The Australian Border Force (ABF) has further strengthened its partnership with Samoa’s Ministry of Customs and Revenue (MCR) through the donation of essential equipment and safety gear. The handover ceremony held at the Customs Office in Matautu on Wednesday 2nd October 2024, was officiated by Reverend Elder Molī Molī of the EFKS Matautu-tai parish. The ceremony also marked another milestone in the long-standing relationship between Samoa and Australia.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Samoa, H.E Will Robinson, reaffirmed the commitment to enhancing border security with the delivery of equipment, including two Smiths high scan cabinet X-ray units, Narcotic Identification Kits, four personal radiation detectors, and personal protective equipment (PPE’s) including high viz vests and safety boots. In addition, ABF experts also provided two weeks of specialized training for Customs and Biosecurity officers, focusing on the safe operation of the equipment and advanced inspection techniques.
The Deputy Prime Minister of Samoa who is also Minister for MCR, Hon. Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio, accepted the kind donation and expressed sincerest gratitude to the Australian government and ABF for their ongoing support. He emphasized the importance of the donation in safeguarding Samoa’s borders and acknowledged ABF Inspector Michelle Bond for her role in facilitating the initiative. He also urged MCR staff to ensure that the new equipment be put to good use to enhance the Ministry’s border enforcement efforts, ultimately benefiting Samoa.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of Memorandum of Understanding and exchange of gift certification relative to the donated items between the ABF and MCR.
Faafetai tele lava for the opportunity to share a few brief words this morning.
This handover is yet another milestone in our Samoa-Australia Partnership – a partnership built on shared values, trust, and a common purpose.
We both want to ensure the safety and security of our people and our borders.
Deputy Prime Minister – on behalf of the Australian Government, I am pleased to officially hand over this equipment.
This includes two Smiths 6040 x-ray units, narcotics identification kits, four RadEye personal radiation detectors, and a comprehensive set of personal protective gear.
It is our hope that this equipment contributes to Samoa’s continued efforts in securing its borders – not only for CHOGM, but beyond.
Australia has worked closely with Samoa to provide training and support alongside this equipment.
It builds on the current technology training delivered by the Australia’s Department of Home Affairs, in partnership with the Australian Border Force.
This training has included essential sessions such as Cabinet X-ray training, Narcotic Identification Kit testing training, Container X-ray image analysis training, Subject Matter Expert Advanced Operator training, Ionscan 500DT Operator training and RadEye PRD operator training.
Australia is proud to stand alongside Samoa.
We know that by working together, we can face the challenges of today’s evolving global security landscape.
Our cooperation strengthens the safety of our borders and our shared Blue Pacific.
But what makes our partnership truly thrive is not just the sharing of resources, but the exchange of knowledge.
This is a two-way learning process, where we grow and learn from each other.
In that spirit, Fonoti, I hope my colleague Michelle has been an asset to your ministry, just as I know she has gained so much from working with your outstanding team.
I want to thank everyone involved in this important initiative, particularly the dedicated personnel at the Ministry of Customs and Revenue and the Australian Border Force.
Your hard work and commitment are the foundations of this partnership.
I look forward to continuing our close cooperation as we work together for a safer future.
Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki today officiated at the inaugural Family & Women Development Summit Hong Kong.
Themed “Women’s Strengths in Action, Family Values Across Generations”, the summit brought together various sectors of the community to exchange views on matters relating to women and families.
Guest speakers included officials from various regions, successful women from diverse sectors, members of families from a range of backgrounds, and representatives of non-governmental organisations.
The event attracted over 900 participants from local and Greater Bay Area women’s groups, the business sector, and relevant service organisations.
In his address, Mr Chan said that women have played a crucial role in driving Hong Kong’s social and economic development, and are as competent as men. He highlighted the outstanding accomplishments of Hong Kong women in various fields, providing.
Mr Chan added that women also play a unique role in respect of family development, and in fostering family education and values.
Noting that the National 14th Five-Year Plan highlights the need to strengthen family development and promote diversified family services, Mr Chan said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is focused on the healthy development of local families.
Delivering a keynote speech at the summit, Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak said that by pulling together the efforts of the Government, the business sector, and the community, it can offer a new platform for individuals to support the development of local families and women.
She said it will allow people from different sectors, backgrounds and cultures to share their experiences and insights, helping to stimulate new policy ideas.
At the summit, the Home & Youth Affairs Bureau announced the introduction of a three-year Maintenance Mediation Pilot Scheme, and the official launch of a one-stop family and women’s information portal. It also announced that a five-year “Funding Scheme on the Promotion of Family Education” will be launched on October 14 to support non-profit-making community projects that promote family education.
Exhibition booths at the venue showcased the achievements of women’s groups and family service organisations in promoting women’s development and family education.
Source: The Conversation – UK – By Harsh Trivedi, Associate Teacher, School of Languages and Cultures, University of Sheffield
The multiverse has become an essential part of pop culture. The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) brought this shared universe style of storytelling to global prominence with Iron Man (2008), where a post-credit scene hinted at a larger interconnected universe.
Over time, this expanded into a cinematic multiverse, particularly with the 2016 film Doctor Strange. Films like Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness (2022) introduced audiences to parallel universes where different versions of the same character coexist. The multiverse has also been embraced by other films, like Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022), which won multiple Academy Awards and Stree 2, which became the highest-grossing Bollywood film of all time in September 2024.
This style of storytelling has deep literary roots. I believe the first person to master the fictional multiverse was the 19th-century French novelist, Honoré de Balzac, in his monumental work La Comédie Humaine (The Human Comedy, 1829-1847).
In the 1920s, German physicist Werner Heisenberg challenged Newtonian physics, positing that particles can simultaneously occupy multiple states – he called this the Uncertainty Principle. Later, in the 1950s, American physicist Hugh Everett proposed the Many Worlds Interpretation, suggesting that all possible outcomes of a quantum event occur, each in a separate parallel universe.
While this theory was developed in physics, the term “multiverse” was introduced into literature by British science fiction writer Michael Moorcock. In The Eternal Champion (1970), he envisioned characters existing in parallel worlds with multiple avatars.
However, Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine, written over a century earlier, already contained the seeds of multiverse storytelling. Comprising nearly 100 novels and short stories, it features thousands of characters who reappear across different works, creating a shared universe that allows for complex narrative interconnections.
Balzac’s innovation was not merely in these recurring characters, but in the thematic and conceptual unity he established across his fictional universe.
This cohesion is built through his “typology” of characters. Balzac’s “types” are characters who embody universal traits while retaining their individual personalities – making them instantly recognisable across different stories.
In his preface to Une Ténébreuse Affaire (An Historical Mystery, 1841), Balzac defends his use of types: “A type … is a character who summarises in himself certain characteristic traits of all those who more or less resemble him; he is the model of the genre.”
Hungarian philosopher Georg Lukács expanded on this idea, stating that Balzac’s types represent a synthesis of the individual and the universal. These characters are universal enough to represent broader societal forces, while remaining distinct individuals within their own narratives.
The moment Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man saves the love interest of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man, MJ.
This balance between the universal and individual is a cornerstone of multiverse storytelling. For instance, the climax of Spider-Man: No Way Home highlights the interplay between the universal and individual aspects of characters, as seen when three versions of Spider-Man (Toby Maguire, Andrew Garfield, Tom Holland) from parallel universes unite. Garfield’s Spider-Man finds redemption by saving MJ (Holland’s Spider-Man’s love interest), a moment that mirrors his own tragic loss of Gwen – emphasising both their shared trauma and divergent fates.
In much the same way, Balzac’s recurring characters evolve across La Comédie Humaine, reflecting different facets of their personalities and situations. Although not planned as a shared universe from the beginning – Balzac retrofitted earlier works to fit this framework – the coherence of his fictional world is remarkable.
Mobilising the multiverse
The French philosopher Alain wrote that Balzac’s literary universe can sometimes feel like a “crossroads where characters from La Comédie Humaine meet, greet each other, and pass”. This creates a sense of disjointedness, due to its lack of strict chronological order, allowing readers to enter Balzac’s universe from any of the nearly 100 novels or short stories.
Balzac addressed these concerns in his prefaces. He engaged in a meta-discourse similar to the post-credit scenes in modern Marvel films, where future plot-lines and character arcs are hinted at.
Balzac’s use of prefaces as a space to preempt criticism and engage with his readers anticipates the dialogue between creators and fans in the MCU. Just as Marvel balances creative vision with fan demands, Balzac used his prefaces to address concerns from his readers about the trajectories of beloved characters.
One of many such instances occurs in the preface to Pierrette (1840), where Balzac reveals that Maxime de Trailles, a notorious bachelor who ruins many women’s lives in La Comédie Humaine, is finally getting married. Despite criticisms from readers who wanted De Trailles to meet a tragic and painful end, Balzac defends his decision, humorously remarking: “What do you want me to do? That devil Maxime is in good health.”
Both Balzac and Marvel deal with the challenge of catering to a wide and diverse audience. The multiverse model, however, offers a solution to the limitations of a shared universe. While Balzac struggled with the impossibility of creating a completely coherent world – La Comédie Humaine was unfinished at his death – the multiverse allows modern creators to explore multiple realities and satisfy diverse audience expectations without making irreversible narrative choices.
In 2019, Marvel faced a backlash to the film Captain Marvel from conservative fans, for casting a female actor in a lead role – and then, in 2022, another backlash for casting a Muslim Pakistani actress as Ms. Marvel. Rather than directly addressing the criticism, which could have alienated both conservative and liberal audiences, Marvel used the multiverse to cater to a wide range of expectations.
Across the Spider-Verse (2023) is a prime example. This animated film features over 600 versions of Spider-Man, from the “traditional” white Spider-Man to black, Indian and even animal versions of the character (notably Peter “Porker”, the Spider-Pig). In doing so, Marvel catered to diverse global markets without committing to a single interpretation.
Balzac’s La Comédie Humaine laid the groundwork for modern multiverse storytelling. This approach allowed him to explore different dimensions of his characters across various stories. His visionary storytelling anticipated the fluidity and complexity found in today’s shared cinematic universes, demonstrating his enduring influence on narrative structures.
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Harsh Trivedi 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.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
The production of HMS Formidable underway as steel is cut. Production will sustain 2,500 jobs in Scotland and across the UK, supporting economic growth.
Thousands of jobs and apprenticeships are being supported through warship building, as a major milestone was reached today in the production of the Navy’s future high-tech frigates.
Steel was cut on HMS Formidable, the third of the Royal Navy’s new Type 31 warships, at a ceremony in the Rosyth shipyard, reinforcing the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to shipbuilding in Scotland.
All five frigates will be built in Rosyth, sustaining over 2,500 jobs in Scotland and across the wider supply chain. The work will also create an additional 400 apprenticeship roles, driving economic growth.
The five Type 31 frigates will support future maritime operations, including interception and disruption of those using the sea for unlawful purposes, intelligence gathering, defence engagement and humanitarian support. They will also be able to shoot down missiles and enemy air targets using a Sea Ceptor missile system, keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad.
The announcement comes ahead of the International Investment Summit which will gather UK leaders, high-profile investors and businesses from across the world to discuss how we can deepen our partnership to drive investment and growth.
Attending the ceremony, Minister for the Armed Forces Luke Pollard said:
This government is committed to making Britain secure at home and strong abroad. These frigates will be at the heart of the Royal Navy fleet, deterring aggression and supporting our military.
Today’s significant milestone is backing the government’s mission to grow the economy by supporting thousands of jobs in Scotland and across the UK.
The programme is also a key element in the Royal Navy’s production line, sustaining and developing the British shipbuilding industry.
The Babcock-built Type 31 fleet will be highly adaptable and capable of rapid deployment, equipped with advanced radar, communication systems, and a variety of armaments.
In a testament to the UK defence industry, Poland has selected Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 ship design – based on the Type 31 frigates – to equip its Navy with a new class of frigates. In a further export boost, the design has been sold to Indonesia for their own frigate production.
Royal Navy’s Senior Responsible Owner for the Type 31 programme, Commodore Stephen Roberts, said:
This is a momentous occasion for all involved and we are proud to have marked this significant milestone in this way.
When complete, this remarkable fleet of general-purpose frigates will deliver an impressive capability for Royal Navy and play a huge role in the continued security and prosperity of our nation.
The ships will have a top speed of over 26 knots – equivalent to nearly 50 kilometres an hour – and accommodate a crew of around 100 personnel. They will replace the five Type 23 general purpose frigates. Type 23 frigates have carried out a wide variety of operations, from securing the UK’s vital maritime trade routes East of the Suez Canal to safeguarding British interests in the South Atlantic.
Babcock’s Chief Executive, Officer David Lockwood said:
Today, we are proud to mark yet another milestone in this important defence programme for the Royal Navy. These frigates will play a significant role in protecting the UK and supporting international partnered defence operations.
This programme is a real demonstration of UK sovereign shipbuilding capability and is delivering positive economic impact within Scotland and in communities across the UK. It is a privilege for our teams across Babcock to be delivering these platforms for the nation.
The Type 31 project is managed by Defence, Equipment and Support (DE&S), the procurement arm of the Ministry of Defence.
DE&S’ Head of Combat Ships Delivery Group, Mark Beverstock, said:
I am delighted that work on the third ship in the Type 31 programme is underway. From maritime security patrols and disaster-relief support, to intelligence gathering and defence engagement, these ships will be at the heart of the Royal Navy’s surface fleet.
Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – In the Acts of the Apostles “we see the Spirit work for unity in two ways”: He teaches her to expand in universality, and consolidate in unity. Universal and one: this is the mystery of the Church.During the Wednesday general audience in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis continues the cycle of catechesis dedicated to the Holy Spirit and his role in the Church, reflecting on the role played by the Holy Spirit in the Acts of the Apostles.With the account of Pentecost, the Pontiff notes, the author “wished to highlight the universal mission of the Church, as a sign of a new unity between all peoples”. In the following (chapters 10 and 15) we see that the Spirit works for unity in two ways. On the one hand, He drives the Church outwards, so that she can welcome an ever-greater number of people and peoples; on the other hand, she gathers them within to consolidate the unity achieved.The first of the two movements – universality – can be seen in action in the episode of the conversion of Cornelius, “to induce the Apostles to expand their horizon and break down the last barrier, the one between Jews and pagans”. “To this ethnical expansion is added the geographical expansion”, said the Bishop of Rome, who recalls that Paul “wanted to proclaim the Gospel in a new region of Asia Minor; but it is written that they had been “forbidden by the Holy Spirit”; he attempted to enter Bithyn’ia, “but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them”. We immediately discover the reason for these surprising prohibitions of the Spirit: the following night the Apostle received in a dream the order to pass into Macedonia. The Gospel thus left its native Asia and entered into Europe”, said the Pope.The second movement of the Holy Spirit – that which creates unity – can be seen “in the proceedings of the so-called Council of Jerusalem. The problem is how to ensure that the universality achieved does not compromise the unity of the Church”. The Holy Spirit, Francis points out, ” does not always create unity suddenly, with miraculous and decisive actions, as at Pentecost. He also does so – and in the majority of cases – with discreet work, respecting human time and differences, passing through people and institutions, prayer and confrontation. In, we would say today, a synodal manner”. In this context, the Pope quotes Saint Augustine, who explains the unity brought about by the Holy Spirit with a classic image: ” How the soul is of the body of man is the holy Spirit of the body of Christ, which is the Church”. This “image helps us to understand something important. The Holy Spirit does not create the unity of the Church from the outside; He does not limit Himself to commanding us to be united. He Himself is the “bond of unity”. It is He who creates the unity of the Church”.”The unity of the Church is the unity between people – Pope Francis continued – and is not achieved on the drawing board, but in life. Even “Christian unity is built in this way too: not waiting for others to reach us where we are, but moving together towards Christ”.At the end of the Audience, the Pope again turned his thoughts to the peoples of the world affected by the ravages of war. And he invites everyone to pray for peace: “May the month of October, dedicated to the Holy Rosary, be a precious opportunity to cultivate this traditional Marian prayer. I urge you all to pray the Rosary every day, placing yourselves trustingly in the hands of Mary. To her, the caring Mother, we entrust the suffering and the desire for peace of the peoples who suffer the madness of war, especially the tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, Sudan”. (F.B.) (Agenzia Fides, 9/10/2024)
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Seoul (Agenzia Fides) – North Korea has cut off road and rail access to South Korea with the aim of “completely separating” the two countries. The North Korean army has announced that it is proceeding to “permanently isolate and block the southern border”, reinforcing the fortifications as a “self-defense measure to prevent war”. Signs of closure such as this – with high symbolic value – mark a historic moment in which tensions between the two parts of Korea have reached their highest levels in recent years. This has not left southern society untouched either, and “the desire for reunification is diminishing”, says Peter Soon-Taick Chung, Archbishop of Seoul and Apostolic Administrator of Pyongyang, in an interview with Fides, in which he examines the issue of North-South relations.”I think many young people in the South are beginning to believe that reconciliation or reunification are not viable paths. Hope is fading”, he notes. Therefore, he adds, “I think it is appropriate to continue to dream of peaceful coexistence and to keep the light of hope burning in Korean society, especially today, in the current stalemate, with the total blockade of communication routes, the situation is very bleak”. He adds that “our task is to continue with prayer and education for peace: the Church continues to ask what can and must be done for peace”. “We are approaching the Holy Year, which has as its theme hope: we are pilgrims of hope, also with regard to relations with the North”, he stresses.Simon Kim Ju-young, Bishop of Chuncheon and president of the Episcopal Commission for Reconciliation, meanwhile notes with bitterness that “both sides view each other with a certain hostility and all channels are closed, even that of humanitarian aid, which was kept open in the past. And even if the Korean public opinion is still quite divided on policy towards the North, all Koreans are united when it comes to sending humanitarian aid to North Korea. But North Korea keeps all channels closed, including humanitarian ones.”There is another reason for this attitude, according to political observers: in the current international context, marked by wars in Europe and the Middle East, the arms market has grown and North Korea is one of the countries that sell equipment from its war arsenal. This sector acts as a driving force for the North Korean economy, which is thus less dependent and less reliant on external aid.In this period of closure, “we pray above all for the doors to open. All the faithful of the Church in Korea participate in this prayer,” says Bishop Simon Kim Ju-young. “In some dioceses, for example, the faithful gathered at nine o’clock in the evening to ask God for reconciliation and peace. In Seoul, a Mass is celebrated every week for this intention, and in my diocese of Chuncheon, we hold a special prayer on the 25th of every month.”In all the dioceses of Korea, there is a Commission for Reconciliation and Unification of the Korean People, where religious priests, nuns and lay people come together “to talk about peace and continue to raise people’s awareness of the issue of peace, with initiatives aimed at the Catholic faithful but also at non-Catholics,” the bishop continued.Another way, which practices a kind of “culture of welcome,” is proposed by Benedictine Abbot Blasio Park Hyun-dong, OSB, Apostolic Administrator of the Territorial Abbey of Tokwon in the province of Hamkyongnam in North Korea: the building of the Tokwon Abbey is now used as a University of Agriculture. In 1952, Benedictine monks and nuns fled the North because of the Korean War and founded a new monastery in Waegwan, South Korea. Today, the Abbot of Waegwan, who is also Apostolic Administrator of the Territorial Abbey of Tokwon, reports: “We can continue to show concrete solidarity and welcome the refugees who make it from the North to the South. As religious communities, we do our best to help these refugees, at all levels. Even if reunification is still a long way off, for us this is a kind of preparation for living together and keeps the hope of reconciliation alive.”Looking back, the bishops recall that the Commission for Reconciliation within the Episcopal Conference visited Pyongyang in December 2015 to meet with the local Catholic community and celebrate a Mass in the Changchung Church. “On that occasion,” recalls the then priest Simon Kim Ju-young, “we told the local faithful that South Korean Catholics pray for reconciliation every day at nine in the evening. We asked them to participate in this prayer and they assured us that they would do so.” He added: “I remember their faces and their words. They were people who professed Christianity and I felt in my heart that they said it with a sincere heart and the authenticity of the Holy Spirit. Today, listening to the stories of the refugees, even if we have no news from across the border, we nourish the hope that there are still believers there. We hope that one day we will be able to come together again and pray together”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 9/10/2024)
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Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, expressed his profound sorrow over the passing of the former Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 10th and 11th National People’s Congress (NPC), Mr Wu Bangguo.
