Kia Announces 2024 Annual and Fourth Quarter Business Results

Business News

Kia posts 2024 Q4 global sales of 769,985 units, a 5% increase Y/y

Q4 revenue increased 11.6% to KRW 27.15 trillion

Operating profit of KRW 2.72 trillion; operating profit margin hits 10%

Global retail sales of electrified vehicles increased 14.5% to 164,000 units

Kia records highest annual global sales of 3.1 million units in 2024

2024 annual revenue increased 7.7% to KRW 107.45 trillion

Operating profit of KRW 12.67 trillion; operating profit margin hits 11.8%

Highest annual revenue, global sales, operating profit, and operating profit margin 

In 2025, Kia targets global sales of 3.22 million units

Aims for annual revenue of KRW 112.5 trillion

Operating profit of KRW 12.4 trillion; operating profit margin of 11%

Maintain two-digit operating profit margin based on business competitiveness

Kia to achieve 2024 Total Shareholder Return of 33.3%, including annual dividends of KRW 6,500 and buyback shares of KRW 700 billion

Kia also aims to expand its 2025 Total Shareholder Return up to 35% 

Kia Corporation today announced its 2024 annual and fourth quarter business results, highlighting strong performance amid uncertain global market conditions.

Kia recorded its highest annual global sales of 3,089,300 units in 2024, a 0.1 percent increase year over year. The company’s annual revenue also increased 7.7 percent to KRW 107.45 trillion. Operating profit climbed to KRW 12.67 trillion, up 9.1 percent compared with 2023, with an operating profit margin of 11.8 percent.

In 2024, Kia not only exceeded KRW 100 trillion of annual revenue for the first time, but also achieved its highest annual global sales, operating profit, and operating profit margin. This was due to the company’s highest ever global sales, an enriched product mix centered on high-margin and high-value-added models, and favorable exchange rates.

Q4 business results

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Kia reported global sales of 769,985 units, a five percent increase over its 2023 performance. Sales outside of Korea stood at 629,051 units, a 5.8 percent increase year over year, with sales of 140,934 units in Korea, a 1.6 percent increase.

Sales increased in major regions such as North America, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, strengthened by the appeal of the company’s key recreational vehicles (RVs) and its diversified powertrain (PT) lineup. Sales rose 7.3 percent in North America amid the introduction of the new Carnival MPV Hybrid as well as the expanded sales of Kia’s Sportage and Telluride SUVs. Sales also increased 43.3 percent and 18.7 percent respectively in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific region. 

The company posted fourth quarter revenue of KRW 27.15 trillion, an increase of 11.6 percent compared with the same period a year earlier. Kia’s fourth quarter revenue was supported by increased sales in major regions such as North America as well as an improved product mix and an increased vehicle average sales price (ASP).

Despite a slight increase in incentives and sales warranty provisions last year, Kia also achieved a quarterly operating profit of 2.72 trillion, with a double-digit operating profit margin for nine consecutive quarters since the fourth quarter of 2022. This was due to the company’s strong sales, driven by Kia’s product competitiveness and favorable exchange rates. 

Sales of electrified vehicles

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Kia recorded global retail sales of 164,000 electrified vehicles, including hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and all-electric (EV) models, representing a 14.5 percent increase from a year earlier. In addition, as a percentage of the company’s total sales, Kia’s electrified models increased by 1.6 percentage points to a 21.5 percent share in the fourth quarter.

In 2024, Kia sold a total of 638,000 electrified vehicles, a 10.9 percent year over year increase. Kia’s electrified models accounted for 21.4 percent of the company’s total sales, a 2.3 percentage point increase from a year earlier. This increase was driven by strong demand for hybrid vehicles, with sales of 367,000 units, a 20 percent increase year over year. The company’s EV sales also increased 10.2 percent to 201,000 units. 

2025 Outlook

In 2025, Kia plans to continue to react flexibly to the growing demand for electrified vehicles in North America and Europe by expanding the sales of its HEV and EV models while entering new segments in the Korean and Indian markets. 

This year, Kia will launch its new Tasman pickup truck, PV5 PBV model and the Syros SUV, a strategic vehicle for the Indian market. The company will also establish a full lineup of EV models through the global roll out the EV4 and EV5. 

Despite global market uncertainties, the company still expects a two-digit operating profit margin in 2025 based on its enhanced product lineup and business competitiveness.

Kia is aiming for global sales of 3.22 million units in 2025, a 4.1 percent increase compared with 2024. Kia also aims to achieve revenue of KRW 112.5 trillion, an operating profit of KRW 12.4 trillion, and an operating profit margin of 11 percent this year.

