Deutsche Bank announced Thursday that it has reached a settlement with Effecten-Spiegel AG, a long-standing plaintiff in the legal dispute over its takeover of Postbank.
The settlement brings to an end one of two cases before the Cologne Higher Regional Court. The settlement will see an additional payment of EUR 36.50 per share, including interest, on the original offer price.
Effecten-Spiegel AG played a key role as the main plaintiff in the case, having pursued legal action since Deutsche Bank’s voluntary takeover offer in October 2010.
It was the first to file a lawsuit and remained the sole plaintiff for several years. The persistent efforts resulted in two appeals before Germany’s Federal Court of Justice.
In recognition of Effecten-Spiegel AG’s extensive involvement, the settlement also includes reimbursement of legal costs incurred over the years.
The legal battle, which has spanned several years, will now be concluded with the termination of proceedings before the Cologne court. For both sides, it provides a conclusion and sets the stage for the bank’s future actions.
The settlement is a significant step for Deutsche Bank in resolving disputes related to the controversial Postbank acquisition. The company said in August that it was progressing in its discussions with plaintiffs in the litigation, as well as the offer price paid to former Postbank shareholders.
A longstanding goal of the field of robot learning has been to create generalist agents that can perform tasks for humans. Natural language has the potential to be an easy-to-use interface for humans to specify arbitrary tasks, but it is difficult to train robots to follow language instructions. Approaches like language-conditioned behavioral cloning (LCBC) train policies to directly imitate expert actions conditioned on language, but require humans to annotate all training trajectories and generalize poorly across scenes and behaviors. Meanwhile, recent goal-conditioned approaches perform much better at general manipulation tasks, but do not enable easy task specification for human operators. How can we reconcile the ease of specifying tasks through LCBC-like approaches with the performance improvements of goal-conditioned learning?
sorry i have been away on good distractions for a change. and it will continue to be distracted for a few more days. and that flower that has been hiding off in the wings…
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Innovative technology brand TECNO is today showcasing its AIoT smart ecosystem at IFA Berlin 2024, demonstrating how its advanced products are paving the way for a better connected and more intelligent future. TECNO’s theme at its exhibition booth is “Innovate for the Future”, and its announcement of the new TECNO AI vision, plus pioneering devices like MEGABOOK T16 Pro 2024 Ultra, TECNO’s first AI PC, TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1, the world’s first water-cooling gaming mini PC, TECNO Pocket Go, the industry’s first combined AR glasses and Windows gaming handheld set, the brand-new MEGABOOK K16S laptop, and much more, are taking center stage. The brand’s comprehensive offering covering a diverse range of future usage scenarios is on display at H6.2a-113, Messe Berlin.
With the prestigious exhibition this year celebrating its 100th anniversary, IFA Berlin 2024’s theme of “Innovate for All” advocates for more inclusive and equal innovation, values which are shared by TECNO. Having first attended IFA in 2022, TECNO has always embraced a vision of bringing advanced technology to emerging markets, with the aim of creating more equal, connected and intelligent future lifestyles by developing pioneering AIoT technologies.
“This year we are returning to IFA Berlin 2024 with an exciting collection of our powerful innovations for the future,” said Jack Guo, General Manager of TECNO. “The development of a pioneering AIoT smart ecosystem has been a key pillar of our success to date, and now, with the integration of the even more advanced AI functionalities, we are looking forward to demonstrating the benefits it can bring to our users all around the world, today and in the future.”
TECNO AI Vision and TECNO’s Newest AI Laptop Unveiled– Practical and Localized for Best Efficiency and Creativity
TECNO is officially announcing its new AI strategy at IFA Berlin 2024, marking the brand’s latest steps into the AI Era. By strengthening its commitment to bringing users the best experiences, TECNO AI vision brings a focus on delivering “Practical AI”. TECNO believes that the most important quality of AI technology is that its integration into daily life can truly help consumers, improving quality of life and elevating efficiency.
Moreover, TECNO is announcing further investment in this new differential AI strategy – with particular focus on both AI language localization and the integration of AI and local apps.
