Monthly Archives: November 2022

Cloud Platforms, Cloud Providers, News

Alibaba Cloud Showcases Wuying Cloudbook at Apsara Conference

Supported by dedicated Wuying Architecture, Wuying Cloudbook provides enhanced security, flexibility and collaboration for the workplace in the digital age 

Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, will be showcasing new additions to its cloud computer offering at its Apsara Conference. The Wuying Cloudbook, empowered by Wuying Architecture, is designed to provide enterprises with unlimited computing power while helping them enhance data security, improve cost efficiency and facilitate collaboration in increasingly diverse hybrid office settings.

Drawing on the high levels of security, scalability and compatibility that characterise the cloud, the Wuying Cloudbook allows users to fully leverage the power of cloud computing while minimising the workload for local devices. Users can scale computing power and storage up or down to meet their demands as and when they need, getting rid of the capacity restrictions of running large-scale software, such as video-rendering software, and enjoying a real-time interactive experience with low latency and high-quality images.

Wuying Cloudbook supports secure storage and transmission of massive volumes of organisational resources by centralising and managing them in the cloud. It overcomes typical security challenges in enterprise environments, such as data loss and local device vulnerabilities, while allowing users to access organisational resources anytime, anywhere.

Wuying Cloudbook also extends the boundaries of collaboration, allowing users to run multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, or Android on it simultaneously. As the software is also deployed and running in the cloud, there is no need to download and install software on local devices, minimising the requirement for storage capacity and the battery consumption of local devices. Wuying Cloudbook is an ideal choice for new ways of working, such as remote working, outsourcing, and collaboration between teams in different locations.

The scalability, security and flexibility of Wuying Cloudbook is supported by Alibaba Cloud’s Wuying Architecture, which is designed to optimise workload collaboration between cloud and local devices. The industry-leading architecture is compatible with devices ranging from laptops and tablets to any hardware that demands robust computing power. Leveraging this architecture, users can access unlimited computing power and storage capacity in any computing terminal.

“Wuying Architecture is a powerful extension and expansion of the workplace. It helps enterprises to enhance flexibility and improve operational efficiency. Taking advantage of cloud-based data security capabilities and tools, Wuying provides additional assurance to safeguarding corporate information security,” said Jiangwei JIANG, Senior Researcher and General Manager of Infrastructure Products, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence. “Thanks to its compatibility, Wuying Architecture brings the benefits of cloud computing to hardware brands, software vendors and enterprises, as well as individual users.”

The Wuying Cloudbook, will be demonstrated at the exhibition area at Alibaba Cloud’s Apsara Conference, features an ultra-thin body just 13.9mm deep and a 14-inch touch- 2 screen. An unboxing video, giving a preview of the device, is available here. With this new addition, Alibaba Cloud now offers cloud computing in the form of a card, a box, an all-in-one PC, a laptop and a Desktop-as-a Service (DaaS) application.

Customer experiences with Wuying: Automotive and Education

In China, IM Motors, an intelligent electric vehicle company, is the first in the automobile industry to adopt Wuying in product design. At the R&D stage, teams in different locations need to collaborate closely. Using Wuying, the design documents can be accessed by multiple teams in multiple locations.

“The automobile industry traditionally relied heavily on offline collaboration, as large-scale workstations were necessary for many work processes. Wuying is a dream come true for our sector. Not only does it offer the necessary computing power to support the intense workload, but it also eases our anxiety around data security when transmitting and sharing confidential design files, allowing us to focus our attention on the design itself,” said Jiao XIANG, Executive Director of Intelligence Research Center, IM Motors.

East China Normal University is one of the early adopters of Wuying in education. The cloud computer has replaced traditional server rooms in research projects, allowing students to work seamlessly on their projects when they move from laboratories to classrooms and dormitories, as the research data has been centralised in the cloud. Research efficiency has also been greatly improved by running data analytics on the cloud.

“This mobile research mode offered by Wuying has proven to be very valuable for professors and students alike. On-the-cloud laboratories provide unlimited computing power, overcoming the limitations of latency and bandwidth in a localised setting. In addition, it’s a powerful, 24/7 service, which helps us obtain research results in a much shorter time,” said Wei WANG, professor of the School of Data Science and Engineering, East China Normal University.

