A letter sent to the tech giant said it still has five active patents related to cryptocurrencies, despite the firm saying that it has no digital assets-related works ongoing.
Meta’s (formerly Facebook) continued efforts in the digital assets industries are being called out by Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.).
The congresswoman said in a letter sent Monday to CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Chief Operating Officer Javier Olivan that she is concerned about Meta’s ongoing efforts to expand its footprint into the cryptocurrency industry as it currently has five active trademark applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
“I write to express my concerns regarding Meta Platforms, Inc.’s (f/k/a Facebook, Inc.) filing status of five trademark applications related to various digital assets services and blockchain technology with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO),” the letter said. “With its initial filings on March 18, 2022, Meta’s application submissions as of January 22 appear to represent a continued intention to expand the company’s involvement in the digital assets ecosystem.”
The letter points out five patents by Meta that include several applications related to the digital assets sector, including social media networking, dating services, trading and validating of cryptocurrencies, among others.
The letter pointed out that despite these five applications still being active, Meta told the Financial Services Committee on Oct. 12 that the company has no digital assets-related works ongoing at the company.
This isn’t the first time Waters has raised concerns about Big Tech companies jumping into the digital assets sector. Last year, she questioned PayPal about its own stablecoin, citing that “there is still no federal framework for regulation, oversight, and enforcement of these assets stablecoins.”
Meta previously attempted to launch its own digital currency project in 2019, which was later named Diem. The project eventually was shut down and sold to now-defunct Silvergate Bank in 2022, after facing backlash from Washington and regulators worldwide due to Meta’s access to billions of users’ personal data.
Former employees of the Diem project went on to build their own digital assets, including Aptos and Sui.
Observers said BITO will remain an integral part of the market as a hedging instrument for authorized participants associated with the recently launched spot ETFs.
Daily trading volume in the ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF has tanked since spot ETFs went live in the U.S. on Jan. 11.
Observers said BITO will remain an integral part of the market as a hedging instrument.
Activity in ProShares Bitcoin Strategy ETF (BITO), the world’s leading bitcoin (BTC) futures-based exchange-traded fund (ETF), has cooled significantly since the launch of ETFs directly investing in the cryptocurrency began trading in the U.S. on Jan. 11.
On Thursday, BITO shares worth just over $500 million changed hands on the NYSE, a 75% slide from the record $2 billion registered on Jan. 11, according to data tracked by crypto exchange Coinbase. BITO has witnessed a net outflow of over $270 million over the same period, according to data source ETF.com.
Meanwhile, 11 spot ETFs registered a cumulative trading volume of $14 billion in the first week, a tally bigger than all other ETFs launched in 2023, per Coinbase. These funds have amassed over $1.2 billion in investor money in one week since inception.
These spot ETFs invest in bitcoin, allowing investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency while bypassing the hassles of storing the same and are considered a better alternative to futures-based ETFs like BITO. Because BITO invests in the CME BTC futures, it must roll over expiring contracts into new ones, incurring “roll costs,” which weigh over the fund’s performance in the long run.
That said, the cash-creation structure of spot ETFs will likely ensure futures-based ETFs stay relevant, according to some observers.
ETFs are created and redeemed in two ways: In-kind and cash creation. In the former, when the ETF issuer wants to create new shares, the authorized participant (AP) buys the underlying securities comprising the ETF and delivers the same to the issuer in return for a block of ETF shares, which can be sold in the open market. The process works in reverse when the ETF wants to redeem shares.
The process remains the same in the cash-creation structure, except that APs provide cash to the issuer, and then the issuer purchases the actual asset.
That exposes APs – institutions and market-making firms – to the risk of bitcoin price fluctuations between when they receive buy orders and when issuers purchase the asset to create new shares. As such, APs are likely to hedge the same with regulated products like BITO and CME futures, according to some observers.
“It is not unusual for an AP to revert to regulated products such as BITO to hedge their positions (called deltas) as they may not have accounts with CME futures to do so. This is generally considered a good proxy if they can’t execute CME bitcoin futures or even outright bitcoin,” Laurent Kssis, a crypto trading adviser at CEC Capital and a former ETF market maker, told CoinDesk.