TECNO is also revealing its first batch of new AI features at IFA. For example, the upgraded Ella AI Assistant provides helpful support in many ways, from answering complex questions to translation, text and file summaries and more. Meanwhile, real-time conversation translation functions allow users to enjoy more fluent cross-language communications, while AI Writing tools save users’ time and effort. Meanwhile, AI Artboard enables users to turn text or scribbled down doodles into incredible images and AI Wallpaper Generation allows users to generate imaginative personalized wallpapers.
Visitors can experience how the new suite of TECNO AI functions makes life more efficient, productive, convenient and fun, both at work and in day-to-day life, at TECNO’s stand. TECNO is also showcasing its first AI PC, the MEGABOOK T16 Pro 2024 Ultra, which was debuted at MWC Barcelona 2024 earlier this year. It features an Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 processor for best-in-class AI experiences, performance, and battery life. With industry-lead 99Wh battery size and options for up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB storage, the MEGABOOK T16 Pro 2024 Ultra excels in delivering exceptional performance and AI capabilities like Al Image Generation and Al Copilot.
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TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1 and Pocket Go AR Gaming Set – Gaming Experiences of the Future
Gaming fans at IFA can learn about TECNO’s cutting-edge gaming devices, including the TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1, the World’s Smallest Water-Cooling Gaming Mini PC, and Pocket Go, the world’s most compact Windows handheld with AR experience.
TECNO’s MEGA MINI Gaming G1 is an ultra-compact device with a sleek all-metal body and a striking RGB lighting design that encompasses the PC’s whisper-quiet cooling pump. Delivering the rush of super smooth gameplay, the mini PC comes with an Intel® Core™ i9-13900H processor and Turbo Boost for speeds of up to 5.4 GHz. A dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX™ 4060 graphics card and Ada Lovelace architecture ensures hyper-realistic gameplay, enabling next-level gaming without taking up precious desk space.
Moreover, exhibition attendees seeking memorable tech moments can enjoy TECNO Pocket Go – a groundbreaking Windows AR gaming set that combines AR glasses and an AR Windows handheld for the first time to create unparalleled 6D gaming at TECNO’s stand. They can get hands-on with the world’s most compact Windows handheld, which is 50% smaller and 30% lighter than standard Windows gaming handhelds, and the AR Pocket Vision headset, which is equipped with a 0.71-inch Micro-OLED screen that emulates a 215-inch television from six meters away. Advanced AI head-tracking and vibration algorithms add to the thrill, while a 50Wh replaceable battery and a high-performance processor delivers professional high-FPS AAA gaming on the move.
Diverse AIoT Devices and Accessories – Making the Future Lifestyle a Now Reality
TECNO is also showcasing its comprehensive AIoT product ecosystem at IFA, including its robotic dog, laptops, earphones and more.
TECNO’s exploration of futuristic technologies is shaping new experiences that once only seemed achievable in science fiction. One result of this exploration is the Dynamic 1 Robotic Dog, a state-of-the-art robot that combines advanced AI with a German Shephard-inspired design. Attendees can witness how lifelike canine actions such as bowing and shaking hands, as well as reliable navigation, featuring an AI HyperSense Fusion System, an Intel® RealSense™ D430 depth camera, dual optical sensors, and infrared sensors, and an 8-core high-performance ARM CPU.
TECNO’s latest innovative laptop, the TECNO MEGABOOK K16S, is also making its debut at TECNO’s IFA stand. Attendees will see how the first device in TECNO’s new K Series lets Gen Z entertainment lovers “See Bigger, See Louder”, with a 16-inch 16:10 wide screen, 300% louder 2.5W 4013 quadruple speakers and a 91% screen-to-body ratio, all at an extremely competitive price. Powered by an AMD® R7™5800U processor and an AMD Radeon graphics card, and with up to 1TB SSD + 16GB RAM, it also delivers powerful performance with amazing visuals. Additionally, it has a 70Wh battery allows up to 17.5 hours of use to reduce battery worries. The brand is also showing how its AIoT ecosystem is connected through PC Manager, with One Leap allowing seamless multi-tasking between devices.
