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Pattaya —A sedan partially fell into a shallow construction hole in Pattaya in the early hours of Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024. Luckily, there were no injuries. A video about the recent construction pit issues in Pattaya is HERE on our YouTube channel. The accident occurred at the front of the Phu Yai Kui Market in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Rescue workers received reports of the accident around 2 AM and responded to the scene. There, the rescuers found a Toyota Yaris car, with its front plunging into a construction pit for laying water pipes. The car was slightly damaged. It was found that there were only traffic cones placed around the edge of the pit, and there were no warning lights indicating the construction area. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourist Seriously Injured on Sea Walker Tour in Pattaya, Police Investigate By Adam Judd Pattaya-In response to a serious incident involving an Indian tourist, the Pattaya tourist police conducted an inspection of a Sea Walker business, a popular water activity attraction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331437-indian-tourist-seriously-injured-on-sea-walker-tour-in-pattaya-police-investigate/

Pattaya-In response to a serious incident involving an Indian tourist, the Pattaya tourist police conducted an inspection of a Sea Walker business, a popular water activity attraction. The tourist had become seriously injured while participating on the Sea Walker and required immediate medical attention at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. In a sea walker business, a tourist wears a helmet providing air while exploring the bottom of a relatively shallow area of the Pattaya Gulf. Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyaphong Ensarn, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Suparat Meepreecha and Pol. Lt. Col. Apichart Jarurak, led the investigation. The team examined two boats associated with the attraction: the Marine Diving Service paddle boat and the Kong Samut 8 boat, both located near the Koh Sak area in Chonburi Province. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Red Bull Co-Owners Top Thailand’s Richest List Picture courtesy: 3PLUS news Chalerm Yoovidhya & family, co-owners of Red Bull, have emerged as the wealthiest individuals in Thailand, according to Forbes' latest ranking. Their combined wealth surged by $2.6 billion, hitting a record $36 billion, thanks to Red Bull’s robust performance with over $11 billion in revenue from more than 12 billion cans sold globally in 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331434-red-bull-co-owners-top-thailand’s-richest-list/

Chalerm Yoovidhya & family, co-owners of Red Bull, have emerged as the wealthiest individuals in Thailand, according to Forbes' latest ranking. Their combined wealth surged by $2.6 billion, hitting a record $36 billion, thanks to Red Bull’s robust performance with over $11 billion in revenue from more than 12 billion cans sold globally in 2023. This advancement crowns them as the new leaders in the Forbes list of Thailand’s top 50 richest, overshadowing the long-reigning Chearavanont brothers. The Chearavanont brothers, linked to the Charoen Pokphand Group, saw their fortune drop from $34 billion to $29 billion, pushing them to the second position. This decline is attributed largely to the underperformance of Ping An Insurance, a major holding of theirs, which posted a significant $2.7 billion loss in 2023. Occupying the third spot is Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi of Thai Beverage. Although maintaining his position, his net worth dwindled from $13.6 billion to $10 billion. Following closely is the Chirathivat family, owners of the Central Group, at $9.9 billion, marking a substantial decrease from $12.4 billion. Their recent acquisition of London's Selfridges further cements their presence in the global retail market. In fifth place, Sarath Ratanavadi experienced a drop in his wealth to $9.2 billion from $11.3 billion, marking his first significant dip since his debut in the rankings six years ago. Conversely, the beverage market buoyed the fortunes of several entrants, including Carabao co-founder Sathien Sathientham at $1.75 billion and Ichitan Group's Tan Passakornnatee at $620 million. Notably, the passing of patriarchs Petch Osathanugrah and Chaivat Taepaisitphongse saw their heirs inherit the vast fortunes, securing positions within the top 50. Despite the overall economic downturn, the Forbes list highlights the dynamic nature of Thailand’s richest and the fluctuating trends influenced by global and local market shifts. The minimum net worth required to enter this year's list was $550 million, slightly down from last year’s $590 million. Public fortunes were calculated using stock prices and exchange rates as of June 14th, offering a snapshot of the financial landscape amid a challenging economic period. Picture courtesy: 3PLUS news -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Immigration Crackdown: Four Foreign Nationals Arrested Picture courtesy: ศูนย์ข้อมูลภูเก็ต Phuket Info Center Immigration officers in Phuket have detained four foreign nationals for overstaying their visas. This action is part of a wider crackdown aimed at ensuring compliance with visa regulations on the popular tourist island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331433-phuket-immigration-crackdown-four-foreign-nationals-arrested/

