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Starlink Rolls Out Cheaper Data Plan in Kenya, Intensifies Competition for Internet Service Providers

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Elon Musk-owned satellite internet provider Starlink has rolled out a cheaper data plan in Kenya, intensifying competition amongst established internet service providers in the country.

This development is poised to challenge the dominance of local giants like Safaricom and Airtel who have a strong grip on the market.

According to its website, Starlink unveiled affordable high-speed internet with 50GB of data for KSh 1,300/month, less than half of Airtel’s data plan for the same package (KSh 3,000). Safaricom’s monthly package of 45GB costs KSh 2,500.

Starlink wrote,

“Affordable, high-speed Internet with 50GB of data included for KSh 1,300/month (opt-in for additional data at KSh 20/GB). Now accepting mobile money (M-Pesa, Airtel)”.

According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, Safaricom currently commands a 63.7 percent market share of mobile broadband subscriptions, followed by Airtel with 31.5 percent.

Safaricom in particular has established a substantial market presence, largely driven by its mobile money service M-Pesa and extensive network coverage. Airtel, although not as dominant as Safaricom has also carved out a significant market share with competitive pricing and service offerings. Other internet service providers are Telkom Kenya with 1.8 percent; Finserve, Equitel with 1.5 percent and Jami Telecommunications also with 1.5 percent.

Following Startlink’s entry into the Kenyan market in July 2023, the satellite internet provider reduction in its Internet Price comes as the company aims to capture a part of the market long dominated by Airtel and Safaricom.

Notably, the Internet service which has been known for providing high-speed internet in remote and underserved areas worldwide, and now offering a lower-cost data plan, aims to make its services accessible to a broader segment of the population, including those who have been reliant on more expensive or less reliable options. This will likely intensify competition in the sector.

Possible Impact of Starlink Reduction in Internet Price on The Kenyan Telecoms Sector;

1. Price War: The introduction of an affordable Starlink plan is likely to trigger a price war. Safaricom and Airtel may need to revise their pricing structures to remain competitive, potentially lowering their profit margins.

2. Service Improvement: To retain customers, Safaricom and Airtel might need to enhance their service offerings. This could include improving network coverage, increasing data speeds, and offering better customer support.

3. Innovation: The competition could spur innovation, pushing Safaricom and Airtel to develop new products and services to differentiate themselves from Starlink. This could benefit consumers through better and more varied service options.

Notably, looking at the broader market implications, this disruption goes beyond just Safaricom and Airtel. It reflects the broader trend of increased competition in the African telecom market driven by the entry of global players.

The World Is A Marketplace, AI Will Enable Smarter Business

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In the Logic and Philosophy course (GST 103 ??) as an undergraduate in Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), the professor explained one of the most important postulations of Pythagoras: the universe is numbers. Thales, Heraclitus and other philosophers had different explanations, ranging from water, to fire.

That lecture that day reminded me what happened in my first course in Physics in senior secondary when Mr. Aham introduced us to the study of matter in relation to energy, focusing on Natural Philosophy, and linking all to mathematics, the science of numbers. Simply, logic rules the world and all knowledge converges in philosophy, which means if you get a PhD in Chemistry, you have simply mastered the philosophy (the PHD title) in chemistry!

If we connect Pythagoras postulation and what AI is doing, we can see that AI is helping us to understand our world better, because if the world is made up of numbers, it does mean that the business of man and woman, is making sense of numbers. Hello… computing and now with … intelligence. Very exciting….

Join us tomorrow as we discuss how to master, understand, and utilize numbers, in whatever you do, to WIN. This is the #best school, and we have just opened registration for a new edition of Tekedia Mini-MBA here.

If you attend our program, after 12 weeks, you will see your world as a market, like the Igbo Nation will say “uwa bu ahia’ [the world is a marketplace]. Yes, let us do business because …. that is the world! Register today

Widespread Adoption of Cyber Insurance Among Organizations Spurs Cybersecurity Investments – Report

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In a recent report by Sophos, a global leader of innovative security solutions for combating cyberattacks, titled “Cyber Insurance and Cyber Defenses 2024: Lessons from IT and Cybersecurity leaders”, it disclosed that there is a widespread adoption of cyber insurance among mid-sized and large organizations.

