While increasing numbers of people in the UK – often young women – are opting for dermal fillers to achieve a fuller look without surgery, the rise of overfilled “trout pouts” and stiff “duck lips” has sparked a wave of alarm, even among those who might typically support cosmetic treatments.
Lip fillers are far from risk-free – and in some cases, the health consequences are permanent.
Unlike surgical procedures, lip fillers are not legally considered medical treatments. That means they are largely unregulated, and in many cases, are being injected by people with little or no medical training.
This is a problem, because lips are delicate and highly mobile. They contain very little natural fat and rely on a ring of tiny muscles to express everything from joy to concern. Injecting too much filler, or using the wrong kind, can interfere with these muscles – leaving the lips stiff, unnatural, or even immobile.
While some patients seek lip fillers for genuine medical reasons, such as facial palsy or disfigurement, these are exceptions. For most, the health risks can outweigh the cosmetic benefits.
What are fillers made of?
The substances used in lip fillers have changed over time. Older materials such as liquid silicone were eventually phased out due to serious complications, including scarring and migration of the product to other parts of the body.
Today, most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) – a substance that naturally exists in our bodies, particularly in connective tissue. HA attracts water, giving the skin volume and keeping it hydrated. As we age, our natural levels of HA decrease, which is why skin becomes drier and loses firmness.
The HA used in fillers is either extracted from animal tissue, such as rooster combs, or produced synthetically using bacteria. While this modern version is safer than older fillers, it still carries risks including allergic reactions, reactivation of cold sores (herpes simplex virus), infections and inflammation.
There have also been rare, but severe, cases of vascular complications such as blindness and tissue death, when fillers accidentally enter blood vessels.
The risk to kidneys
Less widely known – but equally concerning – is how repeat filler use may affect internal organs, particularly the kidneys.
Hyaluronic acid isn’t just a skin plumper – it also plays a role in the immune system. When the body detects inflammation, such as from repeated filler injections, it can respond by producing HA in the kidneys. This triggers a chain reaction: first, the kidneys produce high-molecular weight HA, which increases inflammation. Later, they switch to low-molecular weight HA, which reduces inflammation but causes fibrosis, or scarring of the tissue.
This double-edged response has been linked to chronic kidney disease and, in severe cases, even renal failure. Researchers are still exploring these links, but the risks become more significant with each repeated injection – especially in people who are genetically or medically vulnerable.
HA can also contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate crystals in the kidneys. These can lead to kidney stones and further tissue damage, potentially causing lifelong complications.
Who should avoid lip fillers?
Given these risks, some people should approach fillers with extreme caution – or avoid them entirely. These include people with a history of kidney problems or allergic reactions to filler ingredients, recurrent cold sores, autoimmune conditions (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis), diabetes or blood clotting disorders, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Despite the risks, lip fillers remain widely accessible and heavily promoted – particularly to young people influenced by social media trends. Many undergo these treatments without fully understanding what they’re putting into their bodies.
So, what needs to change? First, better regulation. If lip filler injections were treated as medical procedures, stricter controls could help reduce botched treatments and serious complications.
Second, more education. Patients need to understand that just because something is “non-surgical” doesn’t mean it’s safe. Fillers are still foreign substances being injected into the body. They come with risks – and these risks can increase over time.
Lip fillers can offer subtle, beautiful enhancements when used sparingly and professionally. But when misused or overused, they can lead to lasting disfigurement, loss of function, and even serious internal health issues like kidney damage.
Beauty trends should never come at the cost of your health.
Jim Frame, Professor, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University
Work to fill the voids caused by the burst water main has now been completed.
Concrete to underpin parts of the building was poured on Wednesday and Structural Engineers have now given approval for the road to open once the concrete has gained sufficient strength over the weekend.
Inspection and monitoring will continue next week to ensure all measures taken have been effective.
Road markings have been repainted in preparation for reopening.
Pedestrian access through Rouge Bouillon will remain in place throughout the bank holiday weekend.
The project remains on schedule, with the road due to reopen before the morning rush hour on Monday 12 May, once all safety measures are confirmed.
This will be the final scheduled update. For more information and the latest schedule of works, please visit: Gov.je.
Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy, with Colm O’Farrell, Executive Chairman of The Deluxe Group, and Roger Wilson, ABC Council Chief Executive
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Sarah Duffy has warmly welcomed the announcement that Portadown-based company, The Deluxe Group, has been honoured with the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
The award – one of the UK’s most prestigious business honours – recognises the company’s extraordinary 575% increase in overseas revenue over the past three years, with exports now accounting for over half of its total turnover.
Renowned for creating world-class, story-led interiors across the luxury hospitality, residential, cruise, and theme park sectors, The Deluxe Group has firmly established itself as a leader in immersive and experiential design. With over 50 years of experience, the company combines creativity, digital innovation, and artisan craftsmanship to deliver captivating environments for global clients.
Lord Mayor, Cllr Sarah Duffy meets staff from The Deluxe Group in their Portadown Office.
The firm’s impressive portfolio includes projects across the USA, Japan, the Middle East, and Europe, with standout work including the celebrated Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.
Welcoming the announcement, the Lord Mayor, Councillor Sarah Duffy said:
“This is a truly outstanding achievement and a moment of great pride not just for The Deluxe Group, but for the entire borough. This prestigious honour is a reflection of the company’s exceptional vision, craftsmanship and global ambition. It’s a tremendous achievement and we’re incredibly proud of their success.”
This latest recognition reinforces the region’s growing reputation for design and manufacturing excellence on the international stage.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​Hongkong Post announced today (May 12) that, as advised by the postal administration of Italy, due to a cyber incident, in addition to the provinces of Florence, Lucca, Grosseto, Livorno, Pistoia and Prato that were previously impacted by flooding, all mail delivery services to the country are subject to delay.
Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.
[Ball Corporation]
Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement
BNP Paribas (contact: Stanford Hartman telephone: 0207 595 8222 hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation EU/2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).
The securities:1
Issuer:
Ball Corporation
Guarantor (if any):
Substantially all of Ball Corporation’s domestic subsidiaries that guarantee its existing indebtedness will guarantee the notes, and none of Ball Corporation’s foreign subsidiaries will guarantee the notes.
Stabilisation period expected to end no later than:
19/06/2025
Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over‑allotment facility:
The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law.
Stabilisation trading venue:
OTC
In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over‑allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over‑allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.
This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.
This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.
In addition, if and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, the UK or any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the “Prospectus Regulation”) (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority in the UK or that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in the UK or that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the UK or that Member State.
This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States.
The Wolverhampton Information, Advice and Support Service (IASS) plays a key role in helping families navigate complex processes such as Education, Health and Care Plans, school placements, and appeals.
Feedback from its most recent satisfaction survey found that over 98% of respondents were satisfied with the service, with families feeling more confident, knowledgeable, and involved in discussions and decisions regarding their children’s needs. Over 99% of respondents also recognised the service as a neutral and unbiased source of support.
Councillor Jacqui Coogan, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Education, said: “The IASS’s partnership with the council has been pivotal in enhancing services for families.
“By working closely with education, health, and social care partners, it ensures that families receive comprehensive and coordinated support through what can be a very complex process.
“This work has led to better understanding of children’s needs, improved relationships with schools, and more effective support systems, all of which positively impact the lives of children and young people with SEND in our city.
“Best of all, the service is free and families should be rest assured that they can access information, advice, and support from IASS without any financial burden – so, if you need any support with SEND services or processes, please don’t hesitate to reach out for it.”
Dozens of families struggling to afford a safe and decent home are set to benefit from a new development agreement aimed at easing the region’s housing crisis.
Nearly 300 affordable homes, including 150 for social rent, are to be built on the site of the former Yardley Sewage Works in Stechford, Birmingham.
Birmingham City Council owns the land in Cole Hall Lane and has worked with housing developer Morro Partnerships, housing association Midland Heart, Homes England, the region’s elected Mayor and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) to facilitate the deal.
On a visit to the site, Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, announced a £4.5m WMCA package for the scheme, the latest investment he has made as part of his mission to kickstart the biggest social housing programme the West Midlands has seen in decades.
Birmingham City Council has invested in the scheme, along with Homes England and the WMCA providing funding to clean up the brownfield site so it is suitable for house building. Morro and Midland Heart will begin construction of the homes before the end of the year.
The development deal comes as latest figures show that across the West Midlands there are 7,148 households, including 14,229 children, living in temporary accommodation and 65,335 households on the region’s social housing waiting lists.
Cllr Jayne Francis, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homeless, said:
“The national housing crisis means that we have several people on lists waiting for a home, the need for affordable homes has never been more urgent.
“Tackling this crisis is a key priority for this council, and this development demonstrates how we can do this by leading and working in partnership with others.
“We will continue discussions with developers and housing associations to facilitate deals that can provide our residents with warm, safe, and energy-efficient homes.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said,
“In my first year in office, I’ve funded schemes that will provide more than 500 new social homes – that’s more than in all the schemes we have ever grant funded.
“Too many families in this region are living in cold, damp houses waiting too long for a home to call their own. This cannot be allowed to continue which is why I am helping to build more warm and safe homes for everyone.
