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Consumers receiving inaccurate online information

Business

Sam Allcock

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11/08/2023

Consumers receiving inaccurate online information

With over 80 per cent of online ER calculators providing misleading data

Over the years we’ve seen the importance of online search excel at a compelling rate. Given that consumers want the power and control to conduct their own research whether that’s for retail shopping, holidays, financial products, or equipment – consumers instil trust and reliance that the data they acquire digitally is accurate and not misleading.

Whilst in the past, it was noted that financial data within the equity release market has been somewhat behind in comparison to the sourcing tools available in the traditional mortgage market, more products and online platforms do now exist to enable consumers to source, research and discover their own personal financial options.

However, findings from Equity Release Supermarket (ERS), the UK’s No.1 independent equity release advisory service – suggests that following a conducted and co-ordinated UK review of selected websites, more than 80% of data gained from online equity release calculators could be considered as misleading to consumers.

ERS hosted an analysis of comparative websites – offering consumers an online calculator in which they can determine how much equity they can borrow – to understand the accuracy across the market. The research was conducted on the same day and measured against IRESS (a product sourcing tool for advisers), with three scenarios, including the age of the customer, their property value, and their loan to the value of their property (LTV).

The results of the research highlighted that over 85 per cent of equity release calculators provided inaccurate information. Almost a quarter of those calculators gave lower LTVs and loan amounts than IRESS and ERS. However, more troubling was that more than 63 per cent of the calculators checked provided higher LTVs and maximum loan amounts than IRESS and ERS. It should be noted that given these products do not exist, consumers would not be able to proceed further. However, with Consumer Duty being brought into force on 31^st July, this certainly fails to set the standard of firms acting in good faith.

Perhaps most shockingly, the erroneous data extended as far as to showcase that a customer could borrow more than the largest loan available within the equity release market. For example – An 85-year-old with a £300,000 property, was given a loan amount of £192,000, representing a 64% LTV, when the largest loan available at the time of the study was a 50% LTV (£150,000).

Further alarming research was evident for those consumers aged 70+ – where 13 in 16 sites reported higher maximum lump sums for these consumers than would be available to them.

This discovery comes as ERS expand their online offering to provide more research and extensive information and ultimate accuracy for consumers. Given the firm has inbuild technology that allows for real time data to be pulled centrally from the database, consumers don’t suffer from any time delays, changes within the market or data fluctuations.

The results are live – a technical ability others are unable to provide to consumers.

This transforms and modernises entry to market by providing precision, whilst fundamentally aligning to consumer duty – providing transparency, accuracy, and WOM information to best serve the market.

Mark Gregory, Founder and CEO at Equity Release Supermarket commented: “This study was conducted in light of the new Consumer Duty regulations launched this month. Our aim is always to support consumers by providing real-time, accurate data, and to help the wider industry through the provision of smartER technology. We appreciate that it’s a challenging time for the industry, however it’s important we collectively drive the best possible consumer standards and we’re here to support any equity release firm in achieving that.”

BECOSAN® Commemorates Successful Conclusion of Largest Warehouse Renovation Endeavour in the UK

Construction

Sam Allcock

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11/08/2023

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BECOSAN® Commemorates Successful Conclusion of Largest Warehouse Renovation Endeavour in the UK

BECOSAN® proudly declares the triumphant culmination of an ambitious venture – the largest strip out, demolition, and refurbishment undertaking in the UK, realised within the premises of the former GAP Warehouse located in Rugby.

This milestone achievement finds its pinnacle in the property’s acquisition by retail giant Sainsbury’s, a transaction that stands as one of the year’s most remarkable single property deals.

In a dynamic collaboration involving Sunrise Real Estate Limited and Total Project Integration, BECOSAN® emerges as a pivotal player in actualising this monumental feat, encompassing a sprawling expanse of 661,000 sq. ft. (60,000 m2). Sunrise Real Estate, as the proprietor of this industrial edifice, orchestrated an extensive rejuvenation of the site, formally transferring possession to Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Limited.

The seeds of this ambitious revitalisation initiative were sown with Sunrise Real Estate’s strategic procurement of the property from Gap Inc. in September 2022. Within the span of a mere two months, the project found fruition through unwavering dedication and synchronised efforts of all stakeholders involved.

Central to this transformative endeavor was the comprehensive renovation of the Rugby 661 site. Guided by the astute management of Total Project Integration (TPI), this renovation venture incorporated cutting-edge pavement enhancements facilitated by the revolutionary BECOSAN® treatment.

Martin Kerrigan, BECOSAN®’s project director, and Oliver Sanz Wittrowksi, the treatment coordinator, both played integral roles in steering this project to success. Acknowledging the magnitude of this endeavor, Martin Kerrigan articulated, “Our involvement in this undertaking has been immensely gratifying. Witnessing the thorough restoration of the edifice to an exemplary standard is truly fulfilling, particularly with the incorporation of the BECOSAN® treatment on such a grand scale.”

Oliver Sanz Wittrowksi chimed in, “The BECOSAN® treatment not only revitalises the aesthetic allure of the pavement but also ensures elevated robustness and sustainability. By deploying this treatment, the Rugby 661 site has been fortified to stand the test of time.”

For further insight into BECOSAN®’s groundbreaking solutions for concrete treatment, please engage with BECOSAN® UK at www.becosan.com/contact/.

MINT PROPERTY FINANCE RECRUITS TWO NEW UNDERWRITING TEAM MEMBERS

Business

Sam Allcock

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11/08/2023

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MINT PROPERTY FINANCE RECRUITS TWO NEW UNDERWRITING TEAM MEMBERS

Leading specialist finance lender, Mint Property Finance, has this week welcomed two new team members to its Underwriting department, further increasing the company’s capacity to deliver borrower requirements.

The first of the new hires, Leigh Harwood, joins Mint as Development Underwriter from Stream Bank and has extensive experience in financial sectors. In a career spanning twenty years, Leigh has worked on mortgages, loans, litigations and collections, holding several titles in that time including Head of Underwriting at C&M Wealth International Ltd and Credit Manager at Stream Bank.

Leigh commented: “I’m delighted to join the team at Mint. I’m looking forward to bringing my extensive industry knowledge to the company and helping continue their upward growth trajectory.”

Also joining the company as Underwriter Support is Ben Broad. A recent graduate, Ben is joining straight from Manchester Metropolitan University, where he recently achieved a 2.1 in his Banking & Finance Undergraduate Degree. This is Ben’s first full-time role.

Speaking on his new role, Ben said: “I’m looking forward to beginning my career at Mint, and have been warmly welcomed into the team. I’m excited to develop my knowledge of the property finance sectors and further my career in this exciting industry.”

Both Leigh and Ben will work in Mint’s award-winning Underwriting team, led by Adam Robson and Sam Herd. They will be trained on the company’s best-in-class underwriting principles whilst working on cases for Broker and Direct Borrower clients. These new hires display Mint’s desire to recruit the best talent in the sector.

Andrew Lazare, Managing Director, said: “As mentioned in the press previously this week, Mint continue to be very much ‘open for business’ despite the challenging economic circumstances and our two new hires reflect our ongoing and growing need for exceptional talent. The addition of Ben and Leigh to our team means we will be even better placed to successfully manage new and existing enquiries through our underwriting process to completion.”

Cheshire-based Mint is an award-winning specialist lender recognised for its relationship-driven and flexible approach. Since its inception in 2011, Mint has enjoyed year-on-year growth and recently reported its highest quarterly volume of enquiries.

Thumbs up from inspectors for Manchester’s Adult Education Service

Education

Sam Allcock

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10/08/2023

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Thumbs up from inspectors for Manchester’s Adult Education Service

Manchester’s Adult Education Service (MAES) has been given the thumbs up by government inspectors for its inclusive and ambitious curriculum, high quality education and training, and passionate leaders.

In their report published this week Ofsted inspectors graded every aspect of the service Good – from its overall effectiveness, quality of education, and adult learning programmes, through to provision for learners with high needs, and its leadership and management.

The service – which has over three thousand adult learners studying at centres throughout the city, with most learners studying courses in English for speakers of other languages (ESOL), digital skills, English, maths, early years, and health and social care – was inspected over three days back in June.

Inspectors highlighted the respectful and inclusive environment in which learners study that gives them a sense of belonging, and enthusiastic tutors who are supportive and encouraging, with the result that learners are happy at MAES and proud of their achievements.

The report praises leaders, managers and governors who it says are passionate about their provision and promote a culture of compassion and care through an inclusive and ambitious curriculum that is adapted to meet the strategic skills priorities of Manchester and the wider city region.

Inspectors found that most learners make good progress and benefit from high-quality education and training that is informative and varied, delivered by tutors who are well qualified and hold relevant professional qualifications.

The range of opportunities on offer through MAES for learners to help them develop their personal and social skills was also identified as a positive by inspectors – including speaking clubs for learners on ESOL courses, and enrichment activities including a community football programme and charity work with a local food back for learners with high needs.

