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Here’s how to watch USA Vs. Finland NHL Today: Livestreams, TV Channel, 4 Nations Lineup

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The 4 Nations Face-Off continues tonight with an exciting matchup as the United States takes on Finland in both teams’ tournament debut. The action began with a thrilling opener on Wednesday night, where Canada edged out Sweden in a 4-3 overtime victory after a dramatic comeback by the Swedes. Now, all eyes turn to the Bell Centre in Montreal as the U.S. and Finland face off in what promises to be a high-intensity game.

Finland vs USA today

Here’s everything you need to know to catch the game, including live stream options, TV channels, projected lineups, and more.

How to watch USA vs Finland hockey

  • Date: Thursday, February 13
  • Time: 8 p.m. ET
  • Location: Bell Centre, Montreal, Quebec
  • TV Channel: ESPN/TSN/SportsNet
  • Livestream: watch every live games

NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Schedule

Here’s a look at the tournament schedule leading up to tonight’s game and beyond:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 12: Canada 4, Sweden 3 (OT)
  • Thursday, Feb. 13: USA vs. Finland, 8 p.m. | ESPN | Bell Centre | Live Stream
  • Saturday, Feb. 15: Finland vs. Sweden, 1 p.m. | ABC | Bell Centre
  • Saturday, Feb. 15: USA vs. Canada, 8 p.m. | ABC | Bell Centre
  • Monday, Feb. 17: Canada vs. Finland, 1 p.m. | TNT | TD Garden
  • Monday, Feb. 17: Sweden vs. USA, 8 p.m. | TNT | TD Garden
  • Thursday, Feb. 20: Championship Game, 8 p.m. | ESPN | TD Garden

Team USA: Star-Studded Lineup

The United States boasts a roster loaded with elite talent, led by captain Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Matthews, one of the NHL’s most prolific goal-scorers, is joined by dynamic playmakers like Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils and Jack Eichel of the Vegas Golden Knights. The U.S. lineup is deep, with a mix of speed, skill, and physicality that makes them a formidable opponent.

Projected Lineup for Team USA

Forwards:

  • Kyle Connor — Jack Eichel — Matthew Tkachuk
  • Jake Guentzel — Auston Matthews — Jack Hughes
  • Brady Tkachuk — J.T. Miller — Matt Boldy
  • Brock Nelson — Vincent Trocheck — Dylan Larkin

Defensemen:

  • Zach Werenski — Charlie McAvoy
  • Jaccob Slavin — Adam Fox
  • Noah Hanifin — Brock Faber

Goaltenders:

  • Connor Hellebuyck
  • Jake Oettinger

Scratched: Chris Kreider, Jake Sanderson, Jeremy Swayman
Injured: None

Finland: A Balanced and Skilled Squad

Finland is led by captain Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers, a two-way force, and assistant captain Sebastian Aho of the Carolina Hurricanes, a dynamic offensive threat. The team also features stars like Mikko Rantanen and Patrik Laine, making them a well-rounded and dangerous opponent.

Projected Lineup for Finland

Forwards:

  • Artturi Lehkonen — Aleksander Barkov — Mikko Rantanen
  • Roope Hintz — Sebastian Aho — Patrik Laine
  • Eetu Luostarinen — Anton Lundell — Mikael Granlund
  • Teuvo Teravainen — Erik Haula — Joel Armia

Defensemen:

  • Niko Mikkola — Esa Lindell
  • Urho Vaakanainen — Nikolas Matinpalo
  • Olli Maatta — Henri Jokiharju

Goaltenders:

  • Juuse Saros
  • Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

Scratched: Juuso Valimaki, Kaapo Kakko, Kevin Lankinen
Injured: None

Preview: 4 Nations Face-Off Format and Key Updates

The 4 Nations Face-Off is set to bring a fresh twist to international hockey, blending NHL-style excitement with unique tournament rules. As the tournament approaches, here’s a breakdown of the format, overtime rules, and some key roster updates that could impact the competition.

Overtime and Shootout Rules

Much like the NHL, the 4 Nations Face-Off will feature 3-on-3 sudden-death overtime during the round-robin games. However, there’s a notable difference: the overtime period will last 10 minutes instead of the NHL’s standard five minutes. If the game remains tied after overtime, a three-round shootout will determine the winner.

For the championship game, the format shifts to the traditional playoff-style overtime. Teams will play 5-on-5 hockey in consecutive 20-minute periods until a goal is scored, ensuring a true winner is crowned.

Key Roster Updates

Injuries have already impacted the tournament, with several marquee players forced to withdraw. One of the most significant losses is Quinn Hughes, the star defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, who was set to represent Team USA. Hughes has been sidelined for Vancouver’s last four games due to an undisclosed injury, prompting his withdrawal from the 4 Nations Face-Off.