“My target is clear: 2,000 new social homes a year by 2028 to tackle our housing crisis. We cannot do this alone – I am calling on housing associations and private sector developers to come together, just as we have at Yardley Brook, to build these homes and change the lives of thousands of families here in the West Midlands.”
Joe Reeves, Deputy Chief Executive at Midland Heart, said:
“As one of the largest housing providers in the Midlands, we have a key role to play in addressing the shortage of homes and providing decent, affordable housing for local people across the region.
“We are aiming to deliver 2,250 new homes by 2030, which, combined with the 4,000 we have already delivered during our last corporate plan period to 2025, will mean we will have delivered well over 6,000 new homes in a decade. Yardley Brook will be a huge part of this, and we look forward to working with our partner Morro, to transform this site, and develop and deliver almost 300 new homes.”
Tom Broadway, Managing Director for the West Midlands at Morro Partnerships, said:
“We are all aware of the shortage of affordable housing across the country, and Birmingham is no different. This deal will go some way to increasing and improving the housing stock in an underserved region.
“Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of our work and is an inherent part of each development we build. Helping to make housing more affordable, accessible, and ready for the future forms part of our commitment to building responsibly and is an immensely rewarding undertaking in its own right.
“We look forward to completing construction on this development and seeing it evolve into a thriving community over the coming years.”
Source: United Kingdom UK Parliament (video statements)
The Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRA) question the CEO, CFO and Chair of Thames Water, covering a range of topics including leadership and culture at the company, their recent court case and appeal, executive pay and bonuses and the future of Thames Water.
BERLIN, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — We are excited to welcome Felix Rose to the Optio team as Head of Private Equity Solutions. Felix will lead our new private equity solution business and will be based in Frankfurt, Germany. The SaaS product will allow private equity clients and their portfolio companies to set-up and manage equity incentive programs on the Optio platform in an automated and efficient way. This marks one of Optio’s next key growth areas. It builds on the strong presence already established in the DACH region and Southern Europe, following a funding round backed by tech investor CCAP.
Felix joins Optio with nearly 30 years of experience across European private and public markets. Throughout his career, including roles at Morgan Stanley Investment Banking, Cinven, and Jamieson Corporate Finance, as well as co-founding and co-managing MPTransaction, he has consistently been involved in public and private M&A transactions and over the last seventeen years he has supported CEOs and business founders in navigating through large and complex private equity transactions.
“Felix brings an incredible depth of insight into how private equity firms operate and where they encounter friction in relation to their management equity programs,” says Christoffer Herheim, Co-founder and CEO of Optio. “His expertise in Management Equity Plans (MEPs) will be essential as we help firms transition away from manual processes and fragmented tools into fully digital workflows.”
In today’s market, private equity investors often rely on a patchwork of Word documents, Excel sheets, legal counsel, and large email threads to manage MEPs. This approach is not only resource-intensive, but it also creates risks around compliance, data privacy, and scalability – especially in cross-border deals involving dozens of participants.
Optio for Private Equity offers a smarter path forward. The platform simplifies compliance workflows (including KYC), enables secure access and communication for all stakeholders, and includes digital signing functionality for efficient execution of legal MEP documentation. These efficiencies not only reduce costs, but they also make it possible to extend equity participation deeper into portfolio companies, aligning with broader ownership movements like the U.S.-based “Ownership Works” initiative.
“What attracted me to Optio was more than just the product,” shares Felix. “It was the team’s drive, precision, and entrepreneurial energy. With the right technology, we can empower private equity firms and their portfolio companies to rethink how they design and manage equity incentives not just for the executive team, but for a much broader group of employees.”
Looking ahead, Felix envisions a shift across the industry: “I believe that within the next five to ten years every private equity management incentive program will run on a secure digital platform.”
About Optio Established in 2018, Optio combines software and deep expertise to manage equity compensation plans for companies of all sizes. The company is trusted by over 500 businesses, with equity plans managed across 100 countries and 15 stock exchanges. Optio’s unique ability to support organizations at every stage—from early development to the public market—sets it apart from other providers. By simplifying the complexities of employee incentive programs, Optio helps companies stay compliant, manage equity, report costs accurately, and maximize the benefits of their plans.
The focus for this year’s campaign is the power of relationships and the extraordinary impact that foster parents can have on children and young people who, for a wide range of reasons, are unable to remain with their birth families.
Carers can offer a home to a child or young person, for as long as is required – from just a few days or weeks to months or years. Personal qualities, and experience with children and/or young people, are more important than age or qualifications. Carers need to have experience of and enjoy spending time with children and young people and have a good sense of humour, lots of compassion, tolerance and bags of energy.
Councillor John Rebbeck, Convener of Learning and Families said: “All kinds of people can become foster carers – it is an extremely rewarding role to take on, not without its challenges, but the impact that carers have for children and young people can make a real, powerful difference to their lives.
“We have fantastic foster carers working with us here in Perth and Kinross and we are always keen to welcome more prospective carers to join them. In Foster Care Fortnight, I would urge anyone interested in making positive changes in a child’s life to get in touch with our Family Based Care Team.”
You can contact the Family Based Care Team by calling 01738 477806 or email ecsfpduty@pkc.gov.uk. For more information, visit our Fostering page.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3
News story
India and Pakistan: G7 foreign ministers’ statement, 10 May 2025
G7 foreign ministers gave a statement on India and Pakistan.
Joint statement:
We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, strongly condemn the egregious terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and urge maximum restraint from both India and Pakistan. Further military escalation poses a serious threat to regional stability. We are deeply concerned for the safety of civilians on both sides.
We call for immediate de-escalation and encourage both countries to engage in direct dialogue towards a peaceful outcome. We continue to monitor events closely and express our support for a swift and lasting diplomatic resolution.
The overwhelming majority of people in Scotland want rent controls to ensure rogue landlords cannot keep hiking rents, according to polling commissioned by the Scottish Greens.
The polling, carried out by Diffley, shows that 74% of people support rent controls and 83% believe that rents are too high compared to income levels in Scotland.
It also shows- that over two thirds (69%) support Green plans to force landlords to sell long-term derelict land and housing that they are sitting on.
Amendments proposed by Maggie Chapman MSP to the Housing (Scotland) Bill would create robust rent controls across Scotland, ensuring that rents can’t rise faster than incomes, if MSPs back them.
These protections put people over landlord profits, putting money back into people’s pockets and supporting renters through the ongoing cost of living crisis when bills and other costs are soaring.
“It is no wonder that there is such strong support for rent controls. The housing market is completely broken and it is renters who are paying the price. It underlines just how crucial it is that we take action.
“We’ve all seen how much damage is being done by rogue landlords who have been given carte blanche to line their pockets through massive rent increases.
“Not only does this hurt renters, often pushing them into poverty or even homelessness, but it hurts our economy as people have less money to spend.
“This is why the Scottish Greens implemented a rent freeze and eviction ban during Covid, saving people thousands of pounds, and it’s why we so strongly opposed the SNP ending the protections that we put in place afterwards.
“With the Housing Bill going through parliament we have the opportunity to stop the exploitation of renters and end rip-off rents. We must seize it.
“We must offer people and their families some financial stability, and less worry about losing the roof over their heads. Homes are for living in and not for profiteering. We need to make unaffordable rent hikes become a thing of the past.”
Last year, Councillor Mark Coker (the Claimant) applied for the planning decision in relation to Wilmot Gardens to be quashed, as the Council accepted one of the grounds in a legal challenge.
Following the Planning Committee granting permission for the application, the Council accepted the contention that it was necessary to include an appropriate condition to ensure the provision of affordable housing in perpetuity.
At the time of the application, planning officers did not consider it was necessary to include the condition because the number of units proposed fell below the policy threshold for affordable housing and was secured by a land transfer agreement. However, after further detailed consideration of the planning and legal issues raised, an application was made to the courts for permission to quash the decision and to bring the planning application back before Planning Committee, with the appropriate condition to secure the affordable housing in planning terms.
The Council as the Defendant received the sealed court order on Thursday 8 May which set out that a judge had given permission for the judicial review to be granted and had further consented to the quashing of the planning decision as requested in the Claimant’s application.
The planning department determines over 1,400 planning applications every year and while the department makes every effort to deal with every application efficiently, proportionately and in accordance with all relevant legislation, policy and guidance, the planning system is increasingly complex.
A beautiful ancient Saxon pendant buried for more than 1,200 years in a Leeds field is giving experts a fascinating glimpse into life in early medieval Yorkshire.
Believed to date from the eighth century, the gilded pectoral cross may have once been a badge of office for an important church leader or official and was unearthed last year by a metal detectorist.
With one arm broken, and the central stone now missing, the cross is nevertheless a stunning example of metalwork, made from solid silver covered with a thin layer of gold leaf.
Decorated with an intricate interlacing Saxon pattern, the remarkable find would have probably been worn around the neck of someone of high status and is the latest in a number of discoveries indicating Leeds and its surrounding area may once have been home to some important and influential figures in the early medieval period.
