Latest news with #STEP
India Today
2 days ago
- Science
- India Today
Modern alchemist: American startup claims it can turn metal into gold
The age-old quest to turn ordinary metals into gold, a dream of alchemy, has seen a scientific revival thanks to advances in nuclear physics and fusion classic alchemists expected to achieve this through mystical means, modern science understands how to change one element into another using particle physics. However, the practical challenges remain startup Marathon Fusion, now claims a new way to turn metal into The company has proposed an innovative technique harnessing neutron radiation inside nuclear fusion reactors. Their method involves bombarding mercury-198 isotopes with high-energy neutrons. This creates radioactive mercury-197, which then decays into stable gold-197—the only naturally stable isotope of a gigawatt thermal fusion plant could produce several tonnes of gold is not improbabvle since, At CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC) near Geneva, physicists smash subatomic particles together, sometimes creating trace amounts of gold. Making gold from mercury via fusion is scientifically plausible. (Photo: Getty) The ALICE experiment, for instance, produced a mere 29 picograms of gold over four years, a quantity so minuscule it would take hundreds of times the universe's age to yield a troy ounce. Clearly, particle accelerators are nowhere near practical for gold key challenge is generating the intense neutron flux with energy levels above 6 million electron volts to initiate this transmutation. Marathon Fusion employs a "digital twin," a sophisticated computer model of fusion reactor physics, to predict no commercial fusion reactor exists to validate these projections, leaving the approach reactors themselves remain experimental, grappling with complex hurdles like new material development and stable plasma control. Advanced projects such as the UK's Joint European Torus (JET) have produced modest energy output, but future designs like the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) aim to be operational by 2040, potentially unlocking fusion power's critical consideration: any gold formed would initially be radioactive waste, necessitating careful handling and decay time before it becomes usable. This adds another layer of complexity and making gold from mercury via fusion is scientifically plausible and exciting as a concept, it currently remains an impractical and scientists alike await breakthroughs in fusion technology before a modern "gold rush" can begin. Until then, the alchemist's dream persists more as a tantalizing future possibility than immediate reality.- EndsTrending Reel
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
What Makes StepStone Group Inc. (STEP) a Strong Momentum Stock: Buy Now?
Momentum investing is all about the idea of following a stock's recent trend, which can be in either direction. In the "long context," investors will essentially be "buying high, but hoping to sell even higher." And for investors following this methodology, taking advantage of trends in a stock's price is key; once a stock establishes a course, it is more than likely to continue moving in that direction. The goal is that once a stock heads down a fixed path, it will lead to timely and profitable trades. Even though momentum is a popular stock characteristic, it can be tough to define. Debate surrounding which are the best and worst metrics to focus on is lengthy, but the Zacks Momentum Style Score, part of the Zacks Style Scores, helps address this issue for us. Below, we take a look at StepStone Group Inc. (STEP), a company that currently holds a Momentum Style Score of A. We also talk about price change and earnings estimate revisions, two of the main aspects of the Momentum Style Score. It's also important to note that Style Scores work as a complement to the Zacks Rank, our stock rating system that has an impressive track record of outperformance. StepStone Group Inc. currently has a Zacks Rank of #2 (Buy). Our research shows that stocks rated Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) and #2 (Buy) and Style Scores of "A or B" outperform the market over the following one-month period. You can see the current list of Zacks #1 Rank Stocks here >>> Set to Beat the Market? Let's discuss some of the components of the Momentum Style Score for STEP that show why this company shows promise as a solid momentum pick. Looking at a stock's short-term price activity is a great way to gauge if it has momentum, since this can reflect both the current interest in a stock and if buyers or sellers have the upper hand at the moment. It is also useful to compare a security to its industry, as this can help investors pinpoint the top companies in a particular area. For STEP, shares are up 5.09% over the past week while the Zacks Financial - Miscellaneous Services industry is up 0.03% over the same time period. Shares are looking quite well from a longer time frame too, as the monthly price change of 9.05% compares favorably with the industry's 5.35% performance as well. While any stock can see its price increase, it takes a real winner to consistently beat the market. That is why looking at longer term price metrics -- such as performance over the past three months or year -- can be useful as well. Shares of StepStone Group Inc. have increased 18.57% over the past quarter, and have gained 26.29% in the last year. On the other hand, the S&P 500 has only moved 16.43% and 18.63%, respectively. Investors should also pay attention to