Profile Jokowi Indonesian President 7th

Hearing the name Joko Widodo, of course you will remember with a governor who likes populist  (blusukan). The name Joko Widodo now become very popular with many experts stating if he is one of the most potential presidential candidates.

In fact, many people are predicting if he is the most likely candidate to win the election in 2014. In a biography Joko Widodo stated if he was born on June 21, 1961 in the city of Solo. He comes from a family that is quite simple. However, with hard work, make this man to be successful.

Full Name: Ir. H. Joko Widodo

Alias: Jokowi

Islam

Place of Birth: Surakarta, Central Java

Date of Birth: Wednesday, June 21, 1961

Zodiac: Gemini

Hobby: Reading | Traveling

Nationality: Indonesian

Political parties: the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle

Wife: Ny. Hj. Iriana Joko Widodo

Children: Gibran Rakabuming Raka - Kahiyang Ayu - Kaesang Pangarep

Alma mater: University of Gadjah Mada

Occupation: Entrepreneur

Twitter account: @ jokowi_do2

Email: jokowi@indo.net.id

In the biography Joko Widodo said if primary to secondary education in the city of Solo. And after that in higher education, Jokowi chose to study at UGM. At the time of studying in college is no outstanding achievements made by Jokowi. After college, he chose to work in a company. But he did not last long and chose to continue the furniture business owned by the family. In quick time, effort made furniture managed to get a lot of advantages.

In 2005 Jokowi elected mayor of Solo. There are so many achievements that have been made this man in the city of Solo. Because achievements Jokowi look good in the city of Solo, in 2012 he was nominated to be the governor of Jakarta. Joko Widodo mentioned in the biography, to become governor of Jakarta, Jokowi must face fierce resistance from political opponents. With the hard work is done, finally Jokowi can win in the elections of Jakarta.

After becoming governor of Jakarta, would make it increasingly busy man. Lots of activities he should do. Not a few media who makes special news will Jokowi. With the ever increasing popularity of this have certainly made a lot of people who want Jokowi forward as president. Jokowi this year officially became the presidential candidate of the party PDI-P. With forward as a presidential candidate, he has become increasingly busy and a lot of enemies, especially in the world of politics.

On 20 October 2014, the figure grassroots known as blusukannya style is officially inaugurated as President of the Republic of Indonesia to the 7th. So historic day for the Indonesian nation where the number of people who celebrate this ketuujuh Presidential appointment. Not only in the ordinary people, some artists also celebrate by holding a concert event greetings 3 fingers in Monas, Jakarta. We have people waiting for the performance of the figure of the President 7th until 2019.

   EDUCATION jokowi

• SMP Negeri 1 Surakarta
• SMA Negeri 6 Surakarta
• Gajah Mada University (UGM) Faculty of Forestry

   CAREER jokowi

• Mayor of Surakarta (2005-2012)
• Jakarta Governor (2012-2014)
• President of the Republic of Indonesia (2014-Present)
• Employers furniture and landscaping

   AWARDS jokowi

• Star Services - President of the Republic of Indonesia
• Piala Citra Bhakti Abdi Negara (2008-2009-2010) - President of the Republic of Indonesia
• Agent of change Independence - Wallet Dhuafa
• Democracy Award: Star Man - RMOL
• Decade Award: Rising Leader - Men's Obsession
• E-government - Kemkominfo
• Adiupaya Puritama - Kemenpera
• Best City Award - Delgosea
• Controlling inflation - Bank Indonesia
• Spatial second-best in Indonesia - Ministry of Public Works
• Top 50 Leaders of Fortune
• Employment Development Index - Man Power
• Bung Hatta Anti-Corruption Award - Meutia Hatta
• Anti Gratification - Commission
• Child Protection Program - UNICEF 2006
• Mayor # 3 World's Best - The City Mayors Foundation
• Social Media Award - Marketing Magazine and Frontier Consulting Group
• 10 People Option Year 2008 - Tempo
• Pluralist figures in 2013 - from the Institute of Voters Indonesia
• Figures Regarding Indonesia Year 2013 - Award Regarding Indonesia
• Good Governance Award (20 September 2012) - Soegeng Soerjadi
• For the achievement of the MDGs and KJS KJP program - Bappenas
• Pangripta Nusantara Utama - Bappenas
• Nominations World Mayor in 2012

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Adina Thomas and Testimonials As Artis Indonesia

Biography Adina Thomas - Speaking of Indonesia's top artists, not complete if we do not discuss the lunge of Adina Thomas. Yup, pretty and talented artist this one gets a lot of attention from the public after the success in the world of entertainment.

