Category: Asia

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is TikTok right? Can adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to your coffee help you burn fat?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Evangeline Mantzioris, Program Director of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Accredited Practising Dietitian, University of South Australia

    Evannovostro/Shutterstock

    Cinnamon has been long used around the world in both sweet and savoury dishes and drinks.

    But a new TikTok trend claims adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to your daily coffee (and some cocoa to make it more palatable) for one week can help you burn fat. Is there any truth to this?

    Not all cinnamon is the same

    There are two types of cinnamon, both of which come from grinding the bark of the cinnamomum tree and may include several naturally occurring active ingredients.

    Cassia cinnamon is the most common type available in grocery stores. It has a bitter taste and contains higher levels of one of the active ingredient cinnamaldehyde, a compound that gives cinnamon its flavour and odour. About 95% of cassia cinnamon is cinnamaldehyde.

    The other is Ceylon cinnamon, which tastes sweeter. It contains about 50-60% cinnamaldehyde.

    Does cinnamon burn fat? What does the research say?

    A review of 35 studies examined whether consuming cinnamon could affect waist circumference, which is linked to increased body fat levels. It found cinnamon doses below 1.5 grams per day (around half a teaspoon) decreased waist circumference by 1.68cm. However, consuming more than 1.5g/day did not have a significant effect.

    A meta-analysis of 21 clinical trials with 1,480 total participants found cinnamon also reduced body mass index (BMI) by 0.40kg/m² and body weight by 0.92kg. But it did not change the participants’ composition of fat or lean mass.

    Another umbrella review, which included all the meta-analyses, found a small effect of cinnamon on weight loss. Participants lost an average of 0.67kg and reduced their BMI by 0.45kg/m².

    The effect appears small.
    Radu Sebastian/Shutterstock

    So overall, the weight loss we see from these high-quality studies is very small, ranging anywhere from two to six months and mostly with no change in body composition.

    The studies included people with different diseases, and most were from the Middle East and/or the Indian subcontinent. So we can’t be certain we would see this effect in people with other health profiles and in other countries. They were also conducted over different lengths of time from two to six months.

    The supplements were different, depending on the study. Some had the active ingredient extracted from cinnamon, others used cinnamon powder. Doses varied from 0.36g to 10g per day.

    They also used the two different types of cinnamon – but none of the studies used cinnamon from the grocery store.

    How could cinnamon result in small amounts of weight loss?

    There are several possible mechanisms.

    It appears to allow blood glucose (sugar) to enter the body’s cells more quickly. This lowers blood glucose levels and can make insulin work more effectively.

    It also seems to improve the way we break down fat when we need it for energy.

    Finally, it may make us feel fuller for longer by slowing down how quickly the food is released from our stomach into the small intestine.

    What are the risks?

    Cinnamon is generally regarded as safe when used as a spice in cooking and food.

    However, in recent months the United States and Australia have issued health alerts about the level of lead and other heavy metals in some cinnamon preparations.

    Lead enters as a contaminant during growth (from the environment) and in harvesting. In some cases, it has been suggested there may have been intentional contamination.

    Some people can have side effects from cinnamon, including gastrointestinal pain and allergic reactions.

    One of the active ingredients, coumarin, can be toxic for some people’s livers. This has prompted the European Food Authority to set a limit of 0.1mg/kg of body weight.

    Cassia cinnamon contains up to 1% of coumarin, and the Ceylon variety contains much less, 0.004%. So for people weighing above 60kg, 2 teaspoons (6g) of cassia cinnamon would bring them over the safe limit.

    What about the coffee and cocoa?

    Many people may think coffee can also help us lose weight. However there isn’t good evidence to support this yet.

    An observational study found drinking one cup of regular coffee was linked to a reduction in weight that is gained over four years, but by a very small amount: an average of 0.12kg.

    Good-quality cocoa and dark chocolate have also been shown to reduce weight. But again, the weight loss was small (between 0.2 and 0.4kg) and only after consuming it for four to eight weeks.

    So what does this all mean?

    Using cinnamon may have a very small effect on weight, but it’s unlikely to deliver meaningful weight loss without other lifestyle adjustments.

    We also need to remember these trials used products that differ from the cinnamon we buy in the shops. How we store and how long we keep cinnamon might also impact or degrade the active ingredients.

    And consuming more isn’t going to provide additional benefit. In fact, it could increase your risk of side effects.

    So if you enjoy the taste of cinnamon in your coffee, continue to add it, but given its strong taste, you’re likely to only want to add a little.

    And no matter how much we’d like this to be true, we certainly won’t gain any fat-loss benefits by consuming cinnamon on doughnuts or in buns, due to their high kilojoule count.

    If you want to lose weight, there are evidence-backed approaches that won’t spoil your morning coffee.

    Evangeline Mantzioris is affiliated with Alliance for Research in Nutrition, Exercise and Activity (ARENA) at the University of South Australia. Evangeline Mantzioris has received funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council, and has been appointed to the National Health and Medical Research Council Dietary Guideline Expert Committee.

    ref. Is TikTok right? Can adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to your coffee help you burn fat? – https://theconversation.com/is-tiktok-right-can-adding-a-teaspoon-of-cinnamon-to-your-coffee-help-you-burn-fat-240683

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration

    Source: Republic of China Taiwan

    President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration
    President Lai receives congratulations from foreign guests attending 2024 National Day celebration
    2024-10-10