“The risk of being exposed or unhedged is very high, so BITO will provide decent cover, although it is not a perfect hedge as there is slippage and a decent cost to buy BITO,” Kssis added. “But many APs won’t have a choice (since they can’t buy bitcoin or are not allowed to touch them by their compliance dept) or even won’t have the infrastructure, i.e., custodian, or back office system to reconcile their positions.”
David Duong, head of institutional research at Coinbase, said in the weekly newsletter that despite the recent decline in BITO’s volume, it will remain an “integral part of the bitcoin ETF space.”
“We believe some APs (namely broker-dealers) will continue to rely on regulated means of hedging themselves, such as long CME futures or long BITO when creating shares (or short CME futures if redeeming),” Duong said, adding some APs likely bought bitcoin ahead of the spot ETF launch and sold BITO to “to hedge potential client buys and sells intraday.”
A statement from B. Riley said it was unaware of any such investigation from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
Investment bank B. Riley is under an undisclosed investigation from U.S. authorities for its deals with Brian Kahn, an alleged co-conspirator in a U.S. Department of Justice criminal case, according to a Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the matter.
A statement from B. Riley said it was unaware of any such investigation from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) but that it would cooperate fully if an investigation were to materialize. The report is “parroting baseless allegations that have been publicly made for months by short sellers intent on harming the Firm,” the statement added.
Recently, B. Riley has made big investments in the bitcoin mining space. In September 2023, bitcoin (BTC) miner Iris Energy (IREN) signed a deal to sell up to $100 million in equity to B. Riley, and in March 2023, a federal judge overseeing bitcoin miner Core Scientific’s (CORZ) Chapter 11 bankruptcy process approved a $70 million loan from B. Riley Commercial Capital to help the company get back on its feet.
Brian Kahn remains unidentified. However, the Bloomberg report cited a person familiar with the matter to say that Kahn is the CEO of Franchise Group Inc. In November 2023, a man named John Hughes, co-founder of hedge fund Prophecy Asset Management pleaded guilty to committing securities fraud to the tune of $294 million against clients and admitted that one of two co-conspirators was the CEO of a multibillion-dollar retail franchise company without officially naming Kahn.
According to the report, Kahn has been a “longstanding client” of B. Riley, and the bank had helped him lead a “management buyout of Franchise Group, or FRG, a retail company based in Delaware, Ohio.” Additionally, Nomura, a major Japanese financial group, had “led a $600 million lending syndicate for B. Riley to help finance Kahn’s takeover,” the report said, citing loan documents.
Nomura is backing several crypto-related entities, including Komainu and Ledger. The report further said Nomura isn’t the focus of the probe, which is in its early stages.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has released the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIA) for the Hoang Lien Pass Road Tunnel project. The project will connect Sa Pa town in Lao Cai with Tam Duong district in Lai Chau. The tunnel will be approximately 8.8km long and will replace a dangerous 22km stretch of National Highway 4D. It will also reduce travel time through the pass from 50 minutes for cars and 2 hours for heavy trucks to only 11 minutes.
The Hoang Lien Pass road tunnel project connecting Sa Pa town (Lao Cai) with Tam Duong district (Lai Chau) is about 8.8km long (Photo: DTM).
The project will consist of two tunnels, each 2.5km long and designed according to Japanese mountain tunnel standards, combined with TCVN standards (railway tunnels and motorway tunnels – construction regulations, acceptance). On the route, 10 bridges will be built- 6 in Lai Chau province and 4 in Lao Cai province.
The investor of the project is the Transport Construction Investment Project Management Board of Lai Chau province, with a total investment of about 3,300 billion VND. In 2023, Lai Chau Provincial People’s Council approved the project investment policy in the form of public investment.
Step Into The Wild: A Beginner’s Guide To Hiking Adventure
Hiking is a way to free your mind while giving your body a great workout! Whether discovering hidden trails for the first time or using this activity to boost mindfulness and mental health, if you’re a hiking novice, you must prepare for the call of the wild.
Choosing the correct trails, packing the correct gear, and ensuring you have enough fuel to complete your hike are significant parts of the course.
Here is your beginner’s guide to your hiking adventure.
1.Sign up to a Subscription Box
For adventure seekers looking for motivation, a hiking subscription box, such as those available at Battlbox, is a great idea. It’s also a fun way to gear up for your first hiking adventure.
Designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, when you sign up, you’ll receive a monthly supply of outdoor tools, survival gear, and adventure essentials. All of which will be delivered directly to your doorstep.
Irrespective of what your hiking adventure throws at you, this subscription box will ensure you’re well-equipped to step into the wild.
2.Choose Your Trail Wisely For Hiking Adventure
If you’re a beginner, choose appropriate beginner trails. As you get to grips with hiking, you can move on to more intermediate or challenging trails. It’s a good idea to research local trails and hiking spots before setting off. If you live close to national parks, these are good starting points, as they are renowned for their beginner-friendly paths, all of which are well-marked.
When picking a trail, consider factors including distance, difficulty, and elevation. Choosing the right trail will ensure an enjoyable first hike. If hiking to lose weight, tone up, and improve stamina, variety is key to a successful workout.
3. Boost Endurance
If you plan to take up hiking as a regular activity, choosing different trail experiences will maximize results. Hiking short, steep trails will tone muscles. Flat, long trails will build stamina and endurance. Both will help you to strengthen your cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Trails above 4,000 feet are great for endurance training. Your body has to adapt to using less oxygen. In a study published in the “Journal of Applied Physiology,” researchers found that male endurance runners exercising at high altitudes twice a week for six weeks took 35 percent longer to fatigue than runners who worked out at sea level over the same period.
This same principle applies to hiking. If you choose routes that boast high elevations, your body will learn to adapt, thus function with less oxygen. Not quite ready for this challenge? Opt for lower-elevation trails instead.
The right gear can make all the difference to your enjoyment when hiking. Moisture-wicking clothing, bug spray, a water bottle that is easy to carry, and a backpack are all classed as hiking essentials. Another must-have? A map or reliable GPS device.
Yet perhaps the most crucial piece of equipment? Good hiking boots. Your footwear must fit well. Hiking books should also provide traction on various surfaces, including muddy, powder dry, and everything in between. Poorly fitting will result in painful blisters and an unenjoyable hike.
If you’re just starting, a pair of heavy-duty runners will work just as well as hiking boots. And after a long day on the trails, what could be better than unwinding in a luxurious safari lodge South Africa, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness?
5. Fuel Up For Hiking Adventure
When hiking, it’s essential to stay energized; if your intake of water or fuel is inadequate, your performance will suffer. Pack a few energy-boosting snacks in your backpack. Look at nutritious granola bars, trail mixes, gels, and fresh fruits. All are great options. The recommended calorie intake when hiking is between 300 and 500 calories per hour. This is only on a strenuous hike and can be between 150 and 200 for a more leisurely hike.
Additionally, and most importantly, take plenty of water with you. Certain trails have refueling stations, but you don’t want to get caught out. Hydration is crucial! You should hydrate before and frequently while on the trail. You should continue to rehydrate post-hike, too.
Don’t rush your hike. Savor the journey and take your time to embrace your surroundings. Hiking isn’t a race, although if you’ve spent a busy week in the office, it can be hard to shift this mindset.
Make yourself pause now and then and appreciate the fresh air, rustling leaves, panoramic views, and babbling brooks. It’s not just about reaching your goal destination; it’s about the experience!
7. Stay Safe
Before setting off, inform a friend or family member of your hiking plans, especially if going solo. Other top tips? Always carry a basic first aid kit, check the forecast before beginning your hike, and take items that will cover your back if the weather does change.
8. Respect ‘The Leave No Trace’ Principles
Nature is a beautiful thing, which is why it’s important it stays that way! Sticking to the ‘Leave No Trace’ principles is basic hiking etiquette. Stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, and don’t litter!
The Bottom Line
Setting off on a hiking adventure, especially if your first, is a transformative experience. With the correct planning and perhaps a handy subscription box, you’ll find yourself well served to enter the wild.
Immersing yourself in the wonders of the great outdoors is good not only for our bodies but also for the soul and mind. A 2015 study from Stanford University found that time spent in nature calms the portion of the brain linked to mental illness and reduces your mind’s tendency toward negative thought patterns.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace-up those boots, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the journey ahead!
