Valmiera Dominates SĀC in High-Scoring Floorball Match, Closes Gap in League Standings

Valmiera showcased a powerful offensive performance, defeating FBK SĀC Đadaž with a final score of 13-7 in a recent ELVI floorball league matchup held at the Valmiera Olympic Centre. The victory allows Valmiera to draw level on points with FK Ķekava/RB&B, intensifying the competition in the league’s upper ranks.

Early Goals Set the Tone

The contest began swiftly, with Arvjas Karklinis of Valmiera capitalizing on a power play just two minutes into the game to establish an early lead. however, FBK SĀC quickly responded, equalizing at 1-1 through a goal by Tomas Kristofers Birstins during their own power play possibility. Richards Riba then restored Valmiera’s advantage at the 17-minute mark, setting the stage for a dominant display by the home team.

Valmiera Extends Lead in Second Period

Valmiera continued to control the tempo, extending their lead throughout the second period. They established a comfortable three-goal cushion, finishing the period with an 8-5 advantage. The team’s cohesive play and relentless attack proved to much for FBK SĀC to contain.

Key Performers Shine

Mārtiņš Broks and Ralfs Matīss Balodis were instrumental in Valmiera’s success, each contributing an impressive five points. Balodis was later recognized as the game’s best player for the winning team. For FBK SĀC, Ralfs Celminņš led the scoring with a hat-trick, while Niks Naglinņš contributed three assists and earned the best player award for his team.

League Standings Update

Following this result, both FBK Valmiera and FK Ķekava/RB&B now hold 34 points, vying for a top-five position in the league table.FBK SĀC remains in eighth place with 21 points. The ELVI floorball league continues to showcase competitive action as teams battle for playoff positioning. According to the International Floorball Federation, floorball is experiencing critically important growth globally, with increasing participation rates. Learn more about the sport here.

Game Statistics

What contributed to Valmiera’s dominant 13‑7 victory over FBK SĀC?

Valmiera’s Victory: Analyzing Their 13-7 Win against FBK SĀC and the Implications for the Latvian Futbola Virslīga

Valmiera FC demonstrated a strong performance on January 30th,2026,securing a decisive 13-7 victory over FBK SĀC.This win is particularly important as it levels Valmiera’s standing in the Latvian futbola Virslīga with FK Ķekava, intensifying the competition at the top of the league table. This article delves into the key aspects of the match, the strategic implications of the result, and what it means for both teams moving forward.

Match highlights & Key Performances

The game was characterized by a high-scoring affair, with Valmiera’s attack proving to potent for FBK SĀC to contain. While the specific breakdown of goals isn’t readily available at this time, reports indicate a dominant display from Valmiera’s forward line.

* Offensive Prowess: valmiera’s ability to consistently find the back of the net was the defining factor. Their attacking strategy focused on quick transitions and exploiting weaknesses in FBK SĀC’s defense.

* Defensive Resilience: Despite the high scoreline, Valmiera’s defense also played a crucial role, limiting FBK SĀC’s opportunities and effectively disrupting their attacking plays.

* FBK SĀC’s Struggles: FBK SĀC faced challenges in both attack and defense, struggling to convert their chances and contain Valmiera’s relentless pressure. Their defensive line appeared vulnerable to Valmiera’s speed and agility.

Tactical Analysis: valmiera’s Winning Formula

Valmiera’s success can be attributed to a well-executed tactical approach. Their coach, Tamazs Pertia, appears to have implemented a strategy that maximizes the team’s strengths.

1. Midfield Control: A strong midfield presence allowed Valmiera to dictate the tempo of the game and control posession. This control was vital in creating scoring opportunities.
2. Wing Play: Effective use of wingers stretched FBK SĀC’s defense, creating space for central attackers to operate.
3. Set-Piece Efficiency: Reports suggest Valmiera capitalized on set-piece opportunities, adding to their extraordinary goal tally.

