Source: Reserve Bank of India
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In the underwriting auction conducted on May 23, 2025, for Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) of the undernoted Government securities, the Reserve Bank of India has set the cut-off rates for underwriting commission payable to Primary Dealers as given below:
Ajit Prasad Press Release: 2025-2026/392 |
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Source: GlobalData
US structural heart occlusion market sees early 2025 growth amid trade uncertainty, says GlobalData
Posted in Medical Devices
The US Structural Heart Occlusion (SHO) market posted a notable 39% year-over-year revenue increase in Q1 2025, amid heightened trade policy uncertainty following President Donald Trump’s re-election and the swift introduction of new tariff measures in early 2025, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
Trump’s new tariff regime includes a 10% global baseline and a “reciprocal” tariff framework that has unsettled global trade norms. With broad tariffs on strategic sectors and a 90-day pause on some reciprocal tariffs, businesses and healthcare providers are facing a shifting economic landscape.
According to data from GlobalData’s panel of medical facilities, March 2025 revenue growth in the SHO market grew over 50% compared to March 2024, signaling a late-quarter surge in demand.
Thomas Fleming, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The surge in growth may be less about increased patient demand and more about precautionary stockpiling. Hospitals appear to be accelerating procurement of high-value medical devices—such as those used for structural heart occlusion—in anticipation of rising costs and supply disruptions. This response reflects growing concerns about the sustainability of supply chains and the potential financial impact of extended tariff enforcement.”
Fleming continues: “Historically, the US has held a leadership role in the global SHO market, driven by high incidence rates of structural heart conditions and robust innovation in cardiac care. However, the current environment marks a sharp contrast with previous expectations of stable, predictable growth. With global supply chains in flux and trade negotiations still unsettled, market stakeholders are left navigating increased risk.”
Fleming concludes: “While Q1’s growth may appear encouraging at first glance, it underscores the reactive measures health systems are taking in an uncertain policy environment. The long-term effects of these tariffs on device pricing, research investments, and patient outcomes remain to be seen, leaving the sector in a state of cautious watchfulness.”
Source: GlobalData
Global space economy market to surpass $511 billion in 2029, forecasts GlobalData
Posted in Strategic Intelligence
The global space economy market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from $421.0 billion in 2024 to $511.2 billion in 2029, driven by an increase in the deployment of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, productivity improvements in satellite equipment manufacturing, the competitive launch services landscape, and demand for services around data communications, navigation, and Earth observation. according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
GlobalData’s latest Strategic Intelligence report, “The Space Economy” reveals that space applications, which include satellite communications, navigation, and Earth observation, is the largest segment of the space economy and will grow at a CAGR of 2.9% to reach $334.8 billion by 2029.
Falling manufacturing and launch costs, non-Western companies’ entrance into the space economy market, increased space militarization, and new uses for data from space are the other growth drivers of the space economy.
William Rojas, Research Director, Strategic Intelligence at GlobalData, comments: “Different scenarios indicate different growth rates for the space economy market over the coming decade. Issues that may restrict growth include a continuation of the currently challenging global economic environment, Russia’s permanent exit from the space economy, and whether Chinese companies can fulfill the country’s space ambitions. The uncertain financial viability of young satellite and rocket companies and the market’s low return on investment in the short term, combined with the current global economic environment, could lead to a pause in investor confidence in the space economy beyond 2025.”
Future market growth will also depend on the development of reusable rockets and more affordable and frequent ride-sharing services that will increase payload slots on launch missions. The space tourism and colonization subsectors are unlikely to significantly contribute to the overall space economy market until after 2030.
Rojas adds: “Space is no longer the sole domain of governments and incumbent aerospace and defense companies. Technological advances in manufacturing, propulsion, and the launch of rockets have made it much easier and less expensive to venture into space. Those businesses that pursued emerging opportunities have gained a first-mover advantage. SpaceX was the first private company to launch a spacecraft into orbit and return it safely to Earth. Currently, it charges clients $69.5 million per launch of the Falcon 9, its partially reusable medium-lift launch vehicle.”
The sector has become incredibly competitive, with various start-ups developing concepts for cost-effective rockets and satellites to rival the aerospace giants. The large satellite groups continue to consolidate to compete with Starlink and the future Amazon Kuiper mega-constellations. Eutelsat and OneWeb merged in 2022, Viasat acquired Inmarsat in 2023, and SES acquired Intelsat in 2024. This market consolidation will continue.
Rojas continues: ”Satellite broadband communications has become the new strategic imperative impacting national sovereignty, national security, and national digital infrastructure. Countries lagging in terrestrial broadband residential and enterprise infrastructure can use satellite broadband to help fill the gap with advanced countries and attract more foreign direct investment and the digitalization of industry sectors.”
Technological advancements, such as spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) for detailed surface mapping and satellite-to-ground optical (laser) technology for ultra-high-speed data transmission, 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), and satellite device-to-device technology, will enhance remote sensing and communications capabilities. Quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite communications could boost data transmission security for banks, data center companies, government data centers, and corporate data centers. These technologies will all benefit the space economy in 2025.
Rojas concludes: “The space economy has been intertwined with the oil and gas and mining sector for several decades already, and now with the falling communications costs of satellite broadband combined with new technologies, many sectors from agriculture to maritime to emergency and disaster response to media will benefit from the pervasiveness of satellite coverage as well as the new capacity that is coming online, reflecting an increase of over 65X between 2015 and 2025.”
Source: GlobalData
Cyberattack could cause M&S’ apparel market share to stall in 2025, says GlobalData
Posted in Retail
Following Marks & Spencer’s update on the financial implications of its cyberattack:
Pippa Stephens, Senior Apparel Analyst at GlobalData, offers her view:
“Marks & Spencer was one of the biggest winners in the UK apparel market in 2024, with its market share rising 0.4ppts to 5.2%*, the highest it has been since 2017. However, this upward trajectory is now under threat following its cyberattack. It has paused online orders for nearly four weeks already, with online disruption expected to continue until at least July. GlobalData estimates that prior to the attack, M&S was set to take around £250m in online apparel sales between May and July, showing how much the retailer could potentially lose, though some of this spend will likely shift to stores. Alongside reduced availability in its food division, and anticipated increased stock management costs, M&S also expects the attack to have a £300m impact on group operating profit in its FY2025/26.
“Even once M&S has ensured the security of its systems, and starts taking online orders again, the impact of this event will be long-lasting. While the retailer has taken swift action, and been extremely transparent with consumers, the stealing of customer data during the cyberattack could undermine its hard-won gains in brand reputation and customer loyalty. Moreover, it will be left with excess seasonal stock due to the halt of its online operations, likely impacting its margins as it will be forced to implement more discounts. Therefore, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities retailers face in an increasingly digital landscape, where a single breach can have far-reaching consequences.
“With the retailers’ recent impressive growth down to its transformation into a more fashion-forward retailer, appealing to younger demographics through more contemporary own-brand designs, as well as partnerships with popular brands such as Nobody’s Child and Adidas, it must now double down on this more than ever to regain appeal. It should also continue to showcase its commitment to quality as consumers prioritise the value for money of their purchases, to deter them from shifting spend elsewhere, and keep investing in its online platform once it is back up and running, to capitalise on the channel’s ongoing outperformance.”
*Data is from GlobalData’s Retail Intelligence Center. Market shares are calculated from UK apparel sales for the calendar year, including sales tax. Shares are as of May 2025.
