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Luxury Watch Radar: Rolex Prices Drop as Cheaper Rivals Outperform!

The demand for pre-owned Rolex watches declined in the secondary market last month. In contrast, entry-level models and brands like Cartier and Omega experienced better performance. The Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index reported a 2.2% decrease in the Rolex timepieces index in September. Meanwhile, an index of 100 entry-level watches, usually priced below £7,500 ($9,120), witnessed a 0.8% drop during the same timeframe.

This trend suggests that collectors and enthusiasts are hesitant to invest in highly sought-after models from top Swiss brands, especially after the price surge in 2021 and early 2022. Notably, prices for Rolex, Patek, and other premium pre-owned models reached record highs in the secondary market during the pandemic. However, they began to decline sharply from April 2022, influenced by rising interest rates and the downfall of several cryptocurrencies.

Cartier watches, featuring popular models like the Tank and Santos, performed the best among brand indexes, with only a 0.4% decline. The Omega index, which includes the Speedmaster Moonwatch, decreased by 1.2%. Tudor, Rolex’s more affordable sister brand, saw its index drop by 1.8%.

Over the past six months, lower-priced, entry-level watches have outperformed the overall market, as well as the Rolex and Patek Philippe indexes. The Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index, which comprises the 50 most traded watches by value from Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, has decreased by about 5% in six months. In comparison, the Entry-Level 100 index has only fallen by 0.7% during the same period.

The Cartier index, which includes many models priced below £7,500, emerged as the top performer, gaining 2% over six months. However, an exception to this trend is the Rolex sister brand Tudor. Its entry-level priced watches have declined by 4.8% in six months, as per Subdial data.

Despite these trends, most watches in the Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index from Patek, AP, and Rolex continue to command prices on the secondary market higher than their retail price. On the other hand, most entry-level priced models, ranging from brands like Breitling to Cartier to Omega, typically trade below their retail price on the secondary market.In a year-over-year comparison, the Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index has decreased by 12%, while the Entry Level 100 index has seen a 1.2% increase.

The TikTok Superfood Turmeric And Its Health Benefits!

Turmeric is currently hyped on TikTok, along with ginger and lemon juice, as one of the wonder weapons for all sorts of health problems or how to avoid them. Turmeric, also known as curcuma or the “Golden Spice,” is a bright yellow spice derived from the rhizome of the curcuma longa plant. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its therapeutic properties.

Turmeric Health Benefits

In recent years, scientific research has delved into understanding the health benefits of turmeric, and the results have been promising. Nutrition experts call turmeric a superfood and point to the exceptional health properties of the spice. Here’s a summary of the latest research findings:

  1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: One of the most well-known benefits of curcuma is its anti-inflammatory effects. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of inflammatory molecules in the body.
  2. Antioxidant Boost: Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals and boost the body’s own antioxidant enzymes. This helps protect cells from oxidative damage, which is believed to be a major factor in aging and many diseases.
  3. Brain Health: Recent studies suggest that curcumin may increase brain levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a growth hormone that functions in the brain. This could be beneficial in delaying or even reversing brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function.
  4. Heart Health: Curcuma has been linked to improved endothelial function, which is vital for heart health. The endothelium is the lining of the blood vessels, and its proper functioning is crucial for heart health. Curcumin’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties contribute to its cardiovascular benefits.
  5. Natural Anti-Depressant: Some research indicates that curcumin has the potential to boost serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, making it a potential natural remedy for depression.
  6. Arthritis Relief: Due to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, curcuma has been found effective in treating symptoms of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis.
  7. Cancer Prevention: Preliminary studies suggest that curcumin may prevent the growth of cancerous cells and reduce the spread of cancer. While more research is needed, the results are promising.
  8. Digestive Health: Curcuma can promote healthy digestion and may offer relief from digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease.

It’s important to note that while curcuma offers numerous health benefits, it’s not a cure-all. It’s always essential to consult with healthcare professionals before making significant changes to one’s diet or supplement regimen.

Read also our article about the healthy lemon and ginger drink.

    On TikTok and various nutrition and wellness websites, the combination of turmeric with ginger and lemon in the form of drinks is recommended for detoxifying the body. The combination of these three components is said to work wonders for the liver and skin in particular and is also anti-inflammatory. We can thus add turmeric to the ranks of the superfood portfolio of the TikTok generation.

    How Hackers Of Gen-Z Change The Cybercrime Environment!