The Meaning of Leveling with FK Ķekava

This victory isn’t just about three points for Valmiera; it’s about positioning within the league. Leveling with FK Ķekava creates a compelling narrative as the season progresses.

* Increased Competition: The tie intensifies the rivalry between Valmiera and FK Ķekava, promising exciting matchups in the future.

* Pressure on FK Ķekava: The result puts pressure on FK Ķekava to maintain their performance and avoid dropping points.

* Championship Contenders: Both Valmiera and FK Ķekava are now firmly established as strong contenders for the Latvian Futbola Virslīga championship title.

FBK SĀC’s Road to Recovery

For FBK SĀC, this defeat represents a setback. However, it’s crucial to analyze the game and identify areas for improvement.

* Defensive Reinforcements: Strengthening the defensive line is paramount to prevent conceding a high number of goals.

* Attacking Efficiency: Improving the conversion rate of chances will be vital for FBK SĀC to compete effectively.

* Midfield Stability: Establishing a more stable midfield presence will help control possession and dictate the flow of the game.

Looking ahead: Upcoming Fixtures & Predictions

The Latvian Futbola Virslīga season is still in its early stages,and much can change. Valmiera’s next fixture is against Riga FC on February 7th, 2026, a challenging match that will test their championship credentials. FBK SĀC will face Daugava Riga on the same day,offering them an opportunity to bounce back from their defeat.

Analysts predict a tight race for the championship title, with Valmiera and FK Ķekava emerging as the frontrunners. However, teams like Riga FC and Liepāja are also capable of challenging for the top spot. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the eventual champion.

The Impact of Player Transfers on Team Dynamics

Recent player transfers within the latvian Futbola virslīga have significantly impacted team dynamics. Valmiera’s acquisition of midfielder Roberts Ozols in the winter transfer window has proven to be a shrewd move, adding creativity and control to their midfield. Conversely, FBK SĀC’s failure to secure a replacement for their departing striker, Arturs Zinks, has contributed to their struggles in front of goal. these transfer activities highlight the importance of strategic recruitment in maintaining a competitive edge.

Fan Engagement and Stadium Atmosphere

The match between Valmiera and FBK SĀC was played in front of a lively crowd at the Valmiera Football Stadium. The passionate support from valmiera fans created an electric atmosphere, undoubtedly contributing to the team’s performance. Increased fan engagement and a vibrant stadium atmosphere are

Economy

Africa FDI Drops 38% in 2025: Investment Trends

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy January 30, 2026

written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Africa’s FDI Plunge: Resilience in the South Masks a Looming Investment Crisis

A staggering $59 billion – that’s how much foreign direct investment (FDI) flowed into Africa in 2025, a 38% drop from the previous year. This isn’t just a dip; it’s a stark warning signal, revealed in UNCTAD’s latest “Global Investment Trends Monitor,” indicating a potentially prolonged period of diminished international confidence in the continent’s economic prospects. While global FDI saw a 14% increase, Africa bucked the trend, highlighting a growing divergence in investment patterns and raising critical questions about the future of economic development across the region.

North Africa’s Dramatic Downturn: Beyond the Megaproject Effect

The most significant decline occurred in North Africa, where FDI plummeted by a massive 67%, from $51 billion in 2024 to just $17 billion in 2025. This dramatic fall isn’t a reflection of inherent weakness, but rather the absence of a singular, massive project: the Ras El-Hekma megaproject in Egypt. This $35 billion urban complex, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company, artificially inflated 2024’s figures. The reliance on such large-scale, one-off investments exposes a vulnerability in the region’s ability to attract sustained, diversified FDI. Without a pipeline of similar projects, North Africa faces a challenging road to recovery.