Source: GlobalData
Influencers embrace Google’s Veo 3 as future of filmmaking, reveals GlobalData
Posted in Business Fundamentals
Google LLC has captured the attention of influencers on X, largely due to the launch of its innovative AI video generation model, Veo 3, in the third week of May 2025, during the Google I/O event. Influencers have pointed out how this technology makes it increasingly difficult to distinguish between real and AI-generated content, generating excitement about its potential applications. The buzz is further fueled by the integration of Veo 3 with other cutting-edge tools like Flow and Imagen 4, which can collectively enhance the creative process for filmmakers and content creators, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The reactions from influencers predominantly reflect a strong sense of optimism regarding the implications of Veo 3’s capabilities. Many are excited about the transformative potential of AI in filmmaking, with predictions that traditional CGI may soon be replaced by AI-generated visuals in movies.
“Influencers are particularly enthusiastic about how Veo 3 can enhance creativity and streamline the filmmaking process, allowing creators to produce high-quality content more efficiently. The integration of features like native audio generation and the collaborative tool Flow is seen as a game-changer for filmmakers and content creators, empowering them to explore new storytelling techniques.”
Below are a few popular influencer opinions captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:
“Google Veo 3 literally generated this video with voiceover and sound from a single prompt.This is INSANE!! The AI FUTURE is here.”
“non-human intelligence comes in peace the dialogue, lip movement, environmental audio — all perfectly synced — all from one prompt what should i prompt with google veo 3 next?.”
“Veo 3 by @GeminiApp is incredible! It now supports both visuals and sound, this is another landmark advance in AI video! It can generate videos with sound effects, background noise and dialogue! Best of #GoogleIO so far, film making is revolutionized!”
“I was gonna watch a movie this weekend… but now I might just make one. Google’s new AI Veo 3, can generate entire videos with music, people, dialogue, everything. (Play the Clip below) As a creator, this is wild. The game is changing fast. Could you tell this is not AI?”
“ngl, google “Veo 3” is more than crazy in the next 2 years, movies may use AI instead of traditional CGI for short scenes this could grow fast, which would lead to a big-budget film made almost fully with AI, though humans would still guide the process. AI could create thousands of hours of content before the final version is ready”
Source: Apple
Headline: Apple products transform care at Emory Healthcare
May 22, 2025
UPDATE
Apple products transform care at Emory Healthcare
At Emory Hillandale Hospital, Apple’s ecosystem of products — powered by the suite of Epic healthcare apps — is elevating care delivery and the patient experience
At Emory Hillandale Hospital in Lithonia, Georgia, Apple products are now the standard, marking a first-of-its-kind technology transformation for clinicians and patients. Propelled by the availability of Epic Systems on Mac, Emory Healthcare has introduced Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch across Emory Hillandale Hospital, enabling clinicians to work more efficiently and stay connected with their teams, from anywhere.
“We’re not just changing technology, we’re changing a culture,” says Ravi I. Thadhani, MD, MPH, executive vice president for health affairs of Emory University and executive director of Emory’s Woodruff Health Sciences Center. “Emory Healthcare is redefining both the patient and clinician experiences with a more efficient and intuitive technology-driven process.”
Apple products like iPhone and iPad have unlocked new levels of mobility, efficiency, and collaboration for clinicians, leading to better patient experiences and satisfaction. The introduction of Mac across Emory Hillandale Hospital replaces its legacy devices and marks an entirely new chapter for the healthcare industry.
“As clinicians, we join the field with a deep commitment to serving those in need,” says Vikram Narayan, MD, assistant professor of urology at Emory University and a urologic oncologist at Emory Healthcare. “But the reality of healthcare delivery is inherently complex and multifaceted. Across the industry as a whole, the administrative burden, combined with a shrinking workforce, is resulting in an uptick in burnout of frontline workers.”
“By integrating Epic on Mac across Emory Hillandale Hospital, we are showing the world how best to embrace technology to improve workflow for clinicians so they can continue to put patients first,” says Dr. Thadhani.
To alleviate some of that administrative burden, laptops and desktop computers across the 100-bed hospital have been replaced with Mac computers running Epic. Nursing stations are equipped with iMac and Mac mini, and physicians are able to manage patient care journeys from wherever they are thanks to the portability of MacBook Air.
Care teams are able to access patient-specific data — such as allergies, precautions, and other relevant information — using a magnetically attached iPad outside of each patient room. This helps improve communication and coordination between care teams as information shown on iPad updates in real time. Additionally, every nurse and physician is issued their own iPhone to stay connected, and physicians are using Apple Watch to more quickly respond to patient needs as they arise. For example, critical lab result notifications from Epic’s Limerick app can be viewed in real time directly on their wrist.
“I can stay up to date with my patients in a way that wasn’t possible before,” says Rashida La Barrie, MD, a hospitalist and medical director of utilization review at Emory Hillandale Hospital. Being able to transition between iPhone and Apple Watch to receive notifications has helped Dr. La Barrie stay connected no matter where she is, ultimately leading to better care for her patients. “Healthcare has historically been slow to adopt technology, which I think is such a mistake. We can use technology to provide better and more efficient care, especially now, for our patients.”
Prior to the Emory Hillandale deployment, Emory conducted a proof of concept program at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital. After deploying iMac, MacBook, and iPhone for shared use by registered nurses and clinicians, care team satisfaction surged, and nurse retention has remained strong. Nurses and clinicians cited improvements like faster login time with Apple devices, ease of documentation, and less eyestrain with the iMac high-resolution Retina display. Additional documentation efficiency research, led by Emory’s Dr. Narayan, found that combining Apple technology with Epic and Abridge ambient documentation saves him an average of two hours a day compared to legacy systems.
Additionally, Apple devices help enhance the inpatient experience with the MyChart Bedside app on iPad. Each patient bed is equipped with an iPad so patients can have easy access to their medical records, view their care plans, order meals, and communicate with their care teams, allowing them to stay engaged with their health.
“The technology we’re utilizing today at Emory Hillandale has improved the workflows for our nursing staff as a whole,” says Edna Brisco, MSN, RN, vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer at Emory Hillandale Hospital. “Mac lets the nurses move through their day more swiftly, while iPad brings important health information to our patients’ fingertips. It’s a game changer for how we provide care.”
Emory Healthcare — and healthcare systems in general — host some of the most private and personal data, whether it’s health records or a patient’s personal information. Around the world, hospitals are facing increased cybersecurity threats that could put their staff and patients at risk.
Apple products are designed with privacy and security at their core, working to keep healthcare organizations’ and their patients’ data safe.
Looking ahead, Emory Healthcare and Epic are exploring new ways to innovate patient care and support with Apple devices. Clinicians are also testing new technology like Apple Vision Pro in their surgical planning and research, paving the way for the next phase of care.
“I want to be involved in everything related to this transformation,” says Dr. La Barrie. “I think this is the future of healthcare, and as healthcare providers, we should always be looking toward the horizon.”
Press Contacts
Zaina Khachadourian
Apple
Andrea Schubert
Apple
Apple Media Helpline
Source: Samsung
LONDON, U.K. – May 22, 2025: Samsung Electronics has unveiled a range of offers perfect for families, wellness and travel enthusiasts. Samsung’s intelligent technology empowers users to nuture bonds with loved ones and enrich their everyday. From appliances that can do the thinking for you when it comes to the right wash cycles, to wearables that provide personalised insights into your health and routine, there is something for everyone.
