VTubing – A Fresh Evolution Of Live Streaming? Find Out All About It

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Aug 31, 2022

Do you know about the latest trend that’s taking over the entertainment world for the youth? The new sensation on the internet is called VTubing and we have a feeling you want to be in the know about it. So, here’s everything you need to know:

What Is VTubing?

So, in VTubing (which is also known as VTuber, short for Virtual YouTuber), you utilize motion capture. This is done to operate a 2D or 3D virtual avatar rather than your actual face and body. Doesn’t it sound so Gen-Z?

This phenomena also originated in Japan. Moreover, it’s only been around for around five years which is why you might not know about it. But Japanese broadcasters who catered to the “otaku” (mega fan) anime audience rapidly adopted it and it has now become a strong competition for anime.

What Does VTubing Offer?

The new phenomena offers something special. It allows you to protect one’s identity while allowing popularity and wealth to VTubers. You can manipulate control over your gender, voice, identity, and race as a VTuber. Everything can be as you want. Now, this trend has become a big thing. BY 2021, it had a sizable global subculture following.

For English Streamers Or For Japanese?

VTubing initially was an independent, underground phenomenon for the English-language internet. But it all changed when the well-known Twitch streamer Pokimaine made live streaming history by gaming with a 3D anime avatar. It then became popular in late 2020. Pewdipie is also responsible for bringing attention to this trend. VTubing is also popular in niche communities. People aren’t very happy about others hiding behind a cute Japanese anime avatar because they don’t feel like being on camera. It doesn’t feel authentic enough.

But VTubers are so much more than “for fun” personalities if we look to a future Japan. Studios create VTuber characters that are utilized as influencers in promotions and fan interactions. Although there are independent VTubers, production companies like Polygon Pictures tend to produce the most well-known ones. This also equates to 3 million YouTube subscribers for the most well-known Japanese Vlogger, Kizuna AI.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Inflatable Furniture – A Sophisticated Version For Adults

By

Lyza Rashid

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Aug 31, 2022

Inflatable Furniture - A Sophisticated Version For Adults — Image Source: Twitter/ byseanbrown

Sean Brown is an interior designer and furniture maker whose works have made the headlines several times. His home line, Curves, is now onto something else that seems promising and frankly, very fun. His millennial-focused brand has grown over the past two years to now offer items like an archway chair and a floor mirror in the shape of a pond. Now it’s brought back something for adults from childhood times.

The Flashback

As another flashback, Brown has now created a collection of inflatable furniture. He hopes that this will appeal to the millennial generation. The inspiration comes from the understanding that now people’s sensibilities are becoming more and more influenced by nostalgia for their youth.

inflatable furniture adults — Image Source: Twitter

What Market Is Being Targeted?

Brown has also made a profile about his target market. He believes those who will be attracted to this line will have a strong sense of what they do and do not like. Moreover, they are people who are city lovers, usually rent, and are on a budget. Brown and his team have also observed that people now save up for a rug or a chair rather than an expensive pair of shoes.

This new thinking has to do with the pandemic. The pandemic allowed people to really feel their home and see the concept of it change. This new line is called Ego. It is a nod to something you inflate— inflatable furniture for adults because nostalgia for the old days is everywhere.

About Ego

Inflatable furniture first came in the 1960s by inflatable furniture innovator Quasar Khanh. He was a Vietnamese designer with a base in France. His work also served as an inspiration for the new Ego collection. Later, midway through the 1980s, Jan Dranger, a Swedish industrial designer, released a collection of inflatable furniture that was sold by Ikea.

Unfortunately, the furniture malfunctioned. Now, early in the new millennium, Ikea also attempted to create a range of inflatable kids’ furniture, this time with a better valve. But it never took off!

Brown is reviving this legacy. However, his ideas for inflatable furniture and rugs are inspired by nostalgia. He has learnt from the past rather than repeated it. Let’s see how the new collection goes!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Netflix Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary & Here’s How It Started

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 31, 2022

To honor its 25th Anniversary, the streaming giant ‘Netflix’ has shared an iconic video taking a trip down memory lane.

Netflix Celebrates the 25th Anniversary

While Netflix has soared to great heights in the past decade – the streaming platform has been around for much longer. To remind its subscribers of their humble beginnings Netflix released a short movie for its consumers. The clip starts with the classic red-colored DVDs which were initially rolled out when the company started.

The company was first formed on August 29, 1997, and allowed subscribers to rent physical DVDs from its vast library. While things have changed over the years, subscribers today can watch shows with a click of a button.

Take a look at the video

The video documented the early years of streaming and popular shows like Stranger Things, Orange is the New Black and Bojack Horseman. The video also addressed the power of fandoms on its brand longevity, recognizing “the fans who found something unexpected to love and turned it into something incredible,” while teasing much more to come in Netflix’s future. From cult favorites to currently streaming originals Netlfix took pride in the content they have generated for its audiences over the years.

The Binge-Watching Phenomenon

“Binge is the new way we watched stuff, and it gave everyone something to talk about,” states the entirely true voiceover. Netflix is responsible for the concept of binge-watching by dropping entire seasons of a series in one day.

Today fans and users all over the world wait for the platform to drop their cult-favourite series in one day so they can binge-watch it and go on a spoiler spree.

Netflix also took to Twitter to share a huge advertising board with its fans. Netflix also published a series of tweets to share fun facts about itself from the past 25 years.

