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WASHINGTON ― President-elect Donald Trump said Friday he will work to end daylight saving time , putting his weight behind a long-debated effort that would require congressional action. Trump announced his push to make standard time year-round ‒ ending semi-annual time changes ‒ in a post on his social media site Truth Social . "The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldn’t!" Trump wrote . "Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation." The U.S. is currently in standard time ‒ which moved the clocks back an hour on Nov. 3, resulting in early December sunsets that are often the subject of complaints. The nation is set to spring forward to daylight saving time again on March 9 of next year. Although getting rid of daylight saving time would keep the strikingly early winter evenings, the move would mean no more time changes, which some call their biggest annoyance. Tech entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who are set to lead a Trump administration effort aimed at cutting government costs and improving efficiency, had signaled their support for scrapping daylight saving time. "Looks like the people want to abolish the annoying time changes," Musk wrote in a post last month on X. All but two states observe daylight saving time. (Under the Uniform Time Act of 1966, states can opt out of DST.) Yet even among those who want to scrap time changes, there's a debate whether daylight saving time or standard time should be the one to go. More: Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy outline plan for 'large-scale firings' in federal workforce under Trump In 2022, the Senate approved bipartisan legislation on unanimous consent to make daylight standard time permanent ‒ and keep the later sunsets ‒ but it stalled in the House. The bill was co-sponsored by Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., a Trump ally and the incoming president's nominee for secretary of state. Health experts say time changes disrupt the body's circadian rhythm and release hormones. But most oppose keeping daylight saving time permanent, citing evidence that springing forward an hour in March is harder on us than falling back in November. "The medical and scientific communities are unified ... that permanent standard time is better for human health," said Erik Herzog, a professor of biology and neuroscience at Washington University in St. Louis and the former president of the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms. Polling suggests Americans favor Trump's idea of getting rid of daylight saving time. About 43% want year-round standard time, 32% want permanent daylight saving time and 25% want to stick with the status quo, an October 2021 Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll found. For now and for the near future at least, most Americans will keep going through the jarring time changes that come around twice a year. The U.S. tried year-round daylight saving time once before. That came in 1974 under President Richard Nixon. Just a few months into the experiment, Congress acted to go back to standard time after complaints of children going to school in the dark on winter mornings. Contributing: Jeanine SantucciNew French government named after previous one collapsed in budget fightStephen A. Smith Speaks on JuJu Watkins’ Potential: Deserves the Hype Caitlin Clark ReceivedUP spells measures to net US$ 1trn economy by 2030

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LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 23, 2024-- Roland Corporation , a global leader in professional music products, has announced bold carbon reduction targets as part of its commitment to building a decarbonized society where artistic culture can flourish. In alignment with the Paris Agreement international treaty on climate change, Roland aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its operations and value chain—paving the way for a sustainable future that supports creativity, music, and artistic expression. Reduction Targets Reduction targets are set in line with the concept of SBT*, with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality as declared in the Paris Agreement in mind. *SBT (Science Based Targets): Corporate greenhouse gas emission reduction targets consistent with the levels required by the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015. Current Progress and Results Total CO2 emissions in FY2023 were reduced by 12% from the previous year, and Roland will continue its efforts to reduce CO2 emissions further. Roland is dedicated to transparency in its ESG initiatives. Comprehensive ESG data is publicly available, showcasing Roland’s progress and commitment. Roland has also disclosed data on the content of its environmental (E), social (S), and governance (G) initiatives. For more information, see " ESG Data " in Roland's Sustainability section below. https://www.roland.com/global/sustainability/ Roland is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and leading by example in the music industry. Through these efforts, Roland aims to nurture a sustainable world where creativity, music, and artistic culture can continue to thrive. To learn more, visit Roland.com . About Roland Corporation For more than 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, drum and percussion products, DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, gaming mixers, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland and its expanding family of brands, including Roland Cloud, BOSS, V-MODA, Drum Workshop (DW), PDP, Latin Percussion (LP), and Slingerland, continue to lead the way for music makers and creators, providing modern solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow Roland on Facebook , Twitter ( @RolandGlobal ), and Instagram ( @RolandGlobal ). View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241223420756/en/ CONTACT: Press: Farrah Monroe Max Borges Agency 240-483-6671 roland@maxborgesagency.com Company: Rebecca Genel Media Relations Manager Roland Corporation +1 (323) 890-3718 rebecca.genel@roland.com KEYWORD: CALIFORNIA UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ENTERTAINMENT ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) ENVIRONMENT SUSTAINABILITY MUSIC CLIMATE CHANGE SOURCE: Roland Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/23/2024 01:00 PM/DISC: 12/23/2024 01:02 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241223420756/enAssessing Winnebago Industries: Insights From 6 Financial Analysts

Ipswich: Ed Sheeran helps sign player before performing with Taylor SwiftThis is CNBC's live blog covering European markets. European markets are heading for a mixed open Wednesday as investors continued to assess the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump 's plans to hike tariffs. 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are The U.K.'s FTSE 100 index is expected to open 5 points higher at 8,267, Germany's DAX down 21 points at 19,285, France's CAC down 39 points at 7,160 and Italy's FTSE MIB down 173 points at 33,150, according to data from IG. Trump said Monday that one of his first acts in office would be to impose an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods entering the U.S., and threatened a 25% tariff on products from Mexico and Canada, ending a regional free trade agreement. Economists have warned of the potential inflationary impact of Trump's fiscal plan, which could see the U.S. Federal Reserve cutting interest rates at a slower pace. Overnight, Asia-Pacific markets were mixed Wednesday , following gains on Wall Street that saw the S&P 500 and the Dow Jones Industrial Average reach new intraday and closing records. U.S. stock futures were little changed on Wednesday morning as traders await the release of the Fed's favorite inflation gauge: the personal consumption expenditures price index. Money Report OpenAI gets new $1.5 billion investment from SoftBank, allowing employees to sell shares in a tender offer Samsung Electronics appoints co-CEO in leadership shuffle focused on chip divisions; shares drop Earnings are set to come from Easyjet and data releases include German and French consumer confidence. CNBC Pro: 'Cargojet is expensive': Short seller bets against Canada's largest cargo airline A London-based hedge fund is betting against Cargojet , Canada's largest cargo airline, citing concerns about the company's aging fleet, accounting practices, and leadership style. The company did not respond to requests for comment from CNBC Pro. Edgar Allen, founder and chief investment officer of High Ground Investment Management, revealed his firm's bearish stance on Cargojet during the Sohn investment conference earlier this month. CNBC Pro subscribers can read more here. — Ganesh Rao CNBC Pro: U.S., China and more: Value investor reveals what to buy as Trump tariffs loom News that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's plans to hike tariffs on imports from China, Canada and Mexico sent ripples across global markets Tuesday. Peter Boockvar, chief investment officer at the U.S.