenges abroad including the Iranian revolution that sparked a 444-day hostage crisis at the US embassy in Tehran. But he also brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, which led to a peace treaty between the two countries in 1979. After his defeat in the 1980 presidential election, he worked more than four decades leading The Carter Centre, which he and his late wife Rosalynn co-founded in 1982 to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope”. Under his leadership, the Carter Center virtually eliminated Guinea Worm disease, which has gone from affecting 3.5 million people in Africa and Asia in 1986 to just 14 in 2023. Mrs Carter, who died last year aged 96, had played a more active role in her husband’s presidency than previous first ladies, with Mr Carter saying she had been “my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished”. Earlier this year, on his 100th birthday, Mr Carter received a private congratulatory message from the King, expressing admiration for his life of public serviceANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Vladislov Goldin and Nimari Burnett scored 17 points apiece and Tre Donaldson and Danny Wolf posted double-doubles to lead Michigan to a 112-64 romp over Western Kentucky on Sunday night, snapping a six-game win streak for the Hilltoppers. Goldin made 7 of 8 shots with two 3-pointers and 1 of 2 free throws for the Wolverines (10-3), whose three losses this season have been by a combined five points. Burnett did most of his damage on 5-for-7 shooting from 3-point range. Donaldson totaled 12 points and 11 rebounds for his first career double-double, while Wolf finished with 12 points and 10 boards for his sixth of the season. Sam Walters scored 13 off the bench for Michigan and Roddy Gayle Jr. pitched in with 11 points and four assists. Don McHenry sank three 3-pointers and scored 18 to lead Western Kentucky (9-4). Julius Thedford scored 11 on 3-for-16 shooting. Enoch Kalambay added 10 points. Gayle and Goldin both had 11 points to guide Michigan to a 59-31 advantage at halftime. The Wolverines shot 57.6% from the floor and made 11 of 21 from 3-point range in posting their highest scoring half of the season. The Wolverines topped the century mark on 3-pointer by Danny Wolf with 6:05 remaining for a 102-52 lead. It was the first time the two teams squared off in 17 years. Michigan has won 4 of 6 all time against the Hilltoppers. Michigan travels to play Southern California on Saturday in a Big Ten Conference matchup. Western Kentucky travels to play Liberty on Thursday in a Conference USA opener. ____ Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up . AP college basketball: and The Associated PressRAY MASSEY: It's time to consult my trusty crystal ball for 2025's motoring predictions

The Centre for Ageing Better said data analysed on its behalf suggested more than a fifth of people in this age group are living in a poor-quality home that could be making their existing health condition worse. It said people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, those living in London and those who have a serious health condition or disability are more likely to be affected. Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing covering 2022/23 was analysed by the National Centre for Social Research on behalf of the charity. It found an estimated 4.5 million people aged 50 or older in England with a health condition aggravated by the cold are living in a home with one or more serious problems. Some 2.8 million were aged between 50 and 70, while 1.7 million were aged 70 and older. Health conditions included respiratory diseases, congestive heart failure, heart disease and lung conditions, including asthma. Housing problems identified in the research included damp, water leaks, bad condensation, electrical or plumbing problems, rot and decay. While some 2.2 million people over 50 with health and housing problems owned their home outright, the biggest proportion of people (51%) with such issues lived in rented accommodation. The charity said older renters with a health condition were up to three times more likely to have five or more issues with their home than someone in the same age group who owns their home. Those with a health condition that can be affected by poor housing who had a significant issue in their homes were most likely to live in London (52%) followed by the North East (35%) and the North West (35%), the West Midlands and the East of England (both on 28%), and the South West (27%). Almost half (46%) of people aged 50 and above from black and minority ethnic backgrounds with one of the health conditions had at least one problem with their home, which the charity said amounted to almost 500,000 people. Among white people in this age group it was just under one in three (32%). The research also suggested people from black and minority ethnic backgrounds living with a health condition were also more than twice as likely to have five or more issues with their