    On the morning of October 10 at the Presidential Office Building, President Lai Ching-te and the First Lady, accompanied by Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao, received congratulations from members of the foreign diplomatic corps and foreign organizations stationed in Taiwan, as well as guests from around the world attending the 2024 National Day Celebration of the Republic of China.
    From 9:30 a.m. more than 140 foreign guests, including Prime Minister Feleti Teo of Tuvalu, who was accompanied by his wife, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources, Petroleum, and Mining Cordel Hyde of Belize, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Works, Land and Surveys and Physical Planning Montgomery Daniel of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senate President Alvina Reynolds and Speaker Claudius Francis of Saint Lucia, and Minister of State Gustav Aitaro of the Republic of Palau, came forward in turn to offer congratulations to President Lai and Vice President Hsiao, who expressed their appreciation to them for attending the celebration. Secretary-General to the President Pan Men-an (潘孟安) and Minister of Foreign Affairs Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) were also in attendance.
    In addition to the delegation led by Prime Minister Teo and those from our other diplomatic allies, foreign guests who came to offer their congratulations included US Congresspersons Debbie Lesko, Andy Biggs, and Carol Miller, who was accompanied by her husband; a Japanese Diet congratulatory delegation: Japanese House of Councillors Members Santo Akiko, Yamamoto Junzo, Takinami Hirofumi, Umemura Mizuho, and Wada Masamune; Members of the Scottish Parliament Jamie Greene, Rhoda Grant, and Karen Adam; Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Clare Bowman and other members of the diplomatic corps; representatives of foreign organizations stationed in Taiwan: American Institute in Taiwan Taipei Office Director Raymond Greene, who was accompanied by his wife, Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Taipei Office Chief Representative Katayama Kazuyuki, who was accompanied by his wife, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office Lutz Guellner, who was accompanied by his wife, Singapore Trade Office in Taipei Trade Representative Yip Wei Kiat, Australian Office in Taipei Representative Robert Niel Fergusson, Canadian Trade Office in Taipei Executive Director James Stafford Nickel, who was accompanied by his wife, French Office in Taipei Director Franck Paris, German Institute Taipei Director General Jörg Wolfram Polster, who was accompanied by his wife, and British Office Taipei Representative John Dennis.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Election nomination details published

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government today published details of the nomination period for the upcoming Rural By-election in the Gazette.

    Fifty-eight Rural Representative vacancies will be open for nominations from October 22 to November 4.

    The by-election will return a Resident Representative for each of the 35 existing Villages, an Indigenous Inhabitant Representative for each of the 22 Indigenous Villages, and a Kaifong Representative for one Market Town on Cheung Chau.

    Nomination forms are available from the Home Affairs Department, New Territories District Offices and on the Rural Representative Election website.

    Completed nomination forms must be submitted in person to the Returning Officer of the relevant village by November 4.

    A gazette notice on valid nominations will be published within 14 days following the nomination period. Each validly nominated candidate will be informed separately.

    If there is more than one validly nominated candidate for the same village or market town, a poll will be held for that location on December 1.

    Call 2152 1521 for enquiries. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Georgia Exports and Value Chain Study

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    Based on stakeholder interviews, it considers the trends, value chains, and opportunities for each of the high potential sectors and explores how Georgia can leverage its location, favorable business environment, and free-trade agreements. Emphasizing the need for greater innovation and strong government support, it recommends taking a “Team Georgia” approach that centers on building an ecosystem to improve export promotion, increase target market access, and support exporters.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Fostering Inclusive Trade: Leveraging Free Trade Agreements to Protect Indigenous Peoples’ Rights in Asia and the Pacific

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    The brief highlights the substantial presence of Indigenous Peoples in Asia and the Pacific and the importance of traditional knowledge and genetic resources for climate action, food security, and medicine, as well as language diversity and cultural heritage. It explains the shortfalls of existing FTAs and why they should be based on informed consent, equitable benefit sharing, and full source disclosure in patents. It details how some FTAs have included traditional knowledge and genetic resources and shows how trade deals can help Indigenous Peoples benefit from greater regional cooperation.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Two buildings declared monuments

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government today published a gazette notice to declare Lo Pan Temple in Kennedy Town and the Residence of Tang Pak Kau in Kam Tin, Yuen Long, as monuments under the Antiquities & Monuments Ordinance.

    Lo Pan Temple is a well-recognised historic temple dedicated to Lo Pan, the patron of builders and contractors. It was first built in 1884 and rebuilt at the same site in 1928.

    The temple is embellished with intricate murals, plaster mouldings, wood carvings and pottery decorations, including decorations on its ridges that were produced by Junyu, a renowned pottery sculpture shop in Shiwan.

    The distinctive stepped gable walls of the temple are rare in Hong Kong. Since its establishment, the local construction sector has followed the tradition of paying homage to Lo Pan at the temple on his birthday.

    The Residence of Tang Pak Kau was probably built in the early 20th century. The late businessman Tang Pak Kau was a distinguished member of the Tang clan in Kam Tin. He made remarkable contributions to the development of Kam Tin, Yuen Long and the New Territories, in particular in the areas of education and medical services.

    These contributions included setting up a private school inside his residence to provide education for children of the Tang clan. The residence is a testament to the development of the local area and to Tang Pak Kau’s achievements.

    The residence is a rectangular-shaped single-storey grey brick building with a three-storey watchtower. The building’s structure and decorations demonstrate a blend of Chinese and Western styles. Most of the building’s original fabric, finishes and decorations are preserved.

    Click here for more details.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Luxury beauty brands refocus on brick-and-mortar retail in Southeast Asia, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Luxury beauty brands refocus on brick-and-mortar retail in Southeast Asia, says GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    Despite the phenomenal growth of ecommerce during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the premium beauty sector in Southeast Asia is experiencing notable growth within physical retail environments, through collaboration with omnichannel brand-builders. Companies can adapt to this trend and position beauty as a significant driver of revenue in their retail strategy, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Jaya Dandey, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The premium beauty sector in Asia’s physical retail is thriving, driven by a combination of strong consumer demand, innovative retail strategies, and an increasing emphasis on personalized shopping experiences. The high single-digit growth rates of prestige beauty categories is notable even in the context of broader retail performance, where beauty products are often seen as high-margin categories that outperform other areas such as food sales.”

