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The iGaming industry is growing with each day. Already, millions of people are joining internet casinos, and the market is producing billions. Which brings up an important question; how popular will online casinos grow in the future?

Online gambling is certainly on the rise, and many believe that it will only grow from here. Which means, a lot of new people want to play online casino games in NZ at Christchurch Casino. To that end, we would like to talk about some of the important terminology that you need to know, if you want to play.

Bankroll

The most important term for any gambler to know is bankroll. A bankroll is simply a sum of cash that a gambler has set aside for, well, gambling. It is very important to manage your bankroll properly, because if it runs out, you should step away until you can replenish it.

So, how do you manage a bankroll? Well, it is simple; you set aside cash that you know you can afford to lose. There is no golden sum that we can give, as all gamblers live within different means. The important part is that you don’t miss this money in the case of a loss.

Bonus & Promo

Bonuses and promotions are the big reason that online casinos have become such a huge success, at least in most people’s eyes. For those who may not be aware, a bonus is a special offer that you can find at most online casinos. They come in the form of welcome promos, or existing player bonuses.

Welcome Offers: as you might have guessed, a welcome offer is a bonus that you can acquire upon first joining a casino. Usually, this is a match deposit or a number of free spins. For the most part, bonuses are useful only if you are playing slot games. However, often times, casinos will offer special bonuses for table games and live gambling.
Existing Player Bonus: again, it is pretty easy to tell what this one means based on the name. An existing player bonus is a promo offered to existing players. Often, they could be called loyalty bonuses as well.

Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion is an initiative made by many online casinos in an attempt to promote responsible and safe gambling. In order to avoid problem gambling, a lot of online casinos have started self-exclusion programs. But, what does this mean?

It is quite simple; if you sign up for a self-exclusion program, casinos suspend your account, and bar you from joining for a selected number of days, weeks, or even months. Even if you try to create a new account, the website has suspended your IP, so it is impossible to do it.

Banking

Finally, we have to talk about banking. In online gambling, banking is simply the term for wagering money, and taking it out. You can, therefore, imagine, that there are two sides of banking: deposits and withdrawals.

A deposit is the act of placing money into an online casino. Nowadays, it is possible to wager using credit cards, direct transfers, and even crypto. So, any method you choose is fine. Withdrawals on the other hand are basically the payout demands.

Read more:
Online Casinos: Terms You Need to Know

Automation has transformed how clinical laboratories operate, introducing advanced tools and systems that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, integrating automation in labs is not just a luxury but a necessity. As we look toward the future, clinical labs must continue embracing these advancements to stay ahead of challenges and demands.

What is Lab Automation?

Lab automation refers to the use of technology and systems like clinical lab software to manage laboratory tasks with minimal human intervention. This can range from automating repetitive tasks, such as front desk paperwork, billing, and centrifuging, to more complex processes like sample analysis and reporting.

In addition to using technology, technological integrations also play a vital role in laboratory automation. By integration of cloud based LIMS system benefits, labs can ensure smooth, efficient workflows and high-precision results.

Key Components of Lab Automation

Lab automation is built around several core components that work together to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and overall performance of clinical laboratories. These components ensure that day-to-day operations are seamless, allowing labs to deliver high-quality results while minimizing manual effort and human error. Let’s dive deeper into the most impactful components of lab automation:

1. Clinical Workflow Automation

Clinical workflow automation refers to the use of automated systems and tools to streamline the entire workflow process in the lab, from sample receipt to result delivery. By automating routine and repetitive tasks, such as data entry, sample preparation, and test processing, clinical workflow automation dramatically reduces the likelihood of human error. Automation increases lab productivity and frees up valuable time for lab personnel to focus on more complex tasks.

Task automation: Tasks like pipetting, labeling, and data entries can be automated, ensuring precision and speeding up turnaround times.
Error reduction: Automating data transfers between instruments and systems eliminates transcription errors, ensuring the accuracy of results.
Enhanced communication: Clinical lab automation using technological systems can trigger notifications and alerts, ensuring that lab staff and other stakeholders are promptly informed of key updates or issues in the workflow.

By incorporating clinical workflow automation, labs can handle a higher volume of samples without compromising on quality, which directly contributes to better service delivery and overall efficiency.

2. Clinical Sample Management

Clinical sample management is a crucial part of lab operations, as it involves tracking, storing, and handling samples at every stage of testing. Proper sample management is essential to ensure timely and accurate results, particularly in high-throughput labs that handle large volumes of samples daily.

Automated sample tracking: Automation tools monitor the movement of each sample in real-time, from collection to disposal, providing a clear audit trail and reducing the risk of misplaced or mishandled samples.
Labeling and identification: Automated systems ensure that each sample is correctly labeled with a unique identifier (e.g., barcode), reducing the chance of mix-ups or misidentification.
Optimized storage and retrieval: Automated sample storage systems can efficiently store samples under the right conditions and retrieve them when needed, ensuring sample integrity and minimizing delays.

