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New Delhi, May 7 â?? India Inc. Monday welcomed the governments decision to defer implementation of the General Anti-Avoidance Rules (GAAR) by a year.

We are happy that the suggestions made by FICCI have been taken cognizance of and that there is a rethinking on GAAR. I hope that it is not merely a postponement but they will also relook it and more realistic GAAR will be introduced, said RV Kanoria, president, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Another industry chamber, ASSOCHAM, said the move will enhance the confidence of global investors. It appreciated the clarification that the government will remove a provision where the onus imposed on a tax payer to prove that there is no tax avoidance.

The burden of proof to show tax avoidance will now be on tax officials, said Ved Jain, chairman of the ASSOCHAM national council on direct taxes.

We are happy to note that the government has considered industry views and tax rules will not be used with retrospective amendments on cases where final assessments have been made, he added.

ASSOCHAM also welcomed that capital gains tax on private equity will be halved to 10 percent.

IANS

This article was distributed through the NewsCred Smartwire.

Original article  IANS / Daily News 2012

ACCRA, Ghana, Apr 24, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) –
LeapFrog Investments today announced the largest private foreign
investment in the history of Ghana’s insurance industry, acquiring a
majority stake in the Express Life Insurance Company. LeapFrog is the
largest dedicated investor worldwide in companies that serve emerging
consumers with insurance and related financial services. Express will
draw on LeapFrog’s capital and distinctive operational expertise to
become the market leader in serving the large untapped market of
low-income consumers in Ghana with products often costing less than
US$10 per month. The investment is expected to substantially increase
financial inclusion in this pivotal African market and to mark a new
phase of inclusive growth for the sector.

Ghana’s GDP grew at 13.5% last year and its life insurance industry has
grown at 40% annually for the past five years — yet the vast majority of
the country’s 25 million people do not have access to insurance. Express
Life was launched in 2009 by Obed Danquah, a Ghanaian entrepreneur whose
businesses focus on financial services for the mass market in Ghana. The
company primarily offers hybrid savings and risk products to individuals
employed by public sector institutions.

“Creating positive social impact along with strong financial returns has
always been a focus of mine,” said Mr Danquah. “Given LeapFrog’s
profit-with-purpose approach to investing and experience in the
insurance industry, they are an ideal partner. This powerful strategic
alignment will permanently alter the insurance space in the country by
setting a new standard for ethical and inclusive provision of insurance
to the mass market.”

LeapFrog brings both capital and expertise to Express, investing USD$5.5
million into the company and providing operational support across the
organization. Key operational initiatives include strengthening
management, building and training a distinctive agency force, and
designing relevant and affordable products.

“LeapFrog is committed to driving the delivery of affordable insurance
for low-income consumers across Africa, and Express will play a leading
role in this regard for Ghana,” said Doug Lacey, the LeapFrog partner
who led the transaction. “Our portfolio now covers five African
countries and includes landmark investments in companies such as Apollo,
the leading insurance group in East Africa, and AllLife, the innovative
South African insurer for people living with HIV/AIDS.”

Dr. Andrew Kuper, LeapFrog’s Founder and President, concluded:
“Investing in Ghana underscores LeapFrog’s commitment to high-growth
emerging markets that are home to the next billion consumers. To date,
LeapFrog has made landmark investments in Africa and Asia, contributed
to robust operational and financial performance of its portfolio
companies, and currently reaches over 8.6 million people, 70% of whom
are women and children. Through Express, LeapFrog aims to empower over
500,000 Ghanaians with financial safety nets and springboards to a
better life.”

About LeapFrog Investments

LeapFrog’s $135m fund is the world’s largest investor in inclusive
insurance and related financial services. Launched with former US
President Bill Clinton, the fund invests in companies serving the next
billion, the vast untapped market of emerging consumers
in Africa and Asia. LeapFrog brings unique value-adding support and
global best practice in microinsurance to its portfolio companies. The
fund aims to generate robust investment returns while reaching 25
million vulnerable people. Investors in LeapFrog’s high impact
investment fund include global banks such as JP Morgan, Triodos, IFC,
KfW, and EIB; leading funds such as Soros EDF, TIAA-CREF, Omidyar
Network, FMO, and Calvert; global reinsurers SCOR, Haverford, and
Flagstone Re; and development financiers including Proparco and Accion
Frontier Investments Group.

www.leapfroginvest.com

About Express Life Insurance Company Limited

Express Life Insurance Company Limited (ELIC) is Ghanaian company
founded by Mr. Obed Danquah that aspires to be the company of choice for
life insurance products and services in Ghana. Express aims to support
Ghanaian consumers across the country, including low-income consumers in
both urban and rural areas. Express has a team of dedicated and
motivated staff that focuses on identifying customer needs and
developing and delivering solutions for them. The core values of the
company are Honesty, Integrity, Transparency, Ethics, and
Professionalism.

http://expresslifegh.com/

SOURCE: LeapFrog Investments

LeapFrog Investments
Tahira Dosani, +1-646-321-7105
Director of Global Engagement & Strategic Projects
tahiradosani@leapfroginvest.com