    Tim Hill, Key Account Director, SE Asia, GlobalData, notes: “Consumers are becoming more discerning, not only regarding product quality, but also in terms of the shopping experience. They like to try multiple products in person before making an informed choice, especially in the premium domain where prices can run high. Though companies are eager to leverage these consumer preferences and enter the market, they sometimes face infrastructural challenges. A key strategy to overcome this is to partner with omnichannel players such as beauty ecommerce giants, which are increasingly moving into the physical retail space. Individual consultation stalls in these stores promote customer engagement with a wide variety of brands.

    “The ability to integrate online and offline experiences will be vital for survival in this rapidly changing landscape. Maintaining a robust omnichannel presence allows retailers to connect with consumers across various platforms, including online and physical stores. This strategy not only caters to different shopping preferences but also ensures that brands remain accessible to a wider audience. A hybrid approach allows these companies to leverage their online success while maintaining a physical presence, creating a seamless shopping experience for consumers.

    “Southeast Asia is home to a burgeoning upper middle class, who are eager to splurge on luxury beauty. They are more aware of international brands, and given their higher disposable incomes, they are willing to spend on premium beauty products. GlobalData 2024 Q2 Consumer Survey reflects this, wherein about 25% of respondents deemed low price as good value for money while purchasing beauty and grooming products, and a much higher 34% responded that high-quality ingredients represent more value for money^.”

    Luxasia, Southeast Asia’s leading network in beauty and luxury, has enabled market entry and penetration for several brands. It recently captured the Vietnamese market by launching escentials, an omni-retail concept for luxury fragrances, in one of the country’s prestigious malls. Similarly, premium skincare brand SK-II launched a unique concept store at the Mid Valley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Indian beauty ecommerce giant Nykaa is actively expanding its physical retail spaces across the nation.

    Dandey concludes: “By returning to the essentials of the beauty industry—where sensorial experiences are paramount—brands can cultivate customer loyalty in a competitive market. As the premium beauty sector evolves, embracing omnichannel strategies and personalizing experiences will not only ensure success but also foster enduring relationships with discerning consumers, shaping a vibrant future for beauty retail.”

    ^GlobalData 2024 Q2 Consumer Survey – Asia and Australasia, published in July 2024, with 6,506 respondents

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Province of Ferrara of Emilia-Romagna Region in Italy suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 10) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in the Province of Ferrara of the Emilia-Romagna Region in Italy, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

         A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 40 tonnes of frozen poultry meat and about 10 000 poultry eggs from Italy in the first six months of this year.

         “The CFS has contacted the Italian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier says China ready to share more development opportunities with Australia

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese premier says China ready to share more development opportunities with Australia

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is ready to share more development opportunities with Australia.

    The nature of China-Australia ties is mutually beneficial and win-win, Li noted in his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation.

    China, he said, is also willing to continue to strengthen exchanges on macroeconomic policies, and expand cooperation in trade and investment, green development, scientific and technological innovation and other fields, so as to add more impetus to the common development of the two countries.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese premier hails recent progress in China-Australia ties

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China-Australia ties have recently been steadily advancing, with practical cooperation in various fields gradually progressing, and local as well as people-to-people exchanges becoming more active.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    The progress shows that the future China-Australia relations are promising, as long as the two sides continue to work toward a common goal, Li added.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China to work with Australia to safeguard peace, stability in Asia-Pacific region: Premier Li

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China to work with Australia to safeguard peace, stability in Asia-Pacific region: Premier Li

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is willing to work with Australia to safeguard peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region with concrete actions.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI China: China to build first-class business environment: Premier Li

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    VIENTIANE, Oct. 10 — China will continue to build a market-oriented, law-based and internationalized first-class business environment, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

    Li made the remarks during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on the sidelines of the leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation held in Vientiane.

    China welcomes more Australian enterprises to invest in China, and hopes that Australia will provide a fair, safe, non-discriminatory and predictable business environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Australia, Li said.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case of suspected scheduled agarwood (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case of suspected scheduled agarwood (with photo)
    Hong Kong Customs detects smuggling case of suspected scheduled agarwood (with photo)
    *************************************************************************************

         Hong Kong Customs, on September 25, detected a smuggling case of suspected scheduled agarwood at the Tuen Mun River Trade Terminal and seized about 1 tonne of suspected scheduled agarwood with an estimated market value of about $18 million.     Through risk assessment, Customs on that day selected for inspection a 20-foot container arriving in Hong Kong from Nansha, Guangdong. Upon examination, Customs officers found the batch of suspected scheduled agarwood therein.     In the operation, Customs arrested a 35-year-old woman suspected to be connected with the case.           Hong Kong Customs will continue to closely co-operate with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department to combat cross-boundary smuggling of endangered species.           Under the Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants Ordinance, any person found guilty of importing an endangered species without a licence is liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for 10 years.           Members of the public may report any suspected smuggling activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002/).

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 15:10

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Banking (Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2023 (Commencement) Notice 2024 gazetted

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Banking (Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2023 (Commencement) Notice 2024 (Commencement Notice) was gazetted today (October 10) to appoint January 1, 2025, as the commencement date for Parts 3 and 5 of the Banking (Capital) (Amendment) Rules 2023 (BCAR).
     
         The BCAR was approved by negative vetting of the Legislative Council in February 2024. Its main purpose is to incorporate the Basel III final reform package promulgated by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) into local legislation. Part 3 of the BCAR provides for amendments in relation to credit risk, the output floor, operational risk and sovereign concentration risk. Part 5 of the BCAR deals with amendments in relation to market risk and credit valuation adjustment (CVA) risk.
     
         A Government spokesperson said, “The full implementation of Basel III standards will ensure the resilience of our banking system to financial shocks, and reinforce Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.”
     
         A Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) spokesperson said, “The HKMA has given due consideration to the views of the banking industry in determining the local implementation timeline for the Basel III final reform package. Its full adoption will ensure that the regulatory framework in Hong Kong remains aligned with international standards agreed by the BCBS.”
     