-headquartered Bleakley Financial Group, revealed his take on the tariffs, as well as sectors — and stocks — he is watching globally. CNBC Pro subscribers can read more here. — Amala Balakrishner European markets: Here are the opening calls European markets are expected to open in mixed territory Wednesday. The U.K.'s FTSE 100 index is expected to open 5 points higher at 8,267, Germany's DAX down 21 points at 19,285, France's CAC down 39 points at 7,160 and Italy's FTSE MIB down 173 points at 33,150, according to data from IG. Earnings are set to come from Easyjet and data releases include German and French consumer confidence figures. — Holly Ellyatt Also on CNBC Stock futures are little changed as Wall Street awaits Fed’s preferred inflation reading Stocks making the biggest moves after hours: Dell Technologies, Workday and more The Fed's favorite inflation gauge is out Wednesday. It could show some bad newsThroughout his campaign, President-elect Donald Trump promised national prosperity and global peace, saying he would quickly drive down the cost of groceries in local supermarkets and bring deadly overseas wars to an abrupt end. He echoed that rosy message during a wide-ranging news conference Monday, saying his second term "will be the most exciting and successful period of reform and renewal in all of American history, maybe of global history." "The Golden Age of America, I call it," he said. "It's begun." Then again, maybe not. Trump also offered a caveat — a warning that things could go badly wrong, such as when the COVID-19 pandemic erupted "out of nowhere" during his first term in office. "We hope we don't have any intervening problems," he said, "because things happen." The remarks were the latest example of Trump's idea of himself as the strongman fixer of all the world's problems running headlong into his penchant for pessimism — for casting the world as a dangerous place, the nation as a crumbling wreck and himself as the undeserving victim of political ill will and plain bad luck. Since his victory last month, those dueling worldviews have collided repeatedly, as he has softened the assured rhetoric of his stump speeches, walked back some of his more grandiose campaign promises and doubled down on some of his more dire warnings about a future filled with chaos. In his victory speech, Trump said he would "govern by a simple motto: Promises made, promises kept. We're going to keep our promises. Nothing will stop me from keeping my word to you, the people." During a more recent interview with Time magazine, Trump cast fresh doubt on his ability to bring down grocery prices — a key campaign promise — by saying, "It's hard to bring things down once they're up." After a campaign that spent millions on ads about the alleged threat posed by the nation's small population of transgender people, he also suggested the issue has been overblown, saying "it gets massive coverage, and it's not a lot of people." During his Monday news conference, Trump said he'd recently had a "very good conversation" with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is leading a brutal campaign against Hamas in Gaza and beyond, and that he believes "the Middle East will be in a good place" soon. However, he also said that if hostages taken from Israel during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack that precipitated the war aren't returned by his inauguration on Jan. 20, "all hell's going to break out." Asked to clarify, he simply said: "It won't be pleasant." Trump also said that Russia's war on Ukraine — which he promised to end in a day during the campaign, saying "I'll have that done in 24 hours" — will be "actually more difficult" than addressing the Middle East tensions. He said the fighting was producing the "worst carnage this world has seen" since World War II, and that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must be "prepared to make a deal" with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end it. Asked directly if he thinks Ukraine should "cede territory" to Russia in that deal, he said he would let people know once he takes office and begins having meetings as president. Then he suggested the territory isn't worth fighting over. "There are cities that there's not a building standing. It's a demolition site. There is not a building standing," he said. "So people can't go back to those cities. There's nothing there. It's just rubble." According to historians and experts in political speech, Trump's wildly vacillating rhetoric is unique among presidents — many of whom have overpromised or shifted positions, but few so wildly. "The president-elect has spoken on both sides of so many issues that it's impossible to know what he will do after being inaugurated. It's a brilliant strategy, leaving him free to move in any direction," said H.W. Brands, a prominent historian, author and history professor at University of Texas at Austin. "His predecessors, wherever they are, must be watching in envy." Brands noted that Trump has less of a mandate than he claims, having won but not by much and failing to secure a popular majority. His "margin of error is slim," Brands said. But as long as his "appeal to his base remains firm," Brands said, "he will continue to be largely immune from ordinary expectations of political leaders." One limit, Brands said, is that "the longer he is in government himself, the less persuasive his efforts to blame government for what his base doesn't like." Kathleen Hall Jamieson, director of the Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania and co-author of "Presidents Creating the Presidency: Deeds Done in Words," which considers how presidents have defined the office through their speech, said Trump "lives in an all-or-nothing world," and it is reflected in his stark pronouncements about the direction of the country and the world. "Trump on average is far more hyperbolic than candidates have traditionally been," she said. Presidents and presidential candidates of all stripes "routinely claim that they will do something that they actually can't do alone, that requires Congress," Jamieson said — such as Vice President Kamala Harris promising to sign a bill that would restore the protections of Roe vs. Wade. "That's a routine part of presidential discourse, that's not unusual," Jamieson said. But Trump does something different, she said, in that he promises to accomplish things that are "completely unrealistic," then works to "reframe" the promise in the eyes of his followers once he fails to fulfill it. His first-term promise that Mexico would pay for a border wall, for example, morphed into a promise Mexico would pay for a piece of the wall, then transformed into an argument that Mexico had in fact paid for the wall by agreeing separately to deploy troops to the border. Trump is able to get away with such shifts for a few reasons, Jamieson said. One is that he has made good on other big promises, like overturning Roe vs. Wade. Another is that his followers understand and accept his speech as bluster — "not as literal statements" but as "statements that he is going to do something that is bigger and more impactful than what other people are going to do," Jamieson said. That Trump has already started walking back promises about the economy is new, she said, adding that she will be interested to see how he handles the other economic promises he has made about decreasing or eliminating taxes — including the federal income tax, tax on tips and tax on Social Security benefits — and increasing tariffs without costs being passed on to consumers. "Unless mainstream economists are wrong," Jamieson said, "that's impossible." One of the first major opportunities for Trump to describe his view of the world heading into his second term will be his inauguration. Presidents have traditionally offered a hopeful view of the country at inaugurations, but not Trump. He shocked many political observers during his first inaugural speech in 2017, when he spoke of "American carnage" and a suffering nation. During a recent interview with NBC, he said "carnage" would not be his message this time around, but "unity." Some experts, including Jamieson, were doubtful, as unity messages have not come easily to Trump before. "It's as if he only has one mode, it's campaign mode, and he only has one focus, it's himself," Jamieson said. Unity speeches are generally "centered on something other than yourself," she said, "and he seems to have trouble with it."

