Latest news with #urbanization
Yahoo
a day ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Uber CEO Says Gen Z Skipping Driving Licenses Is Real—And Personal. His Own Son Won't Get One, And It's Driving Him 'Crazy'
Uber (NYSE:UBER) CEO Dara Khosrowshahi says the trend of Gen Z delaying or ditching driver's licenses isn't just something he sees in the data; it's happening in his own household. "I'm still trying to get my son to get his driver's license," Khosrowshahi said on a recent episode of The Verge's 'Decoder' podcast. "It drives me crazy. I don't know about you, but did you get a license the minute you could drive? It was just such a thing. It was a goal in life. It represented freedom." Don't Miss: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:. Khosrowshahi pointed out that the percentage of 16- and 18-year-olds getting licenses has dropped significantly. He called it a clear sign that personal car ownership no longer holds the same value it once did. 'If you look at the percentage of 16- or 18-year-olds who are getting their license, that percentage is coming down significantly,' he said. 'I think it used to be two-thirds, but now it's probably in the 50 percent range.' Asked if his son's reluctance to drive was a sign of Uber's success or that of a popular video game Fortnite, Khosrowshahi quipped, "Probably the two are mixed. I also think it's an indication of the urbanization of our populations, but I haven't actually looked into whether heavy Fortnite players are Uber users as well. I suspect they may be. Certainly Uber Eats users." Trending: According to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, just under 4% of licensed drivers in the country are 19 or younger. That's a big drop from decades past. In 1983, 46% of all 16-year-olds had a license. By 2019, that number was 25%. For 18-year-olds, the decline is similar: from 80% with a license in 1983 down to 58% in 2022. Young people are skipping licenses for a bunch of reasons. Many don't need a car to connect with friends anymore—they're online all the time. Others use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft (NASDAQ:LYFT), or stick to public transit and biking. Driving anxiety is also playing a to a 2023 Washington Post report, aggressive driving and road rage were on the rise. Combined with mental health challenges, some teens now see driving as stressful, not exciting. Gen Z's hesitance has big implications for the future of transportation, especially for a company like Uber. But Khosrowshahi sees it as a sign of change, not disaster. "Uber's freed him up," he said about his son. That flexibility is part of what Uber wants to offer more broadly. Read Next: Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?. How do billionaires pay less in income tax than you?.UNLOCKED: 5 NEW TRADES EVERY WEEK. Click now to get top trade ideas daily, plus unlimited access to cutting-edge tools and strategies to gain an edge in the markets. Get the latest stock analysis from Benzinga? LYFT (LYFT): Free Stock Analysis Report This article Uber CEO Says Gen Z Skipping Driving Licenses Is Real—And Personal. His Own Son Won't Get One, And It's Driving Him 'Crazy' originally appeared on © 2025 Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved. 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
The National
2 days ago
- Business
- The National
With its new UN role, the UAE can shape the conversation on the towns and cities of tomorrow
The UAE's election to the presidency of the General Assembly of the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), along with its membership in the Executive Board, is both a profound honour and a significant responsibility. This achievement underscores the UAE's growing stature on the global stage and affirms international recognition of our progressive, human-centric approach to urban development and sustainability. Over the past five decades, the UAE has undergone an extraordinary transformation – from a collection of modest desert communities into a global exemplar of innovative, sustainable urbanisation. Cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai have emerged as architectural landmarks and models of integrated infrastructure, smart technology and inclusive development, all designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. This evolution has been guided by long-term national strategies, including UAE Vision 2021 and UAE Vision 2031, which emphasise sustainability, innovation and community well-being. Our investments in smart city development, renewable energy and inclusive housing policies uniquely position us to contribute meaningfully to UN-Habitat's mission. At a time when the world faces intensifying challenges related to rapid urbanisation, climate change and widening socio-economic disparities, the role of UN-Habitat is more vital than ever. The UAE's leadership in the General Assembly and Executive Board comes at a pivotal moment – demanding pragmatic solutions, innovative thinking and inclusive action. As we assume this leadership role, the UAE is committed to close collaboration with member states and international partners. Our efforts will be anchored in three strategic priorities: advancing sustainable urbanisation, fostering innovation and ensuring that cities are resilient and responsive to the evolving needs of their populations. A special focus will be placed on strengthening urban resilience in the Global South, where infrastructure demands are most acute and populations are expanding rapidly. The UAE brings to this role not only financial and diplomatic resources, but also a deep, practical understanding of how to catalyse effective, scalable urban change. Public-private partnerships, technological innovation and climate resilience will be central to our approach – areas in which the UAE has demonstrated global leadership. These pillars will be instrumental in helping cities around the world adapt to a rapidly changing environment marked by ecological, economic and social uncertainties. Equally important is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. We