With robust clinical sample management solutions in place, labs can improve their accuracy, reduce turnaround times, and offer more reliable results, all while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.

3. Clinical Lab Management System

Clinical lab management software provides a centralized platform to oversee and manage the series of processes involved in laboratory operations. This includes everything from care and maintenance of laboratory equipment and inventory management to scheduling, reporting, and quality control. By bringing all these functions under a single system, labs can better coordinate their activities and maintain high operational standards.

Inventory control: A lab management system tracks inventory levels, automatically reorders supplies when stock is low, and monitors usage patterns to optimize resource consumption.
User management: The system can track staff schedules, assign tasks, and monitor performance, ensuring that the right personnel are available when needed to handle workloads.
Instrument calibration and maintenance: Lab management software can automate the scheduling of instrument calibrations and preventive maintenance, ensuring that all equipment is functioning at peak performance.
Comprehensive data management: By consolidating data from various instruments and tests, the system allows for easy access to historical data, faster reporting, and better compliance with regulatory requirements.

The clinical lab management system plays a pivotal role in centralizing control over lab operations, making it easier for lab managers to monitor activities, optimize performance, and make informed decisions that improve lab productivity and cost efficiency.

These key components of lab automation are the foundation for achieving high-quality outcomes in clinical labs. By integrating automation into workflow processes, sample management, and lab management, labs can streamline their operations, reduce manual errors, and meet the increasing demands of modern healthcare environments.

Why is Lab Automation Essential for Labs Today & the Future?

In today’s clinical landscape, labs face increasing pressure to deliver high-quality results faster, more cost-effectively, and with fewer errors. Automation addresses these demands by enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy, all while reducing the burden on human staff.

1. Meeting the Growing Demand for Precision

With the rising complexity of diagnostic tests, particularly in areas like toxicology in public health and molecular diagnostics, automation ensures that labs can maintain accuracy even with increased sample volumes. Clinical workflow automation enables labs to handle more samples without sacrificing quality.

2. Future-Proofing Laboratories

Automation not only helps in meeting current demands but also prepares labs for future challenges. As labs grow, implementing clinical lab automation solutions will be vital to scale operations, handle larger workloads, and adapt to technological advancements.

Highly Essential Lab Automation Features

Lab automation systems offer a range of features that are becoming indispensable. Here’s a closer look at the most essential features:

1. Integrated Sample Management

Effective clinical sample management is crucial for accurate diagnostics. Automated systems track samples from collection to disposal, minimizing the risk of errors and improving turnaround times.

2. Centralized Data Management with LIMS

Firstly, What does LIMS mean? A clinical laboratory information management system (LIMS) is the backbone of modern labs. It manages all lab data, from test results to patient information, in a centralized system. This not only improves data security but also enhances workflow efficiency by eliminating redundant manual data entry.

3. Robotic Process Automation

Automation through robotics can streamline repetitive tasks like pipetting and sample sorting. This feature reduces human error and speeds up the overall testing process, contributing to higher throughput.

4. Automated Calibration and Maintenance Scheduling

Automation extends to equipment care as well. Automated scheduling for calibration and preventive maintenance ensures that instruments are always performing at peak efficiency, reducing downtime and repair costs.

5. Real-Time Monitoring and Reporting

With clinical lab software, write a laboratory report and monitor real-time data allowing labs to track their operational metrics instantly. This feature ensures that any issues are identified and addressed promptly, keeping operations smooth.

6. AI-Driven Diagnostics

AI is becoming an integral part of clinical lab automation, assisting with data analysis and diagnostic decision-making. This feature supports complex data interpretation, offering insights that would take much longer for a human to derive.

Advantages of Lab Automation Features

Lab automation is transforming clinical operations by bringing about improvements that impact both day-to-day efficiency and long-term business success. By integrating automated systems into various processes, clinical labs can achieve a higher level of precision, productivity, and compliance. Here’s a detailed look at some of the key advantages of lab automation:

1. Increased Accuracy and Reduced Human Error

One of the most significant benefits of automation in clinical labs is the reduction of human error. Tasks like data entry, sample handling, and result processing, which are prone to manual mistakes, can be automated to ensure greater precision.

Error minimization: Automation systems handle repetitive tasks consistently and with precision, reducing the potential for human oversight.
Improved accuracy: Automated data transfers and processing minimize the chances of errors creeping in due to manual input, leading to more reliable and accurate test results.
Consistency in results: Automation ensures that tasks are performed uniformly, which is crucial for maintaining consistency in sample analysis and reporting. Online radiology reporting templates improve overall operational efficiency considering radiology labs.

