#online Mexican Insurance

[onlinemexicaninsurance]

Mexico Home Insurance vs. US Home Insurance: What’s the BIG Difference?

If you are an American living in Mexico and want to buy a house there, you must know how Mexico home insurance is different from home insurance in the US. Both provide some fundamental protections to your home, but they have some big differences as well.

Knowing these differences can help you choose the best insurance for your new home and make sure it is well-protected. Keep reading to find out what those differences are and why they are important.

Coverage for natural disasters and liability

There are fewer differences than you may think. Catastrophic coverage like Hurricane & Earthquake coverage is optional and can be included in your policy upon request. If you want to include additional coverage for Hurricane & Earthquake damage, you will need to add this additional coverage for a premium on your policy.

Liability coverage is also where US and Mexico home insurance policies do not differ. Liability protection comes as standard in most US policies and covers you if someone is injured on your property and this is the same on Mexico home & condo insurance policies. Always review the exclusions on your policy to fully understand what is included & not included with respect to coverage that is most important to you.

Premium calculation

Insurance premiums are also calculated differently in both countries. In the US, premiums are largely based on the home’s age, location, and the policyholder’s credit score. In Mexico, factors like the home’s replacement cost, coverage selections & the distance your property is from any body of water, play a factor.

Get your Mexico home insurance quote today!

If you are an expat looking to insure your home in Mexico and want a policy that gives you the best protection, West Coast Global Insurance Services can help you find such a policy. They are a US-based agency working with some of the top-rated Mexican insurance companies, and they can help you compare different policies to find one that perfectly matches your needs and budget. Click this link for a free quote or visit www.westcoastri.com to learn more about Mexico insurance online.     

[deposedefenddeny]

In the wake of the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, an unexpected cultural phenomenon is unfolding. Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of the fatal Dec. 4 shooting in New York, has become the subject of several regional Mexican ballads posted online. In recent years, regional Mexican music — which encompasses corridos, norteño mariachi and more — has experienced an unprecedented global revival, particularly with the emergence of corridos tumbados in early 2019. [...] And now, a wave of new songs has emerged on various platforms, seeking to cast Mangione within the corridos tradition. These corridos — historically used to narrate tales of revolutionaries and rebels that date back to the Mexican Revolution of 1910 — are now casting the accused killer of the health insurance CEO as a complex figure caught between villainy and vigilantism.

Billboard on Dec 27, 4:32 p.m. ET

[rogueemmy]

I know many of you are having a real "what happens now", post-election panic. There's a lot of fear-mongering happening right now too. I know when my anxiety spikes, action can often be a good deterrent, and so I'll offer you the actions I, and my friends, have taken.

Order copies of all your documents. Birth certificates, social security cards, passport (if you have one), marriage license, divorce papers, all the paperwork that tells others that you exist. I got three copies - one for me, one for my partner, and then our master copy.

Get a real ID at minimum, a North American travel card, or a passport. No, really. First of all, you have just ordered all the documents for a real ID, you may as well use them! In many states that upgrade to your license is under $10 for a duplicate, in some places it is free. The travel card is cheeper than the passport, gets you on a plane and through both northern and southern borders, and again, you have all the documents! The passport gives you more travel options. It is also a great document to have handy if you are applying for new jobs, may as well get one if your budget and circumstance allow.

Document your decision makers - in most cases, parents or a spouse makes financial and medical decisions if you can not. This is generally a given. But, if you have concerns about court decisions being overturned, it hurts nothing, and costs very little, to draw up the paperwork for a medical power of attorney. Document, by name, who you want making those decisions.

Get a will - now, this sounds extreme, but frankly, every adult should have one. If you have pets, children, shared property - you need a will! Even married people need a will, in the best of times. There are will-in-a-box lawyers everywhere, your workplace may offer legal insurance that includes a will, there are even online versions, though I would prefer you do that with an attorney to ensure the fullest force. Then, if your worst fears are realized, you still have that legal document to back up your desires.

Keep cash on hand - I have a friend who is better off than I am, financially. He is planning to keep both Mexican and Canadian currency in case he needs to hop the border. Some choose gold or silver, some go with jewelry. This is more radical - personally, I just like to have enough cash on hand for a nice dinner or a tank of gas. Not always financially possible, but a goal I work towards.

Ensure you have a 72-hour kit. FEMA recommends everyone have one for disaster anyway, floods, tornadoes, hurricane, or just a heavy winter storm. A minimum of 3 days of shelf-stable food, water, and clothing. If possible, increase that supply to a week. because in a disaster, that's how long you may need to be self sufficient. And if you need it for other reasons, it's there, you have it, and can rest a bit easier.

Someone I saw today suggested a garden, yes, even a winter garden. You can grow herbs and lettuce indoors, if necessary. In some southern climates, a cold frame may be all that's needed. But make plans for some summer plants. Even in an apartment, a pot full of tomatoes and peppers and perhaps even a zucchini can greatly increase your food options if prices skyrocket. (I mean more than they already have.) Be creative, check with your neighbors or even online (carefully) for some ideas to make it work!

If you have a lawyer, a financial advisor, or other professional, they can help you with what you need to protect the partner in your life. If not, start with the above list. It gives you something to work at to still your current anxiety, makes you a more fully functioning adult, and those steps are all recommended anyway - no wasted effort. Simply consolidating things you should already be doing.

Please friends, do not panic. I've been on this planet a few decades now, and I can tell you that my worst fears have never come true. Do take action to quell your own concerns - the above list may not be for you, but there are likely very reasonable things you can do to address your own concerns. In the end, things are likely going to work out. I saw a post today that reminded everyone that there were people who lived very decent lives as the Roman Empire was collapsing.

[bodyalive]

On the Texas Border, Folk Healers Bring Modern Touches to Their Ancient Practice

Known as curanderas, they carry on a tradition long revered in local Hispanic culture.

By Edgar Sandoval

Photographs by Verónica Gabriela Cárdenas

Edgar Sandoval grew up in Mexico and the Rio Grande Valley, where Verónica Gabriela Cárdenas lives and where both covered this story.

Dec. 16, 2023

On a recent day, Chriselda Hernandez heard a knock at her door in the Texas border town of Edinburg. It was a college student who said she was suffering from a string of bad luck. A drunken driver had crashed into her car. Then someone broke into the new car she was driving and stole her laptop. “I need a limpia,” she pleaded — a spiritual cleanse.

Ms. Hernandez moved to an altar in her living room that bore an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Slowly, she mixed a concoction of sage and palo santo, a wood native to South America, and lit it with a match. Then she turned back to the young woman and waved the healing smoke over her body.

“You are holding on to something,” Ms. Hernandez whispered to her. “Let it go. There is no shame.”

For generations, Hispanic communities along the Southern border have turned to curanderas, or folk healers, like Ms. Hernandez, often seen in the popular imagination as old women with candles and religious icons operating in the shadows of society out of rusty shacks.