Adina keartisannya Thomas began his career since he was sitting in elementary school. As to whether the journey to a successful career as it is now? see biographical data and a biography of Thomas Adina below.

Biodata Adina Thomas

Full Name: Adina Noviana Sari Thomas

Nickname: Admin Thomas

Place of Birth: Bandung

Date of Birth: August 8, 1993

Islam

Occupation: Model, Host and actress

The film, starring Adina Thomas:

• Maid Never Dissenters Promise
• Delivery Order (Not One Cars)
• Love stuck geeky girl
• Land-wide love Babe
• Security guard Perpetrators Hatiku
• Gue name Siti Rapiah
• Supervisors cauldron Future
• BUTET guard Guard Heart
• Ibrahim Anak Betawi
• The beating of Love
• My love for my father Rivals
• Unyu Unyu Artisan Balloon
• Driver romance Beautiful
• Saodah Only You My Love
• Love Bersemi In Grave
• Singles ballad Metropolitan
• The pretty kok Kuli
• Beautiful pickpocket
• Jodohku in Hand Babeh
• Love the Way TV Service
• Ketusuk Love Doctors Beauty

Brief Biography Adina Thomas

Adina Thomas is the daughter of the couple Thomas Riyadi and Goddess Princess. Born on August 8th 1993, this beautiful girl embark on a career in the entertainment world since elementary school. Women who akbrab called Aci is when a child becomes a little models.
Teenager, Adina then decided to plunge into the world of singing. In junior high, she had a gig from one place to another to sing and fill small occasions.

It seems that artistic talent is still stuck inside Adina Thomas. After graduating from junior high school, he decided to go back to school to ISMS (High School Karawitan Indonesia) in the Flower City Bandung. Of this art school, Adina claimed much gain valuable experience.

Adina Thomas's career continued after he graduated from high school and then continued his studies in LSPR (London School of Public Relations). Then in 2010, he entered into the world of professional to be TV presenter Banten. Because quite a success, finally in 2013 Adina getting many offers to play movies and FTV.

That brief biographical information Adina Thomas and his life story

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Nita Thalia The Dangdut singer The Beautiful

Biography Nita Thalia - Indonesia actually has many multitalented artist. In addition to acting, top artists also can sing, a presenter, and in fact rarely serve as a model.
Talking about the multitalented artist, Nita Thalia including one of them. Artist, whose real name is Nita Yulianti was born on October 10, 1982 in Bandung. Here's more information about biografi Nita Thalia and her life story.

Biodata Nita Thalia

Birth name: Nita Yulianti
Other names: Nita Thalia
Date of Birth: October 10, 1982 (age 33)
Place of Birth: Bandung, West Java
Nationality: Indonesian
Type of music: Dangdut, Rock
Occupation: Singer
Years active: 2000-present
Couple: Nurdin Ruditia (2000 - present)
Children: Sandrina Salsabila
Parents: Sarifudin (father), Euiswarni (Mother)
Islam

Biography Nita Thalia

Nita Thalia or often greeted by name Nita, the daughter of Syarifudin and Euiswami. Nita's life was not as smooth as what we've seen so far. Various kinds of obstacles making it a powerful personal until now.
Nita keartisannya began his career with the release of an album entitled "mustache" in 2000. The record was eventually successful in the market of the country and get a fairly good appreciation of the fans and close friends Nita.

Less than one year, precisely in August 2000, Nita Thalia decided to marry Nurdin Ruditia. Of the marriage, Nita and Nurdin blessed with one daughter named Sandrina Salsabila.
Entering 2003, a lot of hot gossip circulating about Nita. Reportedly Nita is a naughty girl who had been married more than twice the husband some people. Including one of them a police officer known named Suherman.

Responding to the rumor, Nita was membatahnya "it is only a mere slander, I was not married more than once". Even his father, Syarifudin also defended the favorite son "Nita never been married more than once, I dare prosecuted".

Gossip more heated after the family of Nita present a girl as young as 2 months. Patiently, Syarifudin explains "it's not my biological son, but a daughter that my adoption of a brother".
Although father and son compact, but there are many people who push them both. Especially when the wife Henny Suherman spoke "he often invited people to the hotel, when she was grade 2 junior my husband made a girlfriend".

Not Nita her name if it is not strong. Facing these problems beautiful woman is getting stronger to live. Although it is no longer active in the realm of entertainment, but Nita still a lot to contribute in some ads homeland. As it became a product commercials.