Sub-Saharan Africa: A Relative Bright Spot, But Cracks are Showing

In contrast to the North, sub-Saharan Africa demonstrated relative resilience, attracting $42 billion in FDI – a 6% decrease. However, this stability masks significant disparities. South Africa, for example, experienced negative net inflows of $6 billion due to a major divestment by Anglo American PLC, selling its stake in Valterra Platinum Ltd. This highlights the risk of capital flight and the impact of large corporate decisions on national FDI figures. Conversely, Mozambique shone with an 80% increase in investment, fueled by the resurgence of liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects. This demonstrates the potential of specific sectors – particularly energy – to drive FDI growth, but also the concentration risk associated with relying on a single industry.

The Rise of Greenfield Investments: A Positive Trend

Amidst the overall decline, a positive trend emerged: an increase in greenfield projects across the continent. Africa saw 639 new industrial projects announced in 2025, a 5% rise compared to 2024, driven by activity in Egypt and Ivory Coast. These projects, involving the construction of new facilities, represent long-term commitment and job creation, offering a more sustainable path to economic growth than portfolio investments or mergers and acquisitions. However, the sustainability of this trend remains uncertain, dependent on continued political stability and favorable investment climates.

Looking Ahead: Geopolitical Risks and Uncertain Prospects for 2026

UNCTAD’s outlook for 2026 remains cautious. While easing inflation and lower borrowing costs in major economies could stimulate global FDI flows, geopolitical tensions, policy uncertainty, and global economic fragmentation pose significant headwinds. Africa, particularly, is vulnerable to these external shocks. The continent’s increasing debt burden, coupled with political instability in key regions, could further deter investors. Furthermore, the ongoing fragmentation of the global economy could lead to a decline in cross-border transactions, impacting FDI inflows.

The future of foreign direct investment in Africa hinges on addressing these challenges. Diversifying economies, improving governance, fostering regional integration, and creating a more predictable regulatory environment are crucial steps. Countries that prioritize these reforms will be best positioned to attract the capital needed to drive sustainable economic development. The recent surge in LNG investments in Mozambique offers a blueprint, but it’s a blueprint that needs to be replicated across diverse sectors and regions.

What strategies do you believe are most critical for attracting FDI to Africa in the face of these global uncertainties? Share your insights in the comments below!

January 30, 2026 0 comments

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News

You are under 26 years old, this vaccine, now reimbursed, can significantly reduce your risk of cancer

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health January 26, 2026

written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

France Takes Bold Step Against Cancer: HPV Vaccine Now Available & Reimbursed Up to Age 26

PARIS, FRANCE – In a landmark decision poised to significantly impact public health, France is extending HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination coverage to all individuals up to the age of 26, effective December 12, 2025. This expansion, announced by the High Authority for Health (HAS), includes a 65% reimbursement rate for the Gardasil 9 vaccine, making crucial cancer prevention accessible to a wider population. This is breaking news with far-reaching implications for both men and women.

Why This Matters: HPV & The Silent Cancer Threat

HPV is incredibly common – affecting an estimated 8 out of 10 people at some point in their lives. While often asymptomatic and cleared by the immune system, in roughly 10% of cases, the infection persists, potentially leading to precancerous lesions and, ultimately, cancer. Currently, HPV is responsible for approximately 7,130 new cancer cases annually in France. But it’s not just cervical cancer. HPV is a significant contributor to anal, penile, vulvar, vaginal, and aerodigestive tract cancers – a fact often overlooked. In fact, a startling one-third of HPV-related cancers occur in men.

Beyond Cervical Cancer: A Disease Affecting Everyone

For too long, HPV vaccination has been viewed as primarily a women’s health issue. Professor Doctor Christophe Hommel, a specialist in travel medicine at Strasbourg University Hospital, emphasizes this misconception. “It is important to remember that a third of cancers caused by HPV infections affect men,” he explains. This broadened understanding is a key driver behind the expanded vaccination program. The virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact, meaning all sexual practices can pose a risk of transmission. Contrary to popular belief, condoms offer only partial protection, and even having a single partner doesn’t guarantee safety.

