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Sony G Earnings: Profit Forecast Up, Demon Slayer Boost – Bloomberg

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 11, 2025

Sony Group Boosts Fiscal Year Profit Forecast to ¥1.43⁢ Trillion, Driven by Music & Semiconductors

Sony Group Corporation (6758:JP) announced a revised operating ⁢profit forecast of ¥1.43 trillion for the fiscal ⁢year ending March 2026,⁤ exceeding the Bloomberg-compiled consensus estimate of ¥1.423 trillion from 22 analysts. The increase is attributed to strong performance in both the semiconductor and⁣ music‍ sectors, alongside a reduced anticipated tariff impact.

A notable contributor to the music business’s success is the global performance of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Mugenjou Chapter 1: The Return⁤ of Akaza,” produced ‌with affiliated company Aniplex.⁣ As of October 17th,the film has generated worldwide box⁢ office revenue ⁤of $654 million (approximately ¥94.8 billion).

The company has also adjusted its currency⁢ exchange rate assumptions to approximately ¥145 to the US⁢ dollar (previously ¥143) and ¥164 to the Euro (previously ⁢¥157). Alongside the⁢ profit revision, Sony announced a treasury stock repurchase program authorizing up to 35 million shares (0.59% of outstanding shares excluding treasury stock) with a maximum value of ¥100 billion.

Sony Group is ‍increasingly focused on its⁣ entertainment businesses, with games, music,⁢ and movies now representing‍ roughly 70% ⁤of the projected operating profit for the ⁤current fiscal year. This‍ focus has been further solidified by the recent public listing of‍ Sony Financial Group in ‍late September.

The game business continues to benefit from a growing playstation 5 user base five years after its launch, with stable growth expected in the platform business, aided by favorable exchange rates.

Morningstar Director Kazunori Ito commented positively on the results, stating the company deserves “an honest positive evaluation” due to ⁤its ⁢strong financial performance. He highlighted the growing importance of ‍acquired music and anime content as a core pillar supporting the entire group. Regarding semiconductors, Sony ⁢noted ⁢strong performance from image sensors used in new iPhone models, stating they will “keep an ⁢eye on the sustainability of this momentum.”

Following ⁣the proclamation, Sony Group shares rose 6.7% in afternoon trading on the Tokyo market, reaching ¥4,569 – the highest intraday increase sence October 6th.

(Interview cooperation: Takashi Mochizuki)

November 11, 2025 0 comments

World

Car Buyer Check Scam: What to Know Before Cashing a Check

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 10, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

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Classic Car Sale scam: protecting Yourself When Selling Out ‍of State

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Classic Car Sale scam: protecting Yourself When Selling Out ‍of State

Selling a beloved classic car⁣ can be bittersweet, especially when finding a buyer from a distance. Though, a recent surge in scams targeting sellers has ⁣prompted warnings about fraudulent transactions, especially those involving checks. ⁤The core issue: scammers exploit the trust associated with seemingly legitimate ⁢payment ‌methods to steal vehicles.

The Rising Threat of Car Sale Scams

Many individuals are now listing ‍vehicles online, expanding their ⁣potential buyer pool nationally. This increased reach, while beneficial, also opens the door to sophisticated scams. Scammers often pose as eager buyers willing to ‍pay a premium, but their methods are designed to ⁣ultimately leave you without your‍ car and your money.

did ⁤You Know? Vehicle fraud is consistently ranked among the‌ top scams reported ⁢to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

How the ⁤scam Works

The typical‍ scenario involves ‌an out-of-state buyer offering to purchase a classic car. they send a check – often for more than the agreed-upon price – and request that the ⁤seller cash it immediately. The buyer then explains the⁢ overpayment is to cover shipping costs. Once the check ⁢clears (or appears to), the buyer arranges for a third-party transport company to pick up the ⁤vehicle. however, the check is ultimately fraudulent, and the seller is responsible for the full ⁣amount, including the “shipping” funds they sent to the ⁤scammer.