By reducing errors, labs not only ensure better patient outcomes but also enhance their credibility and reliability in the healthcare ecosystem.

2. Enhanced Productivity and Turnaround Time

Clinical workflow automation accelerates lab processes by taking over routine tasks such as pipetting, sorting, and sample tracking. This allows lab staff to focus on more complex and value-added activities, leading to improved productivity.

Faster test processing: Automation speeds up the handling of samples, allowing labs to process more tests within a given timeframe without compromising quality.
Reduced delays: Automated systems can work continuously without fatigue, ensuring that workflows progress smoothly and consistently, reducing bottlenecks and delays.
Staff efficiency: By automating mundane tasks, lab personnel are freed up to focus on complex analysis and critical decision-making, maximizing the use of their expertise.

This boost in productivity directly translates to faster turnaround times, ensuring that healthcare providers receive results quickly, leading to more timely care and patient safety solutions.

3. Cost Efficiency and Resource Optimization

Lab automation is vital in optimizing resource usage, which can lead to substantial cost savings. Labs can better manage their workforce and materials by automating processes, ensuring that resources are used effectively.

Labor cost reduction: Automation reduces the need for manual labor, which can lower staffing costs. It also allows for reallocating staff to higher-value tasks, optimizing their contributions.
Minimized resource wastage: Automated systems can precisely measure and use reagents and consumables, reducing waste and lowering operational costs.
Improved equipment utilization: With automated maintenance scheduling and usage tracking, lab equipment remains in optimal working condition, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of costly instruments.

By improving resource allocation and reducing operational inefficiencies, labs can improve their bottom line while maintaining high standards of service.

4. Improved Compliance and Data Security

In a heavily regulated industry like clinical diagnostics, compliance with industry standards and regulations is crucial. Automated clinical lab management systems and LIMS help labs stay compliant by streamlining documentation and data management processes.

Automated logs and audits: These systems automatically record every action taken within the lab, providing an easy-to-access audit trail for internal and external reviews.
Real-time monitoring: Automated compliance tools monitor quality control parameters in real-time, ensuring any discrepancies are identified and addressed immediately.
Secure data storage: Automated systems store sensitive patient and test data securely, safeguarding it from unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR.

With automation handling regulatory tasks and providing secure data management, labs can focus on delivering quality services while maintaining full compliance with legal and ethical standards.

By integrating these automation features, labs not only improve their operational performance but also set the foundation for long-term business growth and sustainability. The combined advantages of increased accuracy, enhanced productivity, cost savings, and better compliance make lab automation an essential investment for modern clinical laboratories.

How Lab Automation Transforms Laboratory Operations and Business

Streamlining Operations

Automation transforms how labs operate by streamlining everything from sample management to reporting. Clinical laboratory information management systems consolidate lab data, making it easier to access, analyze, and share results with clinicians and patients.

Scaling Operations for Business Growth

Lab automation equips laboratories with the ability to scale up. With clinical lab software, labs can increase their workload without needing additional staff, ensuring they can handle growing demand without sacrificing quality.

Increasing Revenue Potential

By optimizing lab processes, automation reduces costs and increases throughput, directly impacting profitability. It enables labs to process more tests in less time, leading to greater revenue opportunities.

The Scope of Lab Automation for the Future

The future of clinical lab automation is rapidly evolving, driven by cutting-edge technologies and a growing need for faster, more accurate results. As laboratories become more data-driven and interconnected, the potential for automation to transform clinical workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance patient care is immense. Let’s explore some key trends that are shaping the future of lab automation:

1. The Rise of AI and Machine Learning

One of the most transformative developments in lab automation is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. These advanced tools are enabling laboratories to process vast amounts of data with unprecedented speed and precision, opening the door to deeper insights and faster diagnoses.

AI in diagnostics: For example, AI algorithms can be used to analyze medical images, such as histopathology slides, identifying patterns that may be missed by the human eye. This allows for more accurate cancer diagnoses and faster detection of abnormalities. Laboratories that specialize in pathology or radiology are already seeing AI improve diagnostic accuracy while reducing the workload for lab technicians.
Machine learning in data analysis: In clinical chemistry, machine learning models can analyze patient data to predict disease progression or recommend personalized treatment plans. By learning from historical data, these systems can offer valuable insights into patient health trends, helping clinicians make more informed decisions.
AI in workflow optimization: AI can also optimize clinical workflow automation, predicting when lab equipment needs maintenance or when reagent supplies are running low, reducing downtime, and avoiding interruptions in lab operations.

As AI and ML capabilities advance, labs will increasingly rely on these technologies to deliver faster, more personalized healthcare solutions, transforming the way labs contribute to patient care.

2. Fully Automated Labs

The concept of fully automated laboratories is becoming more realistic as robotics, software systems, and advanced clinical lab management software continue to evolve. In the future, fully automated labs may require minimal human intervention, allowing lab personnel to focus on more complex tasks that demand critical thinking and decision-making.

