Latest news with #Alignment
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
‘Transience' by The Creative Cubes examines impermanence at DIAC
The Creative Cubes Gallery unveiled its latest group exhibition Transience: The Flow of Being, on June 14 at Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC). Curated by Dubai-based artist and curator Swapnil Jawale and to run till June 21, the multidisciplinary exhibition brings together 24 diverse contemporary artists who explore the theme of impermanence, through varied mediums and styles. The inaugural evening commenced with a welcome by Diyali Sen Bhalla, DIAC Chairperson, followed by the remarks of Swapnil, who introduced the exhibition's theme. 'This exhibition explores the fleeting, yet deeply beautiful nature of life – where every moment is both an ending and a beginning,' he said. 'Transience is a reminder that nothing in life is static — we grow, we evolve, we transform. Just like art, our identity flows in between form and formlessness. 'The show honours those invisible threads — of memory, culture, nature, and being — that root us in the present, while drawing from the past and dissolving into what's next.' The exhibition was officially inaugurated by Chief Guest Khurshid Vakil, Co-founder of Marina Home Interiors. Vakil's views resonated with the exhibit's theme, as he emphasised the emotional value of spaces, aesthetics, and the dynamic relationship between art and identity. Anita Sahai's artwork depicting freedom. The event also welcomed special guests including eminent Emirati artist Ahmad Al Awadhi Rukni, Art Senior Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned water colourist Atul Panase, Dr. Supriya Kulkarni Sudhalker and Dr. Uday Sudhalker. Participating artists are Aakanksha Kshatriya, Anita Sahai, Asma Mehmood, Ayesha Yusuf Bhatti, Diyali Sen Bhalla, Gesere, Isabelle Alves, Kritika Iyer, Kiran Kumar, Marwa Elbadawi, Murugesh Thaigarajan, Nashwa Nagy, Pari Sagar, Ranjisha Raghavan, Ravindra Parkhi, Rooma Ejaaz, Saliha Hanif, Samishka Jawale, Sandeep Soni, Smithashree Balaji, Sonia Sahni, Srirupa Bose, Swaraj Jawale, Ulyana Okava and Vandana Arora. Marwa Elbadawi's work Alignment radiates quiet strength; it is joined to minimalism. Rooted in Islamic metaphysics and the wabi-sabi philosophy, the Japanese aesthetic philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness, her art weaves together silence, material, and memory, embodying a sacred yet grounded presence. Murugesh Thaigarajan is an accomplished artist and educator. His work addresses the loss of humanity in a mechanised world and uses vivid colours to explore identity and emotional connection to Nature. Swapnil Jawale, who is also an artist, showcases a piece from his ongoing series Shivakala: Timeless Creations. Marwa Elbadawi's artwork. The work seamlessly blends Indian traditions with contemporary symbolic forms. A dedicated advocate of contemporary and traditional art, Swapnil has curated the Indigenous Artistry section at international exhibitions for several years, and continues to mentor and uplift grassroots artists. His vision for Transience brings together global voices, and staying rooted in shared cultural traditions. Ravindra Parkhi's artwork Jubilant Moments stands out for its sophistication and mature technique. Parkhi is known for his international presence and active participation in residencies and biennales, and a deep understanding of visual storytelling. Kritika Iyer is a young, emerging talent. Her Malar series reimagines femininity through the metaphor of flowers. The work balances structure and softness, and is rooted in textile traditions and cultural symbolism. With an eye trained in architecture and a heart drawn to storytelling, she bridges structure and spirit, form and feeling. Sonia Sahni is trained in both science and art; her evocative canvases invite viewers into a layered experience of mystery, design, and vibrant expression — a reflection of her background in Ayurveda and space design. Kritika Iyer's serial work. Sandeep Soni is a petroleum engineer by profession and IIT graduate and a hobbyist artist who believes that art is the very essence of life. His surreal, story-driven artworks blend intellect, emotion, fantasy and philosophy. He also explores creative outlets such as music, graphic design and photography, embodying a holistic, artful existence. Isabelle Alves was born in Mauritius and is now based in Dubai. She is a mosaic artist whose pieces echo Nature's intricacies. Her work, marked by meticulous craftsmanship fusing glass, stone and other materials, presents a harmonious, organic aesthetic. Ulyana Okava's emotionally charged works aim to awaken inner consciousness. Drawn from personal growth and spiritual reflection, Ulyana's art touches on ecological awareness and carries a message of light and healing to the world. Samishka Jawale (left) and Swapnil Jawale. Srirupa Bose's conceptual installation Imprints explores the integration of experiences across a lifetime. Drawing on the metaphor of tree rings, the piece invites viewers to reflect on the cumulative nature of time, insight, and self-awareness. It encourages a deeper understanding of how individual experiences layer over time to create meaningful transformation. 