Addressing a Knowledge Gap: Why Young Adults Need to Know

A recent Ipsos8 survey for MSD revealed a concerning gap in knowledge among 18-26 year olds. While 80% have heard of HPV, only 30% feel well-informed. Even more alarming, only a third express concern about contracting the virus, despite being at peak risk. Many mistakenly believe protection during sex or having a single partner is sufficient, demonstrating a critical need for improved education. Dr. Hommel notes, “Many young people remain poorly informed about the risks associated with HPV, unaware that these infections can cause serious cancers in both men and women. This lack of knowledge hinders vaccination, which is essential to prevent these diseases.”

Catching Up on Protection: The New Reimbursement Details

While school vaccination programs have seen some success, coverage remains insufficient. In 2024, only 48% of girls and 24.5% of boys aged 16 had completed the recommended two-dose schedule – falling short of national (80% by 2030) and World Health Organization (90% for girls aged 15) targets. This new policy directly addresses this gap. Previously, catch-up vaccination was limited to age 19, with exceptions for men who have sex with men up to age 26. Now, all individuals aged 20-26 who weren’t vaccinated during adolescence are eligible. The Gardasil 9 vaccine is now reimbursed at 65% by Health Insurance, with the remaining cost often covered by supplemental insurance.

Vaccination Schedule & Continued Screening: A Two-Pronged Approach

The HPV vaccine is readily available through doctors, midwives, nurses, and pharmacists. The schedule varies by age: two doses spaced 5-13 months apart for those aged 11-14, and three doses at 0, 2, and 6 months for those aged 15-26. Importantly, vaccination isn’t a replacement for regular screening. Women aged 25-65 should continue to undergo cervical cancer screening via Pap smears or HPV testing, even after vaccination. This combined approach – vaccination and screening – offers the most robust protection against preventable cancers.

This expansion of HPV vaccination in France represents a significant investment in the health of its citizens, particularly young adults. By increasing access and addressing knowledge gaps, France is taking a proactive step towards reducing the burden of HPV-related cancers and safeguarding the future health of generations to come. For more information on HPV and vaccination, visit your healthcare provider or consult the resources available on the French Health Authority website. Stay tuned to archyde.com for ongoing coverage of this important public health story and other breaking news updates.

January 26, 2026 0 comments

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Economy

Boxing Day Sales Drop: 2025’s Shopping Shift 🛍️📉

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy January 13, 2026

written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

New Zealand Retail: The Quiet Shift From Boxing Day Sales & What It Means for 2025

Is the traditional post-Christmas shopping frenzy fading into a memory? Recent data reveals a significant downturn in Boxing Day spending across much of New Zealand, while grocery bills continue to climb. This isn’t simply a blip; it signals a fundamental shift in consumer behaviour, one that retailers must understand to navigate a challenging 2025 and beyond.

The Boxing Day Decline: A Regional Breakdown

Worldline NZ figures paint a stark picture. Core retail spending in December 2024 dipped by 0.2% compared to the previous year, reaching $4.702 billion. However, this overall figure masks a dramatic regional disparity. The West Coast experienced the largest Boxing Day spending fall, a substantial 29.4% drop. Wellington wasn’t far behind with a 28.7% decrease, and Taranaki saw a 15.1% decline. Even major metropolitan areas like Auckland and Waikato registered falls of 11.6% and 13.8% respectively. Interestingly, Gisborne, Nelson, and Marlborough bucked the trend, experiencing a rise in Boxing Day spending – a potential indicator of localized tourism or economic factors.

Key Takeaway: The decline in Boxing Day sales isn’t uniform. Understanding regional variations is crucial for targeted retail strategies.

Black Friday’s Diminished Spark

While Black Friday has overtaken Boxing Day as New Zealand’s busiest shopping day, its momentum also appears to be waning. Non-food goods spending on Black Friday alone was down 6.2% compared to 2023, and over the three-day weekend, the decline reached 4.6%. This suggests that even the allure of pre-Christmas discounts is losing its potency.

