Toyota City, Japan, Jan 13, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Toyota Motor Corporation announces today the Japan wide launch of its completely redesigned "Noah" and "Voxy" minivans, with models scheduled for release on January 13*.The new Noah and Voxy have been reborn as everybody's minivans, with more comfort, convenience, and peace of mind to provoke a deeper sense of happiness that only minivans can offer.- In addition to the excellent packaging unique to minivans, the ease of use is further increased, with universal steps and free stop rear hatch doors using karakuri mechanism.- New models come equipped with the latest advanced fixtures, including Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate.- They also come with exceptional dynamic performance, including the new-generation series parallel hybrid system.Launched in November 2001, the Noah and Voxy are compact cab wagons developed in pursuit of the pure minivan fun, with sliding doors for easy entry and exit, and roomy, comfortable cabin spaces for lots of passengers and cargo. As cars supported and loved by Japanese families, they are still among our most popular cars, particularly with families.The new fourth-generation Noah and Voxy have been reborn as minivans with more comfort, convenience, and peace of mind than ever to encourage users to load up their hobbies and toys and hit the road. Using the TNGA (GA-C) platform for their basic structure, these minivans were developed for a deeper sense of happiness that the outstanding packaging and ease-of-use their generations of models have always brought, and to achieve even greater minivan appeal through use of the latest advanced fixtures. Designed based on three unique worldviews that further emphasize their features, the Noah is built on the concepts of "majestic, modern, and high quality" combined with "mainstream and aggressive," while the Voxy goes for "leading edge and unique."Welcab models (assisted mobility vehicles) also enhance the model lineup by dramatically improving the range of wheelchair-adapted models and expanding the configuration for type-designated vehicles.*Production of hybrid vehicles will begin at the end of January 2022.More details of the new Noah and Voxy, visit https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/36614730.html. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
HONG KONG, Jan 12, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - A highlight event celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the 15th Asian Financial Forum (AFF), organised by the Government of the HKSAR and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), came to a successful conclusion yesterday (11 January). Running on the theme "Navigating the Next Normal towards a Sustainable Future", the online-only AFF 2022 featured real-time polls to gauge the views of participants on a spectrum of topics, including the global economic outlook, environmental, social and governance (ESG), climate risks and green investment trends. This year, over 700 one-on-one matchmaking meetings between investors and project owners have been arranged in the three-day AFF Deal Flow Matchmaking Session. As of 11 January, the AFF virtual platform had seen more than 63,000 views from 80 countries and regions.Mark Carney, United Nations Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance, shared his insights on how to build a sustainable financial system as a way of mitigating the liability and transitional threats posed by climate change.Jean-Claude Trichet, Former President, European Central Bank, offered his views on how the financial industry, regulators and policymakers should step up their concerted efforts in addressing key issues related to monetary stability in times of uncertainty.This year's AFF Deal Flow Matchmaking Session was held over three days with over 700 one-on-one matchmaking meetings arranged between project owners and investors.Delivering his remarks on the second morning of AFF 2022, Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, noted the tremendous opportunities for Hong Kong's financial market created by Mainland China's continued development. "The national 14th Five-Year Plan sets out the long-range objectives of the country through the year 2035, and strategically affirms the role and positioning of Hong Kong in the overall development of our country, presenting opportunities in various areas of importance. Of all the specific roles for Hong Kong that have been reaffirmed or established, the one of particular relevance to us on this occasion is Hong Kong's continued expansion as an international financial centre, encompassing the strengthening of our status as a global offshore renminbi business hub as well as an international asset management and risk management business centre," Mr Chan said.43% of poll respondents optimistic on global economy; 33% say lack of unified ESG standards as top challenge of businessesOnline polls have been conducted during the AFF to gauge participants' views on a range of issues including the global economic outlook and ESG. It found that 43% of respondents were optimistic about the outlook for the global economy in 2022 - a significant increase from 32% in the poll at AFF 2021 - while 33% of respondents had a neutral view and 24% expressed pessimism. The results indicate a generally more positive sentiment towards economic prospects in 2022.When asked about the most significant barrier preventing their companies from implementing more ESG-friendly policies, 33% pointed to the lack of unified, easily understandable ESG standards and 22% cited the difficulty in balancing ESG practices and business goals. As for the sectors with the most opportunities for green investment in Asia, 45% identified green energy, followed by real estate and construction (16%), transportation infrastructure (14%) and agriculture and food (14%).Pulse survey says neglecting ESG will lose business opportunities and clientsPwC and the HKTDC jointly presented a pulse survey, "ESG Investing: Challenges and Opportunities for Hong Kong", during AFF 2022. Speaking at the forum, Elton Yeung, Vice Chairman of PwC China, said the survey indicated that more than half of the respondents believed that neglecting ESG factors could affect organisations' ability to attract business opportunities and retain clients. Nearly 40% said it could affect their organisation's reputation and the sustainability of their operations in the long run.The report also pointed out that the involvement of boards and executive directors in ESG matters is effective in encouraging companies to move towards sustainability. The green bond market and unified carbon emissions trading market in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area provides significant opportunities for the development of ESG investing in Hong Kong. However, respondents said they see the lack of a homogenous framework or standardised guidelines for measuring ESG factors as a challenge to implementing ESG practices and measures, corresponding with the result of the AFF online poll.Heavyweight speakers share views on a range of topicsSeveral keynote speeches were featured at AFF 2022, including an address by Mark Carney, United Nations Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance. Mr Carney shared his insights on how to build a sustainable financial system as a way of mitigating the liability and transitional threats posed by climate change. He said that governments need to step up with "ambitious, credible and predictable" policies that match their pledges. "Very importantly, countries are encouraged to enact 'deep decarbonisation' policies such as the phase-out of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030 and legislate carbon pricing to deliver certainty. This is about giving greater certainty to investors and businesses, so they can pull forward with investment, smooth adjustments and drive jobs and growth upwards while they force emissions downwards. Finance is stepping up, the system is being changed, and there are enormous opportunities now for countries and companies, from affordable green power to zero-emission steel to low-carbon hydrogen and beyond. The financial sector has moved from being a mirror that reflects a world that hasn't been doing nearly enough to becoming a window through which ambitious climate action can deliver a sustainable future."Another distinguished keynote speaker was Jean-Claude Trichet, Former President of the European Central Bank. He noted that the financial industry, regulators and policymakers should step up their concerted efforts when it comes to addressing key issues related to monetary stability in times of uncertainty. "[Macroprudential regulations] are more important than ever. We have to be very careful with regard to these buffers, countercyclical buffers, the systemic risk buffers, et cetera. We have to be very attentive to the loan-to-deposit ratio, to all these kinds of macroprudentials that are of extraordinary importance. It's clear that the advanced economies have to be particularly cautious today and particularly attentive to their risks. Because if all that turns out to be a hard landing, every country in the world will pay a very high price for that. And, as always, the least developed, the poorest, the developing economies - they will have the most difficulty," said Mr Trichet.Looking at the financial world from a different angle, Michael Milken, Chairman, Milken Institute, shared on the positive changes that his philanthropic work has created for communities, "There