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Futures

OPEC's Vienna Headquarters and the Shift to Online Meetings

2024-11-25

OPEC's Vienna headquarters have long been a significant hub for the organization. However, recent developments have led to a change in the way meetings are conducted. Delegates have indicated that the OPEC+ meeting this weekend will be held online instead of in-person, as originally planned. This is the third consecutive time that the group led by Saudi Arabia and Russia has opted for a virtual session at their Vienna headquarters. The reasons for this switch have not been disclosed by the delegates who requested anonymity.

Unraveling OPEC's Meeting Shifts and Their Impact

Impact of the Meeting Shift on OPEC+ Decisions

Key OPEC+ members are faced with a crucial decision at this meeting. They need to determine whether to continue with their plans to gradually restore halted oil production. This process has already been delayed twice, and now they must decide if it's time to move forward. The countries are supposed to increase production by 2.2 million barrels a day in monthly installments starting from January. However, with oil prices struggling, this sequence has been postponed from October. The futures market has seen a 15% decline since early July due to faltering Chinese demand and a surge in American supply. At around $75 per barrel, prices are not sufficient for Saudi Arabia and many other OPEC countries to cover their government spending. According to the International Monetary Fund, Riyadh requires prices closer to $100 to fund its ambitious transformation plans.

Traders and analysts surveyed by Bloomberg last week have doubts about OPEC+ proceeding with output increases next year. Citigroup Inc. and JPMorgan Chase & Co. predict that an impending surplus will drive crude prices down towards $60 per barrel. If the group decides to open the taps further, they warn that prices could sink even more. The 23-nation OPEC+ alliance has only convened twice in Vienna since Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022. This event has ruptured Moscow's political relations with countries in the European Union and beyond. Most of their sessions since the COVID-19 pandemic have been virtual. At the previous meeting in June, Saudi Arabia extended a last-minute invitation to the other seven members currently involved in supply cutbacks to gather at the Ritz hotel in Riyadh. Nayla Razzouk, Salma El Wardany, and Grant Smith have contributed to this report. For more news, listen to today's daily briefing or go here for more information.

History and Context of OPEC's Vienna Meetings

OPEC's Vienna headquarters have played a crucial role in the organization's history. It has been a gathering place for leaders and delegates to discuss and make decisions regarding oil production and policies. The shift to online meetings is a significant development that has implications for the future of OPEC. It reflects the changing dynamics of the global oil market and the need for flexibility in conducting business. In the past, most of OPEC's sessions were held in person, but the recent trend towards virtual meetings has become more prevalent. This change has allowed for greater participation and communication among members, even in times of geopolitical tensions and travel restrictions. The decision to hold this weekend's meeting online is just the latest example of OPEC's adaptability in a rapidly evolving world.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, the OPEC+ alliance has faced numerous challenges. The political relations between Moscow and many European countries have been strained, and this has had an impact on oil markets. The virtual meetings have provided a way for OPEC+ to continue its work and make decisions despite these challenges. It has also allowed for more diverse perspectives and discussions among members. The history of OPEC's Vienna meetings is a testament to the organization's importance in the global oil industry and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Future Outlook for OPEC's Vienna Meetings

The future of OPEC's Vienna meetings remains uncertain. While the shift to online meetings has provided some benefits, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main concerns is the lack of face-to-face interaction and the potential for miscommunication. In-person meetings allow for more direct communication and the ability to build relationships. However, virtual meetings have their own advantages, such as increased accessibility and the ability to involve a wider range of participants. OPEC will need to find a balance between these two approaches and determine the best way to conduct its meetings in the future.

Looking ahead, OPEC will continue to play a crucial role in the global oil market. The decisions made at its Vienna meetings will have a significant impact on oil prices and supply. As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and economic conditions continue to evolve, OPEC will need to be agile and responsive. The organization will need to work together with other oil-producing countries and stakeholders to ensure stability and balance in the market. The future of OPEC's Vienna meetings will be closely watched by market participants and analysts around the world.

Fields & Futures, a local non-profit in Oklahoma City, is making significant strides in providing opportunities for students to play team sports. With a focus on building stronger student-athletes and teams, the organization is led by an exceptional leadership team.

