Monthly Archives: April 2023

Hardware, Rugged Tech, Technology

Getac redefines rugged field computing with launch of next generation UX10 tablet and V110 laptop  

  • Next generation UX10 and V110 are part of new G-RuggedPro™ series, setting the high standard in rugged computing technology.
  • Both devices are designed to thrive in challenging field environments, such as those found in the defence, utilities, and public safety sectors.
  • The next generation UX10 is also available in a specially designed UX10-IP, featuring fully sealed buttons that allow for fast cleaning and disinfecting by medical professionals.

 

Getac has today announced the launch of its next generation UX10 tablet and V110 laptop – two powerful, yet portable, fully rugged devices designed to thrive in challenging work environments, like those found in the utilities, public safety and defence sectors.

Both the UX10 and V110 boast 12th Generation Intel Core Processors, expanded memory and increased storage options, as well as extensive I/O and connectivity options (including 5G), making them two of the most advanced rugged devices Getac has ever produced.

 

G-RuggedPro: The high standard in rugged computing technology

The next generation UX10 and V110 are both part of Getac’s new G-RuggedPro series. Every device in the G-RuggedPro series is designed and manufactured to Getac’s exacting standards, so customers know they are receiving an exceptional product every time.

 

UX10: Superior rugged performance, sleek new design

The next generation 10.1-inch UX10 fully rugged tablet has been redesigned for even greater performance and versatility. Key features include a choice between powerful 12th Generation Intel Core Processors and Intel Pentium Gold Processors, to suit different applications, and a LumiBond touchscreen boasting 1,000 nits of brightness. Elsewhere, 8GB of DDR4 RAM (with option of up to 32GB), and a 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD (with option of up to 1TB) deliver exceptional computing capability. Upgraded connectivity features include Bluetooth 5.3, Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211, Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, and optional 4G LTE or 5G Sub-6 support, to keep individuals and teams connected in even remote locations.

Its lightweight design makes the UX10 easy to carry and operate for long periods, while IP66 and MIL-STD-810H certifications, drop resistance up to 6ft and an operating range of -29°C to +63°C (-20°F to 145°F) ensures optimal functionality in even adverse weather conditions.

 

UX10-IP: Designed to help easy disinfection for medical professionals

The next generation UX10-IP features fully sealed buttons that allow for quick and easy disinfection by medical professionals. Its fully rugged IP66-certified design also offers protection against dust, water, and disinfectant spray, for excellent reliability in challenging medical environments.

 

V110: Complex field tasks made easy

Featuring a powerful 12th Generation Intel Core Processor and Intel Iris X graphics, alongside an 11.6″ LumiBond touchscreen boasting 1,000 nits of brightness, the next generation V110 fully rugged laptop is designed to make complex field tasks easy. Dual hot- swappable batteries as standard extend operation between charges, while optional 64GB DDR4 + 2TB storage supports intense data activities, such as planning and execution of ground/aviation logistics support in the defence industry. Its versatile form factor also means workers can quickly switch between touchscreen and keyboard based inputs depending on the task at hand.

The next generation V110 boasts an extended range of connectivity options too, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, optional 4G LTE/5G Sub-6 and GPS, while Thunderbolt 4 Type-C enables fast data transfer and connection with other devices. Furthermore, its innovative dual SIM design allows users to easily switch between two different carrier networks without physically swapping SIM cards each time.

Like all Getac products, the V110 has been built rugged from the ground up for maximum reliability in a diverse range of use cases and user scenarios. MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, and IP65 certifications ensure the device can withstand regular knocks, drops, spills, and vibrations, while optional ANSI/UL 12.12.01 and salt fog resistance are also available on request.

 

Enhanced security features in the field

Both next generation models incorporate a range of enhanced security features, including Microsoft’s latest suite of authentication tools, TPM2.0, smart card reader (optional in UX10), and optional Intel vPro, fingerprint reader, RFID, and Windows Hello Webcam.

They are also both covered by Getac’s industry leading 3-year Bumper-to-Bumper warranty, including accidental damage as standard, for additional peace of mind.

“Getac has been setting the standard in rugged field computing for many years, thanks to our unwavering focus on users and their specific needs,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “The UX10 and V110 are two of our most popular models amongst customers in sectors like defence, utilities and public safety, where reliability and performance are paramount. With the launch of these next generation models, two of the best rugged field solutions available just got even better.”

 

Availability

The new UX10 and V110 will be available in June. For more information, please visit the Getac website.

Cleaning & Facilities Management

One Off Cleaning – When Do We Need It

London is a huge city that attracts thousands and thousands of new arrivals from all parts of the world every month. For this reason, not surprisingly, the rental property market is one of the hottest in the world, together with cities like New York, Tokyo and Sydney.

Those people who have the opportunity to rent out a property in London are practically in such a good and enviable position that they can turn this into their main source of income for the rest of their lives.

