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After helping Paris Saint-Germain win its 11th Ligue 1 title at the weekend, Lionel Messi has some thinking to do. With his contract at the Parisian club coming to an end in June and his relationship with the club seemingly at a breaking point, there is much speculation around where the Argentine will be playing his football next season. In a recent interview with CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies, Messi said he would continue playing while he’s still enjoying it and, at 35, he certainly has a few more years to give.

Less than six months ago he was awarded the Golden Ball at the World Cup – the prize given to the best player in the tournament – and has scored 16 goals and provided 16 assists in this season’s league campaign. Amid rumors of a lucrative deal to the Middle East and reports linking him with a move back to his beloved Barcelona, CNN Sport explores the different directions he could turn to as he approaches the twilight of his career.

What went wrong at PSG?
Messi arrived in the French capital to much fanfare. He was to be the missing piece in the puzzle; the man to drive the team to its first ever Champions League trophy. While Messi struggled with injury during his first season in Paris, he still managed to show flashes of his brilliance. He helped the team win yet another Ligue 1 title, but PSG ultimately failed in the Champions League, being beaten by eventual champion Real Madrid in the round of 16.

His second season started much better and his link up play with the likes of Neymar Jr. and Kylian Mbappé was the envy of teams around the world. But after his mesmerizing performances in winning the World Cup for Argentina in December 2022, he returned to yet more struggles on a domestic level. In March, PSG was dumped out of the Champions League yet again in the round of 16 – this time by Bayern Munich.

It sparked a bitter end of the season and Messi was one of a number of star players to receive a hostile reaction from fans later that month.Messi was then suspended for two weeks after leaving France to attend promotional events in Saudi Arabia; the unauthorized trip meant that he missed a training session. Despite another title victory, a move to a new club looks more than likely. The big question, though, is where?

Barcelona return?
The Catalan club is where Messi turned from school boy to sporting legend. At 17 years old, he made his first of 778 appearances for the Blaugrana, becoming the youngest player to represent the club in an official game at the time. He went on to break the club’s goalscoring record and won 35 trophies during his time at the Camp Nou – including 10 La Liga titles and four Champions Leagues.

His emotional departure was fueled by the club’s dire financial state in 2021 and Messi was in tears as he said goodbye in his final press conference. Under new coach and club legend Xavi, Barcelona has just won its first La Liga title in four years this year, with the club starting to look more competitive. “For me, there’s no doubt that if Messi comes back, he will help us on a football level,” Xavi told Barcelona-based newspaper SPORT in a recent interview. “I let the president [Joan Laporta] know this. I have no doubts, no doubt at all that he will help because he is still a decisive footballer, because he still has hunger, because he’s a winner, because he’s a leader and because, also, he’s a different, different player,” added Xavi, who told SPORT that he still talks to Messi. “We don’t have a Barça on a talent level like 2010, for example. And what would Messi bring? He’d bring talent.

Final pass, set pieces, goals … in the final third, he’s a player on a different level. “As such, and because of the way I want to play, the way the staff wants to play too, for me there’s no doubt that he would help us a lot, but it all depends on him. In the end, the one who calls the shots at this time is Leo. There’s no doubt.”


Journalist Marcela Mora y Araujo, who is an expert on Argentine football, told CNN Sport that while a move to Barcelona would be a “fitting end” to his career, the transfer surely remains somewhat of a “fantasy” given the club is still strapped for cash. “To end his playing days in his football home is quite romantic,” she said. “The Barcelona temptation would be much more to do, perhaps, with his family. His kids were born there. “The lifestyles of footballers’ children are often like kids of diplomats, where they spend a lot of their young lives traveling around the world and then, maybe in their late teens, they have a say and want to be somewhere where they’re happy and comfortable and have a good life. Saudi Arabia might be weird in that respect. “I think that side – family life, daily life, diet, friends, language – then Barcelona would win. No question.”

Barcelona has made no attempt to hide its feelings toward Messi, but it would require a lot of work behind the scenes to make the signing a reality. But huge deals with audio streaming service Spotify and global investment firm Sixth Street, among others, have helped the club claw its way back from the total financial disarray it found itself in following the Covid-19 pandemic. In September 2022, Barcelona said it had recorded a profit of $98 million for the 2021/22 financial year and predicted profits of $298 million for this current season.

The club also announced the renegotiation of the $1.6 billion financial plan to repay the debt taken on to finance the renovation of its dilapidated Camp Nou stadium, meaning Barcelona will now pay off the debt five years earlier than originally planned. Its ability to once again potentially pay big fees and big contracts to players, coupled with Messi’s impending departure, has fans dreaming of a potential return.

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https://uphorial.com/post/lionel-messi-set-to-leave-psg-13064

The Miami Heat halted the Boston Celtics' remarkable fightback in the Eastern Conference Finals, clinching the deciding match 103-84 to reach the NBA finals. Jimmy Butler starred, scoring 28 points, seven rebounds and six assists, as the Heat, who led the seven-game series 3-0 before being pegged back to 3-3, reached this year's showpiece. The first eighth seeds to reach the finals since the New York Knicks in 1999, the Heat will play the the Denver Nuggets in the best-of-seven finals. Game one will be played in Denver on Thursday (01:30 BST Friday). Derrick White's dramatic buzzer-beater in game six had tied the series, giving the The Celtics hope of becoming the first side in NBA history to overturn a 3-0 deficit in a play-off final. But alongside Butler's efforts, Caleb Martin scored 26 points and Bam Adebayo recorded 12 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists as the Heat silenced a passionate Boston crowd. Butler, 33, was named MVP of the series after averaging 24.7 points, 7.6 rebounds and 6.1 assists. "We stayed together as a group," he said. "We talked about going to get a tough one on the road and we did just that. [My team-mates] are the reason we're here.

I know how good a team we are and we made it happen." Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he never doubted his squad's resilience. "Sometimes you have to suffer for the things you really want," he said. "This group has shown fortitude when there are inevitable let-downs and failures, but had that perseverance to pick yourself up, that collective spirit to keep on forging ahead." The Heat are seeking a fourth NBA title and first since 2013, while The Nuggets, who beat the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference play-offs, are in search of a maiden championship.

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https://uphorial.com/post/nba-play-offs-miami-heat-beat-boston-celtics-103-84-to-reach-finals-98320

Vox - Large language models are astonishingly good at understanding and producing language. But there’s an often overlooked bias toward languages that are already well-represented on the internet. That means some languages might lose out in AI’s big technical advances. Some researchers are looking into how that works — and how to possibly shift the balance from these “high resource” languages to ones that haven’t yet had a huge online footprint. These approaches range from original dataset creation, to studying the outputs of large language models, to training open source alternatives.

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https://uphorial.com/post/why-ai-doesnt-speak-every-language-82415

Psychological means mental or emotional rather than physical. After a shock, your problems, and even your physical pain, stem from psychological sources, today we would show you some tricks you can use while talking :

. Keep your head tilted: According to body language experts, tilting your head shows sympathy and attentive listening. At the same time, it can express a lack of authority and power. So, if you want to show that you agree with your boss, tilt your head.

The Power of Silence: People often feel like they have to say something to fill the silence. If you don't say anything, you can get others to keep talking or say more than they had planned. For example, if you don't say anything after someone has made a point, they are often more likely to elaborate or give more details.

Echoing means repeating the last few words that someone just said. For example, if someone says, "I'm not feeling too well today," you could say, "Not feeling well?" This shows that you're paying attention and makes them want to talk more.

But You Are Free (BYAF) Technique: People are more likely to do what you want if you remind them of their freedom to choose. For example, it can work better to say, "You can say no, but could you lend me your book?" than to just ask for the book.