'Transience: The Flow of Being,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla, 'is curated by the dynamic duo of The Creative Cubes, Swapnil and Samishka Jawale. The Creative Cubes is more than just an art space - it's a movement. They have consistently given a platform to artists in different and interesting exhibitions. This exhibition is a collection of high standard artworks from acclaimed and emerging artists and offers a compelling exploration of technique, emotion and brilliance.' Diyali is also a visual artist, illustrator and fashion designer, who celebrates life through abstracts. DIAC Chairperson Diyali Sen Bhalla. The Creative Cubes was founded by Samishka Jawale and is a UAE-based gallery that champions diverse artistic narratives, from indigenous art to experimental forms. With a strong presence at major events like World Art Dubai, the gallery is committed to creating cross-cultural platforms for artists worldwide. The Creative Cubes nurtures and showcases both established and emerging talent. Since 2025, it has also been expanding its digital footprint, offering global access to curated collections and artist collaborations through its online platform.
Irish Examiner
03-06-2025
- Irish Examiner
Titleist aiming for improvement with new additions to golf ball options
If you're the sort of golfer who likes to draw a line on your ball before every round, Titleist has been paying attention. The newest additions to its golf ball options is the AVX and Tour Soft AIM 360 models, feature a new 360-degree alignment marking designed to make setup on the green (and on the tee box) more precise and automatic. Golfweek reports that the AIM 360 design is the latest evolution in Titleist's ongoing exploration of printed alignment aids. While previous iterations, such as the Performance Alignment and Enhanced Alignment models, were more directional, AIM 360 encompasses the entire golf ball. The look is more prominent and symmetrical, and the practical benefit is clear: it gives players an easy way to square up to their target, whether you're lining up a putt or teeing the ball up and aiming down the left side of the fairway to play your cut. It also allows players to judge the quality of their putting stroke because, after lining up a putt, if the stripe remains smooth and solid as the ball rolls, you know you struck the putt properly. When the stripe wiggles, the face and path were not square to your target line at impact. In controlled testing conducted by Titleist's R&D department, golfers showed up to a 35% improvement in directional accuracy when using AIM alignment designs compared to the standard Pro V1 side stamp.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Alignment Healthcare to Present at William Blair 45th Annual Growth Stock Conference
ORANGE, Calif., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alignment Healthcare, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALHC), today announced that it will present at the William Blair 45th Annual Growth Stock Conference on Wednesday, June 4, at 2 p.m. CDT. A webcast and replay of the presentations will be available on Alignment's investor relations website at About Alignment HealthcareAlignment Health is championing a new path in senior care that empowers members to age well and live their most vibrant lives. A consumer brand name of Alignment Healthcare (NASDAQ: ALHC), Alignment Health's mission-focused team makes high-quality, low-cost care a reality for its Medicare Advantage members every day. Based in California, the company partners with nationally recognized and trusted local providers to deliver coordinated care, powered by its customized care model, 24/7 concierge care team and purpose-built technology, AVA®. As it expands its offerings and grows its national footprint, Alignment upholds its core values of leading with a serving heart and putting the senior first. For more information, visit Investor ContactHarrison Zhuohzhuo@ Media ContactPriya ShahmPR, Inc. for Alignment Healthcarealignment@ in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ALHC Q1 Earnings Call: Membership Growth and Margin Expansion Drive Upbeat Outlook