Thus Nita Thalia biography that we present on this occasion. The story above is taken from news reports in some media, so if there are less pleasing news please understandable. May be useful and add insight for you

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Kendall Jenner

Original name: Nicole Kendall Jenner
Date of birth: November 3rd, 1995
Born in: Los Angeles, California, USA
Zodiac: Scorpio
Citizenship: United States
Hair Color: Brown
Eye Color: Brown
Occupation: TV Host, a model
Years active: 2007-present
Father: Bruce Jenner
Mother: Kris Jenner
Brothers: Burton Jenner (older brother, same father), Brandon Jenner (older brother, same father), Brody Jenner (actor / model, brother, same father), Casey Jenner (sister, his half), Rob Kardashian (brother, the same mother), Kourtney Kardashian (sister, the same mother), Kim Kardashian (sister, the same mother), Khloe Kardashian (sister, the same mother), Kylie Jenner (model, sister)
Beloved: Julian Brooks (former), Harry Styles (personnel "One Direction", ex), Nick Jonas (singer)
Famous since: a role as himself in the TV series "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" (2007)

REALITY show called Keeping Up with the Kardashians (KUWTK) not only jump-start the Kardashian sisters. Series that aired on the television channel E! also boosted the popularity of the beautiful Kendall (18) and Kylie Jenner (16).

Kendall and Kylie is the daughter of Bruce (64) and Kris Jenner (58) they split up last year. Before getting married to Bruce, a former Olympic athlete, 1991, Kris had four children from a previous marriage to Robert Kardashian (died September 2003): Rob (26). Kourtney (34), Khloe (29), and Kim (33), So, Kendall and Kylie is the half brother Kardashian sisters.

KUWTK time began airing in 2007, portions of Kendall and Kylie's appearance a little. Until a few seasons, both appear as cheerleaders only. Although it does not appear too much, both beautiful face makes people began to invite attention.

Things began to change when the series aired episode titled "Kendall's Sweet 16". The episode aired party ulan 16th year Kendall was also the moment he received a driver's license. from that moment Kendall, and also the younger brother, gets more servings appearance.

Kendall plunge into the world of modeling four years ago, when she was 14 years old. Come with Wilhemina agency, the first job is a model Forever 21. As a model, Kendall is on the rise. In addition to being an icon of fashion products, he often appeared in magazines denganrancangan renowned designers.

Besides active in modeling, the brothers also jumped into the clothing business. Both run the brand Kendall & Kylie cooperation with PacSun, specialty retail apparel teenagers. We were inspired by our sisters who have successfully made their own clothes.

Not only clothes, jewelry manufacturers Nordstrom also used the name Kendall & Kylie became one of their jewelry products. Who pulled again, by Seventeen Magazine, both lined up as contributors mode. Besides charge of rubric Kendall & Kylie's Fashion Journal, they are also responsible for making the video in the magazine's fashion tips.

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Should You Be Buying Dollars Here?

Should You Be Buying Dollars Here?
ECB Sends EURO On Rollercoaster Ride
USD/CAD Melts Down On BoC and Oil
NZD: Prices Fall 3% at Latest Dairy Auction
AUD Shakes Off Disappointing Chinese Data, Employment Next
Sterling Lifted by Dollar Weakness

Another round of weaker U.S. economic reports drove the dollar sharply lower against all of the major currencies Wednesday. In the past 48 hours, the sentiment in the market has changed significantly with investors now worried that the dollar has peaked. If one thing could change the Fed’s mind about raising interest rates, it would be that economic data and recent reports do not support the case for tightening. Wednesday morning we learned that manufacturing activity in the NY region contracted and that industrial production declined. Earlier in the week, retail sales fell short of expectations. Is that enough for the Fed to refrain from raising interest rates this year? No. According to the Beige Book, the economy continued to expand in most regions between the middle of February and the end of March. Economic activity grew at a moderate pace with stable or modest improvements in the labor market. So if the outlook for monetary policy has not changed, the next question to ask is whether it's a good time to buy dollars. From a long-term perspective we still like buying U.S. dollars, especially since the risk of U.K. election uncertainty and the possibility of a rate hike by the RBA has not been removed. But as mentioned in yesterday’s note, EUR/USD could test 1.08 and USD/JPY could drop to 118.25 before that happens. So while you could buy dollars here, you may have the opportunity to do so at a better price later. Housing starts, building permits and the Philadelphia Fed manufacturing index are scheduled for release Thursday. These second-tier reports are not expected to have a lasting impact on the dollar.

