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Winnipeg Free Press
31-05-2025
- Business
- Winnipeg Free Press
Choose your own adviser
Opinion A common downside about being a Canadian consumer is a lack of choice. Be it cell phones, cable and internet or even banking, it can feel the fight for our dollars is performative, opposed to being a matter of survival of the fittest among providers of goods and services. Surprisingly, that's less so when it comes to our investments. FREEPIK We have tens of thousands of advisers, more than a dozen robo-advisers and a similar amount of do-it-yourself (DIY) online discount brokerages to choose from. So much choice can be a challenge unto itself. Fortunately, if you are trying to pick an investment lane or just curious about what's out there beyond your own adviser, you can lean on a few annual studies to provide clarity. Among them is the J.D. Power Canada Investor Satisfaction Study, which rates full service brokerages — investment advisers — and discount brokerages, online trading platforms catering to do-it-yourself (DIY) investors. Among its notable findings is, 'contrary to popular belief, younger investors are even more interested in advice than older ones,' says Kapil Vora, senior director of wealth intelligence at J.D. Power. (Which makes sense given younger adults just starting out generally have less knowledge about investments.) Of course, the most notable facet of the study are the offerings that ranked first this year: National Bank Financial for full service brokerages; Wealthsimple Trade for the discount brokerages. National Bank comes out ahead because it's not too small. It's the sixth Big Bank, after all, with all the benefits, such as a wide shelf of products and services. Yet it's also not so big clients feel like numbers, Vora adds. Wealthsimple is prized by its users for innovation. It was among the first robo-advisers in Canada — offering automated portfolios of low-cost exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to suit investors' risk appetite and goals, all in a mobile app format. Then, Wealthsimple Trade launched in 2019 — a DIY platform that brought the widely successful no-commission trade trend in the U.S. to Canada. The platform is also a leader in making investing feel seamlessly easy. That said, most discount brokerages are pretty good at that, Vora says. 'You don't need a lot of money; you just need an app' is the credo of Wealthsimple and many other online trading platforms, including Questrade — which also now offers no-commission trading, he adds. Questrade ranks first among discount brokerages in another annual study. published a report earlier this year, evaluating online brokerages based on metrics such as desktop quality, mobile app functionality, fees and overall service. Questrade would have scored even higher, says Natasha Macmillan, business director of everyday banking at But the discount brokerage announced no-commission trading about a month after the Ratehub study was published. The Big Banks did well, too, in the report, with TD Direct Investing ranking best among them. 'It scored well because TD has a lot of learn-to-invest videos and in-depth analysis information,' Macmillan notes. As for robo-advisers, another study, this one by MoneySense, ranked Questwealth Portfolios (offered by Questrade) as the leader in the Canadian market. Notably, all studies found no full-service brokerage, online discount brokerage or robo-adviser is a terrible choice. All have strengths and weaknesses, and if you have a good investment strategy that is diversified, low-cost and well-suited to your goals, you are likely to make out OK, no matter your choice. Still, a few basic rules can help find the right fit. First off, do you want to invest on your own? If not, a full service brokerage — an adviser-guided experience — is a better match, says Marko Bilandzija, spokesperson for Manitoba Financial Services Agency. 'A financial adviser is a great fit for … people who don't have time or the interest to manage their investments.' Discount brokerages are for individuals with an interest in investing. 'You don't need to be an expert, but you have to be willing to do research,' Bilandzija says. Not everyone wants to do that, he adds. That said, you can always test drive the DIY experience. Many online brokerages offer practice accounts. The investment performance data is real, but the capital invested is not. Online resources also offer help in making a choice. That includes the Ontario Securities Commission's 'We recommend using the investor personality quiz because it helps you understand just what kind of investor you are,' says Theresa Ebden, vice-president of the OSC investor office in Toronto. Of course, whenever choosing an adviser or brokerage, make sure the individual and organization are registered with regulators. This is easy to do; just web search 'Check before you invest' or 'Are they registered?' Both take you to the Canadian Securities Administrators search database where you can find all licensed/registered brokerages and investment advisers in Canada. Wednesdays A weekly dispatch from the head of the Free Press newsroom. Not all advisers — like fee-only financial planners — may show up in searches, 'so if you're unsure, contact your local securities commission,' Ebden says. What's important above all else when making a decision is not to rush, she adds. 'Even though our world emphasizes speed, with investing, it's often best to slow things down.' Joel Schlesinger is a Winnipeg-based freelance journalist joelschles@