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — “My Driver and I” was supposed to be made in 2016, but was scuttled amid Saudi Arabia's decades-long cinema ban. Eight years later, the landscape for film in the kingdom looks much different — and the star of “My Driver and I” now has an award. Roula Dakheelallah was named the winner of the Chopard Emerging Saudi Talent award at the Red Sea International Film Festival on Thursday. The award — and the glitzy festival itself — is a sign of Saudi Arabia's commitment to shaping a new film industry. “My heart is attached to cinema and art; I have always dreamed of a moment like this,” Dakheelallah, who still works a 9-5 job, told The Associated Press before the awards ceremony. “I used to work in voluntary films and help my friends in the field, but this is my first big role in a film.” The reopening of cinemas in 2018 marked a cultural turning point for Saudi Arabia, an absolute monarchy that had instituted the ban 35 years before, under the influence of ultraconservative religious authorities. It has since invested heavily in a native film industry by building theaters and launching programs to support local filmmakers through grants and training. The Red Sea International Film Festival was launched just a year later, part of an attempt to expand Saudi influence into films, gaming, sports and other cultural fields. Activists have decried the investments as whitewashing the kingdom’s human rights record as it tightly controls speech and remains one of the world’s top executioners. With FIFA awarding the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia this week, Lina al-Hathloul, a Saudi activist with the London-based rights group ALQST, said Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman “has really managed to create this bubble where people only see entertainment and they don’t see the reality on the ground.” These efforts are part of Vision 2030, an ambitious reform plan unveiled in 2016 to ease the economy's dependence on oil. As part of it, Saudi Arabia plans to construct 350 cinemas with over 2,500 movie screens — by this past April, across 22 cities, it already had 66 cinemas showing movies from the local film industry, as well as Hollywood and Bollywood. (The Red Sea International Film Festival attracts a host of talent from the latter industries, with Viola Davis and Priyanka Chopra Jonas also picking up awards Thursday.) The country's General Entertainment Authority last month opened Al Hisn Studios on the outskirts of Riyadh. As one of the largest such production hubs in the Middle East, it not only includes several film studios but also a production village with workshops for carpentry, blacksmithing and fashion tailoring. “These facilities, when they exist, will stimulate filmmakers,” said Saudi actor Mohammed Elshehri. “Today, no writer or director has an excuse to imagine and say, ‘I cannot implement my imagination.’” The facilities are one part of the equation — the content itself is another. One of the major players in transforming Saudi filmmaking has been Telfaz11, a media company founded in 2011 that began as a YouTube channel and quickly became a trailblazer. Producing high-quality digital content such as short films, comedy sketches and series, Telfaz11 offered fresh perspectives on Saudi and regional issues. In 2020, Telfaz11 signed a partnership with Netflix to produce original content for the streaming giant. The result has been movies that demonstrate an evolution on the storytelling level, tackling topics that were once off-limits and sensitive to the public like secret nightlife in “Mandoob” (“Night Courier”) and changing social norms in “Naga.” “I think we tell our stories in a very simple way, and that’s what reaches the world,” Elshehri says of the changing shift. “When you tell your story in a natural way without any affectation, it will reach every person.” But the films were not without their critics, drawing mixed reaction. Social media discoursed ranged from pleasure that Saudi film were tackling such topics to anger over how the films reflected conservative society. As Hana Al-Omair, a Saudi writer and director, points out, there are still many stories left untold. “We certainly have a long time ahead of us before we can tell the Saudi narrative as it should be,” she said, acknowledging that there are still barriers and rampant censorship. “The Goat Life,” a Malayalam-language movie about an Indian man forced to work without pay in Saudi Arabia, is not available on Netflix's platform in the country. Movies that explore political topics or LGBTQ+ stories are essentially out of the question. Even “My Driver and I,” featured at the Red Sea festival alongside 11 other Saudi feature-length films, was initially too controversial. It centers on a Sudanese man in Jeddah, living away from his own daughter, who feels responsible for the girl he drives as her parents are absent. It was initially blocked from being made because of the relationship between the girl and the driver, filmmaker Ahd Kamel has said, even though it's not a romantic relationship. Now in 2024, the film is a success story — a symbol of the Saudi film industry's evolution as well as the growing role of women like Kamel behind the camera and Dakheelallah in front of it. “I see the change in Saudi cinema, a very beautiful change and it is moving at a wonderful speed. In my opinion, we do not need to rush,” Dakheelallah said. “We need to guide the truth of the artistic movement that is happening in Saudi Arabia.”