is no substitute for continued investments in education. One of the things we learnt from COVID is that we need to provide knowledge and education, as it relates to the environment, to nutrition, and to the promise of science. Just developing new technologies and new techniques that are effective, COVID has shown us it's not enough. We have to make sure that it is communicated so the billions of people on the planet can fully understand and have access to these technologies."Tian Guoli, Chairman, Executive Director, China Construction Bank, said: "In 2022, Asia will likely become a force to boost the development of sustainable development in a world full of uncertainties. Hong Kong will certainly play a more crucial role as an international financial centre."Ju Weimin, Vice Chairman, President & CIO, China Investment Corporation, a sovereign wealth fund, offered his analysis of the current macro investment trends in Asia and China, noting that sovereign wealth funds are a key source of global investment capital. "They have been the key players in developing the global financial market; they have grown rapidly and are making a bigger impact on the international market and capital flow. Especially since the global financial crisis, the total size of the sovereign wealth funds worldwide has doubled and is approaching the global size of alternative investment," Mr Ju said.Addressing the outlook for cryptocurrencies and blockchain, Sam Bankman-Fried, Founder and CEO of cryptocurrency exchange FTX.com, said: "One of the big goals of crypto is to be able to build an ecosystem where there is financial inclusiveness, where anyone can get equitable access to the financial markets. When you look at traditional markets, you just don't see that ease of access. For some reason in crypto, the exchanges seem to play a very central role, whereas in the rest of the financial ecosystem they played a relevant role but a less central one. That is one big thing that really changes people's minds on ecosystems as they walk through it."Bestselling author and Founder and Executive Chairman of Moven Brett King, also widely known as the "Godfather of Fintech", offered his perspectives on how the emergence of innovative fintech solutions presents both an opportunity and a challenge to the banking and financial industries. "The first use of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) en masse will probably be the Beijing Winter Olympics this year, where we see the CBDCs incorporated into the mobile wallet for the games. This is the first major evolution of money that we have seen since we moved from coins to paper banknotes. In a historical perspective, what we see right now with the creation of CBDCs and cryptocurrencies is an incredible point of change for humanity with respect to the design and intelligence of money," Mr King said.Over 700 meetings in AFF Deal Flow in three daysIn response to high investment demand, this year's AFF Deal Flow Matchmaking Session, co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, is extended by a day and held over three days from 10 to 12 January. The AFF Deal Flow has facilitated collaboration between project owners, potential business partners and investors by arranging over 700 one-on-one meetings and connecting capital with investment projects from around the world. Over 720 projects in the AFF Deal Flow Matchmaking Session covered a wide spectrum of sectors, including fintech, healthtech, deep tech, consumer goods, infrastructure and real estate, environment, energy and environmental technology. More than 230 of the projects were ESG-integrated to meet the related needs of investors.AFF online platform runs to mid-March, showcasing technologies from 130+ exhibitorsVideo playback of all the sessions and virtual exhibitions from AFF 2022 will be available through the event's online platform until 11 March 2022. Participants can enjoy round-the-clock access to 60 keynote speeches and panel discussions as well the exhibitions of more than 130 local and international financial institutions, tech companies, start-ups and investment agencies, showcasing a plethora of advanced financial technologies and unmissable investment opportunities.Overview of participants' responses in AFF 2022 polls1. What is your outlook for the global economy in 2022?Optimistic 43%Neutral 33%Pessimistic 24%2. In which sector do you see the most opportunities for green investment in Asia?Green energy 45%Transportation infrastructure 14%Water and waste treatment 9%Reforestation 2%Real estate and construction 16%Agriculture and food 14%3. What is the most significant barrier preventing your company/institution from implementing more ESG-friendly policies?The difficulty in balancing ESG practices and business goals 22%Lack of ESG understanding among key personnel 16%Lack of unified, easily understandable ESG standards 33%Poor data quality and consistency in terms of ESG performance evaluation 14%Lack of commitment to ESG practices among senior management 6%Insufficient government support 9%Websites- Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/aff/en/- AFF programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/aff/en/programme/programme- AFF speakers: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/aff/en/speaker/main- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3HRXNQoMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.orgClayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAgnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
BANGKOK, Dec 22, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - JWD InfoLogistics PCL (SET: JWD) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Charvanin Bunditkitsada discusses the company's strategy and outlook in The Executive Talk by ShareInvestor.com.1. What have you learned, and what opportunities have you found from the Covid-19 crisis? Since the Covid-19 first appeared last February (2020), everyone has been in a panic. The logistics industry in Thailand and globally was almost frozen, especially in Q2. To cope with it, JWD, for the very first time, launched the Business Continuity Plan (BCP) to keep our operation going on track. We could not stop, because it would affect our customers. Since then, we have been executing BCP 4 times already. The most important lesson we have learned is that a business must adjust itself in order to survive. For example, we set up online meetings and interviews. But yes, there are always opportunities within every crisis. And chance belonged to those who adjusted themselves quickly. Covid-19 has uncovered rapid growth in B2C, Last-mile delivery, Online, and E-commerce business. They emerged even before Covid-19 hit the world. But because of the pandemic, the potential of this sector has never been better. Online trading has shown its high potential, just like traditional channels. JWD could see this trend clearly and started adjusting business even before the pandemic. For example, we signed a JV partner with our potential partners from many companies. We faced difficulties from travel restrictions within the region. However, JWD and our partners could find the solutions to get through them.2. How do you adjust your business in response to the increasing oil price?Years ago, when we were facing the swinging oil price, we kept the customers informed about this factor and the necessity that we might need to increase our service fee regarding the oil price. For the recent crisis, we admit that it significantly impacts our income and revenue. However, we have EV technology that JWD has already signed a contract with our Japanese supply partner. Thus, this February, we will launch the first trial of EV lorry in our freight. Moreover, we have cooperated with the Chinese partner to bring more EV trucks. Therefore, to achieve our 'Green logistics' mission and maintain the ESG policy, we must implement more EV transports.3. Confronting the container imbalance.This issue directly impacted our customers. I received an email from customers in Los Angeles explaining their difficulties in acquiring the containers from Thai suppliers, which led to their lack of confidence in trading with Thai companies. I clarified the situation and pointed out the problem's actual cause, which was the consequence of imbalanced freight between large nations. Therefore, when it lacked supply, the freight price increased. But I don't believe that the sea freight companies would take advantage of raising the freight price. So, it's about balancing the freight account. Although these issues didn't impact us directly, we took the opportunity to support our customers by providing temporary storage while the cargo was on the waiting list.4. Business adjustment in the era of digital disruption.Talking about digital means the backend or freight management system and the robotic technology that replaces human labor. JWD was the first logistics company to implement such technology and has been operating under an IT solution initiative for over ten years. Besides, we have also applied Business Intelligence (BI), such as providing a dashboard for the management team to oversee the operation in each unit. I also have my dashboard to receive daily income and revenue reports.5. Generation gap management JWD will soon turn 43 years old. We have a wide gap between the old generation who are almost retired and young new-graduated employees. With more than 2,000 employees, we brainstorm experience and know-how from the seniors with the enthusiastic, progressive juniors. I admit we have a strong HR department. Plus, we are