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    FinTelegram recently reported that a new wave of cyberattacks was spearheaded by new groups such as Scattered Spider, a/k/a UNC3944. These hackers, believed to be young Westerners, use advanced impersonation tactics to infiltrate major companies. As Gen Z, the digital-native generation, emerges, cybercrime is set to undergo a transformation, signaling a fresh epoch of intricate digital threats.

    Beyond Monetary Motives

    Gen Z hackers, fluent in English, masquerade as employees to extract login details from company IT desks. Once in, they rapidly access and extort confidential data. Scattered Spider, also known as UNC3944 or Muddled Libra, showcases remarkable social engineering prowess, outclassing many of their cybercriminal counterparts.

    Background on Scattered Spider: Predominantly consisting of 19 to 22-year-olds, this group is believed to have members from the US and UK. The FBI is currently investigating them.

    Recently, they gained notoriety for compromising the systems of global gambling giants MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment. While the FBI delves into these incidents, both companies have refrained from commenting. Security entities like CrowdStrike and Mandiant have documented multiple global attacks by this group, especially in the U.S., spanning various industries.

    Their distinctiveness lies not just in the magnitude but in their expertise and ruthless strategies. They’re adept at system breaches, leaving intimidating notes, and even employing extreme tactics like SWATing – falsely alerting police emergencies at executives’ residences.

    Mandiant‘s Kevin Mandia posits that their actions are driven more by power, influence, and recognition than mere financial incentives.

    The Youthful Audacity

    Specific details about Scattered Spider remain elusive. However, breach investigations hint at their youth, primarily hailing from Western nations. CrowdStrike‘s Meyers suggests their age range is between 17 and 22.

    Mandiant believes they predominantly come from Western countries, but the exact number remains ambiguous. They utilize methods like ‘SIM swapping’ and thoroughly research large firms to pinpoint high-access individuals. Okta’s David Bradbury noted that these hackers have diligently studied Okta‘s online resources.

    Another faction, ALPHV, took responsibility for the MGM breach, hinting at a collaboration with Scattered Spider. Such alliances are typical in cybercrime, with ALPHV supplying tools for Scattered Spider‘s endeavors.

    The MGM breach underscored the real-world consequences of such cyber onslaughts, leading to disruptions in Las Vegas. Ransomware factions persistently adapt, refining their techniques against contemporary security protocols. Palo Alto Networks‘ Whitmore drew parallels between Scattered Spider and another faction, Lapsus$, known for infiltrating firms like Okta and Microsoft.

    In 2022, British authorities detained seven individuals, aged 16 to 21, suspected of affiliations with Lapsus$.

    The TikTok Lifestyle: Drink yourself healthy and beautiful with lemon juice and ginger

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    New generations are predominantly turning to TikTok for information on health and fitness trends. While the younger generation is mainly concerned about the beauty and health of the skin, the older generation wants to know how to age healthily with the help of food and optimized metabolism. Lemon juice and ginger juice is one of the answers for both.

    Lemon juice, a staple in many kitchens, is more than just a tangy flavor enhancer. It’s packed with a myriad of health benefits that can significantly impact various aspects of human health and metabolism. When combined with ginger, another powerhouse of medicinal properties, the duo can offer even more pronounced benefits. Here’s a comprehensive look at the health advantages of lemon juice and why you might consider adding ginger to the mix.

    1. Nutritional Powerhouse

    Lemon juice is a rich source of essential nutrients. It contains vitamin C, potassium, and several B vitamins. These nutrients play a crucial role in enhancing immune function, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and promoting overall health.

    2. Boosts Immunity

    The vitamin C in lemon juice is known for its immune-boosting properties. Regular consumption can help in warding off colds and flu, making it a natural remedy during the cold season.

    3. Aids Digestion

    Lemon juice can stimulate the production of bile, aiding in digestion. It can also help in soothing indigestion and preventing constipation.

    4. Detoxifies the Liver

    Lemon juice is believed to promote the production of enzymes in the liver, aiding in detoxification. It can help in flushing out toxins from the body, ensuring the liver functions optimally.

    5. Enhances Metabolism and Weight Loss

    The presence of polyphenols in lemon juice can aid in reducing weight gain. It can also improve insulin resistance, making it beneficial for metabolic health.

    6. Skin Health

    The antioxidants in lemon juice can help in preventing skin damage. Regular consumption can lead to improved skin health, reducing signs of aging and enhancing the skin’s glow.

