Foreign investors are increasingly interested in entering the Ghanaian stock market following the country’s reputation as one of the fastest-growing economies since the pandemic. In the 3rd quarter of 2021, the Ghana Statistical Service recorded 6.6% GDP growth when most nations were still recovering from the pandemic.

Progressively, Ghana’s economic leaders have also cultivated years of building a conducive local environment for investors. That’s why it’s unsurprising that the annual Ghana Investment Summit has lured many foreign direct investments worth billions of dollars to Ghana (FDI stock rose to $41bn in 2021). Frequently, these investments come through buying and selling Ghanaian stocks in exchange for U.S. dollars. 

But is investing in Ghanaian stock opportunities void of risks? Or is there a balance to it? In this piece, we will analyze the challenges surrounding trading Ghanaian stocks with the U.S. dollar and guide you in making more informed investment decisions. 

Challenges Faced By Foreign Investors VS the Dollar Effect

First, the value of investments may decrease because of fluctuations in exchange rates. If the Ghanaian cedi weakens against the U.S. dollar, it can result in a lower return on investment for foreign investors trading stocks in U.S. dollars. Investors can also face recurring volatility in Ghanaian stock prices, challenging navigating the market and acting prudently.

Additionally, the overall performance of the Ghanaian stock market is susceptible to the value of the U.S. dollar. An increase in the value of the U.S. dollar can make it less attractive for international investors to trade, which may lead to less demand and lower stock prices. Recently, there has been a decline in Ghanaian Cedi, as it has lost about 72% value against USD. 

To cope with this, foreign investors trading Ghanaian equities/stocks in U.S. dollars should track and take note of take note of the US dollar index fluctuations. The U.S. Dollar Index tracks the dollar’s strength against a basket of six major currencies: yen, euro, pounds, Canadian dollar, krona, and Swiss franc, giving investors real-time decision-making leverage.

Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Fortunately for all parties involved, foreign investors can leverage opportunities in profitable sectors like oil and gas, mining, and agriculture. In 2019, the UNCTAD report revealed that Ghana had a $38.5 million influx of foreign direct investment around mining and oil. Therefore, trading Ghanaian stocks in these strategic sectors allows foreign direct investors to gain exposure to this growth potential, resulting in higher investment returns.  

As a plus, 100% ownership rights are bestowed on foreign investors to safely protect their interests and make it uniquely appealing for them to invest in stocks. Foreign stock investing can help diversify a portfolio and lessen overall exposure to risk. Investors can diversify their portfolios by gaining exposure to the African market through stock trading, potentially mitigating the effects of changes in other markets. 

Summarily, foreign investors trading Ghanaian stocks in U.S. dollars will likely gain from exposure to a growing economy, diversification, and currency volatility. While opportunities exist in the market, international investors must consider the risks associated with doing business in foreign markets. But with the right expertise and information, more investors may find success trading Ghanaian equities in U.S. dollars.

When Xabi Alonso landed the Bayer Leverkusen job in October, it took many football fans and pundits by surprise. The World Cup-winning midfielder had no senior managerial experience on his CV, with a three-year stint at Real Sociedad B — where he gained promotion to the Segunda Division in his second season before suffering relegation back to the pits of the Spanish third tier the year after — the best he could muster.

Yet, here he was walking into a role at one of the biggest clubs in the Bundesliga. The fact that Leverkusen were in the relegation zone following just one win from their first eight games of the 2022-23 Bundesliga season under Gerardo Seoane’s guidance made it an even bigger risk for the club to take a chance on Alonso in a dire time of need, but the gamble has paid off massively. 

Alonso has taken Leverkusen from 17^th (second bottom) in the standings to sixth in the German top flight, winning 13 of his 23 league games in charge and losing on just four occasions. On top of that, the 41-year-old has guided Leverkusen to the semi-finals of the Europa League — the furthest the club have gone in a continental club competition since they were beaten by Real Madrid in the Champions League final back in 2002. 

There has been a lot made of Leverkusen’s final four Europa League clash with last year’s Conference League winners Roma, as it’s a case of student meets master with Alonso going up against his former manager at Madrid Jose Mourinho — even more so as Leverkusen are tipped to win the tie with those having a football bet and are the second overall favourites to win the entire competition behind Italian giants Juventus.   