         The Commencement Notice will be tabled before the Legislative Council next Wednesday (October 16) for negative vetting. 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Resumption of live rock lobster trade with China

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    The Albanese Labor Government has agreed a timetable with China for the full resumption of Australian live rock lobster exports by the end of the year.

    This will save the jobs of 3,000 Australians employed in the industry, 2,000 of which are in Western Australia.

    The agreement to a timetable for the re-entry of live rock lobster was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Albanese and China’s Premier Li Qiang today on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos.

    This outcome is another step towards stabilising the bilateral relationship between China and Australia. This is positive news for the lobster industry and for Chinese consumers, who will have access to high-quality Australian rock lobsters in time for Lunar New Year.  

    Since 2020, Australian rock lobsters have been effectively prevented from entering China’s market, which was worth over $700 million in 2019.

    We acknowledge the Australian rock lobster industry for their resilience during a challenging period.

    The Albanese Government has seen progress on the removal of trade impediments for wine, barley, coal, cotton, timber logs, copper ores and concentrates; and some meat establishments – almost $20 billion worth of Australian exports.

    With our patient, calibrated, and deliberate approach, we are restoring Australian trade with our largest export market.

    The Albanese Government will continue with its calm and consistent approach to the China relationship – where we cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, and engage in the national interest.

    Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

    “Resolution of trade impediments is at the top of our Government’s agenda. The reinstatement in normalised trade for all commodities is front and centre of the Government’s engagement strategy with China.

    “It is in the interests of both our countries to continue this path of stabilising our relationship. A resumption in trade for all Australian commodities is an important part of this process.

    “Having dialogue helps us navigate our differences and build upon areas where we can cooperate – without compromising on any Australian interests.”

    Quotes attributable to Foreign Minister Penny Wong:

    “The Albanese Government’s approach to China has been patient, calibrated and deliberate – and our approach has paid dividends for Australians and for the national interest.

    “We continue to urge Australian businesses to diversify to grow value for their companies and for their country.

    Quotes attributable to Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell:

    “This is a great outcome for the Australian lobster industry and for Chinese consumers.

    “The Albanese Government is delivering for Australian farmers, miners, businesses and workers.

    “I encourage businesses to continue to take advantage of new trade diversification opportunities created by this Government.”

    Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins:

    “This agreement on a timetable with China for the full resumption of trade by the end of the year is a significant step forward for Australia’s rock lobster industry and will deliver job security for fishing communities in regional areas.

    “The resumption of full Australian rock lobster exports to China is expected to have a trade potential of over $700 million.”

    MIL OSI News

  • MIL-OSI: 21Shares Grows its European Crypto ETP Lineup with the Launch of Future of Crypto Index ETP (FUTR)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, 10 October 2024 – 21Shares AG (“21Shares”), one of the world’s largest issuers of crypto exchange traded products (ETPs), today announced the launch of the 21Shares Future of Crypto Index ETP (FUTR) on Euronext Paris and Euronext Amsterdam. FUTR represents the latest addition to its growing European product lineup, representing the firm’s 44th crypto ETP, its 10th crypto basket ETP, and its first-ever crypto megatheme ETP.

    Exchange Product Name Ticker ISIN Fee
    Euronext Paris 21Shares Future of Crypto Index ETP FUTR FP CH1382892102 1.49%
    Euronext Amsterdam 21Shares Future of Crypto Index ETP FUTR NA CH1382892102 1.49%

    “Global excitement, demand and momentum for crypto is undeniable. And 21Shares has been at the forefront of increasing global access to the crypto asset class since inception in 2018 – offering investors a six-year track record of developing, launching and managing crypto ETPs,” said Hany Rashwan, Co-Founder and CEO of 21Shares. “As 21Shares’ first-ever crypto megatheme ETP, FUTR represents the next evolution of the firm’s European product lineup and a potential opportunity for investors looking for the next step after allocating to Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH).”

    Rashwan continued: “With the launch of FUTR, 21Shares is thrilled to leverage the firm’s world-class product development and research capabilities to bring investors access to a future-oriented, broad-based index offering easy exposure to the most promising sectors of the crypto ecosystem.”

    FUTR provides investors with comprehensive exposure to the top sectors and themes anticipated to drive the future growth of the crypto market. By tracking a broad-based index that covers over 80% of the market, the ETP offers exposure to six key megathemes expected to drive long-term growth in the crypto market:

    1. Payment Platforms: Payment platforms are blockchains or protocols specialized in transferring value.
    2. Smart Contract Platforms: A smart contract platform is a base blockchain with built-in general-purpose programmability that allows developers to write smart contracts and launch decentralized applications (dApps).
    3. Blockchain Accelerators: A blockchain accelerator is a separate blockchain that helps augment the network capacity of a settlement blockchain by orders of magnitude while inheriting the security guarantees of the latter.
    4. Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Decentralized finance is internet-native financial infrastructure that does not rely on a centralized institution such as a bank, broker, or similar intermediaries.
    5. AI and Data Solutions: This refers to platforms that leverage artificial intelligence and data technologies to enhance various aspects of crypto ecosystems.
    6. Social and Gaming: This refers to an overlaying sector between blockchain, crypto, and the gaming industries, along with social elements that enhance player interactions and community building.

    FUTR takes a market-capitalization weighted approach, with leading assets from each of these six megathemes. In addition, FUTR offers dynamic allocation, a strategy that evolves with the market to provide alignment with emerging trends and opportunities. Further, FUTR excludes meme tokens, privacy tokens and assets below a $2M liquidity threshold, focusing on quality investments. FUTR is 100% physically backed by the underlying assets stored securely in cold storage by an institutional-grade custodian, offering enhanced protection.

    21Shares worked with MarketVector Indexes as the index provider for FUTR. MarketVector Indexes brings deep market knowledge in crypto indices to the digital assets landscape.

