#Catalyst Market demand

[janetushar1]

Chemical Catalyst Market to Hit $48.0 Billion by 2032

What's Trending in Chemical Catalyst Market?

- Keep Yourself Up-To-Date With The Latest Market Trends.

The global Chemical Catalyst Market was valued at USD 28.9 Billion in 2024 and it is estimated to garner USD 48.0 Billion by 2032 with a registered CAGR of 4.4% during the forecast period 2024 to 2032.

Firstly, the Market report for Chemical Catalyst Market describes the current state of the companies and recommends where it is likely to go next. The report shows the production, revenue, price, market share, and growth rate of each type, mainly divided into Product Types and Product Applications etc.

Additionally, this market report focuses on offering key business measures such as real market moves, market size, qualities, and freedoms, as well as forecast opportunities. This Chemical Catalyst Market report also offers distinctive insights into wealthy regions such as Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

Get a Sample Copy of the Chemical Catalyst Market Report at: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/chemical-catalyst-market-0295/request-sample

Top Competitors:

LyondellBasell, Evonik Industries, Chevron Phillips Chemical, INEOS, BASF SE, Clariant, Johnson Matthey, Honeywell International, Albemarle Corporation, Exxon Mobil Corporation

This market report has all the information you need to start or grow your business in the industry. It also includes market drivers, restraints, competitiveness, and geographic estimates, as well as a price and emerging market structure. It is a complete description of a company's business model, benchmarks, consumer preferences, value proposition, and net profit. This comprehensive Chemical Catalyst Market study also sheds light on key techniques that help companies truly assess their customers' buying behavior.

It represents global economic trends between 2024 and 2032. With the help of this market research, top companies can easily make smarter financial decisions. This market analysis is an excellent technique to help companies implement new products. It also includes critical data on major industry topics, including market expansions and evolving market conditions.

This well-researched Chemical Catalyst Market report describes the negative impact COVID-19 is having on various companies and offers companies recommendations on how to recover from the damage suffered by the outbreak as well as the nationwide quarantine. The plan analyzes the company's expectations and priorities, as well as the delivery of all crucial data.

You Can Buy This Report From Here: https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/buy-now/chemical-catalyst-market-0295/0

This report analyzes key market segments by type, application, and geography. The geographic analysis section covers key regions such as Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region.

This Chemical Catalyst Market report not only provides valuable data but outlines key goals, pricing strategies, and approaches to help market participants' recommendations in this report will make accelerating economic growth easy. It offers some specific tips and business-related data to help new competitors in the market grow their businesses and diversify their product lines. Companies in the industry should choose tactics that include new product launches, mergers, and partnerships to survive in the competitive marketplace and strengthen their position.

Regional Analysis

-North America [United States, Canada, Mexico]

-South America [Brazil, Argentina, Columbia, Chile, Peru]

-Europe [Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia, Spain, Netherlands, Turkey, Switzerland]

-Middle East & Africa [GCC, North Africa, South Africa]

-Asia-Pacific [China, Southeast Asia, India, Japan, Korea, Western Asia]

The quantitative information in this Chemical Catalyst Market analysis helps predict future sales and market penetration. This type of information is based on statistics. The qualitative information provided here will greatly help the key players understand the buyer's opinion of your brand. Improving business goals becomes easy with the information provided in this report.

The industries can draw some conclusions about their original goals. In business. This Chemical Catalyst Market research helps you make assumptions about your competition, customers, and the market in order to make informed business decisions. Additionally, it forecasts the competition in the market for the estimated period of 2024-2032. Effective decision-making in companies leads to business growth and is made possible by this precise market study.

Read Full Research Report with [TOC] @ https://www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/chemical-catalyst-market-0295

Some of the Key Questions Answered in this Report:

Which are the five top players of the Chemical Catalyst Market?

How will the Chemical Catalyst Market change in the upcoming years?

Which product and application will take a share of the Chemical Catalyst Market?

What will be the CAGR and size of the Chemical Catalyst Market throughout the forecast period?

What are the drivers and restraints of the Chemical Catalyst Market?

Which regional market will show the highest growth?

What is the current industry size, what will the market size be in 2030 and what will the growth rate be?

Who are the major competitors and what is their strategy?

What are the challenges to grow in the industry?

What are the market opportunities and challenges faced by the key vendors?

What are the barriers to entry for new players in the Chemical Catalyst industry?

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[bluequarkhq]

Global Ruthenium Market Outlook to 2028

Ruthenium is a rare and valuable precious metal that is gaining more attention in the market due to its unique properties and increasing demand for industrial and electronic applications. Ruthenium is a transition metal that is hard, dense, and resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for use in a wide range of industrial applications, including catalysts, electronic devices, and alloys.

In recent years, ruthenium has become an increasingly popular investment opportunity as well, with demand driving up prices and creating new opportunities for investors. This is due in part to the growing demand for ruthenium in industries such as electronics and energy, as well as the growing popularity of precious metals as a long-term investment option.

Despite its growing popularity, the supply of ruthenium is relatively limited, which has led to increased demand and higher prices in the market. The mining industry is working hard to meet this demand, but it is important for investors to understand the challenges and risks associated with investing in ruthenium.

When considering investing in ruthenium, it is important to understand the market trends and price movements, as well as the factors that may impact supply and demand. Some of the key factors to consider include geopolitical instability, changes in the global economy, and fluctuations in the demand for ruthenium and other precious metals.

Overall, ruthenium is a unique and valuable precious metal that offers a wide range of industrial applications and investment opportunities. Whether you are looking to invest in ruthenium or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating metal, it is important to stay informed and stay up-to-date with the latest market trends and developments.

More info - https://www.bluequarkresearch.com/reports/global-ruthenium-market

[idesofrevolution]

Requiescat

"Alright, my Musical Mentees, welcome back to my Channel! I am your friendly neighborhood musical critic, Kyle Donaghue, and today we're going to be reviewing something a little bit out of our typical wheelhouse!" Kyle sat with feigned excitement in front of his webcam. Though on the outside he eagerly drew out his intro for the 250th episode of his "Musique Critique" web series, internally he was livid. The young YouTuber had dreamed of becoming the go-to modern music critic on the platform but after almost two years of barely breaking a thousand views, he recognized he needed to do some market research on what his 347 subscribers wanted to see.

Thus, after asking his audience for requests, the music of some newer wannabe rockstar gained traction to be reviewed. To the music conservatory graduate, such low-brow "music" was beneath him; yet reality dictated that the business of content creation was based upon supply and demand. His audience demanded it, and if he wanted to gain any traction whatsoever, he needed to pivot. So, when the band in question, Catalyst, announced a new single drop, Kyle decided he was going to be the very first reviewer to tear it a new one.

"So you guys have been requesting I listen to this band called 'Catalyst' for a long time now, and today is finally the day. Apparently, the lead singer of Catalyst announced a few days ago that a new single was going to be released. I haven't heard much about them, so I did a bit of digging." Kyle clicked around on his computer, dredging up whatever he found in his five minutes of "research" the night before. "So, this band literally came out of nowhere. They're independent and are in talks with some record company about a deal, but nothing has come of it yet, so I'm going into this completely blind. They're out of Austin, Texas, and it's four guys who started the band out of this lead singer's parent's garage. The guy's name is Jaxon Black."

Kyle was literally reading off of some Tumblr fan blog about all this, but his audience certainly didn't need to know that. Why would he put in any effort for a band of this low caliber? "Black is 27 years old and started the band in 2013 when the four of them were in high school. They haven't really found any success, which is one of the reasons I'm surprised you wanted me to review them in the first place. They play in dive bars and some small venues, but nothing really outside of that." Scrolling through the blog, a picture of Jaxon Black actually appeared on the feed. He looked like any run-of-the-mill traditionally hot bad boy that you could find on the cover of GQ. What was so special about him?

"So, it's interesting too. This guy looks completely different than he did back when the band was formed. I totally get he was a kid when he started it, and there's puberty and whatever. But I mean, can you say plastic surgery? C'mon, guys. This guy is a 'serious musician' to you all?" Kyle sighed and wiped his face clear of the disgust he felt inside, putting on the eager façade he felt he needed to emulate. "But for you guys, I will make an exception, I'll give Jaxon Black and Catalyst a chance. I'm doing this for you! Just know that!" With that, he began to screen share, and the handsome visage of Jaxon Black was plastered on his screen as it would be for the whole review. The single didn't have any album art or anything, it was just a Soundcloud link; so in hopes that his audience would see right through this charade, he let would make them look at the face of the man who wrote whatever terrible song he was preparing to hear.

"See what I mean, guys? Ugh. I'm sorry, anyways. Here it is. The link that's posted on this fan blog brings me to Soundcloud, and there's no title or anything. It's just called 'Untitled', so we're off to a great start. But like I said, let's give the guy a chance. So without further ado, here is Catalyst's 'Untitled.'" With the press of the space bar, the sound of a slower ballad began to play through his earbuds.

The song began with a slow and heavy bassline in A flat Locrian, immediately an odd choice to start with. Contrarian, in Kyle's opinion. In terms of influence, it was an odd mixture of stereotypical hard rock like Guns n' Roses or Aerosmith, prog rock like Yes and Pink Floyd, with a random hint of Santana? Kyle did his best to stifle the cringe which trickled down his spine, but his face could do nothing to hide it. He felt the corners of his lip tense up and purse, his left nostril tweaking in pure annoyance.

"Starting off in Locrian... that's an interesting choice." He muttered under his breath. Looking at the progress bar, he saw the song was a full seven minutes and thirty-six seconds long. Lovely. "I feel like this is gonna be 'Hotel California' but bad, not gonna lie to you guys." Though, as the electric guitar faded in, quiet and subtle, it took Kyle by surprise. The technique that Black employed in his riffs, with precision he'd rarely heard outside of a classical guitarist, was nothing short of impressive. "Okay, the guy's got some skill. I'll give him that."