Apsara Conference opens tomorrow

As well as showcasing the Wuying Cloudbook, Alibaba Cloud’s annual Apsara Conference, which opens on November 3 in Hangzhou and runs until November 5, will shed light on the tech leader’s business strategy, products and partnerships.

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About Alibaba Cloud Established in 2009, Alibaba Cloud (www.alibabacloud.com) is the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group. It offers a complete suite of cloud services to customers worldwide, including elastic computing, database, storage, network virtualization services, large-scale computing, security, management and application services, big data analytics, a machine learning platform and IoT services. Alibaba maintained its position as the third leading public cloud IaaS service provider globally since 2018, according to IDC. Alibaba is the world’s third leading and Asia Pacific’s leading IaaS provider by revenue

Employee Benefits, News

Ten actions to improve men’s health in the workplace from Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing

This Men’s Health Awareness month, Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing is giving employers tips to improve men’s health as its revealed men in the UK typically die 3.5 years younger than women, for largely preventable reasons[i].

In a new guide, ‘Men’s Health in the Workplace’, Howden details ten actions employers can take to support men and reduce the stigma around talking about men’s health and wellbeing. It outlines why employers need to focus on men’s health; the vital role of employee benefits and how to increase engagement and get the messaging right, along with practical advice and tips.

Research from the UK charity Men’s Health Forum[ii] highlights that one in five men die before they reach the age of 65 in the UK. Up to 75% of all premature deaths due to heart disease are male – and 67% of men are overweight. In addition, alarming statistics reveal that as many as four out of five suicides are male.

Men’s Health Awareness month is organised by Movember, the leading charity changing the face of men’s health on a global scale, focusing on mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. They highlight:

  • Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young men aged between 15 and 34[iii]
  • Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in UK men. 1 in 8 men will receive a diagnosis for prostate cancer in their lifetime[iv].
  • In 2020, the UK lost 4,646 men to suicide[v]. Globally one man dies of suicide every single minute[vi]
  • The impact of COVID-19 has caused a fall in male life expectancy in the UK for the first time in 40 years[vii].

 

Mark Fosh, Director of SME at Howden says, “The statistics around men’s health are stark, and they can be exacerbated by a historical reluctance for men to seek help. Our new guide aims to help businesses change these statistics by helping employers understand men’s health better and suggesting actions that employers can take to support the men in their workforce.

 

Men sometimes have a perception that health is a ‘women’s issue’. So, the language used in health messaging is important if you want to reach everyone. Taking a proactive approach to meeting the needs of men could help improve performance, talent attraction and retention, and reduce rates of absence due to sickness. It could even save lives.”

Below are ten actions employers can take immediately to make a difference:

1. Share relevant information about their employee benefits and the services available. Consider the employee benefits you offer and whether or not they fully support the needs of men in your business. Some employers are enhacing their benefits to include cover and support for gender specific health issues. Ensure that benefits are widely communicated so people know how to access them when needed.

2. Encourage male employees to attend medical appointments, both virtually and in-person, by offering flexibility for these to take place within work hours. Offering a virtual GP service can also help men to attend appointments at a time and place that suits them.

3. If your employees are sitting behind a desk most of the time, it’s not great for their physical or mental health. Health and wellbeing initiatives are a great way to get everyone moving. Why not consider a sports club after work or subsidised gym memberships as a way to encourage everyone to look after their physical health. Health and wellbeing apps, such as Howden’s Be Well World, include activity challenges and simple and effective ways to increase exercise levels.

4. Listen to your employees. The best way to have a highly engaged and relevant wellbeing programme, is to hear the needs of the employees before creating the strategy. By issuing a survey and holding focus groups, you can discover what the needs of your staff are and then bring in the most appropriate solutions to support them.

5. Mental health support is often available through health insurance cover. This typically includes an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) which can offer employees access to specialist counselling. Don’t forget there are lots of free resources available. Signpost employees to charities such as Samaritans, Mind and Mates in Mind.

6. Keep talking about men’s health as it will promote action and can be a valuable way to support employees. National awareness campaigns, like #Menshealthweek and #Movember, are a great way for employers to cover these important topics. They are also a way for employees to show that men’s health issues matter and create a feeling of community and support in the workplace.

7. Encourage health screens for men as part of an overall benefits package. This could include screenings for prostate and testicular cancers, cardiovascular health as well as mental health assessments.

8. Train and educate line managers on supporting men’s health & wellbeing to enable them to spot signs of poor mental and physical wellbeing. Ensure your managers are aware of resources or appropriate organisations they can signpost their employees to.