The company also plans to enhance shareholder value and implement an active return strategy based on its strong business performance. Kia aims to achieve its 2024 Total Shareholder Return (TSR, which includes dividends, buyback and cancellation of repurchased stock) of 33.3 percent, while aiming to expand up to 35 percent in 2025. 

As part of this commitment, Kia will be setting the dividend per share at KRW 6,500, which reflects an increase of KRW 900 from the previous year’s dividend of KRW 5,600. Additionally, the company is planning to allocate KRW 700 billion for share buyback and cancellation, which is an increase of KRW 200 billion compared to last year. 

Kia will also cancel 100 percent of all treasury stock without any conditions attached. Furthermore, in 2025, Kia will revise its share buyback program to a split format, purchasing shares each in the first and second halves of the year. Previously, the company conducted a full buyback in the first quarter of 2024. To enhance market stability and ensure a consistent stock price, Kia plans to conduct a split buyback program over the entire year. 

Kia will share further plans for future strategies and financial goals during its CEO Investor Day planned for April this year. 

(Revenue / Operating Profit / Net Profit unit: Billion KRW)

20242023Q4YoYFY 2024YoYQ4FY 2023Vehicle Sales (Units)769,9855%3,089,3000.1%733,1553,087,384  Korea140,9341.6%542,146△4.2%138,743565,826Outside of Korea629,0515.8%2,547,1541.0%594,4122,521,558Revenue27,148.211.6%107,448.87.7%24,328.199,808.4Operating Profit2,716.410.2%12,667.19.1%2,465.811,607.9Net profit1,757.78.5%9,791.311.5%1,620.08,777.8

Notes:A. The above results are tentative consolidated business results under “Korean International Financial Reporting Standards (K-IFRS)”B. The above results are preliminary and unaudited. Figures are subject to change after official auditC. The above sales volumes are based on wholesales unless otherwise specifiedD. The electrified vehicle retail sales figure is rounded up to the nearest hundredE. For further information, please refer to the company website – (link)F. Presentation material is available for download on the Company IR website – (link)

GCDC Annual Business Awards open for nominations

Business News

MONROE — Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) is now accepting nominations for special awards to honor businesses and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Green County. Nominations are due Monday, March 2.Awards will be given in the following categories:●  Outstanding Business of the Year, which honors a business that has demonstrated an exemplary commitment to Green County’s economic growth. This business will have made a significant improvement to strengthen its market position or have overcome an obstacle affecting the company’s ability to grow.●  Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, which honors an entrepreneur with a hunger for opportunity, a growth mindset, a willingness to learn, a willingness to find solutions to challenges and problems, and a strong work ethic.
●  Leadership Legacy Award, which honors an individual who exemplifies the character of a true leader.Eligible Businesses must reside in Green County and nominations are accepted for any exceptional business worth noting. Any individual, group or business may nominate a business or leader, and business and individuals may nominate themselves.Award winners from the past 5 years in the respective categories are not eligible (see list):●  Past Business of the Year (The Morning Mug, SSM Health Monroe, Precision Drive & Control, CGM Sales, Dirty Dog Taphaus)●  Past Entrepreneur Spirit (Dan and Ashley Wegmueller, Chris Schindler and Ryan Wild, David Parr, Joey and Jordyn VanMatre)●  Past Leadership Legacy (Ron Buholzer, Doug Pinnow, Mike Sanders, Bob Erb, Chad Kundert)To nominate a business or individual, visit greencountydevelopment.com/news-events. If you need a paper application, contact GCDC at [email protected] or call 608-328-9452. Applications completed online will be sent automatically to GCDC, paper copies can be mailed to GCDC, 1016 16th Ave Monroe, WI 53566.Awards  will be presented at GCDC’s Annual Dinner & Awards, on March 20 at Turner Hall in Monroe. Details on this event and ticket sales can be found at greencountydevelopment.com/news-events/.GCDC, is a non-profit organization building the economic future of Green County communities and businesses through public-private partnerships. For more information, visit GCDC at www.greencountydevelopment.com.