    7. Synergy with Ginger

    Combining lemon juice with ginger amplifies the health benefits of both ingredients. Ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, can help in reducing muscle pain, soreness, and symptoms of osteoarthritis. The combination can also aid in digestion, reduce nausea, and offer relief from the flu and common cold. Moreover, ginger and lemon together can boost metabolism, potentially aiding in weight loss.Many people consume lemon and ginger in the form of tea, which not only offers health benefits but also provides a soothing and refreshing experience. The mixture is believed to help in reducing stress, improving mood, and detoxifying the body.

    Conclusion

    Lemon juice, with its plethora of health benefits, is a must-have in everyone’s diet. When combined with ginger, it becomes a potent natural remedy for various ailments. Whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, improve digestion, or enhance your skin’s health, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to your daily routine and perhaps a slice of ginger for that extra kick of health benefits.

    NFL Legend Tom Brady And His Paul Newman Daytona Rolex!

    The NFL legend Tom Brady was seen wearing the illustrious Paul Newman Daytona while honored by the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. In an emotionally charged halftime ceremony, Brady, the star quarterback who served the Patriots for two remarkable decades, stood alongside the longtime team owner, Robert Kraft.

    Brady expressed his gratitude before a raucous crowd of 65,000 Patriots fans, stating, “Another day in this stadium that I will never forget.” In a dramatic flourish, he capped it off with a classic Brady sideline sprint, his wrist adorned with the iconic Rolex.

    Tom Brady styled in Paul Newman Daytona Rolex

    This particular Daytona, known by its reference number 6241, boasts a striking dial affectionately dubbed the “John Player Special” after the British firm John Player & Sons. This Nottingham-based tobacco and cigarette manufacturer, often known simply as Player’s, sponsored the Lotus Formula One team during the 1970s and crafted an iconic livery for their racing cars. The watch dial mirrors the same black and gold palette as those iconic autos and features three chronograph subdials adorned with square lollipop hash marks. Brady’s timepiece appears to be paired with a matching gold jubilee bracelet.

    The John Player Special is indeed a fitting choice for a seven-time Super Bowl champion. This model is exceedingly rare and commands a substantial price on the secondary market. In 2020, a similar piece achieved a record-breaking sale price of $1.5 million at a Sotheby’s auction.

    Sam Hines, the worldwide head of watches for Sotheby’s, remarked at the time, “An 18-karat yellow-gold 6264 is the rarest gold configuration of the legendary Paul Newman. Only a handful are known to exist, so it is difficult to overstate the fascination it arouses among vintage watch collectors.

    It’s worth noting that this Rolex is just one of many in Brady’s impressive collection. The legendary quarterback has been spotted wearing other Rolex models, including the “Jigsaw” Day-Date and a platinum Rolex Day-Date 40 earlier this year. Although he has been an ambassador for IWC since 2019, one might wonder if he should consider officially representing the Rolex brand, given his affinity for their timepieces.

    The Lost Billionaire: Arrested Ukraine Oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky!

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    Ukrainian tycoon Ihor Kolomoisky‘s net worth has plummeted from $2 billion to $835 million since the Russian invasion on Feb. 24, 2022. Before that, Kolomoisky’s enterprises were valued at their highest in seven years. Forbes Ukraine reported that by early September 2023, after facing two legal charges within a week and subsequent arrest, his wealth decreased by two-and-a-half times.

    Ukraine Fraud Charges

    The Ukraine prosecutor’s office said Kolomoisky is suspected of having embezzled funds from the bank amounting to more than 9.2 billion €233 million. The prosecutor’s office referred in its letter to the “former head of the Dnipro region” and beneficiary of the bank at the time of the crime in 2015.

    In a statement, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) said six people were suspected of embezzling 9.2 billion hryvnias ($250 million) from lender PrivatBank. It did not name them but posted a blurred photo of a man resembling Kolomoisky (picture above).

    Ihor Kolomoisky No Longer Billionaire

    Forbes’ end-of-2022 calculations also confirmed that Kolomoisky was no longer a billionaire, estimating his wealth at $850 million. This recent valuation reflects the past year’s financial performance of his businesses.

    During the war, Kolomoisky lost Ukrnafta, a major asset and Ukraine’s top oil producer. By the end of 2022, companies like Ukrnafta and Ukrtatnafta were nationalized under a decree from Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

    Notably, among Kolomoisky’s priciest assets are not ports or factories but luxury items like the $97 million yacht, Lauren L. Presently, the oil and gas sector of the Privat business group forms the core of his wealth. His business portfolio also comprises the 1+1 media group (valued at $69 million), regional power distributors under Privat Group, the Kremenchuk oil refinery, JKX Oil & Gas, several smaller refineries, and Ukraine International Airlines (UIA), which currently holds no value.

    The ‘Ragu alla Bolognese Fight’ On TikTok And A Delicious Pasta Recipe!

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    The excitement on TikTok was great when Chef Luca Fontanarossa, a/k/a Luca Corleone (@cheflucacorleone), presented the alleged original recipe of Ragu alla Bolognese. The recipe for it is actually very different from the usual Ragu alla Bolognese recipes most of us know and savor. Luca has taken minced veal instead of the usual minced beef and also completely omitted tomato paste and tomatoes. Therefore, this is also called the white Ragu alla Bolognese.

    The excitement in the TikTok community was great among the chefs and pasta lovers. It was accused that the white ragu he presented was not the original recipe. He even had to take abuse from colleagues and Bolognese fundamentalists for this.

    Nevertheless, the video has gone viral, has been viewed over 20 million times, and has received 1.9 million likes as of September 10, 2023. For that, Luce gladly accepts the abuse, as he says in a follow-up video. In this follow-up video, he also defends his statement that it would be the original recipe of Ragu alla Bolognese.

    He said that this would be the first ever recorded version of the Ragù alla Bolognese, from an earlier unofficial version by Alberto Alvisi, then published by Pellegrino Artusi in 1891 in his book Scienza in Cucina e l’arte del mangiar bene. This is the predecessor to the Ragù Bolognese we all know today, whose official recipe was first registered at the Bologna’s Chamber of Commerce in 1982, then revised on April 20th, 2023.

    Luca is the chef and owner of Ristorante Corleone (website) in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. The excitement around his white Ragu will probably also bring him many additional guests.

    I have recreated the recipe of white ragu and can heartily recommend it to all. It is ready to eat within 20 minutes thanks to the use of veal and does not need to be stewed for hours as when using beef. You should try it yourself.

    Cyberwar Continues With US Enforcement Actions Against Russian Cybercrime Organization Trickbot!

    Cyberwar is certainly real: FinTelegram reported that the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), in collaboration with the UK, has imposed sanctions on eleven members of the Russia-based Trickbot cybercrime organization allegedly protected by Russia. In a parallel enforcement action, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) charges nine individuals linked to the Trickbot malware and Conti ransomware operations, seven sanctioned by OFAC.

    The OFAC Cyberwar Sanctions

    OFAC is the mastermind behind US sanctions in the cyberwar with Russia

    According to the OFAC, the Russian individuals sanctioned today are integral members of the Trickbot group, which has connections to Russian intelligence and has targeted the U.S. government, businesses, and healthcare facilities, especially during the COVID-19 crisis.

    Those sanctioned include Trickbot‘s administrators, managers, developers, and coders. This action emphasizes the U.S. and UK’s joint effort to curb Russian cybercrime and follows a previous joint designation in February 2023.

    Trickbot: Russia’s Infamous Cyber Gang

    Trickbot background: Trickbot, taken down in 2022, was malware designed to steal money and aid ransomware installation, impacting hospitals, schools, and businesses with massive financial losses. It acted as an initial intrusion vector into victim computer systems for ransomware variants like Conti, which targeted over 900 global victims, including in 47 U.S. states and 31 countries. In 2021, the FBI noted Conti as the leading ransomware attacking critical infrastructure.

    In 2016, Trickbot evolved from the Dyre trojan, an online banking malware created by Moscow-based cybercriminals. It has affected millions globally, especially in the U.S. During the COVID-19 peak in 2020, Trickbot launched ransomware attacks on U.S. healthcare facilities, which are seen as part of the ongoing cyberwar. The group even boasted about their successful attacks. They have ties to Russian intelligence and have aligned their actions with Russian state goals.

      OFAC has designated eleven Trickbot-related individuals based on Executive Orders for their significant support of malicious cyber activities. The names and details of the sanctioned individuals can be found here on the OFAC website.