The music felt lugubrious, giving the sensation of swimming through a vat of molasses, pushing and pulling at great tension. It was near impossible for him to put into words, but the gravelly tenor timbre of Black's voice deftly began to soar atop the dredging music below. Evoking Eddie Vetter or perhaps even Jon Bon Jovi, the words were not exactly easy to decipher. Frankly, the song was almost trancelike, as if he'd taken a handful of mushrooms before embarking on his musical journey.

"Guys, I don't know how to explain it, this shouldn't work but it... it kind of does? I don't... I don't know." Kyle leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes. The song had actually piqued his interest and intrigue, it was unlike anything he'd ever really heard before. Yet, it felt so familiar in ways far outside his comprehension. Waves of goosebumps washed across his body, barrage after barrage. The music became a full-body experience, and he was rendered speechless for the first time in his life. Wiping the sweat from his brow, Kyle tried his best to analyze the theory engrained into the song but found his mind to be a mere void that was seemingly being filled with viscous liquid. The longer the song went on, the more his mind felt entirely numb.

"I'm... I'm impressed, guys..." Words began to falter, his tongue feeling swollen and heavy. Behind his closed eyes, ribbons of bright colors danced against the black backdrop, bursts of red and purple illuminating the periphery like clouds of heat lightning. He could feel the notes meandering through the air and landing on his body, pressing down with the force of a boulder each time. "He's... he's really good, guys..." A thick dribble of saliva oozed through the gap in his open lips.

It was as if he was being drained of all his energy, all of his willpower, every last ounce of strength which propelled him to live. And yet, despite the darkness he could feel creeping over his body, he was oddly at peace. As if moving of their own accord, Kyle felt himself shuck his shirt from his body, now covered in a sprinkling of sweat across his limber torso and head. The music pulsated from within him as if he were the amp himself, seemingly making the muscles in his arms expand and contract. "I can... I can feel him in there..." Kyle couldn't even fathom how he'd gotten here. He was in his room, sitting in his chair and yet, he was somehow with Black, inside the music. With every heavy pick of the bass, his biceps began to swell and firm; veins distinctly snaked down his strong forearms and into his callousing fingers. His body temperature was now sweltering, shedding every ounce of water and liquid within him into the beadlets of sweat which cascaded down from his thickening pecs and cobbling abs.

The drums and synthesizer came in, further enriching the already complicated chords which tickled his ear like a soft, warm breath. The bass line was an ebb and flow, weaving and bobbing as the song soared through the chorus, a melody that sent a ripple of lust across his body. It was as if he were on a ship in a storm, one which was luring him deeper into the dark waters as his thighs began to balloon out of the sweat-stained shorts he wore. The power of the music seeped into his veins, imbuing him with a foreign energy from a distant shore beyond his corporeal being. His calves spasmed and inflated, while his feet stretched out wider and stronger in his quickly ripening socks.

Black's voice was now all that Kyle could hear in his head, every indecipherable word rang as some existential truth. Kyle's thoughts were no longer his own, he was just along for the ride, a passenger in his own mind. He was no longer in control of his actions, nor his thoughts. His breathing had become heavier, slower... The music had invaded his very being and taken control. Spatterings of black ink began to sprawl across his glistening smooth skin, each with some sort of esoteric reference which he would not yet understand. Grim Reapers, skulls, geometric designs of unhuman origin now proudly displayed across his strong body.

"Fuuuck, man. This shit is amazing..." His voice gradually grew scratchy and smoky from years of singing for crowds of headbanging punks in cramped, smelly bars. He reached to his left, eyes still closed in euphoric bliss, snatching the small joint which now sat on the edge of his desk. Kicking his sweaty, buttery feet up onto the wooden surface, he brought the smoking j to his lips, dragging a heavy dose of creative vapor into his powerful lungs. "Fuckin' hell, you guys... I mean... shit." He blew out a heavy, grey plume of smoke from his wide nostrils. "This song is fuckin' incredible."

He pulled down his shorts and briefs, letting his lean but long dripping cock slap against his navel. Strings of pre seeped out of his pulsating cockhead, making winding rivers flowing down toward his sagging sac. A large prince albert ring now adorned the top of his uncut shaft, with three frenum piercings towing down his urethra in succession. The slightest touch from his calloused fingers wreaked immeasurable pleasure, radiating from the groin all across every inch of his body. Thus, as he wrapped his hand tightly around the limber shaft, gently caressing the prince albert with the tip of his index finger, he could barely breathe without a quiet moan escaping his throat. Quickly, the fondling turned into a measured, intentional pump with each beat of the music.

The drums and bass were now coming together in a thunderous crescendo, Kyle could feel his very blood bubbling beneath his skin as it made his way up his strong neck and toward his skull as he hastened his pace. The room around him began to blur and distort. Bookshelves formerly lined with music theory textbooks and repertoires of classical mainstays were warped into racks of well loved guitars: Fender, Gibson, Sqiuer, & Ibanez. The pristine white duvet-covered bed was now clad with sleek black satin sheets and a shiny vinyl comforter. The portraits of famous composers which once adorned the wall were now a collage of posters: Black Sabbath, Def Leppard, Motley Crue, Metallica, AC/DC, The Ramones, Aerosmith, Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden. Piles of ripped up, weathered clothes, marinating in the sweat of shows past now littered the dingy red carpet.

The blood had finally arrived at the precipice of his brain, and like a tidal wave crashing against the rocks, it overtook him. His hair darkened to a deep black, his brows furrowed, his lips now plump and curled into a permanent cocky smirk. This was his kind of music. This was his genre. This was the message he was born to bring to the masses. It was a message of rebellion, of raging against the corporate machine of whitewashed mass-marketed culture. A flash of bright red and teal illuminated the room from behind Kyle's closed eyes as rope after rope of his spunk shot from his cock onto the laptop and camera. He roared in climax, louder than he'd intended, but nothing his neighbors were unfamiliar with in regards to the activities the apartment notoriously beheld.

The music had stopped, the final note hung in the air for a moment before retreating back into the abyss as his shorts melted into a dense magenta slime, moving down his muscular legs until they covered his entire lower half before hardening into slick gator skin pleather pants and a pair of beat up black combat boots wafting the scent of his musky feet. Axel opened his now black eyes, letting out a sigh of complete satisfaction.

"Now that's what I call fuckin' music, man! See why I wanted ya to experience it? It's like a requiem for corporate machine, man. That's why Catalyst is my fuckin' muse. Their music is gonna take over the whole fuckin' world." A loud pinging signaled Axel to check his phone, where his bandmates, performing as Hammerthrow, were confirming their next gig in L.A. "Fuck yeah, guys. Just landed the Cali gig. I'm thinking we cover this masterpiece and mind fuck them into oblivion. Catch us in Azuza next week, kids. You don't wanna miss it." With that, he ended his recording, smirking mischievously as he uploaded it to his channel. The song certainly was going to change the world, even if the world itself wasn't ready.

[brunettedelulu]

Feminism and Pop Culture: A Complex Interplay.

In the contemporary socio-cultural landscape, the interplay between feminism and pop culture is both intricate and profound. Pop culture, encompassing various media forms like film, television, music, and literature, serves as a powerful vehicle for disseminating and challenging societal norms. Feminism, as a movement advocating for gender equality and the dismantling of patriarchal structures, finds a fertile yet contentious ground within this sphere.

The Evolution of Feminist Representation :

Historically, pop culture has been a double-edged sword for feminism. On one hand, it has perpetuated stereotypes and reinforced traditional gender roles. The early decades of cinema and television, for instance, often depicted women as passive, subservient, or overly sexualized. Such portrayals not only mirrored societal biases but also contributed to their perpetuation.

However, the feminist movement's waves have progressively infiltrated pop culture, demanding more nuanced and empowered representations of women. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of strong female characters who defied conventional norms, such as Ellen Ripley in Alien and Sarah Connor in Terminator. These characters marked a shift, albeit a gradual one, towards a more complex portrayal of women in media.

Pop Culture as a Platform for Feminist Discourse :

In recent years, pop culture has become an increasingly significant platform for feminist discourse. The rise of social media has democratized content creation and dissemination, allowing feminist voices to challenge mainstream narratives more effectively. Movements like #MeToo have leveraged pop culture to bring issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality to the forefront of public consciousness.

Television series such as The Handmaid’s Tale and films like Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel reflect and amplify feminist ideals, resonating with audiences globally. These narratives not only provide entertainment but also serve as catalysts for discussions on gender politics, power dynamics, and societal change.

The Commercialization of Feminism :

However, the relationship between feminism and pop culture is not without its complexities and contradictions. One significant issue is the commercialization of feminism. Brands and media companies often co-opt feminist rhetoric for profit, diluting its radical essence in the process. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as "commodity feminism," risks transforming a movement aimed at systemic change into a marketable trend devoid of its original political potency. The feminist slogan t-shirts, empowerment-themed advertisements, and "girl boss" narratives proliferating in pop culture can, at times, reduce feminism to a mere aesthetic or consumer choice, rather than a sustained commitment to gender justice. This superficial engagement with feminist ideals highlights the tension between authentic representation and commercial exploitation.

Intersectionality in Pop Culture :

A crucial aspect of modern feminist thought is intersectionality, a concept introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw. Intersectionality posits that various forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism, are interconnected and cannot be examined in isolation. Pop culture's engagement with intersectionality has been mixed, with some progress and notable gaps.

For instance, while there have been strides in representing diverse female experiences, much work remains to be done. The success of films like Black Panther and shows like Pose demonstrates a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive storytelling. Yet, the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of marginalized groups, including women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities, persist as critical issues.

Conclusion :

The intersection of feminism and pop culture is a dynamic and evolving terrain. Pop culture holds the potential to both challenge and reinforce societal norms, making it a vital arena for feminist engagement. As consumers and creators, it is imperative to critically examine the media we engage with, advocate for more authentic and inclusive representations, and resist the commodification of feminist ideals. By fostering a more nuanced understanding of gender and intersectionality within pop culture, we can contribute to a more equitable and just society. The journey towards this goal is ongoing, requiring vigilance, creativity, and a commitment to transformative change.

[aroaessidhe]

so, the saint martin's press boycott.