Immigration officers in Phuket have detained four foreign nationals for overstaying their visas. This action is part of a wider crackdown aimed at ensuring compliance with visa regulations on the popular tourist island. The individuals arrested include two Egyptians, a Pakistani, and a Russian. Specific details are as follows: - **Mr. Mohamed El-Sayed**, an Egyptian national, was found to be in the country on a visa overstay of 1,898 days. - **Mr. Zubair Ahmed**, a Pakistani citizen, had overstayed by 1,734 days. - **Mr. Haitham Khalil**, another Egyptian, was discovered to have overstayed his visa by 234 days. - **Mr. Dmitrii Ivanov**, a Russian, had an overstay period of 413 days. The arrests took place on Tuesday, July 2nd, and were part of an ongoing effort by Phuket's Immigration Office to curb the issue of illegal stays within the island. Immigration authorities emphasised that all four men are now facing charges related to their extended and unlawful stays in Thailand. Further complicating the situation, the Phuket Immigration Office has issued a stringent warning to accommodation providers. These businesses are legally required to report the presence of foreign nationals living on their premises within a 24-hour window. Failure to do so will attract significant legal repercussions. This rule is enforceable under Thailand's Immigration Act and is aimed at ensuring that all foreign visitors are properly documented and monitored. This move comes amid growing concerns surrounding security and legal compliance on Phuket, a premier destination for international tourists. It is believed that tighter immigration controls will enhance the safety and public order of the area. While the arrests highlight ongoing challenges, they also reflect a commitment by local authorities to uphold the country's immigration laws rigorously. Both local residents and tourists have expressed mixed reactions, with some applauding the enforcement and others calling for more accessible visa extension processes. Further updates on this case and implications for visa policy in Phuket are expected in the coming weeks. Picture courtesy: ศูนย์ข้อมูลภูเก็ต Phuket Info Center -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha Launches Nationwide Crackdown on Drug Abuse PM Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, named the “X-ray” operations. This initiative seeks to root out drug abusers and dismantle trafficking networks across Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331431-pm-srettha-launches-nationwide-crackdown-on-drug-abuse/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin launched an aggressive nationwide crackdown on drug abuse and trafficking, named the “X-ray” operations. This initiative seeks to root out drug abusers and dismantle trafficking networks across Thailand. Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke announced that drug abusers will be directed to rehabilitation centres, while traffickers will face arrest and rigorous legal consequences. Provincial governors will lead the charge, ensuring individuals aged 16 and above undergo mandatory urine tests. This coordinated effort involves the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), local police, civil society, and community leaders. The primary goal is to rehabilitate drug users and bring traffickers to justice. "We must identify users and ensure they receive the help they need, while those who peddle drugs must face the full force of the law," said PM Srettha. In support of this initiative, ministries of Public Health, Interior, and Defence are tasked with constructing new rehabilitation facilities. The Labour and Social Development, and Human Security ministries will provide career training to rehabilitated individuals, aiding their reintegration into society. Additionally, the ministries overseeing Education, Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation will monitor students to protect them from drug influences, aiming to prevent new drug users. Since October last year, the impact of the crackdown is already significant. Police have apprehended 184,411 suspects in 177,121 drug-related cases, seizing 764 million amphetamine tablets, 1.27 tonnes of heroin, 4.17 tonnes of ketamine, 30 kilogrammes of cocaine, and 127,190 MDMA tablets. Furthermore, assets worth 6.34 billion baht have been confiscated, with 108,304 individuals sent for rehabilitation. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has endorsed the allocation of seized assets from drug cases to fund rehabilitation efforts. During his tenure as Justice Ministry chair, he amended narcotic laws, particularly concerning asset seizures, to further strengthen these initiatives. PM Srettha Thavisin. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's COVID-19 Surge Expected to Peak in July File photo courtesy: Depositphotos Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand’s Disease Control Department. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331429-thailands-covid-19-surge-expected-to-peak-in-july/