You wouldn't believe how many stamps this needed… pic.twitter.com/vGgyCjkiit

— Netflix (@netflix) August 29, 2022

Did you know the first Netflix DVD envelope was white, not red?

Or that the iconic Netflix sound was nearly a bleating goat before we landed on TUDUM???

Here are 4 more fun facts you may not know about Netflix: pic.twitter.com/WyeKtUxfQl

— Netflix (@netflix) August 29, 2022

Some fun facts that Netflix has shared with its subscribers so far are that the first DVD that the company shipped was Beetlejuice on March 10, 1998. Boss Baby remains the most used profile icon globally, currently used on 11 million profiles. The first Netflix DVD envelope was white, not the current shade of red and the company first started streaming in 2007.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

7 Campaigns By KitKat That Have Proved To Be Iconic

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 31, 2022

These KitKat campaigns have been able to focus on the concept of “Taking a Break” as the brand’s popular slogan. The idea of integrating this message into these tasty chocolates would ensure that people should take a break more often. It’s become a ritual that these ads not only promote the tasty treat itself but also incorporate human behaviours to accompany the product.

Take a look at some of the coolest Kitkat campaigns.

1. Free No WiFi Zone

This advertisement/campaign shed the light on breaks from social media in a fast-paced world and asks us to take an actual break – a break from tags, like, updates and emails hence, creating a wifi-free zone to encourage people to slow down, take a break, and a deep breath. This campaign created a no WiFi zone that blocks reception and internet access within a 5-meter radius.

2. Have A Break

Kit Kat’s “Have a break, have a Kit Kat,” slogan is extremely well-known. Rather than completing the phrase, the billboard is set up to look as though whoever was installing it decided to give up on their job halfway through and take a break instead, abandoning the ladder and all.

3. Have A Seat

KitKat changed its iconic slogan to ‘Have A Seat’ as it installed KitKat-themed benches encouraging the audience to take a breather. Take a seat, take some time off from your busy schedule, and have a KitKat – the advertisement quoted.

4. Take A Break

The brand refined its slogan by asking its customers to take a break in a vacation style. The campaign shows red banners that have the slogan printed on them. However, in place of break, it had a space where they tied a hammock.

5. Massage Parlor On The Go

In 2015, KitKat installed banners at bus shelters that served as “mini massage parlours”. While massages are the perfect way to relieve stress, the brand has installed rub-down motors inside the billboards at the bus shelters. All the passengers have to do is lean against them, get one good comforting massage and bid goodbye to the bothering stress.

6. Break Accordingly

While we all have had our fair share of breakdowns at work – KitKat highlighted the dilemma. This extremely creative advertisement has been made by Reese Carpenter who’s promoting the idea of breaking toxic work culture norms.

7. KitKat On The Go

The campaign took KitKat on the go to the next level by creating visuals on an escalator. If you didn’t have one on while standing on it. You’ll crave one afterwards.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Daraz Partners with Saylani, JDC Foundation to Collect Funds for Flood Victims

By

Web Desk

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Aug 30, 2022

The recent floods have damaged the country’s infrastructure beyond repair, and in the process of doing so, have claimed more than a thousand precious human lives. Hundreds and thousands of livestock have perished and millions have been displaced and lost their livelihoods.

To help the flood victims overcome such difficult times, Daraz is collecting donation funds for them. You can choose to donate via Daraz app, or play your part by donating to its partners – Saylani and JDC Foundation. If you want to donate please click on the link and help Daraz reach its donations and help the people in their hard times.

Join hands with Daraz and let’s uplift the people together.

7 Loaded Fries Recipes To Satisfy Your Midnight Cravings

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 30, 2022

7 Loaded Fries Recipes To Satisfy Your Midnight Cravings — Image Source: I am baker

Everybody loves fries and if there is something people love more than fries – it’s loaded fries. Topped with a variety of cheese and dressings loaded fries are a snack you never get bored of. Be it afternoon or night they make a perfect appetizer or something to simply munch on.

Hence, today, we share some super easy loaded fries recipes which come together in just minutes and will be a perfect snack for your midnight hunger pangs.

1. Chicken Loaded Fries

This chicken-loaded fries recipe is the yummiest recipe you will ever get to try at home. The cheesy white sauce is the perfect addition to tantalize your taste buds while satisfying your cravings.

2. Lava Fries

These lava fries are not your ordinary loaded fries! This recipe is perfect to make your day or night and will definitely leave you craving for more.

3. Dynamite Loaded Fries

The true definition of finger licking is good. These fries are saucy and irresistible, topped with chicken, spring onion, and homemade dynamite sauce.

4. Pizza Loaded Fries

Craving a pizza and fries at the same time? Save yourself some time with these pizza fries. This recipe has everything you need for a midnight snack.

5. Cheese Fries

If you are not a fan of spending time in the kitchen then this simple recipe is the perfect fit for you. Get delicious fries from the comfort of your home without putting in the extra effort.

6. Cheese Fries

Indulge in this shake shack cheese fries with minimal ingredients and an easy recipe to satisfy your taste buds.

7. Loaded Stick Fries

Put a spin on your average loaded fries with this stick recipe. A perfect snack to curb your hunger pangs or serve on weekend brunch and dinners.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Blue Therapy: Here’s How It Can Help Boost Mental Health

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 30, 2022

According to a recent study, staying in contact with nature for about two hours each week can have a great impact on our physical and mental well-being. While the benefits offered by spending time in green spaces have long been established, time spent near blue spaces may actually boost health more efficiently.