To fill the void, the United States has called up Jake Sanderson of the Ottawa Senators. Sanderson, a rising young defenseman known for his poise and two-way play, joins fellow Senator Brady Tkachuk on the U.S. roster. While Hughes’ absence is a blow to Team USA, Sanderson’s addition brings a fresh dynamic to the blue line.

What to Watch For

  • Overtime Drama: The extended 10-minute 3-on-3 overtime promises high-speed, high-stakes action, with plenty of opportunities for highlight-reel plays.
  • Championship Intensity: The shift to 5-on-5 overtime in the final ensures a classic, hard-fought battle for the title.
  • Roster Adjustments: With key players like Quinn Hughes sidelined, teams will need to adapt quickly. Jake Sanderson’s performance for Team USA will be one to watch.

Where to Watch Duel at Daytona Live: TV Schedule, Streams for Qualifying Races

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The excitement is building as the Duel at Daytona qualifying races are set to take place on Thursday, Feb. 13, determining the final lineup for the 67th Daytona 500. With 38 cars already locked into the race through Wednesday’s qualifying, the two 60-lap Duel races will decide the last two spots in the 40-car field. For NASCAR fans, this is a must-watch event, as the stakes are high and the competition is fierce.

Here’s everything you need to know about where and how to watch the Duel at Daytona, including TV schedules, streaming options, and key details about the races.

Duel at Daytona TV Schedule and Start Times

  • Race 1 Start Time: Approximately 6 p.m. CT on Thursday, Feb. 13
  • Race 2 Start Time: Approximately 30 minutes after Race 1 concludes
  • Track: Daytona International Speedway (2.5-mile oval) in Daytona Beach, Florida
  • Race Length: 60 laps (150 miles) for each Duel
  • Live Streaming: Watch Live Race Anywhere

What’s at Stake in the Duel at Daytona?

The Daytona 500 is NASCAR’s crown jewel, and the Duel qualifying races are the final step in setting the starting grid. While 36 chartered teams are guaranteed spots, four positions remain up for grabs among nine non-chartered teams. Two of those spots will be awarded to the highest-finishing open cars in each Duel race.

Duel at Daytona Live Streaming: Watch Live Race Anywhere

Notable drivers like former Cup champions Jimmie Johnson and Martin Truex Jr. have already secured their spots based on qualifying speeds. However, the pressure is on for drivers like Justin AllgaierHelio Castroneves, and Chandler Smith, who are among those vying for the final positions.

How to Watch the Duel 1 & 2 at Daytona From Anywhere

Duel at Daytona Live Streaming: Watch Live Race Anywhere

TV Coverage

  • Channel: FS1
  • Watch FREE on Fubo: Fubo offers a free trial for new users, making it a great option to catch the races without a cable subscription.

Streaming Options

  • FuboTV: Free trial available for new subscribers.
  • FOX Sports App: Requires a subscription to access live coverage.
  • NASCAR.com and SiriusXM: Audio streaming is available for those who prefer to listen to the action.

Duel Starting Lineups

Race 1

  1. Chase Briscoe, No. 19 Toyota
  2. Ryan Preece, No. 60 Ford
  3. Josh Berry, No. 21 Ford
  4. Austin Dillon, No. 3 Chevrolet
  5. Ty Dillon, No. 10 Chevrolet
  6. Zane Smith, No. 38 Ford
  7. Kyle Busch, No. 8 Chevrolet
  8. Chase Elliott, No. 9 Chevrolet
  9. Michael McDowell, No. 71 Chevrolet
  10. AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Chevrolet
  11. William Byron, No. 24 Chevrolet
  12. Martin Truex Jr., No. 56 Toyota
  13. Ty Gibbs, No. 54 Toyota
  14. Tyler Reddick, No. 45 Toyota
  15. Bubba Wallace, No. 23 Toyota
  16. Justin Haley, No. 7 Chevrolet
  17. Justin Allgaier, No. 40 Chevrolet
  18. Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Chevrolet
  19. Ross Chastain, No. 1 Chevrolet
  20. Helio Castroneves, No. 91 Chevrolet
  21. Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Chevrolet
  22. Chandler Smith, No. 66 Ford
  23. JJ Yeley, No. 44 Chevrolet