The small artefact went through the Portable Antiquities Scheme Treasure process, and was secured by Leeds Museums and Galleries thanks to the generous contributions of funders. The cross is now set to go on display at Leeds City Museum later this year.
Kat Baxter, Leeds Museums and Galleries’ curator of archaeology, said: “The cross is beautifully decorated on both sides, which suggests it was designed to hang around the neck with the suspension loop on the missing arm. It would certainly have been worn by someone of high status and is an outward display of religious identity.
“It was made at a time when Leeds was part of the Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria and, along with a number of other discoveries in the area, really helps us build a picture of the types of people who would have lived here during this time”.
The 8th Century saw the earliest known written reference to Leeds, or Loidis, by the historian and monk The Venerable Bede. As well as Northumbia, England’s kingdoms included Mercia, Wessex, and East Anglia.
The cross’s discovery is the latest in a string of significant Saxon and Roman finds made in the Leeds area in recent years.
Just two years ago, a lead coffin buried for more than 1,600 years was discovered in a previously unknown cemetery site near Garforth alongside the remains of more than 60 individuals from late Roman to early Saxon periods.
The coffin contained the remains of a woman aged 25-35, who was buried wearing a bracelet, glass bead necklace and a finger ring or earring.
And in 2012 Leeds Museums and Galleries acquired The West Yorkshire Hoard, a group of seven objects found in the Leeds area by a metal detectorist dating from the seventh to 11th centuries. Five of the objects in the hoard are high quality gold jewellery, which would only have been worn by people of exceptional wealth in Saxon society.
Kat added: “All of these finds are part of a puzzle which together show that Leeds was home to high status, important individuals during the Saxon period, and this beautiful cross is the latest glimpse into the past. Unfortunately, objects representing less wealthy people are less likely to survive.
“There are certainly more objects out there waiting to be discovered, and responsible metal detectorists and The Portable Antiquities Scheme are playing a really important role in increasing our understanding of local history. Without them, this beautiful piece of Saxon metalwork, and many others like it, would never have been found and made available for future generations.”
Funding for the cross came through generous support from the Arts Council England /V&A Purchase Grant Fund, the Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, and the Friends of Leeds City Museums. It was acquired under The Treasure Act 1996.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “This find is a beautiful example of the history all around us and gives a fascinating insight into the story of Leeds.
“It’s always wonderful when we are able to add important objects like this to our collections and we’re very grateful for the continued support of funders and visitors in helping us to preserve our local heritage.”
Fresh, stringent security measures have been imposed in New Caledonia following aborted political talks last week and ahead of the first anniversary of the deadly riots that broke out on 13 May 2024, which resulted in 14 deaths and 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4.2 billion) in damages.
On Sunday, the French High Commission in Nouméa announced that from Monday, May 12, to Friday, May 15, all public marches and demonstrations will be banned in the Greater Nouméa Area.
Restrictions have also been imposed on the sale of firearms, ammunition, and takeaway alcoholic drinks.
The measures aim to “ensure public security”.
In the wake of the May 2024 civil unrest, a state of emergency and a curfew had been imposed and had since been gradually lifted.
The decision also comes as “confrontations” between law enforcement agencies and violent groups took place mid-last week, especially in the township of Dumbéa — on the outskirts of Nouméa — where there were attempts to erect fresh roadblocks, High Commissioner Jacques Billant said.
The clashes, including incidents of arson, stone-throwing and vehicles being set on fire, are reported to have involved a group of about 50 individuals and occurred near Médipôle, New Caledonia’s main hospital, and a shopping mall.
Clashes also occurred in other parts of New Caledonia, including outside the capital Nouméa.
It adds another reason for the measures is the “anniversary date of the beginning of the 2024 riots”.
Wrecked and burnt-out cars gathered after the May 2024 riots and dumped at Koutio-Koueta on Ducos island in Nouméa. Image: NC 1ère TV
Law and order stepped up French authorities have also announced that in view of the first anniversary of the start of the riots tomorrow, law and order reinforcements have been significantly increased in New Caledonia until further notice.
This includes a total of 2600 officers from the Gendarmerie, police, as well as reinforcements from special elite SWAT squads and units equipped with 16 Centaur armoured vehicles.
Drones are also included.
The aim is to enforce a “zero tolerance” policy against “urban violence” through a permanent deployment “night and day”, with a priority to stop any attempt to blockade roads, especially in Greater Nouméa, to preserve freedom of movement.
One particularly sensitive focus would be placed on the township of Saint-Louis in Mont-Dore often described as a pro-independence stronghold which was a hot spot and the scene of violent and deadly clashes at the height of the 2024 riots.
“We’ll be present wherever and whenever required. We are much stronger than we were in 2024,” High Commissioner Billant told local media during a joint inspection with French gendarmes commander General Nicolas Matthéos and Nouméa Public Prosecutor Yves Dupas.
Dupas said that over the past few months the bulk of criminal acts was regarded as “delinquency” — nothing that could be likened to a coordinated preparation for fresh public unrest similar to last year’s.
Billant said that, depending on how the situation evolves in the next few days, he could also rely on additional “potential reinforcements” from mainland France if needed.
French High Commissioner Jacques Billant, Public Prosecutor Yves Dupas and the Gendarmerie commander, General Nicolas Matthéos, confer last Wednesday . . . “We are much stronger than we were in 2024.” Image: Haut-Commissariat de la République en Nouvelle-Calédonie
New Zealand ANZAC war memorial set alight A New Zealand ANZAC war memorial in the small rural town of Boulouparis (west coast of the main island of Grande Terre) was found vandalised last Friday evening.
The monument, inaugurated just one year ago at last year’s ANZAC Day to commemorate the sacrifice of New Zealand soldiers during world wars in the 20th century, was set alight by unidentified people, police said.
Tyres were used to keep the fire burning.
An investigation into the circumstances of the incident is underway, the Nouméa Public Prosecutor’s office said, invoking charges of wilful damage.
Australia, New Zealand travel warnings In the neighbouring Pacific, two of New Caledonia’s main tourism source markets, Australia and New Zealand, are maintaining a high level or increased caution advisory.
The main identified cause is an “ongoing risk of civil unrest”.
In its latest travel advisory, the Australian brief says “demonstrations and protests may increase in the days leading up to and on days of national or commemorative significance, including the anniversary of the start of civil unrest on May 13.
“Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings. Demonstrations and protests may turn violent at short notice.”
Pro-France political leaders at a post-conclave media conference in Nouméa last Thursday . . . objected to the proposed “sovereignty with France”, a kind of independence in association with France. Image: RRB/RNZ Pacific
Inconclusive talks Last Thursday, May 8, French Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls, who had managed to gather all political parties around the same table for negotiations on New Caledonia’s political future, finally left the French Pacific territory. He admitted no agreement could be found at this stage.
In the final stage of the talks, the “conclave” on May 5-7, he had put on the table a project for New Caledonia’s accession to a “sovereignty with France”, a kind of independence in association with France.
This option was not opposed by pro-independence groups, including the FLNKS (Kanak Socialist National Liberation Front).
French Overseas Territories Minister Manuel Valls . . . returned to Paris last week without a deal on New Caledonia’s political future. Image: Caledonia TV screenshot APR
But the pro-France movement, in support of New Caledonia remaining a part of France, said it could not approve this.
The main pillar of their argument remained that after three self-determination referendums held between 2018 and 2021, a majority of voters had rejected independence (even though the last referendum, in December 2021, was massively boycotted by the pro-independence camp because of the covid-19 pandemic).
The anti-independence block had repeatedly stated that they would not accept any suggestion that New Caledonia could endorse a status bringing it closer to independence.
New Caledonia’s pro-France MP at the French National Assembly, Nicolas Metzdorf, told local media at this stage, his camp was de facto in opposition to Valls, “but not with the pro-independence camp”.
Metzdorf said a number of issues could very well be settled by talking to the pro-independence camp.
Electoral roll issue sensitive This included the very sensitive issue of New Caledonia’s electoral roll, and conditions of eligibility at the next provincial elections.
🔴 Mesures administratives 🔴
À l’approche de la date d’anniversaire du début des émeutes de 2024, le Haut-commissaire, en lien avec les élus et responsables du monde économique, annonce les mesures suivante du 12 au 15 mai 2025 :
— Haut-commissariat en Nouvelle-Calédonie 🇫🇷 (@HC98800) May 10, 2025
Direct contacts with Macron Both Metzdorf and Backès also said during interviews with local media that in the midst of their “conclave” negotiations, they had had contacts as high as French President Emmanuel Macron, asking him whether he was aware of the “sovereignty with France” plan and if he endorsed it.
Another pro-France leader, Virginie Ruffenach (Le Rassemblement-Les Républicains), also confirmed she had similar exchanges, through her party Les Républicains, with French Minister of Home Affairs Bruno Retailleau, from the same right-wing party.
As Minister of Home Affairs, Retailleau would have to be involved later in the New Caledonian issue.
Divided reactions Since minister Valls’s departure, reactions were still flowing at the weekend from across New Caledonia’s political chessboard.
“We have to admit frankly that no agreement was struck”, Valls said last week during a media conference.
“Maybe the minds were not mature yet.”