Robotic sample processing: Robots could be used to handle sample intake, preparation, and processing. For example, in high-throughput labs, robots can be programmed to automatically aliquot samples, perform tests, and transfer data to the lab’s information management system. This not only speeds up the process but also eliminates the risk of human error during sample handling.
Automated result reporting: Once tests are complete, the automation system will generate and deliver results directly to clinicians through an integrated clinical laboratory information management system (LIMS), ensuring that results are available in real-time.
Remote lab management: In a fully automated lab, supervisors may only need to intervene when complex decision-making is required interpreting ambiguous test results or managing system exceptions. Similarly, a remote decentralized clinical trials platform streamlines processes and ensures data integrity. Additionally, automation would take over routine processes like calibration, quality control, and inventory management, providing alerts when human input is necessary.

As more labs adopt fully automated workflows, the potential for improved clinical sample management, faster turnaround times, and reduced operational costs will make them a valuable asset for the healthcare sector.

3. Enhanced Connectivity and Interoperability

One of the biggest challenges facing modern labs is ensuring that their systems can communicate seamlessly with other healthcare providers. As more labs adopt clinical lab management systems, enhanced connectivity and interoperability will become essential for smoother, more efficient workflows across the entire healthcare ecosystem.

Interoperability with hospital systems: In the future, clinical laboratory information systems (LIS) and LIMS will be fully integrated with electronic health records (EHRs) and hospital information systems (HIS). This integration will allow for the seamless exchange of data, ensuring that test results are delivered directly to clinicians without the need for manual input.
For example, a patient undergoing surgery in a hospital may require several tests before, during, and after the procedure. A lab equipped with an interoperable LIS can automatically send test results to the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and post-operative care team in real-time, enabling faster decision-making and better patient outcomes.
Global data sharing: Interoperability will also allow labs to collaborate on a global scale. Laboratories specializing in rare diseases or advanced research could share their data with other labs and research institutions worldwide, contributing to global health initiatives.
For instance, during a pandemic, data from diagnostic labs across different regions can be pooled together and analyzed to track disease spread and develop effective containment strategies.

The ability to integrate with external healthcare systems not only improves lab efficiency but also strengthens the collaboration between laboratories, hospitals, and healthcare providers, creating a more cohesive and responsive healthcare ecosystem.

By embracing these technologies, labs can stay ahead of the curve and meet the growing demands of modern healthcare.

Conclusion

Lab automation is no longer an optional luxury; it is a critical component of any modern clinical lab. As labs continue to evolve, adopting advanced clinical lab solutions will ensure they stay competitive and efficient, both today and in the future. From improving clinical sample management to scaling operations with clinical laboratory information management systems, automation is the key to unlocking new levels of accuracy, productivity, and growth.

Read more:
Top Lab Automation Features Highly Essential In Labs Today & Future

Hey there! As someone who lives and breathes tech, I’m super stoked to break down what makes a modern computer truly “modern” in 2024.

Trust me, it’s way more exciting than it might sound at first! Let’s dive into the essential characteristics that separate today’s powerhouses from the dinosaurs of yesteryear. Watch on the website.

The Brain of the Beast: Processing Power

Yo, let’s start with the absolute MVP – the processor, or CPU if you want to sound fancy. These days, you can’t just roll with any old chip and expect to keep up. Modern processors are absolute beasts, rocking multiple cores and threads like it’s nobody’s business. We’re talking 8 cores minimum for a serious setup, and that’s just the beginning!

But what really blows my mind is how these processors adapt on the fly. They’ve got this sick technology called dynamic frequency scaling, where they can crank up the speed when you need the juice and dial it back to save power when you’re just scrolling through TikTok. Plus, modern CPUs have dedicated circuits for AI tasks – because let’s face it, AI is everywhere now, and your computer better be ready for it.

RAM: Because Size (and Speed) Actually Matters

Listen up, because this is crucial – RAM is like your computer’s short-term memory, and in 2024, you need a lot of it. We’re not in the Stone Age anymore where 8GB was considered “plenty.” For a modern computer to handle multiple Chrome tabs (we all know how hungry those are), maybe some Photoshop action, and your favorite game running in the background, you’re looking at 16GB minimum. But real talk? 32GB is where it’s at if you want to future-proof your setup.

But it’s not just about size – speed matters too. DDR5 memory is the new standard, and it’s like comparing a rocket to a bicycle when you look at older RAM types. The bandwidth is insane, and it makes everything feel snappier than your favorite pair of jeans.

Storage Revolution: SSDs or Nothing

If you’re still running mechanical hard drives as your main storage, I hate to break it to you, but you’re living in the past. Modern computers absolutely need SSD storage – preferably NVMe drives that plug directly into your motherboard. We’re talking read speeds that can hit 7000MB/s or more. That means games load in seconds, Windows boots before you can grab your coffee, and file transfers are basically instant.

