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Academic Referencing From Russian Perspective

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I have previously worked on both academic and non-academic texts. In the case of academic texts, I produced content solely for the consumption of people and organizations within academia. These texts included writing literature reviews and synthesizing existing empirical findings with the aim of revealing similarities and commonalities among the findings. I have also produced technical reports in the form of whitepapers and case studies to provide a better understanding of grey areas in academia and industry.

On the other hand, non-academic texts encompass writing popular articles in the form of thought leadership pieces and social media posts, as well as micro-texts for promoting products, services, and brands. Since the nature of these texts is quite different, the writing style also varies. Writing academic texts requires following specific principles associated with producing knowledge in academia. For instance, literature reviews demand strict adherence to certain referencing styles, such as the Modern Language Association (MLA), the American Psychological Association (APA), and Russian GOST standards for documenting sources when producing theses or term papers.

While there are strict rules to follow when producing academic texts, I have had the opportunity to establish certain personal rules and procedures for developing non-academic texts. For example, creating social media posts and thought leadership articles requires using a funnel approach to capture the readers’ attention as quickly as possible. To produce both types of texts, I always leverage a combination of digital and non-digital tools. The digital toolkit includes Internet-enabled tools like Quill Bot, Canva, Zotero, headline analyzers, Gantt charts for scheduling writing tasks, and Grammarly. In contrast, the non-digital toolkit involves using a dictionary and double-checking by employing second and third draft approaches.

Are you diving into the world of academic thesis writing? Understanding the art of proper thesis design, especially according to Russia’s GOS standards, is a crucial step! Let’s explore key pointers for internal and external referencing to make your thesis shine:

In the realm of Internal Referencing, you’ll want to:
a. Master the art of direct and indirect quotes to support your arguments. Use author-year format (e.g., Ivanov, 2022) to acknowledge your sources.

b. Employ footnotes strategically for supplementary information, explanations, or asides. Keep them clear and concise.

c. Organize your evidence logically, making it easy for readers to follow your train of thought.

d. Use visual aids like tables, figures, diagrams, graphs, and formulas judiciously to enhance comprehension. Ensure they are well-labeled and integrated into your text seamlessly.

When it comes to External Referencing, remember to:
a. Compile a comprehensive list of references at the end of your thesis, following GOS guidelines for formatting.

b. Arrange your references in alphabetical order based on the author’s last name.
Include author names with initials (e.g., D. Petrov).
c. Mention the publication year of the cited works.

d. Accurately list the titles of books, printed periodicals, and electronic sources.

e. Proper referencing not only adds credibility to your thesis but also demonstrates your commitment to academic integrity. Make use of various sources, including books, printed periodicals, and both local and remote electronic sources, to strengthen your arguments.

Remember, the devil is in the details, so pay careful attention to citation and referencing throughout your thesis.

CV VC’s Africa Fund raises $20M, Stackr Secures $5.5M, CFTC Achieves Records; LHV Bank Founder Loses $472M in Ethereum

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CV VC, a Swiss-based venture capital firm, has announced the launch of its Africa fund, which aims to invest in early stage web3 startups across the continent. The fund has raised $20 million from a mix of institutional and private investors and plans to deploy capital in sectors such as decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, metaverse, and blockchain infrastructure.

The fund is led by a team of experienced African entrepreneurs and investors, who have a deep understanding of the local market and the potential of web3 technologies. The fund will also leverage CV VC’s global network of partners, mentors, and advisors, as well as its portfolio of over 50 web3 companies.

CV VC’s Africa fund is one of the first dedicated web3 funds in the region and reflects the growing interest and adoption of blockchain and crypto in Africa. According to a recent report by Chainalysis, Africa is the third-fastest growing crypto economy in the world, with a 1,200% increase in value received between July 2020 and June 2021.

The fund’s vision is to support the next generation of African innovators and entrepreneurs, who are building solutions that can transform the continent and the world. The fund will provide not only capital, but also mentorship, guidance, and access to a global community of web3 enthusiasts and experts.

CV VC’s Africa fund is currently open for applications from startups that are based in or have a strong focus on Africa. The fund will invest in pre-seed and seed stage companies, with ticket sizes ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. The fund is also looking for co-investors and strategic partners who share its vision and mission.

Stackr raises $5.5 millions to simplify crypto app development for web2 developer

Stackr, a platform that aims to make it easier for web2 developers to build and deploy decentralized applications (dApps) on top of various blockchain protocols, announced today that it has raised $5.5 million in a seed round led by Placeholder, with participation from Fabric Ventures, 1kx, and several angel investors.

The company was founded in 2022 by a team of experienced web2 developers who saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between the traditional web and the emerging web3 ecosystem. Stackr provides a suite of tools and services that enable developers to create, test, and deploy dApps without having to deal with the complexity and fragmentation of the underlying blockchain infrastructure.

Stackr’s platform supports multiple blockchain protocols, including Ethereum, Polygon, Solana, and Near, and allows developers to choose the best fit for their use case. Stackr also integrates with popular web2 frameworks and technologies, such as React, Next.js, GraphQL, and Firebase, to offer a familiar and seamless development experience.

Stackr’s co-founder and CEO, said in a statement: “We believe that web3 is the future of the internet, but we also recognize that there are many challenges and barriers that prevent web2 developers from embracing it. Our mission is to simplify and democratize crypto app development by providing a platform that abstracts away the technical hurdles and lets developers focus on building amazing user experiences.”

Stackr’s seed round will help the company expand its team, grow its community, and launch its platform to the public in early 2024. The company also plans to add more features and integrations to its platform, such as support for more blockchains, identity solutions, storage providers, and analytics tools.

Chris Burniske, partner at Placeholder, said in a statement: “We are impressed by the vision and execution of the Stackr team. They have built a platform that lowers the entry barrier for web2 developers to join the web3 movement and unleash their creativity. We are excited to back them and support their growth.”

CFTC achieves record-breaking enforcement milestones in 2023 amid LHV Bank founder losing $472M in Ethereum

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has announced that it has reached unprecedented levels of enforcement actions and penalties in the digital asset sector in 2023. The agency, which regulates the derivatives markets in the US, has been actively pursuing cases involving fraud, manipulation, registration violations, and other misconduct involving cryptocurrencies and other digital assets.

According to the CFTC’s annual report, the agency filed 32 enforcement actions related to digital assets in 2023, more than double the number of cases filed in 2022. The agency also obtained more than $1.5 billion in monetary relief, including civil penalties, disgorgement, and restitution, from digital asset defendants. This amount represents a 300% increase from the previous year and the highest ever for the digital asset sector.

Some of the notable cases that the CFTC resolved in 2023 include:

A $200 million settlement with BitMEX, one of the largest cryptocurrency derivatives platforms, for operating an unregistered trading platform and violating anti-money laundering and customer identification rules.

A $100 million settlement with Tether, the issuer of the largest stablecoin, for making false and misleading statements about its reserves and liquidity.

A $50 million settlement with Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, for facilitating illegal transactions and failing to implement adequate controls and compliance programs.

A $25 million settlement with Coinbase, the largest US-based cryptocurrency exchange, for engaging in wash trading and market manipulation on its platform.

A $10 million settlement with Ripple, the developer of the XRP token, for offering and selling unregistered securities and failing to disclose material information to investors.

The CFTC’s acting chairperson, Sarah Raskin, stated that the agency’s enforcement efforts reflect its commitment to protecting investors and ensuring market integrity in the rapidly evolving digital asset space. She added that the CFTC will continue to work closely with its domestic and international counterparts to coordinate regulation and enforcement of digital assets.

The CFTC’s report also highlighted some of the challenges and opportunities that the agency faces in regulating digital assets. These include:

Developing a clear and consistent regulatory framework that balances innovation and consumer protection. Enhancing data collection and analysis capabilities to monitor market activity and identify emerging risks. Increasing staff expertise and resources to keep pace with the growth and complexity of the digital asset sector.

Educating investors and market participants about the benefits and risks of digital assets. Fostering cooperation and collaboration with other regulators, law enforcement agencies, industry associations, and academia.

The CFTC’s report concluded that digital assets are a transformative force that have the potential to create new markets, products, and services, as well as to improve efficiency, transparency, and inclusion in the financial system. The agency stated that it will continue to pursue its mission of fostering open, transparent, competitive, and financially sound markets for digital assets, while protecting investors and the public interest.

LHV bank founder Rain Lohmus loses access to ether worth $472 millions.

In a shocking turn of events, the founder of LHV bank, Rain Lohmus, has reportedly lost access to his digital wallet containing 40,000 ether, worth about $472 millions at the current market price. According to a statement released by Lohmus, he forgot the password to his wallet and has exhausted all the possible recovery options.

Lohmus, who is a prominent figure in the Estonian banking and fintech sector, had invested in ether since 2015, when the cryptocurrency was still in its infancy. He had stored his ether in a hardware wallet, a device that allows users to securely store their private keys offline. However, he claims that he misplaced the paper where he had written down his password and could not remember it.

“I deeply regret this unfortunate situation and I apologize to all my investors and partners who trusted me with their funds. I have tried everything in my power to recover my wallet, but I have failed. I have accepted the fact that I have lost my ether forever,” Lohmus said in his statement.

Lohmus added that he still believes in the potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, and that he will continue to support the development of the industry. He also urged other crypto investors to be more careful with their passwords and backup methods, and to use reputable custodial services if they are not confident in managing their own wallets.

The incident has sparked a lot of reactions in the crypto community, with some sympathizing with Lohmus and others criticizing him for his negligence. Some have also speculated that Lohmus may have staged the loss as a way to avoid taxes or legal issues, but there is no evidence to support this claim.

Ether is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization, after bitcoin. It is the native currency of the Ethereum network, a decentralized platform that enables smart contracts and decentralized applications. Ether has seen a massive surge in value this year, reaching an all-time high of over $1,800 in November.

How to Start Working for Yourself

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In an era defined by innovation and limitless opportunities, the prospect of working for oneself has never been more enticing. The allure of entrepreneurship lies in the freedom to pursue your passion, chart your course, and define your destiny. Yet, taking those initial steps into the world of self-employment can be daunting. In this article, we will explore the key considerations and strategies to successfully embark on the journey of working for yourself. 

Define Your Passion and Purpose

Before you take the leap, introspect deeply. What ignites your passion? What drives your purpose? Starting a business often means long hours and significant challenges. Your unwavering commitment to your venture will be your guiding light through the darkest moments. Choose a path that resonates with your core values and inspires you daily.

Research and Plan Thoroughly

Every successful entrepreneurial journey begins with meticulous research and planning. Study your industry, target market, and competition. Identify gaps and opportunities. Craft a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections. A well-thought-out plan will serve as your roadmap to success.

Build a Solid Support Network

Working for yourself doesn’t mean working by yourself. Surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and a network of like-minded individuals who can provide guidance and support. Join industry associations, attend networking events, and seek out mentors who have walked the entrepreneurial path before you.

Financial Preparedness

Starting a business often requires an initial investment of time and money. Ensure you have a financial safety net to cover your living expenses and business costs during the initial phases. Explore funding options such as personal savings, loans, or investors, depending on the scale of your venture.

Develop a Strong Online Presence

In today’s digital age, a robust online presence is essential. Create a professional website, engage with your audience on social media, and invest in online marketing strategies. Your online presence will not only attract customers but also establish your credibility in the industry.

Embrace Continuous Learning

The entrepreneurial journey is a constant learning experience. Stay updated on industry trends, technology, and best practices. Invest in your personal and professional development. The more knowledge you acquire, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

Adaptability and Resilience

Expect setbacks and challenges along the way. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. Your ability to adapt to changing circumstances and bounce back from failures will determine your success. Stay resilient, learn from your mistakes, and keep moving forward.

Focus on Customer Value

Your business exists to serve your customers. Always prioritize delivering exceptional value to them. Listen to their feedback, anticipate their needs, and build long-lasting relationships. Satisfied customers can become your most powerful advocates.

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure that your business complies with all relevant laws and regulations. This includes registering your business, obtaining necessary licenses, and adhering to tax requirements. Legal compliance is essential to protect your business and your reputation.

Celebrate Milestones and Stay Inspired

As you progress on your entrepreneurial journey, take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. These milestones are a testament to your dedication and hard work. They can also serve as motivation to keep pushing forward. Working for yourself is a rewarding and empowering endeavor. While it requires dedication and perseverance, the freedom and fulfillment it offers are unparalleled. By following these strategies and staying true to your passion, you can embark on a successful journey of entrepreneurship and ultimately define your own path to success.

A Deep Look Into Nigeria’s Future As The Post-Petroleum Society Arrives

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I used to write long articles here, but when I realized that few have time for such, I stopped writing them. But someone had the time to read one of my old articles which was titled “The Post-Nigerian Petroleum Era”, and came up with how we read these days. Yes, Oluleke Babayomi, Ph.D., R.Eng. read it, and he has “satchetized” it for us.

“Thank you, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, for this thoughtful, insightful, poetic piece. Since it is a long read, I present a summary of the key points below for the benefit of all.

-Nigeria’s focus on oil has eroded all progress made in the pre-oil era in economics, agriculture, trade and intellectual development.

  • The country’s fate appears grim as oil either loses significance or oil reserves become depleted.

  • The risky political arena has made governance a no-go area to the nation’s brightest and best, hence sham governance has been perpetuated since the demise of the generation of Azikiwe, Awolowo and Bello.

  • Present-day leadership is not driven by any long-term vision to change the status quo.

  • Nigeria’s regional influence will likely be reduced to nothing after the oil-era, leaving only one economically, technologically and politically dominant country on the continent – South Africa.

  • Nigeria’s post-oil era: Many federally-funded institutions and programs will collapse. Presently poorly-funded educational institutions will then be left to fend for themselves and seek external funding. States will become more financially innovative and prudent due to loss of income from the federal purse.

The way out for Nigeria:

1) Invest in education, especially entrepreneurial and technical education to catalyze technological innovation in agriculture and other areas.

2) Develop broadband technologies to catalyze internet-supported business growth.

3) Appropriate education and financial incentives for artisans, traders, sculptors and farmers must be provided to expand their business capabilities.

4) Develop reliable capital markets to finance major capital investments in manufacturing, technology, agriculture and the local petroleum industry.

Here is the tome if you care.

The Post-Nigerian Petroleum Era

Growing A Business With Smart Credits | Tekedia Mini-MBA

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What is a smart credit? And what is a loan? If a bank offers you a loan of N2 million and a credit card of N2 million at the same interest rate, which one is better?

Sure – the credit is not typically available in Nigeria because it is better. The problem with a bank loan is that on the day the agreement is executed, you start paying, whether the funds have been deployed or not. But on a credit card, you only begin to pay when you use it, and if you do pay back the balances at the end of the month, you may not have extra bills. For a loan, that is not possible.

Of course, a credit card has its own challenges since it can compound the interests (some bank loans do also). Today, at Tekedia Mini-MBA, a startup which is driving a credit economy in Nigeria, focusing on companies, will be teaching. He is not coming to give anyone credit! But you will credit him for the knowledge you will go home with because CREDIT is important in any business and economy. Abeeb Ogunsola of Evea will educate on how to grow a business with smart credits.

Tekedia Institute Mini-MBA is an award-winning business school; registration for the next edition has started; begin here.