But the ancient healing art has entered the age of Instagram. More and more younger people are taking on rituals they learned from their grandmothers and deploying them against 21st century problems. They conduct limpias on public beaches, trade recipes online for blocking “envy energies” and sell artisan candles bearing the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe in shops. Their clients are often college-educated, like Clarissa Ochoa, the young woman who went to Ms. Hernandez for help.

“I think it’s an honor to be a curandera; it is something very beautiful, but also very limiting,” said Ms. Hernandez, 42. “I feel like we are breaking those boundaries, that curanderas are just herbs and little old ladies. My calling is just to heal whoever I can.”

A culture of folk healing preceded the arrival of Spaniard conquistadors to Latin America and Mexico. Over time, curanderos, a term used for healers of both genders, began mixing Indigenous rituals with elements of Catholicism and influences from Asian and African folk traditions along the way.

The practice has taken hold in Texas’ Rio Grande Valley, located a stone’s throw from the Mexican border, in large part out of necessity. Hidalgo County, home to McAllen and a majority Hispanic population, has one of the highest rates in the nation of people without health insurance, and many people rely on curanderas for lack of other affordable options, said Servando Z. Hinojosa, a professor of anthropology who teaches a class on Mexican-American folk medicine at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Mr. Hinojosa said many Hispanic residents also tend to be mistrustful of the medical establishment. This is especially true when it comes to mental health. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that while the number of Black, Asian and white people who have sought mental health care treatments has climbed in recent years, there has been very little movement among Latinos.

“There’s an element of distrust, but there is also structural alienation,” Mr. Hinojosa said. “They are a population that will seek affordable resources, and they will go to where the products are and where the advice is to be found.”

In the past, the medical establishment has warned people not to rely on folk remedies for physical ailments, some of which can be harmful. Many Latino children have fallen ill and even died after consuming such remedies known as albayalde, azarcon and rueda, powders often used for stomach-related illnesses that have been found to contain lead.

Curanderismo has become so accepted in the Rio Grande Valley that it is not unusual to see street signs and TV ads advertising folk healing services.

Ms. Hernandez said her great-grandmothers had both been parteras, or midwives. When she was a little girl, she said, she discovered that she possessed her own set of gifts; as she grew older, she said, she began interacting with an entity she believes to be the Angel of Death, Azrael. She works at a cellphone call center and lives with a girlfriend in a modern house in the suburbs of Edinburg, a city close to the border.

“You make it your own. There is no right or wrong. You do what’s right for you,” Ms. Hernandez said.

Another modern folk healer, Danielle López, 39, a former student of Mr. Hinojosa who said she also learned she had a don, a gift, as a young girl, has embraced the moniker of millennial curandera. She has combined the old traditions she learned from the grandmother who raised her, Consuelo López, and an aunt, Esperanza Rodriguez, with new skills learned at institutions of higher education.

Her academic record includes a master of arts in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in Mexican-American literature, medical anthropology and Latin art history at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. She is completing a doctorate in English with a focus on borderlands literature at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she is also a lecturer.

“For me it’s a continuity,” she said of her spiritual work. “I feel like we need it more now.”

It is not unusual for people to ask her for trabajitos, little jobs, including blessings, limpias and home remedies, when she is not buried in books. Not long ago, Ms. López got a request to bless a new business for a friend. When Ms. López cleansed the establishment with a bouquet of roses, six petals fell, prompting her to warn her friend that six people “did not have good intent.”

“They may say they are happy about her new business, but they are not.”

She also sometimes offers more science-based advice. When people tell her that they are feeling anxious or cannot sleep, she recommends that they cut their intake of sugar or caffeine. Because the advice comes from a curandera, she said, people tend to trust that she has their best interests at heart.

The concept of a curandera is so pervasive in Latino enclaves that in September the Texas Diabetes Institute, a state-of-the-art facility operated by University Health on San Antonio’s west side, a historical Mexican-American neighborhood, brought back to its lobby a sprawling wall-size painting, “La Curandera,” by the Chicano painter Jesus Treviño, who died early this year. The painting had been removed for restoration.

Still, when it comes to luck and matters of the heart, many people avoid professional help and turn to curanderas, because there is no substitute, said Sasha García, 39, a curandera who is known for her fire-red hair.

In northern Mexico, where Indigenous culture is not as widespread and the Catholic Church’s hold is stronger, Ms. García said, her ancestors often operated in the shadows to avoid the stigma associated with folk healers. By contrast, on the American side of the border, she not only feels freer to practice openly, but some Catholic priests stop by for her counsel, she said.

Ms. García welcomes clients at La Casa de la Santísima Yerberia in the city of Pharr, near McAllen, next to two imposing statues of La Santísima Muerte, skeletons each wearing red and black robes. Ms. García reminds people that while the image of La Santísima, a Latina version of the Grim Reaper, may evoke frightening emotions, death is to be revered.

“If you pray to her properly, she can heal and deliver love, freedom and wealth,” she said. “I only ask her for positive things.” (She laments that criminal elements along the border and in Mexico have appropriated the image.)

On a recent afternoon, Jocelyn Acevedo, 27, a frequent client of hers who runs a credit repair service, arrived for her monthly limpia. She had heard about Ms. García four years ago and after the first limpia, she said, she saw her business begin to boom. She was so convinced by the session that she since has regularly driven 60 miles from nearby Starr County, near the Rio Grande, for her sessions. She now has a tattoo of La Santísima.

Ms. García instructed Ms. Acevedo to rub three coconuts all over her body. Ms. García then broke them on the ground to release what she said was the negative energy her client had been carrying.

“Did it work? Of course,” Ms. Acevedo said.

Ms. García has embraced touches of modernity along with the old customs, including consultations now offered over FaceTime. Her clients have responded with their own offerings from popular culture, including a sign one brought in that now hangs on the front door: “Witch Parking Only.”

“No one listens,” Ms. García said with a smile. “The word may be becoming more modern, but we curanderas are still here. Just don’t park in my spot.”

Edgar Sandoval covers Texas for The Times, with a focus on the Latino community and the border with Mexico. He is based in San Antonio. More about Edgar Sandoval

[newstfionline]

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Torrent of Anger for Health Insurance Industry Follows C.E.O.’s Killing (NYT) The fatal shooting on Wednesday of a top UnitedHealthcare executive, Brian Thompson, on a Manhattan sidewalk has unleashed a torrent of morbid glee from patients and others who say they have had negative experiences with health insurance companies at some of the hardest times of their lives. It is unclear what motivated the incident or whether it was tied to Mr. Thompson’s work in the insurance industry. The police have yet to identify the shooter who is still on the loose. But that did not stop social media commenters from leaping to conclusions and from showing a blatant lack of sympathy over the death of a man who was a husband and father of two children. “Thoughts and deductibles to the family,” read one comment underneath a video of the shooting posted online by CNN. “Unfortunately my condolences are out-of-network.” The dark commentary after the death of Mr. Thompson highlighted the anger and frustration over the state of health care in America, where those with private insurance often find themselves in Kafka-esque tangles while seeking reimbursement for medical treatment and are often denied.