    “The 21Shares Future of Crypto Index provides a dynamic framework for tracking key sectors driving the next phase of crypto growth. We’re excited to partner with 21Shares on this forward-thinking, innovative product”, said Steven Schoenfeld, CEO of MarketVector Indexes.

    The launch of FUTR also represents an expansion of 21Shares’ collaboration with Flow Traders, who will act as the market maker for the product.

    “This is another step forward in supporting the broader adoption of digital assets, and we are thrilled to continue to expand our role in being the leading liquidity provider in the crypto ETP space as well as our partnership with 21Shares,” said Michael Lie, Global Head of Digital Assets at Flow Traders. “Innovative products like FUTR with diversified exposure to key themes in crypto, much like sector ETFs in TradFi, are going to be essential in expanding the full reach of digital assets and its value to financial markets. In our role, we will continue supporting innovative products and driving the convergence of TradFi and crypto.”

    For more details about the 21Shares Future of Crypto Index ETP, including the factsheet, please click here.

    Press Contact

    Audrey Belloff, Head of Global Communications, audrey.belloff@21.co

    About 21.co / 21Shares

    21.co is the world’s leader in providing access to crypto through simple and easy to use products. 21.co is the parent company of 21Shares, one of the world’s largest issuers of crypto exchange traded products (ETPs) – which is powered by Onyx, a proprietary technology platform used to issue and operate cryptocurrency ETPs for 21Shares and third parties. The company was founded in 2018 by Hany Rashwan and Ophelia Snyder. 21Shares is registered in Zurich, Switzerland with offices in Zurich, London and New York. For more information, please visit 21Shares.

    About MarketVector Indexes – http://www.marketvector.com

    MarketVector IndexesTM (“MarketVector”) is a regulated Benchmark Administrator in Europe, incorporated in Germany and registered with the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin). MarketVector maintains indexes under the MarketVectorTM, MVIS®, and BlueStar® names. With a mission to accelerate index innovation globally, MarketVector is best known for its broad suite of Thematic indexes, a long-running expertise in Hard Asset-linked Equity indexes, and its pioneering Digital Asset index family. MarketVector is proud to be in partnership with more than 25 Exchange Traded Product (ETP) issuers and index fund managers in markets throughout the world, with more than USD 50 billion in assets under management.

    About Flow Traders

    Flow Traders is a leading multi-asset market maker founded more than twenty years ago, the firm expanded into digital assets trading in 2017, focusing on centralized exchanges before expanding its operations to include over-the-counter trading, options trading and decentralized finance. Additionally, Flow Traders strategically invests in builders and teams driving the convergence of centralized and decentralized finance.

    DISCLAIMER

    This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe for securities of 21Shares AG in any jurisdiction. Neither this document nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of, or be relied upon in connection with, any offer or commitment whatsoever or for any other purpose in any jurisdiction. Nothing in this document should be considered investment advice.

    This document and the information contained herein are not for distribution in or into (directly or indirectly) the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan or any other jurisdiction in which the distribution or release would be unlawful.

    This document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in or into the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. The securities of 21Shares AG to which these materials relate have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will not be a public offering of securities in the United States. Neither the US Securities and Exchange Commission nor any securities regulatory authority of any state or other jurisdiction of the United States has approved or disapproved of an investment in the securities or passed on the accuracy or adequacy of the contents of this presentation. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offence in the United States.

    Within the United Kingdom, this document is only being distributed to and is only directed at: (i) to investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”); or (ii) high net worth entities, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”); or (iii) persons who fall within Article 43(2) of the Order, including existing members and creditors of the Company or (iv) any other persons to whom this document can be lawfully distributed in circumstances where section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply. The securities are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    Exclusively for potential investors in any EEA Member State that has implemented the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) is made available on the Issuer’s website under http://www.21Shares.com.

    The approval of the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) should not be understood as an endorsement by the SFSA of the securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. Eligible potential investors should read the Issuer’s Base Prospectus (EU) and the relevant Final Terms before making an investment decision in order to understand the potential risks associated with the decision to invest in the securities. You are about to purchase a product that is not simple and may be difficult to understand.

    This document constitutes advertisement within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 and the Swiss Financial Services Act (the “FinSA”) and not a prospectus. The 2023 Base Prospectus of 21Shares AG has been deposited pursuant to article 54(2) FinSA with SIX Exchange Regulation AG in its function as Swiss prospectus review body within the meaning of article 52 FinSA. The 2023 Base Prospectus and the key information document for any products may be obtained at 21Shares AG’s website (https://21shares.com/ir/prospectus or https://21shares.com/ir/kids).

    ###

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Maritime crime and piracy incidents lowest since 1994, but threats to crews remain  

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Maritime crime and piracy incidents lowest since 1994, but threats to crews remain  

    IMB reported 79 incidents for the period of January-September 2024, down from 99 incidents in the same period last year. This marks a significant overall reduction and the lowest reported numbers since 1994. 

    From January to September, 62 vessels were boarded, six were hijacked while nine faced attempted attacks and two were fired upon. In 86% of incidents, perpetrators successfully gained access to the vessel with most incidents occurring at night.  

    Violence towards crew members remains concerning, with 111 crew taken hostage, 11 kidnapped and three threatened. Perpetrators were armed with weapons, guns, and knives in 45 of the reported incidents.  

    IMB Director Michael Howlett said:  

    “With reported incidents at their lowest since 1994, the decline in reported piracy and armed robbery incidents is encouraging. This is an important time to reinforce our message not to be complacent, and for vessel owners and operators to adhere to IMB guidelines. We commend governments and law enforcement for their excellent work, which has made this improvement possible.” 

    Escalating violence in the Indonesian Archipelago 

    The Indonesian Archipelago remains an area of concern with a steady rise in the number of reported incidents. From January to September 2024, 17 incidents were reported compared to 12 in 2023 and nine in 2022. Weapons were reported in 11 incidents, 27 crew were taken hostage and one crew was threatened. Two hijackings were reported in February and September in nearly the same location South of Tanjung Malatayur, Central Kalimantan where oil cargoes were stolen from barges under tow. IMB calls upon local authorities to increase their on-water presence to act as a deterrent to these crimes.   

    Fewer incidents in Gulf of Guinea, Somalia and Singapore Straits  

    In the first nine months of 2024, 12 incidents were reported in the Gulf of Guinea region, the lowest number of reports since 1996. While the drop in the number of reported incidents is welcome, there remains concern over the safety of crew, with 11 crew kidnapped and 21 taken hostage. 

    Eight incidents have been reported in the waters off Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, with three hijacked vessels and two fired upon. IMB has not received reports of any maritime piracy incidents from vessels transiting these waters between July and September, possibly due to the prevalence of monsoons. 

    Incidents in the Singapore Straits have dropped to 23, compared to 33 over the same period last year. Perpetrators were successful in boarding the vessels in 96% of the cases. Considering the navigational challenges of these waters, IMB warns that even low-level opportunistic incidents on board such large vessels could potentially increase the risk to navigation.  

    IMB urges vessels to continue adhering to the latest Best Management Practices to ensure safety of crew, vessel and cargo.  

    IMB commends local authorities for investigating reported incidents and renews calls for accurate and timely reporting of maritime incidents. 

    The IMB Piracy Reporting Centre  

    Founded in 1991, the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre serves as a crucial, 24-hour point of contact to report crimes of piracy and lend support to ships under threat. Quick reactions and a focus on coordinating with response agencies, sending out warning broadcasts and email alerts to ships have all helped bolster security on the high seas. The data gathered by the Centre also provides key insights on the nature and state of modern piracy. 

    IMB encourages all shipmasters and owners to report all actual, attempted and suspected global piracy and armed robbery incidents to the Piracy Reporting Centre as a vital first step to ensuring adequate resources are allocated by authorities to tackle maritime piracy.    

    Download a copy of the January to September 2024 Piracy and Armed Robbery Against Ships report  here.  

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Attends SAMA SAMA 2024 Reception [Image 1 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on


    SUBIC BAY, Philippines (October 8, 2024) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC), center, arrives at a U.S. hosted reception aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) during Sama Sama 2024, Oct. 8, 2024. Sama Sama is a bilateral exercise hosted by the Philippines and the United States, with participants from Australia, Canada, France and Japan, designed to promote regional security, cooperation, maintain and strengthen maritime partnerships, and enhance maritime interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexandria Esteban)

    Date Taken: 10.07.2024
    Date Posted: 10.10.2024 03:09
    Photo ID: 8689208
    VIRIN: 241008-N-CV021-1125
    Resolution: 1429×953
    Size: 216.71 KB
    Location: PH

    Web Views: 0
    Downloads: 0

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Attends SAMA SAMA 2024 Reception, October 8, 2024 [Image 2 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on


    SUBIC BAY, Philippines (October 8, 2024) Philippine Navy Capt. Zosimo M Bolaños Jr., officer in charge of the exercise for Naval Forces Northern Luzon, provides remarks at a U.S. hosted reception aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83) during Sama Sama 2024, Oct. 8, 2024. Sama Sama is a bilateral exercise hosted by the Philippines and United States, with participants from Australia, Canada, France, and Japan, designed to promote regional security cooperation, maintain and strengthen maritime partnerships, and enhance maritime interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ange Olivier Clement)

    Date Taken: 10.07.2024
    Date Posted: 10.10.2024 03:09
    Photo ID: 8689225
    VIRIN: 241008-N-DM318-1042
    Resolution: 1430×1021
    Size: 210.06 KB
    Location: PH

    Web Views: 0
    Downloads: 0

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    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: The 27th ASEAN-Japan Summit discusses progress of partnership

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, participated in the 27th ASEAN-Japan Summit, which was held in Vientiane earlier today, and attended by the ASEAN Leaders or their representatives and the Prime Minister of Japan. Timor-Leste attended as Observer.

    The Summit reaffirmed both sides’ commitment to further advancing the ASEAN-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) established last year, and discussed future direction of the relations based on mutual trust, respect, benefit, win-win cooperation and equal partnership.

    The post The 27th ASEAN-Japan Summit discusses progress of partnership appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Extraordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers on October 10, 2024

    MIL OSI Translation. Timor-Leste Portuguese to English –

    Presidency of the Council of Ministers

    Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
    ……………………………………………. ……………………………………………. …………………….

    Press release

    Extraordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers on October 10, 2024

    The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and approved the Government Resolution project, presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, and by the Executive Director of the Mission Unit to Combat ‘Stunting’, Joel Maria Pereira, which approves the National Multisectoral Annual Plan to Combat ‘Stunting’ for the period 2024 to 2030.

    The National Multisectoral Annual Plan to Combat Stunting for the period 2024 to 2030 has as its main objective to provide a framework for coordinated and multisectoral action to combat stunting. Among the main goals are to increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding, improve children’s diets and reduce the stunting rate from 47% to less than 25% by 2030. The plan also aims to reduce anemia rates in children and women of reproductive age, as well as improve the coordination of nutrition programs and promote social behavior changes to improve nutritional health.

    The implementation of the plan will be led by the Mission Unit for Combating Stunting, in collaboration with several ministries and development partners. The process will be subject to continuous monitoring to ensure its effectiveness, with the aim of creating a sustainable and resilient environment that promotes improved nutrition and well-being of the Timorese population.

    *****

    The draft Decree-Law, also presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mariano Assanami Sabino, referring to the Community Housing Program, was also approved.

    The programme aims to ensure the right to housing as a condition for the integrated and sustainable development of the community, through the planning and construction of housing and the corresponding complementary infrastructure and collective equipment, intended to be allocated to beneficiaries, in accordance with established criteria, as well as subsequent ongoing community support for maintenance and access to services. The implementation of the programme will be led by the Ministry of Rural Development and Community Housing, in conjunction with local administrations and with the active participation of communities. Housing is allocated to beneficiaries according to their financial capacity, and is classified under one of the following schemes: commercial, subsidised, community or social. Under the commercial scheme, the beneficiary pays a consideration defined by market conditions. Under the subsidised scheme, the amount to be paid is adjusted to be more affordable in light of market conditions. Under the community scheme, the allocation of housing is free of charge at an initial stage, with a set amount to be paid after that period. Under the social scheme, housing is allocated free of charge.

    *****

    The Council of Ministers assessed the preliminary report on the expenses of activities related to the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis, presented by the Minister of State Administration, Tomás do Rosário Cabral.

    At its meeting on 28 February 2024, the Council of Ministers authorized expenditure of up to USD 12 million for the Coordinating Committee for the Organization of the Visit of His Holiness Pope Francis, which took place from 9 to 11 September 2024. Of this amount, USD 9,978,658.12 was spent, resulting in a positive balance of USD 2,021,341.12, which will be returned to the State coffers.

    The Timorese Episcopal Conference (CET), through the Church Coordinating Commission team, will hold an internal evaluation meeting on November 23, 2024 and the Joint Commission, composed of the Government, the Church team and the representative of the Holy See in Timor-Leste, will conclude the activities on December 21, 2024, when the representative of the Holy See and the local Church will transmit an official message from the Vatican.

    *****

    Finally, the Council of Ministers also decided to approve the theme “Proud of our identity and culture, we build a future of freedom, justice and hope for our People” for the celebrations of the 49th anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, which will be celebrated on 28 November, and whose main celebrations will take place in Oe-Cusse Ambeno. END

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Record-high direct investments abroad

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    The value of investments in Europe will make up 60 percent of total outward investments in 2023. This is a smaller share than 5 years ago, as Danish companies have invested heavily in the USA and Asia in recent years. The value of Danish investments in the USA was kr. 274 billion in 2023, which is almost twice the amount of 2018. The USA is the largest investment country, followed by Great Britain, Germany and Sweden.

    The USA is the largest investor country in Denmark

    Foreign direct investments in Denmark often pass through one or more transit countries before they reach Denmark. This is due, among other things, to complicated ownership structures, where investments from the country of origin are made via holding companies, often based in transit countries such as Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Ireland.

    The complexity of the global organization of companies can make it difficult to identify where economic activity takes place and which countries ultimately bear the risk and get the return on the investment. Therefore, the investments are also compiled based on the ultimate investor country, where there is look through of ownership structures and the country from which the investments are controlled is identified. Based on this approach the USA is clearly the country that ultimately invests the most in Denmark, but Sweden and Great Britain are also major investor countries. Part of the foreign direct investment in Denmark also comes from Danish companies – known as round tripping. This occurs when Danish companies and foundations invest in Denmark through a foreign subsidiary.

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI: Fashion Brand Sincethen Hosts Brand Day from October 8 to 14

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEOUL, KOREA, Oct. 10, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The fashion brand Sincethen, known for its romantic silhouettes that enhance feminine allure, will hold a Brand Day event from October 8 to 14 on its official online store. This event will feature various benefits and activities, and it is expected to serve as an opportunity to strengthen communication with customers.

    Since its establishment in 2009, Sincethen has consistently introduced unique collections each season, themed around travel and romance. The brand focuses on making everyday life more special for its customers, striving for high-quality silhouettes through the development of sustainable materials and patterns. Throughout this process, Sincethen naturally incorporates its distinctive romantic philosophy into its products.

    The brand’s signature products include its dress line, which stands out for its romantic colors and silhouettes, as well as its collection of dresses that emphasize feminine sensibility. Notably, the tweed two-piece set has become one of Sincethen’s signature items, enjoying continued popularity.

    Recently, Sincethen has gained attention in international markets. After the protagonist of the Korean drama wore Sincethen products, the brand grew in popularity across Southeast Asia. Additionally, K-POP artists have worn Sincethen’s outfits during performances, attracting global fans’ attention.

    A representative from Sincethen stated, “Through this Brand Day event, we aim to connect with more customers and widely promote Sincethen’s romantic collections and the brand value of sustainable romance.”

    Sincethen’s Brand Day will be held from October 8 to 14 on Sincethen’s official online store.

    Media Contact

    Company: Sincethen

    Contact: kim ji-young

    Telephone: 0222696142

    Email: contact@sincethen.com

    Website: http://www.sincethen.com

    SOURCE: Sincethen

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-Evening Report: China removes block on Australian lobster, in last big bilateral trade breakthrough

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    China has removed the last significant trade barrier it imposed on Australia, with a timetable to resume full lobster imports by the end of the year.

    Anthony Albanese announced the breakthrough after a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Vientiane, where the prime minister is attending the ASEAN-Australia summit.

    Albanese said the end of the barrier would be in time for the Chinese New Year. This would be welcomed by those in the lobster trade in places including Geraldton, Western Australia, and in South Australia and Tasmania, he said.

    The lobster decision means the Chinese over the last two years have removed trade barriers of nearly $20 billion slapped on Australia during the time of the former government when relations between the two countries went into a deep freeze. This followed various Australian decisions, including the call for an inquiry into the origins of COVID.

    Remaining impediments are now worth less than $500 million, with two red meat establishments still affected.

    The lobster trade was worth more than $700 million in 2019.

    More than 3000 people are employed in the lobster industry, 2000 of them in WA.

    “The reinstatement in normalised trade for all commodities is front and centre of the Government’s engagement strategy with China,” Albanese said.

    “It is in the interests of both our countries to continue this path of stabilising our relationship. A resumption in trade for all Australian commodities is an important part of this process.”

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    ref. China removes block on Australian lobster, in last big bilateral trade breakthrough – https://theconversation.com/china-removes-block-on-australian-lobster-in-last-big-bilateral-trade-breakthrough-241012

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Update on cluster of Candida auris cases in North Lantau Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

         Regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases, the spokesperson for North Lantau Hospital (NLTH) gave the following update today (October 10):
     
         Following a contact tracing investigation, two more patients, males aged 82 and 70 in the emergency medicine ward, were identified as carriers of Candida auris without signs of infection. One patient was discharged earlier, and the other patient was transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital for further isolation treatment and is in stable condition.
     
         The ward concerned has adopted the following enhanced infection control measures:     

    Enhanced patient and environmental screening procedures;
    Applied stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients; and
    Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned.

     
         The hospital has reported the cases to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for follow-up and will continue to closely monitor the situation.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bus parade route revealed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Transport Department today announced the route of a bus parade, scheduled for October 19, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

    Starting at around 11am that day, parade buses will depart from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay for Man Kwong Street in Central. They will transit along Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road and Lung Wo Road.

    The route is about six km long and will take about 30 minutes to complete. Members of the public can observe the parade and take photos at viewing locations such as Hennessy Road near Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and Central Pier, where the parade ends.

    Police will lead the convoy and may implement traffic and crowd safety measures, depending on conditions.

    In case of adverse weather, the bus parade will be cancelled. The public should watch out for the updates on the department’s website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹29,000 crore on October 11, 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on October 11, 2024.

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) for the underwriting auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    7.04% GS 2029 14,000 334 334
    7.34% GS 2064 15,000 358 358

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on October 11, 2024 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2024-2025/1260

    MIL OSI Economics

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Multimedia music programme “After the Rain” to be staged at Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Multimedia music programme “After the Rain” to be staged at Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs (with photos)
    Multimedia music programme “After the Rain” to be staged at Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs (with photos)
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Asia+ Festival, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will present participatory music programme “After the Rain” at the Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs, which is opening for public performances for the first time. Local music group Toolbox Percussion, media arts collective Dimension Plus and Singaporean composer Lee Jiayi will attempt to broaden public imagination and experience with a bespoke multimedia music journey that unveils the mystery of the hillside cavern.      Built in rock caverns, the Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs has occasionally been used as a filming location. It will be open for the first time for public performances. In their quest to explore the intricate relationship between humanity, technology and climate change, the artists seamlessly meld live music and interactive multimedia design with the environment. Louis Siu, executive artistic director of Toolbox Percussion, hopes that audiences of “After the Rain” will realise that water resources are indeed hard to come by.      During the programme, attendees will each be given a specially designed rainstick and walk through a tunnel about 100 metres long to interact with percussionists. Ink projections on the walls will fuse with people’s silhouettes, together shaping a unique sonic and visual landscape.      Both Louis Siu and Lee Jiayi had played in an orchestra before, but they were not entirely satisfied with performing a pre-existing repertoire. Over the years, they have been working with people from diverse backgrounds, such as photographers, choreographers, designers and visual artists, in their challenge to the usual definition of music. Their creative partner Keith Lam from Dimension Plus is also a boundary-pusher who is keen on offering new sonic experiences by, for instance, transforming a theatrical space into a cave-like structure using AI-generated imagery.      Multimedia music programme “After the Rain”, in 28 performances altogether, will be held at the Western Salt Water Service Reservoirs with details as follows: October 30, November 1, 6 and 8 (Wednesdays and Fridays): 7pm and 8pmNovember 2, 3, 9 and 10 (Saturdays and Sundays): 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, 7pm and 8pm      Tickets priced at $360 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288, or use the mobile ticketing app “URBTIX”.      The programme contains strobe lighting effects. Attendees are required to walk in the reservoir area and should assess whether their physical condition allows them to participate and whether they need to be accompanied by a carer. Attendees are advised to arrive at the venue early for admission. There will also be a fee-charging activity titled “Immersive Cavern Walk”, where the reservoir decorated with interactive multimedia design is open for public tours during specific non-performance hours. For access information of the reservoir and other programme details, please refer to asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en/aftertherain.      The second Asia+ Festival is running from September to November, highlighting the arts and culture of nearly 30 countries from Asia and the Belt and Road regions. Apart from stage programmes, there are also thematic exhibitions, an outdoor carnival, film screenings, outreach activities and more, numbering over 100 in total. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit asiaplus.gov.hk/2024/en/.

     
    Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 15:35

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on the Development of Strategic Plans to Implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    WE, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), namely Brunei Darussalam, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Republic of Indonesia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Singapore, the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, gathered in Vientiane, Lao PDR on the occasion of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, on 9 October 2024;

    RECALLING the ASEAN Community Vision 2025: Forging Ahead Together (Kuala Lumpur, 2015), Ha Noi Declaration on the ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (Ha Noi, 2020), the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on ASEAN Connectivity Post-2025 Agenda (Phnom Penh, 2022), and the ASEAN Leaders’ Statement on the Development of the ASEAN Community’s Post-2025 Vision (Labuan Bajo, 2023);

    Download the full declaration here.
    The post ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on the Development of Strategic Plans to Implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for the Future-Ready ASEAN and ASEAN-Centred Regional Architecture

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    WE, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), namely Brunei Darussalam, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Republic of Indonesia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Singapore, the Kingdom of Thailand, and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, gathered in Vientiane on the occasion of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits on 9 October 2024;

    ACKNOWLEDGING that global and regional challenges are becoming more interconnected and multidimensional, and reaffirming our commitment to promote an enabling environment for peace, stability and prosperity in the region as well as our efforts to address common challenges, and promote closer economic and socioculturalcooperation;

    Download the full declaration here.
    The post ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific for the Future-Ready ASEAN and ASEAN-Centred Regional Architecture appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks