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April 26, 2025

Economy

Prince William at Pope Francis’ Funeral: Live Updates

by archyde
written by archyde

Okay, here’s a breakdown of the people who attended Pope Francis’ funeral, based on the provided text, along with some additional information I could infer:

Dignitaries and Celebrities Attending Pope Francis’ Funeral (as per the text):

Sir Keir Starmer and Victoria starmer: The British Prime Minister and his wife. Emmanuel Macron and Brigitte Macron: The French President and Frist Lady.
King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden: The Swedish monarchs.
 Volodymyr Zelensky: The President of Ukraine.
Joe Biden and Jill Biden: Former US President and Former First Lady.
 Grand Duchess of Luxembourg María Teresa Mestre Batista and Grand Duke of luxembourg Henri: Members of the Luxembourgish Royal Family.
Queen Rania and King Abdullah II of Jordan: The Jordanian monarchs.

Key Takeaways from the Text:

Tributes to Pope Francis: Many leaders paid tribute to Pope Francis, highlighting his compassion, leadership, and work on fairness.
Dress code: Attendees, especially women, adhered to a specific dress code for the religious service, including black attire and, in some cases, veils.
 Pope’s Impact: The large attendance and outpouring of grief demonstrate the Pope’s global influence and the respect he commanded.

I can also infer that many other religious leaders, diplomats, and representatives from various countries likely attended, but they weren’t explicitly named in the text you provided.

What specific aspects of Pope Francis’s leadership do you believe resonated most deeply with these global leaders?

Table of Contents

Global Leaders Remember Pope Francis: An Interview with Vatican Correspondent, Isabella Rossi

In the wake of pope francis’s funeral, archyde News spoke with isabella Rossi, a seasoned Vatican Correspondent, to discuss the meaning of the event and the global impact of the late pontiff.

The International Gathering: A Display of Respect

archyde: Isabella, the funeral was attended by a remarkable array of world leaders. What dose this diverse presence signify?

Isabella Rossi: It’s a powerful statement, really. The attendance of figures like Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, Volodymyr Zelensky as well as Monarchs representing the highest echelons of government, illustrates the breadth of Pope Francis’s reach. It wasn’t just a gathering of Catholics; it was a global display of respect for his leadership and his commitment to important worldwide issues.

Fashion and Faith: Dress Code Observations

Archyde: We observed a specific dress code, notably among the women. can you elaborate on the significance of this?

Isabella Rossi: Yes, it reflects a deep-rooted tradition. The black attire, and often veils, especially for female dignitaries, is a mark of reverence and mourning, deeply steeped in Catholic tradition. It also serves a symbol of respect for a service of such magnitude, showing deference to the solemnity of the occasion.

Pope Francis’s Enduring legacy

Archyde: How will Pope Francis be remembered on the world stage?

Isabella Rossi: Pope Francis will be remembered for his compassion, his focus on social justice and his efforts to bridge divides.His willingness to address climate change and poverty resonated globally,making him a truly influential figure. Leaders and individuals from across the political spectrum paid tribute to him as a great leader has a large impact that extends far beyond the Vatican’s walls.

A Question of Reflection

Archyde: Reflecting on the attendees’ expressions, what specific aspects of Pope Francis’s leadership do you believe resonated most deeply with these global leaders?

Isabella Rossi: It’s interesting to consider. I think it was the sincerity of his approach, his emphasis on dialog, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, from the impoverished to world leaders. His actions, such a champion of fairness, inspired deep thought, for sure.

The Pontiff’s Influence Beyond the Vatican

Archyde: Do you believe the Pope’s strong stance on issues like immigration and poverty influenced international relations?

Isabella Rossi: Absolutely. His advocacy certainly shaped discussions on these vital topics. His words carried the weight of the Vatican, influencing policy debates and prompting nations to re-evaluate their stances. His message of hope and compassion undoubtedly encouraged dialogue and action on some of the world’s most pressing concerns.

Archyde: Many thanks for your insights, Isabella.

Isabella Rossi: My pleasure.

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Health

Young Adults & Historic Smoking Decline

by archyde
written by archyde

Smoking Rates in U.S. Plummet, Experts Project Further Decline, but Challenges Remain

WASHINGTON — The United States has witnessed a remarkable decline in cigarette smoking over the past several decades, a public health triumph decades in the making.In 1955,more than half of American adults were smokers.Today, smoking prevalence has plummeted to just 11.5%, and experts now predict this figure will dip below 5% by 2035. this steep decrease has invigorated efforts to eradicate the tobacco epidemic for good.

A Long and Winding Road

The meaningful changes in smoking habits were not immediate, of course. The shift followed early scientific studies in the 1950s linking smoking to serious diseases such as lung cancer. Those findings ushered in an era of slow but steady progress. The 1960s brought the first strong public warnings,and since then,smoking has declined in tandem with various public health initiatives.

Government action played a pivotal role. The 2009 Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act empowered the U.S. Food and Drug Management to regulate tobacco products. States, though, bore much of the responsibility for safeguarding public health, with many launching aspiring tobacco control programs. California led the way in 1988 with the first statewide effort; its success inspired similar programs nationwide.

A key inflection point arrived in 1998 with the Master Settlement Agreement. This landmark legal accord held the tobacco industry accountable for healthcare costs associated with smoking. It also restricted advertising, funded anti-smoking campaigns, and provided funding for tobacco control programs across the country. Despite these achievements, disparities persist, with variations in cigarette prices and investments in tobacco control contributing to different smoking rates and health outcomes across states.

State-by-State Progress Tracked

Researchers at the University of California San Diego recently analyzed data from a large national survey – the Tobacco Use Supplements to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey – to track smoking trends. This monthly survey,covering approximately 54,000 households,provides detailed insights into employment,economic well-being,and tobacco use.

Between June and October 2024, researchers examined responses from 1.77 million individuals to track state-level changes in smoking rates between 1992 and 2022. Thay assessed whether the gap between states with high and low smoking rates had narrowed and how these trends varied across age, race, sex, and education levels.Their study, published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that while differences in smoking rates still exist among states, the most significant declines occured in areas where smoking was previously most prevalent. However, gains have not been uniform across all age groups.“The rapid decline in smoking among young adults is clear evidence that the smoking epidemic will come to an end in our lifetime,” said Matthew Stone, Ph.D., first author and assistant professor at the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Moores cancer Center. “Indeed, we project that the national smoking prevalence will be under 5% by 2035. Though, the much slower decline in smokers over the age of 50, particularly in previously high smoking states, will mean that the high rates of lung cancer, heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that are caused by lifelong smoking will take longer to decrease.”

Young Adults Leading the Charge

The decline in smoking among young adults has been particularly noteworthy. Younger generations have shown a propensity to adopt healthier habits more quickly than older generations. This trend bodes well for continued reductions in smoking rates nationally. However, the slower progress among adults aged 50 and older could delay realization of the full potential of these improvements.

Need for Vigilance

John P. Pierce,Ph.D., corresponding author and Distinguished Professor at the UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, stressed the importance of sustained vigilance. “while the ongoing decline in cigarette smoking is a major public health success story,” he said, “recent evidence suggests that the tobacco industry has successfully recruited a new generation of teenagers into e-cigarette use and nicotine addiction. Further research is needed to assess the long-term impact of this shift.”

recent data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey show that e-cigarette use among middle and high school students remains a significant concern, with flavored e-cigarettes being particularly appealing to young people. The FDA has been cracking down on unauthorized e-cigarette products,issuing warning letters and import alerts to address the issue. These actions are aimed at preventing the marketing and sale of e-cigarettes to underage individuals.

Healthy People 2030

The Healthy People 2030 initiative, which establishes national health objectives, initially aimed for a smoking rate below 5%. Due to changes in monitoring methods, that target was slightly adjusted upward to 6.1%. However, the new research from UC San Diego suggests that achieving the original 5% target by 2035 remains within reach.