ECB Sends EURO On Rollercoaster Ride

The most exciting part of Wednesday’s European Central Bank meeting was that a political activist jumped on the table in front of Draghi waving her hands and calling for an end to the “ECB dick-tatorship.” No one was hurt, the disruption lasted minutes and the central bank President quickly resumed his press conference. Earlier in the morning, the ECB left monetary policy unchanged and at the conference that followed, Mario Draghi expressed his satisfaction with the smooth implementation of QE and the effectiveness of the program thus far. The tone of the press conference was decidedly more upbeat with the ECB head saying that the recovery is broadening and strengthening. These improvements diminished the economic risks and moves the economy in the right direction. Draghi ruled out a rate cut and instead said that the central bank can adjust QE if needed. European policymakers are happy with how Quantitative Easing is working and this optimism helped to stem the slide in EUR/USD. While a further short squeeze could drive EUR/USD higher, negative rates in Germany should cap the gains in the currency pair. S&P also downgraded Greece on Wednesday to CCC+/C with a negative outlook. While Mario Draghi does not believe that Greece’s problems will harm the world economy, negative headlines could still affect the currency.

USD/CAD Melts Down On BoC and Oil

The worst-performing currency pair Wednesday was USD/CAD, which fell sharply on the back of a less dovish Bank of Canada monetary policy statement, weaker U.S. data and higher oil prices. The BoC’s decision to leave interest rates unchanged was widely anticipated but having just warned about an atrocious quarter, few expected the air of optimism. While the central bank lowered its Q1 and 2015 GDP forecasts, they raised their outlook for 2016 growth. Most importantly, they upgraded their assessment of inflation by saying that the risks are now roughly balanced. The central bank expects the economy to reach its full capacity next year with conditions expected to improve in the second half of 2015. Not only did Governor Poloz say that he is looking past the oil impact on inflation but he also recognized the improvements in the labor market and said he expects a soft landing in housing. In other words, a rate cut is now off the table. Between their less dovish tone and the 5% rally in oil prices, USD/CAD dropped to its lowest level in 2 months. Further losses are likely with no support until the 100-day SMA near 1.22. The Australian and New Zealand dollars also performed extremely well despite disappointing Chinese data. GDP growth met the government’s 7% forecast but industrial production and retail-sales growth slowed significantly. Dairy prices fell for the third auction in a row but the 3.6% decline was far more modest than the 10% drop at the last auction. Wednesday night’s Australian employment report could take some of the focus off the U.S. dollar. Weaker numbers would remind investors of the challenges that Australia’s economy faces and the serious risk of a rate cut by the RBA next month
.
Sterling Lifted by Dollar Weakness

The British pound traded higher versus the U.S. dollar and euro but with no U.K. economic data on the calendar, the moves were driven entirely by the market’s appetite for U.S. dollars and in a very small part, euros. Sterling has now rallied against the greenback for 3 straight days and we don’t expect the moves to last. The U.K. general election is 3 weeks away and its impact on the British pound will be significant. This general election is filled with uncertainty and sterling has been under pressure because of the fear that the Conservative Party will fail to win enough seats. We expect the British pound to fall further in the weeks ahead with GBP/USD falling to a fresh 4-year low after the election. What makes this year’s election different from 2010 is the potential power grab by smaller parties that could lead to more difficulty in forming a coalition. If this leads to a hung parliament, it will translate into more losses for the currency. Sterling 3 month option volatiles are at a 3-year high but could rise even further as it did in 2010. Five years ago volatility jumped to 17% in the days after the election and not only did GBP/USD fall 400 pips on election day, but it dropped another 500 pips in the 2 weeks that followed.

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Luxury Vehicle Report: BMW 640i

There are few premium car manufacturers in the world that can compete with the so-called “German Big Three” in terms of the all around performance of their vehicles, not to mention appearance and luxury.  The “German Big Three” includes, of course, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and BMW.  Founded in Munich, Germany in 1916, BMW was initially created to manufacture aircrafts.  After the conclusion of World War I, BMW began to expand its horizons, creating motorcycles and automobiles in the 1920s.  For the last 85 plus years, BMW has all but perfected the art of luxury automobile manufacturing.

One of the triumphs of BMW as of the last several years is the second generation of the 6 series.  After the success of the first generation of the 6 series, the expectations for the second generation were high, and BMW did not disappoint.  With the series introduced in 2010, production began in 2011.  Over the last few years, the cars that belong to the 6 series family of vehicles have impressed to say the least.


