Понедельник, 19 Февраля 2018 г. 03:09
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Many architects, who participated in the SKYHIVE Skyscraper Challenge contest, see the future of our planet in a variety of buildings. They offer the most incredible options of residential buildings, which can be found in our photo gallery
Humanity sees the future in a wide variety of options, but the desire to improve their homes remains unchanged. It's no wonder that everybody wants to live not in a typical boring building, but in an original and multifunctional one. The participants of the SKYHIVE Skyscraper Challenge international architectural contest set it as a goal. The contest gave an opportunity for creative people to make their architectural ideas of future residential buildings reality. Here we present the projects which received the main awards of the contest.
Aero HiveThe first place was given to the project of the Indian designer Suraksha Acharya under the name Aero Hive. The architect focused on the environmental and structural balance. Experts believe that the skyscraper is finely integrated into the environment. The original naturally ventilated systems is considered to be a highlight of the high-rise.
FalloutThe second place in the contest was taken by a joint project of New Zealand architects, Alex Sullivan-Brown and Sandra Johnson. Inspired by the aesthetics of post-apocalypse, they developed a building called the "vertical Noah's Ark". Designers consider their creation to be a self-sustaining center, the main function of which is to help the surrounding urban environment.
Chicago PillarThe third place went to the project of designer John Karaga under the name Chicago Pillar. The architect proposed to build a tower of cylindrical shape in Chicago, along the perimeter of which there should be additional buildings with plants - green zones. Wind turbines, due to which the building is provided with electricity, are designed in the construction.
The WallThe Wall project, provided by the Mexican University in San Luis Potosi, was declared the best student work. Such a construction is proposed to be erected at the Mexican-American border. It is the designers' intention that it aims not to divide, but to unite people. The building has everything necessary for the survival of the whole city.
EvoluzioneThe highest award in the field of ecology was given to two Italian designers, Alessandro Buffi and Gian Maria Angelini. The result of their work was Evolution, an impressive skyscraper, which meets all of the requirementsof comfort and stability. As the architects emphasize, it is able to adapt to the constantly changing environment.
Not all foreign companies involved in the Turkish Stream project understand specifics of construction in Russia. But those who have experience working with the Russian companies know that state financing is likely to grow by leaps and bounds. The cost of the Sochi Olympics Games organization or the construction of Zenit Arena not only exceeded the initial budgets by several times but also surpassed, for example, NASA expenditures on the Mars exploration projects. That is why the following news surprised only the foreign partners of Russia.
The price of Turkish Stream has risen again, this time by $1 billion. The Turkish party was not impressed with this turn of events. Most likely, all additional costs will be paid by Gazprom, in other words, by Russian taxpayers. It was a bad idea since if Turkey agreed to take a part in financing increase, they could find out what the great and mighty Russian word - a kickback - means. In the meantime, Gazprom will reap all the benefits. “Previously, we said that the cost of the project is about $6 billion, now we estimate it somewhere around $7 billion. We do not exclude the possibility of project financing. But, given the current conditions, most likely Turkish Stream will be financed from the Gazprom budget,” Andrey Kruglov, the deputy chairman of Gazprom’s Management Board, said at investors’ meeting in London.
In addition, due to sanctions, Gazprom had to substantially increase investments in its projects. As a result, the construction cost of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline more than doubled, it increased from 93.6 billion to 190 billion rubles.
Not all foreign companies involved in the Turkish Stream project understand specifics of construction in Russia. But those who have experience working with the Russian companies know that state financing is likely to grow by leaps and bounds. The cost of the Sochi Olympics Games organization or the construction of Zenit Arena not only exceeded the initial budgets by several times but also surpassed, for example, NASA expenditures on the Mars exploration projects. That is why the following news surprised only the foreign partners of Russia.
The price of Turkish Stream has risen again, this time by $1 billion. The Turkish party was not impressed with this turn of events. Most likely, all additional costs will be paid by Gazprom, in other words, by Russian taxpayers. It was a bad idea since if Turkey agreed to take a part in financing increase, they could find out what the great and mighty Russian word - a kickback - means. In the meantime, Gazprom will reap all the benefits. “Previously, we said that the cost of the project is about $6 billion, now we estimate it somewhere around $7 billion. We do not exclude the possibility of project financing. But, given the current conditions, most likely Turkish Stream will be financed from the Gazprom budget,” Andrey Kruglov, the deputy chairman of Gazprom’s Management Board, said at investors’ meeting in London.
In addition, due to sanctions, Gazprom had to substantially increase investments in its projects. As a result, the construction cost of the Turkish Stream gas pipeline more than doubled, it increased from 93.6 billion to 190 billion rubles.
The necessity for healthy lifestyle and environmental improvement became a priority for leaders of a number of states. Many countries take leading positions in these issues
According to estimates of the specialists from Yale University, having developed Environmental Performance Index, an indicator which helps to evaluate actions taken by the state on the nation's health, there is a number of countries where these issues is among priorities. Experts measured countries on three citeria: green focus, attention to citizens' health, and use of innovation in these spheres. We suggest to get acquainted with the list of states paying greater attention to these issues.
SwedenThe palm of victory is tightly held by Sweden, the leader of the last year's rating. The public policy aims at maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Experts note the high level of availability of medical services in the country.
SwitzerlandThe second place among the healthiest and advanced green economies is taken by Swithzerland. There is a very high indicator of life expectancy in the country as well as a well-developed entrepreneurship. Switzerland is considered to be one of the most innovative countries in the world.
FinlandThe third place of honor in the list of the best countries in terms of ecology and health goes to Finland. Medicine is well developed in the country, and higher attention is paid to renewable energy. Authorities are very interested in improvement of environmental conditions.