housing compared with their white counterparts – 15% compared with 6%. Dr Carole Easton, the charity’s chief executive, said not only does the research show the difficulties faced by those living in poor housing, but it is also “very bad news” for both the economy and the NHS. She said: “Our latest research shows that our poor-quality housing crisis is putting people with health conditions in their 50s, 60s and beyond, in harm’s way. “This is obviously terrible for those individuals who live in homes that carry a very real risk of making them sick, particularly when winter comes around. “But it is also very bad news for the country. Older workers living in homes that are making their health conditions worse are going to be less likely to be able to work and help grow the economy. “Older people whose serious health conditions are made worse by their homes will require treatment, putting additional winter pressures on our health system. “All could be averted if we tackled poor-quality housing with the urgency and priority it demands.” Holly Holder, deputy director for homes at the charity, said the Government must “fix this hidden housing crisis by delivering a national strategy to tackle poor quality housing across all tenures and committing to halving the number of non-decent homes over the next decade”. She added: “No-one should have to live in a home that damages their health, yet it is the norm for far too many people in England today. “By failing to address poor-quality homes we are limiting the lives of some of the country’s poorest and most vulnerable people. “Our new analysis shows that the combination of health and house problems are most likely to impact groups of people who are already disadvantaged by multiple health and wealth inequalities.” A Government spokesperson said: “Despite the challenging inheritance faced by this Government, through our Plan for Change we’re taking action to improve housing conditions across all tenures and ensure homes are decent, safe and warm – especially for the most vulnerable. “We’re consulting on reforms to the Decent Homes Standard next year to improve the quality of social and privately rented housing, and introducing Awaab’s Law to both sectors to tackle damp, dangerous and cold conditions for all renters in England. “Our warm homes plan will also help people find ways to save money on energy bills and deliver cleaner heating, with up to 300,000 households to benefit from upgrades next year.”

Cutting in line? American Airlines’ new boarding tech might stop you at now over 100 airports

President Joe Biden mourns Jimmy Carters death, orders official state funeral to honor himArticle content Every year, we compile a list of the most impactful food stories to highlight the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping Canada’s agri-food sector. From policy changes and economic pressures to technological advancements and consumer-driven shifts, these stories reflect the complexities of our food system and its broader societal implications. 2024 was no exception, offering a mix of triumphs and setbacks that defined the year for farmers, consumers, and businesses. As always, this list aims to provide a balanced perspective on the events that mattered most in the agri-food world, helping us understand where we’ve been and are headed. Enjoy! 10. The Loblaw boycott that wasn’t We were uncertain about including this story on the list since it never truly materialized. Despite significant online momentum, particularly on Reddit, the boycott, which initially targeted Canadian grocers like Loblaw, Sobeys, and Metro — while excluding American giants such as Walmart and Costco — failed to gain traction. Initially declared as a one-month protest starting May 1, it was later announced as indefinite. However, the boycott’s impact was negligible, as reflected in Loblaw’s shares soaring to $195—a remarkable 27% increase since the campaign’s launch. While the financial outcome left Loblaw unscathed, the campaign sparked important discussions around “greedflation,” corporate ethics, and the public image of Canada’s major grocers. The controversy exposed a critical gap in consumer confidence and intensified calls for greater transparency in pricing and competition practices. Addressing these issues will be essential for rebuilding trust and fostering a more equitable and competitive grocery landscape in the future. Recommended video 9. Capital gains tax changes impacting farmers The June 25 increase in the capital gains inclusion rate for profits exceeding $250,000 has alarmed the agricultural sector. Farmers, often asset-rich but cash-poor, face a 30% tax hike on average, according to the Grain Growers of Canada. With Canada already losing 700–1,000 farms annually, these changes exacerbate generational succession challenges and accelerate industry consolidation. Although the lifetime capital gains exemption has increased to $1.25 million, the higher tax rate disproportionately affects family-owned farms, posing a threat to the future of Canadian agriculture. 