Inspectors also praised the support provided to learners to find future employment through a comprehensive careers strategy across MAES provision, with a large majority of learners progressing on to employment or further learning after finishing their courses.

They noted that as part of the ‘Make it Happen’ careers programme, most learners benefit from careers guidance and opportunities that help them move on to their next steps and to develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviours they need to progress in their personal lives, communities, work, and further learning, whilst also developing their communication skills and growing in confidence on their courses.

Councillor John Hacking Executive Member for Skills, Employment, and Leisure, Manchester City Council, and Chair of Manchester Adult Education Service Board, said:

“We’re very pleased that despite a difficult couple of years through the pandemic for learners and staff alike, the service has been able to maintain its previously Good rating, which is in no small part thanks to the hard work and determination of everyone involved.

“We already have plans in place to improve the service even further and are excited about what lies ahead for the service and for learners.

“As the cost-of-living crisis bites we’re more determined than ever to do what we can to help people through it, and Manchester Adult Education Service has a key role in this.

“It has a lot to offer that can really help adults of all ages and all abilities to learn and through this to earn. Whether it’s improving your basic skills in maths or English, upgrading your digital skills, or help with CV writing and interview techniques, there’s lots of support available and who knows – taking a course with MAES could be the start of a bright new future, not just for you but for your whole family.”

CASE STUDY 1

One learner who has been helped into work after taking courses with MAES is 41-year-old Ioana Hayder from north Manchester. Originally from Romania, the mum of three is celebrating having recently secured a job with Manchester Libraries as a Library Assistant after taking courses to improve both her English and maths.

A good student when she was at school in Romania, when she arrived in Manchester, she found spoken English here very different from what she had learnt in school.

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She said: “I thought I could speak English but then when we arrived I didn’t understand what people were saying to me. I used to dread speaking on the phone, I was terrified of having to call people like the doctors because I didn’t understand properly what they were saying, and was scared of trying to make myself understood.”

With no friends or other family here and a young baby, coupled with the pressures of repeated lockdowns during Covid, the mum of three decided she needed to do something to improve her language skills and so she enrolled on a Level 2 English Language skills course with MAES.

She said: “At MAES you really focus on what you’re learning. There are no distractions, and everyone who is on the course is there because they want to be – they’re not being forced to be there. It was a really good experience for me, I’ve made friends through the course and it’s been great.”

As well as completing her Level 2 English qualification Ioana also decided to improve her maths and completed a Level 1 Maths course, after which she went on to also successfully complete a Level 2 Maths course.

She said: “Maths had always been like a horror story to me – I just didn’t understand it, my brain was blocked to maths, I just didn’t get it. But if you have a good teacher – like I did here in Manchester, it makes a one hundred per cent difference. I started doing it and the teacher was brilliant, and I suddenly thought this is not so difficult after all and I passed my Level 1 and after that I also did Maths Level 2 and passed that. So suddenly I am becoming like a maths genius after not getting it at all before! It’s great, and I’d like to go on and do my GCSE maths at some point.”

The learning hasn’t stopped there for Ioana – this last year has seen her sit her GCSE English exam, the results of which are due any time, complete a Digital Skills Level 1 course, and also take part in a special focus week organised by MAES on getting a job – how to find a job, different kinds of employment, interview skills, and how to write a good CV.

She said: “This was a very good course and I recommend it to everyone. I used to be terrified of job interviews, but after doing the course I felt much more confident about them, and I think it really helped me to get my job at the library.”

Ioana firmly believes adult education is for everyone and that it’s never too late to go back to learning, and so strong is her belief in this that she has even started to work as a volunteer with MAES – helping tutors out in the classroom to explain things to other learners.

She said: “Adult Education isn’t just for people with no English, it’s for everyone who wants to improve their skills and their knowledge and to get a better job. It’s never too late – your age doesn’t matter, it doesn’t come into it – you will learn things that will help you and it could help you to get a job, or help you to do some volunteering like I do which is also a really good way of improving your skills.”

CASE STUDY 2
Another learner who returned to the classroom as an adult is Faiza Chohan who lives in north Manchester.

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A good student who always did well at school in Pakistan and went to college there to do A level equivalent exams, the 37-year-old mother of two works part-time in an administrative role for the NHS, but decided to go back to learning to help her children with their studies.

She started going one day a week to Abraham Moss Adult Education Centre where she completed an English Level 2 course and also Maths Level 1, before going on to Greenheys Centre to complete a Level 2 Functional Maths course – the results of which she is expecting in the next few weeks.

If all goes well, she is due to start a Foundation year in Business Studies at Salford University in September, and then plans to go on and study for a degree in the subject.

She said: “Learning with Manchester Adult Education Service has been good for me. The staff were really helpful and my confidence really grew. At first I thought I was too old to be learning and was worried if I would remember things and how to learn, but it’s been great.

“The tutors were really helpful, they explain things really well, and the courses were very practical – it wasn’t learning from text books which is how it was a school. The courses were much more practical than this, we would be given scenarios to study and learn from there.

“It was also very different from being at school – there is no pressure in adult education classes, not like at school where teachers would give you a deadline and you’d get told off if you didn’t make it. Things are much more relaxed, so it makes it easier for you to learn when the pressure is off you.

“The great thing about the classes for me was also getting to meet other people as well – the tutors and other students, mixing with them and socialising with them – so I also made new friends out of my classes.

“I’d say if you want a good job, or a better job, then you should really think about doing some courses. It’s been great for me.

“I’ve got my confidence back, and now I’m looking forward to starting my foundation year at Salford University in September and then after that I want to go on and get a degree.”

To find out more about the courses on offer through MAES visit manadulted.org.uk https://manadulted.org.uk/

Enterprise Nation Fund launches with TikTok to champion relentless value-driven businesses

Business

Sam Allcock

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10/08/2023

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Enterprise Nation Fund launches with TikTok to champion relentless value-driven businesses

Small business support platform and membership organisation Enterprise Nation has today/August 10, launched its own annual fund in partnership with TikTok to offer financial assistance and mentoring to the brave businesses that are relentlessly driven by their values.

The platform, which supports 800,000 start-ups, early stage and small businesses every year, has pledged to deliver three £5,000 grants, 12 months of one-to-one mentoring with an expert entrepreneur – including Emma Jones, CBE, founder of Enterprise Nation – plus an epic bundle of targeted resources worth thousands of pounds. TikTok will also provide access to ads specialists in its London office who will provide guidance on building brand presence and driving sales on the platform.

The fund aims to champion the businesses that reflect Enterprise Nation’s own values, the ones that understand the deep advantages of aligning with their own community, the incredible power of trust, and those that demonstrate an inspiringly entrepreneurial spirit.

The fund will be accepting entries from businesses that excel in the following areas:

• Entrepreneurial – for businesses driven by a creative and innovative spirit. The winner of this category will be mentored by Timothy Armoo, co-founder of social and influencer agency Fanbytes, who was only 27 when his business was acquired in a landmark eight-figure deal.

• Trusted – for businesses trusted by customers and the people who hold a stake in it. This category’s winner will be mentored by Mike Turner, co-founder of Bird & Blend Tea Co., the UK’s most loved indie tea company. The award-winning brand offers eco-friendly tea and is B-Corp certified.

• Community-led – for businesses centred around their community. This winner will be mentored by Emma Jones, founder of Enterprise Nation. Enterprise Nation is an 800,000-strong community of small businesses and advisers offering trusted business support.

Emma has taken Enterprise Nation from start-up to more than £8m revenue in 2023, delivering a digital platform to support small businesses in the UK and Ireland with the technology to support businesses globally.

She said: “We truly believe in the power of entrepreneurial spirit, trust and community, these are the qualities that best reflect our values and we want to celebrate and reward businesses that share that vision.

“By launching our own fund with TikTok, we hope to create a legacy that will help the next generation of businesses to collaborate and support each other in innovative ways.”

In a recent study from Oxford Economic, activities by SMEs on TikTok contributed £1.63bn to UK GDP in 2022. SMEs using TikTok as an advertising and marketing platform for growth supported 32,000 jobs in 2022.The study also found owners of SMEs on TikTok are also 55% more likely to be ethnic minority entrepreneurs, and under 30.

Lisa Freidrich, TikTok SMB leader in EMEA said: “At TikTok we are incredibly humbled by the inspiring small businesses that come to our platform every day to promote and sell their products. TikTok has become a key part in their marketing strategy, as an affordable and engaging way drive sales and we’re very proud of the role we’re able to play in breaking down the barriers to starting a growing a business.

“We’re delighted to support the Enterprise Nation Fund and hope it will inspire a wealth of passion, creativity and innovation in the small business community.”

Entries open on August 10 and close on September 14, 2023. A shortlist of 30 successful entrepreneurs, 10 in each category will then go to the public vote with finalists going forward to judging. The winner will be announced in October.

The three winners will receive:

• A £5,000 grant

• Monthly mentoring sessions for 12 months with an experienced entrepreneur who will guide and support business growth

• Meeting with a dedicated TikTok ads specialist for a tailored media plan to get a business started on TikTok at TikTok’s London Office

• £500 credits to spend on VistaPrint.co.uk

• Santander Navigator ‘Prepare’ package, worth £1,800 of international growth support.

• 12 month Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps membership, worth £596

Entries on https://www.enterprisenation.com/enterprise-nation-fund/

Decoding Crypto Cake: A Delectable Journey into the World of Solana Blockchain

Crypto

Danielle Trigg

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10/08/2023

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Decoding Crypto Cake: A Delectable Journey into the World of Solana Blockchain

The world of cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving, and with the rise of innovative blockchain platforms, new opportunities are emerging. One such platform is Solana, known for its exceptional scalability and lightning-fast transaction speeds. In this article, we embark on a delicious journey into the intersection of cryptocurrencies and the Solana blockchain, exploring the concept of “Crypto Cake” and its connection to Solana, also known as “cake to sol“. By decoding the fascinating world of Crypto Cake, we uncover how Solana’s unique features contribute to its adoption and the potential it holds for the future of this delectable art form.

Understanding the Solana Blockchain

To fully appreciate the role of Solana in Crypto Cake, we must first grasp the fundamentals of this cutting-edge blockchain. Solana’s architecture and distinctive characteristics set it apart from other platforms, offering unparalleled scalability and transaction speeds. As we delve into Solana’s strengths, we gain insight into why it has become a preferred choice for Crypto Cake enthusiasts seeking efficiency, security, and cost-effectiveness.

The Emergence of Crypto Cake

Crypto Cake has recently captured the attention of both cryptocurrency enthusiasts and culinary artists. These delectable creations blend confectionery art with crypto-themed designs, creating a mouthwatering fusion of technology and creativity. We explore the origins and symbolism behind Crypto Cake, shedding light on how it has gained popularity as a unique form of expression within the crypto community. With Solana at the forefront, Crypto Cake serves as a tangible representation of digital assets, allowing enthusiasts to savor the flavors of their favorite cryptocurrencies.

The Role of Solana in Crypto Cake Adoption

Solana’s capabilities align seamlessly with the production and sale of Crypto Cakes. The platform’s fast and low-cost transactions enable efficient payment processing and seamless customer experiences. We examine how Solana’s blockchain infrastructure facilitates the adoption of Crypto Cake as a viable business venture, making it accessible to a broader audience. Through real-world examples, we witness the positive impact Solana has on the Crypto Cake community and its potential for widespread adoption.

NFTs and Crypto Cakes on Solana

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have revolutionized the art world, and their integration with the Solana blockchain opens up new possibilities for Crypto Cake enthusiasts. We delve into the realm of NFT-backed Crypto Cakes, exploring how digital ownership and collectibility enhance the value and appeal of these edible masterpieces. By leveraging Solana’s efficiency and compatibility, NFT-based Crypto Cakes create a unique blend of artistic expression and blockchain technology, enticing both collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Platforms such as Let’s Exchange facilitate the seamless exchange of cryptocurrencies, enabling enthusiasts to convert Ethereum (ETH) to Solana (SOL) tokens, further fueling the growth and accessibility of NFT-backed Crypto Cakes.

The Future of Crypto Cakes on Solana

As the popularity of Crypto Cakes continues to grow, we ponder the future developments and innovations in this fascinating space. Partnerships, collaborations, and advancements in technology hold the potential to propel Crypto Cakes on Solana to new heights. We discuss the exciting possibilities that lie ahead, envisioning a world where Crypto Cakes become a mainstream phenomenon, showcasing the capabilities of Solana’s blockchain and the creativity of its community.

The emergence of Crypto Cake has brought together the realms of cryptocurrencies, art, and gastronomy in an exciting and delectable manner. Solana’s exceptional blockchain infrastructure has played a vital role in the adoption and growth of Crypto Cakes, offering efficiency, speed, and cost-effectiveness. With NFTs expanding the realm of possibilities, the future of Crypto Cakes on Solana is filled with limitless potential. So, prepare your taste buds and indulge in this delightful fusion of technology, artistry, and mouthwatering confections, as Crypto Cakes continue to tantalize our senses on the journey through the world of Solana blockchain.

New Manchester student residence gains planning permission

Construction

Danielle Trigg

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10/08/2023

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New Manchester student residence gains planning permission

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) specialists Alumno are set to develop a new project on Moss Lane East in Manchester following a successful planning application submitted by Cityside UK. Manchester City Council recently approved the development, which is designed by architects Carson Sall and comprises a newbuild nine-storey block along with the refurbishment of an adjacent listed Georgian Villa overlooking Whitworth Park.

The scheme will house 261 students in a mix of cluster en-suite rooms and self-sufficient studios, including a proportion of affordable accommodation. Residents will also have access to a hub of amenities including private study booths, collaboration space, lounges, cinema, gym, karaoke zone and a wellbeing room. The location is highly convenient for students, with Moss Lane East, which runs north-south, populated extensively by facilities from both Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester.

“We are excited to help the city deliver much needed PBSA bed spaces and see this come forward with Alumno,” said Daniel Cohen, Director at Cityside.

Commenting on the new development, Alumno Managing Director David Campbell said: “We are delighted that, working with our partners Cityside, planning consent was granted for our next project in Manchester, which involves the construction of a new block and refurbishment of a listed building. We are looking forward to commencing work on the site later this year. This will be our second project in the city in quick succession following the successful delivery of Church Inn in 2022, and it will further help relieve pressure on local housing in a city chronically underserved by PBSA by 65%.”

Cuddly commuter joins Metrolink passengers to mark Science and Industry Museum’s summer transformation into a teddy bear hospital

Health

Danielle Trigg

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10/08/2023

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Cuddly commuter joins Metrolink passengers to mark Science and Industry Museum’s summer transformation into a teddy bear hospital

Passengers on Manchester’s Metrolink were joined by a special cuddly commuter this morning.

A life-size, scrub-wearing teddy bear took to the trams to mark the Science and Industry Museum’s summer transformation into a teddy hospital, inspired by its new world-premiere exhibition, Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You.

Mr Grumbles, as he’s known, is a well-loved character from hit BBC Children’s show, Operation Ouch!, which has now been brought to life as an exhibition experience for the first time. He pops up throughout the exhibition alongside the show’s presenters, Dr Chris, Dr Xand and Dr Ronx, to guide visitors as they take a deep dive through the digestive system.

This was Mr Grumbles’ first trip out to explore Manchester city centre. After planning his journey on the Transport for Greater Manchester website, the fluffy passenger pitched up at Exchange Square, where he posed for pictures and handed out special ‘poo hats’ from the exhibition, furthering its aim of breaking the taboo around poo by encouraging passers-by to wear them with pride as they carried on their journeys through the city.

The exhibition, which has already attracted more than 14,000 visitors since it opened on 21 July, provides a wonderfully weird, gloriously gross and epically entertaining journey through digestion. It embraces silliness in the name of science as it supports visitors to better understand their bodies. Highlight experiences include the once-in-a-lifetime experience of travelling like a poo and being flushed down a giant toilet, playing with a super-sized set of interactive teeth and taking part in the world’s only interactive “pooduction” line to discover how our bodies absorb nutrients and expel waste

As well as being a popular television character and exhibition guide, Mr Grumbles is an aspiring ears, nose and throat doctor! During his time at Exchange Square, he encouraged the people of Manchester to follow in his footsteps and transform into doctors for the day by bringing their fluffy friends to the special ‘medical departments’ set up in the Science and Industry Museum this summer. The departments of Heads, Hearts, Bones and Bottoms demonstrate how to keep whole bodies healthy with playful and engaging activities for all ages.

Steven Leech, curator of exhibitions at the Science and Industry Museum, said: “The exhibition and our programme of special summer events are smashing taboos and encouraging families to find the fun in the science inside us.

“We’re delighted to have partnered with the BBC and 141 productions to bring beloved on-screen characters and experiences from Operation Ouch! to life in a super-sized, super-fun exhibition! This additional partnership with TfGM meant we could bring the super-sized Mr Grumbles to the streets of Manchester, spreading the joy of this outrageous journey and its important message of embracing and understanding the weird and wonderful ways our bodies work.”

Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You has been developed by the Science and Industry Museum and produced in collaboration with the BBC and 141 Productions, part of All3Media’s Objective Media Group. It is supported by Principal Sponsor, Andrex.

Those planning a visit can access the Science and Industry Museum easily by public transport. The nearest tram stop is Deansgate-Castlefield and the free city centre bus, route 1, stops just outside. Tickets for the exhibition are available to book on the museum’s website (www.scienceandindustrymuseum.org.uk) priced at £10 for adults, £9 children, senior and concessions, with children aged three and under going free. It will run at the Science and Industry Museum until June 2024, before embarking on a national and international tour.

bet365 Launch £1m 2023/24 Season 6 Scores Challenge

Betting

Dean Carr

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10/08/2023

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To mark the start of the 2023/24 Premier League season, bet365 is offering fans a new game to participate in! The bet365 6 Scores Challenge is a fun, free-to-play game available to all new and existing players on the bet365 site.

Some fantastic prizes are up for grabs to anyone who can correctly predict the full-time scorelines of six selected Premier League games. Any player able to guess six scorelines correctly will win a share of a whopping £1,000,000! Read below to learn more about this exciting new game, how to sign up, and what you could win!

ENTER THE BET365 6 SCORES CHALLENGE HERE

How To Play The 6 Scores Challenge

The 6 Scores Challenge from bet365 is a new and exciting game ready for football fans across the UK to play for free! This game involves players predicting the outcome of six selected Premier League matches. The matches from the first round of fixtures this weekend are:

Bournemouth vs West Ham United
Brighton vs Luton Town
Everton vs Fulham
Newcastle United vs Aston Villa
Brentford vs Tottenham Hotspur
Chelsea vs Liverpool

Simply sign up at bet365 and search for the 6 scores challenge page and enter your score predictions.

Should a player get three or more of these full-time scores correct, that player will win a share of some brilliant prizes. Read below to find out more about the prizes on offer.

What Prizes Are Available?

If a player is able to predict three or more full-time scores correctly from the selected games above, the player will win a share of some amazing prizes! The more scores they guess correctly, the higher the prize pot! Below is listed the share of prize pots up for grabs.

Players who guess three correct scores will win a share of £5,000
Players who guess four correct scores will win a share of £10,000
Players who guess five correct scores will win a share of £20,000
Players who guess six correct scores will win a share of £1,000,000

How To Sign Up For bet365

Follow these simple steps to sign up for the bet365 site and participate in this exciting new game!

Click the link to be taken to the bet365 sign-up page.
Enter your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and address.
Create a unique username and password combination.
Verify your details and log in.
Enter your predictions to take part in the bet365 6 Scores Challenge!

18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission

bet365 6 Scores Challenge Terms And Conditions

For full details on gameplay, please refer to our 6 Scores Challenge rules.
You are responsible for any tax obligations (reporting and/or tax settlement) that are applicable in your jurisdiction in relation to any deposits, stakes or entry fees, or any winnings/prizes or losses as the case may be. Prize values displayed are exclusive of any tax deductions (where applicable).
The 6 Scores Challenge feature is available at the discretion of bet365 and bet365 makes no guarantees regarding its availability. bet365 will not be responsible if the 6 Scores Challenge feature is not available for technical reasons.
bet365 reserves the right to reclaim any prize-money awarded for a 6 Scores Challenge entry if the outcome of a fixture within the relevant game was determined in error.
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The Ascendance of AI Algorithms: Machines Surpass Human Traders in Portfolio Diversification

Sam Allcock

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10/08/2023

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The Ascendance of AI Algorithms: Machines Surpass Human Traders in Portfolio Diversification

In a climate of soaring inflation, the value of investors’ assets has plummeted dramatically, triggering alarm bells. The recent past witnessed retirees grappling with a staggering loss of $3 trillion as economic and geopolitical uncertainties sent the stock market into a downward spiral. Unsurprisingly, a renewed emphasis on diversifying portfolios has emerged as a strategy to manage risk and optimise returns, safeguarding nest eggs. Conventionally, the responsibility of these intricate tasks fell upon human traders, skilled in the realm of quantitative analysis. However, with the advent of Chat GPT, the financial realm is embracing the prowess of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to efficiently guide clients towards the optimal state.

This article delves into the distinguishing factors that grant Quantum AI algorithms an edge in portfolio diversification, orchestrating a transformative influence on the investment landscape.

Impartial Decision-Making

Undoubtedly, one of the most pronounced advantages of AI algorithms over their human counterparts lies in their unwavering impartiality. Human traders are often susceptible to behavioural biases, encompassing traits such as overconfidence, loss aversion, anxiety, fear, and herd mentality, which inevitably lead to suboptimal decision-making. History is replete with instances of rogue traders wreaking havoc on their organisations. Notably, Jerome Kerviel‘s activities within Societe Generale between 2006-2008 resulted in colossal losses of $6.9 billion.

AI algorithms, in stark contrast, dissect data devoid of emotions. This detachment enables them to pinpoint diversification prospects across a broad spectrum of asset classes, culminating in a well-rounded and balanced portfolio. Operating based on pre-defined rules and devoid of emotional influences, AI algorithms consistently adhere to diversification strategies, eschewing impulsive actions that can jeopardise portfolio performance.