NorwayThe fourth place in the rating is taken by Norway. Among the government measures, taken by the authorities for improvement of the environmental condition, is a logging ban. The population of Norway has high life expectancy, the quality of which is estimated as perfect. Every resident of the country has an access to professional medicine services.
JapanThe Land of the Rising Sun, where there is one of the highest indicator of life expectancy in the world, closes the top five leaders in terms of ecology and nation's health. The rate is especially high for women. A number of experts attributes this to the adundance of seefood in the diet of the Japanese.
The necessity for healthy lifestyle and environmental improvement became a priority for leaders of a number of states. Many countries take leading positions in these issues
According to estimates of the specialists from Yale University, having developed Environmental Performance Index, an indicator which helps to evaluate actions taken by the state on the nation's health, there is a number of countries where these issues is among priorities. Experts measured countries on three citeria: green focus, attention to citizens' health, and use of innovation in these spheres. We suggest to get acquainted with the list of states paying greater attention to these issues.
SwedenThe palm of victory is tightly held by Sweden, the leader of the last year's rating. The public policy aims at maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Experts note the high level of availability of medical services in the country.
SwitzerlandThe second place among the healthiest and advanced green economies is taken by Swithzerland. There is a very high indicator of life expectancy in the country as well as a well-developed entrepreneurship. Switzerland is considered to be one of the most innovative countries in the world.
FinlandThe third place of honor in the list of the best countries in terms of ecology and health goes to Finland. Medicine is well developed in the country, and higher attention is paid to renewable energy. Authorities are very interested in improvement of environmental conditions.
NorwayThe fourth place in the rating is taken by Norway. Among the government measures, taken by the authorities for improvement of the environmental condition, is a logging ban. The population of Norway has high life expectancy, the quality of which is estimated as perfect. Every resident of the country has an access to professional medicine services.
JapanThe Land of the Rising Sun, where there is one of the highest indicator of life expectancy in the world, closes the top five leaders in terms of ecology and nation's health. The rate is especially high for women. A number of experts attributes this to the adundance of seefood in the diet of the Japanese.
Billionaire George Soros joined an anti-Brexit campaign. The legendary investor donated 400 thousand pounds to the organization that tries to stop the process of the UK’s exit from the European Union. Interestingly, it is not some sort of a secret operation, but a plain and legal campaign called Best for Britain.
The majority of votes for leaving the EU was rather insignificant, which means that a lot of Britons are not enthusiastic about this idea. Best for Britain is the union of those who oppose disintegration. Its chairman and former UK diplomat Mark Malloch Brown confirmed that Mr. Soros contributed 400,000 pounds through his funds. “George Soros’s foundations along with a number of other major donors have also made significant contributions to our work,” he said. Before becoming a chair of Best for Britain, Mr. Malloch Brown held senior positions in the United Nations Organization and the Foreign Office.
The main goal of supporters of Best for Britain is to get a re-vote on the UK’s membership in the European Union. Besides, the anti-Brexit campaigners strive to stop the exit procedure, calling it the most serious mistake in the British history after the World War II. They fear that the exit will dent the financial and political authority of the country. Soros supports this view. Last year he said that the Britain was approaching a tipping point that would see the economy slow to such an extent that Brexit might even be reversed.
Billionaire George Soros joined an anti-Brexit campaign. The legendary investor donated 400 thousand pounds to the organization that tries to stop the process of the UK’s exit from the European Union. Interestingly, it is not some sort of a secret operation, but a plain and legal campaign called Best for Britain.
The majority of votes for leaving the EU was rather insignificant, which means that a lot of Britons are not enthusiastic about this idea. Best for Britain is the union of those who oppose disintegration. Its chairman and former UK diplomat Mark Malloch Brown confirmed that Mr. Soros contributed 400,000 pounds through his funds. “George Soros’s foundations along with a number of other major donors have also made significant contributions to our work,” he said. Before becoming a chair of Best for Britain, Mr. Malloch Brown held senior positions in the United Nations Organization and the Foreign Office.
The main goal of supporters of Best for Britain is to get a re-vote on the UK’s membership in the European Union. Besides, the anti-Brexit campaigners strive to stop the exit procedure, calling it the most serious mistake in the British history after the World War II. They fear that the exit will dent the financial and political authority of the country. Soros supports this view. Last year he said that the Britain was approaching a tipping point that would see the economy slow to such an extent that Brexit might even be reversed.
Taking into account the current growth of geopolitical tensions all over the world, caused by the poor dynamics of oil prices, the deterioration in relations between Russia and the United States, and the increase in interest rates in the West, there is no hope for more optimistic scenario of development in 2018. We should be prepared for toughen sanctions, reduction in oil prices, and weakening of the ruble. What else will be important for investors during this period, you will find out from our material
Geopolitical tensionsThe results of the outgoing year demonstrate that due to the prolongation of the sanctions regime, there will be no rapprochement between Russia and the United States in 2018. In addition, a constraint of the development of bilateral relations will be the introduction of a ban on the purchase of Russian bonds of a financial loan (FLB) and derivatives on them. The issue about the US tax reform is still unclear.The nuclear program of the DPRK, the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East and Turkey and the political climate in Europe, elections in a number of developing countries can also affect the political landscape.
Oil surprisesWith regard to the oil market in 2018, the prolongation of the OPEC+ agreement should provide the same serious support to the quotations of energy assets as in the current year.As the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecast, the market may reach a balance of supply and demand against the expected acceleration of the global economy.The rising tension in the Middle East, if it continues to take place, will have a positive impact on the increasing oil prices, to $50-55 per barrel of Brent oil. Further growth of oil production in the US will strengthen the negative impact on the market.
The economic agendaDespite the positive trends which the economic growth in Russia has shown this year (1.6% year on year), the dynamics of GDP growth can not be called stable.In 2018, the previous drivers of growth will continue, but we cannot speak of the accelerating GDP growth (below 2%), while inflation rate will rise more rapidly (from 2.4% to 4%). In so doing, a moderately tight budget policy and a gradual reduction in the Central Bank's key rate will remain a stabilizing factor.
Currency debtThe continuing interest in risk, stimulating monetary policy of the global regulators, as well as a relatively high dollar rate have driven down the yields of Russian Eurobonds this year.Given the predictable nature of the global regulators' policy, the moderate growth of Eurobond yields is more likely to occur than futher price inflation. It is expected that the US Federal Reserve System (FRS) will increase the rate by 1 percentage point to the range of 2-2.25% by the end of 2018.
Avoiding the carry trade strategyThe reduction in the key rate by the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (up to 8% in the current year, and by one more percentage point in 2018), an attractive real interest rate (5.9% in 2017 and 2-3% at end of 2018) will have a positive impact on the public debt in the coming year. The strengthening of the ruble will be replaced by a moderate devaluation of the ruble against the US dollar.The attractiveness of the carry trade strategy will decrease. The opportunities of the further growth of the market with ruble fixed-income instruments depend on the regulator's plans to move toward neutral monetary policy.
Exchange stagnationThe Russian market still does not have any preconditions for an active growth.The data on key multiples (P/E, EV/EBITDA, etc.) and the MICEX and RTS stock indices in the first half of 2017 indicate a neutral outlook for the stock market perspectives in the medium term.Therefore, to date, the Russian market continues to remain one of the most underappreciated among the developing ones.
Taking into account the current growth of geopolitical tensions all over the world, caused by the poor dynamics of oil prices, the deterioration in relations between Russia and the United States, and the increase in interest rates in the West, there is no hope for more optimistic scenario of development in 2018. We should be prepared for toughen sanctions, reduction in oil prices, and weakening of the ruble. What else will be important for investors during this period, you will find out from our material
Geopolitical tensionsThe results of the outgoing year demonstrate that due to the prolongation of the sanctions regime, there will be no rapprochement between Russia and the United States in 2018. In addition, a constraint of the development of bilateral relations will be the introduction of a ban on the purchase of Russian bonds of a financial loan (FLB) and derivatives on them. The issue about the US tax reform is still unclear.The nuclear program of the DPRK, the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East and Turkey and the political climate in Europe, elections in a number of developing countries can also affect the political landscape.
Oil surprisesWith regard to the oil market in 2018, the prolongation of the OPEC+ agreement should provide the same serious support to the quotations of energy assets as in the current year.As the International Energy Agency (IEA) forecast, the market may reach a balance of supply and demand against the expected acceleration of the global economy.The rising tension in the Middle East, if it continues to take place, will have a positive impact on the increasing oil prices, to $50-55 per barrel of Brent oil. Further growth of oil production in the US will strengthen the negative impact on the market.
The economic agendaDespite the positive trends which the economic growth in Russia has shown this year (1.6% year on year), the dynamics of GDP growth can not be called stable.In 2018, the previous drivers of growth will continue, but we cannot speak of the accelerating GDP growth (below 2%), while inflation rate will rise more rapidly (from 2.4% to 4%). In so doing, a moderately tight budget policy and a gradual reduction in the Central Bank's key rate will remain a stabilizing factor.
Currency debtThe continuing interest in risk, stimulating monetary policy of the global regulators, as well as a relatively high dollar rate have driven down the yields of Russian Eurobonds this year.Given the predictable nature of the global regulators' policy, the moderate growth of Eurobond yields is more likely to occur than futher price inflation. It is expected that the US Federal Reserve System (FRS) will increase the rate by 1 percentage point to the range of 2-2.25% by the end of 2018.
Avoiding the carry trade strategyThe reduction in the key rate by the Central Bank of the Russian Federation (up to 8% in the current year, and by one more percentage point in 2018), an attractive real interest rate (5.9% in 2017 and 2-3% at end of 2018) will have a positive impact on the public debt in the coming year. The strengthening of the ruble will be replaced by a moderate devaluation of the ruble against the US dollar.The attractiveness of the carry trade strategy will decrease. The opportunities of the further growth of the market with ruble fixed-income instruments depend on the regulator's plans to move toward neutral monetary policy.
Exchange stagnationThe Russian market still does not have any preconditions for an active growth.The data on key multiples (P/E, EV/EBITDA, etc.) and the MICEX and RTS stock indices in the first half of 2017 indicate a neutral outlook for the stock market perspectives in the medium term.Therefore, to date, the Russian market continues to remain one of the most underappreciated among the developing ones.
Billionaire George Soros joined an anti-Brexit campaign. The legendary investor donated 400 thousand pounds to the organization that tries to stop the process of the UK’s exit from the European Union. Interestingly, it is not some sort of a secret operation, but a plain and legal campaign called Best for Britain.
The majority of votes for leaving the EU was rather insignificant, which means that a lot of Britons are not enthusiastic about this idea. Best for Britain is the union of those who oppose disintegration. Its chairman and former UK diplomat Mark Malloch Brown confirmed that Mr. Soros contributed 400,000 pounds through his funds. “George Soros’s foundations along with a number of other major donors have also made significant contributions to our work,” he said. Before becoming a chair of Best for Britain, Mr. Malloch Brown held senior positions in the United Nations Organization and the Foreign Office.
The main goal of supporters of Best for Britain is to get a re-vote on the UK’s membership in the European Union. Besides, the anti-Brexit campaigners strive to stop the exit procedure, calling it the most serious mistake in the British history after the World War II. They fear that the exit will dent the financial and political authority of the country. Soros supports this view. Last year he said that the Britain was approaching a tipping point that would see the economy slow to such an extent that Brexit might even be reversed.
Billionaire George Soros joined an anti-Brexit campaign. The legendary investor donated 400 thousand pounds to the organization that tries to stop the process of the UK’s exit from the European Union. Interestingly, it is not some sort of a secret operation, but a plain and legal campaign called Best for Britain.
The majority of votes for leaving the EU was rather insignificant, which means that a lot of Britons are not enthusiastic about this idea. Best for Britain is the union of those who oppose disintegration. Its chairman and former UK diplomat Mark Malloch Brown confirmed that Mr. Soros contributed 400,000 pounds through his funds. “George Soros’s foundations along with a number of other major donors have also made significant contributions to our work,” he said. Before becoming a chair of Best for Britain, Mr. Malloch Brown held senior positions in the United Nations Organization and the Foreign Office.
The main goal of supporters of Best for Britain is to get a re-vote on the UK’s membership in the European Union. Besides, the anti-Brexit campaigners strive to stop the exit procedure, calling it the most serious mistake in the British history after the World War II. They fear that the exit will dent the financial and political authority of the country. Soros supports this view. Last year he said that the Britain was approaching a tipping point that would see the economy slow to such an extent that Brexit might even be reversed.
In the era of skyscrapers, townhouses, industrial parks, and other modern buildings, ancient castles overgrown with ivy and strewn with dust of oblivion amaze with their greatness and make an unforgettable impression. Here is the list of some historical homelands of the great monarchs and residences of the influential ducal and count families
Bodiam Castle, EnglandBodiam Castle in southern England is almost 500 years old, but it is a fairly modest age by historical standards. Despite the threat from France at the end of the fourteenth century, the expected invasion never took place, so the castle's defensive capability was never tested. The castle was more like a carefully strengthened lord's residence than a fortress. Bodiam Castle seems to float over a ditch filled with water that surrounds it and separates sandy walls from the wide space enveloped in vegetation.
Peles Castle, RomaniaAccording to the plan of the court architect who was entrusted with the construction of the summer residence of Carol I, the future castle was to become a spacious palace in Alpine style combining Italian elegance with the aesthetics of the German neo-Renaissance. Foothills of the Southern Carpathians, the "cradle of the dynasty", has turned into a beautiful park with a lot of streams and waterfalls.Despite the fact that most of the work was done by 1883 and the royal family spent there almost all the time, the castle was never completed during the life of Carol I. His son, King Carol II, opened the castle for visitors partially turning it into a museum. However, only after 2006 the castle was opened to all comers.
Castillo de Colomares, SpainThe central place in the composition of this unusual castle is occupied by the image of the Santa Maria flagship on which Christopher Columbus discovered America at the end of the fifteenth century. The architecture of the legend carved into stone has elements of Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic, and Moorish styles. The complex whose construction was completed in 1994 includes a mausoleum where the remains of the seafarer will rest.Possessing deep knowledge in history and architecture, Dr. Stephen Martin created a real masterpiece through which you can learn the events that influenced the history of Spain. Thus, the famous Lovers' Fountain is considered a symbol of the marriage of the Spanish monarchs Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon who ruled during the time of Columbus. The Portal of Union symbolizes the joining of Navarre to other kingdoms of Spain.
Moritzburg Castle, GermanyMoritzburg Castle is a remarkable German baroque monument of the seventeenth century, a vivid reminder of the "golden age" of Saxony.Built on a small hill, the castle seems to hover above the water, reflected in the lake surface. The richness of the castle's decor can be traced throughout: starting from the main entrance, protected by two sculptural groups of hunters with dogs, ending with the so-called "feathered hall" and luxurious collection of moose horns.
Prague Castle, Czech RepublicThe Prague Castle which saw the most important events of the country is listed inthe UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Guinness Book of Records as the largest presidential residence and the largest castle in the world (over 7 hectares). Prague Castle consists of three courtyards with palaces, temples, and monasteries of all architectural styles of the last millennium. The museums store royal jewelry, Christian relics, valuable works of art, and a number of important historical documents.
Schwerin Palace, GermanyThe town of Schwerin, or Northern Florence, became the place of the Schwerin castle construction in the sixteenth century. It is located on a small island in the middle of a picturesque lake where the water reflects the domes of this fairy-tale fortress.After extensive reconstruction in the middle of the last century the castle turned into a fabulously beautiful palace with 653 halls decorated with exquisite wood carvings, encrusted parquet, ceiling moldings, and gilding. The Baroque Schlossgarten park surrounding the castle deserves special attention
Chillon Castle, SwitzerlandThe legendary castle of Chillon is described in detail in the famous poem of George Byron “The Chillon Prisoner”, but it is also famous as one of the most terrible prisons in Europe which now represents an original museum of interesting artifacts found near the castle. It obtained its modern appearance when the castle was privately owned by the Dukes of Savoy dynasty.Despite the beauty of the interior, tourists hurry to find themselves in the creepy dungeons of the Chillon Castle where, according to the beliefs, the prisoners were tortured, and their bodies were dumped in the waters of Lake Geneva. It is well known that Jews were accused in the plague epidemic. Thousands of people were cruelly executed here by order of the Inquisition in 1348. The dungeons of the castle make the blood run cold: it seems that after centuries the cries of dying people can still be heard.
Windsor Castle, EnglandWindsor Castle serves as the permanent residence of Queen Elizabeth II and her family. The governance model in the UK is quite effective, therefore the members of the royal family still live in the most beautiful castle in the world and enjoy a huge number of privileges demonstrating the luxury and wealth of their country to the world.The residence of the monarchs, the so-called Winding Shores, is located on a high hill of the Thames shore and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest castle in the world. It is noteworthy that this oldest castle of the Albion has never turned into museum: the Queen of England arranges magnificent receptions in the castle and fulfills the obligations imposed on her by the people.
Balmoral Castle, ScotlandBalmoral Castle has been the summer residence of English monarchs for many years.The castle is famous for its rich armory, exquisitely decorated with collector's pistols, sabers, revolvers, and other weapons. The main features of this place are considered numerous forest areas, which remain intact, as well as the unique water garden.According to legend, in 1896 the last Russian emperor Nicholas II fished here and stayed at the castle with his wife, Alexandra, beloved granddaughter of the Queen Victoria.
Highclere Castle is known to all lovers of the English drama Downton Abbey which was shot here surrounded by a large park that created the illusion of isolation from modernity.The castle was changed many times, adjusting to its new owner status, until it acquired the look of a beautiful Victorian castle that we see today.
This castle which combined elements of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance styles was constructed in the center of the Iberian Peninsula.The magnificent artistic effect is achieved thanks to the skilful brickwork, the gradations of color and bizarre ornaments. Despite all its grace, the castle, consisting of a double ring of walls with dry ditch around them, is fully defensive. A huge number of loopholes of different types cut off all attempts to take the castle. Nevertheless, this did not prevent the Napoleonic troops from partially destroying it.The state privatized the castle in the twentieth century, and after that the Castle of Coca was restored and declared a national treasure. Archaeological finds, related to the Celtic-Iberian and Roman periods, attract not only tourists but also scientists from all over the world.
Kilkenny Castle, Republic of IrelandKilkenny Castle has been carefully preserved thanks to its location on the hill and the efforts of its owners (the powerful and influential Butler family) who had been living here for six centuries. In addition, for many centuries the castle was the place of important historical and state events including meetings of the Parliament of the seventeenth century.In 1967, the owner of the castle became the Committee for the Restoration of Castles. After the restoration, a magnificent collection of works of art and a rich library collection became available to tourists.
Malbork Castle, PolandMalbork Castle is one of the 7 wonders of Poland which got to the UNESCO World Heritage List after a grand restoration. During its history it served as the residence of the Teutonic Order masters, Polish kings, and Nazi organizations. After the World War II the majestic Malbork, or Marienburg, turned into smoking ruins.Despite the fact the castle was rebuilt from scratch, it became very popular among tourists.
Alc'azar of Segovia, SpainOne of the most recognizable symbols of Spain is located on the place of ancient Roman wooden fortress, not far from a well-preserved aqueduct built by the same Romans many centuries ago.During its existence the fortress in Segovia served as the royal palace, state prison, and Royal Artillery Academy. It is not only a majestic palace, but also a reliable royal fortress, the inaccessibility of which is provided not only by its position on a high rock but also by the secret underground labyrinths connecting the Alc'azar with other city palaces.
In the era of skyscrapers, townhouses, industrial parks, and other modern buildings, ancient castles overgrown with ivy and strewn with dust of oblivion amaze with their greatness and make an unforgettable impression. Here is the list of some historical homelands of the great monarchs and residences of the influential ducal and count families
Bodiam Castle, EnglandBodiam Castle in southern England is almost 500 years old, but it is a fairly modest age by historical standards. Despite the threat from France at the end of the fourteenth century, the expected invasion never took place, so the castle's defensive capability was never tested. The castle was more like a carefully strengthened lord's residence than a fortress. Bodiam Castle seems to float over a ditch filled with water that surrounds it and separates sandy walls from the wide space enveloped in vegetation.
Peles Castle, RomaniaAccording to the plan of the court architect who was entrusted with the construction of the summer residence of Carol I, the future castle was to become a spacious palace in Alpine style combining Italian elegance with the aesthetics of the German neo-Renaissance. Foothills of the Southern Carpathians, the "cradle of the dynasty", has turned into a beautiful park with a lot of streams and waterfalls.Despite the fact that most of the work was done by 1883 and the royal family spent there almost all the time, the castle was never completed during the life of Carol I. His son, King Carol II, opened the castle for visitors partially turning it into a museum. However, only after 2006 the castle was opened to all comers.
Castillo de Colomares, SpainThe central place in the composition of this unusual castle is occupied by the image of the Santa Maria flagship on which Christopher Columbus discovered America at the end of the fifteenth century. The architecture of the legend carved into stone has elements of Byzantine, Romanesque, Gothic, and Moorish styles. The complex whose construction was completed in 1994 includes a mausoleum where the remains of the seafarer will rest.Possessing deep knowledge in history and architecture, Dr. Stephen Martin created a real masterpiece through which you can learn the events that influenced the history of Spain. Thus, the famous Lovers' Fountain is considered a symbol of the marriage of the Spanish monarchs Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon who ruled during the time of Columbus. The Portal of Union symbolizes the joining of Navarre to other kingdoms of Spain.
Moritzburg Castle, GermanyMoritzburg Castle is a remarkable German baroque monument of the seventeenth century, a vivid reminder of the "golden age" of Saxony.Built on a small hill, the castle seems to hover above the water, reflected in the lake surface. The richness of the castle's decor can be traced throughout: starting from the main entrance, protected by two sculptural groups of hunters with dogs, ending with the so-called "feathered hall" and luxurious collection of moose horns.
Prague Castle, Czech RepublicThe Prague Castle which saw the most important events of the country is listed inthe UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Guinness Book of Records as the largest presidential residence and the largest castle in the world (over 7 hectares). Prague Castle consists of three courtyards with palaces, temples, and monasteries of all architectural styles of the last millennium. The museums store royal jewelry, Christian relics, valuable works of art, and a number of important historical documents.
Schwerin Palace, GermanyThe town of Schwerin, or Northern Florence, became the place of the Schwerin castle construction in the sixteenth century. It is located on a small island in the middle of a picturesque lake where the water reflects the domes of this fairy-tale fortress.After extensive reconstruction in the middle of the last century the castle turned into a fabulously beautiful palace with 653 halls decorated with exquisite wood carvings, encrusted parquet, ceiling moldings, and gilding. The Baroque Schlossgarten park surrounding the castle deserves special attention
Chillon Castle, SwitzerlandThe legendary castle of Chillon is described in detail in the famous poem of George Byron “The Chillon Prisoner”, but it is also famous as one of the most terrible prisons in Europe which now represents an original museum of interesting artifacts found near the castle. It obtained its modern appearance when the castle was privately owned by the Dukes of Savoy dynasty.Despite the beauty of the interior, tourists hurry to find themselves in the creepy dungeons of the Chillon Castle where, according to the beliefs, the prisoners were tortured, and their bodies were dumped in the waters of Lake Geneva. It is well known that Jews were accused in the plague epidemic. Thousands of people were cruelly executed here by order of the Inquisition in 1348. The dungeons of the castle make the blood run cold: it seems that after centuries the cries of dying people can still be heard.
Windsor Castle, EnglandWindsor Castle serves as the permanent residence of Queen Elizabeth II and her family. The governance model in the UK is quite effective, therefore the members of the royal family still live in the most beautiful castle in the world and enjoy a huge number of privileges demonstrating the luxury and wealth of their country to the world.The residence of the monarchs, the so-called Winding Shores, is located on a high hill of the Thames shore and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest castle in the world. It is noteworthy that this oldest castle of the Albion has never turned into museum: the Queen of England arranges magnificent receptions in the castle and fulfills the obligations imposed on her by the people.
Balmoral Castle, ScotlandBalmoral Castle has been the summer residence of English monarchs for many years.The castle is famous for its rich armory, exquisitely decorated with collector's pistols, sabers, revolvers, and other weapons. The main features of this place are considered numerous forest areas, which remain intact, as well as the unique water garden.According to legend, in 1896 the last Russian emperor Nicholas II fished here and stayed at the castle with his wife, Alexandra, beloved granddaughter of the Queen Victoria.
Highclere Castle is known to all lovers of the English drama Downton Abbey which was shot here surrounded by a large park that created the illusion of isolation from modernity.The castle was changed many times, adjusting to its new owner status, until it acquired the look of a beautiful Victorian castle that we see today.
This castle which combined elements of Moorish, Gothic and Renaissance styles was constructed in the center of the Iberian Peninsula.The magnificent artistic effect is achieved thanks to the skilful brickwork, the gradations of color and bizarre ornaments. Despite all its grace, the castle, consisting of a double ring of walls with dry ditch around them, is fully defensive. A huge number of loopholes of different types cut off all attempts to take the castle. Nevertheless, this did not prevent the Napoleonic troops from partially destroying it.The state privatized the castle in the twentieth century, and after that the Castle of Coca was restored and declared a national treasure. Archaeological finds, related to the Celtic-Iberian and Roman periods, attract not only tourists but also scientists from all over the world.
Kilkenny Castle, Republic of IrelandKilkenny Castle has been carefully preserved thanks to its location on the hill and the efforts of its owners (the powerful and influential Butler family) who had been living here for six centuries. In addition, for many centuries the castle was the place of important historical and state events including meetings of the Parliament of the seventeenth century.In 1967, the owner of the castle became the Committee for the Restoration of Castles. After the restoration, a magnificent collection of works of art and a rich library collection became available to tourists.
Malbork Castle, PolandMalbork Castle is one of the 7 wonders of Poland which got to the UNESCO World Heritage List after a grand restoration. During its history it served as the residence of the Teutonic Order masters, Polish kings, and Nazi organizations. After the World War II the majestic Malbork, or Marienburg, turned into smoking ruins.Despite the fact the castle was rebuilt from scratch, it became very popular among tourists.
Alc'azar of Segovia, SpainOne of the most recognizable symbols of Spain is located on the place of ancient Roman wooden fortress, not far from a well-preserved aqueduct built by the same Romans many centuries ago.During its existence the fortress in Segovia served as the royal palace, state prison, and Royal Artillery Academy. It is not only a majestic palace, but also a reliable royal fortress, the inaccessibility of which is provided not only by its position on a high rock but also by the secret underground labyrinths connecting the Alc'azar with other city palaces.
Понедельник, 12 Февраля 2018 г. 02:41
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The management of Gazprom shared plans to occupy the European market. Their ambitions are impressive: according to the company’s forecasts, the Russian oil and gas producer is going to take 41% of the European gas market by 2035.
Basically, this figure seems quite real, especially considering that last year the Gazprom shares amounted to 35%. In addition, the company pays special attention to the Chinese customers and is preparing to cover 10-12% of the local market by 2025, and 13% - by 2035. As for gas prices, the forecast also looks optimistic. This year, the average gas price should reach $200 per 1 thousand cubic meters. Unfortunately, the company did not give any statements regarding such large projects as Turkish Stream and Nord Stream 2, but this does not prevent Gazprom from increasing its production. According to forecasts, gas production will expand to 476 billion cubic meters in 2018 compared to 471 billion cubic meters extracted last year.
At the same time, Gazprom plans to increase gas production to 15 percent by 2020 and to 27 percent by 2025 compared to 2016. Moreover, Gazprom extended the deadline for the construction of liquefied natural gas production complex in Portovaya. Now the end of construction is scheduled to be completed in 2019, and not in 2018, as previously reported.
Понедельник, 12 Февраля 2018 г. 02:33
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The widespread occurrence of ICO (Initial Coin Offering) and blockchain start-ups allowed many investors to try their hand in the new field. However, it is necessary to take a serious approach to choosing an ICO. We prepared 6 major signs that will help you identify a risky project.
The Initial Coin Offering (ICO) enabled anyone to participate in blockchain start-ups. In 2017, there were more than 200 ICOs. Moreover, during the third quarter of 2017, ICOs raised more than $1.3 billion. However, the relative novelty of the ICO technology, the lack of understandable terminology, and the surge of public interest made emergence of numerous fraud cases possible. See six red flags to look for in order to stay away from ICO scams.
1. Project does not require blockcainNot every project requires usage of blockchain and decentralization. However, amid the widespread popularity of this technology, many companies in most industries turned to blockchain. Even projects that use virtual money as payment could be implemented using the existing cryptocurrencies.Therefore, assessing an ICO, the first question that is necessary to ask: does the startup really need its own token and blockchain? If the answer is negative to both, it is possible that this project is a scam.
2. Empty repositories for open-source projectsIf an ICO project is proposing open-source code, it should be uploaded to a repository like GitHub. Open-source software is easy to check as it is open for review and analysis. If there is no description of the technology in the ICO project, this may be a sign of fraudulent activities of the company.For investors who are not familiar with programming, it is enough to check that the project has files in public repositories and a functioning prototype.
3. Mining structure protects the interests of developersWhen developers are paid with the tokens they made, it is not always a sign of fraud. However, if there are more signs of suspicious ICO, it is better to refrain from participating in the project, especially when the percentage of tokens reserved for developers is high. Such a financial structure could be an indication that the creators do not intend to develop their project in the future but only plan to earn money by selling tokens.
4. Anonymous developers or team with weak experienceThe most important thing in evaluating a blockchain start-up is to understand who leads the project since the project's potential and its ultimate success largely depends on the development team. The lack of specialists or work experience in the relevant sphere is an obvious reason for concern.To check the information about developers, you can look for their profiles on Twitter or LinkedIn.
5. Insufficient information on website or whitepaperInsufficient or scarce information on the website can be either a sign of fraudulent activity or mean that the project is still in its infancy. For example, additional information on Asia-based ICOs can be translated into English later.Another important source of information about all ICOs is the whitepaper, the document that specifies the goal, development team members, technical details and other crucial data of the project. The lack of sufficient documentation can be regarded as a possible fraud sign.
6. Lack of clear roadmapAs a rule, all ICO projects have a plan of their goals and financing needs, which is called a roadmap. The lack of roadmap may indicate an absence of a clear long-term strategy for the development of the project. This can be a sign that developers are motivated only by short-term financial gains.
The beginning of February cost a fortune to the richest and mightiest people of the planet. In a single day moneybags lost over 110 billion dollars. But it was not their absent-mindedness that caused such huge losses but a record plunge in the US stock indices.
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq fell by over 2 percent, but the Dow Jones Industrial Average registered much bigger losses, crashing by whooping 666 points. For the whole history, the US stock market has seen only 9 similar crashes before. As a result, 500 wealthiest people of the globe lost more than 110 billion dollars. Some experts think that the US stock market reacted to improvements in the economic development and, consequently, to a possibility of sooner monetary policy tightening by the Federal Reserve.
A rating of the steepest losses was compiled promptly. The first place was designated to Warren Buffet, the founder and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. On this somber day, 5.1 billion dollars were out of his pocket. Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg took the second place, losing 3.6 billion dollars. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos made the top three with a loss of 3.3 billion dollars.
The widespread occurrence of ICO (Initial Coin Offering) and blockchain start-ups allowed many investors to try their hand in the new field. However, it is necessary to take a serious approach to choosing an ICO. We prepared 6 major signs that will help you identify a risky project.
The Initial Coin Offering (ICO) enabled anyone to participate in blockchain start-ups. In 2017, there were more than 200 ICOs. Moreover, during the third quarter of 2017, ICOs raised more than $1.3 billion. However, the relative novelty of the ICO technology, the lack of understandable terminology, and the surge of public interest made emergence of numerous fraud cases possible. See six red flags to look for in order to stay away from ICO scams.
1. Project does not require blockcainNot every project requires usage of blockchain and decentralization. However, amid the widespread popularity of this technology, many companies in most industries turned to blockchain. Even projects that use virtual money as payment could be implemented using the existing cryptocurrencies.Therefore, assessing an ICO, the first question that is necessary to ask: does the startup really need its own token and blockchain? If the answer is negative to both, it is possible that this project is a scam.
2. Empty repositories for open-source projectsIf an ICO project is proposing open-source code, it should be uploaded to a repository like GitHub. Open-source software is easy to check as it is open for review and analysis. If there is no description of the technology in the ICO project, this may be a sign of fraudulent activities of the company.For investors who are not familiar with programming, it is enough to check that the project has files in public repositories and a functioning prototype.
3. Mining structure protects the interests of developersWhen developers are paid with the tokens they made, it is not always a sign of fraud. However, if there are more signs of suspicious ICO, it is better to refrain from participating in the project, especially when the percentage of tokens reserved for developers is high. Such a financial structure could be an indication that the creators do not intend to develop their project in the future but only plan to earn money by selling tokens.
4. Anonymous developers or team with weak experienceThe most important thing in evaluating a blockchain start-up is to understand who leads the project since the project's potential and its ultimate success largely depends on the development team. The lack of specialists or work experience in the relevant sphere is an obvious reason for concern.To check the information about developers, you can look for their profiles on Twitter or LinkedIn.
5. Insufficient information on website or whitepaperInsufficient or scarce information on the website can be either a sign of fraudulent activity or mean that the project is still in its infancy. For example, additional information on Asia-based ICOs can be translated into English later.Another important source of information about all ICOs is the whitepaper, the document that specifies the goal, development team members, technical details and other crucial data of the project. The lack of sufficient documentation can be regarded as a possible fraud sign.
6. Lack of clear roadmapAs a rule, all ICO projects have a plan of their goals and financing needs, which is called a roadmap. The lack of roadmap may indicate an absence of a clear long-term strategy for the development of the project. This can be a sign that developers are motivated only by short-term financial gains.
The overhaul of Russia’s banking sector is in full swing. Citing Bank of Russia leader Elvira Nabiullina, the cleanup of the banking sector is more than half complete. “In 2017 the Bank of Russia revoked licenses from over 50 banks. This number is almost twice fewer than in 2015 and 2016. The central bank had to make three landmark decisions. Nevertheless, bearing in mind these tough decisions we think that we have nearly accomplished our crackdown on the Russian banking sector against clearly ailing participants,” the policymaker commented.
Now, the time is ripe to identify so-called predatory banks. “We realize that some banks founded in 1990s and early 2000s were aimed at grabbing money from clients as the money collected was misused to fund business of the banks’ owners. Such a scheme is doomed to failure,” the regulator’s chair noted. In other words, more banks are likely to be terminated sooner or later.
At present, the regulator is closely monitoring the banks which allocate a big share of clients’ funds for financing business of their owners. Elvira Nabiullina called on such banks to shift urgently to an accepted business model. She warned rogue banks to reconsider their business principles.
When analyzing the bitcoin dynamic, pundits and market participants consider various scenarios of the cryptocurrency future. In our gallery, you will find several possible futures of the digital currency.
Experts have most bizarre ideas about the bitcoin future. One of these pundits, Sebastien Meunier - a financial services adviser with 15 years of experience – revealed several reasons for the collapse of the world's most popular cryptocurrency. Here they are.
Critical bug in bitcoin networkThe expert estimates the possibility of this scenario as quite unlikely. However, in this case, bitcoin will lose its relevance. A bug in a bitcoin update could create a fork of a virtual currency. As a result, the integrity of the whole system will be under threat. Installation of a new system and re-launch will cause a slump in the bitcoin price.
Multiple forksThe likelihood of this scenario is small. However, if there are disagreements over the bitcoin future, forks (the code base of a software project that becomes the base for other projects) may appear. If several forks occur simultaneously, it can reduce the power of the network.
Governmental regulation of cryptocurrenciesThis scenario is quite possible. Recently, governments of several countries have been paying close attention to the issue of virtual currency regulation. Governments cannot influence bitcoin directly due to its decentralized nature, but they can control and restrict its use on their territory. Sebastien is sure that global leaders are ready to support cryptocurrency regulation, impose taxes, and protect interests of global investors.
Large-scale cyber-attackMeunier considers the likelihood of a large cyber-attack rather high. In the so-called 51-percent attack, an actor can try to hack the protocol itself. In this case, the whole ecosystem of bitcoin will be destroyed. This scenario is less possible than a general hack of an application built on top of the protocol.
Appearance of rival cryptocurrencyA new digital currency, which can replace bitcoin perfectly, may appear. This is not very likely, but if there is such a virtual means of payment, it should exceed the bitcoin capitalization and effect by several times.
Market fatigueMeunier finds the scenario, in which the market will get fed up with bitcoin, unlikely. If digital means of payment fail to gain in popularity in the real world, people will lose interest in them. As a result, growth in the market will slow down and investments will shrink. The crypto market will lose its investing appeal.
When analyzing the bitcoin dynamic, pundits and market participants consider various scenarios of the cryptocurrency future. In our gallery, you will find several possible futures of the digital currency.
Experts have most bizarre ideas about the bitcoin future. One of these pundits, Sebastien Meunier - a financial services adviser with 15 years of experience – revealed several reasons for the collapse of the world's most popular cryptocurrency. Here they are.
Critical bug in bitcoin networkThe expert estimates the possibility of this scenario as quite unlikely. However, in this case, bitcoin will lose its relevance. A bug in a bitcoin update could create a fork of a virtual currency. As a result, the integrity of the whole system will be under threat. Installation of a new system and re-launch will cause a slump in the bitcoin price.
Multiple forksThe likelihood of this scenario is small. However, if there are disagreements over the bitcoin future, forks (the code base of a software project that becomes the base for other projects) may appear. If several forks occur simultaneously, it can reduce the power of the network.
Governmental regulation of cryptocurrenciesThis scenario is quite possible. Recently, governments of several countries have been paying close attention to the issue of virtual currency regulation. Governments cannot influence bitcoin directly due to its decentralized nature, but they can control and restrict its use on their territory. Sebastien is sure that global leaders are ready to support cryptocurrency regulation, impose taxes, and protect interests of global investors.
Large-scale cyber-attackMeunier considers the likelihood of a large cyber-attack rather high. In the so-called 51-percent attack, an actor can try to hack the protocol itself. In this case, the whole ecosystem of bitcoin will be destroyed. This scenario is less possible than a general hack of an application built on top of the protocol.
Appearance of rival cryptocurrencyA new digital currency, which can replace bitcoin perfectly, may appear. This is not very likely, but if there is such a virtual means of payment, it should exceed the bitcoin capitalization and effect by several times.
Market fatigueMeunier finds the scenario, in which the market will get fed up with bitcoin, unlikely. If digital means of payment fail to gain in popularity in the real world, people will lose interest in them. As a result, growth in the market will slow down and investments will shrink. The crypto market will lose its investing appeal.