Copyright Business Wire 2012

Financial Glossary

Words used in this article:

Companies in this industry manufacture geosynthetic materials. These products are typically made from petrochemical-based plastics that will not decompose from bacteria or fungi. These products are typically placed in soil to separate or distribute loads, reinforce soil, prevent soil movement or control water pressure. The industry suffered steep declines during the recession, but has bounced back with resilience, benefiting from pent-up demand and increasing range of uses for industry products. The next five years will bring even stronger growth, but decreasing government funding could threaten growth. For these reasons, industry research firm IBISWorld has added a report on the Geosynthetics Manufacturing industry to its growing industry report collection.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) May 07, 2012

Geosynthetics first came into widespread use in the late 1960s. Geosynthetic products are primarily used for soil reinforcement and containment for waste treatment facilities, mining, road and building construction. In addition, geosynthetics are used in agribusiness and for water conservation purposes. The Geosynthetics Manufacturing industry is valued at $2.1 billion in 2012, representing average annual growth of 0.3% since 2007. According to IBISWorld industry analyst Caitlin Moldvay, despite its array of applicable uses, geosynthetics manufacturing has been adversely affected by the downturn in the construction sector, which weakened demand for geosynthetics used for structural support projects. Moreover, despite federal funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, lower tax receipts during the recession and slow recovery period resulted in decreased government spending on highway, road and bridge construction, another prominent area of demand for the industry.

Industry revenue was further weakened by decreased mining activity during the recession. As a result, industry revenue contracted 2.3% and 4.5% in 2008 and 2009, respectively. In the years since the recession, the Geosynthetics Manufacturing industry has begun to recover, with expected revenue gains of 4.9% during 2012. Revenue growth has been fostered by rising demand for geomembranes, which are increasingly used for waste containment at US landfills. Moreover, the mining and construction sectors are expected to grow moderately during the year, which will foster greater growth for geosynthetics to minimize erosion and reduce environmental contaminants.

Over the next five years, the Geosynthetics Manufacturing industry is expected to post stronger gains. Between 2012 and 2017, industry revenue is forecast to recover strongly. Recovery in the non-residential construction sector will lead to improved demand for geosynthetic products in building construction projects, said Moldvay. Moreover, the industry will benefit from rising tax revenue, which will enable greater government spending on transportation infrastructure projects. Furthermore, improved growth prospects for the mining sector and waste treatment facilities are also expected to drive revenue growth. Additionally, the industry stands to benefit over the next five years, from the potential passage of environmental legislation requiring coal ash containment sites to utilize geomembrane liners.

The Geosynthetics Manufacturing industry has a low level of concentration, reflecting the fragmented nature of the industry. The top four companies in the industry together make up less than 40.0% of revenue. Despite the existence of prominent companies, no one player has a market share of more than 10.4%. There are many types of geosynthetics and diverse buying markets, which makes it difficult for individual firms to grab a large portion of industry market share. For more information, visit IBISWorlds Geosynthetics Manufacturing in the US industry report page.

Follow IBISWorld on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/IBISWorld

Friend IBISWorld on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/IBISWorld/121347533189

IBISWorld industry Report Key Topics

This industry includes companies that domestically manufacture geosynthetic products. Geosynthetic products are primarily made from plastic products such as polyolefins and polyester, although rubber, fiberglass and other materials may also be used. Geosynthetic products are used for reinforcement, filtration and containment for waste treatment, mining, agribusiness and building, road and bridge construction.

Industry Performance

Executive Summary

Key External Drivers

Current Performance

Industry Outlook

Industry Life Cycle

Products amp; Markets

Supply Chain

Products amp; Services

Major Markets

Globalization amp; Trade

Business Locations

Competitive Landscape

Market Share Concentration

Key Success Factors

Cost Structure Benchmarks

Barriers to Entry

Major Companies

Operating Conditions

Capital Intensity

Key Statistics

Industry Data

Annual Change

Key Ratios

About IBISWorld Inc.

Recognized as the nations most trusted independent source of industry and market research, IBISWorld offers a comprehensive database of unique information and analysis on every US industry. With an extensive online portfolio, valued for its depth and scope, the company equips clients with the insight necessary to make better business decisions. Headquartered in Los Angeles, IBISWorld serves a range of business, professional service and government organizations through more than 10 locations worldwide. For more information, visit www.ibisworld.com or call 1-800-330-3772.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2012/5/prweb9478549.htm

New research report Glass Wool/Fiberglass Insulation – A Global Market Overview elaborated by Industry Experts has been recently published by Market Publishers Ltd. According to the report world market for glass wool is projected to reach 6.4 million valued at USD 14.1 billion metric tons by 2016.

London, UK (PRWEB) May 07, 2012

The world market for glass wool (or fiberglass) is projected to reach 6.4 million valued at USD 14.1 billion metric tons by 2016 from an estimated 5.1 million metric tons in 2012, growing at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2012 to 2016.

Forming the largest end use application of glass wool, residential construction is most likely to be the fastest growing application over the forecast period. Industrial amp; HVAC applications are expected to record the slowest growth, while commercial amp; industrial construction is the application area that will witness the second fastest growth for glass wool consumption.

