Appreciate Holdings: Rollercoaster Ride from Hell or Masterclass in How Not to SPAC?

Qenta’s Q-Pay, the Payment Game-Changer Swiftly Sneaking into Your Digital Wallets

TLDR:
– Q-Pay is a secure and user-friendly digital payment system that offers value-added services like loyalty programs and personalized offers.
– Qenta provides unparalleled customer support with a dedicated team of experts available 24/7.

Well, well, well, folks, toss your coins and wave goodbye to your paper money. The future of financial transactions is here and its name is Q-Pay, brought to you by the inventive brains at Qenta. Imagine a world where payment transactions are as seamless as blinking, and even more secure than your granny’s secret cookie recipe. That’s the world Qenta seems to be ushering us into, with a splash of panache and a sprinkle of tech wizardry.

Q-Pay isn’t just another fad that’s gotten the tech nerds of the world excited. No, it’s an innovation that promises to redefine your interaction with the realm of digital payments. How, you ask? Picture this: a sophisticated encryption and authentication system that assures the safety of your transactions, integrated across multiple digital platforms and devices. You could now pay for your double-shot espresso using your smartwatch. Isn’t that something now!

But wait, there’s more. Q-Pay features an interface so user-friendly it could make a caveman feel like a tech genius. The whole process of paying for your purchases has been reduced to a few taps or clicks. And if you thought that was all, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Beyond its fancy payment features, Q-Pay also offers value-added services like loyalty programs and personalized offers. It seems Qenta is not just content with providing a platform for transactions, but is all set to transform the way businesses engage with their customers.

Now, we all know that with great power comes great responsibility, or so Spiderman’s uncle thought. Qenta seems to have taken this lesson to heart. They’ve gone the extra mile to provide unparalleled customer support. They’ve got a dedicated team of experts ready to swoop in 24/7 to help you out, faster than Superman on steroids.

So buckle up folks, as we rocket towards a future where digital payments and e-commerce rule the roost. With Q-Pay, Qenta is poised to be the captain steering the ship, leading the charge with their cutting-edge technology and unwavering commitment to innovation. A future where businesses and consumers enjoy a seamless, secure and efficient payment experience. Now, isn’t that a future worth looking forward to?

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“And Now, a Magical Trick by American Oncology Network: Making Cancer Less Terrifying”

TLDR:
– AON is revolutionizing cancer treatment with advanced technology, collaboration, and personalized care plans.
– Their digital platform is not only improving patient experience but also advancing cancer research and offering financial assistance.

Did you ever think we’d live in a world where a cancer diagnosis isn’t the equivalent of an emotional earthquake? Well, strap yourselves in, folks, because the American Oncology Network (AON) is here to turn those tremors into mere vibrations. They’re like a modern-day knight in shining armor, all set to fight the big, bad dragon of cancer. But instead of a sword and shield, they’re armed with a dynamic mix of advanced technology, a network of top-notch oncology practices, and a patient-centric philosophy as their weapons.

AON isn’t just throwing rocks at the problem; they’ve got a strategy that combines the strengths of esteemed oncology practices across the nation. The result? A network so good it could give the internet a run for its money. They’re not only ensuring that patients receive the best care possible, but they’re also fostering a sense of collaboration and knowledge-sharing that even some social media platforms would envy.

But their quest doesn’t stop at the realm of traditional medicine. Oh no, they’re leaping past those boundaries, harnessing the power of technology to create a seamless, integrated ecosystem. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill healthcare setup; it’s akin to a digital revolution in the medical world. It offers real-time access to medical records, treatment options, and personalized care plans, all available at the touch of a button. This isn’t just changing the game; they’ve practically invented a new one.

All this high-tech stuff doesn’t just make life easier for patients; it also has huge potential for advancing cancer research. AON’s digital platform aggregates and anonymizes data from its network, providing valuable insights that could lead to breakthroughs in treatment, protocols, and therapies. I’m no fortune teller, but I can see this having a massive impact on the future of cancer treatment.