Opinion: B.C.’s business disadvantage about to get worse Investors eye America’s expedited approvals as B.C. grapples with red tape Jordan Bateman Dec 13, 2024 3:30 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message B.C. Premier David Eby File photo: Submitted Premier David Eby made his annual visit to the B.C. business community this week, but if you were looking for specifics and good news, you were left grasping at straws. Paper straws, which fall apart pretty much right away. As evidence that he’s turned a page with the business community, Eby cited fast-tracking nine wind energy projects. There will be more examples, he promised vaguely, with no hint of what industries or projects he may be favouring. Or why. Or how. Or when. So it’s fair to say Eby is not exactly throwing caution to the wind to attract more investment into B.C. – which is seeing the conclusion of a $100 billion burst in energy infrastructure construction , and virtually nothing in line to replace it. B.C. Chamber of Commerce president Fiona Famulak tried her best to coax a commitment to natural resources out of Eby, asking a question that cited the Mining Association of B.C.’s analysis that it takes 12-15 years to permit a mine in this province. Pushing back, Eby claimed his government had reduced the timeline for mining permits by 40 per cent, but offered no corroborating evidence. Even if we take the premier at his word, that means the 12-15-year review period has been cut to seven to nine years. That’s some thin gruel. And even thinner when one considers it came just minutes after U.S. president-elect Donald Trump put this out on his Truth Social: “Any person or company investing ONE BILLION DOLLARS, OR MORE, in the United States of America, will receive fully expedited approvals and permits, including, but in no way limited to, all Environmental approvals. GET READY TO ROCK!!!” Or, put another way: “Drill, baby, drill!” How does that affect Canada? It’s better understood that Trump’s proposed 25 per cent tariffs would be incredibly harmful. For example, the softwood lumber tariff has resulted in $9 billion paid by Canadian producers since 2017. That’s by one industry on one product, at a rate less than half of what Trump is threatening. And yet this policy of “fully expedited approvals” could be even more damaging to the B.C. economy. If you’re an investor in oil, natural gas, tech, automobile manufacturing, mining, battery plants, pipelines, large development projects or other big-ticket items, why would you ever come to B.C., when you could get to work in any American state far faster and cheaper? Where your jobs and investment would be welcomed with open arms and the removal of regulatory barriers? By contrast, the BC NDP government has slathered cost and red tape on to business since 2017: multiple tax hikes, anti-employer rhetoric, WorkSafe regulations skewed completely to labour. And their soft-on-crime and drug-friendly policies have ramped up petty crime, again harming business. “When you have a near-death experience as a politician, it focuses the mind,” Eby said at the end of his speech, turning the focus back to himself. That’s all well and good. But it’s our provincial economy and our businesses that are having a near-death experience right now, as the provincial deficit and debt rush out of control, government hiring and costs far outpace the corporate sector that has to pay for them, and both private sector payroll and hiring are falling . America’s arms are wide open. But despite his political near-death experience, B.C.’s premier seems as unfocused and as unhelpful as ever. Jordan Bateman is vice-president of communication at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association. See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Economy, Law & Politics B.C. NDP government, Greens forge confidence agreement with 'shared priorities' Dec 13, 2024 2:02 PM S&P/TSX down more than 100 points, U.S. markets mixed ahead of rate decision Dec 13, 2024 1:50 PM Ottawa to remove 30% investment cap for Canadian pension funds Dec 13, 2024 1:45 PMNEW YORK , Dec. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Agriculture & Natural Solutions Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company ("ANSC"), announced today that the Treasurer of Australia (the "Treasurer") on December 12, 2024 (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) confirmed that the Commonwealth Government of Australia has no objection to ANSC's previously announced proposed business combination with Australian Food & Agriculture Company Limited ("AFA") and the other parties to the Business Combination Agreement dated August 28, 2024 (the "Business Combination") (known colloquially as "FIRB Approval" as the Treasurer is advised on such matters by the Foreign Investment Review Board). FIRB Approval is one of the conditions to closing of the Business Combination. ABOUT AFA AFA is a large-scale, diversified agricultural business established by the late Colin Bell in 1993 with the acquisition of the historic 'Burrabogie' station. AFA now operates one of the largest agricultural portfolios in New South Wales, Australia consisting of three major freehold title land aggregations within the Deniliquin, Hay and Coonamble districts, which total approximately 550,000 acres, and a water portfolio of approximately 45,000 acre-feet. AFA's portfolio includes some of Australia's most iconic properties, including 'Boonoke', 'Burrabogie', 'Wanganella' and 'Wingadee'. The company has total livestock carrying capacity of approximately 247,000 dry sheep equivalent across its sheep wool and meat and cattle operations (excluding the Conargo feedlot). AFA also operates the historic Wanganella and Poll Boonoke merino sheep studs, amongst the most highly regarded studs in Australia . AFA's cropping operations are characterized by flexibility amongst crop types, geographies and seasons. Key crops include irrigated cotton, irrigated rice, wheat, barley, canola, corn, chick peas and faba beans. More recently, the company has developed the state-of-the-art Conargo feedlot with a licensed capacity of 12,000 standard cattle units. ABOUT ANSC ANSC was formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination. ANSC represents a further expansion of its sponsors' 18-year franchise in low-carbon investments, having established industry leading, scaled companies with more than $6 billion of equity invested in renewables. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS This document includes certain statements that may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions. The words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intends," "may," "might," "plan," "possible," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "would" and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions, or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other important factors, many of which are outside of ANSC, Agriculture & Natural Solutions Company Limited ACN 680 144 085 ("NewCo") or AFA's management's control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing ANSC's, AFA's or NewCo's views as of any subsequent date, and none of ANSC, AFA or NewCo undertakes any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. None of NewCo, ANSC or AFA gives any assurance that any of NewCo, ANSC or AFA will achieve its expectations. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, NewCo's actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: (i) the ability of the parties to complete the Business Combination by ANSC's business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the business combination deadline if sought by ANSC; (ii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the definitive agreements relating to the Business Combination; (iii) the outcome of any legal, regulatory or governmental proceedings that may be instituted against NewCo, ANSC or AFA or any investigation or inquiry following announcement of the Business Combination, including in connection with the Business Combination; (iv) the inability to complete the Business Combination due to the failure to obtain approval of ANSC's shareholders; (v) AFA's and NewCo's success in retaining or recruiting, or changes required in, their officers, key employees or directors following the Business Combination; (vi) the ability of the parties to obtain the listing of the ordinary shares in the capital of NewCo ("NewCo Ordinary Shares") and warrants to purchase NewCo Ordinary Shares on the New York Stock Exchange or another national securities exchange upon the closing of the Business Combination; (vii) the risk that the Business Combination disrupts current plans and operations of AFA as a result of the announcement and consummation of the transactions described herein; (viii) the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination; (ix) unexpected costs related to the Business Combination, which may be affected by, among other things, competition and the ability of AFA to grow and manage growth profitably, maintain relationships with customers and suppliers and retain its key employees; (x) the ability of the parties to consummate one or more private placements of securities of NewCo to be consummated in connection with the Business Combination (the "Private Placements") on the stated timeline; (xi) the use of proceeds from the Private Placements by the combined company; (xii) the risk that there will be insufficient cash raised through the Private Placements, or that the amount of redemptions by ANSC's public shareholders is greater than expected; (xiii) the management and board composition of NewCo following completion of the Business Combination; (xiv) limited liquidity and trading of NewCo's securities; (xv) geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations, including legal or regulatory developments (including, without limitation, accounting considerations) which could result in the need for AFA to restate its historical financial statements and cause unforeseen delays in the timing of the Business Combination and negatively impact the trading price of NewCo's securities and the attractiveness of the Business Combination to investors; (xvi) the possibility that AFA may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; (xvii) operational risks; (xviii) the possibility that a pandemic or major disease disrupts AFA's business; (xix) litigation and regulatory enforcement risks, including the diversion of management time and attention and the additional costs and demands on AFA's resources; (xx) the risks that the consummation of the Business Combination is substantially delayed or does not occur including the risk that the transaction may not be completed by ANSC's business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain extensions of the business combination deadline if sought by ANSC; and (xxi) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Business Combination, including those under "Risk Factors" therein, and in ANSC's, AFA's and NewCo's other filings with the SEC. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. No Offer or Solicitation This communication relates to a proposed business combination between AFA and ANSC. This document shall not constitute a "solicitation" of a proxy, consent, or authorization, as defined in Section 14 of the Exchange Act, with respect to any securities or in respect of the Business Combination. This document also does not constitute an offer, or a solicitation of an offer, to buy, sell, or exchange any securities, investment or other specific product, or a solicitation of any vote or approval, nor shall there be any offer, sale or exchange of securities, investment or other specific product in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale or exchange would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No offering of securities will be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of Section 10 of the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom. Additional Information About the Business Combination and Where To Find It In connection with the Business Combination, ANSC, NewCo and AFA intend to file a registration statement on Form F-4 relating to the Business Combination (the "Registration Statement") with the SEC, which will include a proxy statement of ANSC in connection with ANSC's extraordinary general meeting of its shareholders (the "ANSC Shareholders' Meeting") and certain other related matters described in the Registration Statement. The Registration Statement, including the proxy statement/prospectus contained therein, will contain important information about the Business Combination and the other matters to be voted upon at the ANSC Shareholders' Meeting. This communication does not contain all the information that should be considered concerning the Business Combination and other matters and is not intended to provide the basis for any investment decision or any other decision in respect of such matters. ANSC, AFA and NewCo may also file other documents with the SEC regarding the Business Combination. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF ANSC AND OTHER INTERESTED PERSONS ARE URGED TO READ, WHEN AVAILABLE, THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, INCLUDING THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN, ANY AMENDMENTS THERETO AND DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC IN CONNECTION WITH THE BUSINESS COMBINATION CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THESE DOCUMENTS WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT ANSC, NEWCO, AFA, AND THE BUSINESS COMBINATION. After the Registration Statement is declared effective by the SEC, ANSC will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus relating to the Business Combination to its shareholders as of the record date established for voting on the Business Combination. Shareholders will also be able to obtain copies of the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant materials in connection with the Business Combination without charge, once available, at the SEC's website at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Agriculture & Natural Solutions Acquisition Corporation, 712 Fifth Avenue, 36 th Floor, New York, NY 10019. Participants in the Solicitation ANSC, NewCo, AFA and their respective directors and executive officers and related persons may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from ANSC's shareholders in connection with the Business Combination. ANSC's shareholders and other interested persons may obtain, without charge, more detailed information regarding the directors and officers of ANSC and their direct or indirect interests therein in ANSC's Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 28, 2024 (File No. 001-41861), including, without limitation, "Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance", "Item 11. Executive Compensation", "Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters" and "Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence". Information regarding the persons who may, under SEC rules, be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies to ANSC's shareholders in connection with the Business Combination and other matters to be voted upon at the ANSC Shareholders' Meeting will be set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus for the Business Combination when available. You may obtain free copies of these documents as described above. Media Contact Daniel Yunger / Emma Cloyd Kekst CNC daniel.yunger@kekstcnc.com / emma.cloyd@kekstcnc.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/agriculture--natural-solutions-acquisition-corporation-receives-firb-approval-in-connection-with-previously-announced-business-combination-302331743.html SOURCE Agriculture & Natural Solutions Acquisition Corporation