Once the check clears, the buyer will send a trailer ‍to pick up the car. ⁤ – Quentin Fottrell, 2025-11-10 11:30:00

Key Red Flags to Watch For

Identifying potential scams requires‌ vigilance. Be wary ‌of these common indicators:

Red Flag	Action
Overpayment	Reject immediately
Urgency	Slow down the process
Third-Party Transport	Verify independently
out-of-State Buyer	increased caution needed
Unusual Payment Method	Demand secure options

Protecting Yourself During a Car Sale

Several steps can substantially reduce your risk of falling victim to a car sale⁤ scam:

Verify the ⁤Check: Do not rely solely on your bank’s initial clearance.‍ Contact the issuing bank directly to confirm the funds are available and legitimate.
Secure Payment Methods: Insist on a secure payment method like a cashier’s check verified by the bank, a wire transfer (though these⁢ can also be reversed⁢ by scammers, so⁣ proceed with caution), or cash in person.
Independent Transport: If shipping is necessary, arrange the transport yourself thru a ‍reputable company you’ve researched. Do not use a transport company recommended by the⁢ buyer.
Delay Release of Vehicle: ⁣ ‍ Do not release the vehicle until you are absolutely certain the funds are secure and verified.

Pro Tip: Always⁣ meet the buyer in a safe, public location – preferably at your bank – for the transaction.

Timeline of a Typical Scam

Understanding the scam’s progression can help you identify and avoid it:

Buyer⁤ contacts seller with an offer.
Buyer sends a check for more ⁢than the agreed ⁢price.
Seller cashes the check and sends back the ‍overpayment for “shipping.”
Buyer arranges for a third-party transport company.
The ⁢check bounces, leaving the seller liable for the funds.
The vehicle is transported, and the seller is left with a financial loss.

federal Trade Commission: “Be⁣ wary of buyers who offer to pay with a cashier’s check or official check, ⁤and then⁤ ask you to send them back the difference.”

The FTC provides

November 10, 2025 0 comments

Health

Manage heart disease without pills or diet? Single treatment to cut bad cholesterol in half

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor November 9, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Novel Procedure Demonstrates Potential to Lower ‌Cholesterol‌ and Manage Heart Disease⁤ Without Medication

London, UK – November⁤ 9, 2025 ‍ – A ⁢groundbreaking treatment, currently undergoing clinical trials,‌ offers a‌ potential path to managing heart disease and substantially reducing “bad” cholesterol⁣ levels without relying on customary pharmaceutical interventions⁤ or‍ restrictive diets. Early results indicate⁤ the procedure can cut LDL cholesterol – ‍a key contributor to heart disease – by as much⁢ as 50%, presenting a novel approach for the millions ⁢globally affected by cardiovascular ailments.

Heart disease‌ remains the leading cause ⁤of death worldwide, impacting an estimated 17.9 ⁣million‌ lives annually, according⁣ to ⁣the World Health⁢ Organization. Current management strategies often‌ involve lifelong ⁣medication and significant lifestyle changes, posing challenges ⁤for patient adherence and long-term efficacy. This ⁢new treatment,developed‍ by ⁢researchers at King’s College London,targets a specific protein in ⁢the liver responsible for cholesterol ⁣regulation,offering a potentially more enduring‍ and less burdensome solution.The research, published ‍in The Lancet on November 8, 2025, details a minimally invasive ⁤procedure utilizing targeted gene⁢ editing technology.

The treatment involves a single injection containing modified⁤ mRNA ⁢molecules ‍designed to instruct liver⁢ cells to produce a protein that binds to and neutralizes PCSK9, a protein that prevents⁣ the liver⁢ from removing LDL⁤ cholesterol from the bloodstream. In ⁤a Phase 1 clinical trial involving 30 participants with high cholesterol levels, the procedure⁣ demonstrated ⁤a‌ consistent ‍and‌ significant reduction in LDL cholesterol within four weeks of treatment, with⁢ effects ‌lasting for at least six months.

“We are incredibly encouraged by these initial findings,” stated Dr. Amelia Stone, lead researcher on the project. “The ability to significantly‌ lower cholesterol with a single treatment, without the need for⁣ ongoing medication, could revolutionize the way we approach heart disease management.”

Researchers emphasize that the treatment is still in its early ‍stages of growth and requires further investigation⁣ through larger, randomized controlled trials ‍to confirm its long-term safety and efficacy. Phase‍ 2 trials, involving a broader patient population, are⁣ scheduled to⁣ begin in early 2026 across multiple European ‍sites.⁢ ‍If prosperous, this innovative approach could offer a new hope for individuals seeking to proactively manage their heart health‌ and reduce their risk of cardiovascular events.