Health insurance company Alignment Healthcare (NASDAQ:ALHC) announced better-than-expected revenue in Q1 CY2025, with sales up 47.5% year on year to $926.9 million. The company expects next quarter's revenue to be around $957.5 million, close to analysts' estimates. Its non-GAAP profit of $0.05 per share was significantly above analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy ALHC? Find out in our full research report (it's free). Revenue: $926.9 million vs analyst estimates of $888.1 million (47.5% year-on-year growth, 4.4% beat) Adjusted EPS: $0.05 vs analyst estimates of -$0.07 (significant beat) Adjusted EBITDA: $20.18 million vs analyst estimates of $4.4 million (2.2% margin, significant beat) The company lifted its revenue guidance for the full year to $3.79 billion at the midpoint from $3.75 billion, a 1.2% increase EBITDA guidance for the full year is $49 million at the midpoint, above analyst estimates of $47.1 million Operating Margin: -0.6%, up from -6.5% in the same quarter last year Free Cash Flow was $8.36 million, up from -$17.36 million in the same quarter last year Customers: 217,500, up from 189,100 in the previous quarter Market Capitalization: $2.95 billion Alignment Healthcare began 2025 with a notable increase in membership and year-over-year revenue, propelled by its ability to manage medical costs and scale its clinical care model. CEO John Kao credited the company's approach to serving seniors, particularly through care coordination for complex and dually eligible populations, as key to its success. Kao emphasized, "Our model combines the product control and data visibility of a health plan, clinical insights of a modern technology platform, medical management expertise of a care delivery organization and member experience of a consumer-first company." Looking forward, management raised full-year revenue and profit guidance, citing strong enrollment momentum and favorable industry dynamics. CFO Thomas Freeman highlighted the company's operational leverage and prudent approach to medical and pharmacy cost trends. He noted that Alignment plans to channel some early-year gains into member engagement and provider partnerships, aiming to build a durable growth platform as the Medicare Advantage landscape continues to evolve. Alignment Healthcare's management attributed the first quarter's growth to robust membership gains and strong execution in medical cost management. The following insights emerged from their remarks: Membership Expansion: The company grew membership by approximately 32%, with significant gains both in California and ex-California markets. Management pointed to the scalability of its clinical model and care coordination capabilities as core drivers. Clinical Model Scaling: The scaling of the AVA (Alignment's technology-enabled care model) enabled improved identification and engagement of high-risk seniors. This allowed for proactive care management, especially for dually eligible and chronically ill members, which management believes sets Alignment apart. Medical Cost Control: Alignment reported better-than-expected improvement in its medical benefit ratio (MBR), highlighting effective inpatient utilization management and favorable prior-year reserve releases. Management noted that these trends supported margin expansion despite rapid top-line growth. Strategic Technology Investment: Ongoing advances in the AVA platform are targeted at automating member experience and optimizing care outcomes. Management described a focus on efficacy and adoption rates of AVA modules, with plans to double down on those delivering measurable value. Leadership Transition: The company announced the transition of its long-serving CFO Thomas Freeman to a strategic advisor role, with Jim Head, a veteran healthcare finance executive, stepping in as the new CFO. Management framed this as a step to support Alignment's next phase of growth and scaling. Management outlined a constructive outlook for 2025, driven by membership growth, operational efficiencies, and continued investments in technology and partnerships. The main themes shaping guidance are: Provider Collaboration Focus: Management plans to deepen long-term partnerships with providers, especially to better serve high-need seniors. These collaborations are expected to support both growth and cost control efforts. Technology and Data Leverage: Continued investment in the AVA platform aims to advance clinical quality and member experience, with the goal of automating and personalizing care at scale. Management believes this will further distinguish Alignment in a competitive Medicare Advantage market. Regulatory and Competitive Factors: Management highlighted the impact of new Medicare Advantage payment rates and risk model changes, noting that Alignment's high plan quality ratings and efficient cost structure position it to benefit relative to some competitors. However, they acknowledged ongoing uncertainties regarding policy changes and market behavior. Ryan Daniels (William Blair): Asked about plans for expanding provider partnerships and possibly offering technology solutions externally. Management indicated that, while expansion is underway, any move into external enablement will be approached cautiously and only if it is sustainable. Michael Ha (Baird): Inquired about the drivers behind medical loss ratio outperformance and the potential pull-forward of earnings from Part D changes. Management clarified that Part D timing was a minor factor and that broader utilization trends and reserves management were more significant. Jessica Tassan (Piper Sandler): Queried about competitive changes in California and how Alignment will prepare its salesforce for increased rivalry. Management said it feels well-positioned due to partnership strengths and does not view smaller competitors as a long-term threat. Whit Mayo (Leerink Partners): Sought clarity on Alignment's risk adjustment revenue processes for new members and visibility on reimbursement. Management explained its conservative approach, booking revenue based on actual payments to avoid surprises. Joanna Gajuk (Bank of America): Asked if further Medicare Advantage rate changes could be a headwind or opportunity for market share. Management stated that its business model is designed to adapt to either environment, emphasizing focus on cost and quality. In the coming quarters, the StockStory team will be monitoring (1) the scalability of Alignment's AVA technology platform in new and existing markets, (2) the company's ability to sustain membership growth while preserving or improving margins, and (3) further developments in provider partnerships and regulatory policy changes affecting Medicare Advantage. Execution on these priorities will be central to evaluating Alignment's trajectory. Alignment Healthcare currently trades at a forward EV-to-EBITDA ratio of 51.8×. Should you load up, cash out, or stay put? Find out in our free research report. Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election sent major indices to all-time highs, but stocks have retraced as investors debate the health of the economy and the potential impact of tariffs. While this leaves much uncertainty around 2025, a few companies are poised for long-term gains regardless of the political or macroeconomic climate, like our Top 9 Market-Beating Stocks. This is a curated list of our High Quality stocks that have generated a market-beating return of 176% over the last five years. Stocks that made our list in 2020 include now familiar names such as Nvidia (+1,545% between March 2020 and March 2025) as well as under-the-radar businesses like the once-micro-cap company Tecnoglass (+1,754% five-year return). Find your next big winner with StockStory today. 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The South African
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The South African
TCL Unveils Mini LED TVs with New HVA Panels and Halo Control Technology
Global Olympic partner and leading consumer electronics brand, TCL Electronics, has unveiled its 2025 Mini LED TVs, incorporating HVA (High Vertical Alignment) panels and its own 'All-domain Halo Control' technology to consumers in South Africa. Recognised with three Global TOP 1 rankings – Ultra-large Screen TV Brand worldwide, Leading Mini LED TV Brand and No1 Google TV Brand globally – by the market research company Omdia, reaffirmed its commitment to delivering unbeatable performance, sophisticated design, and incredible value. However, what truly sets TCL apart is that the full 2025 Mini LED range comes standard with an HVA panel, which can reach 178 degrees Viewing Angles, allowing the whole family to enjoy movies clearly from a wide range of positions. Spanning up to an impressive 115 inches, making TCL the manufacturer with the largest screen in South Africa, the C6K, C7K, C8K, and P8 offer a full range of 144Hz refresh rate and cinematic viewing experience with next-generation QD-Mini LED technology. Designed to deliver unbeatable performance and unbelievable value, the