The research team conducted a sensitivity analysis, comparing states projected to meet the 5% target with states identified in earlier studies based on cigarette sales data. They found strong alignment,thereby bolstering confidence in their projections.

Continued Efforts

Reaching a low national smoking rate will require continued efforts. States with slower progress must strengthen their tobacco control programs. Some strategies, such as raising cigarette taxes, investing in anti-smoking campaigns, and improving access to cessation programs, remain vital. For instance, New York’s high cigarette tax (currently $5.35 per pack) is often cited as a factor in its relatively low smoking rate.

The UC San Diego team also emphasized, “efforts need to be tailored to different groups. Older adults, in particular, need targeted help to quit smoking. Without focused intervention, the benefits of lower smoking rates among young people could be overshadowed by continued high rates of disease among older Americans.”

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Technology

TikTok for Small Businesses: A Beginner’s Guide

by archyde
written by archyde

TikTok’s Reign: Short-Form Videos, Authentic Content, adn Small Business Growth

NEW YORK – Since its 2016 launch, TikTok has surged too become a dominant force in social media, captivating a global audience with its short-form video format. Boasting over 1.5 billion active monthly users, the platform has firmly established itself among the top five social media apps worldwide, a remarkable achievement in today’s competitive digital landscape, according to data from Statista.

Unlike many platforms that cater to specific demographics,TikTok’s appeal transcends age groups,attracting everyone from Gen Z to retirees. Users are drawn to the platform’s addictive blend of creativity, entertainment, and community, creating a diverse and dynamic habitat for both creators and consumers.

The Power of Short-Form Video

TikTok’s foundation lies in short-form videos, designed to capture attention quickly and leave viewers wanting more. This format aligns perfectly with modern audiences’ shrinking attention spans,offering a fast-paced stream of engaging content.

“TikTok is all about engagement through short-form videos,” said social media analyst Brenda Kaye. “These videos cater to modern audiences with a limited attention span and build excitement and intrigue to discover the next video.”

The raw and authentic nature of these videos is a key draw,particularly for younger users who appreciate genuine content over polished productions. This authenticity has fueled the platform’s growth,with users spending an average of 34 hours per month on TikTok in 2023. In the United States, users spend an average of 45 hours monthly, while users in the United Kingdom lead the world at nearly 50 hours per month.

TikTok as a Launchpad for Small Businesses

TikTok presents a golden opportunity for businesses, particularly small and emerging ones, to reach a wider audience and connect with customers in meaningful ways.Unlike traditional marketing channels that demand hefty budgets, TikTok thrives on authenticity, relatability, and innovation, qualities that small businesses can leverage effectively.

The platform’s unique algorithm prioritizes creativity over size, allowing even the smallest brands to achieve significant reach and cultivate a loyal following. Small businesses across various industries—from handmade crafts and local cafes to boutique fitness studios—are using TikTok to share their stories, showcase their products, and engage with customers on a personal level.”TikTok offers an extraordinary opportunity to expand your reach,” said marketing strategist James Stern.”According to TikTok’s research, 77% of european users say they’ve discovered small or medium-sized businesses on the platform before seeing them elsewhere.”

The impact of these discoveries is significant, with 35% of users who find a small business through TikTok’s “For you” page making a purchase. This highlights the platform’s potential as a powerful catalyst for business growth.

Essential Tips for TikTok Success

For small businesses looking to leverage TikTok’s potential, here are seven tips for creating engaging and impactful video content:

  1. Keep it Short and Concise: The platform is built around fast, digestible content, so aim to deliver your message quickly and clearly. Videos under 40 seconds tend to perform best.
  2. Share Educational Content: Provide valuable, informative content that highlights your products or services, positioning your brand as an expert.
  3. Be Authentic: Find a unique angle that reflects your brand values and personality,focusing on genuine community engagement rather than solely driving sales.
  4. Embrace Humour and Stay trend-Savvy: Adapt your content to current trends, but ensure they align with your brand personality.
  5. Use Music and Captions to Boost engagement: trending songs and clear captions can capture viewers’ attention and increase engagement.
  6. Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, participate in relevant discussions, and foster a sense of community around your brand.
  7. Analyze and Adapt: Track your video performance, identify what resonates with your audience, and adjust your content strategy accordingly.

As TikTok’s influence continues to grow, it remains an indispensable platform for small businesses eager to succeed in the digital age. By embracing authenticity, creativity, and a customer-centric approach, these businesses can harness the power of short-form video to expand their reach, connect with customers, and drive real results.

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Economy

Bitcoin Career: Japan’s Potential Impact

by archyde
written by archyde

Bitcoin Accumulation Heats Up as Nations and Corporations Vie for Digital Gold

Table of Contents

WASHINGTON – A global race to accumulate bitcoin (BTC), often dubbed “digital gold,” is underway, with nations and corporations alike vying for a stake in the decentralized cryptocurrency. This trend, which began in earnest in 2021, has seen El Salvador adopt Bitcoin as legal tender and other countries quietly amassing reserves. Now, the United States is stepping up its game, creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve, while corporate giants like Strategy and the newly formed Twenty One battle for dominance in the private sector.

A century ago, nations competed for gold to back their currencies. Today, Bitcoin is increasingly viewed as a potential cornerstone of economic power.

U.S. Establishes Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

The U.S. government is officially entering the Bitcoin arena. In March,then-President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a strategic Bitcoin reserve,according to sources familiar with the matter. The initial reserve will be funded using confiscated Bitcoin, some of which dates back to seizures totaling 400,000 BTC. While approximately 200,000 BTC have as been sold,the government is currently assessing the remaining quantity.

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), a long-time advocate for cryptocurrency, has reintroduced a proposal seeking the acquisition of 1 million Bitcoin, positioning the U.S. as a leader in the 21st-century digital economy. Lummis argues that such a move would bolster the U.S. dollar’s standing in the face of rising inflation and geopolitical uncertainty. The senator has long maintained that Bitcoin’s fixed supply and decentralized nature make it an ideal hedge against conventional financial risks.

El Salvador and Bhutan Lead the Way

El Salvador, under the leadership of President Nayib bukele, has been a trailblazer in Bitcoin adoption. After making Bitcoin legal tender, the country has accumulated over 6,000 BTC and maintains a policy of buying one Bitcoin daily to bolster its reserves.Bukele views this strategy as a means of achieving financial sovereignty and protecting El Salvador’s economy from the volatility of the U.S.dollar.

Bhutan, while maintaining a low profile, is also known to possess a notable Bitcoin reserve, estimated to exceed 7,000 coins. The Buddhist kingdom reportedly acquired these holdings through Bitcoin mining,leveraging its abundant hydroelectric energy resources. The country’s reticence about its Bitcoin strategy reflects a cautious approach,but its involvement in the global accumulation race is undeniable.Other nations such as china, the United Kingdom, Ukraine and North Korea are also part of this race, although with alerts about their intentions. This is because while China, which once accumulated 194,000 BTC from the confiscation of the Plustoken scheme in 2019, “It seems to have sold much of their funds.”

While countries like the United Kingdom and Ukraine “Thay evaluate sell their reservations” of 61,245 BTC and 46,351 BTC, respectively. north Korea, simultaneously occurring, accumulates 13,562 BTC through illegal activities led by the lazarus group, but its opacity generates uncertainty about whether it plans to retain or liquidate them, which adds an element of caution to its participation in this race.

Corporate Titans Clash for Bitcoin Supremacy

The private sector is also witnessing a fierce competition for Bitcoin dominance. Strategy, led by CEO Michael Saylor, currently holds the title of the largest corporate Bitcoin holder, with 534,741 BTC valued at over $50 billion as of April 2025.

Since adopting bitcoin as its primary reserve asset in 2020, Strategy has transformed its business model, utilizing financial instruments like convertible bonds to finance mass Bitcoin purchases. this strategy has fueled significant growth in the company’s stock value, outpacing the S&P 500 and solidifying its position as a key player on Wall Street. “consolidating it as a reference on Wall Street.”

However, a new contender has emerged: Twenty One, led by Strike founder Jack Mallers. Backed by Tether, Softbank, and Cantor Fitzgerald, Twenty One launched with an initial treasury of 42,000 BTC (approximately $3.9 billion). Mallers has positioned Twenty One as a Bitcoin-native company designed to challenge Strategy’s dominance.Mallers has directly challenged Saylor, stating that its model, based on metrics such as Bitcoin per action (BPI) and Bitcoin Return Rate (BRR), offers more efficient exposure. “We are not here to overcome the market, but to build a new one,” said Mallers.

Japan Eyes Bitcoin Reserve

Japan is emerging as a potential major player in the Bitcoin arena. Facing economic challenges stemming from a weakened Yen and trade tensions, some japanese lawmakers are advocating for a strategic Bitcoin reserve to safeguard the nation’s economy. Satoshi Hamada, a member of the Upper House, is one such proponent.

Japan’s entry into the Bitcoin race could have profound implications. “The entrance of Japan in the race to accumulate Bitcoin would have deep implications.” As a major holder of U.S. Treasury bonds, diversifying into Bitcoin could signal a shift in global financial power. Additionally, Japan’s advanced technological infrastructure and cryptocurrency regulation history position it as a potential leader in Asian adoption.

“What would happen if japan finally approves a strategic Bitcoin reserve and adds to the race to accumulate this cryptoactive?”

Potential impacts of Japan’s entry into the Bitcoin race:

Acceleration of global adoption: Japan’s participation could legitimize Bitcoin as a state reserve asset,prompting other nations to follow suit. Countries such as Russia, United Arab Emirates and the European Union, which until now have been cautious, could reconsider their positions.
 Reconfiguration of financial influence: A Japanese Bitcoin reserve could reduce dependence on the U.S. dollar and bonds, challenging U.S. financial hegemony. This would align Japan with Saylor’s vision of a “digital capital” that redefines the global economy.
Intensified corporate competition: Japan’s entrance, together with the boom of Twenty One, could inspire more Japanese companies to adopt strategies similar to those of Strategy.
 Impact on the price of Bitcoin: With japan accumulating BTC,institutional demand would increase,potentially raising the price. Currently quoting about $ 92,000, Bitcoin could reach a new past price, as Anthony Pompliano predicted, promoted by the “mania” of institutional and national purchases.

Counterargument: is Bitcoin Too Volatile for National Reserves?

While the potential benefits of Bitcoin accumulation are enticing,some critics argue that its inherent volatility makes it unsuitable for national reserves. The price of Bitcoin can fluctuate wildly, potentially destabilizing a nation’s financial standing. However,proponents argue that strategically allocating a small percentage of reserves to Bitcoin can act as a hedge against currency devaluation and inflation,mitigating the risks associated with traditional assets.

FAQ

Q: Why are countries and companies accumulating Bitcoin?

A: Countries are accumulating Bitcoin as a potential hedge against inflation, a means of diversifying reserves away from traditional assets, and a way to gain financial sovereignty. Companies are accumulating Bitcoin as a reserve asset, a store of value, and a way to attract investors.

Q: What is the potential impact of widespread Bitcoin adoption on the U.S. dollar?

A: Widespread Bitcoin adoption could potentially reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency, challenging U.S.financial hegemony. Tho, some argue that it could also complement the dollar by providing a digital alternative for transactions and store of value.

Q: What are the risks associated with investing in Bitcoin?

A: The risks associated with investing in Bitcoin include price volatility, regulatory uncertainty, security risks (such as hacking and theft), and the potential for technological obsolescence.

Q: How is Bitcoin different from traditional currencies?

A: Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency, meaning it is not controlled by any central authority, such as a government or central bank. Traditional currencies are typically issued and regulated by governments. Bitcoin also operates on a blockchain, a distributed ledger technology that provides transparency and security.

Q: How does Bitcoin work?

A:

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