Source: Microsoft
Headline: Microsoft, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and TitletownTech officially open AI Co-Innovation Lab to accelerate manufacturing innovation
Category: Economics
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MIL-OSI Economics: Members review farm policies, food security, technology transfer and transparency issues
Source: World Trade Organization
Updates on agricultural market developments and food security
Members heard updates from observer international organizations, including the International Grains Council (IGC), the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP). Their contributions encompassed the overarching theme of global food security and related challenges, with a particular focus on the unique difficulties faced by least developed countries (LDCs) and net food-importing developing countries (NFIDCs), along with their continuous efforts to mitigate these challenges.
The IGC reported that the prospects for the next grain harvest remain broadly favourable, although an unusually dry winter and early spring has reduced yield potential in parts of East Asia. Including upgrades for the Americas, the global crop projection is boosted by 2 million tonnes, to a record 2,375 million. Due to a slightly lower estimate for feed use, the forecast for total grain consumption has been revised down slightly month-on-month, now standing at 2,372 million tonnes.
With grains and oilseeds markets expected to be comfortably supplied, the IGC emphasized the importance of open trade, noting that global price developments may be strongly influenced by demand-side measures, including trade policies. It also underscored the value of market transparency and drew members’ attention to the Wheat Maritime Trade and Food Security Dashboard, developed jointly with the WTO. This tool supports the monitoring of short-term trends in international wheat maritime trade flows in response to changing market conditions and enables analysis of longer-term developments.
FAO shared with members the main information contained in The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI) 2024. The publication confirmed that global progress towards the goal of ending hunger is not on track, with chronic hunger and food insecurity persisting at elevated levels. After a sharp increase between 2019 and 2021, the prevalence of undernourishment remained well above pre COVID-19 figures, reaching 9.1% in 2023. This means an estimated 713 to 757 million people facing hunger, with a mid-range estimate of 733 million – approximately 152 million more than in 2019.
FAO reminded members that the vast majority of people and countries facing acute food insecurity have remained in that situation for several years, underscoring the protracted nature of the crisis and the importance of resilience-building efforts. FAO also noted that it has been closely monitoring the global food security situation and has developed a dedicated web page – FAO Response to Global Food Security Challenges – which provides detailed information on various aspects of food security.
The WFP stressed that global food insecurity remains alarmingly high, with 295 million people acutely affected. Catastrophic hunger, the most severe form, has surged – rising from 80,000 people in 2018 to 1.9 million in 2024. Conflict remains the primary driver, with 70% of the acutely food insecure living in fragile, violent contexts. Extreme weather, such as droughts and floods, also threatens food security, as do economic factors like inflation, debt and high food prices. Humanitarian operations are further strained by severe funding shortfalls, said the WFP, which in 2025 expects to assist 24 million fewer people than in 2024.
To address this crisis, increased funding, humanitarian access and robust data systems are urgently needed. The WFP thanked WTO members for the Decision adopted at the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) to exempt humanitarian food purchases from export restrictions. The decision has improved access to local and regional production, facilitating international and regional movement of commodities and positively impacting the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of WFP operations
Nairobi and Bali decisions – transparency
Regarding the implementation of the Nairobi Decision on Export Competition, the Chair called on members concerned to make all possible efforts to fully conclude this exercise of aligning export subsidy schedules with the obligations under the Nairobi Decision. The next export competition dedicated discussion is scheduled for the Committee meeting in September. Referring to the Committee’s Decision in G/AG/2/Add.2 of December 2024, the Chair reminded members that 2024 is the last implementation year for which the information required under the export competition questionnaire (ECQ) needs to be provided via a response to the questionnaire.
Starting from the implementation year 2025, members will be required to submit a new annual export competition notification, which consolidates and streamlines existing export competition related notification requirements and formats, including the ECQ. Members were urged to redouble efforts to submit outstanding responses to the ECQ, and to use the ECQ Agriculture Information Management System (AG IMS) on-line facility for this purpose.
The Chair noted that the second triennial review of the operation of the Bali Decision on Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) administration is due in 2025. This topic will remain on the Committee’s agenda all this year. Members shared thoughts on the possible contents and outcomes of this review. The Chair also reminded members of the specific issues raised at the March 2025 Committee meeting and invited them to build on those discussions.
Issues addressed included the need for better follow-up on the first review’s conclusions , improved transparency and completeness of market access notifications, particularly for TRQs with country-specific allocations in the schedule of commitments, as well as the inclusion of tariff data in TRQ notifications. Members also called for action on TRQ underutilization by addressing barriers, such as unrelated licensing requirements, enhancing notification practices, compiling current challenges and exploring ways to reallocate underused quotas to improve TRQ effectiveness and transparency.
Technology transfer
Members expressed interest in advancing discussions on the transfer of technology to developing economies in the food and agricultural sector. Delegations expressed support for continuing discussions on the topic, with calls to shift from educational exchanges to examining how WTO rules could bolster technological development.
To capitalize on this momentum, the Chair encouraged delegations to turn this interest into concrete, substantive ideas for collective exploration, utilizing the Committee’s nearly three decades of experience with the implementation of the Agreement on Agriculture. Despite encouragement from the previous Chair, Anna Leung of Hong Kong, China, at the March 2025 meeting, no written proposals have been submitted.
The Chair suggested convening informal discussions and continuing to include this topic on formal agendas to support ongoing reflection and shape collective guidance.
Agricultural policies review
A total of 180 questions were raised by members concerning individual notifications and specific implementation matters during the meeting. This peer review process allows members to address issues related to the implementation of commitments outlined in the Agreement on Agriculture. Of these, 14 issues were raised for the first time, while 23 were recurring matters from previous Committee meetings.
The 14 new items covered a range of topics, including Australia’s livestock industry funds, Brazil’s rural development efforts, Canada’s involvement in farm and dairy support, and the European Union’s emergency agricultural measures and tariff actions on Russian products.
Other discussions focused on India’s domestic support programmes, sugar policy, and export duties, as well as Indonesia’s agricultural support. Japan’s initiatives to lower carbon emissions and secure fertilizers were also reviewed, along with Paraguay’s rural assistance project, Switzerland’s payments to farmers, Thailand’s debt relief and rice support policies, Türkiye’s tax and pricing systems, the United Kingdom’s schemes to enhance farm productivity, and the United States’ trade programmes, avian flu response, and broad agricultural support measures.
Since the previous meeting in March 2025, a total of 53 individual notifications have been submitted to the Committee: 24 related to market access, 14 concerning domestic support, 11 regarding export competition, and four related to the implementation of the Marrakesh Decision on LDCs and NFIDCs.
The Chair urged members to submit timely and complete notifications and to respond to overdue questions, stressing the critical importance of enhanced transparency.
All questions submitted for the meeting are available in G/AG/W/255. All questions and replies received are available in the WTO’s Agriculture Information Management System.
Next meeting
The next meeting of the Committee on Agriculture is scheduled for 25-26 September 2025.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon contributes $10K in response to devastating flooding in West Virginia
Source: Verizon
Headline: Verizon contributes $10K in response to devastating flooding in West Virginia
WHEELING, W.V. – On June 15, devastating heavy rains and flash flooding severely impacted Ohio and Marion counties in West Virginia. This rare event saw up to 3 to 4 inches of rainfall in less than an hour in localized areas. Multiple fatalities and extensive damage to roads, bridges, buildings and homes have been reported. Thousands were left without power and the National Guard has been mobilized to support local emergency operations.
In response to this disaster, Verizon is showing up for our customers and our neighbors in West Virginia by investing $10,000 in Appalachian Outreach, Inc. (AOI). AOI is a nonprofit that assists people experiencing poverty and disaster in Ohio, Marshall, and Wetzel counties. AOI is offering a variety of support for individuals and families impacted by the recent flooding including access to supplies, a charging station, and a comfortable place to rest and recharge. Additionally, AOI is collaborating with the Red Cross and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, to increase the number of community members they can reach directly.
“When natural disasters unfold our priority is to swiftly mobilize resources and provide support where it’s needed most,” said Anthony Lewis, Region Vice President of State Public Policy and Government Affairs for Verizon. “As always, our team worked to keep our network stable so that West Virginians can continue to connect with each other during these difficult times. Our partnership with Appalachian Outreach, Inc., further enables the delivery of immediate relief and ongoing support residents deserve as they work to recover and rebuild.”
“We are beyond grateful to Verizon for their compassion and commitment to West Virginia families,” said Heather Ray, Executive Director of Appalachian Outreach, Inc. “Their generous $10,000 donation comes at a time when so many in our community are hurting in the wake of devastating flash floods. This support allows us to meet urgent needs—like hygiene items, clothing, food, and cleaning supplies—while also standing beside families as they begin the long journey toward recovery. We simply couldn’t do this work without partners like Verizon who step up when it matters most.”
This investment is part of Verizon’s larger commitment to responding to disasters across the country. Verizon is committed to helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters with greater confidence.
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MIL-OSI Economics: New “Verizon Frontline Verified” partner – Semtech
Source: Verizon
Headline: New “Verizon Frontline Verified” partner – Semtech
BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – Verizon Frontline today announced that several products from Semtech, formerly Sierra Wireless, have achieved “Verizon Frontline Verified” status. This includes the AirLink® XR60 5G Router, which supports the recently-launched Verizon Frontline Network Slice.
The AirLink® XR60 5G Router is military-grade and delivers high-performance 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity with intelligent hot failover to help maintain mission-critical communications when lives are on the line.
In addition, the XR60’s integrated edge computing capabilities help enable data-intensive applications like real-time video feeds which can enhance situational awareness in the field. Its ruggedized design also thrives in the harshest conditions.
The XR60 includes a 5-year AirLink Complete package with five years of hardware warranty from Semtech, round-the-clock technical support, and remote management capabilities—empowering agencies to securely deploy, monitor and scale their router deployments.
“We’re honored that our latest generation AirLink XR series solutions have achieved ‘Verizon Frontline Verified’ status, recognizing the brave first responders who risk their lives protecting our communities every day,” said Kinana Hussain, vice president of networking solutions at Semtech. “For over 25 years, AirLink has been the trusted choice for mission-critical connectivity in the harshest conditions. Having our cutting-edge XR60 5G router and other XR series products pass this rigorous verification validates our shared commitment with Verizon Frontline to deliver the always-on, ruggedized solutions public safety agencies depend on when every second counts.”
Other Semtech products that have completed the rigorous verification process include the AirLink® XR90 multi-network 5G router, the AirLink® XR80 multi-network 5G router, and the AirLink® RX55 LTE-A router, providing first responders with a wide range of trusted connectivity solutions.
“Semtech knows that first responders need rugged solutions to deliver the reliable and secure critical connectivity they depend on,” said Calvin Jackson, a senior manager for crisis response with Verizon Frontline. “We’re excited to welcome them as the latest in a long line of ‘Verizon Frontline Verified’ partners.”
The “Verizon Frontline Verified” program offers a special designation to vendors whose products have been tested and met the rigorous standards required for public safety use on the Verizon network. The products eligible for this status are specifically designed to assist public safety officials and first responders during all types of hazards and emergencies.
Vendors looking to earn the “Verizon Frontline Verified” designation must first be part of the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program. Vendors in this program can request to have specific products go through the verification process. More information on the program can be found here.
Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders – developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials and agencies on the front lines – to meet their unique and evolving needs.
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MIL-OSI Economics: From potholes to personalization: What Abu Dhabi is teaching us about AI-powered smart cities
Source: Microsoft
Headline: From potholes to personalization: What Abu Dhabi is teaching us about AI-powered smart cities
If you ask many city government leaders how to win the hearts of citizens, the answer might very well be “potholes,” or, more specifically, fixing them.
“Potholes not only tell you about the state of your infrastructure,” noted a Harvard researcher in 2019, “they also tell you about the nature of participation in your city.”1 A city that fixes a pothole promptly is not just responsive, its constituents feel empowered to engage with government.
In recent years, expectations have only risen on what governments need to deliver, leaving many cities struggling to deliver services in ways people prefer while also running a gauntlet of budgetary, regulatory, and societal challenges. On the one hand, citizens want to access great city services on par with how they do their banking or shopping—that is, secure, personalized experiences on smartphones and computing devices, rather than exclusively in-person. On the other hand, governments face unprecedented pressures in terms of funding, regulations, staffing, and cybercrime.
To bridge this gap, more and more city governments are looking to use the force-multiplying power of generative AI. Its ability to converse in natural language and reason over vast stores of data, then find answers, compose messages, and orchestrate actions is not only solving longstanding modernization challenges, it’s also opening incredible new frontiers in city services.