New research report Glass Wool/Fiberglass Insulation – A Global Market Overview elaborated by Industry Experts has been recently published by Market Publishers Ltd.

Report Details:

Title: Glass Wool/Fiberglass Insulation – A Global Market Overview

Published: May, 2012

Pages: 234

Price: US$ 3,600

http://marketpublishers.com/report/industry/construction/glass_woolfiberglass_insulation_a_global_market_overview.html

The report provides a comprehensive review of the glass wool (fiberglass) insulation market globally and across individual regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and ROW. The regional markets are further analyzed for 15 independent countries across North America – the United States and Canada; Europe – Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain and Rest of Europe; Asia-Pacific – China, Japan, India, South Korea and Rest of Asia-Pacific; and ROW – Russia, Turkey, Brazil and other.

The study includes statistical data for the global market by geographic region, product segment and application area, and provides profiles of 12 key global players and 38 major players across the North America – 9; Europe – 6; Asia-Pacific – 16; and ROW – 7. Future market forecasts are also reviewed in detail.

Report Contents:

Part A: Global Market Perspective

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Outline

1.1.1 Glass Fiber Product Segmentation

1.1.1.1 Glass Wool (or Fiberglass) Insulation

1.1.1.1.1 Types of Glass Wool Insulation Products

1.1.1.1.2 Glass Wool Insulation End-use Application Areas

1.1.1.1.2.1 Residential Construction

1.1.1.1.2.2 Commercial and Industrial Construction

1.1.1.1.2.3 Industrial and HVAC Applications

1.1.1.1.2.4 Appliances and Others

1.1.2 Other competing insulation materials

2. Key Market Trends

2.1 Fiberglass Gains Enhanced Demand due to Green Concerns

2.1.1 Superior Performance Characteristics

2.2 EU Parliamentary vote on Energy Efficiency Directive

2.3 Chinas Construction Industry in an Energy Conserving Quagmire; Focus on Insulation

2.4 Novel Insulation Technological Trends

3. Global Glass Wool Insulation Market Overview

3.1 Global Glass Wool Insulation Market Overview by Application Type

3.2 Global Glass Wool Insulation Market Overview by Geographic Region

3.2.1 Residential Construction

3.2.2 Commercial amp; Industrial Construction

3.2.3 Industrial amp; HVAC Applications

3.2.4 Appliances amp; Other

4. Key Global Players

Alghanim Industries

Asahi Fiber Glass Co., Ltd

CSR Bradford Insulation

Guardian Industries

Hebei Huamei Group Co. Ltd.

Johns Manville Corporation

KCC Corporation

Knauf Insulation GmbH

Owens-Corning

Saint-Gobain

Superglass Insulation Ltd.

Ursa Insulation, S.A

5. Key Business Trends

Superior Performing ToughGard Ultra*Roundtrade; Spiral Duct Liner Introduced by CertainTeed

MAG, Saint-Gobain Isover Issued US Patent

Knauf Insulation Invests in Belgium to Expand its Activities

Panasonic to Use Recycled Glass from Old Televisions for the Mass Production of Heat Insulators

EcoTouchtrade; Insulation from Owens Corning First in Attaining USDA BioPreferred Designation

Saint-Gobain Mulls New Glass Wool Plant in Japan

CertainTeed, RESNET in a Strategic Collaboration

Preformed Acoustic Inserts for Automotive Mufflers Being Offered by Owens Corning

Initial List of States for Green Environmental Plants Put Forward by Global Fiberglass Solutions, Inc

CertainTeed Sustainable Insulationtrade; for Commercial, HVAC Applications

EcoTouchtrade; PINKtrade; FIBERGLAStrade; Insulation with PureFibertrade; Technology from Owens Corning

Efficient and Eco-Friendly Insulation Low-E Glass Wool Introduced by KCC

Guardian Fiberglass Expands Operations

Philadelphia-Based Inventor Uses CertainTeeds Fiberglass Blowing Wool for Cleaning up Gulf Oil

Johns Manvilles JM Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation Launched

French Saint-Gobain Isover Plant Inaugurated

CertainTeed Offers TrueComfort Blown-In Fiberglass Insulation

OptiLinertrade; Banded Liner System Introduced by Owens Corning

Johns Manville Conferred with SCS Indoor Advantagetrade; Gold + Formaldehyde Free Certification

More new market research reports by the publisher can be found at Industry Experts page.

For the original version on PRWeb visit: www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2012/5/prweb9481363.htm

TORONTO, ONTARIO, Apr 24, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) –
GuestLogix Inc.

/quotes/zigman/39800 CA:GXI
-1.82%

, the leading global provider of onboard
retail and payment technology solutions to airlines and the passenger
travel industry, today announced an enhanced version of the
industry’s most comprehensive and advanced onboard retail software.
At the core of this latest release – named OBR Plus – are new
warehouse management tools and a sophisticated business intelligence
component. The combination of this new functionality will improve how
airlines create, manage and control their onboard retail operations
and ultimately better monetize the onboard environment.