How to be successful in the rental property market

In London, rents are always high, so the competition in this city is not based on how high a rent you can get. It is more about attracting and then keeping the tenants who have already rented your apartment or your house.

But how do we keep our tenants long-term, especially if we’re happy with them, if they take good care of the property and if they pay their rent regularly?

Few furnishings but in good condition

Try to keep the number of furniture to a minimum. It is good to have kitchen cabinets, kitchen counters, kitchen appliances, tables and chairs. Everything else is superfluous. In the living room, a sofa, an armchair and a table are quite enough.

The same applies to the bedroom – bed, mattress (must be clean), wardrobe (clean and empty) are completely enough. When it comes to the bathroom, keep it as empty and clean as possible.

Otherwise, if you stuff all the rooms with objects, it will create a sense of clutter and chaos, and it will make the space seem smaller. That definitely decreases the value for potential tenants.

Make efforts to create a feeling of harmony by placing only what is most necessary.

One off cleaning before the new arrivals

One of the best possible decisions before your new tenants arrive is to call a cleaning company and ask for a one off cleaning (if you are searching for a one off cleaning in London, you can take a look in EasyCleaningLondon.co.uk).

This type of service is very different from the well-known subscription cleaning, because here you pay once and get a one-time service, without any long-term commitments.

This type of one-off cleaning is very popular not only with people who are in the rental property business, but also with people who have bought a new property and want it to be perfectly clean before they move in.

A one-off cleaning always has the advantage of adding additional value to the property, making it more attractive to rent or even to buy compared to others on the market.

What does one off cleaning include

The one-time cleaning can be negotiated according to the client’s needs in the specific case. Only the services you need will be included in this one off cleaning, which is why the price for such a service can be significantly reduced.

Before anything else, professional cleaning companies will take care of the floors and all surfaces, and then they will treat all the bathrooms and toilets so that they will sparkle with cleanliness.

Each individual piece of furniture and surface is treated with the appropriate cleaning detergent. When all the other surfaces are done, the upholstered furniture will surely need to be cleaned as well.

All sofas and armchairs should be treated very carefully so that they emit a nice feeling of freshness and cleanliness. Of course, the mattresses in the bedrooms should not be overlooked.

A mattress can be a very expensive investment (especially if it is a quality one). Because of this reason, they are expected to serve us for years and we cannot replace them after every tenant.

Therefore, it is of great importance that they are professionally and deeply cleaned after each tenant so that there are no any stains or any other contamination on their surface.

Why Should you Choose a Professional

The difference between usual cleaning and cleaning before renting out an apartment is crucial. There are professional standards that determine the level to which the place has to be cleaned.

Professionals have the necessary equipment for an in-depth sanitation of each material and surface, and they also use specialized cleaning solutions that could effectively sterilize the place.

If you are doing the job yourself, it is highly probable that you could miss a spot, which would become the reason for disputes with potential renters. Moreover, in some cases, when there are permanent stains for example, home methods would prove ineffective.

Textile surfaces such as the upholstery or carpets also require specialized methods in order to be purified from dust, debris and microorganisms, which are not visible to the naked eye.

In case you are the one renting the apartment, and you want to make completely sure that the home environment will be safe for you, you could also benefit a lot from a one off cleaning.

When is the Service Most Useful

There are many other cases in which the service could be extremely useful. For example, since in our daily lives we often lack the time to thoroughly clean, we only do the bare minimum, but we leave a lot of dirt accumulate.

The one time cleaning by a professional cleaning company such a EasyCleaningLondon.co.uk can help you catch up and bring peace of mind to you. That is especially helpful if you are going to have relatives visiting, or you are gathering friends for a celebration or just a pleasant social evening.

Sometimes no matter how much effort and time you invest in maintaining hygiene at home, there are some types of pollution that are just too tedious to clean yourself. In some cases you would simply not be able to achieve a satisfying result.

Take for example the windows – restoring their shine simply takes too much time, and there are always stains left from the water or the cleaning agent. Instead, you could leave the more complicated tasks to trained professionals and enjoy your free time.

Packaging

4 Steps to Choosing Eco-Friendly Candle Packaging

The journey to world change starts with small steps. Fighting environmental pollution and climate change at certain moments might seem like a Mission Impossible, but the reality is that by collective action we are able to create a better world for ourselves and for future generations.

The good news about environmental preservation is that more and more companies are realizing the need to take action and change their policies, aiming at sustainable alternatives.

A large part of environmental pollution consists of plastic packaging, used by companies to protect and present their products. Fighting plastic pollution has long started, since the world realized, that not only do individual people need to change their habits, but a big part of the responsibility has to be taken by companies.

That is why nowadays customers trust brands that demonstrate they value sustainability. Eco-friendly packaging is a big step towards combating plastic pollution, and if you are a brand owner, it is time to make the change.

If you are ready for the next step, visit ThePackLion.com.