Mr Lee said, “Chairman Wu had all along held the development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) close to his heart. He had reached out to people from all walks of life during his various visits to Hong Kong, fully demonstrating the Central Authorities’ unwavering support for Hong Kong.
“Chairman Wu had reiterated on multiple occasions the Central Government’s firm commitment to the implementation of the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, under which ‘the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong’ with a high degree of autonomy; working in strict accordance with the Basic Law; as well as fully supporting the administration of the Chief Executive and the HKSAR Government in accordance with the law to maintain Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability. During his tenure as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the NPC, the Standing Committee deliberated and unanimously passed the Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on Issues Relating to the Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and for Forming the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in the Year 2012 and on Issues Relating to Universal Suffrage.
“On behalf of the HKSAR, I extend my deepest condolences to Chairman Wu’s family.”
Democratic candidate Tim Walz, during the vice presidential debate in which he said he ‘misspoke’ about being in Hong Kong during Tiananmen Square protests.Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
During the Sept. 24, 2024, debate, Democratic vice presidential hopeful Tim Walz said he “misspoke” when asked to clarify his story of being in Hong Kong during the Tiananmen Square crackdown in June 1989.
To many, Walz’s use of the word misspoke came across as an attempt to weasel out of what was at best an embellishment and at worst an outright lie.
The word misspoke has certainly long been used to politically backpedal after verbal inaccuracies or blunders, as Ronald Reagan learned in 1981 after he said that Syrian surface-to-air missiles placed in Lebanon were “offensive weapons,” when they were in fact defensive weapons. Both Presidents Bill Clinton and the much “misunderestimated” George W. Bush likewise were deemed to have misspoken after making mistakes, big and small.
For instance, a spokesperson for Clinton claimed he had misspoken when the then-president said that North Korea would not be allowed to develop a nuclear bomb – after there was reason to believe they had already developed them. During George W. Bush’s term in office, verbal errors were so common they earned a nickname of their own: “Bushisms.”
But misspoke’s extension to factual fabrication is one step further down the semantic road. In using it in this way, Walz joined other “misspoken” politicians, such as Hillary Clinton, who used it after falsely recollecting having landed in Bosnia under sniper fire.
As a sociolinguist who writes about how language changes over time, misspoke’s euphemistic recasting of lying as an inadvertent mistake calls for deeper linguistic scrutiny.
Tim Walz, being pressed on a statement he made and whether it was true, during the vice presidential debate.
From mumble to mea culpa
To understand how and why words morph like this, linguists like to trace them to their very beginnings.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “misspeaking” is quite old in the history of English, appearing as “missprecon” in a Northumbrian text dating before the 11th century. Its original sense was one of “to grumble” or “to mumble,” a meaning now obsolete.
But after the 11th century, its meaning shifted from inarticulateness to that of speaking amiss or disparagingly, often mentioned in reference to saying something improper or upsetting. Chaucer makes use of this sense in the “Miller’s Tale”: “And therfore if that I mysspeke or seye, Wyte it the ale of Southwerk, I you preye,” where the Miller handily blames a bit too much ale for whatever impropriety might fall from his mouth.
Around the time Chaucer was composing “The Canterbury Tales” in the late 14th century, the word “misspeak” branched off down yet another semantic path, taking on the meaning of “to speak incorrectly or misleadingly.” It is this sense that gave birth to the modern political mea culpa used when backtracking on a misleading prior statement, such as by Sen. John McCain after he claimed President Barack Obama was directly responsible for terrorist attacks on Americans.
Expanding meaning
These shifts in the meaning of a word over time fall under what linguists refer to as “semantic broadening.” Semantic broadening, which means expansion of a word’s meaning, is incredibly common, generally occurring when a word becomes used more frequently and across more situations. As a result, its core sense can expand to take on supplemental or tangential meanings.
Semantic shift like this is constantly at work, pushing and pulling senses in related but new directions to stay relevant to the needs of speakers.
The word “soon,” for instance, at first carried a meaning of “immediately,” but human nature being what it is, its meaning began to creep in the direction of “as immediately as possible” as people took their merry time.
Some new meanings, such as the nonliteral use of “literally” and Walz’s use of “misspeak,” are sites of contest, with multiple meanings at play.
The semantic broadening of misspeaking to cover not just misleading but knowingly false information didn’t start with Walz, nor did it begin with Clinton. In fact, this politically expedient expansion seems to go back at least to the Nixon administration.
There’s been a lot of misspeaking by politicians over the years, as these stories show. The Guardian US; The Hill; Wall Street Journal; Politico; Washington Post.
‘I misspoke myself’
In 1973, Nixon and his advisers were called to task in a Time article accusing them of a tendency to “make flat statements one day, and the next day reverse field with the simple phrase, ‘I misspoke myself.’” Given the Watergate scandal, it’s safe to say that misspoke as used by his administration had already shifted into deceptive speech territory.
Perhaps misspeaking’s semantic slippery slope started even further back, when the prefix “mis,” with its sense of “badly,” combined with “speaking.”
Consider other potentially weaselly words that are also formed by “mis” prefixation: misunderstood, misinterpret, mishear, mistake. These are all examples of words, like misspeak, that can and have been used by politicians to avoid taking responsibility for the false or “misleading” things they say.
Even if led astray by its prefix, from a linguistic perspective, the broadening of misspeak to cover not just incorrect but fabricated statements turns out to be not such a surprising development given the tendency of words to take on new senses over time, particularly in the world of political doublespeak.
The bigger surprise might be how this new meaning translates with voters, but that’s one surprise that will have to wait for the ballot box.
Valerie M. Fridland does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Richard Flory, Executive Director, Center for Religion and Civic Culture, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
Evangelicals may share the same basic theology, but they are not a monolithic group.Joe Raedle/Getty Images
Yet, the reality is much more complex. In 2016, for example, evangelical leaders such as Jerry Falwell Jr. and Robert Jeffresscelebrated Trump’s victory and evangelicalism’s role in bringing America back to God. Others – such as Russell Moore, currently editor of the evangelical magazine Christianity Today – saw Trump as the opposite of what evangelicalism represents.
We have identified and described five varieties, or “types,” within the broader evangelical movement.
Evangelicals and their beliefs
At its core, evangelicalism is characterized by a belief in the literal truth of the Bible.
For example, evangelicals believe that the world and humans were created by God; that Jesus was literally God’s son and also born as a human; that Jesus died and physically rose from the dead; and that God currently acts through humans to achieve his ends for humanity. A hallmark belief for evangelicals is having a “personal relationship with Jesus Christ” and a focus on encouraging others to be “born again” or “saved” through Jesus.
Despite sharing the same basic theology, there are differences within evangelicalism politics and social engagement.