People love to hear their own names spoken. Use their names sometimes in conversation to get to know them and show that you are paying attention. "That's a great point, David!" is an example.

When you paraphrase and summarize someone's point, it shows that you not only listened to them but also tried to understand them. "So what you're saying is..." is an example.

Using Open-Ended Questions: These kinds of questions help to keep the conversation going and give the other person a chance to say what they think or feel. Instead of asking, "Did you like the movie?" you should ask, "What did you think about the movie?"

Master the Art of Pausing: If you pause to make a point or before you answer a question, your answers will seem more thoughtful and deliberate. For example, if you wait a moment after someone asks you a question before you answer, it can make your answer seem deeper.

Tactical empathy: Try to see things from the other person's point of view and tell them so. This can help them feel better about how they feel and be more open to your ideas. For example, "Given what you just told me, I can see why you might feel that way."

Unlock His Hidden Emotional Need: Have you ever found yourself thinking, "Why won't he commit to me?" There's a secret, emotional need in his heart that he may not even be aware of. This need can leave him feeling incomplete, constantly craving something more. If you're the woman who can fulfill this need, you'll become his heart's desire, an irresistible force he'll be drawn to. Your love will become the key to unlocking his complete commitment and devotion. This secret need is about the ability to see and appreciate him for who he truly is, to connect with him on a deeper emotional level. As you tune in and make it 'click' for him, he'll be compelled to prove his love for you in ways you never imagined. This strategy is perfect for those who are struggling to get the commitment they want from their man, or for those who feel like they're constantly giving, but not getting the same in return. Uncover the secret to fulfilling his hidden emotional need and transform your relationship into the loving, devoted partnership you've always wanted. For a deeper dive into this concept, check out my profile description.

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https://uphorial.com/post/10-psychological-tricks-you-should-try-while-talking-43628

Big Think - What if we could slow down the hands of our biological clocks? This question underpins much of the research of Morgan Levine, who leads a research team at the life science company Altos Labs. Levine investigates the fascinating intricacies of aging, recognizing that it doesn't happen at a uniform pace for everyone. Central to her exploration is the concept of epigenetics — the factors that influence gene activity without changing the DNA sequence. Levine focuses on DNA methylation, a significant epigenetic change that occurs with aging, and the development of models called "epigenetic clocks" that can be used to predict biological age. While she acknowledges that it might be possible to reverse aging at a cellular level, Levine clarifies that the ultimate goal is not to "cure" aging or death, but to delay disease onset and improve healthspan.

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https://uphorial.com/post/the-science-of-super-longevity-dr-morgan-levine-48736

It looks like Twitter continues to find itself in hot waters over its non-compliance of the EU’s disinformation regulations. France’s Digital Minister Jean-Noël Barrot recently took to Twitter to discuss the importance of following guidelines to combat the ongoing issue of fake news on social media.

Barrot’s comments come shortly after Twitter withdrew itself from the voluntary rulebook that stated guidelines for big tech companies like Elon Musk‘s company. Others include Meta, Alphabet and Microsoft, which are all held to a certain standard, participating in a code to facilitate certain obligations from these tech giants.

These companies would be following a mandatory Digital Services Act that is set to go into effect in August in the European Union. The Digital Minister recently told France Info, “Disinformation is one of the gravest threats weighing on our democracies. Twitter, if it repeatedly doesn’t follow our rules, will be banned from the EU.” European Commissioner for Internal Market Thierry Breton took to the social media platform to chime in, “Twitter leaves EU voluntary Code of Practice against disinformation.

But obligations remain. You can run but you can’t hide.” Since he acquired Twitter, Musk has continued to champion transparency and freedom of expression. The tech billionaire recently proposed ideas to combat disinformation but it has yet to show substantial changes. Musk has not yet commented on the potential Twitter ban across the EU.

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https://uphorial.com/post/twitter-could-be-banned-in-europe-by-not-following-disinformation-rules-31746

Universities across the United Kingdom have faulted the country’s new immigration rules, which bar foreign students from bringing their families as dependants as part of new measures to check the influx of immigrants. The universities across the UK said that the move was a threat to the country’s global success as a top destination for international talent and needed to be considered very carefully. According to a statement issued by the Director of the UK International (UUK), Jamie Arrowsmith, the body of universities specifically said the development will worsen their financial pressure in the United Kingdom.

Foreign students contribute largely to the UK economy
Arrowsmith said foreign students contributed largely to the economy, adding that UK nationals had a wide acceptance of international students. Arrowsmith in the statement said, “International students make an invaluable contribution to our universities and to the UK’s economy. Building on the government’s explicit commitments and ambitions, which were clearly set out in the international education strategy, we have seen significant growth since 2019. “Our research shows that international students make a huge economic contribution to the UK, with a single cohort delivering a total benefit of £41.9 billion. “We also know that the public is overwhelmingly supportive of the international students we attract – just nine percent of people think we should be discouraging international students from choosing the UK.”

Government should explore other ways
While Arrowsmith said he understood the impact an unchecked influx may be having in some areas, he asked the government to explore other ways of curbing immigration that would not cripple an already weakened financial situation for the universities.

The statement added, “While the vast majority of students will be unaffected by proposals that limit the ability to be accompanied by dependents, more information is needed on the programs that are in scope before a proper assessment of the impact can be made.
“We, therefore, urge the government to work with the sector to limit and monitor the impact on particular groups of students – and on universities, which are already under serious financial pressures. The review process that has been announced must consider these issues.
“Ultimately, our collective aim must be to ensure that international students who choose the UK can be confident that they are welcome here, that their contribution is valued, and that the terms on which they have made decisions remain stable. Anything that threatens to affect the UK’s global success as a top destination for international talent needs to be considered very carefully.’’
In case you missed it
The UK government had 2 days ago announced the introduction of measures to restrict international students from bringing their families as dependents while studying in the country, except in specific circumstances as part of their efforts to reduce immigration.
It stated that these students will no longer be able to bring dependants with them unless they are on postgraduate courses that are currently designated as research programs.
The government under the new package also said that it also removed the ability for international students to switch out of the student route and into work routes before their studies have been completed “to prevent misuse of the visa system.
Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, in defense of the new policy, promised to reduce legal immigration levels in the country as the figures hit a record high of 606,000 in 2022, thereby putting pressure on the government which had pledged to cut dependency on foreign labor.

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https://uphorial.com/post/uk-universities-disagree-with-governments-ban-on-foreign-students-families-81536

Queen Elizabeth II faced a potential assassination threat during a 1983 visit to the US, newly released FBI documents show. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has released a cache of files relating to the late Queen's travels to the US, following her death last year. They show how the FBI, which helped secure the monarch's safety during her visits, worried about IRA threats. The assassination threat was made to a police officer in San Francisco. According to the file, an officer who frequented an Irish pub in San Francisco warned federal agents about a call from a man he had met at the venue.

The officer said the man told him he was seeking revenge for his daughter who "had been killed in Northern Ireland by a rubber bullet". The threat came on 4 February 1983 - about a month ahead of Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip's visit to California. "He was going to attempt to harm Queen Elizabeth and would do this either by dropping some object off the Golden Gate Bridge onto the Royal Yacht Britannia when it sails underneath or would attempt to kill Queen Elizabeth when she visited Yosemite National Park," the document says. In response to the threat, the Secret Service had planned to "close the walkways on the Golden Gate Bridge as the yacht nears". It is unclear what measures were taken at Yosemite, but the visit went ahead. No details of arrests were published by the FBI. The 102-page cache was uploaded to the Vault, the FBI's information website, on Monday, following a Freedom of Information Act request submitted by US media outlets.