9. Ensure employees know who to speak to at work if they have health concerns for instance an Occupational Health Nurse or Mental Health Ambassador or First Aider.

10. Encourage them to take breaks, switch off emails after work and provide help with their workloads. This can help to reduce stress.

 

Leo Savage, Global wellbeing consultant at Howden adds, “Once employers have a better understanding of some of the health conditions and challenges men can face, the next step is to review the support available within the workplace and ensure its fit for purpose.

“Taking action to support men’s health will let your employees know they are valued and supported throughout their working lives, helping you to reduce sickness absence, boost performance and attract the best talent to your organisation.”

 

To download the free ‘Men’s Health in the Workplace’ guide click here.

For more information, please visit www.howdengroup.co.uk

[i] https://www.bupa.co.uk/business/~/media/files/mms/bins-05128.pdf

[ii] https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/scale-challenge

[iii] https://cdn.movember.com/uploads/files/Media%20Room/Movember%20UK%20Press_Kit_2022.pdf

[iv] https://cdn.movember.com/uploads/files/Media%20Room/Movember%20UK%20Press_Kit_2022.pdf

[v] https://cdn.movember.com/uploads/files/Media%20Room/Movember%20UK%20Press_Kit_2022.pdf

[vi] https://uk.movember.com/about/mental-health

[vii] https://cdn.movember.com/uploads/files/Media%20Room/UK/Movember%202021%20press%20release(2).pdf

Insurance, News

Will investors in the insurance sector continue de-risking into 2023?

This year has seen general insurers diversify into alternative assets such as real estate and infrastructure; as well as absolute return strategies in response to falling markets and rising inflation. CAMRADATA’s latest whitepaper, UK Insurance CIO asks if insurers will continue de-risking if market pessimism lasts.

The whitepaper includes insights from firms such as, Payden & Rygel, Waverton Investment Management Limited, Charles Taylor Investment Management Limited, Foresters Friendly Society, MS Amlin and Riverstone International, who all attended a roundtable hosted by CAMRADATA in London in September.

So far 2022 has been a terrible year for financial markets, with losses almost everywhere bar the energy sector. To the end of August, gilts were down 19.5% and global bonds are down almost 16%, slightly better than equities. The MSCI ACWI index ended August at almost -17.5% in dollar terms[i].

The report looks at portfolio performance year to date, along with the nature of the liabilities which the panellists are investing to cover and where they had found value. It then explores where investors will go next, and why it’s vital to understand where inflation has come from and where locally it will persist.

The report considers the challenges from COVID and rising energy costs, plus the role of central banks which it was noted have been too loose for too long especially whilst fiscal policy was also being eased during COVID. It looks at whether Absolute Return strategies and benchmarks can be helpful in the current environment.

With so much uncertainty in Europe around energy supply the reports ends by asking whether ESG has taken a back seat to keeping the lights on and factories running this winter.

 

Natasha Silva, Managing Director, Client Relations, CAMRADATA said, “Investors will want to forget this year, but their losses might be too painful to pass from memory any time soon. Whilst diversification along with stock picking in credit has provided a modicum of support, the big question is whether insurers will continue to derisk.

“With inflation coursing through the economy, they cannot simply sit on cash. But if central bankers do raise interest rates to create a recession, not only will inflation weaken but also the strength and prospects of plenty of corporate lenders. A successful, shallow recession next year however could result in decent returns on government bonds.

“In the meantime, insurers may have to rely on more subtle, possibly quicksilver opportunities in credit, duration and currency management to eke out returns. Our whitepaper explores all these issues and considers what 2023 might hold for insurers looking to reduce volatility and find returns.”

 

The whitepaper also includes two opinion articles from the sponsors:

  • Payden & Rygel – ‘Time-tested investments for testing times’
  • Waverton Investment Management Limited – ‘The Truth behind ESG Integration’

 

To read the UK Investment CIO whitepaper, please click here.

For more information on CAMRADATA visit www.camradata.com.

[i] https://www.camradata.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Insurance-whitepaper-2.pdf

Finance and Banking, News

Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru/Wales responds to today’s interest rates rise announcement

The Bank of England has today raised UK interest rates to 3%, the biggest single interest rate increase in over 30 years – signalling challenging times for mortgage payers and business owners alike.

The Bank of England also warned the country could face its longest recession on record.