Thailand faces a significant surge in COVID-19 cases, with infections expected to peak in July, according to Dr. Thongchai Keeratihattayakorn, chief of Thailand’s Disease Control Department. The country reported 3,256 hospital admissions and 16 fatalities between June 23rd and 29th, highlighting an alarming rise in cases. Out of these recent hospital admissions, 709 patients suffered from severe lung infections, and 336 required ventilators. Since the start of the year, Thailand has seen a total of 31,205 COVID-19 hospital admissions, resulting in 172 deaths, predominantly among those over the age of 69. The Disease Control Department has issued renewed guidelines for those most at risk. Individuals over 60, those with pre-existing health conditions, and pregnant women are advised to take stringent preventive measures. These include wearing face masks in crowded settings, frequent hand washing with soap or alcohol-based hand sanitiser, and undergoing rapid antigen tests if COVID-19 symptoms emerge. Positive cases should consult a doctor for appropriate treatment and avoid contact with vulnerable populations. Dr. Apichart Wachiraphan, deputy director-general of the Disease Control Department, compared the current surge in COVID-19 infections to patterns seen with seasonal flu, often tied to crowded gatherings and activities. He noted that while cases are expected to peak in July, the current fatality rate stands at 0.04%. This is a significant reduction from the 2.16% fatality rate recorded in June 2021, reflecting advancements in treatment and vaccination efforts. As Thailand braces for the peak, health officials continue to stress the importance of adhering to preventive measures to mitigate the spread and reduce the impact on the healthcare system. File photo courtesy: Depositphotos -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-Dep Police Chief Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn Files Complaint Against PM Picture courtesy: Thai Post Beleaguered Pol Gen Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn filed a complaint today with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), accusing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of malfeasance in office over his appointment last year of Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol as the national police chief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331428-ex-dep-police-chief-surachate-big-joke-hakparn-files-complaint-against-pm/

Beleaguered Pol Gen Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn filed a complaint today with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), accusing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of malfeasance in office over his appointment last year of Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol as the national police chief. Surachate is currently fighting to return to the Royal Thai Police, after being removed from the police service over his alleged involvement in money laundering, in connection with BNK Master online gambling network. He told the media that he decided to revive the malfeasance case against the prime minister after he learned from former police chief, Pol Gen Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, that he had already withdrawn his own complaint against the prime minister for an unspecified reason. Earlier, Surachate had filed similar complaint with the NACC, but eventually withdrew the complaint as it duplicated Sereepisuth’s. The former police chief alleges that the prime minister did not adhere to the Police Act in appointing Torsak as the police chief, because the most senior officer, who should have been appointed, was Pol Gen Roy Ingkapairote, with himself being the next in line, followed by Torsak. He maintains that he has no personal grudge against the prime minister, adding that, even though the prime minister is empowered to appoint the police chief, he is, however, obliged to follow the law. He also said he does not mind whether he is able to return to the police force, adding that he merely wants to maintain the sanctity of the law. Picture courtesy: Thai Post -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 4 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331427-thailand-live-thursday-4-july-2024/

National Police Chief Denies Retirement Rumors Amid Ongoing Investigation File photo for reference only The National Police Chief, Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, has denied widespread speculations that he intends to retire before his mandatory retirement age in September. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331398-national-police-chief-denies-retirement-rumors-amid-ongoing-investigation/

Canadian military man confesses to gangster’s murder in Thailand Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A former Canadian soldier pleaded guilty in Bangkok for his role in the February 2022 murder of notorious British Columbia gangster Jimi Sandhu. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331409-canadian-military-man-confesses-to-gangster’s-murder-in-thailand/

A British man from Birmingham revealed the harrowing tale of his five-month ordeal in a Thai prison, labelling the conditions as inhumane and horrendous. British man’s terrifying prison ordeal in Thailand Photo courtesy of Birmingham Mail UK Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331408-thai-ed-up-british-man’s-terrifying-prison-ordeal-in-thailand/

Thailand Rescues Moroccan Call Centre Scam Victims Picture courtesy: Transborder news In a dramatic development, six Moroccan nationals have been freed from a call centre scam gang in Myanmar, thanks to the relentless efforts of their families and the intervention of Thai authorities. The families paid a substantial ransom of 300,000 baht, approximately £7,500, to secure their release. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331371-thailand-rescues-moroccan-call-centre-scam-victims/

In a dramatic development, six Moroccan nationals have been freed from a call centre scam gang in Myanmar, thanks to the relentless efforts of their families and the intervention of Thai authorities. The families paid a substantial ransom of 300,000 baht, approximately £7,500, to secure their release. The victims had been deceived into traveling to Thailand with promises of legitimate jobs, only to be transported across the border to Myanmar. There, they were forced into a brutal call centre scam operation. Two initial escapees recounted their ordeal to The Exodus Road Foundation, initiating rescue efforts for the remaining hostages. According to The Exodus Road Foundation, the victims endured severe conditions and physical abuse for non-compliance. Initially, a ransom of US$7,000 (around 257,000 baht) was paid, but it failed to secure their release. Eventually, an additional US$10,000 was paid, leading to their freedom. Following their liberation, Thai Immigration Bureau officers relocated the victims to Tak province in northern Thailand. There, they were placed under the care of the Office of Social Development and Human Security while arrangements for their return to Morocco were made. However, many others remain in peril. Reports suggest that at least 21 Moroccan nationals and numerous other victims from countries like Sri Lanka, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, India, and the Philippines are still trapped in similar situations in Myanmar. Efforts are ongoing to secure their release. This incident underscores a growing issue of international scam operations targeting unsuspecting job seekers. It raises significant concerns about human trafficking and the urgent need for global cooperation to dismantle such criminal networks. Picture courtesy: Transborder news -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monk Blackmailed After Video Call Incident in Prachinburi Picture courtesy: ch-newsthailand A monk from Prachinburi is facing threats and demands for money after a video call with a woman turned into a blackmail plot. Phra Khru Samuha Anuwat, who has served at a temple in Kabin Buri for 20 years, alerted the police after the incident escalated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331367-monk-blackmailed-after-video-call-incident-in-prachinburi/

A monk from Prachinburi is facing threats and demands for money after a video call with a woman turned into a blackmail plot. Phra Khru Samuha Anuwat, who has served at a temple in Kabin Buri for 20 years, alerted the police after the incident escalated. The story began on 29 June when a woman using the Facebook name Nayada Nida Bunchuay contacted Phra Khru Samuha Anuwat. She expressed interest in understanding his reasons for becoming a monk and asked personal questions about love and commitment to his monkhood. The monk shared his past experiences but remained committed to his religious duties. The woman then moved their conversation to his personal Line account. Over the course of a day, she requested photos, which he sent. That evening, during a video call, she undressed in front of the camera. The monk quickly ended the call but soon received messages threatening to release the video unless he paid up. “Shocked and worried about my reputation, I was asked to transfer 20,000 baht (around £460) to delete the video,” Phra Khru Samuha Anuwat said. He complied, hoping to end the ordeal, but the demands only grew. The woman, now identifying herself as Malison Karun, asked for an additional 50,000 baht (around £1,150). Unable to meet the higher demand and believing the photos were manipulated, the monk refused further payments. The threats intensified, with the woman claiming she had numerous associates who could make his life difficult, even threatening to disrupt the temple. Unable to resolve the issue on his own, Phra Khru Samuha Anuwat reported the blackmail to Police Lieutenant Somchai Prukpaiboonkit at Kabin Buri Police Station, providing all messages and evidence. The police are now investigating to find and charge the woman behind this extortion. This incident highlights the increasingly sophisticated methods used in online scams, urging others to remain vigilant about personal interactions online. Picture courtesy: ch-newsthailand -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand braces for heavy rain and thunderstorms by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Heavy rainfall is expected across Thailand tomorrow, with Bangkok likely to be affected. Approximately 60% of the area in the capital will experience thunderstorms. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will see wave heights of 1 to 2 metres, with marine travel in stormy areas advised against. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331362-thailand-braces-for-heavy-rain-and-thunderstorms/

Heavy rainfall is expected across Thailand tomorrow, with Bangkok likely to be affected. Approximately 60% of the area in the capital will experience thunderstorms. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will see wave heights of 1 to 2 metres, with marine travel in stormy areas advised against. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a 24-hour weather forecast at 11pm yesterday, July 2, predicting that the southwest monsoon would cover the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. Additionally, a low-pressure area would blanket upper Vietnam. Such weather conditions will result in thunderstorms continuing across Thailand, with heavy rain expected in some parts of the upper northeastern and eastern regions. Residents in these areas are advised to be cautious of potential dangers from heavy downpours. The forecast warned, noted that wave heights could exceed 2 metres in stormy conditions. “Avoid sailing in areas with thunderstorms.” In the northern region, thunderstorms are predicted in 60% of the area, particularly in the provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius at the lowest and from 32 to 35°C at the highest. In the northeast region, thunderstorms will affect 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, including Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. Temperatures will vary between 24 and 27°C at the lowest and 32 to 34°C at the highest. In the central region, thunderstorms are expected in 40% of the area, notably in Lopburi, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Sakhon. The temperature will drop to between 24 and 27°C, with highs of 35 to 37°C. In the eastern region, thunderstorms are anticipated in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some parts, particularly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. The temperature will range from 23 to 27°C at the lowest and from 32 to 35°C at the highest. Wave heights in the sea will be around 1 metre, increasing to over 2 metres in stormy areas. In the southeast region, thunderstorms will hit 30% of the area, mainly in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The temperature will drop to between 23 and 27°C, with highs of 33 to 36°C. Sea waves will be about 1 metre high, increasing to over 2 metres during thunderstorms. In the southern region (west coast), thunderstorms are predicted in 20% of the area, particularly in Ranong, Phang Nga, and Satun. Temperatures will range from 25 to 26°C at the lowest and from 33 to 35°C at the highest. Sea waves will be approximately 1 metre high, with higher waves in stormy areas. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area. The temperature will drop to between 25 and 28°C, with highs of 35 to 37°C by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Considers Lifting Alcohol Ban to Boost Restaurant Business Fil photo courtesy: NNT The Government of Thailand is contemplating lifting the afternoon ban on alcohol sales to aid beleaguered restaurant operators amid economic difficulties. Representatives from the Restaurant Business Club recently submitted a plea to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, asking for measures to help restaurants navigate the current economic challenges. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331360-thailand-considers-lifting-alcohol-ban-to-boost-restaurant-business/

The Government of Thailand is contemplating lifting the afternoon ban on alcohol sales to aid beleaguered restaurant operators amid economic difficulties. Representatives from the Restaurant Business Club recently submitted a plea to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, asking for measures to help restaurants navigate the current economic challenges. Restaurant operators have spotlighted rising operational costs and increasing prices of ingredients as significant issues, leading to numerous business closures. They specifically requested the repeal of a 52-year-old regulation that restricts alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm. During a Cabinet meeting at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, the Bangkok-born prime minister addressed the matter: “I will consider it (the lifting of the afternoon ban on alcohol sales). The government is trying to promote tourism, hoping they will also earn more income.” Sorathep Rojpotjanaruch, head of the Restaurant Business Club, emphasized the need for urgent relief measures to stave off further closures. He noted operating costs have surged by 50%, while ingredient prices, including milk, eggs, and vegetables, have escalated by 20 to 30%. Sorathep also highlighted a significant decline in customer purchasing power. “The economy has been sluggish, and consumer purchasing power has declined. The cost and prices of ingredients, such as vegetables, have gone up, on top of expensive electricity fees.” Thailand's restaurant industry, which generated an estimated 420 billion baht in revenue in 2019—accounting for about 7% of GDP—was initially projected to grow by 4 to 5% this year. However, growth has slowed since April, leading to more closures, according to Sorathep. He expressed concerns for small-scale vendors and food shops, stating, “Small-scale vendors and food shops along streets are at risk of going out of business as they don’t have sufficient financial resources to stay afloat for long periods.” In addition to lifting the afternoon alcohol sales ban, the group proposed reducing building and land tax rates to ease financial pressures. Other suggested measures include supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by allowing customers to claim up to 20,000 baht in tax deductions for restaurant invoices, while business operators could use bills for deductions of up to 100,000 baht each. Another proposal included a 2,000 baht cash handout per person, to be spent over three months exclusively on food through the Pao Tang app. The ban on retail alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm was introduced by the coup regime of Thanom Kittikachorn in 1972 to prevent officials from drinking during work hours and has remained in place since. The Restaurant Business Club’s appeals come at a critical time as businesses grapple with rising costs and decreasing consumer spending. The government’s consideration of these proposals could offer much-needed relief for the industry. Fil photo courtesy: NNT -- 2024-07-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe