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Snouts, muddy puddles and British accents: How Peppa Pig became a global cultural phenomenon—and a $1.7 billion franchise

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The staying power of the Peppa Pig family—going 20 years strong—has made it one of Britain’s most significant cultural exports. Read More

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Purdue Pharma and Sackler family to pay $7.4 billion in revised settlement of lawsuits over OxyContin opioid toll

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The Sacklers agreed to pay up to $6.5 billion and give up ownership of the company, which would pay nearly $900 million. Read More

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Trump Wants a War With Cartels—and May Just Get One

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Trump Wants a War With Cartels—and May Just Get One

This raises fundamental questions. “If they are going to designate traffickers as narco-terrorists, will they also include the Americans who are part of these networks? Because we are not just talking about the famous drug cartels, but also trafficking networks, money laundering, arms smuggling and other structures, many of which are incorporated in the United States. There is an enormous complexity in defining where a cartel begins and where it ends. There is a dispersion of actors, organizations and relationships on both sides of the border involved in drug trafficking. Therefore, to speak of narcoterrorism is to speak of something vague and imprecise. This term is not supported by concrete evidence; rather, its use is eminently political,” argues Zavala.

According to Zavala, the narrative allows figures like President Trump to use the concept of narcoterrorism as a tool of intimidation, threat and extortion towards the Mexican government. “Rather than describing realities, narcoterrorism is based on spectral notions, on political phantoms that are used to force Mexico to align with Washington’s interests,” he says.

An Executive Order to Intervene Militarily in Mexico

Intervening militarily in Mexican territory with selective incursions aimed at damaging the cartels is something that has been on the US radar screen for some time now. But analysts argue that it would be a shot in the foot for the Trump administration.

“By using the concept of narcoterrorism, the US government empowers itself to intervene militarily in Mexico. That is something very complicated, because intervening in that way would seriously damage the binational relationship, which is very delicate. It is almost inconceivable [the idea of military aggression],” Zavala explains. “I believe that in addition to the bravado, the Mexican government has generally been aligned because in the end our security policy has always been subordinated and violated; even subalternized by the United States.”

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This Wednesday, the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, said that the secretary of foreign affairs, Juan Ramón de la Fuente, had a telephone conversation with US secretary of state Marco Rubio. She did not provide details of the conversation, but said it was “a very cordial conversation” and they discussed “migration and security issues.” Rubio has said that he would prefer that any action, any decision taken from Washington have the consent, the collaboration of the Mexican government.

“Cartels Do Not Exist”

Oswaldo Zavala (Ciudad Juarez, 1975) has specialized in Mexican narrative, and has an alternative vision of the narco phenomenon in Mexico. He believes that the image of the power of the cartels is exaggerated and sponsored by the State. The author of The Imaginary U.S.—Mexico Drug Wars: State Power, Organized Crime, and the Political History of Narconarratives (1975–2012), explains to WIRED that the war against drug trafficking is generally built on fantastical, contradictory and often absurd concepts, which gradually form an imaginary that presents drug trafficking in an alarmist manner.

“The US government has managed with great skill to create a long list of concepts, monsters and criminal actors that not only dominate the public debate in the United States, but also in Mexico. Thus, when Americans want it, one organization or another becomes the center of discussion. In the 1980s, for example, it was the Guadalajara Cartel, with figures such as Rafael Caro Quintero and Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo. In the 1990s, the central figure was El Chapo Guzman, and later, Amado Carrillo. Today, the conversation revolves around fentanyl and, above all, the Sinaloa Cartel,” Zavala explains.

Zavala argues that the narratives used by the US government are ways of simplifying a complex problem, giving a common sense to the debate that would otherwise be much more complicated. “If we take into account that a large part of drug consumption occurs in the United States, that there are organizations within that country that facilitate trafficking, launder money and, in many cases, are as or more dangerous than the Mexican ones, the discussion becomes much more complex for the Mexican panorama. What these narratives do, then, is to simplify the situation, presenting Mexico as the primary enemy of US security. In doing so, the US government can intervene not only mediatically but also politically, diplomatically, and even militarily in Mexico,” he says.

“As citizens we must be very careful with the narratives that are generated from Washington,” he warns. “It is essential to learn to analyze them critically and to distance ourselves from what we are being told. This process is neither easy nor quick, since, unfortunately, not only the Mexican government repeats these narratives, but the media also replicates them, and sometimes institutions and other actors push them. And, to complicate things even more, a popular culture is created that feeds these ideas: today there are already corridos about fentanyl, about the ‘Chapitos’ and about the supposed criminal empires of the cartels. It is very difficult to escape from all this.”