Helping city governments evaluate, explore, and successfully deploy high-impact solutions with AI is now the primary focus of our work at Microsoft for government. In cities around the world, we have seen dramatic acceleration in generative AI innovation, with new solutions that are helping cities to:
- Deliver personalized services.
- Empower the professionals who serve the public.
- Derive better insights and greater value from data.
The future of the smart city is already here—in Abu Dhabi
The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, launched an ambitious drive around 15 years ago to make government services more accessible and service-oriented. In Abu Dhabi, the nation’s capital, those efforts took a giant leap with the advent of AI, accelerating innovation that led to the launch of a new AI-powered government services platform in October 2024.
Aptly called TAMM—which in Arabic translates to “consider it done!”—the platform began as a centralized portal several years ago and was revised to expand service offerings. With the application of new AI capabilities, it is now a one-stop digital hub, offering access to nearly 950 government services for citizens, residents, visitors, and investors.
Built on Microsoft Azure OpenAI service, TAMM uses advanced AI to deliver new classes of benefits. The platform offers real-world examples of how AI can transform smart cities by unifying services and inviting engagement in new and powerful ways.
Here are three noteworthy ways that TAMM improves city service delivery.
1. Serve people as they like, with personalized interactions
TAMM is designed to remove barriers between government services and the people who need them. In many cases, that means no longer forcing them to go to government buildings to get things done.
The new TAMM includes a generative AI assistant that provides every day service, offering personalized access to services such as license renewals, utility bill payments, permit applications, healthcare, and more. There’s even a new photo reporting app, where people can take a snapshot of a problem they come across (including, yes, a pothole) and the assistant helps to fill out a report and later sends updates on the progress of repairs.
TAMM also helps to untangle bureaucracy to simplify common yet complicated tasks. The process of registering a car, for instance, was dramatically simplified. What previously required days of visiting buildings and standing in lines can now be done quickly through the app—which also recommends the right type of insurance policy and synchronizes it with registration.
2. Deliver better results with a more energized and empowered workforce
Because TAMM handles so many more routine tasks than before (such as responding to basic questions on services issues or applications), city employees can focus more on high-value service delivery. With live services including video and audio options, agents can deliver high-touch assistance while still maintaining user privacy.
A good example of this is the case of a foreign worker who lived in Abu Dhabi for 10 years and was told by an immigration agent that she couldn’t leave the country due to visa issues. In tears, she opened the TAMM app on her phone and was connected to a helpline, where an agent quickly eased her anxieties. “I said I don’t know what to do, and the agent was literally amazing,” the woman said. “[The agent] said, ‘Don’t worry, it’s getting updated now’—and I was on my way.”
The approach to innovation behind TAMM also reflects an important trend: equipping public servants to work like product teams so that city services evolve like platforms. The TAMM organization operates in a unique “factory” in Abu Dhabi that operates like a startup—agile, data-driven, and obsessed with user satisfaction. The city’s employees don’t just execute services; they co-innovate with citizens and stakeholders to create them. Real-time dashboards, productivity-enhancing agents, and a culture of continuous iteration are driving success and proving that empowering the workforce is the foundation of smarter cities.
3. Keep cities moving with services that listen, learn, and protect
TAMM is designed to help people better navigate government services by understanding and responding to user needs almost instantly. It recognizes multiple languages and offers the option for spoken conversations, intelligently walking people through a broad range of complex processes. For example, for a family with a person who has a disability, TAMM can help navigate special services, significantly streamlining a qualification process that previously took weeks.
TAMM not only remembers previous conversations and knows the status of an issue or process, it is also deeply integrated across major government entities in the city. Service can be coordinated with in-person service centers or agencies who help housebound people in their homes.
The TAMM platform is powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI service and G42 Compass 2.0, a next-generation enterprise AI platform that provides sovereign cloud services. It also uses open-source models, including JAIS, a high-performing Arabic Large Language Model, and Azure OpenAI GPT-4.
The TAMM app now assists Abu Dhabi’s 2.5 million citizens to conduct than 10 million transactions a year. Helping to protect data and ensure privacy within these transactions is the world class cloud security provided by the Microsoft platform—reflecting our commitment to security above all in delivering AI services, as codified in our Secure Futures Initiative.
Keys for building a foundation of success with AI
The noteworthy innovation happening in Abu Dabhi is a great example of a city realizing the transformative potential offered by generative AI. Many others are following the trend, and the results are exciting.
As we look across the global landscape, we note a set of common factors that consistently underpin successful AI adoption. We would advise every city to consider the following:
- A mission-first mindset drives smarter AI adoption. Cities that anchor AI initiatives in clearly defined public outcomes—such as reducing response times to citizen queries or improving access to social services—are better equipped to prioritize high-impact use cases and rigorously measure results. Aligning AI innovation with policy goals improves clarity and can also boost community trust.
- AI literacy must span the entire workforce. Successful implementations include investments to build AI literacy across all levels of the public workforce—from IT and data science teams to case workers and city clerks. With effective training and a culture of learning and sharing, cities have more empowered workforces and enjoy better outcomes.
- Strong data foundations are critical. Cities that proactively clean, integrate, and govern their data estates—including structured, unstructured, and semi-structured data—are better able to operationalize AI faster, more securely, and at scale. A modern data platform emphasizes robust privacy and access protections as prerequisites for AI success, helping civic leaders avoid common pitfalls such as model bias, incomplete datasets, or compliance gaps.
Learn more about AI technology for governments
To help your city government make the most of modern cloud and AI technology, contact your local Microsoft representative or certified technology partner. Together, we can help you explore options, identify use cases, and transform your ideas into meaningful solutions.
- For in-depth guidance and resources on designing, deploying, and sustaining AI-powered solutions in city government, visit the Public Sector Center for Digital Skills.
- For workforce development and training resources and guidance tailored to cities and other government organizations, visit Microsoft Learn for Government.
- For more on how Microsoft is helping to empower governments with AI, read our blogs.
Microsoft for governments
Solutions that empower governments
Sources:
1 Harvard Griffin GSAS, “Pothole Politics”, January 2019.
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MIL-OSI Economics: BIS media briefing – The next-generation monetary and financial system
Source: Bank for International Settlements
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BIS speech |23 June 2025
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MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Unveils 2025 Bespoke AI Appliances in India; Debuts Innovative Bespoke AI Laundry Combo
Source: Samsung
From L – R: Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India ; John S.W. Park, Corporate Vice President, Digital Appliance Business, Samsung India; & JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia.
Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today introduced its 2025 Bespoke AI appliance lineup, built on four distinct consumer benefits: Easy, Care, Save and Secure to enrich and simplify your lives with AI. These experiences are powered by Samsung’s new AI Home screen interface, Bixby voice assistant with two-way natural communication, Samsung Knox security, and seamless SmartThings connectivity, delivering hyper-personalised, energy-efficient, and secure smart home solutions for modern Indian households.
At the heart of the new lineup is the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo, a category-defining innovation that sets a new standard for convenience and intelligent automation in home laundry care.
The 2025 range expands Samsung’s AI Home ecosystem across key appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and washing machines. With intuitive touchscreen displays, upgraded voice intelligence, and inclusive accessibility features, the line-up offers a truly connected, easy-to-use, and secure smart home experience for all. The AI Home screen sits at the center of this innovation – a smart display and interaction hub that transforms home management. Built into select appliances, AI Home enables real-time appliance insights, control over connected appliances, entertainment, and even family communication – all from a single interface. With its user-friendly design, AI Home makes it easier than ever to unlock the full potential of Samsung’s Bespoke AI appliances.
The upgraded Bixby voice assistant enhances control through voice commands and introduces new capabilities like Voice ID[1], which recognizes individual users and switches to their Samsung accounts for a personalized experience. Additionally, new SmartThings services like Family Care enhance home safety by sending alerts to family members in unusual situations such as when no activity has been detected at a scheduled time, offering peace of mind and proactive care.
To bring its AI Home vision for 2025 to life, Samsung is focused on delivering a trusted, intelligent, and future-ready experience for users. A key part of this commitment is the integration of enhanced Samsung Knox security across a wide line-up, giving users the confidence to enjoy their AI-powered connected homes with complete peace of mind.
Another major priority is future-proofing appliances. With Smart Forward, Samsung’s software update service via SmartThings, users can continue to receive the latest features and performance upgrades on their existing devices without needing to buy new ones.
The Bespoke AI line-up is driven by four key values that directly benefit consumers: Easy, Save, Care, and Secure.
Easy: Bespoke AI appliances now simplify your tasks by using AI and seamless connectivity to automate daily chores via AI Home, Bixby, and SmartThings. For example, AI Home enables automated routines, remote control, and real-time monitoring. Bixby allows users to ask detailed questions about appliances and control them using natural, two-way voice commands, without the need for a nearby phone or speaker.
Save: Bespoke AI appliances are engineered to help consumers save energy and time. AI Energy Mode helps manage power consumption. AI Vision Inside in refrigerators tracks food items and expiry dates, suggesting recipes to avoid waste. AI Wash features on the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo and Top Load washers optimize cycles based on soil levels and load types, saving valuable time and water.
Care: Bixby assists with appliance care and maintenance alerts, while SmartThings notifies users of any motion, smoke, or leaks detected through its’ connected 3rd party devices. Bespoke AI ensures peace of mind with features such as inactivity alerts at a loved one’s home, helping families feel reassured from afar.
Secure: Samsung Knox ensures multi-layered protection with a visualized dashboard across appliances and smartphones. Five Samsung products including the Bespoke AI Family Hub and Bespoke AI Laundry Combo have been verified to level ‘Diamond’ from UL Solutions’ IoT Security Ratings.
“We are proud to bring the 2025 Bespoke AI digital appliances line-up to India, where innovation meets intention. These are not just smart appliances; they are intuitive companions built for Indian homes. Whether it is a child exploring the refrigerator via AI Vision Inside, a working couple managing laundry remotely, or an elderly user interacting with the appliance, we have designed every touchpoint to be personal, seamless and secure. With a strong focus on the four core values: Easy, Save, Care, and Secure, our vision is to deliver interconnected AI appliances that seamlessly integrate into the household reflecting a forward-thinking approach to innovation that is quickly becoming a reality,” said JB Park, President & CEO, Samsung Southwest Asia
“With the 2025 range, we are offering appliances that understand lifestyles, protect personal data, and deliver real-world convenience with AI Home. Whether it’s through AI Vision Inside, Knox-powered security, or inclusive design, our new line-up is a powerful step towards homes that are truly smart, safe, and human-centric. We are confident our Bespoke AI appliances will revolutionize modern Indian households so that consumers ca experience the comfort of seamless smart home living,” said Ghufran Alam, Vice President, Digital Appliances Business, Samsung India.The 2025 Bespoke AI Home Appliance Line up
Bespoke AI Laundry Combo All-in-One: The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is a space-saving, ultra-capacity all-in-one appliance that seamlessly combines washing and drying in a single unit. It eliminates the hassle of transferring clothes between machines, allowing users to save time and prevent odours from lingering after wash cycles. Powered by AI Wash & Dry[2], the Bespoke AI Laundry Combo senses laundry weight, fabric type, and soil levels[3], automatically adjusting water, detergent, wash time, and drying conditions for each load. This ensures optimal cleaning performance and personalized laundry experience without the guesswork.
The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo features advanced heat pump drying technology that gently and efficiently dries clothes at lower temperatures by recycling warm air. The heat pump system optimizes heat transfer and reduces drying time by up to 60%[4] and energy consumption by up to 75%[5], while reducing shrinkage and fabric damage. With the Super Speed cycle, users can wash and dry a load in just 98 minutes.
Its 7-inch AI Home LCD display provides an intuitive interface for cycle selection, monitoring, and control, delivering personalized suggestions based on usage patterns and seasonal habits. The display also shows energy and water consumption reports and offers a full view of connected appliances at home via Map View. The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is also verified to level ‘Diamond’ from UL Solutions, highlighting Samsung’s industry-leading device security.
The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo comes with upgraded Bixby, which understands complex, conversational voice commands. Additionally, the Flex Auto Dispense System is able to store detergent for up to 32 loads[6], while the Auto Open Door automatically releases humid air after a cycle ends to prevent damp smells and enhance freshness.