Race 2

  1. Austin Cindric, No. 2 Ford
  2. Joey Logano, No. 22 Ford
  3. Denny Hamlin, No. 11 Toyota
  4. Christopher Bell, No. 20 Toyota
  5. Kyle Larson, No. 5 Chevrolet
  6. Alex Bowman, No. 48 Chevrolet
  7. Todd Gilliland, No. 34 Ford
  8. Brad Keselowski, No. 6 Ford
  9. Chris Buescher, No. 17 Ford
  10. Ryan Blaney, No. 12 Ford
  11. Noah Gragson, No. 4 Ford
  12. Daniel Suarez, No. 99 Chevrolet
  13. Riley Herbst, No. 35 Toyota
  14. Jimmie Johnson, No. 84 Toyota
  15. Shane Van Gisbergen, No. 88 Chevrolet
  16. Cole Custer, No. 41 Ford
  17. Corey LaJoie, No. 01 Ford
  18. Erik Jones, No. 43 Chevrolet
  19. John Hunter Nemechek, No. 42 Toyota
  20. Anthony Alfredo, No. 62 Chevrolet
  21. BJ McLeod, No. 78 Chevrolet
  22. Cody Ware, No. 51 Ford

What to Watch For

The Duel at Daytona is more than just a qualifying event—it’s a preview of the drama and intensity that will unfold in the Daytona 500. Key storylines include:

  • Open Car Battles: Drivers like Helio Castroneves and Justin Allgaier will fight for the final spots in the Daytona 500.
  • Chartered Team Strategy: Even though 36 cars are locked in, teams will use the Duels to fine-tune their setups and strategies for the big race.
  • Star Power: With drivers like Kyle Busch, Chase Elliott, and Denny Hamlin on the track, the Duels promise high-speed action and plenty of excitement.

OG Brands LTD Partners with OhMyKoko to Drive Growth in Hong Kong’s Beauty Market in 2025

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February 13, 2025 (Hong Kong) – OG Brands LTD, a leading distributor of premium beauty and wellness brands in Asia, proudly announces its exclusive partnership with OhMyKoko, a pioneering “skin activist” brand, to revolutionize the clean beauty market in Hong Kong.

After reviewing numerous international brands, OG Brands selected OhMyKoko for its commitment to safe, vegan, and sustainable skincare—a rising demand among Hong Kong beauty consumers. With a growing preference for paraben-free, silicone-free, and cruelty-free skincare, OG Brands sees OhMyKoko as the ideal brand to drive a new standard in natural beauty products.

“We carefully select brands that don’t just follow trends but set new standards,” said Dana Zilberstein, CEO of OG Brands LTD. “OhMyKoko stood out because of its authenticity, innovation, and commitment to ingredient integrity. We believe this brand will transform how Hong Kong consumers perceive clean beauty, offering a trustworthy, results-driven alternative to conventional skincare.”

Founded by Rosa Torres and Helena Arauz, OhMyKoko is more than just skincare—it’s a global movement advocating for skin health and ethical beauty. With dermatologically tested formulations, the brand ensures its products are suitable for sensitive skin while being eco-friendly and free from harmful chemicals.

“As we expand into Hong Kong and beyond, we want OhMyKoko to be synonymous with safety and transparency in the cosmetics industry,” said Rosa Torres, Co-CEO of OhMyKoko. “Our mission is to reach consumers who seek high-performance, natural, and vegan skincare—whether they are longtime advocates or just beginning their journey toward conscious beauty choices.”

With OG Brands’ expertise in luxury beauty distribution, this partnership will ensure strong retail placement, targeted marketing strategies, and consumer education initiatives to make OhMyKoko a household name in Hong Kong’s clean beauty space.

About OG Brands LTD

OG Brands LTD is a premier distributor specializing in launching exclusive indie beauty and wellness brands across key Asian markets, including APAC and MIDDLE EAST. With a deep understanding of regional beauty trends and strong retailer partnerships, OG Brands provides strategic market entry, retail distribution, and brand-building services for high-growth international brands.

About OhMyKoko

OhMyKoko is a skin activist brand dedicated to redefining clean beauty standards with vegan, sustainable, and toxin-free skincare. Their dermatologically tested formulas harness the power of botanicals to deliver high-performance, ethical skincare solutions that prioritize both skin health and environmental responsibility.

CONTACT:

OG BRANDS LTD

https://ogbrands.global/

SOURCE: OG BRANDS LTD

OG Brands Ltd. Partners with Factory 54, Israel’s Leading Premium Department Store, to Launch Exclusive Luxury Beauty brands

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Tel Aviv, Israel – [Date]OG Brands Ltd., a leading distributor of premium beauty products and luxury skincare, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Israel’s renowned retailer Factory 54. This collaboration will launch Factory 54 Beauty, a new division offering exclusive high-end beauty, skincare, and lifestyle products to Israeli consumers.

OG Brands Ltd. Expands Premium Beauty Portfolio with Factory 54 in Israel

In this landmark collaboration, OG Brands Ltd. will introduce three luxury beauty brands into the Factory 54 Beauty stores. These premium brands are celebrated worldwide for their innovative formulations, exceptional quality, and high-performance products. As Factory 54 continues to expand its network with new stores focused on beauty and lifestyle, consumers in Israel will now have access to a curated selection of global beauty icons.

Introducing Premium Beauty Brands to Israel: 111Skin, Maginista, and Dame

OG Brands Ltd. is proud to bring these top-tier beauty brands to Israel through this exclusive partnership with Factory 54:

  • 111Skin: Known for its luxury skincare products, 111Skin combines cutting-edge science with clinically proven results. Trusted by top professionals and celebrities, the brand offers advanced anti-aging treatments and luxurious skincare solutions.
  • Maginista: A prestigious haircare brand from Denmark, Maginista focuses on innovative solutions for healthy, radiant hair. Trusted by beauty professionals, this high-performance brand combines natural ingredients with advanced technology to address common hair concerns.
  • Dame: A women’s empowerment brand blending sustainable beauty with high-end skincare. Dame is committed to creating luxurious products that promote self-expression, equality, and environmental responsibility, providing consumers with both prestige and purpose.

Revolutionizing the Beauty Shopping Experience in Israel

The launch of Factory 54 Beauty marks a new era for the Israeli beauty industry. OG Brands Ltd. and Factory 54’s collaboration will transform the way Israeli consumers shop for luxury beauty products. With a wide range of exclusive skincare, makeup, fragrances, and home products, Factory 54 Beauty will offer customers access to prestigious brands that are not available in mainstream retail outlets.

“We are thrilled to bring world-class beauty brands to Israel through our collaboration with Factory 54. This partnership will provide consumers with access to the best in skincare, makeup, and luxury beauty products, while meeting the growing demand for premium beauty in Israel,” said Dana Zilberstein, Co-Founder of OG Brands Ltd.

Exclusive Launch Events & Promotions

To celebrate the launch of Factory 54 Beauty, OG Brands Ltd. and Factory 54 will host a series of exclusive events, offering customers the chance to experience these luxurious beauty brands firsthand. Special promotions and VIP events will allow consumers to discover the latest beauty collections in a unique, upscale shopping environment.

Commitment to Quality and Excellence in Luxury Beauty

Both OG Brands Ltd. and Factory 54 share a commitment to excellence in customer service and the highest quality beauty products. This partnership lays the foundation for continued growth in the luxury beauty sector in Israel and extends OG Brands Ltd.’s global portfolio of premium beauty brands to the Israeli market.

Explore OG Brands Ltd. at ogbrands.global to learn more about our luxury beauty offerings and upcoming partnerships. 

CONTACT:

OG BRANDS LTD

https://ogbrands.global/

SOURCE: OG BRANDS LTD

Marina Residents Outraged as Greenery Is Replaced with Prison-Style Fencing

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Residents of a local marina have expressed anger and disappointment after lush, plant-lined walls were torn down and replaced with stark, prison-style fencing. The move has sparked a wave of criticism, with many accusing developers of ruining the area’s natural beauty and community-friendly atmosphere.

According to National Daily Press, the marina was once known for its scenic green walls, which provided a natural barrier while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the waterfront. However, recent changes have left locals feeling as though they now live in a restricted zone rather than a welcoming residential space.

Community Backlash Over the Unwanted Changes

Many residents argue that the new fencing is not only an eyesore but also makes the area feel uninviting and harsh. The abrupt removal of the greenery has led to frustration among homeowners, some of whom had moved to the marina specifically for its tranquil, nature-filled environment.

“It feels like we’ve been locked in,” one resident told reporters. “The greenery made this place feel alive, but now it just looks like a detention centre.”

Local campaigners are now calling for action, urging developers and authorities to reconsider the decision and restore the area’s natural charm. Community members have also voiced concerns that the fencing could negatively impact property values and deter visitors who were previously drawn to the marina’s unique character.

A Growing Trend of Urban Changes

The incident reflects a broader trend in urban developments where security and modernisation take precedence over environmental and aesthetic considerations. As reported by Coleman News, similar disputes have arisen in other residential areas, where locals have fought against changes that prioritise rigid infrastructure over green spaces.

Many argue that such developments overlook the importance of community well-being, with studies showing that access to greenery and natural elements significantly enhances mental health and quality of life.

What’s Next for the Marina?

With growing public backlash, residents hope that pressure from the community will prompt officials to rethink the decision. Some have even suggested alternative security measures that would not compromise the area’s visual appeal or environmental benefits.

For the full story, visit the original source on National Daily Press. For more updates on community developments and environmental concerns, stay informed with the latest reports from Coleman News.

Real-Time Transactions Driving the Future of Money Management

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The idea of going to a branch to move money around or transfer some to a friend or family member may seem out of the ordinary now. There were times when things were a lot more complicated if people wanted to move their money around or even do things like open accounts or move money to savings.

Loads of tech innovations have led to a much more convenient world of money today. Almost everything people want to do is at their fingertips and some of it is instant (or near instant). There are loads of ways that money matters are getting even faster as companies and banks look to innovate and improve processes.

The Cryptocurrency Revolution

One of the biggest game-changers in speeding up transactions has been cryptocurrency. Bitcoin and other digital assets have introduced a way to transfer funds without banks or traditional financial institutions. DeFi means no banks have to be involved. These transactions happen on the blockchain, allowing people to send money directly to one another (or to vendors) without the need for intermediaries.

Crypto transactions can clear in minutes instead of days – especially when compared to international bank transfers which often require currency conversions and banking approvals.

Cryptocurrency has been found to have some very relevant real-world uses. There are times when people really want to move money quickly. If they want to play a casino game online then they do not want to wait for money to clear in their account in order to play. The wait can be frustrating and it doesn’t really need to exist! Crypto has given a lot of players the chance to finance their playing instantly and without the need for any banks to approve or get involved with transactions.

Nothing else has to change or be compromised for players. If they want to use their cryptocurrencies to load games on the Ignition website they will still have a very wide range of options for what to play including different games that are available. Table games and slots alike have found their way into crypto platforms and there are even some newer games cropping up as a result.

Since the crypto revolution in the world of gaming, there has been a growth in Crash-style games that mimic a stock market or similar. Crash games have an option to allow people to cash out of the game before the value potentially dips.

Mobile Banking and Digital Wallets

Few innovations have revolutionized financial transactions like mobile banking. Nearly every major bank now offers a fully functional mobile app that allows users to check balances as well as perform a whole lot of transfers and other functions without having to ever talk to a member of staff. The first ever app of this kind was launched in the UK back in 2011 and since then things have become almost ubiquitous when it comes to online banking.

Digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay have also contributed to the faster movement of money. These services allow users to make instant contactless payments in stores and in the process they have eliminated the need for cash or card swipes. Payments are processed within seconds so transactions are faster than ever before.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps have further streamlined financial exchanges. Sending money to friends or businesses is now as simple as entering a phone number or scanning a QR code. These apps have made cash transactions almost obsolete as well as meaning that banks don’t have to be involved in every aspect of finance. P2P lending is even becoming much more mainstream and this can help people to borrow or lend without financial institutions being required. The transactions are still rock solid and use contracts to protect those involved.

Contactless Payments in Person

Another change we have all seen but now take for granted is the switch to contactless payments. These payments have become the preferred method for in-person transactions. Instead of entering a PIN or swiping a card the customers simply tap their card or phone on a payment terminal. These transactions take just seconds to process and are designed to be safe for the customers. There is also the benefit of not having to touch the terminal like they might have to on a chip and pin device – this can mean that fewer germs spread. ATMs and other terminals have been shown to be as dirty as toilets in some scenarios! No wonder people want to avoid this.

People who have been actively consuming and paying for things over the last decade or so will have seen that there are a huge number of different changes that have happened in the world of money and a lot of these have made it easier for the customer. They have driven more choice and in the example of cryptocurrency, we are also seeing a whole new financial world.

GAP Insurance | Your complete guide

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GAP insurance is supplemental car insurance; it covers a difference in between what you would be paid versus the money available to get your car or any money that could still be due if you are financing a new vehicle. While not a recommended add-on it is often prudent to carry when you buy brand-new vehicles or finance, and cars lose tremendous value right at the time one buys it so GAP will end up being payable.

What is GAP?

Once the car is officially declared a write-off or stolen, your usual car insurance payout will be in line with its existing market value. This sometimes proves to be far removed from its original buying price because, after a brand-new car has simply experienced its first year, it would have already depreciated to the tune of 15-35%. GAP insurance covers the gap so you can afford to replace it with something as close to that as possible or settle any outstanding finance. Checking the car valuation can help here, you can run a registration through a car checker website to reveal the current market value and then you can predict the possible 15-35% decrease in the price. However, with gap insurance will cover the difference.

