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Does being closer to trees and green spaces really impact your wellbeing? Researchers say yes, and have a simple measurement for ensuring to get the most benefits from everyday nature. Brussels (dpa) – When you look out of your window, can you see trees? Preferably large ones? And how far is it from your home or workplace to a park, forest or some other green space? Why does any of this matter? For one, it’s good for the climate, but it’s also beneficial for your health — both physical and mental. Having plenty of nature nearby is not only good for our lungs, but it also helps reduce stress, and it has been proven to have a positive effect on our mental well-being. This is where the so-called 3-30-300 rule comes in, a concept developed a few years ago by Dutch forestry scientist Cecil Konijnendijk for urban planning: The idea is that everyone should… be able to see at least three trees from their home, have 30% tree canopy coverage in their neighbourhood, be within 300 metres of a high-quality green space. A study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that fully adhering to the 3-30-300 rule is clearly associated with better mental health, reduced medication use and fewer visits to psychologists. People with nearby green spaces also reported feeling healthier overall. Does your living environment fail to meet the 3-30-300 rule? In the European Union, the European Commission recently announced plans to plant at least 3 billion additional trees by 2030. But even now, there are ways to bring more greenery into your life and improve your mental health: Spend more time in nature:Whether on your way to work, during a walk, or on a hike, consciously looking at nature can significantly improve your mood, according to researchers at Bangor University in Wales. Their study found that focusing on greenery during walks led to significant mood improvements and higher levels of positive emotions. Participants also felt more refreshed after their walks. Trees, in particular, had the greatest positive impact. Make your home greener:Indoor and balcony plants not only improve the indoor climate but also bring a touch of nature into your home. Even pictures of nature can have a similar effect. According to Berlin-based psychologist Suse Schumacher, a forest picture on the wall can evoke feelings similar to an actual forest visit, especially if it’s connected to personal experiences in nature. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn lue yyzz n1 nhr coh

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(Reuters) -Fermi is aiming to raise $715 million in its upsized U.S. initial public offering, the data center real estate investment trust said on Monday, as it aims to leverage burgeoning demand for energy infrastructure required to support AI buildouts. Co-founded by former U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, the company is aiming to sell 32.5 million shares priced between $18 and $22 apiece, compared with its previous target of 25 million shares. The outsized demand for energy supply stems from efforts to scale large language models by companies such as Anthropic and ChatGPT-parent OpenAI, which has been signing deals worth hundreds of billions of dollars with Oracle, SoftBank and CoreWeave. Fermi's upsized offering also indicates pent-up investor appetite for companies at the heart of the AI race, as the vast majority of leaders in the space continue to stay private. Nvidia-backed AI cloud provider CoreWeave's shares have more than tripled their IPO price since their debut in March. Fermi is aiming to build the world's largest energy and data complex, powered by nuclear, natural gas and solar. It has incurred a $6.4 million loss since its inception through June 30 and does not expect to generate revenue within the next 12 months. UBS, Evercore, Cantor and Mizuho are the joint lead book-running managers. Fermi will list on the Nasdaq and the London Stock Exchange under the symbol "FRMI". (Reporting by Ateev Bhandari in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

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By Amy-Jo Crowley and Andres Gonzalez LONDON (Reuters) -Elliott Investment Management is exploring strategic options for its UK-based Ark Data Centres in a possible sale that could fetch more than 3 billion pounds ($4.00 billion), according to two people with knowledge of the matter. The U.S. hedge fund has held informal talks with advisers about a potential sale of the Wiltshire-based firm, with a process potentially starting early next year, one of the people said.  While no formal decisions have been made, potential infrastructure investors have been approached, a second person said. That person said that Elliott had attempted to sell the company before in 2023 but offers had not reached their expectations at the time. However, since then global appetite for data centres, which support artificial intelligence and cloud computing services, has soared since OpenAI launched its ChatGPT platform in 2022. Investment in data centres will reach $6.7 trillion by 2030 to meet the computing power demand driven by AI and cloud services, McKinsey consultants estimate. Elliott declined to comment, while Ark did not respond to requests for comment. The sources spoke on condition of anonymity because the matter was private.  Elliott acquired Ark Data Centres in 2012 through its private equity arm. European real estate investor Revcap, which did not respond to requests for comment, retains a minority stake in the unit. ARK has a joint venture with the UK Government’s Cabinet Office called Crown Hosting Data Centres, which gives Ark access to all UK public data centre requirements. Earlier this week, OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank announced plans for five new AI data centres under the Stargate project, a private initiative unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump that aims to invest up to $500 billion in AI infrastructure. Other data centre deals include Singapore's SC Capital's  talks to buy British data centre group Global Switch in a transaction that could value at up to $5 billion.  ($1 = 0.7492 pounds) (Reporting by Amy-Jo Crowley and Andres Gonzalez in London. Editing by Anousha Sakoui and Louise Heavens)