Subscription-Based Business Model: Pros and Cons

Business News

You’ve most likely engaged with a subscription-based business in one way or another—from your music streaming subscriptions to listen to your favorite music, video-on-demand subscriptions to watch your favorite shows, or even the bookkeeping systems you use to maintain your business book of accounts. Today, subscriptions are more profitable than ever as a business model…

Solara Active Pharma Sciences announces demerger of CRAMS and Polymers business

Business News

Solara Active Pharma Sciences has announced the demerger of its CRAMS (Contract Research and Manufacturing Services) and Polymers business from the Generic API business (Catalog API). The move is expected to unlock significant shareholder value and enable better focus on the newly created business.
Key Details:
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Revenue Contribution: The CRAMS and Polymers business is estimated to generate INR 1,200 million in FY25 revenues.
Focus on Growth: The company plans to scale this business over the next 4–5 years, investing in its expansion.
Debt Transfer: INR 2,000 million of debt will be transferred to the new company, providing a stronger balance sheet for the Catalog API business and improving ROCE and ROI.
Net Debt Post-Restructuring: Following the restructuring and rights issue, the Catalog API business will have an estimated net debt of INR 3,000 million, equating to a net debt-to-EBITDA ratio of approximately 1.5.
Shareholder Proportions: Existing shareholders of Solara will receive proportional shareholding in the newly created company.
Strategic Infrastructure: The Vizag site will exclusively support the growth of the CRAMS platform.

The board has given in-principle approval for this restructuring, aiming to maximize shareholder returns while leveraging Solara’s existing technological capabilities.

Aditya is a versatile writer and journalist with a passion for sports and a wide range of experiences in business, politics, tech, health, and the market. With a unique perspective, he captivates readers through engaging storytelling.

Schneider Electric on WEF’s Duty to Business Resilience

Business News

Broadening the dialogue post-DavosDavos missed a crucial opportunity to address the interconnected challenges of climate adaptation, biodiversity financing and climate resilience – issues uniquely suited to its role as a bridge between public and private sectors.Beyond mitigating emissions, actionable frameworks for strengthening global resilience to extreme weather events, rising sea levels and water scarcity are urgently needed.Investment in nature-based solutions remains woefully inadequate and policymakers alongside private-sector leaders must prioritise unlocking capital for protecting and restoring ecosystems.Resilience extends beyond infrastructure to financial systems, supply chains and human capital – embedding it into strategies is essential for businesses and governments alike.The economic implications of adaptation, biodiversity financing and resilience building cannot be overstated. These are not issues to be relegated to the side-lines while other topics dominate the agenda.As we look toward COP30, the global community must demand better. The integration of adaptation, biodiversity and resilience into global economic discussions is not optional – it is essential.This is a collective opportunity where every organisation can make an impact, working together to safeguard both economic and business stability.We urge you to make these issues a priority in all future discussions. Ensure that platforms like Davos champion actionable frameworks, dedicated investments and collaborative strategies that drive climate adaptation and biodiversity financing forward. Elevating these topics to the same level as trade, technology, and geopolitics is vital for safeguarding both economic prosperity and long-term business resilience.Together, we can shape a future where business leadership and innovation converge to create lasting value.