November 9, 2025 0 comments

Entertainment

Louvre Heist Star: Teen Who Let Mystery Unfold

by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor November 9, 2025

written by Julia Evans – Entertainment Editor

Teen ‍Identified as ‘Fedora Man’ in Louvre Heist Photo Embraces Viral Fame

PARIS – The teenager who captivated the internet as “Fedora Man” – the stylish figure seen ⁢near armed‍ police⁢ during the ‍Louvre⁣ Museum theft earlier this⁣ month – has been identified as 18-year-old Pedro, a student⁢ from a school without‍ a uniform. The image, quickly circulating online, sparked widespread speculation about his involvement in the audacious heist,⁣ with many users crafting elaborate narratives ⁤of a sophisticated detective.

Pedro, however, says his distinctive style – a penchant for three-piece suits and ‍fedoras – is simply a personal⁤ aesthetic inspired by 20th-century history and classic fictional detectives. “I like to be chic,” he said. “I go to‌ school like this.” His appearance,a stark contrast to the hoodies and sneakers favored by his peers,has already⁤ begun ⁤to influence his friends,with one recently appearing to school wearing a tie.

The Louvre incident, which involved the theft of several artworks, quickly went viral, but it was a single photograph of Pedro that truly captured the public imagination.‍ Millions projected a narrative onto the image, envisioning him as a key player in unraveling the crime. pedro, recognizing the power of the image, remained silent for several days, allowing the “myth” to develop before revealing his identity.

“People had to try to find who I am,” he explained after making his Instagram account public.”Then journalists came, and I told them my age. They were extremely surprised.”

Pedro’s upbringing, steeped in art and history, likely‍ contributed to his unique style. ⁢His mother, Félicité Garzon Delvaux, grew up in an 18th-century museum-palace as the daughter of a curator and an artist, and regularly takes her son to exhibits. “Art and museums are living spaces,” she said. “Life without art is not life.”

Now, Pedro is ⁢embracing his newfound fame, even playfully anticipating potential opportunities. “I’m waiting for people to contact me for films,”‌ he said, grinning. “That would ⁣be very⁣ funny.” He‌ insists he will continue to dress in his signature style, viewing it as an ongoing “experiment.”

The case remains under investigation, but⁣ “Fedora Man” has⁢ emerged as an unexpected symbol – a reminder, as Pedro himself puts it, ⁢that “art, style ‌and ⁣a good mystery belong to‌ ordinary life.”

November 9, 2025 0 comments

World

Can $3800 Income and $984 Mortgage Really Work?

by Priya Shah – Business Editor November 8, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

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Estranged ‌Wife, colombian⁤ Offer: An 83-Year-Old’s Dilemma

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Estranged ‌Wife, colombian⁤ Offer: An 83-Year-Old’s Dilemma

An eighty-three-year-old man‌ is ‌grappling with a complex life decision: whether to sell his home for $500,000 and‍ relocate to Colombia with his estranged wife. ⁢Teh situation highlights the financial pressures faced by seniors and the emotional‍ complexities of long-term relationships.

The ⁣man, who earns $3,800 per month, currently manages with ‍a mortgage payment of $984. He expresses significant⁤ financial strain, stating, I can just barely handle⁤ my ⁢expenses (Fottrell, 2025). Selling his house would provide a substantial financial cushion, but the prospect of rekindling a ⁣relationship with his estranged wife adds another layer of difficulty.

Financial Breakdown

The core⁣ of the decision revolves around financial security. While the $500,000 from the house sale offers potential stability, the cost of living ⁤in Colombia and the ⁣uncertainties of a renewed ‍relationship‌ must be carefully ⁤considered.

Item	Amount
Age	83
Monthly Income	$3,800
Mortgage Payment	$984
House Sale Estimate	$500,000
Estrangement Status	Estranged Wife
Proposed Location	Colombia

Did You Know? ⁤Colombia ‌is increasingly popular among retirees ⁢due to its ‍lower cost of living and favorable climate.

Emotional Considerations

Beyond⁣ the financial aspects, the emotional toll of an‍ estranged relationship is significant. Reconnecting with a former ⁣partner after a period of separation requires⁢ careful consideration and realistic expectations. The man‌ must ‌assess whether a⁣ move to colombia would‌ genuinely improve his well-being or simply introduce new‍ challenges.

Pro Tip: Before making⁤ any major ⁣life⁣ decisions, especially involving finances ‌and⁤ relationships, seek advice from a trusted financial advisor and ‌therapist.