We spoke to Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, who told us:

“Our members are clear that tackling high interest rates and inflation are their top priorities, so today’s news of a further rise to 3% will be alarming for many firms. 

“ACCA’s SME Tracker data suggests declining growth and hiring intentions, while 57% report borrowing to manage cashflow is more difficult than a year ago. Undoubtedly this eighth interest rate rise will further exacerbate the challenges for the UK’s SME community. 

“Accessing finance is hard and is taking longer to access. It is vital to put finance in place well before it’s needed. SMEs across the UK need stability and as much certainty from the Exchequer as it can provide to allow them to effectively plan, recover and grow.”

Dr Maria Rana, macroeconomic expert from the University of Salford Business School, said the autumn statement would bring more clarity:

“The Governor has justified today’s decision by explaining that inflation might increase even higher than the 40-year high (10.1 %) in September, due to the disruptions in supply chains post pandemic, the war in Ukraine and decrease in the labour force. Bailey has also announced that there is a ”tough road ahead”  but the Bank also does not expect interest rates to raise as much as markets expect.

“Let’s now wait for the autumn statement and spending review later this month to see how tough the road ahead will be.”

However, Nicholas Hyett, Investment Analyst, Wealth Club, said despite today’s announcement, the economic outlook was better than a month ago.  He explained:

“It helps that the government and bank are now pulling in the right direction. The Bank raises rates to curb inflation, by discouraging people from spending money. Rishi Sunak’s plans to raise taxes and cut public spending have the same effect. The recent stability in sterling reduces the need to hike rates to defend the currency too.

“Recent macroeconomic data suggests previous rate rises are starting to have an effect. House price growth has slowed and perhaps even started to reverse. Consumer lending more broadly is also falling as the general public look to nurse wallets and purses over what is set to be a difficult winter.

“It’s far too early to call time on rate rises, but at least the two giants of British economic policy, the Bank of England and HM Treasury, no longer look like they’re squaring up for a bare knuckle boxing match. A joined up effort should calm market nerves and could help mitigate the long term pain.”

 

 

Accountancy & Accounts, Cost of Living Crisis, Finance and Banking, News

It’s not good enough: 79% of SMEs believe the current energy support package isn’t sufficient

  • Tackling inflation is the main issue SMEs want to see addressed in autumn statement, followed by targeted energy support (55%)
  • 57% report borrowing to manage cash flow has been more difficult in the last quarter compared to last year
  • Almost half (47%) say that supplier credit is harder to access

Following continued political turmoil, a perfect storm of uncertainty has been created for small businesses, leaving many in the dark on government support. The latest edition of the ACCA UK (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and The Corporate Finance Network (The CFN) SME Tracker contextualises this ongoing uncertainty and reveals the top issues SMEs want to see incorporated in the government’s new autumn statement on November 17th.

The survey, which polls accountancy professionals on the financial outlook of their SME clients, unsurprisingly found the top issue SMEs want addressed in the new autumn statement are measures to tackle inflation (71%). Encouragingly, Mr Sunak addressed this problem in his first Prime Minister’s speech.

Over half of SMEs (55%) are also calling for targeted energy support for both organisations and individuals, which is yet to be properly detailed. Despite the PM acknowledging that ‘difficult decisions’ need to be made, the impact of these decisions remains unclear. Greater clarity on these decisions is needed, particularly when it comes to energy costs. Based on responses, a staggering 79% of SMEs believe the current energy support package for businesses is insufficient. A further 97% of businesses feel that the support did not account for specific energy intensive sectors, with a number citing cutting back on trading hours to address rising energy costs.

Against the backdrop of high inflation, firms are struggling to secure working capital due to a number of factors including a rise in interest rates, with 57% reporting borrowing to manage cash flow has been more difficult in the last quarter than over the previous 12 months. Almost half (47%) say that supplier credit is harder to access, while over a quarter (27%) report accessing support from HMRC’s Time to Pay scheme is more difficult.

ACCA UK and The CFN warn that as political uncertainty continues, more detailed and targeted support from the new government will be needed to help firms weather the storm.

 

Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, warns: “In the face of so much turmoil, it can be tempting to take a ‘wait and see’ approach. However, it’s more urgent than ever for the new government to address the issues, such as providing certainty on energy support schemes from April, tackling inflation and improving access to finance for SMEs. With no end to volatility in sight, business owners and accountants need to work even closer together to forecast effectively without a clear plan set by the government at this current time.”