Next to 6 series highlights the M6, and big brother the 650i, the 640i is one of the most impressive vehicles to come out of the current generation thus far.  While its engine may not produce the same power as the 650i, the BMW 640i is equally as luxurious, to be sure.


The BMW 640i has 315 horsepower, which is respectable, but the increase to the 650i’s 445 horsepower is going to be difficult to turn down for potential buyers.  The engine of the 640i is a 3 liter BMW-made twin turbo V8, which is capable not only of producing a substantial amount of horsepower, but also 330 ft-lbs of torque at the car’s ideal rpm.


The 8 speed sports automatic transmission allows the car to be almost impossibly smooth to drive, as well.  This system allows the driver to go from a stopped position to 60 miles per hour in 5.2 seconds, which is rather impressive for a four door luxury vehicle.  The car’s top speed is 155 miles per hour, which the car can reach with startling ease.


While the 650i’s performance numbers are more impressive than the 640i’s, the 640i’s luxurious accommodations and incredibly smooth drive should be more than enough for a laid back luxury vehicle owner not looking to win any drag races.  With all the luxuries that have come to be expected from BMW, this car would no doubt be a joy to own.  The most affordable member of the 6 series family of vehicles, the BMW 640i has a base price of $75,400.

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Indonesian court to decide on Bali Nine execution appeal on April 6

An Indonesian court hearing the appeals of two Australian death row convicts will announce a verdict on April 6, one of the judges determining the case said on Wednesday.

Myuran Sukumaran and Andrew Chan are among a group of 10 prisoners, mostly foreigners, facing imminent execution for drug offenses after President Joko Widodo rejected their pleas for clemency.

"Both sides have been given ample opportunity to present evidence and testimony," Ujang Abdullah, one of a panel of three judges, told the court. "The judges will decide on the case after studying the evidence submitted.

The court was adjourned until Monday, when the judges would read their verdicts in both cases, he said.

The Australian government has repeatedly asked Indonesia to spare the lives of Sukumaran and Chan. Widodo has refused to budge, ramping up diplomatic tensions between the neighbors.

Lawyers for the two Australians have been trying to convince the court since February that it has the jurisdiction to hear their appeal against the president's rejection of a plea for clemency for the pair.

Judges rejected that argument last month.

"We will respect the judges who are now considering everything before ruling on the case," Leonard Arfan, a lawyer representing the two Australians, told reporters. "We respect the ongoing process and we're just waiting for the decision."

Sukumaran and Chan were arrested in 2005 as the ringleaders in a plot by a group, which came to be known as the Bali Nine, to smuggle heroin out of Indonesia.

At least four other death row inmates have appealed against their sentences.

Indonesia's attorney general has said all 10 prisoners would face the firing squad together but has yet to set a date for their executions.

The group awaiting execution includes citizens of Brazil, France, Ghana, Nigeria, the Philippines and Indonesia.

Vice President Jusuf Kalla told Reuters last month that it could take weeks or even months for the executions to take place.

Indonesia has harsh penalties for drug trafficking and resumed executions in 2013 after a five-year gap.

With the upcoming executions, Indonesia will have exercised the death penalty more times in a single year than ever before.

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Rumored relationship Rainie Yang

Rumored relationship with singer China, Li Ronghao, Rainie Yang had become the butt of Taiwan media last month. This stems from posting photos Li Ronghao which displays both hugged each other tenderly in Li Weibo account (such social media Twitter of China).

Although not long after the image is deleted, the recording screen (screenshot) the picture was already circulating on the internet. Which became the focus of discussion of this photo is because Li Ronghao actually been married secretly and Rainie Yang third person of relationships Li Ronghao.
When confronted about this on his visit to Singapore, a popular actress through the series "Devil Beside You" is admitted if he falls in love with a person, his behavior will be different from most women. He admitted his emotions often capricious in the extreme.
"If most women will be so happy when they were dating and they will love partner with all my heart, I am just the opposite. I often unsteady, confusion between happy and unhappy when they fall in love, "said Rainie who looks a bit dodge rumors that hit him.
According to him, every person has their own style in a relationship, and it will usually be much different with their own personality. He feels everyone can try to change the personality or temperament itself, but it will be difficult to change the style of a person in a relationship.
"I was never ready to talk about my love affair openly. I am accustomed to hide that section to the public. That's why maybe I often feel uneasy. The man who became my boyfriend will definitely find it difficult to perform daily activities in public. For just down the road will be tough! "He explained.