Yesterday morning, the North and North Central regions experienced a drop in temperature, and this morning, the weather has gotten even colder. It is expected that the cold air will continue to persist in the Northern region, leading to severe cold weather with little rain. The lowest common temperature is expected to range between 7 to 10 degrees Celsius, and in mountainous areas, it could drop to 3 to 6 degrees Celsius. In high mountainous areas, temperatures below zero degrees Celsius are possible, leading to the possibility of frost and snowfall in places such as Fansipan, Phia Oac, Lung Cu, and Mau Son.
Today, the North Central region will also experience low temperatures, which will drop even further to between 9 to 11 degrees Celsius tonight.
In Hanoi, the Department of Education and Training has requested heads of educational departments and school principals to monitor the temperature information broadcasted in the weather forecast bulletin. Based on this information, schools can adjust their class schedules or give students a day off. Preschool and elementary school students can stay home when the temperature is below 10°C, while middle school students can stay home when the temperature is below 7°C.
It has been proposed by the Ministry of Health that if the air quality index reaches hazardous levels for three consecutive days, schools may consider keeping kindergarten and elementary students out of school. If they are required to attend school, they should avoid outdoor activities or adjust study time accordingly. This proposal comes as a response to the prolonged air pollution in many areas.
Many parts of Hanoi and some northern provinces have been experiencing a hazy atmosphere of fog and dust for almost three months now. In December, a series of stations monitoring fine dust concentrations in Hanoi showed readings above 100-200, which is categorized as a poor and harmful level for health.
Weather plays a critical role in air pollution. In calm winters with little rain and dense fog, pollutants remain at low altitudes and are not washed away.
Ms. Le Thanh Thuy, from the Hanoi Environmental Protection Department, commented that there will be a period of high air pollution from September to March. Therefore, people need to pay close attention to air quality indicators when going out during this period.
Vietnam has become the top supplier of pepper products to the US market, overtaking both China and India in 2023. 54,000 tons of pepper products were exported, accounting for 21% of the market. This is great news for Vietnamese export enterprises.
The Head of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency in New York, Mr. Nguyen Manh Hung, believes that there are two key factors that contributed to Vietnam’s success in exporting to the US. Firstly, the quality of Vietnam’s exported pepper has improved and meets the strict standards of importing countries. Secondly, the price of Vietnamese pepper is competitive with other exporting countries.
Vietnam’s total pepper export value is estimated to reach 912 million USD in 2023. It is predicted that Vietnam will soon reach a value of 1 billion USD.
Looking forward, the US food processing industry is expected to grow in 2024, providing an opportunity for Vietnamese pepper to establish even further achievements.
To maintain its position in the market, Vietnam’s pepper industry must maintain product quality and apply advanced science and technology to produce pepper according to green, clean, and sustainable development standards. Additionally, they must promote the Vietnamese pepper brand as a national brand. By doing so, American consumers will immediately think of Vietnam as the world’s leading pepper producer and exporter in both quality and quantity.
In order to meet the demand of people returning to their hometown for the 2024 Lunar New Year, the railway sector has added 13,500 train tickets at both ends of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
On the morning of January 19, Mr. Thai Van Truyen, General Director of Saigon Railway Transport Joint Stock Company, stated that the company officially organized 6 additional train trips from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, Vinh, Phan Thiet, and added more train cars with over 7,000 seats.
Specifically, additional trains include TN4, SE24 from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi on January 30 (Lunar December 20); SE14, SE16 from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh on January 31 (Lunar December 21); SPT4 from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet on February 11 and 12 (Lunar January 2 and 3).
The railway industry adds train tickets to meet people’s travel needs during the 2024 Lunar New Year. (Illustration)
Similarly, representatives of Hanoi Railway Transport Joint Stock Company stated that they have mobilized 100% of the current number of train cars to serve additional trips during the Lunar New Year. The company also added 6 trips: TN3 departing from Hanoi on January 28; SE13, SE15 departing from Vinh station on January 29; from Saigon, trains TN4 depart on January 30, SE14, SE16 depart on January 31, with about 3,000 tickets, and additional cars on other trains with 3,500 tickets.
“Thus, the total number of additional tickets provided during the 2024 Lunar New Year period is 6,500 tickets,” the representative of Hanoi Railway Transport Joint Stock Company informed.
