The landscape of senior care is undergoing a significant transformation. As the global population ages, the demand for senior living solutions that prioritize well-being and offer a seamless living experience is at an all-time high. Spade Care, a revolutionary new company, is at the forefront of this change, pioneering an integrated approach to senior living that merges exceptional healthcare services with comprehensive facility management.

The Growing Need for Holistic Senior Care

Traditionally, senior living options have often been fragmented, with separate providers for housing, medical care, and daily assistance. This disjointed approach can create challenges for seniors and their families. Spade Care recognizes this gap and addresses it by offering a holistic solution that encompasses every aspect of senior well-being.

Spade Care’s Vision: A Seamless Senior Living Experience

Spade Care, led by a team of passionate healthcare professionals and experienced facility management specialists, envisions a future where seniors can thrive in a supportive and enriching environment. Their integrated model eliminates the need for multiple service providers, ensuring a streamlined and stress-free experience for both residents and their families.

Integrated Healthcare for Optimal Well-being

At the heart of Spade Care’s philosophy lies a commitment to proactive and preventive healthcare. Residents have access to a team of qualified doctors, nurses, and therapists who work together to create personalized care plans. These plans address not only existing medical conditions but also focus on preventative measures to ensure optimal health and well-being.

Features of Spade Care’s Integrated Healthcare Approach:

  • On-site Medical Care: Regular check-ups, treatment of chronic conditions, and management of acute illnesses are all provided within the senior living community, eliminating the need for frequent hospital visits.
  • 24/7 Emergency Care: A dedicated team is available around the clock to address any urgent medical needs, providing peace of mind for residents and their families.
  • Preventative Care Programs: Spade Care emphasizes preventative measures through regular health screenings, nutritional guidance, and wellness workshops, empowering residents to take charge of their health.
  • Mental and Emotional Well-being: Recognizing the importance of mental and emotional health, Spade Care offers access to counselors, therapists, and social workers who can address any emotional or psychological concerns.

Comprehensive Facility Management for a Comfortable Living Environment

Spade Care goes beyond healthcare, offering a range of facility management services that ensure a comfortable, secure, and enriching living experience. Their dedicated staff takes care of everything from housekeeping and maintenance to meal preparation and transportation arrangements.

Key Features of Spade Care’s Facility Management Services:

  • Senior-friendly Living Spaces: Apartments and common areas are designed with accessibility and safety in mind, promoting independent living for as long as possible.
  • Delicious and Nutritious Meals: Spade Care’s chefs prepare balanced and appetizing meals, catering to individual dietary needs and preferences.
  • Housekeeping and Maintenance: Regular housekeeping and timely maintenance ensure a clean, safe, and comfortable living environment.
  • Transportation Services: Assisted transportation is available for errands, appointments, or social outings, promoting resident mobility and social engagement.
  • Security and Emergency Response: A secure environment with 24/7 security personnel and emergency response systems provides peace of mind for residents and their families.

Technology for Enhanced Care and Communication

Spade Care leverages technology to enhance the living experience for residents and streamline communication for families. Residents can benefit from wearable health monitors, telemedicine consultations, and easy-to-use communication tools to stay connected with loved ones.

The Benefits of Spade Care’s Integrated Approach

Spade Care’s integrated model offers a multitude of benefits for seniors, their families, and the healthcare system as a whole.

  • Improved Quality of Life: By focusing on both healthcare and well-being, Spade Care empowers residents to live more fulfilling and independent lives.
  • Reduced Hospitalizations: Proactive healthcare management can help prevent complications and reduce the need for hospital admissions.
  • Enhanced Family Peace of Mind: Families can rest assured knowing their loved ones are receiving exceptional care in a safe and secure environment.
  • Streamlined Care Coordination: With all services under one roof, care coordination becomes seamless, ensuring residents receive the right care at the right time.
  • Reduced Healthcare Costs: The emphasis on preventative care can potentially lead to reduced overall healthcare costs for seniors and the healthcare system.

Spade Care: Shaping the Future of Senior Living

Spade Care’s innovative approach to senior living is poised to revolutionize the industry. By integrating healthcare and facility management services, they create a holistic and resident-centric environment that fosters well-being and empowers seniors to live their golden years to the fullest. As the senior population continues to grow, Spade Care’s integrated model offers a promising solution for the future of senior care, providing a beacon of hope, comfort, and well-being for.