“Sometimes, the ⁤most⁤ financially sound ⁢decision isn’t the best one for your emotional health.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Geriatric psychologist.

timeline of Key Factors

The decision isn’t happening in a vacuum. Several factors have ‍converged to ‍create this pivotal moment for the man.

2025-11-08: ⁢Initial report⁢ of the man’s dilemma (Fottrell, 2025).
Ongoing: ⁢ Financial strain due to ⁢mortgage and living⁤ expenses.
Recent: Estranged wife’s‍ invitation to relocate to Colombia.

The man’s situation underscores the growing⁢ number of seniors facing financial insecurity and complex personal choices. Navigating these challenges⁤ requires careful planning,‍ realistic assessment,⁢ and ⁢a willingness to seek ‍support.

What factors would *you* prioritize in this situation – financial ⁣security or‌ the potential for rekindled ⁤companionship? Would you share this story with ‍someone who might be facing a similar decision?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is ⁤the biggest financial ‍concern for this man?

A: ‍His primary⁤ concern is managing his ⁢expenses with a fixed income and a substantial mortgage payment.

Q: What is the potential benefit ‌of selling his house?

⁢A: Selling his house would provide him with $500,000,⁣ offering financial security and ⁣potentially covering the costs of relocation and ⁢living expenses.
⁢

Q: What emotional⁤ challenges does‌ he face?

‍ A: He ⁣faces the emotional complexities of potentially rekindling a relationship with his‍ estranged ‌wife.

Q: Is Colombia a

November 8, 2025 0 comments

Health

Title: Melatonin and Heart Health: What the Study Really Means

by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor November 8, 2025

written by Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor

Melatonin Use Linked to ⁣Cardiovascular Issues in new Study

NEW YORK (AP) – A new study is raising concerns about‍ the potential cardiovascular effects of melatonin, a widely used over-the-counter sleep aid. Researchers found individuals with higher levels of melatonin in ⁢their bloodstreams exhibited a ‌significantly increased risk of⁤ cardiovascular disease,⁤ prompting calls for further examination into the⁣ long-term effects ⁤of the ‍supplement.

The study,⁢ conducted by researchers from ‍SUNY Downstate⁣ Health Sciences University, ⁣analyzed data from over 22,000 participants ⁣and revealed ⁣those with the highest melatonin levels had a 53% increased risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those with the lowest⁢ levels. ⁢While the‍ findings don’t prove⁤ melatonin ‍ causes heart problems,they highlight a correlation that warrants closer scrutiny,particularly given the supplement’s growing popularity.

melatonin is naturally ⁣produced by the body to regulate sleep,but is also‌ commonly taken as⁣ a supplement to address insomnia,jet lag,and othre sleep ⁤disturbances. It’s⁢ readily available over-the-counter in the United States, unlike some other countries where ⁢a prescription is required. This accessibility, coupled with ⁢increasing stress‍ and sleep disruptions, has led to a surge in melatonin use.

however, experts⁤ caution against drawing definitive conclusions. ⁣Northwestern University cardiology chief Dr. Clyde Yancy, who was not involved in the study, pointed out that ‍the ⁢research didn’t ‌account for dosage or whether ‌participants were using melatonin under a doctor’s guidance. “Americans⁤ in the study might have used the supplements without it being recorded,” he said.

Furthermore, the quality and ingredients ⁤of melatonin supplements can ‌vary significantly,‍ as ⁤they aren’t subject to strict government approval in the U.S. Emory University’s Dr.⁤ Sandesara ⁢recommends patients discuss melatonin use with their⁣ doctors, noting it’s generally‍ advised for short-term issues like jet lag.

Dr.Yancy emphasized⁢ that the study ⁣doesn’t demonstrate a⁣ danger from long-term melatonin use, but also stated there’s currently no evidence supporting indefinite‌ use. He added that prioritizing good “sleep hygiene” – such as ensuring‍ a dark bedroom and⁢ limiting exposure to blue light from screens at ‍night – ⁣remains a key strategy for better sleep. ‍”When we expose⁣ ourselves to blue light in particular at night, we are diminishing our melatonin levels. That’s science,” he said.⁢ “Sleep problems aren’t about ‘just being⁢ sleepy and tired – ⁢they’re putting yourself at⁤ risk.'”

The Associated Press Health and Science Department ⁤receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson‍ Foundation. The AP is⁤ solely responsible for all content.