How to Make Sure Your Candle Packaging is Sustainable

If you are in the business of candles and home fragrances, switching to eco-friendly candle packaging is key for creating a positive brand image. The target audience of that business consists of a lot of people who value nature, and would most probably have high standards regarding sustainability.

Here is how to make sure you are choosing candle packaging that is really eco-friendly and would earn the trust of your customers.

1. Check for Certificates

The problem with eco-friendly materials is that they are often labeled “green”, but that term could be quite abstract and open for interpretation. It might mean that there is some eco-friendly part in the material, but it’s actually not completely harmless to the environment.

The only way to really make sure that you are choosing a trustworthy supplier of sustainable candle box packaging is to check if they have the necessary certificates. That would prove that their products are truly environmentally friendly.

If you are looking for a trustworthy packaging supplier that will help you take your brand to the next level, visit ThePackLion.com and start your journey toward sustainability.

2. What is the Best Material

Today you can find a variety of eco-friendly materials, suitable for different types of packaging. If you are producing candles and home fragrance, there are big advantages to choosing cardboard candle box packaging.

Eco-friendly cardboard boxes provide the necessary level of protection for the product during logistics, but at the same time, they are lighter than other materials, which decreases shipping costs.

Candle boxes also allow you to create a design that will best showcase your product’s qualities, as well as the values of your brand. They are convenient for the clients too, which accounts for better customer experience.

3. Level of Sustainability

Different materials that are considered eco-friendly actually have different levels of sustainability. For example, some of them are not fully recyclable and there are still some harmful emissions are produced.

The reason why they are considered sustainable is that they still are a lot better for the environment than the production of plastic.

However, if you aim at earning your clients’ trust, the right decision would be to make sure the candle boxes you choose are made of materials that are completely recyclable. Another thing to pay attention to is how biodegradable they are.

Customers nowadays are pretty informed about sustainability and they carefully inspect the products they are choosing. They would prefer fully biodegradable and recyclable products, and they have a way of knowing the truth about whether something is really “green”, or if that is just a label.

Furthermore, a product would be truly sustainable, if the processes both of production and transportation were considered harmless to the environment. Make sure the materials you choose for cushioning during shipment are also eco-friendly.

4. Pay Attention to the Printing Process

Sustainable candle box packaging suppliers provide you with the option to print your design on the boxes. After all, that is the way to present your product and brand identity and communicate your brand message to customers.

This is an important part, because the inks, used by the supplier, might not be completely eco-friendly. Check the information, provided by the supplier, and see if there is anything written about the inks. If not, you should probably look for a different supplier.

Examples of eco-friendly inks are indigo ink and UV inks. The types of inks that are not considered sustainable are truly harmful to the environment, so paying attention to the ink is a truly important step you shouldn’t miss.

If you are looking for packaging supplier that will answer all the requirements for sustainability of the candle packaging, then ThePackLion.com is the right place for you.

 

Finance and Banking

Macroeconomic Indicators’ Impact on Forex Market Forecasts

The world of foreign exchange trading continues to evolve and adapt to the shifting conditions in the global economy as we head into 2023. Analysing macroeconomic indicators is still a necessary part of understanding currency market movements. While causes for these fluctuations vary, their significance is profound. This article delves into the intricate relationship between macroeconomic data and projections for forex traders, providing readers with valuable insights on how they can better utilise this data when making trading decisions.

The first time trading foreign exchange

The life of a forex trader is marked by excitement, deliberate planning, and an endless thirst for knowledge. To succeed in this competitive environment, traders must be aware of the many factors affecting currency prices. Macroeconomic indicators can be helpful in navigating the turbulent waters of market changes.

Macroeconomic indicators offer guidance and an in-depth understanding

Macroeconomic indicators come in three primary forms: leading indicators, lagging indicators, and coincident indicators. Each type provides a unique view of the current state of the market. Let us explore these categories and the individual indicators within them so we can gain a better grasp on their role in accurately forecasting forex trading activity.

Leading indicators provide a look into the future

Leading indicators provide data points that look into the future and give insight into how an economy will perform in that period. Traders can forecast market movements using these signals, and then take calculated actions accordingly. Some of the most crucial leading indicators used in forex trading include:

a. Interest rates: Decisions a country’s central bank makes regarding interest rates

Interest rates, which ultimately determine currency values, are usually determined by central banks. When a country’s central bank decides to increase these rates, it usually leads to stronger currencies as higher interests attract investors from other nations. When rates are lowered, it could result in weaker currencies. Therefore, traders in foreign exchange markets must closely follow central bank decisions and attempt to anticipate their impact on various currencies’ prices.


b. The purchasing managers’ index for the manufacturing sector: An indication of activity within this sector.

The purchasing managers’ index (PMI) is an essential gauge of the manufacturing sector’s health. A higher reading indicates growth, while a lower one suggests contraction. This information may affect a currency’s value since it offers valuable economic insights.