But he said France would now appoint a “follow up committee” to keep working on the “positive points” already identified between all parties.
During numerous press conferences and interviews, anti-independence leaders have consistently maintained that the draft compromise put to them by Minister Valls during the latest round of negotiations last week, was not acceptable.
They said this was because it contained several elements of “independence-association”, including the transfer of key powers from Paris to Nouméa, a project of “dual citizenship” and possibly a seat at the United Nations.
“In proposing this solution, minister [Valls] was biased and blocked the negotiations. So he has prevented the advent of an agreement”, pro-France Les Loyalistes and Southern Province President leader Sonia Backès told public broadcaster NC la 1ère on Sunday.
“For us, an independence association was out of the question because the majority of [New] Caledonians voted three time against independence,” she said.
More provincial power plan Instead, the Le Rassemblement-LR and Les Loyalistes bloc were advocating a project that would provide more powers to each of the three provinces, including in terms of tax revenue collection.
The project, often described as a de facto partition, however, was not retained in the latest phases of the negotiations, because it contravened France’s constitutional principle of a united and indivisible nation.
“But no agreement does not mean chaos”, Backès said.
On the contrary, she believes that by not agreeing to the French minister’s deal plan, her camp had “averted disaster for New Caledonia”.
“Tomorrow, there will be another minister . . . and another project”, she said, implicitly betting on Valls’s departure.
On the pro-independence front, a moderate “UNI” (National Union For Independence) said a in a statement even though negotiations did not eventuate into a comprehensive agreement, the French State’s commitment and method had allowed to offer “clear and transparent terms of negotiations on New Caledonia’s institutional and political future”.
The main FLNKS group, mainly consisting of pro-independence Union Calédonienne (UC) party, also said that even though no agreement could be found as a result of the latest round of talks, the whole project could be regarded as “advances” and “one more step . . . not a failure” in New Caledonia’s decolonisation, as specified in the 1998 Nouméa Accord, FLNKS chief negotiator and UC party president Emmanuel Tjibaou said.
Deplored the empty outcome Other parties involved in the talks, including Eveil Océanien and Calédonie Ensemble, have deplored the empty outcome of talks last week.
They called it a “collective failure” and stressed that above all, reaching a consensual solution was the only way forward, and that the forthcoming elections and the preceding campaign could bear the risk of further radicalisation and potential violence.
In the economic and business sector, the conclave’s inconclusive outcome has brought more anxiety and uncertainty.
“What businesses need, now, is political stability, confidence. But without a political agreement that many of us were hoping for, the confidence and visibility is not there, there’s no investment”, New Caledonia’s MEDEF-NC (Business Leaders Union) vice-president Bertrand Courte told NC La Première.
As a result of the May 2024 riots, more than 600 businesses, mainly in Nouméa, were destroyed, causing the loss of more than 10,000 jobs.
Over the past 12 months, New Caledonia GDP (gross domestic product) has shrunk by an estimated 10 to 15 percent, according to the latest figures produced by New Caledonia statistical institute ISEE.
What next? Crucial provincial elections As no agreement was found, the next course of action for New Caledonia was to hold provincial elections no later than 30 November 2025, under the existing system, which still restricts the list of persons eligible to vote at those local elections.
The makeup of the electoral roll for local polls was the very issue that triggered the May 2024 riots, as the French Parliament, at the time, had endorsed a Constitutional amendment to push through opening the list.
At the time, the pro-independence camp argued the changes to eligibility conditions would eventually “dilute” their votes and make indigenous Kanaks a minority in their own country.
The Constitutional bill was abandoned after the May 2024 rots.
The sensitive issue remains part of the comprehensive pact that Valls had been working on for the past four months.
The provincial elections are crucial in that they also determine the proportional makeup of New Caledonia’s Congress and its government and president.
The provincial elections, initially scheduled to take place in May 2024, and later in December 2024, and finally no later than 30 November 2025, were already postponed twice.
Even if the provincial elections are held later this year (under the current “frozen” rules), the anti-independence camp has already announced it would contest its result.
According to the anti-independence camp, the current restrictions on New Caledonia’s electoral roll contradict democratic principles and have to be “unfrozen” and opened up to any citizen residing for more than 10 uninterrupted years.
The present electoral roll is “frozen”, which means it only allows citizens who have have been livingin New Caledonia before November 1998 to cast their vote at local elections.
The case could be brought to the French Constitutional Council, or even higher, to a European or international level, said pro-France politicians.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Press Release Nokia enhances Optus’s 5G network with improved capacity and coverage across regional Australia
Nokia to deploy its high-performance, energy-efficient Habrok Massive MIMO radios and Levante baseband solutions to boost the coverage and capacity of Optus’s 5G network.
Partnership advances Optus’s goal of providing faster speeds and improving service quality for regional communities and businesses.
12 May 2025 Espoo, Finland – Nokia will support Optus’s network evolution by boosting its 5G network capabilities and modernizing sites in regional parts of Australia, the company announced today. Nokia will deploy its latest generation of Habrok Massive MIMO radios and its Levante ultra-performance baseband solutions from its AirScale portfolio to enhance the performance of Optus’ network. This strategic upgrade follows Optus’s Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) RAN-sharing agreement with TPG Telecom last year, reinforcing its commitment to providing broader coverage, faster data speeds, and a superior customer experience.
Powered by Nokia’s cutting-edge ReefShark System-on-Chip (SoC) technology, the compact, lightweight, and high-performance Habrok 32 massive MIMO radios offer a 33 percent boost in output power, helping Optus deliver coverage and capacity while significantly reducing power consumption. These flexible, easy-to-install solutions are ideal for new deployments and site modernization. Habrok 32 enables Optus to maximize the use of shared spectrum assets in the RAN-sharing areas, enabling higher data rates and enhanced coverage.
For enhanced energy efficiency, Optus will also be able to take advantage of Habrok’s ‘Extreme Deep Sleep’ power-saving mode, which switches off unused resources and reduces radio cell energy consumption. While saving energy, this feature does not have any negative impact on network performance. Optus will also benefit from Levante, Nokia’s AI-ready 5G baseband capacity card that delivers ultra-performance and enhanced scalability while cutting energy consumption to half compared to earlier product generations. Nokia will also supply Ponente its ultra-performance, energy efficient baseband control card to support increased traffic growth.
Nokia’s AirScale base stations are AI-ready and equipped with ReefShark SoCs, which incorporate advanced AI acceleration capabilities. They also scale up to support extended AI workloads.
“Our deployment with Nokia’s new Habrok massive MIMO radio and new Levante and Ponente baseband modules marks an important step in meeting the growing demand from our customers for enhanced connectivity in Australia’s regional areas. We know connectivity is vital for our customers so they can stream their favourite content, download TV shows and movies, or upload pictures and videos onto their favourite social media platforms. The Habrok 32 massive MIMO radios bring the right balance of performance and cost efficiency for upgrading our 5G network to elevate consumer experiences and drive business productivity. Through this partnership, we are expanding our reach for customers and bringing them high-speed, reliable connectivity to more customers, communities, and enterprises,” said Kent Wu, Optus Vice President Access Network Strategy, Planning and Quality at Optus.
“The introduction of Nokia’s latest solutions in this deal strengthens our long-term partnership with Optus.Our AirScale Massive MIMO radios and ultra-performance baseband solutions enable fast network modernization, providing a boost in 5G coverage and speeds for enhanced user experience while maximizing spectral efficiency. We are also helping Optus drive network sustainability through software innovations such as the extreme deep sleep energy-saving mode and the energy-saving capabilities enabled by Nokia’s ReefShark SoC chipset,” said Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia.
The Habrok 32 massive MIMO radios and Levante baseband cards are part of Nokia’s comprehensive AirScale portfolio of 5G RAN solutions, offering operators like Optus a future-proof, high-performance ecosystem to build next-generation, energy-efficient networks with enhanced scalability and reliability.
About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.
As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.
With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.
Regulated trading firmOne Tradinglaunches EU onshore for retail investors
For the first time, retail investors can trade cash-settled Bitcoin and Ethereumperpetual futures and go long or short
Generating returns without CFD provider fees
Licensed for multilateral trading under MiFID II in the EU
One Trading’s vertically integrated platform delivers 24/7 settlement and low-latency execution without the costs of traditional clearing models
AMSTERDAM, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — One Trading, the leading European trading platform, today announces the expansion of its regulated perpetual futures trading venue to eligible retail investors in Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. Following its institutional launch last month, One Trading has become the first MiFID II-regulated derivatives exchange in Europe to offer crypto perpetual futures to institutional and eligible retail customers alike.
A market ripe for disruption
Crypto derivatives are currently dominated by players that offer spot trading locally, but derivatives only on unregulated offshore venues. With this launch, for the first time, these products will now be fully and safely accessible to eligible retail customers in Europe. Retail customers in Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria can now trade BTC/EUR and ETH/EUR perpetual futures through a fully regulated, onshore venue — allowing customers to go both long or short with leverage, and avoiding the high costs and regulatory risks associated with offshore, unregulated platforms.
One Trading operates under a MiFID II OTF (Organised Trading Facility) licence granted by the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM), ensuring the highest degree of regulatory compliance.
