The semiconductor sector in Asia faced a turbulent day on Thursday as investor confidence waned following Micron Technology’s sobering forecast for the coming months. Despite the robust demand for AI-related components, Micron’s outlook indicated weak sales in personal computers and smartphones, causing a ripple effect on Asian chip stocks. Micron Technology, a leader in memory chip production, highlighted challenges in its traditional markets, casting a shadow over its stock, which plummeted by 15%. This drop has prompted analysts and investors to question the sector’s immediate future, despite areas of growth facilitated by AI advancements. Broad Impact on Markets The repercussions of Micron’s forecast were felt across Asia, with notable declines in various semiconductor stocks. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the globe’s largest contract chipmaker, saw its shares slip slightly by 0.004%. Despite maintaining some steadiness, investor cautiousness was evident. Meanwhile, the VanEck Semiconductor ETF, which encompasses various prominent Asian chip manufacturers, fell by 1.21%, underscoring prevailing negative market sentiment. Navigating Through Uncertainty Currently, the semiconductor sector is grappling with opposing forces. On one end, the surge in AI applications provides a promising avenue for growth; on the other, decreased consumer demand in electronics presents significant hurdles. The global economic landscape adds another layer of complexity, urging investors to stay vigilant while reassessing their strategies. As earnings seasons approach, further reports from chipmakers will shed light on the trajectory of the sector. While short-term volatility appears to persist, the long-term outlook, buoyed by technological advances in AI, still holds potential. Unveiling the Future of Semiconductors: Challenges and Opportunities Await Micron’s Forecast Sends Ripples Across Asia’s Semiconductor Industry The world of semiconductors experienced a whirlwind as Micron Technology’s recent forecast cast a shadow over the Asian market. While the burgeoning demand for AI-related components was expected to bolster the sector, emerging weaknesses in traditional markets such as personal computers and smartphones sent jitters through investors. Key Market Dynamics and Innovations Despite the challenges faced, new innovations and market dynamics are reshaping the semiconductor landscape. The rapid evolution of AI technology offers substantial growth potential, particularly in areas like machine learning, autonomous vehicles, and IoT devices. Semiconductors play a critical role in enabling these technologies, which could lead to significant advancements and increased demand in the coming years. Trends and Predictions in the Semiconductor Sector Several trends are shaping the semiconductor industry’s future: – AI-Driven Growth : The demand for specialized AI chips is on the rise, as industries increasingly incorporate AI into their processes. – Emerging Markets : New markets such as electric vehicles and renewable energy are creating opportunities for semiconductors, particularly power devices and sensors. – Sustainability Efforts : Chip manufacturers are focusing on sustainability, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of production processes. Opportunities and Limitations While the AI segment offers promising growth, the sector faces limitations, particularly in traditional consumer electronics markets. The slowdown in sales of personal computers and smartphones could pose a risk to overall growth trajectories. However, organizations that pivot quickly towards rising AI technologies may encounter fewer hurdles. Comprehensive Market Analysis As the semiconductor sector grapples with shifting demands, a comprehensive market analysis highlights several critical areas: – Investment Strategies : Investors are urged to adopt adaptive strategies, focusing on emerging technologies and diversifying their portfolios. – Technological Advancements : Companies that innovate and align with technological trends, especially in AI and IoT, are likely to thrive. Predictions for the Sector’s Future As we look ahead, industry experts predict that technological developments in AI, coupled with a renewed emphasis on sustainability, will define the future trajectory of the semiconductor sector. Despite short-term market volatility, the long-term growth potential remains robust, powered by a blend of innovation and strategic reorientation towards high-growth areas. For more insights into the fast-evolving semiconductor industry, consider exploring further resources from TSMC and major market players.Corporate sector investments drive agricultural growth in Pakistan: report The representational image shows a farmer harvesting wheat at a field in the outskirts of Lahore, in Punjab province, May 16, 2013. — Reuters KARACHI: The corporate and financial sectors are increasingly investing in the agriculture sector, aiming to boost its growth and development. This insight was shared during the launch of The State of Pakistan’s Agriculture 2024 report by the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) and the Pakistan Agricultural Coalition (PAC), held at the National Foods Limited (NFL) Corporate Head Office. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1700472799616-0'); }); In his opening remarks, Ehsan Malik, CEO of the PBC, highlighted the agriculture sector’s immense potential to contribute to economic stability, food security and rural development. “This report shows how the corporate sector is playing a key role in advancing the agriculture industry,” Ehsan stated. Kazim Saeed, CEO of PAC, said that where international-level agriculture is found in Pakistan, there is often a leading corporate entity working directly with farmers. “This report documents how corporate and financial players are contributing capital, technology and expertise to the agricultural sector for its growth and prosperity,” Kazim explained. He added that many companies are adopting sustainable practices, such as regenerative agriculture, eco-friendly production methods and efficient resource usage. The event included presentations by companies whose initiatives were featured as case studies in the report. Global CEO of National Foods Limited (NFL) Abrar Hasan praised the efforts of the PBC, PAC and other corporate players driving growth in the agriculture sector. Speaking about NFL’s case study, he noted that the company is focused on self-sufficiency, increasing exports and digitising farming in Pakistan to maintain a strong value chain. “Our products and partnerships demonstrate the positive impact of technology. The ‘Seed to Table’ initiative reflects our commitment to growth beyond borders, expanding into international markets while supporting the national economy through exports,” said Abrar. He highlighted NFL’s success in developing the tomato value chain, which helped create import substitution for tomato paste, benefitting both the company and the country. “We can unlock export potential by developing the tomato paste value chain, as tomatoes have higher export potential compared to other crops,” he added, noting that NFL’s approach serves as an example of how to respond to the recent sharp depreciation of the rupee. Adil Sattar of K&N’s spoke about the company’s six-decade-long leadership in poultry breeding, introducing new technologies in poultry farming, processing and retailing for both domestic and international markets. He also mentioned their commitment to food safety and Halal certification, maintaining hand slaughtering methods instead of stunning, despite the additional cost and effort. Faraz Zafar, Investment Director at AlKaram, discussed plans for Pakistan’s largest shrimp farm, Al-Karam’s Dhabeji Aqua Foods. The farm, located in Sindh’s Thatta, will cover 400 acres and feature 300 half-acre ponds. AlKaram has also invested in companies focused on cultivation and drone-based services. Faisal Iftikhar, CEO of AquaHatch, shared the vision of Garibsons and Jaffer Group, who are investing in fish and shrimp seed businesses to support farmers across Pakistan. Taimur Malik from Drawdown Farm by Thal Industries highlighted the importance of regenerative agriculture in protecting Pakistan’s soil, water and biodiversity. Amer Aziz, CEO of HBL Zarai Services, discussed how the corporate sector can better serve farmers, while M Aminuddin, CEO of TPL Insurance, spoke about the role of crop insurance in safeguarding farmers’ livelihoods.Apple, the company that redefined how we consume music with the iPod and revolutionized mobile communication with the iPhone, has reportedly abandoned a bold initiative: a subscription service for its flagship device. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, known for his reliable insights into Apple’s inner workings, recently reported that the project, which aimed to transform iPhones from a one-time purchase into a recurring subscription, has been scrapped. This news, while surprising to some, follows months of speculation and rumors surrounding the program’s feasibility and potential impact on the market. A New Era of Ownership? The idea behind the iPhone subscription service was simple yet revolutionary . Instead of purchasing an iPhone outright, customers would pay a monthly fee to access the latest model, with the option to upgrade to a new device periodically. This model, similar to leasing a car, would have provided users with a more flexible and affordable way to own an iPhone, while also generating a steady stream of recurring revenue for Apple. Imagine this: you no longer have to worry about shelling out a hefty sum every time a new iPhone hits the market. Instead, you pay a fixed monthly fee and enjoy the latest technology without the upfront cost. This proposition was particularly appealing to those who crave the newest gadgets but are hesitant to commit to a large purchase or are locked into lengthy carrier contracts. The Allure of Recurring Revenue For Apple, the subscription model offered a tantalizing prospect: a predictable and consistent revenue stream. In recent years, the company has been steadily expanding its services business, which includes offerings like Apple Music, iCloud, and Apple TV+. The iPhone subscription service would have been a significant addition to this portfolio, potentially boosting the company’s bottom line and reducing its reliance on hardware sales. The appeal of recurring revenue models is undeniable. Just look at the success of companies like Netflix and Spotify , which have built empires on subscription-based services. Apple, with its massive user base and brand loyalty, was well-positioned to replicate this success in the hardware space. Challenges and Roadblocks However, despite the potential benefits, the iPhone