We used three criteria to develop our five categories: First, each type shares a basic agreement on evangelical theology. Second, they each understand themselves as existing within the larger tradition of American evangelicalism. And third, their theology motivates how they act in the world, including appropriate social and political actions.
Typologies simplify in order to explain, but they also can blur some of the finer distinctions between categories. Still, the perspectives these different varieties of evangelicals maintain shape not only who they will vote for but also why they vote a certain way.
1. MAGA-vangelicals
MAGA-vangelicals consist of the white Christian nationalist core of the “Make America Great Again” or MAGA, movement, with some Latino, Asian and Black American pastors aligning themselves with this movement.
MAGA-vangelicals have been the most vocal and visible group of evangelicals since the 2016 election.
The origins of this group trace back to the 1980s – the time of the emergence of the religious right. MAGA-vangelicals echo many of the same issues – such as opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights and support for anti-immigration policies. One significant shift, however, since the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, is an increased acceptance of political violence. “Jan. 6 was not an insurrection,” evangelical leader Lance Wallnau has falsely asserted. “It was an election fraud intervention.” The baseless election fraud myth was the pretext for the violence on Jan. 6.
2. Neo-fundamentalist evangelicals
Neo-fundamentalists are evangelicals who are as theologically or politically conservative as MAGA-vangelicals but maintain a [theological commitment] to remain separate from any relationships – whether personal, social or political – that would, in their view, compromise the teachings of evangelical Christianity and their own identity as evangelical Christians.
For example, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Albert Mohler and Christianity Today editor Russell Moore have opposed Trump due to his, by evangelical standards, lack of values and amoral lifestyle.
However, they support how the Trump administration furthered the political goals of evangelical Christianity. In particular, they support the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade and supporting evangelicals’ religious freedom to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people in their businesses.
Yet there has recently been some qualified support among neo-fundamentalists offered for Trump himself, despite their opposition to his personal morals. For example, Mohler has argued that Trump is the better candidate to achieve their goals in 2024, despite his personal shortcomings. Mohler takes the position, though, that this support largely depends on Trump remaining committed to evangelical goals on issues such as abortion.
3. iVangelicals
iVangelicals are evangelicals primarily focused on personal faith and the weekly worship experience in their churches. They are mainly concentrated in the evangelical megachurch movement.
iVangelicals want to reach large numbers of people through their popular worship services, varied social programs and small group ministries.
There is, however, a range of beliefs and commitments among iVangelicals, with some being attracted to groups such as Evangelicals for Harris, a new effort to mobilize evangelicals to move away from Republicans, Trump and MAGA and to vote for Harris. Their approach uses biblical examples and references to argue that true Christian teachings and actions are more aligned with Democrats than Republicans.
Evangelicals for Harris.
4. Kingdom Christians
Kingdom Christians are evangelicals who, in their churches and ministries, strive to mirror the demographic and socioeconomic mix of the neighborhoods where they are rooted.
They tend to have a more diverse racial and ethnic mix of members than other evangelical churches. Their focus is to be a part of, and to serve, their local communities in a manner that mirrors their conception of the kingdom of God on Earth.
Leaders among Kingdom Christians often critique the economic and political systems that produce poverty and racial injustice. The focus of their efforts, however, is on creating relationships with local businesses and activists in the local community and contributing to policy through engagement with local officials.
Kingdom Christians are present-oriented; the kingdom of God is to be realized in the communities where believers live, as well as in some future spiritual world.
5. Peace and Justice evangelicals
Peace and Justice evangelicals are a loose network of pastors, nonprofit leaders, professors and activists. They are a small segment within evangelicalism often embedded in larger organizations, and they focus their work on key social and political issues such as racial justice, immigration reform and environmental issues. They seek to have a wider impact than just a focus on the local community.
Peace and Justice evangelicals trace their origins to the late 1960s publication, The Other Side, originally Freedom Now, which represented a freshly emerging evangelical social consciousness around issues of racial justice. Following close behind was the Sojourners community, and Sojourners magazine, which is still active today.
This is a small but growing minority in the larger evangelical world, with many belonging to traditional evangelical institutions. For example, Alexia Salvatierra, at Fuller Seminary, is a longtime “faith-rooted” community organizer and has more recently been instrumental in forming Matthew 25/Mateo25, a group that aids immigrants and “defends the vulnerable.” Shane Claiborne, a long-time urban activist, is currently head of Red Letter Christians, a movement that combines “Jesus and justice” and seeks to “live out Jesus’ counter-cultural teachings.”
Following historical evangelical voting patterns, it is likely that most white evangelicals will vote for Trump in 2024. I believe many will do so with enthusiasm, while others will vote for him because of his policies, while remaining troubled by his rhetoric.
Of the evangelicals who oppose Trump, some will refuse to vote for either Trump or Harris, refusing to cast a vote for president. Others will vote for Harris, following the example of many Republican leaders who are seeking to move beyond the damage that Trump and the MAGA movement have done to the Republican Party and to conservatism.
Meanwhile, for the Kingdom Christians and Peace and Justice evangelicals, the true values of evangelical Christianity will be supported by the more progressive policies of the Democratic Party.
Regardless of how they vote in the 2024 election, evangelicals in all of these categories will continue to promote their distinct vision of evangelicalism and educate members on how they should bring their faith to bear on important social and political issues in American culture.
Richard Flory has received funding from the John Templeton Foundation and the Lilly Endowment.
Hong Kong, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“CLIK” or the “Company”), a Hong Kong-based human resources solutions provider primarily focusing on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers including accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong-listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses, today announced the pricing of its firm commitment initial public offering of an aggregate 1,400,000 Ordinary Shares (the “Offering”). The Offering is priced at $4.00 per share (the “Offering Price”) for gross proceeds of $5.6 million to the Company, before deducting underwriting discounts and offering expenses.
The Company has granted the underwriters an option, exercisable for 45 days from the closing of this Offering, to purchase up to an additional 210,000 Ordinary Shares at the Offering Price, representing 15% of the Ordinary Shares sold in the Offering (the “Over-allotment”).
The Ordinary Shares are expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “CLIK” on October 9, 2024. The Offering is expected to close on or about October 10, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. (“Lafferty”), a full-service broker/dealer, is acting as the primary underwriter for the Offering. Revere Securities LLC (“Revere”), a full-service broker/dealer, is acting as the co-manager for the Offering. Dorsey & Whitney LLP, David Fong & Co, Beijing Dacheng Law Offices, LLP (Shenzhen) and Ogier are acting as U.S., Hong Kong, PRC, and BVI legal counsels to the Company, respectively. Wei, Wei & Co., LLP is acting as the independent accountants of the Company. VCL Law LLP is acting as the U.S. legal counsel to Lafferty and Revere for the Offering.
The Offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-280522), as amended, which was declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 30, 2024. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus, forming part of the registration statement. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus and other documents the Company has filed or will file with the SEC for more information about the Company and the Offering. Copies of the final prospectus related to the Offering may be obtained, when available, from R.F. Lafferty & Co., Inc., 40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10005, by phone at +1 212 293 9090 or by email at offerings@rflafferty.com; or Revere Securities LLC, 560 Lexington Ave 16th floor, New York, NY, 10022, by phone at +1 212 688 2350 or by email at contact@reveresecurities.com. In addition, a copy of the final prospectus, when available, relating to the Offering may be obtained via the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.
This press release has been prepared for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Company’s securities, nor shall such securities be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.
About Click Holdings Limited
Click Holdings Limited is a human resources solutions provider, specializing in offering comprehensive human resources solutions in three principal sectors, namely (i) professional solution services, (ii) nursing solution services, and (iii) logistics and other solution services. We are primarily focused on talent sourcing and the provision of temporary and permanent personnel to customers. Our primary market is in Hong Kong and our diverse clientele includes accounting and professional firms, Hong Kong listed companies, nursing homes, individual patients, logistics companies and warehouses. We specialize primarily in placing professional accountants and company secretaries, registered nurses and healthcare workers, as well as other blue-collar workers, for direct hire and contract staffing roles. For more information, please visit http://www.clicksc.com.hk.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements relating to the expected trading commencement and closing dates. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” “would” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the preliminary prospectus filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Click Holdings Limited specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
For more information, please contact:
offerings@rflafferty.com Equity Capital Markets R. F. Lafferty & Co., Inc. 40 Wall Street, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10005 212.293.9090
Singapore, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SIMPPLE Ltd. (NASDAQ: SPPL) (“SIMPPLE” or “the Company”), a leading technology provider and innovator in the facilities management (FM) sector, today announced the closing of multiple contracts and strategic partnerships in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). The contracts included agreements to provide:
an end-to-end integrated cleaning services and compliance solution incorporating workforce management, IoT sensors and robotics, at two international and one regional Australian airport, to the aviation services arm of a global Danish outsourcing company with annual revenue of over $11 billion;
a cleaning services and compliance solution, at five campuses of an Australian university, to the education services arm of that same Danish company;
a cleaning services and compliance solution, at a food manufacturing plant in Sydney, to the manufacturing services division of a global UK-headquartered facilities management services company with annual revenue of over $2 billion; and
a cleaning services and compliance solution, at a major retail centre in Sydney, for another division of that same UK-headquartered company.