firmly believe that sustainable cities must also be equitable – places where women, youth and marginalised groups are not only included but empowered. The UAE has consistently promoted inclusive urban planning, and we will continue to champion this principle through our work with UN-Habitat. The UAE brings to this role not only financial and diplomatic resources, but also a deep, practical understanding of how to catalyse effective, scalable urban change In taking on this role, the UAE is ready to share its experiences, listen actively to the needs of diverse communities, and facilitate meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange. We recognise the importance of humility in leadership and are committed to learning from others as much as we contribute. The UAE does not seek to lead alone, but to lead in partnership. We stand as an example of what is possible when vision, ambition and shared values come together in pursuit of a more sustainable, equitable urban future. Together, let us build cities that are not only smarter but more inclusive – cities that drive opportunity, protect our environment and embody the best of what humanity can achieve when united in purpose.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
FRP Rebar Market by Fiber Type, Resin Type, Diameter, Surface Treatment, Tensile Strength, Application, & Region - Global Forecast to 2030
The FRP rebar market is set to grow from USD 0.69 billion in 2025 to USD 1.19 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 11.5%, driven by demand for corrosion-resistant materials in construction. FRP rebar offers advantages over steel, including non-corrosiveness, lightweight, and high tensile strength, reducing maintenance costs and prolonging structure life. The epoxy resin segment will expand rapidly due to its superior durability and compatibility. Meanwhile, medium tensile strength FRP rebar balances performance and affordability, suited for diverse applications. The Middle East & Africa exhibits substantial growth potential, fueled by urbanization and infrastructure projects. Key players include Dextra Group, Pultron Composites, and Schöck Bauteile GmbH. This comprehensive report details industry trends, competitive dynamics, and opportunities for stakeholders. FRP Rebar Market Dublin, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "FRP Rebar Market by Fiber Type, Resin Type, Diameter, Surface Treatment, Tensile Strength, Application, & Region - Global Forecast to 2030" has been added to offering. The FRP rebar market is estimated at USD 0.69 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.19 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2025 to 2030 The report aids market leaders and new entrants by providing accurate revenue approximations, competitive landscape insights, and strategic planning information. It highlights key market drivers and challenges, supports product development initiatives, explores market diversification, and identifies emerging growth opportunities, facilitating informed decision-making. The growing need for corrosion-resistant, long-lasting materials in construction and infrastructure projects is driving market expansion. FRP rebar offers advantages over conventional steel reinforcement, such as non-corrosive properties, lightweight nature, and high tensile strength, significantly extending the lifespan of structures and reducing maintenance costs. Additionally, its resistance to electromagnetic interference makes it ideal for bridges, tunnels, marine construction, and industrial facilities where traditional steel is susceptible to rust and decay. Major players include Dextra Group, Pultron Composites, Pultrall Inc., Schock Bauteile GmbH, Sireg S.P.A., Kodiak Fiberglass Rebar, Neuvokas Corporation, Rochling Group, Armastek, TUF Bar, ARC Insulations & Insulator Ltd., Jindal Advanced Materials, SKD Composites, Galen Composites, and ICSC. Epoxy Resin Segment: Fastest Growing Epoxy resin is projected to be the fastest-growing resin type in the FRP rebar market, attributed to its superior mechanical properties and long-term durability in harsh environments. Unlike other resins, epoxy exhibits low shrinkage upon curing and maintains structural integrity under high stress, essential for reliable infrastructure applications. Its compatibility with various fibers and resistance to moisture, heat, and corrosives make it preferable for marine, coastal, and chemical plant buildings. Medium Tensile Strength: Second-Highest Growth Rate Medium tensile strength FRP rebar is anticipated to register the second-highest CAGR, offering an optimal balance of performance and cost-effectiveness. Suitable for diverse structural applications, including residential and commercial buildings, it provides adequate strength where ultra-high tensile strength is unnecessary. Its versatility supports infrastructure development and urbanization, rendering it an affordable alternative to steel reinforcement in budget-constrained projects. Middle East & Africa: Regional Growth Leader The Middle East & Africa region is set to register the second-highest growth rate due to urbanization, infrastructure expansion, and the demand for durable construction materials. Iconic developments, such as the Burj Khalifa and Saudi Arabia's NEOM City, have utilized FRP rebar, highlighting its benefits in challenging environments. Regional investment in sustainable infrastructures further drives the transition toward FRP rebar, positioning it as a favored replacement for traditional reinforcements. Industry Insights and Key Players This study validated through interviews with industry experts categorizes the FRP rebar market by fiber type, resin type, diameter, surface treatment, tensile strength, application, and region. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 305 Forecast Period 2025 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $0.69 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $1.19 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 11.5% Regions Covered Global Market Dynamics Drivers Increasing Demand in Construction Industry Government-Led Regulations on Use of Frp Rebars Challenges Supply Chain and Manufacturing Constraints Inability to Completely Replace Steel Rebar Opportunities Rising Investments in Large-Scale Civil Engineering Projects Growing Use in Construction of Highways and Bridges Case Studies Use of Gfrp Rebar in Delhi Metro Phase 3 Jizan Flood Mitigation Channel - World's Largest Gfrp Rebar Project Muskrat Falls Hydroelectric Project, Canada - Gfrp Rebar for Long-Term Durability Industry Trends Trends/Disruptions Impacting Customer Business Company Profiles Dextra Group Schock Bauteile Gmbh Pultron Composites Sireg S.P.a. Pultrall Inc. Kodiak Fiberglass Rebar Neuvokas Corporation Rochling Arc Insulations & Insulator Ltd. Jindal Advanced Materials Skd Composite Galen Llc Fibrolux Frt Tuf-Bar Armastek Firep Mst Rebar Inc. Mrg Composites Rebar Antop Global Technology Co., Ltd. Arab Basalt Fiber Company Icsc Rockrebar Regbar Henan Zhongsheng Composite Material Co., Ltd. Composite Group Chelyabinsk For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment FRP Rebar Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
The Rise of Specialty Coffee: Exploring Key Trends in Saudi Arabia's Thriving Cafe Industry
The Saudi Arabia cafes market is bolstered by a youthful population and urbanization, driving demand for social dining venues. Key opportunities include the rise of specialty coffee fueled by consumer awareness and government initiatives. However, competition among global and domestic brands poses challenges for differentiation. Saudi Arabian Cafes Market Dublin, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Cafes Market by Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to Saudi Arabia Cafes Market was valued at USD 6.14 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 9.87 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 8.23%. The market is expanding steadily, driven by a youthful population eager for contemporary and sociable dining spaces. With more than 60% of the population under the age of 30, there is a pronounced appetite for cafés that offer inviting atmospheres to socialize, study, or work. Rising urbanization and increasing disposable incomes are also fueling café visits, as global coffee culture gains traction among Saudi consumers. Furthermore, the government's Vision 2030 initiative, including support for the Saudi Coffee Initiative, has encouraged café development through investments in local coffee production and support for entrepreneurial ventures. Relaxed social norms and a cultural shift toward experiential consumption are further boosting the café sector across both major cities and secondary urban centers in the Kingdom. Key Market Drivers: Rapid Urbanization & Changing Lifestyles The café industry in Saudi Arabia is being significantly driven by rapid urban development and evolving consumer lifestyles. Urban population growth continues to rise, with a 0.2 percentage point increase recorded in 2023 alone. As urban environments expand and modern infrastructure emerges, there is growing demand for casual, yet stylish spaces that reflect contemporary tastes. Young Saudis, in particular, are embracing cafés as multifunctional venues for socializing, working, and casual meetings. This trend is reinforced by increased disposable income and greater exposure to international dining concepts. Moreover, the fast-paced nature of urban life has led to the growing popularity of accessible, quick-service cafés. The expansion of digital ordering and delivery services also complements this demand, enhancing the reach and convenience of café operators across the Kingdom's key cities. Key Market Challenges: Intense Competition Among Major Players The café industry in Saudi Arabia is facing mounting competition as both international franchises and domestic chains vie for consumer attention. Global brands such as Starbucks, Tim Hortons, and Dunkin' are contending with a new wave of emerging Saudi coffee houses and specialty cafés that cater to more refined tastes. This saturation is especially pronounced in high-footfall urban locations, where market density makes it increasingly difficult for new entrants to find prime real estate. As competition intensifies, café operators are under pressure to differentiate through unique branding, personalized customer experiences, and frequent promotional campaigns. Franchise scalability and maintaining service consistency also present operational hurdles. To stay competitive, brands must innovate their offerings while building strong loyalty programs and adapting to local consumer preferences. Key Market Trends: Rise of Specialty Coffee Specialty coffee is gaining prominence in Saudi Arabia, driven by an increasingly informed and quality-conscious consumer base. While traditional Arabic coffee holds cultural value, modern consumers are now favoring premium, ethically sourced beans and artisanal brewing methods. Specialty cafés are embracing this shift by offering single-origin and cold brew options crafted using precision equipment. The trend is further supported by national efforts to promote domestic coffee cultivation, particularly in regions such as Jazan, known for producing Arabica beans. For example, in November 2023, the Public Investment Fund-owned Saudi Coffee Company announced plans for a one-million-square-meter model farm in Jazan to enhance the production of Coffea Arabica. This initiative underscores the government's strategic push to diversify the economy and elevate local coffee supply chains. As a result, specialty coffee continues to shape consumer preferences and fuel growth across Saudi Arabia's evolving café landscape. Key Players Profiled in this Saudi Arabia Cafes Market Report Dunkin Donuts Barn's Starbucks Tim Hortons Costa Coffee Mochachino Derby Coffee COFFEE Café Bateel Molten Chocolate Café Report Scope: In this report, the Saudi Arabia Cafes Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below: Saudi Arabia Cafes Market, by Ownership: Standalone Cafes Chained Cafes Saudi Arabia Cafes Market, by Chained Cafes: Domestic International Saudi Arabia Cafes Market, by Distribution Channel: Retail Sales Online Saudi Arabia Cafes Market, by Region: Eastern Western Northern & Central Southern Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $6.14 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $9.87 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.2% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Saudi Arabian Cafes Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error 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
Forbes
6 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
The Convergence Of Gas And Power
Junaid Ali is the CEO of Prismecs, a leading energy solutions provider that delivers thousands of MW of power globally. getty The energy landscape is shifting significantly, and I see gas companies as central to this transformation and changing their roles to help confront the dual challenges of energy demand. No longer confined to the extraction and distribution of natural gas, companies within this sector are increasingly stepping into the realm of power generation. Simply, with their existing infrastructure and expertise, gas companies are uniquely positioned to lead compared to coal-generated power plants. But this shift is not just a strategic choice—it's becoming an industry necessity. Traditional power generation methods, primarily dependent on centralized systems, are proving inadequate in the face of modern energy demands and climate challenges. Whether driven by economic pressures, regulatory changes or the imperative to reduce carbon emissions, these companies are being pushed to reinvent themselves as key players in the power sector. Centralized power systems have long been the backbone of our energy infrastructure. Global electricity demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040, driven by urbanization and the electrification of transport and industry. Traditional power grids, designed for when energy was generated far from where it was used, are struggling to keep up with this growth. This is where gas companies come in. With the sharp decline of coal-fueled power and the steady transition away from oil, natural gas has become a promising bridge in the shift to cleaner energy sources. Distributed power generation, where electricity is produced closer to where it's consumed, offers a solution to the inefficiencies of the traditional grid. With 40% or lower carbon emissions than coal when burned, natural gas is becoming a critical bridge in the transition to cleaner energy. It pairs effectively with renewable sources like wind and solar by providing backup power during intermittent periods. For instance, General Electric (GE) reports that some natural gas turbines now achieve over 60% efficiency in combined-cycle operations, making them ideal for distributed systems. Gas companies have an advantage in this transition due to their extensive existing infrastructure. The pipelines, storage facilities and distribution networks built for natural gas can be adapted for power generation. This allows gas companies to expand into the power sector with lower capital investment than building entirely new infrastructure from scratch. Moreover, natural gas's ability to complement renewables is crucial. Combined-cycle plants use natural gas and can ramp up quickly to provide power when solar and wind generation falter. For example, Dominion Energy and Southern Company are expanding their portfolios to include not only natural gas but also wind and solar projects. These efforts position them as leaders in the energy transition, showcasing how gas companies can support renewable integration while maintaining reliability. Governments worldwide are implementing ambitious climate policies, pushing for cleaner energy sources. For instance, the European Union (EU) aims to reduce "net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels." Economic incentives are also driving the shift. The cost of renewable technologies has plummeted over the past decade, and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that solar photovoltaic costs have fallen by over 80% since 2010, while wind power costs have dropped by 40%. Natural gas can complement these renewables, offering reliability and flexibility and allowing companies to diversify revenue streams as traditional natural gas applications plateau. The transition of gas companies into power generation is reshaping the energy ecosystem. These companies address grid stability and energy storage challenges by providing gas and electricity while driving innovation through partnerships with renewable energy developers and technology firms. For instance, Chevron has partnered with renewable energy companies to develop hybrid systems that combine natural gas with solar and wind power. According to the company, these projects deliver a stable, reliable energy supply while significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional fossil fuel-based power generation. The transformation of gas companies into power companies marks a pivotal moment in the energy sector, one that forward-thinking companies can seize. Expertise in natural gas and extensive infrastructure make those in this sector as indispensable in creating a low-carbon energy future. The pressures driving this change—economic, regulatory and environmental—are only intensifying. The IEA emphasizes that natural gas will remain a cornerstone of the energy mix through 2040, mainly as a complement to renewables. Therefore, the future of energy is decentralized, flexible and sustainable. By taking on this new role, leaders in gas are not just responding to market pressures but also helping to shape the future of the global energy system. I am committed to supporting this transition and believe it represents one of the most significant opportunities of our time. I am certain that companies that seize this opportunity will play a central role in meeting the challenges of the 21st century, ensuring energy systems are ready for a sustainable and dynamic future. Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