the rising sun industry. While everyone has struggled with the pandemic, we still have acquired positive effects. Thousands of employees from other sectors were assigned to work from home, leave without pay, and even dismissed. We did none of these. Therefore, I believe our staff knows how lucky they are with the company's position these days.6. Investment in Cambodia and ASEAN JWD has been expanding business to Cambodia for over five years. We operate three significant parts - first, food cold chain and supply chain management. We cooperate with the Cambodian partner who holds the Pizza Company and Swensens franchise. Second, we invest in the Phnom Penh special economic zone with an estimated 14.6 percent share. Lastly, the inland container port, located in Phnom Penh Special Economic Zone. They have grown quite well and just picked up from the Covid-19 impact. Especially these days, customers prefer inland transportation to the sea-freight due to the cost. 7. Logistics business is the backbone of the economy.Yes, this is very important. As I said, no matter what crisis, all businesses seek survival. Logistics plays a significant role in supporting their backend, transportation management, storage management, air-freight, sea-freight, etc. Logistics cannot stop working. But of course, in a bull economy, we have a lot to do. The higher volume brings about a higher supply. Therefore, the increased competition is the customers' stage of judging and bargaining the price and service. Logistics is an exciting business. Most of the time, we must decrease our costs because we profit from the customer cost.8. Art Storage business.Forty-three years ago, JWD started our first business in moving and relocation services such as home and office move, including exhibitions related to Art. A couple of years before the Covid-19 pandemic, we started the JWD Art Space, aiming to provide Fine Art logistics solutions, and cooperated with the Ministry of Culture. We see the pain point within relocation, import, and export of Fine Art. Some artworks have a high value. The collectors usually obtain numbers of artwork. Commonly, they hang them on the wall. However, when the amount of work has risen. Keeping these sensitive paintings in a common storage room will damage them long-term. I am personally a collector. So, I have found our potential in Fine Art management. We have an art specialist team who experienced more than 20-30 years in this industry. Customers relied on us. Besides, we also set up art exhibitions at JWD Art Space. One of our events received over 30,000 visitors, which means at least 1,000 per day. We have been delighted with the project. We aim to improve the art industry and introduce more Thai artists to collectors. We want to build a connection between them. Consequently, we never charged any entrance fees. Many students came here, and we see this as an opportunity to bring Thai artists and artworks to the global market.9. What is your most potential challenge these days? After Covid-19, I admit that JWD has performed exceptionally well. We have grown three quarters in a row. Therefore, my most potential challenge is how to develop further. How can we maintain our performance until the end of this Q4? While the Omicron seems threatening the economy and brings us an unclear scenario, how can we reach our next year's target, especially the top and bottom lines? Can we grow as expected? These are our challenges. 10. We must not be proud of our past achievements.I believe that as a listed company when we achieve something, others keep an eye on us. Because we are in the market and must work transparently, other competitors can always follow or imitate us - for example, cold chain management. Nowadays, everyone jumps into this service which I am very appreciative of. Thus, we aim to create new products regarding new trends, long-term potential, and sustainability. After that, the commercial team and I must pursue new products and services that could solve the problems for our customers, either B2B or C2C. We must admit that when there are many players in the market, profit margin and everything we did in the past will naturally decrease. Most commonly, they usually compete with price war campaigns. But, as a result, we must not stop and constantly search for new business opportunities. 11. What's your inspiration for work?My inspiration. I was only 29 years old when I first took the responsibility in this position due to my father passing away. However, my father's goal to register the company in the capital market had inspired me. And I made it. Indeed, there are many things he wanted to do, and I have achieved most of them so far - just a few things to go. 12. What's your goal? My next goal is to grow JWD following our 5-year strategy as we announced to the investors and shareholders that we will reach 10,000 million THB by 2025. We are becoming a powerful regional logistics supply chain company, especially in Vietnam, where we hold shares in Transimex Corporation PCL. Moreover, we have received a 5-star CG score for two years in a row. We are one of the listed companies qualified in the THSI (Thailand Sustainability Investment) list. We were awarded the 'Rising Star' and 'Best IR Awards' from SET. We have been trying to transfer a family business into a logistics leader that everyone follows. About The Executive Q&A SeriesThe Executive Q&A Series is presented by ShareInvestor, Asia's leading financial internet media and technology company and the largest investor relations network in the region. For more information, email admin.th@shareinvestor.com. Website: www.ShareInvestorThailand.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
Podgorica, Montenegro / December 20, 2021 / SEAPRWire / – A group of crypto enthusiasts has announced the release of the RIDGE charity token. RIDGE is a community-driven charity token deployed on the Ethereum network (ERC-20) with the major purpose of donating to charities and developing other crypto utilities. Over time, the team has consistently delivered and helped several tokens improve their utilities. They have worked together with one aim in mind, to become a serious token with multiple use cases for a better and greater decentralized crypto community. The launch of the RIDGE token took place on November 9th, 2021. They did their first donation, followed by additional two donations a week after the token launch. Since the launch, they have made 9 donations to different charity organizations. One percent of every tax for buying, selling, and ordering the RIDGE token will go directly to the donations wallet. Once the donation has reached a decent amount, the team will send it to official charities. So far, they have burned 10% of the total token supply and more tokens are burnt from reflections. Ridgeback Inu ($RIDGE) aims to revolutionize the Cryptoverse. It is a novel memecoin with multiple values and use cases on the ERC-20 network. In the near future, the team plans to create a wrapped clone or a bridge to Polygon, perhaps a second token, specifically for investors who are seeking an alternative to the high ETH fees on Ethereum networks. How to Get $RIDGE Users can get it on Uniswap v2. and the contact is 0x64609A845Ad463d07ee51e91a88D1461C3Dc3165. The token is also available on Hotbit, LBank, Coinsbit, and AzBit. About RIDGE RIDGE was inspired by Ridgeback (Ridgeback Inu) and the strongest Ridgeback Inu Community. The purpose of launching RIDGE is to assist children, creative developers, the sick, young talents, the victim of rugs, and a host of many other less privileged. Ridgebacks are very helpful and a real friend to their holders and community. The RIDGE token is created with fun and education in mind. The team intends to come up with a video platform with cool content, provide Netflix discounts for purchases, and they have also developed a video platform with a share-to-earn policy. In the near future, the team plans to have NFTs, which they will use to display the number of Ridgeback breeds across the universe. These NFTs will be created by a real-life artist who draws in monasteries and Orthodox churches across Eastern Europe and has worked as an art teacher for not less than fifteen years. In addition to the team’s numerous achievements, they have also developed an interesting $SHIB game. The request process is also flexible, and anyone can request a beta test of their game on the official Telegram group and get a prompt response. Social Media Link Twitter: https://twitter.com/RidgebackInu/ Facebook: https://t.me/ridgebackinu Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/RidgebackInu/ Discord: https://discord.com/invite/2BTuvSkm Telegram: https://t.me/ridgebackinu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgebackinu/ Medium: https://medium.com/@ridge.fi Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ridgebackinu Media Contacts Brand: Ridgeback Inu Contact: Ilija Icevic (Head of Marketing) Email: office@ridge.fi Website: https://ridge.fi/ SOURCE: Ridgeback Inu The article is provided by a third-party content provider. SEAPRWire ( www.seaprwire.com ) makes no warranties or representations in connection therewith. Any questions, please contact cs/at/SEAPRWire.com Sectors: Top Story, Daily News SEA PRWire: PR distribution in Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines & Hong Kong )