Many of the late Queen's state visits to the US, including the 1983 visit to the West Coast, came during heightened tensions amid the Troubles in Northern Ireland. In 1976, the late Queen was in New York City for America's Bicentennial celebrations. The documents reveal how a summons was issued to a pilot for flying a small plane over Battery Park with a sign that read "England, Get out of Ireland." The files show how the FBI remained vigilant to what it considered to be the real potential of threats to the late Queen. Her second cousin Lord Mountbatten was killed in an IRA bombing off the coast of County Sligo, Republic of Ireland, in 1979.

Ahead of a personal visit by the late Queen to Kentucky in 1989, an internal FBI memo read "the possibility of threats against the British Monarchy is ever-present from the Irish Republican Army (IRA)". It continued that "Boston and New York are requested to remain alert for any threats against Queen Elizabeth II on the part of IRA members and immediately furnish same to Louisville," in Kentucky. The late Queen, who owned racehorses, is known to have visited Kentucky several times during her life to enjoy the state's equestrian highlights, including the Kentucky Derby. On a state visit in 1991, the late Queen was scheduled to see a Baltimore Orioles baseball game with President George H Bush. The FBI warned the Secret Service that "Irish groups" were planning protests at the stadium and "an Irish group had reserved a large block of grandstand tickets" to the game. The bureau told NBC News there might be "additional records" that exist besides the ones released this week, but it did not set out a timetable for their publication.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are several factors that can contribute to the development of diabetes, including genetics and lifestyle choices, diet plays a significant role. Certain foods can increase the risk of developing diabetes or exacerbate the symptoms of the condition. In this article, we will explore some of the key foods to avoid to prevent diabetes.

1. Sugar-sweetened beverages

Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks, are some of the worst offenders when it comes to diabetes prevention. These drinks are high in sugar and calories but provide little to no nutritional value. Drinking just one can of soda per day can increase the risk of developing diabetes by up to 18%.

2. Refined carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta, are quickly digested by the body and can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Over time, this can lead to insulin resistance and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Instead, choose whole grain alternatives, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa, which are high in fibre and slow-digesting carbohydrates.

3. Processed meats

Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and deli meats, are high in sodium and saturated fat. They have also been linked to an increased risk of developing diabetes. Instead, choose lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, and legumes.

4. Trans fats

Trans fats are a type of unhealthy fat that is found in many processed foods, such as fried foods, baked goods, and snack foods. These fats have been linked to an increased risk of developing diabetes and other chronic conditions. Instead, choose foods that are high in healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil.

5. High-fat dairy products

High-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, cheese, and butter, are high in saturated fat and calories. They have also been linked to an increased risk of developing diabetes. Instead, choose low-fat or non-fat dairy products, such as skim milk and Greek yogurt.

6. Artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin, are often used as a sugar substitute in diet and low-calorie foods. However, these sweeteners have been linked to an increased risk of developing diabetes and other health problems. Instead, choose natural sweeteners, such as honey and maple syrup, in moderation.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels and can also interfere with the body's ability to produce insulin. This can lead to an increased risk of developing diabetes. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and always with food.

In conclusion, there are several key foods to avoid to prevent diabetes, including sugar-sweetened beverages, refined carbohydrates, processed meats, trans fats, high-fat dairy products, artificial sweeteners, and alcohol. Instead, choose a diet that is high in fiber, lean protein, healthy fats, and whole grains, and limit your intake of sugary and processed foods. By making these dietary changes, you can help to reduce your risk of developing diabetes and improve your overall health and wellbeing.

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https://uphorial.com/post/7-key-foods-to-avoid-to-prevent-diabetes-49302

Walking is a great low-impact exercise that can provide numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, weight management, and improved mood. For many people, walking is an easy and accessible way to get regular exercise. In this essay, we will explore how many calories are burned when walking 2 km.

The number of calories burned during any type of exercise depends on several factors, including body weight, age, gender, and intensity of the exercise. For walking, the number of calories burned also depends on the speed at which the individual is walking. The faster someone walks, the more calories they will burn.

On average, a person who weighs 70 kg (154 lbs) burns approximately 80-90 calories per km when walking at a moderate pace of 5 km/h (3 mph). This means that walking 2 km (1.24 miles) at this pace would burn approximately 160-180 calories. However, if the individual is walking at a faster pace, they will burn more calories. For example, if the individual is walking at a brisk pace of 6.5 km/h (4 mph), they will burn approximately 95-110 calories per km, which would equate to 190-220 calories burned when walking 2 km.

It is important to note that these numbers are estimates and can vary depending on individual factors. Someone who weighs more will burn more calories than someone who weighs less, and older adults may burn fewer calories than younger individuals. Additionally, the type of terrain can also affect the number of calories burned. Walking uphill or on rough terrain will require more energy and will burn more calories than walking on a flat surface.

The number of calories burned during exercise is important for weight management, but it is not the only factor to consider. Regular physical activity, including walking, can provide numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, stronger bones and muscles, improved mood, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. Walking 2 km per day can be a great way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine and improve your overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, walking 2 km at a moderate pace of 5 km/h (3 mph) can burn approximately 160-180 calories, while walking at a brisk pace of 6.5 km/h (4 mph) can burn approximately 190-220 calories. However, these numbers are estimates and can vary depending on individual factors such as body weight, age, and gender. Regardless of the number of calories burned, walking is an excellent low-impact exercise that can provide numerous health benefits and should be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle.

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https://uphorial.com/post/wondering-how-many-calories-you-burn-walking-2-kmfind-out-31426

Growing a business is no easy venture, particularly when trying to make it in a highly competitive market like the food industry. Luckily, entrepreneurs building a new business can find support from celebrity chef, TV star, and businessman Gordon Ramsay in FOX's all-new competition series: "Gordon Ramsay's Food Stars." Ramsay puts food entrepreneurs through a multitude of real-world challenges designed to showcase their business skills and see if they have what it takes to earn his personal investment of $250,000. The aspiring moguls will be pushed to their limits in all aspects of running a food enterprise, including managing people, marketing, and selling to real customers.

For fellow entrepreneurs who have the raw ingredients required to succeed, want to be the best in the biz, or need additional guidance on navigating their food endeavors, here are five recommendations to help you handle the high stakes in the boardroom — plus some pro tips from mogul Ramsay himself.

1. Know your brand like the back of your hand
First and foremost, before you make strides toward growing your business, having a solid understanding of the product or service you're offering is essential. The food market is particularly complex and fierce, especially with consumer preferences constantly changing. Entrepreneurs in this space must have a strong belief in their product and the ability to differentiate themselves from competitors. Take the time to identify all the unique characteristics that sum up your business as well as the specific needs and wants of the people you will be serving.

2. Make profit power moves
While it's no secret that running a business is all about making money, not everyone grasps the intricacies of generating revenue. Having a million-dollar idea doesn't guarantee you'll be bringing in the cash; it is essential to conduct thorough research about the market, your customers, and what the competition is up to. Keeping up your books is also key, meaning you need to know where the cash flow is coming from, what you're spending, and the kind of profit margins you're working with. Knowing this information will help you make better-informed decisions about investments, product development, and marketing strategies.

3. Collaboration and communication are crucial
As a rule of thumb in business, it's critical to always communicate with your team effectively. Without open lines of communication, important details can start falling through the cracks, leading to disorganization and poor performance. Bad communication can also create an environment where team members are hesitant to speak up or share their opinions, hindering any potential for progress and innovation. A team that collaborates effectively and communicates clearly is sure to be successful. This can be accomplished through frequent team meetings, setting clear instructions and expectations, active listening, and giving constructive feedback.4. Understand that making tough decisions is just part of the job

As a business owner, you must prepare to face difficult choices that may impact the course of your success. Making tough decisions involves weighing certain risks and benefits, analyzing data, and sometimes, simply trusting your instincts. This also requires accounting for how these decisions could affect your team, customers, and overall business goals.

