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Google may be compelled to divest its Chrome internet browser after a federal judge ruled that the company holds an “illegal monopoly” over online search.

The US Department of Justice (DoJ) is reportedly planning to ask Judge Amit P. Mehta to order Alphabet’s Google to sell Chrome, according to Bloomberg.

Should the judge accept this recommendation, it would mark one of the most significant antitrust actions against a major technology firm by the US government. In August, Judge Mehta found that Google, which controls about 90% of global internet searches, had abused its dominant position to stifle competition. A trial to discuss potential remedies is scheduled for April.

Chrome is integral to Google’s ecosystem, influencing how users access the internet and view advertisements. The browser defaults to Google Search and collects user data, enabling the company to offer highly targeted advertising—a substantial revenue source. News of a possible forced sale caused Alphabet’s shares to dip by $1.46, or 0.8%, to $175.34 in after-hours trading in New York.

Antitrust officials are also expected to recommend that Google provide websites with more options to prevent their content from being used by the company’s artificial intelligence products. Currently, Google features AI-generated answers, labelled “AI Overviews,” at the top of its search results. The DoJ may also require Google to license its search results and data.

A spokesperson for the DoJ declined to comment. Lee-Anne Mulholland, vice-president of Google Regulatory Affairs, criticised the DoJ’s approach, stating that it is pursuing a “radical agenda that goes far beyond the legal issues in this case” and would harm consumers.

Google intends to appeal once Judge Mehta delivers a final ruling, expected by August 2025. Other potential remedies include ending exclusive agreements where Google pays billions annually to companies like Apple to remain the default search engine on devices. The judge might also consider requiring Google to divest other parts of its business, such as its Android operating system.

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Google faces pressure to sell Chrome browser amid antitrust scrutiny

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Thousands of farmers have staged a rally against the government’s proposed inheritance tax reforms, branding them a “betrayal” that threatens the future of family-owned farms.

Tom Bradshaw, president of the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), received a standing ovation at Church House as he condemned the policy as “the straw which broke the camel’s back”.

“To launch a policy this destructive without talking to anyone in farming beggars belief,” Bradshaw told the 600 NFU members in attendance. Highlighting the severe inflationary pressures and challenging weather conditions over the past 18 months, he added: “You in this room have nothing left to give. It’s wrong on every level and, just as bad, it won’t achieve what the Treasury wants to achieve.”

The government aims to raise £520 million a year by 2029 through the inheritance tax changes, targeting wealthy individuals who invest in large estates to reduce their tax bills. However, Bradshaw warned that the reforms would incentivise people to withdraw money from pensions to invest in agricultural land worth £1 million, potentially undermining the policy’s intent.

Emotionally moved during his speech, Bradshaw spoke of the “unacceptable human impact” on elderly farmers who risk losing their life’s work due to the budget. “We know that any tax revenue raised will be taken from our children and raised from those that die in tragic circumstances or within the next seven years,” he said.

Farmers argue that the seven-year gifting rule—which exempts gifts from inheritance tax if the giver lives for seven years after the transfer—would not effectively apply to them. This is because many farmers need to draw a pension from the farm after passing it to the next generation, which counts as a reserved benefit. Additionally, if they continue living on the farm post-transfer, they would need to pay rent to avoid inheritance tax charges.

A standoff is unfolding in Westminster, with farming leaders insisting that the Treasury is “working from the wrong figures”. The government maintains that 73% of farms will not be affected by the changes, urging farmers to “look at the facts” in historical claims data. The NFU disputes this, stating that Treasury officials based their figures solely on Agricultural Property Relief (APR) claims, neglecting the Business Property Relief (BPR) claims that are crucial for machinery and livestock.

“Most inheritance cases combine Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief,” the NFU informed its members. “HMT has completely misunderstood its own data and ignored claims made by farmers under the BPR regime.”

At the rally, each of the 600 seats bore a message for the government: “Government needs to halt this policy. The policy is broken and based on the wrong evidence.” The atmosphere was charged with palpable anger, culminating in a pointed reminder: “When you make a promise to farmers, you keep it.”

The farming community feels particularly aggrieved as, while in opposition, Labour had assured them there were no plans to alter inheritance tax. Sir Keir Starmer, speaking at the NFU conference in 2023, promised to provide “certainty” to farmers.

