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SAN DIEGO, Dec. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Presidio Property Trust, Inc. (“Presidio” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: SQFT; SQFTP; SQFTW), an internally managed, diversified real estate investment trust (“REIT”), today announced that the Company has been granted an additional 180-day period from Nasdaq’s Listing Qualification Department, through June 2, 2025, to regain compliance with the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market. The Company’s common stock continues to trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “SQFT.” If at any time until June 2, 2025, the closing bid price of the Company’s common stock is at or above $1.00 per share for a minimum of ten consecutive trading days, Nasdaq will provide the Company with written confirmation of compliance. If compliance cannot be demonstrated during the additional 180-day grace period, Nasdaq will provide written notification that the common stock will be subject to delisting. At such time, the Company may appeal the determination to a Nasdaq Hearings Panel. The Company intends to monitor the closing bid price of its common stock between now and June 2, 2025, and intends to consider available options to cure the deficiency and regain compliance with the minimum bid price requirement within the compliance period. About Presidio Property Trust Presidio is an internally managed real estate investment trust with holdings in model home properties, which are triple net leased to homebuilders, and office, industrial, and retail properties. Presidio’s model homes are leased to homebuilders located in Arizona, Illinois, Texas, Wisconsin, and Florida. Presidio’s office, industrial, and retail properties are located primarily in Colorado, with properties also located in Maryland, North Dakota, Texas, and Southern California. Presidio also owns approximately 4.3% of the outstanding common stock of Conduit Pharmaceuticals Inc., a disease agnostic multi-asset clinical-stage life science company providing an efficient model for compound development. For more information on Presidio, please visit Presidio’s website at https://www.PresidioPT.com . Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains statements that are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and other federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical, including statements regarding management’s intentions, beliefs, expectations, representations, plans or predictions of the future, and are typically identified by such words as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “should” and “could.” Because such statements include risks, uncertainties and contingencies, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon the Company’s present expectations, but these statements are not guaranteed to occur. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, of new information, data or methods, future events or other changes. Investors should not place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements. For further discussion of the factors that could affect outcomes please refer to the Company’s filings with the SEC, including those under “Risk Factors” therein, copies of which are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov . Investor Relations Contact: Presidio Property Trust, Inc. Lowell Hartkorn, Investor Relations LHartkorn@presidiopt.com Telephone: (760) 471-8536 x1244 This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

Taking over as the Atlanta Falcons starting quarterback isn't the only life milestone Michael Penix Jr. is hitting this season. Penix proposed to his fiancée Olivia Carter on Christmas Eve, the couple announced on social media. "I will love you forever. I can't wait to do life with you," Penix wrote in the caption of his Instagram post . The news comes days after Penix made his first career start following the Falcons' decision to bench veteran QB1 Kirk Cousins. Penix went 18-of-27 for 202 yards with one interception on Sunday to help lead the Falcons to a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants. The rookie signal-caller is now preparing to make his second career start on Sunday night against Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders. The Falcons could clinch the NFC South with a win if the Tampa Bay Buccaneers also lose to the Carolina Panthers. On the other hand, a defeat by the Commanders would put the Falcons' playoff hopes at risk. Penix will look to earn a second win in the most important game of his NFL career so far when the Falcons and Commanders kick off on Sunday night at 8:20 p.m. ET.ANDOVER, Mass. , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TransMedics Group, Inc. ("TransMedics") (Nasdaq: TMDX), a medical technology company that is transforming organ transplant therapy for patients with end-stage lung, heart, and liver failure, today announced that on December 9, 2024 , TransMedics granted non-qualified stock options to purchase an aggregate of 20,612 shares of its common stock and an aggregate of 13,576 restricted stock units to 3 employees, each as a material inducement for each employee's entry into employment with TransMedics. The grants included stock options to purchase 18,922 shares of TransMedics' common stock and 12,463 restricted stock units granted to Gerardo Hernandez , the Company's Chief Financial Officer. The grants were approved by the Compensation Committee of the TransMedics Board of Directors and were granted in accordance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4) and pursuant to the TransMedics Group, Inc. Inducement Plan. TransMedics granted non-qualified stock options to purchase 20,612 shares of TransMedics' common stock and 13,576 restricted stock units in the aggregate. The stock options were granted with a per share exercise price of $69.84 , the closing price of the common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market on December 9, 2024 . Twenty-five percent of the shares subject to each option will vest on the first yearly anniversary of the date of the employee's start of employment, with the remainder vesting in equal monthly installments over the subsequent three year period, subject to the employee's continued service with the Company through the applicable vesting date. The options have a 10-year term and are subject to the terms of the TransMedics Group, Inc. Inducement Plan. Twenty-five percent of each restricted stock unit award will vest on the first four anniversaries of the date of the employee's start of employment, subject to the employee's continued service with the Company through the applicable vesting date. The restricted stock units are subject to the terms of the TransMedics Group, Inc. Inducement Plan. About TransMedics Group, Inc. TransMedics is the world's leader in portable extracorporeal warm perfusion and assessment of donor organs for transplantation. Headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts , the company was founded to address the unmet need for more and better organs for transplantation and has developed technologies to preserve organ quality, assess organ viability prior to transplant, and potentially increase the utilization of donor organs for the treatment of end-stage heart, lung, and liver failure. Investor Contact: Brian Johnston 332-895-3222 Investors@transmedics.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/transmedics-reports-inducement-grants-under-nasdaq-listing-rule-5635c4-302330724.html SOURCE TransMedics Group, Inc.Popcorn is believed to be one of the world’s oldest snacks. Evidence —6,700-year-old cobs with puffed kernels-excavated by archaeologists in Peru suggests exactly that. For most of the time since antiquity, the humble popcorn did not cause any ruckus. ET Year-end Special Reads Take That: The gamechanger weapon's India acquired in 2024 10 big-bang policy moves Modi government made in 2024 How governments tried to rein in the social media beast Until last week, that is, when it caused significant online chatter, after the Indian gover nment decided to increase the goods and services tax (GST) on caramel popcorn from 5% to 18%. Nowhere was this conversation louder than among movie-goers. There are two kinds of people in the world. Those who watch movies in silence, and those who need the crunch of a fistful of popcorn to engage their taste buds as they stare at the silver screen. Large multiplex chains have since clarified that the change in tax structure is applicable only to packaged popcorn and that it will be business as usual for those freshly popped tubs. 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Why exactly is movie food such an expensive experience? And are alternatives popping up? POPPING MONEY Both multiplexes and audiences have valid arguments on the pricing of items that are available for a fraction of the money outside the cinemas. Though single-screen theatres attempted to make money from almost every inch of space, audiences never felt they got a raw deal, as they do in multiplexes now. With good reason, too. Navendra Singh, AGM at a leading real estate firm, says, “Today, I am paying more than two times the money I incur on ticket prices, on food and beverages. I have to plan my theatre outing carefully. It is no longer a weekend ritual.” According to various estimates, movie ticket prices in multiplexes could be in the range of Rs 260-350, depending on a film’s budget, star cast and the response the film’s trailer has received. A medium-size tub of popcorn could cost anywhere between Rs 300 and Rs 500, higher than the average ticket price in multiplexes, which in the case of PVR Inox , the segment leader among multiplexes, was Rs 257 last quarter. Soft drinks may be charged in the range of Rs 200-300, with combopacks starting at Rs 600. This means, for a middle-class family of four, the entire movie-hall experience can be prohibitively expensive. The result? Along with the increasing supply of mediocre and unentertaining films and the proliferation of streaming platforms, audiences have got one more reason to reduce the frequency of going to the movies. This is reflected in a fall in footfalls. According to mall developers, multiplexes used to generate 10% of footfalls in malls. This has fallen to 6-7% in recent years. The total admissions (footfalls) in PVR Inox properties fell to 38.8 million in the September 2024 quarter, from 48.4 million in the same period in 2023. Yogesh Parker, a banking professional with a leading money transfer platform, says, “Today’s audience weighs an outing in multiplexes in terms of a trade-off.” The trade-off he is referring to is whether the cost of an outing in a multiplex can be used to offset the subscription amount of streaming platforms, since most films are available on streaming platforms within two months of theatre release. EXHIBITION EQUATION There are close to 8,500 screens in India. Of these, less than 6,500 are operational after the pandemic. There are 3,500 multiplex screens and the remaining are single screens. PVR Inox, which has 1,747 screens, has recorded a higher growth in revenues from F&B than from the sale of tickets in the past four years; the former has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.3% to Rs 1,958 crore in FY24. In the same period, revenues from the sale of movie tickets grew at a CAGR of 13.6% to Rs 3,279 crore. This has resulted in the share of F&B in total revenues for PVR Inox increasing to 31.5% in FY24 from 27.8% in FY20. While the share of movie ticket revenues has grown in the same period—from 50.1% to 52.8%—F&B has been outpacing