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Lord Holmes warns of increasingly ‘urgent’ need to regulate AI Lord Holmes warns of increasingly ‘urgent’ need to regulate AI The *** government must “urgently” legislate on artificial intelligence (AI) given the clearly negative impacts it is already having on many people’s day-to-day lives, warns Conservative peer Lord Holmes in a report. In November 2023, Holmes introduced an AI private members bill to Parliament in lieu of any formal proposals from government at the time, which focused on establishing measures for “adaptive regulation”, inclusive design, ethical standards, transparency, accountability, education and international cooperation. Holmes said in the report that while his bill was intended to proactively engage the public and fellow parliamentarians with the ideas and legislative steps needed to ensure AI is shaped positively for the benefit of all, the technology remains largely “under-regulated”, which is allowing a range of harms to flourish unabated. “Whether it’s discrimination and bias in AI algorithms, disinformation from synthetic imagery, scams using voice mimicking technology, copyright theft or unethical chatbot responses, we are already facing a host of problems from existing AI,” he said. Speaking during a roundtable on the launch of the report, Holmes added while it was urgent to regulate AI when he initially proposed his private members bill back in 2023, “I believe it remains even more pressing today”. Highlighting eight archetypal examples of people living “at the sharp end” of unregulated AI in the ***, Holmes’ report – published on 26 February 2025 – shows how the technology is already negatively impacting people’s lives due to the lack of effective protections in place. For each of the examples, the report lays out the problem and how his proposed AI bill could address the issues at hand. In the case of benefit claimants, for example, he noted how the Department for Work and Pension (DWP) has “consistently failed” to inform the public about the algorithms it is deploying to make decisions about people’s lives, and flagged that automated systems have wrongly led to thousands of indefinite benefit suspensions or fraud investigations. To alleviate this, Holmes said clause two of his bill would set the principles of the previous Conservative government’s AI whitepaper on a statutory footing, including measures around transparency, explainability, accountability, contestability and redress, as well as a duty not to discriminate. He also highlighted a separate AI private members bill introduced in September 2024 by Liberal Democrat peer Lord Clement-Jones, which more narrowly “aims to establish a clear mandatory framework for the responsible use of algorithmic and automated decision-making systems in the public sector”. For the jobseeker, Holmes said while AI is being increasingly deployed in recruitment processes, there are no specific laws currently regulating the use of the technology in employment decisions. He added this has led to people being unfairly exempted from roles due to training data being heavily influenced by years of male-dominated hiring patterns, and creates further issues around the over-collection of personal data to inform the systems and a general lack of transparency around models. Again highlighting clause two of his bill, Holmes said further clauses establishing a “horizontally focused AI authority” – which would undertake a gap analysis of existing regulatory responsibility and ensure alignment across different sectoral regulators – and “AI responsible officers” would also strengthen protections for jobseekers subject to AI. Other archetypal examples highlighted by Holmes include the teacher, the teenager, the scammed, the creative, the voter, and the transplant patient – all of whom he said would benefit from a number of other clauses in his private members bill. These include clauses on “meaningful, long-term public engagement” around the opportunities and risks of AI, as well as transparency around the use of third party data and intellectual property (IP) in training sets, which “must be obtained by informed consent”. Participation and trust Speaking during the report roundtable, participants – including representatives from civil society groups, trade unions and research bodies, as well as other Lords – highlighted a number of key considerations for regulating AI. This includes leveraging the procurement powers of governments in ways that reflect the values trying to be achieved, which they argued could act as a form of “soft power” over tech firms, and ensuring people feel like they have a say over the development and deployment of the technology throughout the public sector and their workplaces. The participants further warned that if AI systems are adopted throughout the public sector without effective regulation in place, it will irrevocably erode people’s trust in the state. Hannah Perry, head of research for digital policy at think tank Demos, for example, said AI could contribute to the further “decimation of trust we’re seeing in society at the moment” due to its tendency to act as a “centralising force” that risks “removing and disempowering the public” from decision-making. She added it was therefore “crucial” to have some form of public engagement, and that creating a “deliberative platform” where ordinary people are able to influence digital rights and principles should be embedded in any *** AI regulation. Commenting on the need for participatory regulatory approaches, Mary Towers, an employment rights officer at the Trades Union Congress (TUC) specialising in the use of AI and tech at work, said AI is already having worrying consequences for workers across a wide range of sectors, including work intensification, reduced agency and autonomy at work due to algorithmic management practices, negative mental health impacts, and unfair or discriminatory outcomes. Flagging TUC polling on worker attitudes towards AI, Towers added that some “70% of workers believe it is only right that there is a statutory right to consultation for employers to consult with workers before implementing new technology at work”. She added: “Clearly, we believe there should be legislation. It should be context-specific. But I also want to highlight that regulation isn’t just about legislation. Consultation, participation, collective bargaining, the social partnerships approach – those are all certainly forms of regulation.” Andrew Strait, associate director at the Ada Lovelace Institute (ALI), added that while surveys find most people do not rank AI as a priority issue alone, this changes when they are asked about its use in sensitive public sector