Aggregate revenue from these four contracts is projected at approximately $2.35 million.
SIMPPLE’s recently completed strategic partnerships include five collaborations aimed at distributing SIMPPLE Robotics and software capabilities and building a service delivery, maintenance and support network across ANZ. These new partners include:
a provider of robotic solutions and services to the hospitality, retail and healthcare industries in Australia;
a Sydney-headquartered supplier of autonomous security robots and other technology solutions to major corporate and government customers in Australia;
a Sydney-headquartered retailer and wholesaler of cleaning equipment and supplies;
a Brisbane-headquartered supplier of cleaning, catering, hospitality, health and hygiene supplies to businesses in Australia; and
a supplier of A.I. robotic solutions in New Zealand.
Spearheading the closing of these contracts and partnerships was the new leadership team at the recently established SIMPPLE Australia Pty Ltd subsidiary in Brisbane. This team includes Aloysius Chong, SIMPPLE’s former CEO relocated in February 2023 to Australia to serve as SIMPPLE Australia Pty Ltd’s Director of Brand and Product Strategy; James Yatras, appointed in February 2023 as SIMPPLE’s Head of Australia and New Zealand; and Greg Crisp, appointed in June 2024 as the Company’s Regional Sales Director for Australia and New Zealand.
“These contracts and partnerships mark a significant step in our strategic expansion into the lucrative Australia and New Zealand markets,” said SIMPPLE Ltd CEO Norman Schroeder. “These agreements also highlight our Company’s capability to venture into a wide range of new sectors covering aviation, education, healthcare, and manufacturing – a significant expansion from our existing retail, institutions, and commercial office sectors.”
The new agreements, he said, also stem from the unique position, held by SIMPPLE Australia Pty Ltd and its ANZ partners, of being that region’s only supplier of end-to-end facilities management solutions able to integrate software, robotics, ESG auditing and reporting, IoT sensors and other diverse data collection technologies into a single platform.
This platform, he added, is built modular to accommodate small businesses, yet can be scaled up and/or down to meet the variable requirements of large enterprise-wide organizations.
“Going forward,” said the CEO, “we believe the ANZ region offers SIMPPLE major growth potential. I am confident that our Australia Pty Ltd team is expertly positioned to drive this growth by providing targeted best of breed solutions to facility owners, operators, and service providers in this market.”
Mr. Schroeder underscored the Company’s potential in the ANZ market by referencing SIMPPLE Australia Pty Ltd’s announcement, on September 12, that its new range of AI spot cleaning robots had received the Excellence Award (Innovation) for Large Equipment at the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) Cleaning & Hygiene Expo in Sydney.
According to recent data from Expert Market Research, the Australia facility management market was valued at $37.37 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% to reach a value of $56.93 billion by 2032. This growth, said the study, is expected to be driven by rising numbers of infrastructure development projects, increased focus on sustainability and cost optimization, and the growing need for outsourcing of technology integration services within facilities.
A Mordor Intelligence report projected that the facilities management markets in Australia and New Zealand are expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1% and 2.5%, respectively, from 2024 through 2029. Growth in Australia, said Mordor, is expected to be fuelled by multiple industries adopting integrated FM services models that can meet all core customer needs on a large scale, and by those FM models incorporating newer technologies allowing for intelligent buildings and work environments. Future New Zealand FM sector growth, said the report, will be spurred by increasing end-user awareness of the need for energy conservation and developed building infrastructure.
“The possibilities for SIMPPLE in ANZ are plentiful,” concluded Mr. Schroeder. “We look forward to announcing further progress for this region in the near future.”
About SIMPPLE LTD.
Headquartered in Singapore, SIMPPLE LTD. is an advanced technology solution provider in the emerging PropTech space, focused on helping facilities owners and managers manage facilities autonomously. Founded in 2016, the Company has a strong foothold in the Singapore facilities management market, serving over 60 clients in both the public and private sectors and extending out of Singapore into Australia and the Middle East. The Company has developed its proprietary SIMPPLE Ecosystem, to create an automated workforce management tool for building maintenance, surveillance and cleaning comprised of a mix of software and hardware solutions such as robotics (both cleaning and security) and Internet-of-Things (“IoT”) devices.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. In addition, from time to time, we or our representatives may make forward-looking statements orally or in writing. We base these forward-looking statements on our expectations and projections about future events, which we derive from the information currently available to us. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or our future performance, including: our financial performance and projections; our growth in revenue and earnings; and our business prospects and opportunities. You can identify forward-looking statements by those that are not historical in nature, particularly those that use terminology such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “contemplates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projected,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “hopes” or the negative of these or similar terms. In evaluating these forward-looking statements, you should consider various factors, including: our ability to change the direction of the Company; our ability to keep pace with new technology and changing market needs; and the competitive environment of our business. These and other factors may cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement.
Forward-looking statements are only predictions. The forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives, may not occur, and actual events and results may differ materially and are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions about us. We are not obligated to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed in this press release and other statements made from time to time by us or our representatives might not occur.
For investor and media queries, please contact: SIMPPLE LTD. Investor Relations Department Email: ir@simpple.ai
Skyline Corporate Communications Group, LLC Scott Powell, President 1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th Floor New York, NY 10036 Tel: (646) 893-5835 Email: info@skylineccg.com
Secretary-General of ASEAN joined the ASEAN Leaders in a dialogue with youth representatives during the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN Youth, held on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits. The session highlighted the critical role of youth in driving the region’s future, aligned with ASEAN’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and forward-looking community.
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Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), H.E. Jin Liqun, on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. SG Dr. Kao commended the AIIB’s efforts in advancing connectivity and infrastructure development and looked forward to having deeper cooperation between ASEAN and AIIB in enhancing connectivity in the region.
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SAN DIEGO — Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC) bids fair winds and following seas to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) as it made its last departure from the San Diego Bay today. The ship will transit to the East Coast, where it will be deactivated and removed from service.
Christened in 1989, Pecos served as part of the MSC fleet for 35 years. During its career, Pecos served in the Persian Gulf during both Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom.
In 2006 Pecos deployed with the MSC Hospital Ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19) for five-months, delivering aid and humanitarian assistance to the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia, following the humanitarian assistance missions in the wake of the tsunami in Indonesia. Missions like this evolved into what is now known as the Pacific Partnership missions. These missions continue to provide medical and humanitarian assistance, while building international friendships throughout Southeast Asia.
In 2011, following the deadly earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Pecos rendezvoused with United States Seventh Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) near Kyushu, Japan as part of Operation Tomodachi. Blue Ridge transferred 96 pallets of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material to Pecos for delivery to the Essex Amphibious Group and Carrier Strike Group 5. The pallets consisted of water containers and water purification tablets, first-aid products, tarpaulins, blankets, and other supplies. During her support effort to Operation Tomodachi, Pecos completed nine underway replenishments and delivered more than 2.3 million U.S. gallons of fuel to other supporting ships.
On November 28, 2018, the United States Navy sent Pecos and guided missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106) through the Taiwan Strait as a demonstration of the “U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Most recently, Pecos provided logistics support to the multi-national maritime exercise, Rim of the Pacific 2024, delivering nearly 4 million gallons of diesel fuel and 2.2 million gallons of jet fuel through 36 underway replenishment events.
“This ship and its crew have answered all bells, time and time again. ” said Capt. Micah Murphy, commander, Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC). “The ship’s longstanding success, highlighted by this year’s RIMPAC, is really a testament to the professional mariners abilities, dedication to duty, and relentless pursuit of quality customer service to the fleet. It is fitting that one of the longest tenured Masters in MSC, Captain Keith Walzak, was at the helm during the last phase of this ship’s prolific career, capping off a storied career for them both. While it is sad to see a ship’s service end, it is special to be here to say fair winds and following seas to a ship as rich in MSC history as Pecos. Her spirit will live on in the new John Lewis class of oilers that her crew embarks and brings to life.”
Ahead of Pecos’ departure, Murphy and the MSCPAC team boarded the ship and took a moment to recognize members of the crew, for their outstanding support to the MSC mission, specifically to RIMPAC 2024, and to honor the retirement of Capt. Keith Walzak, Pecos’ civil service master, as he brings to end a 45-year career with MSC.
“I have served on a lot of ships during my career, but Pecos will be the one I really remember,” Walzak said as he addressed the crew. “I might remember this ship, because it is my last, and will be foremost on my mind, but I think I will also remember it, because of the hard work and dedication of all of you. We have a real team here, and that is why we were able to work through a lot of the challenges we’ve had, and to do the great work we’ve done this summer. I am proud of each and every one of you, and I am proud to have served with you.”
Walzak graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1980 and was recruited directly into MSC. Over the course of his career, Walzak served 40 ship assignments, 30 as ship’s master. He is the Plank owner of USNS Butte (T-AE 27), USNS Mount Baker (T-AE 34), and USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE 14), the latter as the first master, something he considers a career highlight.