it. That, along with the higher margins from F&B, goes a long way in explaining why multiplexes price it high. Producer and film business expert Girish Johar says, “Operating profit margins in the food & beverage segment are much higher.” Estimates suggest F&B in a cinema costs more than three times outside it. F& B is a stable source of revenue for multiplexes. Girish Wankhede, a movie trade analyst, says, “Exhibitors share revenues from the sale of movie tickets with distributors. Also, they must pay taxes on the sale of tickets. But food and beverage revenues go entirely to the multiplex.” Multiplexes cite the high costs of operations (real estate, staff salaries and various overheads) as a reason for high F&B prices. Rahul Dhyani, founder of Connplex Cinemas, a miniplex (75- seat theatre) chain, says, “Today, a family spends more on dinner at a restaurant than in a multiplex. So, we don’t think F&B costs are very high.” CHANGE IS IN THE AIR But not all multiplexes are sticking to the script. Some are trying to disrupt the established pricing regime in a bid to trigger demand, especially at a time when most Hindi films are failing. Recently, multiplex chain Mukta A2 Cinemas capped its F&B prices at Rs 99. Ask Satwik Lele, COO, Mukta A2 Cinemas why they shifted their strategy and he says, “Our strategy of capping F&B prices under Rs 99 has effectively increased three times our items per head (IPH).” Essentially, Mukta is trying to play the volume game. But can focusing on volume rather than value be a sound strategy? An analyst, who did not wish to be named, says, “Even if a multiplex caps its F&B cost at Rs 99, it will make an operating profit margin in the range of 50-75% from the food and beverages segment.” Multiplexes must now choose between value strategy—high ticket prices and F&B rates but low footfalls—and volume strategy— affordable ticket and F&B prices but high footfalls. Ameya Naik, founder of Fantasy Films, an event management company, is in the latter camp, arguing that more people coming into the movies is the need of the hour. He says there is a large audience seeking affordable movie-going experience. “The audiences who prefer premium services in multiplexes are irregular and smaller in number as they are clear about what they want to watch in theatres,” he says. This strategy can have a broader impact. If F&B costs are relatively affordable, even an average film may do reasonably good business at the box office. So which way will your neighbourhood multiplex swing? 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Former Green Party leader Caroline Lucas has also resigned as vice-president of the animal welfare organisation, with both of them expressing their “sadness” over leaving the roles. It comes after an Animal Rising investigation made claims of cruelty at “RSPCA Assured” slaughterhouses in England and Scotland, with the campaign group sharing footage of alleged mistreatment. RSPCA Assured is a scheme whereby approved farms must comply with the organisation’s “stringent higher welfare standards”, according to its website. Mr Packham shared the news of his resignation on social media, saying: “It is with enormous sadness that I have resigned from my role as president of the RSPCA. “I would like to register my respect and admiration for all the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to protect animals from cruelty.” Ms Lucas said she and Mr Packham failed to get the charity’s leadership to act. She posted on X, formerly Twitter: “With huge sadness I’m resigning as VP of the RSPCA, a role I’ve held with pride for over 15 years. “But their Assured Schemes risk misleading the public & legitimising cruelty. “I tried with @ChrisGPackham to persuade the leadership to act but sadly failed.” In June, the RSPCA commissioned an independent review of 200 farms on its assurance scheme which concluded the scheme was “operating effectively” to assure animal welfare on member farms. Following Animal Rising’s release of footage last week, the charity said it was “appalled” by what was shown, adding that it launched an immediate investigation and suspended three slaughterhouses from the scheme. In the wake of Mr Packham and Ms Lucas’ resignations, an RSPCA spokesperson said it is “simply not true” that the organisation has failed to take urgent action. They said: “We agree with Chris and Caroline on so many issues and have achieved so much together for animals, but we differ on how best to address the incredibly complex and difficult issue of farmed animal welfare. “We have discussed our work to drive up farmed animal welfare standards openly at length with them on many occasions and it is simply not true that we have not taken urgent action. “We took allegations of poor welfare incredibly seriously, launching an independent review of 200 farms which concluded that it was ‘operating effectively’ to improve animal welfare. “We are taking strong steps to improve oversight of welfare, implementing the recommendations in full including significantly increasing unannounced visits, and exploring technology such as body-worn cameras and CCTV, supported by £2 million of investment.” The charity insisted that while 94% of people continue to choose to eat meat, fish, eggs and dairy, it is the “right thing to do” to work with farmers to improve the lives of animals. “RSPCA Assured visit all farms on the scheme every year, but last year just 3% of farms were assessed for animal welfare by state bodies,” the spokesperson continued. “No-one else is doing this work. We are the only organisation setting and regularly monitoring animal welfare standards on farms. “We have pioneered change through RSPCA Assured, which has led to improvements throughout the industry including CCTV in slaughterhouses, banning barren battery cages for hens and sow stalls for pigs, giving salmon more space to swim and developing slower growing chicken breeds who have better quality of life.”Eli Manning and Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. The Hall on Saturday announced the names of the 15 modern-era finalists who advanced from a group of 25 to the final stage of voting. The selection committee will vote next month to pick the class of between three and five modern-era players that will be announced the week of the Super Bowl. Georgia QB Carson Beck announces plan to enter NFL draft after season-ending elbow injury Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has announced his plans to enter the NFL draft, five days after having season-ending elbow surgery. The fifth-year senior made his NFL plans official on social media. Beck suffered a right elbow injury in the first half of the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas in the Southeastern Conference championship game on Dec. 7. Beck had surgery on Monday to repair his ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. He is expected to begin throwing next spring. Backup Gunner Stockton will make his first start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame on Wednesday. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Panthers place 1,000-yard rusher Chuba Hubbard on IR for final 2 games with strained calf CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have shut down leading rusher Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a strained calf. He was placed on injured reserve Saturday. Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team. Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Patriots QB Drake Maye returns to game after evaluation for head injury vs. Chargers FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye has returned to the game after being evaluated for a head injury following a blow to the helmet in the first quarter of New England’s matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. Maye was scrambling near the sideline on third down of the Patriots’ first possession of the game when he was hit by Chargers cornerback Cam Hart. Maye stayed down on the turf for several seconds before eventually getting up and jogging off the field on his own power. He briefly sat on the bench before going to the medical tent and then the locker room. He was replaced by backup Jacoby Brissett in the next series. But Maye returned at the 10:15 mark of the second quarter. Corbin Burnes and Arizona Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal, AP source says PHOENIX (AP) — Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $210 million, six-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a successful physical. The 30-year-old Burnes was perhaps the top free agent pitcher on the market after going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA for Baltimore last season. The Orioles acquired the right-hander in a February trade after he spent his first six major league seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. NBA coaches react with dismay over firing of 2-time coach of the year Mike Brown ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Not even two years ago, Rick Carlisle publicly lauded Mike Brown for the job he did on the way to winning the NBA’s coach of the year award. And on Friday, Carlisle was among the coaches reacting with dismay that Brown was fired. The Sacramento Kings dismissed Brown on Friday, with the team off to a 13-18 start this season and mired toward the bottom of the Western Conference — despite back-to-back winning seasons, something that franchise hadn’t managed in nearly two decades. Injured Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts won't play Sunday against Dallas PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Injured Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts won't play Sunday against Dallas. Hurts is still in the NFL concussion protocol. The Eagles will turn to backup Kenny Pickett on Sunday because Hurts is dealing with the lingering effects of a concussion suffered against Washington. Hurts was injured early at Washington after his head slammed against the ground on one run and he was hit in the helmet by Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu at the end of another. Hurts isn’t healthy enough to play just yet. UConn beats Carolina in Fenway Bowl, dominating Bill Belichick's next team in his old backyard BOSTON (AP) — Joe Fagnano threw for 151 yards and two touchdowns to help UConn beat North Carolina 27-14 in the Fenway Bowl, embarrassing Bill Belichick’s new team in his old backyard. Belichick was not spotted in the home of the Boston Red Sox, about an hour north of the stadium where he and Tom Brady hung six Super Bowl championship banners. Interim coach Freddie Kitchens, who like Belichick is a former Cleveland Browns coach, took over when Mack Brown was fired and handled the bowl preparations. Mel Brown rushed for 96 yards for the Huskies. McCord throws for 453 yards, 5 TDs in No. 22 Syracuse's 52-35 Holiday Bowl win over Washington State SAN DIEGO (AP) — Kyle McCord threw for 453 yards and five touchdowns to break Deshaun Watson’s Atlantic Coast Conference season passing record and lead No. 22 Syracuse to a 52-35 victory over depleted-yet-scrappy Washington State in the Holiday Bowl on Friday night. LeQuint Allen rushed for 120 yards and two touchdowns for his second straight 1,000-yard season for the Orange (10-3), who had their first 10-win season since 2018. Fran Brown joined Paul Pasqualoni (1991) as the only Orange coaches since World War II to win 10 game in their first season. The Cougars (8-5) lost their fourth straight game but were spirited despite losing coach Jake Dickert to Wake Forest, quarterback John Mateer to Oklahoma, both coordinators and the quarterbacks and running backs coach.