Tickets are still available on all days
As of now, after more than 2 months of sales, Saigon Railway Transport Joint Stock Company has sold over 207,000 tickets. There are still tickets available for all days before Tet. In addition, during the peak days from the 23rd to the 28th of Lunar December (from February 2 to February 7), there are still few tickets departing from Saigon.
Mr. Truyen said that after Tet, there are still tickets available on all days, including from February 10 to February 13 and from February 18 onwards (from the 1st to the 4th day of Tet and from the 9th day of Lunar January onwards), there are tickets to all stations. From February 14 to February 17 (from the 5th to the 8th day of Lunar January), there are still few tickets available.
Similarly, at Hanoi Station, by the end of January 18, 62,200 tickets had been sold. Currently, tickets are still available for all days during the Tet holiday.
Notes for traveling by train during Tet
During the days leading up to Tet, train stations are crowded due to the large number of passengers returning to their hometowns. The representative of Vietnam Railway Corporation advises passengers to pay attention to a number of things to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Specifically, passengers must bring electronic or paper tickets, personal identification documents (children must bring birth certificates) for ticket control at the station entrance and train cars. Personal information on identification documents must match the information on the train ticket to enter the station and board the train.
The railway industry advises passengers to pay attention when traveling by train during Tet
In addition, to avoid buying fake tickets, passengers should not buy tickets through intermediary entities such as black markets, pretending to be railway staff. Instead, purchase tickets directly through the railway industry’s website, at ticket counters at stations, or through electronic applications.
Passengers eligible for social policy discounts should bring relevant identification documents. Specifically, students should bring student cards, war veterans should bring veteran cards, and trade union members should bring union cards.
Passengers should arrive at the station 30 minutes to 1 hour before the train departure time for procedures and board the correct train, car number, and seat number printed on the ticket.
Passengers traveling by train should bring small and compact luggage, with each passenger carrying no more than 20kg and taking care of the luggage themselves.
The People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province has recently announced the addition of four recreational and entertainment activity zones in Ha Long Bay, including Ba Hang, Tung Sau, Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Hang Co.
On January 19, according to information from the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province, they have disclosed four additional water activity zones in Ha Long Bay, namely Ba Hang, Tung Sau; Vung Vieng Fishing Village, and Hang Co.
On Ha Long Bay, there are 4 water areas that are allowed to organize recreational activities
Specifically, the Ba Hang area covers an area of 16.04 hectares, Tung Sau area spans 46.43 hectares, Vung Vieng Fishing Village occupies 73.67 hectares, and Hang Co area has an area of 43.22 hectares.
Thus far, there are a total of eight zones in Ha Long Bay that have been declared by the provincial People’s Committee as meeting the conditions for conducting recreational and entertainment activities. Subsequently, the Ha Long Bay Management Board will proceed to sign contracts with qualified businesses to organize services for tourists.
Tourists sit on bamboo boats to explore the beautiful scenery of Ha Long Bay in the Luon cave area
Prior to this announcement, Thanh Nien had reported on several instances of recreational and entertainment activities in Ha Long Bay, such as kayaking and rowing boats, not complying with the regulations outlined in Government Decree No. 48/2019/ND-CP dated June 5, 2019.
In response to these reports, the People’s Committee of Quang Ninh Province directed relevant authorities to declare four water zones for activities, including the Luon Cave area with an area of 5.23 hectares, Cua Van Fishing Village with an area of 29.56 hectares, Dong Tien Lake – Trinh Nu Cave area with an area of 32.55 hectares, and Cong Do area with an area of 62.36 hectares.
The announcement of these recreational and entertainment activity zones in Ha Long Bay has alleviated various challenges in the investment and business activities of underwater services and tourism, such as kayaking and rowing boats, in the bay over the years, in accordance with Government Decree No. 48/2019/ND-CP regulating the management of underwater recreational and entertainment vehicle activities.
With a sales figure of nearly 35,000 vehicles in 2023, VinFast still trails behind automotive brands such as Hyundai, Toyota, Kia, Ford, and Mazda in the Vietnamese market.
According to a recent announcement by VinFast, the Vietnamese automaker sold 13,513 electric vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2023, marking a 35% increase compared to the previous quarter and bringing the annual delivery total to 34,855 units. The company also stated that the total number of electric vehicles delivered worldwide has reached 42,291 units since the first deliveries began in 2021.