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Farmers accuse government of ‘betrayal’ over inheritance tax changes

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Santorini, with its iconic white-washed buildings, breathtaking sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, is a dream destination for many travelers.

However, if you’re looking to explore other enchanting locales that offer similar beauty and charm, you’re in luck! Here’s a list of the top seven stunning destinations like Santorini that you should consider for your next getaway.

1. Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is often considered Santorini’s vibrant sibling. Known for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and charming old town, Mykonos offers a unique blend of relaxation and excitement. You can stroll through the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, visit the famous windmills, or enjoy a sunset at Little Venice, where the buildings are perched right on the water’s edge.

2. Positano, Italy

Nestled along the Amalfi Coast, Positano is a picturesque village with steep cliffs adorned with colorful houses. The stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the charming pebble beaches make Positano a romantic destination. Explore the quaint shops, enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, and take in the breathtaking vistas that are reminiscent of Santorini’s allure.

3. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” boasts stunning architecture and a rich history. The ancient city walls offer panoramic views of the shimmering sea and terracotta rooftops. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, relax on the city’s beautiful beaches, and take a cable car ride to Mount Srđ for an unforgettable view, making it one of the best places like Santorini.

4. Amalfi, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is dotted with charming towns, and Amalfi is one of its highlights. With its dramatic cliffs, beautiful architecture, and stunning coastal views, Amalfi provides a serene escape. Visit the Amalfi Cathedral, wander through the quaint streets, and savor local limoncello while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

5. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is known for its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-friendly resorts. The picturesque coastline and vibrant culture make it a fantastic alternative to Santorini. Spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring the nearby cenotes, and visiting the Tulum Ruins, which overlook the Caribbean Sea.

6. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a collection of five charming villages perched on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera. Each village has its own unique character, with colorful houses, winding paths, and stunning coastal views. Hike between the villages, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax with a glass of local wine while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

7. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is often dubbed the “Island of the Gods” and is known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. From the terraced rice fields of Ubud to the stunning beaches of Seminyak and Uluwatu, Bali offers a diverse range of experiences. Explore ancient temples, indulge in luxurious spas, and enjoy the stunning sunsets that draw parallels to Santorini’s famed evening views.

Conclusion

While Santorini remains a top destination for many, these stunning alternatives provide travelers with unique experiences and breathtaking beauty. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, or rich cultural experiences, these places like Santorini are sure to leave you in awe. Plan your next adventure to one of these enchanting locations and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Top 7 Stunning Destinations Like Santorini You Should Visit

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When dreaming of log cabins, you’ll probably visualize a wonderful small cottage in the middle of the woods, within which you can relax while warming up with cocoa and connecting with the natural world around you.

But hold off till you have the opportunity to meet them. It’s Eurodita, the specialists in converting wood across dreams. For over thirty years, Eurodita has been an unnoticed architect of luxurious havens, creating mobile log cabins, glulam log homes, and numerous additional products for international business-to-business customers.

Masters of Wood

Eurodita is a Lithuanian organisation that manufactures luxurious log cabins. It is not merely a company. Eurodita collaborates with business enterprises worldwide to offer customised approaches that make customers ask, “Why didn’t we meet you sooner?” Being an ordinary cabin maker has never been a passion of Eurodita’s.

Eurodita specialises in customised log cabin designs for its business-to-business clients, creating products that meet their particular needs. The company’s portfolio, consisting of both easily portable log cabins and elaborate glulam log homes, is evidence that the designers take their work seriously.

Glulam Log Houses:

Let’s get started immediately analysing **glulam log houses**. You might ask, “What is glulam? Is it yoga of a particular kind? Not exactly.” Glulam, commonly referred to as bonded laminated logs, is an outstanding performance material that blends the versatility of contemporary technology with the durability of genuine wood. The glulam log structures from Eurodita are aesthetically beautiful and durable.

These structures provide comfort and durability, which makes them perfect for areas of extreme weather. Glulam log homes from Eurodita provide proof that environmentally conscious living does not need to seem like it’s from the dawn of time, whether you’re developing a place to stay in your garden or taking a break in the Alps.

If you want to see their work and craftsmanship, just look at Glulam log houses.

Mobile Log Cabins:

Eurodita has also perfected the ability to Create mobile homes. They are unlikely to grow wheels to drive off on their own, folks. Built-in structures called mobile log cabins have been designed so that they can effortlessly be moved to be set up. For individuals who wish to benefit from all the advantages of a traditional log cabin without being limited to a single location, these structures seem ideal.

