Latest news with #Edwin
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Edwin Diaz Reveals His Thoughts on the Dodgers Trading For His Brother
Edwin Diaz Reveals His Thoughts on the Dodgers Trading For His Brother originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Los Angeles Dodgers traded with the Cincinnati Reds for closer Alexis Diaz in late May, and he had been pitching in the minor leagues until his call-up on Tuesday. Advertisement New York Mets' closer Edwin Diaz, the older brother of Alexis, recently revealed he wished the Mets had traded for his brother before the Dodgers did. "I wish he got traded to the Mets, but the Dodgers picked him. He's in a really good organization," Edwin Diaz told AM 570 LA Sports' David Vassegh. "I'm just happy for him, you know, looking forward to seeing him in the big leagues." The Diaz brothers have been lights-out closers throughout their careers in the MLB Edwin spent his first three years with the Seattle Mariners and his last seven with the Mets, and Alexis spent all four years with the Reds until he was traded in May. Advertisement The Mets' closer holds a career 2.91 ERA with 374 career saves, and the new Dodgers' acquisition is slightly higher with a 3.21 career ERA with 75 saves. Despite Alexis not playing with his brother in New York, the young closer was very excited about moving to the Dodgers, who currently sit on top of the National League. "He got traded, I've been talking to him - he's really happy," Edwin said. "He really appreciated he got traded to the Dodgers, so he's really happy." Alexis had been struggling mightily in 2025. After an ERA under three through his first three seasons, the Reds closer had allowed eight earned runs across six innings in 2025. Advertisement In the minor leagues, it didn't get much better for Alexis. He holds a 7.125 ERA in the minors in 2025, but the Dodgers brought the young addition up to the major leagues on Tuesday, and he'll get a chance to prove his worth. Edwin believes his brother needs to fix a couple of things, and he'll be back to his All-Star 2023 level of play. "I think just fix his mechanics. I think he was just a little bit inconsistent this year," Edwin said. "I think they have everything to fix and to help him, and I think if they can find the problem, it will be fine. Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Diaz (43) delivers the pitch in the ninth inning of the MLB game at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Cincinnati Reds defeated Houston Astros Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK Edwin has complete confidence in his brother, and Alexis is excited to be back at the major league level, and now with a team he could make a difference with in October. Edwin believes a change of scenery was the best thing for his brother Advertisement "Yeah, 100 percent. He was happy when he got traded, he was really happy. He told me, 'Hey, I'm going to the Dodgers, so I will see you next week or in the playoffs,'" Edwin said. "So he's really happy. I'm happy for him and just can't wait to see him in the bigs again and doing his job to helping the team win." With Edwin's Mets tied atop the NL East and Alexis' Dodgers leading the NL West, the brothers are now playing for two of the top four teams in the NL, and it could be a family adventure in the postseason. Related: Dodgers Not Expected to Pursue Cardinals' Gold Glove Superstar Third Baseman This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
Business Insider
08-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Dangote Refinery to process 100% Nigerian crude by end of 2025
Dangote refinery will be fully reliant on Nigerian crude by the end of 2025, according to Devakumar Edwin, vice president of Dangote Industries. Dangote Refinery aims to fully rely on Nigerian crude by the end of 2025, transitioning from international sources. As of June, 53% of crude supply for the refinery was sourced domestically, with the remainder imported. The $20 billion refinery commenced operations in 2024, making significant contributions to Nigeria's energy sector. Dangote refinery will be fully reliant on Nigerian crude by the end of 2025, according to Devakumar Edwin, vice president of Dangote Industries. The 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery, owned by Aliko Dangote, Africa's richest man, sourced half of its crude supply from local producers in June. That share is expected to grow, as more Nigerian suppliers choose to sell directly to the refinery rather than meet export obligations, Bloomberg reported. ' We expect some of the long-term contracts will expire. Personally, and as a company, we expect that before the end of the year, we can transition 100% to local crude,' Edwin said. The $20 billion Dangote refinery, which began operations in 2024 after years of delays, is now producing aviation fuel, diesel, gasoline, and naphtha. Ranked by Bloomberg as having a higher capacity than the ten largest refineries in Europe, it stands as a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa's energy sector. From import dependence to net fuel exporter Though still ramping up to full capacity, the refinery has already transformed Nigeria into a net exporter of petroleum products. However, meeting initial demand required large volumes of imported crude, as local traders were unable to supply sufficient quantities. Since opening, the Dangote refinery has sourced crude from countries including Brazil, Angola, Ghana, and Equatorial Guinea. Improving coordination between the refinery, local oil traders, and the Nigerian government is expected to ensure a more consistent supply of domestic crude, according to Devakumar Edwin. Still, a significant boost in local output will be needed in the coming months. In June, 53% of the refinery's crude came from Nigerian producers, while 47% was imported from the U.S. The plant is currently processing around 550,000 barrels of crude per day, Edwin said.
IOL News
04-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
CBEX Crypto Scam: Africa's AI-Hyped Ponzi Nightmare and the Urgent Call for Real Regulation
Logos of different cryptocurrencies are displayed during the Token2049 conference in Dubai. Beneath the glittering promises of the cryptocurrency world, where AI hype shines brightest, lies a sinister truth: CryptoBridge Exchange (CBEX). This AI-powered Ponzi scheme has shattered and embittered countless African investors. Edwin, a Kenyan government worker, is just one of many victims, having lost $16,000—borrowed money, shattered dreams, and bruised dignity. His isolated story is a symptom of a broader crisis: a digital swindle spreading unchecked across Africa's vulnerable investment landscape. CBEX initially presented an enticing opportunity: an AI trading system guaranteeing monthly returns and attractive referral bonuses. Its appearance of legitimacy was crafted through a complex network of corporate identities and fraudulent certificates. The platform employed "brandjacking," using the acronym of China's Beijing Equity Exchange, a deceptive tactic designed to instill a false sense of security in investors. The unfortunate reality is that these schemes exploit both the lack of technological awareness and the financial aspirations of ordinary Africans seeking to improve their economic standing. The Anatomy of a Modern Ponzi Scheme Africa is no stranger to Ponzi schemes, but CBEX marks a disturbing new phase: the combination of cryptocurrency's lack of transparency with the enticing appeal of artificial intelligence. Crypto scams globally siphoned off an estimated $9.9 billion last year alone, according to blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis—a staggering sum that underscores the profitability and prevalence of these fraudulent activities. CBEX operated a sophisticated, yet classic, Ponzi scheme. Investors observed fabricated "growth" in their accounts, while their actual investments were covertly drained. These funds were funneled through intricate TRON blockchain transactions, distributed across numerous wallets, and converted into various cryptocurrencies to obscure their origin. This digital illusion led investors to believe their capital was expanding, even as it was silently pilfered. Such schemes flourish where financial regulation is lax and populations are financially desperate. CBEX exploited these vulnerabilities in Kenya and Nigeria, its primary operational hubs. Large segments of the populations in these countries are financially underserved, lack financial literacy, and are keen for alternative income. CBEX capitalized on these gaps by inundating messaging apps like Telegram with alluring, yet ultimately unrealistic, promises. Why Africa? Why Now? With a burgeoning youth population, over 60% of whom are under 25 according to a 2023 African Development Bank report, Africa is seeing its young people increasingly embrace cryptocurrency. This adoption is driven by the desire for economic opportunity amidst limited formal employment and unstable local currencies, reflecting a growing demand for digital financial solutions. The rapid adoption of cryptocurrency in Africa has unfortunately outpaced the implementation of adequate safeguards, leading to a precarious situation. Instead of proactive measures, governments have largely reacted after the fact. For instance, Kenya's Capital Markets Authority only issued investor alerts once significant harm had already occurred, and Nigeria's EFCC has been compelled to reactively pursue scammers and recover funds. These isolated responses are insufficient for a crisis that urgently requires a holistic and forward-looking regulatory framework. CBEX's acquisition of an anti-money laundering certificate—even if only for consultancy services—highlights a concerning blend of scammer ingenuity and institutional oversight. This loophole in governmental and institutional diligence emboldens fraudsters, who expertly exploit bureaucratic gaps and insufficient cross-border regulatory collaboration. What Must Be Done? The Imperative for Stronger Regulation and Education African governments need to abandon their current reactive and fragmented regulatory approach. While Nigeria's new Investments and Securities Act, which criminalises Ponzi schemes, is a welcome development, robust and immediate enforcement, coupled with enhanced cross-border collaboration, is crucial. Warnings and investor alerts from regulators are no longer sufficient. There's a pressing need for dedicated crypto regulatory bodies. These bodies must be equipped to comprehend and supervise digital asset markets, with the authority to vet platforms, enforce transparency, and implement stringent Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols. Public education on crypto risks is crucial and should be integrated into financial literacy initiatives. Many are drawn to the allure of "guaranteed returns" from AI-powered trading bots, often unaware of the volatile and speculative nature of digital assets. Governments, NGOs, and community organizations should collaborate to provide clear and accessible information on identifying scams. Telegram and other similar technology platforms need to enhance their scam-detection systems. While Telegram has started to ban problematic users and identify scam groups, CBEX's ongoing activity on the platform underscores the critical need for more proactive surveillance and collaboration with law enforcement. Closing Thoughts: Never Again For victims such as Edwin and Abby, "never again" is more than a personal promise; it's a demand for systemic change. While the CBEX scandal may account for billions lost worldwide and millions domestically, the real price is the erosion of hope and the shattering of trust. This cannot be Africa's crypto epitaph. Rather, it must be the point at which we declare an end to hollow pledges and AI fantasies. The urgent need for responsible regulation, investor education, and institutional responsibility is upon us—before another CBEX rises from the depths, poised to exploit aspirations once more. By Sesona Mdlokovana UAE & African Specialist Associate at the BRICS+ Consulting Group ** MORE ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE ** Follow @brics_daily on X/Twitter & @brics_daily on Instagram for daily BRICS+ updates
USA Today
02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Head to Copper Dog Books in Beverly, MA to be matched with the 'perfect book'
Independent bookstores are the heartbeats of their communities. They provide culture and community, generate local jobs and sales tax revenue, promote literacy and education, champion and center diverse and new authors, connect readers to books in a personal and authentic way, and actively support the right to read and access to books in their communities. Each week we profile an independent bookstore, sharing what makes each one special and getting their expert and unique book recommendations. This week we have bookseller Jess Holleran of Copper Dog Books in Beverly, Massachusetts. What's your store's story? Copper Dog Books is a vibrant independent bookstore in downtown Beverly, a beautiful ocean-side community that is steeped in New England history and connected to the modern energy of Boston. We offer an expertly curated selection of books ranging from current bestsellers to the most eclectic titles (plus gifts, toys and cards) in our 1800-square-foot store, online, and in the community at farmer's markets, school books fairs and festivals. We pride ourselves on being a LGBTQ+ friendly and genre friendly bookstore. What makes your independent bookstore unique? Establishing ourselves as a destination of discovery, we have an event program that hosts in-store events that feature local authors for children's books and adult books on varied, interesting topics as well as writing seminars, tarot card readings, cookbook demonstrations and arts and crafts. Traveling offsite and bringing books to community spaces allows us to work with nonprofits, public libraries, and schools. We're known for our quirky curation. Our booksellers are passionate about genre fiction; in particular, horror, sci-fi, fantasy and romance novels. As a result, we host a ton of horror events with our proximity to Salem, Massachusetts. What book do you love to recommend to customers and why? One of my favorite books to recommend is "Gideon the Ninth" by Tamsyn Muir – it has lesbian necromancers in space, it's a locked room mystery, it's a body horror novel, it's weird, bonkers, hilarious and heartbreaking. What book do you think deserves more attention and why? "A Marvellous Light" by Freya Marske is part mystery, part fantasy, part romance and all heart. Robin is a cheery, warm, nonmagical person who is thrust into a world of impossible magic and hair-raising danger when he is accidentally assigned to work in a magical bureau. He is partnered with Edwin, a cold, enigmatic magician who seemingly wants nothing to do with Robin or the liability he presents. But when Robin and Edwin encounter a terrifying curse, a mysterious fog faced man, a murderous maze, a sentient house pulsing with ancient magic and powerful contract magic that would be deadly in the wrong hands, they realize that the only way to survive is to stick together. This historical fantasy/romance was equal parts gripping, sexy and thrilling and had me flipping pages for sleepless night after sleepless night. I am infatuated with Robin and Edwin and can't wait to see where Marske takes them next. Why is shopping at local, independent bookstores important? Our products are unique and curated just for you. Everything on our shelves is uniquely curated specifically with our customers in mind. We talk to customers, determine needs and carry products based on that feedback. We only sell products we love and bring in locally made small batch gifts from other small businesses in the area. We promote children's literacy through our donations to Beverly Bootstraps, Little Free Libraries and our Holiday Book drive. When you shop local, you help us employ local people, you allow us to partner with other local businesses, and you allow us to stay here and thrive. It's an investment in your downtown that you won't regret. Our booksellers are absolute pros at matching people with the perfect book. Looking for a book with a red cover with the word 'here' in it? Our hive mind of booksellers can help. If we don't have the exact book you're looking for, our booksellers will either recommend something perfect that we have in stock, or order that pesky title for you. We know you and go through the seasons of life with you. We remember your names, your taste in books, your pronouns, your kids and your fur babies' names. We celebrate with you – graduations, weddings, baby showers, adoptions, coming out, new jobs. We want to be there for you because we care. It's not just about the money for us – it's about being a vital part of the community. What are some of your store's events, programs, or partnerships coming up that you would like to share? Every Saturday in July and August we will be at the Marblehead Farmers Market, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., with a selection of bestsellers, and other relevant titles for sale. We are also doing two make and take kids events: On August 18, we are hosting an event at comedy space Off Cabot to celebrate the release of "The End of the World as We Know It: New Tales of Stephen King's the Stand" with editor Christopher Golden, and authors Paul Tremblay and Rio Youers.