Bespoke AI Refrigerator with AI Home: The new Bespoke AI Refrigerator is equipped with AI Vision Inside, which can recognize up to 37 fresh food items, allowing users to remotely view the interior, track expiry dates, and receive smart recipe suggestions. It can also recognize up to 50 pre-saved processed food items, largely expanding the variety of items it can manage. The new refrigerator comes with a 9-inch AI Home Display, which serves as a personalized dashboard for notes, schedules, entertainment, and full appliance control, transforming the refrigerator into the central hub of the smart kitchen. Featuring an Auto Open Door for effortless access, it is designed for convenience and better organisation. It also provides easy hands-free control by just using your voice to control settings, select functions or ask questions through Bixby. The refrigerator also includes access to SmartThings Energy which can help monitor your energy consumption in real-time
The Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator line-up features improved smart capabilities with AI Energy Mode, SmartThings Home Care and Wi-Fi connectivity, designed to offer remote access, intelligent energy savings and real-time maintenance updates via the SmartThings app. This range delivers comprehensive cooling tailored to meet consumer needs, such as longer freshness with Twin Cooling Plus technology, everyday flexibility with Convertible 5-in-1 Modes, and enhanced hygiene with Active Fresh Filter+ eliminating up to 99.99% of harmful bacteria.
Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner: The Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner offers Customized Cooling, AI Fast & Comfort Cooling, and Quick Remote, making temperature control effortless and intuitive. With AI Energy Mode, the system intelligently adjusts compressor speed based on room temperature and consumers’ usage patterns, helping reduce energy consumption by up to 30%[7]. The WindFree technology delivers comfortable cooling through 23,000 micro-holes without cold drafts, ensuring consistent, gentle airflow without direct blasts of air, while the AI engine learns usage behavior to continuously enhance efficiency and comfort.
Bespoke AI Top Load Washer: Equipped with AI Wash[8], these machines intelligently detect the fabric type and weight to automatically recommend the optimal settings for each load. Leveraging an advanced AI algorithm, the cycle adjusts key parameters—such as water level, agitation intensity, and wash and rinse duration—delivering up to 25% more fabric care[9]. Building on this technology, features like Ecobubble, Hygiene Steam & Stain Wash (with inbuilt heater), Super Speed, AI Energy Mode, and SmartThings integration, AI VRT+ further enhance the laundry experience.
Smarter, Safer, More Inclusive Living
The 2025 Bespoke AI digital appliances range is a testament to inclusive, human-centric design. With universal design at its core, the line-up ensures technology adapts to users—not the other way around. Features like the expanded Auto Open Door function across key appliances, accessible control panels, screen readers, enlarged fonts, and Bixby’s Voice ID support make operation easier for users with limited mobility or visual impairments. Built-in microphones and voice-based alerts further enable a seamless, easy to use experience.
Price & Availability
Samsung’s 2025 Bespoke AI appliance range is now available across leading online and offline retail channels, including Samsung Exclusive Stores, Samsung.com as well as major e-commerce platforms.
The Bespoke AI Laundry Combo is priced at INR 319000, offering all-in-one washing and drying convenience with smart automation. The Bespoke AI WindFree Air Conditioner starts at INR 36000, while the Bespoke AI Double Door Refrigerator is available from INR 44000 onwards. For those seeking smart laundry solutions, the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer starts at INR 24500 for the 8kg model. The Bespoke AI French Door Refrigerator with integrated AI Home display will be available from July onwards.
[1] Each user must register for a Samsung Account on screen appliances in advance. Voice ID should be registered either on the refrigerator, or Galaxy mobile devices and then transferred to the refrigerator. (Limited to Galaxy S24 and subsequent models where Voice ID can be registered.)
[2] AI Wash & Dry’s detection and sensing capabilities are based on our deep learning models trained using predefined set of data and may yield inaccurate or incorrect results. New datasets may be introduced to our learning models from time to time to enhance its accuracy
[3] A turbidity sensor operates for all weights, while fabric sensing operates for 8lbs and under. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.
[4] Based on internal testing of the cycle time when drying an IEC 3kg load with Cotton cycle. Results: BESPOKE AI Laundry Combo model with a heat pump (WD21B6400KV) = 78 minutes vs. WD21B6400KV/** combo model with a condenser = 202 minutes, which is a reduction of 60%. Individual results may vary based on actual load contents.
[5] Based on internal testing and verified by KATRI (Korea Apparel Testing Research Institute) of the cycle energy consumption when drying an IEC 3kg load with Cotton cycle.
Results: BESPOKE AI Laundry Combo model with a heat pump (WD21B6400KV) = 0.8kWh vs. WD21B6400KV/** combo model with a condenser = 3.6kWh, which is a reduction of 75%. Individual results may vary based on actual load contents.
[6] Expected number of loads: Detergent compartment can hold general detergent for up to 17 loads. Flex compartment can hold one of the following: softener for up to 19 loads, general detergent for up to 15 loads or specialty detergent for up to 36 loads.
[7] The testing was conducted in Samsung’s 132m² residential environment laboratory at a temperature of 35°C/24°C (dry bulb/wet bulb, KS C 9306: air conditioner). Results provided to and interpreted by Intertek, comparing the power consumption between AI Energy mode on and off in AI Comfort mode on the AR07D9181HZN model. Actual savings may vary by usage patterns and environment and the set temperature may increase by up to 2 degrees. Requires the use of the SmartThings App and a Samsung account.
[8] Fabric sensing uses an AI algorithm to sense 3 fabric types (Normal, Delicates, Towels) for loads up to 3kg. Mixed fabrics may reduce detection accuracy. Actual results may vary depending on individual use. To prevent wear, wash like fabrics together.
[9] Based on internal testing with WA80F/24, using IEC 3kg load, comparing a normal cycle. Results may vary depending on the actual usage conditions. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Solve for Tomorrow: Inspiring Young Innovators in Maharashtra and Gujarat
Source: Samsung
From the dynamic classrooms of Pune to the imaginative spaces of Kolhapur and the inquisitive minds of Vadodara, the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow roadshows have sparked a surge of creativity and purpose across Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Launched on April 29, 2025, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a pan-India competition that empowers students with tools, mentorship, and resources to address real-world challenges through technology. With guidance from Samsung leaders, IIT Delhi faculty, and support for prototyping, the programme awards INR 1 crore to the top four teams. However, its true essence lies in motivating young minds to dream ambitiously and act decisively.
Recent roadshows at DPS School and Munsukhbhai Kothari School in Pune, SPSMBH College of Architecture and NIT Sabhagruh in Kolhapur, and New Era School and Anand Vidya Vihar School in Vadodara highlighted the programme’s transformative influence.
In Pune, Aakash, a class 11 student, arrived with a vague concept but left with a clear vision for sustainable packaging. “Samsung Solve for Tomorrow showed me I can turn this idea into reality,” he expressed.
In Vadodara, Rohan from Anand Vidya Vihar designed wireframes for a mobile app aimed at making education accessible for remote learners. “I want to ensure children like my cousin aren’t left behind,” he shared.
In Kolhapur, architecture student Ishan found inspiration in leveraging technology to revive local crafts. “It’s about connecting the past with the future,” he explained.
Throughout the sessions, students proposed innovative solutions — from smart agriculture tools to mental health platforms and affordable solar innovations. What united them was a shared commitment to driving change and a belief in their potential.
“These ideas are driven by empathy,” remarked a teacher at the Pune event. “They’re creating solutions to help others, not for recognition.”
The roadshows introduced design thinking, encouraging students to question, empathise, define, and prototype. It was about understanding the ‘why’ behind the ‘what.’
As Samsung Solve for Tomorrow continues to grow, its impact is evident: it’s not just fostering innovation but shaping a future where classroom ideas can transform the world. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of National Education, Pre-school Learning and Sports of Morocco
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with Minister of National Education, Pre-school Learning and Sports of Morocco, Mohamed Saad Berrada, in Rabat, on 25 June 2025. Both sides exchanged views on ASEAN-Morocco relations and explored ways to further enhance cooperation in the areas of education, youth development and sports, in support of the ASEAN-Morocco Sectoral Dialogue Partnership.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of National Education, Pre-school Learning and Sports of Morocco appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Surface Copilot+ PCs: Built for teaching, learning and security
Source: Microsoft
Headline: Surface Copilot+ PCs: Built for teaching, learning and security
Educators today are navigating more than ever. They are supporting diverse student needs, integrating new technologies and managing complex IT and security demands, all while keeping students engaged and prepared for a rapidly changing world.
Now with the rise of AI, the expectations are even higher. School leaders and educators are being asked to define how AI will be used in classrooms to support learning, improve operations and promote equity. That journey starts with the right devices.
Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs bring together the best of Microsoft—hardware, software and AI—to help schools rise to this challenge. Informed by educator feedback and powered by Microsoft Copilot and a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU), Surface enables intelligent experiences that run securely on the device or in the cloud, all managed seamlessly by IT.
What we heard from the classroom, reflected in the devices
Educators told us they need tools that feel natural to use while offering the latest capabilities. They need devices that are trusted, reliable and easy-to-manage, with experiences that support every student. That input shaped the design of Surface Copilot+ PCs, including the new Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch.
- Security and trust, built into every Surface device
We are making security our top priority at Microsoft, above all else—over all other features. Students, families, educators and institutions trust Microsoft to power learning and protect data. Surface devices build on that trust with enterprise-grade security, simplified management through Microsoft Intune, and deep integration with Microsoft Entra and Purview to help schools control access, safeguard sensitive information and govern AI responsibly as classroom needs evolve. Together, these tools help defend your school’s devices and data while putting the security, privacy and compliance needs of students, educators and school districts at the center. - Device experiences that support natural learning
Students learn best when they can interact with content in ways that feel intuitive. Surface Pro supports digital inking with Slim Pen,i voice input with Studio Mics and natural language interaction with Copilotii. These features help students express themselves and stay engaged in their own way. - Reliable and adaptable for the school day
Educators need devices that are fast, durable and ready for a full day of learning. Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to last and easy to repairiii. Their lightweight designs and all-day battery life make them easy to carry and use across classrooms, libraries, labs and home. - Inclusive and collaborative by design
Learning is both personal and social. Surface Copilot+ PCs work seamlessly with Microsoft 365 to support collaboration through Microsoft Teams, OneNote and other familiar tools. Built-in accessibility features, along with the Surface Adaptive Kit and Microsoft Adaptive Accessories, help students personalize their experience and stay connected in any learning environment. - Ready for the tools schools already use
Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to support the full range of learning needs by delivering the performance and experience required for the education tools students and educators depend on every day. Common apps like TestNav for assessments, Google Classroom for assignments, Minecraft Education for STEM, Adobe Express for creativity, and assistive technologies like JAWS are ready to use on Surface devices powered by Snapdragon X Series and Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processors.
Trusted by educators, evolving with their needs
Around the world, schools that have long relied on Surface are continuing to invest in new devices that support the future of learning. Their experiences reflect many of the same priorities we heard during the development of Surface Copilot+ PCs: performance, reliability, flexibility and the ability to unlock the potential of AI in the classroom. These schools continue to choose Surface devices not just because of the technology itself, but because they trust them to evolve alongside their needs.
At Royal Grammar School Newcastle in the United Kingdom, Surface is already deeply embedded in teaching and learning. Now the school is exploring how Copilot+ PCs can further enhance collaboration and student engagement through on-device AI.
“We wouldn’t be doing our duty if we weren’t incorporating 21st century technology into our curriculum. Educators are going to have to spend a time considering the choice of device and the applications used to harness the power of AI and the possibilities to support our student’s learning. The use of the Surface device in the classroom has totally changed the dynamics.”
— Sarah Buist, Head of Digital Strategy, Royal Grammar School Newcastle
In Japan, the Aichi Prefectural Board of Education has deployed Surface Pro devices across more than 200 high schools. Teachers have praised the fast-processing speed and large touchscreens, which make daily tasks like digital grading more intuitive and efficient. Combined with Microsoft 365 Copilot, they are also seeing meaningful time savings in their everyday work.
“The new Surface is easy to use with its fast-processing speed. The large screen allows simple operation by touch, making it straight-forward for digital grading. Grading previously took an hour by hand, but now it only takes about 40 minutes.”
— Haruhiko Goto, Chief Coordinator of Super Science High School, Aichi Prefecture Ichinomiya High SchoolSecurity and management that’s built for education IT
Surface leads the Windows ecosystem in security innovation. Designed and built by Microsoft, Surface helps schools protect student data, simplify IT management and reduce risk at every layer of the device—from silicon to cloud.
- Security that starts at the core
Surface Copilot+ PCs are Secured-core PCs with Microsoft Pluton built in. Pluton is a Microsoft-designed security chip integrated directly into the processor. It protects sensitive data like passwords and sign-ins, even if a device is lost or stolen. Updates are delivered automatically through Windows Update, so schools always have the latest protections without extra tools or effort. - Management designed for education
With tools like Device Firmware Configuration Interface (DFCI) and Surface Enterprise Management Mode (SEMM), IT administrators can remotely control settings such as disabling cameras, USB ports and Bluetooth—even before the operating system loads. QR codes etched directly onto Surface Laptop and Surface Pro devices provide instant access to serial numbers, making asset tracking, deployment and servicing faster and more accurate without manual entry. - Surface is secure by design and secure by default
Every Surface device comes with Windows 11 Pro security features enabled right out of the box, which minimizes setup time and reduces risk. Firmware, drivers and OS updates are delivered through a single trusted channel, Windows Update. This unified approach simplifies management, reduces the number of tools IT teams need to support and helps schools respond to threats more quickly while staying focused on teaching and learning.
