COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Amazon Web Services will invest another $10 billion to bolster its data center infrastructure in Ohio. The company and Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced the plan Monday. The new investment will boost the amount it has committed to spending in Ohio by the end of 2029 to more than $23 billion. AWS launched its first data centers in the state in 2016 and currently operates campuses in two counties in central Ohio, home to the capital city of Columbus. The new investment will allow AWS to expand its data centers to new sites, but the company said those locations have not been determined yet and noted that its investment plans are contingent upon the execution of long-term energy service agreements. AWS said the new data centers will contain computer servers, storage drives, networking equipment and other forms of technology infrastructure used to power cloud computing, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. In June 2023, AWS said it would by the end of 2029 to expand its data center operations in central Ohio. That was on top of $6 billion already invested through 2022. The Associated PressNone
Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Two fourth-quarter touchdowns powered top-seeded Archbishop Shaw to 28-25 victory over E.D. White in the Division II select title game that opened Friday’s action at the LHSAA Prep Classic. Michigan signee Jasper Parker ran for 174 yards on 19 carries and scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 62-yard run with 8:59 left in the game played at the Caesars Superdome. Shaw (12-2) won its first LHSAA title since 1987. Quarterback Mason Wilson added 88 yards on 16 carries and also completed 10 of 19 passes for 111 yards for the Eagles of coach Hank Tierney, who also coached to its 1987 title. E.D. White (11-3) was led by quarterback Grant Barbera, who accounted for 177 total yards. Barbera completed 12 of 17 passes for 133 yards and also ran for 40 yards on 16 carries with one touchdown. Benjamin Guidry led EDW with 52 rushing yards on four carries. It was the first Prep Classic appearance for Thibodaux-based E.D. White since 1981, the inaugural year of the Prep Classic. The Cardinals were the runner-up to John Curtis that year were the Division II select runners-up to University High in 2021 final played at UL’s Cajun Field.Teenage West Ham goalkeeper dies aged 15 after cancer battle
The end of the year is almost in sight for traders, yet the last mile will be anything but slow. Central banks in the United States, Japan and Britain meet, while Germany holds a vote of no confidence in the government. Here’s all you need to know about the coming week in world markets from Lewis Krauskopf in New York, Kevin Buckland in Tokyo and Naomi Rovnick, Amanda Cooper and Dhara Ranasinghe in London. The U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to continue monetary easing with a 25 basis point (bps) rate cut on Wednesday, in what would be its third straight reduction, with the latest consumer price index rising in line with economists’ estimates. Investors have curtailed expectations for how much the Fed will cut next year. Traders expect rates to fall to about 3.7% by end-2025 from the current 4.5%-4.75% range, roughly 90 basis points higher than what was priced in September. That puts the focus on the Fed’s own rate projections and on any insight from Chair Jerome Powell about his expectations for future easing. Powell has said the economy is stronger now than the Fed had anticipated in September, and appeared to signal his support for a slower pace of rate cuts ahead. The pendulum of BOJ policy expectations has swung widely in the last two weeks, tying traders in knots. But as the Dec. 19 decision looms, the signal is becoming clearer – even if the outcome is still uncertain. Reuters reported on Thursday that policymakers are leaning towards a pause, waiting for further data on wages and clarity on Donald Trump’s policies before raising rates for a third time. A day earlier, Bloomberg reported that BOJ officials see “little cost” from delaying additional tightening. No doubt the BOJ decision is live, meaning market volatility could be high. One mooted risk is that the Fed surprises by not cutting rates on Dec. 18, triggering a jump in dollar/yen. But analysts note it would be very rare for the Fed to go against the grain when market conviction for a cut is so strong. Germany’s DAX index is this year’s best-performing European index, up 22%, hitting record high after record high. Defence, tech and construction stocks have more than made up for the performance of its out of favour auto sector. Corporate Germany appears to be weathering sluggish growth and political drama. A no-confidence vote in the government on Dec 16 should pave the way for a February snap election. But the devil is in the details. Goldman Sachs says just 18% of DAX sales come from Germany versus the 33% for companies on the mid-cap MDAX .MDAXI, which is down 1.1% this year. German corporate earnings shrank 5.4% on an annual basis in the third quarter, versus 8.2% growth for STOXX earnings .STOXX, based on LSEG data. German equities may start aligning a little more closely with the underlying economic and political reality. When it comes to rate cuts, the Bank of England has been driving in the slow lane. Traders expect