Types of GAP Insurance

1. Finance GAP Insurance: Should the insurance pay-out only partially suffice to cover the remaining finance, this would be covered. 2. Return-to-Invoice (RTI): The difference between the settlement from the insurance and the invoice is paid. 3. Return-to-Value (RTV): This includes the gap between the payout from insurance and the value of the car at new. 4. Vehicle Replacement: This will cover the cost of a new replacement even though prices might have risen. 5. Negative Equity Cover: It safeguards against owing more than your car’s value due to depreciation. 6. Leasing-Related Gap Insurance This pays off the remaining lease balance including early termination fees.

How Does Gap Insurance Work?

The product is available either as an add-on to car insurance or standalone. For instance, if a person purchases a car for £25,000 and the worth depreciates to £20,000 within a year of purchase, the primary policy will only provide insurance up to £20,000, but the missing amount of £5,000 will be covered. For a more tailored price for your vehicle, run a reg check that includes the valuation. Then, you can calculate the depreciation estimate like the above. Always remember that some vehicles may depreciate faster than others, depending on the make, model, and other factors.

Current Market Situation

As of February 2024, an estimated 80% of the GAP insurance providers have ceased selling due to concerns about poor value presented by the Financial Conduct Authority. The FCA argues that only 6% of the paid premiums are returned in claims; hence, their review ensures fairer deals. Coverage and Exclusions GAP insurance can cover • The amount paid for the car. • The new value of the car if bought used. • The cost of replacing the vehicle. • Outstanding finance or lease on the vehicle. Exclusions typically include: • Cars not covered by comprehensive insurance. • Claims resulting from illegal activities. • Cars over certain age/mileage limits. • Business, hire, or racing vehicles. • Non-standard modifications.

Is GAP Insurance Worth It?

Consider GAP insurance if: • You’ve financed your car and risk owing more than its current value. • You own an expensive, fast-depreciating vehicle. • Your car is leased long-term. It may not be necessary if: • Your car insurance includes a new car replacement cover. • You’re content with a like-for-like replacement. • You own a second-hand car with minimal depreciation.

Costs and Tips for Savings

The related costs when it comes to GAP insurance may vary depending on the car’s model, make, age, the type of policy, and term length. To save: • Choose the right type of policy. • Compare quotes online. • Negotiate with dealers after comparing offers.

Regulatory Notes

Since 2015, FCA has not allowed dealers to sell GAP insurance at the moment of selling the car, but leave it with the buyer, so he/she has time to shop around. Already, many providers have stopped selling GAP insurance, so it is great to keep on with what happens next, that will lead to better value policies.

From Scientific Discovery to Patient Access: The Path of New Medicines

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The journey of a new medicine from initial discovery to pharmacy shelves is a long and complex process. It involves years of research, rigorous testing, and regulatory approvals to ensure that each drug is safe and effective. Understanding this process provides insight into the immense effort behind modern medicine and the crucial role of pharmaceutical innovation in improving human health.

Discovery and Preclinical Research

The first step in drug development is the discovery of a potential therapeutic compound. Scientists explore natural sources, chemical libraries, and biotechnology advancements to identify molecules that may have medicinal properties. This phase also involves understanding disease mechanisms to design targeted treatments.

Once a promising compound is identified, preclinical research begins. This stage includes laboratory and animal testing to evaluate the drug’s safety, biological activity, and potential side effects. If preclinical results are favorable, researchers submit their findings to regulatory bodies for approval to begin human trials.

According to The New York Times, recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence have significantly accelerated the drug discovery process, helping scientists analyze vast datasets to identify potential candidates more efficiently.

Clinical Trials: Testing in Humans

Clinical trials are conducted in three key phases to assess the drug’s effectiveness and safety in humans:

  1. Phase I: A small group of healthy volunteers receives the drug to determine its safety, proper dosage, and side effects.
  2. Phase II: A larger group of patients with the targeted condition is treated to assess the drug’s efficacy and further evaluate its safety.
  3. Phase III: Thousands of participants are involved in randomized, controlled studies to compare the drug’s effects with existing treatments or placebos.

Each phase is meticulously designed to gather essential data before seeking regulatory approval. These trials can take several years to complete, with strict ethical and scientific guidelines governing every step.

Regulatory Approval and Manufacturing

Once clinical trials demonstrate that a drug is safe and effective, pharmaceutical companies submit a New Drug Application (NDA) or Biologics License Application (BLA) to regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA). These agencies review all clinical data, manufacturing processes, and proposed labeling before granting approval.

Manufacturing must meet stringent quality standards to ensure consistency and safety. Companies like Wheeler Bio specialize in innovative biopharmaceutical development, streamlining the transition from early-stage discovery to large-scale production.

Post-Market Surveillance and Ongoing Safety Monitoring

Even after approval, drugs undergo continuous monitoring through post-market surveillance programs. This phase ensures that any rare or long-term side effects not detected in clinical trials are identified and addressed promptly. Healthcare providers and patients play a crucial role by reporting adverse reactions to regulatory bodies.

Recent reports from BBC News highlight the importance of post-market surveillance, particularly in identifying unexpected side effects in widely used medications, leading to safety updates or market withdrawals when necessary.

Conclusion

Developing a new medicine is an intricate process requiring collaboration between scientists, medical professionals, regulatory agencies, and pharmaceutical companies. Each stage, from discovery to patient use, is designed to ensure the highest safety and efficacy standards. As advancements in biotechnology and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, the future of drug development promises even greater efficiency, bringing life-saving treatments to those in need more rapidly than ever before.

Corporate Travel Risks: Why Your Business Needs a Strong Insurance Policy

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Corporate travel is a necessary part of business, but it also introduces a range of risks that many businesses overlook until it’s too late. From unforeseen accidents to travel disruptions, these risks can quickly spiral into costly setbacks. To mitigate these threats, a robust insurance policy is crucial. Without it, your company could be exposed to potential financial and reputational damage that might have been easily prevented.

The Hidden Dangers of Corporate Travel

Business trips often come with an air of excitement, but beneath the surface lies the potential for a variety of risks. Travelling employees may face delays, lost baggage, or even more serious accidents or health emergencies. Statistics show that around 60% of business travellers experience at least one major disruption during their trips each year. Whether it’s flight cancellations, missed connections, or sudden health issues, these events can affect both the employee and the company’s operations.

Insurance plays an essential role here. Without the right coverage, your business could face heavy financial losses. This is where Insurancy among other best international health insurance companies, steps in, providing the necessary coverage to ensure that travel-related disruptions, such as delays and medical emergencies, don’t affect your deadlines, client meetings, or project timelines.

Why Insurance Matters

When businesses neglect proper insurance, they risk financial instability and brand damage. For example, if a senior executive is injured during a business trip, the company may be forced to cover medical expenses, travel costs, and business delays without insurance. A strong policy helps not only with such severe incidents but also with smaller disruptions like travel delays or lost baggage, which can affect operations and client satisfaction. Modern insurance policies are tailored to cover specific needs such as cancellations, legal liabilities, and medical emergencies, offering customized protection that ensures both security for employees and business resilience.

Risk Mitigation through a Comprehensive Policy

A comprehensive insurance policy ensures your business can continue smoothly despite disruptions. It covers flight delays, medical emergencies, and unexpected incidents. For instance, travel medical insurance can cover high healthcare costs abroad. Business interruption coverage also reduces the financial impact of unforeseen events. Different regions pose unique risks, so a tailored policy is crucial. Whether sending employees on international trips or regional conferences, adjusting the insurance to reflect specific travel risks at each destination guarantees proper protection, safeguarding both your employees and the company’s interests.

Ensuring Smooth Sailing for Your Business

A solid insurance policy isn’t a luxury—it’s a business necessity. It’s easy to assume that travel risks are something that can be dealt with as they arise, but in reality, without the right coverage, the consequences can be catastrophic. With insurance in place, your company is prepared for the unexpected and equipped to handle any travel-related incidents swiftly and efficiently.

Safeguarding Your Business: The Bottom Line

Corporate travel risks are an unavoidable reality for any business that requires its employees to travel. However, by ensuring that your company has a strong, comprehensive insurance policy, you’re not only protecting your employees but also securing the longevity and stability of your business. This proactive approach to risk management demonstrates responsibility, enhances employee trust, and strengthens your reputation in the marketplace.

Enhancing Revenue and Visibility Through eCommerce Growth Solutions

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Running an online store is exciting, but scaling it successfully? That’s a whole different challenge. Many eCommerce businesses struggle with issues like low conversions, high advertising costs, and stiff competition. This is where an eCommerce growth agency comes in.

An eCommerce growth agency is a team of experts dedicated to helping online stores grow, increase sales, and improve profitability through data-driven strategies. Whether it’s optimising your website, running high-ROI ad campaigns, or improving customer retention, these agencies take care of the heavy lifting.

Let’s break down exactly what an eCommerce growth agency does and how their services can transform your online business.

What is an eCommerce Growth Agency?

An eCommerce growth agency is a specialised marketing and strategy firm that helps online stores scale efficiently. Unlike traditional digital marketing agencies, which may focus on general brand awareness, growth agencies prioritise measurable sales and revenue increases.