C6K lineup redefines home entertainment by combining next-gen display innovation, elegant aesthetics, and immersive sound. Featuring advanced QD-Mini LED technology with over 512 local dimming zones, high HDR brightness, and a wide colour gamut, it delivers ultra-vivid colours, sharp details, and superior contrast, ensuring every scene is lifelike and cinematic. C6K: Power of Mini LED, Elevated This flagship performance is driven by TCL's exclusive All Domain Halo Control Technology, which covers the entire light journey from generation to display. It integrates high-efficiency light-emitting chips, self-developed lens technology, super Micro-OD structure, precision light and shadow control algorithms, and TCL's self-produced high-end CSOT HVA panels. This full-stack innovation dramatically reduces haloing, enhances black levels, and ensures image clarity from every angle. By tackling common halo effects and improving light control at every step, TCL delivers unparalleled contrast, depth, and picture precision even in the brightest environments. Key Features of the TCL C6K QLED Technology Next-gen colourful quantum crystal material achieves a wide colour gamut for longer-lasting, vibrant visuals. Next-gen colourful quantum crystal material achieves a wide colour gamut for longer-lasting, vibrant visuals. 144Hz Native Refresh Rate Ultra-smooth, fluid motion for gaming, sports, and fast-action scenes. Ultra-smooth, fluid motion for gaming, sports, and fast-action scenes. ONKYO 2.1 Hi-Fi Sound Immersive cinematic audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual: X support. Immersive cinematic audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual: X support. Ultra-Slim Design Sleek profile with magnetic seamless wall-mounting and ≤ 60mm thickness for a refined aesthetic. Sleek profile with magnetic seamless wall-mounting and ≤ 60mm thickness for a refined aesthetic. HVA Screen (85' / 98' Matte Display) Anti-glare, reflection-free screen for uninterrupted viewing in bright spaces. 178 degree Viewing Angle – you can see the image clearly from a wide range of positions. High Contrast HVA Panels (75″ and below) Up to 7000:1 native contrast ratio and ultra-wide viewing angles for deeper blacks and richer details. P8: Big Screen Brilliance Meets Everyday Excellence The TCL P8 model brings cutting-edge display technology to a broader audience, combining incredible picture quality with smart, user-friendly features. Featuring stunning 4K UHD resolution and TCL's AiPQ 3.0 processor, the P8 ensures vivid colours, crisp details, and smoother motion for all your favourite entertainment. Compared to the C6K, the TCL C7K steps up with additional brightness and more precise lighting control. While the C8K comes equipped with audio by Danish luxury audio brand, Bang & Olufsen, in the 50″–98″ models, providing a rich, cinematic soundstage that enhances everything from blockbuster movies to high-intensity gaming. TCL also offers a variety of smart home capabilities, primarily through its Google TV platform and various connected devices, including air conditioners, all designed to work together and be managed through the TCL Home App. The new FreshIN 3.0 series aircons, equipped with an A+++ energy rating, while achieving up to 36 percent energy saving, are a favourite for the cold winter nights and hot African summers. 'At TCL, we are passionate about driving innovation that transforms everyday experiences, and we're proud to be the first to introduce All Domain Halo Control Technology to South Africa with our new range,' says Mike Chen, General Manager of TCL South Africa. 'South African consumers have shown incredible enthusiasm for TCL's innovations, and the launch of the C6K series is another step in delivering premium technology, immersive entertainment, and unbeatable value to homes across the country.' The launch of the full range of QD Mini-LED series is yet another milestone in TCL's mission to transform the home entertainment landscape, offering South Africans an unrivalled combination of performance, design, and value. TCL's exciting new 2025 lineup is now available across South Africa at a special launch promotional rate. C6K Series Promotional Pricing: 55' C6K – R9,999 – R9,999 65' C6K – R13,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)* – R13,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)* 75' C6K – R19,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)* – R19,999 (includes a free S643W 3.1Ch Soundbar)* 85' C6K – R29,999 – R29,999 98' C6K – R59,999 *This exclusive offer is valid until 31 May 2025. For more information, visit the website.
