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Videojet Expands Case and Carton Coding with New Printer Capabilities

Videojet 2380 large character marking system now employs up to four printheads to print on multiple sides of cases and cartons.




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PODCAST | Trends in Inks and Coatings for Sustainable Paper Packaging

While paper packaging in many ways is more naturally eco-friendly than plastic packaging, Sun Chemical is busy developing inks and coatings solutions to ensure that true recyclability is achieved as the ‘paperization’ trend gains steam.




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ClickBank RSS Feeds from ClickBank Analytics @ CBtrends.com




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Marriage in Early Virginia Indian Society

What is known of marriage in early Virginia Indian society is limited to the observations of Jamestown colonists, visiting English observers, and later American historians, and is mostly applicable to the Algonquian-speaking Powhatans of Tsenacomoco, a paramount chiefdom of twenty-eight to thirty-two groups living in Tidewater Virginia. Marriage was crucial for survival in Indian society, because men and women needed to work as partners in order to accomplish their many daily and seasonal tasks. The man initiated courtship and looked for a woman who would perform her assigned tasks well. The woman could decline a marriage offer, but if she did choose to accept it, her parents also needed to approve the offer. The groom's parents, meanwhile, paid a bridewealth, or marriage payment, to the bride's parents to compensate them for her lost labor. Men were allowed to have additional wives, so long as the husband could afford to provide for them; for chiefs especially, these wives served as symbols of wealth. It is estimated that the paramount chief Powhatan (Wahunsonacock) had as many as one hundred wives during his lifetime. While a man's first marriage was expected to last for life, additional marriages were likely negotiated for shorter terms. Unless a woman was married to a chief, she was allowed to conduct extramarital affairs, provided she had her husband's permission (which was usually given). Punishment for dishonesty on this score could be severe, however. Virginia Indians held onto their marriage traditions long after contact with the English, and marriage between Indians and the English was rare.
Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:44:08 EST




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Languages and Interpreters in Early Virginia Indian Society

Early Virginia Indians spoke dialects of Algic, Iroquoian, or Siouan, three large linguistic families that include many of the more than eight hundred indigenous languages in North America. Among Virginia's Algic-speakers were the Powhatan Indians, who lived in the Tidewater and encountered the Jamestown settlers in 1607. Little is known of their language—a form of Algic known as Virginia Algonquian—although Captain John Smith and William Strachey both composed influential vocabulary lists. The Nottoways and the Meherrins lived south of the James near the fall line and spoke Iroquoian. Although the Meherrin language was never recorded, it has been identified as Iroquoian based on geography. In 1820, John Wood interviewed the elderly Nottoway "queen" Edie Turner and created a word list that eventually was recognized as Iroquoian. Virginia's Siouan-speakers, meanwhile, largely lived west of the fall line and included the Monacans, the Mannahoacs, and the Saponis. Many Virginia Indians, encouraged by the requirements of trade, diplomacy, and warfare, spoke multiple languages, and when the English arrived, they and the Powhatans eagerly exchanged boys to learn each other's language and serve as interpreters. By the twentieth century, most if not all Virginia Indian languages had become extinct, meaning that no native speakers survived. In 2005, the Terrence Malick film The New World presented a form of Algonquian based on the Smith and Strachey lists and the work of the linguist Blair Rudes.
Thu, 29 Oct 2020 18:20:19 EST




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Towns and Town Life in Early Virginia Indian Society

Much of what is known about towns and town life in early Virginia Indian society is drawn from archaeological investigation, the observations of English settlers, and the work of Captain John Smith, who between 1607 and 1609 explored and mapped the Chesapeake Bay area. Through a combination of these sources, we know that most Virginia Indian towns were located close to fertile soil and along waterways, which were both a source of food and drinking water and a means of transport. Towns generally conformed to one of two layouts: a dispersed settlement pattern, in which the houses were scattered according to which fields were being cultivated at the time; and a nucleated settlement pattern, in which a palisade surrounds a tightly packed group of houses. The latter layout was usually found in frontier areas, where the threat of attack by enemy tribes was greater. Indian towns were busy, intensely social places and each resident, regardless of age or sex, was expected to play a particular role. This resulted in a tight-knit community that could be supportive, but constricting. Privacy was limited, so great emphasis was placed on manners and politeness and on releasing tension through a nightly group activity like singing and dancing. The quality of life in Indian towns declined in Virginia after the English arrived and began to encroach on Indian land.
Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:08:31 EST




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Armstrong, Samuel Chapman (1839–1893)

Samuel Chapman Armstrong was the founder of Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute (later Hampton University). Armstrong's father served as the kingdom of Hawaii's minister of education and emphasized student labor as a key part of schooling. The younger Armstrong enlisted in the Union army during the American Civil War (1861–1865) and commanded regiments in the United States Colored Troops. After the war he worked with the Freedmen's Bureau and began planning a school to train black teachers. Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute opened in 1868 and emphasized labor alongside academics. The institution produced African American educators across the South, most notably Booker T. Washington. In 1878 Hampton's mission expanded with the admission of Native American students. The growth intensified Armstrong dependence on benefactors and in turn left it further exposed to the rising racism among American whites. In his later years academics at Hampton were publicly de-emphasized in favor of its trade-school programs. Armstrong died of a stroke in 1893.
Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:14:55 EST




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Letter from Alexander Hamilton to James Bayard (January 16, 1801)

In this letter, dated January 16, 1801, Alexander Hamilton writes to James Bayard, a Federalist member of the U. S. House of Representatives from Delaware. Hamilton conveys his satisfaction that Bayard has decided to support Burr in the Election of 1800. He goes on to offer his criticisms of both Aaron Burr and Thomas Jefferson and his worst fears were either man to become president.
Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:09:37 EST




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5 Tips for DMO Managers with More Questions Than Answers

5 Tips for DMO Managers with More Questions Than Answers jhammond@desti… Tue, 05/07/2024 - 18:30

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5 min read

New DMO Managers Agree on 5 Pain Points

Your supervisor picked you for your position because you’re adaptable, committed, and creative. Still, you might wonder whether this job is for you. Managers I talked to at the PACE forum want help with five issues:

  1. The new DMO managers feel overwhelmed because they have too much to do.
  2. They need more guidance on how to keep members engaged and retain them.
  3. They worry about providing value to the community.
  4. New DMO managers are stressed about navigating their new roles.
  5. They want help with training and coaching teams.

Treat ‘em Right helps managers solve these problems and more with coaching, group training, and online courses customized for individual DMOs. Your first call with us is free, so contact us if you are interested.

Tip One: Prioritize and Delegate

You thought you joined an industry that values rest, relaxation, and recreation, but you are working long hours! We get it. You feel overwhelmed by what seems like three jobs in one. It’s time to prioritize:

  • Put your tasks in order based on 1) your deadlines and 2) which will have the most impact. Note: something due today is not necessarily more important than something due next week. Keep your goals in mind and prioritize what matters most.
  • Delegate non-essential tasks to team members, empowering them to take ownership. Effective delegation will reduce your stress and foster collaboration on your team.

If you’re not using project management software find one that works for you. Putting tasks in your computer will cut your stress because don’t have to try to remember 10 deadlines in your head. You might think you don’t have the money. One of the top project management software systems, Monday.com, has free subscriptions for one or two users. Other plans start at $20 a month.

Tip Two: Make a Membership Plan

You believe in your organization’s mission and want to help keep it strong. Retaining members is one of your top goals (and stressors). Yes, building and maintaining relationships with members is time-consuming. Realizing you cannot do everything at the same time, plan to meet who you can, and find other ways to connect with all your members regularly. That means planning.

Check out The Center for Association Leadership’s Guide to Membership Strategy to see what is working for others. The guide includes questions to ask yourself:

  • How are you engaging members and prospects who are in their 20s and 30s?
  • Is your online membership platform easy to use? Does it solve members’
    problems?
  • Are you fostering collaboration that benefits members? For example,
    DMOs offer visitor experience education to members’ employees and many
    others who interact with guests.

Tip Three: Focus on the Visitor Experience

The constant pressure to provide value can keep you up at night. Ease your pain by focusing on what matters most – the visitor experience. DMOs have become experts in visitor experience education (VXE) with help from Treat ‘em Right. We customize VXE based on the needs of your members. Examples of successful VXE programs include:

  • Visit Manhattan, Kansas offers VXE to retailers, hotels, restaurants, attractions, and business community employers.
  • Destination Niagara Falls USA engaged taxi and ride-share drivers, travel
    agencies, tour operators, and short-term rental owners in VXE. 
  • The Pennsylvania Convention Center trained its union labor contractors.

We have received dozens of positive reviews on our VXE video series. We believe in video because people retain 95% of what they learn while watching a training video, compared to 10% of what they read. However, for some learners, our hybrid live sessions are best. It’s all about the learner.

Tip Four: Connect with Others in the Industry

In a 2023 survey, 40% of recent graduates said they had no training, onboarding, or support from their managers. If you are unsure of something, ask. Your manager should be clear about expectations on things like your work hours, deadlines, and what it will take to advance in your position. Other solutions for navigating new roles include:

  • Connect with experienced managers in the industry.
  • Attend workshops, conferences, and webinars to learn from others’ successes and failures.
  • Look into Destinations International’s Young Professional Development Program and its 30 Under 30 program – a year-long networking and learning experience for emerging leaders. In an article on the DI website, a past 30 Under 30 participant says the program gave her purpose and a sense of belonging.

“Having peers who share similar struggles and passions has been transformative,” Juliet Velasquez, manager of client relationships and insights, Tourism Economics. “Through them, I've gleaned insights into leadership, skill development, and discovering my true calling. 

Sign up to get notified when DI opens the next round of applications for 30 Under 30.

Tip Five: Find a Coach

Many DMOs do not have structured management training programs. That makes it more difficult for a new manager to learn their job. So, smart DMO executives invest in expert training, coaching, and consulting. Treat ‘em Right supports success with:

  • Skill Enhancement: Training programs improve managers’ skills, from leadership to communication. Our offerings include custom workshops and online courses tailored to the needs of each DMO needs. We start with helping teams get to know each other by taking an Insight Inventory.
  • Team Performance: Coaching helps managers motivate and guide their teams. Treat ‘em Right uses tools like the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team training to help new DMO managers become more productive and aligned with organizational goals.
  • Strategic Planning: We work with DMO managers who want a Visitor Experience Strategy that supports the goals of their organization. With the right training, coaching, and consulting you will have the confidence to lead
    with passion. Contact Phil at Treat ‘em Right or call 314-221-6037 to talk about getting the support you want.

About The Author

Phil Bruno

Founder and President, Treat ‘em Right

As the founder and President of Treat ‘em Right, Phil Bruno has served 43 years in the Tourism and Hospitality industry. Bruno works with DMOs to connect them with their Visitor Economy workers and communities through custom education programs both live and on-line. Treat ‘em Right programs have exceeded expectations in over 80 cities with 100,000 Certified Hospitality Professionals.  Since 2005 Phil has been a member of Destinations International and DMAI speaking at events and serving on the Advocacy Committee, Community Relations Task Force and Visitor Services planning committee.

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What Destination Leaders Can Do to Engage Their Workforce

What Destination Leaders Can Do to Engage Their Workforce jhammond@desti… Fri, 06/21/2024 - 13:19

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Workforce development is an issue facing just about every destination executive. Attracting, developing, retaining, and engaging a team is an incredibly fluid and complex puzzle destination executives are forced to solve every single day. 

7 min read

What does an engaged workforce feel like? It feels like a team of people ready to rally around a shared mission they are deeply inspired by. Engaged workforces are willing to go above and beyond. They lean in, proactively looking for ways to contribute meaningfully. Engaged workforces show up to work every day, ready to bring their best to take care of the communities around them.

What destination leader doesn’t want that?

Unfortunately, fully engaged workforces are not as common in the destination industry as we’d like them to be. Destination executives are often left scratching their heads at how to get their team to buy in.  

Ready to engage your workforce? Start here:

Harness the Power of Your Destination’s Purpose

The purpose of a destination organization provides leadership with an inspiring mission to rally their team around.

Destination organizations are powerful economic drivers. They have the power to bring positive change to the communities, cities, and regions they represent, and your workforce is likely to consist of team members with close, personal connections to the destination they represent. Destinations are naturally positioned to cultivate an inspiring organizational purpose, creating meaningful work for each and every one of their team members.

“During the interview process, many candidates share that finding meaningful work is just as important as their compensation package,” shares Brook Kaufman, President & CEO of Visit Rapid City. “While there are times we can’t be competitive with the private sector on wages, the fact that our work does make a difference in our community is often the tipping point for someone accepting a position with us.” 