Mobile log cabins are a flexible housing alternative that can also be used as a small house, disconnected from the grid retreat, or as vacation accommodation. Eurodita manages the creation, production, and delivery with the same skill as a wizard plucking an animal away from a hat, simplifying the entire procedure of serving its business-to-business clients.

Check out their collection of mobile log cabins and prepare to be amazed.

Why Eurodita Is the Best Wingman in the Log Cabin Business

It’s straightforward that one should collaborate with Eurodita; that’s not only a business-related choice. The organisation provides:

Customization: Each log cabin is constructed according to request to meet the distinctive demands of the consumers it serves.
Quality: Their products are produced according to the most stringent standards, ensuring sturdiness and happiness.
Global Reach: They possess relationships worldwide, from Europe to Australia.
Simplicity: They make buying and getting log cabins as simple as getting a completely new, shining wood floor.

Eurodita proudly differentiates itself as a company that takes modification seriously within a marketplace full of generic products. They build relationships in addition to constructing log houses.

The Bottom Line:

Eurodita is more excellent than a brand name; it’s an assurance of outstanding performance, imaginative thinking, and dedication. Eurodita is the companion you had yet to realise you needed, irrespective of your choice for mobile log cabins or glulam log homes. Consequently, when you think of log cabins, think about a Eurodita cabin instead of a regular one. It’s where the material fantasies come true and where creativity and expertise collide.

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They Discovered Eurodita, the Essential Ingredient to Crafting Greatness

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Traveling can be a delightful experience, but long layovers and crowded terminals can often dampen the joy. For frequent flyers or those who seek a more comfortable airport experience, accessing lounges like the Delta Sky Club can significantly enhance your journey.

If you’re traveling on partner airlines, you might be wondering how to gain Delta Sky Club access. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the requirements and make the most of your travel experience.

Understanding Delta Sky Club Access

Delta Sky Club offers a peaceful environment, complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi, and various amenities to make your wait more enjoyable. However, access to these lounges is typically restricted to certain travelers, especially those flying with Delta Air Lines. Fortunately, if you’re traveling on one of Delta’s partner airlines, there may be options available for you to enjoy the benefits of the Sky Club.

Eligibility for Delta Sky Club Access

SkyTeam Alliance Members: Delta is a founding member of the SkyTeam alliance, which includes airlines like Air France, KLM, and Korean Air. If you hold a business or first-class ticket on a SkyTeam partner airline, you can gain access to the Delta Sky Club. Make sure to check the specific guidelines of the airline you are flying with, as they may have particular rules regarding lounge access.
Frequent Flyer Status: If you have elite status with Delta or a SkyTeam partner airline, you may be eligible for complimentary Delta Sky Club access. For instance, Delta SkyMiles Medallion members can enter the lounge when flying on a Delta or partner airline flight. Check your status and the corresponding privileges to see if you qualify.
Lounge Membership: If you are a member of the Delta Sky Club, you can access the lounge regardless of which airline you are flying, as long as it is a same-day ticket. This applies to both domestic and international flights. If you frequently travel and enjoy the perks of the lounge, consider investing in a membership.
Day Passes: If you find yourself wanting to access the Delta Sky Club but do not meet the above criteria, you may purchase a day pass. This can be a great option if you have a long layover or need a quiet space to work. However, availability may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the Delta website or app for current policies.

Tips for Accessing the Delta Sky Club

Check Your Ticket: Before your trip, review your ticket details. If you are flying with a partner airline, confirm whether your fare class qualifies for lounge access.
Bring Your Membership Card: If you are a member of the Delta Sky Club, don’t forget to bring your membership card or digital proof of your membership to ensure a smooth entry.
Travel with a Companion: Some Delta Sky Club memberships allow you to bring guests. If you’re traveling with someone, check whether your membership includes guest access.
Arrive Early: Lounges may have a limit on capacity, so arriving early can help secure your access, especially during peak travel times.

Conclusion

Accessing the Delta Sky Club when traveling on partner airlines can be a seamless part of your travel experience if you understand the eligibility requirements. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, enjoying the comforts of the Sky Club can make a significant difference in your overall journey. Make sure to plan ahead, check your eligibility, and take advantage of the amenities that Delta Sky Club has to offer. Safe travels!