And here’s the thing – storage isn’t just about speed. Modern SSDs are more reliable, use less power, and make zero noise. Plus, with prices dropping faster than my grades in calculus (just kidding, Mom!), there’s no excuse not to go all-in on solid-state storage.

Graphics: More Than Just Gaming

Even if you’re not a gamer, having decent graphics capabilities is crucial in a modern computer. Why? Because everything is getting more visually demanding. Web browsers use GPU acceleration, video conferencing needs graphics power, and don’t even get me started on creative apps like DaVinci Resolve or Blender.

Modern GPUs aren’t just about pushing pixels – they’re computational powerhouses that help with everything from AI tasks to video encoding. And with technologies like DLSS 3.0 and FSR, they’re getting smarter about delivering amazing visuals without melting your power supply.

Connectivity: The Need for Speed

Let me drop some truth – a modern computer needs to be connected like a social media influencer. We’re talking:

Wi-Fi 6E support for those sweet, sweet high-speed wireless connections
Thunderbolt 4/USB4 ports that can handle everything from external GPUs to 8K displays
At least one USB-C port that can fast-charge your devices
Bluetooth 5.3 for connecting all your wireless gear without the lag

And it’s not just about having the ports – it’s about having them work seamlessly. Modern computers should handle multiple displays, docking stations, and peripherals without breaking a sweat.

Power Management and Efficiency

This might sound boring, but hear me out – modern computers need to be smart about power usage. We’re not just talking about battery life for laptops (though that’s huge). Desktop computers need to be efficient too, because:

Power bills are no joke (especially if you’re mining crypto on the side)
The planet isn’t getting any cooler
High-performance components generate serious heat

Modern systems need advanced power management features, efficient cooling solutions, and the ability to balance performance with power consumption. It’s like having a sports car that can also get decent mileage when you’re just cruising.

Security Features: Because the Internet is Wild

Real talk – the internet is like the Wild West, and your computer needs to be packing heat (metaphorically speaking). Modern computers require hardware-level security features like:

TPM 2.0 for encryption and secure boot
Hardware-based virtualization support
Secure enclaves for handling sensitive data
Built-in malware protection that doesn’t slow everything to a crawl

The Software Side: OS and Updates

A modern computer isn’t just about the hardware – it needs an OS that can keep up. Whether you’re team Windows, macOS, or Linux (respect), your system needs to handle:

Regular security updates without breaking everything
Background tasks without stuttering
Multiple workspaces and virtual desktops
Touch and pen input (because who knows when you’ll need it)
Seamless cloud integration

Future-Proofing: Because Tomorrow is Coming Fast

Last but definitely not least, a modern computer needs to be ready for what’s coming next. That means having:

Expandability options for more storage or RAM
Support for next-gen standards like PCIe 5.0
The ability to handle emerging technologies like AR and VR
Enough power headroom to handle future software demands

Wrapping It Up

Listen, at the end of the day, a modern computer isn’t just a collection of specs – it’s a gateway to getting stuff done, having fun, and staying connected. Whether you’re editing videos, coding the next big app, or just trying to dominate in your favorite game, having a system that checks all these boxes means you’re ready for whatever the digital world throws at you.

The best part? You don’t need to sell a kidney to get most of these features anymore. Technology is advancing faster than ever, and what was premium yesterday is mainstream today. Just make sure you’re thinking about how you’ll actually use your computer and prioritize the features that matter most to you.

Remember, the most modern computer is the one that lets you do what you need to do without getting in your way. It’s about having the power when you need it, the reliability to keep going, and the features to keep you ahead of the curve.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go upgrade my RAM. Again. Because you can never have too much, right?

Read more:
Alexander Ostrovskiy: What Makes a Computer Tick

Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ upcoming visit to China in January for the long-awaited resumption of the UK-China Economic and Financial Dialogue has been hailed as a pivotal opportunity for economic cooperation.

However, leading advisory firm Blick Rothenberg has urged her to adopt a pragmatic approach to secure meaningful outcomes for both nations.

Winnie Cao, Head of the firm’s China desk, described the dialogue’s return after a six-year hiatus as “great news for both China and the UK.” She emphasised that pragmatism in these talks could not only bolster trade relationships but also signal a broader commitment to international cooperation, potentially easing global tensions.

Cao noted the potential for mutual benefit, with China offering the UK affordable electric vehicles and battery storage solutions — vital for achieving the UK’s net-zero ambitions. Conversely, the UK provides Chinese businesses with opportunities to expand into a stable, growth-oriented market amid slowing domestic growth in China.