“By building on our revolutionary software and working closely with
our customers throughout the development process, we have designed
the most comprehensive and powerful onboard retail solution available
today in the travel industry,” said Tom Douramakos, President and CEO
of GuestLogix. “With our OBR Plus, we have significantly increased
the performance of our onboard retail solution to deliver the
ultimate in operational visibility for the global airline industry.
Bringing the most advanced technology to market is underscored by our
mission to help airlines create more sustainable ancillary revenue
streams and increase passenger satisfaction.”

OBR Plus provides airlines with end-to-end management of their
onboard retail operations as they continue to take charge of their
onboard stores to generate incremental revenue and enhance the
passenger experience. The following new modules enable airlines to
more easily and conveniently manage their retail operations:

Comprehensive Warehouse Management for Streamlined Store Planning

The new release contains a powerful warehouse management system that
includes site definition, product management, vendor management,
purchase order processing, transfers between locations, stock
control, reorder alerting, equipment management, and packing,
dispatch and receiving.

Real-time Inventory Control to Simplify Work Processes

When it comes to managing inventory, OBR Plus features end-to-end
reconciliation from the warehouse to the Onboard Store and back to
the warehouse to help improve inventory accuracy, simplify work
processes and save valuable time and money.

Tax Management Specifically Designed for Travel Operators

OBR Plus delivers a critical tax management tool for the definition
and application of value added tax (VAT) and other taxes across
geographies.

Robust Business Intelligence Tools for Optimum Onboard Store
Performance

The strength of OBR Plus lies in the analytics tool that features
executive dashboards to determine key performance metrics through
real-time data, drillable reports, and mobile alerts for data
delivery – anytime, anywhere.

Other enhancements include stronger user control functions, allowing
airlines and other users of the solution such as caterers, duty-free
suppliers and other content providers, to access and perform
functions specific to their needs. The powerful system requires
minimal implementation and further enhances GuestLogix’ competitive
edge of being a true technology innovator.

OBR Plus is available immediately for the global airline market.

For more information about OBR Plus, or for sales inquiries, please
visit
www.guestlogix.com .

About GuestLogix

GuestLogix Inc.

/quotes/zigman/39800 CA:GXI
-1.82%

, the leading global provider of onboard
store technology and merchandising solutions, helps airlines and
other travel operators create, manage, and control onboard retail
environments tailored to their needs and their passengers. GuestLogix
brings a decade of expertise as a trusted onboard transaction
processing partner to airlines around the world. The Company’s global
headquarters and centre for product innovation is located in Toronto,
Canada with regional head offices located in Dallas, Texas (serving
Americas) London, UK (serving EMEA), and Hong Kong (serving Asia
Pacific). A sales and support office is located in Singapore.
Logistics centres are situated in Toronto, Dallas, London and Seoul
with a software development centre located in India. More information
is available at
www.guestlogix.com .

Copyright 2012 GuestLogix.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements that
are based upon current expectations, which involve risks and
uncertainties associated with GuestLogix’ business and the
environment in which the business operates. Any statements contained
herein that are not statements of historical facts may be deemed to
be forward-looking, including those identified by the expressions
“anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend”, and
similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its
management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts,
but reflect GuestLogix’ current expectations regarding future results
or events. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number
of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events
to differ materially from current expectations, including the matters
discussed under “Risks and Uncertainties” in the Filing Statement
filed on February 27, 2012 with the regulatory authorities.
GuestLogix assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking
statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ
from those reflected in the forward-looking statements.

Contacts:
Media Relations:
GuestLogix
Ruth Morayniss
416-987-7057
rmorayniss@guestlogix.com

Investor Relations:
TMX Equicom
Kristen Dickson
416-815-0700 ext. 273
kdickson@equicomgroup.com

SOURCE: GuestLogix Inc.

mailto:rmorayniss@guestlogix.com
mailto:kdickson@equicomgroup.com

Copyright 2012 Marketwire, Inc., All rights reserved.

/quotes/zigman/39800

Add to portfolio

CA:GXI

Guestlogix Inc.

CA

: Canada: Toronto

$
0.54

-0.01
-1.82%

Volume: 5,000
May 4, 2012 5:40p

P/E RatioN/A
Dividend YieldN/A

Market Cap$34.72 million
Rev. per EmployeeN/A

/quotes/zigman/39800

Add to portfolio

CA:GXI

Guestlogix Inc.

CA

: Canada: Toronto

$
0.54

-0.01
-1.82%

Volume: 5,000
May 4, 2012 5:40p

P/E RatioN/A
Dividend YieldN/A

Market Cap$34.72 million
Rev. per EmployeeN/A

Financial Glossary

Words used in this article:

DEERFIELD, Ill., Apr 24, 2012 (BUSINESS WIRE) –
In another industry first for pharmacy customers, Walgreens

/quotes/zigman/245520/quotes/nls/wag WAG
-1.64%

/quotes/zigman/245520/quotes/nls/wag WAG
-1.64%

today launched a new online “Find Your Pharmacist” tool
that allows customers to select a pharmacist by matching their health
care needs with the areas of expertise, specialties, languages and
clinical backgrounds of Walgreens pharmacists. As some of the most
accessible and trusted health care professionals in thousands of
communities nationwide, Walgreens pharmacists are uniquely positioned to
provide a range of services beyond medication dispensing and counseling.
Many of these are highlighted within search feature profiles and include
medication adherence, immunizations, diabetes management, children’s
health, wellness education, medication side effects, HIV care and more.