I was offline for a few days a week or two ago and during that time SMP made an (okay) statement, R4A deliberated and eventually accepted terms and declared an end to the boycott, people got mad at R4A because the statement wasn't good enough, R4A panicked a bit and basically ended up disbanding/deleting their content. I don't know all the details of everything, but here's some summarised thoughts, since I have been one of the only people posting about the boycott on here:

firstly - I did see SMP's statement and think, eh, it was better than their previous ones, but it was still noticeably very vague on the catalyst of all this (it mentions Islamophobia and Gaza but it's not really centred or as emphatic as it could be) - so I totally understand people being angry that it was seen as good enough. The boycott is because of anti-Palestinian bigotry and the ongoing genocide in Gaza.

However, people upset at R4A started claiming that there were no Palestinians/Muslims in R4A, that it was all white people, which are both untrue. There were accusations of sucking up to SMP bc people want arcs/money and typical internet dogpiling and threats, which is... not really productive at all, to say the least, and starts to drown out reasonable criticisms.

Some people (the ones that feel safe enough to come forward, which is not everyone, due to said threats) have come out and discussed exactly why R4A decided to end the boycott. Mari's video here is worth watching - essentially it's that SMP clearly made massive steps to meet the demands, and the ones they didn't they're legally not able to (ie any explicit reference to the employee or what they said would probably get them sued).

A large group of (primarily bipoc) SMP authors have started talking about how they were working behind the scenes to urge SMP to respond - and reiterated that yeah, there's no legal way for them to comment on what the employee said and did.

I think most people understand strikes/boycotts are about negotiation, not necessarily getting every single demand. And it's an immense achievement to get a major publisher to respond and make changes. The way R4A fell apart at the end is pretty disappointing - they genuinely had the platform to make a lot of change going forward, and I hope that the change that was made isn't going to be undone because of that.

It kind of seems like the people who are encouraging continuing to boycott have changed from a marketing boycott in order to bring change to just a 'this company did a bad thing so don't engage with it ever' boycott. Which is valid, but said company has no incentive to meet the demands in that case.

But I also totally understand the opinion that the point of this - racism against Palestinians amidst a genocide - has been pushed to the side. It's extremely reasonable to be angry while watching an ongoing genocide. It's very reasonable to want someone with such despicable views to be fired (even if there's no actionable way to make that happen, and that was never an r4a demand). SMP also hasn't made any kind of statement about the unsolicited sex toys they sent people either, so like....there's that too.

I haven't decided exactly what I'll do - I've only read two SMP books since this started and tbh there's only a handful of other SMP books I'm interested in reading. But I'm considering, if I do decide to post those, donating the cost of a book to a GFM/esim/etc any time I read/review a SMP book. That feels like the most direct thing to bring things back to the point.

[reasoningdaily]

Children still mining cobalt for gadget batteries in Congo

A CBS News investigation of child labor in cobalt mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo has revealed that tens of thousands of children are growing up without a childhood today – two years after a damning Amnesty report about human rights abuses in the cobalt trade was published. The Amnesty report first revealed that cobalt mined by children was ending up in products from prominent tech companies including Apple, Microsoft, Tesla and Samsung. 

There's such sensitivity around cobalt mining in the DRC that a CBS News team traveling there recently was stopped every few hundred feet while moving along dirt roads and seeing children digging for cobalt. From as young as 4 years old, children can pick cobalt out of a pile, and even those too young to work spend much of the day breathing in toxic fumes.

What's life like for kids mining cobalt for our gadgets?

So, what exactly is cobalt, and what are the health risks for those who work in the DRC's cobalt mining industry?

What is cobalt?

Cobalt – a naturally occurring element –  is a critical component in lithium-ion, rechargeable batteries. In recent years, the growing global market for portable electronic devices and rechargeable batteries has fueled demand for its extraction, Amnesty said in its 2016 report. In fact, many top electronic and electric vehicle companies need cobalt to help power their products.

The element is found in other products as well.

"Cobalt-containing products include corrosion and heat-resistant alloys, hard metal (cobalt-tungsten-carbide alloy), magnets, grinding and cutting tools, pigments, paints, colored glass, surgical implants, catalysts, batteries, and cobalt-coated metal (from electroplating)," says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

More than half of the world's supply of cobalt comes from the DRC, and 20 percent of that is mined by hand, according to Darton Commodities Ltd., a London-based research company that specializes in cobalt.  

Health risks of chronic exposure 

According to the CDC, "chronic exposure to cobalt-containing hard metal (dust or fume) can result in a serious lung disease called 'hard metal lung disease'" – a kind of pneumoconiosis, meaning a lung disease caused by inhaling dust particles. Inhalation of cobalt particles can cause respiratory sensitization, asthma, decreased pulmonary function and shortness of breath, the CDC says.

The health agency says skin contact is also a significant health concern "because dermal exposures to hard metal and cobalt salts can result in significant systemic uptake." 

"Sustained exposures can cause skin sensitization, which may result in eruptions of contact dermatitis," a red, itchy skin rash, the CDC says.

Despite the health risks, researchers with Amnesty International found that most cobalt miners in Congo lack basic protective equipment like face masks, work clothing and gloves. Many of the miners the organization spoke with for its 2016 report – 90 people in total who work, or worked, in the mines – complained of frequent coughing or lung problems. Cobalt mining's dangerous impact on workers and the environment

Some women complained about the physical nature of the work, with one describing hauling 110-pound sacks of cobalt ore. "We all have problems with our lungs, and pain all over our bodies," the woman said, according to Amnesty.

Moreover, miners said unsupported mining tunnels frequently give way, and that accidents are common.  

Miners know their work is dangerous, Todd C. Frankel wrote late last month in The Washington Post. 

"But what's less understood are the environmental health risks posed by the extensive mining," he reported. "Southern Congo holds not only vast deposits of cobalt and copper but also uranium. Scientists have recorded alarming radioactivity levels in some mining regions. Mining waste often pollutes rivers and drinking water. The dust from the pulverized rock is known to cause breathing problems. The mining industry's toxic fallout is only now being studied by researchers, mostly in Lubumbashi, the country's mining capital."

"These job are really desired"

Despite the dangers and risks of working as miners in the cobalt industry, at least of the some miners in the Congo "love their jobs," according to Frankel.

"When I talked to the miners there, none of them want to lose their jobs or give up their jobs. They love their jobs," Frankel said Tuesday, speaking on CBSN. "In a country like Congo, mining is one of the few decently paying jobs to be had there, and so they want to hold onto these jobs."

They also want fair treatment, decent pay, and some safety, "and they would love for their kids to not work in the mines," he said.

"It's a poverty problem," Frankel said. "These parents I talked to – they don't want their kids working in these mines. The problem is that their school fees – schools cost money, and you know, food costs money, and they sort of need their kids to work in there."

Poverty also drives children into the mines instead of school – an estimated 40,000 of them work in brutal conditions starting at very young ages.

The thousands of miners who work in tunnels searching for cobalt in the country "do it because they live in one of the poorest countries in the world, and cobalt is valuable," Frankel wrote in the Washington Post article.

"Not doing enough" 

CBS News spoke with some of the companies that use cobalt in their lithium-ion batteries. All of the companies acknowledged problems with the supply chain, but said they require suppliers to follow responsible sourcing guidelines. Apple, an industry leader in the fight for responsible sourcing, said walking away from the DRC "would do nothing to improve conditions for the people or the environment."

Read company responses here

Amnesty said in November, however, that "major electronics and electric vehicle companies are still not doing enough to stop human rights abuses entering their cobalt supply chains." 

"As demand for rechargeable batteries grows, companies have a responsibility to prove that they are not profiting from the misery of miners working in terrible conditions in the DRC," the organization said. "The energy solutions of the future must not be built on human rights abuses."

An estimated two-thirds of children in the region of the DRC that CBS News visited recently are not in school. They're working in mines instead. 

CBS News' Debora Patta spoke with an 11-year-old boy, Ziki Swaze, who has no idea how to read or write but is an expert in washing cobalt. Every evening, he returns home with a dollar or two to provide for his family.

"I have to go and work there," he told Patta, "because my grandma has a bad leg and she can't."

He said he dreams of going to school, but has always had to work instead.

"I feel very bad because I can see my friends going to school, and I am struggling," he said.

Amnesty says "it is widely recognized internationally that the involvement of children in mining constitutes one of the worst forms of child labour, which governments are required to prohibit and eliminate."

[dkaufmandevelopment]

Blackstone Surges to Record High: A Closer Look at Their Impressive Q3 Results

Blackstone, the world's largest commercial property owner, achieved a remarkable milestone on Thursday as its shares surged to a record high. This impressive performance comes on the heels of better-than-expected third-quarter results and an improved real estate investment performance. Let’s dive into the factors driving this success and what it means for the market.

Key Highlights from Q3

In the third quarter, Blackstone invested or committed a staggering $54 billion, marking the highest amount in over two years. This surge in investment activity is attributed to the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut in September, which significantly reduced the cost of capital. The U.S. central bank’s previous rate hikes had stymied real estate deals and financing, leading to increased defaults in the office market affected by corporate cost-cutting and the rise of hybrid and remote work.

Stephen Schwarzman, Blackstone’s Chief Executive, emphasized the positive impact of the rate cut, stating, “Easing the cost of the capital will be very positive for Blackstone’s asset values. It will be a catalyst for transaction activity.” This sentiment was echoed by Jonathan Gray, President and Chief Operating Officer, who noted that while commercial real estate sentiment is improving, it remains cautious.

Strategic Investments and Areas of Focus

Blackstone has been proactive in planting the “seeds of future value” by substantially increasing its pace of investment. A key area of focus is the revolutionary advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and the associated digital and energy infrastructure. In September, Blackstone announced the $16 billion purchase of AirTrunk, the largest data center operator in the Asia-Pacific region. This acquisition is part of Blackstone’s $70 billion investment in data centers, with over $100 billion in prospective pipeline development.

Other notable investment themes include renewable energy transition, private credit, and India’s emergence as a major economy. These strategic areas highlight Blackstone’s commitment to innovation and growth.