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How to Access Delta Sky Club When Traveling on Partner Airlines

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Energy trading has formed a huge industry across the globe.

ProfitRaw can vouch for its worldwide reach. With a market value of more than $7 trillion, the industry continues to grow. As a trader, if you are planning to invest in any of the energy assets, let us assure you that you are on the right path.

How to Be an Energy Trader with ProfitRaw

Assess Various Energies:

You must monitor different energy markets and evaluate their price fluctuations before deciding where to invest. Keep your focus on more preferred energy assets like oil and gas.

Choose an Energy Market:

After in-depth research, you can finalize where you will invest your capital. Be it gas or oil, you should keep a constant watch over the price movements.

Create a Trading Strategy:

You have to create a smart trading plan to succeed. Speculate on the energy asset and futures values, so you learn if you should go short or long-term through CFDs.

What Impacts the Energy Values?

Demand & Supply:

We have witnessed time and again how supply and demand have played crucial roles for energy trading. It is normal for energy values to go higher when demand is high and supply is lower, and vice versa. For example, the prices fell drastically during the pandemic when demand was low. However, a terrible winter season can boost energy demands effectively!

Geopolitical Scenario:

Any geopolitical conflict can affect energy prices drastically. Tension between two or more nations has the capability to impact the availability of energy assets, which can directly impact its market values. We witnessed the proof when the conflict between Ukraine and Russia delayed gas supply overnight. It increased the demand as well as prices of other energies.

Macroeconomics:

Consumer utilization, industrial expenditure, and economic growth impact energy consumption significantly. It even shows how well an economy is doing! Therefore, interest rates in energy consumption by an economy can heavily influence energy values. Whereas a lower interest rate may lead to rapid growth and more demand for energy assets, a higher interest rate can cause the opposite.

Benefits of Trading Energies

Potential Profits:

Energy trading is a risky endeavour, but we can also agree to the fact that it is highly profitable in the long run. If you craft a smart trading strategy, it becomes easier to generate rewards. Investing in commodity derivatives like CFDs using energy assets is a smart move when it comes to receiving high trade value.

Hedging Against Geopolitics:

Geopolitical conflicts in the present times are continuously creating disturbances for the global economy. It clearly suggests that if things continue like this, the energy values will only increase. Therefore, investing in various energy assets will limit potential losses over other asset trades for you.

Positive Future for Clean Energy:

Reportedly, the renewable energy sector will only witness growth in the coming future. According to reports, it will grow by 9% in 2025 and continue the development to reach over 40% by 2030. This ensures investments of trillions of dollars in the market, which will benefit the traders in the long run.

Conclusion

The volatility of the energy market may scare you as a trader, but it comes with amazing opportunities. Thus, if you are considering investing in energy assets or learning more about the market, you can approach ProfitRaw today. This leading trading platform will give you all the knowledge you need to become a successful trader.

Read more:
ProfitRaw Review:  Is Energy Trading Risky? [profitraw.com]

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In today’s world of travel rewards, credit cards have become one of the most effective ways to earn points and miles for your adventures.

However, simply accumulating these rewards is not enough. To truly benefit from your efforts, you must understand how to redeem them for maximum value. Here are some tips and strategies to help you get the most out of your credit card travel rewards.

Understand Your Rewards Program

The first step in maximizing your rewards is to fully understand your credit card’s rewards program. Each program has its unique rules, earning structures, and redemption options. Take the time to read through the terms and conditions, as well as any bonus offers that may apply. Knowing the ins and outs of your program will allow you to make informed decisions about how to earn and redeem your points.

Know the Value of Your Points

Not all points and miles are created equal. The value of your credit card rewards can fluctuate based on how you choose to redeem them. For instance, redeeming points for cash back may yield a lower value compared to using them for travel bookings. Generally, travel redemptions, especially for flights and hotel stays, can provide significantly higher value per point. Research the average redemption values for your specific rewards program to guide your spending and redemption strategies.

Shop for the Best Redemption Options

When it comes time to redeem your rewards, don’t settle for the first option you see. Take the time to shop around for the best deals. Many credit card companies offer a variety of redemption options, including travel portals, statement credits, and direct bookings with airlines and hotels. Compare these options to see which gives you the best value. Additionally, consider using transfer partners, such as Bilt transfer partners, which can sometimes provide access to better flights, hotel stays, or experiences at a lower point cost.