The TECNO laptop lineup at the show also includes the MEGABOOK T16, MEGABOOK S1, MEGABOOK T1 series and MEGAPAD, while TECNO is also displaying its earphones and wearable devices, such as the True 1 Air TWS, TECNO Sonic 2 TWS and FreeHear 1, TECNO’s brand-new first OWS earbuds.
More to see at IFA 2024
At IFA Berlin 2024, TECNO is once again demonstrating the value of its diverse and imaginative AIoT smart ecosystem, as well as underscoring its strong position as a global leader in innovation. A core strategy since 2019, the development of AIoT products has been a foundation of TECNO’s growth. In future, the brand will continue to develop advanced AI software and pioneering hardware, guided its brand ethos of “Stop At Nothing”.
Disclaimer: We may be compensated by some of the companies whose products we talk about, but our articles and reviews are always our honest opinions. For more details, you can check out our editorial guidelines and learn about how we use affiliate links.
Are you planning to start a construction project and in need of high-quality concrete professionals? Hiring the right contractor can be a challenging task, but it is crucial for the success of your project. Choosing inexperienced or incompetent professionals can lead to costly mistakes and delays in your construction timeline. So, how do you find reliable concrete professionals who will deliver top-notch results? This guide is here to help!
In this post, we will discuss some tips and tricks for finding high-quality concrete professionals for your construction needs. We will cover everything from researching potential contractors to evaluating their workmanship and reputation. With the right information and resources at hand, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and hire the best team for your project. Let’s dive in.
Research Online
One of the most convenient ways to find high-quality concrete professionals is by doing some research online. With just a few clicks, you can gather a list of potential contractors in your area. For instance, you can search experienced Concrete Leveling services in Edmonton to find reliable professionals who specialize in this particular service. This will give you a good starting point for your search.
Additionally, you can also check their website and social media pages to get a better understanding of their services, previous projects, and client reviews. This will give you a good idea of their reputation and workmanship. You can also check online directories and review websites for ratings and feedback from past clients. However, make sure to take everything with a grain of salt as some reviews may be biased or fake.
Ask for Referrals and Recommendations
Another effective way to find high-quality concrete professionals is by asking for referrals and recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently completed construction projects. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their personal experience with a particular contractor. You can also ask for referrals from architects, engineers, or other professionals in the construction industry as they often work closely with concrete contractors.
Moreover, you can also reach out to local hardware stores or suppliers and ask for their recommended contractors. They have firsthand knowledge of working with different contractors and can provide honest feedback on their workmanship and reliability. Make sure to ask questions about the quality of work, timeliness, communication skills, and overall satisfaction before considering a referral or recommendation.
Check Credentials and Experience
Once you have a list of potential contractors, it’s essential to check their credentials and experience before making a decision. Make sure to inquire about their license, insurance, and certifications. These are crucial factors that determine the credibility and professionalism of a contractor.
Furthermore, it’s equally important to consider their experience in the industry. A contractor with years of experience has likely dealt with different types of projects and challenges, making them more equipped to handle your specific needs. You can also ask for their portfolio or list of past projects to evaluate the quality of their workmanship and see if they have experience in handling similar projects as yours.
Evaluate Workmanship Through Portfolio and References
One of the best ways to assess the workmanship of a contractor is by looking at their portfolio and references. A portfolio showcases their previous projects and gives you a glimpse of their skills, techniques, and attention to detail. It’s also essential to ask for references from past clients and reach out to them for feedback on their experience with the contractor.
Additionally, you can also request to visit a current or completed project site to see the quality of their work in person. This will give you a better understanding of their workmanship and level of professionalism. Make sure to pay attention to details such as the smoothness of surfaces, the evenness of concrete, and overall aesthetic appeal.