Whether or not Leverkusen go on to win Europe’s secondary club competition later this month won’t take away from the fact Alonso’s stock as a coach has risen massively in the last six months or so. Having played under the likes of Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti as well as the aforementioned Mourinho, the Spaniard has learnt from the very best and he’s rapidly dismissing the case that the majority of good players make for mediocre managers.

How much longer can Leverkusen hold on to his services though? There are already reports that Premier League clubs are sniffing around, with the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium a potential landing spot for the 41-year-old this summer as the London club look for a permanent successor to Antonio Conte and someone to nail down the job after ploughing through Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and Conte in recent years. 

It would be a massive risk for Tottenham chief Daniel Levy to appoint someone like Alonso when they have so much work to do both on and off the pitch. But then again, you could argue that the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino in 2014 was a big risk after the Argentine spent just one year in the Premier League with Southampton, yet he oversaw a run to the club’s first Champions League final and is still a fan favourite three years after being sacked. 

There is also talk of a return to the Santiago Bernabeu as current Madrid boss Ancelotti is being linked with the vacant Brazil job. The Italian has one year left on his contract with Los Blancos, however, and it seems as though he is going to see out the final 12 months. That could allow Alonso with an additional 12 months to find his feet in Germany before taking the huge leap to a job like Madrid. 

Another long-term aspiration of Alonso could be a return to Anfield. Jurgen Klopp can’t stay at Liverpool forever and while many believed Steven Gerrard was using Rangers and Aston Villa as stepping stones to the Reds job, that didn’t exactly go to plan for Alonso’s former midfield partner and the Spaniard could swoop in and take the position when Klopp eventually walks away. 

In 2023, if your online identity is compromised, everything is compromised. Your identity, financial life, and even your social life may suffer. Still, with so many threats out there, you cannot do much to stay safe.

Fortunately, this point of view is quite far off. The truth is that many measures, behavior patterns, and habits can keep you safe, despite how much time you spend online. With that in mind, here are the top eight tips you need to hear.

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1.Make better passwords

The first thing you need to do is learn how to make better passwords. 

Guessable passwords are the worst. People choose meaningful names, dates, etc., but anyone with you as a friend or following you online knows your kid’s birthday, anniversary date, and pet’s name. The same goes for your mother’s maiden name.

The key thing is that you learn how to randomize your passwords. The problem with generating random passwords, especially if you stick to the rule of having unique passwords for each platform, is memorizing them all. This concern, not laziness or lack of imagination, makes people stick to something familiar.

Fortunately, managing passwords with an app can make this much easier. With the right tool, you’ll have all your passwords in one place, ensure they’re always strong, and stop fearing online password leaks. 

2. Be careful who you interact with

You need to be very careful about who you interact with online. The idea that you’re completely anonymous and safe is generally a bad practice. 

Don’t accept random people as followers on social media. In the previous section, we’ve already mentioned one concern (getting insight into your personal life). However, this is the least of your concerns.

What about real-life threats? People who know your address could swat you or send you disturbing packages. These events already had horrible outcomes, which is why they’re something that you shouldn’t joke about. 

It gets even worse; by posting stuff on social media, you’re actively revealing where your kids go to school, where you get your haircut, what are your dog-walking routes, etc. All of this is something that a stalker could use to compromise your life and safety.

3. Use VPN

You also want to start using VPN. This will hide your IP address from the world, provide you with an extra layer of anonymity and help you develop a more solid online presence. Remember that with your IP address, someone can start a DDoS attack against you.

With your IP address, they can also find your physical address. We’ve already explained just how dangerous this can be. 

Apart from this, installing a VPN is practical advice. You get to watch content unavailable in your country, bypass government censorship, and check if the e-commerce site you’re accessing offers different prices based on location. You can even use this last part to save substantial money.

Being able to change your location, at least digitally, is a compelling notion with many practical applications. Most premium VPN plans are not expensive, and many free VPNs exist. 

4. Be suspicious of any link

Phishing is a huge problem, and it most often happens when you click on a link you’ve got from an unknown source. This is a huge issue and not an easy one to solve. 

Any unsolicited emails are suspicious from the start and are dangerous. The problem with phishing is that links and landing sites behind them tend to look as authentic as possible. So, check addresses and look for potential typos, missed or added hyphens, etc.

Even if you get a link from a familiar source, using your app or browser is safer. Instead of following the link to your PayPal, you can just leave the email alone and use your app or your browser to find PayPal manually. It takes a bit more time, but it’s so much safer. 

The more you learn about phishing, the more careful you become. Education and awareness are the two keys to staying safe online.