 

Kirsty McGregor, founder of The Corporate Finance Network, said: “This is a worrying time for all SMEs, as profits will inevitably take a dip with a softening in consumer spending. Only resilient businesses with strong working capital and cash reserves will survive, and following the pandemic, cash resources are already stretched. The lending markets are understandably taking a more risk-averse approach to companies with weaker balance sheets, so business owners should take action early and work with advisers who can assist them to strengthen their cash flow situation to ride out this storm.”

 

Employee Benefits, Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing

Wellness Group Launches Tailored Business Packages for Personalised HRT Programmes

  • Bodyline launches M Plan tailored businesses packages after successful patient trials
  • The aim is to support women through their menopause journey and redress hormonal imbalances, as well as vitamin and hormone deficits, through a clinically diagnosed menopause programme
  • Increased demand for personalised menopause treatments diagnosed through blood tests and patient specific symptoms
  • Women want to be informed where they are on their menopause journey as well as how they can relieve life-changing symptoms

 

Bodyline, a national medical wellness clinic group, has launched a bespoke hormone replacement treatment service, called the M Plan, to meet demand for personalised and clinically supported menopause treatments.

The private medical wellness group, with 15 years of experience of private clinical wellness treatments for women, provides the M Plan to individuals as well as tailored packages for businesses to offer to clients or menopausal employees.

Bodyline’s approach gives choice on how the patient manages the menopause. Following an initial consultation and medical history discussion, blood samples are taken and sent for analysis. At the follow up diagnosis consultation, blood test results are discussed and a personalised treatment plan, the M Plan, is agreed.

The plan includes a tailored HRT prescription, as well as vitamin supplement recommendations, lifestyle and nutrition advice – ensuring patients are maximising their health and prioritising wellbeing.

For businesses, Bodyline works in collaboration with corporate partners to design a customised corporate M Plan for clients or employees.  Bodyline recognise that there may be tailored requirements according to business needs and the company’s health and wellbeing vision and strategy.

The M Plan is supported by specialist menopause nurses providing valued support contact and ensuring that the treatment changes with the menopause symptoms.

 

Managing Director of Bodyline Medical Wellness Clinics, Sally-Ann Turner said “The menopause can be a daunting time in a woman’s life with severely debilitating symptoms impacting all parts of woman’s life, personally and in the workplace.  Symptoms can be both physical and mental and until diagnosed, women can spend years not knowing why they are feeling the way that they do.

“At Bodyline we realise that the menopause is unique with women experiencing individual symptoms at different times of the menopause journey.  Women are more informed about the menopause nowadays and are seeking choice.  Awareness of the menopause, quite rightly, has increased dramatically over recent years.  Women want to understand more about their own hormones during the menopause and how these can be rebalanced”.

“With the M Plan, Bodyline can diagnose, treat, and support through this naturally evolving stage of life.  Our aim is that we support women, on their personal journey, so that they can embrace this time in life and enhance their overall health and wellbeing”.

 

Bodyline’s M plan is really making a difference to women’s lives.  One patient reported that after long bouts of depression along with her menopause symptoms, her personalised hormone replacement treatment and support from Bodyline had changed her life!   She said, “Without being dramatic, I’m finally at peace with myself!”

Sally concluded “At Bodyline, woman do not have to wait for treatment – we don’t have wait lists, we discuss and provide choice of treatments, we ensure supply of medications, we support the menopause journey, and we care”.

 

About Bodyline Medical Wellness Group

Bodyline is a leading, clinically led UK wellness group that is proud to be CQC registered. With headquarters based in the Northwest of England, Bodyline provides supportive, effective, tailored, and affordable medical wellness programmes throughout the UK.  With over 15 years of experience, it has treated over 40,000 patients from one of its nine in-clinic locations or via on-line video consultations at home.

Bodyline wellness treatments include bespoke HRT menopause treatments for woman and safe medical weight loss treatments. Bodyline also provides tailored wellness solutions for employers and organisations that value individual healthcare solutions for their workforce.

 

Acquisitions & Partnerships, Mergers, Tech, Technology

Lumen Enters into Agreement Regarding Divestiture of EMEA Business to Colt Technology Services for $1.8B

Transaction will strengthen Lumen’s financial position and sharpen strategic focus

Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) and Colt Technology Services (Colt), a digital infrastructure company, announce today they have entered into an exclusive arrangement for the proposed sale of Lumen’s Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) business to Colt for $1.8 billion. This represents a very attractive multiple (~11x) for Lumen’s EMEA business and will create additional value for its shareholders. More information on this transaction can be found in Lumen’s 8-K to be contemporaneously filed with this release.