Harnessing the power of your destination’s purpose can be an incredible motivator to engage your workforce. Unfortunately, many destination leaders struggle to capture the power of their organization’s purpose. Leaders who clearly define their organization’s purpose, connect that purpose to the day-to-day work, and consistently communicate progress made can capture the full power of this engagement opportunity. “Employees want to know how their daily tasks help reach departmental and organizational goals. We can’t get from A to B without communicating where we’re headed and where each team member fits into the overall equation.”

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Work to define your destination’s purpose. Then, connect the dots with organizational objectives, goals, and outcomes so that every team member understands how their contribution directly impacts the destination’s purpose.  

As leaders define an inspiring purpose and connect the day-to-day work to that purpose, workforce engagement grows. 

Compensate Fairly

Let’s face it: compensation in the destination industry is an uphill battle for many executive leaders.

It’s tough to compete with for-profit organizations when it comes to compensation, but destination leaders have to try to compete in this arena.

Compensation is not just about salary and cash. Yes, salary and cash tend to make up an important part of what a destination can offer a member of its team, but total compensation can go far beyond that.  

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Execute regular compensation studies to get up-to-date compensation data for every role in your organization. Then, consider how to build a holistic compensation package, which enables leaders to assemble a competitive offering to attract and retain talent. Medical benefits, vacation time, flex time, remote work opportunities, wellness stipends, and professional development stipends are examples of how destinations are blending salaries and benefits to build competitive compensation packages.

As leaders obtain accurate market data, advocate on behalf of their team to their board of directors, and build competitive compensation packages, workforce engagement grows. 

Establish Career Development Opportunities

For many in the workforce, career development and opportunities for advancement are major motivators, driving engagement. Leaders can take advantage here on multiple fronts: first by developing their team members to fit the specific skill set their destination needs, and secondly, by engaging their team members to buy in as a byproduct of their career development and advancement. 

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Build your workforce by providing both internal support and external resources to foster cohesive career development. Internal support structures include mentorship programs, job shadowing, and clear career tracks. External support structures can look like stipends for class and conference attendance.

As leaders are able to provide opportunities for their team members to develop and grow their careers, workforce engagement grows. 

Provide Clarity, Then Flexibility

Work-life balance means a hundred different things to a hundred different people but here’s what most of your team really wants: autonomy to manage their work and their personal priorities. “Some employees value flexibility. Others value PTO or an organization that invests in their professional development. Delivering on what’s important to individual team members is a very effective way to keep people with you for the long term,” added Kaufman.

Your workforce has priorities and goals outside of the professional work they do. That’s a good thing! And for leaders who can build destination organizations where team members can achieve both their professional and personal goals at the same time, your workforce will be more likely to engage and stick around for the long haul. 

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Provide clarity to each and every one of your team members about WHAT needs to get done, then give them the opportunity and autonomy to get it done HOW they need to. Define the key outcomes that must be driven for each role in your organization, work to build clarity around WHAT must happen. Then, worry less about HOW the outcome is reached. 

As leaders provide clarity and flexibility so team members can achieve their personal goals without sacrificing the productivity of the destination, workforce engagement grows.

Show your Care

Empathetic leaders build more engaged workforces.

Leading with empathy should not prevent leaders from making difficult decisions, being steadfast in their beliefs, and driving the organization's needs forward. Leading with empathy connects leaders to their workforces, showing their care for the people around them and the impact that their decisions have on them.

Unfortunately, it’s more likely than not that you have worked for a leader who you felt did not care about you. It’s demotivating, it causes team members to lean out, and it results in folks looking to depart your destination. 

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Find how you show your care for your team. It could be through consistent and meaningful 1:1 time. It could also look like taking the time to eat lunch with team members at all levels of the destination. Maybe displaying your care comes in your communication around difficult topics and decisions. Discover what works best for you, but be sure to find a way to make it known that your team members matter to you.

As leaders are able to show their care, workforce engagement grows. 

Ask for Feedback Regularly

Engaged team members feel like their voice matters and their thoughts, ideas, and concerns impact the trajectory of the destination they work for.

Leaders should regularly request feedback from all levels and departments in their destination organization. When feedback is requested, it’s vital that leaders acknowledge it, share what was learned, and ultimately drive change from it. 

Key Recommendation for Leaders: Identify a variety of mediums and a variety of subject areas to request feedback on throughout the course of a year. Focus groups, surveys, and 1:1 meetings offer mediums to ask for feedback. Business operations, organizational culture, and personnel performance offer subject areas to get feedback on.

Identifying opportunities to build feedback from your workforce into recurring organizational operations will not only provide leaders with an important data point to direct the path forward for the destination, but it will also build engagement throughout your workforce.  

Get Intentional to Drive Workforce Engagement

Chalking up a lack of workforce engagement to generational differences is lazy.

Doing so also removes leadership’s responsibility to make an active difference in how their team decides to lean in and engage or lean out and disengage.

Frankly, your workforce's engagement reflects your organization’s health and development. Simply put, team members will choose to engage if they think it’s worth it.

“Is driving engagement within your team hard work? Absolutely,” shared Kaufman. “But your organization will never reach its full potential without putting energy and resources into keeping employees satisfied.” 

Leaders have the opportunity to actively drive initiatives forward to engage their workforces. Those who do so intentionally and effectively have the opportunity to lead impactful teams that drive their organizations and the destinations they lead forward in incredibly meaningful ways. 

About The Author

Chad Kearns

Vice President & Lead Practitioner
Fired Up! Culture

Chad Kearns is a Vice President & Lead Practitioner at Fired Up! Culture. Chad partners with destination executives across North America to successfully work through powerful change management processes to create healthy, high-performance organizations. Areas of expertise include culture change, organizational values development, performance management philosophy and practice, operational efficiencies and enhancement programs, executive coaching, leadership development and succession planning. 

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Registration Now Open for Destinations International Fall 2024 Conferences: Advocacy Summit, Social Inclusion Summit and Business Operations Summit

Registration Now Open for Destinations International Fall 2024 Conferences: Advocacy Summit, Social Inclusion Summit and Business Operations Summit dbreisch@desti… Wed, 07/10/2024 - 18:22

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3 min read

Registration Now Open for Destinations International Fall 2024 Conferences: Advocacy Summit, Social Inclusion Summit and Business Operations Summit

Premier events offer essential knowledge and skills to help destination organizations lead with innovation and inclusivity

Media Contact: 
Tim Smith 
tsmith@destinationsinternational.org
1.425.577.4499

Washington, D.C., USA (July 10, 2024) – Destinations International (DI), the world’s leading resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), and tourism boards, has opened registration for its three remaining major events in 2024: the Advocacy Summit, which will take place in Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, from October 22-24; and the Social Inclusion Summit and Business Operations Summit, which both will take place in Spokane, Washington, October 28-30.  

Destinations International continues to provide training and development specially designed to help destination organizations anticipate transformation and thrive in a continually evolving environment. Each summit will look at current challenges and opportunities and offer the opportunity to explore, learn, and network among industry peers. Attendees will benefit from comprehensive sessions that address the most pressing issues facing the sector today, from enhancing stakeholder engagement and impactful advocacy, to advancing social inclusion, to embracing advancements in technology and innovation in business operations.

“Destinations International is committed to providing our members with the essential information they need to help their organizations and communities thrive,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “Our outstanding fall summits focus on the most pressing and timely issues facing destination organizations today and offer an unprecedented opportunity to learn from experts and network with peers. I’m confident that attendees will leave each summit with new insights and actionable strategies to take back to their organizations.”

Summit overviews:

2024 Advocacy Summit (Rio Grande, Puerto Rico – October 22-24, 2024) 
Under the theme “Advocate as Catalyst,” the summit will help destination organizations better serve as essential community assets promoting the local community as an attractive travel destination while also enhancing its public image as a dynamic place live and work. Through interactive discussions, case studies and practical exercises, attendees will develop skills, identify tools and gain knowledge to support powerful advocacy. This year, the event offers three immersive workshops to explore the rich Taíno heritage of Puerto Rico; survey the intersection of ecotourism and conservation against the unique backdrop of El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System; and learn about the development of eco-cultural tourism attractions at Carabali Rainforest Adventure Park. 
(Click here for more information and to register)

2024 Social Inclusion Summit (Spokane, Washington – October 28-30, 2024)
The summit offers a series of impactful sessions and immersive experiences designed to engage community partnerships and create a welcoming environment where people of all abilities and backgrounds feel welcome, valued and understood. Through a lens of accountability, attendees will learn actionable strategies to deepen community relationships and enhance workplace culture, ultimately creating welcoming experiences for visitors. Sessions include: Fostering Community Connections for Impact; Advocacy Strategies for Engaging Local Government; and Establishing Accountability in Social Inclusion. This summit is for leaders of all abilities and backgrounds who specialize in, or have an interest in, community engagement, human resources, culture development, marketing, and inclusion and belonging.
(Click here for more information and to register)

2024 Business Operations Summit (Spokane, Washington – October 28-30, 2024)
The Business Operations Summit is a cross-functional gathering of destination organization professionals in finance, human resources, operations and technology. This year’s summit will leverage the latest advancements in finance, digital platforms and talent management, offering valuable knowledge and practical solutions to help destination organization leaders navigate the complexities of modern business operations. Join us to explore how finance, technology, and HR can drive innovation and excellence in your organization.
(Click here for more information and to register)

Please check destinationsinternational.org for latest updates on these and all Destinations International events and information.


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About Destinations International 
Destinations International is the world’s largest and most trusted resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards. With more than 7,500 members and partners from over 750 destinations, the association represents a powerful forward-thinking and collaborative community around the world. For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.  
 

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Attracting Talent and Boosting Youth Engagement from Austin to LA

Attracting Talent and Boosting Youth Engagement from Austin to LA jhammond@desti… Wed, 07/24/2024 - 20:40

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Despite the gains made since the onset of the pandemic, the hospitality industry continues to experience persistent labor shortages. Destination organizations have a chance to engage with the youth in their communities to help close this gap with best practices and strategies for attracting and retaining tomorrow’s tourism workforce. 

6 min read

Key findings from Social Impact of Global Tourism by the World Travel & Tourism Council indicate that hospitality is a leading employer for young people around the globe, accounting for almost 60% of all youth employment in 2021 with 40% of those numbers represented by women. Despite continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, there are staff shortages at hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues, theaters, convention centers, and tourism organizations. In relative terms, one in fifteen US job postings remains unfilled, and one in nine European Union jobs remains unfilled. This represents an estimated 412,000 tourism worker shortage. Further, despite the expansion of the Canadian labor market to pre-pandemic levels of 5.3%, Destination Canada reports in their 2023 Quarter-three snapshot that 116,000 positions remain unfilled, representing 6.2% of all the tourism sector.   

Source

Several factors fueling the labor shortage in the US include a decrease in international migration patterns as it relates to the US labor market, working conditions, and a lack of adequate skillsets to perform several jobs within hospitality. Thus, a variety of policy changes and engagement strategies can help destination organizations fill the gap and address these concerns.  

Addressing staff shortages within the sector requires a multi-stakeholder collaborative approach to developing a skilled tourism workforce, providing competitive employee benefits, and partnering with academia to help equip tomorrow’s workforce with new and improved skills to operate within the industry. A recent article by Forbes suggests that one of the greatest currencies of our time is not gold, oil, or knowledge but rather talent acquisition.  

When discussing strategies like youth engagement and workforce development, it's important to be mindful of cultural differences and adapt the approaches accordingly. Be sure to acknowledge the diverse cultural contexts in which these strategies will be implemented and adapt according to the needs of your destination. 

Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

At the Mobile World Congress in 2021, the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board launched its own Career Academy with the goal of increasing equity in career representation by inspiring the youth of historically underserved communities to consider diverse career paths. This initiative was brought on in response to the call of Los Angeles council leaders’ executive directive to help increase recognition of systemically marginalized groups. For the event itself, a dozen high school students from the Ambassador School of Global Leadership attended the inaugural program led by Mayor Eric Garcetti. Each student received a tour of the exhibition hall, met with executive leaders to learn about career opportunities, fostered meaningful connections, and learned about future career day opportunities available within the industry. Over 4,100 people attended the convention, 65% of whom were senior executives.

Moreover, Los Angeles’s Career Academy bridges the connections between students and meeting planners looking to authentically impact Los Angeles. In turn, students learn equity, diversity, and inclusion best practices in aligning corporate social responsibility. While the convention was not hospitality-focused, the bureau brought students together with senior-level executives at technology companies, and this can make the connection between other sectors and hospitality. The academy highlights the connection between youth engagement in choosing career paths and where they see themselves represented.  Since one of the greatest strengths of Los Angeles is its diversity, programs like this are essential to helping close the workforce gap and helping to address racial inequalities that exist due to a lack of representation. 