The fastest regulated trading experience in crypto
The platform offers real-time, 24/7 settlement every minute and allows eligible customers to access up to 10x leverage. By vertically integrating product creation and trading, One Trading removes the need for external clearing, delivering a simplified, cost-efficient and transparent trading experience.
One Trading enables all investor types to trade their ideas and have the ability to long or short using any asset and drive higher returns for their portfolios using leverage. It provides a transparent, regulated, and cost-effective alternative to traditional derivatives.
Retail access is now operational, with support for German, Austrian and Dutch customers, and tailored onboarding to ensure a secure and compliant experience.
CEO of One Trading Joshua Barraclough commented: “For too long, retail investors have had to either pay enormous fees to brokers or choose to trade crypto in unsafe unregulated exchanges offshore. One Trading solves for both fees and safety: now, eligible retail investors in the EU can trade crypto perpetual futures.
“That’s a major step towards expanding access to advanced trading tools — giving individuals the same quality of execution and protection as institutions. Our mission is to build the most accessible, regulated and efficient derivatives venue in the world. This launch brings us one step closer.”
About One Trading:
One Trading is a European trading platform headquartered in the Netherlands and the first perpetual futures trading venue in the EU. The company is committed to providing a secure, fast, and scalable platform for trading crypto-assets and derivatives. With a focus on innovation and regulatory compliance, One Trading aims to set new standards in the industry and offer unparalleled services to its customers. For more information, click here.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
FC Barcelona could be confirmed as La Liga champions for this season either Wednesday or Thursday night after winning a thrilling Clasico at home to Real Madrid 4-3.
The result leaves Barca seven points clear of Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, and if Madrid fails to beat Mallorca on Wednesday night, Barca will be confirmed as champions, although a win away to local rival Espanyol on Thursday would also ensure the title.
Kylian Mbappe got Madrid off to a flying start on a sunny afternoon in Montjuic, winning and then scoring a penalty to open the scoring after just five minutes and then adding a second eight minutes later.
Eric Garcia headed Barca back into the match in the 19th minute and Hansi Flick’s side took total control, with Lamine Yamal equalizing with a wonderful curling shot and two goals from Raphinha leaving a leaky Madrid defense in evidence.
Mbappe completed a hat-trick in the second half, and both he and youngster Victor Munoz had chances to make it 4-4, but Barca should also have been given a clear penalty when Aurelien Tchouameni clearly blocked Ferran Torres’ goal-bound shot with his arm.
Giuliano Simeone (R) of Atletico de Madrid vies with Ander Barrenetxea of Real Sociedad during the LaLiga football match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Sociedad in Madrid, Spain, on May 10, 2025. (Photo by Gustavo Valiente/Xinhua)
Athletic Bilbao remains fourth after a hard-fought 1-0 win at home to Alaves in a game of few chances which was finally decided by Manu Sanchez’s own goal, as he looked to clear the ball 20 minutes from time.
Athletic was missing several key players with injury and suspension, and despite making hard work of the game, the result could be hugely significant after Real Betis was held to a 1-1 draw at home to Osasuna.
Chucho Hernandez put Betis ahead in the 64th minute, but Ante Budimir’s goal 11 minutes from time earned his side a draw.
Leganes took three big points in the battle to avoid relegation with a 3-2 win at home to Espanyol, with Seydouba Cisse, Yan Diomande and a Marash Kumbulla own goal putting the team from the south of Madrid 3-0 up in the 64th minute.
Leandro Carbera pulled a goal back for the visitors in the 79th minute, and although Pere Milla’s 98th minute effort will have caused some nerves, it was too late for Espanyol to complete its fightback.
On Saturday, Alexander Sorloth scored four first-half goals, with three arriving in a four-minute spell, as third-placed Atletico Madrid brushed aside a Real Sociedad side that seems to be looking ahead to life without coach Imanol Alguacil.
Real captain Mikel Oyarzabal apologized after the game for his side’s first-half display.
A late goal from Etta Eyong saw Villarreal win 1-0 away to Girona, which remains in the relegation dogfight, with coach Michel Sanchez watching from his hospital bed due to health reasons.
Valencia also turned on the style in the first half, with goals from Pepelu, Diego Lopez and Hugo Duro – the first and third from the penalty spot – providing a 3-0 win against Getafe and giving Valencia an outside chance of playing in Europe next season.
Mallorca also kept its European hopes alive with a 2-1 win at home to hapless Real Valladolid.
A group of Sevilla fans forced their way into the club’s training ground on Saturday night to protest at the club’s 3-2 defeat to Celta Vigo, who played for 45 minutes with 10 men after Marcos Alonso was sent off for handball.
Despite having a player less, Celta led 3-1 with goals from Ilaix Moriba, Oscar Mingueza and Borja Iglesias before Kike Salas headed a 98th-minute goal that was scant consolation for Sevilla.
Two recent landmark reports on the European Union’s economy paint an unforgiving picture of its vulnerabilities, suggesting the region faces the prospect of “slow agony”. At current productivity and demographic trends, Europe’s economic output is forecast to be the same in 2050 as it is today. With much of the power to correct course residing in national capitals, what will it take for leaders to rise to the challenge?
This is the full audio from a session at the Forum’s Annual Meeting on 22 January, 2025. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqghCwdxqHo
Speakers: Nicolas Hieronimus, Chief Executive Officer, L’Oréal
Roula Khalaf, Editor, Financial Times
Robert Habeck, Vice-Chancellor and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action,
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action of Germany
Belen Garijo, Chair of the Executive Board and Chief Executive Officer, Merck
Christine Lagarde, President, European Central Bank
Check out all our podcasts on wef.ch/podcasts (http://wef.ch/podcasts) :
India is on track to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, overtaking Japan, according to the latest World Economic Outlook released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The report estimates India’s nominal GDP will reach 4,187.02 billion dollars next year, marginally ahead of Japan’s 4,186.43 billion dollars.
The IMF forecasts that India will continue to be the fastest-growing major economy, maintaining a growth rate above 6 per cent over the next two years. In contrast, Japan is expected to see muted growth of just 0.6 per cent in both 2025 and 2026, as the global trade slowdown weighs on its export-driven economy.
India’s strong economic momentum is likely to propel it further up the global rankings. By 2028, the country’s GDP is projected to rise to 5,584.48 billion dollars, placing it ahead of Germany and making it the third-largest economy globally.
Germany, currently the fourth-largest, is expected to be among the worst affected European economies due to ongoing trade tensions. The IMF projects zero growth for Germany in 2025, followed by a modest recovery of 0.9 per cent in 2026. Its GDP is estimated to reach 5,251.93 billion dollars by 2028.
The United States will retain its position as the world’s largest economy, with a projected GDP of 30,507.22 billion dollars in 2025. China, the second-largest, is expected to record a GDP of 19,231.71 billion dollars.
The IMF notes that the US economy, having initiated a wave of global tariffs, is showing signs of a slowdown. Growth is forecast to dip to 1.8 per cent this year and 1.7 per cent in 2026.
The Euro Area is also likely to witness sluggish growth, with an expected expansion of just 0.8 per cent in 2025, picking up slightly to 1.2 per cent in 2026. France is projected to grow at 0.6 per cent and 1 per cent in the next two years, respectively.
Spain is expected to outperform its peers with a 2.5 per cent growth rate in 2025, although this is likely to ease to 1.8 per cent in 2026. The United Kingdom is forecast to grow at 1.1 per cent and 1.4 per cent during the same period.
Paris, May 12, 2025 – Jeito Capital (“Jeito”), a global leading independent Private Equity fund dedicated to biopharma, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mehdi Ainouche to Partner and Julien Elric to Senior Principal.
These promotions represent the next phase of Jeito’s growth and reflect the continued strengthening of its team. They also underscore the firm’s commitment to developing talent and supporting career progression from within.
Mehdi Ainouche, PharmD, joined Jeito as Principal in 2020, shortly after the fund’s inception and was promoted to Senior Principal in 2024. With over a decade of experience in life sciences investment, Mehdi has been instrumental across the full investment cycle—from deal sourcing and due diligence to closing and exit—most notably with EyeBio, which was successfully sold to Merck & Co [NYSE: MRK] for up to $3 billion. He has also shown a strong ability to spot emerging innovations with the potential to significantly improve outcomes for patients with unmet medical needs. He has supported several investments and portfolio companies, particularly in ophthalmology, oncology, cardiometabolic and neuromuscular diseases, as well as fibrosis. and He currently serves on the boards of CDR-Life and Augustine Therapeutics, and is a board observer at NMD Pharma.
Before joining Jeito, Mehdi was an Associate within the healthcare venture team, of Turenne Capital, a French investment group with over €2Bn under management, where he worked on numerous biotech and medtech investments. He holds a Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of Rennes and a Master’s in Business from ESCP Europe. As Partner, he will contribute further to building Jeito portfolio diversification and performance.