HONG KONG – Some days it feels like we are living in an alternate reality; there are times where life feels somewhat normal. Depending on where in the world we live and what actions our local governments have taken will affect us all differently. Some folks are experiencing complete lockdown while others are experiencing non-essential business closure. Although everyone in the world has been affected one way or another, this piece is more business-focused on your new reality as a business owner. Few enterprises have increased revenues because of our current crisis. It does not take much effort to recognize that anyone in the grocery, paper products (including toilet paper and paper towels), courier, or hand sanitizer industries have skyrocketed. The majority of the remaining businesses have suffered substantial financial losses due to mandatory closures putting a massive dent in nearly every economy. Some will never recover. There is a terminology called ‘the waterfall effect’ that will hit extra hard. As an example, local craft breweries over the last number of years in many areas have taken off. Many craft breweries are now reporting huge losses regardless of liquor establishment sales massively increasing. How could this be? The reason is that more than 50% of sales for many craft breweries come from restaurants and events. Think about when you go to a hockey game how many people buy a beer. Or perhaps you go to a nightclub or a restaurant, think about how much beer consumption exists. With revenues down more than 50%, this creates layoffs. Think about who looks after the art for the beer manufacturers, who looks after the packaging. You can now start to see the waterfall effect. Our current crisis extends well past the beer or alcohol industry and will have an effect on many services; for instance, look at the beauty industry. Who does your nails? Who cuts your hair. As time goes on, many people are self-educating, learning to do tasks they never dreamed of doing. When our current crisis eventually comes to an end, are 100% of these people going to go back to the same old? Or will they become more thrifty and look to save a few dollars because money is tight? As mentioned in a recent article titled “Creating Responsible Press Release Stories During the COVID-19 Pandemic” there is a significant number of people with increased times on their hands to read the news. At NovationWire, we believe this may be, in part, why we have seen a slight increase in the number of views of press releases submitted over the past few weeks. With less ‘Big Company’ press release new also out there, smaller businesses are seeing increased visibility. Bloggers and journalists are still looking for stories, especially independent journalists. Now more than ever, people have time on their hands to research online and read the news. So what does this all mean? It means that as a business owner, you need to start thinking outside of the box on how you can do things a little differently and what you can provide your customers. Then write and send a press release to the media (local or national) about what you are doing. Keeping the media, your customers, and your audience up to date on your goings-on is essential. Don’t let them think the lights have gone out or they may forget about you and go to your competition. As we know, many restaurants have closed. A few have taken the initiative to change their game and offer online purchasing of groceries. Perhaps you are a nail salon? How about changing your website to provide the sale of your products and or ‘how to’ videos? NovationWire provides an excellent vehicle to announce this while increasing your visibility online and within search results. Thinking outside the box on what you can offer your customers that is slightly different from what you were providing before, while still keeping to your primary business will be paramount. Once you have these ideas, you will need to announce them and make them heard through a press release. Think about your local car mechanic. If money is tight because of layoffs, people will educate themselves on how to change their automotive oil as they now have the time. Can you provide some type of unique experience? Memories are something that people will remember forever. As a news distribution service, NovationWire has started to see first hand how companies have been adapting and making these announcements. About NovationWire NovationWire is a marketing firm that offers customized online press release distribution solutions. These online PR distribution solutions are for PR firms, agencies, organizations & Corporates. It includes e-mail delivery directly to Editors who are targeted to media editors at newspapers, magazines, and broadcast outlets like TV and news/talk radio stations. They also cooperate with significant wire services like ACN Newswire, JCN Newswire, Dow Jones Factiva, Reuters Eikon, Bloomberg Terminal, Yahoo news etc. NovationWire also provides a package to target different regions of the world and too different languages. These regions include Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, China (Hong Kong, Taiwan), Russia, the United States, EU, UK, CA, AU, DE & many other countries. The Press releases could also be translated to English, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, French, Portuguese & Spanish. Media contact Company: NovationWire Contact: Yachin, Marketing Manager Email: support@NovWire.com Website: http://www.NovationWire.com Skype: skype@NovWire.com Telegram: @NovWire
LONDON (AFP) - Thomas Tuchel admitted Chelsea's coronavirus outbreak had taken a toll on his Premier League title chasers as Everton snatched a dramatic 1-1 draw on Thursday (Dec 16). Tuchel's side were without Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner and Callum Hudson-Odoi after the latest Covid-19 blow to rock the Premier League. Ben Chilwell, currently injured, also tested positive, while Kai Havertz was unable to play after feeling ill before the match. The Blues were already without Mateo Kovacic as the Croatia midfielder recovers having contracted the virus earlier in December. Shorn of so many key players, Chelsea laboured to break down stubborn Everton until Mason Mount netted midway through the second half at Stamford Bridge. Despite dominating from start to finish, Chelsea were punished for switching off at the back when teenage defender Jarrad Branthwaite grabbed his first Everton goal with 16 minutes left. Failing to beat a struggling Everton side decimated by injuries and illness was a hammer blow on a difficult day for Chelsea. "It is hard to swallow. We missed big chances to get the result in the first half and second half we did not find the rhythm," Tuchel said. "One big reason is for sure the chances we missed. We could have been two or three up and were playing with fire. "We didn't have anyone on the bench. We put the last guys in that we available and we are missing big personalities and quality." Having led the table for several weeks, Tuchel's third placed team are now four points behind leaders Manchester City. Chelsea have won only two of their last five league games as they lost ground on City and second placed Liverpool. With five games scheduled for this weekend called off due to Covid cases, and four others postponed at various times in the last week, Tuchel refused to say if he believed the Premier League should temporarily halt the season. "I don't want to get involved in the political stuff. If they decide we have to play we play," he said. "We are all worried about Covid. It's close to us, we had four positives. Other games get cancelled, ours didn't." More on this topic Related Story Football: Four Chelsea players including Lukaku, Werner test positive for Covid-19 Related Story Football: Premier League fixtures hit by Covid-19 as postponements rise The battling draw was a welcome sight for under-fire Everton boss Rafael Benitez, whose team have won only one of their last 11 league games. A banner reading "Benitez - get out of our club" was unfurled by Everton fans before kick-off. But it was the Chelsea supporters who were booing at full-time after their side's latest frustrating result. Over-worked Pickford Reece James should have put Chelsea ahead in the opening minutes, but the defender blasted over after sprinting onto Jorginho's pass. Jordan Pickford repelled James' free-kick before Mount had a golden opportunity to reward Chelsea's blistering start. Mount collected Antonio Rudiger's pass six yards from goal, yet once again Pickford came to Everton's rescue as he saved with his out-stretched foot. Chelsea finished the half with 81 percent of the possession and it was a similar story after the interval. Mount's deflected effort was clawed to safety by the over-worked Pickford. Tuchel sent on Ross Barkley and Saul Niguez and the changes reaped an immediate reward in the 70th minute. More on this topic Related Story Football: Man United's EPL match against Brighton postponed due to Covid-19 Related Story Football: Brentford boss calls for Premier League pause as Covid-19 cases surge In a flash, Barkley found James and he slipped a deft pass to Mount, who timed his run into the area perfectly before planting a composed finish past Pickford at the near post. The 22-year-old's seventh goal this season was his fourth in his last four Premier League appearances. That should have been the spark for Chelsea to finish the job but a lapse in concentration allowed Everton to equalise against the run of play four minutes later. Anthony Gordon's free-kick looped towards the far post and Branthwaite sneaked in behind the dozing Chelsea defence to poke home from close range. Pickford ensured Everton held on as the man of the match made a brilliant stop from Thiago Silva's header.
