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Hopeful Malta Faces England in Final Euro 2024 Qualifier After 7 Straight Losses

Hopeful Malta Faces England in Final Euro 2024 Qualifier After 7 Straight Losses
Nov 17 2023 Share

As England reveals its lineup for the Euro 2024 Qualifier against Malta, the anticipation for Friday evening’s clash at 20:45 continues to mount.

Despite a setback with five players sidelined due to injuries, manager Gareth Southgate remains confident in the team’s preparedness as they gear up for the crucial match.

Jude Bellingham, James Maddison, Callum Wilson, Lewis Dunk, and Levi Colwill’s absence has paved the way for new talent, with call-ups for Cole Palmer, Ezri Konsa, and Rico Lewis injecting fresh energy into the squad. Manager Gareth Southgate emphasizes the team’s depth and versatility, assuring fans that England is ready to face the challenge.

On the other side of the pitch, Malta’s national team coach, Michele Marcolini, anticipates one of the most difficult matches yet for the squad. With Malta facing seven straight losses in the group, Marcolini acknowledges the formidable task ahead.

As the clock ticks down to the evening showdown, football enthusiasts brace themselves for an intense Euro 2024 Qualifier, where both England and Malta seek to make their mark and give their all.

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Domenic Aquilina

4 in 10 EU Citizens Follow Influencers on Social Media, Survey Reveals

4 in 10 EU Citizens Follow Influencers on Social Media, Survey Reveals
Nov 17 2023 Share

A recent Eurobarometer survey has unveiled a striking trend in the media landscape, emphasising the significant influence of social media influencers as a source of news. While TV remains a prominent choice for 71% of EU respondents to access news in the last seven days, the study highlighted a noteworthy revelation: 4 in 10 EU citizens actively follow influencers on social media for their news updates.

The survey shed light on the changing dynamics of news consumption, indicating that influencers wield considerable impact in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. The findings underscore the emergence of a new paradigm, where individuals across the European Union increasingly turn to online personalities for their daily news intake.

Notably, people in Malta and Cyprus emerged as frontrunners in this influencer-led news consumption trend, with 70% revealing that social media is their primary source of news. Hungary followed closely in second place, with 56% of respondents depending on social media for their news updates. Latvia, Greece, and Bulgaria rounded out the top three with a shared percentage of 55% reliance on influencers for news.

As influencers continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the media landscape, it prompts contemplation on the future of traditional news outlets and their ability to adapt to the evolving preferences of a digitally-engaged audience.

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Maltese Most Likely in EU to Get News From Social Media

Maltese Most Likely in EU to Get News From Social Media
Nov 17 2023 Share

A recent Eurobarometer survey has brought to light the evolving landscape of media consumption habits, revealing that people in Malta and Cyprus are most likely to get their news from social media platforms. Despite television being a predominant source of news for 71% of respondents across the European Union, an astonishing 70% of individuals in Malta and Cyprus disclosed that they access their news primarily through social media, marking the highest rate in the EU.

The study, which examined recent media habits, positioned Hungary in second place with 56% of respondents relying on social media for their news updates. Following closely behind were Latvia, Greece, and Bulgaria, each recording a 55% dependence on social media as a primary source of news.

The prevalence of social media as a news source is not limited to specific countries, as the survey found that 4 in 10 European Union citizens across the board actively follow influencers on various social media platforms. This trend underscores the increasing influence of online personalities in shaping public opinion and disseminating information.

As social media continues to play an integral role in the way people consume news, the findings of the Eurobarometer survey signal a noteworthy shift in media preferences. The results prompt reflection on the changing dynamics of information dissemination and the impact of social media platforms on shaping public discourse across Europe. As these platforms become key conduits for news consumption, it remains to be seen how traditional media outlets will adapt to meet the evolving preferences of today’s digital-savvy audience.

Young Adults Need At Least €25,000 in Annual Income to Secure a Loan in 2023

Young Adults Need At Least €25,000 in Annual Income to Secure a Loan in 2023
Nov 17 2023 Share

A recent study conducted by the Foundation for Affordable Housing has shed light on growing challenges for young adults in the realm of securing loans in 2023.

The study indicates that individuals aged between 20 and 25 years now face increased eligibility criteria, with a requirement of an annual income of at least €25,000 to secure a loan. Moreover, if interest rates increase in line with international market developments, these young adults could find themselves needing over €30,000 to qualify for a loan.

This shift in eligibility criteria not only affects the prospects of homeownership for the typical first-time buyer but also impacts renters and individuals who are separated or divorced. The study highlights that these demographics now require a higher income threshold to become eligible for a loan, further limiting their access to the housing market.

The Foundation for Affordable Housing’s study also delves into the financial strains faced by many families, revealing that 13,000 households are spending over 30% of their income on home-related expenses. This alarming statistic emphasises the heavy financial responsibilities borne by these families, underlining the urgent need for solutions to address the affordability crisis.

As the housing landscape evolves, policymakers, financial institutions, and advocacy groups are urged to collaborate in finding sustainable solutions. From reevaluating loan eligibility criteria to exploring initiatives that promote affordable housing options, addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure that young adults and struggling families are not excluded from the opportunity to secure a stable and affordable home.

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