The Star
02-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
CBEX crypto scam: AI-hyped Ponzi scheme defrauds African investors
NAIROBI: Embarrassed and in debt, Edwin was left reeling after losing US$16,000 (RM 67,464) to CryptoBridge Exchange (CBEX), one of the crypto-trading platforms preying on investors in Africa. Edwin, a Kenyan government worker who only gave his first name out of shame, first encountered CBEX on Telegram, a messaging app. He was lured with promises of guaranteed monthly returns made possible by AI-powered trading systems, with lucrative referral bonuses – classic hallmarks of Ponzi schemes. "I had very big plans. But I was conned both by the platform and an agent who lied he could help recover my money," Edwin told AFP. When he began investing last August, there were initial returns, leading him to invest more despite lacking prior cryptocurrency trading experience. In total, he believes he lost roughly 2.1 million shillings (US$16,000), mostly from a bank loan he is now worried about needing to repay. Blockchain analysis firm Chainalysis says some US$9.9bil (RM42bil) was lost to crypto scams globally last year. Such scams are not new in Africa, but their scale and sophistication has grown as cryptocurrency spreads. CBEX collapsed in April, leaving scores of investors like Edwin ruined, mainly in Kenya and Nigeria, according to media reports. But AFP has confirmed from accessing messages on CBEX's private Telegram groups that it has since rebooted its operations despite ongoing investigations and warnings by authorities. 'I'm broke' Abby, another Kenyan investor, carries the guilt of introducing 25 family and friends to CBEX. "(They) invested so much, and it all disappeared," he told AFP. "I would really love to help them recover but I'm broke." In Nigeria, news of CBEX's collapse led to attacks on CBEX-affiliated offices, which have since closed. Adeoye, a Nigerian victim, lost N700,000 (about US$450/RM1,897). "The offer was juicy," he said. "I knew it was a risk, but I thought I would be lucky to cash out before anything happened." CBEX used the "brandjacking" tactic, adopting an acronym similar to the China Beijing Equity Exchange to give it legitimacy. The platform claimed to be licensed in the US and said ST Technologies International was responsible for the AI trading signals, allowing it to operate in Nigeria under the corporate identity of ST Technologies International Ltd (Smart Treasure/Super Technology). It even obtained an anti-money laundering certificate from Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) this January, though the EFCC has clarified that this was only for "consultancy services", not for currency exchanges. 'Build trust' To add further legitimacy, CBEX claimed it was established a decade ago and the ST team eight years ago. In reality, it began operations in Nigeria last July, according to local media, before spreading to Kenya. "If you check CBEX wallet addresses on-chain, they were only operating for about a year before the collapse," Kenyan cryptocurrency investigator Wycklife Sewe told AFP. While pretending to actively trade, CBEX actually moved funds out of investors' wallets via TRON (a decentralised blockchain network), said Sewe. The assets then underwent complex routing through multiple wallets and cryptocurrency conversions to obscure the audit trail. "They have designed their system using code to fool you that your money is still there and you can see it growing. But your money is moved immediately after you deposit," Sewe said, adding that CBEX was also running other scams. CBEX has changed its website domain several times to avoid attracting attention. AFP found at least four registered by it. International warnings In April 2024, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission, an independent market regulator, issued a public alert against "CBEX Group". A recent investigation by crypto analyst Specter linked CBEX's withdrawal wallets to darknet marketplace Huione Guarantee, a Cambodia-based platform known for providing illicit tools to facilitate crypto crime. The US Treasury's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) designated Huione Group a "primary money-laundering concern" in May, saying that it had facilitated more than US$4bil (RM17bil) in illegal transactions between August 2021 and January 2025. Following CBEX's collapse, Kenya's Capital Markets Authority issued an "Investor Alert" about unregulated platforms, and parliament is discussing a bill to regulate virtual assets. 'Never again' Nigeria's EFCC says it has arrested two people and put out warrants for eight others in Nigeria and Kenya. A new Investments and Securities Act expressly prohibits and criminalises Ponzi schemes. But investigations are lengthy and expensive. In May, the EFCC said a "reasonable sum" of lost funds had been recovered, without stating the amount, highlighting the complexity of converting cryptocurrencies back to national currency. A Telegram spokesman told AFP that "scam content is removed when discovered and offending users banned". AFP found some CBEX Telegram groups were now labelled as scams on the platform. On June 10, CBEX, which had previously blamed hackers for the missing funds, claimed on its Telegram channels to have "compensated" the lost money. But it asked affected users to complete "verification" by paying a fee – a common re-scamming tactic. For victims like Abby, the way forward is easy. "Never, ever again! I am done," he said. – AFP