Sudhir Windlass is a name synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship, unwavering philanthropy, and a vision that extends far beyond the realm of business. As the founder and chairman of Windlass Steelcraft, a leading manufacturer of high-end cutlery, swords, and metal products, he has established himself as a pioneer in the industry. However, his impact stretches far beyond the workshop floor, reaching into the very heart of communities and shaping lives through his dedication to social responsibility.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition

Sudhir Windlass’s story is one of unwavering determination and a passion for excellence. His journey began not in the boardrooms of corporations, but in the heart of the Indian city of Dehradun. It was here, surrounded by the raw beauty of the Himalayas, that his fascination with metalwork blossomed. Fueled by a deep appreciation for historical craftsmanship and a desire to preserve its legacy, he embarked on a path that would redefine the landscape of metal artistry.

Windlass Steelcraft, born from this passion, quickly rose to prominence. Under Sudhir Windlass’s leadership, the company transformed from a local workshop into a global brand, exporting its meticulously crafted products to over 50 countries. The company’s dedication to historical accuracy, meticulous attention to detail, and use of premium materials have earned them a loyal following among collectors, enthusiasts, and even Hollywood production houses seeking authentic props for their films.

Beyond the Forge: A Beacon of Social Responsibility

Sudhir Windlass’s vision, however, extends far beyond the walls of his factory. He recognizes that true success lies not just in commercial achievements but also in giving back to the community that nurtured him. This philosophy of social responsibility forms the cornerstone of his philanthropic endeavors.

The Windlass Foundation, established by Sudhir Windlass, serves as a testament to his commitment to social good. The foundation focuses on a wide range of initiatives, from supporting education and healthcare for underprivileged communities to promoting environmental sustainability. Their efforts encompass everything from building schools and providing scholarships to students, to organizing healthcare camps in rural areas and championing eco-friendly practices.

Education: Empowering the Future

Sudhir Windlass recognizes the transformative power of education. The Windlass Foundation prioritizes initiatives that provide access to quality education for children from underprivileged backgrounds. They have established schools, funded scholarships, and provided educational resources, creating opportunities for a brighter future for countless individuals.

Healthcare: Ensuring Well-being for All

Healthcare access remains a critical challenge in many parts of India. The Windlass Foundation actively addresses this issue by organizing regular medical camps in remote areas. These camps provide free consultations, medication, and basic health screenings to those who may not have access to adequate healthcare facilities.

Environmental Stewardship: Preserving the Legacy for Generations to Come

Sudhir Windlass understands the importance of environmental preservation. The Windlass Foundation actively promotes sustainable practices and environmental awareness. Their initiatives encompass tree plantation drives, waste management programs, and promoting eco-friendly manufacturing processes within Windlass Steelcraft itself.

A Leader Who Inspires: Building a Community of Compassion

Sudhir Windlass’s leadership transcends the realm of business. He inspires others with his unwavering commitment to social responsibility. He actively promotes the concept of corporate philanthropy, encouraging other entrepreneurs to contribute to the betterment of their communities.

A Legacy Forged in Steel and Compassion

Sudhir Windlass’s story is an inspiration. He is a testament to the power of combining entrepreneurial vision with a deep sense of social responsibility. His legacy is not just one of meticulously crafted metalwork, but also one of compassion, community building, and a commitment to creating a better future for all. As Windlass Steelcraft continues to flourish and the Windlass Foundation expands its reach, Sudhir Windlass’s impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.

The UPSC Civil Services Examination is one of the most prestigious exams in India with lakhs of aspirants striving to find a place in the final merit list each year. The exam is conducted in three stages – Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test.

The Prelims exam consists of two papers- General Studies (GS) and Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT). This exam evaluates aspirants on various aspects of the examination such as their general knowledge, mental agility, critical thinking, analytical skills, memory, application of knowledge, time management, and other relevant factors.

With the Prelims Exam to be held on 16th June 2024, the remaining two months necessitate a smart and efficient preparation strategy. To crack the prelims exam, it’s important for the aspirants to focus on effective revision of both static and current affairs coupled with engaging in simulated  mock tests that mirror the UPSC exam environment.