LANSING, MI -- Millington topped North Muskegon, 35-28, in a Division 7 semifinal football game at Lansing Eastern High School on Saturday, Nov. 23. Millington held a 20-14 halftime lead and saw their second half lead grow to 35-14. The Cardinals were able to survive a North Muskegon comeback to secure the win. Millington advances to the state final at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30, where they will play Monroe St. Mary CC. MLive was there to document the action, both on and off of the field. Check out photos from the game in the gallery above. Click here for a direct link to the gallery. You must be a subscriber to view the photo gallery. Subscribers click the “Get photo” link to download high-resolution images right to their device for free as part of their subscription. To subscribe, click this link.

As Apple gears up to unveil its next-generation smartphone lineup in 2025, the iPhone 17 Air is capturing the attention of tech enthusiasts and casual users alike. This highly anticipated device is set to offer a perfect blend of innovative features and accessibility, making it an attractive option for those seeking a premium smartphone experience without the hefty price tag associated with the Pro models. The video below from Max Tech gives us more details on the latest rumors about the iPhone 17 Air. Apple is pushing the boundaries of smartphone design with the iPhone 17 Air, which is rumored to be the company’s thinnest device to date. Measuring just 6.25mm thick, approximately 2mm slimmer than the iPhone 16 Pro, this sleek profile is achieved by ingeniously embedding the Face ID sensors beneath the display. This innovative approach eliminates the need for a notch, resulting in a seamless, edge-to-edge front design that offers an immersive . Despite its ultra-thin build, the iPhone 17 Air maintains its structural integrity thanks to its durable aluminum frame, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a 6.55-inch display, slightly smaller than the 6.7-inch screen of the , which it is rumored to replace. However, this compact design does not compromise on visual impact. With thinner bezels enhancing the screen-to-body ratio, the device delivers an immersive viewing experience that caters to users who prefer a lightweight device without sacrificing visual quality. Whether you’re streaming your favorite videos, browsing social media, or scrolling through apps, the iPhone 17 Air’s display promises to deliver and , making it ideal for everyday use. Ultra-thin design at just 6.25mm thick Seamless, edge-to-edge front design with embedded Face ID sensors Durable aluminum frame for structural integrity Compact 6.55-inch display with immersive visuals Apple is rethinking its camera design with the iPhone 17 Air, introducing a single rear camera featuring a , positioned centrally at the top of the phone. This innovative layout not only enhances the phone’s aesthetics but also improves image stabilization and focus accuracy, ensuring that every shot you take is of the highest quality. On the front, a 24MP selfie to deliver sharper images and better low-light performance, making it a perfect choice for users who prioritize high-quality selfies and video calls. Under the hood, the iPhone 17 Air is powered by Apple’s new A19 chip, built on advanced 3nm technology. Coupled with 8GB of RAM, this processor promises and , allowing you to multitask, edit videos, or run demanding apps with ease. This hardware upgrade positions the iPhone 17 Air as a capable device for both casual users and those with more intensive needs. In terms of connectivity, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature Apple’s own in-house 5G modem for the first time. While it may not match the speed of Qualcomm’s mmWave technology found in higher-end models, this modem supports sub-6GHz bands, offering reliable connectivity for everyday tasks. This move highlights Apple’s growing independence in hardware innovation, potentially paving the way for future advancements in wireless technology. 48MP main rear camera for high-quality images 24MP front-facing camera for sharp selfies and video calls A19 chip built on 3nm technology for faster performance 8GB of RAM for smooth multitasking and app performance In-house 5G modem for reliable connectivity One of the most appealing aspects of the iPhone 17 Air is its rumored price point of around $900. Positioned as a replacement for the iPhone 16 Plus, it offers premium features at a more accessible price, making it an attractive option for users seeking a high-quality smartphone experience without the premium cost of Pro models. By delivering advanced technology at a competitive price, Apple aims to broaden its appeal to a wider audience. The iPhone 17 Air is also rumored to include distinctive design elements. A not only enhances durability but also complements the phone’s minimalist aesthetic. Speculation about a potential foldable design has also surfaced, though this remains unconfirmed. If true, such a feature could set the iPhone 17 Air apart from competitors, further solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking device. The iPhone 17 Air represents a significant step forward for Apple, combining an ultra-thin design, advanced hardware, and innovative features at an accessible price point. With its compact display, high-resolution cameras, powerful A19 chip, and potential for unique design elements, the device is poised to deliver a premium experience for users who value both performance and affordability. As the anticipation builds for its official unveiling, the iPhone 17 Air is shaping up to be a compelling addition to Apple’s lineup, appealing to a wide range of users who seek the perfect balance of innovation and value. Source & Image Credit:School Board reorgOKLAHOMA CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2024-- Paycom Software, Inc. (NYSE: PAYC) (“Paycom”), a leading provider of comprehensive, cloud-based human capital management software, today announced the appointment of Joe Binz to Paycom’s board of directors, effective Dec. 10, 2024. Binz currently serves as chief financial officer at Atlassian, where he is responsible for its global finance organization and oversees the company’s accounting, finance, internal audit, investor relations, tax, treasury and procurement teams. He has more than 30 years of financial leadership experience in the technology industry. Prior to joining Atlassian, Binz held management roles at Microsoft, where he led the company’s finance functions and guided its business transformation to the cloud. Binz also spent eight years at Intel Corporation, where he held a variety of finance roles supporting manufacturing operations, product groups and Intel Capital. “Joe is a seasoned professional who brings experience in the high-growth tech sector. His expertise will help us continue providing the best possible value for our clients and stockholders,” said Paycom founder, CEO and chairman Chad Richison. Binz holds a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. “I’m honored to be a part of the Paycom team, which is known for its innovative, cloud-based approach in helping customers manage and transform the complete employee life cycle,” said Binz. “I’m looking forward to contributing my experience in the technology industry to help drive the next phase of Paycom’s growth and success.” About Paycom For over 25 years, Paycom Software, Inc. (NYSE: PAYC) has simplified businesses and the lives of their employees through easy-to-use HR and payroll technology to empower transparency through direct access to their data. From onboarding and benefits enrollment to talent management and more, Paycom’s employee-first technology leverages full-solution automation to streamline processes, drive efficiencies and give employees power over their own HR information, all in a single app. Paycom’s single database combines all HR and payroll data in one place, providing a seamless and accurate experience without the errors and inefficiencies associated with integrating multiple systems. Recognized nationally for its technology and workplace culture, Paycom serves businesses of all sizes in the U.S. and internationally. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212749816/en/ CONTACT: Investor Relations: James Samford investors@paycom.com Paycom Software, Inc. KEYWORD: OKLAHOMA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONAL SERVICES HUMAN RESOURCES SOURCE: Paycom Software, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/12/2024 04:05 PM/DISC: 12/12/2024 04:04 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241212749816/en