“Looking over my whole career, I would have to say that one of the most memorable moments would have to be in 2012, standing on the dais with my wife, as USNS Cesar Chavez, the last-AKE built, was being christened and launched into San Diego Bay, as the first Master on the last T-AKE,” said Walzak.
On behalf of the Secretary of the Navy, Murphy presented Walzak with the Civilian Meritorious Civilian Service Award for his, support to RIMPAC 2024.
“In 45 years of service I have gotten two certificates from the Secretary of the Navy,” joked Walzak. “The first was my discharge from the Navy Ready Reserve, and this one, that I received today. I appreciate the recognition, and I’m proud to have had the opportunity to serve with MSC and to have had the long career that I’ve had. I’ve seen a lot, done a lot, and now I am ready to do whatever my wife wants me to do. She’s spent 41 years waiting for this day. We will travel about, visit family, and get in some relaxation time.”
Pecos is one of the 15 ships of the Henry J. Kaiser class fleet replenishment oilers which are operated by Military Sealift Command. As the class ages out of the MSC fleet, it is being replaced by the new John Lewis class which includes USNS John Lewis (T-AO 205), USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206) and USNS Earl Warren (T-AO 207), all currently operating under MSC.
MSC directs and supports operations for approximately 140 civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships at sea, conduct specialized missions, preposition combat cargo at sea around the world, perform a variety of support services, and move military equipment and supplies to deployed U.S. forces. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations, with a workforce that includes approximately 6,000 Civil Service Mariners and 1,100 contract mariners, supported by 1,500 shore staff and 1,400 active duty and reserve military personnel.
SAN DIEGO — The Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Comstock (LSD 45) returned to homeport in San Diego, following a nearly four-month deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, Oct. 8.
Along with its more than 400 Sailors, Comstock participated in multiple exercises and operations, displaying interoperability and the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
“The Sailors aboard Comstock performed their duty in an exemplary manner to support tasking in U.S. 7th Fleet,” said Cmdr. Byron Stocks, commanding officer of Comstock. “The mission execution afforded the opportunity to demonstrate joint force capability.”
With a focus on joint operations, Comstock and its embarked units supported the America Amphibious Ready Group and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) during advanced integrated training and MEU certification. Comstock also successfully integrated with motorized weapons company of 31st MEU and Combat Logistics Battalion 31.
During the deployment, Comstock embarked two landing crafts utility from Naval Beach Group 7 to rehearse and demonstrate capability of the amphibious Navy’s shore connectors.
Comstock also participated in Exercise Ssang Yong 24. During the decisive action phase of Ssang Yong, Republic of Korea and U.S. combined and joint forces conducted large-scale maneuvers from sea and air to showcase the overwhelming power of the alliance and its capability to carry out combined amphibious operations.
Since 2012, the ROK and U.S. Navy and Marine Corps have regularly conducted Ssang Yong to enhance defensive posture on the Korean Peninsula while improving naval and amphibious capabilities.
After Ssang Yong, Comstock transited home to San Diego following a nearly four-month deployment.
When not at sea, Comstock Sailors had the opportunity to enjoy foreign cultures during port visits to Guam, Japan, and Republic of Korea.
USS Comstock is homeported at Naval Base San Diego and assigned to Amphibious Squadron 1.
An integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s role across the full spectrum of military operations—from combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Chinese Film Panorama 2024 opens tonight (with photo) Chinese Film Panorama 2024 opens tonight (with photo) *****************************************************
The opening ceremony for the Chinese Film Panorama 2024 was held tonight (October 9) at Hong Kong City Hall, followed by a screening of the opening animated film “Into the Mortal World” (2024) directed by Zhong Ding. The Acting Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau; the Film and Television Artistic Director of the Bauhinia Culture Group, Mr Deng Wugui; the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Lin Nan; the Chairman of the Southern Film Culture Foundation, Mr Ding Kai; the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mr Vincent Liu; the Chairman of the South China Film Industry Workers Union, Mr Cheung Hong-tat; and the executive producer of the opening film, Mr Huang Long, officiated at the opening ceremony. The Panorama is presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Southern Film Culture Foundation in association with Sil-Metropole Organisation Ltd, the China Film Foundation and the South China Film Industry Workers Union, and supported by the Bauhinia Culture Group. Ten distinctive feature-length animated films and two short film programmes produced on the Mainland will be shown at the Theatre of Hong Kong City Hall, the Cinema of the Hong Kong Film Archive, and lecture halls of the Hong Kong Science Museum and the Hong Kong Space Museum, the East Kowloon Cultural Centre (EKCC), Cine-Art House (Maritime Square) and the Rayson Huang Theatre of the University of Hong Kong from today to November 16. The opening film, “Into the Mortal World”, is a reinterpretation of the mythology of “The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl”. The weaver girl’s son is reconnected with his long-lost sister when he is demoted to the mortal world and embarks on an adventure in the divine realm. Other selected films include “Princess Iron Fan” (1941) (4K restored version), “The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven” (First and Second Parts) (1961-1964), “Peacock Princess” (1963), “Nezha Conquers the Dragon King” (1979), “The Legend of Sealed Book” (1983) (4K restored version), “To the Bright Side” (2021), “Chang An” (2023), “The Storm” (2024) , and “Boonie Bears: Time Twist” (2024). Apart from animated feature films, two collections of animated short films will also be screened. “Into the Mortal World” is in Cantonese while other films are in Putonghua. “Chang An” will be screened on October 14 at Rayson Huang Theatre of the University of Hong Kong and on November 16 at the EKCC for free. Cine-Art House (Maritime Square) will offer a free screening of “Peacock Princess” on October 12. The admission tickets for the screening at Rayson Huang Theatre of the University of Hong Kong have been available at The University of Hong Kong Staff Association located at 5/F, T T Tsui Building of the University of Hong Kong starting from September 30. The admission tickets for the free screenings at Cine-Art House (Maritime Square) and the EKCC are available at the respective screening locations from September 30 and November 1. Each person can obtain up to two tickets per screening on a first-come, first-served basis. Other film tickets priced at $70 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme details, please call 2734 2900 (LCSD) or 2780 5355 (for screenings at Cine-Art House (Maritime Square) and the University of Hong Kong) or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/fp/en/listing.html?id=66. The Chinese Film Panorama 2024 is one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series. The LCSD has long been promoting Chinese history and culture through organising an array of programmes and activities to enable the public to learn more about the broad and profound Chinese culture. For more information, please visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/ccpo/index.html.
Ends/Wednesday, October 9, 2024Issued at HKT 21:28
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the Ministry of Commerce today signed the Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland & Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Agreement on Trade in Services (Amendment Agreement II).
Chief Executive John Lee witnessed the signing of the new agreement by Financial Secretary Paul Chan and Deputy China International Trade Representative of the Ministry of Commerce Li Yongjie this afternoon.
Scheduled to be implemented on March 1, 2025, the Amendment Agreement II introduces new liberalisation measures across several service sectors where Hong Kong enjoys competitive advantages, such as financial services, construction and related engineering services, testing and certification, telecommunications, motion pictures, television and tourism services.
The Trade & Industry Department explained that the liberalisation measures take various forms, including removing or relaxing restrictions on equity shareholding and business scope in the establishment of enterprises, relaxing qualification requirements for Hong Kong professionals providing services, and easing restrictions on Hong Kong’s exports of services to the Mainland market.
Most of the measures apply to the whole Mainland, while some of them are designated for pilot implementation in the nine Pearl River Delta municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, it added.
The Chief Executive thanked the central government for its care and support for the Hong Kong SAR, as well as the Ministry of Commerce and relevant authorities for actively working towards the Hong Kong SAR Government’s proposal of further opening up the Mainland market to Hong Kong in trade in services.
“The Amendment Agreement II introduces new liberalisation measures across different service sectors where Hong Kong enjoys competitive advantages, making it easier for Hong Kong service suppliers to establish enterprises and develop business on the Mainland, enabling more Hong Kong professionals to obtain qualifications to practise on the Mainland, allowing more of Hong Kong’s quality services to be provided to the Mainland market, and contributing to and serving the country’s development,” he said.
“The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to encourage different sectors of the community to leverage the unique advantages of ‘one country, two systems’ and join hands with their counterparts on the Mainland to promote the competitiveness of the professional services sector, in order to inject new impetus to economic development and achieve high-quality development.”
Speaking at a media session after the signing ceremony, the Financial Secretary pointed out that the further relaxation under CEPA will enable Hong Kong firms and professional sectors to get into the Mainland market a lot easier.
“Depending on specific sectors, the progress will be different. But I am sure for the professional sectors, people are very keen to expand their foothold into the Mainland by using the Greater Bay Area as the starting point. So this will have a very positive impact on Hong Kong,” Mr Chan said.
An example of the measures regarding construction and related engineering services is that Hong Kong general practice surveying enterprises will be allowed to provide professional services in Guangdong Province through filing of records.
For tourism services, there will be measures to optimise the implementation of the 144-hour visa-exemption policy for foreign group tours entering Guangdong from Hong Kong.
Mr Chan said the Government will be communicating with the different sectors and working with the different stakeholders to move as fast as possible, to materialise the various implementation details, so that the businesses and professionals in Hong Kong would find it useful and easier to expand into the Mainland.
Furthermore, the department noted that the Amendment Agreement II brings institutional innovation and collaboration enhancement, including the addition of allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to adopt Hong Kong law and allowing Hong Kong-invested enterprises to choose for arbitration to be seated in Hong Kong.
It also added commitments regarding domestic regulation to ensure the transparency, predictability and efficiency of regulations on trade in services.
In addition, the new agreement removed the period requirement on Hong Kong service suppliers to engage in substantive business operations in Hong Kong for three years in most service sectors.
This will allow Hong Kong startups to enjoy the preferential treatment under CEPA in a shorter time and attract enterprises and talent from around the world to establish a presence in Hong Kong and explore the Mainland market, the department noted.
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn attended the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with ASEAN-Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) in Vientiane, Lao PDR, on 9 October 2024. The ASEAN Leaders welcomed the ASEAN-BAC recommendations and encouraged the business community to play an active role in expanding trade and investment across the region, embracing digital transformation and sustainable development, and supporting deeper regional economic integration.
ASM International N.V. (Euronext Amsterdam: ASM)will report its third quarter 2024 financial results at approximately 6:00 p.m. CET on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.
ASM will host the quarterly earnings conference call and webcast on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. CET.
Conference-call participants should pre-register using this link to receive the dial-in numbers, passcode and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.
A simultaneous audio webcast and replay will be accessible at this link.
About ASM International
ASM International N.V., headquartered in Almere, the Netherlands, and its subsidiaries design and manufacture equipment and process solutions to produce semiconductor devices for wafer processing, and have facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia. ASM International’s common stock trades on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (symbol: ASM). For more information, visit ASM’s website at http://www.asm.com.
SINGAPORE, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BloFin, a leading centralized cryptocurrency exchange (CEX), made a strong impact as a sponsor of TOKEN2049 Singapore for the second consecutive year. This sponsorship underscores BloFin’s increasing influence in the cryptocurrency industry and marks its commitment to furthering its reach, with an upgraded sponsorship planned for TOKEN2049 Dubai later this year.
At TOKEN2049 Singapore, BloFin hosted the Whale Royale Yacht Club side event, a highlight of the conference. The exclusive gathering brought together key opinion leaders (KOLs), industry executives, and crypto enthusiasts, fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations within the cryptocurrency space.
BloFin Prepares for TOKEN2049 Dubai Expansion
Looking ahead, BloFin is poised to expand its footprint at TOKEN2049 Dubai, building on the success of its Singapore event. With ambitious growth plans, BloFin continues to focus on providing innovative services to its expanding global user base.
“We are proud of our achievements at TOKEN2049 Singapore and are excited to build on this momentum as we prepare for TOKEN2049 Dubai,” said Matt, CEO of BloFin. “Our mission is to continue delivering top-tier services while enhancing the user experience.”
BloFin’s Trading Engine: A Leap Forward in Speed and Reliability
In tandem with its event sponsorship, BloFin has implemented significant upgrades to its trading platform, reinforcing its reputation as a top destination for crypto traders. The recent introduction of cutting-edge technologies, including In-memory Processing and the Raft Consensus Algorithm System, has dramatically improved trading execution speeds and system reliability, even during peak periods.
These enhancements highlight BloFin’s dedication to providing a secure and efficient trading environment, in line with its brand promise, “Where Whales Are Made.” With a focus on advanced trading features, enhanced security protocols, and a seamless user experience, BloFin continues to set new standards of excellence for traders and crypto enthusiasts alike.
About BloFin
BloFin is a secure, innovative cryptocurrency centralized exchange (CEX) offering over 350 USDT-M perpetual contracts and 250 spot trading pairs. Designed for both novice and experienced traders, BloFin provides a high-performance platform with deep liquidity, competitive pricing, and minimal slippage. Beyond derivatives trading, the platform offers services such as spot trading, copy trading, demo trading, and more.
Security remains a top priority at BloFin, as demonstrated by its partnerships with Fireblocks for asset protection and Chainalysis for compliance and security. BloFin continues to enhance its offerings to provide a secure, user-friendly experience for its growing global user base.
Media Contact: Annio W. Head of Marketing and Public Relations Email: annio@blofin.io
Disclaimer: This content is provided by BloFin. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
Chief Executive John Lee expressed his profound sorrow over the passing of former Chairman of the Standing Committee of the 10th and 11th National People’s Congress (NPC) Wu Bangguo.
Mr Lee pointed out that Mr Wu had all along held the development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region close to his heart, and had reached out to people from all walks of life during his various visits to Hong Kong, fully demonstrating the central authorities’ unwavering support for the city.
He also noted that Mr Wu had reiterated on multiple occasions the central government’s firm commitment to the implementation of “one country, two systems”, under which “the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong” with a high degree of autonomy; working in strict accordance with the Basic Law; as well as fully supporting the administration of the Chief Executive and the Hong Kong SAR Government in accordance with the law to maintain Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability.
During Mr Wu’s tenure as NPC Standing Committee Chairman, the committee deliberated and unanimously passed the “Decision of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress on Issues Relating to the Methods for Selecting the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region & for Forming the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in the Year 2012 & on Issues Relating to Universal Suffrage”.
Mr Lee said: “On behalf of the Hong Kong SAR, I extend my deepest condolences to Mr Wu’s family.”
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific of the World Bank, Ms. Manuela V. Ferro, at the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The meeting discussed ways to support renewable energy in the region, particularly to support the ASEAN power grid, scale-up renewable energy, and foster cross border electricity trade among the ASEAN Member States.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific of the World Bank appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), H.E. Jin Liqun, on the sidelines of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR today. SG Dr. Kao commended the AIIB’s efforts in advancing connectivity and infrastructure development and looked forward to having deeper cooperation between ASEAN and AIIB in enhancing connectivity in the region.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the President of the AIIB appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC
Headline: Third IADC Student Chapter in India Officially Established at Indian Institute of Technolgy!
On the 3rd October 2024, the third IADC Student Chapter in India was inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) in Dhanbad in the state of Jharkhand.
The school was founded in 1926, making it the oldest oil- and gas university in India, and is also considered quite prestigious. There are around 7,000 students, with 400 in the petroleum engineering department alone. The faculty counts around 375 members in total.
Professor Keka Ojha, Head of the Petroleum Engineering Department, said she was extremely proud of the establishment of the IADC IIT (ISM) Student Chapter in Dhanbad. She was confident that this would be beneficial from an educational perspective and that it would open possibilities for students to engage more closely with the industry.
The inauguration was witnessed by several dignitaries, including Mr. O.P. Singh, Director, ONGC and Chairman of the IADC South Central Asia Chapter.The inauguration itself was symbolized by a ceremonial “cutting of the cake.”
The two other IADC Student Chapters in India are at the Maharashtra Institute of Technology – World Peace University (MIT-WPU) in Pune in the state of Maharastra, and the Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) in Ahmadebad in the state of Gujarat.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Chinese premier lands in Vientiane for leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation, visit
VIENTIANE, Oct. 9 — Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived here on Wednesday to attend leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation and pay an official visit to Laos at the invitation of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the current chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
During his stay, Li will attend the 27th China-ASEAN Summit, the 27th ASEAN Plus Three Summit and the 19th East Asia Summit to be held from Oct. 9 to 12.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
VIENTIANE, Oct. 9 — China firmly supports the building of the ASEAN Community, as well as ASEAN’s central position in regional cooperation and its greater role in international affairs, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Wednesday.
China is ready to contribute to joint efforts in making the region an important engine for global development, he added.
Li made the remarks in a statement released upon arrival. He will attend leaders’ meetings on East Asia cooperation, and pay an official visit to Laos at the invitation of Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the current chair of the ASEAN.
Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations
This evening, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, was interviewed by 5 media outlets, namely SEA Today, Asahi Shimbun, Reuters, ANTARA, Vietnam TV, on the margins of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits, in Vientiane, Lao PDR.
SG Dr. Kao shared his perspectives on ASEAN’s outlook in 2025 and emphasised the importance of ASEAN mechanisms in maintaining peace and stability within the region, while continuing its ASEAN Community vision to enhance the economic growth and prosperity for the citizens of the region.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN engages with media to discuss the outlook on ASEAN 2025 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
GreyOrange’s gStore, a B2B SaaS real-time inventory management and store execution platform, furtheroptimizes store performance with newsmart algorithm-driven technology, SoftFence, to precisely control RFID read zones
ATLANTA, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GreyOrange Inc., a global leader in AI-driven technology, introduces SoftFence, a groundbreaking virtual shielding technology from its renowned, state-of-the-art retail software as a service (SaaS) platform, gStore. Designed to enhance store execution through real-time inventory management and intelligent tasking, gStore is already trusted for implementing over 250 overhead RFID-enabled stores, which is a global first.