The envisaged transaction is subject to customary conditions and would involve the divestiture by Lumen of its EMEA business, including its terrestrial and subsea networks, data centres and network equipment in the region to London-headquartered Colt. Upon completion, the transaction will further Lumen’s strategic focus on investing in core businesses that are expected to drive long-term, profitable growth.

Benefits to Lumen:

Purchase price represents a strong ~11x multiple of the EMEA business’s estimated 2021 adjusted EBITDA.
Additional capital and a streamlined portfolio will drive more focused investments on enterprise growth and help maintain Lumen’s strong balance sheet.
The terms of the transaction enable Lumen to continue to serve multinational enterprise customers through its strategic partnership with Colt.
“We are continuing to execute on portfolio optimisation at Lumen, creating additional value for our shareholders by monetising non-strategic assets at accretive multiples,” said Lumen President and CEO Jeff Storey. “This transaction would enhance our focus so we can invest more efficiently in our most strategic opportunities – our key Enterprise and Quantum Fiber initiatives – and partner with regional leaders like Colt in Europe and Cirion in Latin America to continue serving our multinational enterprise customers.”

“This transaction would mark the next chapter in Colt’s exciting story of global growth and world-class innovation,” said Keri Gilder, CEO, Colt Technology Services. “We’re deeply committed to building extraordinary connections for our people, customers and partners across our digital infrastructure. This acquisition would strengthen and extend these connections across existing and new geographies, helping us to accelerate growth and bring the power of the digital universe closer to our customers.”

Known for its commitment to customer experience and its industry-leading environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance, Colt is a global digital infrastructure business with over 60 offices around the world. The transaction will extend Colt’s infrastructure to new geographic markets, boosting the services and capabilities it delivers to global enterprises and strategic partners.

Benefits to Colt:

Extends Colt’s network into additional countries, European cities and data centres, offering businesses throughout Europe expanded fibre network connectivity.
Offers Colt access to a full range of product solutions for diversified Enterprise, Hyperscaler, Government and Wholesale customers.
Positions Colt to meet growing enterprise and international IP traffic in EMEA via extensive terrestrial and subsea reach.
Strategic partnership

Most of Lumen’s EMEA employees would join Colt after the transaction closes. Colt and Lumen will establish a strategic relationship that will enable Lumen to continue delivering a seamless experience for its multinational customers with needs in EMEA. The partnership will also allow Colt to continue serving the needs of the EMEA-based customers with service needs outside of EMEA.

“Lumen has a strong interest in Colt’s success, and we expect to remain a close business partner and key customer,” said Storey. “Colt’s strong reputation and customer focus make them the ideal partner to serve the needs of our customers, and we expect to remain Colt’s partner of choice for their customers’ needs in North America.”

“Colt and Lumen share values, and a drive to deliver outstanding customer experience,” said Gilder. “This combination is powered by amazing people and incredible infrastructure and is inspired by technology’s ability to change the way we live and work.”

Lumen and Colt envisage the transaction would close as early as late 2023 upon receipt of all regulatory approvals in the U.S. and certain countries where Colt operates, as well as the satisfaction of other customary conditions.

The purchase agreement contains various customary covenants for transactions of this type, including various indemnities and purchase price adjustments.

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as financial advisor to Lumen in connection with the transaction, and Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP is serving as legal advisor to Lumen. Evercore Group L.L.C. is acting as financial advisor to Colt in connection with the transaction and Baker & McKenzie LLP is serving as legal advisor to Colt.

About Lumen

Lumen is guided by our belief that humanity is at its best when technology advances the way we live and work. With approximately 400,000 route fiber miles and serving customers in more than 60 countries, we deliver the fastest, most secure platform for applications and data to help businesses, government and communities deliver amazing experiences.

Learn more about the Lumen network, edge cloud, security, communication and collaboration solutions and our purpose to further human progress through technology at news.lumen.com/home, LinkedIn: /lumentechnologies, Twitter: @lumentechco, Facebook: /lumentechnologies, Instagram: @lumentechnologies and YouTube: /lumentechnologies. Lumen and Lumen Technologies are registered trademarks in the United States.

About Colt

Colt Technology Services (Colt) is a global digital infrastructure company which creates extraordinary connections to help businesses succeed. Powered by like-minded partners and amazing people, Colt is driven by its purpose: to place the power of the digital universe in the hands of its customers, wherever, however and whenever they choose.

Since 1992, Colt has set itself apart through its deep commitment to its customers, growing from its heritage in the City of London to more than 60 offices around the world. The powerful Colt IQ Network connects 222 cities and 32 countries with more than 1000 data centres, 51 Metropolitan Area Networks and over 31,000 buildings across Europe, Asia and North America’s largest business hubs. Privately owned, Colt is one of the most financially sound companies in the sector.

Obsessed with delivering industry-leading customer experience, Colt is guided by its dedication to customer innovation, by its values and its responsibility to its customers, partners, people and planet.

For more information, please visit www.colt.net

News

Hangxiety: What it is and why it’s rising

Hangxiety: What it is and why it’s rising

“Hangxiety” is a hangover plus anxiety – and it’s real.

The feeling of being overwhelmed or anxious while recovering from excessive drinking is distressing, and can trigger panic attacks, say experts.

 

Priory consultant psychiatrist Dr Niall Campbell, a UK addiction expert based at Priory’s Roehampton Hospital in south-west London, says it is extremely common among patients he sees.

“After drinking alcohol, many people experience feelings of heightened anxiety. I see it all the time. They may also experience panic attacks for the first time. Intense anxiety and agitation are very common with hangovers. Some people will develop a panic disorder as a result or have recurrent panic attacks. It’s part of alcohol withdrawal syndrome – alcohol has a short half-life as you detox, and you may well experience increased blood pressure, dehydration, intense anxiety, tremors and nausea.”

 

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is the name for the symptoms that occur when someone who drinks heavily suddenly stops, or significantly reduces, their alcohol intake.

The NHS defines binge drinking as ‘drinking heavily over a short space of time’ or drinking to get drunk. More than eight units of alcohol in a single session for males, or more than six units in a single session for females is the technical definition – equivalent to about four pints of normal strength beer for a man or three pints for a woman.

Over a week, it advises men and women not to regularly drink more than 14 units – a small glass of wine contains 1.5 units. A unit is about half a pint of normal strength beer or lager or cider, or a single small shot of spirits (25ml).

 

“Sleep deprivation caused by heavy drinking will also make you more anxious,” Dr Campbell says. “I see a lot of patients with hangxiety. Some people will try to ‘relieve’ the unpleasant symptoms of their drinking by drinking more, but this can lead to more panic attacks, even seizures.

“If it has got to a point where you are experiencing these symptoms, you need to be taking stock of your drinking habits and seriously considering why and how much you are drinking and cutting down or giving up, especially in the run-up to times like Christmas. You need to consider how you can deter yourself from future heavy drinking. This is absolutely a wake-up call to re-assess your drinking habits. As the Princess of Wales said recently, no one is immune to addiction, addiction is a serious mental health condition.”

 

Dr Campbell adds: “Without the need to go into the office regularly, or attend meetings in person, people prone to drinking heavily and regularly are finding more opportunities to continue this behaviour, and this increases the risk of hugely heightened anxiety. And for younger adults in particular, being cut off from an office, and maybe still living with parents, there is an enormous emotional strain – and we are seeing more depression and anxiety in the 20+ age group, which in many cases leads to unhealthy and addictive alcohol behaviours.

“It has not been easy for people to suddenly spend a lot of time at home, and the effect on personal relationships has been acute. Zoom and Teams are no substitute for face-to-face contact. Being in close vicinity with family many hours a day, especially in a small house with limited outdoor space, is a big adjustment – as is working isolated at home – and we have seen so-called “wine o’clock” starting earlier and earlier in the afternoon.”

 

Entertainment, Gambling, News

How to boost your chances of winning Blackjack

Since the 1700’s, Blackjack has been a popular casino card game loved by many. Over time, people have attempted to find different techniques to see if they can sway a win in their favour. However, Blackjack is a game of chance, so anything could happen once you are dealt in.

With the game now available to play at most land-based casinos, online casinos and even live Blackjack online at Sky Vegas offering you the chance to try your hand at the game, there’s no better time to brush up on your Blackjack knowledge.

With this in mind, join us as we take a look at the different ways you can boost your chances of winning at Blackjack.

Learn basic strategy

The first and most important step when it comes to playing Blackjack is to learn and follow basic strategy.

This will show you what the best moves are, based on any possible combination of cards that you might be dealt, helping you to optimise your gameplay and be in for the best shot at bagging that win.

What’s more, many casinos will allow you to hold strategy cards and refer to these at the table.

Check out the casino promotions and offers

If you’re playing Blackjack online, you might want to check out the casino site’s promotion page before you play, as you might find some bonuses that could have the potential to boost your gameplay, should you choose an eligible game.

Only bet what you can afford to lose

Also, you’ll want to practice good bankroll management, then you should only bet as much as you can afford to lose, as a win is never guaranteed.

Remember the other players can’t affect your outcome

Speaking of winning, you must bear in mind that the other players at the table won’t have any effect on your winning chances.

This means Blackjack remains a great game to socialise with other players, whether you play online or at the live casino, where the live chat feature perfectly captures the social aspect of land-based gaming.

Never split 10-value cards or a pair of fives

Another tip is to never split cards valued at 10, or a pair of fives, as you have better chances of reaching 21 and winning Blackjack keeping these as they are.

If you do split, you’ll have to work double as hard to reach 21 with both hands, when you could’ve been in a pretty good position to win before.

Have fun

Finally, have fun! There really is no point in placing a wager and trying your hand at any casino game if you’re not enjoying yourself.

Whilst a win is never guaranteed, it can be great to soak up the atmosphere of a land-based venue, or to just give it your best shot and marvel at the incredible technology involved in live casino gaming.

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With all this newfound knowledge, do you think you have what it takes to boost your winning chances when playing Blackjack?

News

Toolmaker recovers from motorbike accident to appear in WorldSkills final

AN ENGINEERING whiz was finally able to compete on the world stage following a series of delays due to the Covid-19 pandemic and a hard-hitting motorbike accident.

Abi Stansfield, from Ribble Valley, Lancashire, had trained at Coleg Cambria’s Bersham Road site in Wrexham for almost two years before heading to Germany for the WorldSkills 2022 finals.

She just missed out on a medal in the CNC Milling category, but with the support of Cambria lecturer Adam Youens – a CNC Training Manager for WorldSkills – displayed courage and an abundance of skill and talent having recovered from a motorbike accident last autumn.

“After training for three years I was so proud to finally be able to represent my country and hold up the flag, it was a dream come true,” said Abi, who works as a toolmaker at BAE Systems, Blackburn.

“Sadly, I just missed out on a medal, but it was an incredible experience, one that can never be taken away from me.”

Adam congratulated her on showing resilience throughout the pandemic and adapting when the Shanghai WorldSkills competition was cancelled because of Covid-19.

“Abi’s journey has been a long one, starting at the national competition in 2019 when she won bronze and was chosen to be part of Squad UK,” he said.

“She would spend more than 18 months training with three others who were contesting that category – mainly at our Bersham Road site, where facilities include all of the latest, state-of-the-art machinery – for the one place to represent the UK in Shanghai.

“In 2021 she was chosen to attend the EuroSkills competition, and again another setback happened when the UK chose not to attend because of the pandemic.

“A month later she was in a motorbike accident that damaged her knee, but through all of this she maintained her focus and drive and continued to train from home or online as much as she could.”

Adam added: “Abi worked hard on her knee rehabilitation after she had surgery to fix it, which helped her get back on her feet and start training for the Special Edition competition in Leonberg, Germany, just weeks ago.

“Unfortunately, she missed out on a medal by one point, but she has been amazing throughout all of this and competed at the highest level in the world – we are all so proud of her.”

Cambria will itself host a WorldSkills final in the coming days, the Manufacturing Team Challenge finals at Bersham Road.

Learner Experience and Enterprise Manager Rona Griffiths praised Abi for her effort and Adam for his support of engineering learners.

“This is a fantastic story of skill development because Covid-19 didn’t stop Abi and Adam, but rather ignited their ambition and passion to strive for something beyond the imagination of most people in lockdown,” she said.

“She missed out on a medal by a slither of a point but is an incredible role model for all young engineers, especially females.”

Rona added: “I think it’s testament to Adam’s great skills as an educator and advocate for vocational skill development. He truly is an ambassador for skills excellence and the benefit that skills competitions can bring to young people.”

For more news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.