Now, you might be thinking that all of this sounds great but also expensive. Well, AON has something for that too. They’ve got a financial assistance program to help patients navigate the confusing labyrinth that is insurance coverage and reimbursement. They’re not just fighting the cancer; they’re taking on the whole system.

So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the American Oncology Network. They’re taking on cancer like a heavyweight champion, refusing to let this disease keep the world on the ropes. This is more than just a company; it’s a superhero in a lab coat, here to change the way we think about, fight, and hopefully one day, overcome cancer. And to that, I say cheers. After all, every superhero deserves a toast.

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“Dirty Honey Sweetens the Deal, While Guns N’ Roses Shoot Off-Key in Epic Nostalgic Night”

TLDR:
– Dirty Honey captivated the audience with their energetic performance, showcasing a blend of 80s hair band nostalgia and contemporary rock.
– Guns N’ Roses’ performance fell short, with Axl Rose struggling to capture the raw vocal energy of his youth, leaving the audience with mixed emotions.

In a world where rock often plays second fiddle to kale-smoothie-sipping pop stars and techno beats, it was a mild shock to see SPAC turn into a time warp, catapulting more than 20,000 rock gluttons into the heart of the 1980s. You’d think it was the Guns N’ Roses show with the name in large, emboldened letters on the marquee. But who really rocked the boat was the opening act – the lesser-glorified Dirty Honey.

Now, here’s the scoop. Dirty Honey, fronted by Nippertown’s own Marc LaBelle, enamored the crowd with their electrifying performance, effortlessly oscillating between scorching guitar solos and thunderous drums in a tight 45-minute set. You could almost smell the burning rubber as they took us on a high-speed chase down the memory lane of 80’s hair bands, but with an updated GPS that navigates us back to contemporary rock.

As the sun set, anticipation swelled for the long-awaited performance by Guns N’ Roses. Unfortunately, nostalgia can sometimes be a double-edged sword, or in this case, a slightly out-of-tune guitar. The legendary Axl Rose, once a symbol of raw vocal energy, seemed to stumble rather than strut through the set. His renditions felt more like weary tributes to his youthful self, as if someone had replaced his flamethrower with a Bic lighter.

Despite the rocky road, the setlist was a rollercoaster that zigzagged through the band’s illustrious career. From the raw intensity of “Welcome to the Jungle” to the poignant strains of “November Rain”, it was a nostalgic feast. Yet, the haunting strings of “Patience” followed by “Paradise City” served as a sobering reminder that time indeed waits for no man, not even a rock legend.

The night ended on a bittersweet note, leaving the audience with a cocktail of emotions – an exhilarating high from Dirty Honey’s performance and a mellow low from Guns N’ Roses’ less-than-stellar show. Yet, this is the beauty of rock and roll. It is a genre that celebrates both its past and its present, reminding us that while legends may age, their legacy continues to resonate through the chords of those who carry the torch forward.

So, when the dust settled and the echoes of the concert faded into the night, it was clear that while Guns N’ Roses may have been the headlining act, it was Dirty Honey that left an indelible mark on the audience. They proved once again that the heart of rock and roll still beats strong, even in a world that seems to have forgotten its rhythm.

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“More Time Please! Inception Growth Acquisition Charms Its Way to Deadline Extension (and Deposits $100K Just Because)”

TLDR:
– Inception Growth Acquisition Limited has repeatedly extended their deadline to complete a business combination, each extension costing them $100,000 or a complex math game.
– The company’s willingness to continuously pay to extend the deadline showcases their commitment or desperation, but raises questions about the value of the eventual outcome.

Well, folks, it seems like our good buddies over at Inception Growth Acquisition Limited have found themselves a magic button, one that apparently keeps extending their deadline to complete a business combination. They’ve pushed it back to October 13, and guess what? They’ve got the green light to keep slapping that snooze button all the way ’til June 13. Guess someone over there really likes sleeping in.

Now, here’s the kicker. Every time they hit that button, they either have to fork over a $100,000, or play some confusing math game where they multiply 4 cents by the number of shares of common stock issued in their initial public offering. I’m no mathematician, but that sounds like a pretty penny to me. I guess Inception Growth Acquisition Limited is putting their money where their mouth is, or more accurately, into their trust account.

This is the same company, mind you, that prides itself on growing by “pushing boundaries”. Well, they’re certainly pushing something here – the deadline. But hey, who am I to judge? Maybe they’re just using this time to perfect their revolution of the business landscape. I mean, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Or perhaps we should see this as a sign of their commitment. They’re willing to cough up a suitcase full of cash every month just to buy themselves more time. That’s some serious dedication, or desperation, depending on how you look at it.

But let’s not forget, this is a special-purpose acquisition company we’re talking about here. And what’s more special than a company that can keep moving its own goalposts without breaking a sweat? It’s like a football team with a secret weapon: a bulldozer that keeps moving the end zone further away.

So, ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats and don’t let the suspense kill you. Come October, or maybe June, we might just witness a revolution. The question is, will it be worth the wait? Or will it end up being just another expensive game of kick the can down the road? Only time, and a whole lot of money, will tell.

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“VinFast’s Speedy Ascent meets Rocky Roads: Stock Stumbles, Billionaire Chairman Bets House”

TLDR:
– VinFast, the Vietnamese electric car startup, experienced a decline in market value and faced challenges in the electric vehicle market.
– The lifting of lockdown restrictions for certain stocks caused an overreaction in the stock market, resulting in a nosedive in prices.

So, here is the latest buzz folks. VinFast, the Vietnamese electric car startup, has been riding a roller coaster lately – minus the fun, I guess. After causing a frenzy with its $40 billion market value, the buzz has fizzled out faster than a flat soda. The electrifying market is quite a tough cookie to crack and VinFast’s ambitious expansion seems to have given it some serious heartburn. But hey, let’s not lose all hope, the CEO promises to pump all profits back into the company. So, either we’ll witness a miraculous comeback, or it’ll just be a flash in the pan. Stay tuned, it’s going to be a bumpy ride!

Meanwhile, the stock market’s acting like a teenager given the keys to a car. It’s confused, panicky, and all over the place. Following the announcement of the lifting of lockdown restrictions for some stocks, markets reacted like someone just announced free beer at the bar – wildly and with a fair amount of overreaction. The result? Prices took a nosedive faster than my interest in a dieting program.

Now, let’s talk about this whole VinFast and SPAC backers situation. If you thought your Monday was tough, try being VinFast right now. Its SPAC backers are doing the reverse moonwalk, right out of the picture. It seems that the company’s market value of $40 billion was a bit too fantastical, even for the hardcore believers. But here’s the silver lining – with the stock about to be easier to bet against, the investors might be in for a lucky break.

The company’s recently released second-quarter results were as interesting as watching paint dry. But wait, there’s more. Last week, VinFast filed documentation with the Securities and Exchange Commission to release lockup restrictions on 3.1% of its shares, totaling about $1.25 billion. And as luck would have it, the shares were down 7% in morning trading – talk about a rough morning!

Now, here’s the kicker, the sponsors of the special-purpose acquisition company that took VinFast public can potentially sell at a very healthy profit. Even the entities belonging to the billionaire chairman, Pham Nhat Vuong – Vietnam’s richest man, can cash-in. But, Mr. Vuong has pledged to put any profit back into the company. So, while VinFast has burned through $890 million of cash in the first half of 2023, they’re still optimistic.

So, what’s the moral of this story? Well, the electric vehicle market is as predictable as a cat high on catnip and VinFast’s fortunes are as volatile as a bottle of nitroglycerin in a trampoline park. But at least we know one thing for sure, the CEO is committed – or maybe he should be committed. Only time will tell.

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“Party’s Over, Startups: 2023 Proxy Season Brings Major Audit Aches and Lots of Homework”

TLDR:
– Tax authorities are cracking down on transfer pricing and profit shifting, requiring companies to ensure transparent practices and thorough documentation.
– The 2023 Proxy Season highlights the need for strong internal controls, particularly in areas such as revenue recognition, lease accounting, and equity accounting. Investing in upgrades to internal controls is increasingly popular.