8. Endorsement of Grocer Code of Conduct by the “Big Five” The endorsement of the Grocer Code of Conduct by Canada’s largest grocers marked a milestone in addressing power imbalances between retailers and suppliers. By fostering fairer negotiations and reducing price volatility, the code is expected to enhance transparency and stabilize the food supply chain. However, questions remain about enforcement, and grocers must demonstrate their commitment to rebuilding consumer trust through fair practices. 7. Rise of GLP-1 drugs Like Ozempic The rise of GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, marks a transformative moment in the pharmaceutical and health sectors, with the potential to impact millions worldwide. Initially developed for managing Type 2 diabetes, these drugs have gained widespread recognition for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss by suppressing appetite and slowing digestion. With global obesity rates continuing to rise, medications like Ozempic are being touted as game-changers, with experts predicting widespread adoption in the coming years. A pivotal moment in this shift occurred in February when Oprah Winfrey stepped down from the board of Weight Watchers, signalling a potential decline in traditional weight-loss programs as pharmaceutical solutions gain traction. While these drugs offer significant benefits, including improved metabolic health and reduced risks of obesity-related diseases, they also raise critical concerns. Affordability, long-term safety, and equitable access remain pressing issues. Additionally, the growing demand prompts questions about their impact on health-care systems and evolving societal attitudes toward weight loss and wellness. 6. The GST holiday and taxes on food debate Ottawa’s temporary GST/HST holiday on food and restaurant items sparked significant debate. While consumers will see minimal savings — roughly $5 at grocery stores — restaurants will benefit more, with families saving $60–$90. However, the logistical burden on retailers and regional disparities in tax rates and the possibility of opportunity pricing drew criticism. A permanent removal of GST on food would have been a more effective solution, fostering affordability without the instability of short-term policies. 5. Record food recalls and safety alerts Food recalls reached their fourth-highest level in 2024, driven by high-profile incidents involving cucumbers, bakery products, and plant-based beverages like Silk and Great Value brands. Tragically, these recalls were linked to three fatalities, emphasizing the importance of robust safety measures. This story sheds light on the ongoing challenges of managing food safety in complex supply chains, calling for stronger oversight and transparency in the agri-food industry. 4. Railway, grain, and port disruptions Labour disputes in Canada’s logistics sector disrupted the nation’s food supply chain in 2024, damaging its international reputation. With railways, ports, and other infrastructure under constant strain, these disruptions highlighted the critical importance of safeguarding the backbone of the Canadian economy. While protecting workers’ rights is vital, striking a balance to ensure uninterrupted supply chains is equally necessary. The year underscored the need for proactive labour policies to avoid holding the economy — and the food system — hostage. 3. Potential Tariffs with the Return of Donald Trump The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency reignited fears of economic disruption, particularly in Canada’s agri-food sector, which sends 60% of its agri-food exports — $40 billion worth — south of the border. Proposed tariffs of up to 25% would devastate Canadian producers, already grappling with slim margins and the carbon tax. Ottawa faced mounting pressure to develop a long-term strategy to mitigate these risks and strengthen the agri-food sector’s competitiveness in an increasingly protectionist global landscape. 2. Carbon tax debate on food prices Carbon pricing remains a divisive issue in 2024, with peer-reviewed studies confirming that the policy increases production and transport costs, ultimately eroding the competitiveness of Canadian food systems. While grocers often mitigate impacts by importing cheaper goods, this approach masks the structural weaknesses created by rising operational costs. As such, studies looking at the impact of carbon pricing on food prices are generally flawed. Critics argue that many studies dismissing the tax’s effect on food prices are influenced by funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada, raising questions of bias. Policymakers must look beyond retail price fluctuations to understand the long-term implications of carbon pricing on Canada’s agri-food sector and food security. 