A closer economic relationship with China, Cao suggested, could support Labour’s growth plans, particularly given China’s role as one of the UK’s top trading partners. She argued that China might prove a more predictable ally than the US under President-elect Donald Trump, whose administration has hinted at leveraging sanctions to drive economic compliance.

Despite the potential for collaboration, caution is expected on both sides. The UK’s National Security Law, which limits foreign investments, reflects concerns over the influence of external investors. Meanwhile, China’s delegation, led by He Lifeng, is likely mindful of how enhanced UK-China ties might be perceived in Washington.

“Both nations need to play to their strengths,” Cao advised. “For the UK, that means leveraging China’s complete supply chain for green technologies, and for China, tapping into the UK’s stable market as its companies look outward for growth.”

With economic pressures mounting globally, Reeves’ ability to strike a balanced and strategic agreement could yield significant benefits for both economies, demonstrating the importance of pragmatic diplomacy in uncertain times.

Read more:
Rachel Reeves urged to approach China talks with pragmatism

The appointment of Tom Hayhoe as the UK’s COVID corruption commissioner has been criticised as unlikely to recover significant taxpayer funds, according to leading audit and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg.

Fiona Fernie, a partner at the firm, questioned the value of the role, particularly given the time elapsed since the alleged corruption took place during the pandemic.

“Four years after the events occurred, it’s unclear why Rachel Reeves believes this appointment will achieve more than previous investigations, including the National Audit Office’s 2020 review or the Boardman Review in 2021,” Fernie said.

Hayhoe’s 12-month tenure has also been criticised as insufficient for such a complex inquiry. Fernie warned that those involved in questionable activities during the pandemic have had years to obscure evidence, making recovery efforts even more challenging.

Although Hayhoe is expected to provide recommendations on future government procurement processes during crises, Fernie questioned what additional insights this could offer beyond existing reviews, including the COVID inquiry led by Baroness Heather Hallett and the National Crime Agency’s ongoing investigations into potential PPE-related criminal offences.

The delay in appointing Hayhoe has also come under scrutiny. Despite being a Labour manifesto pledge, it took five months into their government for the appointment to be finalised, with frequent public promises of an imminent announcement.

Fernie expressed support for efforts to investigate fraud and recover public funds but cautioned that the cost of Hayhoe’s role might outweigh the financial recoveries it achieves. “This appointment may easily cost the Exchequer more than it will recover and is unlikely to bring any new information to light,” she said.

The criticism raises broader questions about the effectiveness of retrospective investigations and the balance between accountability and the cost of pursuing historical cases.

Read more:
COVID corruption commissioner unlikely to recover taxpayers’ money

Small businesses in some of Britain’s most disadvantaged areas are poised to benefit from £1 billion in lending, thanks to a government-backed initiative by community-based finance organisations.

The British Business Bank (BBB) has launched a £150 million, two-year scheme to bolster community development finance institutions (CDFIs), which lend to businesses turned down by mainstream banks. The initiative is expected to increase CDFI lending from £102 million a year to £500 million annually by 2029, with Responsible Finance estimating the total impact to reach £1 billion as funds are recycled through loan repayments.

“This is a huge step forward,” said Theodora Hadjimichael, chief executive of Responsible Finance, which represents 50 CDFIs across the UK. “We’ve often been constrained by limited capital, but now we’ve been recognised for the good that we do.”

CDFIs focus on supporting viable businesses that can repay loans but struggle to secure funding elsewhere. Last year, 99% of CDFI borrowers had been rejected by other lenders, yet 89% of loans were repaid in full, demonstrating the model’s effectiveness.

The scheme has also attracted private sector interest, with hopes of raising an additional £100 million annually. Lloyds Bank recently partnered with Big Society Capital to invest £62 million in CDFIs, and JP Morgan Chase has committed £4 million to help community lenders upgrade their systems and improve efficiency.

Gareth Thomas, the small business minister, hailed the initiative: “CDFIs’ local know-how enables them to lend effectively when traditional banks cannot. Access to finance is a key barrier for small businesses, and this is a big step towards addressing that challenge.”

One beneficiary is Hyde Accessible Transport in Manchester, which secured a £125,000 loan from the Business Enterprise Fund, a CDFI, after being declined by mainstream banks. Founder Shaun Delaney used the funds to expand operations, tripling turnover and increasing staff to 228 employees and contractors, most of whom are local.

The programme not only provides financial lifelines to small firms but also strengthens local economies by creating jobs and fostering growth in underserved areas, reinforcing the vital role CDFIs play in Britain’s financial ecosystem.

Read more:
Community lenders unlock £1bn to support small firms rejected by banks

HMRC has confirmed the settlement of its high-profile IR35 tax case with Gary Lineker, ending a long-running dispute over a £4.9 million tax liability tied to his presenting work with the BBC and BT Sport.