The Rise of ‘Essentials’ Spending

In contrast to the downturn in discretionary spending, food and drink sales rose by 4.4% in December. This isn’t surprising, given the ongoing cost of living crisis and rising grocery prices. As Proffit of Worldline NZ noted, consumers are prioritizing necessities, allocating a larger portion of their budgets to food and liquor.

Did you know? New Zealand’s food price inflation has been a significant driver of this shift, impacting household budgets and spending habits.

What’s Driving the Change? Beyond Price Increases

While inflation undoubtedly plays a role, the shift in spending habits is more nuanced. Several factors are converging to reshape the retail landscape:

• Early Christmas Shopping: Consumers are increasingly spreading out their Christmas spending, starting earlier in the year to mitigate the impact of potential price increases and avoid last-minute stress.
• The Growth of Online Retail: The convenience of online shopping continues to draw consumers away from traditional brick-and-mortar stores, particularly for non-essential items.
• Experiential Spending: Many consumers are prioritizing experiences – travel, dining, entertainment – over material possessions, diverting funds away from traditional retail.
• Shifting Generational Values: Younger generations are often more conscious of sustainable consumption and less driven by impulse purchases, impacting overall retail demand.

Future Trends: Preparing for 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, retailers need to adapt to these evolving consumer behaviours. Here are some key trends to watch:

Hyper-Personalization & Loyalty Programs

Generic discounts are no longer enough. Retailers need to leverage data analytics to understand individual customer preferences and offer personalized promotions and experiences. Robust loyalty programs that reward repeat customers and build brand affinity will be essential. See our guide on building effective loyalty programs for more details.

The Omnichannel Experience

Seamless integration between online and offline channels is paramount. Consumers expect to be able to browse online, purchase in-store, return items via mail, and receive consistent customer service across all touchpoints. Investing in technologies that facilitate this omnichannel experience will be crucial.

Focus on Value & Sustainability

Consumers are increasingly seeking value for their money and are more aware of the environmental and social impact of their purchases. Retailers who can demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing will gain a competitive advantage.

Expert Insight: “The future of retail isn’t about simply selling products; it’s about building relationships and providing value that extends beyond the transaction.” – Dr. Anya Sharma, Retail Industry Analyst.

The Rise of ‘Shop Local’ Initiatives

Supporting local businesses is gaining traction, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Retailers who can emphasize their local roots and contribute to the community will resonate with consumers.

Implications for Retailers: Actionable Strategies

To thrive in this evolving landscape, retailers should consider the following:

• Re-evaluate Boxing Day Strategies: Don’t rely solely on Boxing Day sales. Explore alternative promotional strategies throughout December and January.
• Invest in Data Analytics: Gain a deeper understanding of customer behaviour and preferences.
• Enhance the Online Experience: Ensure your website is user-friendly, mobile-optimized, and offers a seamless shopping experience.
• Prioritize Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service across all channels.
• Embrace Sustainability: Implement sustainable practices and communicate your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Boxing Day shopping completely dead?

A: Not entirely, but its significance is diminishing. While it remains a popular shopping day, the decline in spending suggests consumers are diversifying their shopping habits.

Q: What impact will rising interest rates have on retail spending?

A: Higher interest rates will likely further constrain household budgets, leading to a continued focus on essential spending and a reduction in discretionary purchases.

Q: How can small retailers compete with larger chains?

A: By focusing on personalized service, building strong community relationships, and offering unique products or experiences.

Q: Will Black Friday continue to decline in popularity?

A: It’s likely that Black Friday’s growth will slow, but it will likely remain a significant shopping event, albeit one that requires retailers to offer compelling value to attract customers.

The retail landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. By understanding these shifts and adapting their strategies accordingly, retailers can position themselves for success in 2025 and beyond. What are your predictions for the future of New Zealand retail? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

January 13, 2026 0 comments

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