Their approach is highly data-driven, focusing on:

  • Maximising conversions (turning visitors into buyers)
  • Lowering acquisition costs (getting more for your ad spend)
  • Improving customer lifetime value (making each customer worth more)

These agencies help businesses break past their revenue plateaus and achieve long-term success through growth-focused solutions.

Core Services Provided by an eCommerce Growth Agency

  1. Conversion Rate Optimisation (CRO)

Getting traffic to your website is great, but if visitors aren’t buying, it’s all for nothing. Conversion rate optimisation (CRO) is all about making sure your website is designed to turn visitors into paying customers.

An eCommerce growth agency will:

  • Analyse user behaviour to find friction points in your store.
  • Run A/B tests to see what layout, copy, and buttons work best.
  • Optimise checkout processes to reduce cart abandonment.

The result? A higher percentage of visitors completing their purchases, leading to more sales without needing extra traffic.

  1. Paid Advertising & Performance Marketing

Running ads can quickly drain your budget if not done right. A growth agency ensures your Google Ads, Facebook Ads, TikTok Ads, and other campaigns bring in the best possible return on investment.

Their approach includes:

  • Advanced audience targeting (reaching high-intent buyers)
  • Retargeting campaigns (bringing back previous visitors)
  • Budget optimisation (cutting wasted ad spend)

They don’t just set up ads and hope for the best—they continuously test and adjust strategies to maximise results.

  1. SEO for eCommerce

Search engine optimisation (SEO) is a long-term strategy that helps your online store appear higher in search results. Unlike paid ads, SEO generates free, organic traffic over time.

An eCommerce growth agency will help with:

  • Keyword research to target the right search queries.
  • On-page SEO (optimising product descriptions, meta tags, and URLs).
  • Technical SEO (fixing site speed, mobile usability, and indexing issues).

A well-optimised site means more people find your store when searching for products like yours—without having to pay for every click.

  1. Email & SMS Marketing

Not all customers buy on their first visit. That’s why email and SMS marketing are crucial for keeping potential buyers engaged.

A growth agency will help set up:

  • Automated email sequences (welcome emails, abandoned cart reminders, post-purchase follow-ups).
  • Segmentation strategies (sending personalised offers based on user behaviour).
  • Exclusive SMS promotions to drive instant conversions.

When done right, email and SMS marketing can bring consistent revenue with minimal effort.

  1. Social Media Growth & Influencer Marketing

Social media isn’t just for brand awareness—it’s a powerful sales tool. eCommerce growth agencies help businesses leverage platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest to drive traffic and sales.

They also use influencer marketing to:

  • Build brand credibility through trusted voices.
  • Reach targeted audiences with authentic recommendations.
  • Create viral product trends that boost visibility.

By combining organic social growth with paid ads, agencies ensure your brand stays top-of-mind for potential customers.

  1. Data & Analytics for Growth

Without tracking results, it’s impossible to improve. eCommerce growth agencies use advanced data analytics to understand what’s working and what needs tweaking.

They focus on:

  • Tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) like conversion rates and customer acquisition costs.
  • Heatmaps and session recordings to see where users drop off.
  • Customer behaviour analysis to refine targeting strategies.

By making data-backed decisions, they ensure your business grows efficiently.

What You Need to Know Before Hiring an eCommerce Growth Agency

The Price

Of course, before you hire any agency, you need to know how much they’re going to be charging you. You have to ensure that this is an affordable deal for your business and you’re getting all of the services you need. Thus, ask the eCommerce growth agency for a personalised quote. This should outline exactly what you’re getting and what you’ll be billed for. Once you have several quotes, you can examine what each team has to offer and how you can get the best value for money.

The Team’s Experience

You don’t have time to muck around. Therefore, you need to hire an eCommerce growth agency that has years of experience. You need experts who know everything there is to know and have helped similar businesses achieve their goals. After all, you’re going to be spending good money and you want to ensure this is a wise investment. Therefore, find out more about the team’s experience and what they’ve achieved in the past. Look at the information on their website, including case studies.

The Reporting Process

Something that’s always recommended when you’re hiring professionals is tracking their progress. You need to ensure that the team is making a positive impact on your business. Ideally, you want a team that’s going to provide you with monthly reports. This should outline what they’ve done, the progress made and what the next steps are. This keeps you in the loop and offers you peace of mind.

Conclusion

Growing an online business isn’t just about launching a store and hoping for the best. It takes strategy, data, and expertise—all things an eCommerce growth agency brings to the table.

By optimising your website, running profitable ads, improving retention, and leveraging analytics, these agencies help businesses scale faster and smarter.

If you’re struggling to hit your revenue goals, it might be time to partner with experts who live and breathe eCommerce growth.

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