Los Angeles Career Academy (Full-Length)

“Our career Academy connects high school students from La USD to unique experiences at the LA Convention Center. Where they can learn about careers and opportunities. Directly from inspirational industry leaders and gain a practical understanding of the steps that other people took to reach their career goals and overcome challenges.” - Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass

Visit Austin Foundation

Founded in 2019, the mission of the Visit Austin Foundation (VAF) is to develop and promote education, job training, and career opportunities within the hospitality and tourism sector. The foundation has several key objectives in helping to close the labor shortage gap and increase engagement--particularly with the youth. By offering mentorships and scholarships, the foundation hopes to attract young people to the tourism and hospitality industry, and to educate the public about a wide range of career opportunities within the industry, as well as its economic and social benefits.  

One way the VAF has contributed to engaging the younger demographic in a career in hospitality and tourism is by developing hospitality industry learning platforms in conjunction with secondary school systems to promote awareness of the industry as a viable career path and prepare students for careers in hospitality. The VAF, in conjunction with the Austin Hotel & Lodging Association, Austin Independent School District, and Austin Community College sponsors and supports a Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary PTECH High School at Travis Early College High School. This program provides participants the opportunity to earn a high school diploma, an associate degree, and on-the-job training & mentorships while in high school, all at no cost to the student. This allows students to graduate early and prepare for a dynamic career.  

Additionally, the foundation has provided resources for providing careers in hospitality including the Austin Tourism Insider Hospitality Training Program. The training program is intended to support the community’s tourism and hospitality employees, including new hires, and residents who are passionate about Austin and hospitality. Through a one-day course, employees learn expert knowledge about Austin’s tourism assets, improve their confidence in making recommendations that help to elevate the visitor experience, ignite their passion for the industry, and build a deeper sense of connection within the community. Furthermore, the VAF helps to support networking opportunities to connect hospitality professionals with their peers in the local industry. 

The VAF’s Heart of Hospitality Award & Scholarship is dedicated to supporting local hospitality employees who are pursuing tourism-related education and are interested in growing their careers within the industry. Criteria for selection include hospitality employees who provide outstanding customer service, demonstrate a positive attitude, and display initiative in going beyond regular job responsibilities to enhance the visitor experience.  

Scholarships provide pathways for continued education in fields related to the hospitality industry, including organizational leadership, hospitality management, Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) certifications and more.  

There are a range of opportunities available for destination organizations that seek to increase workforce engagement. Organizations can partner with academic institutions to help develop tomorrow’s leaders by creating career youth engagement opportunities and raising awareness about the industry’s various career paths. As the industry continues to shake off setbacks caused by the pandemic, destination organizations can find innovative solutions to advance the industry by developing needed skill sets and providing a warm welcome to help others to feel seen and heard. 

About The Author

Stephanie Auslander

Advocacy and Data Coordinator
Destinations International

Stephanie is a recent graduate of Johnson & Wales University with a Master’s Degree in Global Tourism and Sustainable Economic Development. Previously, she worked as an Intern with Solimar International assisting Destination Marketing Organizations in formulating Tourism Development strategies for the Samtskhe–Javakheti region in Republic Of Georgia and the Sisian region of Armenia. Additionally, she is the author of a Tourism Research Proposal detailing ways in which Destinations can promote the concept of Sustainability to its consumers for a lasting positive impact. With a background in Tourism Development she is confident in her ability to help Destinations innovate into the future.

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From Campus to Career: The Critical Importance of Experiential Learning in Workforce Preparation

From Campus to Career: The Critical Importance of Experiential Learning in Workforce Preparation jhammond@desti… Tue, 09/24/2024 - 16:52

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From the lens of a student, workforce development in tourism relies on mentorship, internships, and real-world experiences. Engaging students early through meaningful industry connections prepares them to contribute actively, building confidence and shaping the future of the travel and tourism workforce.

4 min read

Industry Events Spark Career Vision for Students

Attending Destinations International’s Annual Convention for the first time in Tampa, Florida earlier this summer was both exciting and, to be honest, a bit intimidating. As a student stepping into a room filled with industry leaders and professionals, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe, and nerves. These were individuals who had already solidified their careers, shaping the future of destinations and tourism, while I was just beginning to imagine where my path might lead.

Despite the initial butterflies, the more I interacted with these professionals, the more I realized they weren’t just leaders in the industry - they were also mentors and advocates for the next generation. They were eager to share insights, listen to fresh perspectives, and offer advice. Days after the convention ended, I found myself reflecting on those conversations, replaying sessions in my mind, and seeing my future more clearly than ever.

As the days passed, I felt a bittersweet sense of closure because while the convention was over, I had a newfound excitement for what was to come. I kept thinking about my potential career, revisiting the ideas and discussions I’d experienced. These interactions shifted my mindset - I no longer felt like just a student. Watching the next class of 30 under 30, I could imagine myself on that stage one day, contributing to the industry. This realization boosted my confidence and solidified my commitment to pursuing a meaningful role in tourism.


Experience Enables Students to Shape and Commit to the Industry's Future

My experience at the Annual Convention was just one chapter in my broader journey with Destinations International. As a Professional Development intern, I’ve been involved in developing certificate programs, attending meetings with industry leaders, and contributing to event planning and content creation. These hands-on experiences have connected my course work to the real world, making my learning more authentic and relevant.

As I partake in this work, I am gaining confidence, not just in my current role, but also in how my skills align with the future of the industry. As more students like me combine work with academic study, we begin to understand how our contributions can drive industry trends, innovations, and solutions. This balanced approach of connecting practical experience with academics produces well-rounded professionals who are ready to enter the field and also to shape its future.

The travel and tourism industry thrives on adaptability and fresh ideas. Engaging students early ensures the next generation is prepared to embrace changes and push the industry forward. Internships and immersive learning are essential in developing professionals who are confident in their ability to lead in a rapidly evolving industry.


A Student’s Insights on Building the Next-Generation Workforce

From my perspective, building the future workforce is more than just filling roles - it’s about creating opportunities that allow students to fully involve themselves in the industry. DMOs and other industry leaders should focus on establishing personal connections through internships, shadowing, and professional development programs. These experiences create a sense of belonging and purpose, showing students how our work is actually valued. Workforce development isn’t just a marketing campaign - it’s about creating genuine, lasting relationships that inspire growth and passion.

Mentorship is a crucial element in building a successful workforce. Passing on knowledge is important, but sharing enthusiasm for the industry is just as impactful. When mentors invest in students, they don’t just develop our skills - they also create a sense of pride and purpose in our work. Simple engagements, like inviting students to industry events or allowing them to shadow professionals, can make a significant impact. These moments of inclusion provide insight into the industry and help us build connections with professionals who can guide and inspire us.

All in all, creating an environment where students feel valued and invested in is key to shaping the workforce of the future. Both students and industry professionals must be committed to this process. When students feel respected as contributors, we become more confident and motivated to shape our paths within the industry. The more engaged we are, the more we envision ourselves as future leaders, driving the travel and tourism landscape for years to come.

As we work toward building the next generation of tourism professionals, I encourage destination leaders to consider how they can actively support their growth. One impactful way is by sponsoring local students to take part in Destinations International’s upcoming Business Intelligence Certificate program. With courses in Sales, Services, and Marketing and Communications, this program will provide emerging professionals with key skills in business events, such as decision-making, risk mitigation, and strategic planning. By investing in future leaders now with opportunities in professional development, such as the Business Intelligence Certificate, you’re ensuring they have the necessary tools to contribute to this growing and thriving industry.

About the Author

Payten Slack

Professional Development Intern
Destinations International

Payten Slack is a first-generation college student from Orlando, Florida, and a junior at NYU’s School of Professional Studies, majoring in Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism Management with a concentration in Travel and Tourism Development. She is an active member of her school’s community and puts an emphasis on ensuring students are being well-represented on a university-wide level. Payten has gained hands-on experience through her role as a Professional Development intern at Destinations International and is committed to merging academic knowledge with real-world applications to better prepare the future workforce.

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Filling The Labour Gaps The Key To A Thriving Tourism Industry In Canada

Filling The Labour Gaps The Key To A Thriving Tourism Industry In Canada jhammond@desti… Wed, 10/30/2024 - 15:35

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At a time when Canadian youth, newcomers, and members of underrepresented communities face record levels of unemployment, our sector is presented with a unique opportunity. We have a chance to transform our workforce, improve the quality of life of every Canadian, and make a positive impact that goes beyond an economic contribution. We must promote the rewarding and long-term career paths the tourism sector provides to attract and retain the next generation of Canada’s talented workforce.

4 min read

Tourism is, at its core, about people. It’s powered by the connections we make, the stories we share, and the experiences we create together. From the dedicated hospitality workers who welcome travellers with warmth, to the local artisans and guides who bring our culture to life, it’s the people behind the scenes who truly make tourism thrive. Every journey is enriched by the unique contributions of individuals who are passionate about showcasing their communities and welcoming visitors from around the world.

Employment in the tourism sector remains lower than it was before the pandemic. According to the most recent annual data, employment levels for several advanced career positions in tourism and hospitality are dramatically lower than in 2019. Air traffic controllers are down 33 per cent, executive housekeepers and hospitality workers are down 31 per cent, and for conference and event planners, employment is down 19 per cent.

At a time when Canadian youth, newcomers, and members of underrepresented communities face record levels of unemployment, our sector is presented with a unique opportunity. We have a chance to transform our workforce, improve the quality of life of every Canadian, and make a positive impact that goes beyond an economic contribution. We must promote the rewarding and long-term career paths the tourism sector provides to attract and retain the next generation of Canada’s talented workforce.

As an industry, we must plug the gaps that hamper productivity and threaten to damage Canada’s reputation as a tourism destination. Strategic public investment is required to promote tourism as a vocation and enhance its labour force with talent. This is best achieved through meaningful partnerships—not only within our sector but with the federal government. These partnerships will be the cornerstone of our industry’s success.

To this end, TIAC is working with Restaurants Canada, the Hotel Association of Canada, and Tourism HR Canada to call on the federal government to fund a national marketing campaign through a three-year, $5-million investment. This campaign promotes tourism as a career among young Canadians. It builds on the work that THRC has initiated with its Discover Tourism program, which provides valuable career planning, curriculum, and HR tools to job seekers, employers, and educators. The logic underpinning this program presupposes that today’s youth are unaware of the career possibilities the tourism industry presents and the satisfaction that comes from showcasing Canada to its visitors. Nascent workers, read about the Discover Tourism program and take advantage of the resources available to you. Careers in tourism are varied and fulfilling; your perusal of these programs could lead you to your dream job.  

While we build our future workforce, we must leverage existing industry supports and government programs such as THRC’s Ready to Work program, which helps businesses recruit job seekers and integrate newcomers into a career in tourism. Its internships—a composite of in-class education and workplace training—facilitate job-readiness and career planning. Over the years, it has provided under-represented communities with career options and growth opportunities in the tourism sector by providing them access to certification programs (e.g., WHMIS, CPR, responsible alcohol service) that will open up new pathways in their pursuit of employment.

The Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot is an express-entry program that pairs employers with skilled newcomers, asylum seekers, and refugees to Canada. Such opportunities enable these individuals to flourish and ensure their new lives an auspicious start. It also makes available to employers qualified candidates whose background and education could provide unique skillsets and perspectives. Even without a firm job offer, talented refugees may nevertheless gain entry into Canada and begin their new life, with employment opportunities coming as they settle into the country. Tourism operators suffering from the labour gap are encouraged to take advantage of this program that is mutually beneficial for themselves and those skilled workers who hope to call Canada home.

As global demand for tourism rises, Canada must remain a top-tier destination. To do so, the fundamental needs of the sector must be met for it to thrive in the years ahead. By investing in our people and forging strong and reliable partnerships, we can ensure that Canada’s tourism industry does not just survive, but truly flourishes. Together, we can build a future that benefits our economy, our communities, and everyone involved in this wonderful sector.

About the Author

Nik Mills

Director, Policy & Government Affairs, Tourism Industry Association of Canada

As Director, Policy and Government Affairs with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, Nik develops policy, research and government relations initiatives that support TIAC’s vision to lead the Canadian tourism industry to be one of the most competitive in the world.

With extensive experience in the industry, Nik has successfully led advocacy-based consulting projects supporting job creation and economic recovery strategies for various tourism organizations.

Nik studied political economy, communications, and innovation policy at Toronto Metropolitan University, York University, and the University of New Brunswick.

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What do teachers do during summer, and how do you handle summer downtime?

How do you handle the possibility of changing teaching schedules in your music studio during the summer months?





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ICYMI - PBOC Governor warned on yuan slide, will 'guard against risk of overshoot'

Justin had the news from the People's Bank of China here:

PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng emphasized the Bank will not let the yuan plummet without a fight:

  • Will step up countercyclical adjustment
  • Should resolutely guard against the risk of exchange rate overshoot

With the surging USD after Trump's win the yuan is just one of many weaker currencies:

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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Bank of England / Bank of Finland speakers combine for a panel discussion Tuesday

0900 GMT / 0400 US Eastern time: Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland, and Bank of England Chief Economist Huw Pill speak on a panel at a conference organised by UBS in London

As Governor of the Bank of Finland Rehn is a member of the European Central Bank monetary policy board, the Governing Council.

Thus we'll get policy/economy comments relevant for the ECB and BoE for this one.

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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Fed's Kashkari: The fundamentals seems strong and I'm optimistic that will continue

Comments from the Minneapolis Fed President in conversation with Yahoo Finance.

  • Contacts are optimistic
  • We have to wait and see what the new government policies are, we will have to wait and see
  • A one-time tariff increase in transitory but it can become tit-for-tat, right now we're all just guessing
  • Immigration could have a big effect but we will have to see what will happen
  • New lease inflation takes a couple years to work its way through
  • We have good confidence that the housing piece of inflation will get to normal levels, though it may take a year or two
  • The labor market has been surprisingly resilient, it's a good labor market
  • The economy looks like it's in a strong position
  • If we saw inflation surprise to the upside between now and December, that might give us pause
  • Probably not enough time for jobs to surprise on the upside
  • Productivity looks like it's been stronger, which could mean a higher neutral rate
  • If so, we may not cut as much
  • We all agree that we're above neutral now
  • The rise in long-term yields doesn't look like it's about long-term inflation expectations
  • I think we're modestly restrictive right now. I thought we were putting two feet on the brakes but in hindsight we were only putting one foot on the brake
  • My judgement is that we still have a long ways to go in shrinking the balance sheet
  • Ultimately the economy will guide us in terms of how far we need to cut rates

Kashkari is candid and is oftentimes dovish but he sounded less like someone who wants to keep on cutting. His comment about one foot on the brakes was helpful in illustrating how he sees the economy and rates. The interesting discussion is about neutral right now and how close the Fed wants to go. He also touched on a longer timeline to get inflation all the way back to 2% and that should keep the Fed in the high 3s assuming no sharp slowdown in the economy. Of course, the Fed curve is also pricing 3.80% as the terminal rate.

This article was written by Adam Button at www.forexlive.com.




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ECB Interest Rate Forecast: Deutsche Bank's 7 reasons for projecting a lower terminal rate

Deutsche Bank has revised its forecast for the European Central Bank’s (ECB) terminal rate, lowering its central-case projection from 2.25% to 1.50%. The bank now anticipates the ECB’s policy rate will dip slightly below the neutral rate by the end of 2025, rather than returning to neutral by mid-year as previously expected.

This shift in outlook is driven by several factors, including the potential for new tariffs from a Trump administration, which would likely impact trade, along with weaker macroeconomic performance in Europe and the increasing risk of inflation falling below target.

According to Deutsche Bank, the uncertainty surrounding these dynamics is considerable, especially given the unclear timing and effects of U.S. tariffs and potential European responses. Reflecting this uncertainty, the bank has outlined a broad target range of 1.00% to 1.75% for the ECB’s terminal rate.

Deutsche Bank notes that the terminal rate’s trajectory and ultimate level will depend on key influences such as:

  1. European fiscal policy,
  2. the economic health of Germany,
  3. developments in China,
  4. and fluctuations in oil prices.

The bank further suggests that the global economy may be entering a new phase, with Europe potentially experiencing increasingly divergent economic conditions compared to the U.S.

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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PBoC promised stronger damping to support CNY, and that's what are seeing

Justin had the news from the People's Bank of China here on Monday:

The PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng emphasized that the Bank will not let the yuan plummet without a fight:

  • Will step up countercyclical adjustment
  • Should resolutely guard against the risk of exchange rate overshoot

Today is an example of the Bank pushing back on yuan weakness, with the reference rate set 300+ points stronger for the CNY than was expected (in the Reuters model).

Offshore yuan has jumped (lower USD/CNH as shown in the chart below):

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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November financial market seasonals: Japanese FX officials won't want to read this

The election is going to dominate early November trading so making moves based on seasonals is unwise. That said, it's useful to keep them in mind as the dust settles.

  • November is the best month for USD/JPY
  • Best month for the Nasdaq
  • Third-best month for the US dollar
  • The November through February is strong for gold
  • Second-best month for the S&P 500
  • Second-best month for the MSCI world index
  • Second-best month for the German DAX
  • Best month for the Nikkei 225
  • The final month of the seasonal slump for oil. Seasonals neutral in Dec-Jan then strongly positve from Feb-June

Going into last November, the S&P 500 had declined for three straight months but that month marked a turning point as it recouped nearly all the gains in what was the beginning of a five-month rally. This time, we're coming into the month with better momentum, though October was negative for stocks.

This article was written by Adam Button at www.forexlive.com.




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A kickstart look at the EURUSD, USDJPY and GBPUSD from a technical perspective

The USD is higher in trading today as the Trump trade continues. HIgher USD. Higher stocks. Bonds we don't know as the bond market is closed for Veterans Day today. Gold is lower but bitcoin in higher.

In this video, I take a look at the EURUSD, USDJPY and GBPUSD from a technical perspective.

EURUSD: The EURUSD fell below the swing lows from June between 1.0665 to 1.06705. That is below the low from last week at 1.06819. Staying below that area keeps the sellers in control. Absent a move above those levels and the buyers are not winning. ON the downside, the next support comes in at 2024 lows between 1.0600 to 1.06097.

USDJPY: The USDJPY has bounced higher and pushed to the 153.88 level. That level has helped to slow the run higher today. Recall from last week, the price did move above that level and ran to a high of 154.70 on the dollar buying after the Election before the corrective move lower (the price bottomed at the 100 bar MA on the 4-hour chart). So the pair is at a key technical level between support at the 100 bar MA on the 4-hour chart, and the high from last week at 154.70.

GBPUSD:The GBPUSD has seen more up-and-down momentum over the last few weeks of trading. It is trading near the low of that up and down range with 1.2832 to 1.2872 the swing area to get to and through to increase the bearish bias. On the topside gettting back above the low from 3 weeks ago comes in at 1.29065. That would need to be broken to give the buyers more confidence.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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USDCHF trades above and below the 50% midpoint of the move down from the May high

The USDCHF has moved higher in trading today and in the process moved above the swing highs from last week and swing area between 0.8772 to 0.8776. That area is now a close risk and bias-defining level. Staying above is more bullish.

The move above that area today has led to an increase in momentum with the price moving to and through the 50% midpoint of the move down from the Mqy 1 high. That level comes in at 0.87986 (near natural resistance at 0.8800).

The price is in trading above and below that level the last four or so hours of trading with a high price of 0.8804. Also in play on the topside is its 200-day moving average at 0.8817 and a swing area from 0.88187 to 0.88251. Get above those levels would open the door for more upside momentum.

So buyers and sellers are battling it out near the 50% midpoint and below the 200-day moving average. That is natural estranged can defined and limited risk against the technical levels. However, the price were to move above the 200-day moving average, the seller leaning now, should look to cover and push the price higher.

---------------------------------

USDCHF Summary

The USDCHF continues its upward trend, testing the 50% target level at 0.87986.

Key Levels:

Resistance

  • 0.8817 (200-day MA)

  • 0.88187-0.8825 (swing area)

Support

  • 0.8772-0.87763 (last week's highs)

Outlook:

  • Breaking above 0.88187-0.8825 opens door for more upside momentum.

  • Moving below 0.8772-0.87763 gives sellers short-term advantage.

  • Absent a breakdown, buyers remain in control, targeting new highs since July 31.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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USDCAD moves lower after testing ceiling area between 1.3945 and 1.3958

The USDCAD has backed backs off from ceiling area again. That area comes between 1.3945 and 1.3958.

The subsequent move to the downside has the pair heading toward 200 and 100-hour MA support targets at 1.39054 and 1.3898 respectively (green and blue lines on the chart below). A move below that level would target the rising 100 bar moving average on the 4-hour chart at 1.38784. Last week the price fell below that moving average line on two separate occasions only to fail and bounce back to the upside.

If the price were to get above the ceiling area, the 2022 high price comes in at 1.3977. Get above that and the price is trading at the highest level since 2020.

USDCAD Summary

The USDCAD is trending upward, approaching a key swing area between 1.3945-1.39581.

Key Levels:

Resistance

  • 1.3945 to 1.3958. Swing highs over the last 7 trading days (from swing highs from Oct 31, Nov 1, 6, and 7.

  • 1.3977 (2022 high)

Support

  • 1.3905 - 200-hour MA)

  • 1.3898 Rising 100-hour MA

Outlook:

  • Break above 1.3977 targets highest level since 2020.

  • Move below 1.3905 and rising 100-hour MA favors sellers.

  • Otherwise, buyers maintain control, pushing for new highs.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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S&P, Nasdaq and Dow close at new records. Russell 2000 closes just short of a new record

More records are reached today:

  • Dow industrial average closes over 44,000 for the first time ever
  • S&P index closes above the 6000 level the first time ever
  • NASDAQ index closes at a new record level as well

For the Russell 2000 it lasts record close was back on November 8, 2021 at 2442.21. The index closed at 2434.97 after reaching an intraday high of 2441.72 just short of the record closing level.

The final numbers are showing:

  • Dow industrial average +304.14 points or 0.69% at 44293.13
  • S&P index up 5.81 points or 0.10% at 6001.35
  • NASDAQ index is up 11.99 points or 0.06% at 19298.76
  • Russell 2000 up 35.33 points or 1.47% at 2434.97

For the Russell 2000, its high intraday level reached 2458.85 on November 10, 2021. For the year, the Russell 2000 is now up 20.12%. That has now surpassed a down industrial average gain of 17.52%.

The S&P index is now up 25.82% in 2024 while the NASDAQ index is up 28.56%.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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USDJPY Technical Analysis – The US Dollar is back in the driving seat

Fundamental Overview

The puzzling weakness in the US Dollar following Trump’s victory looks more and more like it was just a “sell the fact” reaction. The greenback is now back in the driving seat, and we might also be seeing some pre-positioning into a potentially hot US CPI report tomorrow.

At the latest Fed’s decision, Fed Chair Powell said that they expect bumps on inflation and that one or two bad data months on inflation won’t change the process. This keeps the 25 bps cut in December in place even if we get higher inflation readings.

The market though is forward-looking, and the rise in Treasury yields showed that the market sees risks to the inflation outlook. Moreover, the red sweep could increase those fears if the progress on inflation stalls, or worse, reverses.

USDJPY Technical Analysis – Daily Timeframe

On the daily chart, we can see that USDJPY continues to consolidate above the key 152.00 support zone maintaining a bullish bias. If we were to get another pullback into the support, we can expect the buyers to step in once again to position for a rally into the 160.00 handle. The sellers, on the other hand, will want to see the price breaking lower to pile in for a drop into the 148.00 handle next.

USDJPY Technical Analysis – 4 hour Timeframe

On the 4 hour chart, we can see that we have a minor upward trendline defining the current bullish momentum. The price recently bounced near the trendline and we can expect the buyers to keep leaning on it, while the sellers will look for a break lower to gain more conviction for a bigger correction to the downside.

USDJPY Technical Analysis – 1 hour Timeframe

On the 1 hour chart, we can see that we have a minor support zone around the 153.40 level. This is where the buyers are stepping in with a defined risk below the zone to position for the continuation of the uptrend. The sellers, on the other hand, will want to see the price breaking lower to target a pullback into the trendline. The red lines define the average daily range for today.

Upcoming Catalysts

This week is a bit empty on the data front with the most important releases scheduled for the latter part of the week. Tomorrow, we have the US CPI report. On Thursday, we get the latest US Jobless Claims figures. On Friday, we conclude the week with the US Retail Sales data.

See the video below

This article was written by Giuseppe Dellamotta at www.forexlive.com.




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Bitcoin Technical Analysis – One of the top Trump trades explodes

Fundamental Overview

Bitcoin is now up almost 30% since the election day as the bullish momentum in the cryptocurrency exploded following Trump’s victory. This shouldn’t be surprising given that Trump vowed to make the US the crypto capital of the planet.

Moreover, it looks like the US economy continues not only to do well but also re-accelerating amid the Fed’s easing and the expectations of expansionary fiscal policies like tax cuts and deregulation.

Bitcoin, alongside Dogecoin and stocks like Tesla and Coinbase, have been the top beneficiaries of Trump’s victory given their direct connection to Trump. For now, there’s no real top in sight as we would likely need a contractionary monetary policy or a notable slowdown in the economy.

The risk going forward is the Fed. If the central bank starts to mention the need of more tightening, then we could see some big corrections in all risk assets. That day though looks to be at least a couple of months away for now.

Bitcoin Technical Analysis – Daily Timeframe

On the daily chart, we can see that Bitcoin is now trading near the 90K level. The 100K level is the natural target, something that has been talked about a lot. That doesn’t mean it cannot go any higher than that though. For now, it’s a momentum play and despite the obvious nervousness one can get seeing the euphoria in the air, there’s no negative catalyst in sight that could reverse the trend.

Bitcoin Technical Analysis – 4 hour Timeframe

On the 4 hour chart, we can see that we have an upward trendline defining the current bullish momentum. That’s now far away from the current price and it’s unlikely that we will see a pullback into it in the near term unless we get a very hot US CPI report tomorrow.

If we do get there though, the buyers will likely lean on it to position for a rally into new highs, while the sellers will look for a break lower to increase the bearish bets into the next major trendline around the 75K level.

Bitcoin Technical Analysis – 1 hour Timeframe

On the 1 hour chart, we can see that we have another minor upward trendline defining the bullish momentum on this timeframe. The buyers will likely keep on leaning on it to position for further upside, while the sellers will look for a break lower to increase the bearish bets into the next trendline.

More aggressive buyers, might pile in already on the break of the recent high around the 90K level targeting the 100K level. The red lines define the average daily range for today.

Upcoming Catalysts

This week is a bit empty on the data front with the most important releases scheduled for the latter part of the week. Tomorrow, we have the US CPI report. On Thursday, we get the latest US Jobless Claims figures. On Friday, we conclude the week with the US Retail Sales data.

This article was written by Giuseppe Dellamotta at www.forexlive.com.




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TSLA Stock Technical Analysis – Road to a new all-time high?

Fundamental Overview

TSLA is now up more than 40% since the election day as the bullish momentum in the stock exploded following Trump’s victory. This shouldn’t be surprising given that Elon Musk bet big on Trump and the market is now rewarding it.

It looks like the US economy continues not only to do well but also re-accelerating amid the Fed’s easing and the expectations of expansionary fiscal policies like tax cuts and deregulation. Moreover, the manufacturing cycle might be in the early innings of a growth phase, so those are all positive macro factors for the stock.

Tesla, like Coinbase, Bitcoin and Dogecoin, have been the top beneficiaries of Trump’s victory given their direct connection to Trump. For now, there’s no real top in sight as we would likely need a contractionary monetary policy or a notable slowdown in the economy.

The risk going forward is the Fed. If the central bank starts to mention the need of more tightening, then we could see some big corrections in all risk assets. That day though looks to be at least a couple of months away for now.

TSLA Stock Technical Analysis – Daily Timeframe

On the daily chart, we can see that TSLA broke above the resistance zone around the 270.00 level and exploded higher as Trump’s victory became clear. The stock is now trading around the 359.00 level in pre-market. The target should be the all-time high around the 414.50 level but that doesn’t mean it cannot break through and reach new highs.

TSLA Stock Technical Analysis – 4 hour Timeframe

On the 4 hour chart, we can see that we have an upward trendline defining the current bullish momentum. That’s now far away from the current price and it’s unlikely that we will see a pullback into it in the near term unless we get a very hot US CPI report tomorrow.

If we do get there though, the buyers will likely lean on it to position for a rally into new highs, while the sellers will look for a break lower and below the previous resistance now turned support to increase the bearish bets into new lows.

TSLA Stock Technical Analysis – 1 hour Timeframe

On the 1 hour chart, we can see that we have another minor upward trendline defining the bullish momentum on this timeframe. The buyers will likely keep on bidding the stock up with a defined risk below the trendline, while the sellers will look for a break lower to start targeting a pullback into the next trendline.

Upcoming Catalysts

This week is a bit empty on the data front with the most important releases scheduled for the latter part of the week. Tomorrow, we have the US CPI report. On Thursday, we get the latest US Jobless Claims figures. On Friday, we conclude the week with the US Retail Sales data.

This article was written by Giuseppe Dellamotta at www.forexlive.com.




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GBPUSD Technical Analysis – The US Dollar restarted its run

Fundamental Overview

The puzzling weakness in the US Dollar following Trump’s victory looks more and more like it was just a “sell the fact” reaction. The greenback is now back in the driving seat, and we might also be seeing some pre-positioning into a potentially hot US CPI report tomorrow.

At the latest Fed’s decision, Fed Chair Powell said that they expect bumps on inflation and that one or two bad data months on inflation won’t change the process. This keeps the 25 bps cut in December in place even if we get higher inflation readings.

The market though is forward-looking, and the rise in Treasury yields showed that the market sees risks to the inflation outlook. Moreover, the red sweep could increase those fears if the progress on inflation stalls, or worse, reverses.

On the GBP side, this morning we got the UK labour market report and although the data was mostly mixed, it leant more on the dovish side. Overall though, it didn’t change anything for the market or the BoE.

GBPUSD Technical Analysis – Daily Timeframe

On the daily chart, we can see that GBPUSD broke through the support zone around the 1.2840 level and extended the drop as more sellers piled in. The natural target should be the swing low at 1.2665 level. That’s where we can expect the buyers to step in with a defined risk below the level to position for a rally back into the 1.28 handle.

GBPUSD Technical Analysis – 4 hour Timeframe

On the 4 hour chart, we can see more clearly the break of the support which was defining the range between the 1.2840 support and the 1.3040 resistance. If the price retests the support now turned resistance, we can expect the sellers to step in with a defined risk above the level to position for a drop into the 1.2665 level next. The buyers, on the other hand, will want to see the price breaking higher to position for a rally back into the 1.3040 resistance.

GBPUSD Technical Analysis – 1 hour Timeframe

On the 1 hour chart, we can see that we have a minor downward trendline defining the current bearish momentum. The sellers will likely keep on leaning on it to position for new lows, while the buyers will look for a break higher to pile in for a rally into new highs. The red lines define the average daily range for today.

Upcoming Catalysts

This week is a bit empty on the data front with the most important releases scheduled for the latter part of the week. Tomorrow, we have the US CPI report. On Thursday, we get the latest US Jobless Claims figures. On Friday, we conclude the week with the US Retail Sales data.

This article was written by Giuseppe Dellamotta at www.forexlive.com.




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Kickstart the FX day. A look at the EURUSD, USDJPY and GBPUSD from a technical perspective

In the kickstart video, I take a look at the 3 major currency pairs:

EUR/USD Summary

The EUR/USD continued its downward trend due to concerns over slower economic growth and increased tariffs under President-elect Trump.

Key Points:

  • Initially rose in the Asian session, but sellers took control near 1.0665-1.06703 swing area. That area was the lows from back in June.

  • Staying below the lows from June kept the sellers in control

  • Reached a low of 1.0606, testing April's swing lows and the year's lows (since October 2023). A move below the 1.0600 increases the bearish bias.

  • Buyers may lean against the low as risk can be defined and limited against the level with stops on a break below.

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USD/JPY Summary

The USD/JPY exhibited volatility, with potential bullish signals.

Key Points:

  1. Rose yesterday, then stalled between 153.59-153.88 (swing area).

  2. Found support at 153.397 (61.8% of July's move down).

  3. Broke above 153.88 (bullish signal).

  4. Next targets: 154.54-155.09.

Outlook:

Bullish Scenario

Stay above 153.88, targeting 154.54-155.09.

Bearish Scenario

Move below 153.397 increases short-term bearish bias.

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GBP/USD Summary

The GBP/USD fell, breaking below two-week lows and the 200-day MA.

Key Points:

  1. Broke below last week's low (1.28329) and 200-day MA (1.28178).

  2. Reached 1.27915, then bounced.

  3. Traded above and below 200-day MA.

Outlook:

Bullish Scenario

Move above 1.28329, 1.2844, and 1.2866 (50% of April's move) indicates buyer strength.

Bearish Scenario

Stay below 1.28329 and 1.2844 maintains seller confidence; breaking below 200-day MA again confirms bearish trend.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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USDCAD moved higher in the Asian session but after taking out recent highs rotated lower

The USDCAD moved higher in the Asian session and extended above the highs over the last few weeks between 1.3945 and 1.3958. The high price extended to 1.39664 but fell short of the 2022 high which came in at 1.3977.

The inability to move higher turn the buyers to sellers, and the price has rotated back down toward the close from yesterday's trade where buyers have stalled the fall.

On the downside, the next major target comes against the rising 100 and 200 hour moving averages between 1.3908 and 1.3911. It would take a move below that area to increase the bearish bias with the 100 bar moving average on a four hour chart the next downside target at 1.38868.

On the top side, getting back above 1.3945 and 1.3958 would have traders looking again toward the 2022 high at 1.3977. Get above that level opens the door for further upside potential.

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USDCAD Summary

The USDCAD rose in the Asian session, approaching 2022 highs.

Key Points:

  1. Broke above recent highs (1.3945-1.3958).

  2. Reached 1.39664, shy of 2022 high (1.3977).

  3. Buyers turned sellers, and the price fell.

Outlook:

Bullish Scenario

Move above 1.3945, 1.3958, and 1.3977 confirms further upside.

Bearish Scenario

Break below 1.3908-1.3911 (100/200-hour MA) and 1.38868 (100-bar MA) increases bearish bias.

Levels to Watch:

  • Resistance: 1.3945, 1.3958, 1.3977

  • Support: 1.3908, 1.3911, 1.38868

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.




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Trade ideas thread - Wednesday, 13 November, insightful charts, technical analysis, ideas

Good morning, afternoon and evening all. Any charts, technical analysis, trade ideas, thoughts, views, ForexLive traders would like to share and discuss with fellow ForexLive traders, please do so:

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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Japan PPI (October) +0.2% m/m (expected 0%) and +3.4% y/y (expected +3.0%)

Japanese wholesale prices, the PPI or CGPI:

+0.2% m/m

  • expected 0.0%, prior 0.0%

+3.4% y/y

  • expected +3.0%, prior +2.8%

The higher results will be a bit of a tailwind for the yen, at the margin. Not too much though, there is the huge monetary policy divergence that is weighing on the hapless yen to contend with.

Of note is that renewed yen falls pushed up import costs for some goods

The Bank of Japan is wary of yen weakness pushing up prices, the Bank wants inflation but not like that. The Bank wants inflation coming from wage growth pushing up demand. The Bank has said it'll consider raising rates to help slow or stop the yen decline. But political pressure is on the Bank not to hike until wages are seen rising at the next round of wage negotiations in (Japan's) spring.

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The Producer Price Index (PPI) in Japan is also known as the Corporate Goods Price Index (CGPI)

  • its a measure of the average change over time in the selling prices received by domestic producers for their output
  • is calculated by the Bank of Japan

Unlike the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the price change that consumers see for a basket of goods and services, the CGPI focuses on the change in the prices of goods sold by companies.

The PPI reflects some of cost pressures faced by producers

  • its based on a basket of goods that represents the range of products produced within the Japanese economy, including items such as:
    • raw materials like metals and chemicals
    • semi-finished goods
    • and finished products
    • different weights are assigned to each category within the index based on its contribution to the overall economy.
  • it does not account for the quality improvements in goods and services over time, which might lead to overestimation of inflation
    • additionally, it reflects only the prices of domestically produced goods, leaving out the impact of imported goods

The PPI can be used as a guide to inflationary pressures in the economy:

  • If producers are facing higher costs, they may pass these on to consumers, leading to higher consumer prices.
This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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CreationNetwork.ai Integrates 22+ Tools for Enhanced Digital Engagement

CreationNetwork.ai, a groundbreaking digital platform, today announces its public launch, redefining digital engagement for businesses, content creators, and influencers. As an all-in-one solution for content creation, e-commerce, social media management, and digital marketing, CreationNetwork.ai combines 22+ proprietary AI-powered tools and 29+ platform integrations to deliver the most extensive digital ecosystem available.