1. Record number of visits to food banks In 2024, the HungerCount report revealed a record-breaking number of visits to food banks, alongside Canada’s food insecurity rate reaching an unprecedented 22.9%. These figures highlight a growing affordability crisis, driven by soaring food prices, stagnant wages, and broader inflationary pressures. While some have pointed fingers at immigration, such narratives overlook the complex economic dynamics at play and the humanity at the heart of this issue. Food banks, stretched beyond capacity, are emblematic of a broader social crisis. This story underscores the urgent need for robust social safety nets and policies that prioritize affordability and inclusivity. Honourable mentions: — Upcoming approval of cloned meat in Canada: Health Canada’s consideration of cloned meat approval has sparked heated debate. While advocates point to potential benefits like enhanced livestock genetics and improved food security, critics highlight concerns about transparency, ethical implications, and biodiversity. Without mandatory labelling, consumers are left in the dark about what’s on their plates, intensifying the call for stricter regulations and open communication. — Approval of methane-reducing feed for cattle and dairy: Bovaer, a feed additive approved in February, has the potential to significantly reduce methane emissions from cattle, offering an innovative solution for sustainable farming. However, its adoption remains limited, with no clear government communication or labelling guidelines. The lack of transparency echoes past controversies like Buttergate, leaving consumers uninformed about its broader implications. — Bill C-282 to protect supply management during trade deals: The advancement of Bill C-282, aimed at protecting supply management in future trade agreements, stands as one of the year’s most significant food policy developments. The bill seeks to safeguard Canada’s dairy, poultry, and egg sectors from trade concessions, ensuring industry stability and maintaining predictable prices for consumers. However, its progress has stalled in the Senate, casting doubt on whether it will pass before a new U.S. administration, potentially less favourable to Canada’s supply management system, takes office in January. Critics argue that the legislation could restrict Canada’s flexibility in broader trade negotiations. Nevertheless, supporters view it as essential for preserving food sovereignty and protecting Canadian farmers from an increasingly unpredictable global market. — Bill C-293: Canada’s “Vegan Act:” Originally focused on pandemic preparedness, Bill C-293 has sparked controversy for promoting alternative proteins and de-risking animal protein production. Proponents argue the bill aligns with sustainability goals and food innovation, while critics fear it marginalizes traditional farming. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between progressive food policies and the preservation of Canada’s agricultural heritage. — Ottawa’s tightening of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program: While changes to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program aimed to prioritize domestic hiring, they have exacerbated labour shortages in agriculture and food processing. While the policy seeks to address labour exploitation, it risks destabilizing sectors heavily reliant on foreign workers, calling for a more balanced approach to ensure workforce stability. Happy Holidays! — Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is the director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University and co-host of The Food Professor Podcast.

Stop bullying, misinformation targeting womenIF Walls Could Talk - Christmas in Limerick has always been specialThe Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) saw a decline of 21.12 points (0.80%) on Sunday, closing at 2,609.58 points. The Sensitive Index, which tracks the performance of class 'A' stocks, also dropped by 0.54%, while the Float Index, which measures the performance of actively traded shares, posted a decline of 0.80%. The daily turnover reached Rs. 5.47 billion, with a total of 11,099,239 shares traded across 316 scrips in 66,774 transactions. Sectoral indices mostly exhibited negative performance. Microfinance (1.12%), Others (0.29%), and Mutual Fund (0.18%) sectors were the only ones to record gains. On the other hand, the Finance sector led the losses with a significant 4.47% drop, followed by Development Banks (-2.65%), Hydropower (-1.73%), and Trading (-1.03%) sectors. Among individual stocks, only 69 advanced, while 172 declined, and two remained unchanged. Mahila Lagubitta Bittiya Sanstha Limited (MLBSL) emerged as the day's top performer with a 10% increase in its share value. Conversely, Support Microfinance Bittiya Sanstha Ltd. (SMB), Narayani Development Bank Limited (NABBC), Saptakoshi Development Bank Ltd. (SAPDBL), Janaki Finance Company Limited (JFL), and Sindhu Bikash Bank Ltd. (SINDU) were the worst performers, each registering a 10% decline. By the end of the trading session, the total market capitalization stood at Rs. 4.328 trillion.