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McLaren MP4-12C

McLaren Automotive (formerly McLaren Cars) is a British high performance automobile manufacturer founded and based in Surrey, England. The company was founded by Ron Dennis in 1989, with the purpose of experimenting with Formula One technology in the production of street ready cars. Now in their 25th of vehicle production, McLaren enjoys a worldwide reputation for excellence. Their high performance vehicles are of extremely high quality, and are renowned for their performance capabilities, especially in terms of speed.

One of their newest models is the MP4-12C. The 12C is one of the only vehicles currently manufactured by McLaren, and it is the first car the company has designed and built independently this century, with the last being the McLaren F1 (which has not been produced since the late 1990s). The 12C began production in 2011 and is still being produced for the foreseeable future, with the 2014 model being one of the premier vehicles of 2014.

The car utilizes a 3.8 liter McLaren M838T Twin Turbo V8, which has a power output of 616 horsepower and 443 torque at 3,000 rpm. The 7 speed dual clutch transmission allows for maximum control over the vehicle, The car’s top speed is 207 miles per hour, making it intimidatingly fast for a street legal vehicle. Its 0-60 time is 3.2 seconds, but this time can be improved to 3 seconds flat if the car is equipped with Corsa tires.

One of the great innovations of the 12C, according to McLaren’s website, is the carbon fiber monocell cockpit. “The design of the MonoCell ensures the 12C performs handles like a race-bred supercar. Carbon fibre does not degrade like metal, so the integrity and racing performance of the MonoCell will be maintained for decades to come.” The entire monocell weighs only 165 pounds, which is consistent with this car’s overall aerodynamic, speed enhancing design.

The 12C’s Brake Steer technology allows for taking turns and difficult angles at maximum speeds while still being somewhat safe. According to McLaren’s website, the Brake Steer takes into account speed and steering angle. Using this information, Brake Steer “works out the perfect cornering trajectory. It then applies the exact amount of braking force required to the rear inside wheel as you corner – allowing the car to effectively pivot around the desired path.”
On top of the car’s incredible performance capabilities and control, the interior is luxurious as well. While it may not be spectacular in terms of roominess, the McLaren MP4-12C is lavish for the one, two or three people who can fit into the vehicle. All of this is going to cost you, of course. The 2014 McLaren MP4-12C has a base price of $239,400, and that is for the coupe. If you go for the convertible option, you are looking at a base price of $265,750.

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Crude oil prices eased in early Asia

Crude oil prices eased in early Asia on Tuesday with investors focused on U.S. industry supply data later in the day as well as the progress of talks between Western powers and Iran over its nuclear program.

The American Petroleum Institute will release estimates of crude, gasoline and distillate stocks last week later Tuesday, which come ahead of more closely-watched data on the same from the Department of energy on Wednesday.

On the New York Mercantile Exchange, WTI crude for May delivery fell 0.79% to $48.26 a barrel.

Overnight, crude oil prices slid on Monday as a deadline for a deal regarding Iran's nuclear program neared, exacerbating concerns that a relaxation of sanctions on Iranian oil exports could add significantly to the glut in global oil supply.

A late rally in the final minutes of trading on Monday pared previous losses, after a State Department spokesperson said there's a "50-50 chance," an agreement with Iran will be reached by Tuesday. While crude futures gained more than a dollar a barrel just before the close, the last-minute rebound failed to offset an earlier sell-off.

In Lausanne, Switzerland, a bevy of foreign ministers from major world powers met with Iran, reportedly pressing Iranian leaders to budge on the final critical details of a long-awaited agreement. The sides have set a deadline for Tuesday at midnight to reach an agreement on a preliminary outline for a deal aimed at limiting Iran's capabilities enough to keep a nuclear bomb out of reach.

Hampered by heavy economic sanctions over the last three years, Iran has reportedly exported just over a million barrels of crude oil a day since 2012. An easing of sanctions could depress crude prices due to heightening supply.

Iran holds the world's fourth-highest level of crude oil reserves, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), a supply level (of 157 billion barrels) that amounts to approximately 10% of total global crude storage. The rigid sanctions, in turn, have boosted Iranian oil supply. Iran reportedly has hoarded 30 million barrels of oil on its fleet of offshore supertankers, Reuters reported last week.

Opec, meanwhile, said in a mid-March report that heavy crude oil prices in Iran increased to $53.26 for the month of February, a spike of more than $10 a barrel from the prior month. Iranian Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh has set a production target of 5.7 million barrels per day of crude oil by 2018, the Tehran Times reported according to official Iranian government statements.

