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Sentinel Legal Celebrates Victory for Consumers: Landmark Court of Appeal Ruling in Motor Finance Mis-Selling Case

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CHELTENHAM, England, Oct. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sentinel Legal, a leading consumer rights law firm, is celebrating a landmark Court of Appeal ruling in favor of the claimant in Johnson v. Firstrand Bank. This case, which was also championed by HD Law, addresses the mis-selling of motor finance under Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) agreements, holding lenders accountable for misleading practices and establishing a crucial legal precedent that may reshape the motor finance industry.

Conservative estimates suggest over £21 billion could be returned to consumers, offering essential financial relief to households across the UK during these challenging economic times. With the FCA reporting that 75% of all cars on UK roads are financed, the impact of this decision is vast.

A Watershed Moment for Consumer Rights

The Johnson case, the first of its kind to reach the Court of Appeal, revealed how consumers were misled into PCP deals that were misrepresented at the point of sale. Many thought they were securing competitive finance deals, only to discover hidden fees and excessive interest rates. The ruling compels lenders to assume responsibility for these practices and creates a legal precedent expected to influence future motor finance mis-selling cases. The FCA may also adjust its oversight of car finance agreements based on this decision, potentially leading to stronger consumer protections.

“This ruling is a massive win for consumer justice,” said Sam Ward, Director at Sentinel Legal. “For too long, lenders have taken advantage of consumers through complex, unfair finance deals. This decision finally puts power back into the hands of consumers, forcing banks to face the consequences of their actions.”

Kevin Durkin, Director of HD Law, brought the case to the Court of Appeal following an initial defeat. He emphasized the role of the court in exposing unethical practices, noting that lenders often pay secret commissions to car dealers to steer consumers their way or inflate interest rates to boost their own profits. “For years, this underhanded practice has gone unchecked, leaving customers in the dark while banks and dealerships profited from hidden arrangements,” Durkin said.

Ripple Effect on the Motor Finance Industry

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Durkin explained that vague commission references were buried within convoluted paperwork, hiding these behind-the-scenes kickbacks. He likened these secret commission practices to the PPI mis-selling scandal, which also saw hidden profits at consumers’ expense. “The lesson for the motor finance sector is clear: transparency and consumer protection are no longer optional—they are essential.”

The FCA is closely monitoring the ruling’s impact on similar cases, including Barclays’ judicial review on PCP finance mis-selling heard by the High Court on October 15th. This decision is likely to serve as a model for future cases, impacting complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service and influencing the FCA’s redress scheme. According to FCA lawyer Jemima Stratford, the ruling will guide ongoing reviews of motor finance commission arrangements, further pressuring lenders to compensate consumers misled by unfair finance deals.

Sentinel Legal and HD Law: Championing Consumer Rights

“With scrutiny of the industry increasing, Sentinel Legal is ready to support those affected by predatory PCP agreements,” Ward added. “This case marks a turning point, giving consumers a clear path to seek compensation for unfair finance deals. With £21 billion potentially due to consumers, this decision underscores the importance of holding lenders accountable. Sentinel Legal will continue to stand up for those affected, fighting for the justice and redress they deserve.”

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FII8 Day Three Ends with $70 Billion in Deals Announced

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Nov. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute wrapped up Day 3 of its 8th annual gathering in Riyadh, with an “Investment Day” under the theme of “Infinite Horizons: Investing Today, Shaping Tomorrow.” Leaders, investors, and innovators explored avenues to drive impactful investment in emerging markets, venture capital, and sustainable growth strategies, setting the stage for the future of global finance and economic development.

Richard Attias, CEO of the FII Institute, commented on the day’s events: “Today’s discussions underscored the power of targeted investments to transcend traditional boundaries, creating opportunities in markets that promise to shape the next economic era. Our collective focus on deploying capital with long-term vision and sustainability will guide us as we navigate an ever-changing landscape.”

Standout Moments from FII8 Day 3:

1.         Opening Remarks by H.E. Faisal F. Alibrahim

H.E. Faisal F. Alibrahim, Minister of Economy & Planning for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia opening remarks set the tone for the day, emphasizing the role of investment in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation under Vision 2030, highlighting non-oil growth as pivotal for future diversification.

2.         Panel on Alternative Asset Growth in Emerging Markets

Key insights were shared during a session featuring H.E. Mohammed El-Kuwaiz, Chairman, Capital Market Authority (CMA); Rishi Kapoor, Vice Chairman & CIO, Investcorp; Chip Kaye, Chairman, Warburg Pincus LLC which focused on new frontiers in alternative asset growth. This panel explored trends driving investments in emerging economies, spotlighting regions set to lead the next growth phase.

3.         Capital Allocators Roundtable

A high-level discussion gathered influential leaders to discuss 2024’s projected impact for alternative assets and the diversification trends shaping institutional portfolios. The roundtable featured a diverse array of experts, including institutional investors, and thought leaders, all sharing insights on how alternative investments are becoming crucial in navigating economic uncertainties.

4.         Venture Capital Hotspots: Catalysts for Disruption

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In this session, the panel explored the evolving landscape of innovation funding, with a particular emphasis on developments in burgeoning markets like Saudi Arabia.

5.         Health Humanity Initiative

In a global effort to secure a healthier future for all, FII Institute launched the Healthy Humanity Initiative inviting over 100 corporations, 10 health insurance companies insurers and governments from the Global South and North to join the movement to impact lives by providing free preventive health checkups for citizens every two years, waive up to 50% in health bills and ensure tax-free benefits. So far, this initiative has garnered support from Saudi Health in All Policies (HIAP), Claure Group, Moderna, Merck GCC, ⁠Ausmed Global, ⁠Qi Ming Venture Partners, ⁠Burjeel Holdings, SCAI, CURA, Genrait and Cleveland Clinic.

6.         Health Longevity Compass

The FII Institute presented findings from the Healthy Longevity Compass, which surveyed 22,600 respondents across 21 countries in partnership with The McKinsey Health Institute. The study revealed that 70% of individuals aspire to adopt healthier living habits, yet 43% in developing countries are dissatisfied with access to nutritious food. Read the Full Report Here.

7.         Investment Day

FII8 Investment Day launched a dynamic new chapter for the entrepreneurial ecosystem, transforming bold visions into actionable solutions that drive progress. At the inaugural global program hosted by FII Institute, five start-up companies showcased their cutting-edge tech solutions tackling world’s most pressing global challenges in artificial intelligence and robotics, sustainability, health and education. Among the innovators were: Oxccu, Sakuu, Beyond-Aero, Archireef and Bytelearn.

In the finale, Sakuu emerged as the winner and was crowned FII8 Innovator 2024. Each participating company received 2025 FII Institute complimentary membership and access to the FII Venture Program – powered by General Atlantic and Lakestar. This comprehensive support system is designed to accelerate their growth, offering unparalleled opportunities for market expansion, knowledge sharing and global visibility. Additionally, the innovative start-ups are eligible for a market expansion package providing over $10 million in financing grants and startup support. They may also benefit from soft landing program through NTDP (Saudi Arabia) and Hong Kong Science and Technology Park.

8.         Closing Remarks by H.H. Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, KSA Minister of Foreign Affairs. H.H. Prince Faisal emphasized the importance of global citizenship in addressing today’s pressing issues. He highlighted that collaboration across nations is vital for tackling conflicts, climate change, health crises, and economic disparities.

9.          Announcements: During the four days of the FII8 conference, over 30 plus announcements worth 70 billion dollars were made that focused on promoting sustainable development and innovative solutions for humanity. Additionally, strategic partnerships were established highlighting collaboration across various sectors, including technology, quality of life, and innovation.

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As FII8 wrapped up, the narrative of a united front for positive change was clear. The collective voices of leaders and innovators echoed the sentiment that the future is not just a vision; it’s a movement we are all part of Day 3 at FII8 demonstrated the Institute’s commitment to connecting capital with impactful initiatives, further strengthening the global investment landscape. The FII Institute continues its mission of fostering sustainable and forward-looking investments that empower change across diverse geographies.

For media inquiries, please contact: [email protected]

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global non-profit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global and inclusive, we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

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CCTV+: From Silk Road Gateway to Global Innovation Hub: Xi’an Advances Industrial Upgrades and International Cooperation

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XI’AN, China, Nov. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Xi’an, an ancient capital and starting point of the Silk Road, is growing rapidly into a cosmopolis of technological innovation, industrial transformation and international cooperation. The city is becoming a global hub for innovation and economic cooperation and a destination that converges historical heritage with modern creativity. By leveraging initiatives in New Quality Productivity, the Internet of Things, high-tech industries, culture, and international business services, Xi’an showcases its dynamic blend of past and future.

Industrial Development: Technology and Innovation Drive Emerging Industry Clusters

Aiming to establish itself as an international hub with rapid scientific and technological innovation, Xi’an is now building a comprehensive national science center and a center for science and technology innovation.

The Silk Road Technology City is now home to more than 4,000 companies and has fostered two major industry clusters, in optoelectronics and automobiles, each worth tens of billions. Leading industry giants like BYD and Samsung have established themselves here, taking advantage of Xi’an’s robust policy support for innovation-led growth. LONGi, a world leader in solar technology, is actively building Shaanxi’s 100-billion-grade silicon-based solar PV industry innovation cluster, driving industry-wide growth through R&D and supply chain expansion; while BYD’s comprehensive new energy vehicle industry chain has also positioned Xi’an as a key base for new energy technology and electric vehicles.

Belt and Road Hub: Connecting Development Across Borders

As a central hub along the Belt and Road, Xi’an recently hosted the Belt and Road Forum for International Think Tank Cooperation, fostering collaboration and advancing connected, networked development through the trans-Eurasian transport corridor. With growing trade opportunities, Xi’an is also expanding its reach into international markets, particularly in Central Asia, exporting specialty agricultural products like kiwi fruit.

Through conventions and conferences, Xi’an has demonstrated its significant potential for international economic cooperation, establishing stronger ties in Central Asia and Belt and Road countries.

New Quality Productivity: Smart Technologies and Advanced Manufacturing Fuel Growth

New Quality Productivity is driving Xi’an’s high-quality development leveraging smart technologies and intelligent manufacturing. Local enterprises like SUNNYIT are promoting innovative applications of IoT technologies to tackle industry bottlenecks, Xi’an Chinastar M&C Limited is supporting real-time urban management with products including smart manhole covers and parking monitoring systems to support urban safety and municipal services.

Industrial robots and intelligent manufacturing are also accelerating Xi’an’s industry transformation. Xi’an Aerospace Automation’s 4,000-kilogram robot, designed for warehouse logistics, highlights the city’s advancements in high-load, high-precision applications.

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High-Quality Development: Digital Technology Empowers Xi’an’s Smart City Ambitions

Xi’an is progressing in smart city development, enabling companies to utilize big data and AI for comprehensive traffic analysis, enhancing traffic management efficiency, and establishing a “transportation+” multi-scenario service system to improve travel experiences.

Xi’an looks to cooperate with more companies and research institutions in fields of environmental protection, water-related affairs, education, and urban management with the goal of promoting technological breakthroughs in areas such as intelligent video analysis and large-scale AI models, empowering city management and services through digital technologies and support the development and innovation of companies in the city.

Opening Up to the World: Xi’an Shares Its Story and Strengthens Business Environment

The newly established Xi’an International Communication Center shares Xi’an’s story in multiple languages, promoting Chinese culture and positioning Xi’an as a major platform for cultural exchange. Additionally, a legal service center in Xi’an Chanba International Port now offers comprehensive legal support, fostering a fair and just international business environment.

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KuCoin Shines at The Gateway Event, Advocating for Blockchain Innovation Through TON

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DUBAI, UAE, Nov. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — KuCoin, a global leader in the cryptocurrency exchange arena, is thrilled to announce its active participation at this year’s premier TON community event, The Gateway. The annual conference, renowned for uniting key players in the TON ecosystem, aligns perfectly with KuCoin’s mission to democratize cryptocurrency and expand its reach across the globe.

Representing KuCoin at the event was Alicia, who took part in the insightful panel discussion on “Perspective Sectors on TON for VCs and Exchanges.” Her presence underscored the vibrant potential of the venture capital market within emerging blockchain technologies, particularly the TON ecosystem. Alicia’s discussion highlighted how TON’s seamless integration with Telegram presents unique opportunities for innovation and user engagement, resonating with KuCoin’s strategic initiatives to bridge social connectivity with financial transactions.

“TON’s integration with Telegram not only simplifies the user experience but also amplifies it, making it a gateway for millions to engage with Web3 technologies,” Alicia stated. She emphasized KuCoin’s commitment to leveraging this synergy to enhance secure, user-friendly trading experiences, thus furthering its mission of putting crypto in every pocket.

KuCoin’s participation in The Gateway event reinforces its dedication to fostering a secure, robust, and accessible trading environment, paving the way for a new era of crypto and blockchain integration.

About KuCoin

Launched in September 2017, KuCoin is a leading cryptocurrency exchange with its operational headquarters in Seychelles. As a user-oriented platform with a focus on inclusiveness and community engagement. It offers over 800 digital assets across Spot trading, Margin trading, P2P Fiat trading, Futures trading, and Staking to its 36 million users in more than 200 countries and regions. KuCoin ranks as one of the top 6 crypto exchanges. KuCoin was acclaimed as “One of the Best Crypto Apps & Exchanges of June 2024” by Forbes Advisor and has been included as one of the top 50 companies in the “2024 Hurun Global Unicorn List”. Learn more at https://www.kucoin.com/

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