Empowering Digital Transformation with 22+ AI-Powered Tools

CreationNetwork.ai’s suite of tools spans every facet of digital engagement, equipping users with powerful AI technologies to streamline operations, engage audiences, and optimize performance. Each tool is meticulously designed to enhance productivity and efficiency, making it easy to create, manage, and analyze content across multiple channels. Key tools include:

  • AI Copywriter: Generates high-quality, unique content for blogs, social media, and business communications.
  • AI Page Maker: Simplifies landing page creation with zero design or coding knowledge.
  • AI Trend Briefs: Provides market insights and trends, positioning users at the forefront of innovation.
  • AI Bot Maker: Creates intelligent chatbots for seamless user interaction and customer support.
  • AI Video Maker: Produces captivating, brand-aligned promotional videos.
  • AI Video Ambassador: Transforms text scripts into spokesperson videos with customizable avatars.
  • AI Voiceovers Studio: Offers lifelike voiceovers in multiple languages and accents.
  • AI SmartVoice Replicator: Clones voices to maintain brand consistency across content.
  • AI Voice Modifier: Enhances voice recordings, elevating audio quality effortlessly.
  • AI SmartTranscriber: Converts audio into text with accuracy, ideal for transcription and subtitles.
  • AI Design Studio: Enables professional-quality graphic creation without design skills.
  • AI BrandMagic: Instantly creates essential brand assets like logos and business cards.
  • AI Banners: Tailors banners for digital platforms and campaigns.
  • Art Academy - Image Genius: Allows text-to-image transformation, animations, and editing with AI.
  • Social Metrics Analytics: Offers detailed insights on social media performance metrics.
  • Social SmartEngagement: Increases engagement through targeted AI-driven insights.
  • Social PublishMaster: Automates social publishing with optimized timing and platform synchronization.
  • Social Listen Monitor: Tracks brand mentions and audience sentiment across social media.
  • Social Automation Optimize: Automates repetitive tasks, improving workflow and engagement.
  • Social CollaborationPro: Fosters team collaboration, managing content creation and approval processes.
  • AI & Automation: Integrates AI-driven insights across content creation, engagement, and analytics.
  • Team-Powered Branding: Amplifies brand messaging through employee advocacy.

Each of these tools is designed to optimize digital engagement, reduce manual workload, and enable users to focus on impactful, strategic actions. CreationNetwork.ai’s suite harnesses the transformative power of AI and blockchain, fostering both creativity and precision.

Comprehensive Integration Network: 29+ Platform Connections for Maximum Reach

One of the most distinguishing features of CreationNetwork.ai is its extensive integration network. With over 29 integrations, users can synchronize their digital activities across major social media, e-commerce, and content platforms, providing centralized management and engagement capabilities.

Social Media Integrations: Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, YouTube, WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and Snapchat.

E-commerce Integrations: Google Business Profile, Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, BigCommerce, Ecwid, and Wix Commerce, supporting online retailers with seamless inventory and order management.

Content Creation Integrations: Canva, Grammarly, Airtable, Zapier, Make, Adobe Express, Unsplash, Giphy, Pexels, Pixabay, and Dropbox allow users to access resources for content creation and file management without leaving the CreationNetwork.ai platform.

This integration network empowers users to manage their brand presence across platforms from a single, unified dashboard, significantly enhancing efficiency and reach.

Community Incentives: CRNT Token Airdrop and ICO Whitelisting

In preparation for its Initial Coin Offering (ICO), CreationNetwork.ai is launching a $750,000 CRNT Token Airdrop to reward early supporters and incentivize participation in the CreationNetwork.ai ecosystem. Qualified participants can secure their position by following CreationNetwork.ai’s social media accounts and completing the whitelist form available on the official website. This initiative highlights CreationNetwork.ai’s commitment to building a strong, engaged community.

CreationNetwork.ai: The Future of Digital Content and Marketing

CreationNetwork.ai is also a comprehensive digital ecosystem for businesses, creators, and marketers. Combining the power of AI and blockchain, CreationNetwork.ai redefines how users manage their digital presence, from crafting content to engaging with audiences across diverse channels. Its suite of tools, extensive integrations, and commitment to community-building make CreationNetwork.ai a leading solution for digital transformation.

“CreationNetwork.ai is built to set a new benchmark in digital engagement,” said Ali Demir, CEO of CreationNetwork.ai. “We’re providing creators and businesses with an all-encompassing solution that combines innovative AI, deep platform integrations, and automation. Our platform is truly one of a kind, empowering users to harness the full potential of digital technology.”

About CreationNetwork.ai

CreationNetwork.ai (https://creationnetwork.ai/) is a leader in AI-driven content creation, social media management, and e-commerce solutions, leveraging blockchain technology to empower its users with advanced digital engagement tools. Through a broad spectrum of AI tools and extensive integrations, CreationNetwork.ai is dedicated to transforming the way brands, businesses, and creators connect with audiences in an ever-evolving digital world.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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FP Markets Secures Three Major Honours at the Inaugural Finance Magnates Annual Award Gala

Australian-founded broker FP Markets further cemented its position as a market leader, winning ‘Most Trusted Broker - Global’, ‘Broker of the Year - Asia’, and ‘Fastest Growing Broker - LATAM’ at the inaugural Finance Magnates Annual Award (FMAA) Gala. The event was held on Wednesday, 23 October, at the Lemon Park Venue in Nicosia, Cyprus.

Powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), the FMAAs ‘celebrate the highest levels of innovation and excellence across fintech, Forex, payments, and trading platforms’. The winners were determined through a dual process: online voting accessible to industry professionals and the global trading community, and a distinguished panel of judges. Notably, global multi-asset Forex and CFD broker FP Markets was the only company to take home three FMAAs on the night.

FP Markets’ Global Head of Marketing, Andria Phiniefs, commented: ‘Being nominated along with some of the industry’s biggest names is a tremendous honour in itself. Winning three awards through votes from the global trading community and industry stakeholders marks a significant accomplishment for our team. This recognition inspires us to continue to pursue our mission, which we embarked on nearly twenty years ago: to be the preferred and most trusted broker for traders worldwide’.

FP Markets continues to leverage opportunities beyond existing markets, while maintaining a consistent standard of product and service quality for its clients globally. As part of the broker’s twentieth anniversary next year, the investing community can also expect further trading technology advancements and updates.

About FP Markets:

● FP Markets is a Multi-Regulated Forex and CFD Broker with over 19 years of industry experience.

● The company offers highly competitive interbank Forex spreads starting from 0.0 pips.

● Traders can choose from leading powerful online trading platforms, including FP Markets’ Mobile App, MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, WebTrader, cTrader, Iress and TradingView.

● The company's outstanding 24/7 multilingual customer service has been recognised by Investment Trends and awarded ‘The Highest Overall Client Satisfaction Award’ over five consecutive years.

● FP Markets was awarded ‘Best Value Broker - Global’ for six consecutive years (2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) at the Global Forex Awards.

● FP Markets was awarded the ‘Best Broker – Europe’ and the ‘Best Forex Partners Programme – Asia’ at the Global Forex Awards (2022, 2023, 2024).

● FP Markets was awarded ‘Best Trade Execution’, and ‘Most Trusted Broker’ and ‘Best Trade Execution’ at the Ultimate Fintech Awards in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

● FP Markets was crowned ‘Best CFD Broker - Africa’ at the 2023 FAME Awards.

● FP Markets was awarded ‘Best Trade Execution’ and ‘Most Transparent Broker’ at the Ultimate Fintech Awards APAC 2023.

● FP Markets was awarded the ‘Best Price Execution’ at the Brokersview Awards 2024, Singapore.

● FP Markets was awarded the ‘Best Trading Experience - Africa’ at the FAME Awards 2024.

● FP Markets was awarded ‘Most Transparent Broker’ and ‘Best Trading Conditions’ at the Global Ultimate Fintech Awards 2024.

● FP Markets was awarded ‘Best Forex Spreads APAC’ and ‘Best Trading Experience APAC’ at the 2024 Finance Magnates Pacific Summit.

● FP Markets regulatory presence includes the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) of South Africa, the Financial Services Commission (FSC) of Mauritius, the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC), the Securities Commission of the Bahamas (SCB), and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) of Kenya.

For more information on FP Markets' comprehensive range of products and services, visit https://www.fpmarkets.com/

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Deribit and SignalPlus Launch $200,000 Winter Trading Competition

Deribit, the world’s premier Bitcoin and Ethereum options exchange, in partnership with SignalPlus, a leading options trading dashboard and analytics hub, is excited to unveil the second edition of the Winter Trading Competition 2024.

This year's competition offers participants a $200,000 USDC prize pool, along with various prizes such as iPhones, PlayStation 5s, and other rewards. Additionally, participants will benefit from valuable learning opportunities and insightful trading sessions designed to enhance their skills and strategies, making this the biggest and most rewarding crypto trading contest of the year.

The Winter Trading Competition 2024 is open to all retail participants who utilize their Deribit accounts to trade cryptocurrency options, futures and spot on the SignalPlus platform. Registrations are open and will remain open until December 9th 2024. The competition begins today November 4th to December 9th, 2024, spanning 35 days of intense trading action.

US Election Registration Bonus As an added incentive, traders who register by November 5 will receive a US Election Option, available as part of a limited-time bonus. Registrations remain open until December 9, 2024.

Luuk Strijers, Chief Executive Officer at Deribit, “We’re thrilled to launch the second edition of our trading competition in collaboration with SignalPlus. Following the remarkable success of last year’s iteration, we are excited to raise the bar even higher this time. The growth and enthusiasm we witnessed have inspired us to expand the competition, offering even more opportunities for participants to showcase and expand their skills.”

Competition Highlights:

  • Prizes and Rewards: Compete in both individual and team categories, with special bonuses for team leaders and daily prize draws.
  • Referral Program: Up to 10,000 USDC in rewards is available through a referral program for inviting others to register and trade on Deribit.
  • Sign-Up Incentives : Bonuses are available for all registrations, first trades, and inviting friends, with participants eligible for prizes that range from cash rewards to tech products.
  • Luxury and Variety: Participants have the chance to win various rewards, including iPhone 16s, iPads, Apple Watches, cash prizes in USDC, and travel to Thailand.
  • Prestigious Recognition: Top individual winners will earn honorary certificates, while winning teams will take home trophies.
  • Learning opportunities: Participants will also gain access to six master-level options AMAs (Ask Me Anything sessions) and Deribit’s product training hosted by industry experts, available absolutely free. These sessions are designed to elevate trading skills.

Chris Yu, Co-Founder of SignalPlus, added: “We’re excited to collaborate with Deribit on this landmark trading competition. At SignalPlus, our mission is to enhance the trading experience through innovation, and this event reflects that commitment. By combining our advanced technology with Deribit’s robust platform, we’re offering participants an unparalleled opportunity to engage with crypto options in fresh, dynamic ways, pushing the boundaries of strategy and skill.”

Competition Rules and Rewards:

  • Individual Race: Individual participants will compete through semi-final and final stages, with prizes awarded to the top 35 traders. The highest-ranking trader will earn up to 5,000 USDC.
  • Team Contest: The top five teams will win prizes ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 USDC. Additionally, each day for 35 days, one team member will win a luxurious trip to Thailand.
  • Daily Draws: For 35 consecutive days, 111 lucky participants will win cash rewards daily.
  • Daily Lucky Ranks: Every day, 9 special traders will receive prizes ranging from 10 to 300 USDC.
  • Extra Incentives: Over 10,000 bonus prizes are available for registering, inviting friends, and making your first trade – the rewards keep flowing!

Key Details:

  • Prize Pool: 200,000 USDC.
  • Registration Period: October 23rd – December 9th, 2024.
  • Competition Period: November 4th – December 9th, 2024.

Seize the opportunity to compete with top traders globally and start your journey toward exciting prizes today!

About Deribit

Deribit (https://www.deribit.com/) is a centralized, institutional-grade crypto derivatives exchange for options and futures trading. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, Deribit offers instantaneous price discovery, low-latency trading, advanced risk mitigation services, and deep liquidity through a network of top-tier market makers. Led by a team with decades of experience in options trading across all markets, Deribit facilitates a significant majority of all crypto options trading and adheres to robust proof of assets and liabilities procedures to ensure the highest standards.

About SignalPlus

SignalPlus provides a world-class options trading dashboard that covers risk tracking, profit/loss attribution, strike and theta analysis. Users can execute multi-legged orders with embedded algorithms to minimize slippage and conduct in-depth profit/loss and exposure assessments using simulation tools and scenario analysis. SignalPlus also automates delta hedging across varying market conditions and offers real-time trade notifications through Telegram, empowering traders with the insights and tools needed for successful trading.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Xlence Sets New Standard in Online Trading

With its recent launch, Xlence is quickly positioning itself as a promising option in the online trading world. This new platform emphasizes transparency, education, and accessibility, aiming to make trading a simpler and more empowering experience for users.

In a recent announcement, Xlence laid out its mission to provide traders with a supportive and versatile environment, underpinned by advanced technology and a diverse selection of trading instruments. This approach shows a clear focus on catering to both experienced traders and newcomers, offering tools, resources, and tailored support.

A Wide Array of Trading Options to Suit All Investors

One of the company’s standout features is its broad range of trading options, which includes Forex, metals, indices, commodities, futures, and shares. With this variety, Xlence caters to traders looking to diversify their portfolios and explore different strategies, allowing them to adapt their trades according to shifting market conditions.

To support this flexibility, Xlence offers four unique account types—Essential, Prime, Deluxe, and Ultimate—each designed to suit different trading styles and levels of expertise. Through this segmentation, Xlence ensures that all traders, from beginners to seasoned investors, can access features aligned with their goals, trading preferences, and risk tolerance.

The platform also highlights its low spreads, flexible leverage, and fast trade execution, all critical features that give traders an edge in fast-paced markets. Xlence appears focused on streamlining the user experience, particularly when it comes to managing funds.

With a seamless approach to deposits and withdrawals, Xlence aims to make financial transactions straightforward, reflecting the platform’s commitment to providing a hassle-free and user-centered trading experience.

Emphasizing Education and Support for a Global Clientele

The broker’s emphasis on education and support reflects a strong understanding of what traders need to succeed. The platform offers a comprehensive suite of educational resources, designed to benefit both new and experienced traders.

These resources range from beginner-friendly tutorials to advanced insights into market trends and trading techniques. By providing traders with access to these learning tools, Xlence shows it understands that successful trading requires a continuous process of learning and skill development.

Beyond education, Xlence also offers extensive support to its users, showing a notable commitment to accessibility for traders worldwide. With customer service available in over 15 languages, the platform is well-prepared to assist a diverse client base.

This multilingual support underscores the broker’s global perspective, ensuring that traders from various backgrounds can find guidance in their preferred language, which can be especially valuable in navigating complex trading environments. The approach indicates Xlence’s awareness of the varied needs of its clients and highlights its focus on creating a trading environment where users feel valued and supported.

In a highly competitive online trading market, Xlence’s balanced approach to technology, user education, and support sets it apart. The platform’s attention to providing versatile trading options, combined with its dedication to education and global support, suggests that Xlence is well-positioned to become a trusted name in the industry.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Jambo and Lif3 Partner to Make Crypto Payments Accessible to Millions in Emerging Markets

Jambo, a leading builder of web3 mobile infrastructure, today announced its partnership with Lif3, the revolutionary omni-chain DeFi Layer-1 ecosystem, to offer millions of Jambo phone users in over 120 countries, with easier access to peer-to-peer crypto payments through the Lif3 mobile app.

Founded by serial entrepreneur and web3 investor Harry Yeh, Lif3’s strategic collaboration merges its innovative DeFi ecosystem with Jambo’s expertise in mobile technology tailored for emerging economies, facilitating developing countries’ access to the world’s financial market.

Emerging markets face unique challenges that require innovative solutions for real problems. In regions like Africa, where 57% of the ~1.5bn population remains unbanked and 50% without access to a smartphone, the collaboration between Jambo and Lif3 is designed to address these issues by providing secure, user-friendly access to real-time crypto payments.

This initiative will empower millions by facilitating enhanced connectivity, improved security, and streamlined access to digital financial services. Additionally, the Lif3 mobile app will be pre-installed on the JamboPhone, complemented by quests and educational programs to help users familiarize themselves with the new technology while earning rewards.

Speaking about the partnership, Harry Yeh, Managing Director of Quantum FinTech Group, said, “Lif3 is committed to unlocking financial opportunities for everyone, everywhere. By partnering with Jambo, we’re simplifying access to decentralized financial solutions, including crypto payments and AI-integrated solutions. This is a pivotal step toward bridging economic gaps and transforming lives in emerging markets.” Adding to this, James Zhang, co-founder of Jambo said, “In many regions across emerging markets, an entire family shares one smartphone and a family member can only use it for a few hours a day. Owning a JamboPhone opens up new possibilities–like discovering a new life. By embedding Lif3 directly within the Jambo ecosystem, we're making it easier than ever for users in emerging markets to safely and efficiently engage with the digital economy. The integration of Lif3 into the JamboPhone is a game-changer for crypto payments, opening new pathways to economic participation that were previously unimaginable.”

The partnership will feature pre-installed Lif3 apps on all JamboPhones globally, allowing users to get their crypto wallet instantaneously and engage in a host of DeFi features integrated within the Lif3 ecosystem. The initiative also plans to include educational programs to assist new users in navigating the web3 space safely and becoming savvy digital citizens.

The Jambo and Lif3 collaboration not only enhances access to digital technologies but also paves the way for financial inclusion in regions where traditional banking has been out of reach. This initiative directly targets the gap in financial services, aiming to bring the unbanked into the economic fold and ignite economic growth from the ground up.

About Jambo

Jambo (https://jambophone.xyz/) – The Most Globally Distributed DePIN Smartphone. Jambo's vision is to bring emerging markets on-chain through building the largest web3 mobile infrastructure network. Jambo is backed by investors globally, including Paradigm, Tiger Global, Pantera, Delphi and more.

Jambo is onboarding the next billion users to web3 with the JamboPhone 2, a premiere web3 Android smartphone starting at only $99 preloaded with the world of web3 at their fingertips. The Jambo Ecosystem is preinstalled on the phone and features web3 mobile games, wallets, payment infrastructure, and more.

About Lif3

Lif3.com is revolutionizing the blockchain industry with its omni-chain DeFi ecosystem and curated Layer-1 blockchain. The self-custody Lif3 Wallet, available on the App Store and Google Play, empowers users by unlocking the full potential of Web3, transforming consumer DeFi, Gaming, iGaming, music, entertainment, and more. $LIF3 is currently listed on Bitfinex, Bitmart, and MEXC.

About Quantum Fintech Group

Quantum Fintech Group is a private investment group founded in 2020, and is focused on providing superior returns in the alternative asset space focusing specifically on blockchain investments.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Polkadot and SP Negócios Collaborate to Enhance Crypto Economy Development

SP Negócios, São Paulo’s investment and export promotion agency, has partnered with Polkadot to foster innovation among companies in São Paulo.

Driven by the growing market demand, Polkadot is increasingly positioning itself as an ally for businesses looking to grow in an innovative, secure, and transparent way. It has been sponsoring educational initiatives through Código Brazuca. Thanks to this, companies and citizens in São Paulo will have access to blockchain programming training through Código Brazuca's content starting in December. This will be possible through the partnership established with Polkadot / Sunset Labs and São Paulo’s investment and export promotion agency, SP Negócios.

“The partnership between Polkadot and SP Negócios will contribute to the training of Blockchain Programmers and is open to bringing technology to companies in São Paulo, whether they are startups, small and medium-sized enterprises, or large corporations seeking to invest in or adopt the technology,” says Gustavo J. Massena, Decentralized Business Developer at Polkadot.

The program is free and will be available online, open to companies in São Paulo. Registrations will soon be available through SP Negócios, and no prior qualifications are required.

The partnership with Polkadot is part of SP Negócios’s strategy to boost the business environment within the crypto economy sector, reinforcing São Paulo as a hub of technology and innovation. Blockchain plays a transformative role in various areas, including decentralized finance, asset tokenization, NFTs, and more. By promoting the training of qualified professionals, SP Negócios seeks to attract investments, foster new startups, and solidify the city as a reference in adopting and developing blockchain-based solutions.

About SP Negócios

SP Negócios (https://spnegocios.com/) is an autonomous social service aimed at boosting investments and business in São Paulo. It is linked to the Municipal Secretariat of Economic Development and Employment. The goal is to help São Paulo-based companies conduct more business through exports, innovation and technology, public sector engagement, and improvement of the business environment.

About Polkadot

Polkadot is an open-source, multichain sharing protocol that facilitates the transfer of any type of data or asset, not just tokens, between networks, making a wide range of blockchains interoperable.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Who stands to gain from the rise of AI?

Last week, the tech giants — Apple, Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta — released their quarterly reports, which showed steady revenue and profit growth across the board, pretty much in line with previous ones.

However, except for the results of Jeff Bezos’ company and Amazon stock, the investors were not “fully satisfied.” Mixed forecasts for the next quarter and expected spending were of concern, especially in AI.

Although companies are confident in AI's enormous potential, developing and building the infrastructure to support it is proving costly, and results continue to fall short of expectations.

Right now, the biggest beneficiaries of the AI boom are similar to those in the gold rush — the ones supplying the tools. In today’s terms, that means essential hardware and cloud service providers.

For example, Microsoft Cloud quarterly revenue grew 22% year-over-year to $38.9 billion, with Azure and other cloud services experiencing a 33% increase, about 12% of which was driven by AI services.

Amazon's AWS, in turn, generated $27.4 billion in Q3. Although slightly below expectations, growth in this segment remains strong at 19% (up from 12% last year), underscoring the growing demand for it.

Chipmakers, which drive these AI advances, are also experiencing huge gains. Leading the way is Nvidia, which recently surpassed Apple in market capitalization to become the world's most valuable company.

Taiwan's TSMC, a major chip supplier to giants such as Nvidia, Apple, and AMD, is also thriving. TSMC's technology powers leading-edge products in smartphones and advanced computing systems.

TSMC's third-quarter revenue rose 36% to $23.5 billion, while net profit soared 54.2% to $10.1 billion. Revenue from high-performance computing chips now accounts for 16% of the company's profit.

Who else benefits from the AI boom?

The list is not short: data centers, telcos, and networking companies are all reaping benefits, as are mining companies, driven by increased demand for metals and materials for chips and electronics.

Another big beneficiary could be the energy sector. Following the rise of AI tools such as ChatGPT, the UAE's Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology noted that global energy demand is expected to double.

Apparently, a single ChatGPT query requires ten times more energy than a Google search. As AI usage increases, so will the need for more data centers that do not run on air.

The minister expects a seven-fold increase in the use of solar and wind power, at least a 65% increase in demand for LNG, and a continued reliance on oil for fuel and other products.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Dukascopy Bank Celebrates 20 Years of Innovation and Stability in Trading and Banking

Since its founding in 2004, Dukascopy has grown into a trusted, innovative leader in the fintech and online trading space, providing clients with advanced tools and a stable platform for smart financial decisions.

Over the past 20 years, Dukascopy has reached major milestones that reflect its core values of stability, innovation, and putting clients first. From its proprietary JForex platform to the popular MT4 and MT5, Dukascopy offers a variety of trading platforms along with modern neo-banking services for both individuals, businesses, and institutions. The bank has also led the way in technology upgrades with White Label and banking-as-a-platform solutions.

As Dr.Andre Duka, Dukascopy’s founder, says, "Innovation has always been at the heart of what we do. We aim to continue delivering these high standards into the future. Thank you, our clients, for choosing us for these 20 years."

Currently, Dukascopy (https://dukascopy.click/agw) proudly serves over 400,000 clients across both trading and banking services. This commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions, backed by Swiss-grade stability, has allowed the company to maintain long-term relationships with clients, many of whom have been trading and banking with Dukascopy for decades.

As the company looks toward the future, Dukascopy remains focused on empowering traders and banking clients, expecting significant growth of its client base across all segments, from trading to neo-banking, corporate to white-label services.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Rekt Raises $1.5M Seed Round Backed by Angels and Community

Rekt Brands Inc. (Rekt), the parent company behind the Rektguy NFT project, Rekt Drinks, and the Rekt brand intellectual property, is excited to announce the completion of a $1.5 million seed funding round. Funded exclusively by angel investors and the community—without institutional venture capital—this achievement highlights the support Rekt received from its loyal and growing network.

This funding announcement follows the debut of Rekt Drinks, Rekt’s first consumer product: a lime-flavored sparkling water with zero caffeine and zero alcohol, featuring the Rekt branding. Rekt Drinks made its debut last week with 222,456 units available across 32 countries. The entire stock sold out in under 48 hours, with demand in the U.S. alone resulting in a complete sell-out within just 4 hours and 20 minutes. This launch represents one of the largest real-world product sales by a Web3 brand, reinforcing Rekt’s potential as a cultural force in both digital and traditional markets.

Rekt was founded from the success of the Rektguy NFT collection, created by artist Ovie Faruq (OSF) in May 2022. Since then, the Rektguy project has expanded into Rekt Brands, which oversees the Rekt IP and pioneered a unique industry model by offering equity in the parent company directly to its NFT holders, utilizing a Reg CF exemption under SEC guidelines in the U.S.

“Rekt has had a die-hard, cult-like community for the past 2 years, and our ambition is to fulfill its potential as one of the largest Web3 brands,” said OSF. “With the sell-out of our drinks last week, that’s 222,456 times someone is going to pick up a can with the Rekt logo and a Rektguy on it. It’s a magnitude higher for us in terms of brand awareness.”

With this new funding, Rekt is poised to expand its product lineup, strengthen its brand awareness in and outside of Web3, while further bridging digital culture with physical consumer products. The Rekt community remains at the heart of the brand’s mission, with upcoming projects that will continue to empower, engage, and reward its dedicated supporters.

About Rekt

Rekt Brands Inc. (https://x.com/rektbrands) is the parent company that owns the Rektguy NFT project, Rekt Drinks, and the Rekt brand intellectual property. Established from the success of the Rektguy NFT collection by artist Ovie Faruq (OSF), the brand has expanded into consumer goods and groundbreaking community equity models. Rekt aims to redefine brand ownership and engagement through its Web3 foundation, innovative products, and viral global community.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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The importance of market timing: MSTR stock case study

The MSTR chart is a perfect example of the importance of market timing. The MSTR stock did nothing for almost two decades! Imagine investing in it early and waiting 20 years to get a return.