The Iranian prices for crude are slightly below current futures for the international benchmark. On the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), Brent for May delivery fell 0.37% or 0.21 to $56.20 a barrel on Monday.

Global oil supply is approaching record levels in large part due to the Shale boom throughout the United States. In the U.S. oil is being pumped at its fastest rate in more than 30 years.

As a result, U.S. storage capacity has hovered around 60% in recent weeks -- more than doubling from its level of 12 months ago.

If the U.S. reaches storage capacity at some point this summer, there are mounting fears that crude oil could plunge below $30 a barrel. Oil futures are currently down more than 50% from the triple-digit levels reached last July.

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Now Firing In The Eurozone

The ECB lowered its deposit rate for banks below zero last year to -0.1% on June 5 and to -0.2% on September 4. The result has been that banks seem to be starting to lend again. This past Friday, we learned that over the past three months through February, Eurozone loans rose €659.2 billion at an annual rate. Lending to households rose €112 billion at an annual rate, while lending to nonfinancial corporations rose €162 billion. Country data are available with more of a lag for lending, which is most likely picking up especially well in Spain and Italy, while continuing to expand in Germany and France.

In addition, there has been a significant upswing in the growth rates of the monetary aggregates in the Eurozone since early last year. M2 is up 4.0% y/y through February, the best pace since August 2013. Furthermore, in local currency terms, the EMU MSCI stock price index is up 17.8% YTD, besting all the other major MSCI indexes as follows: Japan (10.5%), UK (4.2), All-Country World (4.0), Emerging Markets (2.7), and US (0.5).

The Eurozone is benefitting from near-zero interest rates, QE, a weak euro, rising bank lending, soaring stock prices, and lower oil prices. If these six cylinders don’t revive the region’s economy, then nothing will. Of course, the possibility of a Grexit continues to hang over the Eurozone. However, the strong performance of stocks suggests that investors believe it won’t happen or it won’t matter much if it does. I tend to agree.

Today's Morning Briefing: Split Personality. (1) Catalonia and Provence. (2) Additional autonomy more likely than independence. (3) Busy pace in Spain. (4) Draghi more popular than Rajoy. (5) Bank loans starting to expand in Eurozone. (6) Monetary growth rising too. (7) Lots to fuel better growth in Eurozone. (8) Ups and downs for US economy. (9) Employment indicators are upbeat, while production-related ones are mixed. (10) Tale of four cities in Spain and in US. (11) Fed’s talking heads sending mixed message.



NZD/USD declines after U.S. GDP data



The New Zealand dollar declined against its U.S. counterpart on Monday, to trade at one-week lows as demand for the greenback remained broadly supported by Friday's upbeat fourth-quarter U.S. growth data and remarks by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen.

NZD/USD hit 0.7525 during late Asian trade, the pair's lowest since March 20; the pair subsequently consolidated at 0.7516, sliding 0.65%.

The pair was likely to find support at 0.7448, the low of March 5 and resistance at 0.7619, the high of March 27.

The greenback remained supported after the Commerce Department reported Friday that the U.S. economy expanded at an annual rate of 2.2% in the fourth quarter, unchanged from the preliminary estimate and below economists’ forecasts for an upward revision to 2.4%.

Separately, In addition, Fed Chair Janet Yellen said in a speech on Friday that a rate hike may be warranted later this year, but added that weakening inflation pressures could force the Fed to delay.

Ms. Yellen said policy tightening could "speed up, slow down, pause, or even reverse course" depending on how the economy is performing.

The kiwi was fractionally lower against the Australian dollar, with AUD/NZD edging up 0.08% to 1.0248.

Later in the day, the U.S. was to release reports on personal spending and pending home sales.

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Ready to invest $1 billion in Ukraine if West helps by Soros says

(Princes) - Billionaire financier George Soros is ready to invest $1 billion in Ukraine, if Western countries help private investment there. He also put the odds of Greece leaving the euro at a third, in an interview with Austrian newspaper Der Standard.

Soros has previously urged the West to step up aid to Ukraine, outlining steps towards a $50 billion financing package that he said should be viewed as a bulwark against an increasingly aggressive Russia.

"The West can help Ukraine by increasing attractiveness for investors. A political risk insurance is necessary. This could take the form of mezzanine financing at EU interest rates -- very close to zero," he said in an interview published on Monday.

"I stand ready. There are concrete investment ideas, for example in agriculture and infrastructure projects. I would put in $1 billion. This must generate a profit. My foundation would benefit from this ... Private engagement needs strong political leadership."