Utilize Transfer Partners

Many credit cards allow you to transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs. This can often unlock significantly more value than redeeming directly through the credit card issuer. For example, transferring points to frequent flyer programs can lead to premium cabin flights that would otherwise cost a fortune. Research the transfer ratios and the best partners for your travel goals, and don’t hesitate to take advantage of promotional transfer bonuses when available.

Be Flexible with Travel Dates

Flexibility is key when it comes to redeeming travel rewards. If you can adjust your travel dates, you may find better availability and lower point requirements. Use fare alerts and reward calendars to track the best times to travel. Off-peak seasons often yield better deals, so plan your trips around these times to maximize your rewards.

Keep an Eye Out for Promotions

Credit card companies frequently run promotions that can enhance your earning and redemption potential. This could include bonus point offers for specific spending categories or discounted redemption rates for particular destinations. Stay informed by subscribing to your credit card issuer’s newsletters or following them on social media to catch these valuable opportunities.

Combine Points with Other Members

If you have family or friends who also earn rewards, consider pooling your points together. Many loyalty programs allow members to combine points for a single redemption. This can be particularly useful for booking larger travel expenses, such as a family vacation or a group getaway, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the benefits of their earned rewards.

Conclusion

Maximizing the value of your credit card travel rewards requires strategy, research, and flexibility. By understanding your rewards program, knowing the value of your points, exploring transfer partners like Bilt transfer partners, and being open to different travel options, you can stretch your rewards further. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to planning your next dream getaway while getting the most out of your hard-earned points. Happy travels!

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How to Redeem Your Credit Card Travel Rewards for Maximum Value

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Craps remains one of the most popular games in casinos due to the energy with which it is played, and it conveys an energizing touch, which is allied with risk.

If you have ever asked yourself how to play craps online like a pro, then you are in for a surprise. Let me introduce you to this article where we demystify this interesting game to the readers. In this article, you will learn three modern approaches to take your game to the next level. Proceed to learn how to ramp up the fun and skill of craps through knowledge and strategies that will make you a master at the game.

1. Steps to Get Started

If you are interested in playing craps, it is important to start with the backgrounds to have a good start. Start with understanding the pass line and don’t pass line bets – these are the bets familiar to every player. In the come-out roll, the shooter can get a win by rolling 7 or 11 for pass line bet, and 2, 3, or 12 means “craps” for pass line bettors. If it is rolled a different number appears, the one rolled becomes the ‘point’, and to win the game one must roll the point before a 7 is rolled. Taking the opposite side of the table with a don’t pass line bet is an opposite view as during the game the bettor wins if a 7 is rolled after the point has been established. It’s never a boring game because the roles of numbers are shifting throughout the game.

It is recommended to get acquainted with come and don’t come bets that should be placed after the come-out roll has been made. These bets can be placed during mid- round and you will win if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 and you will lose if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12. Start with single odds bets for instance the line and come bets as they have good odd potential and low risk compared to other bets. Once you become more self-assured, it will be good to incorporate odds bets to increase the possibilities of winning big, but evading proposition bets until learning more becomes advisable. Watching it should be sufficient to adjust to speed and learn the progress before putting a bet into the game. When you become the shooter, remember to adhere to proper etiquette: To place a pass or come bet to assume this role, take your dice from the ones available and hope to create a fair roll by striking the back rail. This way understanding some fundamental principles and limitations in the game you will effectively prepare for the craps.

2. Game Manners

Knowledge of game manners at the craps table is crucial to make the game run effectively without any vicissitude among the gamblers. It is a skillfully run game with many casino employees who have their chores in the game. The boxperson is easily distinguishable from other employees because, in compliance with industry standards, they wear a tuxedo; Its responsibilities include supervising the table’s activities and protecting the playing chips. Standing opposite them is the stick person who has mastery of the flow of the game and he helps players make their bets using a long stick to move the dice. Employees who often are posted at the two extremes of the table are responsible for managing the money and paying out the winnings on the stock. Understanding the pass line, the strip located at the outer border of the table, and the “don’t pass” bar is crucial when practicing the initial placing of bets. Players should buy chips by placing their money on the table but not pass it over to dealers, and should wait to join a game by saying something like ‘dealers, deal me in when the disk is flipped to ‘off’.

In a social environment where the craps table is situated, knowledge of manners within the game is necessary for proper playing. From this, the atmosphere of players hoping for a successful line bet or point roll is created, celebrations enforcing the player’s excitement. This loyalty is inherent in craps, but it is right to be polite, especially for those who are wagering against the shooter with a don’t pass or don’t come bet. Staying out of these places is wise to avoid disturbing the overall group fun. Some considerations in the course of betting include: One must handle his/her betting properly by placing the chips on the pass line or directly on the felt or placing the chips into the center of the table and telling the dealer. For purposes of order, cup the hands above the table after placing bets, so as not to move the chips. Make sure that what’s left of your chips is on the rail and try not to knock others’ stack over due to their positioning. However, if some help is required to keep the process going in an orderly and entertaining fashion for all, dealers are prepared to assist.

3. Wagering Triumph

Chances of wagering triumph in craps involve groundwork on probability activities and smart betting plans in the game. Knowing the house edge is crucial; pass and come bets give a tiny house edge of about 1.41%, whereas don’t pass and don’t come bets are even better, having a 1.36% house edge. The likelihood of certain numbers is also important in planning, as 7 comes out most often with 6 and 8 fairly close behind. Another option is the use of field numbers to provide a bigger reward in the case of rolls 2 and 12. Understanding the language used when playing craps facilitates your betting as you learn how to move around the table. Staying away from proposition bets which are highly skewed in the favour of the house is very important if you want to stand a chance of enduring and winning. If one wishes to gain more information, there is always the option of turning to online pointers on probabilities or strategy, and so that your try at craps becomes both fun and entertaining.

Another important step is to study different types of bets and their odds. Inside bets include bets where chips are placed on the four, five, 6, 8, 9, or 10 and enable the player to bet that a certain number will be rolled before a 7 does. Lay bets on the other hand act counter to it by betting on the fact that a seven will roll first. The odds for these bets vary, with favorable options like 5:6 for 6 or 8, meaning that they are easily orchestrated to be a part of a plan and a scheme. Odds bets are of course another layer of opportunity that offer true odds with no house edge and therefore have the potential for significant cash wins. What helps is if players can combine the odds bets with pass-line bets, particularly when it is possible to multiply the odds several times at the casino. However, care should be taken on the high-risk proposition bets, which though can be exciting upon placing, the house has a strong edge. These wagers are decisive, and dealers add to them accordingly, as well as making it clear where a wager ends. Utilizing favorable odds and a careful approach to hazardous bets, players can positively enrich their gameplay and the possibility to win in craps.

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Master the Table: 3 Innovative Ways to Play Craps Like a Pro

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Killing Kittens, the UK-based sex party organiser partly backed by the government, is raising funds to fuel its global expansion and develop new ventures, including a permanent venue, cruise ship events, and a gay male-focused enterprise.

KK Group, operating under the Killing Kittens brand, is aiming to meet the growing demand for “meaningful in-person connections” as society shifts back towards social gatherings. The company plans to “scale globally and unify a premium adult market that currently lacks a true leader”.

Having previously hosted events in New York, Killing Kittens will relaunch its services in the city next year, with additional plans to introduce events in Los Angeles, Lisbon, Venice, and Paris.

Co-founder Emma Sayle is seeking to raise new capital from retail investors through a crowdfunding campaign on Seedrs, targeting a valuation of £10.5 million. The funds will support the next phase of the company’s growth strategy.

The presentation also revealed that KK Group, the Business Champion Awards growth business of the year, is in discussions for additional debt financing and has explored strategic expansion opportunities with mergers and acquisitions financiers.

The company identifies the “sex-positive space” as highly fragmented, with numerous smaller platforms like Feeld, Pure, and HUD competing for market share. Sayle confirmed the fundraising plans, expressing a desire to create “a big, open-minded ecosystem for your whole adult life”.

Killing Kittens has already launched a dating app called Wax, reportedly used by “hundreds of thousands” of people as a social media platform. KK Group estimates the niche “sexscape” segment of the dating market to be worth around $345 million.

With over 250,000 members and more than 12,000 annual event attendees, the company currently generates almost 90% of its revenue from the UK. This domestic focus has spurred new ambitions for global expansion.

Founded in 2005, Killing Kittens is venturing into cruise ship events, with its inaugural voyage planned for 2026. The cruise has already generated £350,000 in room revenues within the first eight weeks of sales.

The group is also seeking its first dedicated venue in London to host events, aiming to reduce costs and create new revenue streams. Additionally, it has recently launched KK Homme, a venture catering to gay and bisexual men.

The investor presentation highlighted that KK Group is “a prime acquisition target for larger companies looking to diversify their portfolios”. The company is also considering a public listing on a smaller exchange like AIM to provide future exit opportunities for investors.

In 2022, it was revealed that Killing Kittens became part-owned by the UK government through the Future Fund—a scheme designed to support fast-growing, tech-focused British start-ups during the pandemic. The Future Fund still holds approximately a 1.5% stake in the company.

The Future Fund has had mixed outcomes, with 286 of the 1,192 backed businesses declared insolvent as of 30 September 2024, resulting in a £241 million loss for the government. However, it has also generated £76 million from 74 corporate exits.

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Killing Kittens seeks £10.5m valuation for global expansion of sex party events

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Employers are preparing to relocate tens of thousands of British jobs overseas in response to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s recent Budget, leading recruitment experts have warned.

James Reed, chief executive of recruitment giant Reed, revealed that companies are exploring shifting roles to lower-cost countries like India to offset the increased expenses resulting from the “triple whammy” of higher employer National Insurance contributions, a rise in the National Living Wage, and the introduction of stronger union and workers’ rights. Government analysis suggests these new workers’ rights could cost businesses nearly £5 billion annually.

Neil Carberry, chief executive of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, echoed these concerns, stating that he has been in discussions with business leaders contemplating offshoring jobs following the Budget announcements. “I have talked to many larger firms where the question has been about offshoring,” he said.

These developments have intensified worries about the Budget’s potential impact on the UK economy. Despite the Chancellor’s emphasis on growth, business leaders and economists caution that the measures could hinder investment, job creation, and wage growth while exacerbating inflation.

Deutsche Bank issued a note to City clients warning that the Budget could result in the loss of 100,000 jobs, both through redundancies and uncreated positions that might have otherwise materialised.

Mr Reed noted that offshoring is becoming a more attractive option for companies facing rising costs. “It’s something that people have on their list of possible things to do, and that has just moved up the agenda because the cost of hiring has gone up,” he explained. He added that while companies may not publicly announce such moves, they “will just quietly happen by stealth.”

He cited an example of a white-collar recruiter planning to move 27 UK jobs to India due to the increased National Insurance burden. “It will certainly be thousands [of jobs]. I think it could be tens of thousands because there are a lot of business services that have that as an option,” Mr Reed estimated.

Sectors most likely to be affected include professional services such as accounting, finance, recruitment, and human resources. “With everything connected digitally now, for services businesses, you can move jobs almost as fast as you can move money,” he said.

The National Insurance increase, set to take effect from April, will raise the rate from 13.8% to 15% and lower the salary threshold at which employers start paying the tax. This change coincides with a higher-than-expected 6.7% rise in the National Living Wage and additional costs from Labour’s Employment Rights Bill.

Industries such as logistics, hospitality, retail, and small manufacturing are expected to be hardest hit by these tax changes. Mr Carberry commented: “In these sectors, automation, offshoring where possible, lower pay rises for those not on the national minimum wage, and higher prices will be used [to offset the impact].”

The offshoring trend raises concerns about rising youth unemployment, which has increased from 12.1% last year to 14.8% among 16 to 24-year-olds. Mr Reed expressed worry about diminishing opportunities for young people entering the workforce.

Despite facing increased costs estimated at millions of pounds for his own company, Mr Reed stated his commitment to keeping jobs in the UK. “We’re very committed to the UK; we’re a UK family business. I don’t want to offshore jobs; I want the jobs to be here,” he affirmed.

A government spokesperson defended the Budget measures, stating: “With our public services crumbling and an inherited £22 billion fiscal black hole from the previous government, we had to make difficult choices to fix the foundations of the country and restore desperately needed economic stability to allow businesses to thrive. By doing this, more than half of employers will either see a cut or no change in their National Insurance bills. There will be £22.6 billion more for the NHS, and workers’ payslips will be protected from higher tax. This government is committed to delivering economic growth by boosting investment and rebuilding Britain.”

Read more:
Reeves’s National Insurance hike prompts firms to consider moving jobs abroad

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