5. Don’t use networks that you can’t trust

One piece of advice you will often encounter is that you should never access sensitive information from networks you don’t trust.

In the 21st century, this is quite difficult to achieve. As a digital nomad, you probably rely on free Wi-Fi for work. Many people work in coffee shops, restaurants, and even parks with free Wi-Fi. This kind of lifestyle is one of the main reasons people pick remote jobs. Also, if they change continents, they can replace their studio apartment with a villa in a luxurious part of town.

This is incredibly risky, and while there are ways to protect yourself, it’s never a smart to access your bank apps or other payment gateways this way. Just wait until you get home or use a more secure connection.

Another thing you need to avoid is unknown devices. When using someone else’s device, you never know if they have something suspicious installed on it. For instance, they could install a keylogger and then offer you their phone/laptop to check out your accounts. 

6. Use two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is your best line of defense. With it, even losing your password is not such a huge problem. Imagine if, when logging in, another person also had to submit a code they received in an SMS or an email. Well, it will be a lot harder if they don’t have access to those. 

We’re not saying that it’s impossible, only that it’s twice as hard for them to get access.

Since you’ll get a message or a notification whenever they attempt, you’ll also be alerted that your online safety is compromised. This way, you’ll be able to actively do something or take extra measures to ensure your safety in the online environment.

Another feature you could insist on is getting a notification whenever someone logs in from a strange device. For instance, if someone tries to log in to your Instagram account from a device that’s not your phone or your computer. 

7. Install an antivirus software

The next thing you need to do is install antivirus software and make sure it’s updated. Antivirus software will automatically scan the files you download, prospect the links you follow, and do its best to keep you safe.

While many great free antivirus tools exist, a premium plan is not expensive either. With so much at stake, it’s more than worth it.

Even if you’ve just got it, you can start a manual scan of your computer and browser to see if there’s anything compromised. 

Lastly, make sure to install antivirus both on your computer and your mobile devices. You need them both protected, and many people overlook this completely. 

8. Don’t share too much information (online or offline)

Your offline activity affects your online safety, as well. How? Well, you can just as easily tell someone your password. If this happens, don’t be surprised when your account gets “hacked into.”

The same goes for leaving your phone unattended. Too many people have your email. All it takes for them to get a hold of your phone, for just a minute, to pass the two-point authentication and access your PayPal.

The same goes for leaving your laptop at the table (even at a place where you are a regular) and going to the bathroom. Leaving yourself logged in on your work computer while taking a break could also lead to problems. 

Ensure you understand that your devices are a physical world vulnerability and treat them as such. It takes just a few seconds to log out, and it could save you from a world of trouble.

Taking care of your online security needs to be a personal responsibility

At the end of the day, in an era where the majority of your interactions and business dealings take place online, you cannot afford to be reckless.

Be smarter with your passwords, regularly change them, and try to make them less guessable. Always use VPN and antivirus, and be careful who you share information with. Always be suspicious of unknown devices, networks, and links. 

While this won’t solve all your problems, it’s a great start to being more digitally responsible. 

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has significantly downgraded its forecasts for economic growth in Ghana. In its latest round of economic forecasts, the IMF now believes the Ghanaian economy will grow just 1.6% in 2023. That’s down from its previous prediction of 2.8% growth back in October 2022.

The latest forecasts were published simultaneously with the IMF’s World Economy Outlook, which was released on April 11, 2023. The Ghanaian economy was not the only African economy to see its growth prospects diminish. The Nigerian economy is now expected to grow 3.2%, while the South African economy will only narrowly avoid recession, with 0.1% growth this year.

Growth Target Woes

The IMF struck a similarly cautious tone to the World Bank, imploring central banks throughout the Sub-Sahara Region to hold firm with interest rates to stave off inflation and prevent it from becoming endemic.

The IMF’s latest forecast means the Ghanaian government looks set to fall short of its growth target that was pegged at 2.8% within its 2023 Budget Statement published in November 2022. There has been increased attention paid to the global economic calendar, with nations around the world revealing the sharp rise in inflation that’s plaguing costs for businesses and consumers alike; none more so than those in Ghana.

All you need to know about Ghana’s inflation crisis

Ghana’s ongoing inflation issues have developed into one of the nation’s biggest economic dilemmas in decades. Ghanaians across the country are facing their own cost-of-living crisis, with households forced to delve deeper into their finances to cover the cost of everyday essentials.