Julien Elric joined Jeito in September 2021, bringing strong experience in deal sourcing, portfolio support, and healthcare investment. From Associate (2021) to Senior Associate in 2023 and Principal in early 2024, he has played a key role within Jeito’s investment team. Julien has contributed to financing efforts, clinical development strategies across the portfolio and was strongly involved in the investment up to exit of HI-Bio™ acquired by Biogen Inc. [Nasdaq: BIIB] for up to $1.8 billion. He currently serves as a board observer at Alentis Therapeutics and XyloCor Therapeutics.
Before joining Jeito, Julien led the startup incubator iPEPS at the Paris Brain Institute, where he helped establish it as a key hub for life sciences innovation in France. He supported early-stage biotechs and medtechs in their growth and advised major pharmaceutical companies on corporate–startup collaborations. Earlier in his career, he was responsible for business development and industrial partnerships at Institut Curie. Julien holds a PhD in Cell Biology from Institut Pasteur and is a graduate of INSEAD Business School.
Dr. Rafaèle Tordjman, MD, PhD, Founder and CEO of Jeito Capital, said: “I’m delighted to announce these promotions, which reflect two outstanding career paths and significant contributions to Jeito. Mehdi and Julien’s dedication to unlocking the potential of our portfolio companies perfectly captures the spirit of Jeito and our commitment to accelerating progress for patients. By bringing together leading scientific and industry expertise across Europe and the US, we are entering an exciting new phase of growth. I wish Mehdi and Julien every success and look forward to seeing them thrive in their new roles.”
About Jeito Capital
Jeito Capital is a global leading Private Equity fund with a patient benefit driven approach that finances and accelerates the development and growth of ground-breaking medical innovation. Jeito empowers and supports managers through its expert, integrated, multi-talented team and through the investment of significant capital to ensure the growth of companies, building market leaders in their respective therapeutic areas with accelerated patients’ access globally, especially in Europe and the United States. Jeito has built a diversified portfolio of clinical biopharmas with cutting-edge innovations addressing high unmet needs. Jeito Capital is based in Paris with a presence in Europe and the United States.
For more information, please visit www.jeito.life or follow us on LinkedIn.
Contacts:
Jeito Capital Rafaèle Tordjman, Founder & CEO Jessica Fadel, EA Tel: +33 6 33 44 25 47
Source: Secondary teachers question rationale for changes to relationship education guidelines
In a once weed-ridden and forgotten corner of Māngere, something remarkable is flourishing. On the unused land of a former Kāinga Ora housing site, the Māngere Community Enviro Hub is now sprouting with fresh produce to feed the community.
The hub, on the corner of Elmdon St and Watchfield Close, often echoes with the chatter of school kids gathered around the raised beds learning about growing kai, and on special occasions, the smoke from the hāngī pit signals a community gathering. At the Auckland Council-funded Māngere Community Enviro Hub, the community isn’t just watching things grow – they’re growing together.
1. Growing kai for the community
In just one year, the Kāinga Ora land leased to community development organisation I AM Māngere has gone from bare earth to a thriving community garden. The driving force of this transformation is software developer turned horticulturist Rata Taiwhanga, from the Etū Rākau Charitable Trust.
In the māra kai (food garden), several garden beds are growing seasonal kai. The beds are designed in a tiered pyramid shape to create airflow. There’s also a section dedicated to Pacific and international produce such as taro, pawpaw and bananas.
Even in cooler weather, the garden is thriving with rainbow silverbeet and winter greens. There’s a garden bed set aside for locals who can use the garden to grow vegetables for their whānau. Other produce is sold at markets for an affordable price.
The pyramid design of the garden beds at Māngere Community Enviro Hub is designed to create airflow around the whenua (land).
Auckland Council has supported the Māngere Community Enviro Hub through the Climate Grant, the Waste Minimisation and Innovation Fund and support through the Recovery Office. Installing a greenhouse is the next big project on the horizon which will allow the garden to extend the growing season on some crops – part of a bigger project around sustainability and climate resilience.
“It is important for Auckland Council to support Etū Rākau and the Māngere Enviro Hub,” says Frances Hayton, Low Carbon Specialist for the Council.
“Māngere is one of the three priority communities identified as needing support to be able to lead their own recovery following the 2023 Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and adapt to the changing environment.
“The Māngere Enviro Hub sits alongside other Council programmes that aim to build on the understanding within the Māngere community of a changing climate to future hazards such as floods, drought, cyclones and rising sea levels.”
2. Composting waste and creating a circular economy
Council funding has helped provide carbon cycle composting bins for the site. Each bin can process 750kg of food waste a week, and the compost produced is used to replenish the garden. The composting system is part of the Enviro Hub’s circular economy and the group charges local businesses, such as cafes, $30 a week to collect their food scraps. The green waste is then used to grow microgreens, which are sold back to the cafe.
Local student Jackson has learnt how to compost Māngere Community Enviro Hub’s carbon cycle composting bins. The Council-funded bins have the capacity to compost 750kg of food scraps a week.
Another local business supplies the Enviro Hub with mulch and brown vegetation for the garden. If the compost bins can generate excess compost, Rata hopes to sell bags at local markets.
“The idea is to create a micro store that’s accessible for the local community as there’s no hardware store or plant store in Māngere,” says Rata. “By charging a small fee for things like plants, food or compost, it covers costs but it also shows there’s a value to what we’re creating.”
3. Growing great minds
The Enviro Hub works with several schools – including Māngere College, which helped build the foundations of the garden – and community groups, such as Ngāti Tamaoho, to run workshops and teach tamariki and rangitahi (children and teenagers) sustainable living skills like how to grow their own kai. From these practical skills and new-found knowledge of the environment comes personal growth, says Rata.
“Some of these kids have a 501 gang background and what we’re trying to do here is to equip them for life,” says Rata. “I see a lot of rangatahi and they’re afraid of being Māori. They think they need to speak the reo (language) to understand the history and know their whakapapa to be Māori.
“One thing I say to these kids is if you want to understand your culture, understand your first mother, Papatūānuku (Mother Earth). Once you learn how to look after the garden and the planet and all that, everything else will just come naturally.”
4. Replenishing the whenua (land)
In his workshops, Rata teaches his students how to rejuvenate the soil in the garden with compost and organic matter which brings microorganisms to the soil. He also talks to his students about carbon sequestration (the process of capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in the soil) and mycelium in the soil (the rootlike network of fungus) – the Enviro Hub even has a mushroom hut!
“The way I explain the soil is like a waka,” Rata explains. “When some people first see a waka they think the ingenuity is in the sail, but it’s actually underneath the boat which creates air bubbles that make the boat go fast – it’s the same with soil and the garden.”
Rata also leads the community on litter clean-up days and the restoration of Te Ararata Creek. This Matariki, the Enviro Hub plans to plant 500 native trees on the waterway.
5. Feeding the community
As well as feeding locals with fresh produce, Rata and the Enviro Hub team have worked together with the TūpunaMaungaAuthority to create community hāngī days. Earlier this year, the Māngere Community Enviro Hub and TePaneoMataoho/TeAraPueru/Māngere Mountain collaborated to feed the community with delicious hāngī.
The hāngī pit at Māngere Community Enviro Hub is used for special events. The carbon left over from the feast is used to replenish the soil.
The food was prepped by a kapa haka group from Māngere College and was cooked by Māori chef Kia Kanuta. The meat served was halal to cater to Māngere’s growing Muslim community.
“For some that attended it was their first experience of hāngī and that part of Māori culture. It was important to us to make it inclusive for everyone,” says Rata. “As humans, food is our first language and it’s a common shared experience for every culture. The good thing about hāngī is it sweetens the soil and we can use the carbon back in the garden – it’s all cyclical.”
In a significant advancement toward sustainable energy solutions, Indian researchers have developed a novel, cost-effective, metal-free catalyst that can efficiently produce hydrogen (H₂) fuel by harvesting mechanical energy. This innovation represents a major breakthrough in green hydrogen technology and offers a promising path toward cleaner alternatives to fossil fuels.
The research, led by Professor Tapas K. Maji of the Chemistry and Physics of Materials Unit at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, introduces a donor-acceptor based covalent organic framework (COF) that acts as a highly efficient piezocatalyst for water splitting—a method that separates hydrogen from water molecules.
Unlike traditional catalysts that rely heavily on metal-based ferroelectric materials, the new COF system is entirely organic and metal-free. It is composed of tris(4-aminophenyl)amine (TAPA) as the donor molecule and pyromellitic dianhydride (PDA) as the acceptor. These materials form imide linkages that give rise to a unique structural phenomenon known as ferrielectric (FiE) ordering.
“This breakthrough challenges the traditional reliance on heavy or transition metal-based catalysts, offering a new direction in the development of scalable, sustainable hydrogen production systems,” said Prof. Maji.
What sets this material apart is its sponge-like porous architecture that facilitates efficient water diffusion and access to charge carriers. The FiE ordering in the COF creates intense local electric fields at the pore surfaces, enabling high-density charge accumulation and, in turn, high yields of hydrogen fuel.
Prof. Umesh V. Waghmare, a collaborator from JNCASR, contributed theoretical insights showing that the COF’s electronic structure features coupled energy bands and dipolar ordering. This causes lattice instability, enabling dynamic interaction with mechanical pressure. When stimulated mechanically, the material generates electron-hole pairs, catalyzing the water-splitting reaction with exceptional efficiency.