AI that works for the classroom
Transforming the classroom with on-device AI, powered by the NPU
Surface Copilot+ PCs are built to meet the needs of today’s classrooms and support future AI innovations that will continue to shape teaching and learning. These experiences run locally on the device using a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which allows them to operate quickly, securely and without relying on the internet. This unlocks new ways for students and educators to enhance instruction, simplify daily tasks and create more inclusive classroom experiences.
These are just a few ways Surface Copilot+ PCs bring AI to life in the classroom, with each experience powered by the NPU and with more innovations to come.
- Microsoft Learning Zone: AI that empowers every educator
Designed for education, Microsoft Learning Zoneiv is a free, AI-powered app coming to Copilot+ PCs, available in public preview later this year. It uses local AI processing to create personalized lessons, adapt content from trusted sources like OpenStax, generate interactive games with Kahoot and track student progress—saving time and making the classroom experience more flexible and engaging. - Click to Do (preview): Personalized support at your fingertips
Click to Dov enables students to highlight text or images and instantly receive contextual help—such as summarizing a paragraph or explaining a graph. Activated with the Windows key and a click, this AI-powered feature runs entirely on-device, using the NPU to deliver support that is fast, secure and always available when they need it. - Accessibility features: Inclusive by design and powered by AI
Surface Copilot+ PCs include built-in tools that help more students participate fully in learning. Voice Accessvi now offers greater flexibility and a more natural way to navigate using speech, improving on earlier voice interaction tools with faster response times and support for conversational commands. Live Captionsvii provide real-time subtitles and translations for spoken content. Both are powered by the NPU to deliver instant performance across multiple languages, supporting more inclusive and accessible classrooms.
Read the blog to see how Microsoft Learning Zone and other AI features from Microsoft are transforming the classroom experience.
Ready for what’s next
With Windows 10 support ending on Oct. 14, 2025, now is the time to modernize your school’s device fleet with Windows 11. The new 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro for Business, part of the Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio, will be available to education institutions starting July 22. These devices are secure by design and default with built-in security to help protect against evolving cyberthreats and include new silicon capable of 40+ TOPS (trillions of operations per second). Copilot+ PCs offer all-day battery life to support learning anywhere, powerful performance for multitasking and content creation, and AI experiences tailored specifically for education.viii
Learn more about how to get ahead of Windows 10 end of support and take the next steps.
These new devices expand the Surface Copilot+ PC portfolio and give schools flexible options to match the right device to every role. Whether you are empowering IT teams, supporting educators or enabling students to learn in more personalized and accessible ways, there is a Surface Copilot+ PC to fit your needs.
If you are attending ISTELive 25 in San Antonio, be sure to visit the Microsoft booth starting June 29 to experience Surface Copilot+ PCs in action, connect with education experts and explore how Microsoft is helping shape the future of learning.
Visit Surface.com/Business to learn more and request a quote for your school or district through an authorized reseller.
Students, parents and educators can explore the new Surface Pro 12-inch and Surface Laptop 13-inch at the Microsoft Store, where they can also save up to 10% on select Surface devices and moreix.
End Notes
i Sold separately
ii Minimum age limits may apply to use of Copilot and certain AI features. Details
iii Replacement components available through online Microsoft Store and iFixIt for out-of-warranty repair. Components can be replaced by individuals with the knowledge and experience to repair electronic devices following Microsoft’s Service Guide. Microsoft tools (sold separately) may also be required. Availability of replacement components and service options may vary by product, market and over time. See Self-repair information for your Surface device – Microsoft Support. Opening and/or repairing a device can present electric shock, device damage, fire and personal injury risk, and other hazards. Use caution if undertaking self-service repairs. Unless required by law, damage caused during repair is not covered under Microsoft’s Limited Hardware Warranty or protection plans.
iv Microsoft Learning Zone is available with a Copilot+ PC and Microsoft Education license (A1, A3, A5). Initial availability will be English only.
v Click to Do (preview) available image and text actions may vary by device, region, language and character set. Subscription required for some actions. Click to Do coming to the European Economic Area later in 2025. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs
vi Voice Access with flexible commands available now on Copilot+ PCs with Snapdragon X Series processor. Supports multiple languages, some features only available in English. See what’s new in Voice Access.
vii Translation for video and audio subtitles into English from 40+ languages and from 27 languages into Chinese (Simplified). See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs
viii Battery life varies significantly based on usage, network and feature configuration, signal strength, settings and other factors. See aka.ms/SurfaceBatteryPerformance for details.
ix Microsoft Store Education discount is available to K-12 and higher education students, faculty and parents. Education discount only valid on select products, and may not be combinable with other offers. See terms and conditions at Education & Student Discounts on Laptops, Microsoft 365, Windows, Surface | Microsoft Store
- Security and trust, built into every Surface device
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MIL-OSI Economics: Moody’s fully acquires ICR Chile, solidifying its leading position in key Latin American markets
Source: Moody’s
Headline: Moody’s fully acquires ICR Chile, solidifying its leading position in key Latin American markets
Moody’s fully acquires ICR Chile, solidifying its leading position in key Latin American markets
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Moody’s Corporation (NYSE:MCO) announced today that it has fully acquired ICR Chile (ICR), a leading provider of domestic credit ratings in Chile. The transaction follows Moody’s 2019 acquisition of a minority stake in ICR and will further strengthen its presence in Latin America’s domestic credit markets.
Following the transaction, ICR will continue issuing domestic ratings in Chile under its own rating process and methodologies. In the following months, ICR will be fully integrated into Moody’s Local, a group of leading credit rating agencies in Latin America.
“Today’s acquisition builds on our successful partnership with ICR and underscores our commitment to Chile’s growing debt capital market,” said Martin Fernandez-Romero, Managing Director of Moody’s Local. “Bringing ICR into Moody’s Local will enhance our ability to provide high quality credit ratings, research, and analytical services to market participants, while contributing to greater transparency in Latin America.”
Founded in 2005, ICR is renowned for its high-quality analyses and the expertise of its analytical teams. It provides ratings across a diverse range of sectors, including corporates, financial institutions, insurers, structured finance vehicles, funds, and project finance. Since Moody’s initial investment, ICR has gained market growth, driven by its in-depth credit analyses and the expansion of its coverage within Chile’s domestic ratings market.
The terms of the transaction were not disclosed, and it will not have a material impact on Moody’s 2025 financial results.
About Moody’s Local
Moody’s Local is a group of domestic rating agencies covering 13 Latin America’s domestic financial markets. Moody’s Local provides domestic credit ratings, research and risk analyses to market professionals with methodologies and seasoned analysts that capture the unique risks and dynamics of each market. Learn more at moodyslocal.com.About Moody’s Corporation
In a world shaped by increasingly interconnected risks, Moody’s (NYSE: MCO) data, insights, and innovative technologies help customers develop a holistic view of their world and unlock opportunities. With a rich history of experience in global markets and a diverse workforce of approximately 16,000 across more than 40 countries, Moody’s gives customers the comprehensive perspective needed to act with confidence and thrive. Learn more at moodys.com.“Safe Harbor” statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
Certain statements included in this release are forward-looking statements and are based on future expectations, plans and prospects for Moody’s business and operations that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Such statements involve estimates, projections, goals, forecasts, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, projected, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and other information in this document are made as of the date hereof, and Moody’s undertakes no obligation (nor does it intend) to publicly supplement, update or revise such statements on a going-forward basis, whether as a result of subsequent developments, changed expectations or otherwise, except as required by applicable law or regulation. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Moody’s is identifying certain factors that could cause actual results to differ, perhaps materially, from those indicated by these forward-looking statements. Those factors, risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the uncertain effects of U.S. and foreign government actions affecting international trade and economic policy, including changes and volatility in tariffs and trade policies and retaliatory actions, on credit markets, customers and customer retention, and demand for our products and services; the impact of general economic conditions (including significant government debt and deficit levels, and inflation or recessions and related monetary policy actions by governments in response thereto) on worldwide credit markets and on economic activity, including on the level of merger and acquisition activity, and their effects on the volume of debt and other securities issued in domestic and/or global capital markets; the uncertain effects of U.S. and foreign government initiatives and monetary policy to respond to the current economic climate, including instability of financial institutions, credit quality concerns, and other potential impacts of volatility in financial and credit markets; the impact of geopolitical events and actions, such as the Russia-Ukraine military conflict and military conflict in the Middle East, and of tensions and disputes in political and global relations, on volatility in world financial markets, on general economic conditions and GDP in the U.S. and worldwide and on Moody’s own operations and personnel; other matters that could affect the volume of debt and other securities issued in domestic and/or global capital markets, including regulation, increased utilization of technologies that have the potential to intensify competition and accelerate disruption and disintermediation in the financial services industry, as well as the number of issuances of securities without ratings or securities which are rated or evaluated by non-traditional parties; the level of merger and acquisition activity in the U.S. and abroad; the impact of MIS’s withdrawal of its credit ratings on countries or entities within countries and of Moody’s no longer conducting commercial operations in countries where political instability warrants such actions; concerns in the marketplace affecting our credibility or otherwise affecting market perceptions of the integrity or utility of independent credit agency ratings; the introduction or development of competing and/or emerging technologies and products; pricing pressure from competitors and/or customers; the level of success of new product development and global expansion; the impact of regulation as an NRSRO, the potential for new U.S., state and local legislation and regulations; the potential for increased competition and regulation in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including the EU; exposure to litigation related to our rating opinions, as well as any other litigation, government and regulatory proceedings, investigations and inquiries to which Moody’s may be subject from time to time; provisions in U.S. legislation modifying the pleading standards and EU regulations modifying the liability standards applicable to CRAs in a manner adverse to CRAs; provisions of EU regulations imposing additional procedural and substantive requirements on the pricing of services and the expansion of supervisory remit to include non-EU ratings used for regulatory purposes; uncertainty regarding the future relationship between the U.S. and China; the possible loss of key employees and the impact of the global labor environment; failures or malfunctions of our operations and infrastructure; any vulnerabilities to cyber threats or other cybersecurity concerns; the timing and effectiveness of our restructuring programs; currency and foreign exchange volatility; the outcome of any review by tax authorities of Moody’s global tax planning initiatives; exposure to potential criminal sanctions or civil remedies if Moody’s fails to comply with foreign and U.S. laws and regulations that are applicable in the jurisdictions in which Moody’s operates, including data protection and privacy laws, sanctions laws, anti-corruption laws, and local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to government officials; the impact of mergers, acquisitions, or other business combinations and the ability of Moody’s to successfully integrate acquired businesses; the level of future cash flows; the levels of capital investments; and a decline in the demand for credit risk management tools by financial institutions, corporate or government entities. These factors, risks and uncertainties as well as other risks and uncertainties that could cause Moody’s actual results to differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, projected, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements are described in greater detail under “Risk Factors” in Part I, Item 1A of Moody’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, and in other filings made by the Company from time to time with the SEC or in materials incorporated herein or therein. Stockholders and investors are cautioned that the occurrence of any of these factors, risks and uncertainties may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those contemplated, expressed, projected, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements, which could have a material and adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations and financial condition. New factors may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict new factors, nor can the Company assess the potential effect of any new factors on it. Forward-looking and other statements in this document may also address our corporate responsibility progress, plans, and goals (including sustainability and environmental matters), and the inclusion of such statements is not an indication that these contents are necessarily material to investors or required to be disclosed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, historical, current, and forward-looking sustainability-related statements may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve, and assumptions that are subject to change in the future.
Source: Moody’s Corporation Investor Relations
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MIL-OSI Economics: REPORT: Energy Storage Market Continues Strong Growth in Q1 2025
Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)
Headline: REPORT: Energy Storage Market Continues Strong Growth in Q1 2025
HOUSTON/WASHINGTON, D.C. June 25, 2025 — According to the new U.S. Energy Storage Monitor developed by Wood Mackenzie and the American Clean Power Association (ACP), the American energy storage market experienced record growth in Q1 2025—amidst current policy uncertainty.
The U.S. energy storage market added more than 2 GW across all segments in Q1 2025, marking the highest Q1 on record. The utility-scale segment led the way with more than 1.5 GW of new capacity, representing a significant 57% increase compared to Q1 2024.