Morang, Dec 29: Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Bidya Bhattarai, has asserted that the federal education act would be brought soon. At a programme 'Education management in federal structure', organized by the Ministry here on Sunday, Minister Bhattarai shared that the federal education act would be introduced soon as it is in the process of discussion at the parliamentarian committee and it would be implemented soon. It was necessary to make laws to reform education sector as it is facing different types of problems, she said, adding there could be improvement in education sector if activities could be carried out in collaboration, coordination and co-existence. Similarly, Chief Minister of Koshi Province, Hikmat Kumar Karki, stressed that three-tier governments should coordinate to carry out activities for the reform of the education sector as education is the first basis of country's development. Stating that federal education act should be brought soon, he laid emphasis that the government should be serious for the reform of the education sector. He stressed the need of merging community schools with each other, adding the government would support to provide vehicles and construct physical infrastructures if more than two community schools are merged with each other. Likewise, Social Development Minister of Koshi Province, Panch Karna Rai, suggested to make school child and technology-friendly to attract students while Education Secretary Dr Dipak Kafle and Chief Secretary of Province, Kedar Nath Sharma, pointed out the coordination among three-tier government for the development of education.(RSS)

Jayden Daniels and the offense stalling have the Commanders on a three-game losing streakBy MICHELLE L. PRICE NEW YORK (AP) — Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the Drug Enforcement Administration, said Tuesday he was withdrawing his name from consideration, becoming the second person selected by the president-elect to bow out quickly after being nominated for a position requiring Senate confirmation. Sheriff Chronister, the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County, Florida, said in a post on X that he was backing away from the opportunity, which he called “the honor of a lifetime.” “Over the past several days, as the gravity of this very important responsibility set in, I’ve concluded that I must respectfully withdraw from consideration,” Chronister wrote. He did not elaborate, and Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. Chronister follows former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz , Trump’s first pick to serve as attorney general, in withdrawing his name for a post in the administration. Gaetz withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer. Trump’s pick of Chronister for the DEA job drew backlash from conservatives, who raised concerns over his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his saying that his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities.” In March 2020, Chronister arrested the pastor of a megachurch who held services with hundreds of people and violated a safer-at-home order in place aimed at limiting the spread of the Covid virus. “Shame on this pastor, their legal staff and the leaders of this staff for forcing us to do our job. That’s not what we wanted to do during a declared state of emergency,” Chronister said at the time. “We are hopeful that this will be a wakeup call.” U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky, was among those airing public complaints, saying Chronister should be “disqualified” for the arrest. Others flagged comments Chronister made in a video about Florida’s immigration laws that he released in 2023 that circulated again online after Trump named him last weekend. Related Articles National Politics | Trump team signs agreement to allow Justice to conduct background checks on nominees, staff National Politics | President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction National Politics | Democrats stick with Schumer as leader, their strategy for countering Trump is far less certain National Politics | Trump vows to block Japanese steelmaker from buying US Steel, pledges tax incentives and tariffs National Politics | Democrats’ outgoing chair says Trump’s win forces party to reassess how it reaches voters In the video, Chronister praised the “rich diversity” of his community and called it “a place where people from all walks of life come together.” He said it was important to note his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities. We do not target individuals based on their immigration status. That’s the authority of federal agencies.” Trump has made a sweeping crackdown on immigration a central focus of his campaign and his aims for his coming administration. Associated Press writer Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida contributed to this report.

World leaders and US politicians reacted to news that former US President Jimmy Carter, who as president brokered peace between Israel and Egypt and later received the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work, has died at age 100 . US president Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden "Today, America and the world lost an extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian. Over six decades, we had the honour of calling Jimmy Carter a dear friend. But, what's extraordinary about Jimmy Carter, though, is that millions of people throughout America and the world who never met him thought of him as a dear friend as well." US vice president Kamala Harris "President Jimmy Carter was guided by a deep and abiding faith in God, in America, and in humanity. Jimmy Carter's life is a testament to the power of service as a Lieutenant in the United States Navy, the 76th Governor of Georgia, and the 39th President of the United States. He reminded our nation and the world that there is strength in decency and compassion." US incoming president Donald Trump "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers." President George W Bush "Laura and I send our heartfelt condolences to Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy, and the entire Carter family. James Earl Carter, Junior, was a man of deeply held convictions. He was loyal to his family, his community, and his country. President Carter dignified the office. And his efforts to leave behind a better world didn't end with the presidency. His work with Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center set an example of service that will inspire Americans for generations." Former US president Bill Clinton and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton "From his commitment to civil rights as a state senator and governor of Georgia; to his efforts as President to protect our natural resources in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, make energy conservation a national priority, return the Panama Canal to Panama, and secure peace between Egypt and Israel at Camp David; to his post-Presidential efforts at the Carter Center supporting honest elections, advancing peace, combating disease, and promoting democracy; to his and Rosalynn's devotion and hard work at Habitat for Humanity, he worked tirelessly for a better, fairer world." Egypt president Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi "In this moment of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of former American President Jimmy Carter, as well as to the President and the people of the United States of America. His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history, and his humanitarian work exemplifies a lofty standard of love, peace, and brotherhood. His enduring legacy ensures that he will be remembered as one of the world's most prominent leaders in service to humanity." US secretary of state Antony Blinken "Throughout decades of public service, President Carter embodied integrity, compassion, and a commitment to advancing the freedom, security, and welfare of others. He channelled that spirit in his foreign policy, from negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to its host nation, to developing arms control agreements with the Soviet Union. And he brought it to his every exchange and conversation, from heads of state to ordinary citizens. President Carter also showed us what can be achieved through tireless and principled diplomacy, mediating a landmark deal with Israel and Egypt that helped forge peace between two nations that had spent decades at war. His efforts are an important reminder of what's possible, especially amidst renewed conflict and suffering in the region." Canada prime minister Justin Trudeau "Jimmy Carter's legacy is one of compassion, kindness, empathy, and hard work. He served others both at home and around the world his entire life and he loved doing it. He was always thoughtful and generous with his advice to me. My deepest condolences to the Carter family, his many loved ones, and the American people who are mourning a former President and a lifelong humanitarian. May his selfless service continue to inspire us all for years to come." Panama president Jose Raul Mulino "I offer my condolences to the family and to the people and Government of the United States on the death of former President Jimmy Carter. His stint in the White House was marked by difficult times, and were crucial for Panama in negotiating and signing the Torrijos-Carter Treaties in 1977, which transferred the (Panama) Canal into Panamanian hands and made our country truly sovereign. May his soul rest in peace." Venezuelan government of president Nicolas Maduro "The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela regrets the death of former President of the United States of America, Jimmy Carter, and extends its most sincere condolences to his family and friends. Former President Carter was a man of proven commitment to peace and dialogue. His contributions to global politics and his dedication to peace have left an indelible mark on the world." French president Emmanuel Macron "Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has been a steadfast advocate for the rights of the most vulnerable and has tirelessly fought for peace. France sends its heartfelt thoughts to his family and to the American people." Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese "President Carter rose from humble beginnings to leave a remarkable legacy. Beyond being elected to the Presidency or being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Jimmy Carter's legacy is best measured in lives changed, saved and uplifted." Incoming US vice president JD Vance "Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to serving this country. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones. May he Rest in Peace." US senate majority leader Chuck Schumer "Today, we mourn the loss of one of our most humble and devoted public servants, President Jimmy Carter. President Carter personified the true meaning of leadership through service, through compassion, and through integrity. From his legacy as President, to his dedication to improving human rights across the globe, and his tireless efforts alongside his wife Rosalynn, in building a better world through Habitat for Humanity, he inspired millions with his unwavering commitment to justice and equality." British prime minister Keir Starmer "I was very sorry to hear of President Carter's passing and I would like to pay tribute to his decades of selfless public service. His presidency will be remembered for the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, and it was that lifelong dedication to peace that saw him receive the Nobel Peace prize. Motivated by his strong faith and values, President Carter redefined the post-presidency with a remarkable commitment to social justice and human rights at home and abroad." US senator Mitch McConnell "Elaine and I join the Senate and the nation in mourning the passing of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter. President Carter served during times of tension and uncertainty, both at home and abroad. But his calm spirit and deep faith seemed unshakeable. Jimmy Carter served as our commander-in-chief for four years, but he served as the beloved, unassuming Sunday school teacher at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia for forty. And his humble devotion leaves us little doubt which of those two important roles he prized the most." US house speaker Mike Johnson "Today, the thoughts of Americans and the prayers of Congress are lifted up on behalf of the Carter family. President Carter's story was one of humble beginnings, and his life is a testament to the boundless opportunities available in this great nation. Because of his work in brokering the Camp David Accords and his advocacy with Habitat for Humanity, the world is a more peaceful place, and more Americans have a place to call home. No one can deny that President Carter led an extraordinary life of service to his country. May he rest in peace." US senator Mark Warner "President Carter will be remembered by what he built and left behind for us a model of service late into life, a tireless devotion to family and philanthropy, and a more peaceful world to call home." US senate majority whip Dick Durbin "Jimmy Carter proved that excellence in public service can extend beyond the White House. His life was an inspiration to those of us who aspire to lead a life of service." -ReutersKing and PM honour former US president Jimmy Carter after his death aged 100

Last 2 defendants in Atlanta's Young Thug trial are acquitted of murder and gang chargesFRANKFURT, Germany — German business confidence fell more than expected in November, a key survey showed Monday, amid political uncertainty following the collapse of the country's coalition government and Donald Trump's US election win. The Ifo institute's confidence barometer, based on a survey of around 9,000 companies in Europe's struggling top economy, slipped 0.8 points to 85.7 points. Analysts surveyed by financial data firm FactSet had forecast a more modest fall, to 86.0. The survey comes as Germany heads for new polls in February following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition, and with businesses facing the threat of higher tariffs on exports to the key US market once Trump returns as president. Philipp Scheuermeyer, economist at public lender KfW, said it was "no wonder" that the index had fallen. "Donald Trump's election victory is likely to create new headwinds for the already hard-hit German export industry," he said. "There is also the threat of a prolonged period until a new government is formed, during which German politics will hardly be able to react, let alone provide any stimulus." The index had ticked up for the first time in months in October, in a rare piece of good news for the German economy, which has been battling a manufacturing slowdown and weak demand for a prolonged period. November's fall was driven by a significant drop in businesses' assessment of the current economic environment while their expectations about the months ahead also fell, although less markedly. Companies in the crucial manufacturing sector were more pessimistic about the months ahead although they viewed their current business situation as slightly better, it said. The picture in both the service sector and construction industry worsened significantly, according to the survey. In the area of trade the index ticked up, although Ifo president Clemens Fuest stressed that "sentiment among companies is still a long way off from being positive". Germany was the only major advanced economy to shrink in 2023 and is on course to contract again this year. Last week data showed the economy expanded just 0.1 per cent in the third quarter, and only narrowly dodged a recession.

By LARRY NEUMEISTER NEW YORK (AP) — The founder and former CEO of the failed cryptocurrency lending platform Celsius Network could face decades in prison after pleading guilty Tuesday to federal fraud charges, admitting that he misled customers about the business. Alexander Mashinsky , 58, of Manhattan, entered the plea in New York federal court to commodities and securities fraud. He admitted illegally manipulating the price of Celsius’s proprietary crypto token while secretly selling his own tokens at inflated prices to pocket about $48 million before Celsius collapsed into bankruptcy in 2022. In court, he admitted that in 2021 he publicly suggested there was regulatory consent for the company’s moves because he knew that customers “would find false comfort” with that. And he said that in 2019, he was selling the crypto tokens even though he told the public that he was not. He said he knew customers would draw false comfort from that too. “I accept full responsibility for my actions,” Mashinsky said of crimes that stretched from 2018 to 2022 as the company pitched itself to customers as a modern-day bank where they could safely deposit crypto assets and earn interest. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a release that Mashinsky “orchestrated one of the biggest frauds in the crypto industry” as his company’s assets purportedly grew to about $25 billion at its peak, making it one of the largest crypto platforms in the world. He said Mashinsky used catchy slogans like “Unbank Yourself” to entice prospective customers with a pledge that their money would be as safe in crypto accounts as money would be in a bank. Meanwhile, prosecutors said, Mashinsky and co-conspirators used customer deposits to fund market purchases of the Celsius token to prop up its value. Machinsky made tens of millions of dollars selling his own CEL tokens at artificially high prices, leaving his customers “holding the bag when the company went bankrupt,” Williams said. An indictment alleged that Mashinsky promoted Celsius through media interviews, his social media accounts and Celsius’ website, along with a weekly “Ask Mashinsky Anything” session broadcast that was posted to Celsius’ website and a YouTube channel. Celsius employees from multiple departments who noticed false and misleading statements in the sessions warned Mashinsky, but they were ignored, the indictment said. A plea agreement Mashinsky made with prosecutors calls for him to be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison and to forfeit over $48 million, which is the amount of money he allegedly made by selling his company’s token. Sentencing was scheduled for April 8.Chrissy Teigen took to Instagram to honour her husband, John Legend, on his 46th birthday with a heartfelt tribute. The model and cookbook author gushed about the All of Me singer. She called him the “soul of our home” in a post filled with love and admiration. JOHN LEGEND IN LONDON Teigen shared a photo of Legend sitting at London’s Bubble Planet Experience, according to The Argus. “To our everything, the soul of our home (I’m the heart), we love you so much,” she wrote. “Happy 46th birthday. You spent it taking the kids to the bubble experience in London at 8am. Now we are heading to The Devil Wears Prada musical because you’re up for any kind of date night you can get, ever.” She ended her message with: “I love you so much, we love you so much. Happy birthday.” JOHN LEGEND AND FAMILY TIME The couple marked the occasion with a night out at London’s Dominion Theatre to see The Devil Wears Prada , according to the Bolton News. Teigen shared a glimpse of their evening on Instagram Stories, showing off their excellent view of the stage. Legend and Teigen share four children—Luna (8), Miles (6), Esti (23 months), and Wren (18 months). They have been enjoying a festive family holiday in London. THE FESTIVE SEASON Just days before, they celebrated Christmas in style, with Teigen sharing adorable photos of their brood on Instagram, according to People. “Christmas morning in London! Merry Christmas, guys. We love you so much,” Teigen wrote. She then posted a picture of the family gathered around a beautifully decorated tree. Legend sported a cheerful festive jumper, while the kids donned matching plaid pyjamas. Another photo captured a closer look at the family’s stockings, stuffed with goodies and hanging along a cosy fireplace. BALANCING, WORK, FAMILY, AND FUN Legend shared similar snaps, adding an image of Luna and Miles eagerly kneeling by stacks of wrapped presents. “Have a Merry Merry Christmas!” he captioned. The Teigen-Legend family’s trip to London offers a relatable glimpse into balancing work, family, and fun. JOHN LEGEND AND CHERISHING MOMENTS South Africans, are often known for their love of big family gatherings. They can surely appreciate the warmth and joy Teigen and Legend bring to their holiday moments. Legend, who is beloved worldwide for his music, is no stranger to London’s stages. Teigen’s tribute and the family’s celebrations are reminders of the importance of treasuring moments with loved ones. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FAMILY TRADITION DURING THE HOLIDAYS? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the DEA, withdraws name from consideration