While location historically has been a leading factor for selecting a
pharmacy or pharmacist for prescription needs, new research by Walgreens
shows clinical training and areas of expertise are also among
respondents’ main reasons for selecting a pharmacy or pharmacist. In
fact, nearly 70 percent of respondents would consider a different
location or pharmacist if the pharmacist was trained in specific areas
that suit their needs.

“This is another way we are advancing community pharmacy by helping
people connect on a more meaningful level with Walgreens pharmacists in
their neighborhood, whether that is speaking their native language or
providing clinical information specific to their health condition,” said
Kermit Crawford, Walgreens president of pharmacy, health and wellness.
“The pharmacist-patient relationship can be very instrumental in helping
to improve health outcomes because patients often are talking with their
pharmacist more often than their primary care physician. Establishing a
personal relationship with your pharmacist can help improve health
outcomes by helping customers feel comfortable and confident in working
with their pharmacist for information, advice and support.”

To find a pharmacist or learn more about pharmacists at each of the more
than 7,800 Walgreens pharmacies, the search feature is available by
visiting walgreens.com/findyourpharmacist
or through the Walgreens.com store locator. The search tool also
provides a map and the opportunity to meet the store pharmacy team.
Mobile users can also access the tool on-the-go through any web-enabled
mobile device.

According to a Pew Internet & American Life Project report focused on
health information, of the 74 percent of adults surveyed who use the
Internet, health topics and doctors or other health professionals ranked
among the top three information topics searched for online(1).

The Walgreens survey also suggests the following among pharmacy customer
respondents:

–
Nearly one third would like to have the ability to search for a
pharmacist based on their expertise

–
Of those who know their pharmacist by name, nearly 75 percent consider
their pharmacist a critical or very important member of their health
care team

Crawford said, “We are focused on strengthening the relationship between
our pharmacists and patients to provide the care and expert advice they
deserve. By going above and beyond, we can help people live well, stay
well and get well with the expanded products and services we offer.”

Walgreens Online and Mobile Pharmacy Tools

“Find Your Pharmacist” search is Walgreens latest innovation developed
to help patients better manage their health and stay well. Walgreens
pharmacy staff is also available 24/7 online for one-on-one live chats
to answer patient questions and concerns through the Walgreens website
at
www.walgreens.com/pharmacychat .
In addition, Walgreens last month introduced new mobile pharmacy tools
including Pill Reminder and Transfer by Scan to help
smartphone users better manage prescription needs and help promote
greater medication adherence. Refill by Scan, a Walgreens mobile
technology that was an industry first, allows pharmacy customers to
order prescription refills simply by scanning a barcode. Today, nearly
40 percent of Walgreens online refills currently come through mobile
scanning.

Methodology

The Walgreens survey was fielded April 6-10, 2012 and involved a sample
of 1,000 respondents. Data was collected through random sampling of
Ipsos Online Omnibus’ 500,000+ member online panel. The Ipsos online
panel is recruited and maintained and utilize double and triple opt-in
screening processes to ensure maximum return from an engaged and
representative audience. The panel is updated regularly and
non-responders are removed. Both the survey invitation list and the
returned data are weighted to reflect the demographic composition of the
U.S. adult population.

About Walgreens

As the nation’s largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2011 sales of $72
billion, Walgreens (
www.walgreens.com )
vision is to become America’s first choice for health and daily living.
Each day, Walgreens provides nearly 6 million customers the most
convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and
trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and
advice in communities across America. Walgreens scope of pharmacy
services includes retail, specialty, infusion, medical facility and mail
service, along with respiratory services. These services improve health
outcomes and lower costs for payers including employers, managed care
organizations, health systems, pharmacy benefit managers and the public
sector. The company operates 7,847 drugstores in all 50 states, the
District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Take Care Health Systems is a
Walgreens subsidiary that is the largest and most comprehensive manager
of worksite health and wellness centers and in-store convenient care
clinics, with more than 700 locations throughout the country.

(1) Fox, Susannah, The Social Life of Health Information, 2011,
Pew Internet & American Life Project, May 12, 2011,
http://pewinternet.org/Reports/2011/Social-Life-of-Health-Info/Summary-of-Findings.aspx ,
accessed on April 12, 2012.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available:

http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50250031&lang=en

SOURCE: Walgreens

Walgreens
Vivika Panagiotakakos
(847) 315-2923

http://news.walgreens.com

www.twitter.com/WalgreensNews

Copyright Business Wire 2012

/quotes/zigman/245520/quotes/nls/wag

Add to portfolio

WAG

Walgreen Co.

US

: U.S.: NYSE

$
34.15

-0.57
-1.64%

Volume: 10.72M
May 2, 2012 4:02p

P/E Ratio11.35
Dividend Yield2.64%

Market Cap$29.95 billion
Rev. per Employee$296,138

/quotes/zigman/245520/quotes/nls/wag

Add to portfolio

WAG

Walgreen Co.

US

: U.S.: NYSE

$
34.15

-0.57
-1.64%

Volume: 10.72M
May 2, 2012 4:02p

P/E Ratio11.35
Dividend Yield2.64%

Market Cap$29.95 billion
Rev. per Employee$296,138

Financial Glossary

Words used in this article:

THE mad dash to build car factories in China continues. On April 23rd, as the Beijing motor show opened, Volkswagen announced plans to build its seventh plant in China, just a few days after Ford–a relative latecomer to what is now the worlds largest car market–had said it would build its fifth.

As the price of entering China, foreign motor manufacturers are required to produce their cars in partnership with a local firm. Chinas domestic carmakers–there are about 100 of them, far too many for even a market of this size–also produce vehicles under their own brands in separate factories, and many of these are also expanding. By some estimates, carmaking capacity in China may grow by 20-25% this year, whereas sales growth may be as low as 5%. Is the industry heading for a pile-up?

A recent number-crunch by Carson Ng of HSBC, a big bank, reckons that the gap between demand and potential supply is not as stark as it seems. This years new plant openings, he explains, are skewed towards later months, so the effective increase in potential output for the year as a whole may be as low as 10%. Sales may be stronger than expected, especially if inflation falls, so it is possible to imagine them almost keeping pace with the rising supply. In the longer term, rates of car ownership are still way below those in developed countries. And despite pollution and road congestion, Chinese consumers seem to be positively aching to join the car-owning society, and are increasingly able to afford to do so.

The upper end of the car market is still booming. BMWs Chinese sales rose by more than a third in the first quarter, compared with a year earlier. To capitalise on the apparently insatiable appetite for its cars, the German firm is launching a stretched version of its 3-series at the Beijing show. This is to appeal to the many buyers who want extra legroom in the back, since thats where they will be sitting, with their chauffeurs at the wheel.

Sport-utility vehicles are also selling like hot Chinese buns: if you cant afford a chauffeur, at least its nice to drive a car with high seats so you can look down on other motorists. Sales of SUVs have gone up from about 350,000 five years ago to perhaps 2m this year (out of a total Chinese market for passenger cars of 15.5m) and look set to keep growing at more than double the rate of the overall market. That is why Ford launched three new SUV models at the Beijing show.

Encircling the cities

Things do not look so pretty at the smaller, “value” end of Chinas car market, dominated by local brands. James Chao of IHS, a forecaster, says there is already overcapacity in this part of the market. It looks set to get worse, as the foreign carmakers and their local partners add cheaper models to their ranges in China. Joe Hinrichs, Fords Asia-Pacific chief, said that his companys introduction of a common set of “platforms” on which its model ranges worldwide will be based, will make it profitable to build and sell smaller cars than the Fiesta, the cheapest model it now offers in China (with prices starting at around $12,000). Like the other foreign makers, Ford is pushing ahead with opening new dealerships in Chinas fourth- and fifth-tier cities with populations of perhaps 1m. They are little known outside the country, in which the Chinese car firms have so far had a relatively easy ride.

A recent Free exchange column discussed “overinvestment” by China and concluded that the fears of this may be greatly overstated. For the countrys motor industry as a whole, which can look forward to years of steady sales growth, that is probably right. But at the bottom end of the car market, the weaker competitors, turning out vehicles in their tens of thousands, will surely fall further behind as their turf is invaded by super-efficient multinationals and their big Chinese partners, enjoying the economies of scale from producing over 1m apiece.

As described in a fascinating new book on the Chinese motor industry, “Designated Drivers”, by Greg Anderson, an industry expert, the central government is well aware of the growing need for the countrys motor industry to be rationalised. Yet many of the smaller makers are owned or subsidised by city and provincial governments, and their main intention is not to make profits but to soak up local unemployment and avert social unrest–the one thing the Chinese authorities at all levels most dread. Their owners and bosses will do all they can to resist cutting back.

(04-24) 00:05 PDT Pasco, Wash. (AP) –

Asparagus farmers crushed for decades by a flood of South American imports have begun to expand production again in the hope that healthy eating trends and demand for homegrown vegetables will help bolster prices and sales of their stalks.

US asparagus production is still only a third of what it was 25 years ago, thanks in large part to a pair of federal policies meant to combat drug trafficking and improve economic trade. A 1991 law exempted some crops, including asparagus, from tariffs to help Andean countries expand their alternatives to drug crops a boon to fresh and frozen asparagus production in Peru. Three years later, the North American Free Trade Agreement gradually reduced taxes on asparagus, boosting shipments from Mexico.

California, the leading producer, has seen acreage decline by a third since 1990. In No. 2 Washington state, production collapsed from more than 100 million pounds that year to just 17 million pounds in 2010. It recovered slightly last year, and strong prices and new varieties that hold the promise of bigger harvests have farmers hopeful again.

We probably hit our bottom, and now, were finally starting to bounce back, said Bill Middleton, 62, who operates an asparagus nursery and grows asparagus near Pasco in Washingtons Columbia River basin.

Prices are good. Demand is good. Its too early to tell, he said, but the indications are that well have a strong year.

For an industry on the verge of disappearing, 2010 marked a rock-bottom year, said Alan Schreiber of the Washington Asparagus Commission. But in the past two years, he said, asparagus growers have halted promotions early because demand for fresh asparagus has been so high that its all been sold.

To meet that demand, Washington farmers planted more new asparagus fields this year than the state has seen in a decade. In all, they are expected to plant slightly more than 6,000 acres, an improvement from two years ago, when they planted about 5,500 but nowhere near the 30,000 acres planted in 1990.

After a decade of malaise, retrenchment, maybe even collapse I dont know what you want to call it were seeing planting, Schreiber said. Its not a turnaround, but its a good sign.

Growers in California, where the asparagus season typically runs from Mid-March through June, are replacing old plants with new ones but dont expect to add a lot of acres, said Cherie Watte Angulo, executive director of the California Asparagus Commission.

Some in the industry credit Americans efforts to eat healthier with the increased demand for asparagus. Others say a price drop caused by a bumper crop in Mexico this winter enticed more people to buy fresh asparagus.

Im sure a lot of consumers may have even tried asparagus for the first time, said Phil Clouse of Gourmet Trading Co. of Los Angeles, which packages and distributes fresh fruit and vegetables.

On Friday, fresh asparagus averaged $2.64 a pound at grocery stores and other retail outlets, according to the US Department of Agriculture.

Washington farmers are hoping prices will rebound, however. Prices rose last year after bad weather damaged about a quarter of the states crop, and Clouse said farmers are hoping demand will boost them again as the states harvest continues through the next couple of months.

Gary Larsen, 52, another grower near Pasco, Wash., believes the key to the future is in new varieties that allow farmers to grow more on the same amount of land. He has already replanted one field and plans to replant another with new seeds later this year.

But hes also not convinced the industry is turning around just yet. There have been significant changes since processors moved canning and other facilities to Peru and Mexico, following the boom in farming there.

When the processers were here, we knew we had a home for our crop, Larson said. Now, were dealing with the fresh market, but labor is still the key to this crop. We need to find a way to manage those costs.

Asparagus is a labor intensive crop, requiring cutters to walk repeatedly through fields to harvest stalks by hand. Recent immigration sweeps and Washingtons high minimum wage have made labor expensive and scarce, he said.

Washingtons $9.04 minimum wage is among the highest in the country.

NEW YORK, NY, Apr 24, 2012 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) –
European financial stocks have surprised investors with gains in
the first quarter but have seen a sharp pull back recently, as recent
euro-zone economic data and political uncertainty in France and
Holland have accentuated concerns about the region’s current
financial crisis. The iShares MSCI Europe Financials Sector Index
Fund (EUFN) — which is designed to measure the combined equity
market performance of the financial sector of developed market
countries in Europe — is down over 11 percent this month. Five Star
Equities examines the outlook for companies in the Foreign Banking
Industry and provides equity research on National Bank of Greece

/quotes/zigman/7503280/quotes/nls/nbg NBG
+0.86%

and Bank of Ireland

/quotes/zigman/6968661/quotes/nls/ire IRE
-1.29%

.

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

www.FiveStarEquities.com/NBG

www.FiveStarEquities.com/IRE

The euro zone’s April preliminary purchasing managers’ index rating
fell to 47.4 from 49.1 in March. This reading has pointed to a faster
rate of economic contraction across the region than many analysts had
expected. These numbers compacted with the political problems in
France and Holland have economists worried that Europe’s economy will
be in a recession until the second half of 2012.

“Europe is driving the boat right now, and there’s no reason to think
that investor anxiety will dissipate any time soon,” said Joe Cogan,
vice president of international equities at Topeka Capital Markets in
New York. “In addition, the market has been due for a pullback, and I
think we could see another 2 to 3 percent of downside before
investors come back in the market.”

Five Star Equities releases regular market updates on the Foreign
Banking Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make
the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few
minutes to register with us free at
www.fivestarequities.com and get
exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry
newsletters.

National Bank of Greece SA (the Bank) is a Greece-based financial
institution. It offers a range of integrated financial services,
including corporate and investment banking, retail banking (including
mortgage lending), leasing, stock brokerage, asset management and
venture capital, insurance, real estate and consulting services.

Bank of Ireland and its subsidiaries provide a range of banking and
other financial services. The Company operates in five segments:
Retail Ireland, Bank of Ireland Life, Retail UK, Corporate and
Treasury and Group Centre. Group Centre includes capital management
activities, Government guarantee fees and unallocated group support
costs. Its subsidiaries include Bank of Ireland International Finance
Limited, Bank of Ireland (I.O.M.) Limited, Bank of Ireland Life
Holdings Limited, Bank of Ireland Mortgage Bank, Bank of Ireland (UK)
plc, First Rate Exchange Services Holdings Limited, ICS Building
Society and Midasgrange Limited.