Recovery in Commercial Real Estate

The Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust (BREIT), a benchmark for the industry, reported a 93% slump in investor stock redemption requests from a peak. This indicates a recovery in investor confidence and a shift towards positive net inflows of capital. BREIT’s core-plus real estate investments, which include stable, income-generating, high-quality real estate, showed a 0.5% decline in Q3 performance, an improvement from a 3.8% drop over the past 12 months. The riskier opportunistic real estate investments posted a 1.1% increase, reversing previous declines.

Student Housing and Data Centers

Among rental housing, student housing has emerged as a significant focus. Wesley LePatner, set to become BREIT CEO on Jan. 1, highlighted the structural undersupply in the U.S. student housing market, emphasizing its potential as an all-weather asset class. BREIT has consistently met investor redemption requests for several months, showcasing strong performance.

Furthermore, the demand for data centers remains robust. QTS, which Blackstone took private in 2021, recorded more leasing activity last year than the preceding three years combined. Such sectors, once considered niche, are now integral to the commercial real estate landscape.

Financial Performance and Outlook

Blackstone’s third-quarter net income soared to approximately $1.56 billion, up from $920.7 million a year earlier. Distributable earnings, profit available to shareholders, rose to $1.28 billion from $1.21 billion. Total assets under management jumped 10% to about $1.11 trillion, driven by inflows to its credit and insurance segment.

The Path Forward

As Blackstone continues to navigate the evolving market landscape, it remains focused on identifying “interesting places to deploy capital.” With a robust investment strategy and a keen eye on emerging trends, Blackstone is well-positioned for future growth.

Join the Conversation: What are your thoughts on Blackstone’s impressive Q3 performance and strategic investments? How do you see these trends impacting the broader real estate market? Share your insights and engage with our community!

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Revolutionizing Payment Processing in High-Risk Domains

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | Accept-Credit-Cards-Now.com

In the swiftly changing world of online commerce, where transactions occur in the blink of an eye, the significance of payment processing for high-risk sectors has reached unprecedented levels. Businesses now seek a dependable and secure payment processing solution to handle their financial transactions seamlessly. Step into the future of payment processing, where embracing credit card payments becomes a smooth reality for merchants in high-risk industries.

DOWNLOAD THE REVOLUTIONIZING PAYMENT PROCESSING INFOGRAPHIC HERE

Navigating the Complex Landscape

Before we delve into the innovative solutions available today, it's pivotal to grasp the intricacies of high-risk payment processing. Businesses in sectors like credit repair or CBD often face the high-risk label due to the nature of their services, presenting substantial challenges in acquiring merchant accounts and payment processing.

The Imperative for Reliable Merchant Processing

High-risk merchants demand a robust and secure merchant processing system to maintain competitiveness in their markets. While traditional banks and payment processors may hesitate to engage with these industries, pioneering solutions have emerged to fill this void.

Entering the Epoch of High-Risk Payment Processing

Enter the epoch of high-risk credit card processing and the ascendancy of cutting-edge high-risk payment gateway solutions. These advanced services cater specifically to businesses operating in challenging domains, offering a lifeline for companies striving to provide their products and services while adhering to stringent industry regulations.

E-commerce Payment Advancements

For e-commerce businesses in high-risk sectors, the demand for efficient and reliable payment processing is paramount. With the right e-commerce payment processing solution, even industries such as credit repair and CBD can flourish. The days of struggling to find a merchant account that accepts credit cards for e-commerce are now relegated to the past.

Unlocking Potential in High-Risk Payment Processing

In the high-risk landscape, securing a reliable credit repair merchant processing partner or a CBD merchant account provider can be challenging. However, businesses can now leverage specialized payment gateway solutions tailored to their unique needs. These gateways facilitate the acceptance of credit cards for credit repair or CBD payment processing while adhering to industry regulations.

High-Risk Industries Embrace Technological Innovation

The convergence of high-risk industries and cutting-edge payment processing technology marks a paradigm shift. Companies in these sectors can now provide their customers with a seamless credit card payment processing system rivaling that of mainstream businesses. This synergy between high-risk domains and advanced payment solutions is the catalyst for their growth and success.

SEO-Optimized High-Risk Payment Processing

Highlighting growth, it's essential to underscore the significance of SEO-optimized payment processing services. In today's digital age, online visibility is paramount. For businesses seeking to accept credit card payments, a payment processing system optimized for online search provides a significant advantage.

The payment processing landscape is undergoing a transformation, particularly in high-risk domains. The advent of specialized high-risk payment processing and e-commerce payment solutions empowers businesses to thrive in challenging industries. With the capability to accept credit cards for CBD or credit repair merchant processing, these companies can unlock their true potential. Accept-Credit-Cards-Now Merchant processing services lead the charge in this revolution, equipping high-risk businesses with the necessary tools for success. It's no longer about navigating the treacherous waters of payment processing; it's about thriving in them.

[kemetic-dreams]

In the stock market, a short squeeze is a rapid increase in the price of a stock owing primarily to an excess of short selling of a stock rather than underlying fundamentals. A short squeeze occurs when demand has increased relative to supply because short sellers have to buy stock to cover their short positions.

What's a Short Squeeze and Why Does It Happen?

Key Points

A stock that rallies hyperbolically when there are no obvious current events driving the response, could be experiencing a short squeeze.

A short squeeze can potentially be worth trading, but only if you exercise great care.

The aim of short selling is to generate profit from a stock that declines in value. (Short selling involves borrowing a security whose price you think is going to fall from your brokerage and selling it on the open market. Your plan is to then buy the same stock back later—hopefully for a lower price than you initially sold it for—and pocket the difference after repaying the initial loan.) While there are potential benefits to going short, there are also plenty of risks. One big risk is when a bullish catalyst (earnings, news, technical event, etc.) pushes the stock price higher, prompting short sellers to "head for the exits" all at once. As the shorts scramble to buy back and cover their losses, upward momentum can build on itself, causing the stock to move sharply higher. This is known as a short squeeze.

Understanding the short squeeze

What makes a short squeeze so dangerous? Think of it this way: When you buy a stock, the worst thing it can do is drop to zero. But the upside is unlimited. If a stock has a growth narrative and there are enough believers, the share price can go well beyond what looks reasonable by traditional fundamental metrics.

Classic signs of a short squeeze can include:

A security has a significant amount of short sellers (short interest) who believe the stock price is going to fall, and then instead the stock price sharply rises, forcing many of these leveraged short sellers to quickly exit their positions, buying back the stock in the face of potentially increasing losses.

A dynamic narrative that tries to justify the detachment of share prices from a company's intrinsic value

A case for massive growth as well as for financial stress

Traders with deep pockets aligned on both sides of the trade, often using options and other leveraged instruments

With GameStop (GME) in 2021 and Tesla (TSLA) in 2020, there were many classic signs of a short squeeze. Traders with short positions were covering because they had to, either because they had sustained large losses or shares were no longer available to be borrowed. In 2022, short sellers targeted troubled companies such as Bed, Bath & Beyond (BBBY) and Carvana (CVNA). In early 2023, the most heavily shorted companies included Coinbase Global (COIN), a cryptocurrency firm, and Occidental Petroleum (OXY).

When a stock suddenly experiences a dramatic climb, with or without good news, it's important to ask yourself, "Who would buy shares up here?" The answer? Someone who doesn't have enough money to hold on any longer, or someone whose pain threshold has finally been crossed.

Proceed with caution

If you're a long-term investor who happens to own a stock that's getting squeezed, it's probably not a good time to trade. Instead of acting on emotions, remember what got you to where you are in your investing journey—and where you'd like to be. If buying a stock that's in squeeze territory doesn't fall within your long-term objectives, you might want to step aside and not trade. If you do decide to venture in, make sure you have no illusions and no misconceptions of the dangers. Understand that when you’re dealing with a stock that’s being squeezed, you're taking a big risk. 

Identifying a short squeeze can be relatively simple—after the fact. The trick is to identify the conditions that could lead to a squeeze ahead of time, and then determine how you might want to play it (or not). 

Shorting a stock is a complicated business. Because you can't sell something you don't own, shorting requires the seller to "borrow" the stock (and pay interest to the stock lender), then sell it. Locating the shares can sometimes be difficult for your clearing firm because of high demand or a small number of outstanding shares.

Measuring a short squeeze can involve a metric called the short interest ratio, a.k.a. "days to cover." It indicates, in days, how long it would take to cover or buy back all the shorted shares. Basically, you divide the number of shares sold short by the average daily trading volume. The more days to cover, the more pronounced the effect can be.

Another measure is "short interest as a percentage of float," which reflects the number of short-sold shares in proportion to the total number of shares available for trading in the public markets. Most stocks have a small amount of short interest, usually in the single digits. The higher that percentage, the greater the bearish sentiment may be around that stock. If the short % of the float reaches 10% or higher, that could be a warning sign.

Consider the fundamentals

If you're buying a stock that seems to be in the throes of a short squeeze, especially at high levels, it helps to understand other potential reasons why the stock might be moving. 

Consider checking the fundamentals. Is there anything that would make you want to own the stock? Are you tempted to buy it because everyone else is? It's important to always do your homework, and remember it's never wise to go all in. A stock that's in a short squeeze may still have a long way to climb, and if you don't think the fundamentals support higher prices, then perhaps you should look elsewhere.

In the case of TSLA in 2020, there were some positive fundamentals underlying the short squeeze, including the company's more consistent profitability and hopes of it being included in the S&P 500 Index (SPX). The stock saw its share price run up to new highs, then decline nearly 60%. 

But then TSLA rallied again and split its shares, and its addition to the SPX became a reality, illustrating that a short squeeze doesn't always have to end badly. Other stocks that were caught up in short squeezes haven't always fared so well, in part because they didn't have the fundamental support. 

Playing the squeeze on the long side? 

If you want to trade a stock during what might be a short squeeze—that is, buying a stock with a higher short interest in order to potentially play the upside of a squeeze—here are some things to consider:

Trading such a stock may be okay as long as you understand the risk and how to control it. Whether you make small or large trades, you have to control and limit the risk. Decide how much money you would be comfortable losing in any trade ahead of time.