the BoE to hold rates at 4.75% on Thursday, just 50 bps below a previous 16-year peak, and to resist a third 25 bp cut until February. Employer tax hikes in the Labour government’s October budget motivated big businesses to warn of price rises, fuelling inflation concerns and helping propel sterling to 2-1/2 year highs against the euro GBPEUR= as the ECB eases policy more rapidly than the BoE. But bond markets are querying this divergence, with two-year gilt yields GB10YT=RR, which move on rate forecasts, dropping to about 4.38% from more than 4.5% a month ago. UK employment growth is slowing as tax rises deter hiring plans and consumer confidence is weak. Sterling bulls should watch out for the BoE shifting gears. Once-robust services sectors across big economies are faltering, bringing a divergence with sluggish manufacturing activity to an end. That was the takeaway from November PMIs. December numbers, out across the globe next week, should show if the slowdown is getting deeper. The November euro zone composite PMI, seen as a good gauge of overall economic health, sank to 48.3 from October’s 50.0. Britain’s all-sector PMI fell to its lowest in a year at 50.9 – just above the marker that separates contraction from expansion. Even U.S. services sector activity slowed. U.S. tariff worries, and French and German political ructions have the potential to hurt business activity. For some observers, the PMI data paints too pessimistic a picture of underlying activity, with falling interest rates helping to bolster sentiment. Source: Reuters (Graphics by Prinz Magtulis, Pasit Kongkunakornkul, Vineet Sachdev ; Compiled by Dhara Ranasinghe, KIrsten Donovan)AP Business SummaryBrief at 4:06 p.m. ESTNorth Korea calls for 'toughest' US strategy at party meeting
NEW YORK (AP) — No ex-president had a more prolific and diverse publishing career than Jimmy Carter . His more than two dozen books included nonfiction, poetry, fiction, religious meditations and a children’s story. His memoir “An Hour Before Daylight” was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2002, while his 2006 best-seller “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” stirred a fierce debate by likening Israel’s policies in the West Bank to the brutal South African system of racial segregation. And just before his 100th birthday, the Dayton Literary Peace Prize Foundation honored him with a lifetime achievement award for how he wielded “the power of the written word to foster peace, social justice, and global understanding.” In one recent work, “A Full Life,” Carter observed that he “enjoyed writing” and that his books “provided a much-needed source of income.” But some projects were easier than others. “Everything to Gain,” a 1987 collaboration with his wife, Rosalynn, turned into the “worst threat we ever experienced in our marriage,” an intractable standoff for the facilitator of the Camp David accords and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. According to Carter, Rosalynn was a meticulous author who considered “the resulting sentences as though they have come down from Mount Sinai, carved into stone.” Their memories differed on various events and they fell into “constant arguments.” They were ready to abandon the book and return the advance, until their editor persuaded them to simply divide any disputed passages between them. “In the book, each of these paragraphs is identified by a ‘J’ or an ‘R,’ and our marriage survived,” he wrote. Here is a partial list of books by Carter: “Keeping Faith: Memoirs of a President” “The Blood of Abraham: Insights into the Middle East” (With Rosalynn Carter) “Everything to Gain: Making the Most of the Rest of Your Life” “An Outdoor Journal: Adventures and Reflections” “Turning Point: A Candidate, a State, and a Nation Come of Age” “Always a Reckoning, and Other Poems” (With daughter Amy Carter) “The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer” “Living Faith” “The Virtues of Aging” “An Hour Before Daylight: Memories of a Rural Boyhood” “Christmas in Plains: Memories” “The Hornet’s Nest: A Novel of the Revolutionary War” “Our Endangered Values: America’s Moral Crisis” “Faith & Freedom: The Christian Challenge for the World” “Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid” “A Remarkable Mother” “Beyond the White House” “We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land: A Plan That Will Work” “White House Diary” “NIV Lessons from Life Bible: Personal Reflections with Jimmy Carter” “A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power” “A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety”Calling all Lord of the Rings fans, I've found the best Cyber Monday book deal that'll save you 55% off your next trip to Middle-earth
( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Athletic Footwear Global market Report 2024 - Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2024-2033 The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-for a limited time only! LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, December 18, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-limited time only! The athletic footwear market has exhibited robust growth in recent years . It has grown from $81.43 billion in 2023 to an expected $85.8 billion in 2024, marking a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 5.4%. What prompted this significant growth? The growth in the historic period can be attributed to an increase in global sporting events, accelerating urbanization, active lifestyles, brand loyalty, and vibrant sneaker culture. Additionally, heightened health and fitness awareness and the casualization of workwear also played significant roles in driving this growth. Explore the Athletic Footwear Global Market Report 2024 for a comprehensive overview of the market sphere: Looking forward, the athletic footwear market size is poised for strong growth in the next few years, with projections indicating that it will grow to $107.27 billion in 2028. This expansion signifies a CAGR of 5.7%. What will fuel this anticipated growth? Notably, the upcoming growth in the forecast period can be attributed to factors such as sustainable and eco-friendly footwear initiatives, expansion in emerging markets, sports tourism and events, and a fusion of performance and lifestyle footwear. Increasing inclusivity and diversity in athletic footwear brands are other critical growth drivers to note. Furthermore, major trends expected in the forecast period encompass the integration of technology, customization and personalization, collaborations and limited edition releases, digital retail and direct-to-consumer DTC channels, retro and vintage styles, fitness apps, and the advent of wearables. The rising popularity of sports tournaments is also expected to fuel this accelerated growth of the athletic footwear market. Sports tournaments are competitions where numerous players compete against each other in a specific format to determine the overall winner. With an increasing number of individuals participating in local or regional tournaments, the demand for athletic footwear is expected to rise, further propelling the growth of the market. For instance, in May 2023, according to the England and Wales Cricket Board, the governing body of cricket, around 2.6 million individuals engaged in cricket during 2022, with approximately 1.4 million players being under the age of 16. This surge in cricket participation among the younger demographic was supported by the ECB's national initiatives All Stars Cricket and Dynamos Cricket. These initiatives attracted over 100,000 participants for the second consecutive year in 2022, contributing to cricket's increasing popularity among newcomers. Delve deeper into the data driving the growth of the athletic footwear market: Major companies operating in the athletic footwear market also significantly influence market trends and dynamics. These include Nike Inc., Adidas AG, Lining, VF Corporation, Puma SE, ANTA Sports Products Limited, Skechers USA Inc., Under Armour, New Balance Athletics Inc., Lotto Sport, Li-Ning Company Limited, ASICS Corporation, ASICSTIGER, Deckers Brands, Columbia Sportswear Company, Fila, Fila Korea Ltd., Mizuno Corporation, On AG, Brooks Running Company, ECCO Sko A/S, Lanvin, K-Swiss Inc., Diadora Sport S.p.A., UMBRO, Umbro, Keen Inc., Saucony, Warrior, Salomon, Tecnica Group S.p.A., La Sportiva, Vivobarefoot, Helly Hansen, Topo Athletic, and Hummel International Sport & Leisure A/S. Moreover, the use of recycled material in shoe manufacturing is a key trend gaining popularity in the athletic footwear market. Companies operating in this sphere are focusing on utilizing recycled materials in shoes to reduce their carbon footprint and meet specific sustainable goals. The athletic footwear market, as covered in this report, is segmented by product type, end-user, and distribution channel: 1 By Product Type include Running Shoes, Sports Shoes, Trekking/Hiking Shoes, and other types. 2 By End User, the segmentation includes Men, Women, and Kids. 3 By Distribution Channel include Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Specialty Stores, Brand Outlets, and Online Channels. On the geographical front, North America was the largest region in the athletic footwear market in 2023. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in this report include Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, the Middle East, and Africa. Browse Through More Similar Reports By The Business Research Company: Medical Footwear Global Market Report 2024 Vegan Footwear Global Market Report 2024 Diabetic Footwear Global Market Report 2024 About The Business Research Company Learn More About The Business Research Company. With over 15000+ reports from 27 industries covering 60+ geographies, The Business Research Company has built a reputation for offering comprehensive, data-rich research and insights. Armed with 1,500,000 datasets, the optimistic contribution of in-depth secondary research, and unique insights from industry leaders, you can get the information you need to stay ahead in the game. Contact us at: The Business Research Company: ]( Americas +1 3156230293 Asia +44 2071930708 Europe +44 2071930708 Email us at ... Follow us on: LinkedIn: ]( YouTube: ]( Global Market Model: global-market-model](global-market-model Oliver Guirdham The Business Research Company +44 20 7193 0708 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN17122024003118003196ID1109005257 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.Futehodo , an abbreviation of the title of the popular drama "Futekisetsu nimo hodo ga aru!" was selected as Japan's top buzzword for 2024, the award's organizer said Monday. The drama, known as "Extremely Inappropriate!" in English and