Syria’s embassy in Lebanon suspended consular services Saturday, a day after two relatives of were arrested at the Beirut airport with allegedly forged passports. Also on Saturday, Lebanese authorities handed over dozens of Syrians — including former officers in the Syrian army under Assad — to the new Syrian authorities after they were caught illegally entering Lebanon, a war monitor and Lebanese officials said. The embassy announced on its Facebook page that consular work was suspended “until further notice” at the order of the Syrian foreign ministry. The announcement did not give a reason for the suspension. Two Lebanese security officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, said the suspension was ordered because the at the embassy. Assad’s uncle, Rifaat Assad — who has been indicted in Switzerland on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity — had flown out the day before on his real passport and was not stopped, the officials said. The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported Saturday that 70 Syrians, including former army officers, were handed over by a Lebanese security delegation to the security forces of the new Syrian government, led by the former insurgent group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS. Three Lebanese judicial officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the report. Regional countries have been quick to establish ties with Syria’s new rulers. Delegations of Libyan and Bahraini officials arrived in Damascus on Saturday on official visits. HTS leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, has largely succeeded in calming fears within and outside of Syria that his group would unleash collective punishment against communities that supported Assad’s rule or attempt to impose strict Islamic law on the country’s religious minorities. However, in recent days, sporadic clashes have broken out between the HTS-led security forces and pro-Assad armed groups. The country’s new security forces have launched a series of raids targeting officials affiliated with Assad and have set up checkpoints in areas with significant populations of the Alawite religious minority to which the former president belongs to search for weapons. There have also been ongoing tensions and clashes in northeastern Syria between Kurdish-led forces and armed groups backed by Turkey. Many Kurds have viewed the new order in Damascus, which appears to have strengthened Turkey’s hand in Syria, with anxiety. Ankara sees the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces — a key U.S. ally in the fight against the Islamic State group — as an affiliate of its sworn enemy, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, which it classifies as a terrorist organization. The U.S. State Department said Saturday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had spoken with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to “discuss the latest developments in Syria.” “Secretary Blinken emphasized the need to support a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process that upholds human rights and prioritizes an inclusive and representative government,” the statement said, adding that they “also discussed the shared goal of preventing terrorism from endangering the security” of Turkey and Syria. On Saturday, hundreds of protesters convened by Kurdish women’s groups participated in a demonstration in the northeastern city of Hasaka to demand women’s rights in the new Syria. Perishan Ramadan, a participant from Hasaka, said the new government “is worse than Bashar” and that its leaders are Islamist extremists who “don’t accept any role for women.” While the country’s new leaders have not attempted to impose Islamic dress or other conventions, it remains to be seen what role women will have in the new order and whether they will hold political or government positions. “Women must be present in the new constitution for Syria,” said Rihan Loqo, spokeswoman for the Kongra Star women’s organization. “... Women’s rights should not be ignored.” ___Worried that President-elect Donald Trump will curtail federal efforts to take on the nation’s medical debt problem, patient and consumer advocates are looking to states to help people who can’t afford their medical bills or pay down their debts. “The election simply shifts our focus,” said Eva Stahl, who oversees public policy at Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit that has worked closely with the Biden administration and state leaders on medical debt. “States are going to be the epicenter of policy change to mitigate the harms of medical debt.” New state initiatives may not be enough to protect Americans from medical debt if the incoming Trump administration and congressional Republicans move forward with plans to scale back federal aid that has helped millions gain health insurance or reduce the cost of their plans in recent years. Comprehensive health coverage that limits patients’ out-of-pocket costs remains the best defense against medical debt. But in the face of federal retrenchment, advocates are eyeing new initiatives in state legislatures to keep medical bills off people’s credit reports, a consumer protection that can boost credit scores and make it easier to buy a car, rent an apartment, or even get a job. Several states are looking to strengthen oversight of medical credit cards and other financial products that can leave patients paying high interest rates on top of their medical debt. Related Articles Some states are also exploring new ways to compel hospitals to bolster financial aid programs to help their patients avoid sinking into debt. “There’s an enormous amount that states can do,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, who leads health care initiatives at the nonprofit Community Service Society of New York. “Look at what’s happened here.” New York state has enacted several laws in recent years to rein in hospital debt collections and to expand financial aid for patients, often with support from both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature. “It doesn’t matter the party. No one likes medical debt,” Benjamin said. Other states that have enacted protections in recent years include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington. Many measures picked up bipartisan support. President Joe Biden’s administration has proved to be an ally in state efforts to control health care debt. Such debt burdens 100 million people in the United States, a . Led by Biden appointee Rohit Chopra, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has , going after aggressive collectors and exposing problematic practices across the medical debt industry. Earlier this year, the agency proposed landmark regulations to from consumer credit scores. The White House also championed legislation to boost access to government-subsidized health insurance and to cap out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors, both key bulwarks against medical debt. Trump hasn’t indicated whether his administration will move ahead with the CFPB credit reporting rule, which was slated to be finalized early next year. Congressional Republicans, who will control the House and Senate next year, have as regulatory overreach that will compromise the value of credit reports. And Elon Musk, the billionaire whom Trump has tapped to lead his initiative to shrink government, last week . “Delete CFPB,” Musk posted on X. If the CFPB withdraws the proposed regulation, states could enact their own rules, following the lead of Colorado, New York, and other states that have passed credit reporting bans since 2023. Advocates in Massachusetts are pushing the legislature there to take up a ban when it reconvenes in January. “There are a lot of different levers that states have to take on medical debt,” said April Kuehnhoff, a senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, which has helped lead national efforts to expand debt protections for patients. Kuehnhoff said she expects more states to crack down on medical credit card providers and other companies that lend money to patients to pay off medical bills, sometimes at double-digit interest rates. Under the Biden administration, the CFPB has been investigating amid warnings that many people may not understand that signing up for a medical credit card such as CareCredit or enrolling in a payment plan through a financial services company can pile on more debt. If the CFPB efforts stall under Trump, states could follow the lead of California, New York, and Illinois, which have all tightened rules governing patient lending in recent years. Consumer advocates say states are also likely to continue expanding efforts to get hospitals to provide more financial assistance to reduce or eliminate bills for low- and middle-income patients, a key protection that can keep people from slipping into debt. Hospitals historically have not made this aid readily available, prompting states such as California, Colorado, and Washington to set stronger standards to ensure more patients get help with bills they can’t afford. This year, North Carolina also won approval from the Biden administration to withhold federal funding from hospitals in the state unless they agreed to expand financial assistance. In Georgia, where state government is entirely in Republican control, officials have been discussing new measures to get hospitals to provide more assistance to patients. “When we talk about hospitals putting profits over patients, we get lots of nodding in the legislature from Democrats and Republicans,” said Liz Coyle, executive director of Georgia Watch, a consumer advocacy nonprofit. Many advocates caution, however, that state efforts to bolster patient protections will be critically undermined if the Trump administration cuts federal funding for health insurance programs such as Medicaid and the insurance marketplaces established through the Affordable Care Act. Trump and congressional Republicans have signaled their intent to roll back federal subsidies passed under Biden that make health plans purchased on ACA marketplaces more affordable. That could hike annual premiums by hundreds or even thousands of dollars for many enrollees, by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a think tank. And during Trump’s first term, he backed efforts in Republican-led states to restrict enrollment in their Medicaid safety net programs through rules that would require people to work in order to receive benefits. GOP state leaders in Idaho, Louisiana, and other states have to renew such efforts. “That’s all a recipe for more medical debt,” said Stahl, of Undue Medical Debt. Jessica Altman, who heads the Covered California insurance marketplace, warned that federal cuts will imperil initiatives in her state that have limited copays and deductibles and curtailed debt for many state residents. “States like California that have invested in critical affordable programs for our residents will face tough decisions,” she said.

‘They’ve not even managed to shift the Christmas chocolates yet,’ remarked one customer. Shoppers have been left bemused after spotting Easter eggs on supermarket shelves before New Year’s Eve. With Easter Sunday falling on April 20 next year, customers shared their confusion on social media after finding chocolate eggs and hot cross buns already for sale in shops including Morrisons, Tesco and Asda. One user, @Jingle1991, shared an image of Malteser Bunnies in Sainsbury’s on Christmas Eve and pointed out: “Jesus hasn’t even been born yet.” Meanwhile, Gary Evans from Margate shared a shot of Creme Eggs on display in Morrisons in Margate on Boxing Day. “I just think its crazy that everything is so superficial and meaninglessly commercial... (there’s) something quite frantic about it,” the 66-year-old told the PA news agency. Joseph Robinson found Easter confectionary including Cadbury Mini Eggs, and themed Kit-Kat and Kinder Surprise products at his local Morrisons in Stoke-on-Trent on Friday evening. “It’s funny, as they’ve not even managed to shift the Christmas chocolates off the shelves yet and they’re already stocking for Easter,” the 35-year-old admin support worker told PA. “I wish that Supermarkets weren’t so blatantly consumerist-driven and would actually allow customers and staff a time to decompress during the Christmas period.” Asked if he was tempted to make a purchase, Mr Robinson added: “As a vegan it holds no appeal to me!” Mike Chalmers, a devout Christian from Chippenham, Wiltshire, was slightly less critical after spotting a display entitled: “Celebrate this Easter with Cadbury.” “Christmas and Easter are the two centrepoints of the Christian good news story so it’s no bad thing to see the connections,” the 44-year-old said. “It’s about more than shapes of chocolate though!” Marketing consultant Andrew Wallis admitted he was surprised to see Easter eggs in the Co-op in Kilgetty, Pembrokeshire, but added it also illustrates “forward-thinking” from big businesses. “It made me reflect on how big brands are always thinking ahead and planning early,” the 54-year-old from the Isle of Man, who provides marketing advice to the fitness industry, told PA. “My message to retailers would be: while planning ahead is important, it’s also essential to be mindful of consumer sentiment. “Some might feel it’s too early for seasonal products like this but others might see it as a sign of forward-thinking. “Striking the right balance is key to keeping customers happy.”

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 12, 2024-- EVgo Inc. (NASDAQ: EVGO) (“EVgo” or the “Company”) today announced the closing of its $1.25 billion guaranteed loan facility from the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) Loan Programs Office (“LPO”) under its Title 17 Clean Energy Financing Program to support EVgo’s forthcoming efforts to build convenient, reliable public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) with the construction of 7,500 new fast charging stalls nationwide. This buildout will bring EVgo’s total owned and operated network to at least 10,000 fast charging stalls, allowing the Company to more than triple its network footprint by 2029. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: EVgo fast charging network to further expand across the United States. (Photo: Business Wire) “As one of the nation’s leading public fast charging providers, we are well-positioned to deploy the infrastructure needed to support both current and future domestic investments in transportation electrification,” said EVgo CEO, Badar Khan. “This public-private partnership will help us continue to scale our operations to serve the influx of vehicle options that will be available to American consumers in the coming years.” Building high-power public charging at scale bolsters range confidence for Americans as they consider the choice to drive an EV. Expanding fast charging infrastructure not only contributes to job creation and local economic benefits, but it is also critical to protecting the investments made by the automotive industry, which is expected to release over 30 new affordable EV models by the end of 2025, 1 in addition to the more than 70 vehicle models already available to American consumers today. 2 EVs now account for roughly 9% of new vehicle sales 3 and increasing consumer confidence in the availability of public charging is key to the success of these investments. EVgo estimates this project buildout will create more than 1,000 jobs in the U.S., over 700 of which will be contracted resources engaged by the Company encompassing roles in construction, engineering, development, and operations and maintenance. Total Guaranteed Loan Facility Amount Interest Rate Collateral Equity Contribution Tenor Deployment Period Principal & Interest Grace Period Loan Structure First Drawdown Additional Key Terms The closing of this DOE guaranteed loan facility follows receipt of a on October 3, 2024, and marks the conclusion of a thorough 18-month process. Through the EVgo Innovation Lab, the Company is fostering American innovation to advance the broader transportation electrification ecosystem, including its extensive interoperability testing and ongoing technical collaboration with leading automakers and technology partners to support a superior customer experience for drivers. This technical innovation extends to the joint development of , for which EVgo will soon secure domestic intellectual property rights. This architecture will leverage EVgo’s learnings from serving over a million customers nationwide to provide EVgo with more control over the full customer experience, streamlining the charging process while driving energy efficiency and cost savings. The Company plans to deploy this new architecture beginning in the second half of 2026. For more information about the EVgo network, visit . A live audio webcast and conference call for EVgo’s DOE Loan Facility will be held today at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT. The webcast will be available at , and the dial-in information for those wishing to access via phone is: : (800) 715-9871 (for U.S. callers) : (646) 307-1963 (for callers outside the U.S.) : 9312273 This press release, along with other investor materials that will be used or referred to during the webcast and conference call, including a slide presentation will also be available on that site. EVgo (Nasdaq: EVGO) is one of the nation’s leading public fast charging providers. With more than 1,000 fast charging stations across 40 states, EVgo strategically deploys localized and accessible charging infrastructure by partnering with leading businesses across the U.S., including retailers, grocery stores, restaurants, shopping centers, gas stations, rideshare operators, and autonomous vehicle companies. At its dedicated Innovation Lab, EVgo performs extensive interoperability testing and has ongoing technical collaborations with leading automakers and industry partners to advance the EV charging industry and deliver a seamless charging experience. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act, as amended. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or the Company’s future financial or operating performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “going to,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions that concern the Company’s expectations, strategy, priorities, plans or intentions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the terms of the DOE loan facility; the anticipated benefits and growth from the DOE loan facility, including project build out plan, use of proceeds, issuance, timing and availability of advances, satisfaction of covenants and the absence of events of default; growth in the demand for EV vehicles and charging infrastructure; the anticipated release of new affordable EV models; anticipated job creation in the US from the project buildout; the Company’s ability to scale; the joint development and deployment of the Company’s next-generation charging infrastructure, and the anticipated IP rights, efficiencies, cost savings and launch plans. These statements are based on various assumptions and on the current expectations of EVgo’s management, and are not predictions of actual performance. The Company’s expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize. There are a significant number of factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made in this press release, including changes or developments in the broader general market; EVgo’s dependence on the widespread adoption of EVs and growth of the EV and EV charging markets; EVgo's reliance on the DOE loan facility, its ability to fully draw on the DOE loan facility and its ability to comply with the covenants and other terms of the DOE loan facility; competition from existing and new competitors; EVgo’s ability to expand into new service markets, grow its customer base and manage its operations; the risks associated with cyclical demand for EVgo’s services and vulnerability to industry downturns and regional or national downturns; fluctuations in EVgo’s revenue and operating results; EVgo’s ability to satisfy the required conditions, enter into definitive agreements and receive loan funding in connection with, and to realize any anticipated benefits and growth from, the DOE loan facility; unfavorable conditions or disruptions in the capital and credit markets and EVgo’s ability to obtain additional financing on commercially reasonable terms; EVgo’s ability to generate cash, service indebtedness and incur additional indebtedness; any current, pending or future legislation, regulations or policies that could impact EVgo’s business, results of operations and financial condition, including regulations impacting the EV charging market and government programs designed to drive broader adoption of EVs and any reduction, modification or elimination of such programs due to the results of the 2024 Presidential and Congressional elections; EVgo’s ability to adapt its assets and infrastructure to changes in industry and regulatory standards and market demands related to EV