In February 2023, Ghana’s rate of inflation was said to be as high as 52.8%. Effectively, the price of items has more than doubled year-on-year. The continual rise of basic commodities like foodstuffs, beverages, and cleaning products means households and small businesses are facing a weekly battle to maintain the status quo.

Critics of the Ghanaian government seem to be growing louder by the week too. Many feel the government, in particular the Presidency, has shown scant regard for the rampant nature of inflation. Based on a recent report, the Ghanaian Presidency’s operational enhancement outgoings cost the taxpayer almost 60 million Ghanaian cedi (GHS).

Between January-September 2022, the fuel bills of the Ghanaian Presidency also amounted to a staggering GHS 51 million. According to MP Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Ghanaian government had failed in its commitment to halve its fuel costs during the cost-of-living crisis. Even the government’s regional tours cost the taxpayer almost GHS 17 million, which was another kick in the teeth to citizens struggling to make ends meet.

An IMF bailout is in the offing for Ghana and its creditors

In December, the Ghanaian government opted to start a restructuring of its domestic debt, with a proposal to exchange $10.5 billion worth of local bonds for new bonds. As of September 2022, Ghana’s overall debt had reached GHS 467.3 billion, worth approximately $43.5 billion. The key to closing the country’s latest IMF bailout was determining its strategy for foreign debt, which included $13 billion worth of Eurobonds that had been trading at below 50 cents on the dollar for some time.

It is the 17th time that the Ghanaian government has had to go cap-in-hand to the IMF, which is proposing to lend $3 billion to the stricken nation. Ghana’s Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, confirmed the country’s foreign debt to overseas governments and state banks has now reached $5 billion. Ofori-Atta believes the country’s bilateral creditors would be prepared to offer debt relief to enable Ghana to access a fresh loan package from the IMF.

The so-called “Paris Club”, which consists of Ghana’s bilateral creditors hosted by the French Treasury, is “doing everything” it can to offer assurances to the IMF. Even the Chinese, who are reportedly owed $1.9 billion, are said to be keen to agree on a restructuring deal. The Ghanaian government has not been repaying its foreign debts for several months since obtaining outline approval for a fresh rescue package from the IMF.

The deal is likely to be contingent on a string of conditions being met, including a drive for increased revenues based on a hike of value-added tax (VAT), public utility tariffs, as well as the domestic debt restructuring we’ve already mentioned.

Ghana is by no means the only African nation to encounter such economic turmoil. Indeed, the IMF and the World Bank have both intimated that as many as three-fifths of all “low-income” nations have debt that’s already or potentially unsustainable.

The government of Zambia is in turmoil at present as it awaits the outcome of an IMF bailout. The aid has been delayed by several months as European nations and the Chinese quarrel over how to agree on its debt relief. In January 2021, Chad was yet another low-income African nation to seek an IMF bailout, but the approval process has also been unkind to the Chadians.

Sleep is a critical and foundational element supporting physical and mental wellness, assisting us to restore and recharge our body, mind and spirit. Without adequate sleep, there is a risk of irritability, lack of focus, anxiousness and potential memory loss. These aspects together can detrimentally affect decision-making and mental acuity within daily life. Each individual has a specific, subjective relationship with sleep; innumerable people require some form of assistance to improve the quality (if not quantity) of repose that is possible. Thus, discerning individuals are frequently assessing the best sleep aid for adults to strengthen their natural circadian rhythms. 

In addition to a plethora of enhanced mental health benefits, sleep also regulates hormones that control appetite and metabolism; as a result, achieving sufficient, regular sleep can assist us to maintain a healthy weight. Research has also shown that individuals who successfully gain adequate sleep are less likely to suffer from several potential chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, depression and anxiety. Therefore, achieving quality sleep represents a bona fide means of maintaining physical and mental wellness. This article will give an overview of the risks of insufficient sleep, the benefits of enhancing better sleep, and some solutions to consider to improve it. 

Sleep is the foundation of enhanced cognitive function

Sleep is fundamental to improved cognitive function as it supports the brain to effectively process and store information. During a sleep cycle, the brain consolidates memories and processes new information, supporting learning functions and improving recall. Moreover, it regulates emotions, enhancing clear thinking and better decision-making. 

In addition, sleep performs a restorative function on energy levels, accommodating individuals to remain alert and focused throughout the day. Furthermore, it plays an important role in physical health by reducing inflammation and improving immunity. Ultimately, these myriad factors positively contribute to overall cognitive function, making sleep an integral facet of a healthy lifestyle.