What Is Blue Therapy?

Blue Therapy refers to the practice of spending time in front of a water body. The breeze, coupled with a view of the ocean, the sound of waves, and gentle water movements can have a profound effect on the mood. The blue color symbolizes calmness and soothing, gently putting the mind at ease.

Meanwhile, the purified air offers mental peace and stability thanks to the presence of microalgae. According to sources, the air along the seaside is often charged with negative ions. These negative ions offer a great advantage as they elevate the serotonin levels in the body and thus have a positive impact on mood.

Study Observations

According to researchers working on the Blue Health Project, a study on the health benefits of environments near water. People who live near a major body of water within 1km are often in better physical and mental health.

“You can look at the ocean or water as a normalizing background. In a natural environment on or near water, there’s a high degree of predictability. Unlike a busy street, a body of water is largely the same from moment to moment. The background we see is fairly controlled, which allows the emotional centre of the brain to relax. Likewise, if and when the brain notices a change in the background such as a wave or sea life there is a sense of novelty accompanied by a hit of dopamine.”

The study suggests that simply the sounds of nature, such as the gentle ebb and flow of water, lower stress. Further adding that walking along a pond improves well-being and mood. These effects can be noticed almost immediately in contrast to walking in an urban setting or simply resting.

However, access to the seaside and water bodies is not practical in certain instances. Researchers suggest that for those who don’t have the time or the means to go to the seaside, watching a film or a documentary about the marine environment could have a kind of placebo effect.

What are your thoughts about Blue Therapy? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Xiaomi To Join Hands With BAIC To Produce Electric Cars

By

Lyza Rashid

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Aug 30, 2022

xiaomi baic — Image Source: Xiaomi Planet

There is good news in the automobile industry and it has to do with electric cars. Electric cars are definitely the future of cars and all the brands are catching up with the trend. Read all about the latest development and why we will be getting more electric cars very soon.

What Happened?

In this year’s annual speech on August 11, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun shared some details about the company’s next automobile project. Xiaomi’s new car project featured a live video of a road test of their autonomous driving technology. The business shared that the testing of its autonomous driving technology has begun.

Xiaomi intends to test at least 140 automobiles around China in the initial phase. However, one car will be tested at a time.

New Manufacturing Advancement

The new Xiaomi automobile project has made a new manufacturing advancement. According to reports, Xiaomi’s efforts to secure a license to independently manufacture cars are becoming difficult. Bloomberg has said that the business and BAIC Group are now in discussions on co-producing electric vehicles. The two companies have collaborated to look for methods to work together. For instance, Xiaomi could be buying Beijing Hyundai’s second factory outright. This plant is already authorised to produce vehicles so it will speed up the process.

Moreover, according to the source, BAIC Blue Valley, a subsidiary of BAIC Group, is a partner with Xiaomi. It could become in charge of making Xiaomi vehicles. On the other hand, the 21 Finance and Economics cited a BAIC investor relations department insider saying, “I have never heard of this. It’s under wraps for sure”.

More About The Partnership

The Xiaomi and the Beijing Economic and Technological Development Zone Management Committee’s deal is a commitment. The deal was signed at the end of November of the previous year. It is for the construction of an automobile company headquarters base as well as sales and R&D headquarters in Yizhuang. The new plant will be a 300,000 vehicle per year automobile plant and will be constructed as a part of this Xiaomi partnership.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Pakistani Floods 2022: 7 Non-Profit Organizations You Can Donate To

By

Lyza Rashid

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Aug 30, 2022

Pakistan is currently going through the worst humanitarian and climate crisis. The entire North and South have become flooded to the extent of total destruction. Millions have been displaced, thousands injured and killed. At this time, many non-governmental organizations have stepped up to the mark and are now helping too. Here are all those who have risen to the occasion:

1. Indus Hospital

Indus Hospital is a well-renowned hospital known for its impeccable service and top-of-the-line medical care. Their CEO, Dr. Abdul Bari Khan spoke to the media recently detailing all the donations his hospital is collecting to provide relief to the victims of floods.

2. Al-Khidmat Organization

Al-Khidmat has helped so many people during the floods that it is truly transparent where their funds are going. They are providing care in Balochistan at the moment and are collecting money as well as other donations like clothes and food cans.

This is just not a picture, but a picture of culture, commitment and pursuit of ideology. It’s a purpose of life for many foot soldiers of Al-Khidmat & JI.
O people of open eyes and gracious heart, this picture tells you the story and unmatched services of Al-Khidmat. pic.twitter.com/wgXGWpHe2H

— Waad Syed (@WaadSyed) August 29, 2022

3. HANDS Pakistan

Hands is another organization in Pakistan that’s working around the clock to provide relief to those stricken by the floods. They are a Zakat collecting foundation that has branched out in these trying times to help whoever is in need.

The floods in Sindh, Punjab and Balochistan have taken many lives, homes and livelihoods of people. They need your urgent and help and support.

Donate now!
For direct deposit visit: https://t.co/MJ23sPtrkO
To donate online: https://t.co/mae9ogODBd
Or, contact: +92-346-111-777-1 pic.twitter.com/XdDvoMEoij

— HANDS (@HANDSPakistan) August 24, 2022

4. Edhi Foundation

Edhi is not a new name to any philanthropist or humanitarian. They are also collecting funds right now to help South and North Punjab to provide aid in whichever capacity. They are housing people, providing them clothing and also monetary relief to those who have lost their homes.

Alhumdulillah!❤
Raah Welfare Foundation Trust, in collaboration with Edhi Foundation, distributed ration bags and clothes to flood-affected residents of Nawab Shah and other Sindh areas.
Contact us if you would like to make a donation in the form of money or items. pic.twitter.com/N2WIfE9XpO

— Raah Welfare Foundation Trust (@RaahWelfare) August 26, 2022

5. Baloch Students Action

As the name suggests, Baloch Students Action is organized by students in Balochistan who are helping the people of their province by collecting donations and helping in whichever capacity they can. They are also calling out for funds and are transparent about their processes, making one feel safe with their donations.

Baloch students council is going to arrange a Flood victims Donation Camp in Bahawalpur. Time to contribute for needy. pic.twitter.com/iaUGNQ5FZm https://t.co/tc5M0lfP7Q

— Zarwa Baloch (@BalochZarwa) August 25, 2022

6. Women Democratic Front

WDF is helping Pakistanis affected by floods in the worst areas by collaborating with the local youth. They are collecting funds and donations to ensure that people in the worst affected areas get whichever relief they can at the moment. You can donate directly to their bank account.

WDF Islamabad
Women Democratic Front has been collecting funds and carrying out relief efforts in Balochistan, Sindh and Punjabpic.twitter.com/I12VlbtV9s

— Karachi Bachao Tehreek (@StopEvictionKHI) August 28, 2022

7. Sindh Rural Support Organisation

Moreover, SRSO is an NGO that’s brining relief to the victims of flood in Sindh. Their efforts are mainly centred around rehabilitation and they’re collecting funds to help your contributions save lives.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

PostEx, Pakistan’s leading fintech acquires Call Courier becoming the largest e-commerce service provider

By

Web Desk

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Aug 30, 2022

Pakistan’s ecommerce sector is set to hit $12B by 2025 as adoption and growth scales. In propelling this growth PostEx, Pakistan’s leading fintech, is today announcing it has completed the acquisition of Call Courier, a logistics service provider; to expand its logistics offering making it the largest e-commerce service provider in the country. This transaction brings together PostEx’s upfront payments, revenue-based financing, and technology with Call Courier’s nationwide logistics infrastructure.

Following the transaction, PostEx will now service 1.3m users with over 8,000 merchants across 500 cities in Pakistan, on track to becoming the largest fintech in Pakistan with a monthly loan book crossing $12m.

PostEx becomes the first company in the region to provide receivables factoring & logistics service that pays invoice values upfront to e-commerce companies; helping e-commerce sellers and SMEs to thrive, grow, and take full advantage of every opportunity that comes their way. PostEx, backed by leading investors that include Zayn, MSA, GFC, RTP, FJ Labs, Shorooq, VSQ, and others having raised $8.6 seed round – one of the largest for a Pakistani startup.

Call Courier will be a wholly owned subsidiary under the group name. PostEx welcomes Jawad Mirza, founder and CEO of Call Courier to its Board of Directors who will continue to play an integral role in the business while leading the logistics business.

Omer Khan, the founder & CEO of PostEx commented: “Banks just don’t lend enough to businesses leaving so many of them struggling to maintain their working capital in light of inadequate cash flows. Cash on delivery, while being a problem for such businesses, is very much a reality of the Pakistani ecosystem and is not going away any time soon.

The concept behind PostEx was to facilitate all players in the ecommerce sector struggling to operate and expand in light of the restrictions around access to capital and inefficiencies of logistics. The acquisition of Call Courier enables us to increase our reach and benefit from the great business and team Jawad Mirza has managed to grow over the years.”

Call Courier’s strong presence in Pakistan complements PostEx’s vision and nationwide footprint. This strategic decision brings PostEx’s total presence to over 500 cities; serving up to 1.3 million people monthly across Pakistan as the transaction enables both companies to leverage each other’s technological and operational expertise.

Jawad Mirza, the founder & CEO of Call Courier commented: “Having more than 2 decades worth of experience in the logistics and last-mile delivery industry has given us an understanding of not only bulk mail but also ecommerce, cash on delivery, and the needs of the sector. With this acquisition, it is time for us to venture into new horizons, accept new challenges, and continue to grow.

Call courier network joining together with PostEx’s fintech capabilities will enable us to provide quality deliveries across Pakistan along with financial support to the sector. It gives me immense pleasure to serve existing and new customers and providing a one-window solution for their needs.”

Over 90% of ecommerce transactions are completed in cash, which represents almost $6.5bn. The majority of the consumers who shop online in Pakistan pay using the cash-on-delivery payment method and the payment cycles for such orders range between a week to a month which creates cash flow issues for online sellers. PostEx is solving these challenges with its fintech and logistics platform. In addition to cash-on-delivery, PostEx also offers Revenue Based Financing to provide easy access to capital making it the first and last source of non-dilutive financing for e-commerce.

AUC Law, Salahuddin, Saif & Aslam Co. and MHBWHB Law Associates were the legal advisors for the transaction.

Nestlé Pakistan Donates 250,000 Liters Of Water, 10,000 Liters Of Milk Donations For Flood Displaced Communities

By

Web Desk

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Aug 29, 2022

Pakistan is experiencing the worst floods in its history and a national emergency has been declared. Over 30 million people have been impacted and the death toll has topped 1000.

In this time of crisis, Nestlé is stepping up its efforts to support vulnerable communities. The company is mobilizing relief supplies, in the form of donating 250,000 liters of clean drinking water and 10,000 liters of milk, in the second phase to support vulnerable communities affected by the devastating floods following National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) calls for flood relief efforts across Pakistan.

Earlier, Nestlé sent 60,000 liters of water to NDMA for flood relief efforts in Balochistan.

Highlighting the efforts, Samer Chedid, CEO Nestlé Pakistan said, “Access to clean drinking water is the biggest concern for communities displaced by flooding across Pakistan and that’s where we are focusing the bulk of our efforts.”

He added that the company had invited its employees to make voluntary donations for the affected communities. The donation intimations by employees will be matched 1:1 by Nestlé Pakistan.

Nestlé Pakistan will be working closely with national and provincial disaster management authorities to support them in relief work for the people and the communities affected by natural calamities. The company is working tirelessly to ensure that much-needed food and beverage products are available for our consumers across Pakistan.

At Nestlé, we care deeply for people and for the communities in which we operate, and we believe we have an essential role to play during times of crisis.

Jazz Pledge PKR 1 Billion Towards Flood Relief Efforts

By

Web Desk

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Aug 29, 2022

ISLAMABAD – Aug 28, 2022: Jazz, jointly with its digital financial services JazzCash and sister concern Mobilink Microfinance Bank, has pledged PKR 1 billion towards flood relief efforts through much needed emergency supplies and more significantly in kind telecom services. The support will include short to mid-term initiatives extending over 12 months.

As part of this immediate rollout, Jazz will work closely with NGOs and the government for distribution of emergency supplies including shelter, food items, and medical supplies. The relief response also facilitates Jazz customers to direct their charitable donations via SMS and JazzCash. Jazz employees will also be voluntarily contributing to the nationwide relief effort.

Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, Jazz said, “During this unprecedented time, while our thoughts and prayers are with the flood-affectees, we are also committed to ensure connectivity to aid relief efforts and extend a helping hand to our fellow citizens in terms of emergency supplies. For us it’s an obligation to respond to Pakistan’s time of need and we will go all the way in restoring the lives of those affected.”

Since connectivity is a lifeline during any crisis, a significant part of the support will be focused on continuing zero-rated and subsidized services for access to emergency care, rescue helplines. The company has also accelerated the sign-up process for JazzCash mobile wallets so that relief can be provided urgently by donors directly to local community members most impacted by the floods.

Jazz has been at the forefront of solving every crisis in Pakistan for the past 27 years and the recent flood is no exception in stepping up its national responsibility.

Asia Cup 2022 Live: Hardik Pandya 2.0 Finishes in Style for India

By

Huzaifa Gaba

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Aug 29, 2022

August 28, 2022 was the day cricket fans had been waiting for — the much-awaited Pakistan vs India match, which turned out to be worth the anticipation with Hardik Pandya powering India to a 5-wicket victory in the last over of the game. The final result looks pretty dominant, as a 5-wicket win is considered big in T20 cricket, however, the match was hanging in the balance till the very end.

Hardik Pandya was the star that stood out in this match; the world witnessed the comeback of Pandya — the Allrounder. He returned with figures of 3 for 25 with the ball, and later, scored 33 off 17 to chase down the total of 148 on a challenging Dubai wicket. Ever since, his return to full-time bowling this year, he has been a different player altogether, after dealing with back injuries that curtailed his bowling abilities.

But Hardik came a bit too late to the party both with the bat and ball, he gave the finishing touch and took India out of crunch situations, however, the man who kicked off the party was Bhuvneshwar Kumar. He picked up 4 wickets for 26 runs, including the all-important wicket of Babar Azam in the 3^rd over of the game. Babar’s wicket was the major breakthrough, considering Pakistan’s over-reliance on him and Rizwan. After Babar, Indian bowlers targeted Pakistani batters with bouncers and it worked almost every time. Rizwan top scored with 43 off 42, before falling prey to Hardik Pandya.

Pakistani batters never looked comfortable on the pitch, and an inexperienced middle order collapsed against sensible Indian bowling. Khushdil Shah and Asif Ali, who were trusted as pinch hitters, who could hit big, only managed to score 9 runs off 14 balls combined. Iftikhar Ahmed showed some intent with 28 off 22, however, it wasn’t enough. Before him, Fakhar Zaman made headlines for his honesty and sportsmanship after walking back to the pavilion even before the umpire raised his finger. But honesty doesn’t win you games, does it?

Sunday delivered! #INDvPAK #AsiaCup2022 pic.twitter.com/hQobwZBvpj

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 29, 2022

The match looked like a recap of India vs Pakistan from T20 World Cup 2021, with the team roles reversed, only until the second ball of the Indian innings. Indian captain Rohit Sharma and K.L Rahul, walked down to the middle with a paltry total to chase, hoping to replicate what Babar and Rizwan did in WT20. However, debutant tearaway Naseem Shah rattled K.L Rahul’s stumps on the second ball of his T20I career and sent Rahul back with a golden duck. Two balls later, he made Virat Kohli edge one to slip, but he was dropped luckily.

Virat survived a few more chances after this dropped catch, as two close inside edges went past his stumps. After those early hiccups, he looked comfortable and many people predicted this match to be his return to the old glory days. He was fluent in his innings, before giving an easy catch to the mid-off fielder off Nawaz. Ravindra Jadeja was promoted up the order and he took responsibility. He stood there till the very end along with Hardik Pandya to guide India home, but his lust for the glory shot sent him back before Pandya finishes off in style.

Although India won the match, they had to go past the inspiring young Pakistani fast bowlers, who gave a tough fight to their strong batting line, especially, Naseem Shah, who on debut gave a performance of a lifetime, while dealing with cramps. If it wasn’t for Naseem and Haris’ muscle cramps, they would have made things more difficult for Indian batters. Hope the cramps don’t get serious, as Pakistan cannot afford to lose any bowler after losing Shaheen Afridi and Wasim Jr. because of injuries.

This match raises many questions for both teams though in terms of performance, which they need to answer in order to win the Asia Cup. However, this match also emphasized the value of genuine all-rounders in modern-day cricket. Jadeja and Pandya both performed equally well in all departments, whereas on the Pakistan side, their all-rounders failed with the bat, and Khushdil was not even tried with the ball. Hopefully, Greenshirts can regroup and come out of their miseries in the next.

U Microfinance Bank Receives Global Recognition With Three Prestigious Asian Banking & Finance Awards 2022

By

Web Desk

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Aug 29, 2022

Islamabad – 29 August, 2022: U Microfinance Bank (U Bank), Pakistan’s fastest growing microfinance bank, has added another victory to its long list of achievements by bagging three internationally recognized awards by Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Awards, 2022. For its performance in 2021-2022, U Microfinance Bank has won the Asian Banking & Finance Wholesale Banking Award 2022 for Domestic Initiative of the Year – Pakistan, and the Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Award 2022 for Microfinance Bank of the Year – Pakistan (from the Domestic Retail Bank entry) and Islamic Banking Initiative of the Year – Pakistan.

These accolades pay tribute to U Microfinance Bank’s tireless endeavors over the past seven years towards increasing financial inclusion in the country and serving the unbanked population. Establishing itself as the fastest growing microfinance bank in the industry, U Bank is expanding its network this year by an additional 100 branches nationwide, warranting it to be awarded as the Microfinance Bank of the Year, 2022 – Pakistan by ABF. U Bank is also one of the microfinance banks in Pakistan to introduce Islamic banking services providing its clients with tailor-made, Shariah-compliant solutions for their financing needs, for which U Bank has won the award for Islamic Initiative of the Year – Pakistan.

Broadening it avenues, U Bank has successfully issued its first ever Social Impact Bond, to be used to finance loans for renewable energy, private schooling, low cost housing, and Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs), primarily in rural Pakistan. This innovative social initiative was widely applauded by ABF, for which U Bank has been awarded with the Asian Banking & Finance Wholesale Banking Award 2022 for Domestic Initiative of the Year – Pakistan.

Upon receiving global appreciation, U Microfinance Bank’s President & CEO, Mr. Kabeer Naqvi, expressed his gratitude and stated, “The three prestigious ABF awards rewarded to U Bank bears testament to our efforts over the past year in achieving improved financial inclusion for the masses, and it gives us great honor to have received this recognition. At U Bank, we take pride in being a mission-driven, customer-centric banking institution aimed at providing the best experiences for our wide spectrum of customers. Keeping this in mind, and despite economic instability in the country, we have incorporated six canvases into our core business model – significantly expanding our unique and innovative banking services – categorized as Rural Retail Banking, Urban Retail Banking, Islamic Banking, Digital Banking, Corporate Banking, and Corporate Finance & Investment Banking. These award wins give us renewed enthusiasm to continue to improve, innovate, and deliver out-of-the-box solutions that can help financially empower the underprivileged parts of Pakistan.”

The Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking and Wholesale Banking Awards celebrate Asia’s banking leaders and highlight deserving banking candidates on their innovative product strategies to create a larger impact. U Microfinance Bank has previously received the ABF Retail Banking Award for Rural/Cooperative Bank of the Year – Pakistan in 2021 and the ABF Corporate & Investment Banking Award for Microfinance Syndication Deal of the Year – Pakistan in 2020.

BeReal App: Slowly Taking Over Gen Z? Here’s What You Need To Know

By

Lyza Rashid

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Aug 29, 2022

There’s a new app on the block and it has taken all the attention and love of Gen Z! Gone are the days when Facebook and Instagram were the place to be for the youth of today. Now, they are shifting their attention to new apps popping up that are focused on close-knitness, intimacy and just being real. Have a look at the app that’s keeping it real!

The New Apps and Why They Matter

BeReal, Locket Widget, Yubo, and Poparazzi are the new apps for GenZ. They are the apps of the new generation and all of them are focused on intimacy between those who use them.

Locket is an app that allows you to take pictures throughout the day to show your friends what you are up to. They show as large widgets on your friend’s home screens! According to Locket founder Matt Moss, “Gen Z’s taste is shifting towards deeper, more individualized experiences.”

BeReal – The New Sensation

BeReal is a relatively new app that was created in 2019 by French entrepreneurs Alexis Barreyat and Kévin Perreau. They have also become viral lately and the app’s user base has boomed. The software basically asks users to shoot a front-and-back camera photo at the same moment, every day, within a two-minute window. The notification reads, “[your name], it’s time to BeReal.” The name says it all!

Users have the option to take it later. However, you can’t see what your friends have posted until you do. This is intended to nudge users to take a picture of whatever they are doing at the moment, regardless of how it is. It inspires people to be more genuine. BeReal is currently the top social networking software in the US Apple App Store right now. It was first the college students who got on board. However, now it is becoming increasingly popular, in part because of an ambassador program and incentives for joining up.

So, are we really witnessing the decline of Facebook and Instagram — the giants of social media? The latter is to be blamed for its decline as it attempts to mirror TikTok. Get on BeReal and Locket and see what the difference is all about.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

New Study Shows Men Might Outlive Women

By

Lyza Rashid

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Aug 29, 2022

men outlive women study — Image Source: Medical News Today

It has been a belief as old as time that women outlive men. But where did it comes from— was it ever backed by a study or was it simply another sexist belief? Whatever the case may be, this belief is being washed over by a well-researched, scientifically-backed study that proves otherwise. Yes, women don’t normally outlive men.

It is the other way around and here’s what you need to know about it:

The Lowdown

The conventional saying that women outlive men has been challenged by a study. Keep in mind that we especially talk about married men and men with university degrees. The study simply brought to us the finding that men have a “substantial possibility” of outliving women. It is true that they have a lower life expectancy than the other sex but they generally outlive women.

The Research

The research was undertaken in Denmark. The study showed that between 25% and 50% of males have outlived women amongst the hundred thousand they observed. They also suggested that summing the average lifespan can be a “simplistic metric”. This is because huge differences in life expectancy can cover major overlaps in lifespan between the sexes.

The study was presented in the BMJ Open journal. It looked at data on the lifespans of men and women spanning almost 200 years across 199 different nations. What did we say about well-researched? It showed that men are more likely to outlive women especially those who are married or have advanced degrees. The women they outlive are likely to be single or only have a high school education.

What Else Was Revealed?

The data also revealed other many interesting things. For instance, up until the 1970s, the possibility of men outliving women decreased in developed nations. However, after that, it shot up across all demographics. Researchers note that smoking and other behavioral variations are to be blamed for the life expectancy rates.

It concluded by absolutely tarnishing the age-old belief. They said, “Although male life expectancy is generally lower than female life expectancy, and male death rates are usually higher at all ages, males have a substantial chance of outliving females.”

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

Toxic Positivity And How It Can Ruin You

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 29, 2022

Positivity is the term often discussed in our day-to-day lives, but how often do we discuss ‘Toxic Positivity’? A notion so beautifully wrapped in itself that even talking about it is often avoided.

There’s no denying the power of positivity, which can provide comfort and hope when you need it most. But an extreme “don’t worry, be happy” attitude can dismiss pain, grief, and trauma and even potentially cause damage to ourselves and others. While an optimistic outlook on life is often preferred – following too much of it can have serious consequences.

What Exactly Is Toxic Positivity?

Toxic positivity is the idea that positive thinking should always be favored over negative emotions. It’s an active attempt to overlook or push aside any less-than-happy thoughts or feelings like anger, sadness or frustration.

Toxic positivity imposes positive thinking as the only solution to problems, demanding that a person avoid negative thinking or expressing negative emotions.

The research around positive thinking generally focuses on the benefits of having an optimistic outlook when experiencing a problem. Toxic positivity, by contrast, demands positivity from people regardless of the challenges that they face, potentially silencing their emotions and deterring them from seeking social support.

While toxic positivity can be thought of as an external trigger, it can also be self-inflicted. In general two types of toxic positivity have been reported.

Toxic positivity you can experience from someone or give to someone.
Toxic positivity you can inflict on yourself.

According to research, more than 75% of people said they sometimes, often, or very often ignore their emotions in favor of being happy.

How Toxic Positivity Can Effect Your Mental Health?

Accepting and acknowledging your emotions might be healthier than trying to get through it all by smiling. Why? Because denying your feelings usually comes at a huge cost.

1. It Creates Unnecessary Suffering

Toxic Positivity means denial of certain experiences, especially – anger, sadness, jealousy, and grief. While we all want our lives to be butterflies and rainbows – it is just not practical. Pretending that these feelings don’t matter. This attitude may appear to work short-term. But over time, toxic positivity takes its toll on you. No matter how difficult your experience is, if you push it away, you usually just make it harder. Suffering is born from resisting what happens to us.

2. It Can Undermine Your Relationships

At first, this may seem counterintuitive. You would think that your friends and co-workers will appreciate a person who’s always smiling. You may be holding yourself back from telling them about your problems. This way, you think you display your ‘best self to them. However, such an approach can easily backfire.

3. It Can Make You Insensitive

Researches suggest that happiness can have a dark side. It often lets us see the bigger picture rather than the small details. When we’re in a sad or neutral state, we’re more likely to pay attention to small details because we might think something is wrong or not quite right— hence our not-happy state.

A neutral or sad state lets us pinpoint more precisely what is causing our mood, identify it, and try to get rid of it as soon as possible.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

ITV Partners With Google Pixel & KFC Delivery For 2022 Fifa World Cup Coverage

By

Dr. Rida Qamar

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Aug 29, 2022

The Fifa World Cup is set to kick off in Qatar on November 21. The coverage of the world cup will be running through to December 18 across ITV’s broadcast, digital and social platforms.

The sponsors for the Fifa World Cup have already lined up. Recently, ITV has announced Google Pixel and KFC Delivery as joint sponsors of its coverage of the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar.

The sponsorship is said to be split 50/50 between the two companies. The broadcaster will share prominence equitably between both brands. The broadcast will be a part of a comprehensive package of custom idents which will be aired during each of the 33 live matches of the tournament. It is reported that ITV will be sharing broadcast rights with the BBC.

“We can’t guarantee that football is coming home for a second time this year. However, there’s one thing we are sure about, KFC. We’ll be bringing delicious fried chicken to millions of homes across the nation with KFC Delivery and that’s why we are proud to sponsor ITV’s World Cup coverage.” Says Jack Hinchliffe, CMO at KFC UK & Ireland.

According to Mark Trinder, ITV’s director of commercial sales and partnerships,

”The Fifa World Cup will be the outstanding marketing opportunity of the year reaching millions of hearts and homes around the UK. It will offer brands an opportunity to create campaigns. That will straddle a period of excitement and consumer spending in the run-up to Christmas.”

Fifa World Cup Partners

Other Fifa partners include Qatar energy, Qatar Airways, Adidas, Coca-Cola, Wanda, Hyundai and VISA as FIFA Partners.

“This year’s tournament will expand football’s reach and shine a light on the region. Bringing different cultures from across the globe together in Qatar to enjoy the best football in the world in stunning state-of-the-art venues.” Said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest news and updates.

META Affirms Stringent Approach To User Privacy In Virtual Session With Pakistan Media

By

Web Desk

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Aug 26, 2022

Meta – the parent company of Facebook and Instagram organized a virtual briefing session on its approach to privacy for Pakistani journalists in Islamabad. Arianne Jimenez, Privacy Policy Manager at Meta in the Asia Pacific apprised the reporters about the company’s policies to protect user data and information safety on its platforms. The program was part of its endeavour to foster awareness regarding user privacy and tools available to users to exercise greater control over their information on Facebook and Instagram.

The Meta representative said protecting people’s information is central to Meta’s vision which is why it designs privacy controls into its products with guidance from experts in areas like data protection and privacy law, security, interface design, engineering, product management, and public policy. She said Meta gives people more control over their privacy and security choices through specialized tools and features.

Arianne Jimenez emphasized that Meta doesn’t sell user information. Partners and third parties who have access to certain data are required to follow rules about how they can and cannot use and disclose the information. She further said Meta strives to help people understand its data practices by giving them more information and controls on its products, content, and ads. She said Meta’s privacy center serves as the educational surface for Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger and provides helpful in-depth information on privacy.
She said Facebook and Instagram show ads so that the platforms are available to everyone free of cost, however, people can take control of their ad preferences by clicking and managing their preferences right on the ad and the same can be done with posts.

She said Meta gives users tools for deleting anything they’ve posted or even transferring data to other services because Meta believes that part of having a free and open internet means that people should be able to transfer their data to other apps and services they use. She stated that the process of refining the privacy and security system is on-going at Meta and the company will continue to invest and innovate to give its customers the best user experience.

HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro Wins EISA’s Best Smartwatch Product for 2022-2023 Award

By

Web Desk

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Aug 26, 2022

Huawei Consumer Business Group (CBG) recently received an award from the Expert Imaging and Sound Association (EISA) for its latest smartwatch device, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro. Composed of over 60 of the most respected international specialist consumer electronics magazines, websites, and journalists, EISA named the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro its ‘Best Smartwatch Product for 2022-2023’, based on the independent technical reviews of its members. Huawei has been awarded this category for the third consecutive year. The award comes in the wake of several other publication awards for the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro, which has also won prestigious industry awards from the likes of Android Headlines, Tech Advisor, and PhoneArena.

In the judges’ comments, EISA referred to the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro as ‘Huawei’s most polished and perfected smartwatch to date,’ praising its ‘classic’ and ‘luxurious design’ which comprises a ‘titanium casing, ceramic back and sapphire glass face’ as well as Huawei’s ‘crisp’ and ‘colourful AMOLED display.’ Its ‘advanced operation system’ and ‘plethora of applications and features’ were also marked out for praise, including its blood oxygen level monitoring, stress testing, water resistance, and ‘exceptional’ battery life.

The latest instalment in Huawei’s highly popular HUAWEI WATCH GT Series, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is a flagship smartwatch which aims to marry exquisite craftsmanship with high-end aesthetics, allowing users to take their health and fitness to the next level, or even down to completely uncharted waters thanks to its 5ATM and 30 meters diving waterproof. Sporting a premium, Neo-crystalline look in either the Titanium or Ceramic colourway options, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is the ultimate workout companion which further illustrates the benefits of Huawei’s Seamless AI life and 1+8+N strategy.

Featuring a more robust battery life, and a 30 percent faster charging time than the last generation, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro also offers a host of specialist tracking features which can help users improve their daily lifestyle habits. This ranges from the device’s 100 plus workout modes and its ECG analysis to its Smart Heart Rate Monitoring and HUAWEI TruSleep 2.0 sleep tracker. In line with the Huawei Seamless AI life’s philosophy of connectivity, users can also pair the HUAWEI WATCH GT3 Pro with other smart devices, including additional Huawei products, as well as iOS and Android phones.

“All of us at Huawei are extremely honoured to receive the EISA Best Smartwatch 2022-2023 for the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro, especially since this marks the third consecutive year a Huawei device has won EISA’s esteemed smartwatch prize,” commented Kevin Ho, Chief Operating Officer of Huawei Consumer Business Group. “Huawei has long committed to using technology to enhance and streamline our day to day lives, allowing us to achieve both our personal and professional goals in a way that empowers our sense of self. With its plethora of health and fitness tracking features, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 3 Pro is the perfect example of how Huawei’s consumer tech aims to aid us in becoming better and happier version of ourselves.”