In the survey, cyber insurance adoption has surged among organizations with 100-5,000 employees, with 90% of these businesses having some form of cyber coverage. The survey, encompassing various sectors and regions, underscores the growing importance of cyber insurance as a crucial element in organizational risk management strategies.

Among companies with less than $50 million in annual revenue, 92% have cyber insurance, while 93% of organizations with annual revenues of over $1 billion also have coverage. Based on adoption rate by sector, the energy, oil/gas, and utility sector boasts the highest rate of cyber insurance at 97% with 68% of these organizations using standalone cyber insurance policies.

This high adoption rate in these industries reflects the stringent regulatory environment and significant potential liability, compounded by the widespread use of legacy technology and infrastructure controls.

On the other hand, the central/federal government sector and the IT, technology, and telecom sectors report the lowest adoption rates, both at 81%. Despite this, over four in five organizations in all sectors surveyed have cyber insurance, highlighting its status as a standard risk management tool.

In terms of countries, Singapore reports the highest adoption rate at 96%, with 68% of organizations having standalone cyber policies. In contrast, Brazil has the lowest adoption rate at 83%. France stands out for having the highest percentage of organizations with cyber coverage at 48%.

Motivations For Cyber Insurance Adoption

The primary driver for adopting cyber insurance is the general awareness of the business impact of cyberattacks and cybercrime, cited by 48% of respondents. Close behind, 45% of respondents view
cyber insurance as a critical part of their cyber risk mitigation strategy.

Additionally, 42% of respondents indicated that cyber insurance enables them to work with clients and business partners who require it, reflecting a growing trend of insurance as a business prerequisite. Board or senior management requests influenced 38% of purchases, illustrating the significant
business impact of cyber incidents.

Regulatory requirements, though the least common driver overall (34%), vary considerably by sector. In IT, technology, and telecoms, 48% of respondents cited regulatory requirements as a factor, compared to 25% in local government and 26% in construction and property.

A striking 97% of organizations that purchased a cyber insurance policy in the past year reported investing in improving their cyber defenses to optimize their insurance position. Nearly two-thirds (63%) made major investments in their cyber defenses, while 34% made minor investments.

Conclusion

The survey confirms that cyber insurance has become a critical component of risk management for organizations across various sizes, sectors, and regions. With high adoption rates and significant investments in cyber defenses, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of safeguarding against cyber threats and mitigating potential risks through comprehensive insurance coverage.

Cyber insurance is reportedly now an established pillar in most cyber risk mitigation strategies. By making investments in cyber defenses, businesses can unlock considerable cyber insurance savings, while enjoying reduced likelihood of experiencing any form of cyber attack.

Kenyan President Ruto Withdraws Controversial Finance Bill Amid Deadly Protests

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Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced the withdrawal of a controversial finance bill proposing significant tax hikes, following deadly protests that resulted in the burning of parliament and the deaths of at least 22 people.

This move comes as a way to end the massive public outcry against the bill, which critics say would worsen the already high cost of living in Kenya.

In a televised address to the nation, President Ruto acknowledged the widespread rejection of the Finance Bill 2024.

“Listening keenly to the people of Kenya who have said loudly that they want nothing to do with this Finance Bill 2024, I concede,” he said. “And therefore, I will not sign the 2024 Finance Bill, and it shall subsequently be withdrawn. The people have spoken.”

The Roots of the Protests

The finance bill, passed by parliament on Tuesday despite nationwide protests, proposed new taxes on essential goods and services such as bread, cooking oil, mobile money services, specialized hospitals, and motor vehicles.

These measures were intended to address Kenya’s substantial debt, which exceeds $80 billion and consumes more than half of the country’s annual tax revenues for servicing. However, protesters argued that the government should cut down on its spending rather than impose additional taxes that would further strain their finances.

The protests saw demonstrators storm the parliament building, vandalizing its interior and setting parts of it on fire. The ceremonial mace, symbolizing the legislature’s authority, was stolen during the chaos. The violent clashes led to at least 22 deaths, as confirmed by the state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHRC).

Initially, President Ruto responded with defiance, deploying the military to maintain order and declaring that “violence and anarchy” would not be tolerated. However, as public outrage over the killings intensified, he reversed his stance and agreed to withdraw the bill.

Wanjeri Nderu, head of the International Society For Human Rights, described the protest scenes as akin to being “at war,” with police using live ammunition even before the parliament was breached.

Despite the government’s backtracking, it is unclear if the protesters will cease their demonstrations, especially given the high death toll and the deep mistrust many have towards the government. Many protesters believe that Ruto’s announcement to withdraw the bill is merely a ploy to quell the unrest and that he may sign the bill into law once the situation calms down.

The Law Society of Kenya has called for international criminal investigators to assist families in their quest for justice, citing reports that soldiers had engaged protesters within the parliament. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and injuries, including those of journalists and medical personnel, urging Kenyan authorities to “exercise restraint” and calling for peaceful demonstrations.

Broader Implications of the Protest

The withdrawal of the Finance Bill 2024 marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political landscape, underscoring the power of public protest and indicating that people have won.  However, the protesters’ refusal to back down highlights the depth of their frustration, beaming with the potential to spark antigovernmental protests across Africa.

Analysts believe this protest could set a precedent for other African countries experiencing similar economic hardships and governmental pressures. Many African nations face significant public discontent due to rising costs of living and perceived government inefficiencies. Many believe the events in Kenya may inspire similar movements across the continent, where citizens are grappling with comparable challenges.

How to Bet on Wimbledon 2024 in USA: US Sports Betting Sites

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Learn how to place a bet on Wimbledon 2024 in ANY US State legally with the trusted US offshore betting sites listed below, with BetOnline and BetWhale on top of our list – read on to find out why.

Top 4 US Sports Betting Sites for Wimbledon 2024

We’ve ranked our top four best Wimbledon 2024 US offshore betting sites to get accounts with ahead of the big tennis Grand Slam event. With anyone aged 18+ able to join, with no KYC checks and claim up to $4,000 in sign-up free bets.

  1. BetOnline: $1,000 welcome deposit for Wimbledon 2024
  2. BetWhale: Newer sportsbook with $1,250 in free bets
  3. Bovada: $750 deposit bonus for tennis betting in US
  4. BetNow: $1,000 sign-up offer for Wimbledon tennis betting

How to Bet on Wimbledon 2024 in US

Place bets on Wimbledon 2024 in ANY US State by following these three steps

  • Join BetOnline

  • Deposit up to $2,000 (Get 50% bonus up to $1,000)
  • Place your Wimbledon 2024 bets in US

*Note: The minimum deposit to get this offer is just $55 ($27.50 free bet)

US Sports Betting Latest – Can I Bet on Wimbledon in the USA?

Yes and no – is the answer really. 

Why? This is because it depends what part of the US people live in and also where they are trying to place bets from, as each state has their own set of betting rules.

In some areas it’s fully legal to place sports bets in, while others – like Texas and California – there are still restrictions on betting – including betting on tennis and Wimbledon.

Yes, again, some areas will allow bets only at the track, others allow wagers at certain online casino sites, while some via dedicated apps – so there are many different scenarios when it comes to trying to place bets across the US.

Good News – There is a fully legal and safe way around this problem for US betting fans.

This can be achieved by signing up with the trusted offshore betting sites in this article, as due to being based outside the US, they don’t have to adhere to any set betting rules. Meaning US bettors can use them to bet within ANY US STATE or if betting across state lines.

There are also many other benefits in joining, that include no KYC checks on joining, lucrative joining offers, quick payouts and fixed odds betting, which is a big appeal for tennis fans.

Plus, many also have better odds that even the tracks can’t compete with.

These sportsbooks, like BetOnline and Bovada, also offer many deposit methods (you can bet with Bitcoin as well) and have been around for 20+ years which has allowed thousands of US-based bettors to bet safely and legally – including betting on Wimbledon tennis in the US.

US Wimbledon Tennis Sports Betting Sites Reviewed

1. BetOnline (50% Deposit bonus, up to $1,000)

BetOnline is our top-rated US offshore sportsbook, based on having over 25 years experience, some of the best tennis betting odds and allowing bets to be accepted in ANY US State.

Joining takes just a few minutes with no ID verifications, while there is also a 50% deposit bonus (up to $1000) for new accounts to claim and all the main depositing methods are supported – including crypto and bitcoin.

Why Join BetOnline for Tennis Betting?

  • $1,000 Sports Welcome Bonus
  • Competitive online tennis betting odds
  • Existing customer offers

2. BetWhale (125% Deposit bonus, up to $1,250)

BetWhale came out as our second best US offshore sportsbook for betting on Wimbledon in the US – even though they only launched in 2023.

They’ve fast made a good name for themselves and being a newer offering have several benefits, which not only include being able to bet in any US state, but also having a generous welcome offer for up to $1,250 (125% deposit bonus) that many US bettors wouldn’t have already claimed with BetWhale being new.

At BetWhale you can also bet using crypto and bitcoin, there are no ID Verifications on joining, fast payouts and has many offers available for their existing customers.

Why Join BetWhale for Tennis Betting?

  • Newer site with ‘unused’ Welcome Offer
  • Existing customer free bets
  • Competitive Wimbledon 2024 odds

3. Bovada (75% Deposit bonus, up to $750)

Bovada started back in 2011 so are another top-trusted US betting site for anyone in America to learn how to bet on Wimbledon.

Tennis bettors ahead of Wimbledon can also claim up to $750 in free bets with their 75% welcome bonus – meaning to max-out on this offer you’ll need to have a first deposit of $1000, but smaller outlays still qualify for the offer.

Why Join Bovada for Wimbledon Tennis Betting?

  • Rewards Loyalty Program and Refer a Friend Bonus
  • Competitive tennis betting odds
  • All Wimbledon 2024 matches covered

4. BetNow (100% Deposit bonus, up to $1,000)

BetNow is the last US offshore tennis betting site to join ahead of Wimbledon 2024.

Having been in operation since 2005, you can charge your new account with up to $1000 in free bets with their deposit welcome bonus and there are no ID Verifications on sign-up again here.

Once joined, there is also a re-up bonus of up to 25%. Existing customers also get paid for referring friends.

Why Join BetNow for Tennis Betting?

  • Competitive Wimbledon 2024 betting odds
  • Wimbledon set betting on each match m
  • Reup Bonuses (up to 25%) & Refer a Friend cash bonus

Wimbledon 2024 Odds for Tennis

We’ve listed here the latest pre-event Wimbledon 2024 tennis futures odds for both the men’s and women’s events, with the tournament running from from July 1 to July 14.

Starting with the Wimbledon men’s betting, it’s last year’s winner Carlos Alcaraz who tops the betting as favorite at +140, with the current tennis world number one Jannik Skinner next at + 160.

Prolific Wimbledon men’s winner Novak Djokovic, who recently retired from the French Open with a knee injury, is +375 as he looks for his eighth title and if he can will join Roger Federer – the winning most man in the history of the event.

The 2024 Wimbelon’s women’s betting is topped by Aryna Sabalenka at +280, but the Belarus world number three had to recently pull out of the Berlin Open with a shoulder issue so her fitness will come under the microscope.

Women’s tennis world number one Iga Swiatek is next best at +300 as the Polish star looks to land her first Wimbledon title, while holder Marketa Vondrousova is +1600 to defend her title.

The US will pin their hopes on Coco Gauff is +900 as she seeks to become the first American female to win since Serena Williams in 2016. The losing finalist from the last two years – Ons Jabeur – is +1400, with the 2022 champ Elena Rybakina third best in the Wimbledon womens’ outright betting at +450.

Wimbledon Men’s Betting Odds 2024

  • Carlos Alcaraz +140
  • Jannik Sinner + 160
  • Novak Djokovic +375
  • Alexander Zverev +1400
  • Hubert Hurkacz +1600
  • Daniil Medvedev +1800
  • Jack Draper +2000
  • Rafael Nadal +2200
  • Grigor Dimitrov +2200
  • Matteo Berrettini +2800

Wimbledon Women’s Betting Odds 2024

  • Aryna Sabalenka +280
  • Iga Swiatek +300
  • Elena Rybakina +450
  • Coco Gauff +900
  • Naomi Osaka +1000
  • Mirra Andreeva +1200
  • Ons Jabeur +1400
  • Jessica Pegula +1600
  • Marketa Vondrousova +1600
  • Elina Svitolina +1800
  • Simona Halep +2500
  • Caroline Garcia +2800
  • Maria Sakkari +2800
  • Barbora Krejcikova +2800
  • Veronika Kudermetova +2800
  • Karolina Muchova +2800
  • Karolina Pliskova +2800

 

*Note: Odds are subject to change and others on request