The Hungarian-born hedge fund magnate, who made his name betting against the pound in 1992, also put the chance of Greece leaving the euro zone at a third. Last week he put it at 50:50.




Ford revives the Lincoln Continental, aims at U.S. and China


 Ford Motor Co (N:F) will resurrect the Lincoln Continental as its top-of-the line luxury sedan, betting the classic name will help rebuild the brand's image in the United States and China.

Ford's Lincoln will unveil a prototype of the future Continental sedan on Monday ahead of the April 3-12 New York auto show, which will feature many of the Continental's future rivals, including the Cadillac CT6 sedan from General Motors Co (N:GM), a new Jaguar XF sedan from Jaguar Land Rover and a bevy of super-premium models from Daimler AG's (DE:DAIGn) Mercedes Benz.

Ford retired the Continental name in 2002, and joined its rivals in using letter and number codes for most models. But memories lived on in China, where Continentals had been the car of political leaders and celebrities. China now is the main market for premium sedans such as the Audi A6 or A8, the Mercedes S-class or the BMW 7-series.

Ford executives say they were surprised to learn that the Continental name also had legs in the United States, where grandly-proportioned Continentals from the 1960s had prominent cameo roles in movies such as the popular "Matrix" science fiction series.

What clinched it, said Ford Chief Executive Mark Fields, was that early designs for the next large Lincoln sedan "weren't as good as we wanted them to be." About 18 months ago, Fields said he and other senior executives decided to call the car the Continental based on the positive research.

"Immediately, people's eyes lit up," Fields said. The show car debuts a new look for Lincoln, with a grille and stance that lean more toward Jaguar or Maserati than Cadillac or BMW.

When it launches next year, the production Continental will be the latest salvo in a $2.5 billion renovation of Lincoln. In the United States, the brand lags well behind BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Cadillac and Lexus. Lincoln's U.S. sales are up 1.2 percent for the first two months of 2015, lagging the 9.2 percent increase in the overall market.

By 2020, Ford wants to expand Lincoln sales globally to 300,000 vehicles a year, about triple current sales, Fields said.

Ford is in the early stages of relaunching Lincoln in China, with 11 dealerships and 25 planned by the end of 2015. Ford has not announced plans to build Lincoln vehicles there. GM says it plans to build the CT6 in China and at its factory in Hamtramck, Michigan.

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Aston Martin Vanquish

The newest sports car from Aston Martin’s Vanquish series is a beauty to say the least. One of five current models offered by Aston Martin, the Vanquish is a two door sports coupe with an FMR layout. The first generation of the Vanquish was introduced in 2001 and production continued until 2007.

After a five year break and in preparation for Aston Martin’s celebration of its 100th anniversary, the second generation of the Vanquish was introduced in 2012. Now in its third year of production, the second generation of Aston Martin’s Vanquish series is one of 2014’s most critically acclaimed cars, let alone one of the most critically acclaimed cars in Aston Martin’s currently offered models.

With the English company recently celebrating its 100th birthday, and just a couple years after Italian company Investindustrial invested around $250 million (£150 million) in the company, things have been looking up for Aston Martin in the last couple years. 2013 was no exception, and it looks like, with the introduction of the 2014 Vanquish, this year is going to be no different.

With a base price of $282,820, this car is more likely to be a “dream car” than anything else, though if you have a deep enough wallet, the 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish is certainly not a waste of money. According to AutoWeek, the Vanquish boasts an impressive 565 horsepower at 7,750 RPM and 457 ft-lb of torque at 5,500 RPM. A high performing sports car, the Vanquish can go from 0-60 in 4 seconds flat and has a top speed hovering above 200 miles per hour. These stunning performance capabilities are made possible partially by the car’s 6 liter V12 engine 6 speed engine.

The Vanquish is rather heavy, weighing just under two tons. As a result of this, it has an extremely grounded feel and is easy to control, but gets a combined fuel economy of just under 15 miles per gallon. Having said that, a little bit of extra fuel expense is not likely to stop someone willing to drop $300,000 on a vehicle.

Performance alone is not all that you are getting if you invest in a 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish, however. The interior is lavishly luxurious. According to Aston Martin’s website, the design of the car’s interior “combines the widest choice of materials and finishes ever created for a GT. All new ergonomic interior environment groupings and carbon fibre interior finishes. Contrasting seat accent colours and unique hour-glass stitching.”

Overall, the 2014 Aston Martin Vanquish is shaping up to be one of 2014’s most impressive cars, both in terms of technical performance and visual appea

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