charging; impediments to EVgo’s expansion plans, including permitting and utility-related delays; EVgo’s ability to integrate any businesses it acquires; EVgo’s ability to recruit and retain experienced personnel; risks related to legal proceedings or claims, including liability claims; EVgo’s dependence on third parties, including hardware and software vendors and service providers, utilities and permit-granting entities; supply chain disruptions, inflation and other increases in expenses; safety and environmental requirements or regulations that may subject EVgo to unanticipated liabilities or costs; EVgo’s ability to enter into and maintain valuable partnerships with commercial or public-entity property owners, landlords and/or tenants (collectively “Site Hosts”), original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”), fleet operators and suppliers; EVgo’s ability to maintain, protect and enhance EVgo’s intellectual property; and general economic or political conditions, including the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel and the broader Middle East region, and elevated rates of inflation and associated changes in monetary policy. The forward-looking statements contained in this report are also subject to other risks and uncertainties, including those more fully described herein and in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, the Company’s quarterly reports on Form 10-Q for the quarterly periods ended March 31, 2024, June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024 and current reports on Form 8-K. The forward-looking statements in this report are based on information available to the Company as of the date hereof, and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law. 1 Source: JD Power’s Future Vehicle Calendar (April 2024) 2 Source: EV Volumes, 2024 US EV sales 3 View source version on : CONTACT: EVgo Contacts For Investors: Media: KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: EV/ELECTRIC VEHICLES AUTOMOTIVE ALTERNATIVE VEHICLES/FUELS SOURCE: EVgo Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/12/2024 04:05 PM/DISC: 12/12/2024 04:04 PM

Olivia Hussey, star of the 1968 film 'Romeo and Juliet,' dies at 73(Bloomberg) — Chinese curbs on exports of three niche metals to the US have already rattled the market. Now, a bigger clampdown looks set to have far-reaching ramifications for supply chains feeding American defense and chip-making industries. Beijing this month slapped a ban on US-bound exports of gallium, germanium and antimony in a tit-for-tat move in a technology trade war. The metals are important because they have crucial uses in many Western industries from military tech to semiconductors to satellites. The ban may seem symbolic at first, given restrictions imposed more than a year ago had wiped out direct exports of Chinese gallium and germanium to the US. That pushed up prices and made it harder for traders to source buffer stocks. Yet panic levels are rising, because this time Beijing could crimp supplies further with rules prohibiting foreign companies and countries from helping US manufacturers to evade the controls. For instance, the measures could prevent international firms from reprocessing Chinese gallium, germanium and antimony in third countries, and then selling those products into the US. End buyers of those metals — such as the chip, aerospace and defence sectors — may have little choice but to try to use less, recycle more or strike deals with the few Western companies who can potentially start new production. There are also worries that other critical materials could be targeted if tensions escalate. Chinese metal that has been reprocessed elsewhere and re-routed to the US has offered a lifeline for American manufacturers, particularly in the gallium market. But those flows will probably dwindle as suppliers fear reprisals from Beijing, according to people with knowledge of the trade, who asked not to be identified due to the commercially sensitive nature of the matter. The tiny size of those markets and limited companies participating in them mean such sales would be easy to track, and being blacklisted by China would have huge repercussions for firms involved, the people said. It will be relatively easier for China to stop gallium shipments via third countries, given it’s a niche market, said Uchi Wakaaki, director of overseas business at Wing Co., Japan’s largest importer of the metal. Wing’s imports from China have halved this year due to the knock-on impact of trade curbs, he said. The impact on supply chains will vary, but traders, analysts and suppliers broadly expect Beijing’s ban to materially tighten global markets and boost metal prices in the coming months. Prices are already high. Germanium — which is over 300 times more expensive than copper — and antimony have hit records, while gallium is at a 13-year high, data from Fastmarkets show. Chipmaker Intel Corp. said the ban won’t significantly threaten production given its global supply sources. But since last year’s restrictions, several niche manufacturers in the sector have warned of risks for securing components or selling their products if they become more expensive to make. They include French night-vision technology company Exosens SAS and Lumentum Holdings Inc., which makes lasers for the semiconductor, defense and renewables sectors. AXT Inc., a semiconductor manufacturer that produces gallium products in China to supply US plants, said in some cases the government hasn’t issued export licenses, and shipments have been delayed. Exosens and Lumentum didn’t respond to requests for comment about the impact of this month’s ban. A spokesperson for AXT also didn’t respond to an email requesting comment, and a message left on the company’s general voicemail wasn’t replied to. In the longer term, industry insiders say the challenge will be securing new or alternative supplies, and finding refiners who can transform them into extremely pure forms that manufacturers need. There’s also the question of whether China could target other commodities. It’s the dominant supplier of dozens of critical minerals, but analysts and traders are focusing on ones that have key applications in the defense sector, and which the US doesn’t produce in meaningful volumes. Possible candidates include hafnium, zirconium, tungsten, titanium, and indium, they said. “Industries that have never had an issue around material availability are all of a sudden waking up to the fact that there might be one,” said Ionut Lazar, principal consultant at researcher CRU Group. “For the smaller manufacturers who are really heavily reliant on that material being available — almost regardless of the price — that’s the concern.” Drawing on views from producers, traders, manufacturers and consultants, here’s a metal-by-metal breakdown of how China is exposing pinch points in the West’s defense and chip-making supply chains — and the impact: Gallium Like fellow minor metals germanium and antimony, gallium is typically extracted as byproduct from mining and refining mainstream commodities like zinc, copper, aluminum and gold. Annual gallium output totals less than 1,000 tons, with China producing virtually all of it. To highlight the minuscule market, China’s aluminum industry — which pumps out gallium as a byproduct — makes more than 40 million tons each year. The nation is so dominant because in addition to being by far the top aluminum producer, its refiners are also required by law to recover gallium. “If you really wanted to throttle a market, it would make sense to start there,” said Jack Bedder, founder of critical minerals consultancy Project Blue. “We’re still nowhere near the levels of muscle that China could flex in this space if it really wanted to.” International producers could in theory raise gallium production by investing in ways to extract it as a byproduct. Rio Tinto Group last week said it’s looking into whether that’s worth doing in Canada, and Metlen Energy & Metals SA is exploring something similar in Greece. Despite gallium’s price, some prospective producers are hesitant to invest and have sought commitments from US and European governments to fund projects. Some refiners also want minimum-price guarantees from manufacturers in return for long-term deals, people familiar with the matter said. That’s because suppliers are worried that prices could collapse if China lifts export restrictions or metal flows though prohibited channels. That’s a particular concern for gallium since China produced more than the world needed before the ban, meaning it risks building a domestic glut. Germanium Germanium is one example of how trade restrictions — including sanctions affecting Russian metals and mining — are shutting international merchants out of the market, reducing their role as suppliers of last resort in times like this. Alongside a handful of Chinese producers and a few alternative ones overseas, supplies of minor metals have traditionally been controlled by a group of specialist traders primarily operating out of London, New York, Hong Kong and Tokyo. They’ve historically built inventories when supplies are ample, before waiting — sometimes for years — to sell them when metal becomes scarce. But since China’s restrictions last year, many have been frozen out of the affected metals, with customs officials only approving shipments to established end users, according to people familiar with the matter. Germanium and gallium exports to traders’ main storage hubs in the Netherlands and Hong Kong have collapsed to zero, trade data show. That means less available metal on hand. Take Suzannah Lipmann’s family owned firm, famous among London’s tight-knit network of minor metals traders for having virtually every rare mineral in stock. Lipmann Walton & Co. no longer includes germanium on its list, having stepped out of that market for now in response to tightening trade restrictions. “Normally, the trade would find a way to solve these types of shortages if you leave it be,” said Lipmann, whose family has traded minor metals for three generations. “In a geopolitical crisis, normally the one thing that