Get Multiple Quotes and Compare
When it comes to hiring any professional service, it’s always best to get multiple quotes and compare them before making a decision. This applies to hiring concrete professionals as well. Getting multiple quotes will not only give you an idea of the average cost for your project but also allow you to compare the services, materials, and timelines offered by different contractors.
Make sure to ask for a written quote that includes all details such as labor, material costs, and any additional fees or charges. Don’t just go for the cheapest option; instead, consider the overall value provided by each contractor.
Trust Your Gut Feeling
Last but not least, trust your gut feeling when it comes to hiring a concrete professional. Even if a contractor seems perfect on paper, their attitude, communication skills, and overall demeanor can make or break the working relationship. It’s crucial to feel comfortable and confident in the contractor you choose.
Make sure to have open and honest communication throughout the hiring process, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or address any concerns you may have. Remember, you will be working closely with these professionals, so it’s essential to trust them and have a good rapport. Trusting your gut feeling can ultimately lead you to hire the right team for your project needs.
Finding high-quality concrete professionals requires thorough research, careful evaluation, and trust in your instincts. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can effectively choose a reliable and competent contractor for your construction project. Remember to consider their credentials, experience, workmanship, and overall reputation before making a decision. Don’t hesitate to ask for referrals or recommendations from trusted sources and always get multiple quotes to compare. Trusting your gut feeling is also crucial in ensuring a successful working relationship with the chosen contractor.
Quick answer: Most often, no, But you can make a legal case for yourself if you are choosing to divorce your spouse for financial infidelity. Financial infidelity is grounds for divorce in “at fault” states and also in a no-fault divorce. In this post I’ll walk you through the different grounds on how you can […]
For me the real evil of masturbation would be that it takes an appetite which, in lawful use, leads the individual out of himself to complete (and correct) his own personality in that of another (and finally in children and even grandchildren) and turns it back: sending the man back into the prison of himself, there to keep a harem of imaginary brides.
And this harem, once admitted, works against his ever getting out and really uniting with a real woman. For the harem is always accessible, always subservient, calls for no sacrifice or adjustments, and can be endowed with erotic and psychological attractions which no real woman can rival.
Among these shadowy brides he is always adored, always the perfect lover: no demand is made on his unselfishness, no mortification is ever imposed on his vanity. In the end, they become merely the medium through which he increasingly adores himself.
Do read Charles Williams’ Descent into Hell, and study the character of Mr. Wentworth. And it is not only the faculty of love which is thus sterilized, forced back on itself, but also the faculty of imagination.
The true exercise of imagination, in my view, is (a) To help us to understand other people (b) To respond to, and, some of us, to produce art. But it has also a bad use: to provide for us, in shadowy form, a substitute for virtues, successes, distinctions, et cetera which ought to be sought outside in the real world — e.g., picturing all I’d do if I were rich instead of earning and saving.
Masturbation involves this abuse of imagination in erotic matters (which I think bad in itself) and thereby encourages a similar abuse of it in all spheres.
After all, almost the main work of life is to come out of our selves, out of the little, dark prison we are all born in. Masturbation is be avoided as all things are to be avoided which retard this process. The danger is that of coming to love the prison.
In this episode, Tina chats with Nicole Bekerian, an entrepreneur and owner of Simply The Best. Nicole shares her inspiration for starting her jewelry business, advice for building and launching a business as well as how she recognizes and deals with overwhelm and burnout. She also discusses the importance of having a business coach, finding a like-minded community, and establishing boundaries to succeed as a solopreneur.
Nicole talks about:
How her dog inspired her to start her own business
What is permanent jewelry
Challenges she faced when she started her business
Advice for women who want to start a side hustle
Advice to prevent overwhelm and burnout
Importance of community and setting boundaries in business
Her superpower and favorite life hack
Connect with Tina Haupert: https://carrotsncake.com/ Facebook: Carrots ‘N’ Cake Instagram: carrotsncake YouTube: Tina Haupert Pinterest: Carrots ‘N’ Cake Hormone Testing & Nutrition Coaching
About Tina Haupert:
Tina Haupert is the owner of Carrots ‘N’ Cake as well as a Certified Nutrition Coach and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P).