contexts, such as health and social care or benefit allocation decisions. “Suddenly people really care,” he said. “They’re very concerned, very nervous, very uncomfortable with the pace of adoption, the lack of guardrails, the sense that things are moving too quickly and in a way where human autonomy, expert decision-making are being pushed out of the way for speed and efficiency. “That then begs the question of, what is it that people want? They want regulation. They want rules to feel comfortable about it. They want to feel like they do when they go on airplane, where there’s been rigorous safety testing, norms and standards.” A false dichotomy Strait further highlighted that, in the ALI’s experience of engaging with private companies, the “single greatest barrier” to increased AI adoption is the lack of reliability in the technology – something that standards and regulation would also give them more certainty on. The roundtable participants also vehemently argued against creating a binary between innovation and growth on the one hand, and safety and regulation on the other. Keith Rosser, director at Reed Screening and a member of the Better Hiring Institute’s advisory board, said, for example, that because the recruitment sector is already awash with AI – with both jobseekers and employers using the tech to make and sift through job applications respectively – “we’ve got all the risks, but only some of the opportunities”. He added that without regulation, this situation will persist: “Businesses want to be supported by governments, they want to know where the guardrails are … For both sides of this use case – the jobseeker and the hiring company – no regulation means there’s huge uncertainty.” Roger Taylor, first chair of the ***’s Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation, added that the use of AI in government is likely the most significant area where there is no regulation: “The tension at the moment is this fear that growth and regulation fight against each other, and growth is the most important thing, followed by making public services more efficient and more effective before the next election comes along. “It’s quite understandable why those would be the priorities. The question is, is it really true that regulatory measures are counterproductive? … We do need to pass a law that puts in place some kind of legal regulatory mechanism, not just because we want the assurance and we’re worried about things going on, but because it is an enormous opportunity for this country to demonstrate that we can lead in this area.” Source link #Lord #Holmes #warns #increasingly #urgent #regulate Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

FragPunk Preview: Exclusive Hands-on with New Character Chum and Dongtian Map – IGN FragPunk Preview: Exclusive Hands-on with New Character Chum and Dongtian Map – IGN FragPunk Preview: Exclusive Hands-on with New Character Chum and Dongtian Map IGNPutting The Punk In Fragpunk: ******** Developers Are Tearing Up The FPS Rulebook TheGamerFragpunk is like every shooter, everywhere, all at once – and could be Netease’s next Marvel Rivals (if the dev plays its cards right) VG247Fragpunk is prepared to take on the hero shooter competition Digital Trends Source link #FragPunk #Preview #Exclusive #Handson #Character #Chum #Dongtian #Map #IGN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Private health premiums to rise as insurers cry poor Private health premiums to rise as insurers cry poor Insurers have been asked repeatedly to submit claims for premium rises to the government but private hospitals say they don’t expect to see much of the money. Source link #Private #health #premiums #rise #insurers #cry #poor Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

A little-known ******** company made a drug that beat the world’s biggest-selling medicine A little-known ******** company made a drug that beat the world’s biggest-selling medicine A scene from a video provided by Akeso shows part of their production facilities. – Courtesy Akeso China’s DeepSeek shocked the world by delivering unexpected innovation at an unbelievable price. But this disruptive trend isn’t confined to Big Tech: it has been quietly happening in the pharmaceutical sector. In September, Akeso, a little-known ******** biotech company founded nearly a decade ago shook up the biotech sector with its new lung ******* drug. Ivonescimab, the new drug, was found in a trial conducted in China to have bested Keytruda, the blockbuster medication developed by Merck that has raked in more than $130 billion in sales for the American behemoth that has dominated ******* treatment. Patients treated with Akeso’s new drug went 11.1 months before their tumors began to grow again, compared with 5.8 months for Keytruda, according to clinical data released at the World Conference on Lung *******, a top medical forum. Over the course of several days in early September, shares in California-based Summit Therapeutics, Akeso’s US partner, more than doubled to a record high, according to data from Refinitiv. The firm had licensed the right to commercialize the new drug in North America and Europe. At the time, though experts said it was a watershed moment for ******** pharmaceutical companies, it was little noticed outside the industry. All that changed following DeepSeek’s exploits earlier this year, which put international attention on pockets of innovation in China — with growing global implications. “I do believe the ******** biotech industry will play an important role globally. And we [will] participate more and more,” Michelle Xia, the CEO of Akeso, said in an interview last month with BiotechTV. In a statement sent to CNN, Akeso said it was an “incredibly exciting moment” to see its drug beat Keytruda, the world’s best-selling medication. “Akeso’s innovation is driven by a deep understanding of disease biology and protein engineering, while benefitting from the fast development time and the abundance of top-tier talent in China,” it said. Until the 1980s, when China opened up its economy, most of its pharmaceutical firms were state-owned. For most of the past 40 years, ******** biotech companies were mainly replicating existing medications, known as “me-too” drugs. But over the past 10 years, they’ve begun to innovate with more advanced drugs that can compete directly with the Western offerings. And they’ve signed billions of dollars in licensing deals with Western partners to get their products to the rest of the world. AstraZeneca signed a $1.92 billion deal with China’s CSPC Pharmaceutical Group last year to develop cardiovascular medication, and Merck has a $2 billion agreement with China’s Hansoh Pharmaceutical over an experimental