“Surging energy demand is putting the electric grid under strain. The energy storage market is responding to help keep the lights on and support this unprecedented growth in an affordable and reliable way,” said John Hensley, ACP SVP of Markets and Policy Analysis. “Policy uncertainty is now one of the most significant risks that remains on the horizon as we tackle a balanced approach to allowing our economy to expand while maintaining the energy reliability that Americans deserve.”
New horizons in the market
The report shows there is a growing appetite across the country for deployment of grid-scale energy storage, as utilities, regulators, and communities further integrate the technology into their resource planning. In Q1 of 2025, states such as Indiana highlighted the geographic diversification that continues to take place as the market expands beyond early adopters such as Texas and California.
The growing market in Indiana is made possible due to factors such as land availability and clear state permitting guidelines.Indiana added 256 MW of new storage to the grid in Q1 2025, effectively quadrupling its operational storage capacity.
Indiana has more than 10 GW of new storage active in the interconnection queue—the fifth largest storage queue in the country.“We’re now seeing significant deployment of energy storage resources in emerging markets like Indiana, while states across the Southwest like Nevada and Arizona continue to expand their energy storage portfolio,” said ACP Vice President of Energy Storage, Noah Roberts. “Energy storage was the second most deployed resource in Q1 2025, demonstrating its unique ability to be quickly built to address critical reliability needs.”
The residential storage market also saw significant year-over-year (YoY) growth, installing a record-breaking 458 MW in Q1. California and Puerto Rico accounted for 74% of this growth, while new markets like Illinois are beginning to emerge.
A moment of policy uncertaintyThe total 5-year utility-scale capacity forecast remains strong. However, the segment is at risk for a potential 29% contraction in 2026 due to policy uncertainty.
The community-scale, commercial, and industrial (CCI) segment has seen a 42% reduction in its five-year outlook, struggling with tariff uncertainty and slower-than-anticipated transition to NEM 3.0 projects in California.
The report cautions that potential changes to current tax credits could significantly impact the industry’s overall growth. If access to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is severely reduced as proposed in the reconciliation bill passed by the House, it could lead to a 27% reduction in buildout over the forecast period. (Note: this report was developed before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee released its version of the reconciliation bill on June 16.)
Distributed storage would be the most impacted segment, with a potential 46% drop from the base case over the next 5 years. Utility-scale installations would decrease by 16 GW over the next 5 years if the tax provisions are changed.
In the near term, the report projects that 15 GW/49 GWh of energy storage capacity will be installed across all segments in 2025. The utility-scale segment is expected to grow 22% YoY in 2025.
As the market evolves, continued innovation, supportive policies, and strategic planning will be crucial to navigate the changing landscape and capitalize on the immense potential of energy storage in the U.S. energy transformation.
“The Q1 2025 results demonstrate the demand for energy storage in the US to serve a grid with both growing renewables and growing load. However, the industry stands at a crossroads, with potential policy changes threatening to disrupt this momentum,” said Allison Weis, Global Head of Energy Storage at Wood Mackenzie. “It’s crucial that policymakers understand the importance of stable, supportive policies for the continued expansion of energy storage.”
Purchase the full report at ACP’s website.
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Wood Mackenzie’s media relations team
Mark Thomton
+1 630 881 6885
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About Wood Mackenzie
Wood Mackenzie is the global insight business for renewables, energy and natural resources. Driven by data. Powered by people. In the middle of an energy revolution, businesses and governments need reliable and actionable insight to lead the transition to a sustainable future. That’s why we cover the entire supply chain with unparalleled breadth and depth, backed by over 50 years’ experience in natural resources. Today, our team of over 2,000 experts operate across 30 global locations, inspiring customers’ decisions through real-time analytics, consultancy, events and thought leadership. Together, we deliver the insight they need to separate risk from opportunity and make bold decisions when it matters most. For more information, visit woodmac.com. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Level Up Your Summer: Create Your Own Staycation with Samsung
Source: Samsung
Who says unforgettable summer memories require a passport? If you haven’t planned a vacation just yet, Samsung has you covered. A staycation can be just as rejuvenating as a resort getaway. With some creative planning and Samsung technology, everyday spaces transform into venues for extraordinary experiences.
From impromptu dance parties to thrilling movie marathons, here’s how to craft the ultimate summer staycation with Samsung.
1. Host an Epic Silent DiscoCreating an electrifying nightclub atmosphere at home is simpler than ever. All it takes is a curated playlist, Samsung Galaxy Buds, and the SmartThings app1. Set up a customized routine using SmartThings to orchestrate the perfect silent disco – simply open the app, navigate to Favorites, tap Add, then Create routine. From there, choose what triggers the experience (time, voice command, or button press), select actions to activate music and redirect audio to Galaxy Buds.
Pro tip: Level up the ambiance by incorporating compatible smart bulbs into the SmartThings routine for a mesmerizing disco light show.
2. Transform Your Kitchen into a Gourmet Snack BarChannel resort vibes by turning your kitchen into a snack shack for hungry kids (and grown-ups). Summer vacation is the perfect time to take small bites to the next level, and Samsung’s Bespoke AI-powered Bespoke appliances make whipping up vacation-worthy treats a breeze. The Bespoke Wall Oven’s air-fry feature creates perfectly crispy snacks, while its in-oven camera lets you monitor cooking progress through SmartThings while you’re enjoying yourself elsewhere (say, at a silent disco). The Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator with AI Family Hub+ and AI Vision Inside also keeps snack inventory in check, so you can keep track of what you have in the fridge2. Plus, with the built-in Beverage Center3, you can create refreshing infused drinks using the AutoFill water pitcher with its built-in infuser – perfect for those hot summer days. And when you’re ready to try something new, the Family Hub’s Meal Planner app offers endless recipe inspiration with step-by-step instructions tailored to your tastes.
3. Create Your Own Karaoke LoungeThanks to the Mobile Microphone Technology on select 2025 Samsung TVs, any living room can become a stellar karaoke venue. Download the Stingray Karaoke app to choose from an extensive song catalog and use your smartphone as a mic to belt out your favorite tune. Now through the end of the year, you can enjoy six months of complimentary Stingray Karaoke access4 when you buy a Samsung Smart TV, while existing owners can kick off their staycation with a free one-month trial through the Samsung TV Smart Hub.
4. Host the Ultimate Movie MarathonFor those days when it’s super hot outside or the rain just won’t let up, bring the cinema experience home with the Samsung 2025 TV Lineup. The flagship S95F OLED TV features our latest OLED Glare-Free technology for distraction-free viewing – whether watching on a bright sunny day or peaceful summer night. And, new for 2025, we’ve expanded this award-winning technology to select Neo QLED 4K and Neo QLED 8K models, giving you plenty of options for enjoying stunning picture quality, wherever and whenever you watch. Plus, all 2025 Neo QLED TVs now offer access to Samsung Art Store. With over 3,500 artworks from globally renowned museums and galleries, you’ll find no shortage of options to help set the mood for summer.
We’ve also debuted Samsung Vision AI5 to power our 2025 TVs’ cinematic picture and sound and enable AI-backed experiences that take TV to new heights. While watching your favorite shows or movies, use “Click to Search” to instantly learn about the actors on screen and receive curated content recommendations, or try “Live Translate” for real-time subtitle translations. And when searching for what to watch, Samsung TV Plus is a fantastic and free place to start, providing access to nearly 700 channels of content from Disney, Lionsgate, Paramount, and more.
5. Stay on Track with Smart WearablesIf you have an action-packed staycation schedule (and with these ideas, you most likely will!), you might need a little extra help managing those moving pieces. The Galaxy Watch‘s advanced AI features transform how you manage your at-home retreat – from setting smart reminders for your movie marathons to tracking your backyard workout sessions. With Galaxy AI6, you can monitor your wellness goals, analyze your sleep patterns, and even get AI-powered conversation suggestions right on your wrist (and your Galaxy smartphone!). Plus, the watch’s smart home controls let you adjust your environment without missing a beat of your staycation activities.
Bonus: With One UI 8 beta, new Galaxy Watch features to improve sleep, heart health, fitness, and nutrition will be rolling out soon.
6. Make Cleanup a BreezeWhile vacation time typically means you can escape household duties, tidying up after a staycation doesn’t have to dampen the mood. Samsung’s latest additions to its Bespoke AI lineup includes the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra Cordless Stick Vacuum, Auto Open Door Dishwasher and Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo (also available ventless) that make cleanup easy. The washer-dryer combo, for instance, seamlessly transitions from washing clothes to drying them, so if you happen to be vacuuming with the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, you won’t have to stop what you’re doing to transfer loads.
For more ways to plus-up your home this summer, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube and download SmartThings to make the most use out of your appliances and devices.
Discover more ways to enhance your home with Samsung technology at Samsung.com. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wallet Adds Digital Key Compatibility for Mercedes-Benz
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, today announced that Samsung Wallet will support digital key compatibility for Mercedes-Benz vehicles starting in July 2025. With this new integration, Galaxy users1 can now experience a more seamless way to lock, unlock and start their Mercedes-Benz2 vehicle from their smartphone.
“We’re excited to bring Mercedes-Benz drivers the incredible convenience that comes with Samsung Digital Key access,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz advances our vision of providing effortless access to tech-enabled experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem.”
“Bringing convenience and luxury to our customers is our top priority as we strive to bring them the best vehicle experience possible,” said Stefan Blossey, Director of Body-/Comfort-E/E, UX Components at Mercedes-Benz AG. “Samsung Digital Key allows Mercedes-Benz to continue offering our customers convenient access and connectivity to their vehicles.”Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize digital keys, payment methods, identification cards, and more — all in one secure and easy-to-use application. Launched in June 2022, and backed by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox, Samsung Wallet smoothly integrates across the broader Galaxy ecosystem to offer powerful connectivity and fortified protection for users in their everyday lives.
With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key on Samsung Wallet, users can experience a new level of convenience at their fingertips. Once inside the vehicle, Samsung’s Digital Key enables drivers to start their vehicle without using their physical key or even removing their smartphone from their pocket. Users can also securely share the digital key with friends or family, through an easy-to-use interface that lets owners grant or disable access as needed.The integration of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key in Samsung Wallet is also backed by Samsung’s commitment to providing a safe, secure and reliable mobile experience for users. Digital keys are securely embedded within the device, meeting rigorous EAL6+3 security standards for protection against unauthorized access. By utilizing Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium, the digital key provides precise functionality, significantly reducing the risk of unwanted attempts to access the vehicle.
If a device containing the digital key in Samsung Wallet is misplaced or stolen, users can log in to the SmartThings Find service to remotely lock or delete the device, securing access to the digital key and further safeguarding their vehicle. With biometric or PIN-based user authentication requirements, Samsung Wallet helps to protect vehicles by keeping access private and secure.4
Availability
Digital Key functionality for select Mercedes-Benz vehicles will roll out starting July 2025 in select regions5 worldwide. Users can register their Digital Key through the Mercedes Me application.Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
Mercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 175,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-end passenger cars. In 2024 it sold around 2,4 million passenger cars and vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.
1 Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S21 Ultra/S21+, S22 Ultra/S22+, S23 Ultra/S23+, S24 Ultra/S24+, S25 Ultra/S25+, S25 Edge, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Fold Special Edition.
2 Mercedes-Benz vehicles supporting Digital Car Key differ per region, in the US these include: E-Class Sedan W214, E-Class Wagon S214, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Z296, EQS Sedan V297, EQS SUV X296, EQE Sedan V295, EQE SUV X294, S-Class Sedan W223, S-Class Sedan Long V223, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Z223, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé C192, Mercedes-AMG SL R232, Mercedes-Maybach SL Z232, C-Class Saloon W206, C-Class Estate S206, GLC SUV X254, GLC Coupé C254. For the full breakdown per region, please visit https://moba.i.mercedes-benz.com/baix/cars/dck-compatibility/landingpage/index.html.
3 Evaluation Assurance Level6+, for which a product must be evaluated for specific protection against side-channel attacks or other advanced attack vectors, plus additional, more extensive testing and verification of the product’s security functions.
4 Requires compatible device, SmartThings and Samsung account.
5 Available regions include: Abu Dhabi, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dubai, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Wallet Adds Digital Key Compatibility for Mercedes-Benz
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, today announced that Samsung Wallet will support digital key compatibility for Mercedes-Benz vehicles starting in July 2025. With this new integration, Galaxy users1 can now experience a more seamless way to lock, unlock and start their Mercedes-Benz2 vehicle from their smartphone.
“We’re excited to bring Mercedes-Benz drivers the incredible convenience that comes with Samsung Digital Key access,” said Woncheol Chai, EVP and Head of Digital Wallet Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “Our collaboration with Mercedes-Benz advances our vision of providing effortless access to tech-enabled experiences across the Galaxy ecosystem.”