Biden Team Considers Blanket Pardons Before Trump’s Promised ‘Retribution’ (NYT) President Biden’s staff is debating whether he should issue blanket pardons for a swath of President-elect Donald J. Trump’s perceived enemies to protect them from the “retribution” he has threatened after he takes office, according to people familiar with the discussion. The idea would be to pre-emptively extend executive clemency to a list of current and former government officials for any possible crimes over a period of years, effectively short-circuiting the next president’s promised campaign of reprisals. White House officials do not believe the potential recipients have actually committed crimes, but they have grown increasingly worried that Mr. Trump’s selections for top Justice Department positions indicate that he will follow through on his repeated vows to seek revenge. Even an investigation that results in no charges could drag on for months or years, costing those people hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees and crippling their career prospects. Never before has a president issued mass pardons of government officials for fear that a successor would seek to prosecute them out of partisan vindictiveness.

Mexico president will ask Trump to deport non-Mexican migrants directly to their home countries (AP) Mexico’s president said Thursday she will ask President-elect Donald Trump to deport non-Mexican migrants directly to their home countries, rather than dumping them at the Mexican border. Mexico, like any other country, is not obligated to accept non-Mexican migrants, but it has agreed to do so in the recent past, especially from countries like Cuba and Venezuela, which often refuse deportation flights from the United States, but may accept them from Mexico. Experts estimate there are about 4 million Mexicans living in the U.S. without proper documentation. Mexico is already preparing its consular services in the U.S. with additional manpower to handle deportation cases involving its own citizens. But third-country deported migrants pose a thornier challenge, and could include considerable numbers of Haitians, Cubans and Venezuelans.

No Food, Water or Power for Opponents Hiding From Venezuelan Government (NYT) Several of Venezuela’s leading opposition figures, facing arrest warrants, have been in hiding at the Argentine diplomatic residence in the capital, Caracas, for more than eight months, where they have sought asylum. Now, four months after July’s tainted presidential election in which President Nicolás Maduro declared victory without providing any evidence, the authorities are cutting off the residence’s access to electricity, water and food, according to Tomás Arias, a lawyer for the opposition group. The move by the Venezuelan authorities reflects a ratcheting up of antagonistic measures by the autocratic government that analysts say is meant to deliver a clear message that Mr. Maduro, who is scheduled to be inaugurated next month, intends to stay in power.

Senior UK military commander warns of a ‘third nuclear age’ (AP) The head of Britain’s armed forces has warned that the world stands at the cusp of a “third nuclear age,” defined by multiple simultaneous challenges and weakened safeguards that kept previous threats in check. Adm. Tony Radakin, chief of the defense staff, said Britain needs to recognize the seriousness of the threats it faces, even if there is only a remote chance of Russia launching a direct nuclear attack on the U.K. or its NATO allies. While the Cold War saw two superpowers held at bay by nuclear deterrence and the past three decades were characterized by international efforts to restrict the spread of nuclear weapons, the current era is “altogether more complex,” Radakin said Wednesday in a speech to the Royal United Services Institute. Challenges faced by the West include Russia’s threat to use tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine, China’s drive to build up its nuclear stockpiles, Iran’s failure to cooperate with international efforts to limit its nuclear program, and “erratic behavior” by North Korea, Radakin said. All of this comes against a backdrop of increasing cyberattacks, sabotage and disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing Western countries.

France’s Macron rules out resigning, will tap new prime minister (Washington Post) French President Emmanuel Macron pledged that he would name a new prime minister within days, railed against the far-right and left factions that brought down the government and ruled out resigning early himself. The French leader addressed the nation a day after the government was toppled by a no-confidence vote, spawning political chaos and stoking anxiety about the euro zone’s second-biggest economy.

South Korea’s governing party head supports suspending Yoon’s powers, making impeachment more likely (AP) South Korea’s governing party chief expressed support Friday for suspending the constitutional powers of President Yoon Suk Yeol for imposing martial law this week, in a bombshell reversal that makes Yoon’s impeachment more likely. Opposition parties are pushing for a parliamentary vote on Yoon’s impeachment on Saturday, calling his short-lived martial law declaration an “unconstitutional, illegal rebellion or coup.” But they need support from some members of the president’s People Power Party to get the two-thirds majority required to pass the impeachment motion. The turmoil resulting from Yoon’s nighttime martial law decree has frozen South Korean politics and caused worry among neighbors, as one of the strongest democracies in Asia faces a political crisis that could unseat its leader.

US, Japan and Philippine forces jointly patrol in South China Sea after hostilities involving China (AP) The United States deployed a reconnaissance aircraft while Japan and the Philippines sent navy ships in a joint patrol in the disputed South China Sea on Friday, two days after the allied forces condemned actions by Chinese coast guard vessels against Philippine patrol ships. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said the joint patrol was conducted in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone by allies and partners to “uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight “ and “other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace.” Those phrases are used by the U.S., Japan and the Philippines to oppose China’s increasingly aggressive actions in the disputed waters. China claims the South China Sea virtually in its entirety and has guarded it assertively with its coast guard, navy and suspected militia fleets.

Indonesia’s bicycle coffee sellers (AP) Bicycles roam the streets of Indonesia’s capital with dozens of plastic sachets of coffee and other packaged drinks dangling from their handlebars. Tied in the back are large thermos bottles with hot water, an ice box and equipment for making coffee. The bicycle coffee sellers are known as Starlings, an abbreviation of Starbucks Keliling, or mobile Starbucks, although they have no connection to the giant global coffee company. They sell coffee on sidewalks, in parks and at construction sites. From dawn to midnight, Starlings are always available, making them one of the most popular coffee suppliers in the country. Indonesia, the world’s third-largest coffee producer, has a coffee culture. Overall, 79% of Indonesians are coffee drinkers, and most have at least one cup a day, according to Snapcart, an Indonesian research agency.

Iran is sending regional fighters to Syria. Can they save Assad again? (Washington Post) Iran is scrambling to mobilize regional fighters to help prop up Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and has deployed members of Hezbollah and Iraq’s Shiite militias to Syria, soldiers and commanders told The Washington Post. They are awaiting orders to fight. Assad’s forces are struggling to hold back a sudden advance by Islamist rebels who have taken over the city of Aleppo and nearby towns and villages. The last time Syria’s civil war threatened Assad’s hold on power, Hezbollah ground forces played a pivotal role in turning the tide in his favor. But with the Lebanese militant group significantly degraded by its war with Israel, it’s unclear if it has the will or ability this time to meaningfully change the direction of the conflict.