Five Star Equities provides Market Research focused on equities that
offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. We
strive to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We
constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members.
Five Star Equities has not been compensated by any of the
above-mentioned companies. We act as an independent research portal
and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view
the full disclaimer at:
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SOURCE: Five Star Equities

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Copyright 2012 Marketwire, Inc., All rights reserved.

/quotes/zigman/7503280/quotes/nls/nbg

Add to portfolio

NBG

National Bank of Greece S.A. ADS

US

: U.S.: NYSE

$
2.26

+0.02
+0.86%

Volume: 196,177
April 25, 2012 10:36a

P/E RatioN/A
Dividend YieldN/A

Market Cap$2.28 billion
Rev. per Employee$297,443

/quotes/zigman/6968661/quotes/nls/ire

Add to portfolio

IRE

Governor & Co. of the Bank of Ireland ADS

US

: U.S.: NYSE

$
6.13

-0.08
-1.29%

Volume: 204,437
April 25, 2012 10:39a

P/E RatioN/A
Dividend YieldN/A

Market Cap$4.46 billion
Rev. per Employee$776,253

Financial Glossary

Words used in this article:

DALLAS, April 24, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ –
ReportsnReports adds new market research reports on Roofing & Construction Industries to its store. With a focus on Top 5 European Markets and Top 5 Asian Markets for Roofing and Global Construction Industry Outlook for 2012-2013, these survey reports and research studies help you analyze market data for concerned geographies along with answering your questions on forecasts, trends and more.

Roofing Market Reports:

These reports offer an in-depth perspective on the actual market situation, trends and future outlook for roofing in concerned country markets. The analysis provides essential market information for decision-makers including:

Overall market value for roofing by country

Overall market volume for roofing by country

Market volume for roofing by type (bituminous plates and shingles, bituminous roll and built-up, clay tiles, concrete tiles, elastomeric, fiber cement, metal, modified bitumen, plastic, other)

Forecasts and future outlook of the market

Country overview, macroeconomic indicators and indicators of doing business

These market analyses answer to questions such as:

What is the size of the roofing markets in different countries?

How are the markets divided into different types of products? Which products are growing fast?

How the markets have been developing? How does the future look like?

What is the potential for the markets?

How the indicators of doing business look like? For example, how easily the contracts are being enforced, or what is the inflation rate and how is it developing?

Here is a brief on:

A. Roofing – Top 5 European Markets

This package contains 5 roofing market analyses from the top 5 European markets:

France

Germany

Italy

Russia

United Kingdom

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China

India

Indonesia

Japan

South Korea

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Construction Industry Outlook for 2012-2013

These survey reports analyze how media spend, marketing and sales strategies, procurement expenditure, business strategies and practices in the construction industry are set to change in 2012-2013.

Companies Featured in these reports:

John Holland

Hyundai Engineering & Construction

Habtoor Leighton Group

Lafarge

Hyundai Heavy Industries

China State Construction Engineering Corporation

Mahindra & Mahindra

Hochtief

Caterpillar

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Eurovia

Larsen & Toubro Limited

Jacobs Engineering Group

A. Global Construction Industry Outlook Survey 2012-2013: Industry Dynamics, Market Trends and Opportunities, Buyer Spend and Procurement Strategies in the Construction Industry

This report gives you access to the category-level spending outlooks, budgets, supplier selection criteria, business challenges and investment opportunities of leading purchase decision makers. The report also identifies future growth of buyers and suppliers, M&A and e-procurement.

Key Highlights:

A total of 44% of respondents each expect their companies to increase or keep their procurement expenditure constant over the next 12 months, with only 5% looking to decrease it.

Of all buyer respondents, 31% agree that ‘improve customer services’ is an effective way for suppliers to secure business from buyers.

Report available for purchase @

http://www.reportsnreports.com/reports/156794-global-construction-industry-outlook-survey-2012-2013-industry-dynamics-market-trends-and-opportunities-buyer-spend-and-procurement-strategies-in-the-construction-industry.html

B. Global Construction Supplier Industry Outlook Survey 2012-2013: Industry Dynamics, Market Trends and Opportunities, Marketing Spend and Sales Strategies in the Construction Industry

This report gives you access to media channel spending outlooks, media budgets, marketing agency selection criteria, business challenges and sales tactics of leading suppliers. The report also identifies future growth of buyers and suppliers, M&A and investment expectations.

Key Highlights:

A total of 70% of respondents expect their companies to increase their marketing expenditure over the next 12 months, with only 8% looking to decrease it.

Overall, in the process of choosing marketing agencies, ‘flexibility in customizing services’ is considered the most important factor by 41% of global construction industry suppliers.

Report available for purchase @

http://www.reportsnreports.com/reports/156790-global-construction-supplier-industry-outlook-survey-2012-2013-industry-dynamics-market-trends-and-opportunities-marketing-spend-and-sales-strategies-in-the-construction-industry.html

Find complete list of market research reports on Manufacturing & Construction @
http://www.reportsnreports.com/market-research/manufacturing/ .

About Us:

ReportsnReports.com is an online market research reports library of 150,000+ in-depth studies of over 5000 micro markets. Our database includes reports by leading publishers from across the globe. We provide 24/7 online and offline support service to our customers.

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SOURCE ReportsnReports

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