“Bringing convenience and luxury to our customers is our top priority as we strive to bring them the best vehicle experience possible,” said Stefan Blossey, Director of Body-/Comfort-E/E, UX Components at Mercedes-Benz AG. “Samsung Digital Key allows Mercedes-Benz to continue offering our customers convenient access and connectivity to their vehicles.”Samsung Wallet is a versatile platform that allows Galaxy users to organize digital keys, payment methods, identification cards, and more — all in one secure and easy-to-use application. Launched in June 2022, and backed by defense-grade security from Samsung Knox, Samsung Wallet smoothly integrates across the broader Galaxy ecosystem to offer powerful connectivity and fortified protection for users in their everyday lives.
With the addition of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key on Samsung Wallet, users can experience a new level of convenience at their fingertips. Once inside the vehicle, Samsung’s Digital Key enables drivers to start their vehicle without using their physical key or even removing their smartphone from their pocket. Users can also securely share the digital key with friends or family, through an easy-to-use interface that lets owners grant or disable access as needed.The integration of the Mercedes-Benz Digital Key in Samsung Wallet is also backed by Samsung’s commitment to providing a safe, secure and reliable mobile experience for users. Digital keys are securely embedded within the device, meeting rigorous EAL6+3 security standards for protection against unauthorized access. By utilizing Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technologies, a standardized communication protocol set by the Car Connectivity Consortium, the digital key provides precise functionality, significantly reducing the risk of unwanted attempts to access the vehicle.
If a device containing the digital key in Samsung Wallet is misplaced or stolen, users can log in to the SmartThings Find service to remotely lock or delete the device, securing access to the digital key and further safeguarding their vehicle. With biometric or PIN-based user authentication requirements, Samsung Wallet helps to protect vehicles by keeping access private and secure.4
Availability
Digital Key functionality for select Mercedes-Benz vehicles will roll out starting July 2025 in select regions5 worldwide. Users can register their Digital Key through the Mercedes Me application.Mercedes-Benz AG at a glance
Mercedes‑Benz AG is part of the Mercedes‑Benz Group AG with a total of around 175,000 employees worldwide and is responsible for the global business of Mercedes‑Benz Cars and Mercedes‑Benz Vans. Ola Källenius is Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑Benz AG. The company focuses on the development, production and sales of passenger cars, vans and vehicle-related services. Furthermore, the company aspires to be the leader in the fields of electric mobility and vehicle software. The product portfolio comprises the Mercedes‑Benz brand with Mercedes‑AMG, Mercedes‑Maybach and G‑Class with their all-electric models as well as products of the smart brand. Mercedes‑Benz AG is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-end passenger cars. In 2024 it sold around 2,4 million passenger cars and vans. In its two business segments, Mercedes‑Benz AG is continually expanding its worldwide production network with more than 30 production sites on four continents, while gearing itself to meet the requirements of electric mobility. At the same time, the company is constructing and extending its global battery production network on three continents. As sustainability is the guiding principle of the Mercedes‑Benz strategy and for the company itself, this means creating lasting value for all stakeholders: for customers, employees, investors, business partners and society as a whole. The basis for this is the sustainable business strategy of the Mercedes‑Benz Group. The company thus takes responsibility for the economic, ecological and social effects of its business activities and looks at the entire value chain.
1 Samsung Wallet Digital Key support is available on select devices, including: Galaxy S21 Ultra/S21+, S22 Ultra/S22+, S23 Ultra/S23+, S24 Ultra/S24+, S25 Ultra/S25+, S25 Edge, Note20 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Fold3, Z Fold4, Z Fold5, Z Fold6, Z Fold Special Edition.
2 Mercedes-Benz vehicles supporting Digital Car Key differ per region, in the US these include: E-Class Sedan W214, E-Class Wagon S214, Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV Z296, EQS Sedan V297, EQS SUV X296, EQE Sedan V295, EQE SUV X294, S-Class Sedan W223, S-Class Sedan Long V223, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Z223, Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé C192, Mercedes-AMG SL R232, Mercedes-Maybach SL Z232, C-Class Saloon W206, C-Class Estate S206, GLC SUV X254, GLC Coupé C254. For the full breakdown per region, please visit https://moba.i.mercedes-benz.com/baix/cars/dck-compatibility/landingpage/index.html.
3 Evaluation Assurance Level6+, for which a product must be evaluated for specific protection against side-channel attacks or other advanced attack vectors, plus additional, more extensive testing and verification of the product’s security functions.
4 Requires compatible device, SmartThings and Samsung account.
5 Available regions include: Abu Dhabi, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dubai, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Showcases Innovative TVs and Services at 2025 Latin America Visual Display Seminar
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics today introduced its latest advancements in display technology and service innovations at its 2025 Latin America Visual Display Seminar, held in São Paulo on June 24 and 25.
The annual seminar brought together regional partners and media to experience Samsung’s newest TV lineup. Attendees had the opportunity to experience a range of innovative technologies, including the distinctive Real Quantum Dot technology of its QLEDs, the Glare-Free 2.0 feature in its OLEDs, Tizen OS and home care technologies.
▲ Kevin Cha, Picture Quality Solution Lab at Samsung Electronics, shows off Samsung’s newest TVs at the 2025 Latin America Visual Display Seminar.
Certified QD and Enhanced OLED Push the Limits of Display Innovation
Samsung’s 2025 Neo QLED TVs utilizes quantum dot architecture certified by TÜV Rheinland, meeting international standards for true quantum dot (QD) display. Unlike others using the “QLED” label, Samsung’s implementation uses a no-cadmium quantum dot layer and a dedicated blue LED light source to produce brighter and more accurate colors that remain vivid in both bright and dark environments. Attendees were able to compare these displays firsthand and observe the differences in color purity and brightness.
▲ Kevin Cha, Picture Quality Solution Lab at Samsung Electronics, explains how a QLED with a quantum dot (QD) film, with sufficient quantum dot content, combined with a blue light source, produces brighter and more accurate colors.
The 2025 OLED lineup introduces new upgrades with Glare-Free 2.0, which reduces reflections for a clearer viewing experience. The new OLEDs also include a feature that automatically adjusts brightness based on the content and ambient lighting conditions, ensuring clarity and depth at any time of day.
Enhanced Content Experiences With Tizen
The seminar highlighted life-enhancing technologies alongside screen breakthroughs, demonstrating how TVs can function as a lifestyle platform through various user scenarios and everyday conveniences.
Samsung’s Tizen OS continues to power a wide range of rich content and smart services. Samsung TV Plus1 offers exclusive access to K-pop performances, such as SM Town LIVE 2025 in L.A.,2 while SmartThings expands automation options, including personalized TV routines based on user habits.
▲ Eduardo Rubio, Samsung Electronics, explains how Samsung TV Plus provides free ad-supported content to Samsung TV users.
Additionally, Samsung Art Store3 brings high-quality digital artwork and diverse collections from global partners, including MoMA, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Art Basel, directly to the screen.
▲ Jeongeun Oh, Customer Experience Team at Samsung Electronics, give attendees hands-on experiences of lifestyle features including karaoke (right) and Daily Board.
Smarter Connected Experiences and Lifestyle Features With SmartThings
The seminar also demonstrated how Samsung TVs extend beyond entertainment to support everyday living.
Care Experience utilizes built-in sensors and AI to detect environmental cues – such as a baby crying or pet movement – and automatically adjusts content to fit the situation.
The Daily Board displays personalized information when the screen is off, and through Samsung Food integration, offers recipe suggestions and cooking guides tailored to individual preferences.
Participants were also introduced to Samsung Daily+, a lifestyle content hub providing access to healthcare resources, remote medical consultations and video calls.
In addition, the 2025 TVs now natively support Google Cast, seamlessly bringing your favorite entertainment to the big screen. With over 5,000 Cast-enabled apps, you can easily stream your favorite movies, music and shows from your mobile devices, creating an uninterrupted and enhanced entertainment experience.
1 Samsung TV Plus is the go-to service for free, premium entertainment that allows content owners and advertisers to engage consumers at scale. As a leader in free ad-supported TV (FAST) and video-on-demand (AVOD), Samsung TV Plus is the #1 free ad-supported app on Samsung Smart TVs, with nearly 3,000 ad-supported linear channels available globally in 30 countries across 630M active devices. Samsung TV Plus is accessible on 2016-2025 Samsung Smart TVs, Galaxy devices, Smart Monitors and Family Hub refrigerators. To learn more, including availability in your region, visit samsungtvplus.com.
2 Available in select countries. To learn more, visit samsungtvplus.com.
3 Samsung Art Store is a global digital art subscription platform available on Samsung TVs, now offering over 3,500 curated artworks from more than 800 artists and 70 world-class galleries and museums. First launched in 2017 with The Frame, the Art Store experience is now available on 2025 Samsung AI-powered Neo QLED and QLED TVs, giving more viewers access to premium art in 4K resolution. For more information, including availability in your region, visit Samsung.com. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of Morocco
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of Morocco, Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, in Rabat, on 25 June 2025. They discussed ways to further enhance cooperation in areas such as the creative industries and cultural heritage, media and information, and youth development, among others.
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of Morocco appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: AI and collaboration tools: how cyberattackers are targeting SMBs in 2025
Source: Securelist – Kaspersky
Headline: AI and collaboration tools: how cyberattackers are targeting SMBs in 2025
Cyberattackers often view small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) as easier targets, assuming their security measures are less robust than those of larger enterprises. In fact, attacks through contractors, also known as trusted relationship attacks, remain one of the top three methods used to breach corporate networks. With SMBs generally being less protected than large enterprises, this makes them especially attractive to both opportunistic cybercriminals and sophisticated threat actors.
At the same time, AI-driven attacks are becoming increasingly common, making phishing and malware campaigns easier to prepare and quickly adapt, thus increasing their scale. Meanwhile, cybersecurity regulations are tightening, adding more compliance pressure on SMBs.
Improving your security posture has never been more critical. Kaspersky highlights key attack vectors every SMB should be aware of to stay protected.
How malware and potentially unwanted applications (PUAs) are disguised as popular services
Kaspersky analysts have used data from the Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) to explore how frequently malicious and unwanted files and programs are disguised as legitimate applications commonly used by SMBs. The KSN is a system for processing anonymized cyberthreat-related data shared voluntarily by opted-in Kaspersky users. For this research, only data received from the users of Kaspersky solutions for SMBs were analyzed. The research focused on the following applications:
- ChatGPT
- Cisco AnyConnect
- Google Drive
- Google Meet
- DeepSeek
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Teams
- Microsoft Word
- Salesforce
- Zoom
Between January and April 2025 alone, nearly 8,500 SMB users encountered cyberattacks in which malware or PUAs were disguised as these popular tools.
Among the detected threats, the highest number (1652) of unique malicious and potentially unwanted files mimicked Zoom, the widely used video conferencing platform. This accounted for nearly 41% of all unique files detected, a 14-percentage point increase compared to 2024. Microsoft Office applications remained frequent targets for impersonation: Outlook and PowerPoint each accounted for 16%, Excel for nearly 12%, while Word and Teams made up 9% and 5%, respectively.
Share of unique files with names mimicking the nine most popular legitimate applications in 2024 and 2025 (download)
A comparison of the threat landscape in 2024 and 2025 reveals a clear shift: with the growing popularity of AI services, cyberattackers are increasingly disguising malware as various AI tools. According to our analysis, the number of unique malicious files mimicking ChatGPT grew by 115%, reaching 177 in the first four months of 2025. This contributed to a three-percentage-point increase in the tool’s share among the most mimicked applications. DeepSeek, a large language model launched only in 2025, has immediately appeared on the list of impersonated tools.
Another cybercriminal tactic to watch for in 2025 is the growing use of collaboration platform brands to trick users into downloading or launching malware and PUAs. As mentioned above, the share of threats disguised as Zoom increased by 14 percentage points, reaching 1652 unique files, while Microsoft Teams and Google Drive saw increases of over three and one percentage points, respectively, with 206 and 132 cases. This pattern likely reflects the normalization of remote work and geographically distributed teams, which has made these platforms integral to business operations across industries.
Attackers are clearly leveraging the popularity and credibility of these services to increase the success rate of their campaigns.
Malicious file names mimicking popular services 2024 2025 2025 vs 2024 Zoom 26.24% 40.86% 14.62 p.p. Microsoft Teams 1.84% 5.10% 3.25 p.p. ChatGPT 1.47% 4.38% 2.9 p.p. DeepSeek 0 2.05% – Google Drive 2.11% 3.26% 1.15 p.p. The total number of unique malicious and unwanted files imitating legitimate applications slightly declined year-over-year, from 5,587 in 2024 to 4,043 in 2025.