LONDON (AFP, REUTERS) - Antonio Conte on Wednesday (Dec 15) spoke of the "big problem" managers will face in future after confirming Tottenham Hotspur's Premier League clash at Leicester City today will go ahead as scheduled, following two postponed matches due to a Covid-19 outbreak in his camp. Spurs' Europa Conference League game against Rennes last week was called off, before the league match at Brighton & Hove Albion over the weekend suffered the same fate. Only 16 senior players trained on Wednesday after eight first-team players and five of the club's coaching staff had tested positive for the coronavirus. Tottenham boss Conte believes that players hit by the virus will have to be carefully managed as they gradually recover. "The players who are back in training, they need time to find the right physical condition," said the Italian, without mentioning names. "The Covid is not only 10 days and many times it makes your body not so strong. For this reason you have players injured after Covid. "We have... positives, for sure tomorrow they can't play. Today two players are back in training for the first time. Yesterday another player, but as you know, they need to be fit to play. "This is the big problem that we must be good to face in the future, not just the 10 days. To bring these players affected by Covid to be fit and avoid injuries. "After 10 days, you have players available but then you have to pay attention to the way to train, whether the body is ready to work. "You have to pay attention, moderate the training to avoid injuries. This is the big problem, not only for Tottenham but for other clubs with Covid-hit players." Spurs were not the only side who have had their Premier League match postponed, as Manchester United's clash at Brentford on Tuesday was also called off. There were a record 42 cases among players and staff at all clubs over the past week. More on this topic Related Story Football: Vaccination a sign of 'solidarity', says Liverpool manager Klopp Related Story Football: Man City boss Guardiola urges players to get booster shots A depleted Tottenham side will nevertheless aim to get back on track in the league today after falling two games behind, including a postponed match with Burnley last month due to heavy snow. Their 3-0 victory over Norwich City on Dec 5 was their third home league win in a row under Conte, but they have won just one of their last five away league games. Leicester beat Newcastle United 4-0 over the weekend, but they too had their issues with Covid-19, with at least seven players ruled out. "We have been taking all the precautions - wearing masks, reinforcing hygiene issues, safe distancing," said Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers. "It's just really unfortunate we've seen a number of cases. Hopefully, we can get some of these players back." Leicester's match went ahead despite their situation and Norwich manager Dean Smith is seeking clarity from the league on a "magic number" of Covid-19 cases in a team for a fixture to be called off. More on this topic Related Story Football: Manchester United suffer Covid-19 outbreak Related Story Football: Premier League clubs return to emergency Covid measures "Our sporting director spoke to the Premier League on guidance when we have symptomatic players around us," Smith said. "We played Tottenham, they had an outbreak. We played United, they had an outbreak. We wanted guidance over would it be fair on Villa if we had symptomatic players around us? I'm not saying our players have Covid... but we probably need a magic number telling us how many is enough." As part of new measures, Premier League players and staff must take a lateral flow test every time they enter their club's training ground. Twice-weekly polymerase chain reaction testing is also reported to be in place. The increased testing will sit alongside the other recently introduced measures, including face coverings, limiting time in the treatment room and observing social distancing. Related Stories: Related Story Tracking Covid-19 cases in Singapore and the world Related Story Omicron spreading at unprecedented rate: WHO Related Story Omicron to become dominant in Europe by mid-January, EU warns Related Story Blinken cuts short S.E. Asia trip after member of entourage tests positive for Covid-19 in Malaysia Related Story Vaccination bookings for P3 to 5 pupils to open next week if doses arrive as scheduled Related Story Australia reopens borders to vaccinated students, workers despite Omicron variant Related Story Pfizer says Covid-19 pill near 90% effective in final analysis Related Story China’s southern Guangzhou city detects one Covid-19 infection of Omicron
New York, USA / December 15, 2021 / SEAPRWire / – The Humanoids [Humanoids], a blockchain-based company offering a set of unique NFTs, have announced the launch of its 3D art and 4K renders. The first of a few projects to release 4K renders in the non-fungible token market, The Humanoids has released a set of 10,000 unique Humanoids that live on the Ethereum blockchain. A utility-offering project, The Humanoids offers holders of Humanoids NFTs exclusive access to benefits ranging from giveaways to raffle draws, airdrops, etc. Furthermore, the 3D art has been made as relatable as possible. Rendered in 4K, The Humanoids ensure that minute details [shadows, lightings, accessories] about these art pieces are seen unquestionably. Each of the Humanoids has been generated from a mix of over 150 distinct traits. While all are dope, The Humanoids ensure that some are rarer than others. Oftentimes, first-time investors overlook rarities when picking Humanoids, they simply go for those that reflect their personality. Another remarkable facet of The Humanoids is its tight-knitted community. Owners of Humanoids get to enjoy unique benefits as well become members of a community driven by sheer love and admiration for the beautiful and unique NFTs created. The Humanoids recently donated 6 ETH [approximately $21,700] to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, a Tennessee-based hospital for children with cancer and other life-threatening diseases, as part of its prior commitment to donate to a charity chosen by the community. Exclusive raffles with monthly prize money of $1,300 have been set up by the company. Humanoids NFTs have been listed on Rarity Tools, a website dedicated primarily to ranking collectible NFTs by rarity. Currently, Humanoids has a trading volume of 10.7K ETH on OpenSea, one of the most prominent NFT marketplaces. 10,000 unique NFTs, 5,300 holders, a trading volume of 10,900 ETH, and a 53% NFT distribution rate, Humanoids had a purchase limit of 5 NFTs per transaction during the launch, however, anyone can buy as many NFTs as they can right now on the secondary market such as OpenSea and Rarible. With the creation of an NFT gallery still underway, The Humanoids have witnessed an exponential increase in project statistics. 10,000 unique Humanoids NFTs have been minted and sold out in approximately 3 minutes during the company’s launch date, September 30th, 2021. Another incredible feat is the sale of an NFT for 22 ETH [$79,000 at transaction time], becoming the highest-selling Humanoid. The Humanoids in yet another breathtaking swoop has recorded a remarkable increase in social media impressions—63,000 Discord members, 33,000 Twitter followers, and 3+ million Twitter impressions YTD [year to date]. An updated roadmap has been released by The Humanoids team—plans are currently underway to drive up their reach and visibility by collaborating with people of influence capable of adding real value to the project, as part of the company’s strategic plans to spread their recent Twitter success to other prospective marketing channels. Additionally, The Humanoids is working to create and subsequently launch a comic series that will bring to life The Humanoids universe. While these art pieces are merely 3D renders, the incorporation of a prologue, an excerpt, and a series will breathe life into Cudder’s vision and self-expression. About The Humanoids A collection of 10,000 unique and rare NFTs, The Humanoids is a blockchain-based platform on the Ethereum network that attempts to create, through the ownership of its art pieces, a tight-knit community with unique benefits to members. Introducing a set of unparalleled giveaways and exclusive raffles each time a new milestone is reached, The Humanoids is offering 3D digital artworks derived from a mix of distinct traits and personalities. Social Links: Twitter: https://twitter.com/thehumanoidsnft Discord: https://opensea.io/collection/thehumanoids OpenSea: https://opensea.io/collection/thehumanoids Media Contact Company Name: The Humanoids Contact Person: TemporalOne, Marketing Manager Website: https://thehumanoids.co/ Company Email: temporalone@thehumanoids.co SOURCE: The Humanoids The article is provided by a third-party content provider. SEAPRWire ( www.seaprwire.com ) makes no warranties or representations in connection therewith. Any questions, please contact cs/at/SEAPRWire.com Sectors: Top Story, Daily News SEA PRWire: PR distribution in Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines & Hong Kong )