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The Rise of LegalTech Startups in India In the digital era, technology has transformed nearly every industry, and the legal sector is no exception. LegalTech startups in India are bridging the gap between traditional legal practices and modern technological solutions, enabling greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in legal services. With innovative platforms and AI-powered solutions, these startups are redefining the legal landscape. Let’s explore the top 10 best LegalTech startups in India for 2025 , leading the charge in this domain. 1. LegalKart LegalKart is India’s first AI-driven legal advisory platform, designed to connect clients with lawyers instantly. It offers seamless legal consultation and documentation services. Why It Stands Out : Real-time legal advice through its app Simplified documentation process Affordable subscription plans LegalKart’s focus on accessibility has made it a top choice for individuals and small businesses seeking legal support. 2. Lawrato Lawrato has emerged as a leading platform connecting clients with verified lawyers across India. With its easy-to-use interface, the platform provides solutions for legal queries and services. Key Features : 50,000+ verified legal professionals Tailored recommendations based on legal issues Free initial consultations Lawrato’s ability to simplify the process of finding legal assistance has made it a household name. 3. VakilSearch VakilSearch specializes in business-related legal services, offering solutions for startups and enterprises. From company registration to tax filing, it caters to a broad range of legal needs. Highlights : Comprehensive legal and compliance services Cost-effective packages for startups Strong focus on customer support This startup’s holistic approach has positioned it as a go-to solution for businesses in India. 4. Legistify Legistify is a comprehensive platform for legal and compliance management, designed to help enterprises manage their legal operations seamlessly. Notable Features : AI-powered legal management tools Customizable dashboards for enterprises Access to an extensive lawyer network Legistify’s enterprise-focused model has attracted major corporations seeking efficient legal solutions. 5. SpotDraft SpotDraft is revolutionizing contract management with its AI-powered platform. It automates contract creation, review, and analysis, making legal processes faster and error-free. Key Advantages : Customizable contract templates AI-driven risk assessment Intuitive collaboration tools SpotDraft is ideal for companies looking to streamline their contract workflows. 6. MikeLegal MikeLegal is India’s first AI-driven IP management platform, designed to simplify trademark and intellectual property-related tasks. Why It’s Unique : AI-powered trademark search and monitoring Automated docketing and reporting Comprehensive IP analytics MikeLegal is trusted by top law firms and enterprises for its innovative approach to intellectual property management. 7. IndiaFilings IndiaFilings offers a range of legal and compliance services for individuals and businesses. It simplifies processes like GST registration, company incorporation, and tax filing. Standout Features : Affordable solutions for small businesses Online document storage and retrieval Expert consultations available 24/7 IndiaFilings’ focus on affordability and accessibility makes it a favorite among startups. 8. LegalPay LegalPay is India’s first third-party litigation financing platform, enabling businesses and individuals to fund legal cases without financial strain. Key Features : Non-recourse funding options Advanced analytics for case evaluation Flexible repayment structures LegalPay’s innovative model is empowering clients to pursue justice without financial burdens. 9. TrustLegal TrustLegal focuses on offering comprehensive legal services for environmental, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors. Its niche expertise has made it a trusted partner for specialized industries. Notable Aspects : Tailored legal solutions for niche sectors Strong focus on compliance and policy Robust in-house legal research team TrustLegal is a standout player for businesses operating in highly regulated sectors. 10. Vahura Vahura specializes in legal recruitment and talent management, connecting law firms and corporations with the best legal professionals in the country. Top Features : Advanced talent search tools Career advisory for legal professionals Extensive industry network Vahura’s focus on human capital in the legal industry sets it apart from other LegalTech startups. How LegalTech Startups Are Transforming India’s Legal Landscape The impact of LegalTech startups in India goes beyond just convenience. These startups are addressing several critical challenges in the legal sector: Future Prospects for LegalTech Startups in India As India continues to embrace digital transformation, the demand for innovative legal solutions will only grow. Key trends shaping the future of LegalTech startups include: AI and Machine Learning : Predictive analytics for case outcomes and automated legal research. Blockchain Technology : Secure, tamper-proof legal documentation and smart contracts. Client-Centric Platforms : User-friendly interfaces and 24/7 support to enhance customer experience. Global Expansion : Indian startups exploring international markets to offer cost-effective solutions globally. LegalTech startups are set to play a pivotal role in shaping a more accessible and efficient legal ecosystem in India. Conclusion The top 10 best LegalTech startups in India for 2025 are redefining the legal landscape with cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions. From streamlining business compliance to empowering individuals with affordable legal assistance, these startups are driving change at an unprecedented pace. As the industry evolves, these LegalTech leaders will continue to set benchmarks for the future of law in India.

Dr Charlotte Proudman, who specialises in family law, had faced a Bar Standards Board (BSB) disciplinary tribunal over a 14-part Twitter thread criticising a judge’s ruling over a domestic abuse case, saying it echoed a “boys’ club”. However, the five charges against the 36-year-old were dropped on Thursday. In an interview with The Times, Dr Proudman described the position of Mark Neale, the board’s director-general, as “untenable” and said its chairwoman, Kathryn Stone, should also stand down. “They need a change, not just in those two individuals, though, because, of course, it seeps down to the rest of the organisation,” she said. She told the paper she “genuinely” wanted to work with the Bar Standards Board in helping them to understand how misogyny and sexism have impacted women at the bar. However, she said that “under the current leadership, it’s just not going to be possible”. The charges alleged Dr Proudman had “failed to act with integrity” in posting the tweets, that they amounted to professional misconduct, were “misleading” and “inaccurately reflected the findings of the judge” in the case. The women’s rights campaigner was also accused of behaving in a way “which was likely to diminish the trust and confidence which the public placed in her and in the profession”, and that she “knowingly or recklessly misled or attempted to mislead the public” by making the posts. But panel chairman Nicholas Ainley found her tweets are protected under Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects the right of freedom of expression. He said her tweets did not “gravely damage” the judiciary, which would “put them outside” of Article 10 protection, even if they “might not have been pleasant for any judge to read” or even “hurtful”. “We take the view that the judiciary of England and Wales is far more robust than that,” he said. The panel also concluded that some of the tweets were only inaccurate “to a minor degree” and not to the extent necessary for a charge of a lack of integrity. Speaking after the hearing, Dr Proudman told the PA news agency: “This ruling is a victory for women’s rights and a right to freedom of speech. “The prosecution against me brought by my regulatory body, the Bar Standards Board, should never have happened and I said that from day one. “I criticised a domestic abuse judgment. Everyone should have the right to do that, whether you’re a barrister or not. Our justice system, which I strongly believe in, is robust enough to withstand criticism from me.” She believes her tweets help “foster confidence” in the justice system, adding: “Only that way can we go about building change and a better treatment for all victims, women and children and men who are affected by domestic abuse.” Explaining that the BSB appears to have spent almost £40,000 “of barristers’ money” on instructing counsel in her case, she added: “I think it’s shameful that they’re using our money to pay for, in my view, malicious, vexatious prosecutions which I have no doubt was a personal attack against me as a woman and as a feminist, as an outspoken critic and advocate for women’s rights.” Dr Proudman called for “systemic change” within the board. “They don’t understand gender, they don’t understand diversity, I don’t think they’ve ever heard of the concept misogyny and certainly not institutional misogyny,” she said. “Until they recognise the deeply rooted, entrenched issue of bullying, harassment, sexism at the bar, for which I have suffered relentlessly... and own up to it I don’t think we’re going to see any change and I have no confidence in them.” She told of how male barristers have called her insulting names on social media and made derogatory comments about her. In the posts on April 6 2022, Dr Proudman referenced a case in which her client alleged she had been subjected to coercive and controlling behaviour by her husband, a part-time judge, meaning she had been “unable to freely enter” the couple’s “post-nuptial” financial agreement. Commenting on the ruling by Family Court judge Sir Jonathan Cohen, Dr Proudman wrote: “I represented Amanda Traharne. “She said she was coerced into signing a post-nuptial agreement by her husband (who is a part-time judge). I lost the case. “I do not accept the Judge’s reasoning. I will never accept the minimisation of domestic abuse.” She continued: “Demeaning the significance of domestic abuse has the affect of silencing victims and rendering perpetrators invisible. “This judgement has echoes of (t)he ‘boys club’ which still exists among men in powerful positions.” In the thread, Dr Proudman wrote that the judge had described the relationship of the couple as “tempestuous”, which she argued was a “trivialisation” of domestic abuse. “Tempestuous? Lose his temper? Isn’t this the trivialisation of domestic abuse & gendered language. This is not normal married life,” she wrote.Trump Cabinet picks, appointees targeted by bomb threats and swatting attacksProtecting freedom is how we keep our children safe

ATLANTA -- Georgia Senate Republicans recommended on Friday that the state write laws banning transgender girls and women from participating in high school and college sports, setting the stage for action in the 2025 legislative session. The vote by a committee that was studying the issue is hardly a surprise. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — a possible Republican contender for governor in 2026 — announced almost identical goals at the panel's first meeting in August . It’s an issue that’s already been addressed in Georgia. Legislators in 2022 empowered the Georgia High School Association to regulate transgender students' participation in sports. The association, which regulates sports and activities for all public schools and some private schools, then banned transgender boys and girls from playing on the school sports teams matching their gender identity. Jones and others argue that doesn't go far enough and that lawmakers themselves need to act. It's a sign Republicans believe there is more political gain in fears about transgender women playing women’s sports or using women’s bathrooms. At least 26 mostly Republican states have passed laws or rules to restrict transgender girls from participating high school sports and, in some cases, transgender women from college sports , according to the Movement Advancement Project, a gay rights group. In Georgia, additional action appears more likely now after House Speaker Jon Burns and Gov. Brian Kemp, both Republicans, have voiced support for further legislation. Jeff Graham, executive director of the LGBTQ+ advocacy group Georgia Equality, said his group is playing defense, concerned about the possibility of other bills that could further restrict gender-affirming care or ban transgender people from using public bathrooms that match their gender identity. “We’re expecting that it’ll be at least what we saw in 2023 and 2024, with the number of bills and more than likely laws,” Graham told reporters Friday. But Burns, from Newington, has said he's not interested in other bills dealing with transgender people besides those dealing with girls' and women's sports. Republican State Sen. Greg Dolezal, of Cumming, who led the Senate study committee, said Friday that he, too, is not interested in a broader bill regulating bathroom usage, although his committee recommended that schools that host sporting events require athletes to use locker rooms based on their assigned sex at birth. Dolezal said senators would seek to write legislation that regulated public schools and colleges, as well as private institutions that compete against public schools and colleges. The committee also recommends that people be able to sue or file grievances if schools break the rules, and that state money be withheld from schools that break the rules. Supporters of more action have focused on the 2022 NCAA women’s swimming championships at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, where Lia Thomas, a transgender woman, swam for the University of Pennsylvania and won the 500-meter freestyle . The NCAA has since revised its policy on transgender women’s participation, saying it will follow the rules of respective athletics federations. World Aquatics, the swimming governing body, banned transgender women who have been through male puberty from competing in women’s races. That means Thomas wouldn’t be allowed to swim in NCAA events today. “My basic contention that this is a solution in search of a problem remains,” Graham said. He said he fears that many people who oppose laws that seek to restrict transgender people will be afraid to testify and lobby at the Georgia Capitol, citing assault charges against a man accused of shaking U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace in a Capitol office building in Washington, D.C. Dolezal repeatedly tried to turn down the emotional temperature of the issue on Friday. “I think that there’s a group of people that wants to be respected and I think that they deserve respect,” Dolezal told reporters. “But I also think that you can be respectful, but also recognize that in the sporting arena, fairness and competition is important.”