News18
27-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Why Sunscreen Is A Year-Round Essential; Not Just a Summer Staple
Last Updated: This National Sunscreen Day, remember: come rain, shine, or screen time, don't forget your SPF When we think of skincare must-haves, moisturizers and serums often take centre stage. Yet, experts agree that sunscreen is the most crucial—and commonly neglected—step in your daily skincare routine. As we mark National Sunscreen Day, two leading voices in dermatological science, Dr. Shilpa Vora, Chief Research & Development Officer, Marico, and Dipak Shah, Senior Scientist, Himalaya Wellness Company, share their insights into why this humble skincare product is a non-negotiable in every season. 'Wearing a sunscreen is one of the most overlooked steps in a skincare routine," says Dr. Vora. 'However, it's the most important part of maintaining healthy skin. Exposure to the sun even indoors or on cloudy days, can cause redness, premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer." Dipak Shah echoes this, explaining that both UVA and UVB rays pose significant threats. 'UVA rays penetrate deeply and accelerate skin aging, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. A broad-spectrum SPF not only helps prevent photoaging and pigmentation but also plays a role in lowering the risk of skin cancer." Is Morning Application Enough? Many assume that one morning application is sufficient—but that's a myth. 'While the morning application is critical, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially if you're outdoors, sweating, or exposed to water," advises Shah. 'Even indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows." Dr. Vora recommends a similar approach: 'If you have a long day ahead, reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Even during sunset hours, if you anticipate sun exposure, it's wise to add a protective layer." One of the biggest misconceptions? That sunscreen is just for summer. 'Even on overcast days, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can penetrate through clouds," explains Shah. 'Monsoons don't mean a break from sun protection. UVA rays, in particular, can pass through both clouds and glass windows." 'Sunscreen is a year-long skin essential," Dr. Vora emphasizes. 'It's not just for the beach—it's for daily protection, no matter the weather or your location." Are You Applying It Right? Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type is only half the job. Proper application makes all the difference. 'Use the two-finger rule—squeeze sunscreen along the length of two fingers for each application area," suggests Dr. Vora. 'Don't forget commonly overlooked areas like your ears, neck, and hands." Shah adds, 'As per the American Academy of Dermatology, most adults need about 1 ounce (a shot glass full) to adequately cover exposed skin. And always apply it 15 minutes before sun exposure for it to bind effectively." Finding the Right Formula for You Dr. Vora recommends different formulations based on skin type and need: Kaya Youth Protect Sunscreen SPF 50 PA++++: Ideal for youthful, nourished skin with added antioxidants. Kaya Daily Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30: A balanced daily-use formula that blends skincare with sun protection. Sunscreen isn't just a summer fling—it's a lifelong relationship. From battling pollution and free radicals to protecting against premature aging and cancer, sunscreen stands as your skin's first line of defense. So this National Sunscreen Day, remember: come rain, shine, or screen time, don't forget your SPF.
Time of India
11-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Doctor explains what happens if one walks for 1 minute to what happens when one walks for 60 minutes
Dr. Manan Vora highlights the escalating health advantages of walking, from enhanced blood flow in the first minute to mood elevation within five. Walking for ten minutes reduces cortisol, while fifteen minutes regulates glucose. Thirty minutes triggers fat burning, forty-five reduces overthinking, and sixty minutes boosts dopamine, showcasing walking's therapeutic impact. Walking is one of the most effective and simplest forms of exercise. From improving the cardiovascular risk factors such as blood pressure, body weight, and body mass index (BMI), to lowering blood sugar, boosting immune function, and improving mood, walking offers several physical and mental health benefits. Dr. Manan Vora, an orthopedic surgeon and sport and exercise medicine specialist based in Mumbai, has now shared the powerful health benefits of walking that accumulate with every step. The health expert, who has over 450K Instagram followers on Instagram, recently shared a minute-by-minute breakdown of how walking transforms the body, from just 60 seconds to a full hour. 'Every minute you walk… your body thanks you,' the orthopedic surgeon said in a video shared on Instagram. Operation Sindoor Amid flare-up hours after thaw, officials say things will settle down with time Ceasefire on, but pressure stays: Key decisions by India against Pak that still stand 'Will work with India & Pakistan to seek solution on Kashmir': Trump Just one minute of walking jumpstarts blood flow, Dr. Vora explained. This small burst of movement enhances circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs. By five minutes, the benefits surge, with individuals often experiencing an uplifted mood as endorphins begin to flow. Reaching the 10-minute mark, the body starts to reduce cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. This will start to melt away tension. Walking for 15 minutes can help regulate glucose levels, and will help manage diabetes by preventing blood glucuose spikes after meals. Kate Cassidy Hits Pause After Inheritance Liam Payne Snub: 'Hard For Me To Get Out Of Bed...' At 30 minutes , walking shifts the body into fat-burning mode. 'Your body starts tapping into fat stores,' Dr. Vora said. This duration is a sweet spot for those aiming to improve body composition. Those who are on a weight loss journey can also aim to get 30 minutes of brisk walking in their fitness routine. A 2017 study looked into how moderate walking enhances the effects of an energy-restricted diet on fat mass loss. "Participation in a 12-week weight-loss study resulted in significant reductions in body weight and fat mass and was associated with significant improvements in biomarkers for cardiovascular disease risk. Moderate walking enhanced the effects of a hypoenergetic diet (DI) on fat loss and serum insulin,' the authors concluded. The benefits continue to build over time. By 45 minutes, walk ing reduces overthinking. A long walk can quiet the mind and help you break free from repetitive thoughts. For those who reach 60 minutes, the rewards are even greater. Dr. Vora pointed out that an hour of walking boosts dopamine, the brain's feel-good neurotransmitter. 'Your brain rewards you with dopamine,' he adds. Who knew a simple walk could be your best therapy! Start small. Consult your healthcare provider before adding any new exercise to your routine, especially if you have underlying medical conditions. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Mother's Day wishes , messages , and quotes !
Associated Press
01-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Vora Ventures Acquires Hive Networks to Expand Global Impact on Rare Disease Outcomes Through Learning Health Networks
Acquisition Expands Vora's Growing Healthcare Portfolio with a Unique AI-Powered Analytics and Collaboration Platform to improve outcomes for Rare Diseases 'Hive's mission-driven platform is already reshaping care for rare and chronic disease communities.'— Dr. Yousuf Ahmad, Chair of Vora's Healthcare Group CINCINNATI, OH, UNITED STATES, May 1, 2025 / / -- Vora Ventures, a Cincinnati-based private equity firm with a long-standing reputation for building and scaling high-growth technology companies, today announced its acquisition of Hive Networks, a pioneering healthcare technology platform transforming care for patients with rare and chronic conditions through Learning Health Networks (LHNs). With Hive, Vora Ventures adds a proven, real-world application of AI-powered, analytics and collaboration platform to its growing healthcare portfolio. Hive Networks was born from a simple but powerful idea: to close the gap between knowledge and practice in healthcare. Hive's cloud-based platform brings together patients, families, clinicians, and researchers to continuously learn, improve, and co-create best practices — enabling better outcomes, faster discoveries, and more personalized care. 'Hive's mission-driven platform is already reshaping care for rare and chronic disease communities,' said Dr. Yousuf Ahmad, Chair of Vora's Healthcare Group. 'As part of the Vora ecosystem, Hive is positioned to rapidly expand its reach and deepen its impact on patient communities around the world.' Hive powers some of the most successful LHNs in the country, including ImproveCareNow (focused on pediatric inflammatory bowel disease), the Improving Renal Outcomes Collaborative (IROC), and others addressing some of the most complex health conditions. 'I could not be more thrilled with this new partnership and believe it will bring state-of-the-art technology and a sustainable business model to Hive, thus enabling IROC and other learning health networks to learn faster and even more effectively improve the health of children throughout the United States and across conditions.' David K. Hooper MD, Principal Investigator at IROC. These Learning Heath Networks use Hive's secure, real-time data and collaboration tools to co-create and implement best practices at scale — ensuring the right care is delivered to the right patient at the right time. 'We are excited to see Hive Networks become part of the Vora Ventures family,' said Paul Jenny, CFO of Cincinnati Children's, an early partner in Hive's development. 'Vora brings the strategic guidance, long-term vision, and resources to scale Hive's mission and impact.' Hive Networks is poised to expand its impact in healthcare by forming new partnerships and extending its Learning Health Networks (LHNs) to address a broader range of medical conditions. 'We invested many resources to help co-develop Hive in collaboration with Cincinnati Children's and have been an active member of the Board of Directors since its launch. We are proud of what Hive has become and look optimistically towards its future under Vora Ventures' ownership,' said Emma Off, CEO of CIncyTech, a Cincinnati-based venture capital firm, which co-invested in Hive's launch. 'With Vora Ventures now behind it, Hive is poised to help even more communities, providers, and patients. This transition ensures the platform will grow into its fullest potential and further support the vision we all share—to impact millions of lives for the better.' Hive applies its LHN model to mental health, including working with the Bipolar Action network to improve care for individuals with bipolar disorder through collaborative data analysis and shared learning among clinicians, researchers, and patients. About Hive Networks Hive Networks is a healthcare technology company that empowers communities to work together to improve outcomes for patients living with rare and chronic diseases. Hive provides the collaborative infrastructure for Learning Health Networks—secure, real-time platforms that allow patients, families, clinicians, and researchers to share insights, data, and best practices. Hive partners with leading institutions such as Cincinnati Children's and supports networks like ImproveCareNow, IROC, and others across the U.S. Hive's vision is a future where every patient benefits from the collective knowledge of their community. Learn more at About Vora Ventures Vora Ventures, founded by tech entrepreneur Mahendra Vora, is a Cincinnati-based private equity family office company focused on building enduring, high-growth companies in B2B software, IT services and healthcare. With a 25+ year track record of successful ventures and a workforce of over 3,000 worldwide, Vora Ventures is known for its bold leadership, value-driven approach, and commitment to real-world innovation. Notable Vora brands include AssureCare, Ascendum, and CenterGrid. Recognized as a Deloitte Cincinnati USA 100 company and named 'Technology Company of the Year' by the Cincinnati Business Courier, and 5 times winner of 'Best Places to Work', Vora Ventures and its portfolio companies are equally committed to community, philanthropy, and corporate social responsibility. For more information, visit About CincyTech CIncyTech is a Cincinnati-based venture development firm dedicated to driving innovation and economic growth in Southwest Ohio. Backed by leading institutions such as the State of Ohio, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, the University of Cincinnati, and a network of private investors, CIncyTech plays a pivotal role in identifying, funding, and growing high-potential startups in the technology and life sciences sectors. Through a unique combination of early-stage capital, strategic support, and deep ties to regional research and healthcare institutions, CIncyTech helps transform breakthrough ideas into successful, scalable businesses that create jobs, attract follow-on capital, and enhance the region's innovation ecosystem. Media Contacts: Ashley Anderson Media Relations, CincyTech [email protected] | (513) 346-0403 Paulie Anthony Director of Communications, Vora Ventures +1 614-397-7490 email us here Visit us on social media: LinkedIn Facebook X Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
National Geographic
04-03-2025
- Health
- National Geographic
What we do—and don't—know about the mysterious illness in the DRC
Option 3: A hemorrhagic fever like Ebola If the outbreak is caused by a viral hemorrhagic fever like Ebola, which spreads from person to person via contact with infected bodily fluids, controlling it will require many more resources, including equipment allowing clinicians to provide intensive care-level treatment to patients while also protecting themselves. The response would also require a lot of people to conduct contact tracing and, if Ebola is the culprit, could involve vaccinating infected people's close contacts. Additionally, because these viruses spread from person to person, there would be a greater chance the infection could spread outside the region where it starts. The hemorrhagic fever scenario would be more concerning. Between 2014 and 2016, Ebola killed 11,000 people across Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone in the largest outbreak of that infection on record; another large outbreak in the DRC led to nearly 2,300 deaths between 2018 and 2020. Multiple smaller outbreaks of related viruses sporadically erupt across the continent, including two active outbreaks in Tanzania and Uganda, the latter of which recently claimed the life of a four-year-old boy . Still, the toolkit for responding to these outbreaks has come a long way: new vaccines – which may soon include one being trialed in Uganda – have dramatically reduced the risk of death due to Ebola infection. (This is the worst flu season in 15 years. Here's why—and how to protect yourself.) Gathering information about what people ate, drank, and did before getting sick is a good way to generate ideas for what's causing any outbreak – and that effort is under way in the DRC. The first people involved in the outbreak had reportedly eaten meat from wild bats, which has raised some concern that a hemorrhagic fever virus, endemic in some of these creatures could be the cause of the outbreak. More definitive information comes from testing samples from affected patients, along with samples from their food, water, and environment. Although it's unclear yet whether spillover caused the current outbreak, moments like this are reminders to Vora that the human threat to ecosystem health ultimately circles back to hurt us. Deforestation and conflict create more opportunities for people to interact with stressed, sickened animals, increasing the risk we'll share their diseases. 'We live in an interconnected world,' says Vora. 'The health of humans depends on the health of animals – and also, nature.'