The Sexiest Movies of 2025 Are (Very) Star-Heavy

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

Looking for the sexiest TV of 2025? We have you covered here.Here at Esquire, we’re developing a new subgenre of movies called “speculatively sexy.” It’s a descriptor for any film that seemingly promises a lot of sex—*cough* Challengers *cough*—but then only features one or two scenes that are actually sexy. We understand that every movie can’t replicate Babygirl. (It was perfectly sexy, if you ask me.) But was it really too much to ask for the romantic leads to kiss at the end of Twisters?! Hopefully, 2025 doesn’t let us down. If you couldn’t tell, we’re still a little hung up with 2024’s slate of seductive movies. Many of the films planned for 2025 are seemingly—say it with me—speculatively sexy. So far, we’re most excited for the upcoming Robert Pattinson and Zendaya-starring film, The Drama. Also, The History of Sound features a period romance between Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor—we’re excited for that, too. Don’t forget the Maggie Gyllenhaal-directed Frankenstein film, The Bride!, which released photos of Christian Bale as a devilishly handsome Frankenstein’s Monster. There’s also a Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett-starring spy film directed by Steven Soderbergh that looks like it’ll showcase quite a few scenes in the bedroom. For the rest of this year’s lineup of steamy releases, follow along below. Marked MenStarring: Chase Stokes and Sydney Taylor Why we’re excited: The Notebook director Nick Cassavetes just released a film about a tattoo artist named Rule Archer (Outer Banks’ Chase Stokes), who falls in love with pre-med student Shaw Landon (Taylor). From the trailer alone, I’m picking up on an After-franchise vibe here. Release Date: January 22Bridget Jones: Mad About the BoyStarring: Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Leo WoodallWhy we’re excited: It’s Bridget Jones! While I’m personally rooting to see Jones with Ejiofor, her new love interest (played by Woodall) in the trailer is twenty-seven years her junior. He’s named Roxster, which you should absolutely take as an immediate red flag.Release Date: February 13Black BagStarring: Michael Fassbender and Cate BlanchettWhy we’re excited: Fassbender and Blanchett star as George and Kathryn Woodhouse, a Mr. and Mrs. Smith-esque spy couple who keeps their personal and professional lives separate. When Kathryn is accused of treason, it’s up to George to investigate. Release Date: March 14BFI London Film FestivalA Nice Indian Boy stars Jonathan Groff and Karan Soni.A Nice Indian BoyStarring: Jonathan Groff and Karan SoniWhy we’re excited: This queer romantic comedy kicks off with an excellent pairing in Jonathan Groff and Karan Soni, The story reportedly follows a couple as they plan their dream wedding, while also dealing with their families’ desire for a traditional Indian ceremony. Release Date: April 4The Bride!Starring: Christian Bale and Jessie BuckleyWhy we’re excited: Buckley plays Frankenstein’s bride in Maggie Gyllenhaal’s upcoming take on the famous horror story. She stars alongside Bale, who recently teased some sexy monster photos of himself in costume. Count Orlok, he is not.Release Date: September 26Lexie Moreland//Getty ImagesRobert Pattinson and Zendaya co-star in the highly anticipated film, The Drama. The DramaStarring: Robert Pattinson and ZendayaWhy we’re excited: The story reportedly follows a couple as they face a crisis the night before their wedding day. Norwegian director Kristoffer Borgli helms the film, which hopefully will give us a bit more steam than Challengers. Release Date: TBABlack Label MediaJennifer Lawrence produces and stars in the upcoming drama, Die, My Love, alongside Robert Pattinson and LaKieth Stanfield. Die, My LoveStarring: Robert Pattinson (again!), Jennifer Lawrence, and LaKeith StanfieldWhy we’re excited: Lawrence stars as a woman suffering from postnatal depression and an affair—she cheats on her husband (Pattinson) with another character, who is played by Stanfield. Release Date: TBARotterdam International Film FestivalThe whirlwind romantic comedy Dead Lover premieres sometime in 2025.Dead LoverStarring: Grace Glowicki and Ben PetrieWhy we’re excited: A lonely gravedigger (Glowicki) attempts to reanimate their lover (Petrie) in what the Rotterdam International Film Festival calls a “chaotic, sexually charged tale of body snatching, bad poetry and unholy desires.”Release Date: TBAVictor Boyko//Getty ImagesPaul Mescal and Josh O’Connor star in The History of Sound.The History of SoundStarring: Paul Mescal and Josh O’ConnorWhy we’re excited: The upcoming historical romance film follows a relationship between two young men in the 1910s who record folk music together in New England. If any movie should heavily lean on the sexy side this year, it’s The History of Sound. Release Date: TBAVittorio Zunino Celotto//Getty ImagesDakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans star in Celine Song’s Materialists later this year.MaterialistsStarring: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro PascalWhy we’re excited: Director Celine Song will follow Past Lives with a film about another complicated love triangle. This time, audiences are reportedly treated to “a matchmaker, her perfect match, and an ex-boyfriend.” Also, quite simply—in what world are you not watching the film where Johnson, Evans, and Pascal are stuck in a love triangle?Release Date: TBAmore sex in film:

[Column] Martin Lukindu: Human behaviour and science, together, can defeat malaria

Science and Health

Significant progress has been made in combating malaria, but the battle seems to have stalled, with the WHO’s 2024 World Malaria Report noting that there were 11 million more cases of the disease in 2023 than there were in 2022. Another 600,000 people died from the disease in 2023 with no significant improvement compared to 2022. 
Approximately 95% of deaths caused by malaria are in the African region, where many people still lack access to the services they need to prevent, detect and treat the disease – and half those deaths were in four African countries – Nigeria (30.9%), the Democratic Republic of Congo (11.3%), Niger (5.9%), and Tanzania (4.3%). 
Nigeria (26%), the Democratic Republic of Congo (13%), Uganda (5%), Ethiopia (4%), and Mozambique (4%) carry the heaviest burden of cases. Eleven African countries still account for two-thirds of the global malaria burden, and despite improved political commitments to addressing the issue, it’s clear that more still needs to be done.
Climate change has contributed to the proliferation of malaria in the region, with extreme weather events making it more difficult to sustain and expand prevention and treatment initiatives. According to the Malaria Atlas Project, working with Boston Consulting Group, climate change could lead to an extra 550,000 deaths due to malaria by 2050, with more than 90% of these caused by loss of protection caused by extreme weather. 
While vector control is a highly effective way to reduce malaria transmission, studies also suggest that human behaviour and social factors can contribute to reducing malaria cases in specific areas. Changing people’s behaviours and encouraging them to make different choices are some of the most effective ways to help prevent the disease.
People in malaria areas face so many challenges that they sometimes forget to use mosquito nets, or to go for regular preventive treatments, while many struggle to afford the medication. Traditional remedies are also used to treat the disease and reduce its symptoms. Science is working to eradicate malaria, and the 86.9% of parents in Uganda that take their children with a fever to seek medical attention shows that change is possible. However, science cannot work alone – people in affected areas need to actively avoid mosquito bites by doing what they can at home.
Here are some steps that countries and individuals can take to protect their families and themselves from malaria: 