The case, initially decided in Lineker’s favour by the First-tier Tribunal (FTT), was set for an Upper Tribunal hearing after HMRC appealed. However, the appeal was withdrawn, and the case was settled out of court. The terms of the settlement remain undisclosed.

Dave Chaplin, CEO of IR35 compliance firm IR35 Shield, shed light on the complexities of the case, explaining that Lineker operated through a general partnership, a structure that already subjected him to income tax akin to a sole trader. “Almost all income tax was already paid upfront,” Chaplin said, adding that Lineker also paid both employer and employee National Insurance Contributions due to the partnership structure.

The disputed amount, Chaplin clarified, was far lower than the widely reported £4.9 million, amounting instead to between £300,000 and £400,000 spread across several years. This represented the marginal difference between employer NICs and sole trader NICs.

While this chapter is closed for Lineker, the broader IR35 saga continues, with other tribunal cases still pending. “Our tribunal visits are far from finished,” Chaplin remarked.

The settlement marks the end of a contentious chapter for Lineker while underscoring the ongoing challenges around IR35 compliance and enforcement.

Read more:
Case closed: HMRC settles £4.9m tax case with Gary Lineker

Read more:
New Forrester Study Highlights Efficiency and Enhanced Employee Experience: Streamline Time-Off Requests with Paycom’s GONE

Greg Wasz, hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, is a dynamic professional who balances a thriving career in sales with his passion for video creation and storytelling.

After earning his degree in communications at Ohio University and interning at The Late Show with David Letterman, Greg carved out a successful path in sales, driven by his natural ability to connect with people and build meaningful relationships. Outside of his career, he channels his creativity into Greg Wasz Productions, documenting family moments and crafting videos that preserve memories for years to come. With his wife, Jenna, and their three children at the center of his world, Greg has mastered the art of integrating work, creativity, and family life into a fulfilling journey.

In this interview, Greg reflects on the lessons learned from his unique blend of personal and professional experiences, offering insights into his perspective on creativity, connection, and living a meaningful life.

What does creativity mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your daily life?

Creativity, to me, is about seeing the world differently and finding unique ways to express that perspective. It’s not just about making videos or writing scripts—it’s a mindset. In my career, creativity comes into play when I’m crafting a sales strategy or brainstorming solutions for a client. It’s about connecting the dots in ways others might not see and delivering something meaningful and unexpected.

In my personal life, creativity thrives in my video projects. Whether I’m editing footage from a family trip or documenting everyday moments, I’m always looking for ways to tell a story that captures the heart of the experience. Creativity isn’t something I turn on and off—it’s woven into everything I do, from how I parent to how I approach challenges at work.

How has storytelling shaped your approach to both work and family life?

Storytelling is at the core of everything I do. In sales, it’s about more than just presenting a product or service—it’s about showing people how it fits into their lives, how it solves a problem, or how it makes things better. People connect with stories far more than they do with facts and figures. That’s why I always focus on building a narrative that resonates with my clients.

At home, storytelling is how we preserve memories and create a sense of belonging. When I make videos of our family, I’m not just capturing events—I’m crafting a narrative that my kids can look back on and see who we were as a family. It’s about reminding them of our shared experiences, the love we have for one another, and the little moments that make life special.

What has been the most rewarding part of documenting your family’s life through video?

The most rewarding part is how these videos have become a treasure chest of memories for my family. My kids love watching themselves grow up on screen, and it’s incredible to see their faces light up when they relive those moments. It’s not just about the big milestones, like birthdays or vacations—it’s the everyday laughter, the impromptu dance parties, and the quiet moments of connection.

These videos are also a gift for the future. One day, when my kids are grown, they’ll have these videos to remind them of where they came from, who we were as a family, and how much they were loved. It’s a way of preserving our story, and that’s something truly priceless.

How do you stay motivated when balancing a busy career, a creative passion, and family life?

Motivation comes from understanding my “why.” Everything I do—whether it’s working hard in my career, staying up late to edit a video, or making time for family—is rooted in my love for my family and my desire to create a meaningful life.

Of course, there are days when it feels overwhelming, but I remind myself of the bigger picture. My work allows me to provide for my family, my creativity keeps me inspired, and my family is the reason I do it all. Staying organized and intentional with my time helps, too. I make a point to block out time for each priority, and I don’t let distractions take away from what matters most.

What is one lesson you’ve learned about connection through your work in sales and your creative projects?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that connection is about authenticity. In sales, people want to feel like they’re being heard and understood—they’re not just buying a product; they’re buying trust. The same goes for creativity. A video resonates with people when it’s real and authentic, when it shows life as it truly is, imperfections and all.

Whether I’m meeting with a client or editing a family video, my focus is always on staying true to the story I’m trying to tell. Authenticity builds trust, fosters connection, and ultimately creates something meaningful.