Available in-store at Samsung KX, or on Samsung.com, offers and discount codes include:
Mobile, Wearable and Computing
Get £100 off Galaxy Tab S10 FE 256GB. Plus, get a guaranteed £100 off when you trade in[1]
Save £150 – £200 when you buy a Galaxy Tab S10 Plus or S10 Ultra[2]
Save £150 when you buy a Galaxy Watch Ultra3
Save £75 when you buy a Galaxy Watch73
Monitors
Save up to £300 on selected monitors[3]
Save up to 20% on selected monitors. Use code YOUMAKE[4]
Home Appliances
Save 20% when you buy 2 or more selected home appliances together[5]
Get 10% off selected home appliances: use code COOL10[6]
Save up to £500 on selected fridge freezer, plus claim up to £500 cashback[7]
Claim up to £200 cashback on selected vacuums[8]
For more information and full terms & conditions, visit: https://www.samsung.com/uk/youmake/
[1] Purchase from samsung.com by 03/06/25.£100 value based on any tablet or Android smartphone, in any condition. Charges apply if you don’t send us your Trade In device. T&Cs apply.
[2] Purchase from samsung.com by 03/06/25.
[3] Purchase from Samsung.com by 10.06.25.
[4] Purchase from Samsung.com/uk by 10.06.25. Enter code at checkout. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.
[5] Purchase from Samsung.com/uk by 03.06.2025. Discount applied automatically at checkout when two or more qualifying products in basket. Excludes all Vacuum Cleaners, Microwaves & accessories. Not in conjunction with any other offer. While stocks last.
[6] Purchase from samsung.com/uk by 27.05.25. Enter code at checkout to redeem. Offer applicable on selected models only. Offer cannot be combined with other voucher codes.
[7] Purchase from samsung.com/uk by 03.06.25. For cashback, purchase between 14.05.25-01.07.25. Claim between 30-90 days of purchase. Max 4 claims per household. To claim, and for full T&Cs, see https://www.samsung.com/uk/moneytalks
[8] For cashback, purchase between 14.05.25-01.07.25. Claim between 30-90 days of purchase. Max 4 claims per household. To claim, and for full T&Cs, see https://www.samsung.com/uk/moneytalks. Only available at Samsung.com.
Source: – Press Release/Statement:
Headline: Why Alberta—and all of Canada—need energy storage
Energy storage is transforming the way we manage electricity.
By Vittoria Bellissimo, President & CEO, Canadian Renewable Energy Association
There has never been a better time for Alberta—and all of Canada—to invest in energy storage.
Alberta is currently redesigning its electricity market and transmission policy to deliver more affordable, reliable, clean power to Albertans like me, and energy storage is a key technology that can help us do that.
That’s why CanREA put together an entire Summit to look at the important role of energy storage in Alberta. We will get updates directly from the source on where Alberta is heading and explore all the ways we can help make our electricity system successful, with a clear focus on energy storage.
Why energy storage?
Energy storage is transforming the way we manage electricity—it’s about making our systems smarter, cleaner, and more reliable. With costs dropping significantly, it’s becoming more accessible than ever, providing essential market, grid and flexibility services. The future of energy is here, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead.
Worldwide, we are adopting various energy-storage solutions, including batteries, hydrogen, pumped hydro, compressed air, flywheels, and thermal storage.
While lithium-ion batteries are widely recognized, energy storage goes far beyond them. Innovation is driving new technologies, and companies are deploying advanced systems to strengthen our electricity systems. And the costs are falling fast, making energy storage appealing to ratepayers.
These technologies allow us to save electricity, or time-shift for future use, helping ensure reliable power. It can also provide other services the grid needs: peak demand management, renewable energy integration, ancillary services, grid stability, frequency regulation, backup power and resilience, and transmission & distribution “non-wires” alternatives.
In Canada, new energy storage projects—propelled by Indigenous equity partners—are reaching commercial operation ahead of schedule and under budget, showcasing impressive potential for growth in the industry.
Photo: In less than 15 years, battery costs have fallen by more than 90%, one of the fastest declines ever seen in clean energy technologies. Source: IEA (2024), Batteries and Secure Energy Transitions, IEA, Paris https://www.iea.org/reports/batteries-and-secure-energy-transitions, Licence: CC BY 4.0
Enter CanREA’s Summit
Last year, CanREA kicked off our inaugural Energy Storage Alberta—CanREA Summit 2024 with an expectation of just 75 participants eager for some very nerdy discussion on this very important topic.
Our overall aim was to answer a few key questions: Are we set up for policy, regulatory and market success for energy storage in Alberta? And if not, what do we need to get there?
The answers were lengthy, but in short: we were not quite set up yet—and we still aren’t!—but it was 100% clear that energy storage can provide enormous value to our electricity system. We need to develop viable revenue streams for storage, and reduce the current market, policy and regulatory barriers to make it possible to finance new projects. It turned out that we underestimated the interest in our first Summit: Nearly 200 people attended, with excitement building around prospective projects.
This year, we found a bigger room and invited keynote speakers—Alberta Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf, Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) CEO Aaron Engen, Innovative Research Group founder and President Greg Lyle—and a curated cast of industry experts.
This will be our second annual adventure in getting the conditions right for energy storage in Alberta. We are so pleased with the calibre of our presenters, and grateful that they are spending their time and energy with CanREA’s members and Summit participants.
Key Summit topics
This year, we want to examine both how to get storage built AND how to operate it efficiently once it is in service. I’ve mentioned the keynotes, now here are the topics we plan to address:
What will the new electricity market and transmission policy look like, and how can energy storage navigate both?
How can energy storage help supply Alberta’s growing population and industries—including data centres?
What are the main barriers to building energy storage in Alberta, and how do we break them down?
What can we learn from the global experience in energy storage?
What are the latest advancements and innovations in energy storage, and how could they apply to Alberta’s electricity system?
Join me at Energy Storage Alberta 2025
It is a privilege to work in the renewable energy and energy storage sector in what is arguably the most exciting time in history to be doing so.
As electricity demand escalates, global supply chains evolve, and the urgency for flexible, scalable, climate-resilient infrastructure intensifies, the power sector and energy storage have never been more crucial.
I’m looking forward to continuing CanREA’s work to encourage energy storage in Alberta. See you in Calgary on June 3! Check out the details for Energy Storage Alberta—CanREA Summit 2025 here.
The post Why Alberta—and all of Canada—need energy storage appeared first on Canadian Renewable Energy Association.
Source: Bank for International Settlements
I extend my warmest congratulations to Cecilia and wish her all the best in this new role. Under her leadership, the BIS Innovation Hub made great strides towards fulfilling our strategic goal of helping central banks face the challenges of the future by exploring cutting-edge financial technologies. It recently completed its expansion to seven centres worldwide, concluded over 30 projects, started many others and has synthesised the lessons from these experiments for the broader community of central banks, regulators and supervisors. Cecilia has built a skilled and passionate team steeped in the culture of innovation and ready to take on more challenges.
Cecilia’s expertise in policymaking and innovation was evident long before joining the BIS, in her previous roles as First Deputy Governor of Sveriges Riksbank and as chair of the BIS’s Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures Future of Payments Working Group. I am sure that the global central banking community will join me in wishing Cecilia the best of luck in this important new chapter of her impressive public service career.
Source: Reserve Bank of India
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The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 20, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹10,000/- (Rupees Ten Thousand only) on The Aska Central Co-operative Bank Ltd., Aska, Odisha (the bank) for non-compliance with certain directions issued by RBI on ‘Membership of Credit Information Companies (CICs) by Co-operative Banks’. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of Section 25(1)(iii) read with Section 23(4) of the Credit Information Companies (Regulation) Act, 2005. The statutory inspection of the bank was conducted by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) with reference to its financial position as on March 31, 2024. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the bank advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions. After considering the bank’s reply to the notice and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charge against the bank was sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty: The bank had failed to furnish credit information of its customers to any of the Credit Information Companies. This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the bank with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the bank. (Puneet Pancholy) Press Release: 2025-2026/389 |
Source: Samsung
We all have routines—those little sequences of actions that shape our mornings, help us stay focused, or ease us into a restful night. But what if those routines could just… happen? With SmartThings, they can. By connecting your favorite smart devices into one seamless ecosystem, SmartThings takes the guesswork—and the extra steps—out of everyday life.
Whether you’re easing into your morning, heading out the door, or getting into a fitness flow, SmartThings routines can transform ordinary moments into something a little more magical.
Here are a few of our favorite examples:
Good Morning: Wake Up Ready
There’s nothing like starting your day with intention—and a little automation. With the Good Morning routine, your home comes to life right alongside you. Whether triggered by a set time, motion sensor, or your Galaxy Watch or Ring detecting you’ve woken up, this routine helps you rise and shine effortlessly.
Philips Hue lights gradually brighten to simulate a natural sunrise, gently easing you awake. At the same time, Somfy blinds rise to let in real sunlight and boost your mood. Samsung TV Plus tunes in to your local morning news—no remote needed. Meanwhile, the Eve Smart Plug powers up your coffee pot in the kitchen, so your first cup is ready when you are.
Let’s Get Physical: Your Wellness Oasis, On Demand
Fitness isn’t just about reps—it’s about creating the right environment. With the Let’s Get Physical routine, SmartThings sets the scene so you can focus on your workout, not the setup.
Your favorite yoga or workout playlist begins streaming automatically through your Sonos speaker, while your Bosch air purifier quietly activates to keep the air fresh and allergen-free—helping you breathe deeper and stay focused. A virtual instructor appears on your Samsung TV, guiding you through every move. Meanwhile, the Nest Thermostat drops the temperature slightly to keep you cool and comfortable as you get your sweat on.
Good Bye: Peace of Mind as You Head Out
Leaving the house shouldn’t require a dozen double-checks. Let SmartThings take care of it all—so you can head out with peace of mind and come home to a calm, refreshed space.
As your Good Bye routine kicks in, Somfy blinds lower to protect your privacy and improve energy efficiency. The Samsung JetBot gets to work, vacuuming your floors while you’re away. LIFX lights turn off automatically to save energy, and your Ecobee thermostat shifts into eco-mode or adjusts to a more efficient temperature. For extra reassurance, your Arlo outdoor cameras activate—quietly keeping an eye on things until you return.
Make the Magic Happen
In the SmartThings app, you can tap into a library of curated experiences designed to simplify your life. Just head to the “Discover” section in the Routines tab to explore popular options like Gentle Wake Up, Energy Saver, and more—prebuilt and ready to go.
Prebuilt routines not for you? Make your own routine in a few easy steps:
Open the SmartThings app
Tap the “Routines” tab at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the “+” icon to create a new routine.
Choose “If” conditions — like time of day, motion detection, or your Galaxy device waking up.
Add your “Then” actions — such as turning on lights, adjusting the thermostat, or starting your playlist.
Give your routine a name and hit Save. It’s as simple as that!
Other Smart Routines to Try
Looking to take things even further? Here are a few more ideas SmartThings users love:
Movie Night: Lights dim, TV switches to your favorite streaming app, sound system powers on, and blinds close for a theater-like experience.
Welcome Home: Garage door opens as you pull in, front door unlocks as you arrive, hallway lights turn on, thermostat adjusts, and your favorite music greets you.
Wind Down: Lights shift to a warm glow, blinds lower, calming sounds or white noise plays, and devices like TVs or tablets shut off at a set time.
SmartThings routines are all about making life simpler, smoother, and a little more fun. The best part? You can customize every detail to suit your lifestyle and the devices you already use.
Want to wake up to jazz instead of the news? Prefer working out with a HIIT session over yoga? You’re in control—SmartThings just helps make it happen automatically.
Source: Offshore Energy UK
Headline: OEUK news
OEUK Conference 2025: Leaders meet to define the North Sea’s energy future
22 May 2025
We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.
To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.
This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.
Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.
If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email [email protected]
Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:
Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.
These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.
Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.
Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.
We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).
Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to [email protected]
Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA
Headline: G+ issues new good practice guidance for mechanical lifting operations in the offshore wind industry
The G+ has issued new good practice guidance (GPG), developed with IMCA, to share, advance and encourage good practice for the governance of lifting operations in the offshore wind industry, setting out the collective expectations of G+ members.
Developed in collaboration with experts in IMCA’s Marine division, this GPG builds on and signposts existing good practices and guidance (including standards, recommendations, and codes of practice) from the wind industry and the wider marine and offshore energy sectors.
G+ is the global health and safety organisation bringing together the offshore wind industry to pursue shared goals and outcomes. It is run in partnership with the Energy Institute, which provides the secretariat and supports its work.
The GPG can be used to:
establish consistent, common ground for the project, avoiding conflict between the systems of different parties,
Source: ASEAN
At the invitation of The Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chair of ASEAN for 2025, Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will lead the ASEAN Secretariat Delegation to participate in the 46th ASEAN Summit, 2nd ASEAN Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and ASEAN-GCC-China Summit to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 26-27 May 2025, under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”
The series of meetings will also include the ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Youth, and ASEAN Leaders’ Interface with Representatives of ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).
Prior to the Summits, Dr. Kao will also take part in the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM), 29th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting, 25th ASEAN Economic Community Council (AECC) Meeting and the 36th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) Meeting, on 25 May 2025.
Dr. Kao is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with high-level dignitaries from ASEAN, ASEAN’s external partners as well as from international organisations to exchange views on enhancing existing cooperation, exploring new areas for collaboration and advancing ASEAN Community-building efforts. Dr. Kao will also engage in media interviews to promote ASEAN’s diplomacy, visibility and awareness.
The series of high-level meetings will provide an excellent opportunity to take stock of ASEAN’s progress, set future directions and reaffirm ASEAN’s commitment to regional peace, stability, and sustainable development, especially in a time when ASEAN embarks on ASEAN Community Vision 2045, a historic 20-year vision of ASEAN
The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to participate in the 46th ASEAN Summit, 2nd ASEAN- GCC Summit and ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.
Source: ASEAN
Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon held a meeting with President of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) Professor Tetsuya Watanabe and Dean of the ERIA School of Government Professor Nobuhiro Aizawa, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The meeting discussed ERIA’s ongoing work and its strategic direction. Both sides emphasised their continued collaboration to promote regional integration, peace, and prosperity. ERIA also expressed its appreciation to Dr. Kao for his leadership in facilitating the official visit of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate of Cambodia, to the ERIA School of Government’s Leadership Lecture, on 6 May 2025.
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Source: Asia Development Bank
One of the strongest success factors behind SZWG’s gender action plan was leadership commitment, particularly from senior champions like Vice President Ji, who modeled inclusive leadership and advocated for key reforms such as the Childcare Leave policy.
Another key enabler was the Women’s Committee, which acted as an internal driver for change. By working closely with HR and the Labor Union, the committee translated employee needs into concrete actions—such as the successful launch of subsidized psychological counseling during the pandemic. This responsiveness built trust and ensured that such initiatives were grounded in workforce needs.
Setting measurable targets for women in leadership also proved effective in raising awareness and accountability, particularly in a sector with historically low female representation.
What could have made this even stronger? Formalizing these successes into policy. Making inclusion targets part of official HR practices, like setting leadership benchmarks, would help ensure long-term progress, not just one-time wins.
Inclusion should not be isolated to certain departments or administrative roles. Women have a crucial role to play in water management itself. At SZWG, female staff are increasingly involved in technical training, innovation, and knowledge-sharing on sponge city development and smart water systems. Their growing presence in technical roles has improved outcomes and sparked more holistic, community-minded solutions.
When women are empowered—not only in the workplace but also as decision-makers and innovators in the water sector —they become powerful agents of change. SZWG’s experience shows that by investing in women’s leadership, both within the organization and across the sector, it’s possible to drive smarter solutions and build more resilient cities. This is how resilience is built—through inclusive leadership and smart urban water systems shaped by diverse voices.
Source: Thales Group
Headline: Thales Reinforces Commitment to Malaysia at LIMA 2025
with New Leadership and Contracts Awarded
On the occasion of the LIMA 2025 exhibition in Langkawi, Thales’ commitment to Malaysian defence is once again recognised by the Malaysian Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces. With a steady economic growth outlook, the Malaysian government is keen to advance the country’s military modernisation and Thales remains at the forefront of this, with the Memorandum of Understanding & Letter of Award received for equipment ranging from radars to radios.
I. Two additional GM400α long-range radars for superior situational air awareness
To strengthen the air surveillance and air defence capabilities of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), Thales will supply two additional long-range air surveillance GM400α radars, following the ceremony held on Day 3 of LIMA 2025, in presence of Francois-Xavier Boutes, Country Director of Thales Malaysia and YBhg Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali, Secretary General from the Ministry of Defence, and witnessed by YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin, Minister of Defence. The award of these two additional radars underscores the trust held by the RMAF in Thales’ radar technology, following the first GM400α contract signed at the end of 2023. Thanks to its high mobility, high availability, easy upgradeability and seamless integration, the GM400α offers armed forces with a valuable tool to gain tactical advantage, detecting all types of threats early and providing precious minutes for decision-making and action (515km range). Today more than 270 Ground Master field-proven family air surveillance radars have been sold worldwide.
In Malaysia, Thales will partner Weststar Group once again to deploy the radars in line with the operational requirements of the RMAF. Thales will also engage in the Transfer of Knowledge and Train-the-Trainer courses delivered under the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP), while strengthening its installed base in Malaysia for long-range surveillance radars. By building local expertise, Thales will enhance the efficiency of radar maintenance, enhance the autonomy of the RMAF and ensure timely on-ground maintenance support close to the end-users. Thales’ radar expertise in Malaysia runs deep, as the country was also the launch customer for the precursor GM400 radar in 2009.
II. Enhancing tactical and radio communications for Malaysia
To further deepen its expertise in radio and tactical communications, Thales has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with partner ADS Sdn. Bhd. Signed on Day 2 of LIMA between Brig Gen Dato’ Abdul Hadi bin Abdul Razak (R), ADS and Nicolas Bouverot, VP Thales Asia, the collaboration will see both parties working on the latest digital technologies for handheld radios and other tactical communications.
III. A helicopter training simulator marks a first contract with Royal Malaysian Police (RMP)
Pascale Sourisse, CEO, Thales International witnessed the signing of an LOA, together with Malaysian partner Novatis Resources to deliver a Reality-H® AW139 Full Flight Simulator (FFS) to be used for pilot training with the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP). The Thales Reality H Full Flight Simulator is the world’s most advanced commercial helicopter simulator, and will be qualified to meet Level D standard, the highest level of qualification for a simulator. This marks a first engagement with the RMP, where pilots of the Police Air Wing Training Academy and other government agencies including the fire brigade and coast guard can benefit from realistic and immersive training, customised to the Malaysian environment and terrain.
IV. New leadership for Thales in Malaysia
To drive the growing business in Malaysia, Florian Riou has been appointed Country Director for Thales in Malaysia and Brunei and will effectively take on the role on 1st of July 2025. Florian brings close to 18 years of professional experience in foreign trade policy and trade compliance, with roles held in the French Ministry of Economics and Finance and Safran Group. With Thales since 2017, Florian’s most recent role was as Group Trade Compliance Director for Thales, based in France.
“These latest agreements are recognition of how Thales’ solutions are supporting the needs of the Malaysian government and Malaysian forces. Our air surveillance radars are bringing air superiority to the Royal Malaysian Air Force in some of most challenging tropical environments. In addition, our history in tactical radio communications dates back several decades in Malaysia and looks set to continue as we collaborate with strong local partners to develop home-grown expertise and joint solutions to support the Army. We appreciate the renewed trust established with Thales to help drive the modernisation of its armed forces.” Pascale Sourisse, CEO, Thales International.
Source: Isle of Man
1. Action
1.1 The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority (the “Authority”) makes this public statement in accordance with powers conferred upon it under each of section 27 of the Designated Businesses (Registration and Oversight) Act 2015 (the “Act”) and regulation 5(7) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Civil Penalties) Regulations 2019 (the “Regulations”).
1.2 The making of such public statement supports the Authority’s regulatory objectives of, among other things, securing an appropriate degree of protection for customers of persons carrying on a regulated activity, reducing financial crime and maintaining confidence in the Isle of Man’s financial services industry.
1.3 Following an inspection of IPSL by the Authority under section 14 of the Act (the “Inspection”), which identified a number of contraventions by IPSL in relation to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Code 2019 (the “Code”), and the opening of a formal investigation (the “Investigation”), the Authority has deemed it reasonable, proportionate and appropriate, in all the circumstances, that IPSL be required to pay a civil penalty imposed under the Regulations.
1.4 The Regulations allow for penalties to be imposed at two levels depending on the seriousness of the contraventions of the Code identified. Penalties imposed equate to a percentage of the Relevant Person’s income (as such terms are defined in the Regulations). In this instance, the Authority has deemed that the contraventions of the Code identified, in all of the circumstances, merit that a civil penalty be imposed in the higher, Level 2, penalty bracket.
1.5 The civil penalty imposed on IPSL is the sum of £48,356, which is discounted by 30% to £33,850 (the “Civil Penalty”).
1.6 The level of the Civil Penalty reflects the fact that IPSL co-operated with the Authority and agreed settlement at an early stage.
2. Background
2.1 IPSL at all material times has been registered with the Authority as a Payroll Agent under the Designated Business (Registrations and Oversight) Act 2015.
2.2 In July 2023 the Authority held a business meeting with IPSL where it was noted that there were considerable gaps in the firm’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (“AML/CFT”) control framework and overall understanding of risk. The Authority subsequently conducted a risk-based Inspection of IPSL in December 2023. During the AML/CFT inspection of IPSL the Authority identified a significant number of contraventions of the Code (the “Contraventions”). The subsequent Authority Investigation confirmed the findings of the Inspection.
2.3 IPSL has engaged positively with the Authority throughout this matter in a timely and constructive manner.
2.4 IPSL proactively engaged an independent third-party professional to help progress its remediation plan. The remediation plan was completed within a timescale agreed with the Authority.
3. Key Findings from Inspection Report and Investigation
Contraventions of the Code identified by the Inspection included:
3.1 IPSL failed to establish, record, operate or maintain procedures and controls relating to its Business Risk Assessment (“BRA”), Customer Risk Assessment (“CRA”), customer screening, ongoing monitoring, including transaction monitoring, and monitoring and testing compliance with the AML/CFT legislation (paragraph 4 of the Code).
3.2 IPSL’s BRA did not consider all the risk factors detailed in paragraph 5(3) of the Code and was not an assessment which estimated the risks of ML/FT posed by the business and its customers (paragraph 5 of the Code).
3.3 IPSL’s CRA did not amount to a CRA under paragraph 6 of the Code. It was therefore concluded that IPSL had not carried out an adequate assessment of the ML/TF risk of its customers. The CRA had no regard to the risk factors detailed in paragraph 6(3) of the Code and did not involve any risk assessment process or methodology (paragraph 6 of the Code).
3.4 IPSL did not demonstrate that it had adequate procedures and controls for new business relationships as required by the Code, that it was at all times taking reasonable measures to verify the identity of new customers, and it did not take reasonable measures to establish the source of funds (“SOF”) of new clients (paragraph 8 of the Code).
3.5 IPSL undertook no ongoing monitoring or screening of customers to check for exposure to sanctions, PEP or adverse information as required by the Code. IPSL’s failure to establish SOF before a business relationship was entered into meant it was not in a position to scrutinise transactions to determine whether or not they were consistent with the expected SOF of a transaction. As no CRA was undertaken, IPSL was unable to determine whether transactions were consistent with the customer’s business and risk profile (paragraph 13 of the Code).
3.6 IPSL did not establish, record, maintain or operate appropriate procedures and controls for the purpose of determining whether any customer (amongst other individuals) was, or subsequently became, a Politically Exposed Person (“PEP”) (paragraph 14(1) of the Code).
3.7 IPSL did not have procedures and controls in place for monitoring and testing compliance with the AML/CFT legislation. No reports were produced in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 30(2) of the Code. Such reports are required at least annually and serve as a confirmation of the firm’s adherence to its legal obligations and the robustness of its AML/CFT framework (paragraph 30(2) of the Code).
4. Key Learning Points for Industry
4.1 The Isle of Man National Risk Assessment 2020 assesses the money laundering risk for Payroll Services as ‘Medium’, with terrorist financing being assessed as ‘Medium Low’. IPSL’s failure to maintain adequate AML/CFT procedures and controls, as required by the Code, made it more vulnerable to being used for money laundering. The contraventions were systemic and evidenced that IPSL had materially contravened the Code over a long period.
4.2 The procedures and controls as required by the Code, are vital to help protect the Relevant Person, their staff, their business and their communities from the threat of being used or abused by criminals or those assisting or enabling criminals. Relevant Persons must demonstrate they are protecting themselves in order to make their domain as hostile as possible to those who would abuse them. In this way, the procedures and controls are vital for the effective prevention of ML/FT and the harm that crime, terrorism and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction present for wider society.
4.3 Ongoing monitoring of customers helps identify and mitigate potential risks associated with money laundering and terrorist financing. By continuously reviewing client activities and transactions, firms can detect suspicious behaviour early and take appropriate action. Regular screening against sanction lists, PEPs, and adverse media ensures that firms are aware of any changes in their clients’ risk profiles. This allows for enhanced due diligence when necessary.
4.4 Compliance with the Code is a legal requirement; all firms undertaking business in the regulated sector have an obligation to conduct their affairs in a manner that adequately mitigates the risks faced by it in order to ensure that the Isle of Man retains its reputation as a responsible, and well regulated, international financial centre. The Authority is committed to taking reasonable, proportionate and appropriate action to address contraventions of the Code in order to help it achieve its regulatory objectives of protecting consumers, reducing financial crime and maintaining the reputation of the Isle of Man’s finance sector through effective regulation.
4.5 The directors of all firms undertaking business in the regulated sector bear ultimate responsibility for ensuring the effective implementation and ongoing compliance with the Code. In particular, they must ensure that the (at least) annual review mandated by paragraph 30(2) of the Code is conducted diligently and comprehensively. This review is not merely a procedural formality, but a critical mechanism for evaluating the firm’s adherence to its legal obligations and the robustness of its AML/CFT framework. Directors must actively oversee the planning, execution, and documentation of this review, ensuring that it is;
i. conducted by competent personnel with sufficient expertise and resource;
ii. covers relevant aspects of the firms AML/CFT policies, procedures and controls;
iii. identifies and addresses any deficiencies or weaknesses in a timely manner; and
iv. is documented thoroughly, providing a clear audit trail of the review’s findings and any remedial actions taken.
4.6 Directors must demonstrate a proactive and informed approach to this review, recognising its significance in safeguarding the firm from financial crime risks and maintaining the integrity of the Isle of Man’s financial system. Their active involvement is essential in fostering a culture of compliance throughout the organisation and demonstrating a clear commitment to their AML/CFT obligations.
4.7 In today’s rapidly changing regulatory environment, it is essential for firms to stay up-to-date with the evolving AML/CFT framework. The Authority remains committed to work with industry to enhance the Isle of Man’s ability to meet its international AML/CFT standards and has a number of AML/CFT resources on its website and other social media platforms including webinars and sector specific guidance.
Source: International Chamber of Commerce
Headline: How is biodiversity shaping the future of business?
No. Biodiversity underpins our collective survival, well-being and global economy.
According to research, over half of the world’s GDP is moderately or highly dependent on nature and what it has to offer.
The good news is that the critical role of nature is being increasingly recognised in decisions made by businesses and financial institutions across their operations, value chains and investments.
One way we can enable economic development and the preservation of our natural environment is by promoting the sustainable use of biodiversity, which is a key pillar of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The global agreement aimed at conserving the diversity of life on Earth was adopted in 1992.
Companies are increasingly seeking ways to play their role in creating economic opportunities while fulfilling their responsibilities towards society and the environment. To do so, businesses can evaluate how their activities impact and depend on nature and nature-related risks, and use these insights in a meaningful way.
And what can governments do?
Governments can design supportive policies that encourage companies to adapt their operations and strategies in a way that biodiversity is maintained, and if possible, enhanced.
Businesses can and should be part of the solution to find paths to ensure that economic development is sustainable and in harmony with nature.
Research and innovation is one way of making sustainable use of biodiversity to develop knowledge and solutions to tackle societal and environmental challenges. Enabling frameworks are needed to stimulate and support nature-based innovation which can form the basis of a sustainable bioeconomy and contribute to biodiversity conservation.
As the institutional representative of over 45 million companies worldwide, ICC is working with governments and other stakeholders to develop enabling frameworks for companies to share benefits from the use of biodiversity that can meaningfully support biodiversity conservation as well as research and innovation.
To understand what is needed to make the CBD’s multilateral benefit sharing mechanism work from a business perspective read our business views on a multilateral benefit sharing mechanism.
Source: Lufthansa Group
The Lufthansa First Class Lounge in Terminal 2 at Munich Airport is now open again. First Class travelers can enjoy the stylish lounge with its modern design and comfortable ambience on around one thousand square meters. A newly designed gastronomic area with an “à la carte” restaurant, a front cooking buffet and a newly designed bar offer the highest level of exclusivity.
The lounge also offers a variety of amenities such as quiet retreats, elegant washrooms, well-equipped work areas with printers and photocopiers as well as extensive entertainment facilities with TV areas and a large selection of newspapers and magazines. From now on, the lounge will be open daily from 05:00 to 22:00.
The reopened lounge rounds off the Lufthansa First Class experience at Munich Airport and is part of a major premium offensive. Among others, First Class guests can also look forward to a renovated First Class check-in area in Munich. In this summer timetable, the new Lufthansa Allegris First Class in the A350-900 will fly from Munich to the destinations Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, Shanghai and Bengaluru. It sets new standards with two individual suites and the extraordinary Suite Plus.
Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English
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Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Government of India has announced the sale (re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on May 23, 2025 (Friday). As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:
The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on May 23, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction. The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities. Ajit Prasad Press Release: 2025-2026/387 |
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Source: Toyota
Headline: Five Toyota Group Companies to Accelerate Skill Development and Innovation in AI and Software
AISIN Corporation, DENSO CORPORATION, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Woven by Toyota, Inc. (“Five Toyota Group Companies”) today announced the launch of the Toyota Software Academy to strengthen AI and software-centered human resource development. As a complementary effort, Toyota is also launching the Global AI Accelerator (GAIA) to significantly expand investments in AI research and development, accelerating innovation. Through both of these efforts, the Five Toyota Group Companies will collaborate to nurture AI and software professionals, and use AI to create better products (including AI-enabled products) aimed at achieving a society with safety, security, and freedom of mobility for all.
Source: Reserve Bank of India
Ajit Prasad Press Release: 2025-2026/386 |
Source: Samsung
For over a decade, Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy S series has evolved not only in performance and camera technology, but also durability — earning a reputation for reliability in the real world. Recently, that reputation was dramatically put to the test by accident when a Galaxy S23 Ultra spent hours submerged in a freezing Arctic river — and emerged just fine, without a single glitch.
Mikael Krekula, a professional wilderness guide based in Kiruna, Sweden, was out on the frozen Kalix River testing sonar equipment when his Galaxy S23 Ultra slipped from his glove and fell into an ice fishing hole. The device plunged into the freezing water, settling roughly three meters below the surface.
“At that moment, I felt like I had donated my entire digital life to the river — photos, ID, credit cards and all my apps gone in an instant,” Mikael said. “It wasn’t just a phone to me. It was my work companion, essential in everything I do.”
Despite the extreme conditions, Mikael decided to attempt a recovery. Over the course of five hours, he drilled eight surrounding ice holes to get a better angle to the phone and used a series of improvised tools — birch branches, a shovel and a plastic bag on a stick — to try and reach the device.
“I could see my phone through the ice. It wasn’t lost completely — just barely out of reach,” he explained. “Eventually, I drove home, grabbed a summer fishing net, tied the net to a birch rod and came back — and within five minutes, it was in my hands.”
Remarkably, the Galaxy S23 Ultra powered on immediately, displaying three missed calls. There was no need for a reboot or drying procedures.
“We let it sit overnight in the cabin just to be safe, but the next day it was still working perfectly,” Mikael added. “And it continues to function just like it did before the incident.”
Technology That Keeps Up With the Wild
As a wilderness guide leading tours across the Arctic Circle, Mikael relies heavily on mobile technology. His Galaxy S23 Ultra supports navigation, weather updates, language translation, photography, and communication — often in sub-zero temperatures and remote locations.
“When you’re guiding guests under the northern lights or across frozen terrain, your tech can’t fail,” he said. “The Galaxy S23 Ultra also delivers outstanding night photography, which is essential for capturing this region’s unique light conditions.”
Mikael now includes a hand net in his winter packing list — and grips his phone more tightly. “This was definitely a learning experience,” he remarked. “But it also showed me that the phone can handle a lot more than I expected.”
Real-World Durability, Backed by Advanced Engineering
The Galaxy S23 Ultra is rated IP68,1 offering water resistance in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes, as well as protection against dust, dirt and sand. The circumstances surrounding Mikael’s device exceeded these rated conditions, illustrating the durability Samsung builds into its flagship devices.
Today, Mikael continues to guide guests across Sweden’s far north with his Galaxy S23 Ultra close at hand. From urban jungles to frozen wilderness, the Galaxy S series are built to last wherever they are and Mikael’s experience is just the latest proof of that legacy in action — tested by the Arctic, trusted by the user and tougher than the Kalix River.
To learn more about Mikael’s guided wilderness experiences, visit www.ecotours68n.se. For more information about the Galaxy S23 Ultra, visit www.samsung.com.
1 The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has an IP68 rating based on laboratory test conditions. Water resistance is effective in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. It is not suitable for beach or pool use. Water or dust damage is not covered by warranty. Performance beyond rated conditions may vary and is not guaranteed.
Source: Samsung
“Expanding the projection surface naturally broadens the range of use.”
— Jaeyoung Park, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
With the right projector, you can enjoy a 100-inch screen in compact home spaces. The portability of smaller projectors also enable more flexible entertainment spaces. Turning a living room into a theater or a bedroom into a concert hall — that’s an experience you don’t come back from.
Samsung Electronics is redefining home entertainment with The Premiere 5, introducing a new product identity by expanding the projection surface from walls to floors and tables and incorporating touch Interaction.1
Samsung Newsroom spoke with Seung-Hyun Moon from the New Projector Lab, Yuri Kim from Innovative Product Planning and Jaeyoung Park from Lifestyle Product Marketing — all part of the Visual Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics — to learn more about how the largest in-home touchscreen came to life.
▲ (From left) Yuri Kim, Jaeyoung Park and Seung-Hyun Moon from the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics
Ultra-Short Throw, Ultra-Clear Picture in an Ultra Cute Form
A compact ultra-short throw projector equipped with advanced triple laser technology as well as touch interaction, The Premiere 5 transforms everyday spaces into immersive environments with vivid picture quality. The device can display an image up to 100 inches from just 17 inches away2 when aimed at a wall and up to 40 inches when projecting onto the floor or tabletops.
▲ (From left) In the box: The Premiere 5, SolarCell Remote, front and back sides of the Touch Stand, power adapter and cable
“We applied ultra-short throw technology so the projector can still deliver a large screen even when placed very close to the wall,” said Moon. “A specially designed aspheric mirror bends the light path by more than 90 degrees, allowing light to spread evenly across the surface.”
“Thanks to the short projection distance, The Premiere 5 can be easily set up in confined spaces,” he added. “Another key strength is that it minimizes shadow interference — a common issue with conventional standard (or long) throw projectors.”
Triple laser technology uses red, green and blue — the three primary colors of light — to produce bright, vivid images.
“Traditional lamp-based or single-laser projectors rely on passing light through a color wheel to generate color,” said Moon. “In contrast, The Premiere 5 uses pure red, green and blue light sources from the start to deliver higher color purity and greater optical efficiency.”
▲ (From left) The top projection unit features a dual-mirror structure with an aspheric mirror, enabling ultra-short throw projection in a flat design. The camera unit uses 3D ToF technology for auto keystone and auto focus.
The two cameras built into the projector use 3D time-of-flight (ToF) technology3 to automatically detect the shape and distance of the projection surface and make adjustments in real-time. Auto focus keeps the image sharp, whereas auto keystone corrects trapezoidal distortion for a properly aligned rectangular image. As a result, users get an optimal viewing experience without needing to make any manual adjustments.
“3D ToF works by projecting infrared light onto the wall and calculating the time it takes to bounce back, allowing the projector to read the shape of the wall in real time,” he continued. “Thanks to this, the image can be instantly recalibrated even if the projector is accidentally moved during use.”
▲ Seung-Hyun Moon, New Projector Lab, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
Touch Interaction — The Projector for Smartphone Habits
Touch interaction is a key feature that defines The Premiere 5.
“When projecting onto the floor, the screen becomes very close to the user,” said Kim. “The Premiere 5 was developed with the idea that touch is the most intuitive way to interact with screens — especially for users who are already familiar with smartphones and tablets.”
▲ Yuri Kim, Innovative Product Planning, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
Touch interaction on The Premiere 5 uses infrared (IR) image sensors. An IR laser at the bottom of the stand and an IR camera at the top of the projector operate simultaneously to generate a calibration pattern, creating a map of the screen. When a user touches the surface, the upper sensor detects the reflected IR signal from the touch point and compares it with the existing map to determine the exact touch location.
“For precise touch recognition, we created and refined an error map across the entire IR range and went through countless rounds of calibration,” said Moon. “We worked extensively to ensure touch accuracy.”
▲ (From left) The IR camera and the IR laser
To activate touch interaction, users simply attach the front and rear stands to the main unit, lay it horizontally. The projector automatically switches to floor projection mode and enables touch. The magnetic connectors on the stands snap into place instantly, making assembly easy for anyone.
The key to the stand design is ensuring both easy assembly and stable support for the sensors and main unit so the touch feature functions smoothly.
“Before arriving at the current Touch Stand design, we went through numerous prototypes — continuously refining it to address shortcomings in both structure and usability,” said Park. “We were relentless in our pursuit of a safe, stable and effortless assembly.”
▲ Jaeyoung Park, Lifestyle Product Marketing, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
Kim also recalled the intensive development process behind the Touch Stand.
“We experimented with countless attachment methods including detachable camera modules and cable connections,” she reflected. “There were easier ways to do this from a product development perspective, but our focus on user convenience helped us arrive at an optimal design. Ultimately, product development is driven by the user.”
Towering Design Requirements — Stacking Form and Function
“The process of stacking various parts in layers was simultaneously a design trial and technical challenge.”
— Seung-Hyun Moon, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
One of the standout features of The Premiere 5 is its vertical tower design.
“Unlike conventional projectors, ultra-short throw projectors emit light at a wide angle. To avoid obstructing the projection path, part of the main body is typically recessed in a valley structure,” said Park. “In contrast, The Premiere 5 uses a dual-mirror structure that creates a flat top for a cleaner, more refined appearance.”
▲ The Premiere 5
“We aimed for a design that would blend naturally into any space and still look cohesive even when moved around — like a beautiful vase placed on furniture,” said Kim. “By shifting from the traditional horizontal form to a vertical design, we also improved space efficiency.”
Focus was placed not only on design but also on sound quality. Featuring 10W stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support, The Premiere 5 delivers a powerful, rich sound. When paired with the Music Frame speaker via Q-Symphony,4 the projector creates an even more immersive audio experience.
“A cinematic experience is defined by both picture and sound quality, meaning high-quality audio is not optional — it’s essential,” said Park. “While delivering rich sound was a challenge given the spatial constraints, our team’s collaborative efforts allowed us to achieve both aesthetic design and impressive audio.”
“Ultimately, product development is driven by the user.”
— Yuri Kim, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics
“While horizontal projectors allow internal components to be distributed more broadly, the vertical structure of The Premiere 5 required stacking various parts in layers,” said Moon. “Incorporating premium features — such as ultra-short throw, triple laser technology, high-quality speakers and an internal sound chamber — meant every component had to be smaller and efficiently placed. The process was simultaneously a design trial and a technical challenge.”
Setting a New Standard for Projectors
The Premiere 5 brings innovation to projector use by introducing the concept of floor projection.
“By combining the projector with a Touch Stand, we extended the projection surface down to the floor,” said Park. “Expanding the projection surface naturally broadens the range of ways The Premiere 5 can be used.”
For example, users can mirror mobile content and project it onto a table — turning the surface into an interactive touchscreen. They can also enjoy a richer home entertainment experience through Samsung TV Plus, Gaming Hub and more.
“We highly recommend this product to those who want to share a large-screen experience with their family,” he added. “Through the ‘Enjoy With Family’ section within the Smart TV features, users can explore a wide range of touch-based content including educational and casual games.”
“Touch is the most intuitive way to interact with screens — especially for smartphone users.”
— Yuri Kim, Samsung Electronics
“I often follow recipe videos on YouTube while cooking at home,” said Park. “When projecting onto the kitchen island, I can play and pause the video with a simple touch — even if my hands are messy.”
He also noted that projecting onto the floor allows for convenient access to Samsung Health and guided workout videos during exercise.
▲ In the kitchen, The Premiere 5 can provide an easy-to-clean screen so you don’t have to worry about spills and accidents.
“My goal is to deliver a new level of immersion — one that makes users feel as if they’re truly inside the screen, not just watching it,” said Kim, describing her aspirations for the future.
“The new value of projectors lies in their ability to transform any surface into a screen,” added Park. “We will continue to overcome the limitations of projection surfaces through innovation.”
The Premiere 5 stays true to the essence of a projector while unlocking new possibilities through touch interaction. With the Premiere series, Samsung continues to push the boundaries of innovation and elevate everyday screen experiences.
▲ Jaeyoung Park, Seung-Hyun Moon and Yuri Kim of the Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics say The Premiere 5 now feels like family.
▲ Engineers say it’s safer to hold The Premiere 5 with both hands when moving the device.
1 Touch interaction is only available with the Touch Stand connected. Touch Interaction may not function properly depending on set up and the condition of the surface projection surface.
Touch interaction support may vary by app, some apps may not support the feature. Some functions may be limited when using the feature.
2 Screen sizes for each projection distance may differ depending on the installation environment.
3 Time-of-Flight (ToF) technology is a depth-sensing method that measures the time it takes for a signal — usually infrared light — to travel from a source to an object and back to a sensor.
4 Q-Symphony is audio technology that allows a compatible Samsung TV or projector and a compatible Samsung sound device (such as a soundbar or the Music Frame speaker) to connect for a holistic listening experience.
Source: African Development Bank Group
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Source: Independent Petroleum Association of America
Headline: IPAA Urges Preservation of Carried Interest Tax Provision
Dear Speaker Johnson and Majority Leader Thune:
On behalf of America’s independent oil and natural gas producers, the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) urges you to help preserve the current tax treatment of carried interest to protect energy investment, support job creation, and ensure the continued growth of a resilient, domestically powered energy economy. …
The carried interest structure is a well-established mechanism that rewards long-term investment and risk-taking. It is particularly critical in the oil and natural gas industry, where smaller, independent companies often partner with private equity investors to raise the capital needed to explore, drill, and produce America’s energy resources. Nowhere is this model more embedded-or more vital-than in the Gulf Coast states, where these partnerships drive innovation, economic growth, and energy resilience. …