The COGS Cops are coming! And no, this isn’t the premise for a new action-packed comedy about an elite force of accountants. It’s a stark warning to companies engaging in transfer pricing and complex multinational businesses. These guys mean business, and they’re out hunting for tax violators like a vegan searching for the last tofu burger in a barbecue.

The launch of their campaign is not some lighthearted PR stunt. It’s as serious as a heart attack, or a sudden audit. It’s a reminder that tax authorities are now sporting night vision goggles, actively seeking out those who play fast and loose with terms like ‘arm’s length’. They’re no longer turning a blind eye to profit shifting. In other words, it’s no longer a free-for-all at the international tax buffet.

Here’s some free advice: Check your transfer pricing practices. Ensure they’re as transparent as your grandma’s cellophane-wrapped cookies. And for goodness’ sake, document everything. It seems the era of corporate tax leniency has gone the way of the dodo and the dinosaur – extinct! So, you might want to invest in a good internal review or two, basically anything that can help spot potential issues and take corrective actions. Because these COGS Cops aren’t easily fooled, and they’re not known for their light touch.

Meanwhile, in a plot twist that surprises no one, the 2023 Proxy Season reporting has highlighted the need for a proper handle on internal controls. It’s not exactly party time for audit committee chairs or the CFOs and accounting teams facing the enormous task of fixing these issues. Let’s just say it’s like trying to undo the chaos caused by a toddler in a toy shop.

Leading the charge in the restatement stakes are the usual suspects – revenue recognition, lease accounting, and equity accounting. These areas are like the unholy trinity for IPO / SPAC startups. Investing in upgrades to internal controls over financial reporting is becoming more popular than a politician promising lower taxes.

More importantly, never underestimate the power of a well-crafted internal audit roadmap. It’s like a well-oiled compass in a world of financial fog. And in the midst of all this, remember that speed-to-market reporting can quickly go from enthralling to excruciating. We’ve learned this the hard way, through a series of unfortunate accounting events, failed audits, and resultant shattered dreams.

So, as we gallop towards the end of the year, prepare for some more fun and games. Expect more scrutiny from the SEC and an increased oversight from the PCAOB, especially as IPOs and SPACs mature. The million-dollar question is, will the business plans pan out or will they crumble like an overbaked financier cake? And will the funding and accounting keep up, or will they be left behind like a runner with a bad stitch? Only time will tell.

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“Sizzling Saratoga Summer Series Set to Bid Adieu with a Killer Queen Tribute”

TLDR:
– The Saratoga Performing Arts Center is wrapping up its summer concert series with a performance from Killer Queen and no opening act.
– The event has a cashless policy, only accepting credit or debit cards for parking and other transactions.

In the world of business, it’s often said, “The show must go on.” And as the summer of 2023 draws to a close, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is heeding that advice. Their summer concert series wraps up tonight with a performance from Killer Queen, a tribute to, well, Queen. An inventive choice, like picking a copy machine to play the role of Hamlet, but we’re not here to judge.

The lack of an opening act means the audience will be treated to an unhindered, full-on explosion of Killer Queen from start to finish. Similar to a sales pitch where they skip the small talk and launch straight into the 5-year contract. The show is a pavilion-only event, which means no one will be able to hide in the lawn seats. It’s like a mandatory staff meeting, folks. You can’t get out of it.

Now, let’s talk timing. In a move that’s as punctual as a Swiss watch stuck in a loop, the box office opens at 2pm, parking lots at 6pm, and gates at 6:30pm. Killer Queen hits the stage at 7:30pm, presumably not in a literal sense. All of this is as subject to change as a businessman’s ethics in a bear market, so keep your eyes peeled.

One thing that’s not changing, however, is SPAC’s cashless policy. They’ve joined the digital revolution and there’s no going back now. Looking for a cash to card kiosk? They’ve got you covered. It’s like a casino exchange booth, but without the faint hope of a payout. General parking costs $10 per vehicle, and in yet another twist, this must be paid with a credit or debit card. So, if you were hoping to get rid of your loose change, tough luck!

Now, onto the question of what you can bring to this event. Water and food are permitted, but only under specific conditions that make the TSA look easygoing. You can bring an empty water bottle or up to one gallon of factory-sealed water, because we all know how wild Queen fans can get when they’re dehydrated. Food, like your personal dignity, must be sealed in a clear, one-gallon zip-lock bag. Cameras with nonprofessional, non-detachable lenses are okay too. For the complete list of what’s permitted, you’ll have to do some investigative work.

The summer concert series may be coming to a close, but the echoes of the 2023 Capital Region concerts will linger. In between the sweat, the cheers, and the music, how many did you attend? If nothing else, this summer proved one thing — Queen is a band like no other. Now, that’s a business model worth singing about.

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US Court to Okada Manila and 26 Capital Merger: Thanks, But No Thanks!

TLDR:
26 Capital’s merger with Okada Manila has been halted due to misconduct in executing the transaction and a conflict of interest by its chief counsel. This puts Okada Manila’s future and plans for a Nasdaq listing in jeopardy.

Well, here’s a tale packed with more drama than a daytime soap opera. The long-awaited merger between operators of the Philippine integrated resort Okada Manila and 26 Capital Acquisition Corp has stalled, as a US court ruled that it doesn’t need to proceed. Turns out, our friends at 26 Capital were playing fast and loose with the rules, prompting the court to cite misconduct in executing the transaction. So, it appears 26 Capital won’t be getting their hands on Okada Manila just yet.

Adele (sadly, not the singer) sued both Okada and Manila for breach of their obligations under the merger agreement. This sounds like a classic case of he said, she said, or in this case, corporation said, corporation said. The court also discovered a juicy tidbit, 26 Capital’s chief counsel had a conflict of interest in the merger. Seems he owned a majority stake in 26 Capital’s subsidiaries, a fact conveniently left out of the discussions with Okada Manila.

This outcome is a significant slap on the wrist for 26 Capital, which has been pushing to complete the merger faster than a kid running to an ice cream truck in the summer. They even took Okada and Manila to court in February, seeking an order to complete the merger, alleging both companies didn’t keep their end of the deal. But it looks like 26 Capital’s plans have been served a cold dish of justice instead of a hot serving of merger.

Something isn’t adding up in this corporate drama. A Delaware court has highlighted a possible violation of a Philippine court order in the merger. It would seem, the order calls for the board of TRLEI, a subsidiary of Okada Manila, to revert to its previous composition, including the return of Universal founder Kazuo Okada as CEO. Okada, the central figure in this corporate tussle, seized control of Okada Manila for three months in 2022. This decision could have major implications on the merger.

Now, this ruling puts a big question mark on Okada Manila’s future. The resort was banking on this merger to secure its listing on the Nasdaq stock exchange and expand its operations. The court’s decision throws a spanner in the works, adding layers of uncertainty and complexity to the situation. Both parties now have to make some tough decisions.

To sum it all up, the US court’s ruling has sent shockwaves through the business world. It’s a major blow for 26 Capital, whose questionable actions and undisclosed conflicts of interest have landed them in hot water. Okada Manila’s dreams of a Nasdaq listing are now hanging by a thread. Both parties are now left to pick up the pieces and navigate the murky waters of corporate mergers and acquisitions. This ruling will definitely keep the business community on its toes for some time to come.

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Sued for SPACtacular Failure: Velodyne Lawsuit Targets Alleged SPAC Scammers and Makes for an Unsettling Ride

TLDR:
– SPACs are a popular investment game, but investors should approach them with caution and skepticism due to the risks involved.
– Regulatory scrutiny is increasing in the SPAC industry, and not all transactions lead to profitable outcomes, resembling a lottery ticket with uncertain results.

In the grand casino of investing, it appears we’ve found a new game folks are lining up to play: SPACs – Special Purpose Acquisition Companies. Now, if you’re getting visions of a golden goose laying billion-dollar eggs, I hate to break it to you, but it might just be a regular old farm bird with a coat of cheap gold spray paint.

Take the recent kerfuffle with Velodyne Lidar Inc. for example – a company known for its autonomous driving technology. They got all lovey-dovey with Graf Industrial Corp., a SPAC, and went public. The honeymoon ended quickly when they merged with Ouster Inc., another SPAC darling. Suddenly, a former shareholder’s crying foul, claiming he and others were duped into a shotgun wedding that enriched a select few while leaving the rest with a hangover.

This lawsuit is just one of many in Delaware’s Chancery Court, a fighting pit where M&A legal battles are more common than flies on a horse in August. But before we start casting stones at Velodyne and Graf Industrial, let’s pause and consider the risks involved. After all, transparency and accurate disclosure are the pillars of any good SPAC transaction. But in this case, investors might have been given a map to a treasure at the end of the rainbow that turned out to be a pot filled with nothing more than rusty pennies.

So, my humble advice? Approach these SPAC investments with caution and a healthy dose of skepticism. I’ll tell you what I tell my kids about fast food – it might look shiny and delicious on the outside, but you never know what kind of mystery meat you’re getting on the inside.

As the SPAC industry evolves and lawsuits continue to surface like bad jokes at an open mic night, regulatory scrutiny is bound to increase. Not all blank check transactions end up in bricks of gold at the end of the rainbow. Sometimes, all you find is a note saying, “Better luck next time, buckaroo.”

So, in the end, it’s a bit like buying a lottery ticket. You might strike it rich, but more often than not you’re just left with a worthless piece of paper and a slightly lighter wallet. Remember, it’s not the pot of gold, but the thrill of the hunt that keeps this game fun. So, tread carefully, have a good laugh, and may the odds be ever in your favor.

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Saratoga Springs’ Weekend Binge: Partying Costly, Cleaning Up Even Costlier!

TLDR:
– Saratoga Springs incurred approximately $37,000 in overtime expenses for its fire and police departments during a race weekend and concerts, with the city having to cover the bill.
– The fire department had 136 hours of overtime at the track, costing $8,160, while the police department accumulated 175 hours of overtime, amounting to $9,944.

Saratoga Springs, known for its picturesque race course and lively concerts, certainly knows how to throw a party. But, like a college student after a kegger, it’s waking up to a hefty bill. The city recently chalked up around $37,000 in overtime wages for its fire and police departments during the Travers weekend. But hey, if you’re going to host nearly 50,000 horse racing aficionados and two sold-out Phish concerts, you better be prepared to pay a little overtime, right?

Now, let’s talk numbers. The fire department punched in 136 hours of overtime at the track, to the tune of $8,160. Luckily for the city, this was reimbursed through a contract with the New York Racing Association. The police department, on the other hand, racked up 175 hours in overtime, costing a smooth $9,944. Here’s the kicker: the city has to foot the bill.

The situation over at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center was a little more, shall we say, “cost-efficient”. The fire department had 88.5 hours of overtime, costing $5,310. However, the contract with SPAC picked up the tab on $4,260 of that. And let’s not forget the police on Caroline Street – those overtime hours amounted to $3,520. So, while the city partied, the overtime meter kept ticking.

But let’s not overlook the unsung heroes of this overtime bonanza. Code Enforcement, nestled under the warm bureaucratic wing of the fire department, also bagged a cool 48 hours of overtime, setting the city back around $2,880. Their duties? Checking if the local watering holes were fitting in one too many patrons or cranking up the volume a tad too high. The things we do for peace, quiet, and fire safety, right?

Public Safety Commissioner James Montagnino reassures us that this isn’t a surprise party for the city’s budget. Rather, it’s more like an expected guest. “This is something that is pretty much baked into the budget”, he says. Well, that’s comforting. As long as there’s a line item in the budget for “party-induced overtime”, I suppose we’re all good.

To sum it up, hosting a good time isn’t cheap, and it seems like Saratoga Springs is learning that the hard way. But as the saying goes, “no pain, no gain”. Here’s hoping the city finds a way to balance its municipal budget without sacrificing the good times. After all, nobody likes a party pooper, especially not when it’s city hall.

So here’s to Saratoga Springs: a city that knows how to throw a party, and the overtime sheet to prove it. Just remember, folks, next time you see a double rainbow at the racecourse or get down at a Phish concert, someone’s clocking in the extra hours to make that happen. It’s all part of the cost of a good time in Saratoga Springs.

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