Weaving communities together Beyond the vibrant displays of crafts and treats, a leading retailer has been quietly revolutionizing the retail landscape for two decades. By building a network of support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and social enterprises, it has empowered communities and provided a platform for small businesses to thrive. What started as a humble "Philippine Crafts" corner in a department store has blossomed into a nationwide chain with 45 branches. Kultura showcases the best of Filipino craftsmanship, from traditional Filipiniana and Barong to modern home décor and natural wellness essentials. This growth has had a profound impact on the lives of the artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs who form the backbone of the retailer's diverse product range. Shared values partnership Joy Soriano, founder of Zyrrah’s Arts and Crafts, is one of Kultura’s long-time partners. Her journey began in the 1970s, fueled by a passion for local handicrafts. "I started trading various handcrafted Philippine products such as bags and shoes using fabrics from the north, designing my own shoes and bags and offering them to various foreign friends. However, my first buyer was SM in the Quiapo office,” Soriano shares. Her collaboration with Kultura began in 2013 after participating in a trade show. “That was the start of our collaboration. After the first order, we were asked to present samples on a monthly basis. We strived to consistently come up with products for Kultura.” Initially supplying to five Kultura branches, Zyrrah’s Arts and Crafts products are now available in 26. Soriano shares Kultura's vision and values, stating, “We work to contribute to the economy by generating employment to the housewives and at-home mothers.” Soriano’s passion for capiz shines through in her work. “I love capiz and the products that we can make and develop out of it. Our country is endowed with bountiful materials from the sea; the versatility of capiz makes for very elegant houseware masterpieces.” Another partner, Cebu-based Hannah’s Handicraft, found a ready market in Kultura through bazaars and trade fairs. Hannah Anggana, who handles the partnership, shares how they invested time and training to create products for the store. “We worked to develop products that the market would truly appreciate, and Kultura helped by sharing design trends that are currently in demand,” Anggana explains. Both Hannah’s Handicrafts and Kultura are committed to preserving and promoting Philippine culture. “Kultura helps us and we help the mountain barangays,” Anggana says. Kangkong King, a company started by a group of millennials, exemplifies Kultura's support for emerging businesses. “We really want them to expand. We really encourage them to go out and you know make the most out of their brand,” says Sheila Tan, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations at Kultura. From humble beginnings in a house kitchen, Kangkong King now employs around 70 people and has its own office and factory. Their partnership with Kultura began with a cold email and a belief in their product. “We really thought about where we wanted our product to be placed. We think that Kangkong King is very Pinoy. So, one of our goals is to have our product be a staple Filipino pasalubong,” says Anne Gaw, Kangkong King Marketing Head. Kultura's no-listing-fee policy has been a significant help for Kangkong King. Initially supplying to 20 branches, they are now in 70-75 percent of Kultura stores nationwide. In Agdangan, Quezon, an association of weavers create buri fans for Kultura with the help of Mga Likha ni Inay, an organization that helps market their products. “We're supporting and helping around 1,800 clients, direct and indirect. This includes employees of the clients we're assisting,” shares Aristopher Punzalan, President of Mga Likha ni Inay. Punzalan emphasizes the alignment between their vision and Kultura's. “For us, our partnership with Kultura is anchored on showcasing the products of our members to a larger market which later on is converted to sales. The alignment is really on supporting locals and local produce.” Home for social enterprises "Aligned with the SM group, we work with micro, small and medium enterprises, bridging them to our customers. Many of our partners have been with us from the start,” shares Sheila Tan, Senior Assistant Vice President for Operations, Kultura. Kultura's partners provide sustainable livelihood and opportunities that improve the lives of their workers. “We aspire to be the home of social enterprises,” Tan adds. As Kultura moves forward, the brand aims to become a haven for emerging MSMEs and talent. “Our thrust for next year will be about discovering more young designers and new brands and delivering even more dynamic shopping experiences to our customers.”Premier David Eby made his annual visit to the B.C. business community this week, but if you were looking for specifics and good news, you were left grasping at straws. Paper straws, which fall apart pretty much right away. As evidence that he’s turned a page with the business community, Eby cited fast-tracking nine wind energy projects. There will be more examples, he promised vaguely, with no hint of what industries or projects he may be favouring. Or why. Or how. Or when. So it’s fair to say Eby is not exactly throwing caution to the wind to attract more investment into B.C. – which is seeing the conclusion of a $100 billion burst in energy infrastructure construction , and virtually nothing in line to replace it. B.C. Chamber of Commerce president Fiona Famulak tried her best to coax a commitment to natural resources out of Eby, asking a question that cited the Mining Association of B.C.’s analysis that it takes 12-15 years to permit a mine in this province. Pushing back, Eby claimed his government had reduced the timeline for mining permits by 40 per cent, but offered no corroborating evidence. Even if we take the premier at his word, that means the 12-15-year review period has been cut to seven to nine years. That’s some thin gruel. And even thinner when one considers it came just minutes after U.S. president-elect Donald Trump put this out on his Truth Social: “Any person or company investing ONE BILLION DOLLARS, OR MORE, in the United States of America, will receive fully expedited approvals and permits, including, but in no way limited to, all Environmental approvals. GET READY TO ROCK!!!” Or, put another way: “Drill, baby, drill!” How does that affect Canada? It’s better understood that Trump’s proposed 25 per cent tariffs would be incredibly harmful. For example, the softwood lumber tariff has resulted in $9 billion paid by Canadian producers since 2017. That’s by one industry on one product, at a rate less than half of what Trump is threatening. And yet this policy of “fully expedited approvals” could be even more damaging to the B.C. economy. If you’re an investor in oil, natural gas, tech, automobile manufacturing, mining, battery plants, pipelines, large development projects or other big-ticket items, why would you ever come to B.C., when you could get to work in any American state far faster and cheaper? Where your jobs and investment would be welcomed with open arms and the removal of regulatory barriers? By contrast, the BC NDP government has slathered cost and red tape on to business since 2017: multiple tax hikes, anti-employer rhetoric, WorkSafe regulations skewed completely to labour. And their soft-on-crime and drug-friendly policies have ramped up petty crime, again harming business. “When you have a near-death experience as a politician, it focuses the mind,” Eby said at the end of his speech, turning the focus back to himself. That’s all well and good. But it’s our provincial economy and our businesses that are having a near-death experience right now, as the provincial deficit and debt rush out of control, government hiring and costs far outpace the corporate sector that has to pay for them, and both private sector payroll and hiring are falling . America’s arms are wide open. But despite his political near-death experience, B.C.’s premier seems as unfocused and as unhelpful as ever. Jordan Bateman is vice-president of communication at the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association.Mayor Eric Adams’ legal team claims feds don’t have the evidence for another indictment