Don't underestimate how high the stock can go and how long it can take. When a stock gets caught up in a short squeeze, analysts generally expect it to correct eventually, but no one knows to what price and when; if it happens at all. 

If the stock still has very weak fundamentals, yet is moving significantly higher without any real, structural changes in the corporation, then be extremely careful buying on this type of upward momentum. The markets may run out of new buyers willing to pay higher and higher prices and the stock may in the end fall quickly. 

The bottom line

A short squeeze is a high-risk situation and it may cause havoc in the market, but most don't last forever. Most eventually subside.

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Scaling Up: Strategies for Navigating Business Development in a Time of Rapid Growth

Article by Jonathan Bomser | CEO | AccountSend.com

Imagine your business as a ship embarking on an exciting voyage across uncharted waters. The journey from a small enterprise to a thriving powerhouse is exhilarating, but it comes with its own set of unique challenges. As you sail through the tumultuous tides of rapid growth, how do you navigate this transformation with finesse? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into seven practical strategies that will serve as your guiding stars, leading your B2B business development efforts through the intricate dance of rapid expansion.

Download the infographic here!

Embrace Technological Advancements: Empowerment through Efficiency and Insight

In today's digital landscape, embracing technological advancements isn't just an option; it's a strategic imperative for businesses on the path to growth. Imagine freeing your team from the shackles of repetitive tasks by harnessing cutting-edge tools. Visualize a scenario where automation breathes life into efficiency, allowing your workforce to focus on strategic initiatives that drive innovation and propel your business forward.

But the technological realm offers even more. Dive into the realm of big data, where hidden treasures of actionable insights await. By deciphering patterns and trends, you're equipped to make informed decisions that steer your ship towards prosperous horizons. The integration of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems isn't just a technical feat; it's a game-changer that transforms how you manage your sales pipeline. Seamlessly synchronized data empowers you to anticipate needs, tailor strategies, and fuel growth.

Strengthen Your Team: The Foundation of Sustainable Expansion

As your business evolves, so must your team. Picture your team as architects, constructing the future of your enterprise. Beyond skills, focus on nurturing a team that thrives in the face of change, a team capable of embracing challenges and growing with your business.

Investing in your team is an investment in your business's future. Imagine providing them with the tools and knowledge to tackle evolving demands. As they acquire new skills and insights, their collective potential becomes a force to be reckoned with, ready to champion your business's ascent to new heights.

Deepen Customer Relationships: Nurturing Bonds Beyond Transactions

The heartbeat of your business is your customers. While the allure of acquiring new clients is undeniable, the value of nurturing existing relationships cannot be overstated. Imagine building relationships that transcend transactions, turning customers into brand advocates.

Engage in a symphony of regular interactions, value addition, and meaningful feedback loops. The art of customer retention goes beyond satisfaction; it's about building emotional connections that result in loyal partnerships. A satisfied customer not only stays but becomes a beacon of positive referrals and influential reviews, guiding others to your doorstep.

Expand Into New Markets: A Voyage into Uncharted Territories

Expanding into new markets is akin to a thrilling expedition, a journey that promises new vistas and untapped potential. However, such an endeavor requires strategic planning and market intelligence. Visualize comprehensive market research as your compass, leading you to identify opportunities that align with your offerings.

Adaptation is key in uncharted waters. Tailor your products and services to resonate with the unique demands of these new markets. As you set sail, you're not just expanding geographically; you're weaving your brand into new narratives, positioning yourself as a valuable player in diverse landscapes.

Develop Strategic Partnerships: The Catalyst for Amplified Growth

Partnerships aren't just alliances; they are the accelerants that propel growth. Imagine uniting with entities whose strengths complement your own. Picture collaborations that broaden your reach, amplify your impact, and open doors to unexplored avenues.

Cultivate these partnerships as you would a thriving garden. Nurture them, and watch as they evolve into fertile ground for mutual growth. Through collaboration, you tap into networks that wouldn't have been accessible individually, unlocking a realm of new possibilities.

Invest in Your Brand: Crafting an Identity that Evolves

As your business expands, your brand should evolve too. Think of your brand as a living entity, adapting to the ever-changing marketplace. It's more than just aesthetics; it's about creating an experience that resonates with your audience.

Investment in your brand is an investment in your business's perception. Imagine refining your branding materials to mirror your growth journey. Enhance your digital footprint, creating an online presence that captures your brand's essence. Launch targeted campaigns that evoke emotions and build connections. Your brand isn't just a logo; it's the embodiment of your commitment to excellence and innovation.

Regularly Review and Adapt Your Strategy: The Symphony of Agility

In the dynamic realm of business growth, stagnation is the adversary. What propelled you to success yesterday might hinder you today. Regularly reviewing your strategy isn't a choice; it's an imperative.

Imagine your strategy as a living organism, evolving in response to the shifting environment. Regular recalibration ensures you stay nimble and responsive, enabling you to pivot seamlessly in response to changing market dynamics, customer preferences, and emerging trends.

Conclusion: Crafting Your Growth Odyssey

Scaling your business isn't just about getting bigger; it's about getting better. Each strategy we've explored is a thread in the tapestry of your growth journey. These strategies, fortified by the potency of verified B2B emails and sales leads, become your compass in this uncharted territory.

As you embark on this transformative voyage, remember that growth is an art—a symphony of strategy, innovation, and adaptation. These strategies are your notes, harmonizing to guide you to success. Equipped with verified B2B emails and sales leads, you're ready to navigate the complexities of scaling with confidence. Seize the helm of your growth story, and watch as your business unfurls its sails, navigating towards a horizon brimming with achievements, inspiring others to set sail on their growth odyssey.

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Insightful Aid Tier List V2 (High Rarity Characters: Part 1)

Here is my revised my Tier List for Reverse 1999's Roguelike Mode (A Series of Dusks) specifically when you're playing the Insightful Aid Catalyst. I have decided to do two lists, one for low rarity characters, the other for high rarity characters.

...Did I say two lists? I mean I have decided to do three lists. I had to split up the higher rarity characters because boy is there a lot more to say about the higher rarities. tl;dr Aid characters don't get to use Insight effects, and some high rarity characters are mechanically more affected by this than others.

This will be for the characters that are less impacted by the lack of Insight effects. All the characters here obviously have useful Insight effects, but there's a big difference between "Bkorn does less damage" and something like "Rabies, the Poison Guy, being unable to inflict Poison", "Marcus' losing out on 200% damage because she can't activate Annotate" or (worst of all) "Thirty Seven using her Ultimate which does practically nothing"

= = =

Preamble:

Rating the high rarity characters overall, was much, much harder than the low rarity characters for a few reasons. Mostly it was because of the Insight stuff I already mentioned. The other problem is Portrays; most accounts will have P5 versions of the low rarities unless your account is really new. However, not everyone is going to have P5'd versions of 5* characters, let alone 6* ones. Because of this, I will be rating these high rarities primarily off their P0 versions. I will add comments related to specific P5 versions, but there aren't going to be many because I don't have many P5'd 5* and 6* characters in the first place.

Strong Ults + Incantations

X: His Ult removes 2 Moxie from all enemies so you don't get hit by back-to-back Ultimates. It's a simple but effective Ult blocker that isn't conditional like Baby Blue's Ult (which requires debuffs) and isn't affected by CC Immunity. He also has a Dispel Incantation that comes in handy for the Razor fight and against certain annoying enemies with Dodge mechanics (like in the Graveyard or the Market). He's useful on every Catalyst.

Baby Blue: Her Ult puts all enemies into the Nightmare state. This prevents all enemy actions, including Ults. The only catch is that the enemies must be debuffed first (not super hard to do) and that enemies cannot be attacked or they lose Nightmare status (AKA don't play her with Lucy and 37 in front). She also has a powerful Rank 3 Mental DEF Debuff you can easily cheat out with this Catalyst. She's actually completely functional at P0, you're only missing out on extra damage with her Ult. I think she's very underrated overall in this mode.

Regulus: It is so hard to explain why Regulus's Ult is so good (on this Catalyst) without requiring several paragraphs, so let's start with her Incantation. Remember how X could drain Moxie from multiple enemies with his Ult? Regulus can drain Moxie from multiple enemies using her Rank 3 Mass Attack. Sure, it doesn't target all enemies, and the Moxie drain only works if Regulus Crits (meaning you need to run Regulus with proper Crit support) but she can still do it on demand without having her Ult built up.

The main reason Regulus is actually busted is her Ult. FYI Insightful Aid lets you spawn any character's Ult for only 10 Stamina. And Regulus' Ult is a Mass Attack that grants your party members the ability to dodge any non-Ult attack. Yes, you heard that right, you can spend 10 Stamina whenever to ignore enemy attacks for 1 turn. This isn't too busted on its own, but 1) I've already mentioned several ways to prevent enemies from ever using their Ult and 2) Insightful Aid has this other mechanic where if you kill enemies using Aid Incantations, you get Stamina back. The full amount of Stamina you regain is 30 (if the Quilled Feather is positioned properly) and Aid Ultimates also count towards the regen. The only weakness here is that you need to actually kill enemies to regen Stamina so this doesn't work too well against single enemy fights (like the alternate final boss). Still this Ult is strong and VERY helpful on Difficulty 20 (where even random encounters will absolutely melt you).

tl;dr Aid Regulus can spend 10 Stamina whenever she wants to avoid all enemy attacks for 1 turn, and Insightful Aid makes it very easy for you to refund that Stamina and more.

Good Ult + Incantation

Avgust: There are several characters that have similar kits to another character (e.g. Pavia and Mondlicht, Apple and Darley), but this is a case where's it a lower vs higher rarity (Avgust vs Pickles) AND the lower rarity comes out on top (at least, when comparing both of their P0 versions). His Ult is a Mass Attack that also buffs the whole party. Characters in front of Avgust get Power Burst, characters behind him get Sturdiness and the caster themselves gets both buffs. It's a very versatile Ult that benefits a lot from this mode (where you generally want to use attack Ults vs pure support Ults). On top of the powerful Ult, he gets a Mass Dispel and as I've established, they help out a lot on this game mode, especially Avgust's Mass Dispel.