A War That Has Left More Than 100,000 People Missing

More than 100,000 people have been missing in Mexico since 1964, when the count began. The National Registry of Disappeared and Unaccounted for Persons has for months now exceeded this figure, which is evidence of the grave situation in the country. Most of these people were registered as missing since 2006, when the administration of Felipe Calderón, who took the army to the streets to combat the violence of organized crime, began.

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“Many of the most serious effects of the anti-drug policy we have been suffering in Mexico for decades. More than half a million murders since the militarization began with President Calderon, more than 100,000 forced disappearances. We know that all that violence is unloaded, above all, against poor, racialized, brown young people, who live in the most disadvantaged areas of the country,” says Zavala, who is surprised when people are alarmed by what Trump says. “As if we weren’t already living, for years now, a really serious wave of violence in the country.”

According to the researcher, military violence is often expressed as a form of social control, as a management of violence. “You’re not going to see militarization in areas like the Condesa or Roma, but in the margins of Mexico City, in the most impoverished areas. The violence is happening in the peripheries, in the poorest neighborhoods, where there is not even adequate monitoring by the media or human rights institutions,” Zavala says.

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What should surprise us, Zavala says, are the very high rates of violence we are experiencing, as a background of what is already happening, not of something that is yet to come. “I think we still don’t fully understand that this violence has a clear class dimension. It is not generalized violence, but systematized and directed against the most vulnerable sectors of society,” he says.

The Solution: Demilitarizing the Country

The decision taken by Calderón 16 years ago to entrust the Army with the responsibility of public security in several areas of the country has shown us its fatal consequences. Both Enrique Peña Nieto and Andrés Manuel López Obrador pledged, during their respective electoral campaigns, to return peace, security, and civility to us. However, once in power, both presented proposals to consolidate, through legislation and even constitutional reforms, the militarized public security model. The situation does not seem to change with Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration.

In this way, Mexico’s recent presidents have maintained a “peace and security” policy based on a militarized strategy, justifying it on the supposed operational incapacity of police corporations to confront organized crime.

“I agree with the view that drugs need to be decriminalized, addictions treated, all that. But in my opinion, most of the violence in Mexico is not necessarily linked to drug trafficking, but to the experience of militarization itself. And I think there is solid empirical data to support this idea. We know that there is a ‘before’ and an ‘after’ militarization in Mexico,” Zavala explains. “Before the deployment of the army, our homicide rates were declining throughout the country, and there is a direct correlation between military occupation, the presence of the armed forces, and the increase in homicides and forced disappearances.”

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Thousands face debt ‘well into their 70s’ as state pension won’t be enough to cover costs

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Thousands face debt 'well into their 70s' as state pension won’t be enough to cover costs

Thousands of homeowners could end up paying off their mortgages well into their 70s, with the state pension not enough to cover costs alone, new data has shown.

To manage high monthly payments, more buyers are opting for longer mortgage terms, reflecting growing challenges in housing affordability.


The Nationwide Housing Affordability Report, released today, shows how tough it is for many people to buy a home. This is especially clear in the growing trend of buyers choosing longer mortgage terms to make payments more affordable.

There has been a 156 per cent increase in people over 36 taking out 35-year mortgages since 2019, according to Freedom of Information data from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

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In the first nine months of 2024 alone, 22,103 of these long-term mortgages were issued — already surpassing the total number for any full year since 2018.

Karen Noye, mortgage expert from Quilter warns that this shift to longer mortgages could result in “a generation of retirees who are either burdened with mortgage debt well into retirement” or unable to buy a home at all.

Pensioner and pounds

Opting for these longer mortgages will see paying mortgage costs until the age of 71

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Noye said: “Retirees on fixed incomes will face the burden of managing mortgage repayments alongside other living costs, while those who remain renters will grapple with escalating rental payments that erode their savings and leave little room for a secure and comfortable retirement.

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“This generation’s housing affordability crisis threatens to create a profound legacy of financial insecurity.”

Those opting for longer mortgages will need to be confident they can afford to make repayments until the age of 71 – three years after they can expect to qualify for the state pension, and 14 years after they reach the normal minimum pension age.

However, experts warn the state pension payments alone will not be enough to cover repayments meaning retirees will need other sources of income to manage this.

For example, data from Quilter found that a 36-year-old taking out a £250,000 mortgage over 35 years at the current Bank of England base rate of 4.75 per cent would face monthly repayments of £1,145.

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While interest rates may change, borrowers must be confident they can keep up with these payments well into retirement.

Though the extended mortgage term helps reduce monthly payments, it means borrowers will “pay significantly more over the life of the loan”.

The full state pension currently sits at £221.20 a week (2024/25 tax year), or approximately £960 per month. While the state pension will increase over the 35-year mortgage period, so too will the everyday cost of living.

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Noye explained that “this makes it unlikely that the state pension alone will cover a mortgage repayment alongside everyday living costs, leaving people reliant on savings”.

This is far less than the £1,145 needed to cover the example mortgage payment, not including other living costs.

While both the state pension and living costs are likely to rise, she explained the state pension alone will likely not be enough to cover mortgage payments and everyday expenses.

This means future retirees will have to rely on additional savings or pension funds to meet their housing costs in later years.

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Jonathan Bone, Head of Mortgages at Better.co.uk, highlights some advantages to longer mortgage terms, despite the risks.

He said: “One of the biggest advantages of spreading a mortgage over a longer period is that the monthly repayments will be lower than if you opt for a shorter term.”

Bone explained that longer terms make homeownership more affordable in high-cost areas, offering flexibility and the possibility of making extra payments without penalties when finances allow.

However, the mortgage expert said that “a longer mortgage term can lower monthly payments initially, a major drawback is the higher overall interest costs.”

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Extended terms also slow down equity growth, which can limit options for remortgaging or moving to a new property.

There are also concerns about securing mortgages that last into retirement, as lenders often require proof of sufficient pension income to continue making payments.

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Mcoin’s Meteoric Rise Shakes Up the Digital Asset Sector

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Mcoin’s Meteoric Rise Shakes Up the Digital Asset Sector

Within the realm of digital assets, mCoin has swiftly ascended to prominence, positioning itself as a notable contender through the strategic utilization of Blockchain technology.

The substantial market cap and daily trading volume underscore mCoin’s growing influence in the industry, sparking curiosity and drawing attention from seasoned investors and newcomers alike.

As we explore the factors propelling mCoin’s meteoric rise, a deeper examination of its trajectory and potential gains insight into the intricacies of navigating the ever-evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies.

Unveiling the underlying dynamics behind mCoin’s surge invites a closer look at the implications for both short-term and long-term market behavior, shedding light on the intricate tapestry of opportunities and challenges that define its journey in the digital asset space.

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Digital Asset Market Trends

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital assets, market trends play a pivotal role in shaping investment strategies and decisions. Monitoring these trends provides investors with valuable insights into the potential growth or decline of specific assets, enabling them to make informed choices.

Understanding market dynamics, such as price fluctuations, trading volumes, and investor sentiment, is essential for staying ahead in the highly competitive digital asset industry.

By analyzing historical data and current market conditions, investors can identify opportunities for profit and mitigate risks effectively.

Mcoin’s Blockchain Technology Advancements

Monitoring digital asset market trends is essential for making informed investment decisions. Therefore, examining Mcoin’s Blockchain Technology Advancements sheds light on its innovative strides in this dynamic industry.

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Mcoin has made significant advancements in its blockchain technology, enhancing security, scalability, and efficiency.

One notable development is the implementation of smart contracts, enabling automated and secure transactions without third-party interference.

Additionally, Mcoin has focused on improving interoperability with other blockchain networks, fostering seamless integration and enhancing user experience.

These technological upgrades not only showcase Mcoin’s commitment to innovation but also position it as a competitive player in the digital asset space. Investors looking to capitalize on the potential of blockchain technology should closely monitor Mcoin’s advancements as they continue to shape the future of the industry.

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Growth Factors Driving Mcoin’s Success

Mcoin’s exponential growth in the digital asset industry can be attributed to its strategic partnerships and innovative technological advancements.

By forming collaborations with key players in the industry, Mcoin has been able to expand its reach and increase adoption among users. These partnerships have not only enhanced Mcoin’s credibility but have also opened up new opportunities for growth and development.

Additionally, Mcoin’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements has allowed it to offer cutting-edge solutions that cater to the evolving needs of its users.

This dedication to innovation has positioned Mcoin as a leader in the digital asset space, driving its success and solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking and reliable platform.

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Analyzing Mcoin Price Predictions

Amidst the dynamic landscape of the digital asset sector, the trajectory of mCoin’s price predictions unfolds as a focal point for strategic analysis and informed decision-making.

Short-term forecasts for mCoin suggest fluctuations between $0.38 and $0.80 from September to January while as of time of writing priced at $0.60.

Looking further ahead, long-term projections paint a picture of growth, with estimates reaching $12.24 by the end of 2024, $21.02 by 2025, and soaring to $54.71 by 2030. Despite fluctuations, the consensus indicates a positive outlook for mCoin’s value over time.

Investors considering mCoin should weigh these predictions against their investment goals and risk tolerance to make well-informed decisions in this evolving digital asset landscape.

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Strategic Investment Insights for Mcoin

In the dynamic realm of digital asset investments, the strategic analysis of mCoin’s price predictions serves as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, particularly when considering long-term growth potential.

Assessing mCoin’s market cap of $107,963,421 and 24-hour trading volume of $2,856,936 provides insights into its current standing in the digital asset landscape.

Understanding these forecasts can aid investors in formulating strategic investment plans aligned with their financial objectives and risk tolerance levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mCoin’s rapid ascent in the digital asset industry can be attributed to its innovative use of Blockchain technology, market trends favoring digital assets, and strategic growth factors.

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By analyzing price predictions and understanding the potential for long-term growth, investors can make informed decisions about mCoin as a strategic investment opportunity.

As mCoin continues to evolve and adapt within the digital asset landscape, its trajectory and value fluctuations will be closely monitored by industry observers.

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Apple finally admits next-gen CarPlay isn’t coming in 2024

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Apple finally admits next-gen CarPlay isn’t coming in 2024

Apple first announced the “next generation of CarPlay” back in 2022, but updates about its arrival have been sporadic. Porsche and Aston Martin haven’t provided any launch dates despite saying their cars would be the first to get the new CarPlay. Some automakers like Ford and Mercedes were slow to confirm support, while others like General Motors and Rivian have snubbed CarPlay entirely in favor of having more control over their vehicles.

Despite not posting a revised date, there are indications that Apple will launch it eventually. There are references to next-generation ‌CarPlay‌ in the iOS 18.3 beta released last month, for example, and Apple has recently filed new images of it in an EU database. Apple also told 9to5Mac that it’s working closely with several automakers that will implement the new CarPlay experience.

“Each car brand will share more details as they near the announcements of their models that will support the next generation of CarPlay,” Apple told the outlet.

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Where to Buy Spot Bitcoin ETFs in 2025

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Legal challenges against DOGE and Elon Musk regarding FACA violations

What Are Spot Bitcoin ETFs?

Spot Bitcoin ETFs invest directly in Bitcoin as the underlying asset. Unlike Bitcoin futures ETFs, which rely on price derivatives, spot ETFs hold actual Bitcoin in custody. This makes them a straightforward way to gain exposure to Bitcoin’s price movements.

Where to Buy Spot Bitcoin ETFs

Spot Bitcoin ETFs are accessible on various online brokerage platforms, robo-advisors, and even retirement accounts like IRAs and solo 401(k)s. Here’s a comparison of popular platforms:

Platform

Account Minimum

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Available Assets

Fidelity

$0

Coins, ETFs

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Robinhood

$0

Coins, ETFs

Charles Schwab

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$0

ETFs

E*TRADE

$0

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ETFs

Interactive Brokers

$0

Coins, ETFs

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eToro

$50 ($200 for CopyTrader)

Coins, ETFs

tastytrade

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$0

Coins, ETFs

Lightspeed

$10,000 (web/mobile)

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Coins, ETFs

Steps to Start Investing

Investing in spot Bitcoin ETFs involves a few simple steps:

  1. Open a Brokerage Account
    Choose a platform that offers spot Bitcoin ETFs and sign up. Most accounts can be created online in under 30 minutes.
  2. Fund Your Account
    Transfer money from your bank or another brokerage account. Ensure you have enough to cover ETF costs and any fees.
  3. Research ETFs
    Review available ETFs. Look for those with high trading volumes, lower management fees, and reputable issuers.
  4. Select Your ETF
    Compare fees and align your choice with your investment goals. Most platforms offer a few options.
  5. Place an Order
    Use a market order for immediate purchase or a limit order to buy at a specific price.
  6. Monitor Investments
    Regularly check your ETF’s performance and stay updated on Bitcoin-related news.

Benefits of Spot Bitcoin ETFs

Spot Bitcoin ETFs offer several advantages:

  • Ease of Use: Trade these ETFs on traditional platforms like NYSE and Nasdaq. No need for crypto wallets.
  • Liquidity: Spot Bitcoin ETFs bring more liquidity to the market, making trading smoother.
  • Regulated Environment: Unlike direct crypto investments, these ETFs are subject to stricter regulatory oversight.
  • Tax Efficiency: ETFs might offer better tax treatment compared to directly holding Bitcoin.

Risks of Spot Bitcoin ETFs

Investing in spot Bitcoin ETFs carries certain risks, including:

  • Volatility: The cryptocurrency market is highly volatile, and ETFs reflect these price swings.
  • Regulatory Changes: Governments may alter regulations, affecting ETF availability or profitability.
  • Counterparty Risk: The Bitcoin held by ETFs is managed by third parties, posing security concerns.

Fees to Consider

Management fees can significantly impact returns. While some ETFs, like the VanEck Bitcoin ETF, temporarily waive fees, others charge as high as 1.50%. Aim for ETFs with fees ranging from 0.20% to 0.50%.

Alternatives to Spot Bitcoin ETFs

If you’re unsure about investing in these ETFs, consider these alternatives:

  1. Buy Bitcoin Directly: Own Bitcoin through exchanges or wallets for more control, though it requires technical knowledge.
  2. Invest in Crypto Company Stocks: Companies like Coinbase or MicroStrategy offer indirect exposure to Bitcoin.
  3. Legacy ETFs: Established ETFs like Grayscale Bitcoin Trust provide a longer track record of performance.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros

Cons

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Easy to trade on traditional platforms

High market volatility

Regulated and safer than crypto exchanges

Regulatory uncertainty

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Can be included in retirement accounts

Counterparty risks (e.g., hacking)

Tax benefits over direct Bitcoin ownership

Limited direct control over Bitcoin

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Should You Invest?

Spot Bitcoin ETFs simplify Bitcoin investing. If you want exposure to cryptocurrency without the hassle of direct ownership, they’re worth considering. However, assess your risk tolerance and stay informed about market and regulatory changes.

By exploring platforms, monitoring fees, and understanding risks, you can make informed decisions in this growing market.

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UK businesses cut jobs at ‘fastest pace since 2009’ bar the pandemic

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UK businesses are cutting jobs at the fastest pace since the financial crisis, excluding the pandemic, as rising costs reignited stagflation fears in the British economy at the start of the year, according to a closely watched survey.

The S&P Global flash purchasing managers’ survey on Friday indicated that the rate of job losses in January and December was the highest since the global financial crisis in 2009, outside of the onset of Covid-19 in 2020.

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The survey also indicated that cost burdens on business rose at the fastest pace in more than a year and a half. Many businesses passed on higher costs to consumers resulting in the fastest increase in average price charged since July 2023.

Chris Williamson, economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence, said the survey’s results “add to the gloom about the UK economy, with companies cutting employment amid falling sales and concerns about business prospects”.

He warned that inflationary pressures had “reignited, pointing to a stagflationary environment which poses a growing policy quandary for the Bank of England”.

Lower employment was attributed to hiring freezes and the non-replacement of voluntary leavers in the wake of rising payroll costs, according to the survey.

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Many businesses suggested the Labour government’s decision to raise employers’ national insurance, which takes effect in April, had resulted in cutbacks to recruitment plans, while others cited the impact of a post-Budget slump in business confidence.

Line chart of Purchasing managers’ index; above 50 = most businesses reporting expansion showing Growth in UK business activity ticks up in January

The headline S&P Global flash UK PMI composite output index, which tracks overall activity in the private sector, rose to a three-month high of 50.9 points in January from 50.4 in December.

Economists polled by Reuters had expected the index to fall slightly to 50 points. Any reading above the 50 mark suggests that most businesses are reporting growth in activity.

Elias Hilmer, economist at Capital Economics, said that Friday’s PMIs figures “won’t alleviate the Bank of England’s concerns about the weakness of activity, but the further strengthening in price pressures suggest it will cut rates only gradually thereafter.”

Aligned with markets, he expects the Bank of England to cut rates by a quarter point to 4.5 per cent in February. 

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The UK economy registered no growth in the three months to September, marking a sharp slowdown from the 0.4 per cent in the previous quarter. The BoE expects no growth also in the final quarter of 2024. 

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Android 16’s first beta version brings iOS-style live notifications

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Android Pride MWC 2024 Google

After releasing two developer beta versions last year, Google introduced the first public beta for Android 16 on Thursday. New features include live updates on the lock screen (like Live Activities on iOS), Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec for high-quality video recording, and a framework for developers to make their apps adaptable for different screen sizes and aspect ratios.

For consumers, support for live updates will be the most visible change. Apple introduced Live Activities to show ever-changing updates such as delivery status, workouts, or sports scores with iOS 16 in 2022. Android is now adopting that format to let developers push real-time updates natively with Android 16.

Google is also adding frameworks and tools to make apps more responsive when it comes to design. The company is phasing out size restriction controls for developers, so their apps can look and work better on large screens such as tablets and foldable devices.

Android 16 also gets a new Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec for high-quality video recording and post-processing. The company said that this codec will help creators with faster editing capabilities and features like multi-view video and auxiliary video. This is possibly a direct answer to Apple’s ProRes and ProRes Raw formats.

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With APV, the company says that users can expect a “perceptually” lossless quality, which is closer to raw footage. Plus, the codec will support a high bitrate range of footage for up to a few gigabits per second for 2K, 4K, and 8K.

Google is also adding a way for apps to know if the camera within their app should switch to night mode for better-quality low-light pictures. The company worked with Instagram to bring this feature to users of select devices last year.

Android 16 will also bring improvements on the accessibility front, with a new required field indicator in the APIs. Thanks to this new feature, apps can tell the user that a specific field is mandatory. Google said this could also be useful for situations where users need to check the terms and conditions box.

Image Credits:Google (screenshot)

Google took a different approach with Android 16 by releasing the first developer preview in November instead of Q1 2025. The company wanted to accelerate the update cycle of the Android release by shipping the final version in Q2 rather than Q3 and shipping a minor update later in the year. This is Google’s effort to ensure that device makers have enough time to issue updates and reduce the fragmentation of software versions across different devices.

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Analysts says Bitcoin’s support level is at $97K; ATH soon?

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Analysts says Bitcoin's support level is at $97K; ATH soon?

Ali, a crypto analyst, points to Bitcoin’s potential support level at $97,530 as key in sustaining the current bullish momentum. The main support level to be monitored for Bitcoin is $97,530. Staying over this level is critical to keeping the current bullish momentum afloat, believes Ali.

Bitcoin (BTC) has been trading in a tight range since hitting a new all-time high (ATH) of $109K on Jan. 20, 2025, and is now quoted at $105,128.95 as of Jan. 24. This reflects a 3.5% decline from the previous high, as per CoinMarketCap

Understanding Bitcoin’s support level 

In crypto trading, support levels are an important price point, where buying demand usually increases. Should BTC remain above this significant threshold, it may continue its trajectory upward, with investors feeling confident in this bullish decision. This level is a key litmus test of BTC’s market strength during volatility.

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As posted by analyst Ali, the UTXO Realized Price Distribution (URPD) informs traders of where Bitcoin holders purchased their BTC or last moved their BTC. It indicates the number of BTC that have last moved to wallets priced at various price levels.

A bar chart showing the UTXO Realized Price Distribution (URPD) for Bitcoin, partitioned by all-time highs (ATH). The orange bars represent the volume of Bitcoin realized at specific price ranges, with peaks highlighting significant accumulation zones.
Bitcoin UTXO Realized Price Distribution (URPD) chart, partitioned by ATH levels. This visualization highlights areas of strong on-chain activity, reflecting key accumulation and distribution zones. Data source: @ali_charts

At $97,530, the URPD chart shows a cluster of activity, which means many investors bought or are sitting on a holding of BTC around this level. Strong buying interest at this level reinforces its role as a psychological and technical support.

Bitcoin mimicking past ATH trend

The behavior around $97,530 mimics that seen in previous ATH consolidation phases for BTC. As with prior cycles, the price is stabilizing near a supportive zone with the potential for an upside. This level showed strong buyer confidence, though there are some light pullbacks. 

A candlestick chart showing the price movement of Bitcoin (BTC/USD) on a daily timeframe. The chart highlights key levels, including fair value gaps (FVG) marked in green and a resistance zone around $110,000 highlighted in yellow. The current price is $105,433 as of January 24, 2025.
Bitcoin price analysis on the daily chart. The price is approaching a resistance zone near $110,000, with several fair value gaps (FVG) identified as potential support levels. Current price: $105K. Sourced from TradingView by crypto.news

Analyzing sell-side risk of Bitcoin

The Sell-Side Risk Ratio, which measures the pressure from investors who are liquidating holdings, has declined as the amount of BTC sent to exchanges for sale has fallen. Such diminishing sell-side pressure is bolstering the current price stability of BTC. Glassnode also highlights shrinking volatility metrics, with BTC trading in an exceptionally narrow 60-day price range, which is often a precursor to significant market events.

A historical chart illustrating Bitcoin's sell-side risk ratio, overlaid with BTC price data from 2010 to 2025. The sell-side risk ratio (orange line) fluctuates significantly, indicating periods of high and low selling pressure. Key thresholds for low and high value realization are marked by red and blue lines, respectively. The BTC price (gray line) is displayed on a logarithmic scale, correlating with shifts in the sell-side risk ratio.
Bitcoin sell-side risk ratio chart, showcasing market behavior over time. The orange line highlights shifts in selling pressure, while the gray line traces BTC’s price trajectory. Red and blue thresholds indicate critical levels of market realization. Data source: Glassnode by crypto.news

Will Bitcoin sustain the bull run?

To reiterate crypto analyst Ali, the ongoing bull run will largely depend on whether BTC can maintain its key support level at $97,530. On-chain fundamental data confirms diminished sell-side pressure and consistent accumulation by long-term holders as indicators that the market is in a solid position to sustain upward movement.

If this level is maintained as support, then BTC could see a retest and a new market peak towards its former all-time high, boosting the ongoing bullish run. However, failing to hold $97,530 could introduce risks to the bull run. 

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Disclosure: This article does not represent investment advice. The content and materials featured on this page are for educational purposes only.

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Artyfact Set for Epic Games Store Debut with Innovative GameFi Features

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Artyfact Set for Epic Games Store Debut with Innovative GameFi Features

[PRESS RELEASE – Majuro, Marshall Islands, January 23rd, 2025]

Artyfact, a video game inspired by a cyberpunk aesthetic, is scheduled for release on the Epic Games Store on January 24, 2025. Developed using Unreal Engine 5, the game combines traditional gaming elements with GameFi functionalities, offering high-quality visuals and diverse gameplay modes such as battle royales, races, and adventure scenarios. Players can explore a dynamic digital environment designed to enable exploration, competition, and creative engagement.

Integrating NFTs and AI to Enhance Gameplay

Artyfact introduces NFTs as a supplementary feature to enhance personalization and strategy. Players can acquire NFTs such as character skins, weapons, and virtual real estate, which allow for tailored in-game experiences. Notably, 50% of the revenue from NFT sales is allocated to a player-driven prize pool, rewarding participants for their achievements.

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Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in the game’s development, focusing on improving gameplay quality. AI technology powers adaptive NPC behavior, generates diverse content, enhances security with cheat detection, and customizes experiences based on player interactions. These AI-driven enhancements are designed to provide an engaging, continually evolving experience for players.

$ARTY Token: Supporting the In-Game Economy

The $ARTY token underpins Artyfact’s economic framework, functioning as a utility token within the game’s ecosystem. With a reported market capitalization of $18 million and a fully diluted valuation of $21 million, $ARTY facilitates transactions for in-game assets, serves as a reward for player achievements, and supports governance decisions via the Artyfact DAO. Additionally, staking and token-burning mechanisms contribute to the ecosystem’s sustainability.

Fostering a Player-Centric Community

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Artyfact emphasizes community engagement through platforms such as X, Discord, and Telegram, where players can contribute feedback and ideas. This collaborative approach to development aims to ensure the game remains relevant and aligned with the interests of its user base.

The game’s roadmap includes regular content updates, community-driven events, and further integration of its economic model. The goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem where digital ownership, player influence, and immersive gameplay converge.

About Artyfact

Artyfact is a blockchain-powered video game that merges traditional gameplay with innovative GameFi features. Built using Unreal Engine 5, Artyfact provides players with a cyberpunk-inspired world to explore, compete, and create. The game integrates NFTs and AI technologies to enhance player experiences while fostering a community-driven ecosystem. With a focus on sustainability and player engagement, Artyfact aims to redefine the intersection of gaming and digital ownership.

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Learn More About Artyfact

To explore the features of Artyfact and its approach to gaming innovation, users can visit the official website or follow its social channels:

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