Use treated mosquito nets

It’s so important for everyone to use insecticide-treated mosquito nets – even in low transmission areas. Nets that are treated with dual-active ingredients are the most effective, particularly against mosquito species that have developed resistance to some insecticides. These dual-active nets accounted for more than 78% of the 195 million nets distributed in sub-Saharan Africa in 2023 – 59% more than in 2022.

Vaccinate children 

So far, 17 African countries have included the malaria vaccine as part of routine childhood immunisations. These will be even more effective if they are used with other malaria prevention tools. 

Seasonal medication 

Monthly doses of antimalarial medication during peak malaria season is effective in protecting children under five years old – the group most likely to suffer severe malaria. The number of African children treated per cycle rose from 170,000 in 2012 to 53 million in 2023, with this step now implemented in 19 countries. 

Treat early, treat well

Seek medical treatment as soon as symptoms like fever, headaches, nausea, shivering and chills start happening. Antimalarial medicines are widely available in high risk areas, and are easy to take and quick to help. 

Protect pregnant women 

Malaria can be deadly for expectant mothers and their fetuses. Malaria in pregnancy can be prevented in areas of moderate to high malaria transmission via at least three doses of preventive treatment in the second trimester. 

Invest and trust in malaria research  

Many research groups in the world are working to develop new tools to fight malaria. It’s important to continue to provide investment to these efforts. Communicating to the right audiences about these new tools is fundamental to make sure that all those concerned will be willing to listen, understand and trust. 
Not-for-profit organisations like Target Malaria are using gene drive technology, a type of genetic modification, to reduce the population of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes and reduce the transmission of the disease. A recent mathematical modelling study investigated how gene technology could offer a long-term and cost-effective way to control malaria, especially in the largely rural areas that carry the bulk of the disease’s burden.
Each person can make simple changes to their daily lives to protect themselves against malaria. Learning more about the early warning signs will also help make sure that treatment is sought early, to avoid serious illness. Target Malaria shares regular information, such as posters, videos, theatre productions, and radio programs in communities in Burkina Faso, Ghana and Uganda to help drive more education about the disease.
Target Malaria’s scientists are working to genetically modify strains of mosquitos so we can end malaria in our lifetime and save hundreds of thousands of African lives. Until this happens, communities across Africa can make small changes to their behaviour, and by engaging in the resources available to them to deal with the disease now.
 Martin Lukindu is a Post-Doctoral Research Associate at Target Malaria, Uganda

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‘Stick-it-to-the-man sentiment’: Oscar-nominated films compete to bait Donald Trump