It seems daunting, but having the ability to make tough calls at times is inherently part of the job. With the right mindset and approach, you can make informed decisions that will benefit your business, staff, and customers in the long run.

4. Understand that making tough decisions is just part of the job
As a business owner, you must prepare to face difficult choices that may impact the course of your success. Making tough decisions involves weighing certain risks and benefits, analyzing data, and sometimes, simply trusting your instincts. This also requires accounting for how these decisions could affect your team, customers, and overall business goals. It seems daunting, but having the ability to make tough calls at times is inherently part of the job. With the right mindset and approach, you can make informed decisions that will benefit your business, staff, and customers in the long run.

5. Recognize and be open to adaptation
To remain relevant and competitive, businesses must be willing to adapt to the constantly evolving interests and values of their target audience. This means staying cognizant of emerging trends, keeping tabs on consumer behaviors, and being open to using new technology. Adaptability also means identifying problems when they arise and swiftly making adjustments to get the business back on track. Neglecting adaptation can hinder growth, and it won't take long for your customers to start looking to your competitors to meet their needs. The power of adaptability is seen firsthand in Food Stars, as well as the detrimental effects when it's not made a top priority.

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https://uphorial.com/post/5-tips-for-entrepreneurs-looking-to-start-a-successful-food-business-04361

A life partner is someone who is in a serious, committed relationship with someone else, but they're not married. A life partner can be anyone in any type of relationship, whether it's heterosexual or homosexual. They can choose to have children or not. Below are the best ways to choose a life partner

1. Laughter: Find someone that not only laughs at your humor and quirks, but doesn’t take life to serious. Laughter can solve many worthless arguments.

2. Support: Find someone that has your back 99.999% of the time. They will address issues in private and not in public.

3. Attraction: Looks aren’t everything, but initially they get the ball rolling. If you find someone that you find highly attractive and their mind matches that, there’s your answer.

4. Communication: Find someone that will hurt you with honesty but not destroy you with betrayal and lies. Find that person that can and will talk about the uncomfortable situations that will come up throughout the relationship.

5. Personality: Find someone that has an open minded, non judgmental with one similar to yours.

6. Availability: Find someone who is available. Physically, mentally and emotionally. They don’t make you “guess” what their intentions are. You don’t have to chase or “guess” what is going on.

7. Interested: Find someone who is interested in “your” life, as well as has a life of their own. There’s give and take on both sides.

8. Intimacy: Find someone who matches your level of intimacy. Sex isn’t most important, but it does play a big role at least for me.

9. Constructive Criticism: Find someone that will give you the criticism that will help you achieve a better version of yourself.

10. Acceptance: Find someone who accepts you exactly as you are. They offer support but won’t try and change you. What they see is what they get. Don’t confuse this with accepting abusive behavior.

11. Awareness: Find someone that is aware enough to know, relationships aren’t easy. No one is perfect and there is no “perfect” match. This person will understand everyone, and life in general is a work in progress. It’s all about progress not perfection.

12. Hug: Find a person whose hug changes a complete shit show of a day into a ray of sunshine

13. The look: Finally, find that person that looks at you and has a way of melting you. Someone that will look at you, with no words, but the look says “Don’t worry, I got you.”

Bottom line, there’s no guaranteed way to choose a “life” partner. People change, that’s a fact of life. What two people find attractive at first can lead to what destroys the relationship in the future.

Your best bet is making choices on how you want to spend the rest of your life with “yourself.” And if someone comes along with the same goals and plans as yours, take it slow and see where it goes.

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https://uphorial.com/post/the-best-ways-to-choose-a-life-partner-21465

Influencers on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube get paid in many ways, from sponsorships to ad revenue.
How much creators earn depends on factors like the following size, engagement, and content category.
Influencers earn money in a number of ways, from sponsorships to selling merchandise. How much creators get paid on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube depends on a variety of factors, from content category to what platform the influencer is prominent on. For many influencers, the best way to get paid is through brand deals. TikToker Naomi Melanie Leanage, for example, earned nearly $200,000 in a year from brand collaborations with about 500,000 followers. She said she gets paid a minimum of $6,000 for a TikTok post.

Besides brand deals, influencers can also get paid directly by the platforms. YouTube has the most developed program for this, called its Partner Program. Eight YouTubers who make long-form videos shared how much YouTube paid them per 1,000 views, and their answers ranged from $1.61 to $29.30. TikTok pays influencers directly through its Creator Fund and Creativity Program, and through Pulse, its ad-revenue-sharing program. Influencers have said the programs often leave much to be desired as far as payouts. Six influencers shared what TikTok paid them through its Creator Fund in a day. It ranged from $0.05 to $189. TikTok's Pulse program recently launched and is similar to YouTube's Partner Program. Influencers said that how much TikTok paid per 1,000 views ranged from pennies to $17.

The company is currently testing a new fund, dubbed its Creativity Program, where it pays creators "higher average gross revenue" tied to views for making videos that are longer than one minute. Influencers can only participate in either the creator fund or the creativity program, not both.

According to findings by Insiders read here

How to get paid on Instagram
In 2020, Instagram announced "Badges," which allow fans to tip creators who live stream on the app. Two years later, Instagram added "Gifts" on Instagram reels, which let fans send influencers "gifts" via the Instagram app using its own internal currency called Stars. Instagram has also rolled out a paid-content feature called Subscriptions. Subscriptions allow creators to share gated content, from exclusive stories to live streams, in a fashion similar to that of Patreon or OnlyFans.

Meta, which owns Instagram, does not plan to take a cut from these transactions until 2024.

How to get paid by YouTube
Many YouTube creators earn money off the ads that play in their videos and receive a monthly payout. Creators who are part of the Partner Program can monetize their videos with Google-placed ads. Creators must have at least YouTube 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year to apply for the Partner Program and get paid. Google then pays creators 55% of the revenue their channels earn from the ads that run on them. Creators also recently became able to earn money from YouTube shorts. Creators who reach 10 million views in 90 days on shorts, as well as 1,000 subscribers, are able to apply to join the Partner Program.

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https://uphorial.com/post/how-influencers-get-paid-and-make-money-on-tiktok-instagram-and-youtube-94761

Australia is growing in popularity for international students who are seeking undergraduate or postgraduate studies and has been attracting a large number of students due to its reputation for educational excellence, diverse cultural and natural environments, and a high standard of living. A major plus for this country is the fact that English is the official language which makes this study destination a growing choice among Nigerian students. However, studying abroad can be costly, and many students may require financial assistance to cover tuition, housing, and living expenses. Fortunately, many scholarships are available in Australia to assist students in pursuing their dreams of studying there.

Here is a list of the 7 Australian scholarships available to international students:

The La Trobe University Excellence Scholarship
La Trobe International Scholarship (LTIS) awards high-achieving international students scholarships worth 20% to 30% off the annual tuition fees. The scholarship is for those interested in undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate coursework or postgraduate research. High-achieving international students will be automatically considered for this scholarship if they are applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Click here for details.

The University of Sydney International Scholarships
This university provides $37,207 per year for postgraduate research to support outstanding international postgraduate students pursuing a PHD or Masters by research. High-achieving students who exhibit leadership qualities, artistic talent, or other extracurricular accomplishments are selected for this scholarship. The scholarships include a living expense allowance in addition to paying for tuition.

Click here for details.

Destination Australia Scholarships
The Australian government has launched the Destination Australia scholarship program in an effort to financially support both domestic and foreign students who decide to study in Australia.

For students pursuing Certificate IV to Doctorate level qualifications at eligible universities with regional campuses across Australia, this program offers more than 1000 scholarships each year, each worth $15,000. Click here for details.

The University of Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship
For international students, the University of Melbourne offers several undergraduate scholarships. This scholarships are given to international students who want to study at the University of Melbourne for an undergraduate degree and it covers tuition fees and an allowance for living expenses.

Click here for details.

The Bond University Transformer Scholarship
The Transformer Scholarship is awarded to those with a high potential to affect real change through participation in the Transformer program. As a Transformer Scholar, you will be awarded up to a 50% tuition waiver for any single undergraduate bachelor’s degree or postgraduate master’s degree program (excluding the Bond Medical Program) and can commence your study in the following January semester.

Click here for details.

The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship
The Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) Scholarship is one of Australia’s most prestigious undergraduate awards. The Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship, funded by the Australian government is valued at $124,000 and provides tuition fee waiver and living costs stipend to high-quality international postgraduate students. To be eligible, applicants must have a strong academic record and be accepted as a research candidate by the university.

. Click here for details.

The University of Queensland International Excellence Scholarship
International students who have excelled academically and want to pursue a degree at the university are given the University of Queensland International Excellence Scholarship. If you are an undergraduate or graduate student and have earned a GPA equivalent of 6.75 or higher (on the UQ 7-point scale), you are eligible. Additionally, UQ has extended an unconditional offer to you to enroll full-time.

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https://uphorial.com/post/7-scholarships-nigerian-students-can-explore-to-australia-29374

WhatsApp says it will allow users to edit messages, in a move that will see it match a feature offered by competitors like Telegram and Signal. The firm says messages can be edited for up to 15 minutes after being sent. The instant-messaging service is part of US technology giant Meta, which also owns Facebook and Instagram. The feature will made be available to WhatsApp's 2 billion users in the coming weeks. It counts India as its largest market, with 487 million users. "From correcting a simple misspelling to adding extra context to a message, we're excited to bring you more control over your chats," the messaging service said in a blog post on Monday. "All you need to do is long-press on a sent message and choose 'Edit' from the menu for up to fifteen minutes after," it added. Edited messages will be tagged as "edited", so recipients are aware that the content has been changed. However, they will not be shown how the message has been tweaked over time.

WhatsApp's announcement came after the feature was offered by messaging services Telegram and Signal. The edit function was introduced by the social media platform Facebook almost a decade ago. Around that time, Facebook revealed that more than half of its users accessed the site on mobile phones, which are more prone to typing errors. On Facebook, updates that are modified are marked as edited. A history of the edits is also available for users to view. Last year, Elon Musk's social media platform Twitter said it was giving its paying subscribers the ability to edit their tweets. Tweets can be edited a few times in the 30 minutes after posting. "Tweeting will feel more approachable and less stressful," Twitter said in a blog post at the time. "You should be able to participate in the conversation in a way that makes sense to you and we'll keep working on ways that make it feel effortless to do just that," the platform added.

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https://uphorial.com/post/whatsapp-to-allow-users-to-edit-messages-within-15-minutes-25138

The actor Ray Stevenson, who appeared in major TV shows such as Rome, Vikings, and Dexter, has died aged 58. He was known for roles in the Thor films and the Divergent series, as well as several UK TV shows like Band of Gold, Peak Practice, and Murphy's Law. His US-based publicist firm, Viewpoint, confirmed his death to the BBC but did not provide any further details. No cause of death has been revealed but he was reportedly hospitalized during filming on the Italian island Ischia. At the time of his death, he was working on an action movie, Cassino in Ischia. His death was announced four days before his 59th birthday.

Stevenson was born in Northern Ireland but moved to England when he was eight years old. His father was stationed with the Royal Air Force (RAF) near Lisburn, County Antrim, at the time of his birth in 1964. His family relocated to Newcastle upon Tyne and he spent much of his childhood in England. Stevenson was inspired to become an actor after seeing John Malkovich in a play at a West End theatre in London. He studied acting at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and one of his first TV roles was in the Catherine Cookson drama The Dwelling Place. He later appeared in a wide range of British TV shows including Waking the Dead, Dalziel and Pascoe and At Home with the Braithwaites.

In 2004, he played a knight in the big-budget Hollywood film, King Arthur, which starred Keira Knightley. More recently, Stevenson secured roles in successful US-made TV shows and movies, taking the role of Volstagg in the Thor trilogy and Titus Pullo in HBO's historical drama series Rome. He will star as Baylan Skoll in the upcoming Disney+ series Star Wars: Ashoka.

'Larger than life'
Stevenson's co-stars have been paying tribute to the late actor on social media. English actor James Purefoy, who starred alongside Stevenson in Rome, described him as a "brilliant, gutsy, larger-than-life actor who filled every part he played right up to the brim". Rosario Dawson - who will appear in the Ashoka series alongside Stevenson - posted on Instagram to say her co-star was a "giant of a man" whose death left her "stunned and reeling". Meanwhile director James Gunn, who was involved in the production of the second Thor film, wrote that the late actor had been a "joy to work with." Bear McCreary, the composer who soundtracked the Black Sails TV series, saluted Stevenson's "mesmerisingly unforgettable" turn as Blackbeard in the programme. And actor Scott Adkins, who starred alongside Stevenson in Accident Man, sad he was "shocked and saddened by the tragic news", adding: "I will miss you, Big Ray!

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https://uphorial.com/post/ray-stevenson-thor-and-star-wars-actor-dies-aged-58-65324

Davido dropped by the neighborhood to speak with Big Boy about moving from Nigeria to Alabama, running away from home, getting arrested while performing live, and receiving his father’s blessing to pursue music. The artist discusses his new album “Timeless”, his upcoming tour, his performance at the World Cup, and his residency in Dubai. Davido shares his love for afrobeats, his familiarity with hip-hop culture, and he reveals musical influences such as Ja Rule, Nelly, and 50 Cent. Plus, he remembers when his fans sent him over $500,000 for his birthday.

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https://www.nairaland.com/newtopic?board=9

Tech giant, Google, has expanded its Flood Hub platform to cover 80 countries worldwide including the addition of 8 new countries in Africa. According to Google, the expansion came as part of AI-enabled efforts to address the devastating impacts of floods and provide critical support to vulnerable communities. The Flood Hub platform now offers forecasts up to 7 days in advance, benefitting a population of 460 million people globally. The Flood Hub platform has been available in several African countries prior to this expansion, including Angola, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, South Africa. The expansion brings the total number of African countries covered by the platform to 23.

New African countries added
The 8 new countries added in Africa include Burundi, Eswatini, Guinea Bissau, Lesotho, Madagascar, Rwanda, Senegal, and Zimbabwe. The inclusion of these countries ensures that a broader range of African communities facing high flood risk and extreme weather conditions can benefit from Flood Hub’s accurate and timely flood forecasting services.

Google added that the expansion aims to empower more people to take necessary precautions and safeguard lives and property.

Vulnerable populations
Explaining why Google is deploying technology to help countries prepare for a flood, VP Engineering & Research and Crisis Response Lead, Yossi Mattias, said: “We recognize the significant impact that floods have on communities worldwide, especially in regions with limited resources and vulnerable populations. We are committed to expanding the reach of the Flood Hub platform to support these communities and provide accurate flood forecasting that can help save lives and protect livelihoods.” To further enhance flood preparedness, Mattias said Google is expanding flood alerts through Search and Maps notifications, ensuring that individuals have convenient access to timely and critical flood information.

How Google flood alert works
To provide flood forecasting, Google monitors historical and real-time water level measurements and precipitation forecasts. It uses data that is either publicly available or available to Google through partnerships with local governments. Based on this information, Google runs run 2 main types of machine-learning models:

Hydrologic models: Provides forecasts of river water levels for upcoming days.

Inundation models: Provides forecasts for the flood extent on the ground. This information tells us who to notify and helps us provide flood maps on Google Maps.

Once an upcoming flood is identified, Google sends notifications. Notifications go to people who have their smartphone location services turned on and who are located in an area that is flooded or expected to flood.

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https://uphorial.com/post/google-expands-flood-alerts-to-80-countries-including-8-in-africa-04569

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and his partner Lauren Sánchez are engaged, a source close to the couple tells CNN. No additional details about the proposal or pending wedding plans were immediately available. Bezos and Sánchez, a former broadcast journalist and now philanthropist, first went public with their relationship in 2019. Since Bezos and Sánchez began dating, they have kept details of their lives together mostly private outside of being photographed at various events. In 2022, the couple spoke with CNN at their Washington DC home for their first joint sit-down interview where they talked about their philanthropic work toward strategically giving away Bezos’s vast wealth to a variety of causes.

When it comes to their charitable efforts, Sánchez told newsmen that they make “really great teammates,” adding with a laugh that they can also be “kind of boring.” Bezos went on to describe the Emmy award-winning journalist as “the most generous, most big-hearted person that you would ever meet,” and said that she is “an inspiration.”

The billionaire is also the founder of space company Blue Origin and was aboard a 2021 flight into space and back on Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket. Sánchez, who is also a former helicopter pilot, told newsmen that she, too, plans to head to space in the coming years, saying she’ll be joined by “a great group of females.” Bezos was previously married to MacKenzie Scott for 25 years, with whom he shares four children. Sánchez has three children from previous relationships and was married to Hollywood agent Patrick Whitesell for 13 years before finalizing their divorce in 2019.

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https://uphorial.com/post/jeff-bezos-and-lauren-sánchez-are-engaged-03186

Women crave masculine men, it is that masculine men exude an energy that makes them irresistible to women. If women ignore you if they see you as another Average Joe on the street this post is for you, in this post, I will go over seven masculine qualities that women love in men. Understand this, if you can embody these qualities you will not only be craved by women, but you will also get ahead of the competition in every area of life.

Number one, strong presence. Women crave men who lose confidence and exude the era of authority and Leadership because, when a man is capable enough to command attention with his confident personality, he is not any average man. You see, women are attracted to authoritative men who possess leadership qualities it is due to the fact that women want you to be the leader, who can protect them, but how can you have that strong presence. First you need to build some self-confidence, when you enter a room full of people and walk to a table with calm and assertive Behavior it shows that you are comfortable in your own skin, when you have a strong presence this truly attract women.

Because, the moment they come near you, they will feel safe and protected know this having a strong presence is to having confidence, Authority, and power. Women crave these masculine qualities in men.

Number two strength. Strength is one of the powerful traits of masculinity and one of the most loved qualities by women, you can be physically strong or have the ability to overcome challenges no matter which one you possess women will keep you in high regard, if you are physically strong know that women will feel safe and protected around you. If you are mentally strong, they will know that you are a man who can take on every difficult situation in life. There is a third form of strength to be strong in bed which is the highest of all if you have the power to take charge in the intimate moment with her, she will subconsciously submit to that power.

But, to possess these strengths you must make some changes in your life and let go of all the negative factors making you both physically and mentally weak, now I don't need to go over those bad habits and things that are weakening your manhood, you must reflect on your life to succeed with women.

Number three, responsibility. Responsibility represents maturity which I will discuss in a moment, but first you must understand how to become the responsible man that women crave to understand this, men who take responsibility for their actions in every area of Life are highly attracted to and respected by women. It is because being responsible shows that a man is capable of making his own decision and can take care of himself and the people around him, you see when you show responsible behavior you show a strong sense of Duty towards your commitments with your woman, and she values nothing more than responsibility and commitment in a relationship.

Understand this, maturity comes when you start living like a responsible man who can take care of himself and the one he loves.

Number four, maturity. Responsibility represents maturity it means that when you are responsible enough to take care of things you, exude maturity and women are profoundly in love with mature men one of the aspects of being mature is when you are emotionally strong and can handle challenging situations with Grace and composure. A mature man understands the importance of being responsible for his actions and taking accountability for the mistakes he makes, he makes sound decisions using his rational mind even if he is under high pressure he won't cry like a boy and Escape it, but he will face it maturely maturity also indicates that a man can communicate effectively and provide emotional support and guidance to his women when needed.

It is very important to be understood that women are not as strong as men, sometimes due to high pressure or emotional breakdown they will seek guidance and support from their Partners, if you can provide her with that know this you will get enormous respect and love from her.

Number five, confidence. Confidence is alone a major pillar of masculinity you can never reach your Highest Potential in life as a masculine man if you lack confidence, you will see people tarnishing the masculinity concept, but masculine men's unwavering confidence keeps the masculine culture alive. Why? It is because, they are confident in who they are and what they believe in and women love them for that no matter what the society tells you, always be confident in yourself now being confident not only benefits you personally but also creates a sense of connection with the women around you.

When you are confident women will crave you because, you are not afraid to take risks you speak your mind, and you stand up for what you believe in listen confidence is contagious when you exude confidence women will attract to that.

Number six, purpose. A man without a purpose in life is a man of no value and worth there is a saying Chase purpose, and she will chase you, it is true when you pursue purpose you live a life of significance chasing your purpose and goals in life shows that you have a Clear Vision to work on, and you strive to achieve that. This is where masculine men get the attention of women because, having a purpose in life shows that men are driven and ambitious and have a sense of direction in life, but if you live a life of insignificance women will not even notice your existence it is because, women want to spend their long lives with men who can promise them a good future.

Accepted it, it is what it is, this is how women will measure your value and worth, so it is better to have a sense of value in life rather than be left in the dust.

Number seven, honesty. You can never win a woman's heart without being honest, honesty is something that shines bright among your other personality traits, if you are honest with women it will create a bond of trust and integrity. These are the traits that Forge long-lasting relationships, know this when you are honest with her, she will trust you with everything honesty not only brings trust and integrity to your dating life but also fosters positive results in other areas of life. Listen, if you are honest with her, she will not only trust you but love you with her whole existence she will shower her love on you like rain take what you have learned today and implement it in your life, and you will see a significant change.

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https://uphorial.com/post/7-masculine-qualities-women-secretly-love-in-men-48519

In April 2023, the President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Aminu Umar, announced that approximately half of the foreign trading vessels in Nigeria have been compelled to leave over the past year due to increasing insecurity and inadequate government policies. Umar also noted that the European market has gained strength due to the Russian-Ukraine war, thus making it a more favorable trading environment. Additionally, he stressed the issue of insecurity in Nigerian waters, which has forced foreign vessel owners to pay for war risk insurance. This situation is abnormal, considering that Nigeria is not involved in any war.

According to findings by newsmen, among the departing foreign vessels are export vessels responsible for transporting crude oil from Nigerian platforms. The development highlights the significant challenges faced by the oil sector, including a decline in oil production rates caused by crude oil theft.

In the previous month, Nigeria’s daily oil production stood at 988,602 barrels, a significant decrease compared to the pre-Covid-19 period when the sector produced 2 million barrels per day. Consequently, the current activities in the oil sector are not as dynamic as they could be. Insiders within the sector who shared insights with newsmen revealed that a multitude of factors has prompted the departure of numerous foreign vessels. These factors include security concerns, escalating costs, and government policies.

Insecurity
Foreign vessels exporting crude oil from Nigeria now face a new requirement: they must hire maritime security companies for protection during their operations. These security companies accompany the vessels from arrival to departure, ensuring their safety throughout the loading process. While this generates job opportunities for Nigerians, it poses challenges for foreign companies due to potential exploitation. This security model has spread to neighboring countries like Cameroon and Togo, with some Nigerians establishing similar systems there.

The Nigerian Navy collaborates with maritime security companies to provide comprehensive coverage, as their resources alone are insufficient. The Navy still contributes personnel for vessel protection and receives a daily payment of $70 per person.

Rising costs
The Nigerian Navy receives compensation of $70 per person per day when accompanying loading vessels for a month, along with meals provided by the vessel owners. Maritime security companies charge approximately $7,000 per day for hiring a security vessel, adding to the financial burden of vessel owners involved in crude oil exports. Dry docking a vessel for maintenance can cost up to half a million dollars. At the Onne Port, idle vessels incur ongoing expenses for wages and maintenance costs in US dollars, leading owners to consider leaving rather than incurring further expenses. Local players lack vessels of the same quality as foreign counterparts, limiting their profitability.

Some local players lease foreign vessels through bareboat charter arrangements, but this is not financially sustainable. If all local players had vessels of equal quality, the need for foreign vessels would decrease, resulting in a cost reduction.

According to Captain Bright Eromosele, who spoke with Nairametrics, local players in Nigeria are unable to match the calibre of vessels owned by their foreign counterparts. Their vessels do not meet the same standards as foreign vessels, resulting in limitations on their profitability.

Captain Eromosele provided context by mentioning that certain local players have chosen to lease foreign vessels through bareboat charter arrangements to operate within Nigerian waters.

However, he noted that this arrangement imposes escalating costs on the local players, regardless of vessel utilization, making it financially unsustainable. In cases where local players are unable to sustain payments after six months of inactivity due to decreased activities in Nigeria’s oil sector caused by oil theft, the foreign vessels are returned to their owners. Captain Eromosele further emphasized that if all local players possessed vessels of equal quality to their foreign counterparts, the need for foreign vessels would be eliminated, resulting in a significant reduction in costs.

Government policies
Government policies have also been criticized by industry operators for their unfavorable impact on local players in the oil sector. Since the departure of foreign vessels, the number of local players has increased. Operators have expressed concerns regarding the need for NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), formerly known as NAPIMS, to improve its efforts in setting advantageous day rates for vessel owners.

NUIMS oversees the regulations related to vessel owners in the oil sector. When an international oil company (IOC) intends to hire a vessel, it must engage with NUIMS, which handles all pricing on behalf of the IOC. The price determined by NUIMS is then used for the hiring arrangement. Under the current arrangement, vessel owners submit tenders, and NUIMS selects a company for collaboration based on agreed rates.

Some indus participants believe that more flexibility in rates would benefit operators, allowing for higher rates that ensure profitable operations. Investigations by Newsmen revealed a significant decline in daily rates, from $28,000 to approximately $16,000, causing ship owners to struggle to generate satisfactory profits. In comparison, the same vessel can be hired for $22,000 per day in Israel, prompting many owners to prefer operating their vessels outside Nigeria to maximize earnings in perceived more effective systems.

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https://uphorial.com/post/foreign-oil-export-shipping-vessels-are-leaving-nigeriaheres-why-39587

Beats by Dre has officially released its new Studio Buds+ wireless earbuds. The new true wireless earbuds feature a number of upgrades from the original version as well as three new eye-catching colorways including a first-ever “Transparent” style, “Black/Gold,” and “Ivory.” Enhancements include a boost of up to 36 hours of battery with 9 hours alone from the earbuds.

A 5-minute Fast Fuel charge provides an hour of additional use. Three vents are added for improved audio quality and comfort alongside a proprietary transducer which delivers cleaner bass and ultra-low distortion. The pairs also now have enhanced Apple compatibility with one-touch iCloud pairing and Find My as well as better Android compatibility with seamless Audio Switch between devices, Google Fast Pair, and Google Find My Device. Other important features include more effective ANC and Transparency modes, a sweat and water-resistance rating of IPX4, spatial audio for Dolby Atmos, and extended range with Class 1 Bluetooth.

The Beats Studio Buds+ are priced at $169.99 USD and are now available to order on the Apple and Beats websites.

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https://uphorial.com/post/apple-launches-new-beats-studio-buds-01846

Elon Musk took credit for the existence of OpenAI and said he came up with the startup's name. Musk was an OpenAI cofounder and invested $50 million into the company. He left the startup in 2018. He criticized OpenAI's business model and its relationship with Microsoft, one of its current investors. Musk expressed concerns about OpenAI while simultaneously taking credit for the existence of the AI startup behind ChatGPT. "I am the reason OpenAI exists," Musk told CNBC's David Faber in a Tuesday interview. Musk told CNBC he invested around $50 million at the time and was "instrumental" in recruiting key scientists and engineers. He also the brain behind its name, he said.

Musk expressed concerns about OpenAI while simultaneously taking credit for the existence of the AI startup behind ChatGPT. "I am the reason OpenAI exists," Musk told CNBC's David Faber in a Tuesday interview. Musk told CNBC he invested around $50 million at the time and was "instrumental" in recruiting key scientists and engineers. He also the brain behind its name, he said.

"It does seem weird that something can be a non-profit, open source and somehow transform itself into a for-profit, closed source," he told CNBC's Faber. "This would be like, let's say you found an organization to save the Amazon rainforest, and instead they become a lumber company, and chop down the forest, and sold it for money." Microsoft invested $1 billion into OpenAI in 2019. It followed up with a "multibillion-dollar" investment in January 2023.

The latest investment amount wasn't publicly disclosed, but Semafor reported it was about $10 billion. Musk told CNBC Microsoft could "cut off OpenAI" at any point and has a lot of control over the startup. "I also think it's important to understand when push comes to shove — let's say they create some digital super-intelligence, almost god-like intelligence, who's in control? What is exactly the relationship between OpenAI and Microsoft?" Musk has also publicly voiced warnings about AI, saying the technology is a "danger to the public." In March, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX signed an open letter alongside Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak, AI experts, and scientists calling for a six-month pause on advanced AI development.

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MPs have urged the government to treat retail investment in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin as a form of gambling. Their value could change dramatically and consumers risked losing their entire investment, characteristics closely resembling gambling, the Treasury Select Committee found. It also criticized abandoned plans for the Royal Mint to create a non-fungible token (NFT). The Treasury told BBC News it did not support using gambling regulation. The risks posed by crypto were "typical of those that exist in traditional financial services and its financial services regulation - rather than gambling regulation - that has the track record in mitigating them", a Treasury official told BBC News. Trade association CryptoUK strongly rejected the committee's findings, saying MPs' observations about cryptocurrency were "unhelpful, false, fundamentally flawed and unsubstantiated".

'Lose everything'
The committee said "unbacked" crypto assets - typically cryptocurrencies with no fixed value - exposed "consumers to the potential for substantial gains or losses, while serving no useful social purpose". "These characteristics more closely resemble gambling than a financial service," the MPs added. Gambling helpline charity GamCare told the BBC that, in the past two years, it had heard from more than 300 people who said they were struggling with investing in cryptocurrency and other forms of online financial markets.

Research cited by MPs found 40% of new Bitcoin users were men under 35, commonly identified as the most risk-seeking segment of the population. Castle Craig, a rehab clinic specializing in treating people with addictions, put us in touch with a young man who had lost heavily on crypto. The former gambling addict told BBC News that, although he had given up gambling, he had turned to crypto. "In my head, I just thought this isn't gambling it's just an investment, but clearly it wasn't," he said.

He said he had lost about £150,000 investing in crypto, including money he had borrowed, and that checking his phone to see how the market had moved had become an obsession. "There was no break at all, I was just I was on my phone constantly watching it and just couldn't sleep," he recalled. He said he supported the approach of the committee. "Crypto stuff is gambling," he said. "You can lose everything you've got."

Former sports minister and gambling campaigner Conservative MP Tracey Crouch welcomed the report. "At the moment, crypto feels like a Wild West town with no sheriff," she said. "However, I'm sure, if properly resourced, the Gambling Commission could bring some order into this complex, risky, and often confusing area that has unwittingly sucked in consumers by marketing to them via sports such as football, giving a pretense to fans and others that they are safe and protected."

Crypto sponsorship has been widespread among football clubs, but those in the Premier League recently agreed to end gambling sponsorship on the front of their shirts from the start of the 2026 season. This was a voluntary move and not required by regulation. The report gives little detail on what gambling regulation applied to crypto might mean. MP Harriett Baldwin, chairwoman of the committee, said the report recommended "that the sort of speculative luring of people into buying particular cryptocurrencies" was treated like gambling.

She said the committee had heard a lot of evidence of how "football clubs are using this as a way of taking money off their loyal supporters".

'Fun investment'
In February, the government asked people to comment on proposals for the financial regulation of crypto assets. But the committee said the government plans to regulate cryptocurrencies as financial services would create a false impression they were as secure as traditional investments - a "halo effect... that leads consumers to believe that this activity is safer than it is or protected when it is not". The committee's report noted surveys suggesting about one in 10 people in the UK hold crypto assets, most investing in cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The most mentioned reason for holding crypto assets as they were a "fun investment".

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Dangote Refinery expects its first crude batch in June 2023. According to a report released on May 16 by S&P Global Commodity Insights, the Dangote refinery is anticipating the arrival of its first crude batch in June 2023. A representative from the refinery revealed that they expect to commence processing this initial batch, consisting of 500,000 barrels per day (b/d), before gradually increasing production to 650,000 b/d by mid-2024. The official commissioning of the Dangote refinery by President Buhari is scheduled for May 22.

The report also highlights that a significant portion of the crude oil for the refinery will be sourced from Nigeria, a country with a production capacity of 2.5 million b/d. However, Nigeria has faced challenges in surpassing a daily output of 1.2 million b/d due to issues such as insecurity, theft, strikes, and operational problems related to aging wells.

Dangote’s impact on Nigeria’s oil market
Based on information from S&P Global Commodity Insights, the Dangote refinery is set to manufacture Euro 5 compliant gasoline, diesel, and polypropylene. The company’s data indicates that motor gasoline (petrol) production is projected to rise from nearly zero currently to 249,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2026 and exceed 300,000 b/d by 2033. Additionally, the report states that petrol imports will decrease by over half to 154,000 b/d by 2026. Furthermore, with Nigeria’s expected rapid population growth in the coming decades, the data suggests that imports will once again surpass domestic production by 2042. Notably, starting from the following year, Nigeria will begin exporting gasoil for the first time, with production anticipated to increase from 3,500 b/d in 2023 to 211,000 b/d in 2027.

Forecast on Nigeria’s crude production
According to S&P analysts, Nigeria’s crude production is expected to maintain stability at approximately 1.3 million b/d over the next ten years. However, the start-up of the Dangote refinery is anticipated to have a significant impact on oil exports. The forecast indicates that in 2023, Nigeria is projected to produce 1.46 million b/d and export 1.45 million b/d. However, by 2027, despite a slight decline in production to 1.30 million b/d, oil exports are forecasted to drop to 656,000 b/d. This decline in exports can be attributed to the operational influence of the Dangote refinery.

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The opportunity for non-EU nationals, such as Nigerians, to obtain a permanent residence permit in Malta with the Malta Permanent Residence Programme provides exclusive advantages, including 90 days of visa-free travel in the Schengen area and the ability to move to Malta. In this article, we will delve into the advantages of Malta permanent residency for Nigerian citizens, the eligibility requirements, the timeline and process, as well as what applicants should anticipate from the beginning to the end of the application process.

Description of the Malta Permanent Residence Programme and Why it’s a good option for Nigerian Investors
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme allows investors from non-EU countries to obtain the right to reside in Malta for as long as they want. A person with permanent residency can enter and leave the country whenever they wish; they have almost as many rights as state nationals. These include the opportunity to take advantage of Maltese healthcare and education, as well as start a business and work here. Investors cannot apply for the programme directly. They can join the programme only with the help of a licenced agent accredited by the Government of Malta, such as Immigrant Invest.

The lawyers and other specialists from Immigrant Invest accompany participants at every step of the process, from preparing the documents to receiving the residency cards and renewing them when the time comes.

The 6 main advantages of the MPRP for Nigerians
The Malta Permanent Residence Programme is a great opportunity for investors from Nigeria to gain freedom of travel and other benefits the status provides. Here are the main benefits of holding permanent residency in Malta.

The opportunity to move to Malta. The country secures a high standard of living, low crime rates, and affordable living compared to other European countries. Most of the population speaks English, so integration will be reasonably easy for Nigerians looking to move to Malta.

Freedom of travel. Residents of Malta can travel visa-free to all the countries of the Schengen area. These include 26 countries in Europe aside from Malta.Nigerians with a Maltese residency permit can travel to Italy, Spain, Iceland, Norway, Germany, and most other European states without needing a visa. This applies only to short stays: every 180 days, one can spend up to 90 days in all the Schengen countries combined.

Access to high-quality education and healthcare. Nigerians with Maltese residency can take advantage of the country’s social benefits, including access to free study at public universities and universal healthcare.

The opportunity to pay taxes at a lower rate. Compared to Nigeria, Malta charges lower taxes. For instance, for some companies, the corporate tax in Malta can be as low as 0—10% instead of the standard 35% if the shareholders claim a tax refund. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, all companies pay at least 30% in corporate taxes.

It is essential to note that the Malta Permanent Residency Programme does not provide its participants with any special tax incentives. However, if an applicant chooses to change their tax residency to Malta, they will be able to pay taxes in Malta and potentially reduce their tax burden. To become a tax resident of Malta, one has to physically reside in the country for at least 183 days a year.

An option to register a business in Malta. Investors who own companies in Nigeria or other countries can register their businesses in Malta to gain more growth opportunities, join a safer banking system and reduce the tax burden.

“Plan-B residency” for the entire family. The programme also allows investors to provide residency for the investor’s close family members. This means that the entire family will have the option to move to Malta at any time.

Permanent residency is a status that is given for life. The holders just need to renew their residency cards every 5 years.

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Pediatrician Blair Hammond and developmental psychologist Aliza Pressman debunk 13 myths about parenting teens. They talk about how adolescence doesn't end at 18, why teens tend to be risk-takers, and how authoritative parenting can help guide teens with their social media and video game use. They also cover more sensitive topics of depression, suicide, and eating disorders, emphasizing how parental guidance and outside resources can support affected teens.

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Jose Mourinho on course for European success with Roma but could he head to Paris St-Germain?

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What's the Kinkiest Thing You've Ever Done?

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Nigeria Is The Biggest Cassava Producer In The World. Why Isn’t It Cashing In On The Global Market?

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