STEP's average 20-day trading volume. Volume is a useful item in many ways, and the 20-day average establishes a good price-to-volume baseline; a rising stock with above average volume is generally a bullish sign, whereas a declining stock on above average volume is typically bearish. STEP is currently averaging 541,261 shares for the last 20 days. Earnings Outlook The Zacks Momentum Style Score also takes into account trends in estimate revisions, in addition to price changes. Please note that estimate revision trends remain at the core of Zacks Rank as well. A nice path here can help show promise, and we have recently been seeing that with STEP. Over the past two months, 2 earnings estimates moved higher compared to none lower for the full year. These revisions helped boost STEP's consensus estimate, increasing from $1.79 to $1.84 in the past 60 days. Looking at the next fiscal year, 1 estimate has moved upwards while there have been no downward revisions in the same time period. Bottom Line Taking into account all of these elements, it should come as no surprise that STEP is a #2 (Buy) stock with a Momentum Score of A. If you've been searching for a fresh pick that's set to rise in the near-term, make sure to keep StepStone Group Inc. on your short list. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report StepStone Group Inc. (STEP) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Yahoo
The U.S. just issued a rare global travel warning — here's what it means for your summer plans
If you're planning to travel internationally this summer, you're one of many Americans planning to travel abroad — and now, the U.S. government wants you to be more cautious than ever as you head out. On June 22, the U.S. Department of State issued a rare "worldwide caution" alert, warning all Americans traveling overseas to exercise increased vigilance. The reason? High and escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following U.S. airstrikes on nuclear facilities in Iran. According to officials, the threat environment has shifted in ways that could impact American citizens abroad — and even at home. Unlike a country-specific warning, this global alert doesn't ban travel or recommend canceling trips. Instead, it serves as a general advisory, noting the potential for terrorist attacks, political demonstrations, or violence aimed at Americans or Western travelers. Travelers are also being told to watch for disruptions in air travel and potential airspace closures — which could upend flight routes without much notice. The Department of Homeland Security echoed the alert, issuing its own statement, which noted the potential for cyberattacks and homegrown violent extremism lasting through the summer. While all of will unnerve many travelers, it's not necessarily a reason to cancel your travel plans. Instead, it's a reminder to stay informed and be prepared. If you're heading abroad, here are a few smart moves to make now: Enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which gives you real-time safety updates and helps the local U.S. embassy reach you in an emergency. Check the Travel Advisories page for up-to-date safety guidance for your specific destination. Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone at home, and have a backup plan in case you need to reroute. In uncertain times, knowledge — and preparation — are power.
Express Tribune
15-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
AI chatbot launched for persons with disabilities
The Special Talent Exchange Programme (STEP) has officially launched Pakistan's first AI-based chatbot for persons with disabilities. This initiative has been developed in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), and with generous support from the European Union (EU). The launch event took place at the National University of Science & Technology (NUST), where representatives from government, civil society, and academia were present. The chatbot is launched under the theme "An Initiative for a Peaceful and Inclusive Society." Designed as a multilingual and accessible digital support tool, NOOR AI is the first-of-its-kind in Pakistan. It addresses the specific needs of persons with disabilities, especially women, who often face systemic exclusion in accessing vital services. The chatbot also offers confidential, rights-based guidance on disability rights, inclusive education, employment opportunities, legal aid, gender-based violence (GBV) protection and awareness around preventing violent extremism (PVE). In his opening remarks, STEP Executive Director, Muhammad Atif Sheikh, called NOOR AI "an empowering digital platform for women and youth affected by disability and marginalisation. Sharing insights from STEP's broader initiative, "Empowering Women with Disabilities in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE)," especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, he pointed out how national action plans and CVE policies in Pakistan often overlook disability, despite the double marginalisation that women with disabilities face - both due to their gender and their disability. "NOOR AI is not just a chatbot; it's a peace-building tool. It addresses gaps in digital access, legal awareness, and psychosocial support, all of which are critical to inclusive resilience," he noted. STEP Director Programmes, Abia Akram, emphasised the urgency of disability-inclusive policy reform in Pakistan. She stressed the need to ensure that persons with disabilities are not only beneficiaries but also leaders in digital and peacebuilding spaces.
Telegraph
15-07-2025
- Health
- Telegraph
Scrap ‘unfair' inheritance tax on infected blood scandal victims, Labour urged
An 'unconscionable' oversight that will see victims of the infected blood scandal pay inheritance tax on compensation payments must be scrapped, expert lawyers have urged. Two professional bodies representing lawyers and advisers have been in discussion with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) about fixing an issue that results in families of the infected 'unfairly' paying inheritance tax on compensation payments. About 30,000 people contracted HIV and hepatitis C in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s after being given contaminated blood products. The Government set aside £11.8bn for the victims last year, and promised the compensation payments would be free from inheritance tax. But in practice, only the first payment to the victim or the victim's estate escapes the 40pc charge. So-called 'second' transfers do not. This means that if a victim died years ago and their estate now received compensation, that sum would be subject to inheritance tax when the person inheriting their estate also passed away. The Government has taken so long to compensate the victims that many of those affected are now in their later years. As a result, some could pass away soon after receiving compensation. This could then lead to their families paying back 40pc of the sum to the Government. The Association of Lifetime Lawyers and the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) have sent a report to HMRC and a letter to the chair of the inquiry pushing for a solution through the introduction of secondary legislation. Jade Gani, of STEP, said: 'We will continue to work with HMRC, the inquiry team and other partners to ensure the law changes as swiftly as possible, and are encouraged by the progress so far. 'We hope that the Government will act swiftly to ensure that bereaved families aren't unfairly penalised at such a difficult time.' In a damning report published this week, the inquiry chair, Sir Brian Langstaff, warned that victims had been 'harmed further' by injustices in the compensation scheme. The latest figures from the Infected Blood Compensation Authority show that so far only 460 people have received compensation payments, worth hundreds of thousands, and sometimes millions, of pounds. The inquiry has not referenced the inheritance tax issue in its reports so far. However, 'many infected and affected parties' could be impacted, according to the lawyers. The Telegraph previously highlighted the problem in April. One woman in her late 60s said she was entitled to £1m in compensation through the estate of her brother who died in the 1990s after being infected with HIV. But under the current rules rules, her family would be hit with a £400,000 bill if she died following the payout. She said it was 'completely morally wrong' that inheritance tax should be applied to her brother's compensation. In the letter sent to Sir Brian on July 10, Ms Gani wrote: 'Compensation for infected blood scandal victims should never be taxed, whether in life or death.' She continued: 'Given that one of the most damaging aspects of the infected blood scandal has been how exceptionally long it has taken for government bodies to acknowledge the harm caused and provide redress, and we continue to see delays with compensation payments being issued, we believe it to be highly unconscionable that those infected and affected should be negatively impacted by tax technicalities only created by such a long delay in making these payments.' Sir Brian has called for an overhaul of the compensation scheme. He made several recommendations in his report including that victims should be allowed to apply for compensation rather than having to wait for an invitation, and that older or seriously ill victims and family members should get priority. A government spokesman said: 'The victims of this scandal have suffered unspeakable wrongs. We have designed a comprehensive compensation scheme and so far, have paid over £300m to victims. 'Infected and affected victims are not taxed on their compensation. But, like many other compensation schemes, intestacy laws apply.'