VinFast accelerates vehicle delivery in the fourth quarter of 2023, achieving sales of nearly 35,000 units
In addition, the company’s quarterly financial report is set to be officially released before the market opens on February 22, 2024. VinFast’s leadership will also conduct a live broadcast on the company’s website to announce the company’s strategy and business performance.
However, VinFast continues to keep the sales figures for each model confidential, similar to the previous quarterly sales disclosures. Currently, the company offers a total of six electric models in Vietnam, including VF e34, VF 5, VF 6, VF 7, VF 8, and VF 9. Recently, the company introduced the global market to the VF 3 mini electric car and the VF Wild electric pickup truck concept.
Thus, Hyundai remains the best-selling automotive brand in Vietnam in 2023, as per previous statistics, followed by Toyota and Kia. Considering VinFast’s recently disclosed sales figures, the total automotive market in Vietnam sold over 400,000 new cars of various types in 2023. This figure does not include the sales figures for imported car brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Jaguar Land Rover, Volvo, Nissan, MG, and others.
After a period of experimental exploitation, An Giang province officially introduced the colorful floating village tourism product at the confluence of the Chau Doc rivers.
On January 18, the An Giang Province Promotion, Trade, and Investment Center, in collaboration with tourism companies in Ho Chi Minh City, organized the launch ceremony for the colorful floating village tourism product at the Chau Doc river junction to diversify the province’s tourism offerings.
Chau Doc rafting village is painted with colorful paint, creating a unique highlight for visitors
Mr. Le Trung Hieu, Director of the An Giang Promotion, Trade, and Investment Center, stated that the project “Colorful Floating Village at the Chau Doc River Junction” was put into trial operation at the end of December 2023. The distinctive feature of Chau Doc’s floating village is the houses built on fish cages forming a “village” along the river, extending approximately 4 km.
Visitors to the floating village can experience the daily life of the local people, observe how they cultivate aquatic products in the fish cages, and immerse themselves in the riverine environment. Recognizing the tourism potential of the floating village, the local authorities painted all 161 fish farming cages in six colors: red, yellow, orange, green, blue, and purple, creating a uniquely picturesque scene.
International visitors come to visit Chau Doc rafting village
“Observing from above, you will see interconnected patches of colors, creating a vibrant and unique panorama at the confluence of the Chau Doc rivers. This will be an ideal location for tourists to appreciate and capture memorable check-in photos,” said Mr. Hieu.
Very poetic scenery of Chau Doc rafting village
To reach this colorful floating village, tourists can take a tourist boat from Chau Doc or drive to Da Phuoc commune, then embark on a boat to explore the floating village and experience the local life, including observing how people cultivate aquatic products in the fish cages and immersing themselves in the riverine environment. Afterward, tourists can visit the village of the Cham people to explore the Islamic mosque, witness the traditional hand-weaving craft of the Cham people, and experience the simple and rustic life of the local residents.
5 Creative Ways To Incorporate Hats Into Your Everyday Look
In fashion, hats hold a magical power – transforming the mundane into the marvelous. Though often overlooked, this versatile accessory contains untapped potential to explore. More than a protective shield, hats are artistic tools that accentuate your ensemble with flair and personality. Let these unsung heroes introduce nuance into your style; think beyond the ballcap. With a playful panache, your look ascends from bare to boldly beautiful.
So venture beyond the ordinary and discover five ingenious ways to get into your wardrobe with the right hat.
1.Patriotic Hats: Flag-Printed Caps
Express your patriotism with stylish flair by incorporating flag-adorned hat styles like the Dark American Made Mesh Back Hat with Drop Line into your wardrobe. Uniquely decorated caps allow you to display your national pride in a fun, unexpected way. The Old Favorite Trucker Hat Camo Collection makes a perfect accessory for Fourth of July barbecues and parades. Pair it with bright Americana-themed tees and shorts for a spirited, casual summer look.
Besides, complement your Freedom Hat with a tonal, monochromatic outfit for a sophisticated twist. This fashion-forward juxtaposition celebrates your patriotism in a refined yet eye-catching manner. Find the perfectpatriotic hats from reputable online stores that fit your taste by experimenting with different flag-decorated designs like the USA 115 Hat by Richardson.
Come autumn, match flag-decorated caps with denim, flannel, and leather for relaxed weekends. Let flag-printed hats like the Old Favorite Trucker Hat Camo Collection peek out from under scarves for a cozy patriotic statement in winter. However you top it off, hats decorated with flags salute your national pride with versatile, spirited style.
2.Effortless Elegance with a Floppy Hat
Floppy wide-brim hats epitomize a relaxed yet sophisticated style while providing sun protection. These hats’ oversized, drooping brims cast a graceful silhouette that complements any outfit.
A straw or raffia hat, a relaxed maxi dress, and sunglasses make for a perfect summer outfit. Light colors like cream or pastel pink are great choices. The hat protects your face and shoulders from the sun, while the dress keeps you cool and breezy.
You can also style your hat with a snug knit sweater, fitted jeans, and short boots for a subtly sophisticated look. This combination is ideal for a chillier weather day out, like apple picking or cafe visiting. The blend of the casual hat with a warm sweater and boots makes an exciting outfit.
Besides, try a felt or wool floppy hat in rich shades like emerald green or burgundy red in chillier months. Pair it with patterned tights, a wrap coat, and boots to exude retro flair. No matter the season, floppy hats add versatile glamor.
Therefore, look for a silhouette with a broad, oversized brim that flatters your face shape. Tilting your floppy hat to shade your eyes creates a stylish mystique. Floppy hats upgrade any outfit with an effortlessly chic vibe.
3.Vintage Vibes Hats with a Beret
Incorporate timeless berets into your wardrobe for a dash of old-world European charm. These chic caps possess lasting sophistication reminiscent of Parisian style. A classic black beret paired with a trench coat, skinny jeans, and ankle boots creates an effortlessly elegant look.
For a modern twist, experiment with brightly colored or patterned berets. A vibrant red beret can add lively color to a monochromatic outfit. Plaid or checkered berets infuse a playful vintage flair with contemporary ensembles.
Berets’ versatility complements various hair lengths and styles while elevating any look. Beyond classic black, berets come in rich neutral hues like camel and slate, bold jewel tones, and graphic prints.
In addition, match them with peacoats, toggles, and pleated skirts for a refined cold-weather style in winter. However you wear them, berets lend cultured vintage glamor and timeless appeal to both dressy and casual looks.
4.Casual Charm Hats with a Beanie
Beanies add cozy, casual style to outfits year-round, not just winter warmth. Embrace their laid-back vibe by pairing a slouchy beanie with chunky knits, skinny jeans, and boots for relaxed weekends.
Choose neutral-toned beanies and match them with sophisticated pieces like tailored coats, wide-leg trousers, and loafers for a more polished take. This unexpected combination creates an interesting juxtaposition.
Notably, leather or faux fur beanies add luxury to casual outfits. Oversized wool and cashmere beanies provide carefree warmth on cold days. No matter how you style them, beanies bring a cozy flair.
Also, you can go neutral with versatile black, gray, or ivory to complement any winter coat. Or make a colorful statement in rich hues like crimson, emerald, or mustard knits. Come snow days or aprés ski weekends; beanies equal effortless style and warmth.
5.Boho Chic Hats with a Wide-Brimmed Fedora
An oversized fedora is a super handy hat. It’s easy to jazz up an everyday look with its relaxed shape and dip in the center. It gives off a fun, carefree feel. Combine a fedora made from felt or straw with a loose maxi dress, casual top, and comfy boots. This makes for a chilled-out bohemian style. Complete it with multiple pieces of jewelry and chunky sunglasses.
Contrast the wide brim with tailored trousers, a crisp button-down, and loafers for a fashion-forward take. This blend of carefree and polished seamlessly melds boho vibes with urban sophistication.
Furthermore, you can experiment with neutrals like tan or navy and rich shades like olive green. Wear felt fedoras with chunky knits and skinny jeans in autumn and winter. Opt for cream and white fedoras with flowy dresses and denim jackets when spring arrives.
However you style it, a wide-brim fedora makes an artistic, bohemian addition to any wardrobe. Its versatile retro shape makes it a chic topper for free-spirited flair.
Final Thoughts
Hats are far more than mere accessories; they are powerful instruments for self-expression. Whether you favor the breezy elegance of a floppy hat, the patriotic pride of a flag-capped style, the vintage charm of a beret, the casual coziness of a slouchy beanie, or the bohemian chic of a wide-brim fedora, there are diverse hat options to suit any taste. Dive into these creative hat-wearing approaches to find your perfect match. Discover hats’ ability to transform outfits and convey unique personal flair.
The Civil Aviation Authority continues to increase slots (takeoff and landing hours) at Tan Son Nhat Airport so that airlines can provide an additional 10,000 flight tickets per day during the peak Tet holiday season.
The additional slots are reserved for routes with high booking rates from Ho Chi Minh City to provinces and cities. Photo: Chi Hung.
The Aviation Authority has just decided to further adjust the slot coordination parameters for the second time at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
Specifically, the agency will adjust and increase the slot coordination parameters for takeoff and landing at Tan Son Nhat during daytime hours (6 am to 11:55 pm) from 44 slots per hour to 46 slots per hour, and during nighttime hours (12 am to 5:55 am) from 40 slots per hour to 42 slots per hour, from February 1st to February 21st (corresponding to January 22nd to the end of the Lunar New Year).
This decision is made based on the assessment of the transportation demand of Vietnamese airlines and the service capacity of units to meet the increasing travel demand of the people during the peak Tet holiday season in 2024.
The additional slots will be allocated to routes with high booking rates, prioritizing immediate supply enhancement, such as from Ho Chi Minh City to Pleiku/Quy Nhon/Chu Lai/Buon Me Thuot/Hue/Tuy Hoa/Thanh Hoa/Da Nang/Quang Binh/Hai Phong/Vinh.
With the increase in coordination parameters, Vietnamese airlines will be confirmed an additional 48 slots per day, equivalent to about 10,000 seats per day to supplement the mentioned routes.
“This contributes to preventing the situation where people are delayed in returning home for Tet due to a lack of transportation as directed by the Prime Minister,” the Civil Aviation Authority stated.
The management agency also requests airlines to review their operational plans, continue to optimize slot allocation, increase flights during nighttime hours, manage and operate flights on time, and minimize delays and cancellations during the upcoming Tet peak season in 2024.
In addition, the aviation management agency proposes and recommends that the People’s Committees of provinces direct the Department of Transport to review and request transport units to increase bus routes to/from airports, especially during nighttime hours.
Localities need to review and request other transportation service providers in the area, such as taxis and ride-sharing services, to extend operating hours and increase the number of vehicles to the airport to serve passengers’ needs.
Furthermore, provinces and cities need to instruct inspection and monitoring agencies to strengthen inspections, supervise, and maintain security and order at the airports.
The electric motorcycle brand Dat Bike has just launched a limited edition of their Quantum DxDragon model, with a total of 100 units.
Following the success of their first electric scooter introduced in late October 2023, Dat Bike has decided to release the limited edition Quantum DxDragon as a gesture of gratitude to the customers who have supported the Vietnamese start-up throughout this time.
Dat Bike Quantum DxDragon has a main red color design
The image of a dragon, symbolizing prosperity and abundance, served as inspiration for the design of this limited edition electric motorcycle by Dat Bike. Against a luxurious red backdrop, the image of the gracefully coiling dragon in mid-air is both powerful and elegant, replicated through meticulous and sophisticated lines throughout the body of the bike. Attention to detail adds a touch of sophistication to the product.
The Dat Bike Quantum DxDragon retains the same power as the original Quantum, boasting a 7,000 W output and a maximum speed of up to 100 km/h. With just a 4-hour charging time, the Quantum DxDragon can cover a range of 270 km, the longest among electric motorcycles currently on the market. Additionally, featuring the largest storage compartment with a capacity of up to 41 L, this limited edition provides maximum convenience for users.
In addition to familiar features from the original Quantum such as Cruise Control, 2 driving modes (Driving and Super), the Quantum version for the 2024 Lunar New Year is continuously updated with new firmware, including features like finding the vehicle in a parking lot, anti-theft, and Dat Ride Predictor technology.
In the Vietnamese market, Dat Bike Quantum DxDragon is now available for pre-order (limited to 100 units) at a price of 52.9 million VND.