Lorelei: Her Rank 3 Buff is very useful with Regulus and other Crit-focused DPS characters. Her Debuff Incantation is also okay but redundant since you'll be running Aid Lorelei + Aid Twins Sleep together (and Twins Sleep's Debuff ALREADY inflicts Weakness + the Crit DEF down). The main reason I'm ranking her high is for her Ult. Compared to regular game modes, it is much, much easier to Min-Max Lorelei overall since you can forcibly spawn specific card layouts. Lorelei is arguably a better front character than an Aid one, but she's still very good as Aid.

Lilya: One of the few 6* characters least impacted by the lack of Insights. All she really loses is some extra Crit rate but you can run Aid Lorelei + Twins Sleep to make up for it. Her P0 Ult isn't too shabby but the main reason to use her is for her Incantation that generates Follow Up Attacks. It can be used for DPS purposes with Cat's Eye Ring or other Extra Attack boosting artefacts, but the real utility is for activating certain artefact effect multiple times. Like the Silky Hanky and Old Crutch, which grant Ceremonious to allies for every action. A turn where you used only Lilya's Attack + FUA attack 4 times in a row is a turn where you activated the effects of those artefacts 8 times.

Medicine Pocket: I have a slight Med Pocky bias here, but I do think they're a decent Aid character, just because their Heal also grants Sturdiness. No need to ever use Oliver Fog, Cristallo or Voyager as Aid characters (unless you don't have Med Pocky). Their Ult can also inflict Daze so it can block an Ult for a turn and comes with a built in +1 Moxie effect, which is nice for Moxie efficiency. They don't have anything game breaking, but you'll really appreciate the Heal + Sturdy on higher difficulties.

Charlie: She's not as powerful on P0, but she's still very helpful for her Ult, since it's a Mass Dispel and it even Dispels BEFORE doing damage. She also has a decently strong Rank 3 Attack with a 450% + 100% damage formula when attacking with a buff. It's nothing to slouch at, but P5 Charlie is a lot stronger, since her Attack grows to 450% + 150% damage, and her Mass Ult does significantly more damage.

Necrologist: She's only really here for her Ult, which gives your party members a revive on demand. Note that it does not give Necrologist (or the caster you're running with Aid Necrologist) a revive, which is you might consider running Necrologist in front instead of as an Aid character. She also has a generic Dispel Incantation which is again, useful to have.

Decent Ult + Incantation

Diggers: I didn't really order these tiers, but he's probably the one I'd place lowest in this one. His Ult can inflict Nightmare and if it's against a debuffed enemy, it will last for 2 turns. It's okay, arguably overkill on regular encounters. I'm not sure if the second turn Nightmare kicks in vs bosses with partial Control Immunity though. He also has a Rank 2/3 Debuff that gives Terror to 1 enemy. Terror deletes 1 Moxie at the end of an enemy's round, so it can be used to block Ults, but there is no shortage of Ult blocking Incantations.

Druvis / Satsuki: Without Insights and both at P0, they're almost identical. Both can easily inflict Petrify with their Rank 3 Debuffs and their Ults. The difference is that Satsuki does slightly more damage but only focuses on one enemy while Druvis' Ult can hit multiple enemies (the Petrify is still single target only though). I honestly prefer Satsuki here, just because using Druvis as an Aid character is a waste of her excellent Insights. Overall, they don't rank as high, mostly because this Catalyst rewards you when you spam high Rank 3 Incantations, and CC Incantations tend to have lower damage formulas for balancing reasons (you're better off running Arcane Lantern if you want to spam CC Incantations). In general, CC is also not as valuable in this mode, just because harder enemies often come with complete or partial CC immunity while Moxie Reduction immunity is much rarer. This is why I rate X, La Source and Regulus a lot higher.

Voyager: Another character who works but I think is wasted as an Aid character. She can still use her Ult to delete Moxie, blocking enemy Ults. And she has two okay Incantations. The Counter doesn't play too well with this Catalyst while the Debuff has the niche of inflicting Confusion on multiple enemies. You really are better off using her in front though. Sure her Ult can block other Ults but you know what else can do that? Her Refrain passive. And you can easily activate her Refrain every turn with Aid Jiu or Aid Lilya and their FUA's. It's a much more Moxie efficient way of blocking Ults.

Yenisei: Similar to Druvis / Satsuki and Pickles / Avgust, she plays like a lower rarity version of Vila though they're not a full 1:1. I personally don't use her much but only because I have most 6* Healers. If you don't have TF, MP and/or Vila, Yenisei is perfectly fine, especially if you're on the Sewer route and have to deal with that one boss that likes to inflict Freeze. Just use 10 Stamina to pop Yenisei's Shield with Immunity.

Decent Incantation Or Ult

Bkornblume: This is gonna sound like a hot take but as a Bkorn main, I believe this is 100% fair, especially for P0 Bkorn. Her Aid Incantations aren't that useful. P5 Pavia has the slightly stronger Mass Attack (he even has the stronger, but less versatile Ult if it's P5 Pavia vs P0 Bkorn), Cristallo has a stronger Rank 3 Reality DEF Debuff and there are all sorts of ways to increase enemy damage taken. Her Ult is still very versatile vs enemy Ults, but without the extra Portrays her Ult's damage is a lot less impressive. The other factor for this low placement is that Bkorn is just way better in front. Her missing Insight doesn't break certain mechanics (like Rabies and his Poison) but only Six, Shamane, Jessica with Poison or Horropedia vs Dispelled enemies are gonna use Bkorn's Ult as well as Bkorn herself in terms of raw damage, and at that point you should just play Bkorn in front. While Shamane + Bkorn isn't bad at all on other Catalysts, for this one Catalyst? Yeah it's mid, run front Bkorn instead.

Sweetheart: Another character who gets hurt a lot by missing Portrays. She ends up having a weaker Daze Ult than Medicine Pocket (a Healer) though Sweetheart's Ult does have a built-in DEF shred. She's not super strong even with Portrays, though it's hard to rank Ult blockers super low. If you have P5, she at least gets a 550% Damage attack. She can also completely replace Pavia with her slightly stronger Mass Attack and Ult (which at P5 does as much as Pavia's P5 Ult, but with an actually useful effect). There are still characters with comparable Rank 3 Incantations or better (ONiON, Leilani, Eagle etc.) however.

An-an Lee: If we were rating her purely off her Rank 3 Incantation, she'd actually be better than a bunch of higher tier characters, since her Daze can't be interrupted like Nightmare or Petrify. Unfortunately, I can't rank her super with this specific Catalyst because she has the same issues as Druvis and Satsuki. Play Arcane Lantern instead of Insightful Aid, that Catalyst lets you get 2-3 Rank 3 Incantations for only 8 Stamina if you have enough Disks. Compare that to spending 20-30 Stamina for an equal number of CC Incantations. I ultimately rate AAL low because her Ult, while good, gets hard countered by the final area (which randomly shuffles the Incantations in your hand). The only way to counter this is to take the second Insurance Policy at the start of the final area, but it's a worse choice for most parties.

tl;dr An-an Lee is good, maybe not on this specific Catalyst though. The final area also screws her over (like with Bette).

Windsong: Another character who is not as good on this specific Catalyst. If you want a good Catalyst for Windsong's busted Ult, play Protean Pendulum (which lets you spawn Rank 3 Incantations for Stamina). Windsong's Incantations are fine but won't hit their full potential if you're not using Eureka attackers. She's still busted overall, but this is not the Catalyst for her.

Balloon Party: Probably the one character in this tier who I think is very good as Aid, even at P0. With Insightful Aid, you can benefit from her strong Rank 3 Counter/Heal without ever seeing her awful Attack spawn in your hand. It's very handy, especially if you're constantly taking those events that drain your HP. If you remember to use BP's percentage based Heal to reverse all the damage at the start of a battle, you can take all the HP damaging events you want.

Niche:

Tennant: The only thing worth mentioning about Aid Tennant is that her Ult actually does give Bullets to the caster, and this can be relevant for specific Bullet / Extra Attack builds. Besides that, she's not worth running as Aid. 5/10 Stamina for a 1-turn shield is bad Stamina efficiency, especially when front Tennant gets a free shield at the start of fights and when her HP goes low.

Horropedia: He has a Dispel (but other characters also have it) and a 400% + 150% damage formula, but it's ridiculously niche since it requires enemies to not have any buffs (vs certain low rarities being able to use their 550% attacks with easier conditions). His Ult looks good with Portrays, but definitely not at P0.

Sonetto: Another character that's just a low rarity / high rarity upgrade, this time with An-an Lee. Most of what I said about An-an Lee also applies to Sonetto, except Sonetto's CC is much worse (Disarm rather than Daze). The major difference is their Ults. Sonetto can actually get some decent damage on her Ult if run with certain combos (like Aid Kaalaa Baunaa, who can add an 18% Penetration buff to all of Sonetto's attacks if you play KB's planets first) but it's very niche, especially when you can play Jiu in front with her stronger, DEF ignoring Ult.

Dikke: She has bad attack multipliers on everything (probably because her attacks deal Genesis damage). The only reason she's not super niche is that her Ult can give Immunity. Sure Yenisei is better at it, but Dikke is one of R1999's free characters, so you can technically use her against the annoying Sewer boss with Freeze if you don't have Yenisei. Dikke's only other niche is heal reflecting with Kakania. If used at low HP, Dikke's heal procs twice which procs Kakania's reflect twice. It's not actually bad on certain setups (like Kakania + Aid Nick Bottom).

Eternity: She's just such an underpowered character overall, especially for a 6-Star DPS. The only reason she's not super niche is because you can run her as Aid with Semmelweis or Kakania for the self-damage on her attacks. Semmelweis + Aid Eternity is actually pretty good, since Semmel doesn't have a Mass Attack normally and the HP loss powers up Semmel anyway.

Really Niche:

Click: Just like the Fool, he's another character who becomes completely redundant if you pick up specific artefacts. All you need is the Crooked Gun, which applies Click's debuff to an enemy as long as you're using a 1-target Ultimate. You can still use him since he has a useful Moxie deleting Incantation, but he's not the only one with that option.

Ulu: She's fine at the start of the run and I guess if you get really unlucky with the artefact RNG, but it's more likely you'll pick up a bunch of strong, Burn generating artefacts that also make Ulu redundant. Even if you don't do that, it is so very easy to borrow another player's Isolde (to put in front. Don't use Aid Isolde, Aid Isolde is sooo inefficient).

Desert Flannel: Maybe it's because I have a severe shortage of Beast characters on my account, but DF requires way too much of a specific Beast themed party to be good. You can run her as Aid with her Counter Incantation if you have NewBabel or the Saliva Bottle artefact, but both of those are also very niche.

Matilda: I love the French Duck as much as the next person but Matilda has been given nothing, absolutely nothing, to work with. No OP, Min-Maxed Incantations like the low rarities, not even a gimmick you can play around like the higher rarities. It's literally just "she does more damage with higher ranks" except the higher damage is still pretty low. Bluepoch why are you buffing Bkorn in CN, Matilda is in such dire need of a glow up.

Damn this was a bigger write up than expected. If you notice anything incorrect about the info in this list, please let me know. I am just one person prone to mistakes, and I don't even have like half the characters on this list. It's just based on Prydwen + what I've personally noticed from borrowing other player's characters.

The final part of this tier list will be going up... sometime this week?

[blogaarti]

China Refinery Catalyst Market -Growth, Trends, Demand and Analysis Report Forecast 2030

Fairfield Market Research, a renowned market intelligence firm, has released an insightful report highlighting significant role in the growth of the refinery catalyst market. With a large number of oil refineries and a strong focus on clean fuel alternatives, is poised to drive substantial growth in the refinery catalyst market.

For More Industry Insights Read: https://www.fairfieldmarketresearch.com/report/refinery-catalyst-market 

According to the market intelligence report, China's robust capacity expansions in oil refineries and the increasing demand for clean fuel alternatives have positioned the country as a leading growth driver in the refinery catalyst market. As China addresses its energy security needs and strives to reduce its carbon footprint, the demand for refinery catalysts is expected to surge. 

The report projects that between 2023 and 2030, will continue to dominate in terms of demand generation within the refinery catalyst market. With a rapidly expanding economy and a growing population, energy requirements are increasing. The country is actively investing in refinery capacities and leveraging refinery catalysts to meet its growing energy demands sustainably. 

The report further highlights the demand for distillate hydrotreating and hydrocracking catalysts. These catalysts play a crucial role in the country's efforts to produce cleaner fuels and meet stringent regulatory standards. As China focuses on reducing emissions and enhancing air quality, the adoption of refinery catalysts becomes imperative. 

Additionally, the report segments the market based on catalyst types, including nickel, cobalt, zeolites, molybdenum, and others. The nickel segment, currently holding over 28% of the market share, is expected to witness remarkable growth. The molybdenum segment will also experience sustained demand, with refineries utilizing over 17% of the total molybdenum production. Zeolites, known for their lucrative prospects, are anticipated to thrive steadily in the refinery catalyst market. 

In terms of refinery types, the fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) segment is expected to maintain its dominance. Other key refinery categories include hydrocracking, catalytic reforming, H-oil unit, alkylation, and hydrotreating. The FCC segment, currently accounting for 44.3% of the market's value share, is projected to display a promising Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of more than 5% by the end of 2030. This growth is driven by increasing production of high-octane gasoline. 

The report also highlights leading players in the refinery catalyst market, including Exxon Mobil Corporation, W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn, BASF SE, China Petrochemical Corporation, Albemarle Corporation, Honeywell International Inc., Johnson Matthey, Haldor Topsoe A/S, and Royal Dutch Shell plc. 

For a comprehensive understanding of the Chinese refinery catalyst market and detailed insights, please refer to the full report published by Fairfield Market Research.

For More Information Visit:  https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/06/26/2694805/0/en/Refinery-Catalyst-Market-Size-in-2030-Will-be-US-15-Bn-Fairfield-Market-Research-Provides-Growth-Analysis-in-a-New-Report.html

[nashlee234]

Frozen Potato Market: Key Strategies for Manufacturers to Capitalize on Emerging Trends and Opportunities

The frozen potato market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, fueled by shifts in consumer habits and the rising demand for convenient food options. As urbanization accelerates globally, frozen potato products like fries, wedges, and hash browns are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of preparation and long shelf life. This trend presents significant opportunities for manufacturers looking to capitalize on a growing market.

Convenience Food as a Key Market Driver

Convenience is a crucial factor in modern consumer behavior, and frozen potatoes align perfectly with this trend. With increasingly busy lifestyles, consumers seek easy-to-prepare meal options. Frozen potato products, which require minimal preparation and offer quick cooking solutions, appeal to individuals and families looking for fast, yet flavorful meals. Manufacturers can leverage this demand by offering products that cater to busy consumers’ needs.

The Fast-Food Industry: A Catalyst for Growth

The rapid expansion of the fast-food industry has significantly contributed to the growth of the frozen potato market. Fast-food chains, particularly in developing regions, heavily rely on frozen potato products like french fries. As these chains continue to expand globally, the demand for frozen potatoes is expected to increase, providing a reliable and consistent market for manufacturers. Fast-food giants remain key customers for suppliers in this sector.

Product Innovation as a Growth Strategy

Today’s consumers are constantly looking for new and exciting products, creating opportunities for frozen potato manufacturers to innovate. Traditional offerings such as french fries remain popular, but there is growing demand for a broader variety of potato-based products. Manufacturers can attract diverse consumer segments by introducing new flavors, shapes, and healthier alternatives, such as low-fat or gluten-free options. Innovation in product offerings can differentiate brands in a competitive market.

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing: Addressing Consumer Concerns

Sustainability is an increasing priority for consumers, and frozen potato manufacturers can benefit by adopting eco-friendly practices. Utilizing sustainable packaging, reducing food waste, and ensuring ethical sourcing of potatoes can enhance brand reputation. Consumers are more likely to support companies that prioritize the environment and ethical labor practices, and manufacturers that embrace sustainability can tap into this growing demand.

Advancements in Freezing Technology and Packaging

Technological advancements in freezing processes, such as individual quick freezing (IQF), have improved the quality and texture of frozen potatoes, ensuring they retain their freshness and flavor. For manufacturers, investing in advanced freezing technologies can enhance product quality and extend shelf life, which is essential for gaining consumer trust. Packaging innovations, such as resealable or portion-controlled packs, also add convenience for consumers and improve market appeal.

Emerging Markets: Expanding Opportunities

While North America and Europe are mature markets, regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America present significant growth opportunities. Rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and changing dietary habits in these areas are increasing the demand for frozen food products, including potatoes. Western fast-food chains expanding into these regions further boost the market. Manufacturers can explore these emerging markets by localizing products to cater to regional preferences.

Health Consciousness: Challenges and Opportunities

Health-conscious consumers often view frozen and processed foods with caution due to concerns about additives, preservatives, and high sodium levels. However, this presents an opportunity for manufacturers to reformulate products and offer healthier options. Low-sodium, low-fat, and gluten-free frozen potato products can attract health-focused consumers. Clear labeling and communication of nutritional benefits, such as high fiber and vitamins, can also help improve consumer perception.

Request Sample PDF for Frozen Potato Market Report

(The sample serves as a general overview and contents of the final report, without actual data. Accessing the facts and figures of the complete report will incur a cost.)

The Importance of Foodservice and Retail Partnerships

Building strong partnerships with food service providers and retailers is essential for frozen potato manufacturers. Fast-food chains, casual dining restaurants, and catering services rely on bulk orders of frozen potato products, making these partnerships critical for long-term success. Similarly, retail channels like supermarkets and e-commerce platforms offer significant opportunities for visibility and sales. Manufacturers can benefit by developing strong relationships with retailers and offering attractive promotions to boost sales.

[shantitechnology]

How Manufacturers Can Manage Growth with ERP

Introduction:

In the dynamic landscape of manufacturing, where growth is the ultimate goal, the ability to adapt and streamline operations is paramount.  Enter ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), a powerful solution that has revolutionized the way manufacturers operate.  In this blog, we'll explore the significant role of ERP software for manufacturing industry and how it serves as a catalyst for sustainable growth.  Whether you're in traditional manufacturing or a software development company, ERP solutions are key to optimizing processes and managing growth effectively.

Understanding the Essence of ERP Software for Manufacturing:

1.         Efficiency Unleashed:

ERP system for manufacturing industry is designed to enhance operational efficiency by integrating various business processes.  From order management and procurement to production planning and inventory control, ERP systems bring together disparate functions into a unified platform, eliminating silos and enhancing overall efficiency.

2.         Real-time Insights:

One of the key advantages of ERP solutions is the ability to provide real-time insights into business operations.  Manufacturers can make informed decisions based on up-to-date information, helping them respond swiftly to market changes, manage resources effectively, and capitalize on growth opportunities.

3.         Scalability Matters:

As a manufacturer, scalability is a constant consideration.  Whether you're a growing traditional manufacturing unit or a software development company expanding its operations, ERP systems offer scalability to accommodate changing needs.  The modular nature of ERP solutions allows businesses to add or modify functionalities as they evolve.

4.         Improved Collaboration:

Collaboration is the bedrock of successful manufacturing.  ERP fosters better communication and collaboration by providing a centralized platform where employees across different departments can access and share information seamlessly.  This not only enhances teamwork but also accelerates decision-making processes.

ERP Software for Manufacturing Industry:  Tailoring Solutions for Success

1.         Production Planning and Scheduling:

In the manufacturing realm, effective production planning and scheduling are crucial for meeting customer demands and maintaining optimal inventory levels.  ERP systems facilitate streamlined production processes, enabling manufacturers to create realistic production schedules, allocate resources efficiently, and minimize downtime.

2.         Supply Chain Management:

A well-integrated supply chain is essential for manufacturers.  ERP solution for the manufacturing industry ensures smooth coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors.  This results in better inventory management, reduced lead times, and ultimately, improved customer satisfaction.

3.         Quality Control:

Maintaining consistent product quality is non-negotiable in manufacturing.  ERP solutions provide tools for comprehensive quality control by enabling real-time monitoring of production processes, tracking defects, and ensuring adherence to quality standards.  This not only boosts customer confidence but also reduces wastage and rework costs.

4.         Financial Management:

The financial aspect is the backbone of any business.  ERP systems for manufacturing offer robust financial management capabilities, including invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.  This level of financial control is invaluable for manufacturers looking to manage growth effectively and make strategic financial decisions.

ERP for Software Development Company:  Tailoring Solutions to Tech

1.         Project Management:

For software development companies, managing projects efficiently is critical.  ERP solutions designed for the software development industry offer project management modules that help track project timelines, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that development projects stay on course.

2.         Resource Planning:

In the software development realm, talent is a primary resource.  ERP systems tailored for software companies facilitate resource planning by providing insights into employee availability, skills, and project commitments.  This ensures optimal resource allocation for project success.

3.         Version Control and Collaboration:

Version control and collaboration are key aspects of software development.  ERP solutions for software companies include features that enable version control, code collaboration, and documentation management.  This ensures that development teams work cohesively, leading to efficient project outcomes.

4.         Compliance and Security:

In the software development industry, compliance and security are paramount.  ERP systems for software companies often include modules that help manage compliance with industry standards and ensure data security.  This is especially crucial in an era where data protection is a top priority.

Conclusion:

As manufacturers navigate the complexities of growth, ERP software emerges as an indispensable tool for success.  Whether you're in traditional manufacturing or a software development company, the benefits of ERP systems are far-reaching.  From enhancing operational efficiency and providing real-time insights to tailoring solutions for specific industry needs, ERP is the key to managing growth effectively.  Embrace the power of ERP, and propel your manufacturing operations into a future of streamlined processes, informed decision-making, and sustained success.

[berniesrevolution]

CATALYST JOURNAL

While the uptick in strike activity in 2021 is heartening, its influence should not be exaggerated. The number and extent of job actions was noticeable but still very small by historical standards, and union density continued to decline. A significant labor upsurge might be in the works, but it is not in evidence yet.

In the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, Pope Francis spoke movingly of the workers keeping the world turning in dark times:

People who do not appear in newspaper and magazine headlines or on the latest television show, yet in these very days are surely shaping the decisive events of our history. Doctors, nurses, storekeepers and supermarket workers, cleaning personnel, caregivers, transport workers, men and women working to provide essential services and public safety, volunteers, priests, men and women religious, and so very many others. They understood that no one is saved alone.1

These workers have done everything we’ve asked of them and more. They have been through hell, particularly those who have risked their health and well-being to care for the sick, educate the young, feed the hungry, and deliver the things the rest of us need to get through this period of grinding uncertainty. Employers, politicians, and talking heads have lauded them as essential workers, but the stark gap between the praise and the grim realities of working life in the United States — which was already miserable for millions before the pandemic — have pushed many to the breaking point. Indeed, record numbers of American workers have quit their jobs in what the media has dubbed the Great Resignation. According to the US Labor Department, 4.5 million workers voluntarily left their jobs in November 2021. The number of monthly quits has exceeded three million since August 2020, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.2 Job switchers span the employment ladder, but turnover has been largely concentrated in the low-wage service sector, where workers are taking advantage of the very tight labor market to get a better deal for themselves. According to data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, workers with high school diplomas are currently enjoying a faster rate of wage growth than workers with bachelor’s degrees, a remarkable situation that has not occurred in decades.3

Worker discontent is not only finding expression in the form of quitting and job switching. In 2021, we witnessed a modest increase in the frequency and visibility of collective action in the workplace. Tens of thousands of workers, union and nonunion alike, challenged employers through protests and strikes across sectors and in many different geographical regions. Workers in health care and social assistance, education, and transportation and warehousing led the way, but they were joined by workers in hotels and food services, manufacturing, and other industries. Protests and strikes tended to be concentrated in states where labor is relatively stronger, namely California, New York, and Illinois, but some states with low union density, like North Carolina, saw an uptick in labor action, too. Pay increases were easily the most common demand, but health and safety, staffing, and COVID-19 protocols were high on the agenda as well.

The year 2021 was less a strike wave than a strike ripple, and it has not yet resulted in any appreciable increase in unionization. A few trends stand out. The first is that labor protest and strike action were heavily concentrated among unionized groups of workers. Unionized groups of workers accounted for nearly 95% of all estimated participants in labor protests and more than 98% of all estimated participants in strikes. The second is that protests and strikes were concentrated by industry — namely health care and education, which together accounted for roughly 60% of all labor actions. Finally, protests and strikes were heavily concentrated geographically. Just three states with relatively high levels of union density — California, New York, and Illinois — accounted for more than half the total estimated participants in protests and strikes. In short, collective workplace action is by and large taking place where organized labor still retains residual sources of strength. In this context, spreading protest and strike action beyond its current industrial and regional confines depends on unionization in new places.

Conditions conducive to labor action — rising inflation, pandemic-related pressures, and a tight labor market — are likely to persist into 2022, and the Biden administration’s National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has been meaningfully supportive of worker organizing. US labor is probably not on the verge of a historic breakthrough, but in this context, workers may have an opportunity to make modest material and organizational gains.

Making new organizational gains is critical to the fortunes of the labor movement and the reviving US left. The vast majority of the workers involved in strikes and labor protests last year were already members of unions, not unorganized workers looking to unionize. This is why it is so concerning that last year’s uptick in labor action occurred amid a further decline in union density in 2021. The overall rate of union membership stands at 10.3% of the total labor force, while the total number of union members, just over fourteen million in 2021, continues its long decline.4 While some have argued that treating union density as the key measure of labor’s strength is a mistake, it seems clear that, at least in the US context, where union density and union coverage almost entirely overlap, it does provide an effective measurement of working-class power.5

Boosting the level of union density should therefore be among the leading priorities of progressives and socialists in the United States. As the power resources school of welfare state scholars has long argued, the relative strength of the labor movement and its affiliated political parties has been the single most important factor shaping welfare state development over time and across countries. Here in the United States, where we have never had a nationwide social democratic party aligned with a strong labor movement, the weakness of working-class organization is clearly reflected in the fragmentation and stinginess of our welfare state. The state-level wave of attacks on organized labor that began in 2010 have made it that much harder for unions to defend working-class interests and reduce inequality. But the fact that they were able to meaningfully mitigate the growth of inequality, even during the period of neoliberal retrenchment, shows that rebuilding the labor movement needs to be a chief priority of any progressive political agenda.6 The Biden administration’s pro-union stance suggests it understands this. But if it’s unable to act decisively to boost union membership, all the pro-union rhetoric it can muster will ultimately amount to little.

TRACKING LABOR ACTION

Researchers at the Cornell University School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR) began documenting strikes and labor protests in late 2020. Their ILR Labor Action Tracker provides a database of workplace conflict across the United States, based on information collected from government sources, news reports, organizational press releases, and social media. It counts both strikes and labor protests as “events” but distinguishes between the two. The major distinction between strikes and labor protests, according to this methodology, is whether the workers involved in the event stopped work. If they did, the event is defined as a strike; if they did not, it is defined as a labor protest. The Labor Action Tracker also collects data on a number of additional variables, including employer, labor organization (if applicable), local labor organization (if applicable), industry, approximate number of participants, worker demands, and more.7

ACTION TYPES

In 2021, there were 786 events with 257,086 estimated participants.8 Over 60% of the events were labor protests, while less than 40% were strikes (there was one recorded lockout). Roughly one-third of the estimated number of workers participated in labor protests, while roughly two-thirds participated in strikes. Further, the average number of estimated workers per labor protest (188) was significantly smaller than the average number of estimated workers per strike (553, see Table 1 for details).

DURATION

Neither labor protests nor strikes tended to last very long, which tracks with the generally sharp decline in strike duration in recent decades.9 Labor protests in particular were very short affairs. Of the labor protests with a start and end date, 96% lasted for just one day or less. Strikes also tended to have a short duration, but they typically did not end as quickly as protests. Of the strikes with a start and end date, one-third lasted for one day or less. Roughly two-thirds of strikes (68%) ended within a week, and over 90% ended within thirty days. One strike stands out for its unusually long duration: a 701-day strike by United Auto Workers (UAW) members against a metallurgical company in Pennsylvania, which began in September 2019 and ended in August 2021.

INDUSTRIES

An informed observer will not be surprised by which industries saw the largest number of labor action events (Table 2). The leading two industries by far were health care and social assistance and education, which are both highly unionized and have been subjected to enormous pressures during the pandemic. Together, they accounted for nearly 40% of the total labor protests and strikes. These industries also comprised over 60% of the overall number of estimated labor action participants — health care with 41.5% of the estimated participants, education with 18.8%. The overrepresentation of health care and education workers becomes even starker when we compare this to their employment shares in the overall labor force. In 2020, these two industries accounted for 16.3% of total nonfarm employment — health care with a 13.8% share and education with 2.3%.10 Put another way, the share of health care workers in 2021 labor actions was roughly three times larger than their share in the nonfarm labor force, while the share of education workers was more than eight times as large.

These two pace-setting industries were followed by a second tier of industries including transportation and warehousing, accommodation and food services, and manufacturing. It is not surprising to see these listed among the most turbulent industries, as they contain a mix of highly unionized employers and nonunion employers that have become a major focus of labor organizing activity, namely Amazon — the most frequently targeted employer, with twelve total labor actions — which was the target of twice as many labor actions as McDonald’s, the second-most targeted employer.

The industrial distribution of labor protests generally follows the overall distribution of labor action, with the notable exception of manufacturing, which saw far more strikes than protests. While the health care industry did not experience the largest number of strikes, it accounts for more than half of estimated strike participants (53%). Workers in education (12.4%) and manufacturing (16%) also accounted for outsize shares of the estimated number of participants.

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