The benefits of getting enough sleep

As this article has already detailed, getting sufficient sleep is essential for physical and mental health. These benefits are detailed in more depth below:

• Improved memory: Sleep supports the brain to process and store information more effectively, solidifying and strengthening pertinent memories and dissipating those that are not of use to our minds. Researchers have posited that sleep improves memory retention by up to 20-40%. 
• Mitigated stress: Sleep notably reduces stress levels by accommodating your body to relax and recharge after a long day, making us more capable of handling stressful situations without feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
• Improved mood: Lack of sleep can lead to irritability and mood swings due to imbalances in hormones (such as serotonin and dopamine, which regulate our emotions). Improved repose keeps our hormones balanced and enhances a positive outlook on life.
• Increased energy levels: Sleep allows the body time to repair itself adequately, improving our ability to wake feeling refreshed and energized for a hectic day ahead.
• Improved immune system: Sleep plays a vital role in keeping the immune system robust by assisting it to fight infections and illnesses more effectively.

Why quality rest is key to mental health

As previously outlined, a good night’s rest is essential for mental health and well-being. A lack of sleep can result in a variety of psychological issues that accumulate over time, developing from relatively minor effects such as difficulty concentrating and irritability to more serious issues. Individuals suffering from inadequate sleep can be triggered by relatively minor stressors which can notably affect our ability to perceive the world accurately. Moreover, more serious conditions such as insomnia have been intrinsically linked by researchers to worsening mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder. 

To ensure you achieve adequate repose and boost your mental health, establish a regular bedtime routine that accommodates your lifestyle. This could encompass the exclusion of blue light before bedtime (such as laptops and smartphones), reading a book, meditation, or listening to calming music or podcast before going to sleep. In addition, ensure that your bedroom is tranquil, comfortable and free from distractions (like noise or bright lights). If you are having trouble falling (or staying) asleep regularly, consider consulting with your physician or healthcare provider about available solutions, such as sleep aids. Sleep aids can include natural supplements that are non-habit forming and entirely made from natural products to fall asleep faster, remain asleep, boost muscle recovery and improve memory. One caveat – before adopting a course of any sleep-enhancing supplement, consult with your physician to identify the optimal product. 

Conclusion

This article has outlined the risks of insufficient sleep and offered some solutions to improve your circadian rhythms. Sleep is a fundamental, foundational aspect of life that is vital to our overall physical and mental functioning. As life becomes progressively hectic and technology-driven, quality repose (and solutions to accommodate it) is becoming increasingly critical for our well-being.

There are few European leagues that have been as influential in helping carve out the careers of African players than La Liga.  Many of the biggest nations on the continent have been represented in Spain, but few have achieved as much success as Ghana.

To date, 31 Ghanaian players have played their trade in the Spanish top-flight. Currently, five Ghanaians are playing in La Liga. Some of the top stars have been able to play for the leading sides in the online sports betting in Spain markets, but who have been among the most successful Ghanaian exports to La Liga?

Thomas Partey

There have been few more successful Ghanaian players in European football than Thomas Partey throughout his career. The 29-year-old moved to Spain at youth level, as he came through the ranks at Leganes, before joining Atletico Madrid in 2012. After a year in the youth team with the Spanish giants, he was sent on loan to Mallorca and then Almeria, before finally getting his chance in the first team at the start of the 2015-16 season.

His first start for Atletico came in November 2015, before he scored his first goal for the Spanish giants just three months later. In his first full season with Atletico, he played in the Champions League final, and was later awarded with a new long-term deal. Partey impressed again in the following season, as he played a key part in the team’s journey to winning the Europa League. Partey would ultimately call time on his career in Spain in October 2020, as he became the most expensive Ghanaian player in history when he signed with Arsenal in a deal worth £45 million.

Inaki Williams

One of the most successful Ghanaians to play in La Liga is Inaki Williams. Despite being born in Spain, Williams has played eight times for the Ghana national team, and was named in the traveling squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The forward came through the youth ranks at Pamplona, before joining Athletic Bilbao in 2012. After a short stint away from the club, he returned to Bilbao in 2014. His big break in the first-team came through good fortune, as he was able to replace Aritz Aduriz, who picked up an injury. 