Empowering Student-Athletes in Oklahoma City

Executive Director David Crynes

David Crynes joined Fields & Futures in 2020 and has been instrumental in its growth. As the Simon Greiner Program Director and Director of Athletic Partnerships & Student Success, he played a crucial role in expanding cross-country and track & field programs. Since 2021, student participation has seen an impressive 370% increase, reaching 4,319 students during the 2023-2024 school year. As Executive Director, he will guide the organization in growing cheer, soccer, and golf programs and establishing other sport-specific initiatives based on OKCPS focus and supporter interest.David's leadership has been a driving force behind the success of Fields & Futures, and his dedication to student-athletes is evident in his work.

CFO Ted Perry

Ted Perry is a lifelong Oklahoman and Heritage Hall High School alumnus. With a degree in Economics and a minor in Civil Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, he served for seven years, including two combat tours in Iraq, where he earned the Purple Heart and Combat Action Badge. After his military service, he earned an MBA from OSU and founded Cavalry Capital in 2016.As CFO, Perry's expertise in financial stewardship is vital. He ensures that donor contributions, grants, and community funding are managed responsibly to maximize the impact on underserved youth. His commitment to providing access to caring mentors extends beyond his role at Fields & Futures. He volunteers as a coach for the Oklahoma City Police Athletic League and is currently an assistant high school football coach at Heritage Hall.

Development Director Emmy Hufnagel

Emmy Hufnagel joins Fields & Futures with a passion for community engagement and non-profit development. Her strategic insight and background in youth sports advocacy make her a valuable asset to the organization. As Development Director, she is dedicated to elevating fundraising efforts, donor engagement, and community partnerships.Hufnagel is an avid tennis player and looks forward to working with OKCPS and community partners to provide the necessary resources to grow the sport in the urban core. Her efforts will help Fields & Futures take the next big step in its mission.

Director of Soccer & Youth Sports Advocate Cody Laurendi

Cody Laurendi is a former professional soccer player and OKC Energy FC goalkeeper. After a successful playing career, he shifted his focus to growing the sport. As Director of Soccer & Youth Sports Advocate, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, emphasizing outreach and support for youth in underserved communities.His dedication to creating inclusive opportunities will expand soccer programs and ensure that young athletes in OKC's urban core have the resources and support they need to succeed. Cody's passion for soccer and his commitment to the community make him a key figure in Fields & Futures' efforts.

Operations Manager and Director of Cheer & Youth Sports Advocate Mandi Dotson

Mandi Dotson has been a vital part of Fields & Futures since its inception. Her recent role expansion to Operations Manager and Director of Cheer & Youth Sports Advocate reflects the organization's focus on program development.As Operations Manager, she serves as a crucial communication link between supporters and the executive team, providing administrative support to the Executive Director and Development Director. In her role as Director of Cheer, she is dedicated to growing the sport of cheer in OKCPS by providing student-athletes with opportunities to develop their skills and open doors to college scholarships.With this exceptional leadership team, Fields & Futures is committed to empowering student-athletes and fostering a culture of growth and opportunity in OKCPS. The organization is well-positioned to build on its successes and continue making a positive impact on the community.About Fields & FuturesFounded in 2012, Fields & Futures has transformed the athletic landscape in Oklahoma City Public Schools. With 70 fields, courts, and tracks supported by a dedicated maintenance endowment, the organization ensures that kids have access to quality sports facilities and programs that inspire teamwork and leadership.For more information, visit www.fieldsandfutures.org.