The study, published in Advanced Functional Materials, involved a multidisciplinary team, including researchers Ms. Adrija Ghosh, Ms. Surabhi Menon, Dr. Sandip Biswas, and Dr. Anupam Dey from JNCASR. Additional contributions came from Dr. Supriya Sahoo and Prof. Ramamoorthy Boomishankar from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, and Prof. Jan K. Zaręba from Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Poland.
This innovative catalyst not only reduces dependency on expensive and environmentally harmful metals but also offers a viable method to harness ambient mechanical energy—such as vibrations or pressure—for clean energy generation. The development aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, aimed at promoting large-scale green hydrogen production and positioning the country as a global leader in this emerging sector.
With global urgency to transition to renewable energy sources, the success of this metal-free piezocatalyst marks a critical step in enabling efficient, clean, and sustainable hydrogen fuel technology.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
MHRA approves world’s first low-carbon version of COPD inhaler Trixeo Aerosphere
As with all medicines, the MHRA will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of Trixeo Aerosphere
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved a low-carbon version of Trixeo Aerosphere, a triple combination inhaler for adults with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which uses the propellant, HFO-1234ze(E), and is just as safe and effective as the previous version.
COPD affects around 1.2 million people in the UK and is the second most common cause of emergency hospital admissions. Trixeo Aerosphere is used to make breathing easier and improve symptoms of COPD such as shortness of breath, wheezing and cough. It can also prevent flare-ups (exacerbations) of COPD.
The newly approved version of Trixeo Aerosphere replaces the propellant HFA-134a with HFO-1234ze(E) – a fluorinated gas with near-zero global warming potential. The propellant itself is not an active medicine but is used to deliver the inhaled dose.
This new version will be available in the UK from the second half of 2025. In the meantime, the current version of Trixeo Aerosphere will continue to be available to patients.
Julian Beach, MHRA Interim Executive Director, Healthcare Quality and Access, said:
Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high quality, safe and effective medicines are key priorities for us.
Inhalers are a cornerstone of COPD treatment, helping manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations. However, some inhalers can also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through their propellants.
This approval supports the continued availability of a widely used COPD treatment while enabling a transition to inhalers with a lower carbon footprint – without compromising on safety, quality or clinical benefit.
Karin Smyth, Minister of State for Health, said:
With 1.2 million people using inhalers in the UK, there is no doubt about the impact they have on the environment.
This is another example of the UK being at the forefront of delivering innovative, environmentally friendly and top-quality medicines that will benefit patients across the UK.
Through our Plan for Change, we will lower our carbon footprint in our mission towards Net Zero and rebuild our NHS.
Trixeo Aerosphere is used twice daily (two puffs in the morning and evening) as a long-term maintenance treatment. No changes have been made to the active ingredients, recommended dose or clinical use.
The MHRA’s approval is supported by clinical evidence showing that the new propellant, HFO-1234ze(E), delivers the same dose and therapeutic effect as the original formulation. The assessment included evidence on product quality, device performance and stability.
A full list of side effects for the current version of the product can be found in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), which will be updated when the new version of the medicine becomes available.
As with all medicines, the MHRA will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of Trixeo Aerosphere. Anyone experiencing suspected side effects is encouraged to report them through the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or via the Yellow Card app.
Notes to editors
The variation to the existing marketing authorisation of Trixeo Aerosphere was granted on 9 May 2025 to AstraZeneca.
The Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information Leaflet for the current version of the product can be found here. An updated SmPC and PIL will be available once the new version of the medicine is available.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.
Despite high volatility during the trading session on Wednesday, Indian stock markets managed to close in the green.
The Sensex erased all the early losses and closed with a gain of 105 points, or 0.13 per cent at 80,746.
Similarly, the Nifty closed the intra-day trading session with a 0.14 per cent gain at 24,414, reclaiming the crucial 24,400 mark.
“Regarding Nifty, the highest open interest on the call side is concentrated at the 24,500 and 24,400 strike prices, while the highest open interest on the put side is seen at 24,300 and 24,400,” said Sundar Kewat of Ashika Institutional Equity.
The Put-Call Ratio (PCR) stands at 0.98, indicating a relatively balanced market sentiment, he added.
The markets opened on a weak note, with early losses triggered by uncertainty in the region. However, confidence returned as the day progressed.
The recovery came as easing global trade tensions, the finalisation of a free trade agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, and strong foreign inflows helped offset concerns stemming from rising geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan.
Support from key sectors such as auto, real estate, and metals helped the indices recover, turning the mood positive by mid-session.
Tata Motors led the rally on the Sensex with a strong 5.2 per cent jump, followed by Bajaj Finance, which gained 2.02 per cent.
Eicher Motors rose 1.41 per cent, matching the gains of Adani Ports, while Titan added 1.27 per cent.
The other notable gainers on the index include Eternal (formerly Zomato), Mahindra and Mahindra, Tata Steel and more.
On the losing side, Asian Paints fell the most, shedding 4 per cent. Sun Pharma declined by 1.95 per cent, ITC lost 1.3 per cent, Nestle India dropped 1.06 per cent, and Reliance Industries slipped 1.01 per cent.
Broader markets also showed strong recovery. After suffering sharp losses in the previous session, both the Nifty Midcap 100 and Nifty Smallcap indices bounced back sharply, each posting gains of around 1.5 per cent.
Among the sectoral indices, all sectors ended in the green, except for FMCG, pharma, and healthcare.
Leading the gains were auto, media, realty, and consumer durables, each rising over 1 per cent.
Meanwhile, market volatility remained elevated as the India VIX — also known as the fear index — rose 3.58 per cent to end at 19.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
China’s Zheng Qinwen secured a place in the round of 16 for the third consecutive year by defeating Poland’s Magdalena Frech 6-3, 6-2 at the WTA Italian Open on Sunday.
Zheng Qinwen returns a shot during the women’s singles round of 32 match between Magdalena Frech of Poland and Zheng Qinwen of China at the WTA Italian Open in Rome, Italy, May 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing)
The two players split victories in their previous two meetings. This was their first meeting on clay. Zheng came out firing in the opening set, racing into a commanding 5-0 lead. Frech responded by holding serve and breaking once to close the gap to 3-5, firing two aces in the eighth game. However, Zheng steadied herself to serve out the set 6-3.
After clinching the first set, Zheng let out a loud roar.
“I’ve lost to quite a few players on clay who just keep lobbing high balls at me,” Zheng said after the match. “It gets on my nerves when they do that, so when I hit a winner, I just need to let it out to pump myself up.”
In the second set, Zheng broke early and consolidated for a 2-0 lead. Though Frech leveled the score at 2-2, Zheng regained control with a crucial break in the fifth game and surged ahead, reeling off the final four games to seal a 6-2 victory.
Zheng was particularly efficient with her drop shots throughout the match. “I noticed my opponent kept moving back, so I wanted to mix up the depth of my shots to disrupt her rhythm,” Zheng explained. “I also saw her footwork wasn’t that quick. On clay, drop shots can be a really effective weapon.”
In the next round, Zheng will face former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu of Canada.
Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –
Gennady Barykinsky, graduate Physics Department of NSU 1977, dedicated his life to science. Working in the field of laser physics, he always wanted to learn new things. Now, in retirement, he is engaged in historical research, studies genealogy and creates films. In an interview, he spoke about his difficult student years, the path to obtaining a diploma, the principles that helped him along the way, and why he believes that life should be filled with meaning.
— Tell us why you decided to apply to NSU?
— In my thoughts, I always went back to two episodes of my life that radically influenced my choice. The first episode, oddly enough, was military service in the Group of Soviet Forces in Germany. Here I was appointed commander of a platoon for controlling a radar guidance station. At that time, I did not understand not only electronics and radio engineering, but also many elementary concepts of physics. The officers literally shoved textbooks on radio engineering at me and demanded that I master all of this. After demobilization, I was constantly tormented by the same thought: “How is this possible? If I was able to master such complex technology in the army, then surely I will not be able to master higher education,” says Gennady.
The second episode was the purchase of a directory-catalogue of all higher educational institutions in the country. Through selection, Gennady determined that he liked not a narrowly specialized education, but a more universal one – university. He decided that he was not up to Moscow, Leningrad and Kiev were too academic, but the “youth and elegance of Novosibirsk” was just right.
— I came for the entrance exams. I was placed in the sixth dormitory in one room with three other applicants. In a few days, I heard such words as limit, derivative, integral and many others from these guys for the first time. I finally realized that I had nothing to do at the entrance exams. However, I still went to the first exam in written mathematics for a bad grade. After the exam, going down to the first floor of the university, I saw an announcement inviting applicants who had failed the exam to an interview at the dean’s office of the full-time preparatory department (PD) of NSU, — Gennady recalls.
The next two semesters of the school year passed in a state of great emotional tension. Gennady actually had to master almost the entire high school curriculum in five exam subjects in 8 months. Therefore, the school day lasted from dawn to dusk. In addition to in-person classes and mandatory homework, Gennady studied at least four hours every day. Therefore, out of 25 exam points, he scored 23, as it turned out, passing points and was still enrolled in the university.