keeps on flowing is metal.” With traders ill-equipped to plug the gap, manufacturers have been tapping their own buffer stocks, seeking to lock in additional supplies from a handful of alternative Western refiners and asking governments for help in building more resilient supply chains. Beijing’s grip on germanium is looser than it is for gallium, but is still a concern for the US as it seeks to become less reliant on Chinese supplies. After China’s curbs last year, the Biden administration sent diplomats to Belgium and the Democratic Republic of Congo to shore up critical mineral supplies for domestic manufacturers, including defense and aerospace contractors who need extremely pure forms of germanium to keep satellites in orbit and missiles on target. It’s only the beginning of China’s “attempts to assert its dominance on critical minerals,” Jose Fernandez, US under secretary of state for economic growth, energy and the environment, said in Brussels this month. “I’m anticipating this will not be the last time we need to address this issue.” The US once dominated germanium supply more than China does today. Cold War-era scientists pioneered a process that made it one of the purest materials ever — with impurities reaching just one in every 10 trillion atoms. Umicore SA, which transforms germanium for use in high-tech products like thermal-imaging systems and radiation detectors, has partnered with Congo to process the metal from mine-waste dumps there in a deal brokered by US authorities. A key question is how quickly it can boost supplies. “This partnership is part of our overall strategy to diversify our supply sources and to strengthen the supply chain,” said Umicore, which has historically had agreements for large Chinese supplies. “We are confident that our sourcing strategy and our supply portfolio are sufficiently robust to secure continued operations and supplies to our customers.” Antimony Like many minor metals, antimony — widely used in munitions — has been oversupplied for much of this century as China’s rapid industrial expansion boosted output. But that has been changing in recent years as the county’s geological reserves shrink. While illicit exports via Vietnam in the past helped ease supply squeezes, better border monitoring and supply chain auditing by Western manufacturers have seen so-called border leakages drop in recent years, according to CRU. Looking ahead, such flows are “probably going to be more and more difficult,” said Willis Thomas, a principal consultant at CRU. The few deposits developed in countries like Tajikistan, Myanmar and Turkey aren’t large enough to make up for the shortfall in Chinese supply, and the big worry is when and where any new mines will be found. The only known US deposit sits in an abandoned gold mining region in Idaho and the US Defense Department has supported developer Perpetua Resources Corp. to help start production. That could reduce America’s antimony shortage, potentially contributing more than 30% of its needs. The problem is that development could take years and much more is needed to plug the global shortfall. Many end users remain worried about supplies. “At the time China made this announcement, we started getting an avalanche of calls from the Defense Department,” said Gary Evans, head of United States Antimony Corp, which runs a smelter in Montana that’s operating at about 50% of capacity due to a raw ore shortage. “The hard part is finding supply. We’ve been on the phone the last 120 days with companies trying to find supply.” —With assistance from Thomas Hall and Martin Ritchie.

Shoppers bemused as Easter eggs hit shop shelves before New Year’s EveHerbert tosses 3 TD passes and Chargers secure a playoff spot with a 40-7 rout of Patriots FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots. The win also secured the fourth postseason appearance in Jim Harbaugh’s five seasons as an NFL coach, adding to the three he made during his stint with tAshe San Francisco 49ers. Herbert finished 26 of 38 for 281 yards to become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes in each of his first five seasons. The Patriots have lost six straight games, their second such losing streak of the season. They are now 2-14 the last two seasons at home. Dallas' Naji Marshall gets 4-game suspension, Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic is banned 3 games for fight The NBA has suspended Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall for four games and Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic for three games for their roles in an on-court fight during Friday night’s game. Dallas forward P.J. Washington was suspended for one game. All of the suspensions are without pay. Nurkic was called for an offensive foul while being guarded by Daniel Gafford with 9:02 left in the third quarter before the altercation quickly escalated. Nurkic confronted Marshall before taking an open-handed swing at his head and then Marshall responded with a punch. Washington quickly shoved Nurkic to the ground before the teams were separated. The NBA said Marshall “attempted to further engage Nurkic in a hostile manner in the corridor outside the locker rooms.” Shohei Ohtani to become a father for the 1st time in 2025 LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is adding a newcomer to his family lineup. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has posted on his Instagram account that he and wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting a baby in 2025. The photo shows the couple's beloved dog, Decoy, as well as a pink ruffled onesie along with baby shoes and a sonogram that is covered by a baby emoji. Ohtani announced in February that he had married Tanaka, a former professional basketball player from his native Japan. The news from the intensely private player stunned Ohtani's teammates and his fans. Eli Manning and Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. The Hall on Saturday announced the names of the 15 modern-era finalists who advanced from a group of 25 to the final stage of voting. The selection committee will vote next month to pick the class of between three and five modern-era players that will be announced the week of the Super Bowl. Georgia QB Carson Beck announces plan to enter NFL draft after season-ending elbow injury Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has announced his plans to enter the NFL draft, five days after having season-ending elbow surgery. The fifth-year senior made his NFL plans official on social media. Beck suffered a right elbow injury in the first half of the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas in the Southeastern Conference championship game on Dec. 7. Beck had surgery on Monday to repair his ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. He is expected to begin throwing next spring. Backup Gunner Stockton will make his first start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame on Wednesday. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Panthers place 1,000-yard rusher Chuba Hubbard on IR for final 2 games with strained calf CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have shut down leading rusher Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a strained calf. He was placed on injured reserve Saturday. Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team. Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Corbin Burnes and Arizona Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal, AP source says PHOENIX (AP) — Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $210 million, six-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a successful physical. The 30-year-old Burnes was perhaps the top free agent pitcher on the market after going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA for Baltimore last season. The Orioles acquired the right-hander in a February trade after he spent his first six major league seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers. Miami's Cam Ward sets NCAA's Division I record with 156th career touchdown pass ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Cam Ward has made NCAA history in his final college game. The Miami quarterback has thrown a record-setting 156th touchdown pass of his college career, connecting with Jacolby George for a 4-yard score with 4:12 left in the first quarter of the Pop-Tarts Bowl. That’s the Division I — FBS and FCS — record, one more than Houston’s Case Keenum threw for from 2007 through 2011. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.NoneBy Noam N. Levey, KFF Health News Worried that President-elect Donald Trump will curtail federal efforts to take on the nation’s medical debt problem, patient and consumer advocates are looking to states to help people who can’t afford their medical bills or pay down their debts. “The election simply shifts our focus,” said Eva Stahl, who oversees public policy at Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit that has worked closely with the Biden administration and state leaders on medical debt. “States are going to be the epicenter of policy change to mitigate the harms of medical debt.” New state initiatives may not be enough to protect Americans from medical debt if the incoming Trump administration and congressional Republicans move forward with plans to scale back federal aid that has helped millions gain health insurance or reduce the cost of their plans in recent years. Comprehensive health coverage that limits patients’ out-of-pocket costs remains the best defense against medical debt. But in the face of federal retrenchment, advocates are eyeing new initiatives in state legislatures to keep medical bills off people’s credit reports, a consumer protection that can boost credit scores and make it easier to buy a car, rent an apartment, or even get a job. Several states are looking to strengthen oversight of medical credit cards and other financial products that can leave patients paying high interest rates on top of their medical debt. Some states are also exploring new ways to compel hospitals to bolster financial aid programs to help their patients avoid sinking into debt. “There’s an enormous amount that states can do,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, who leads health care initiatives at the nonprofit Community Service Society of New York. “Look at what’s happened here.” New York state has enacted several laws in recent years to rein in hospital debt collections and to expand financial aid for patients, often with support from both Democrats and Republicans in the legislature. “It doesn’t matter the party. No one likes medical debt,” Benjamin said. Other states that have enacted protections in recent years include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Washington. Many measures picked up bipartisan support. President Joe Biden’s administration has proved to be an ally in state efforts to control health care debt. Such debt burdens 100 million people in the United States, a KFF Health News investigation found . Led by Biden appointee Rohit Chopra, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has made medical debt a priority , going after aggressive collectors and exposing problematic practices across the medical debt industry. Earlier this year, the agency proposed landmark regulations to remove medical bills from consumer credit scores. The White House also championed legislation to boost access to government-subsidized health insurance and to cap out-of-pocket drug costs for seniors, both key bulwarks against medical debt. Trump hasn’t indicated whether his administration will move ahead with the CFPB credit reporting rule, which was slated to be finalized early next year. Congressional Republicans, who will control the House and Senate next year, have blasted the proposal as regulatory overreach that will compromise the value of credit reports. And Elon Musk, the billionaire whom Trump has tapped to lead his initiative to shrink government, last week called for the elimination of the watchdog agency . “Delete CFPB,” Musk posted on X. If the CFPB withdraws the proposed regulation, states could enact their own rules, following the lead of Colorado, New York, and other states that have passed credit reporting bans since 2023. Advocates in Massachusetts are pushing the legislature there to take up a ban when it reconvenes in January. “There are a lot of different levers that states have to take on medical debt,” said April Kuehnhoff, a senior attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, which has helped lead national efforts to expand debt protections for patients. Kuehnhoff said she expects more states to crack down on medical credit card providers and other companies that lend money to patients to pay off medical bills, sometimes at double-digit interest rates. Under the Biden administration, the CFPB has been investigating patient financing companies amid warnings that many people may not understand that signing up for a medical credit card such as CareCredit or enrolling in a payment plan through a financial services company can pile on more debt. If the CFPB efforts stall under Trump, states could follow the lead of California, New York, and Illinois, which have all tightened rules governing patient lending in recent years. Consumer advocates say states are also likely to continue expanding efforts to get hospitals to provide more financial assistance to reduce or eliminate bills for low- and middle-income patients, a key protection that can keep people from slipping into debt. Hospitals historically have not made this aid readily available, prompting states such as California, Colorado, and Washington to set stronger standards to ensure more patients get help with bills they can’t afford. This year, North Carolina also won approval from the Biden administration to withhold federal funding from hospitals in the state unless they agreed to expand financial assistance. In Georgia, where state government is entirely in Republican control, officials have been discussing new measures to get hospitals to provide more assistance to patients. “When we talk about hospitals putting profits over patients, we get lots of nodding in the legislature from Democrats and Republicans,” said Liz Coyle, executive director of Georgia Watch, a consumer advocacy nonprofit. Many advocates caution, however, that state efforts to bolster patient protections will be critically undermined if the Trump administration cuts federal funding for health insurance programs such as Medicaid and the insurance marketplaces established through the Affordable Care Act. Trump and congressional Republicans have signaled their intent to roll back federal subsidies passed under Biden that make health plans purchased on ACA marketplaces more affordable. That could hike annual premiums by hundreds or even thousands of dollars for many enrollees, according to estimates by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a think tank. And during Trump’s first term, he backed efforts in Republican-led states to restrict enrollment in their Medicaid safety net programs through rules that would require people to work in order to receive benefits. GOP state leaders in Idaho, Louisiana, and other states have expressed a desire to renew such efforts. “That’s all a recipe for more medical debt,” said Stahl, of Undue Medical Debt. Jessica Altman, who heads the Covered California insurance marketplace, warned that federal cuts will imperil initiatives in her state that have limited copays and deductibles and curtailed debt for many state residents. “States like California that have invested in critical affordable programs for our residents will face tough decisions,” she said. ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Mutual of America Capital Management LLC Sells 3,316 Shares of Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:RYAN)

Foldable devices changed the face of smartphones all over the world. It is a blend of technological innovation combined with futuristic design. Here, brands are not stepping back but rather running to reach the top market. New foldable smartphones with their novelties come as a feature combined with performance. Here is a glimpse of the top folding phones available in the market and what makes them special. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is the flagship that the brand holds for foldable technology. It further boasts with 7.6 inches of Dynamic AMOLED 2X major screen and 6.2 inches cover screen to ensure frictionless viewing. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset propels the phone and handles multitasking very easily. It also allows for the S Pen, which certainly will be helpful in increasing users' productivity on the go. The battery life paired with fast charging will provide seamless user experience. Google’s Pixel Fold is a fresh contender in the foldable market, offering the brand’s hallmark software optimizations. It sports 7.6 inches of OLED foldable display along with 5.8 inches outsizing external screen. It has its Tensor G2 processor that gives it all the punch, especially in AI-driven feature functionalities like Google Assistant and on-device translation. This comes with a 48MP primary sensor that creates bright pictures even during the night. Quality building along with being water-resistant does make it much more tempting. Motorola turns back the clock with a flip phone in the Razr 40 Ultra. Its 6.9-inch pOLED main screen can deliver a high level of color, while the 3.6-inch external display is more useful than one might expect, powering quick notifications and interactions with apps. Its Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset gives it reliable performance for everyday tasks. Its compact form factor and retro-inspired design surely are statements on styles, but its battery life could be more competitive. The Oppos' Find N3 Flip is just the perfect combination of aesthetics and functionality. It comes with a 6.8-inch AMOLED display and an accompanying 3.26-inch external screen for media consumption and quick interactions. Promise performance is walled off behind the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 chip. The Hasselblad-tuned camera system promises lovely photos. This Oppo Find N3 Flip could play well for those stepping into the foldable space on its strong hinge design and more competitive pricing. The Huawei Mate X3 is particularly unique due to its ultra-lightweight design and functionality of having two screens. It comes with a 7.85-inch main OLED display and 6.4-inch external screen for the user's convenience in using the device. This phone is armed with the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, hence providing it with heavy multitasking power. Its camera remains impressive, clear, crisp, and sharp shots can be taken. International users still face the problem of limited software support brought about by US sanctions. Performance across these foldables varies depending on the processor, RAM, and software optimization. Still, when talking about productivity and multitasking, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Pixel Fold are great because all of that is due to the processors and huge displays. On the other hand, models like Razr 40 Ultra and Oppo Find N3 Flip seem more style-oriented and portable. The battery life stays in the mixed bag with more foldables offering capacity but suffering from higher power draw. Flip-style phones make some sacrifice in battery life to facilitate compactness. The market for foldable devices is still in the developmental stages since brands constantly test new innovations on hinge durability, crease reduction, and better software compatibility. As the technology advances and the cost of production comes down, foldables will become even closer within the average consumer's reach. No longer a niche, foldables are the future of mobile innovation . After all, if there is pure interest in performance, design, or photography, there's a foldable smartphone to meet that interest. That fierce competition at play between the manufacturers will make sure users can look forward to even more revolutionary features in the coming years.

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