The Importance of Simulated Mock Tests

Solving mock tests is crucial for UPSC prelims success as it ensures a comprehensive understanding and improvement in key areas essential for prelims exam success such as

  • Simulating Exam Conditions: Mock tests replicate the actual exam environment, including time constraints and question patterns. This simulation helps candidates acclimatize to exam pressure, making them more comfortable and confident on the actual exam day.
  • Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses: Taking mock tests allows candidates to identify their strong and weak areas. It provides valuable insights into which topics need more focus and practice.
  • Improving Time Management: Simulated mock test helps candidates practice allocating time to different sections and questions, ensuring they complete the paper within the stipulated time.
  • Building Exam Temperament: They help in developing the mental stamina needed to maintain focus and concentration throughout the exam duration.
  • Optimizing Exam Performance: One can refine problem-solving abilities and test-taking strategies, like smart question selection and efficient elimination methods, to boost scores and increase their chance of passing preliminary exams.
  • Familiarizing with Exam Pattern: Becoming familiar with the exam pattern and question types through mock tests helps reduce anxiety and boosts confidence levels.
  • Elevating CSAT Readiness: Through targeted practice, these mock tests elevate a candidate’s readiness for the CSAT, refining their problem-solving and analytical skills essential for clearing this paper.

The preparedness for the Mock Tests and UPSC Prelims exam greatly relies on use of validated and effective learning resources.  They also facilitate interactive learning,  smart revision, and effective recall. VisionIAS Quick Revision Module(QRM) is one such intelligently designed and developed resource to maximze the learning outcomes for students in an efficient manner.

Abhyaas Prelims 2024: UPSC Prelims Simulator

Abhyaas 2024 All India Prelims Mock Test Series is an excellent opportunity for aspirants to assess themselves and enhance their readiness for the exam. This Initiative is designed to simulate the UPSC Prelims-like environment covering the entire syllabus with GS and CSAT tests being conducted on the same date.

Abhyaas Prelims is held across 100+ cities in the country in the offline mode. The schedule of the tests i.e. 21st April, 12th May, and 26th May provides aspirants with sufficient time to improve and reassess their preparation.

Due to its effectiveness in guiding the student’s preparation towards ultimate success, Abhyaas Prelims Mock Test Series is attempted by every 1 in 3 selected top 50 candidates in the UPSC Examination.

How Abhyaas Prelims 2024 helps in UPSC Prelims Preparation?

  • Comprehensive Prelims Syllabus Coverage: Abhyaas Prelims 2024 mirrors the UPSC pattern, ensuring every aspect of the GS and CSAT syllabus is thoroughly covered. This alignment with the actual exam format equips aspirants with a broad and deep understanding of the high yielding topics, perfectly preparing them for exam day.
  • All India Ranking: The All-India Ranking provides comparative standing among peers and acts as an added motivation for students to improve upon their ranking in the subsequent tests.
  • Post-Test Analysis: One of the most significant benefits of Abhyaas lies in the post-test analysis. It allows aspirants to review their performance critically, identifying areas of strength and pinpointing those requiring more focus.
  • Live Test Discussion: Abhyaas Prelims 2024 enriches preparation by live discussions with thorough question analysis, enabling aspirants to understand solution rationales, learn from mistakes, and gain strategic insights in real-time.
  • Enhanced Retention: Abhyaas Prelims helps in the consolidation of knowledge and improves retention, making it easier for aspirants to recall information during the exam.
  • Revision based on Analysis : Modifying study plan based on the analysis of Abhyaas performance aids in prioritizing topics that require more attention and revisio
  • Personalized Mentoring Support: Access to experienced mentors and receiving personalized feedback can significantly enhance a candidate’s preparation strategy. Insightful feedback helps in fine-tuning preparation and rectifying errors, paving the way for improvement.

In a nutshell, simulated mock tests are invaluable tools in the arsenal of UPSC Prelims aspirants. They not only gauge one’s preparedness but also hone skills necessary for success in this competitive examination. Consistent practice with mock tests, combined with strategic preparation, will undoubtedly maximize your chances of clearing the UPSC Prelims.

                             “We are what we repeatedly do.

                 Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle

Embrace this comprehensive preparation approach to maximize your potential and step confidently toward achieving your dream of becoming a civil servant.

Visit us at:

www.visionias.in/abhyaas

Or Call us at: 8468022022, 9019066066

In a monumental move set to revolutionize the travel industry, Avaan Excess proudly announces the launch of its highly anticipated International Luggage Delivery Service. Seamlessly integrating efficiency, affordability, and reliability, Avaan Excess sets a new standard for international travel convenience.