Trước đây, thạc sĩ – bác sĩ Trần Đăng Khoa từ Bệnh viện Đại học Y Dược TP.HCM đã giải thích rằng bạch hầu là bệnh nhiễm trùng cấp tính kết hợp nhiễm độc tố do vi khuẩn bạch hầu (Corynebacterium diphtheriae) gây ra. Bệnh này thường biểu hiện ở đường hô hấp hoặc ngoài da, ít khi gây hoại tử da, nhiễm trùng huyết, viêm nội tâm mạc, viêm tủy xương hay viêm khớp. Vi khuẩn bạch hầu tạo ra sang thương màu trắng xám hoặc trắng ngà ở đường hô hấp. Khi vào cơ thể, lớp giả mạc này rất dai, không tan trong nước và dễ chảy máu khi dùng cây đè lưỡi cạo hay nạy. Vị trí giả mạc thường ở mũi, họng, amidan, thanh quản… và có thể lan rộng nếu không được điều trị. Một số dòng vi khuẩn bạch hầu có thể tạo ra độc tố, làm bệnh diễn tiến nặng hơn. Tỷ lệ tử vong lên đến 30-40% đối với trường hợp bệnh nặng, có thể tăng đến 50% trong mùa dịch. Nếu dùng kháng độc tố bạch hầu (SAD), tỷ lệ tử vong có thể giảm xuống còn khoảng 5-10%.

Con đường lây nhiễm của bệnh bạch hầu

Như đã chỉ ra của bác sĩ Trần Đăng Khoa, người là nguồn dự trữ chính của vi khuẩn bạch hầu. Khi ra khỏi cơ thể, vi khuẩn này có thể sống khoảng 2-3 tuần trên bề mặt khô của các vật dụng. Bệnh bạch hầu biểu hiện ở hô hấp và da, nên đường lây nhiễm chính là đường hô hấp và tiếp xúc. Khi bệnh nhân hoặc người mang vi khuẩn ho, sổ mũi sẽ văng các hạt nước bọt li ti chứa vi khuẩn ra ngoài và lây vào người chưa bệnh, hoặc lây qua tiếp xúc trực tiếp các dịch chất khi chạm vào sang thương da của bệnh bạch hầu. Con đường lây gián tiếp hơn như tiếp xúc vi khuẩn trên các bề mặt qua giường bệnh, bàn ghế, đồ chơi, sách, viết, tay nắm cửa… rất ít gặp. Vì vi khuẩn có thể hiện diện nhiều tuần trong môi trường bên ngoài, nhưng các hạt nước bọt hoặc dịch vết thương trên bề mặt sẽ khô đi ít nhiều khi ra môi trường, làm hạn chế số lượng vi khuẩn lây nhiễm.

Cách phòng tránh bệnh bạch hầu

Giữ vệ sinh cá nhân là một trong những cách phòng bệnh bạch hầu. Rửa tay thường xuyên bằng xà phòng, che miệng khi hắt hơi hoặc ho, hạn chế tiếp xúc trực tiếp với người bệnh hoặc nghi ngờ nhiễm bệnh. Đảm bảo không gian nhà ở, trường học, các nơi công cộng sạch sẽ, thông thoáng. Với những người xuất hiện các triệu chứng bệnh hoặc nghi ngờ mắc bệnh bạch hầu cần được cách ly và đưa đến cơ sở y tế để được thăm khám, chẩn đoán và điều trị kịp thời. Người dân sống trong vùng có ổ dịch cần chấp hành nghiêm túc việc khám chữa bệnh cũng như các chỉ định phòng bệnh của cơ sở y tế. Ngoài ra, dự phòng bệnh bạch hầu tốt nhất là biện pháp chủng ngừa. Vắc xin phòng bạch hầu được tích hợp trong nhiều loại vắc xin kết hợp có thể chích cho trẻ em từ 6 tuần tuổi đến người lớn.

Mắc bệnh bạch hầu rồi có thể tái nhiễm hay không?

Người khỏi bệnh bạch hầu thường sẽ có miễn dịch lâu dài, có thể bảo vệ suốt đời nếu không bị suy giảm miễn dịch do dùng thuốc ức chế miễn dịch, bệnh ác tính, HIV…. Tỷ lệ tái nhiễm bệnh bạch hầu không cao, chỉ khoảng 2-5%. Tuy nhiên, người miễn dịch yếu vẫn có thể tái nhiễm. Vì vậy, những người này nên tiêm nhắc vắc xin mỗi 10 năm để tăng cường miễn dịch bảo vệ cũng như áp dụng các biện pháp phòng ngừa bệnh lây qua đường hô hấp thường xuyên.