— What do you remember about studying at NSU?
— I have never experienced so many emotions in my life as at the beginning of my student years. The first lectures. The first seminars. And in general, many firsts. Somewhere in my soul there is a feeling of pride that all this happened. One of the warmest memories was left by the deputy dean for our course, candidate of physical and mathematical sciences Vasily Vasilyevich Murakhtanov. In my life, I have never met a person who possessed, to a greater extent than Vasily Vasilyevich, a whole set of such qualities in relation to the interlocutor as: intelligence, modesty, tolerance. One day he came up to me and said: “Gennady Mikhailovich, the dean’s office has an offer – you to lead a group of fourth-year physicists on a summer exchange trip to Poland to the University of Krakow, for almost a month.” I agreed. Half a month passes, he approaches again: “Excuse me, but the university administration insists that you head the student construction teams of the university, and instead of a trip to Poland, we will then organize a trip to another, more interesting country for you.” He persuaded me again. Everything happened just like that, I didn’t even regret it, because I managed to go to Cuba, but that’s a completely different story, – Gennady said.
Gennady calls the path to his diploma work thorny, since he spent a long time choosing a department and tried himself in different scientific institutes: theoretical and applied mechanics, automation and electrometry, thermal physics, chemical kinetics and combustion.
— This almost led to the fact that I did not have time to submit my fourth-year coursework to the dean’s office. But fate decreed otherwise. My friend Boris Bondarev, an active leader of the student club “Quantum”, advised me to try myself in laser physics. That’s how I ended up in the Laser Physics Department of the Institute of Semiconductor Physics under the supervision of Viktor Vasilyevich Lebedev. I remember him with great warmth — thanks to him, I dedicated my life to laser physics and I do not regret it. My diploma defense was successful — on June 2, 1978, my work was rated “excellent”. Later, its materials were published in the journal “Quantum Electronics”. This experience taught me that persistence and perseverance always bring results, even if the path turns out to be more difficult than expected, — the graduate recalls.
During his entire period of study, Gennady only once received a bad mark on an exam. It was thermodynamics. Now Gennady is 76 years old, he has been retired for a long time, but he really likes to do research work on studying the history and genealogy of his family. He also creates texts, articles and videos with interest.
— I am working on the design of my memories and some other topics in films that I have learned to create myself. I never thought that making films is incredibly interesting. A monograph is not excluded! Currently, several films about NSU are in the works: “A Big Film about the NSU SSO in the Period 1976-1979”, “A Film about the First Congress of NSU Graduates, the Creation and Functioning of this Union”, “The Second Part of the Film “NSU in Faces”, “A Film about the Problems of Graduates — Young Scientists”. I want to wish the graduates of 2025 to live by the meaning and essence, and not by the color of the packaging,” Gennady concludes.
Some of Gennady Barykinsky’s films can be viewed here:
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
ndia is poised to become one of the most exciting investment destinations in the world and may even outperform China in the coming years, according to ace investor Jim Rogers.
In an interaction with IANS, Rogers said, “I have been around the investment world for decades, and for the first time in my life, I see that the people in Delhi understand economics.”
“India is rising again. I think the people in Delhi understand what needs to be done and are trying to do it. That would be wonderful for India and for the world. If India can actually open up and engage in trade with the whole world, you cannot believe how exciting the country’s future could be,” said the American investor and financial commentator.
“I don’t have investments in India right now, but I really, really want to invest more in the fastest-growing economy,” he added. Rogers also noted that if the market declines and stays down for a while, “I want to put more money in India.”
India is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy in 2025, with the country’s nominal GDP expected to rise to $4,187.017 billion—surpassing Japan’s GDP, which is pegged at $4,186.431 billion—according to the IMF’s latest World Economic Outlook report.
Commenting on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), Rogers told IANS that increased free trade is beneficial for the world, and particularly for India.
“It will be extremely exciting for the world, including foreign investors,” he said.
India has signed 13 FTAs with its trading partners and is currently negotiating several more, including: the India-EU FTA, the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), the India-Peru Trade Agreement covering goods, services, and investment, the India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA), and the India-Oman FTA.
India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark FTA that is significant not only in terms of scope—covering reductions across 90 per cent of tariff lines—but also in its symbolic value, marking a shift in post-globalisation economic strategy.
According to an SBI report, the agreement signals a new global trade strategy for India, which includes reducing dependence on China, navigating U.S. tariffs, and recalibrating post-Brexit relations with Britain.
Moreover, India has also initiated a review of its existing FTAs, including the India-South Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA).
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
Emotions erupted late Saturday evening at Hamburger SV’s arena following the club’s return to the first tier after seven years.
Hours of celebration followed across the city. While overwhelming joy is typical after sporting success, the dramatic story of one of Germany’s most famous football teams stands as a special chapter.
Internal power struggles had divided the team, with various squads and coaches collapsing under immense expectations after relegation in 2018. It took 34-year-old former assistant coach Merlin Polzin to finally overcome these challenges.
The 2018 relegation was Hamburg’s first and only demotion since the league’s foundation in 1963. After 2,555 days, the “Red pants” are back.
Narrow and heartbreaking failures, often mere millimeters from success, had led to widespread mockery. Golden times seemed long gone, with the atmosphere verging permanently on mediocrity.
This golden era included six league titles (the last in 1983), three German Cup wins (last in 1987), the 1977 UEFA Cup, and the 1983 European Champions Cup – the predecessor to today’s UEFA Champions League – largely associated with Felix Magath.
Neither the club’s fans nor the former German international have forgotten that magical night in Athens, when Magath scored the winning goal against Juventus after nine minutes.
After a coaching career and more than 300 games in an HSV shirt, the 71-year-old Magath recently announced plans to run for president in the June 2025 elections.
For many supporters, hopes rest heavily on the former Shandong Taishan coach, who promised to steer the club back to consistency if elected.
“It feels like someone shaking a bottle of champagne for seven years, now the cork went off,” said Stefan Kuntz, director of sport, after coach Polzin received the traditional beer shower during the post-game press conference.
The former German international and 1996 European champion added: “We are back where we belong.”
Central to the current fairytale is coach Polzin, who took charge in November 2024 when morale at the club had hit rock bottom.
Polzin, born in Hamburg, began as an avid fan, traveling to every game. He later completed coaching education and served as an assistant coach under several predecessors.
Despite financial losses over recent years that may have diminished Hamburg’s once-great potential, HSV returns to the Bundesliga not as an ordinary rookie. Merely battling relegation cannot be considered a realistic goal.
Calm and thoughtful leadership could provide an opportunity for sustained success if realistic sporting goals are established.
“We will start planning next week to play a significant role in the first division,” Kuntz said, confirming that Polzin’s contract has been extended.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
South Korea completed a dominant sweep of all five recurve titles at the Archery World Cup Shanghai stop, the second stage of the 2025 season, on Sunday, while host China claimed two silver medals in team events.
In the recurve men’s team final, the Korean trio of Lee Woo-seok, Kim Je-deok, and Kim Woo-jin delivered a flawless first set with a perfect 60-point score, overpowering France 6-0. The United States took bronze with a 5-3 win over India.
Kim Woojin of South Korea competes during the gold final of the Recurve Mixed Team competition at Shanghai 2025 Archery World Cup Stage 2 in Shanghai, east China, May 11, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Xiang)
The recurve women’s team final featured a clash between South Korea and China. Despite an uncharacteristic 7 in the third set from the Koreans, young Chinese archers Zhu Jingyi and Huang Yuwei struggled under pressure, allowing the reigning Olympic champions to seal a 6-2 victory. Chinese Taipei claimed bronze by defeating Mexico 5-1.
South Korea continued its supremacy in the mixed team event, with Olympic champions Kim Woo-jin and Lim Si-hyeon overpowering China’s Wang Yan and Li Jiaman 6-2. Türkiye secured the bronze medal.
“These young athletes experienced their first international final showdown against Korean archers,” said Chinese coach Kwon Yong-hak. “They were angry after the match – I told them they should feel that way. This unyielding attitude is crucial for growth.”
He particularly noted Li Jiaman’s determination: “She desperately wanted redemption after the women’s team loss, but the mounting pressure affected her mixed team performance. We’re not afraid of losing – these lessons will fuel our preparation for Los Angeles 2028.”
Kim Woo-jin cemented his status as the tournament’s standout athlete, adding individual men’s gold to his team and mixed team triumphs. The Paris 2024 Olympic champion edged Mexico’s Matias Grande 7-1 in the final. In the women’s event, Lee Ga-hyun completed Korea’s golden sweep with a 6-2 victory over compatriot Lim Si-hyeon.
The compound finals on Saturday saw Dutch star Mike Schloesser claim his tenth World Cup stage gold in the men’s final, while India’s Madhura Dhamangaonkar secured her victory in the women’s final. Team honors went to India (men), Mexico (women), and Britain’s Ella Gibson and Ajay Scott (mixed).
The Archery World Cup moves to Antalya, Türkiye for its next stage from June 3-8.