“Wake-up call” (Foreign Policy) Amnesty International accused Israel on Thursday of committing genocide in Gaza during its war with Hamas, becoming the first major human rights organization to do so. “Israel committed and is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza,” the 296-page report said. It cited deliberate attempts to destroy Palestinian communities, including launching deadly attacks, targeting vital infrastructure, and preventing aid deliveries into the region. “Our damning findings must serve as a wake-up call to the international community,” Amnesty International Secretary-General Agnès Callamard said. “This is genocide. It must stop now.” The human rights organization argued that Hamas’s Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel did not justify Israel’s actions, and it urged the country’s allies, including the United States, to halt all arms shipments to Israel, warning that they could be complicit in genocide. Washington maintains that “allegations of genocide are unfounded,” a U.S. State Department spokesperson said.

Gazans With Disabilities Face ‘Impossible Times’ of Chaos and War (NYT) When the Israeli military ordered evacuations in part of northern Gaza about a year ago, Zuhair Abu Odeh rushed out with his 9-year-old daughter, who uses a wheelchair, in search of a safer place. In his haste, he ran her chair into a crack in a road, jamming a wheel and forcing them to abandon it. Mr. Abu Odeh and his sons carried his daughter, Lara, on their backs for four and a half hours until they reached Nuseirat, nine miles to the south. “We’re living through impossible times,” Mr. Abu Odeh, 46, said in a phone interview from a makeshift shelter in Khan Younis, where the family has since fled. The war has forced most of Gaza’s roughly two million residents from their homes, an experience defined by daily struggles to find food, water, clean bathrooms and power. But it has been particularly punishing for people with disabilities and their families. The suffering of disabled people—the blind, deaf, physically and cognitively impaired—has been compounded by steep shortages in devices to aid them, like wheelchairs and hearing aids, and in damage to roads, sidewalks and homes with accessible features.

Vatican unveils Pope Francis’ new popemobile (RNS) Pope Francis received a fully electric Mercedes-Benz popemobile on Wednesday (Dec. 4), which combines his concern for the environment with the comforts required by a nearly 88-year-old pontiff. Mercedes-Benz has been a key provider of popemobiles for the Vatican for almost 100 years, though this is the company’s first fully electric offering. The new popemobile has four electric motors that can be quickly recharged, and it can travel up to 30 mph. The new model already has the traditional Vatican City State plate, SVC1. The color is, of course, pearl white with matching keys. The vehicle also provides comforts that can aid the pontiff, who suffers from sciatica pain. The back of the car has been made easily accessible, and the white chair in the back can swivel, allowing the pope to easily greet people on both sides. “The chair is heated and there is a handle in front of it that is heated as well,” explained Marc Langenbrinck, president of Mercedes-Benz Italia. Manufacturers designed the platform on the back to accommodate the Swiss Guards’ boots. Of course, it provides appropriate space for the pope to invite children and people into the popemobile, as he often does during his Wednesday drive through the crowd at St. Peter’s Square.

[industrynewsupdates]

Driving Business Growth with Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Procurement Intelligence

The courier, express, and parcel services category is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2030. The growth of e-commerce is one of the main drivers of the growth of the CEP services market. E-commerce is growing rapidly, and this is leading to an increase in the demand for CEP services. Businesses that sell goods online need to be able to deliver their goods quickly and efficiently to their customers. CEP providers can help businesses do this by providing a variety of delivery services, such as next-day delivery and express delivery.

The North America courier, express, and parcel market is expected to grow rapidly due to factors like economic growth, e-commerce sales, and demand for faster, more reliable delivery services. Technological advancements, such as self-driving trucks, and government initiatives like logistics hub construction are expected to drive market growth. Globalization has increased trade-related activities, necessitating reliable and efficient delivery services.

Companies are continuously focusing on collaborating with technology providers while enhancing their capacities by setting up new hubs in various regions to stay competitive in the market. For instance,

• In January 2022, the Mexican government announced that it would be investing $90 million in the construction of a new logistics hub in Yucatán. The hub will be located in the municipality of Umán. The hub will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, including a sorting facility, a warehouse, and a fleet of vehicles. It will be able to handle a variety of cargo, including goods from the manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism industries.

• In April 2021, DHL Global Forwarding (DHL GF), a subsidiary of Deutsche Post DHL Group, expanded its presence in Africa by signing a joint venture agreement with Unicargas, a leading logistics company in Angola. The agreement will allow DHL GF to offer a wider range of logistics services in Angola and other countries in Central and Southern Africa.

• In September 2021, in a test project with self-driving truck startup Aurora and heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer Paccar, FedEx Corp. began transporting cargo between Dallas and Houston using self-driving trucks. The self-driving trucks are outfitted with Level 4 autonomous driving technology from Aurora, which enables them to function under some circumstances without human supervision. A safety driver will also be in the truck to handle any emergency.

Order your copy of the Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030, published by Grand View Research, to get more details regarding day one, quick wins, portfolio analysis, key negotiation strategies of key suppliers, and low-cost/best-cost sourcing analysis

Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Sourcing Intelligence Highlights

• The global courier, express, and parcel services category is fragmented and highly competitive, with the presence of several players in the market. To grow their market share, firms in the industry are adopting crucial strategies like opening new distribution centers, mergers, and smart warehouses.

• The major cost components in this category are fuel costs, labor costs, vehicle costs, insurance costs, and administrative costs.

• China's dominance as a sourcing destination for this category is due to its large and growing manufacturing sector, strategic location in the center of Asia, infrastructure development, and government policies.

List of Key Suppliers in the Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Category

• A1 Express Delivery Service Inc

• Aramex International LLC

• Deutsche Post DHL Group

• DTDC Express Ltd

• FedEx Corp.

• SF Express (Group) Co. Ltd

• Poste Italiane SpA

• Qantas Courier Limited

• United Parcel Service Inc.

• SG Holdings Co. Ltd.

Browse through Grand View Research’s collection of procurement intelligence studies:

• Flexible Packaging Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

• Commercial Print Services Procurement Intelligence Report, 2023 - 2030 (Revenue Forecast, Supplier Ranking & Matrix, Emerging Technologies, Pricing Models, Cost Structure, Engagement & Operating Model, Competitive Landscape)

Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Procurement Intelligence Report Scope 

• Courier, Express, and Parcel Services Category Growth Rate: CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2030

• Pricing Growth Outlook: 3% - 4% (Annually)

• Pricing Models: Value-based pricing, volume-based pricing

• Supplier Selection Scope: Cost and pricing, past engagements, geographical presence

• Supplier Selection Criteria: Pricing, network, technology, customer service, flexibility, and security

• Report Coverage: Revenue forecast, supplier ranking, supplier positioning matrix, emerging technology, pricing models, cost structure, competitive landscape, growth factors, trends, engagement, and operating model

Brief about Pipeline by Grand View Research:

A smart and effective supply chain is essential for growth in any organization. Pipeline division at Grand View Research provides detailed insights on every aspect of supply chain, which helps in efficient procurement decisions.