Tina and her team use functional testing and a personalized approach to nutrition to help women find balance within their diets while achieving their body composition goals.
Connect with Nicole Bekerian: www.simplythebestbynicole.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/simplythebestbynicole Facebook: www.facebook.com/simplythebestbynicole
About Nicole Bekerian:
Nicole Bekerian is the owner and founder of Simply the Best by Nicole. Her journey started in May 2021, when she decided to pursue a dream that she had since she was a little girl – starting her own business.
The decision to center her business around jewelry was an easy one – she has always loved how different pieces can hold significant meanings or add exactly what is needed to your favorite outfit. It’s so important to her that all of my clients have an opportunity to choose pieces they really love and create a memorable experience.
I’ve always been someone who appreciates the simple things in life and that translates to my jewelry designs. Simplicity can speak volumes.
Simply the Best was born after saying goodbye to my dog and best friend of 11 years, Gibbs – because he was – simply the best. I wanted a tangible reminder of him always with her, so she created the signature, a simple black onyx gemstone bracelet (which symbolizes protection and strength) with eleven spacers to signify his eleven years.
After that initial piece, she was excited about the future and wasted no time – she even wrote up a business plan while waiting for a flight home at the airport.
Once my flight landed, she kept dreaming and creating more jewelry.
She always knew it was very important to be inclusive with my sizing. Like clothes, jewelry needs a range of different sizes! She hated the experience of being worried about whether or not a bracelet may be too tight or wondering whether or not a necklace for a friend would be too short or too long on them because of “standard” sizing. With this in mind, all of her pieces are made in various sizes and can be made at any size upon request so that it fits perfectly.
Today, my business serves to share unique and meaningful designs with you and your loved ones. Because they believe you deserve – simply the best.
With U.S. debt now at $35.3 trillion, the cost of paying the interest on all that borrowing has soared recently and now averages out to $3 billion a day, according to Apollo chief economist Torsten Sløk.
And that includes Saturdays and Sundays, he pointed out in a note on Tuesday.
The daily interest expense has doubled since 2020 and is up from $2 trillion about two years ago. That’s when the Federal Reserve began its campaign of aggressive rate hikes to rein in inflation.
In the process, that made servicing U.S. debt more costly as Treasury bonds paid out higher yields. But with the Fed now poised to start cutting rates later this month, the reverse can happen.
“If the Fed cuts interest rates by 1%-point and the entire yield curve declines by 1%-point, then daily interest expenses will decline from $3 billion per day to $2.5 billion per day,” Sløk estimated.
Apollo
Meanwhile, the federal government closes out its fiscal year at the end of this month, and the year-to-date cost of paying interest on U.S. debt was already at $1 trillion months ago.
But even if Fed rate cuts lighten the burden on interest payments, the next president is expected to worsen budget deficits, adding to the pile of total debt and offsetting some of the benefit of lower rates.
In fact, a recent analysis from the Penn Wharton Budget Model found that the deficit will expand under either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris.
But there’s a big difference between the two.
Under Trump’s tax and spending proposals, primary deficits would increase by $5.8 trillion over the next 10 years on a conventional basis and by $4.1 trillion on a dynamic basis that includes the economic effects of the fiscal policy.
Under a Harris administration, primary deficits would increase by $1.2 trillion over the next 10 years on a conventional basis and by $2 trillion on a dynamic basis.
Still, JPMorgan analysts called the outlook unsustainable, regardless of who wins the presidential election, while acknowledging the prospect of bigger deficits with Trump.
“Irrespective of the election outcome, the trend since the pandemic has been profligate fiscal policy that is absorbing substantial amounts of capital and is incentivizing additional private investment,” the bank said. “At the same time, the en masse retirement of baby boomers is shifting a substantial share of the population from a high-savings period in life to a low-savings period, depressing the supply of capital.”
Recommended reading: In our new special issue, a Wall Street legend gets a radical makeover, a tale of crypto iniquity, misbehaving poultry royalty, and more. Read the stories.