Arts & Culture, Film & TV

When reacting to Oscar nominations, actors traditionally err on the side of hyperbole. This year was no exception. “I don’t know if I’m quite in my body,” said Demi Moore, on learning she was shortlisted for The Substance. “I looked at my phone and fell on the floor,” said Monica Barbaro, who plays Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown. “I actually haven’t stopped sobbing,” offered Ariana (Wicked) Grande.Karla Sofía Gascón, however, bucked the trend. The first out trans actor ever nominated for an Oscar took the opportunity to address the executive order signed by Donald Trump earlier this week, restricting US government recognition to only biological sex.“He is shameless,” she said. “I hope that whatever needs to happen happens to shut everyone up, on both sides.”Gascón continued: “Now it is time to focus on my performance and put aside my ethnicity, sexuality or hair colour, to move forward in ‘integration’. Today it is proven that art does not understand hate. No one can question my work, even less the fact that I am an actress. An actress who deserves to be recognised solely and exclusively for her sublime performance in Emilia Pérez.”Such focus in the debate until the ceremony on 2 March seems unlikely. This year’s Oscar contenders amount to a collective broadside against a president campaigned against by almost everyone in the industry. His re-election – and the collapse in celebrity leverage that it revealed – remains a sore point. As the Golden Globes host Nikki Glaser reminded her A-list audience earlier this month: “You’re all so famous, so talented, so powerful, you could really do anything. Well, except tell the country who to vote for.”Hollywood has therefore opted to vote with its Academy ballots, giving a leg-up to films that conspicuously critique the Maga worldview. Hence, perhaps, such an extravagant embrace for Emilia Pérez, a French musical about a trans Mexican gangster that has been criticised as “offensive” by both Mexican and trans communities, and met with a mixed reception from critics and audiences (with Rotten Tomatoes scores of 76% and 30% respectively).Nonetheless, the film has smashed the record set by Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Roma for the most nominations for a film not in the English language, scoring 13 to their 10, putting it just one behind the all-time record earned by All About Eve, Titanic and La La Land.View image in fullscreenThe only film on this year’s lists that is more of an explicit attack on the new president is The Apprentice, Ali Abbasi’s unflattering biopic of the young Trump, focusing on his rise to power and ill-treatment of his then wife, Ivanka, and one-time mentor, the lawyer Roy Cohn. A “disgusting hatchet job”, was the verdict of its subject, who called its makers “HUMAN SCUM” and urged audiences to avoid it. US distributors ran correspondingly scared, despite strong reviews and an eight-minute standing ovation at Cannes, until the small outfit Briarcliff eventually risked releasing it in October.The film’s leading actor, Sebastian Stan, reported that Hollywood was so intimidated by Trump that none of his peers would appear opposite him in Variety’s annual Actors on Actors series, in which awards contenders quiz one another on video. “We couldn’t get past the publicists or the people representing them because they were too afraid to talk about this movie,” he said. Variety verified his claims.Nonetheless, three days after Trump’s inauguration, Stan landed an Oscar nomination – as did the supporting actor Jeremy Strong (who plays Cohn). Both men expressed their shock, with the former calling the Academy “brave” and the later saying the nods felt “absolutely miraculous”.Such a miracle, says Variety’s executive editor, Steven Gaydos, is thanks to a “stick it to the man” passion that has been brewing in Hollywood since 2016 and is now turbocharged by Trump’s re-election. (The fires that have destroyed many voters’ homes over the past fortnight, he suggests, may have fuelled a devil-may-care recklessness.)Not only has this feeling propelled such films into pole position, says Gaydos, it may push some over the finish line: “This sentiment could benefit them all come Oscar night.” The competition may therefore be decided as much on how much the movie baits the president as its artistic merit.View image in fullscreenCampaigns are likely to start to amplify such credentials. The smash-hit fantasy Wicked could be seen as an incisive critique of racism and fascism via a green-skinned witch and talking animals.The team behind the Vatican thriller Conclave will be offering prayers of thanks to the Catholic backlash to their film. Edward Berger’s drama helpfully revolves around another election – that of a new pope – with reactionary factions pitted against liberal reformers, as well as an even more radical alternative. Last week a former prefect for the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith called it “anti-Christian propaganda” that could have been made “in the time of Hitler or Stalin”.“I’ve seen some clips and read some reviews and that is enough for me,” Cardinal Gerhard Müller told the National Catholic Register. Such labelling of the film as incendiary can only help its chances in the current climate.“Even A Complete Unknown,” says Gaydos, “with its nomination for Edward Norton as the communist-sympathising folk music legend Pete Seeger, benefits from Hollywood’s still potent anti-Trump animus.”View image in fullscreenIndeed it’s hard to identify a film on the shortlist that can’t be interpreted as a salvo against the 47th president. The space opera Dune: Part Two cautions against colonisation; The Brutalist is scathing in its portrayal of the way the US treats immigrants. Nickel Boys addresses head-on the institutionalised murder of young Black men in the Jim Crow south. Anora examines sexual exploitation and the wealth divide; The Substance satirises reality TV’s obsession with eternal youth and Brazil’s I’m Still Here shows what life looks like under military dictatorship.Both the latter film and Emilia Pérez have places on the international film shortlist and that for best picture – the first time more than one film has managed this, and an indication of the increasing internationalisation of an Academy untroubled by subtitles.More than a decade ago, reeling from accusations of endemic sexism and racism, the Academy kickstarted a huge recruitment drive that prioritised women and people of colour. The fruits of this movement are easy to spot: the historic best picture win for Parasite five years ago, as well as significant victories for the likes of Roma, Minari, Drive My Car, All Quiet on the Western Front, Anatomy of a Fall, Past Lives and The Zone of Interest.View image in fullscreenWriting in the New Yorker after this year’s nominations, the critic Richard Brody said the “members of the Academy have, in effect, responded to the natural and political disasters of the moment in the name of solidarity”.“A remarkable consensus has crystallised among a small number of movies that, in one way or another – whether with bold artistry or conventional methods, realistic stories or fantasies – embody, display, or at least appear to celebrate the liberal values of pluralism, equality, and resistance to the arrogance of power, be it political or economic. This time around, the Oscars are circling the wagons.”

Minister: France a Key Partner to Greek Tourism and Culture

Travel

.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_link_svg_icon svg{height:18px;width:auto}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon{width:36px !important;height:36px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m .essb_icon:before{font-size:18px !important;top:9px !important;left:9px !important}.essb_links.essb_size_m li a .essb_network_name{font-size:13px !important;font-weight:400 !important;line-height:12px !important}Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni speaking during the Delphi Paris Forum II at the Cercle de l’Union Interalliée in France.France remains one of Greece’s most significant partners in tourism, culture, and commerce, Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni said during her speech at the Delphi Paris Forum II on Thursday.
Speaking at the Cercle de l’Union Interalliée in Paris, Kefalogianni highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between Greece and France, particularly in addressing shared challenges and enhancing the tourism experience through cultural and technological advancements.
Greece and France: Shared values, Shared goals
Kefalogianni underlined the deep-rooted ties between Greece and France, describing the two nations as “leading powers in tourism” with shared European values. She pointed to challenges such as the climate crisis and increased competition from emerging destinations, which require coordinated efforts to maintain their positions as global tourism leaders.
“Greece and France share a unique bond built on a shared cultural heritage and common values. By working together, we can address these challenges and ensure the sustainability of our tourism industries,” she said.
Record year for French tourism to Greece
The minister announced that for the first time in history, Greece welcomed a record 2 million French visitors in 2024, underscoring the importance of the French market for Greek tourism. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a high-quality tourism model that balances economic growth, the well-being of local communities, and cultural preservation.
“Our goal is to develop a sustainable, year-round tourism destination, ensuring that Greece remains attractive while safeguarding the interests of our people and our cultural heritage,” Kefalogianni added.
Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni.
Cultural heritage and technology as cornerstones
Cultural heritage, Kefalogianni noted, is central to Greece’s tourism strategy and serves as “an investment in the future”. She highlighted the government’s efforts to link cultural activities with tourism, offering visitors a differentiated and enriched travel experience.
“By combining culture with innovative programs, we not only showcase Greece’s rich heritage but also set the stage for a more engaging and modern tourist experience,” she said.
Kefalogianni also highlighted the transformative potential of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in shaping the future of travel. “Technology can fundamentally change how travelers experience tourism, making it more immersive and tailored to individual preferences,” she said.
Delphi Paris Forum II: A platform for dialogue
The Delphi Paris Forum II took lace January 23-24 and brought together French and Greek government officials, policymakers, economists, academics, and leading business figures. The forum aims to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Greece and France and explore opportunities for further collaboration across various sectors.
The forum was organized by the Delphi Economic Forum during and held under the auspices of the Permanent Greek Representation to the OECD and the General Secretariat of Greeks Abroad and Public Diplomacy of the Greek Foreign Affairs Ministry. The event provided a platform for discussing global challenges and fostering international collaboration.

Where did dinosaurs come from? Scientists say they figured it out

Science and Health

The story of how dinosaurs came to rule our planet has captivated scientists and the public alike for generations. Now, an intriguing new study on fossils suggests we might be looking in the wrong places for their earliest ancestors. While we’ve found countless dinosaur fossils in places like Argentina and Zimbabwe, the very first dinosaurs might have emerged from the steamy equatorial regions of ancient Earth – areas that today make up the Amazon rainforest, Congo basin, and Sahara Desert.Gap in the dinosaur fossil recordThe oldest known dinosaur fossils date back around 230 million years and have been found in Argentina, Brazil, and Zimbabwe. However, the differences between these fossils indicate that dinosaurs had already been evolving for millions of years before these specimens emerged. This implies an even earlier origin, but direct fossil evidence of this has yet to be found.The new study, published in the journal Current Biology, addresses this issue by using advanced modeling techniques to account for gaps in the fossil record.The researchers analyzed fossils, evolutionary trees, and ancient geography to reconstruct the likely emergence of dinosaurs. Instead of assuming that fossils have not been found in certain areas because they never existed there, the study treats those regions as simply missing data.“Dinosaurs are well studied but we still don’t really know where they came from. The fossil record has such large gaps that it can’t be taken at face value,” noted study lead author Joel Heath from University College London.First dinosaurs and their worldAccording to the study, the earliest dinosaurs likely appeared in western low-latitude Gondwana, a region that was hot and dry, resembling today’s deserts and savannas. This challenges the previous assumption that dinosaurs first evolved in more temperate environments. Despite the study’s findings, no fossils from these early dinosaurs have been discovered in the Amazon or central Africa. Heath suggests that this is due to a combination of accessibility issues and a lack of focused research in these regions.The world of early dinosaurs was vastly different from the one their descendants would later dominate. During the Late Triassic period, dinosaurs were only a minor part of a diverse ecosystem filled with other reptilian creatures. These included the ancestors of crocodiles, known as pseudosuchians, some of which grew up to 10 meters (33 feet) long. Another major group in this prehistoric world was pterosaurs, the first vertebrates to develop powered flight. These flying reptiles would eventually evolve into species as large as modern fighter jets.In contrast to their massive successors like Diplodocus or Tyrannosaurus rex, the earliest dinosaurs were much smaller, typically the size of a chicken or a medium-sized dog.They walked on two legs, making them agile hunters and scavengers, and most were likely omnivorous. Their small size and adaptability may have helped them survive in the challenging environments of early Gondwana.The rise of dinosaursFor millions of years, dinosaurs remained in the shadow of their reptilian cousins. That changed around 201 million years ago, when a series of massive volcanic eruptions led to the end-Triassic mass extinction. This catastrophe wiped out many of the dominant reptile species, creating an ecological vacuum that the surviving dinosaurs quickly filled. With their competitors gone, dinosaurs began to spread and diversify, eventually becoming the dominant land animals for the next 135 million years.The modeling study suggests that dinosaurs and other reptiles may have first evolved in low-latitude Gondwana before spreading outward. They expanded southward into what is now Argentina and Zimbabwe, and northward into Laurasia, the northern supercontinent that would later split into Europe, Asia, and North America. This idea is supported by fossil evidence showing that some of the dinosaurs’ closest relatives, including early crocodile-like reptiles, were found in northern Laurasia.Missing link in dinosaur evolutionOne of the study’s key findings concerns the evolutionary relationship between early dinosaurs and their close relatives. There is ongoing debate about how different groups of dinosaurs evolved from their reptilian ancestors. To address this, the researchers tested their model against three different evolutionary trees. The strongest support for a Gondwanan origin came from a model that classified silesaurids, traditionally seen as distant cousins of dinosaurs, as direct ancestors of ornithischians.This finding is significant because ornithischians – one of the three major dinosaur groups, which later included the stegosaurs and Triceratops species – are mysteriously absent from the fossil record in the earliest years of dinosaur history.If silesaurids were indeed their ancestors, this would help fill a major gap in the evolutionary tree and provide a clearer picture of how dinosaurs diversified over time.Dinosaurs and climate adaptationThe study also sheds light on how dinosaurs adapted to different climates over millions of years. “Our results suggest early dinosaurs may have been well adapted to hot and arid environments,” noted Professor Philip Mannion, a senior author of the study.This is particularly evident in sauropods, the group that includes massive plant-eaters like Brontosaurus and Diplodocus. These dinosaurs appear to have retained their preference for warm climates, remaining in lower latitudes throughout their existence.On the other hand, theropods – the group that includes T. rex and modern birds – and ornithischians seem to have developed the ability to generate their own body heat.This adaptation allowed them to expand into colder regions, including the polar regions, by the time of the Jurassic period. This shift in climate tolerance may have contributed to their long-term evolutionary success.Future research on dinosaur fossilsDespite the study’s compelling findings, direct fossil evidence of the earliest dinosaurs in the Amazon, Congo, or Sahara remains absent. Future expeditions to these regions may uncover this elusive evidence that could redefine our understanding of dinosaur origins.If dinosaurs did originate in equatorial Gondwana, as the study suggests, their earliest ancestors may still lie buried beneath the dense rainforests of the Amazon or the shifting sands of the Sahara. These areas remain some of the least-explored fossil sites on Earth, meaning that the missing chapters of dinosaur evolution may still be waiting to be revealed.As paleontologists continue to refine their understanding of early dinosaur evolution, this study highlights the importance of exploring new frontiers in fossil research. The true story of dinosaur origins is still being written, and future discoveries in these regions could change everything we thought we knew about the dawn of the dinosaurs.The study is published in the journal Current Biology.—–Like what you read? 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