Singapore, Dec 15, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad today announced that they are extending and expanding their long-term partnership with the joint development of new platforms and future technologies, including Electric Vehicles. Based on this decision, TVS Motor Company's scope will include the design and development of future BMW Motorrad products and delivering world-class quality, supply chain management, and industrialisation. Under this enhanced cooperation, both companies have identified a range of products and technologies to deliver significant business benefits. BMW Motorrad and TVS Motor Company will develop common platforms by mutually tapping the emerging technologies in the future mobility space, keeping in mind the global requirements of customer segments in various markets. Exclusive products for both companies will be developed on these common platforms, and the companies will retail their products globally. TVS Motor Company will continue to bring on board engineering prowess in design, manufacturing and supply chain capabilities and provide best-in-class quality and economic advantage. The first product through this cooperation will be showcased in the next 24 months. Mr. Sudarshan Venu, Joint Managing Director, TVS Motor Company, said, "In the nine years of our long-term strategic partnership, we have always cherished the common core values we share with BMW Motorrad: focus on quality, engineering prowess, innovation and customer satisfaction. These factors and our commitment to deliver superior quality products with a strong value proposition has been key to the success of all three products launched from the platform. The new world of future mobility encompasses a strong play through alternate solutions, including electric mobility. Expanding this successful partnership to EVs and other newer platforms will create opportunities to deliver advanced technology and aspirational products to global markets and bring valuable synergies to both companies."Dr. Markus Schramm, Head of BMW Motorrad, said, "In light of our fruitful association with TVS Motor Company, we are delighted to extend and expand our cooperation agreement to include long-term partnership and joint development of new platforms and technologies, including electric vehicles. Our strong synergies have led to the development of impressive offerings in the sub-500cc segment. Since the launch, BMW G 310 R and BMW G 310 GS single-cylinder models continue to enjoy unrivalled popularity with over 100,000 global customers. We look forward to the future of this cooperation."In April 2013, TVS Motor Company and BMW Motorrad signed a long-term strategic partnership to manufacture sub-500cc motorcycles for the globe. This collaboration has resulted in three products on the 310cc platform: BMW G 310 R, BMW 310 GS, and TVS Motor Company's TVS Apache RR 310. With over 100,000 customers, the products have been well accepted in all the leading markets like the EU, USA, Japan, China and India. The success of this cooperation has been the steppingstone of extending and expanding the partnership. About The BMW GroupWith its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world's leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries. In 2020, the BMW Group sold over 2.3 million passenger vehicles and more than 169,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2019 was EUR 7.118 billion on revenues amounting to EUR 104.210 billion. As of 31 December 2019, the BMW Group had a workforce of 126,016 employees. The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. About TVS Motor CompanyTVS Motor Company is a reputed two and three-wheeler manufacturer and is the flagship company of the USD 8.5 billion TVS Group. We believe in Championing Progress through Mobility. Rooted in our 100-year legacy of Trust, Value, and Passion for Customers and Exactness, we take pride in making internationally aspirational products of the highest quality through innovative and sustainable processes. We endeavour to deliver the most superior customer experience at all our touch points across 70 countries. We are the only powered two-wheeler company to have received the prestigious Deming Prize. Our products lead in their respective categories in the J.D. Power IQS and APEAL surveys for five years. We have been ranked No. 1 Company in the J.D. Power Customer Service Satisfaction Survey for consecutive four years. For more information, please visit www.tvsmotor.com.For further information, please contact:Varghese Thomasvm.thomas@tvsmotor.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)
SINGAPORE - As a veteran researcher and scientist, Professor Leo Yee Sin has published hundreds of papers filled with terms and diagrams that would make a layman sweat. But the National Centre for Infectious Diseases executive director's latest work is written in rhyme, and filled with drawings done by children and youth, some as young as five years old. The book, titled My Coronavirus Story, captures perspectives of the pandemic as seen through the eyes of a young child, and is aimed at educating the young about Covid-19 and encouraging resilience as the world lives with the virus. Written for a young audience aged four to 12, it was launched by Health Minister Ong Ye Kung at the Woodlands Regional Library on Monday (Dec 13). The book, supported by the National Healthcare Group (NHG), pays tribute to the courage and selfless contributions of all front-line workers in steering Singapore into the endemic stage of Covid-19. Prof Leo, who read the book on stage together with Mr Ong, said that the pandemic has been a confusing period for children as they tried to make sense of the changes around them. "I saw first-hand what it means to be on the front line dealing with Covid-19, and I was inspired to translate my observations into the perspective of the young - to explain the virus in a simple manner, describe how it has impacted their lives and help them see the way forward," she said. About 1,000 copies of the book have been printed and members of the public will be able to borrow them from most of the National Library Board's public libraries. A copy of the book will also be distributed to all primary schools in Singapore. Professor Benjamin Seet, NHG's deputy group chief executive for education and research, said the idea for the book was first conceived in March this year. At the time, NHG had worked with the Singapore Art Society to put together an exhibition to honour front-line workers fighting the virus. As part of this exhibition in March, an artwork competition was held, with about 1,000 entries submitted by children and youth. NHG then decided to go further and compile 21 of the art pieces into a book. "While many of them appear simple, they convey the views and perceptions of young children who have been affected by this pandemic like us," said Prof Seet, adding that schools were closed and co-curricular activities cancelled as a result of the pandemic. He said: "Educating the public has been key during this pandemic, but efforts to reach out to young children have been limited, even though they have to learn to adjust to the many changes around them. "This book serves to fill the gap, and its bright colours bring a message of hope in this time of fear and anxiety." More on this topic Related Story Free art exhibition in tribute to Covid-19 heroes opens at Ion Orchard Related Story Free e-book mooted by doctor to help kids cope with Covid-19 home recovery
LONDON (REUTERS) - Arsenal have never discussed selling under-performing striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, manager Mikel Arteta said on Friday (Dec 10) as he backed the Gabon player to hit a goalscoring streak soon. Aubameyang signed a new three-year contract with the north London side last year but has struggled this season, scoring only four Premier League goals - the last of which was in October against Aston Villa. Arsenal, who host Southampton in the league on Saturday, may have been tempted to cash in on the 32-year-old striker in next month's transfer window but Arteta said that was not being considered. "We have never discussed something like this (selling Aubameyang) and when players are under difficulty what we have to do is give them support," the Spaniard told a news conference. "It's all about patches. Every player has patches and moments. It's about trying to maintain it as long as possible and try to reduce it when they don't." Arsenal have slipped to seventh in the league standings after back-to-back defeats to sit four points off fourth place. However, Arteta was convinced his side would eventually reap the rewards for their performances. "It's painful and even more painful for me because of the way we lost those games. Across the two matches I think we deserved much more than two defeats. It happened, so we have to manage that reality," he said. Arteta will be boosted by the return of young winger Emile Smith Rowe, who has recovered from an injury. The 21-year-old has been one of Arsenal's standout players this season with five goals and two assists in the league. Southampton, 16th, have never won a Premier League game at Arsenal and go into the match looking for their first victory in five matches after beating Villa in early November. More on this topic Related Story Football: Arteta disappointed with Arsenal after late Gray show gives Everton home win Related Story Football: Arteta says Aubameyang is 'totally' committed to Arsenal
MANCHESTER (AFP) - Pep Guardiola has warned Kevin De Bruyne that he faces a fight to win back a regular place in the Manchester City side after a campaign marred by injuries and a coronavirus infection. The Belgium midfielder returned to action as a substitute against Watford on Saturday (Dec 4) but has been told he will start Tuesday's Champions League match in Leipzig, City's final fixture in Group A. The 30-year-old suffered ankle ligament damage at Euro 2020 that prevented him from starting a Premier League game until late September but was just starting to find his form when he tested positive for Covid-19. "Kevin, at the moment he got coronavirus, was growing in his physical condition and it was a setback," Guardiola said on Monday. "But that is normal because people who have suffered coronavirus, in the next days, feel so empty. "It is step by step. He played his first 30 minutes and tomorrow he will start. We'll see how many minutes he can play." Despite his pedigree, De Bruyne will have to battle for a starting spot at a club where competition for starting places is intense, with Bernardo Silva described by Guardiola as the best player in the Premier League at the moment. "He has to come back and fight for a position like everyone else," said Guardiola. "Kevin doesn't have to show absolutely anything to me but he has to come back to being himself and show himself he's back, and do what he has to do. Like he has done the last five or six years, every single three days. "Of course the competition is so necessary and he knows it, but Bernardo knows it, and (Ilkay) Gundogan knows it, and all the wingers and strikers know it. "They know they have to play good, (whether) playing five minutes, 10 minutes or 90 minutes." City have already secured top spot in Group A and Guardiola is likely to make a number of changes for the game in Germany, confirming that youngsters Cole Palmer, James McAtee, Romeo Lavia, Joshua Wilson-Esbrand and Conrad Egan-Riley will travel. "For them it's an incredible experience to be in Europe and see how the opponents behave, how good they are," he said. "Maybe tomorrow some of them can play minutes because we have five substitutions." More on this topic Related Story Football: Man City to decide on Grealish for Villa trip, de Bruyne yet to train Related Story Football: De Bruyne says dead feeling in face won't affect his play
LONDON (REUTERS) - Tottenham Hotspur shook off a difficult week with a confident 2-0 win over Brentford to climb into the top six on Thursday (Dec 2) as new manager Antonio Conte enjoyed a second successive Premier League home victory. Ben Davies' header deflected off Brentford's Sergi Canos to give the hosts an early lead and Son Heung-min underlined their superiority when he made it 2-0 in the 65th minute. A week after an embarrassing Europa Conference League group stage defeat at Slovenian minnows NS Mura and four days after a fruitless trip to Burnley for a game postponed due to snow, Spurs produced their best 90 minutes under Conte. A high-tempo display against Thomas Frank's team should have brought more goals but it was a satisfactory night for Tottenham even if Harry Kane's league scoring struggles continue. Spurs have 22 points from 13 games while Brentford, who could have moved above their opponents with victory in the London derby, now sit in 12th place with 16 points. This was a far more measured victory than Tottenham's previous one at home against Leeds United. In that game Tottenham, were appalling in the first half before responding with a much-improved second 45 minutes, while against Brentford they controlled the game throughout. It was just the sort of response Conte would have demanded too after his harsh words following the last-gasp loss in Slovenia. "It was a good performance against a dangerous team," Conte said. "I'm happy because I have seen a great commitment and a good passion about the players. "It's a good reaction (after last week). In a loss you learn a lot but now we have to think about another Premier League game on Sunday (against Norwich City)." Tottenham were on the front foot from the start and Lucas Moura forced a good save from Alvaro Fernandez. But the hosts did not have to wait long to go ahead as Son easily beat his marker on the left to deliver a cross that Davies headed goalwards and the ball came off Canos before hitting the back of the net. Son almost made it 2-0 with a low shot that Fernandez pawed behind while Brentford, too slow in their build-up, did not manage to test Hugo Lloris before halftime. Kane should have scored early in the second half when he was played in on goal but he delayed slightly too long and his shot was straight at Fernandez. The striker has scored only one league goal this season and is being out-shone by strike partner Son. Tottenham earned breathing space when Kane's pass sent Sergio Reguilon free down the left and the Spanish full back galloped into the area before squaring for Son to tap in his fifth league goal of the season. Brentford offered a little more threat late on but Tottenham's defence was relatively untroubled.
SINGAPORE - A teenager who allegedly confessed in a video to sexually assaulting a girl will be remanded for psychiatric observation at the Changi Prison Complex Medical Centre. The 18-year-old, who is currently remanded at the Central Police Division, appeared in a district court via video-link on Thursday (Dec 2). He cannot be named because of a gag order, and his case has been adjourned to Dec 23. The Singaporean teenager is accused of one count each of sexual penetration and being part of an unlawful assembly in which one person was armed with a baton - a deadly weapon. The youth is said to have sexually penetrated a 14-year-old girl without her consent in Towner Road, near Serangoon Road, between 5pm and 9pm on Sept 21. In an earlier statement, the police said: "(On Nov 22, officers) received multiple reports after the man allegedly confessed to sexually assaulting a girl in a video that was uploaded on social media. "The police commenced investigations immediately and arrested the man (the next day). Investigations are ongoing to determine if there are other victims involved." The police said they take all reports of sexual assault seriously and will spare no effort to ensure that perpetrators are dealt with severely and in accordance with the law. They added: "Victims of sexual assault are encouraged to come forward to report a crime. The police adopt a victim-centric approach to sexual crime investigations, and victims will be handled sensitively during the investigation process." Separately, at around 10.20pm on Oct 4, the 18-year-old youth is said to have been among 11 teenagers and men accused of unlawfully gathering on the second storey of a Woodlands Close building. They were between 15 and 24 years old. They were allegedly there to assault a 17-year-old boy, who cannot be named under the Children and Young Persons Act to protect those below 18. The names of the 11 alleged offenders have also been redacted from court documents. No details were given on the identity of the person who is said to have been armed with the baton. If convicted of sexually penetrating the girl, the youth can be jailed for up to 20 years and fined or caned. Those convicted of being a member of an unlawful assembly armed with a deadly weapon can be jailed for up to five years, fined or caned, or receive any combination of such punishments. More on this topic Related Story Teen who allegedly confessed in video to sexual assault also accused of taking part in unlawful assembly Related Story Courts & Crime: Read more stories
LOS ANGELES (AFP) - Tiger Woods has ruled out making a full-time return to professional golf as he works his way back from career-threatening leg injuries. The 15-time major winner told Golf Digest in an interview published on Monday that although he is confident of eventually making a return to the sport, he expected he would only play select tournaments from now on. The 45-year-old former world number one suffered compound fractures in his right leg after a car he was driving in a Los Angeles suburb in February veered off the road and flipped several times. Before the accident, Woods was already playing a reduced schedule following multiple surgeries on his back and knee over the years. He told Golf Digest on Monday that his days as a full-time member of the PGA Tour were now effectively over, saying he now expected to "pick and choose" events in future. "I think something that is realistic is playing the Tour one day - never full time, ever again - but pick and choose," Woods said. "Pick and choose a few events a year and you play around that. "I think that's how I'm going to have to play it from now on. It's an unfortunate reality, but it's my reality. And I understand it, and I accept it." Woods generated buzz earlier this month after posting a video on Twitter of himself hitting balls, with the caption "Making progress." Woods, who completed a fairytale return from back fusion surgery to capture his 15th major title at the 2019 Masters, questioned whether he had the same drive to return to the pinnacle of his sport. "I don't have to compete and play against the best players in the world to have a great life," Woods said. "After my back fusion, I had to climb Mount Everest one more time. I had to do it, and I did. This time around, I don't think I'll have the body to climb Mount Everest and that's OK. "I can still participate in the game of golf. I can still, if my leg gets OK, I can still click off a tournament here or there. "But as far as climbing the mountain again and getting all the way to the top, I don't think that's a realistic expectation of me." Woods meanwhile revealed he had feared that he may have to have his leg amputated in the immediate aftermath of February's accident. "There was a point in time when, I wouldn't say it was 50/50, but it was damn near there if I was going to walk out of that hospital with one leg," said Woods, who believes he is less than halfway towards a return to fitness. "I have so far to go... I'm not even at the halfway point," he said. "I have so much more muscle development and nerve development that I have to do in my leg. At the same time, as you know, I've had five back operations. So I'm having to deal with that. So as the leg gets stronger, sometimes the back may act up. It's a tough road." Woods added he had been forced to pace his recovery. "Being patient and progressing at a pace that is aggressive but not over the top," he said. "Obviously when I get in the gym and I get flowing and the endorphins get going I want to go, go, go." Woods' interview with Golf Digest comes ahead of his first public appearance since his accident at this week's Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, the 20-man tournament that raises funds for his foundation. More on this topic Related Story Golf: Tiger Woods posts video showing himself hitting balls Related Story Golf: Tiger can have any role he wants for Presidents Cup, says Davis Love
SINGAPORE - Countries that have been agile and able to scale up their responses to Covid-19 to a national level, as well as react quickly to the shifting circumstances of the pandemic, have likely fared well thus far. The measure of a nation's pandemic preparedness can no longer be defined by static benchmarks - such as the number of hospital beds or laboratories available - but by the dynamism and agility of the system to react and adapt to what the latest data shows, said Dr Michael Ryan, the executive director of the World Health Organisation's (WHO) Health Emergencies Programme, on Thursday (Nov 25). "It's like measuring how well someone is going to do on the sports field. By just measuring how much they can bench, lift, or how fast they can run on a treadmill, you can say that they're very strong, fast and fit. But that doesn't measure how well they're going to do in a game," added Dr Ryan, who was a special guest in the final episode of the webinar series, Covid-19: Updates From Singapore. Jointly organised by the National University of Singapore's (NUS) Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS Medicine International Council, National University Health System and WHO's Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (Goarn), the webinar series brings together local and international experts to discuss the latest medical and scientific findings concerning Covid-19. The series was co-hosted by Associate Professor David Allen, an infectious diseases clinician, Professor Dale Fisher from the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and chair of the WHO's Goarn team, and Dr Louisa Sun, an associate consultant with the infectious diseases team at the National University Hospital (NUH) and Alexandra Hospital. In each episode, special guests have been invited to speak on a variety of topics. Since the first episode on April 9, 2020, a total of 38 episodes have aired. Reflecting on Singapore's response to the coronavirus outbreak, special guest Tan Chorh Chuan, chief health scientist from the Ministry of Health, said that despite the best-laid plans and experience gained from the severe acute respiratory syndrome (Sars) outbreak in 2002, Covid-19 caught the Republic by surprise. Professor Tan said that Singapore had some "advance notice" as the health authorities here saw what was happening in Wuhan, China, in the early days of the outbreak. "The Sars paradigm takes us maybe halfway but now, we have to shift to a paradigm that is maybe Sars plus flu plus a bit more... we never really had a situation of sustained community transmission where we had to do social distancing... and many people have not really read very much about flattening the curve," he said. "Along the way, we learnt that due to the prolonged nature of this epidemic, we also had to deal with very extensive social issues, such as healthcare capacity issues and so on. "So I will say we had some early warning for Covid-19. We were prepared, but it also showed that our preparation was incomplete. And for the next one, we would have to now bring on the lessons learnt in this pandemic and prepare a more comprehensive response to much more contagious agents," Prof Tan added. COVID-19 Updates from Singapore (Season 2) | Episode 14 FINALE Associate Professor Sophia Archuleta, head and senior consultant at the division of infectious diseases in NUH, was asked what was prioritised when the healthcare system was under pressure, given the competing demands of manpower, training and balancing patient care in both Covid-19 and non Covid-19 areas. The team's health takes priority, she said. "If we don't take care of ourselves as a group, we can't effectively take care of patients," Prof Archuleta stressed. An effective workflow was called for, she added, one where patients could be taken to the right places in the hospital, with this system being dynamically adaptive depending on the amount of pressure the virus placed on the healthcare system. More on this topic Related Story A year of ranking Covid-19 resilience reveals virus' volatility Related Story Build better regional and multilateral partnerships to prepare for future pandemics: Lawrence Wong Related Stories: Related Story Dining, gathering group size raised: What you need to know about Covid-19 rules from Nov 22 Related Story South Africa detects new Covid-19 variant Related Story Pfizer or Moderna booster - which is more effective? Here's what an MOH study shows Related Story How Europe is starting to impose vaccine-differentiated measures amid new Covid-19 wave Related Story Covid-19 Delta variant dominates the world, but scientists watch for worrisome offspring Related Story Living with Covid-19: Coming to grips with our anger and angst Related Story Living with uncertainty: The price of zero-Covid in China Related Story How various countries charge patients for Covid-19 treatments Related Story Why don't we have a Covid-19 vaccine for pets? Related Story Mind over matter? Long Covid study sparks controversy
SINGAPORE - 3D-printing technology has found a surprising application in customised shoes that protect birds of prey in Singapore from a potentially fatal foot disease. The silicone-made bird shoes have been refined over two years by Jurong Bird Park's avian veterinary team and the Keio-NUS CUTE Center at the National University of Singapore (NUS). In a joint statement on Thursday (Nov 25), Jurong Bird Park and NUS said the shoes, which were cast from 3D-printed moulds of the feet of the park's birds, have been used to treat a medical condition of the birds known as pododermatitis, or 'bumblefoot'. Pododermatitis results in pressure sores, tissue swelling and callouses. If left untreated, it can become disabling and even fatal, the statement said. The shoes are designed to redistribute pressure on the weight-bearing surface of the patient's feet, as well as aid in the recovery from the degenerative condition. While the condition can be treated with bandages, 3D-printed technology provided a more precise way of protecting bird feet, said Dr Xie Shangzhe, conservation research and veterinary acting deputy vice president at Mandai Wildlife Group. The parks' first patient with pododermatitis was Walter, a 21-year-old female hooded vulture, who recovered 17 weeks after its first shoe treatment in 2019. But love caused Walter's affliction to return. After the vulture was released to the Birds of Prey aviary, she started displaying courtship behaviour with a male and preparing a nesting area on a hard high rock ledge. Extended periods of perching on the ledge caused the bumblefoot condition to recur and Walter had to be fitted with shoes and observed from August to October. The bird's symptoms improved dramatically and Walter's shoes have since been removed. "She will be discharged from her observation ward into a special aviary for retirees of the park's Kings of the Skies Show where another hooded vulture resides," the statement said. "If she's in the mood for love again and nesting behaviours are observed, Walter will be provided with a suitable nesting area to prevent reoccurrences of the condition." The parks' first patient with pododermatitis was hooded vulture Walter, who recovered 17 weeks after its first shoe treatment in 2019. PHOTO: JURONG BIRD PARK Associate Professor Yen Ching Chiuan, co-director of the Keio-NUS CUTE Center, noted that another advantage of 3D printing is the flexibility to customise shoes according to the varying sizes, shapes and conditions of each bird's feet. The team at the Keio-NUS CUTE Center worked closely with Jurong Bird Park to create a shoe that was appropriate in terms of measurement, material and usability according to the bird type and its unique usage behaviours, he said. Designing for bird feet was no easy feat, however, as the shoes had to be comfortable for the bird yet easily removable for cleaning and durable as the patients may peck at them with their sharp beaks. In August, the bespoke shoes also helped Miguel, a 31-year-old male Southern caracara. Miguel, who developed pododermatitis as a result of arthritis in his old age, saw remarkable improvement after two and a half months of wearing the shoes, the statement said. Miguel's shoes have since been removed and he has been discharged into the retirement aviary to spend his golden years with fellow retiree birds of prey. This marks the second time Jurong Bird Park has worked together with the Keio-NUS CUTE centre to use 3D-printing technology for veterinary care. In 2018, the Keio-NUS CUTE Center designed and fitted a 3D-printed prosthetic casque for Jary, the great pied hornbill, who had his casque removed due to cancer. Jary has since made a full recovery and no longer needs his prosthesis, the statement said. More on this topic Related Story Leaving the limelight, Jurong Bird Park's senior birds retire in style Related Story Jurong Bird Park is first wildlife park to successfully breed endangered Solomon Islands bird