Williams netted his first goal for Bilbao in a Europa League draw against Torino, becoming the first player of color to ever score for the Spanish club. His first goal in La Liga was scored against Elche, before he later scored a consolation against Barcelona. Despite huge interest in the forward from Manchester City and Liverpool, Williams opted to renew his contract in 2016. Since then, he has become a cult hero at the club. His desire to play for the club was evident in January 2023, as he didn’t miss a single top-flight match in Spain for over six years. 

Michael Essien

There are few more gifted Ghanaian players in history than Michael Essien, and due to that, he has played for some of the biggest teams in the world. After impressing in Ligue 1 with Bastia and Lyon, he signed a huge deal with Chelsea in 2005, and later won the Premier League titles in back-to-back seasons. He would also win two further titles with the Blues, before his playing time at the club was reduced.

The Blues agreed to allow Essien a dream opportunity in 2012, as he was loaned out to Spanish giants Real Madrid, becoming the first Ghanaian to ever play for Los Blancos. During his loan spell, Essien played 35 times for Real, scoring two goals. However, he was unable to help the Spanish giants achieve their goal, as they ended the campaign without a trophy. After that stint, Essien moved on to AC Milan for a season, before ending his career with spells at Panathinaikos, Persib Bandung, and Sabail. In total, Essien made 59 caps for Ghana throughout his career, and represented the nation at the 2006 and 2014 World Cups.

Conclusion

There is certainly a bright future ahead of young Ghana stars that will be chasing their dreams of playing in Europe. Stars such as Essien and Partey have ensured that there will be chances given to Ghanaian talent at the biggest clubs, and that is something that we are still seeing to this day. 

There are talented players playing in Spain at present, including Joseph Aidoo, Iddrisu Baba, and Abdul Mumin. Their success will continue to ensure that more players from the nation will be given their chance to shine.

Japan is a country known for its vibrant culture and the way it knows how to knit it with modern times and cutting-edge technology. If you quickly think of a few things from Japan’s past, samurai, ninjas, and Geisha will certainly come to mind.

While ninjas and samurai are no longer an integral part of society, Geisha maintained their place. If you’ve always wanted to learn more about this Japanese symbol connected to dance, music, beauty, and protocol, this is your chance. 

What, Exactly, is a Geisha?

The most accurate way to define a Geisha is to call them a Japanese female performance artist. Individuals traditionally hired them to entertain guests at various social events. Often Geisha are linked to less-honorable forms of entertainment but this is an incorrect comparison.

Being a Geisha is a serious business, and every woman wanting to get this role has to serve a lengthy apprenticeship. The skills required for the job are not simple to master. The apprentice is called a “maiko”, and it takes around five years to gather all the skills, etiquette, and techniques to make the step toward being a Geisha. 

The actual word Geisha is formed from two kanji characters. 芸 that stands for “gei” (meaning arts or entertainment), and 者 meaning “sha” (person). In other words, if you want to briefly describe a Geisha, you can call her a person of arts.

Geishas are Not Sex Workers

There is a lot of confusion in the Western world about what exactly a Geisha does. This comes, primarily, because following the 16th century, some Geisha started working in the same pleasure quarters as oiran. 

In Japanese history, Oiran (花魁) referred to prestigious courtesans. They were held in higher regard than common prostitutes, known as yūjo (遊女, meaning ‘women of pleasure’), due to their exceptional entertainment abilities and training in traditional arts.

So, to set things apart once and for all, yūjo were the prostitutes, Oiran stands for something in between a sex worker and a Geisha that only trades in the art of beauty, conversation, and entertainment.

Another misconception about Geisha and their occupation comes from their relationship with their Danna. The five years of training to become a Geisha requires kimonos, makeup, instruments, and other costly items. Since the girls spend most of their time perfecting their trade, there’s simply no time to work or support themselves. That’s where Danna showed up, being a man of great means that would financially support Geisha’s livelihood. However, the relationship between Geisha and Danna wasn’t inherently romantic or sexual. 

Where Can You See a Geisha Nowadays?

Believe it or not, seeing a Geisha is not a difficult task. However, it’s one thing to see one and another to enjoy her services. If you want to fully experience the Geisha “treatment”, one must do a bit of research. Today there are only around 1,000 Geishas in Japan, so finding one will be the first priority.

You will find a few in Tokyo and Kanazawa. However, most of them work in Kyoto in present times. You will often see them attending gatherings at tea houses, or Ryōtei, a type of ultra-luxurious Japanese restaurant. 

If you’re not after the flesh-and-bone experience, you can observe Geishas in many of the slots inspired by this remarkable cultural phenomenon. While Japanese online casinos are still a thing of the future, many software providers draw inspiration from the fabulous Japanese culture to create incredible slot games to match the Geisha aesthetic.

Can Geisha Marry or Have Children?

In Kyoto, Geisha who wish to get married must stop practicing their craft. This is not to make them more attractive to clients, but because being committed to their art is considered more important than having a husband. After all, a husband might get in the way of their art. However, in Kyoto, women can choose to form civil unions and have children without giving up their profession. In other parts of Japan, Geisha have been seen to get married, have families, and continue their work as a Geisha.

Of course, there are many hidden secrets about Geisha and their mystic origins. However, it’s important not to feel ashamed in any way if you’ve had false impressions about these women. Even Japanese people can get it wrong sometimes. For instance, some extreme feminists in the country consider that Geisha are being exploited. However, most women see themselves as liberated and independent. 

For online gaming companies to attract more players, they have to create a captivating gaming experience. Fortunately, with new technologies emerging every single day, it is now easier for these gaming companies to create better gameplay experiences. However, other than only coming up with fantastic games with multiple playing opportunities, game publishers need to also tackle the many challenges that players experience while playing online games. In this article, we will go through some of the emerging trends and technologies that companies can use to make online gaming as swift as possible.

Customer Support Team Creation

Creating a customer support team is essential as it will help the game developers to reply to the players’ questions. The team has to be at a point where it can readily deal with all kinds of challenges that the players face. However, the customer support team needs to constitute people who can play and understand the game well. This can be achieved through constant training and allowing the staff to have access to crucial gaming resources. By doing this, the customer support team will be able to know how to address the different challenges that the players face and consequently provide quality solutions. 

Additionally, the customer support team must be quick in answering the players’ questions. This will create more time for the players to play and less time for them to get feedback. It is also recommendable for the customer support team to show empathy and care when replying to the players’ questions.

Offer Customization Options

Customization options are an excellent way to keep players engaged and invested in a game. Players love the ability to customize their characters, weapons, and other game elements, which can enhance their gaming experience. Online gaming companies can offer a wide range of customization options, such as different skins, outfits, and weapons, to give players the freedom to experience the game in the way that they see fit.

Create a Social Experience

Many players enjoy online gaming because it allows them to connect with other players from around the world. Online gaming companies can create a social experience by incorporating features like chat rooms, guilds, and multiplayer modes. These features can enhance the gaming experience by allowing players to work together to complete quests or compete against each other in battles and other in-game events.

Provide Tutorials and Guides

With so many unauthorized gaming personalities out there who can offer biased opinions about a game just to gain a following, it is important for gaming companies to create their own learning materials. 

For example, with so many game variants available in casino gaming, players can easily get confused with the rules of a particular game. Fortunately, some great sites like https://www.bestuscasinos.org/legal/ohio/ can come in handy, especially if you are looking for the best casino games to play in Ohio. This site includes all the latest information about gambling in Ohio and provides a list of the top-rated online casino sites that are available to players in the region. It also includes valuable information about the history of online gambling in the state and provides the details of retail casinos you can visit in person.

Incorporate Sound and Music

Sound and music can play a significant role in creating a captivating gaming experience. They can enhance the game’s atmosphere, set the tone for different environments, and add to the game’s immersion. Online gaming companies can incorporate high-quality sound effects and music that match the game’s theme to create an immersive experience that transports players into the game’s world.

Include Numerous Quests and Challenges

Quests and challenges can be a fantastic way to keep players engaged and motivated. Online gaming companies can offer a variety of quests and challenges that range from simple tasks to more complex and challenging objectives. These objectives can be tied to the game’s story or be under completely unique storyline. In either case, these quests encourage players to explore the game’s world and see it from a different perspective. Additionally, rewarding players for completing these quests and challenges can give them a sense of accomplishment and motivate them to keep playing.

Conclusion

As we have seen, creating a captivating gaming experience requires a combination of different elements. Online gaming companies that can successfully incorporate the above features into their games are more likely to attract and retain a dedicated player base. By prioritizing the gaming experience, online gaming companies can create games that keep players engaged and invested for years to come.

Birthdays and holiday seasons might make people wonder what to give to their loved ones. If you have a special poker player on your list, you might want to find the best gift for them. 

Whether they spend time playing in the best crypto casino or prefer going out to traditional places, your loved one deserves a gift that will impress them. In this article, you’ll learn about the best 10 options. 