subscription service faced several hurdles. One major challenge was the complexity of pricing. Determining a monthly fee that was both attractive to consumers and profitable for Apple proved to be a delicate balancing act. Factors like device model, storage capacity, upgrade frequency, and included services all needed to be considered. Another obstacle was the potential impact on Apple’s existing sales channels. The subscription model could have cannibalized sales of iPhones through traditional channels, such as carrier partnerships and direct purchases. Striking the right balance between the new subscription service and existing sales models would have been crucial. Furthermore, there were concerns about consumer perception. Would customers embrace the idea of essentially “renting” an iPhone rather than owning it outright? There was a risk that the subscription model could be perceived as less appealing, especially for those who prefer to own their devices or are wary of recurring costs. A Shift in Strategy? While the exact reasons behind Apple’s reported cancellation remain unclear, it’s possible that the company decided to shift its focus to other areas. Apple is known for its meticulous planning and its willingness to abandon projects that don’t align with its long-term vision. Perhaps the company concluded that the challenges associated with the iPhone subscription service outweighed the potential benefits. Or maybe Apple is exploring alternative strategies to achieve similar goals, such as offering more flexible financing options or expanding its trade-in programs. The Future of Smartphone Ownership Despite the apparent setback, the concept of subscribing to hardware rather than owning it outright is likely to persist. Other companies, such as Google with its Pixel Pass program, are already experimenting with similar models. The line between hardware and software is becoming increasingly blurred, and subscription services offer a way to bundle these offerings into a more seamless and accessible package. It remains to be seen whether Apple will revisit the idea of an iPhone subscription service in the future. Perhaps the company will refine its approach, addressing the challenges that led to the reported cancellation. Or maybe Apple will pursue entirely new avenues to innovate in the ever-evolving smartphone market. My Take Personally, I was intrigued by the idea of an iPhone subscription service. As someone who enjoys having the latest technology, the prospect of upgrading my iPhone more frequently without the hefty upfront cost was appealing. However, I also understand the potential drawbacks, such as the recurring costs and the lack of ownership. I believe that subscription models have the potential to transform how we consume technology, but they need to be carefully designed and implemented. Companies need to strike the right balance between affordability, flexibility, and consumer perception. What’s Next? While the iPhone subscription service may be dead for now, Apple is unlikely to stand still. The company is known for its relentless pursuit of innovation, and I’m eager to see what it has in store for the future of smartphone ownership. Whether it’s through new financing options, enhanced trade-in programs, or perhaps even a revamped subscription model, Apple is sure to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. In the meantime, the tech world will be watching closely, eager to see what Apple’s next move will be.wow.888 。

Justt Raises $30 Million for AI-Powered Chargeback Management PlatformMountain America Credit Union Boosts BroncoLife with First Down Donation Program

In shifting world, post-Soviet states look back to a constant: Russia

FAA grants commercial launch license to Blue Origin’s New Glenn rocket

PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 19, 2024-- University of Phoenix is proud to share it is a recipient of the EC-Council 2024 Academic Partner of the Year Award . The EC-Council Academia division awards formally highlight academic institutions and faculty within North America and across the world that demonstrate exceptional innovation, impact and dedication to shaping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. This year’s winners were selected from a pool of over 2,000 academic institutions and recipients were honored for advancing a diverse cybersecurity skillset for their students, while preparing them for an increasingly complex and digital-first world. “Receiving the EC-Council Academic Partner of the Year Award is a testament to our unwavering dedication to enhancing cybersecurity education,” states Kathryn Uhles, dean, College of Business and Information Technology at the University. “For five consecutive years, we received the Circle of Excellence award and Dr. J.L. Graff has spearheaded significant endeavors to advance the university’s cybersecurity offerings in collaboration with EC-Council. This award underscores those efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students as we help prepare them for their career of choice.” University of Phoenix College of Business and Information Technology builds degree programs and certificates which make critical connections and cultivates student understanding of the ways technology and business evolve together, particularly in the arena of cybersecurity. The College offers programs aligned to select industry-leading EC-Council certification exams, as well as EC-Council aligned courses , which can be taken individually to focus on specific skills. “We have enjoyed working with the leadership at the University of Phoenix to support their cybersecurity program which immerses students in tactical cyber range scenarios using critical tools and skills they will use in the workforce,” says Wesley Alvarez, Director of Academics for EC-Council. “Their commitment to student success is unwavering, and they have continuously enabled opportunities for students to assess and grow their skills in and outside of the classroom. We are honored to give them our highest award recognition as they continue to grow their program, producing graduates that are prepared and confident to enter the cyber workforce.” The University’s College of Business and Information Technology offers students access to faculty that possess an average of 32.8 years of professional experience. Current faculty includes 399 directors, 188 presidents, 73 Information Technology/System Administrators and 51 chief executive officers. University of Phoenix has long been recognized for excellence in its cybersecurity programs, having the honor of receiving the EC-Council's Academia Circle of Excellence Award for five years in a row. Learn more here about University of Phoenix College of Business and Information Technology cybersecurity programs . About EC-Council EC-Council’s sole purpose is to build and refine the cybersecurity profession globally. The company helps organizations, educators, and governments, as well as individuals, to address global workforce problems by developing and curating world-class cybersecurity education programs and certifications while also providing cybersecurity services to some of the largest businesses around the world. Trusted by seven of the Fortune 10, 47 of the Fortune 100, the Department of Defense, the global intelligence community, NATO, and more than 2,000 of the best universities, colleges, and training companies, EC-Council programs have made their way to 140 countries and have set the bar in cybersecurity education. Learn more at www.eccouncil.org . About University of Phoenix University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu . View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241219705547/en/ CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACT: Michele Mitchum University of Phoenix michele.mitchum@phoenix.edu KEYWORD: ARIZONA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: OTHER EDUCATION CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY EDUCATION SECURITY BUSINESS SOURCE: University of Phoenix Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/19/2024 04:42 PM/DISC: 12/19/2024 04:43 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241219705547/enFrom abandoned mansions to luxurious clifftop estates, Victoria’s most clicked on homes of 2024 have been revealed. Victoria’s most-viewed home of 2024 isn’t a multimillion-dollar Toorak mansion or a clifftop Peninsula estate. Instead, it’s a crumbling, graffiti-covered mansion in Cockatoo that once hosted paintball tournaments. The abandoned property at 650 Woori Yallock Rd, Cockatoo , captured the imagination of real estate enthusiasts, racking up more than 143,000 views on realestate.com.au — far surpassing its more polished competitors. The 10.53ha property offered for sale for only the second time, has an undeniable allure despite — or perhaps because of — its derelict state. RELATED: Ex-Vic premier’s home back on market in just three months RCA: Worth $6.7bn+: who owns Melb’s major shopping centres Epic mansion breaks Melb’s 2024 house price record Overgrown gardens, spray-painted walls, and a crumbling facade haven’t deterred but actually added to the intrigue of the dilapidated estate. First National Belgrave director Mick Dolphin the property’s storied past contributed to the home’s almost “cult-like status”. Victoria’s most-viewed home: This graffiti covered Cockatoo mansion has captivated imaginations in its dilapidated state. “People wonder what this property was – a family home, a reception centre – they’re fascinated by what could have been and what it might become.” Mr Dolphin said. Mr Dolphin said he thinks the Cockatoo mansions interest highlights the enduring appeal of possibility for buyers, and while the property is under conditional contract, it’s future remains uncertain. The abandoned state was once used as a paintball venue could be sold as early as the new year. “The new buyer needs to sell her own property first so there’s a chance it could fall through,” he said. “Renovating this place would take significant funds, and council approval would add another layer of complexity. The Cockatoo mansion surpassed some of the state’s most prestigious listingsby over 37,000 clicks. “It’s not an easy project, but the right person with the vision and resources could turn it into something incredible.” While the Cockatoo property captured the state’s imagination, the rest of Victoria’s Top 10 most-viewed homes revealed Melburnians interest in sticky beaking on how some of the rich and famous live. An ultra-modern Toorak mansion at 2 Macquarie Rd, Toorak , garnered over 106,000 views, which wasn’t a huge surprise to Forbes Global Properties Australia director Michael Gibson. The Macquarie Rd, Toorak mansion has set a new 2024 benchmark for Melbourne with its recent sale in the vicinity of $70m. A