available on Netflix, depicts a physical education teacher who time travels between Japan's Showa Era (1926-1989) and the present Reiwa Era, which began in 2019, and finds his ideas in conflict with modern-day norms. Also among the top 10 buzzwords were "50-50," referring to Shohei Ohtani's achievement of becoming the first player with 50 home runs and 50 steals in a single Major League Baseball season, as well as several terms related to the Paris Olympics. The list also included uragane mondai , in reference to the slush funds scandal that roiled the ruling Liberal Democratic Party; kaiwai , often used by Gen Z on social media for communities tied to a particular fandom; and "Bling-Bang-Bang-Born," a song by Creepy Nuts and the theme song for the anime "Mashle." The chorus phrase became a hot topic in dance videos.
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Canadian Cabinet ministers meet with Trump's nominee for commerce secretary in bid to avoid tariffsSurgical Navigation System Market to Hit USD1.700 Million by 2030 with 6.2% CAGRThe last two weeks of 2024 are chock full of entertaining opportunities. From Christmas and Hanukkah to Kwanza and New Year's, chances are you're going to see more people in your home in the next few days than any other time this year. I hosted Christmas dinner and with it came the reminder that I am not a clean and tidy entertainer. Eggnog was spilled, my path through the house was easily trackable as I carried a ham-laden platter, mud was tracked in from seemingly everywhere. Thankfully I had a secret weapon in my cleaning arsenal that made all of these things nothing more than a few seconds of inconvenience. The Dyson WashG1 is a powered mop that completely eliminates the need to vacuum before you clean up your floor. What Is It? Surprisingly simple in operation, the WashG1 is an upright powered mop that uses a pair of counter-rotating mop rollers that clean themselves as they remove spills and hard debris from your floor in one pass. Surprisingly, for a company that prides itself on vacuum suction, the WashG1 relies on agitation from the rollers rather than suction to clean your floors. The 64,000 filament microfiber mops are scraped clean as they run, sluicing off debris and dirty water, ensuring the mop touching the floor is perpetually clean. The company tested a large number of real spills (far beyond the industry standard of dried mustard, tartar sauce, and coffee) on a black floor using UV light to ensure the WashG1 was legitimately passing every test. The best part of using the Wash GI is that you don't have to clean your floor before you clean your floor. Hard debris (like the nut shells left all over your kitchen floor by that one uncle that insists nutcrackers are functional, not decorative) is captured in a pull-out tray in-between the two rollers. At the end of a cleaning session, all you have to do is slide it out and dump the gunk that's been captured by the filter. Meanwhile, dirty water is separated out. Just unclip the central water module, unscrew the dirty water reservoir, and dump it out. The WashG1 uses a small motor to create negative pressure to siphon dirty water up from the tray. The smaller motor translates to a long run time on a single charge. The water tanks are prominent and easily visible when operating so you don't have to guess if you need more clean water or to empty the dirty water. How Well Does It Work? The WashG1 feels awkward in hand at first, but once you start the mop rollers, it easily glides across the floor, mopping up the water that it puts down. The amount of water is controllable via a handy button and the full-color LCD screen keeps you informed on what the machine is doing or needs. The head swivels easily into just about any spot. The handle swings horizontally with the brush head so it's a cinch to clean under furniture. I also really appreciate that you can lock the mop in an upright position. It makes it much easier when you have to stop mid-task to take care of something (as opposed to having to prop the handle and hope it doesn't fall). When you're done cleaning, there's no need to disassemble the mop rollers, Just run a self-cleaning cycle. I was concerned that there would be mildew growth (a problem I've encountered with powered mops, that don't have drying bases) but those fears were unfounded. Whenever I needed the WashG1, it was ready to grab and press into action. Not having to vacuum beforehand does mean that the debris tray will fill up. You'll want to make sure you clean it out every time. The mopping module pulls out easily as well for occasional cleaning. Dyson recommends you do this every third use. I find that I need to do it at least every other run because I have a lot of pet and person hair floating around my home. What's nice is that the WashG1's screen walks you through the manual cleaning process whenever you start a self-cleaning cycle. Is It Worth It? At $699 it's in line with comparable products from Tineco and Roborock. And while other companies have more gimmicks, like heated drying or heated/ozonated water, I appreciate the fact that Dyson's focused on making the WashG1 a deeply effective machine without adding on additional tech. If you have hard floors, the WashG1 is an unfussy, impressive performer that will keep your floors pristine no matter what you throw at them. Learn more on the Dyson website .