If you want to have conviction in your ideas, you need to know what moves your stocks and position for that change. In the book “The New Market Wizards”, Stanley Druckenmiller said this in response to the question of how he evaluates stocks:

“When I first started out, I did very thorough papers covering every aspect of a stock or industry. Before I could make the presentation to the stock selection committee, I first had to submit the paper to the research director."

"I particularly remember the time I gave him my paper on the banking industry. I felt very proud of my work. However, he read through it and said, This is useless. What makes the stock go up and down? That comment acted as a spur."

"Thereafter, I focused my analysis on seeking to identify the factors that were strongly correlated to a stock's price movement as opposed to looking at all the fundamentals. Frankly, even today, many analysts still don't know what makes their particular stocks go up and down.”

His number one advice? Do not invest in the present. The present does not move stock prices. Change moves them.

MicroStrategy is basically a Bitcoin play, so you just need to know where Bitcoin is going to trade MSTR stock. No valuation analysis needed.

The catalyst for the latest rally? Trump's victory.

This is why waiting for the right catalysts is paramount. Not only does it tell you WHEN to trade, but it also gives you an IMMEDIATE feedback on whether you are right or wrong. That helps with knowing when to bet more and when to get out to keep your drawdown low.

This article was written by Giuseppe Dellamotta at www.forexlive.com.




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AMEGA Launches the Lucky Deposit Draw – Your Chance to Win Every Month!

Introduction to Amega

Amega is a multi-award-winning global financial broker, authorized, licensed, and regulated by the Mauritius Financial Services Commission under investment license No. GB22200548. Its mission is to make trading simple and accessible to traders of all levels and backgrounds, through the introduction of new technologies, groundbreaking innovations, and a client-first mentality. Amega prides itself on providing a safe and transparent trading environment, allowing investors to trade a variety of assets with unparalleled ease of mind.

The Lucky Deposit draw

Amega’s Lucky Deposit Draw is here to give traders a monthly boost!

Participating is simple! All you need to do is make a minimum deposit of $50 during the month and have an active trading history with Amega. Once you're eligible, you'll be entered into the lucky draw, where 5 lucky traders will walk away with incredible monetary prizes that can be used to trade or be withdrawn as physical cash.

What are the prizes?

1st winner: $100 2nd winner: $80 3rd winner: $60 4th winner: $40 5th winner: $20

Every month, there’s a fresh chance to boost your trading capital or cash out — it’s up to you! The Lucky Deposit Draw is your monthly opportunity to win, and Amega is here to make sure you have the chance to get ahead. No complicated requirements – just trade, deposit, and win!

Ready to make this month your lucky month?

Sign up today, create your account in seconds, make your deposit, and get in on the draw!

Visit amega.finance to learn more about Amega and its many benefits, such as the Loyalty Cashback Program which offers volume-based cash rewards for every single trade, regardless of the market direction. Good Luck!

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Warped Games Announces Official Partnership with Mysten Labs to build on Sui

Warped Games, an indie game studio consisting of web3 and veteran game developers who have a legacy in creating player-focused games like LEGO Universe, Jumpgate, and Dragons and Titans, is on a mission to onboard millions of players to expand the Warped Universe, an immersive blockchain-powered game where players’ actions and decisions shape the environment and influence each season’s direction. After extensive exploration, Warped Games selected Sui as the blockchain to support this ambitious vision, thanks to its player-friendly approach and innovations in the Move language.

The announcement of Warped Games becoming an official partner with Mysten Labs arrives at a pivotal moment for blockchain gaming. With games like "Off The Grid" making strides toward mainstream adoption, this new collaboration marks another significant step in expanding blockchain gaming’s reach to a wider audience.

James Wing, Head of AAA Gaming Partnerships for Mysten Labs, commented on the official partnership: "Warped Games embodies what is exciting about this industry - founders and products that are built with passion to boldly address the wants of modern gamers. We are tremendously excited to partner with our friends at Warped and aid them in their journey to pioneer a new age of games on Sui."

Warped Universe: Empowering Players

Player empowerment is at the core of Warped Universe’s design. Here, players will be able to engage in PvE action in single-player or co-op mode, with an innovative multi-genre design giving players the flexibility to choose between turn-based or real-time genres across both ground and space gameplay. Players will also get to choose missions that influence the broader “meta-game,” affecting the balance of light and gravity for all, leading to wild and chaotic scenarios as each season aims to build a unique solar system in the Universe. This level of control redefines what it means to participate in a player-driven virtual world.

Breaking Barriers to Blockchain Accessibility

One of the largest obstacles facing blockchain adoption today is its intimidating complexity for newcomers. Traditional blockchain experiences involve managing seed phrases, navigating wallets, high fees, slow speed, and unfriendly, often intimidating transactions—barriers that can alienate potential users. Sui’s design eliminates these hurdles by offering a seamless, user-friendly blockchain experience required by games like Warped Universe, aiming to appeal to a mainstream gaming audience.

With Sui’s zkLogin feature, players can access the blockchain and create wallets using familiar credentials, like passkeys or existing logins, removing the need for seed phrases and technical know-how. For those who prefer greater control, Warped Universe will also allow players to connect their own self-custodied wallets, giving them the option to manage their assets independently. This accessibility empowers users to focus on what matters most—the game experience itself.

Enhanced NFT Utility with Move

Sui’s Move language and object model empower Warped Universe to create NFTs that go beyond static assets, offering dynamic, context-rich tokens that evolve with each player’s journey. Sui treats each asset as an individual, on-chain object with unique IDs and customizable fields, allowing NFTs to reflect player progression and deepen in-game immersion.

Innovations extend to the use of closed-loop tokens for in-game purchases and season pass NFTs, which act as "time capsules", allowing players to revisit exclusive content from past seasons. With each season in Warped Universe serving as a self-contained story arc, these season passes aren’t just NFTs—they’re gateways to the game’s evolving history, creating lasting value and enhancing player ownership.

Kiosk: Marketplace Re-Imagined

Kiosk is a decentralized system designed for commerce applications on the Sui network, similar to traditional markets where vendors sell goods or services from small, standalone booths. Just like in those markets, where individual sellers operate their own kiosks, owning the products on display and managing their own sales, with Kiosk, shared objects are owned by individual parties who store assets and may list them for sale as well as utilizing custom trading functionality, such as royalties and the ability to rent assets.

Walrus: Re-Defining Digital Ownership in Warped Universe

As Warped Universe expands, decentralized storage will play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and accessibility of in-game assets. Mysten Labs’ Walrus protocol is set to support this need, providing a secure and efficient way to store raw data and media files—such as images, audio, video, and other game assets—at low cost without compromising performance. Unlike traditional NFTs, which often store metadata off-chain on platforms like IPFS or AWS, Walrus enables both the NFT and its metadata to be stored in a decentralized manner. This integration introduces new ways for players in Warped Universe to experience genuine ownership of their digital assets, giving them the ability to store in-game captures or statistics, and creating a more immersive and reliable player-driven experience.

High Performance, Scalability, and Environmental Responsibility

In Warped Universe, players aren’t just playing a game; they’re building and defending entire solar systems each season, with their achievements and digital assets minted and transacted on-chain in the background. This model requires a blockchain capable of handling high transaction volumes both efficiently and affordably. Sui’s high throughput and low transaction costs make this possible, providing fast, cost-effective, and seamless on-chain transactions that support a robust gaming economy.

Sui also prioritizes environmental sustainability by using a delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS) consensus model rather than energy-intensive proof-of-work. With its efficient Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) architecture, Sui can process large transaction volumes with minimal environmental impact—aligning perfectly with Warped Games’ vision of a sustainable, responsible gaming ecosystem.

“With Sui, we can create an immersive, evolving on-chain gaming ecosystem where players can own, modify, and evolve assets without compromising the gaming experience,” said Adam Straney, Managing Director at Warped Games. “This approach lets us build an interconnected universe on a blockchain that’s fast, scalable, and environmentally responsible, supporting our vision of an accessible, seamless player-owned economy. Gamers can focus on having fun, with blockchain as a supportive tool rather than the centerpiece."

Looking Ahead with Warped Universe and Sui

Currently, the blockchain element in Warped Universe is the $WARPED token, an ERC-20 token designed to give holders a voice in game design, seasonal voting, discounts, potential rewards, and exclusives. While specific plans for the token’s future are yet to be announced, the Warped Universe team is committed to keeping current holders top of mind as they explore expanding to the Sui blockchain. Plans for the WARPED token, on-chain assets, skins, seasonal passes, and other elements will be shared in due time—stay tuned for updates.

As Warped Universe continues to develop, the teams at Warped Games and Mysten Labs are dedicated to working closely together to explore practical blockchain integration in games, enhancing player ownership, scalability, and immersive gameplay. Together, through Warped Universe and the Sui blockchain, they’re building a unique, player-driven experience that showcases the future of blockchain gaming.

About Warped Games

Warped Games (https://warped.games/) is an indie game studio dedicated to creating immersive, player-driven gaming experiences with a focus on blockchain integration. Known for pushing the boundaries of web3 technology, the team behind Warped Games combines industry veterans from both gaming and tech to bring innovative worlds like Warped Universe to life.

About Mysten Labs

Mysten Labs is a technology company focused on advancing blockchain infrastructure to support next-generation applications. Founded by experts in distributed systems, Mysten Labs developed the Sui blockchain, a high-performance, user-friendly platform designed to make blockchain technology accessible and scalable for mainstream audiences.

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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LiteFinance Becomes the Official Trading Partner of Leicester City Football Club

LiteFinance has entered into a multi-year partnership with Premier League football club Leicester City as their Official Trading Partner.

We are excited to announce that LiteFinance has entered into a multi-year partnership with Premier League football club Leicester City as their Official Trading Partner. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for LiteFinance as we expand our presence into the world of sports, aligning our brand with one of England’s most admired football clubs. Leicester City Football Club is pleased to confirm LiteFinance as its new Official Trading Partner.

Established in 2005, LiteFinance has grown into a leading online broker, offering high-speed trading services in 29 international languages. Our platform is designed to empower clients with financial freedom, providing access to a comprehensive range of trading instruments in the currency, commodity, stock, and agricultural markets. Through this partnership, we aim to bring our innovative, accessible trading solutions to a broader audience, enhancing the experience for both our clients and Leicester City’s global fanbase. Shared Values and Vision Both LiteFinance and Leicester City share a commitment to excellence, innovation, and a global outlook. The Foxes have a significant following, particularly in Southeast Asia, where they enjoy one of the largest social media reach outside of the Premier League’s traditional top six clubs. This partnership will allow LiteFinance to engage with new audiences and create memorable experiences for football fans and our clients alike. Visibility and Engagement As part of this partnership, LiteFinance will benefit from extensive brand visibility, including pitch-facing LED advertising, logo placements on interview backdrops, and a selection of digital advertising. Additionally, our clients will have exclusive access to branded promotional materials, such as custom merchandise, and will be able to participate in special contests and promotions designed to bring excitement and memorable experiences to football fans. These initiatives are tailored to enhance engagement and connect with Leicester City supporters meaningfully. Statements from Leadership Kristina Leonova, CEO of LiteFinance, commented: “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Leicester City. This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to excellence and innovation. It will allow us to connect with new audiences and create impactful experiences while delivering on our promises and setting new standards of success.”LiteFinance is proud to partner with Leicester City Football Club and looks forward to a fruitful relationship that will bring value to both organizations and the communities we serve. We are confident that this collaboration will set the stage for innovative initiatives and successful outcomes in the future. Leicester City Commercial Director, Dan Barnett, added: “This collaboration marks an exciting chapter for us as we continue to expand our global reach with new partners. We look forward to working closely with LiteFinance to further elevate the Club's presence on the international stage in unique ways.”

This article was written by FL Contributors at www.forexlive.com.




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Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee member Catherine Mann speaking Wednesday

0945 GMT / 0445 US Eastern time - Bank of England policymaker Catherine Mann is a panellist on the Female Central Bankers panel organised by BNP Paribas’ Global Markets

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The Bank of England cut last week

Expectations are for slower cuts ahead:

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.




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Japan's Seven & i Holdings is considering a management buyout

Japan's Seven & i Holdings is considering a management buyout to take itself private with funding from banks, Itochu Corp. and the founding Ito family in a transaction that could be worth US$58 billion

"People with knowledge of the matter" cited in the reports via Nikkei and Bloomberg.

The Japanese owner of 7-Eleven is considering going private by buying back its own shares in a bid to avoid a takeover attempt by Canadian rival Alimentation Couche-Tard, the news report says.

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.