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(Reuters) -Fermi is aiming to raise $715 million in its upsized U.S. initial public offering, the data center real estate investment trust said on Monday, as it aims to leverage burgeoning demand for energy infrastructure required to support AI buildouts. Co-founded by former U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, the company is aiming to sell 32.5 million shares priced between $18 and $22 apiece, compared with its previous target of 25 million shares. The outsized demand for energy supply stems from efforts to scale large language models by companies such as Anthropic and ChatGPT-parent OpenAI, which has been signing deals worth hundreds of billions of dollars with Oracle, SoftBank and CoreWeave. Fermi's upsized offering also indicates pent-up investor appetite for companies at the heart of the AI race, as the vast majority of leaders in the space continue to stay private. Nvidia-backed AI cloud provider CoreWeave's shares have more than tripled their IPO price since their debut in March. Fermi is aiming to build the world's largest energy and data complex, powered by nuclear, natural gas and solar. It has incurred a $6.4 million loss since its inception through June 30 and does not expect to generate revenue within the next 12 months. UBS, Evercore, Cantor and Mizuho are the joint lead book-running managers. Fermi will list on the Nasdaq and the London Stock Exchange under the symbol "FRMI". (Reporting by Ateev Bhandari in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

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(Reuters) -Canadian carrier WestJet said on Monday the personal information of some passengers was exposed in a cybersecurity breach earlier this year, though no payment data was compromised. The airline said it detected suspicious activity on June 13 and later determined that a "sophisticated, criminal third party" had gained unauthorized access to its systems. The aviation industry's growing dependence on complex digital systems and vast stores of passenger data has made it an increasingly attractive target for cybercriminals. Earlier this month, a ransomware attack on Collins Aerospace, a unit of RTX, disrupted operations across major European airports, crippling check-in and baggage systems at popular hubs such as London's Heathrow and Berlin. WestJet said the type of data exposed in the breach varied but could include names, contact details, travel information and documents tied to reservations. However, no credit card and debit card numbers, expiration dates and CVV numbers were obtained during the breach. In a notice to U.S. residents on Monday, the carrier said it had worked closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. It also notified relevant authorities, including the attorneys general of U.S. states where residents were affected. (Reporting by Shivansh Tiwary in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

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(Reuters) -Fermi is aiming to raise $715 million in its upsized U.S. initial public offering, the data center real estate investment trust said on Monday, as it aims to leverage burgeoning demand for energy infrastructure required to support AI buildouts. Co-founded by former U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, the company is aiming to sell 32.5 million shares priced between $18 and $22 apiece, compared with its previous target of 25 million shares. The outsized demand for energy supply stems from efforts to scale large language models by companies such as Anthropic and ChatGPT-parent OpenAI, which has been signing deals worth hundreds of billions of dollars with Oracle, SoftBank and CoreWeave. Fermi's upsized offering also indicates pent-up investor appetite for companies at the heart of the AI race, as the vast majority of leaders in the space continue to stay private. Nvidia-backed AI cloud provider CoreWeave's shares have more than tripled their IPO price since their debut in March. Fermi is aiming to build the world's largest energy and data complex, powered by nuclear, natural gas and solar. It has incurred a $6.4 million loss since its inception through June 30 and does not expect to generate revenue within the next 12 months. UBS, Evercore, Cantor and Mizuho are the joint lead book-running managers. Fermi will list on the Nasdaq and the London Stock Exchange under the symbol "FRMI". (Reporting by Ateev Bhandari in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

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From sharpening memory to enhancing emotional wellbeing, learning how to play an instrument offers a plethora of benefits. London (PA Media/dpa) – Think playing an instrument is just a childhood pastime or a talent reserved for the naturally gifted? Think again. Picking up a musical instrument later in life isn’t just a fulfilling creative pursuit – it’s also a powerful way to keep your brain healthy and engaged. We got in touch with Dr Steven Allder, consultant neurologist at London clinic Re:Cognition Health, who explained how learning an instrument stimulates key areas of the brain, lifts your mood and supports long-term cognitive function. His message is clear: it’s never too late to start. Whether you’re reigniting an old passion or trying something completely new, here is why learning to play music could be one of the smartest – and most enjoyable – investments in your brain health… Helps sharpen memory Learning and playing an instrument can boost memory later in life. “When we learn music, the brain engages in complex processes such as reading notes, coordinating movement and recalling melodies. This strengthens neural networks linked to memory and attention,” explains Allder. “Much like exercise for the body, repeated practice reinforces these pathways, improving working memory and long-term recall. “Studies show musicians often have better verbal memory and cognitive flexibility, suggesting that sustained musical activity helps the brain remain more resilient to age-related decline.” Promotes neuroplasticity “Learning an instrument over the age of 60 stimulates new neural connections and strengthens existing ones,” says Allder. “Each lesson requires motor coordination, auditory processing and problem-solving, forcing the brain to ‘rewire’ itself. “This ongoing challenge helps maintain cognitive flexibility, which is particularly valuable as we age. By creating neuroplasticity, music learning acts as a powerful tool to keep the brain active, adaptable and better equipped to cope with age-related changes.” Can help improve language and listening skills “Music and language share overlapping networks in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for auditory processing and rhythm,” explains Allder. “Learning an instrument trains the brain to distinguish pitch, tone and timing with precision, which can translate into sharper listening and improved speech perception.” For older adults, this can mean clearer communication, especially in noisy environments, notes the neurologist. “Additionally, musical training strengthens connections between auditory and language centres, potentially supporting vocabulary retention and more effective processing of spoken words,” adds Allder. Boosts mood and emotional wellbeing Learning an instrument can significantly benefit emotional wellbeing and mental health. “Playing music stimulates the release of dopamine and endorphins which are chemicals linked to pleasure and motivation,” explains the neurologist. “It also lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, helping to reduce anxiety and tension. “The act of practising music requires focus and mindfulness, drawing attention away from worries and promoting relaxation. For older adults, music-making can also create social connections, further boosting mood. Together, these effects support better mental health and a greater sense of fulfilment in daily life.” Engages executive functions “Executive functions, such as planning, attention, problem-solving and self-control, are heavily engaged when learning music,” says Allder. “Playing an instrument requires focusing on the score, coordinating hands, anticipating the next note and adjusting in real-time.” Over time, this repeated exercise improves skills like concentration, decision-making and mental flexibility, explains the neurologist. “These are vital abilities for maintaining independence and adapting to challenges in later life, making music an excellent workout for the brain,” says Allder. Stimulates multiple brain regions Learning an instrument engages multiple brain regions simultaneously. “The motor cortex controls finger movements, the auditory cortex processes sound, and the hippocampus supports memory,” says Allder. “The cerebellum refines timing and coordination, while emotional centres like the amygdala and limbic system respond to the joy and meaning of music. “This widespread activation makes music unique in how it integrates cognitive, motor and emotional functions. Few activities stimulate the brain as holistically, which is why music is so powerful in promoting long-term brain health.” May help decrease risk of dementia “While no single activity can guarantee dementia prevention, learning an instrument may help reduce risk,” says Allder. “Cognitive stimulation through music builds what we call “cognitive reserve” which is the brain’s resilience against age-related decline. By strengthening neural networks and promoting neuroplasticity, musical activity helps the brain compensate if damage from dementia begins. “In addition, the emotional benefits, such as reduced stress and improved mood, also support overall brain health. Taken together, these factors suggest that learning music later in life can be a valuable protective strategy.” So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to dust off the old keyboard or to treat yourself to a shiny new guitar – your mind and mood will thank you. The following information is not intended for publication pa dpa coh

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By Zaheer Kachwala (Reuters) -Videogame developer Electronic Arts has agreed to sell itself to a group of private investors in a deal that values the maker of "Battlefield" and "Madden NFL" at $55 billion, making it the largest leveraged buyout in history. Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Jared Kushner's Affinity Partners and private equity firm Silver Lake came together to buy the popular videogame maker. They are financing it with a combination of $36 billion in cash along with equity already held by PIF as well as $20 billion in debt financed by JPMorgan, the company said Monday. The deal for the maker of "Battlefield" underscores how deep-pocketed investors are betting on the enduring value of blockbuster game franchises as the industry recovers from a prolonged downturn. The deal also stands as a watershed moment in the market for LBOs, even though some of the biggest such buyouts in the past have ended disastrously.  The previous LBO record holder, the $45 billion takeover of Texas utility TXU Energy in 2007 by private equity firm KKR & Co., alternative asset manager TPG and Goldman Sachs, went bankrupt in 2014. The leveraged buyouts of Toys "R" Us and Hertz also had rough goes. Toys "R" Us filed for bankruptcy in 2017 about a dozen years after Bain Capital and KKR bought the retailer for $6.6 billion. Rental car company Hertz didn't survive the pandemic, filing for bankruptcy in 2020 after going private for $14.8 billion in 2005. Under Monday's deal, EA shareholders will receive $210 per share in cash, representing a premium of 25% as of the closing price on September 25 before reports of a deal emerged. The company's shares jumped 5% in morning trading to about $203 a share. The deal has an equity value of $52.54 billion, according to Reuters' calculations. The take-private offer comes at a crucial time for EA, which is banking heavily on its core sports portfolio and action shooter intellectual property to weather a sluggish videogame industry as gamers get picky with spending. Electronic Arts is gearing up to launch the much-awaited "Battlefield 6" in an industry where gamers stick to proven and recognizable titles.  "While the $210 per share offer price may appear compelling … we believe it falls materially short of the company’s intrinsic value. With Battlefield 6 about to launch and a pipeline that could add more than $2B in incremental bookings by FY28, the true earnings power of EA is only beginning to emerge," Benchmark analysts said.  The company's sports portfolio has stood out for over a decade due to its global popularity and consistent recurring revenue as strong in-game spending patterns remain key for the franchise's longevity.  The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of fiscal year 2027 with $18 billion of the debt financed at closing. It will remain in Redwood City, California with CEO Andrew Wilson remaining at the helm.  EA must pay a $1 billion fee if it terminates the merger due to a board reversal, accepts a higher bid, or pursues another deal within a year of a shareholder rejection.  The consortium owes the same amount if regulatory delays push completion past September 28, 2026, or if it breaches the agreement. (Reporting by Zaheer Kachwala in Bengaluru; Editing by Sriraj Kalluvila, Dawn Kopecki and Franklin Paul)

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(Reuters) -Canadian carrier WestJet said on Monday the personal information of some passengers was exposed in a cybersecurity breach earlier this year, though no payment data was compromised. The airline said it detected suspicious activity on June 13 and later determined that a "sophisticated, criminal third party" had gained unauthorized access to its systems. The aviation industry's growing dependence on complex digital systems and vast stores of passenger data has made it an increasingly attractive target for cybercriminals. Earlier this month, a ransomware attack on Collins Aerospace, a unit of RTX, disrupted operations across major European airports, crippling check-in and baggage systems at popular hubs such as London's Heathrow and Berlin. WestJet said the type of data exposed in the breach varied but could include names, contact details, travel information and documents tied to reservations. However, no credit card and debit card numbers, expiration dates and CVV numbers were obtained during the breach. In a notice to U.S. residents on Monday, the carrier said it had worked closely with law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. It also notified relevant authorities, including the attorneys general of U.S. states where residents were affected. (Reporting by Shivansh Tiwary in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri)

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(Reuters) -Aerospace startup Beta Technologies filed for an initial public offering in the United States on Monday, the latest company to join the rush to tap a record-breaking bull run in the equity market. Easing trade tensions, robust stock markets and pent-up investor demand have combined to create one of the busiest windows for listings in years, with technology, aerospace and green energy firms leading the charge. Beta Technologies, backed by tech giant Amazon, did not disclose the size or terms of its offering. The company is aiming to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "BETA." Beta Technologies designs, manufactures and sells high-performance electric aircraft, advanced electric propulsion systems, charging systems and components. Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs are the lead underwriters of the offering. (Reporting by Manya Saini in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar and Anil D'Silva)

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