Lagging indicators provide a retroactive perspective of past performance and help traders assess an economy’s past performance. Here are some of the most critical lagging indicators:

c. GDP, the gross domestic product, acts like a report card for the economy.

A country’s total value of all commodities and services produced over a certain period is its gross domestic product or GDP. It serves as an overall indicator of an economy’s health: if it’s growing, it suggests expansion in the economy that may lead to currency appreciation. Conversely, falling GDP indicates contraction within the economy, which could result in currency devaluation.

d. Inflation rates: An invisible devaluator of money

Inflation is known as the total rise or fall in prices across a range of goods and services over time. Increasing inflation rates may reduce a currency’s buying power, lowering its value; conversely, declining inflation rates might raise its value. To effectively engage in foreign exchange trading, one must understand how inflation works alongside currency prices.

Indicators of coincidental occurrences: A glimpse into the current situation

Coincident indicators offer timely insight into the state of an economy. With these indicators, traders can more precisely gauge how economic developments will impact currency prices. Key coincident indicators include:

a. Statistics on employment levels serve as a barometer of the economy’s state

The labour market’s strength can be determined from statistics related to employment, such as the unemployment rate and information on job growth. A healthy labour market could indicate economic expansion, leading to an appreciation of currency. Conversely, a poor labour market might indicate contracting activity within the economy and lead to depreciation.

b. Consumer spending: The primary engine of economic expansion.

Consumer expenditure accounts for a substantial portion of a country’s GDP, so forex traders view it as an important coincident indicator. An increase in consumer spending typically signals economic strength and could lead to currency appreciation. Decreasing spending may indicate economic fragility and lead to depreciation.


Maximising the impact of macroeconomic indicators: Successful strategies

Traders can design more effective strategies to manage the constantly shifting market environment if they understand the various macroeconomic indicators and how these impact their projected returns. What follows are a few pointers that might assist traders in making successful use of these indicators:

a. Combine the signs for a more comprehensive view

Relying solely on one macroeconomic indicator could give an inaccurate impression of how the market is doing. Instead, market participants should focus on multiple indicators to get a more complete assessment of the economy and make informed decisions.

b. Monitor global economic events

Events that occur globally that impact the economy, such as changes in government policy or political upheaval, have a major effect on macroeconomic indicators. Traders can gain invaluable insights into potential market moves by staying abreast of these developments and understanding their effects on macroeconomic data.

c. Create a Trading Strategy

Traders can improve their ability to set clear objectives and manage risks efficiently by considering macroeconomic information. To guarantee an organised approach when trading forex, the trading strategy should specify precise indicators that need to be observed, entry and exit points sought, and risk management measures used.

Experience provides invaluable opportunities to refine and gain wisdom. Therefore, no single trading technique can guarantee profits on the foreign exchange market. Traders must be willing to adjust their strategies according to their own observations as well as changes to market conditions. To successfully navigate forex trading’s complexity, traders should perform routine checks on their strategy’s efficiency and make necessary modifications if needed.

Economic indicators have proven to be an invaluable resource for Forex traders

Macroeconomic indicators are vital in the world of foreign exchange trading. They help traders comprehend market behaviour and make accurate judgments based on accurate information. Traders can gain valuable insight into what drives currency prices by studying leading, lagging, and coincident indicators. These gauges can be used to measure the time gap between events.

Forex traders can enhance their success in the fast-paced world of forex trading by combining sound strategies with commitment to continuous education. Though becoming an expert at forex trading may require dedication and hard work, the rewards upon completion of a course could be immense.

 

 

Marketing, PR and SEO, News

Harnessing the Power of Semantic Search: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

The rise of semantic search has revolutionized the way search engines interpret and process user queries, moving beyond simple keyword matching to understanding the context and intent behind search queries. As search engines become more adept at this, businesses must adapt their content creation strategies to capitalize on these advancements. By focusing on comprehensive, contextually relevant content that addresses users’ needs and questions, businesses can improve their online visibility and drive more organic traffic. This article will discuss the importance of semantic search and provide actionable tips for creating content that aligns with this approach.

Understanding Semantic Search

Semantic search refers to the ability of search engines to understand the context and intent behind search queries, rather than relying solely on keyword matching. This approach allows search engines to provide more accurate and relevant search results, improving the user experience. Using natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, semantic search is capable of examining and comprehending different elements of a search request, including user intent, search history, and synonyms.

Why Semantic Search Matters for Businesses

As search engines evolve to provide better results for users, it is crucial for businesses to adapt their content strategies accordingly. Embracing semantic search can offer several benefits, including:

Improved Search Visibility: By creating content that aligns with semantic search principles, businesses can increase their chances of ranking higher in search results and attracting more organic traffic.

Enhanced User Experience: Semantic search helps ensure that users find the information they’re seeking quickly and efficiently, leading to a better user experience that can result in increased engagement, longer session durations, and higher conversion rates.

Competitive Advantage: Businesses that prioritize semantic search can gain a competitive edge by staying ahead of SEO trends and providing more relevant and valuable content to users.

Tips for Creating Content That Aligns with Semantic Search

Focus on User Intent

Understanding user intent is crucial for creating content that aligns with semantic search. Identify the needs and questions your target audience is likely to have and create content that addresses those concerns. Consider the different stages of the buyer’s journey and craft content that caters to users at each stage.

Use Contextual Keywords and Synonyms

Instead of solely focusing on exact-match keywords, incorporate contextual keywords and synonyms that reflect the broader topic. This approach can help search engines understand the context of your content and improve its relevancy to user queries.

Optimize for Long-Tail Keywords and Natural Language Queries

As voice search and conversational queries become more prevalent, it’s essential to optimize your content for long-tail keywords and natural language queries. Include questions and answers in your content and use conversational language to cater to users searching with voice-activated devices.

Create Comprehensive and In-Depth Content

Develop content that covers a topic thoroughly, providing valuable and in-depth information that users can’t find elsewhere. Comprehensive content is more likely to be perceived as authoritative and relevant by search engines, improving its chances of ranking higher in search results.

Use Structured Data

Schema markup, also referred to as structured data, assists search engines in comprehending the connections and context among diverse components found on a webpage. Implementing structured data can improve the way search engines interpret your content, increasing the likelihood of appearing in rich results and enhancing your online visibility.

Optimize for Featured Snippets

Highlighted as the top search results, featured snippets on Google’s search results page offer users a prompt and straightforward solution to their inquiry. To optimize for featured snippets, format your content in a clear and concise manner, using headings, bullet points, and numbered lists where appropriate.

Monitor and Analyze Performance

Regularly track and analyze your content’s performance using analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, to identify areas for improvement and optimize your content accordingly. Pay attention to metrics like organic traffic, bounce rate, average session duration, and conversions to gain insights into how well your content is resonating with users and aligning with semantic search principles.

Keep Content Fresh and Up to Date

Search engines prefer content that is current and accurate, as it provides users with the most relevant information. Regularly update your content to ensure it remains accurate, comprehensive, and reflective of the latest industry trends and insights.

Build a Strong Internal Linking Structure

A robust internal linking structure can help search engines understand the context and relationships between different pages on your website. Use descriptive anchor text when linking to other pages and ensure the linked content is contextually relevant to the current page.

Encourage Social Sharing

Content that is widely shared on social media platforms can be perceived as more authoritative and relevant by search engines. Encourage social sharing by creating shareable content and making it easy for users to share your content across various platforms.

Hence, Semantic search has changed the way search engines process and interpret user queries, placing greater emphasis on understanding context and intent. By focusing on creating comprehensive, contextually relevant content that addresses users’ needs and questions, businesses can capitalize on the power of semantic search to improve their online visibility and drive more organic traffic. By incorporating the tips discussed in this article, businesses can adapt their content strategies to align with semantic search principles and stay ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape. If you are looking to increase your organic traffic, contact Digitalinear today.

 

 

News, Social Media

Why You Should Utilise TikTok To Attract New Customers

Since its launch, TikTok has become a world-wide phenomenon. With billions of users posting content every second, it has quickly captured the imagination of its users. However, TikTok isn’t only for people to post their content on the latest trends, it is also a great way for businesses to grow their audience and get noticed by new people. So, why should you utilise TikTok to attract new customers?

 

To Help Find Your Audience

One of the best ways to make your marketing campaign more effective is to know where your audience is. There are many ways that you can do this, including using a social listening tool that will find out what your customers are looking for.

However, actively posting on social media platforms such as TikTok will help you organically attract new customers to your brand. TikTok is another huge search engine just like Google and YouTube. This means you can add your keywords in the posts so that people will find your content and visit your website.

 

Find Gen-Z Customers

While more traditional forms of advertising still work for some generations, there are others such as Gen-Z who are harder to target. This is because they are a generation that has never been without the internet, and use it a lot in their daily lives. For this group of people, it is important to target them where they are the most. This is on social media and on your website.

 

Build Your Brand’s Reputation

Many customers are becoming more concerned about the reputation of the brands they use. This has developed more in the past few years, as customers are more discerning about where they purchase products.

Having a presence on social media platforms like TikTok can lead to your brand developing a good reputation among those who follow you. In turn, this can become a platform for growth of your brand and increased sales.

 

Influencer Opportunities

Social media has caused the growth of influencers across various platforms. These influencers have a strong following and can recommend your products if they fit in with the niche of their content.

One of the advantages of using influencers is that they are often considered to be a good source for those looking for certain products. You want them to be genuinely interested in your products, and able to convey their feelings to their audience.

It is important to find an influencer that matches your brand’s mission and ethos so that you can get the best results.

 

Social Media Can Be a Cost Saving

Although you can run ads on many of the existing social media platforms, this doesn’t have to be the way you grow your audience. By posting regularly as a member, you can get many of the benefits of using paid ads.