modern marvel in Toorak: The $70m Macquarie Rd, mansion boasts over 2000sq m of luxury, complete with Melbourne landscaper Paul Bangay designed gardens. “It’s one of the finest contemporary homes I have ever seen and bought to market,” Mr Gibson said. “It was a pleasure to be able to sell this home on behalf of the vendors.” Industry sources revealed the prestige home spanning 2,000sq m under one roof sold for around $70m. The four-level property boasted local Richmond landscaper Paul Bangay-designed gardens, advanced technology, and interiors that rival the world’s most-luxurious hotels. One of Toorak’s finest: The home was dubbed as “one of the finest homes” Forbes Global Properties Australia director Michael Gibson has ever seen. Completed in 2018, this estate offers sprawling entertainment spaces and state-of-the-art amenities. Just a few streets away, another Toorak property made the list: the circa-1916 mansion at 12 Lansell Rd, which sold in December after a large drop in price expectations. Kay & Burton executive director Gowan Stubbings, declined to comment to The Herald Sun on the sale but said it had been home to some of Melbourne’s most “prominent families” over the years. A slice of history: The circa-1916 mansion on Lansell Rd, Toorak. Once home to some of Melbourne’s most elite families, this Lansell Rd Toorak estate includes a grand entry hall and poolside terrace. The Lansell Rd includes a panelled entry hall, and a stunning poolside terrace. Further south in Mount Eliza, a waterfront estate at 4 Denistoun Ave captivated thousands of viewers with its Victorian villa-style charm and resort-like allure. The property featured a clifftop infinity pool, a tennis court, and sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne’s skyline. Perched on a clifftop in Mount Eliza, this waterfront estate includes a stunning infinity pool, tennis court, and panoramic Port Phillip Bay views. This Victorian villa-inspired home combines character charm with luxury amenities, including a clifftop retreat. Even a former home from The Block made its mark on this year’s list, offloaded by serial buyer Adrian Portelli who purchased all of the 2024 homes. The home at 22 Charming St, Hampton East earned its place on the list with energy efficiency, stylish design and versatile entertaining spaces — featuring five bedrooms, a plunge pool, and a pool house. 62 Clendon Rd, Toorak — owned by the Myer family — made waves when it hit the market this year. And a treasured property that could shatter the state’s house price record, owned by the retail empire Myer family , hit the market this year with a whopping $96m-$105m price tag. Named Cranlana, the mansion on Clendon Rd could dwarf the city’s $80m house price benchmark set by a home on St Georges Rd, Toorak, in 2022. Rich lister Adrian Portelli auctioned 22 Charming St, Hampton East, which he purchased on the 2023 season of The Block, with a reserve of just $1. The Hampton East home scored over 70,000 views online. Other notable mentions included 53 Hyne St, Lilydale , which offered breathtaking views of the Yarra Valley , and a brand-new French Provincial masterpiece in Balwyn at 15 Grey St . The latter features six bedrooms, seven and a half bathrooms, and a glass-tiled indoor pool. A prestige character home at 62 Clendon Rd, Toorak scored just shy of 70,000 views online. Whitefox Bayside director Lana Samuels said the list demonstrated why move-in ready homes remain dominant in the market. “Buyers are happy to pay a premium for luxury – they want to move in and do absolutely nothing. Whitefox Bayside director Lana Samuels said the list demonstrates why move in ready homes remain dominant in the market. Ms Samuels said homes offering a complete lifestyle package — pools, gyms and saunas — are performing exceptionally well. “Substantial landholdings, the right orientation and lifestyle-focused additions are what buyers are looking for,” she said. ‘Home cinemas and wellness spaces have become essential in the luxury space. “People are prioritising their health and don’t want to leave home to do it.” Source: realestate.com.au/PropTrack Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox. MORE: ‘Risky move’: Melb buyers and sellers scramble before slowdown Investors, first-home buyers battle at auction in outer southwest Melbourne mansion with man cave fit for a king david.bonaddio@news.com.auNEW YORK , Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Enovix Corporation ("Enovix" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: ENVX ). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Enovix and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On December 16, 2024 , Enovix issued a press release "announc[ing] that CFO Farhan Ahmad has left the company and that it is searching for a new CFO." On this news, Enovix's stock price fell $0.56 per share, or 6.24%, to close at $8.42 per share on December 16, 2024 . Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York , Chicago , Los Angeles , London , Paris , and Tel Aviv , is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz , known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud , breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: Danielle Peyton Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 646-581-9980 ext . 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLPYou Won’t Believe Nvidia’s Latest Move! EU Gives the Go-Ahead