ICTSI plows $130M as Subic terminals get fresh term

MANILA, Philippines – International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), led by tycoon Enrique Razon Jr., has earmarked more than $130 million to bolster its Subic port operations following the extension of its concession agreements for an additional 25 years.

The listed global ports operator announced that its subsidiaries, Subic Bay International Terminal Corp. and ICTSI Subic Inc., will spearhead these developments aimed at enhancing capacity and efficiency at the Subic port. This significant investment underscores ICTSI’s commitment to strengthening its presence and service quality in the region.
https://business.inquirer.net/551035/ictsi-plows-130m-as-subic-terminals-get-fresh-term

You’ll Never Guess the Salaries of These 15 Undesirable Jobs – Are You Tempted?

Ever wondered about the high-paying jobs that are often shunned due to their inherent dangers or other reasons? Those that seem to hold little appeal? If curiosity has piqued your interest, get ready to delve into a list of undesirable occupations that surprisingly come with impressive paychecks.

How much do these jobs make? What makes them unattractive to most? Discover the world of these seldom-chosen professions and satisfy your curiosity by uncovering their earnings. Prepare to be surprised as we explore the fascinating intersection of money, risk, and occupational choices.

### 1. Sewage Inspector

Let’s dive into our list. First, we have the sewage inspector. A sewage inspector is responsible for inspecting and monitoring sewage systems in a given area to ensure they function properly and safely. They may work for government agencies, private companies, or consulting firms.

Their main duties include conducting inspections of sewage systems, identifying and reporting issues, and ensuring all systems comply with codes and regulations. They may also investigate complaints related to sewage systems and respond to emergencies such as spills or leaks.

This job is undesirable due to the nature of the work—it involves unpleasant environments, exposure to hazardous materials, and foul odors. Additionally, it can be physically demanding and requires working in confined spaces. Specialized training and certification are also necessary, making qualified candidates harder to find.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for environmental compliance inspectors, which includes sewage inspectors, is $71,130. Salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and employer.

### 2. Bull Semen Collector

A bull semen collector collects semen from bulls for artificial insemination. The process involves using an electro-ejaculation device to stimulate the bull’s reproductive organs and collect the semen using a specialized tool. The semen is then stored for laboratory analysis or direct use.

This job requires comfort working with large, powerful animals and handling their reproductive organs. It can be physically demanding and may involve long hours.

The average annual salary for an animal breeder, including bull semen collectors, is around $43,650.

### 3. Crime Scene Cleaner

Crime scene cleaners work in challenging and hazardous conditions. They must be trained to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning agents to avoid exposure to bloodborne pathogens and infectious diseases.

Besides the physical demands, this job is emotionally taxing. Cleaners often encounter gruesome scenes that can cause psychological trauma or trigger anxiety and depression. They also need to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive situations with professionalism and compassion.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for crime scene cleaners is approximately $43,900, though this can vary depending on location, experience, and company size.

### 4. Medical Tester

Clinical trial testers participate in medical research studies to assess the safety and effectiveness of new treatments, drugs, or medical devices. Both healthy individuals and those with specific medical conditions may participate.

Testers follow study protocols involving blood tests, imaging scans, medication administration, or even surgeries to help evaluate the treatment’s impact on a broader population.

Despite the importance of this role, many hesitate to participate due to concerns over potential side effects from experimental treatments. Clinical trial testers usually do not receive a salary but may be compensated for their time and related expenses, such as travel or childcare. Compensation varies widely depending on the study’s duration and complexity, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

### 5. Police Officer

Police officers are responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and responding to emergencies. They work across various environments, including neighborhoods, highways, and specialized units like SWAT or detective divisions.

Though vital to society, the role involves physical danger, emotional stress, and long hours, which can deter many from pursuing this career. Recent incidents involving police brutality and racial profiling have also impacted public trust.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, police officers and detectives earn a median annual salary of $67,290, with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans commonly provided. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and rank.

### 6. Snake Milker

Snake milkers extract venom from snakes for medical and research purposes. This profession requires extensive knowledge of snake behavior and venom, along with specialized tools and techniques to safely collect venom.

Working with venomous snakes involves significant physical risks, including life-threatening bites, demanding high levels of skill and concentration.

In the United States, the average annual salary for snake milkers ranges between $30,000 and $50,000, depending on experience, location, and employer.

### 7. Embalmer

Embalmers prepare deceased bodies for funeral services, burial, or cremation. Their tasks include cleaning, disinfecting, and replacing bodily fluids with embalming fluid, as well as setting facial features for a peaceful appearance. They also dress the body and apply makeup to enhance its look.

This job is emotionally and physically demanding. Embalmers often handle bodies from traumatic situations and must pay close attention to detail while managing delicate tissue.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for funeral service workers, which includes embalmers, is $56,900. Some embalmers earn over $80,000 per year.

### 8. Sanitation Worker

Sanitation workers, also known as garbage collectors or waste management workers, are responsible for collecting and disposing of waste and recyclable materials. Their duties include operating garbage trucks, picking up bins, and ensuring proper waste disposal.

The job is physically demanding, often involving heavy lifting, unpleasant odors, and exposure to hazardous materials. Working conditions can be challenging, and hours may be irregular.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $38,990 for refuse and recyclable material collectors, with earnings up to $50,000 for those willing to get their hands dirty.

### 9. Oil Rig Worker

Oil rig workers operate and maintain offshore oil rigs. Responsibilities include overseeing drilling equipment, regulating oil flow, handling material transfers, and ensuring safety compliance.

Working on oil rigs is hazardous, involving harsh conditions, high risk of accidents, and long periods away from home. Strict adherence to safety protocols and physical stamina are essential.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics cites a median annual salary of $51,590 for derrick operators, a type of oil rig worker. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and job responsibilities.

### 10. Slaughterhouse Worker

Slaughterhouse workers slaughter animals and prepare them for meat processing. Their work involves using tools and machinery to stun, bleed, and dismember animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens.

This physically demanding job takes place in noisy, dirty environments with exposure to hazardous substances including blood, feces, and chemicals. Workers face injury risks from sharp tools and potential exposure to animal-borne diseases.

Due to these challenges, many hesitate to enter this field, resulting in a high turnover rate.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slaughterers and meat packers have a median annual wage of $29,360. No formal education is required to start.

### 11. Portable Toilet Cleaner

Portable toilet cleaners maintain and sanitize portable toilets found at outdoor events, construction sites, and other locations lacking traditional restroom facilities.

Their duties include emptying waste tanks, sanitizing surfaces, restocking supplies, and performing routine maintenance.

This job is often considered undesirable because it involves frequent handling of human waste and exposure to strong odors, making it physically and emotionally challenging.

Despite this, portable toilet cleaners provide an essential service, keeping public areas clean and sanitary.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the median annual salary for janitors and cleaners, including portable toilet cleaners, at $28,110.

### 12. Elevator Installer

Elevator installers install, repair, and maintain elevators and lifts in public and private buildings. They read blueprints, install components, and conduct routine maintenance.

This specialized job requires physical fitness and involves working at heights and in confined spaces. Due to its specialized nature and safety risks, there is a shortage of qualified installers.

Elevator installers typically complete a four-year apprenticeship. They earn a median annual wage of $84,990, with salaries varying by experience, location, and industry.

### 13. Landfill Operator

Landfill operators manage and maintain waste disposal sites. Their duties include overseeing daily operations, coordinating with waste haulers, and supervising staff to ensure safe waste handling and prevent environmental hazards.

This role is often viewed as undesirable due to physical demands, exposure to unpleasant odors and hazardous materials, plus the stigma attached to waste management.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, landfill operators earn a median annual salary of $44,840.

Despite the challenges, they play a crucial role in waste management and environmental safety.

### 14. Coal Miner

Coal miners extract coal from underground or surface mines using specialized equipment. The job involves strenuous physical activity and can lead to long-term health issues like lung disease and chronic back pain.

Additionally, declining demand for coal has limited job prospects.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $47,040 for mining occupations, including coal miners.

Despite risks and challenges, coal miners remain essential to the mining sector and energy production.

### 15. Crab Fisherman

Crab fishermen catch crabs commercially by setting traps, baiting them, and retrieving the catch. The work is physically demanding, dangerous, and often seasonal.

It is considered among the most hazardous professions worldwide due to extreme weather conditions and the risk involved. Financial compensation often does not match the risks.

Nevertheless, crab fishermen supply crabs to the seafood industry, supporting processors, restaurants, and markets.

The median annual wage for fishermen and fishing workers, including crab fishermen, is $52,435, with top earners making between $52,435 and $132,077.

These jobs may not be appealing for many due to their risks and challenges, but they offer impressive paychecks and remain vital to various industries. Whether it’s the health hazards, emotional strain, or physical demands, these professions remind us of the complex balance between risk and reward in the workforce.
https://radicalfire.com/undesirable-jobs/

Mahindra launches new Bolero range with added features, reduced prices

Mahindra Launches New Bolero Range with Added Features and Reduced Prices

By Akash Pandey | Oct 06, 2025, 05:13 PM

Mahindra has unveiled an updated lineup of its popular SUVs, the Bolero and Bolero Neo, for the 2025 model year. These refreshed models come with updated styling, enhanced features, and competitively reduced prices, making them more appealing to a wide range of buyers.

Pricing and Variants

The standard Bolero now starts at an attractive price of ₹7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Bolero Neo begins at ₹8.49 lakh. Both models also introduce new top-end variants that blend modern touches with their rugged, trusted character.

The Bolero is offered in three variants for 2025:

  • B4: Entry-level variant priced at ₹7.99 lakh, down from ₹8.79 lakh.
  • B6: Mid-spec variant priced at ₹8.69 lakh.
  • B8: New flagship variant priced at ₹9.69 lakh.

This pricing strategy aims to make the Bolero more accessible to first-time SUV buyers, while providing added value across all trims.

Feature and Safety Upgrades

The entry-level B4 variant retains its focus on essential features, sporting vinyl seats and a practical interior. The B6 mid-spec variant now benefits from fabric upholstery and a touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The flagship B8 variant brings premium upgrades such as leatherette upholstery, diamond-cut alloy wheels, fog lamps, and static bending headlamps. These features elevate both the visual appeal and everyday usability of the Bolero.

For the first time, the Bolero is equipped with a 17.8cm touchscreen infotainment system that includes steering-mounted controls. Additional new features include a Driver Information System (DIS) to display key vehicle data and USB Type-C charging ports for greater practicality.

Design Enhancements

Mahindra has refreshed the Bolero’s exterior with a new grille design across all variants and introduced a “Stealth Black” color option, lending the SUV a more premium and imposing stance.

Updates to the Bolero Neo

Targeted at urban and semi-urban buyers seeking ruggedness in a compact SUV, the Bolero Neo receives significant updates for 2025. It features a revised front grille with horizontal accents and new 16-inch alloy wheels, while maintaining its signature boxy silhouette and tailgate-mounted spare wheel.

Two new exterior colors, Jeans Blue and Concrete Gray, have been added to the palette to enhance the Neo’s visual appeal.

Inside, the Bolero Neo boasts a major technology upgrade with a larger 22.8cm (9-inch) touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with a rear-view camera for added convenience. The cabin now features a fresh dual-tone theme, updated materials, and a USB Type-C port.

Performance

Under the hood, the Bolero Neo continues to be powered by the reliable 1.5-liter mHawk100 diesel engine, delivering 100hp and 260Nm of torque. This is paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission, ensuring a balance of power and efficiency for daily driving.

Conclusion

With refreshed styling, enhanced features, and attractive pricing, the 2025 Mahindra Bolero and Bolero Neo deliver improved value and modern conveniences while retaining their rugged charm. These updates reinforce their position as popular choices for buyers looking for practical and dependable SUVs.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/mahindra-bolero-bolero-neo-get-major-updates-for-2025/story

CGHS rates revised after 15 years: How it affects you

**CGHS Rates Revised After 15 Years: How It Affects You**
*By Mudit Dube | Oct 06, 2025, 05:28 PM*

**What’s the Story?**

The Union Health Ministry has announced a significant overhaul of the Central Government Health Services (CGHS) scheme for the first time since 2014. The revised rates for nearly 2,000 medical procedures will come into effect from October 13, 2025.

This new rate structure takes into account several important factors, including accreditation status, hospital type, city classification, and ward entitlement, aiming to better reflect current healthcare realities.

**Scheme Revamp: Addressing Complaints from Beneficiaries and Hospitals**

The revision comes amid growing complaints from CGHS beneficiaries about the denial of cashless treatment by empanelled hospitals. Many patients reported having to pay out of pocket and then wait months for reimbursement.

Hospitals, meanwhile, argued that the government-set package rates had become outdated and failed to keep pace with medical inflation over the past 11 years.

The newly introduced multi-dimensional rate structure seeks to address these issues, ensuring fair compensation for hospitals and smoother access to cashless treatment for patients.

**New Rate Structure: Based on Ward Entitlement**

The revised framework applies to all categories of CGHS cardholders, with rates anchored to the cost of a semi-private room, which serves as the base package rate.

– **General Ward Entitlement**: A 5% reduction in rates applies.
– **Private Ward Entitlement**: Rates increase by 5% compared to the base.

Additionally, consultations at hospitals and healthcare organizations accredited by NABH or NABL will be charged at the standard base rate. Non-accredited healthcare organizations will have rates 15% lower than those for accredited hospitals.

**City-Wise Rate Variations Introduced**

To accommodate geographical cost differences, the scheme now includes tier-wise rate variations for CGHS-empanelled hospitals located in Tier I, II, and III cities:

– Rates in **Tier II cities** will be 10% lower than in Tier I.
– Rates in **Tier III cities** will be 20% lower than in Tier I.

However, rates for radiotherapy, investigations, day-care procedures, and minor procedures that do not require hospital admission will remain consistent across all ward entitlements and city classifications.

**Beneficiary Coverage and Implementation**

CGHS primarily serves central government employees, pensioners, and their dependent family members. As of October 5, 2025, the scheme covers approximately 4.26 million beneficiaries across 80 cities in India.

The Union Health Ministry has instructed all healthcare organizations under the CGHS network to submit an undertaking confirming their acceptance of the new rates’ terms and conditions by October 13. Failure to comply will result in de-paneling from the scheme.

**What This Means for You**

If you are a CGHS beneficiary, the revised rates could affect the costs associated with your medical procedures depending on your ward entitlement, your city, and the accreditation status of the hospital you visit.

For hospitals and healthcare providers, accepting the new terms is mandatory to continue serving CGHS patients and to receive government reimbursements under the updated framework.

Stay informed and check with your CGHS-appointed healthcare provider about how these changes may impact your access to services and reimbursements going forward.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/new-cghs-rate-structure-effective-from-october-13/story

Bitcoin Keeps Breaking Records, But Each Halving Cycle Delivers Smaller Gains

**Bitcoin’s Historical Price Trajectory Shows Shrinking Post-Halving Gains**

Bitcoin (BTC) has exhibited a clear historical price pattern: after each halving, the asset climbs to new highs. However, recent data reveal that the magnitude of these post-halving gains has steadily diminished over time, particularly since the second halving.

**Returns Are Shrinking Fast**

Bitcoin halvings reduce the rate at which new coins enter circulation by slashing block rewards. Since 2012, block rewards have dropped by 87.5%—from 25 BTC to the current 3.125 BTC—fueling scarcity-driven narratives that traditionally support Bitcoin’s upward price momentum.

Over this period, Bitcoin’s value has surged more than 9,110-fold, reaching a high of $109,000 on September 1, 2025. Just a month later, the cryptocurrency climbed above $120,000.

Despite these impressive numbers, CoinGecko reports that post-halving returns have significantly waned. The second halving cycle in 2017 delivered peak gains of 29x, the 2021 cycle saw returns drop to 6.7x, and the latest 2025 cycle has produced a comparatively modest 93.1% increase.

Interestingly, this cycle’s rhythm shifted when Bitcoin hit a record $73,400 in March 2024—months before the fourth halving—challenging historical expectations about the timing of peak prices.

**Market Activity Explodes**

Market activity has grown exponentially alongside Bitcoin’s price, with daily trading volumes soaring from roughly $20 million in 2013 to nearly $30 billion in 2025. This heightened activity has not deterred publicly listed companies from adopting Bitcoin as a treasury asset.

As of October 3, nearly 1,040,061 BTC were held by almost 200 publicly listed firms, accounting for almost 5% of the total BTC supply. Leading this corporate adoption is Strategy, which holds 640,031 BTC—representing 63.2% of all corporate-held Bitcoin—and recently added another 4,048 BTC on September 2.

Several new companies have also made significant moves into Bitcoin. Twenty One, backed by Tether, Bitfinex, Cantor Fitzgerald, and SoftBank, has purchased 43,514 BTC since May, becoming the third-largest corporate holder.

Meanwhile, US-based healthcare firm KindlyMD expanded its holdings through a merger with Nakamoto BTC Holdings, adding 5,765 BTC and announcing plans to raise $5 billion to further grow its treasury.

Internationally, organizations like MetaPlanet in Japan and Treasury BV in Europe are building sizable Bitcoin treasuries. Treasury BV recently raised $147 million to acquire more than 1,000 BTC.

**Bitcoin’s Backbone Strengthens**

As institutional holdings climb, the Bitcoin network itself is growing stronger. The network’s mining hash rate has been on a steady upward trajectory, driven by increasing participation from both individual miners and institutional players.

Over the past year alone, the hash rate surged 88%, rising from 670 million TH/s to 1.266 ZH/s.

The US mining ecosystem has expanded significantly under the Trump administration, aided in part by the relocation of Chinese mining hardware manufacturers—such as Bitmain, Canaan, and MicroBT—to the US. These moves were driven by tariffs and regulatory pressures in China.

Domestic firms including HIVE, Hut 8, Marathon, and CleanSpark have increasingly prioritized alternative energy sources for their new mining facilities, bolstering the network’s sustainability.

Adding momentum to this trend, Eric Trump recently co-founded American Bitcoin Corp, which debuted on the Nasdaq, further signaling growing institutional interest in Bitcoin mining and infrastructure.

**In summary**, while Bitcoin continues to break price records and attract institutional adoption, the post-halving price gains have compressed over time. This evolving landscape reflects a maturing asset class supported by expanding network infrastructure and increasing corporate treasury participation.
https://bitcoinethereumnews.com/bitcoin/bitcoin-keeps-breaking-records-but-each-halving-cycle-delivers-smaller-gains/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=bitcoin-keeps-breaking-records-but-each-halving-cycle-delivers-smaller-gains

Robinsons takes its turn to update malls

Flagship Robinsons malls are set to undergo a major facelift to keep pace with other developers who are pursuing renovations in response to rapidly evolving consumer needs.

Mybelle GoBio, president and CEO of Robinsons Land Corp. (RLC), confirmed to reporters last week that the company would soon announce its mall reinvention program.

First in line for these upgrades are the older Robinsons malls, which will receive significant enhancements to better serve shoppers and stay competitive in the market.
https://business.inquirer.net/550886/robinsons-takes-its-turn-to-update-malls

Chancellor faces calls to axe stamp duty on shares

Rachel Reeves is under mounting pressure to axe stamp duty on share trading in order to breathe new life into the UK stock market.

Concerns are growing that the number of firms leaving London for rival financial hubs, including New York, will increase unless urgent action is taken.

In response, the Chancellor is considering introducing a stamp duty break for investors buying newly listed shares, aiming to encourage more companies to list on the UK stock market.

However, there are increasing calls to scrap the 0.5 percent levy on share trading altogether.

Charles Hall, from Peel Hunt, argued that the tax should be abolished but acknowledged that Labour is unlikely to do so given the current state of the economy. He also pointed to AstraZeneca’s plans for a full listing in New York as a “proper warning shot” for the UK market.
https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-15164389/Chancellor-faces-calls-axe-stamp-duty-shares.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

OPEC might increase oil production a bit this November

**OPEC May Slightly Boost Oil Production This November**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 5, 2025, 6:41 PM*

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is reportedly close to finalizing a minor increase in oil production for November. According to delegates from key member countries, the group is likely to approve an output boost of approximately 137,000 barrels per day (bpd), maintaining the same increment as this month.

### Efforts to Regain Market Share

This decision comes as part of OPEC’s broader strategy to reclaim its share in the global oil markets. The group is gradually reintroducing halted production, adding back around 1.65 million bpd to the market after a larger tranche was recently restored. Despite this, oil prices have been hovering near a four-month low, underscoring the delicate balance OPEC and its allies must manage amid an oversupplied market.

### Market Overview: Prices and Supply Dynamics

Oil prices remain subdued as fresh supply enters a market still absorbing previous increases. There has been a noticeable build-up of unsold Middle Eastern cargoes, and futures market trends indicate near-term weakness ahead.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has issued warnings about a looming record surplus, projecting that inventories will swell rapidly during the current quarter. These developments are driven by slowing global oil demand and expanding supply, particularly from producers in the Americas, with the IEA forecasting a historic surplus by 2026.

### Diverging Strategies within OPEC

Within OPEC, differing views are emerging regarding the pace and scale of production increases. The co-leaders, Saudi Arabia and Russia, have expressed contrasting perspectives.

Saudi Arabia, which has been most affected by previous production cuts now being reversed, is advocating for a more aggressive output increase to regain lost market share. Russia and other members, meanwhile, appear cautious about ramping up production too quickly, reflecting strategic differences within the group.

### Constraints on Spare Capacity

The recent series of production hikes has also spotlighted the limits of spare capacity within the OPEC alliance. Since May, eight key members have restored only about 60% of a planned 2.2 million bpd supply tranche.

This shortfall partly results from some countries offsetting prior periods of overproduction. More importantly, it suggests that certain members may already be operating near full capacity, limiting how much additional supply OPEC can effectively bring to the market in the near term.

OPEC’s upcoming decision on November’s production levels will be closely watched by market participants as the group navigates a complex landscape shaped by supply constraints, internal strategic differences, and evolving global demand dynamics.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/opec-nearing-deal-for-minor-oil-production-increase-report/story

Why Vedanta is planning an investment of over ₹13,220cr

Vedanta Ltd, India’s leading aluminum producer, has announced a major expansion plan. This move aims to strengthen the company’s position in the aluminum industry and meet the growing demand for aluminum products in both domestic and international markets.

The expansion plan includes increasing production capacity, adopting advanced technologies, and enhancing operational efficiency. Vedanta Ltd is committed to sustainable growth and aims to contribute significantly to India’s economic development through this initiative.

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/vedanta-to-invest-13-226cr-in-aluminum-production-expansion/story

Ford, GM Use Leasing ‘Loophole’ to Extend $7,500 EV Tax Credit

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is considered one of the best stocks to buy under $20.

On September 30, Ford and General Motors Company (NYSE: GM) launched programs with their car dealers aimed at effectively extending the benefits of the expiring $7,500 U.S. federal tax credit on electric vehicle (EV) leases.

This strategic move comes just ahead of the subsidy’s expiration date, providing additional incentives for consumers interested in leasing EVs from these automakers.
https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/ford-gm-leasing-loophole-extend-205455746.html