Custom Poker Table

Some people prefer family game nights and others want to play poker with their friends. In either case, a customized table could help the person have a completely different experience.

You’ll find many brands that offer top-notch tables, which use fantastic materials and last a long time. Plus, if you look thoroughly, you might even spot personalized chips too.

Gift Card from Seminole Hard Rock Hollywood

The Seminole Hard Rock in Florida is one of the best places a poker player might enjoy. They can get warm in the sun, have fun at the pool, and take advantage of all the entertainment options the place offers.

Online, you’ll be able to buy gift cards, which can go from $10 to $1,000. If you give one to your loved one, they’ll enjoy Florida’s fantastic weather while also playing their favorite casino game. You can’t go wrong with this gift!

Poker Training Courses

Many people start playing poker because they enjoy it. However, some would like to be able to improve or even go pro. 

If your loved one wants to learn the ins and outs of making the best poker decisions, you could give them a training course. It will allow them to learn more about the game and possibly improve. 

There are numerous poker training courses online. Therefore, it’s a matter of finding the ideal one. Make sure you rely on trustworthy websites and choose something that’s on your budget. 

A Personalized T-shirt

Everyone loves t-shirts, and your loved one will surely adore one if you choose a personalized design. 

Generally, poker players enjoy convenience. If you give your friend, significant other, or family member a t-shirt, they’ll most likely wear it while they’re playing.

The key to making your gift stand out is to make sure the shirt has a personalized design. Go for a funny phrase or something only you and your loved one will understand. They won’t forget it. 

World Poker Series Comic Book

Most poker players and comic book collectors know about the crossover between zombies and the game. 

The World Series of Zombies combines the most prestigious poker tournament with zombies, and it’s a series of volumes that any enthusiast will love. 

In the comic, you’ll find some of the most important poker personalities in the history of the game. It’s one of the funniest gifts you can give your loved one. 

Run It Up Apparel

Jason Somerville, one of the biggest poker stars, is behind Run It Up. He’s famous both in the casino-gaming industry and on Twitch, and he’s gained a following over the past few years.

Run It Up has many merch options, including posters, apparel, patches, and even gift cards. Try to find out if your loved one knows about him, and if they do, getting them something from the store might be a fantastic idea. 

Sunglasses

Getting sunglasses is also a fantastic option if you’re looking for something to give to your poker-loving friend. 

They’ll most likely need them, especially if they play online because they’ll have to protect their eyes from staring at the computer for too long. 

There are poker-style shades in many online stores. At the same time, you can also directly look for blue-filter glasses, which will come in handy if your loved one spends a long time playing behind the screen. 

Moorman’s Book of Poker

It’s one of the best books in the history of poker. Overall, Moorman’s volume has received critical acclaim, which is why many players love it. Your friend will probably like it too.

Moorman’s Book of Poker is definitely one of the best gift ideas since it shows you know your loved one. However, not everyone is into reading something page by page. 

Luckily, there’s a video version online. You can purchase it if you think your loved one will enjoy it much more. 

A Slingbox

Many poker players love traveling, so a Slingbox is a must. With this device, you’ll be able to watch your satellite provider or home cable wherever you have an internet connection.

Slingboxes are ideal if you want to catch sports and news. Furthermore, they’re also convenient if you’re looking to watch premium and on-demand channels. 

Poker players often want to be on top of things when it comes to news and tournament updates. Therefore, a Slingbox could be an ideal gift. 

A Starbucks Gift Card

In the end, what matters is not how much you spend but the thought you put into giving your loved one an ideal gift. 

Poker players often need a steady flow of coffee and snacks to stand long gaming sessions. Therefore, a Starbucks gift card could be the ideal option since they’ll be able to get a few drinks. 

Most players will probably have a Starbucks nearby, so your loved one might be thrilled if you give them a gift card. 

Final Thoughts

Almost everyone knows someone else who enjoys gambling. If your partner, a family member, or a close friend of yours loves poker, it’s the perfect time to give them a present they’ll never forget. 

In some cases, people think impressing gamblers with unique gifts is challenging. However, now you have a list that includes some of the best options for you to pick your favorite. 

When giving a present to someone, the most crucial aspect is to remember you’re doing it for them. Think about what they’d enjoy the most and imagine their faces while you’re showing it to them. Do they like it?

Your poker-playing loved one will surely love any gift you give them. However, picking one from the list will probably make the special occasion a one-of-a-kind moment, so have fun and enjoy choosing the gift!