Main types of threats affecting the SMB Sector, 2025 (download)
The top threats targeting SMBs in 2025 included downloaders, Trojans, and adware.
Leading the list are downloaders, potentially unwanted applications designed to install additional content from the internet, often without clearly informing the user of what’s being downloaded. While not inherently malicious, these tools are frequently exploited by attackers to deliver harmful payloads to victims’ devices.
Trojans ranked next. These are malicious programs that carry out unauthorized actions such as deleting, blocking, modifying, or copying data, or disrupting the normal operation of computers and networks. Trojans are among the most prevalent forms of malware, and cyberattackers continue to use them in a wide range of malicious campaigns.
Adware also made the top three list. These programs are designed to display advertisements on infected computers or substitute a promotional website for the default search engine in a browser. Adware often comes bundled with freeware or shareware, effectively serving as the price for using the free software. In some cases, Trojans silently download and install adware onto the victim’s machine.
Among other common types of threats were DangerousObject, Trojan-Dropper, Backdoor, Trojan-Downloader, HackTool, Trojan-PSW, and PSW-Tool. For instance, we recently identified a campaign involving a Trojan-Downloader called “TookPS“, which was distributed through fake websites imitating legitimate remote access and 3D modeling software.
How scammers and phishers trick victims into giving up accounts and money
We continue to observe a wide range of phishing campaigns and scams targeting SMBs. Attackers aim to steal login credentials for various services, from delivery platforms to banking systems, or manipulate victims into sending them money.
To do this, cyberattackers use a variety of lures, often imitating landing pages from brands commonly used by SMBs. One example is a phishing attempt targeting Google business accounts. The bait lures victims with the promise of promoting their company on X. It requires them to first log in to a dedicated platform using their Google account with credentials that will end up in cyberattackers’ hands.
Another fake landing page impersonated a bank that offered business loans: a “Global Trust Bank”. Since legitimate organizations with that name exist in multiple countries, this phishing attempt may have seemed believable. The attackers tried to lure users with favorable business loan terms – but only after victims submitted their online banking credentials, giving the criminals access to their accounts.
We also saw a range of phishing emails targeting SMBs. In one recent case detected by our systems, the attacker sent a fake notification allegedly from DocuSign, an electronic document-signing service.
SMBs can even find themselves targeted by classic Nigerian scams. In one recent example, the sender claimed to represent a wealthy client from Turkey who wanted to move $33 million abroad to allegedly avoid sanctions, and invited the recipient to handle the funds. In Nigerian scams, fraudsters typically cajole money. They may later request a relatively small payment to a manager or lawyer compared to the amount originally promised.
Beyond these threats, SMBs are bombarded daily with hundreds of spam emails. Some promise attractive deals on email marketing or loans; others offer services like reputation management, content creation, or lead generation. In general, these offers are crafted to reflect the typical needs of small businesses. Not surprisingly, AI has also made its way into the spam folder – with offers to automate various business processes.
We have also seen spammers offering dubious deals like purchasing a database of over 400,000 businesses for $100, supposedly to be used for selling the company’s B2B products, or manipulating reviews on a review platform.
Security tips
SMBs can reduce risks and ensure business continuity by investing in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and increasing employee awareness. It is essential to implement robust measures such as spam filters, email authentication protocols, and strict verification procedures for financial transactions and the handling of sensitive information.
Another key step toward cyber resilience is promoting awareness about the importance of comprehensive security procedures and ensuring they are regularly updated. Regular security training sessions, strong password practices, and multi-factor authentication can significantly reduce the risk of phishing and fraud.
It is also worth noting that searching for software through search engines is an insecure practice, and should be prohibited in the organization. If you need to implement new tools or replace existing ones, make sure they are downloaded from official sources and installed on a centralized basis by your IT team.
Cybersecurity Action Plan for SMBs
- Define access rules for corporate resources such as email accounts, shared folders, and online documents. Monitor and limit the number of individuals with access to critical company data. Keep access lists up to date and revoke access promptly when employees leave the company. Use cloud access security brokers to monitor and control employee activities within cloud services and enforce security policies.
- Regularly back up important data to ensure the preservation of corporate information in case of emergencies or cyberincidents.
- Establish clear guidelines for using external services and resources. Create well-defined procedures for coordinating specific tasks, such as implementing new software, with the IT department and other responsible managers. Develop short, easy-to-understand cybersecurity guidelines for employees, with a special focus on account and password management, email protection, and safe web browsing. A well-rounded training program will equip employees with the knowledge they need and the ability to apply it in practice.
- Implement specialized cybersecurity solutions that provide visibility and control over cloud services, such as Kaspersky Next.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered Pre-Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI, held in Bangkok, Thailand. In his remarks, Dr. Kao shared key ASEAN AI initiatives to advancing digital economy and innovation through the development of a strategic framework to drive innovation, creativity, sustainable development and economic growth. He highlighted ASEAN’s initiatives on AI, which includes the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, the Expanded ASEAN AI Guide, the ASEAN Responsible AI Roadmap, and the proposed establishment of an ASEAN AI Safety Network, all aimed at supporting the AI-empowered digital ecosystem in the region.
The post Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Saudi Telecom Company and Huawei Jointly Released a White Paper Outlining Practical Path for AI-Powered Intelligent Transformation
Source: Huawei
Headline: Saudi Telecom Company and Huawei Jointly Released a White Paper Outlining Practical Path for AI-Powered Intelligent Transformation
[Copenhagen, Denmark, June 25, 2025] Saudi Telecom Company (stc), in collaboration with Huawei, launched at OTF2025 in Copenhagen the White Paper “An Intelligent Transformation Journey from Vision to Reality”. The paper presents a strategic vision and key practices driving intelligent transformation in the telecommunications industry – highlighting how AI is enhancing customer experience, operational efficiency, and innovation – while underlining the critical role of converged data management. It also demonstrates practical steps for realizing transformation – by optimizing business processes, strengthening human-machine collaboration, unifying data architecture, and leveraging AI- driven capabilities.
stc-Huawei joint released whitepaper for intelligent transformation
To advance in transforming customer experience, improving operational efficiency, and driving revenue growth, stc is showcasing strategic leadership through an enterprise-wide intelligent transformation, powered by Huawei AI-centric platforms and data-driven innovation. Key initiatives include business-driven data quality management and the Technology Unit Brain (TU Brain) Co-pilot – both designed to boost efficiency, elevate customer satisfaction, and deliver tangible improvements in operational excellence and customer experience innovation.
The successful innovation of the unified data architecture with AI-empowered solution provides a valuable practical reference for global operators accelerating their journey toward intelligent transformation. Looking ahead, the partnership between stc and Huawei points to a future where AI innovation is accelerated through a cloud-native, data-centric model. A strong data foundation will be critical to unlocking operational excellence and driving new monetization opportunities. -
MIL-OSI Economics: 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference convenes today in Kuala Lumpur
Source: ASEAN
The 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference took place today in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, attended by Senior ARF Defence and Security officials and the Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Political-Security Community. The Conference provided a platform for exchanging views on evolving regional and international security challenges, including the implications of rapid technological advancement and transnational threats. The Conference also discussed ways to foster synergy and enhance complementarity with other ASEAN-led mechanisms to further strengthen the ARF’s relevance and effectiveness in addressing regional security challenges.
The post 22nd ARF Security Policy Conference convenes today in Kuala Lumpur appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
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MIL-OSI Economics: 91-day, 182-day and 364-day T-Bill Auction Result: Cut-off
Source: Reserve Bank of India
I. T-Bill 91-day 182-day 364-day II. Total Face Value Notified ₹9,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore III. Cut-off Price and Implicit Yield at Cut-Off Price 98.6693
(YTM: 5.4094%)97.3142
(YTM: 5.5350%)94.7387
(YTM: 5.5687%)IV. Total Face Value Accepted ₹9,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore ₹5,000 Crore Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)Press Release: 2025-2026/587
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MIL-OSI Economics: Panasonic PR People Vlog #8: Expo 2025 Panasonic Pavilion “The Land of NOMO”
Source: Panasonic
Headline: Panasonic PR People Vlog #8: Expo 2025 Panasonic Pavilion “The Land of NOMO”
The Panasonic Pavilion has been drawing attention as excitement builds around Expo 2025 in Osaka. The design concept was “Set your heart and mind free, and the world will open up,” and the pavilion is packed with interactive features to stimulate the senses and unlock the imaginations of children—the leaders of the next generation. Why is the pavilion called “The Land of NOMO”? What is the story behind the 1970 Osaka Expo time capsule created for people 5,000 years in the future? What was Panasonic’s hit exhibit last time? What cutting-edge technologies are being utilized this year? And what unique ideas went into designing the staff uniforms?
In this vlog, we explore why the Panasonic Pavilion is becoming one of the most talked-about experiences at Expo 2025! -
MIL-OSI Economics: Heat Adaptation in Central Asia: Household Cooling Choices
Source: Asia Development Bank
This paper examines how households in the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan adapt their cooling strategies to power outages and increasing temperatures. It highlights the importance of reliable power and the potential of solar panels to meet summer energy demands.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Reaching the Right Households: Reforming Social Aid in Sri Lanka
Source: Asia Development Bank
Concerns with eligibility criteria
Some of these relate to the inclusion of households not facing economic hardship and the exclusion of families living in poverty. There’s a need to refine the current criteria to better identify households experiencing temporary financial difficulties, even if they own certain assets.
Challenges in data verification
Another area for improvement in Aswesuma is the difficulty officials face in verifying household information related to eligibility. For example, errors may occur during data collection if households withhold accurate information about their poverty status to qualify for benefits or are unable to recall details correctly. These inaccuracies can reduce the program’s effectiveness by excluding people who genuinely need help and undermining efforts to create a more objective social protection system.
Improving follow-up and monitoring
Better data collection methods during follow-ups with Aswesuma recipients would help improve the criteria. This would allow the program to monitor households’ economic conditions and track improvements resulting from cash transfers. The main goal of these transfers is to help participants move out of poverty by improving their living situations. Therefore, follow-up assessments should document any changes and measurable outcomes related to food insecurity or poverty levels. These outcomes should go beyond the current Aswesuma indicators to better reflect improvements in well-being.
Addressing chronic and transient poverty
Ongoing updates to Aswesuma should also improve its ability to target people experiencing both chronic and transient poverty. Chronic poverty refers to long-term deprivation, often passed down through generations, while transient poverty involves short-term income or spending losses, even when long-term resources are sufficient to stay above the poverty line (Duclos et al., 2078). The current deprivation score mainly focuses on chronic poverty, emphasizing household assets and housing conditions (13 of the 22 indicators are based on multidimensional measurements).
Gaps in coverage and food insecurity
While addressing chronic poverty is important, it’s also necessary to consider temporary poverty. A large portion of the population (households ineligible for Aswesuma but who experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months) remains underserved. Of the 20% of the population that faced food insecurity, nearly 40% are not eligible for Aswesuma.
Expanding the framework for vulnerability
Given the current economic climate, with rising costs and income losses, measures of temporary poverty could help identify both long-term and short-term hardship, regardless of assets or housing. Including data on household members’ recent employment experiences, especially job loss, could offer a more complete picture of who needs support. The amount of cash transferred is unlikely to directly improve indicators related to household assets or other long-term poverty markers, as those require larger investments in education, health, and infrastructure (Lipton and Ravallion, 1995).
Climate vulnerability and regional differences
Climate vulnerability also adds complexity to household conditions. Although it’s difficult to measure, including it would help the program reach more at-risk groups in Sri Lanka.
The current set of indicators can also be improved by accounting for both visible and hidden factors that influence household selection. The relevance of indicators varies by region and demographics. For example, vehicle use and electricity consumption depend on the availability of alternatives, which differ across the country. Rural households may lack access to transportation or electricity not because of poverty, but because those services aren’t available. Regional adjustments in how deprivation is measured could lead to more accurate assessments of poverty in both rural and urban areas.
Asset ownership and agricultural work
Asset indicators like ownership of agricultural machinery or land are influenced by both observable and hidden factors, including the decision to work in agriculture. This suggests a need for additional support programs, such as insurance for agricultural workers. In some areas, deprivation in agriculture-related indicators may actually reflect higher well-being, depending on location and market access.
Labor market impacts and conditional transfers
Finally, the program’s impact on labor market outcomes should be considered. The study predicts a drop in labor force participation for both men and women under various scenarios. This aligns with economic theory, which suggests that higher non-labor income reduces the need for paid work (Garganta et al., 2017). However, building resilience through employment is key to long-term poverty reduction. In some cases, transfers tied to employment have shown fewer negative, or even positive, effects on labor participation (Berlinski et al., 2024). While cash transfers are helpful for addressing food insecurity, exploring conditional transfers that encourage work and self-reliance is important for helping people move out of poverty.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Reaching the Right Households: Reforming Social Aid in Sri Lanka
Source: Asia Development Bank
Concerns with eligibility criteria
Some of these relate to the inclusion of households not facing economic hardship and the exclusion of families living in poverty. There’s a need to refine the current criteria to better identify households experiencing temporary financial difficulties, even if they own certain assets.
Challenges in data verification
Another area for improvement in Aswesuma is the difficulty officials face in verifying household information related to eligibility. For example, errors may occur during data collection if households withhold accurate information about their poverty status to qualify for benefits or are unable to recall details correctly. These inaccuracies can reduce the program’s effectiveness by excluding people who genuinely need help and undermining efforts to create a more objective social protection system.
Improving follow-up and monitoring
Better data collection methods during follow-ups with Aswesuma recipients would help improve the criteria. This would allow the program to monitor households’ economic conditions and track improvements resulting from cash transfers. The main goal of these transfers is to help participants move out of poverty by improving their living situations. Therefore, follow-up assessments should document any changes and measurable outcomes related to food insecurity or poverty levels. These outcomes should go beyond the current Aswesuma indicators to better reflect improvements in well-being.
Addressing chronic and transient poverty
Ongoing updates to Aswesuma should also improve its ability to target people experiencing both chronic and transient poverty. Chronic poverty refers to long-term deprivation, often passed down through generations, while transient poverty involves short-term income or spending losses, even when long-term resources are sufficient to stay above the poverty line (Duclos et al., 2078). The current deprivation score mainly focuses on chronic poverty, emphasizing household assets and housing conditions (13 of the 22 indicators are based on multidimensional measurements).
Gaps in coverage and food insecurity
While addressing chronic poverty is important, it’s also necessary to consider temporary poverty. A large portion of the population (households ineligible for Aswesuma but who experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months) remains underserved. Of the 20% of the population that faced food insecurity, nearly 40% are not eligible for Aswesuma.
Expanding the framework for vulnerability
Given the current economic climate, with rising costs and income losses, measures of temporary poverty could help identify both long-term and short-term hardship, regardless of assets or housing. Including data on household members’ recent employment experiences, especially job loss, could offer a more complete picture of who needs support. The amount of cash transferred is unlikely to directly improve indicators related to household assets or other long-term poverty markers, as those require larger investments in education, health, and infrastructure (Lipton and Ravallion, 1995).
Climate vulnerability and regional differences
Climate vulnerability also adds complexity to household conditions. Although it’s difficult to measure, including it would help the program reach more at-risk groups in Sri Lanka.
The current set of indicators can also be improved by accounting for both visible and hidden factors that influence household selection. The relevance of indicators varies by region and demographics. For example, vehicle use and electricity consumption depend on the availability of alternatives, which differ across the country. Rural households may lack access to transportation or electricity not because of poverty, but because those services aren’t available. Regional adjustments in how deprivation is measured could lead to more accurate assessments of poverty in both rural and urban areas.
Asset ownership and agricultural work
Asset indicators like ownership of agricultural machinery or land are influenced by both observable and hidden factors, including the decision to work in agriculture. This suggests a need for additional support programs, such as insurance for agricultural workers. In some areas, deprivation in agriculture-related indicators may actually reflect higher well-being, depending on location and market access.
Labor market impacts and conditional transfers
Finally, the program’s impact on labor market outcomes should be considered. The study predicts a drop in labor force participation for both men and women under various scenarios. This aligns with economic theory, which suggests that higher non-labor income reduces the need for paid work (Garganta et al., 2017). However, building resilience through employment is key to long-term poverty reduction. In some cases, transfers tied to employment have shown fewer negative, or even positive, effects on labor participation (Berlinski et al., 2024). While cash transfers are helpful for addressing food insecurity, exploring conditional transfers that encourage work and self-reliance is important for helping people move out of poverty.
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MIL-OSI Economics: ADB Announces $350 Million for Pakistan to Boost the Role of Women in the Economy
Source: Asia Development Bank
ADB has approved a loan of $350 million to support access to finance for women in Pakistan. The funding will support the second phase of the Women-Inclusive Finance Sector Development Program, which includes a $300 million policy-based loan and a $50 million financial intermediation loan designed to fund credit facilities and guarantees that support women’s entrepreneurship through improving their access to finance.
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MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Releases Smart Monitor M9 With AI-Powered QD-OLED Display
Source: Samsung
Samsung Electronics today announced its latest Smart Monitor lineup, featuring the flagship Smart Monitor M9 (M90SF model) alongside the updated Smart Monitor M8 (M80F model) and M7 (M70F model). With the introduction of QD-OLED technology to the M9 and advanced AI features across the lineup, the new offerings provide a more personalized and connected screen for work and entertainment.
“The Smart Monitor series continues to evolve based on how people work, watch and play,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the introduction of QD-OLED and AI-powered enhancements, the M9 delivers a more responsive and refined screen experience — all within a single, versatile display.”
Smart Monitor M9: OLED Picture, Intelligent Performance
The Smart Monitor M9 introduces QD-OLED technology to the Smart Monitor lineup for the first time. Its 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel delivers deep contrast and vibrant color, offering a more immersive visual experience across productivity, streaming and gaming. Samsung OLED Safeguard+ helps maintain screen integrity over time with a proprietary cooling system designed to reduce the risk of burn-in. The M9 also features a Glare-Free display to minimize reflections and ensure consistent visibility and comfort — even in bright lighting conditions.
The M9 is powered by AI Picture Optimizer, 4K AI Upscaling Pro and Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) Pro, which work together to enhance picture and sound quality in real time based on content and surroundings. Whether users are watching, creating or multitasking, the display adapts automatically to deliver optimized performance.
The M9 also serves as a smart entertainment hub with access to popular streaming apps, Samsung TV Plus and Samsung Gaming Hub — which enables cloud-based gaming without a connected console or PC. With a 165Hz refresh rate, a 0.03ms response time and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility, the M9 supports smooth, fast-moving visuals ideal for high-performance use.
The M9 also features a slim metal design that blends premium aesthetics with functional form, creating a modern look that complements any workspace.
Recognizing its precise and reliable color performance, the Smart Monitor M9 has achieved Pantone Validated certification. This certification assures users that the M9 has passed the rigorous standards of testing and can replicate over 2,100 colors and more than 110 SkinTone shades from Pantone’s library. Paired with its brilliant QD-OLED display, the monitor ensures visuals appear just as content creators intended, providing confidence and clarity for any application.
Smart Monitor M8 and M7: Versatile Displays With AI Functionality and Enhanced Connectivity
The new Smart Monitor M8 and Smart Monitor M7 extend Samsung’s smart monitor experience to a broader audience, offering 32-inch 4K UHD screens with vibrant picture quality and built-in AI features. Equipped with Samsung’s advanced VA panel technology, both models deliver sharp detail and rich contrast, making them ideal for everyday productivity, streaming and much more.
Both displays support AI-powered discovery tools, including Click to Search.1 These features help users explore content, retrieve information and engage with their screen more intuitively, while Tizen OS Home personalizes recommendations and makes it easier to access frequently used services and inputs.
Designed for flexibility, all three models integrate with SmartThings, support Multi Control between Samsung devices and offer Multi View for side-by-side working or entertainment. With Microsoft 365 access, users can create and edit documents directly from the monitor without a PC, making the lineup a practical solution for modern work setups.
Ongoing Support and Availability
The Smart Monitor M9, M8 and M7 are available in 32-inch screen sizes and will begin rolling out to markets worldwide starting this month.2
To ensure long-term usability and support, Samsung offers up to seven years of One UI Tizen upgrades for the Smart Monitor lineup, allowing users to continue benefiting from the latest features and services over time.3
For more information about Samsung’s Smart Monitor lineup, please visit www.samsung.com/.
1 Feature available in certain regions and models only.
2 Availability of models may vary by market.
3 Free One UI Tizen upgrades are available for Smart Monitors models released in 2023 and onward. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of the Administration of National Defense of Morocco
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of the Administration of National Defense of Morocco, Abdeltif Loudyi, in Rabat, on 24 June 2025. They exchanged views on security issues, the work of the ASEAN defence sector, and potential future engagements.
Please credit: Administration of National Defense of Morocco
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in Charge of the Administration of National Defense of Morocco appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal. -
MIL-OSI Economics: Philip R. Lane: Monetary policy: new challenges
Source: European Central Bank
Speech by Philip R. Lane, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Barclays-CEPR Monetary Policy Forum 2025
London, 24 June 2025
Since the extraordinary inflation surges in 2021-2022, the primary challenge facing monetary policy has been to return inflation to target in a timely manner.[1] In terms of interest rate policy, this required a rapid hiking cycle from July 2022 to September 2023, followed by a “hold at peak” phase and then a gradual reversal of the restrictive stance starting in June 2024.[2] The gradualism in the easing phase reflected ongoing uncertainty about the speed of the disinflation process.
While headline inflation is currently around the target, services inflation still has some distance to travel to make sure that inflation stabilises at the target on a sustainable basis. Still, there has been sufficient progress in returning inflation to target to consider that this monetary policy challenge is largely completed. This assessment is reinforced by the accumulating evidence that the remaining services disinflation is well on track: first, the projection errors for inflation, including for the services subcomponent, have been relatively small during the disinflation process; second, both the wage tracker data and survey indicators suggest that further deceleration in wage growth can be expected in both 2025 and 2026, facilitating further declines in services inflation.
However, this disinflation challenge has been superseded by a new set of challenges and monetary policymakers have to make sure that the medium-term inflation target is protected in a volatile environment in which, amongst other factors, there is high uncertainty about the future of long-standing international trade system.[3] This uncertainty extends beyond the calibration of new tariff regimes and includes the possibility of a broader set of non-tariff barriers, a deeper intertwining of economic policies and security policies and possible revisions to the treatment of foreign portfolio investors and foreign direct investors. In addition to policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s unjustified war against Ukraine and the tragic conflict in the Middle East, remain a major source of uncertainty. Reflecting these developments, we have seen high volatility in energy prices this year and substantial currency repricing. There has also been considerable financial market volatility.
At the same time (and largely as an endogenous reaction to the changed security landscape), the fiscal outlook for the euro area has materially changed for the coming years, with the overall fiscal deficit looking set to remain above three per cent over the projection horizon. The near-term and medium-term implications for output and inflation of the structural changes associated with the green transition, the increasing business adoption of artificial intelligence applications and global shifts in comparative advantage are also highly uncertain, operating both on demand and supply with potentially different timelines.
Especially under current conditions of high uncertainty, it is essential to remain data dependent and take a meeting-by-meeting approach in making monetary policy decisions, with no pre-commitment to any particular future rate path. In addition to observing how activity and inflation are actually behaving, data dependence also extends to the incoming data on policy settings outside the monetary domain, since shifts in international and domestic policy regimes are highly relevant for future inflation dynamics. In this environment, the primary task for monetary policy makers is to make sure that any temporary deviations from target do not turn into longer-term deviations.
This orientation explains our June decision to cut rates by 25 basis points. The June projections were conditioned on a rate path that included a quarter-point reduction of the deposit facility rate (DFR) in June: model-based optimal policy simulations and an array of monetary policy feedback rules indicated a cut was appropriate under the baseline and also constituted a robust decision, remaining appropriate across a range of alternative future paths for inflation and the economy. By supporting the pricing pressure needed to generate target-consistent inflation in the medium-term, this cut helps ensure that the projected negative inflation deviation over the next eighteen months remains temporary and does not convert into a longer-term deviation of inflation from the target. This cut also guards against any uncertainty about our reaction function by demonstrating that we are determined to make sure that inflation returns to target in the medium term. This helps to underpin inflation expectations and avoid an unwarranted tightening in financial conditions.
It is worth noting, in particular, that the robustness of the decision was also supported by a set of model-based optimal policy simulations conducted on various combinations of the trade scenarios discussed in the Eurosystem staff projections report, even when also factoring in upside scenarios for fiscal expenditure. By contrast, leaving the DFR on hold at 2.25 per cent could have triggered an adverse repricing of the forward curve and a revision in inflation expectations that would risk generating a more pronounced and longer-lasting undershoot of the inflation target. In turn, if this risk materialised, a stronger monetary reaction would ultimately be required.
Looking ahead, our monetary policy will have to take into account not only the most likely path (the baseline) but also the risks to activity and inflation. To this end, it will be important to explore how alternative rate paths hold up in various plausible sensitivity and scenario analyses, in order to make sure we minimise the risk of extended deviations from our medium-term target.