Amazon Web Services will invest another $10 billion to bolster its data center infrastructure in Ohio. The company and Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced the plan Monday. The new investment will boost the amount it has committed to spending in Ohio by the end of 2029 to more than $23 billion. AWS launched its first data centers in the state in 2016 and currently operates campuses in two counties in central Ohio, home to the capital city of Columbus . The new investment will allow AWS to expand its data centers to new sites, but the company said those locations have not been determined yet and noted that its investment plans are contingent upon the execution of long-term energy service agreements. AWS said the new data centers will contain computer servers, storage drives, networking equipment and other forms of technology infrastructure used to power cloud computing, including artificial intelligence and machine learning. In June 2023, AWS said it would invest $7.8 billion by the end of 2029 to expand its data center operations in central Ohio. That was on top of $6 billion already invested through 2022.
Share Tweet Share Share Email The advent of smart technology has revolutionized various aspects of daily life, making tasks simpler and more efficient. One such development is the integration of rent payment systems with home automation, a combination that offers unparalleled convenience for tenants and landlords alike. This fusion not only streamlines living expenses but also enhances the overall living experience. Here, we explore how rent payment integration with home automation is shaping the future of housing and why it matters . The Rise of Smart Homes Smart homes have become increasingly popular in recent years. From automated lighting systems to voice-controlled devices, the convenience offered by these technologies is undeniable. Home automation systems, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, have transformed traditional houses into interactive environments. These systems allow users to control various household functions with ease. But the scope of automation doesn’t stop at lights or security; it now extends to financial management, including rent payments. What Is Rent Payment Integration? Rent payment integration involves embedding financial transaction features into home automation platforms. This feature enables tenants to pay their rent directly through their smart home systems. By connecting bank accounts or payment methods to the home automation network, rent transactions become as simple as giving a voice command or tapping a screen. Landlords also benefit from this setup. Automated systems can generate payment reminders, confirm transactions, and even manage late fees. The result is a seamless and hassle-free process for both parties . Benefits of Rent Payment Integration with Home Automation Convenience and Simplicity One of the most significant advantages of this integration is its sheer convenience. Forgetting to pay rent can lead to stress and complications, but automated reminders and scheduled payments ensure tenants never miss a due date. Similarly, landlords can avoid the manual process of tracking payments. Enhanced Security Modern payment systems integrated into home automation platforms come with robust security features. Data encryption, biometric verification, and multi-factor authentication protect sensitive information and reduce the risk of fraud. Tenants and landlords can trust that their financial transactions are secure. Time Efficiency Paying rent through a home automation system saves time. Instead of logging into multiple platforms or visiting a payment center, tenants can complete transactions instantly. Landlords also benefit by receiving real-time updates on payments, allowing them to manage their finances more efficiently. Customization Options Home automation platforms often offer customization options to suit individual needs. For instance, tenants can set up recurring payments, while landlords can automate rent reminders and track payment histories. These features make financial management intuitive and tailored. Eco-Friendly Living By digitizing rent payments, paper waste from checks, receipts, and invoices is eliminated. This shift contributes to a greener, more sustainable lifestyle—a priority for environmentally conscious individuals. How It Works Rent payment integration with home automation operates through a series of interconnected technologies. Here’s how the process typically unfolds: Setting Up Payment Information: Tenants link their preferred payment methods—such as credit cards, bank accounts, or digital wallets—to the home automation system. This setup is secure and usually involves encrypted data. Automation Settings: Users configure automation preferences. For example, tenants can schedule monthly payments, and landlords can automate reminders or overdue notices. Real-Time Notifications: Both parties receive instant notifications regarding payment status. Tenants are alerted about upcoming due dates, while landlords are informed once payments are processed . Integration with Other Smart Features: The system may link with other home automation features. For instance, access to certain amenities or utilities could be synchronized with rent payment status, ensuring fair use of shared resources. Popular Platforms Supporting Integration Several platforms have started incorporating rent payment features into their home automation systems. Examples include: Yale and August Smart Locks: These smart locks integrate with payment systems to restrict or allow access based on rent payment status. Vivint Smart Home: Vivint offers a comprehensive platform that includes rent payment reminders and tenant-landlord communication tools. Custom APIs: Developers are creating custom APIs that landlords can integrate into existing automation systems, making rent payment even more seamless. Challenges and Solutions While the integration of rent payments with home automation is promising, it does come with challenges: Technical Complexity Some users may find it challenging to set up and use integrated systems. To address this, manufacturers are improving user interfaces and offering step-by-step guides. Cost Implementing advanced home automation systems can be expensive. However, as technology becomes more widespread, costs are expected to decrease, making it accessible to a broader audience. Privacy Concerns Tenants may worry about their financial data being compromised. Companies are investing in advanced encryption and privacy policies to ensure data protection. Compatibility Issues Not all home automation platforms support rent payment features. Open standards and partnerships between tech companies can improve compatibility. Future Prospects The future of rent payment integration with home automation looks bright. As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to evolve, these systems will become more intelligent and adaptive. Potential developments include: Predictive Analytics: Systems that analyze payment trends to offer financial insights or suggest budget-friendly solutions. Voice-Activated Payments: Enhanced voice recognition will make rent payments as simple as speaking a command. Blockchain Technology: Blockchain could revolutionize rent payments by offering secure, transparent, and tamper-proof transactions. Conclusion Rent payment integration with home automation represents a significant step toward seamless living expenses. By combining convenience, security, and efficiency, these systems enhance the quality of life for tenants and landlords. While challenges exist, advancements in technology are rapidly addressing them, paving the way for widespread adoption. As smart homes continue to evolve, the integration of financial management tools promises to redefine the way we live and manage our expenses. Embracing this innovation is not just about keeping up with trends; it’s about creating a smarter, more connected lifestyle. Related Items: Home automation , Rent Payment Integration , Seamless Living Expenses Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Home Automation: The Best Smart Upgrades for Modern Living Unveiling the Future: Smart Home Automation and the IoT Evolution Unlocking the Advantages of Home Automation CommentsSouthampton vs. Liverpool lineups, expected starting 11, confirmed team news and injuries: Van Dijk ready to take on former club | Sporting NewsEagles WR DeVonta Smith (hamstring) ruled out vs. Rams
When people think of Japan, the word “materialistic” rarely comes to mind. However, when tourists visit here for the first time, they often find the reality quite different from their expectations. Instead of the maiko, ninja and robots they anticipated, they are greeted by crowds of ordinary people decked out in expensive brand-name goods. Rather than streets lined with anime and video game shops, they see an endless array of European fashion house stores. If they dare to venture inside, the sticker shock often sends them right back onto the street. Some might even experience a Japanese version of Paris syndrome, a term coined to describe the mental break some Japanese tourists experienced in the 1970s when their romanticized vision of Paris clashed with reality. Most of us wouldn’t dream of browsing at haute couture shops like Hermès, Dior or Saint Laurent. Yet, luxury goods at surprisingly low prices are abundant throughout Japan. If you’re after a Louis Vuitton bag, a Supreme hoodie or Gucci sunglasses, you’re likely to find a deal. Luxury at a bargain sounds suspicious, but Japan’s stringent anti-counterfeit laws mean you can rest assured that the products are genuine. However, there’s a catch: they’re second-hand. Whether young or old, male or female, many Japanese people have a deep affection for luxury items. Japan is one of the largest markets for European and American luxury brands, a cultural phenomenon that dates back to post-war Japan. In the 1950s, Japan was recovering rapidly after the devastation of World War II. Standards of living were improving, and everyone coveted what were referred to as the “sanshu no jingi” or “three sacred treasures.” Originally describing imperial regalia, the phrase was repurposed to signify the era’s most desired items: a black-and-white TV, a refrigerator and a washing machine. As the economy surged, the 1960s brought a new trio of sacred treasures — the “three Cs”: a car, a color TV and an air conditioner. Many upgraded to color TVs during the excitement of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. By the 1980s, Japan’s booming economy saw it poised to overtake the U.S. as the world’s largest. Basic household items were no longer the pinnacle of desire; instead, luxury brands became the new status symbols for those with disposable income. By the 1990s and 2000s, luxury items were ubiquitous among Japanese people. It wasn’t just the wealthy buying designer goods; even average individuals carried at least one luxury accessory. Today, it’s not uncommon to see an elderly person of seemingly modest means pull out a Louis Vuitton wallet at a cashier. Even after the economic bubble burst in 1989, certain industries have continued to thrive. Toyota, headquartered in Nagoya, is a prime example, with its stock reaching an all-time high in 2024, marking a 500% increase over the last two decades. This success has brought prosperity not only to Toyota but also to the many companies connected to it. While often overshadowed by Tokyo and Osaka, Nagoya’s affluent residents have embraced luxury shopping in a significant way. An executive from a top European luxury brand’s Japan headquarters revealed to me that Nagoya — not Tokyo or Osaka — now boasts the highest volume of “private shopping .” What’s that you may ask? Well, mere peasant, it is when you are so rich that the store visits your home with a selection of goods for you to choose from. Once such rich people tire of their purchases, many will opt to sell and replace them with something from the newest line. Maintaining appearances is a critical part of Japanese culture, so if an item is outdated or slightly worn it often prompts people to upgrade. Thus, even the middle-class will often replace their luxury goods. In this way, many Japanese people, especially younger women, end up becoming working poor just to keep up with the trends. Either that or some may even resort to enjo kosai (compensated dating, i.e., having a sugar daddy) to support such a lifestyle. Japan’s obsession with luxury and desire to keep up with the Kobayashis has created a thriving second-hand market for luxury goods. Major chains like Second Street, Kaitori Oukoku, Book Off Super Bazaar and Surugaya offer a treasure trove of used items, particularly clothing. Jewelry-focused stores like Komehyo are also popular. Online marketplaces like Mercari and Yahoo! Auctions have great deals as well, but for clothing and accessories, trying them on in person is essential and thus physical stores are a must. Unlike Salvation Army thrift stores in the U.S., Japanese second-hand shops are renowned for their pristine inventory. Unlike Salvation Army thrift stores in the U.S., Japanese second-hand shops are renowned for their pristine inventory. This reflects a cultural tendency to meticulously maintain possessions, making it possible to find high-quality used goods at a fraction of their original price For sellers, the downside of this market is the low resale value. Japanese consumers often view second-hand items as inherently undesirable, regardless of their condition or original price. This dynamic, combined with the sheer volume of luxury goods circulating in Japan, creates a buyer’s paradise for those open to purchasing pre-owned items. As far as ubiquity in Japanese second-hand shops, for American brands it would be Ralph Lauren and Coach, for British brands it would be Burberry and Paul Smith, and for European brands it would be Louis Vuitton and Gucci. There is a very wide variety of other brands as well. You’ll also find affordable luxury options like Lacoste, Fred Perry, Guess and Tommy Hilfiger. Even though they are not as popular overseas, for some reason, Diesel and Stussy always have huge sections as well. Bags and accessories from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, Dior and Fendi are plentiful, alongside sportswear brands like Moncler and The North Face. Also, don’t forget that some Japanese fashion houses can rival European and American brands. Japan’s Comme des Garçons is hugely popular among young people in Japan. So, for sure you will be able to find one of their classic heart t-shirts at a discount. There’s also Junya Watanabe, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Sacai. Don’t think that because it’s “fashionable,” men are left out of the equation, either. Japan’s younger generation of men are as fashion-conscious as their female counterparts, and thus used shops usually have just as many goods for men as they do for women. There are tons of male Japanese “sneakerheads” that collect rare sneakers who have no problem spending over ¥150,000 on a pair of Balenciaga sneakers. Japan is also known for its “hypebeasts” (consumers who are obsessed with expensive, luxury goods that have artificial scarcity), who will wait in line all night and empty their bank accounts to get the latest Supreme wear. Hypebeasts are almost always male. What kind of prices can you expect? It really depends on the item and its condition, but you will often see items up to 90% off their retail price. Always wanted that cute Marimekko tote with the iconic red "unikko" flower pattern for stylish food shopping, and don’t mind a used one because it’ll just go into your rusty bicycle basket? You are bound to find one for pocket change. Or perhaps you fancy one of those Ralph Lauren fine knit U.S.A. flag sweaters, but would never part with ¥40,000 for a new one. However, certainly you’d grab one like I did if it was in perfect condition and only ¥3,000. While Japan’s reputation for high living costs is well earned, the abundance of affordable luxury goods offers a silver lining for those who covet luxury brands’ products but don’t mind second-hand items. The country’s deep cultural affinity for luxury, paired with a societal emphasis on keeping up appearances and disdain for anything used, has created a robust market for second-hand, high-end items. So, whether you’re a budget-conscious shopper, a collector or just looking to treat yourself, Japan’s second-hand luxury scene offers something for everyone. Dr. James Rogers is a tenured university professor who has published books and over 50 articles on linguistics and Japanese studies. He is the author of the book “ On Living and Working in Japan.”PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A pair of conservative groups on Friday challenged a Maine law that limits donations to political action committees that spend independently in candidate elections, arguing that money spent to support political expression is "a vital feature of our democracy.” Supporters of the referendum overwhelmingly approved on Election Day fully expected a legal showdown over caps on individual contributions to so-called super PACs. They hoped the referendum would trigger a case and ultimately prompt the U.S. Supreme Court to clarify the matter of donor limits after the court opened the floodgates to independent spending in its 2010 Citizens United decision. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
Bruno Fernandes has revealed that Rodri, Declan Rice and N'golo Kante have been his toughest ever opponents in the Premier League since he made the switch to England to join Manchester United from Portuguese side Sporting CP back in January 2020. The Portuguese midfielder has been integral to Man United's - albeit limited - success since his arrival at the club, almost single-handedly changing their fortunes. In six seasons at Old Trafford, Fernandes has registered 161 goal involvements in 259 appearances - a mightily impressive return for a midfielder - which has helped the club achieve some domestic cup success over the last few seasons. This includes winning the 2023 League Cup and 2024 FA Cup, the latter of which they did by getting one over on their neighbouring rivals, Manchester City . Since his move over to the English top flight, Fernandes has come up against some stiff opposition in the midfield, with world-class talent on display across multiple teams. However, when asked who his toughest ever opponents have been in the Premier League, he didn't hesitate in naming the three brilliant midfield players. Fernandes Named His Three Toughest Premier League Opponents In his six seasons as a member of Man United, Fernandes has come up against his fair share of elite-level competition in the midfield. But when asked who his toughest opposition has been during an appearance on Sky Sports' Saturday Social , names immediately sprung to the mind of the Red Devils skipper , who said: "In the Premier League, you play against top players. [N'Golo] Kante was difficult, Rodri is really difficult, Declan Rice is really difficult. Declan and Rodri are physically very similar, Kante more small, but quick and sharp. But, there are many players because we play in the best league in the world, so you get to play against the best players." Fernandes and the very likeable Kante who has one of the most tireless engines in all of football have faced each other eight times for both club, when the Frenchman was with Chelsea , and country, with the Portuguese midfielder being on the winning side on just one of those occasions, with the pair drawing five times. But, the Man United captain has been involved in more meetings with Rice and Rodri, amassing a combined 24 games against his two opponents. Rice is easily one of the best English midfielders in world football right now , and in his time spent with both West Ham United and Arsenal , where he has contributed to seven wins and a draw, and just three losses, all of which have come successively in the last three meetings. However, against Rodri and Man City, Fernandes has had to endure more losses than victories, with him having met the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner 13 times in his career, including twice on the international stage, and Fernandes being on the losing side on seven of those occasions. Nonetheless, it is Fernandes who has since had the last laugh - at least temporarily - with the last meeting between him and the Spaniard coming in the FA Cup Final at the end of last season, where Man United beat their rivals for the first time in their last five outings in all competitions, dating back to the 2022/23 season. All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt and FBRef - accurate as of 23/12/2024. The results of the inspection has seen United fall well below the maximum five star hygiene rating once again