Gone are the days of fretting over excess baggage fees and cumbersome luggage logistics. With Avaan Excess’s International Delivery Service, travellers can now bid farewell to the stress of lugging heavy suitcases through crowded airports. This groundbreaking service offers door-to-door pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience from start to finish.

“Our mission at Avaan Excess has always been to simplify travel and enhance the journey for our customers,” said Meera Singh, CEO & Founder at Avaan Excess. “With the launch of our International Luggage Delivery Service, we’re excited to extend our seamless solutions to travellers across borders, providing unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.”

Avaan Excess’s International Delivery Service isn’t just limited to traditional luggage delivery. Recognizing the diverse needs of travellers, Avaan Excess also offers efficient international package shipping from India. Whether it’s sending heartfelt gifts to loved ones abroad or transporting essential belongings for an extended stay, Avaan Excess ensures reliable and timely deliveries worldwide.

“At Avaan Excess, we understand that every journey is unique, and our goal is to cater to the individual needs of each traveller,” added Meera Singh. “Our International Baggage Delivery Service is designed to provide a seamless and stress-free experience, allowing travellers to focus on what truly matters – their adventure.”

With affordable pricing starting at a fraction of airline baggage fees, Avaan Excess’s International Delivery Service offers unparalleled value without compromising on quality. Live tracking features provide real-time updates on the status of shipments, allowing travellers to stay informed every step of the way.

As Avaan Excess embarks on this new chapter of international travel convenience, the world is truly within reach. Say goodbye to excess baggage fees and logistical headaches – with Avaan Excess, the journey has never been easier.

For more information about Avaan Excess’s International Luggage Delivery Service, please contact:

Phone: 08069405400

Website: https://avaanexcess.com

In a landmark move that is set to redefine the landscape of football collectibles, Topps has released the inaugural EURO 2024 Match Attax collection. Bursting with an array of captivating subsets and unparalleled cards, this revolutionary collection encapsulates the essence of the European football championship like never before. With a staggering 457 cards to covet, enthusiasts are poised to embark on an exhilarating journey through the realms of footballing glory.

The EURO 2024 Match Attax collection offers a cornucopia of categories designed to enthral collectors of all stripes. From the illustrious Golden Treasure and Centurion cards to the awe-inspiring Hero and Ultimate subsets, every card pulsates with the electrifying energy of the championship. Delving deeper into the collection reveals the exquisite Next Gen cards, paying homage to the luminaries of the sport, alongside the timeless allure of Legends and the prestigious 100 Club.

Adding a layer of intrigue are the coveted Crystal, Emerald, and Sapphire parallels, each shimmering with its own unique allure. Meanwhile, the EURO Energy cards inject an extra dimension of dynamism into the fray, while the enigmatic EURO Black Edge cards evoke a sense of mystery and anticipation with every reveal.

True to its tradition of innovation, Topps introduces a host of novel concepts, including the EURO Auto and Combo cards, designed to captivate collectors with their blend of artistry and rarity. Furthermore, the EURO Chrome Shields exude a contemporary flair, elevating the aesthetic appeal of the collection to unprecedented heights.

However, the pièce de resistance of the EURO 2024 Match Attax collection undoubtedly lies in the form of the Ultra-Rare Career Celebration card dedicated to the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. A tribute to his unparalleled contributions to the sport, this card serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and the indelible mark he has left on footballing history.

As enthusiasts eagerly await the release of this groundbreaking collection, Topps has once again reaffirmed its position as a trailblazer in the realm of football collectibles. With the EURO 2024 Match Attax collection poised to take centre stage, aficionados can look forward to a thrilling odyssey through the annals of European footballing greatness.

https://in.topps.com/

https://www.instagram.com/toppsforindia/

In today’s modern world, new innovative ideas mean making lives simpler. People will be happier with those products that can make their life easier, convenient, save their hours, and along with an incredible look, boost confidence level. Keeping these thoughts in mind, the CEO of VGR, Jatin Wadhwa has brought an innovative and new change in the Indian market with grooming products that fulfil individual’s needs.