Because many people are now starting to turn away from advertising, this could be the best way to reach your target audience and grow your business. You need to be sincere and not flood the platform with just your latest products.

 

Conclusion

TikTok is a great platform to get your brand in front of a huge number of people and increase your sales as a result.

News, Property, Retirement

My Future Living receives record level of enquiries for retirement rentals in first quarter

My Future Living, the leading retirement brand, is proud to announce significant growth in enquiries for the first quarter of 2023, as more people are considering renting in retirement to reap the benefits of freeing up capital from downsizing and living a maintenance-free life.

This follows the latest Tenant Survey by Knight Frank focusing on the ‘underserved senior living market’, which is projected to reach 55.2bn this year. The report also suggests an increasing demand for rental properties for the over 65s, indicating this market is gaining traction.

 

Dominic Stead, Property Director at My Future Living, commented, “The Knight Frank report highlights growth in demand for retirement properties as the needs of elderly individuals are currently unmet. As the UK’s population continues to age, renting will become increasingly popular, particularly with a greater number of developments being built exclusively for retirees who prefer to rent.”

 

Over the past three months, My Future Living has experienced its strongest growth in enquiries and believes it is because renting can be a fantastic lifestyle choice, particularly for those who wish to downsize and unlock capital from the sale of their homes. It is also an excellent option for those looking to join a friendly and sociable retirement community with neighbours of a similar age and with shared interests.

The Knight Frank survey found that affordability to be a large factor as to why many live in the private rented sector, with 17% of respondents saying they don’t have enough money for a deposit to purchase a property. It also found that living in a central location was key with 75% stating that it was important their retirement village was close to the town centre.

 

Dominic Stead added: “Affordability and location are priorities for our tenants, but people also like being maintenance free and having more control over their monthly budget with no surprises. Our properties are ideally located in developments that are close to town centres with shops, transport links and the amenities people need to have access to. Renting in a retirement development can offer peace of mind too, as we offer long term protected rental contracts, the developments are very secure and there is a 24-hour emergency alarm system in each apartment and an onsite manager on duty, with a community of people close by. As people age this is really reassuring. Renting can suit people’s circumstances better in later life and as demand increases, we expect more people will opt to rent.”

 

My Future Living currently has a large one-bedroom retirement apartment available at Homebank House close to the heart of Oxton on the Wirral for £675 per calendar month. The development offers a communal lounge which is an ideal place to socialise with other residents, or enjoy the well-maintained gardens, plus there is a lift, laundry facilities and guest suite for visiting family and friends.

 

In Southampton a one-bedroom apartment at Lake House is available to rent at £750 per month. Lake House is an attractive development set in beautiful communal gardens with views over Freemantle Park and the upper reaches of Southampton Water. It’s located just a short distance from the shops and a wealth of entertainment options including theatres, museums, galleries, shopping centres, impressive architecture and the harbour.

 

Apartments are available on an assured ‘lifetime’ tenancy, which means people can stay as long as they wish, as long as they keep to the terms of their lease. All developments benefit from landscaped gardens, a communal lounge to socialise in plus a 24-hour emergency alarm system in each apartment and an onsite manager on duty.

To find out more about renting a home in a retirement development in 2023 visit: www.myfutureliving.co.uk

 

Appointments, Finance and Banking, News

Equity Release Supermarket support consumer demand with new hires

The UK’s No.1 independent equity release advisory service, Equity Release Supermarket (ERS), continues to expand its UK operations to best serve clients with the appointment of three new advisers and an addition to their Head Office operations.

The pioneering digital-tech company add to their growing national team in order to strengthen their presence within the industry and throughout the UK. The latest appointments – Jon Styles, Adam Lombardo, Kelly Hodgkiss and Amy Payne – bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise from within the general financial services sector.

Mark Gregory, Founder & CEO at Equity Release Supermarket commented: “In a year of significant change for our sector including consumer duty and the mini budget in 2022, we have remained committed to our values and the industry as a whole, through our quality of advice, level of customer service, and innovation through technology.

“Our customers are at the centre of all we do, and we have always made it our mission to be as open and transparent as possible. We understand what a turbulent time and difficult period it is for the nation, particularly with the cost-of-living crisis. We therefore always treat our clients with the optimum care, honest and open advice.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jon, Kelly, Adam and Amy to our expansive and well-established team. Their respective expertise will help us to further strengthen our position and reach throughout the UK. It is always our aim to provide the best possible service to our customers, which is why we invest so heavily in our people, expertise and technology.

“We are also very proud to still be creating new career opportunities at a difficult time for the industry.”

Newcomers – Jon, Adam and Kelly – will cover all areas of the UK offering either telephone, video or livechat services. to support consumers nationwide.

Jon began his career in financial services in 2014 at Nationwide Building Society before becoming an Equity Release specialist in 2018.  Whilst Adam also held many esteemed roles at Nationwide Building Society. Both bring to the firm a range of expertise, knowledge, and a passion for customer service.

Kelly joins ERS as a well-qualified and experienced adviser bringing over 20 years’ experience to the team.

 

Kelly commented: “It’s a privilege to join Equity Release Supermarket. They are a company I have long admired having watched how they have paved the way in the industry. Working for organisations that have a strong reputation is of key importance to me and it’s why I wanted to become part of Equity Release Supermarket. They have an incredible reputation and exceptional advisory team – I love what they stand for, given that achieving the best outcome for my clients has always been at the heart of my advice process.

 

Equity Release Supermarket believe in recruiting advisers on the quality of their advice and developing them through their unique in-house training academy.

The firm launched an Industry-first digital solution for consumers just over 12-months ago – known as smartER™ – an equity release comparison tool. The platform now contributes to more than 25 per cent of their business and has generated increased attention from consumers, given that it allows them to take control for the first time.

 

Mark went on to say: “By empowering consumers to conduct their own whole of market research, we are opening a new window of opportunity for our industry.

“Today’s market offers older homeowners an unprecedented choice of products that provide secure, flexible finance. We’ve now made this completely transparent, enabling consumers to interact and compare the market, putting them in the driving seat and helping them to achieve their financial goals.

 

Holding previous marketing roles at TMA Club and Sesame Bankhall, Amy Payne is highly experienced within the financial services industry. She joins ERS as Senior Marketing Executive to assist with the accelerated growth and awareness of the platform, as well as providing added support to Advisers and Lenders. She has a wealth of experience working within this arena and will fuel the operational strength of the company.

 

Mark continued, “We have an exceptionally talented and pro-active team who deliver unparalleled support and services to our clients.

 

 

Acquisitions & Partnerships, Cybersecurity, Mergers, News

Cohesity Collaborates with Microsoft to Simplify How Businesses Protect and Secure Their Data from Cyber Threats Including Ransomware Attacks

and Secure Their Data from Cyber Threats Including Ransomware Attacks

Cohesity today announced an expanded relationship with Microsoft that is focused on helping enterprises globally broaden and harden data security — critical as cyberattacks are occurring every 39 seconds with 30,000 websites hacked daily and costing the global economy $6.9 billion in 2021*.

There are two major elements to the expanded relationship between Cohesity and Microsoft.

  • Cohesity announces integrations that help IT and SecOps leaders defend against cyber threats
    • Microsoft Sentinel:Cohesity’s DataProtectbackup and recovery solution, both on-premises as well as its backup as a service offering, now integrates with Microsoft Sentinel – the cloud-native security information and event management (SIEM) platform.   Through this integration, joint customers can benefit from streamlined access to incident reporting and ransomware alerts.
    • Azure AD and Multi-factor Authentication:Azure Active Directory is a standard identity platform for Microsoft customers around the globe. Cohesity provides seamless integration with Azure AD and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to safely and securely manage and access Cohesity products, including Cohesity Data Cloudand Cohesity Cloud Services.
    • Microsoft Purview via Cohesity’s Partnership with BigID:Get actionable data intelligence for data discovery, privacy, security, and governance across your Microsoft environment with Cohesity data classification that is powered by BigID. BigID has built integration with Microsoft Purview that joint customers can benefit from.
  • Cohesity Cloud Services are now available on Azure, empowering Microsoft customers to easily protect and secure their data across hybrid environments 
    • Cohesity FortKnox,Cohesity’s popular SaaS cyber vaulting service, provides another layer of protection with predictable data recovery. Live demos and product previews of Cohesity FortKnox on Azure are available now, with general availability planned in the coming months.
    • Cohesity DataProtect delivered as a service,an easy-to-use enterprise-grade backup as a service (BaaS) offering, now supports Microsoft 365. Customers can use Cohesity’s BaaS offering, which protects critical SaaS, cloud-native, and on-premises data, to back up their Microsoft 365 data to a data plane hosted on Azure.

Ushering in a New Era in Deriving Value from Data

Cohesity, which is already using AI to help customers detect anomalies that can indicate a cyberattack in play, believes AI can be used in other ways to rapidly analyse vast volumes of data and enable IT and security operations to respond to a security breach — faster and with improved accuracy.

Today, Cohesity announced that it will put forth its AI-ready data structure that, when combined with OpenAI, will advance generative AI initiatives around threat detection, classification, anomaly detection, and more. To hear more about the impact AI can have on data security and management, Cohesity’s expanded relationship with Microsoft, and opportunities for customers to secure, protect, and derive value from data, watch this special edition of Spotlight on Security on April 11 which will feature key Microsoft and Cohesity executives.

“Cohesity is integrating with Microsoft’s broad platforms across security, cloud and AI – all in order to help joint customers secure and protect their data against escalating cyberattacks,” said Sanjay Poonen, CEO and president, Cohesity. “This expanded collaboration will make it simple for thousands of Microsoft customers and ecosystem partners to access Cohesity’s award-winning platform, including its differentiated benefits of scalability, simplicity and security, in hybrid-cloud or multicloud scenarios.”

“We utilise both Cohesity and Microsoft solutions today and are excited about this expanded focus on advancing security, utilising cloud innovations to promote cyber resilience, and getting more valuable insights from data,” said Niall Townley, backup administrator, Community Health Plan of Washington. “As organisations like ours continue to accelerate the move to a hybrid and multicloud world, it’s great that we can also continue to manage data simply and securely, wherever it’s located, via the Cohesity Data Cloud platform. Together, all these benefits help us optimise the cloud while also mitigating risk from cyber threats.”

With so many organisations expanding their data footprints into hybrid and multicloud environments, attack vulnerabilities are increasing, and data security and protection is becoming more complex. Cohesity seeks to meet customers where they are, whether on-premises or across multiple cloud providers,” said Phil Goodwin, research vice president, IDC. “Cohesity strives to help customers get more value from data through better data logistics, a key part of which is data security and protection. We think integrating with Microsoft Azure will help Cohesity and its customers to stay a step ahead of cyber criminals through more intelligent security now and with other interesting use cases to follow.”

Data & Analytics, News, Storage, Technology

11:11 Systems Launches Managed SteelDome for On-Premises Data Storage, Protection and Recovery

Collaborative solution unites on-premises storage management with cost savings and security benefits of cloud-backed storage

11:11 Systems (“11:11”), a managed infrastructure solutions provider, today announced general availability of 11:11 Managed SteelDome in partnership with SteelDome Cyber. The fully managed service is designed for organisations in need of secure, scalable and cost-efficient storage of their unstructured, on-premises data.

Leveraging SteelDome’s industry-leading InfiniVault application technology, 11:11 Managed SteelDome provides on-premises data storage, protection and recovery. This new offering provides data immutability and protection from ransomware attacks and optimises data storage, all while meeting strict compliance and regulatory requirements. Acting as a storage gateway, the InfiniVault virtual appliance allows customers to use 11:11 Object Storage 2.0 within their own environments. This provides a place to store unstructured data while enabling organisations to roll back to a previous version of the data if needed.

“Any organisation that has dealt with or managed database backups knows they can take up a tremendous amount of storage space,” said Justin Giardina, CTO, 11:11 Systems. “This increases the risk factor of potentially losing backup data if the server fails while eating into valuable primary storage space. With 11:11 Managed SteelDome, backups can be moved to a vault and free up primary storage capacity while adding an extra layer of protection from ransomware and other cyber attacks. Our customers will enjoy a familiar user experience as well as a cost-efficient and extremely robust data storage and protection using cloud-backed storage resources.”

With 11:11 Managed SteelDome, customers benefit from ransomware protection, streamlined processes, increased efficiency and more.

  • Prevent and defend against ransomware – With comprehensive data security, immutable backups and fast data restoration capabilities, organisations can prevent and defend against ransomware attacks. Additionally, virus scanning, data separation and encryption quickly detect anomalies and attackers.
  • Optimise data storage – SteelDome’s software solutions help manage an organisation’s data performance and the infrastructure it runs on with built-in compression, traffic shaping and deduplication. This also improves data migrations, reduces time and saves money.
  • Streamline and maintain regulatory compliance and data privacy – Organisations can improve cyber insurance policies, reduce cybersecurity risk and stay ahead of the constantly changing regulatory and compliance landscape with enhanced data restoration capabilities. 11:11 Managed SteelDome’s one easy-to-use interface provides the tools necessary to configure data protection and storage pools and locate and recover any data needed, regardless of where the replication data is stored.
  • Simplify migrations – Universally compatible with all operating systems and application types, SteelDome’s InfiniVault software-based solution operates like a storage device to contain and safeguard information leveraging local or cloud disks. Organisations can easily abstract the data from hardware while leveraging existing on-premises investments and the cloud.  Additional benefits are the savings of not having to purchase, maintain and support legacy infrastructure.
  • Increase savings and efficiency – SteelDome’s InfiniVault complements the existing install base by providing a highly secure storage location for data without the need for physical disk resources. This is a tremendous value for the customer by accelerating the migration or implementation of data protection, restoration and recovery of storage solutions. It also provides the ability to diversify the data across any number of cloud storage endpoints regardless of the storage technology.

11:11 Managed SteelDome is initially available in the United States and United Kingdom, anywhere 11:11 Object Storage 2.0 is offered. Learn more about 11:11 Managed SteelDome here.

 

ABOUT 11:11 SYSTEMS

11:11 Systems is a managed infrastructure solutions provider that holistically addresses the challenges of next-generation managed cloud, connectivity and security requirements. The 11:11 model empowers customers and partners to “Rethink Connected,” which includes integrated services that deliver increased performance, optimisation and savings. Learn more at 1111Systems.com.