What advice would you give to someone who feels like they don’t have time for their creative passions?

Start small and make it a priority, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. Creativity doesn’t have to be this grand, time-consuming project. For me, it started with recording little clips of my kids or jotting down ideas for videos. Over time, those small efforts added up, and now it’s a natural part of my routine.

The key is to view creativity as a gift to yourself, not an obligation. It’s your time to unwind, recharge, and express yourself. Even in the busiest seasons of life, carving out a little time for something you’re passionate about can make a big difference in your overall happiness.

What’s next for you creatively or professionally?

Creatively, I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do with Greg Wasz Productions. Whether it’s exploring new storytelling techniques, experimenting with editing styles, or diving deeper into travel vlogs, I’m always looking for ways to grow.

Professionally, my focus is on continuing to build strong relationships with my clients and finding innovative ways to bring value to them. I also hope to explore how my creative skills can complement my work in sales, whether that’s through video presentations or storytelling-based strategies.

Ultimately, my goal is to keep learning, growing, and creating. Whether it’s through my career, my videos, or my time with family, I want everything I do to reflect the values that matter most to me.

 

Read more:
Greg Wasz: Building Connections Through Sales, Creativity, and Family

As an investor, I like simple solutions for complex problems. If you can make someone’s life easier and remove some of the friction between them and what they want, then you can probably charge a dollar or two. If you can do that at scale and charge more than you spend, you’ve got a business.

For that reason, I sympathise with people who look at crypto and blockchain and see only more friction. Wallets, passphrases, chains and bridges – it all sounds a bit complicated.

Those of us who are deep on the inside recognise the transformative potential of the technology, but that means it’s our job to make it simple for others. If you fancy yourself a crypto evangelist, an ambassador or whatnot, then the task at hand is to make crypto as simple for others as it is for you. Instead of explaining and persuading people about the merits of blockchain, though, wouldn’t it be better if we actually made crypto simpler, by removing some of that friction?

We are seeing this in action already. Look at Revolut. An intuitive app that successfully integrates blockchain and fintech into its operating system, and provides all the services you’d expect from a high street bank, only faster.

The most impressive thing about Revolut is that it operates just like a traditional banking app; with the powerful capabilities of crypto and blockchain all working in the background. As a customer, you don’t have to know you are using crypto to reap the benefits of its ingenuity.

Some of the confusion people have about crypto is down to the number of speculative projects built on short-term thinking with no real economic substance. The rise and fall of the NFT markets was a classic gimmick-investment bubble. The initial interest in digital ownership of art was quickly followed by market oversaturation and inevitable market collapse. The loss of money, value, and time certainly contributed to a feeling of distrust in crypto investment and confusion among consumers who may not have been aware of or interested in technology that sits behind NFTs.

Contrast that with using crypto to transfer money across national borders. Cryptocurrency increases transaction speed, accessibility of funds, and lowers transaction fees. All things people want. Stablecoins provide a robust anchoring to traditional currencies and international transactions, and have shown resilience against the volatility that has plagued the market in the past. This is genuine real-world utility. Once getting on and off the blockchain becomes a less complex task, and the processes retreat into the background, I believe blockchain and cryptocurrency will become the default method for international payments.

Simple interfaces that deliver clear customer benefits are what will help crypto and blockchain go mainstream. We’ve already realised the ‘quick wins’ offered by crypto – we know how to move money quickly and securely across borders, we understand the value of an immutable ledger. They are here to stay. What we need now is to deliver the second order benefits of crypto to a wide public, without them even realising they’re using the blockchain.

Another advantage of the blockchain is that it doesn’t discriminate. Access to reliable, effective, and safe financial services could be expanded globally. Providing communities access to conventional financial services that traditional banks are not able to do. This is what excites me about this sector, and as an experienced investor in this field, this is what I look forward to.

Imagine what these changes could mean for a small business, say a family-owned coffee shop. No one is going to fiddle around with different crypto wallets in a morning coffee queue, and no barista is going to spend their time looking for bridges and offramps for whatever currency or crypto a given customer wants to use to pay for their latte. But if a Point-of-Sale system did the work in the background, the system could manage all conversions and transactions seamlessly for a small fee.

It could become as reliable, as fast, and as trusted as a contactless payment. It would revolutionise travel money, reduce costs for point of sale systems and speed up payments for small businesses. Not only would the customer experience improve, but the system could facilitate sending money across borders to small suppliers who otherwise wouldn’t be able to access such efficient financial services.

It’s exciting to be building a new digital economy, but we’ll only succeed if the digital infrastructure we’re setting up fits seamlessly into the world we live in and interact with every day. As an investor, I’ll know the crypto and blockchain economy has really arrived the moment we stop noticing that we’re using it.

Read more:
Hidden in Plain Sight: Tim Heath on how the New Digital Economy Goes Mainstream