“gStore’s SoftFence introduces virtual zoning capabilities for retailers, which is a step towards comprehending their portfolio for implementing handheld-only stores,” said Troy Siwek, gStore General Manager, GreyOrange. “SoftFence builds on gStore’s cutting-edge capabilities by incorporating selective reading, signal manipulation, and dynamic control to ensure data security and precise inventory accuracy by creating distinct store sections – including backroom vs. sales floor – without any physical barriers.”
This smart algorithm-driven technology prevents RFID signal leakage and allows only authorized RFID readers to access tag information, preventing unauthorized scans by manipulating signal strength and timing, allowing retailers to further optimize omnichannel fulfillment and streamline operations. SoftFence also supports real-time adjustments based on store needs, offering unmatched flexibility.
Moreover, SoftFence can integrate with existing systems, enabling seamless implementation without additional hardware investments. SoftFence uses advanced machine learning algorithms to analyze RFID signals, improving stocktake accuracy and reducing read errors. As a cost-effective solution, it optimizes sub-location data, aiding efficient restocking and enhancing store operations.
SoftFence is the next evolution in gStore’s mission to empower retailers with comprehensive, easily deployable solutions that elevate store performance, improve customer experiences, and simplify operations.
About gStore by GreyOrange gStore by GreyOrange is a state-of-the-art, easily deployable retail SaaS application designed to enhance store execution through real-time inventory management and actionable insights. The platform empowers retailers to maintain precise inventory control, enables intelligent tasking, streamlines store operations, manages omnichannel order fulfillment and elevates customer experiences with smart technologies.
About GreyOrange GreyOrange Inc. is at the forefront of AI-driven robotics systems, transforming distribution and fulfillment centers worldwide. Its emphasis on orchestration, innovation, and customer satisfaction marks a new era in efficient, responsive supply chain solutions. The company’s solutions offer a competitive advantage by increasing productivity, empowering growth and scale, mitigating labor challenges, reducing risk and time to market, and creating better experiences for customers and employees. Founded in 2012, GreyOrange is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with offices and partners across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. For more information, visit http://www.greyorange.com.
NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN, INTO OR FROM THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN, THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF THAT JURISDICTION. THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF SECURITIES FOR SALE IN ANY JURISDICTION, INCLUDING IN THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, JAPAN OR THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA.
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT A PROSPECTUS.
HARGREAVE HALE AIM VCT PLC
LEI:213800LRYA19A69SIT31
9 October 2024
Publicationof a Prospectus andRelevant Related Party Transaction
Offerfor Subscription
Further to the announcement on 18 September 2024, the Board of Hargreave Hale AIM VCT plc (the “Company“) is pleased to announce that the Company has today published a prospectus (the “Prospectus“) in relation to an offer for subscription under which the Company is seeking to raise up to £20 million (the “Offer“).
The Offer is now open and will close at 12.00 p.m. on 12 August 2025 (unless fully subscribed by an earlier date or closed at the Directors’ discretion). Persons intending to apply for ordinary shares under the Offer for the 2024/25 tax year should note that the deadline for such applications is 5.00 p.m. on 21 March 2025.
Persons wishing to participate in the Offer must complete an Electronic Application Form (available at http://www.hargreaveaimvcts.co.uk) accompanied by electronic payment and follow the instructions given. The Board is of the view that the Electronic Application Form is the most efficient and cost-effective way for investors to participate in the Offer.
Early Bird Discount
Canaccord Genuity Asset Management Limited (“CGAM“) will offer an “early bird discount” of up to 2 per cent. on the initial fee for those applications received by CGAM by 5.00 p.m. on Friday, 29 November 2024, subject to a maximum aggregate subscription under the “early bird offer” of £10 million. The 2 per cent. discount (to the standard 3.5 per cent. initial fee) will only apply to applications which do not trigger the payment of introductory commission to a Financial Intermediary. In such cases, the available discount will fall to 1 per cent. Discounts are paid through the allotment of additional Offer Shares to the Investor. CGAM reserves the right to vary the terms of the “early bird offer”, including to revoke such offer, at any time and in its sole discretion.
RelevantRelated Party Transaction
As part of the Offer, the Company has entered into an offer agreement with CGAM, dated 9 October 2024 (the “Offer Agreement“). Under the Offer Agreement, CGAM has agreed to administer the Offer, act as receiving agent to the Company in relation to the Offer and to use its reasonable endeavours to procure subscribers for shares in the Company. As consideration for the services to be provided under the Offer Agreement, the Company shall pay CGAM a fee of 3.5 per cent. of the gross proceeds of the Offer. Out of this fee, CGAM shall pay all costs and expenses of and incidental to the Offer and the preparation of the Prospectus.
The investment manager of the Company is CGAM. Under the Listing Rules of the FCA, a related party of a closed-ended investment fund includes the investment manager of the fund. As such, the arrangement under the Offer Agreement constitutes a relevant related party transaction as defined in UKLR 11.5.4R. The Board considers the arrangement under the Offer Agreement to be fair and reasonable as far as the shareholders of the Company are concerned having been so advised by the Company’s sponsor, Howard Kennedy Corporate Services LLP.
All capitalised terms used and not defined in this announcement shall have the same meaning as in the Prospectus.
For further information please contact:
Oliver Bedford, Canaccord Genuity Asset Management Limited
Tel: 020 7523 4837
Important Information
This announcement is an advertisement for the purposes of the Prospectus Regulation Rules of the UK Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA“) and is not a prospectus. This announcement does not constitute or form part of, and should not be construed as, an offer for sale or subscription of, or solicitation of any offer to subscribe for or to acquire, any ordinary shares in the Company in any jurisdiction, including in or into Australia, Canada, Japan, the Republic of South Africa, the United States or any member state of the EEA (other than any member state of the EEA where the Company’s securities may be lawfully marketed). Investors should not subscribe for or purchase any ordinary shares referred to in this announcement except on the basis of information in the Prospectus in its final form, published today by the Company in connection with the Offer and the proposed admission of new ordinary shares to the Official List of the FCA and to trading on London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities. A copy of the Prospectus is available for inspection, subject to certain access restrictions, from the Company’s registered office, for viewing at the National Storage Mechanism at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism and on the Company’s website (http://www.hargreaveaimvcts.co.uk). Approval of the Prospectus by the FCA should not be understood as an endorsement of the securities that are the subject of the Prospectus. Potential investors are recommended to read the Prospectus before making an investment decision in order to fully understand the potential risks and rewards associated with a decision to invest in the Company’s securities.
The distribution of this announcement may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession any document or other information referred to herein comes should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. This announcement does not constitute, and may not be construed as, an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to acquire or subscribe for, securities of the Company in any jurisdiction where such offer or solicitation is unlawful or would impose any unfulfilled registration, qualification, publication or approval requirements on the Company or Howard Kennedy Corporate Services LLP. The offer and sale of securities of the Company has not been and will not be registered under the applicable securities laws of Australia, Canada, Japan, the Republic of South Africa or the United States. Subject to certain exemptions, the securities of the Company may not be offered to or sold within Australia, Canada, Japan, the Republic of South Africa, the United States or any member state of the EEA or to any national, resident or citizen of Australia, Canada, Japan, the Republic of South Africa, the United States, or any member state of the EEA.
This announcement is not for publication or distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States of America. This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities of the Company have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to any national, resident or citizen of the United States. No public offering of securities is being made in the United States. In addition, the Company has not been and will not be registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
The information in this announcement is for background purposes only and does not purport to be full or complete. No reliance may be placed for any purpose on the information contained in this announcement or its accuracy or completeness. The material contained in this announcement is given as at the date of its publication (unless otherwise marked) and is subject to updating, revision and amendment. In particular, any proposals referred to herein are subject to revision and amendment.
This announcement does not constitute a recommendation concerning the Company or the Offer. The price and value of securities and any income from them can go down as well as up. Past performance is not a guide to future performance and prospective investors may not receive any return from the Company. Before purchasing any securities of the Company, persons viewing this announcement should ensure that they fully understand and accept the risks set out in the Prospectus. Information in this announcement or any of the documents relating to the Company or the Offer cannot be relied upon as a guide to future performance. Potential investors should consult a professional adviser as to the suitability of the Offer for them.
Howard Kennedy Corporate Services LLP, which is authorised and regulated by the FCA, is acting only for the Company in connection with the matters described in this announcement and is not acting for or advising any other person, or treating any other person as its client, in relation thereto and will not be responsible for providing the regulatory protection afforded to clients of Howard Kennedy Corporate Services LLP or advice to any other person in relation to the matters contained herein.
Neither Howard Kennedy Corporate Services LLP, the Company, or any of their respective parents or subsidiary undertakings, or the subsidiary undertakings of any such parent undertakings, or any of such person’s respective directors, partners, officers, employees, agents, affiliates or advisers or any other person (“their respective affiliates”) accepts (save where required by law) any responsibility or liability whatsoever for/or makes any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to this announcement, including the truth, accuracy or completeness of the information in this announcement (or whether any information has been omitted from the announcement) or any other information relating to the Company, whether written, oral or in a visual or electronic form, and howsoever transmitted or made available or for any loss howsoever arising from any use of this announcement or its contents or otherwise arising in connection therewith.