      Implications of the Sanctions

      The sanctions are part of the cyberwar between the US and Russia. Due to these sanctions, all assets of the sanctioned individuals within the U.S. or under U.S. control must be blocked and reported. Engaging in transactions with these individuals could lead to further sanctions. Foreign financial institutions aiding these individuals might face U.S. sanctions. The sanctions aim to induce positive behavioral change rather than mere punishment.

      Investments In The Luxury Watches Will Significantly Grow Until 2027

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      In 2022, the worldwide luxury watches industry was valued at approximately $29.19 billion, with a growth rate of 0.5% since 2017. Projections indicate that the market will increase to $37.29 billion by 2027, growing at 5.0% and further reaching $50 billion by 2032 with a 6.0% CAGR from 2027. Historical growth can be attributed to economic expansion in emerging markets, e-commerce growth, increasing high-income women, and a surge in international trade.

      In the future, urbanization, internet and social media usage, and Swiss watch exports will propel the market. However, workforce shortages, global interest rate hikes, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict might pose challenges.

      The market is categorized by watch type, distribution channel, and end user. Analog watches dominated in 2022, holding 74.3% of the market. However, digital watches are predicted to grow the fastest at a 6.0% CAGR from 2022-2027. In terms of distribution, multi-brand stores led in 2022 with 44.9%, but online channels are anticipated to grow the quickest at a 6.2% CAGR from 2022-2027. Men were the primary consumers in 2022, accounting for 62.4%, but the women’s segment is expected to grow the fastest with a 5.2% CAGR from 2022-2027.

      Geographically, Western Europe was the leading region in 2022, holding 29.4% of the market. However, North America and Eastern Europe are projected to be the fastest-growing regions with CAGRs of 27.4% and 24.2%, respectively. The Middle East and South America are also expected to see significant growth.

      A few major players dominate The luxury watches sector, with the top ten accounting for 86.64% in 2021. Rolex led the market with 24.22%, followed by companies like Apple, Compagnie Financiere Richemont, and Swatch Group. Opportunities in the market are abundant, especially in the analog watch, multi-brand store, and men’s segments. The U.S. market is predicted to see the most substantial gain, adding approximately $1.69 billion.

      For market players, strategies revolve around technological advancements, luxury smartwatch launches, AI integration, product innovations, and strategic alliances. They are also focusing on expanding partnerships, launching advanced products, fostering collaborations and mergers, driving innovation, and introducing new watch line-ups to enhance their market presence.

      How Many Lives Can One Have? Turkish Crypto Fraudster Convicted To 11,196 Years In Prison

      The founder of a Turkish cryptocurrency platform, Faruk Fatih Ozer, along with his two siblings, has been sentenced to 11,196 years in prison each for swindling investors out of millions of dollars. In 2021, Ozer, 29, escaped to Albania with significant investor funds following the abrupt shutdown of his Thodex exchange. He was subsequently extradited to Turkey in June and convicted of charges including money laundering, fraud, and involvement in organized crime.

      During the trial, Ozer defended himself by stating that he wouldn’t have been so naive in his actions if he had criminal intentions. He was quoted by the Turkish Anadolu agency, emphasizing his capabilities by bragging, “I am smart enough to lead any institution on Earth,” highlighting the fact that he founded his company at just 22 years old. His siblings, Serap and Guven, were also found culpable of the same offenses during the trial in Istanbul.

      The cumulative years in the sentence result from individual charges for crimes committed against 2,027 victims. Such extensive prison terms have become more prevalent in Turkey since the country abolished capital punishment in 2004.

      For context, in 2022, Adnan Oktar, a Turkish television preacher, received a sentence of 8,658 years for various offenses, including fraud. Ten of his associates were handed identical sentences. The prosecution had initially proposed a staggering 40,562-year sentence for Ozer. The popularity of cryptocurrencies in Turkey surged as a protective measure against the declining value of the lira over the past couple of years.

      Established in 2017, Thodex quickly became one of Turkey’s leading crypto exchanges. Ozer, recognized as a financial prodigy, built connections with notable figures supportive of the government. However, the platform faced a sudden collapse in April 2021. Investor assets vanished along with Ozer, who fled to Albania, where he was apprehended due to an Interpol warrant and was subsequently extradited.

      While initial reports from Turkish media suggested Ozer absconded with assets amounting to $2 billion, the official indictment approximated the losses for Thodex investors at 356 million liras. This sum was equivalent to around $43 million during the exchange’s downfall but has since depreciated to approximately $13 million due to inflation and the lira’s devaluation in global markets.