Unmatched Processing Velocity

The financial markets stand as a fiercely competitive arena, marked by dynamic shifts unfolding within seconds. Triumph belongs to those entities that nimbly seize opportunities presented by shifting market dynamics to yield alpha returns. It’s no surprise that numerous hedge funds have harnessed the power of AI algorithms as part of their arsenal. Regardless of an individual’s mathematical acumen, limitations persist when deciphering intricate interrelationships among assets.

AI algorithms, distinguished by their capacity to swiftly analyse copious real-time data without succumbing to fatigue, offer a transformative edge. With the ability to discern market trends, historical patterns, and macroeconomic variables, these algorithms make instantaneous decisions to diversify portfolios and capture burgeoning opportunities with unparalleled efficacy compared to their human counterparts. Their prowess extends to assimilating and processing vast data from diverse sources, including financial statements, economic indicators, news sentiment, and social media, to discern hidden correlations and patterns.

This results in a more robust and diversified portfolio, offering benefits spanning retirees seeking financial stability to parents orchestrating college funds. Financial institutions, attuned to this revolution, continually refine their algorithms to harness this transformative potential. For instance, Deutsche Bank has unveiled algorithms like “Dagger,” “Iceberg,” “Guerrilla,” “Monkey,” and “Sniper” to empower their clients. In recognition of this shift, individuals skilled in various machine learning techniques and natural language processing are in high demand as they bolster the efficacy of AI program management.

Dynamic Learning Capability

AI algorithms boast an innate capacity for continuous and rapid adaptive learning. As market conditions mutate within the volatile realm, these algorithms can recalibrate and fine-tune their diversification strategies in tandem. The advent of quantum computing technology has only expedited this process. Leveraging deep learning techniques, AI algorithms refine strategies based on historical performance and real-time feedback.

This adaptability ensures that portfolios remain optimised and resilient even amidst uncertain and challenging market scenarios. Extensive backtesting of historical data by AI algorithms evaluates their performance under diverse economic conditions. Forward testing further validates their efficacy in real-world market scenarios. This commitment to thorough assessment augments the reliability and credibility of AI-driven diversification strategies.

Real-Time Risk Surveillance

As alluded to earlier, AI algorithms possess an unparalleled ability to incessantly monitor market conditions and portfolio performance in real time, devoid of breaks. Swift identification of deviations and anomalies from projected outcomes empowers these algorithms to activate risk management mechanisms that shield portfolios from rapidly spreading contagions. This real-time risk vigilance capacitates AI algorithms to nimbly adapt to dynamic market dynamics, steering clear of catastrophes akin to the 2008 crash.

Mitigating Overfitting

Human traders often unwittingly stumble into the peril of overfitting by tinkering with strategies anchored in historical performance. For instance, a trader’s preference for real estate stemming from past stock market disillusionment might lead to disproportionately allocating funds towards real estate investments.

AI algorithms employ advanced statistical techniques to curtail overfitting tendencies, thereby ensuring diversification strategies align seamlessly with diverse market scenarios.

Scalability and Uniformity

AI algorithms herald a boon for burgeoning fintech firms grappling with budget constraints limiting the hiring of high-cost financial traders. These algorithms facilitate efficient management of numerous assets and portfolios without stretching financial resources. The computational prowess of AI algorithms scales effortlessly, ensuring uniform analysis and attention for each portfolio. This scalability empowers asset managers to effectively serve a broader clientele while expanding the reach of diversification benefits to a wider investor base.

Curtailed Transaction Costs

Portfolio diversification necessitates frequent buying and selling of assets, culminating in substantial transaction costs for human traders. Quantum AI trading algorithms possess the potential to optimise diversification with minimal transaction expenses. Algorithmic trading, effectively employed by investment agencies, streamlines trade execution, reducing overall costs and amplifying returns for investors.

The optimisation of portfolios empowers investors to curtail exposure to risks while augmenting risk-adjusted returns. In a landscape where an increasing number of individuals seek passive income avenues to mitigate inflation’s impact, the use of AI for portfolio diversification is slated to proliferate. Notwithstanding, a measure of human oversight remains vital to avert the squandering of investors’ capital due to programming glitches or unforeseen factors.

About the Author

This article was authored by Jacob S., a Quantitative Wizard affiliated with the Quantum AI app. For more insights, readers can explore Jacob S.’s work on the official Quantum AI website.

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