Our services include (not limited to):

• Market Intelligence involving – market size and forecast, growth factors, and driving trends

• Price and Cost Intelligence – pricing models adopted for the category, total cost of ownerships

• Supplier Intelligence – rich insight on supplier landscape, and identifies suppliers who are dominating, emerging, lounging, and specializing

• Sourcing / Procurement Intelligence – best practices followed in the industry, identifying standard KPIs and SLAs, peer analysis, negotiation strategies to be utilized with the suppliers, and best suited countries for sourcing to minimize supply chain disruptions

[thegovtsarkari]

Del Taco Job Application Career Login, Salary & Eligibility

Del Taco offers a variety of job opportunities, including positions for crew members, cooks, cashiers, shift leaders, and managers. These roles are suitable for those interested in working in the fast-food industry.

To work at Del Taco, you need good customer service skills, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, and a flexible schedule. These requirements help ensure a smooth operation and a positive experience for customers.

Employees at Del Taco enjoy competitive pay, meal discounts, and potential health benefits for full-time workers. These benefits make it an attractive place to work.

Del Taco Jobs Application Careers Login

To apply for a job at Del Taco, follow these steps:

Visit the Del Taco Careers Website: Go to their official careers page.

Create an Account: You'll need to sign up or log in if you already have an account.

Search for Jobs: Look for available positions that interest you.

Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form with your details.

Submit: Send in your application and wait for a response from Del Taco.

Del Taco Jobs Salary Details

Del Taco offers a range of salaries depending on the position:

Sales Associates: Typically earn around $12-$15 per hour.

Cashiers: Usually make between $11-$14 per hour.

Stock Associates: Often earn $12-$16 per hour.

Store Managers: Can make $40,000-$70,000 per year, depending on the store's location and size.

Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and length of employment. Additionally, employees often receive benefits like health insurance, employee discounts, and bonuses.

Eligibility For Del Taco Jobs

To be eligible for a job at Del Taco, you generally need:

Minimum Age: At least 16 years old for entry-level positions.

Availability: Flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays.

Experience: Some positions may require previous retail or customer service experience.

Skills: Good communication and teamwork skills.

Legal Right to Work: Must be legally allowed to work in the U.S.

How To Apply Online For Del Taco Job Application 2024?

To apply online for a job at Del Taco in 2024, follow these steps:

Visit Del Taco Careers Website: Go to the official Del Taco careers page.

Create an Account: Sign up or log in if you already have an account.

Search for Jobs: Use the search feature to find job openings that interest you.

Apply: Click on the job you want and fill out the online application form with your information.

Submit: Submit your application and wait for a response.

About Del Taco

Del Taco is a popular fast-food chain known for its Mexican-American cuisine.

History: Del Taco was founded in 1964 by Ed Hackbarth and David Jameson in Yermo, California. It has grown significantly since then, offering a mix of American and Mexican-inspired dishes.

Location: Del Taco has locations primarily in the western and southern United States, with over 600 restaurants across several states.

Contact Info: For customer service, you can call 1-800-852-7204. More information is available on their website at www.deltaco.com.

To get more updates about jobs please visit our "Job Section".

[mexicoautoinsurance]

Best Mexican Car Insurance Insider Tips and Expert Advice

When planning a road trip through Mexico, one crucial consideration often overlooked is car insurance. Driving in a foreign country can bring unforeseen circumstances, making comprehensive insurance a necessity rather than an option. Finding the best Mexican car insurance requires understanding the nuances of coverage, policies, and local regulations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this essential aspect of your Mexican adventure.

Understanding Mexican Car Insurance

Why is it Necessary?

Mexico operates on a different insurance system than many other countries. U.S. and Canadian car insurances aren’t recognized across the border, meaning your existing coverage might not apply in Mexico. Having Mexican car insurance is not only prudent but also legally required. Without it, you might face legal complications or financial liabilities in case of an accident.

Types of Coverage

When exploring Mexican insurance For any vehicle, consider the coverage options available:

Liability Insurance: This coverage is mandatory and ensures compensation for damages caused to others in an accident.

Collision and Comprehensive: These coverages protect your vehicle against damage, theft, or vandalism. They are advisable for comprehensive protection.

Legal Assistance and Medical Payments: Essential inclusions covering legal fees and medical expenses for you and your passengers.

Tips for Finding the Best Mexican Car Insurance

Research and Compare Policies

Explore various insurance providers, comparing their coverage, deductibles, limits, and additional benefits. Look beyond the price tag to ensure you’re getting adequate coverage for your needs.

Check for Additional Benefits

Some policies offer additional perks like roadside assistance, legal support, or coverage for travel into certain restricted areas. Evaluate these add-ons as they can significantly enhance your overall protection and convenience.

Understand Policy Limitations

Be aware of any restrictions or limitations within the policy. For instance, certain areas might have restricted coverage or require additional permits. Ensure your policy aligns with your travel itinerary.

Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Consult online reviews and seek recommendations from fellow travelers or expatriates who have experience driving in Mexico. Their insights can prove invaluable in understanding the reliability and quality of different insurance providers.

Verify Financial Stability and Customer Service

Opt for insurers with a strong financial background and reputable customer service. In case of an emergency or claim, a reliable insurance company will provide the necessary support promptly.

Purchase Insurance Before Crossing the Border

Avoid the hassle and potential risks by purchasing your Mexican car insurance before entering the country. Numerous online platforms offer instant policies that can be obtained conveniently.

Conclusion

Prioritizing the right Mexico car insurance is a crucial step in ensuring a safe and worry-free road trip through Mexico. Understanding the nuances of coverage, policy inclusions, and local regulations empowers you to make informed decisions. By researching, comparing, and selecting the most suitable coverage, you not only comply with legal requirements but also safeguard yourself against unforeseen situations, allowing you to relish your Mexican adventure to the fullest.

[onlinemexicaninsurance]

Mexico Home Insurance vs. US Home Insurance: What’s the BIG Difference?

If you are an American living in Mexico and want to buy a house there, you must know how Mexico home insurance is different from home insurance in the US. Both provide some fundamental protections to your home, but they have some big differences as well.

Knowing these differences can help you choose the best insurance for your new home and make sure it is well-protected. Keep reading to find out what those differences are and why they are important.

Coverage for natural disasters and liability

There are fewer differences than you may think. Catastrophic coverage like Hurricane & Earthquake coverage is optional and can be included in your policy upon request. If you want to include additional coverage for Hurricane & Earthquake damage, you will need to add this additional coverage for a premium on your policy.