Sometimes, waking up early in the morning and spending hours styling your hair can be frustrating. Hey! What if you get a product that will help you spend less time and give your hair a detailed look? Yes, this is possible, VGR offers one of the best products “Automatic Curler”. This product gives you an incredible look and makes sure to meet your expectations and needs. Automatic Curler has been designed in such a way that anyone can use it even if you’re it for the first time. Automatic Curler not only saves your time, and effort but also gives you a perfect look and saves your money which you spend by visiting expensive salons.

Let’s take another incredible product and if you’re a traveller then this is for you. VGR offers an amazing Pocket trimmer that comes in smaller sizes but is powerful. This product is easy to carry, gives you a stunning look and the best part is, it gives you more space so that you can put your other important stuff in your bag.

Every single parent on this earth wants their baby to be happy. Parents can’t compromise when it comes to their baby. Parents would love this product offered by the VGR i.e. “Vacuum baby trimmer”. The vacuum baby trimmer has been designed in such a beautiful way, with its suction mechanism, it becomes safe, comfortable, and gentle while grooming. These are just a few examples of the groundbreaking innovations brought forth by VGR.

With a dedicated R&D team continuously exploring new possibilities, the brand remains committed to pushing the boundaries of grooming technology. To explore the full range of VGR’s innovative grooming solutions, visit www.vgrofficial.in.

Join the movement towards smarter, more efficient grooming and experience the difference that innovation can make in your daily routine.

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India]: Global Seamless Tubes & Pipes (Global Seamless), a leading manufacturer of carbon, alloy, and stainless steel tubes and pipes in India, announced a $35 million investment to establish its first U.S. production facility in northwest Louisiana in Mansfield, DeSoto Parish.

The India-based company is a leading manufacturer and supplier of seamless steel tubes and pipes used extensively in transporting fluids like water, natural gas, and waste. Due to their lack of welding seams, these tubes and pipes are vital for high-pressure, high-corrosion environments.

A Strategic Move to Meet the Growing Demand

Global Seamless currently exports products to over ten countries. Their Louisiana facility will integrate hot finishing and cold drawn processes, allowing them to better serve North American customers in engineering, oil and gas, and power generation.

“Louisiana’s position as a natural gas hub and a key player in the global energy supply chain makes it the ideal location for our first U.S. facility,” said A.R. Biswas, President of Global Seamless. “We are committed to providing high-quality products and services, and this new plant strengthens our domestic supply chain.”

Project Timeline and Incentives

Engineering and design are underway, with construction and installation of the first production line expected to follow shortly. The company anticipates commercial operations by year-end.

The state offered Global Seamless a competitive incentives package, including workforce development through LED FastStart and a $1.25 million grant for utility, road, and facility improvements. The company is also expected to participate in Louisiana’s Quality Jobs program.

“Bringing opportunity back to areas that have lost jobs is incredibly rewarding,” said North Louisiana Economic Partnership CEO Justyn Dixon. “We are excited to welcome Global Seamless to North Louisiana and thank LED and local leadership for making this happen.”

Creating Local Jobs and Strengthening North American Supply Chain

This $35 million project will bring 135 new direct jobs to DeSoto Parish, with an estimated total of 386 potential new jobs when including indirect positions.

“We are dedicated to bringing economic opportunities to all of Louisiana,” said LED Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois. “Global Seamless’ investment will revitalize rural communities and support our oil and gas industry. We are grateful for their commitment to our skilled workforce and the competitive advantages Louisiana offers.”

DeSoto Parish Welcomes New Opportunity

“We are thrilled that Global Seamless will revitalize the former Hensley facility,” said DeSoto Parish Police Jury Parish Administrator Michael Norton. “This project will create much-needed career opportunities and breathe new life into this once-thriving manufacturing center.”

About Global Seamless Tubes & Pipes

Global Seamless Tubes & Pipes, an eminent steel seamless piping mill in India, merges over three decades of expertise with cutting-edge technology in both hot-finishing and cold-drawn processes, ensuring unparalleled quality and precision in seamless pipes and tube production. Positioned advantageously near major ports, the company boasts a robust US investment-backed infrastructure, excelling in manufacturing a wide range of steel pipes for diverse industries while adhering to international standards and supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The factory is built over 300,000 square feet and is equipped to produce 24,000 metric tons of cold-drawn tubes and hot-finished pipes annually. Learn more at https://www.globalseamless.com

About Louisiana Economic Development (LED)

Louisiana Economic Development is responsible for strengthening the state’s business environment and creating a more vibrant economy. In 2023, LED attracted more than $25 billion of capital investment resulting in the creation of 19,000 potential new and retained jobs. Explore how LED cultivates jobs and economic opportunity for the people of Louisiana and employers of all sizes at https://www.opportunitylouisiana.com

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Chemco Group, a renowned pioneer in the packaging sector, strengthens its leadership stance with the debut of its innovative stretch film line. This state-of-the-art technology has an impressive annual production capacity of over 1,000 tons, allowing businesses to meet growing demands with the highest quality of stretch films.

Emphasising High-Quality Resins for Superior Stretch Films

“At Chemco, our approach to innovation is balanced. We focus on utilizing high-quality materials and integrating advanced manufacturing techniques to deliver products that stand out,” remarks Vaibhav Saraogi, Managing Director of Chemco Group. “This new stretch film line is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, offering businesses the efficiency and reliability they need in their operations.”

Tailored Packaging Solutions Across Diverse Industries

Chemco’s stretch film line is designed to support a broad spectrum of industries and solutions:

Food & Beverage: Securely seals food items, preserving their freshness.

Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals: Provides stable and secure packaging for a range of applications.

Manufacturing & Industrial: Ideal for securing heavy or irregularly shaped loads.

Warehousing & Logistics: Enables efficient inventory management through colour-coded wrap options.

Promotional & Informational: Offers printed wraps for easy product branding and tracking.

Outdoor Storage & Transportation: Features UV resistance for prolonged sun exposure during transport and storage.

A Blend of Quality and Efficiency

Chemco’s commitment to using quality resin, combined with its innovative manufacturing processes, allows for the production of stretch films that are not only durable and reliable. This balance ensures that businesses can count on Chemco for packaging solutions that provide both performance and sustainability.

One Stop Solution

With the installation of this cutting-edge stretch film line, Chemco Group further solidifies its position as a comprehensive one-stop solution for all packaging needs. Our extensive portfolio now encompasses preforms, bottles, jars, shrink films, caps, and with the latest addition, stretch films. Chemco is dedicated to innovating and expanding its offerings to ensure that our clients have access to the best packaging solutions, all under one roof, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and product reliability.

Visit Chemco Group Website at www.chemcogroup.com

New Delhi [India]: Commodity trading offers investors lucrative trading opportunities. In 2023, some commodity asset categories have shown double-digit returns, and some will do the opposite. Octa, in the article, talks about commodity performers in 2023.

Trading commodities is a promising opportunity for those looking to diversify risks, protect themselves against inflation and make money using predictable price movements within a year. So, it will be interesting to find out which commodities perform best and which perform worst. But first, let’s try to understand commodities as an asset.

What are Commodities?

Commodities are the raw materials used to create consumer products, from food to furniture to petrol. Commodities include agricultural products such as wheat and cattle, energy products such as oil and natural gas, and metals such as gold, silver and aluminium. There are also soft commodities that cannot be stored for long periods, such as sugar, cotton, cocoa, and coffee.

Why do traders use commodities to generate income?

Predictability: As commodities are real assets, they tend to react to changes in external factors differently than stocks, bonds, and currencies, which are financial assets. In particular, no central bank regulator sets the rules of the game for tangible assets. Here, the law of supply and demand determines the price–a shortage of a particular commodity naturally raises its price.

Inflation defence: Changes in the prices of the main categories of commodities are the first turn of the inflationary spiral. The more significant the increase in commodity prices, the greater the increase in goods and services production costs (Producer Price Index–PPI). The growth of production costs of goods and services provokes the growth of retail prices, thus shifting the inflationary burden to the consumers (Consumer Price Index–CPI). Therefore, commodity investments can provide portfolios with inflation protection.

Cyclicality: Demand for groups of goods depends on the time of year. For example, the demand for feed grain grows twice a year–during the preparation for sowing and harvest period. Also, there is an assertion that petrol prices rise in summer when the holiday season starts. However, there is a downside–commodities may underperform during cyclical downturns in the global economy when consumer and industrial demand slows down.

Best & worst commodity performers

Almost all commodities ended in 2023 in negative territory: only gold took the crown, other metals showed negative dynamics, and most energy and agriculture commodities declined.

Gold is the leading precious metal. Copper is the best non-precious metal

Gold rose 13.10 per cent to a record high of $2,135. The rise in gold was driven by central bank purchases, which estimated 800 tonnes of gold in the first three quarters of 2023. As rate cuts in 2024 look more likely, investors are looking for a safe-haven gold asset, and the weaker dollar has accelerated this process.

Copper’s rise is driven by current demand, as it is virtually indispensable in most electronic devices, from mobile phones to solar panels.

Meanwhile, the very same factor makes palladium just as unpopular in 2023. Its main uses are catalytic converters and the automotive industry, and car sales have been declining as people keep switching to electric cars.

Lithium and nickel rank last. It’s all about the fact that their supply was extremely high in 2023. In fact, some major producers even halted production amid falling prices last year. The situation is unlikely to improve in 2024.

Energies were on a cyclical correction

Crude oil fell by almost 11 per cent due to rising aggregate supply: at the end of 2023, daily U.S. crude oil production stood at a record 13.3 million barrels per day. In addition, economic activity in China, the leading consumer of crude oil, hurt aggregate demand.

What’s on track now?

  • In 2024, moderate consumer activity weakens demand for commodities. The expected interest rate cuts by the U.S. Federal Reserve may not only be good for consumer activity–a weaker dollar will support the price of gold, which may rise even higher.
  • Lower inflation will continue to hold down the price of oil in 2024. However, if geopolitical tensions rise, the scenario could be reversed.
  • Commodities used in the green energy transition, such as nickel, copper, lithium and zinc, are trending downwards due to continued significant oversupply. Copper, lithium and zinc will also be in surplus in 2024.

Regardless of how 2024 turns out, it is clear that the commodities market offers traders a unique opportunity to make money. Octa allows its clients to trade gold–the most growing commodity, and other types of assets.

SquareX, a browser-security start-up led by serial cybersecurity entrepreneur Vivek Ramachandran, today unveiled the results of its recent study, revealing a concerning reality about major email providers’ inadequacies in safeguarding users against malicious document-based threats.

The study, conducted by SquareX’s research and development team, involved analysing 100 malicious document samples, which were segmented into four distinct categories:

  1. Original malicious document samples from MalwareBazaar
  2. Slightly altered malicious document samples from MalwareBazaar, such as changes in metadata and file formats
  3. Malicious document samples modified using attack tools that have existed for many years
  4. Basic Macro-enabled documents that execute programs on user devices.

These samples were sent via a third-party email provider, ProtonMail, to several major email providers, including industry giants such as Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo, AOL, and Apple iCloud Mail. The study revealed that while email providers like Gmail and Outlook demonstrated basic detection capabilities in identifying unmodified malicious document samples, they faltered in detecting modified malicious documents manipulated with readily accessible attack tools – exposing a glaring cybersecurity loophole that poses a potential threat to millions of users around the world.

Given the prevailing reliance on email services as secure communication channels, these findings raise important questions about the effectiveness of relying on existing email security measures and the false sense of security they may instil in millions of users and enterprises worldwide. While cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, email providers appear ill-prepared to detect and intercept these emerging threats, consequently leaving users to potential exploitation.

“The inadvertent discovery of this significant lapse in email security during our product enhancement process was startling, especially in India where most people use these services both for personal and professional work and rely on them for security,” shared Vivek Ramachandran, the founder and CEO of SquareX. “Our intention in making these findings public is to ignite a dialogue on the urgent need for reinforced security measures and encourage email providers to either elevate their security protocols or transparently acknowledge their current limitations,” added Vivek.

To bridge this security gap, SquareX has introduced an advanced in-browser malicious document scanning feature as a part of its browser extension, currently in beta. This move not only speaks of the company’s commitment to making the web a safer place but also invites other companies to join forces in securing the web activities of users and enterprises from cyber-attacks.

About SquareX:

SquareX is a browser-security start-up founded by the seasoned cybersecurity expert and serial entrepreneur, Vivek Ramachandran. At the core of SquareX’s mission is the commitment to empower users and enterprises with the confidence to navigate the online world without fear. With its innovative browser-native security solutions and unique isolation technology, SquareX aims to safeguard both individuals and enterprises from a spectrum of browser-based threats, encompassing malicious files, websites, scripts, and compromised networks.

Available on the Chrome and Edge stores, the SquareX browser extension has not only been awarded as “featured extension” by Chrome store but has also earned over 100,000 users globally in less than a year.