Liability coverage is also where US and Mexico home insurance policies do not differ. Liability protection comes as standard in most US policies and covers you if someone is injured on your property and this is the same on Mexico home & condo insurance policies. Always review the exclusions on your policy to fully understand what is included & not included with respect to coverage that is most important to you.

Premium calculation

Insurance premiums are also calculated differently in both countries. In the US, premiums are largely based on the home’s age, location, and the policyholder’s credit score. In Mexico, factors like the home’s replacement cost, coverage selections & the distance your property is from any body of water, play a factor.

Get your Mexico home insurance quote today!

If you are an expat looking to insure your home in Mexico and want a policy that gives you the best protection, West Coast Global Insurance Services can help you find such a policy. They are a US-based agency working with some of the top-rated Mexican insurance companies, and they can help you compare different policies to find one that perfectly matches your needs and budget. Click this link for a free quote or visit www.westcoastri.com to learn more about Mexico insurance online.     

[mightyflamethrower]

Boosters, fencers, and cleaners: Inside cartels' newest criminal enterprise of organized retail theft

by Anna Giaritelli, Homeland Security Reporter

 August 29, 2023 06:00 AM

A nationwide retail theft epidemic cost the United States close to $100 billion in 2021. Stores are being forced to raise prices or shut up shop, insurers are refusing to help, and smaller mom and pop stores are being left behind. In this series, Mayhem on Main Street, the Washington Examiner will investigate the causes behind the scourge of shoplifting, the role of the cartels, the cost to stores big and small, and the complicity of lax prosecutors. Part 2 investigates the role of the cartels. To read Part 1, click here.

Mexican cartels are behind the spike in organized retail crime and are deeply entrenched in every level of the process, according to the federal government's chief investigative agency.

Retailers nationwide sustained nearly $100 billion worth of losses in 2021, the highest year on record, according to the National Retail Federation report published in September 2022. The growing number of cartel-run theft rings around the country drove that figure up from $70 billion in 2019.

SMALL BUSINESSES HELPLESS OVER SPIKE IN RETAIL THEFTS, SAY THEY FEEL ABANDONED BY LAWMAKERS

"Organized retail crime is leading to more brazen and more violent attacks in retail stores throughout the country. Many of the criminal rings orchestrating these thefts are also involved in other serious criminal activity such as human trafficking, narcotics trafficking, weapon trafficking, and more," said Steve Francis, acting executive associate director for Homeland Security Investigations, in a statement. HSI is part of the Department of Homeland Security's Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The Retail Industry Leaders Association described the acceleration of organized retail crime in recent years as having "exploded."

In fact, 80% of retailers polled nationwide reported an increase in merchandise stolen in 2022, according to the National Retail Federation.

No subindustry of retail is exempt. A spokeswoman for the home improvement corporation said Home Depot's most targeted items have been wire and wiring devices, power tools, and home automation products. When stores lock up those items, it only prompts thieves to focus on stealing other high-ticket items.

(San Francisco Police Department via AP)

Organized retail crime has taken a huge toll on federal and state governments, costing them $15 billion in lost tax revenue, not including lost sales taxes, according to HSI.

Additionally, the average family will fork up an extra $500 annually to cover rising costs of goods as companies increase their prices to make up for stolen goods.

The type of mass-theft seen around the nation, particularly since the coronavirus pandemic began, is different than shoplifting, according to HSI. As the pandemic set in, people increasingly pivoted to purchasing items online, making it easier to sell stolen goods.

"Organized retail crime exploded over the last few years as criminals exploited the anonymity of third-party online marketplaces to fence billions in stolen products," RILA Senior Executive Vice President of Public Affairs Michael Hanson said in a statement.

These retail crimes are perpetrated by people who work as part of a crime ring run by cartels. In recent years, cartels have gone from illicit drug manufacturing and smuggling, human smuggling and trafficking, and illegal firearm smuggling to commandeering crime in the retail environment.

Cartels are involved in every level of retail crime, from in-store theft and listing items in online marketplaces to shipping stolen merchandise worldwide and using U.S. financial institutions to hold their profits.

(AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Stolen items are then handed over to the second person in the theft ring: the "fencer" or "fence." The fencer buys the merchandise from the booster at a discounted price and will list the item on a number of platforms, including e-commerce websites such as eBay and Amazon, social media, and wholesale or trading companies.

Fencers will go to great lengths to conceal that the items were stolen. One example is using lighter fluid and heat guns to remove anti-theft stickers from goods. Once purchased, goods may be shipped via cargo containers overseas to be sold.

Joana Suleiman/Washington Examiner

"The reason is almost certainly the I-70 corridor, which has become a pipeline not only for drugs but also for organized retail crime. There is a link between drug trafficking and organized retail crime," Kobach said in prepared remarks for testimony before a House subcommittee in June. "The drug-addicted often become boosters in order to feed their habits, and some fences recruit them specifically."

Boosters "almost always" steal a dollar amount that is below the felony theft level, Kobach said. In Kansas, that looks like $900 worth of merchandise being stolen to stay below the $1,000 felony threshold.

Boosters typically use "pushouts" or "rollouts," throwing items in a cart or large bag and walking or running out of the store, "knowing that the policy of the corporation prohibits staff from stopping them," according to Kobach.

"With this brazenness comes increased violence, with boosters sometimes assaulting or even using pepper spray against store personnel who dare to intervene," he said. "Boosters will hit the same specific store with impunity, sometimes as frequently as two to three times per week."

One such incident in April turned tragic when the booster was approached by Blake Mohs, a 26-year-old Home Depot security guard in New Jersey. Mohs took back the stolen merchandise and was shot. The woman arrested after the shooting was identified as 32-year-old private security guard Benicia Knapps. Knapps picked up the stolen item next to Mohs and ran out after shooting him.

Home Depot has since introduced several initiatives to mitigate theft, though Fornes did not share details.

The final two steps in the theft cycle are left to the "cleaners," whose job is to disguise the origins of stolen merchandise, and professional money launderers who funnel the profits, according to HSI.

This summer, Congress cracked down on items sold on retail sites, including Amazon and eBay. The INFORM Consumers Act, passed in June, has been the biggest step forward for retailers and law enforcement. The Federal Trade Commission issued a warning to online sellers that it would be cracking down as the law called for.

"The industry is hopeful that requiring online marketplaces to collect, verify and disclose information about high-volume third-party sellers, marketplaces will finally evict bad actors from their platforms," RILA Senior Executive Vice President of Retail Operations Lisa LaBruno said in a statement when the bill was passed. "In turn, consumers can shop with more confidence that the products they purchase online are legitimate."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Fornes called it a positive first step for how it takes away the "cloak of anonymity" that professional shoplifters hide behind when selling stolen merchandise online.

"Now, Congress and states must focus on three paths forward: First, enforcing the new law of the land. Second, creating capacity for law enforcement to investigate and prosecute cases through funding federal, state, and local task forces. And third, educating and training law enforcement and prosecutors on how to partner with retailers to combat dangerous criminals and organized crime," Fornes said.

[yashvicmi01]

Mexico Car Rental Market Is Estimated To Witness High Growth Owing To Increasing Tourism and Favorable Government Regulations

The Mexico Car Rental Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 1,108.1 million in 2022 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 10.1% over the forecast period 2023-2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights. A) Market Overview: The Mexico Car Rental Market offers a range of vehicles for rent to individuals and businesses for various purposes such as personal travel, business travel, and transportation of goods. With the increasing number of tourists visiting Mexico and the rising demand for convenient transportation options, the car rental market in Mexico is experiencing significant growth. The market provides a wide range of rental options ranging from economy cars to luxury vehicles, catering to the diverse needs of customers. Major players in the market offer additional services such as GPS navigation systems, insurance coverage, and roadside assistance to enhance the customer experience. B) Market Dynamics: The Mexico Car Rental Market is driven by two major factors: increasing tourism and favorable government regulations. 1. Increasing Tourism: Mexico is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, historical attractions, and natural wonders of Mexico attract tourists from all over the world. As tourists explore the country, they often prefer to rent cars for the convenience and flexibility it offers. This increasing influx of tourists drives the demand for car rentals in Mexico. 2. Favorable Government Regulations: The Mexican government has implemented several regulations and policies to promote and support the growth of the tourism industry. These regulations include simplifying the process of obtaining a driver's license for tourists, promoting road safety measures, and improving the infrastructure for a better transportation experience. The government's focus on developing the tourism sector and providing a safe and seamless travel experience plays a vital role in driving the car rental market in Mexico. C) Segment Analysis: The Mexico Car Rental Market can be segmented based on vehicle type, rental category, and end-user. 1. Vehicle Type: The market offers various vehicle types such as economy cars, luxury cars, SUVs, and others. Among these, economy cars dominate the market due to their affordability and fuel efficiency, making them a preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers. 2. Rental Category: The rental category includes airport rentals and off-airport rentals. Airport rentals account for a significant share in the market as most tourists prefer to rent a car at the airport for convenient transportation upon arrival. 3. End-User: The market caters to both individual and corporate customers. Individual customers form a major consumer base as they rent cars for personal travel and tourism purposes. Corporate customers, including businesses and government agencies, also contribute to the market growth as they require cars for transportation during business trips. C) PEST Analysis: The PEST analysis for the Mexico Car Rental Market is as follows: - Political: The government's focus on promoting the tourism industry and implementing regulations to ensure road safety and infrastructure development are favorable for the car rental market. - Economic: The growing economy, increasing disposable income, and rising tourism industry contribute to the market growth. - Social: Changing consumer preferences, rising awareness about sustainable transportation, and the need for convenience and flexibility drive the demand for car rentals. - Technological: Advancements in technology, such as online booking platforms and mobile applications, make it easier for customers to rent cars, enhancing the market growth.

[caiautoinsurance]

In Modesto, California, finding the best & affordable car insurance can be a daunting task. Luckily, there are multiple resources available to streamline this process. From comprehensive coverage options to instant SR22, motorcycle, RV, boat, and even Mexican auto insurance, residents of Modesto have a plethora of choices. Various online tools also simplify the process, making it easier than ever to obtain a quote for car insurance in Modesto, California. With the right guidance and research, securing the best auto insurance in Modesto, CA can be a hassle-free experience.

[newstfionline]

Sunday, January 22, 2023

In soaked California, few homeowners have flood insurance (AP) On Sunday morning, Kyle Starks woke up to floodwaters that reached the door of his Jeep after yet another heavy rain storm drenched California. Emergency crews showed up with boats to float Starks and other residents of his rural mobile home park in Acampo to safety. Beyond the physical destruction, the storm could pack a financial hit: Starks does not have flood insurance. In California, only about 230,000 homes and other buildings have flood insurance policies, which are separate from homeowners insurance. That means only about 2% of properties are covered against flooding. In California, 32 trillion gallons of rain and snow fell since Christmas. The water washed out roads, knocked out power and created mudslides by soaking wildfire-charred hills. It caused damage in 41 of the state’s 58 counties. At least 21 people have died. California’s drought has dulled people’s sense of the risk of flooding. People usually buy insurance after disasters when the risk is visceral, said Amy Bach, the executive director of insurance consumers group United Policyholders.

A teacher shortage so acute that students are expected to learn without one (Washington Post) It’s near the end of the day at West Bolivar High School, and Jordan Mosley is stuck. The 15-year-old sophomore stares at her laptop and restarts the video. There is no one to ask for help in this classroom, where students stare sleepily at laptops amid the din of a portable air conditioner. There is only a teacher’s assistant who can print out additional worksheets if they run into trouble. So Jordan, a top student, decides to wait until she can see Ms. Butler, the high school’s popular math teacher—and its only one. The virtual session is how sophomores are expected to learn geometry this year after the district could not find a teacher. In the Mississippi Delta, where schools have historically been shortchanged, teaching candidates—especially those who know math—are hard to come by. The nature and the severity of the teacher crisis differ radically from state to state, district to district and even school to school. Some districts have only recently started experiencing teacher shortages, but in many Southern states, the problem has been long-standing and only gotten worse.

In Mexico, a reporter published a story. The next day he was dead (Reuters) Just after sunset on Thursday, February 10th, two men in a white Dodge Ram pickup pulled up in front of Heber Lopez Vasquez’s small radio studio in southern Mexico. One man got out, walked inside and shot the 42-year-old journalist dead. Lopez was one of 13 Mexican journalists killed in 2022, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), a New York-based rights group. It was the deadliest year on record for journalists in Mexico, now the most dangerous country for reporters in the world outside the war in Ukraine. A day earlier, Lopez–who ran two online news sites in the southern Oaxaca state–had published a story on Facebook accusing local politician Arminda Espinosa Cartas of corruption related to her re-election efforts. “I already stopped covering drug trafficking and corruption and Heber’s death still scares me,” said Hiram Moreno, a veteran Oaxacan journalist who was shot three times in 2019, sustaining injuries in the leg and back, after writing about drug deals by local crime groups. His assailant was never identified. “You cannot count on the government. Self-censorship is the only thing that will keep you safe.” It is a pattern of fear and intimidation playing out across Mexico, as years of violence and impunity have created what academics call “silence zones” where killing and corruption go unchecked and undocumented.

Despite tear gas, Peru protesters vow to keep demonstrating (AP) Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Peru’s capital Friday and were met with volleys of tear gas for the second straight day, as demonstrators made clear they will keep up their mobilizations to demand the resignation of President Dina Boluarte. Many of the protesters in Lima had arrived from remote Andean regions, where dozens have died amid unrest that has engulfed large portions of the country since Pedro Castillo, Peru’s first leader from a rural Andean background, was impeached and imprisoned after he tried to dissolve Congress last month. Until recently, the protests had been mainly in Peru’s southern region, with a total of 55 people killed and 700 injured in the unrest, largely in clashes with security forces. Protesters now want Lima, home to around one-third of Peru’s population of 34 million, to be the focal point of the demonstrations that began when Boluarte, who was then vice president, was sworn into office on Dec. 7 to replace Castillo. The protests sparked the worst political violence in the country has seen in more than two decades.

German caution on Ukraine arms rooted in political culture (AP) Germany has become one of Ukraine’s leading weapons suppliers in the 11 months since Russia’s invasion, but Chancellor Olaf Scholz also has gained a reputation for hesitating to take each new step—generating impatience among allies. Berlin’s perceived foot-dragging, most recently on the Leopard 2 battle tanks that Kyiv has long sought, is rooted at least partly in a post-World War II political culture of military caution, along with present-day worries about a possible escalation in the war. On Friday, Germany inched closer to a decision to deliver the tanks, ordering a review of its Leopard stocks in preparation for a possible green light. “No German chancellor, of no party, wants to be seen out front in pushing a military agenda—you want to try all other options before you resort to that,” Kleine-Brockhoff said. “And therefore for domestic consumption, it is seen as a positive thing for a German chancellor not to lead on this, to be cautious, to be resistant, to have tried all other options.”

Air defenses deployed in Moscow, signaling fear of strikes on capital (Washington Post) The Kremlin on Friday declined to comment on the recent installation of air defense systems in multiple locations in and around Moscow, as Russia seeks to close gaps in its defenses, apparently fearful that Ukraine could launch an audacious and humiliating attack on the Russian capital. Russia has deployed Pantsir-S1 air defense systems atop two government buildings in Moscow, including the Ministry of Defense on Frunzenskaya Embankment, and a district education ministry building on Teterinsky Lane, according to independent Russian-language media. More air defense systems were installed at several other sites in or near Moscow, including Odintsovo district, about six miles from President Vladimir Putin’s residence at Novo-Ogaryovo outside the capital, according to the Russian media outlet Sirena, which posted video and still images. The positioning of the weapons follows criticism from Russian analysts about gaps in Russia’s air defenses after at least four Ukrainian strikes last month on military airfields deep inside Russia, three of them targeting the Engels military air base near Saratov, where Russia bases long-range strategic bombers. Another struck the Diagilevo air base near Ryazan, about 114 miles southeast of Moscow.

Davos forum wraps up (AP) Elites from politics, business, academia and the arts on Friday wrapped up the World Economic Forum ‘s annual conclave in the Swiss town of Davos—where worries about the war in Ukraine, a warming planet and a cooling global economy dominated discussions about the world’s ills. The 53rd edition of the weeklong gathering in the Alps drew notables like Ukraine’s first lady, climate activist Greta Thunberg, and actor Idris Elba, plus hundreds of presidents, prime ministers, CEOs and other decision-makers who hashed out deals and voiced demands on everything from trade to tanks for Ukraine. The meeting perennially draws criticism as a hub of power-mongers and money-grubbers seeking to rule the world, and this year was no exception. Longtime attendee and Kremlin critic Bill Browder launched a tirade about sitting out this year because the forum sought to triple the cost of his participation to $250,000. Some deep-pocketed execs shell out upward of $1 million a year to be members of the WEF club. It’s anybody’s guess whether an event that churns up pledges, promises and partnerships to help realize the forum’s ambition of improving the world will bring any concrete progress.

China says COVID outbreak has infected 80% of population (Reuters) The possibility of a big COVID-19 rebound in China over the next two or three months is remote as 80% of people have been infected, a prominent government scientist said on Saturday. The mass movement of people during the ongoing Lunar New Year holiday period may spread the pandemic, boosting infections in some areas, but a second COVID wave is unlikely in the near term, Wu Zunyou, chief epidemiologist at the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, said on the Weibo social media platform.

Envoy says Taiwan learns from Ukraine war (AP) Taiwan has learned important lessons from Ukraine’s war that would help it deter any attack by China or defend itself if invaded, the self-ruled island’s top envoy to the U.S. said in an interview Friday with The Associated Press. Among the lessons: Do more to prepare military reservists and also civilians for the kind of all-of-society fight that Ukrainians are waging against Russia. “Everything we’re doing now is to prevent the pain and suffering of the tragedy of Ukraine from being repeated in our scenario in Taiwan,” said Bi-khim Hsiao, Taiwan’s representative in Washington. Meanwhile, after watching the Ukrainians’ successful hard-scrabble defense against invading Russian forces, Taiwan realizes it needs to load up on Javelins, Stingers, HIMARS and other small, mobile weapons systems, Hsiao said. Some security think tanks accuse the U.S.—and the defense industry—of focusing too much of the nation’s billions of dollars in arms deals with Taiwan on advanced, high-dollar aircraft and naval vessels. China’s mightier military could be expected to destroy those big targets at the outset of any attack on Taiwan, some security analysts say. Taiwan is pushing to make sure that a shift to grittier, lower-tech weapon supplies for Taiwanese ground forces “happens as soon as possible,” Hsaio said.

Shine a Light (WSJ) It might come as no surprise that dictatorships exaggerate their economic growth. But by how much? Research from the University of Chicago’s Luis Martinez shines a light on the extent to which autocratic governments might be juicing their estimates of gross domestic product, the commonly used measure of an economy’s size and might. Light is the key. Satellite images can capture the amount of night-time light a country produces, and it turns out to be a pretty reliable guide to economic growth. The result: On average, autocratic governments reported annual GDP growth that was approximately 35% higher than would be expected from the modest growth of their night lights. The likely explanation: The lights reflect what is really happening in their economies.

The sounds of life (Financial Times) New technological tools are enabling a global community of biologists and amateur scientists to explore the natural world of sound in richer detail and at greater scale than ever before. Just as microscopes helped humans observe things not visible to the naked eye, so ubiquitous microphones and machine learning models enable us to listen to sounds we cannot otherwise hear. We can eavesdrop on an astonishing soundscape of planetary “conversations” among bats, whales, honey bees, elephants, plants and coral reefs. “Sonics is the new optics,” Karen Bakker, a professor at the University of British Columbia, tells me. When it comes to sonic data, Bakker…raises the tantalizing possibility over the next two decades of interspecies communication as humans use machines to translate and replicate animal sounds, creating a kind of Google Translate for the zoo.

[amigomexinsurance]

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[mexinsur-blog]

Mexican Auto Insurance by MexInsur. Since 1956, we provide Mexican Auto Insurance , RV insurance, trailer insurance and towing insurance.