weight loss pill. Story Continues “People were aware that the biotech industry was growing very fast in China, but very few saw it as a real threat to the top US innovators,” said Rebecca Liang, a pharmaceuticals analyst at AB Bernstein. “Now the threat is getting real, because you do start to see these next generation drugs that are sort of a leapfrog.” More of Akeso’s production facilities – Akeso According to a research note published by HSBC Qianhai Securities earlier this month, China is becoming an innovation hub for the entire industry, with the number of licensing deals jumping from just 46 in 2017 to more than 200 last year. The total deal amount was just $4 billion in 2017, and rose to $57 billion last year, it said. And figures from market intelligence firm Mergermarket indicated that large pharmaceutical transactions worth $50 million or more involving ******** firms grew nearly 30% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Cui Cui, managing director of healthcare research for Jefferies, said ******** biotech firms’ research capabilities and development efficiency are catching up, thanks to factors such as strong government support, foreign investment and a wealth of domestic talent. “In the past, [******** biotech] are perceived to be only copycats, but in the future, it might be able to compete with the global best-in-class pharmaceutical companies,” Cui told CNN. But while Akeso’s achievement is making waves overseas, debate is raging in China over the quality of domestically produced generic drugs, which have the same active ingredients as patented drugs but are much cheaper. Distrust over the track record of domestically produced medicine runs deep in China. Such concerns spiraled into public uproar last month over the alleged questionable quality of ******** generic drugs, which has led to an official investigation. China’s health regulator subsequently defended the safety of the drugs, saying the probe found the quality concerns to be unsubstantiated. Several Beijing residents told CNN last week that they were not familiar with Akeso or its new drug and still preferred imported drugs. “To be honest, I tend to choose the more expensive medicine. After all, you get what you pay for,” Gu Zhihao, a Beijing resident, told CNN. US investors and regulators have previously questioned the quality of clinical trial data gathered in China. Liang said the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has rejected drugs developed in the country in the past because the trial setup was “not rigorous enough.” Akeso’s new drug, which is not a generic, has been approved by China’s pharmaceutical regulator for some lung ******* patients. But it is still years away from being sold in the US. A global trial is now in the works for later this year, which could further prove its efficacy, according to Cui. If the outcome is sound, it would be further evidence of the strides China has made in developing cutting-edge drugs. CNN’s Martha Zhou and Juliana Liu contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Source link #littleknown #******** #company #drug #beat #worlds #biggestselling #medicine Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Israel seeks Gaza ceasefire extension while shunning talks to end war – Financial Times Israel seeks Gaza ceasefire extension while shunning talks to end war – Financial Times Israel seeks Gaza ceasefire extension while shunning talks to end war Financial TimesAs the clock ticks down on the Gaza ceasefire, Israel prepares for more war CNNDispute over disarming ****** bedevils efforts to extend Gaza ceasefire The Washington PostWhite House envoy may travel to Middle East Sunday in push to extend Gaza deal AxiosWitkoff: Talks have progressed over the past day The Jerusalem Post Source link #Israel #seeks #Gaza #ceasefire #extension #shunning #talks #war #Financial #Times Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Tokyo Beast is the latest blockchain game, with pre-registrations open on Android, iOS, and PC Tokyo Beast is the latest blockchain game, with pre-registrations open on Android, iOS, and PC Tokyo Beast pre-registrations are now open You can participate in a tournament with a $1 million prize pool No upfront investment is required Tokyo Beast has just opened pre-registrations worldwide, bringing a mix of strategy-driven battles and competitive predictions to PC and mobile. Set in a futuristic Tokyo in 2124, this combat-focused experience revolves around Xeno-karate, a high-stakes tournament where androids known as Beast models fight for dominance. You can take part in Tokyo Beast as a competitor, assembling a team of four Beasts, or as a spectator, predicting match outcomes for rewards. With a prize pool of up to $1 million, Tokyo Beast introduces a win-loss prediction element using blockchain technology. However, unlike many blockchain-based projects, you don’t need to purchase NFTs or virtual currency to participate. You can engage with the competition without any upfront investment, making it accessible to a wider audience. In-game items earned through predictions can be exchanged for virtual currency or other rewards, offering multiple ways to interact. As for the Beast replicants themselves, they add a layer of strategy to every match with a variety of skills based on their components. Battles progress automatically, with skill activation determined by chance, leading to unpredictable outcomes. Unexpected victories can shift the tide, keeping competitions engaging and dynamic. Looking for something that will put your thinking skills to the test? Here’s a list of the best strategy games to play on iOS right now! The blockchain game has been designed for a global audience, allowing you to complete or make predictions against others worldwide. Weekend championship matches offer additional opportunities to earn rewards by successfully forecasting results, whether through player support, statistical analysis, or discussions with others. Pre-registration is open for Tokyo Beast across multiple platforms, including PC, the App Store, and Play Store. You can sign up by clicking on your preferred link below. Visit the official website for more information. You can also join the Discord channel to stay updated on all the latest developments. Source link #Tokyo #Beast #latest #blockchain #game #preregistrations #open #Android #iOS Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Home Depot Turns a Corner: New Highs Likely This Year Home Depot Turns a Corner: New Highs Likely This Year Home Depot’s (NYSE:) Q4 2024 report and guidance for 2025 have plenty to be unhappy about, but the simple truth is that this company turned a corner in 2024. It is on track for its stock to hit new highs that could come before the middle of the year. At face value, current conditions offset the warning housing markets may not improve. Those include a reversion to growth, better-than-expected earnings, and sustained capital returns supported by strength in the home improvement market. New home sales are sluggish, and big-ticket items still lag, but strength in smaller DIY projects is present and likely to continue this year. Home Depot Ends 2024 With Momentum: Issues Cautious Guidance for 2025 Home Depot had a solid Q4 with results impacted by an extra week, and both the reported and adjusted figures were above consensus forecasts. The company reported $39.7 billion in net revenue for a gain of 14.1% year-over-year, which exceeded MarketBeat’s reported consensus by 160 basis points—the extra week added $2.5 billion to the top-line, aided by a 0.8% increase in comp sales. Comp sales growth is important because this is the first quarter in two years to show positive comps, and tickets and ticket averages drove the comp. Transactions are up 7.6%, the first positive reading in 11 quarters, while the ticket average is up 0.3% for the first positive reading in 6 quarters. The margin news is also good. The company experienced some margin pressure but was able to mitigate it to a degree. The net result is high single-digit net earnings and low double-digit adjusted EPS growth compared to the mid-teen revenue growth pace. The adjusted EPS rose by nearly 11% to outpace consensus by almost 300 basis points, underpinning an already solid capital return outlook. The guidance is mixed but ultimately favors higher share prices. The company forecasted a 2.8% revenue growth, including a 1% comp store increase and 13 new locations, slightly below the analysts’ consensus, offset by margin strength. The company forecast adjusted EPS to contract by 2% compared to the 4% consensus target, which is likely a cautious estimate. The company is heading into its busiest seasons, with consumer tailwinds beginning to blow. Home Depot Raises Dividend for 2025 Home Depot’s 2025 dividend increase isn’t robust, but it is still a sign of the company’s financial health that helps to boost shareholder value. The 2.2% increase is sustainable and allows for effective investment and opportunistic acquisitions, which are boosting shareholder value. At the end of F2024, the balance sheet highlights include reduced cash offset by increased receivables, inventories, goodwill, and intangibles. Liabilities, including long-term debt, are also up but far less than assets, leaving equity up significantly. Home Depot’s equity surged more than 550%, leaving shareholders in a good position and the company with ample flexibility. The initial analyst response to the 2025 guidance and dividend increase is bullish. The first revision tracked by MarketBeat was from D.A. Davidson, which raised its price target to $500. The $500 target is well above the $443 consensus, which would be a new all-time high if reached. D.A. Davidson’s target is now the highest issued by major analysts and offers more than 25% upside from critical support levels. Home Depot Confirms Support at a Critical Level Home Depot confirmed support at a critical level following the 2025 guidance. The critical support is at multimonth lows and the neckline of a potential Head & Shoulders Reversal. The takeaway for investors is that HD stock is unlikely to correct to lower levels and will likely trend sideways as its market regains traction. A move above the $415 level will be significant and could increase buying activity. Original Post Source link #Home #Depot #Turns #Corner #Highs #Year Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Electric buses promised as conservatives target Labor Electric buses promised as conservatives target Labor WA Labor has promised to build hundreds of electric buses if it’s re-elected as the Liberal and National parties head to the regions to woo voters. Source link #Electric #buses #promised #conservatives #target #Labor Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Jason Kelce Attends Board Meeting in an Attempt to Decrease ‘Foot Traffic’ In Front of New Home Jason Kelce Attends Board Meeting in an Attempt to Decrease ‘Foot Traffic’ In Front of New Home Jason Kelce took to the podium at a local Pennsylvania board meeting to discuss a new home he and his wife, Kylie Kelce, are planning on building for their growing family. Last week, Jason, 37, appeared at a Haverford Township zoning hearing dressed in an olive green cardigan, white dress shirt and gray pants. Jason and Kylie, 32, moved into a home in Haverford 2018 and purchased the adjoining property in 2020. Jason and Kylie share three daughters — Wyatt, 5, Ellie, 3 and Bennett, 2 — and the couple announced in November 2024 that they are expecting their fourth daughter. As Jason rose to stand next to his representative at the meeting, zoning hearing board member Robert Kane told him, “I need to swear you in, Jason. Please raise your right hand.” Former NFL Star Jason Kelce and Wife Kylie Kelce’s Relationship Timeline: See Photos Jason joked he couldn’t find anything to “put my hand on,” but eventually answered “absolutely” when asked if he swore to “tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help you God?” “Do I start this, or do you guys ask questions?” a noticeably nervous Jason asked the board members. “I don’t know the process.” After being instructed to explain the background of his appearance at the meeting, he said, “I didn’t know where I was going to move to when I married Kylie.” Jason and Kylie Kelce with their children. Courtesy of Kylie Kelce/Instagram Jason and Kylie got married in April 2018 when he was still a member of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. He retired in March 2024 after 13 years with the franchise. “We wanted to be in this area,” Jason said. “We like this area a lot.” Jason explained he and Kylie moved into their home in 2018 “with the idea that eventually we would upsize into a ******* house.” “The lot next door became available,” Jason added, “so we thought it would be awesome to build a home there and make this our permanent address.” After “three architects” and “many years” of back-and-forth, Jason said, “We are trying to build a home.” Kylie Kelce Says Husband Jason ‘Ended Up’ in Above-Ground Swimming Pool When He 1st Met Her Parents With that construction, however, comes concerns about privacy as Jason, Kylie and Jason’s extended family — including, of course, his younger brother, Travis Kelce — continue to rise in fame and notoriety. “Obviously, things for my family are quite unique with the security purposes,” Jason told the board. “We’d like to deter, a little bit, the foot traffic coming in and out of the home. We are trying to put a fence that sufficiently does that while also appeals to the aesthetic of the area and that people would appreciate.” In closing, the board members asked Jason to make a couple of hyper-specific zoning clarifications, but one member couldn’t help but profess his fandom of the former football star and “New Heights” cohost. “I have so many questions,” he told Jason. “Maybe a future podcast episode.” Source link #Jason #Kelce #Attends #Board #Meeting #Attempt #Decrease #Foot #Traffic #Front #Home Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

******: Deal reached for ‘simultaneous’ release of 4 slain hostages, ************ prisoners – The Times of Israel ******: Deal reached for ‘simultaneous’ release of 4 slain hostages, ************ prisoners – The Times of Israel ******: Deal reached for ‘simultaneous’ release of 4 slain hostages, ************ prisoners The Times of IsraelLIVE: Israel bombs Syria; ****** says deal reached on prisoner release Al Jazeera EnglishGaza ceasefire deal impasse resolved by mediators, officials say BBC.comVideo: Brother of ****** hostage describes psychological ‘torture’ of waiting for his release CNNHamas to free 6 more Israeli hostages from Gaza Strip in latest step of ceasefire The Associated Press Source link #****** #Deal #reached #simultaneous #release #slain #hostages #************ #prisoners #Times #Israel Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Rottnest plane ******: ATSB to release preliminary report on Thursday after pilot and passengers killed Rottnest plane ******: ATSB to release preliminary report on Thursday after pilot and passengers killed The plane ****** investigator will release its preliminary report into the fatal accident which killed three people off Rottnest. Source link #Rottnest #plane #****** #ATSB #release #preliminary #report #Thursday #pilot #passengers #killed Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Serbia in talks with US, Russia as oil sanctions deadline looms Serbia in talks with US, Russia as oil sanctions deadline looms By Aleksandar Vasovic BELGRADE (Reuters) -Serbia is in last minute talks with the United States and Russia ahead of a Thursday deadline to avoid U.S. sanctions on oil company NIS that could result in crude supply cuts, Energy Minister Dubravka Djedovic Handanovic said on Wednesday. Russia’s Gazprom Neft and Gazprom hold stakes of 50% and 6.15% respectively in NIS, which operates Serbia’s sole oil refinery in Pancevo, just outside the capital Belgrade. The U.S. placed sanctions on Russia’s oil sector on January 10, and gave Gazprom Neft 45 days to exit ownership of NIS. The deadline expires at 0600 local time (0500 GMT) on Thursday, Djedovic Handanovic said in a live TV broadcast on Wednesday. “We are continuing talks with both the United States and Russia to reach a solution,” Djedovic Handanovic said. Serbia, an historical ally with Russia, has submitted a formal request to the U.S. Treasury Department for a waiver of sanctions for 90 days to allow it to consider a “sustainable solution that would lead to the lifting of sanctions”. A failure to secure a waiver would pose a major risk for its oil imports, as NIS, which supplies about 80% of the domestic retail market with crude oil and gas derivatives, would not be able to import crude oil through Croatia’s pipeline operator Janaf. Serbia has been working to shore up its fuel supplies. Djedovic Handanovic said that the government has enough to supply the market for at least three months. The Belgrade stock exchange BELEX suspended trading of NIS shares on Jan. 14, citing the introduction of the U.S. sanctions. (Reporting by Aleksandar Vasovic; Writing by Angeliki Koutantou; Editing by Louise Heavens and Edward McAllister) Source link #Serbia #talks #Russia #oil #sanctions #deadline #looms Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Pope Francis has peaceful night and is resting – ******** News – English Pope Francis has peaceful night and is resting – ******** News – English Pope Francis has peaceful night and is resting ******** News – EnglishVideo: Dr. Gupta breaks down the big concern with Pope Francis’ health CNNPope Francis remains in critical condition as fellow Argentines pray for him in Rome CBS NewsPope’s condition remains critical but stable ******** News – EnglishPope Francis’ friends around Rome pray for him as he fights pneumonia The Associated Press Source link #Pope #Francis #peaceful #night #resting #******** #News #English Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Triple M has parted ways with presenter Marty Sheargold after furore over comments he made about Matildas Triple M has parted ways with presenter Marty Sheargold after furore over comments he made about Matildas Comedian and radio presenter Marty Sheargold has agreed to ‘part ways’ with Triple M after a furore followed his disparaging comments on the Matildas and women’s sport. Source link #Triple #parted #ways #presenter #Marty #Sheargold #furore #comments #Matildas Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Applications open for CNBC’s top global fintechs list Applications open for CNBC’s top global fintechs list For the third year in a row, CNBC is working with market research firm Statista to list the world’s top financial technology companies. Including startups, scaleups and established tech players, the top global fintech list aims to assess companies using an objective, key performance indicator-based methodology. You can find out more information on the research project and methodology by clicking here. Woman using digital tablet and credit card to do shopping. John Lamb | Digital Vision | Getty Images Applications are now open for companies to register their information for consideration by Statista’s researchers. To qualify, a company must focus primarily on developing innovative, technology-based financial products and services. This year, we’re also digging deeper into the research to name the standout companies operating in the U.K. — the largest fintech market in Europe, as measured by the amount of funding raised. Applications from companies headquartered in the U.K. will — in addition to being considered for the global fintech list — also be considered for a separate list of the U.K.’s top fintech companies. Firms do not need to fill in a separate application to be considered for the U.K. ranking. Last year, fintech startups in the U.K. raised $3.6 billion in venture capital, ranking second worldwide and first in Europe for funding, according to industry trade body Innovate Finance. The country is also home to Revolut, Europe’s biggest fintech unicorn with a $45 billion valuation. How to apply Companies can submit their information for consideration by clicking here. The form, hosted by Statista, includes questions about a company’s business model and certain key performance indicators, including revenue growth and employee headcount. The deadline for submissions is April 25, 2025. If you have any questions about the lists or need assistance filling out the form, please reach out to Statista: *****@*****.tld. Successful companies will be listed in the category that most closely reflects their business model. This year, insurance technology will be included as a category in the global fintech list. The other categories are payments, neobanking, digital assets, alternative financing, wealth technology, and enterprise fintech. You can check out last year’s list here, which included well-known brands such as Mastercard and China’s Ant Group, global unicorns such as Brazilian digital lender Nubank and buy now, pay later firm Klarna, as well as smaller disruptors including payments platform Primer and investing app Stash. Source link #Applications #open #CNBCs #top #global #fintechs #list Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

******** Electric Truckmaker Zhizi Is Said to Plan $200 Million Hong Kong IPO ******** Electric Truckmaker Zhizi Is Said to Plan $200 Million Hong Kong IPO (Bloomberg) — ******** electric truckmaker Zhizi Automobile Technology Co. is considering an initial public offering in Hong Kong that could raise about $200 million, according to people familiar with the matter. Most Read from Bloomberg Zhizi is in talks with prospective advisers to help prepare for a potential share *****, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information isn’t public. Deliberations are ongoing and may not result in an IPO, they added. Representatives for Zhizi didn’t respond to requests for comment. China is dominant in electric vehicles thanks to the cost competitiveness and advanced technology of its carmakers, as well as access to raw materials for batteries. While growth has mostly been in the passenger car segment, electric truck sales in China more than doubled in 2024, according to Bloomberg NEF. Zhizi makes trucks, tractors and other commercial vehicles. Another ******** electric truckmaker — Windrose Technology Inc. — is also seeking to go public. Zhizi was established in 2022 by DECH Future Automobile Technology Co., a joint venture co-founded by Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group Co., one of China’s biggest heavy-duty truckmakers. –With assistance from Linda Lew and ***** Cao. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek ©2025 Bloomberg L.P. Source link #******** #Electric #Truckmaker #Zhizi #Plan #Million #Hong #Kong #IPO Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Modi wants Tesla to build cars in India. Making the plan work may not be easy Modi wants Tesla to build cars in India. Making the plan work may not be easy Tesla CEO Elon Musk postponed a scheduled trip to India this week where he was to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing “heavy Tesla obligations.” Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images India has been striving to become a global manufacturing hub, having successfully invited major companies such as Apple to set up as well as expand production in the country. To further bolster its manufacturing prowess, the South Asian nation has been eyeing Tesla to set up its base in the country. And the carmaker that has appeared reluctant for long is now signaling interest in the market as the Indian government attempts to welcome it by implementing a new EV tariff policy. Tesla is reportedly recruiting and scouting showroom locations in the country, following a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tesla CEO Elon Musk earlier this month. “One thing is for sure, Tesla is coming to India based on the recent news, and the government is also very serious about it,” Puneet Gupta, Director for the Indian automotive market at S&P Global Mobility, told CNBC. India introduced an EV policy last year that proposes to lower the import duties on EVs to 15% from about 70%, with the government set to start accepting applications under this policy before March-end, according to domestic news agency IANS. This relaxation only applies to premium EVs priced at over $35,000 and requires investments totaling nearly $500 million and long-term plans to set up local manufacturing. The EV policy represents a targeted move to appeal to Tesla’s business interests, signaling India’s readiness to support EV manufacturing, Ammar Master, a South Asia director of Automotive at GlobalData, told CNBC. “The Indian government has been proactive in its attempts to lure Tesla into establishing its manufacturing base in India,” he said. The automaker, however, faces several headwinds to breaking into the world’s third-largest auto market. It’s unclear if Tesla’s entry makes sense under India’s investment scheme, with any plans the automaker might have likely to be rolled out slowly and in a measured way due to several entry barriers, Gupta and other analysts said. Price and commitment issues According to a recent research note by Bank of America, if Tesla were to enter this scheme, it would translate to minimum landed car prices of $40,000. At this price, Tesla EVs would enter India’s market at a very high price point, above what existing Indian OEMs cater to and implying a small addressable market, BofA said. Under the planned EV scheme, Tesla would also need to follow a 3-year timeline for setting up manufacturing facilities in India, reaching a 50% domestic value addition within 5 years. Analysts say jumping into this commitment would be premature for Tesla, based on their current price points. A research note from BNP Paribas on Monday stated that local production in India won’t make sense unless Tesla can reduce its vehicle prices to below $30,000 to allow for mass volumes in India. Meanwhile, Tesla has yet to signal significant interest in setting up a manufacturing base in the country, with its recent job openings consisting of mostly consumer-facing positions. Additionally, geopolitical barriers may influence Telsa’s decision to produce cars in India under the new Donald Trump administration. In an interview alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk last week, President Trump said that Tesla manufacturing in India would be “very unfair.” The company has also been working on completing the production of manufacturing plants in Germany and Texas. ‘Slow and measured’ Given the price and investment challenges, experts told CNBC that Tesla’s India foray will start with exporting cars to the market to test the waters first. “We expect Tesla’s entry into India to be slow and measured, given the low average price point in the market,” BNP Paribas said, noting that the company has plans to launch more affordable models later this year. Meanwhile, S&P Global Mobility’s Gupta said that Tesla will likely push India to tweak its EV tariff policy further, allowing it to start shipping to the country more easily before making any investment promises. Some local media sources in India have reported that government may further tweak the EV policy to attract Tesla considers the market. “Even if they commit to the current proposal, it will be after six months or so,” added Gupta. However, while the Indian EV market remains small, getting a foothold there could be a valuable endeavor for Tesla as it looks for new markets amid intense competition with ******** EV makers such as BYD. “With the current momentum, we project that Passenger BEV sales in India will reach 1 million units by 2030, accounting for 20% of total sales,” said GlobalData’s Ammar Master. Source link #Modi #Tesla #build #cars #India #Making #plan #work #easy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Modi wants Tesla to build cars in India. Making the plan work may not be easy Modi wants Tesla to build cars in India. Making the plan work may not be easy Tesla CEO Elon Musk postponed a scheduled trip to India this week where he was to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, citing “heavy Tesla obligations.” Anadolu | Anadolu | Getty Images India has been striving to become a global manufacturing hub, having successfully invited major companies such as Apple to set up as well as expand production in the country. To further bolster its manufacturing prowess, the South Asian nation has been eyeing Tesla to set up its base in the country. And the carmaker that has appeared reluctant for long is now signaling interest in the market as the Indian government attempts to welcome it by implementing a new EV tariff policy. Tesla is reportedly recruiting and scouting showroom locations in the country, following a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Tesla CEO Elon Musk earlier this month. “One thing is for sure, Tesla is coming to India based on the recent news, and the government is also very serious about it,” Puneet Gupta, Director for the Indian automotive market at S&P Global Mobility, told CNBC. India introduced an EV policy last year that proposes to lower the import duties on EVs to 15% from about 70%, with the government set to start accepting applications under this policy before March-end, according to domestic news agency IANS. This relaxation only applies to premium EVs priced at over $35,000 and requires investments totaling nearly $500 million and long-term plans to set up local manufacturing. The EV policy represents a targeted move to appeal to Tesla’s business interests, signaling India’s readiness to support EV manufacturing, Ammar Master, a South Asia director of Automotive at GlobalData, told CNBC. “The Indian government has been proactive in its attempts to lure Tesla into establishing its manufacturing base in India,” he said. The automaker, however, faces several headwinds to breaking into the world’s third-largest auto market. It’s unclear if Tesla’s entry makes sense under India’s investment scheme, with any plans the automaker might have likely to be rolled out slowly and in a measured way due to several entry barriers, Gupta and other analysts said. Price and commitment issues According to a recent research note by Bank of America, if Tesla were to enter this scheme, it would translate to minimum landed car prices of $40,000. At this price, Tesla EVs would enter India’s market at a very high price point, above what existing Indian OEMs cater to and implying a small addressable market, BofA said. Under the planned EV scheme, Tesla would also need to follow a 3-year timeline for setting up manufacturing facilities in India, reaching a 50% domestic value addition within 5 years. Analysts say jumping into this commitment would be premature for Tesla, based on their current price points. A research note from BNP Paribas on Monday stated that local production in India won’t make sense unless Tesla can reduce its vehicle prices to below $30,000 to allow for mass volumes in India. Meanwhile, Tesla has yet to signal significant interest in setting up a manufacturing base in the country, with its recent job openings consisting of mostly consumer-facing positions. Additionally, geopolitical barriers may influence Telsa’s decision to produce cars in India under the new Donald Trump administration. In an interview alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk last week, President Trump said that Tesla manufacturing in India would be “very unfair.” The company has also been working on completing the production of manufacturing plants in Germany and Texas. ‘Slow and measured’ Given the price and investment challenges, experts told CNBC that Tesla’s India foray will start with exporting cars to the market to test the waters first. “We expect Tesla’s entry into India to be slow and measured, given the low average price point in the market,” BNP Paribas said, noting that the company has plans to launch more affordable models later this year. Meanwhile, S&P Global Mobility’s Gupta said that Tesla will likely push India to tweak its EV tariff policy further, allowing it to start shipping to the country more easily before making any investment promises. Some local media sources in India have reported that government may further tweak the EV policy to attract Tesla considers the market. “Even if they commit to the current proposal, it will be after six months or so,” added Gupta. However, while the Indian EV market remains small, getting a foothold there could be a valuable endeavor for Tesla as it looks for new markets amid intense competition with ******** EV makers such as BYD. “With the current momentum, we project that Passenger BEV sales in India will reach 1 million units by 2030, accounting for 20% of total sales,” said GlobalData’s Ammar Master. Source link #Modi #Tesla #build #cars #India #Making #plan #work #easy Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Morning Bid: Nvidia results offer window into AI spending – Reuters Morning Bid: Nvidia results offer window into AI spending – Reuters Morning Bid: Nvidia results offer window into AI spending ReutersNvidia Q4 earnings report set for Wednesday as tariff, export control threats loom Yahoo FinanceTop Wall St. Analysts Eye 40% Upside for Nvidia (NVDA) Pre Earnings TipRanksNvidia to report earnings amid infrastructure spending, DeepSeek concerns CNBC Source link #Morning #Bid #Nvidia #results #offer #window #spending #Reuters Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Tower of Fantasy has just unveiled the highly anticipated Starfall Radiance update as it transitions to a new publisher Tower of Fantasy has just unveiled the highly anticipated Starfall Radiance update as it transitions to a new publisher Version 4.7 brings a new Simulacrum alongside a bunch of other content Antoria joins the fray with her Volt-Frost weapon and a new matrix set The Golden Scales and Heat Up Transfer events are also live Tower of Fantasy has just released the Starfall Radiance update, making the transition to Perfect World Games as the new publisher. Version 4.7 brings a new Simulacrum, Antoria, alongside a novel storyline and limited-time events. If you transfer your account to Perfect World Games, you’ll also receive exclusive rewards to ease the transition. Antoria, the Commander of the Second Army of the Norns Federation, takes centre stage in Tower of Fantasy’s update. She leads the Reality Reshaping Program, a mission to eliminate temporal anomalies and prevent catastrophe. Facing failure, she cast a pawn into the future, allowing the Authorizer to return to the past and alter reality. Now, her Simulacrum arrives with the Volt-Frost weapon, Requiem, and a new matrix set. You can also access Antoria’s Simulacrum Dorm, an interactive space where you can spend time in her personal quarters. Starting March 1st, her Divine Slayer outfit will be available, giving her a striking dark appearance as she continues her fight for Aida’s survival. In addition, the Golden Scales event brings four themed challenges, beginning with Joyful Fiesta. This celebration includes multiplayer activities like the Entertainment Centre, Racing, and Joy Square, rewarding you with Golden Scale Shards. These can be exchanged for exclusive items, including the Bouncing Trend outfit. More event modes will roll out over time. For some freebies, be sure to claim these Tower of Fantasy codes! Furthermore, the Heat Up Transfer Event is also live, offering up to 30 draws and a chance to select an SSR Simulacrum. As you accumulate Personal Heat, you’ll be entered to win a Lin – Summer Shade figurine. Participating in all these events will net you up to 90 free draws, 1,500 Dark Crystals, and an SSR Simulacrum. Download Tower of Fantasy now for free by clicking on your preferred link below. Visit the official website for more information. Source link #Tower #Fantasy #unveiled #highly #anticipated #Starfall #Radiance #update #transitions #publisher Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

City streets locked down after woman shot and killed City streets locked down after woman shot and killed A woman has been shot dead with police forced to lock down surrounding city streets and warn residents to stay indoors. It’s understood the victim, thought to be aged in her 20s, was rushed to hospital in a critical condition but died in care. Police were called to a home in North Toowoomba shortly before 2pm following reports of a shooting and found the woman on the footpath. A vehicle of interest had been located and three associates of the dead woman were being questioned as witnesses, Acting Inspector Brian Collins told reporters on Wednesday afternoon. Asked whether they were of interest to the investigation, he said: “They’re with police and assisting police with their inquiries. “It’s extremely alarming,” Insp Collins said about when and where the incident happened. “We’re talking about early afternoon, about school pick-up time … and the police response in ascertaining what happened will be swift.” Investigators are calling on anyone in the West and Christmas streets area after 1pm who may have witnessed what happened or is able to share dashcam footage to come forward. According to local media, the dead woman suffered multiple gunshot wounds. A middle-aged man also suffered serious injuries and a second man was treated for emotional distress. Source link #City #streets #locked #woman #shot #killed Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Dramatic video shows highway overpass collapse in South Korea Dramatic video shows highway overpass collapse in South Korea Dramatic video shows highway overpass collapse in South Korea Source link #Dramatic #video #shows #highway #overpass #collapse #South #Korea Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Government invests in new AI research institute Government invests in new AI research institute Impossiable | Moment | Getty Images Hong Kong’s government has earmarked 1 billion Hong Kong dollars ($128.67 million) for the establishment of an artificial intelligence research institute. Called the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute, the facility will “spearhead and support Hong Kong’s innovative R&D as well as industrial application of AI,” the city’s Financial Secretary Paul Chan said in his budget speech Wednesday. Gary Ng, senior economist at Natixis, sees Hong Kong’s investment in innovation and AI as a positive move. “Hong Kong hasn’t been so good in terms of innovation … like, how to actually create a new product. But … the AI industry is evolving in quite a quick pace. So for the case of Hong Kong, if it is able to adapt to this new environment, trying to use AI more, including what we see within the government, I think that is definitely a positive signal,” he told CNBC’s “Street Signs Asia” on Wednesday. Tech stocks rallied on the back of the announcement, with the Hang Seng Tech Index gaining as much as 4.49%. Among the top gainers in the session were food delivery company Meituan (up 9.21%) and e-commerce platform JD.com (8.26%). Meanwhile, the Hang Seng Index gained as much as 3.19%. Chan attributed improved sentiment in asset markets this year in part to Central Government measures to support Hong Kong’s capital market, and the U.S. rate cut cycle. “The stock market saw increases in both prices and turnover volume,” he said, adding that the Hang Seng Index rose 18% for the year, while the average daily turnover increased by 26%. Funds raised by new listings increased to HK$88 billion, he added. Chan expects Hong Kong’s economy to grow at an average rate of 2.9% a year in real terms from 2026 to 2029, and the underlying inflation rate to be 2.5% a year, on average. But Natixis’ Ng says that economic growth forecast is “too optimistic.” “In the short run, we still see this uncertainty in the global interest rate environment. There are actually still a lot of geopolitical tensions that can actually affect our Hong Kong trade flows,” he said. Other concerns he outlined include more trade restrictions from the United States and potentially other countries. Ng estimates that the Hong Kong economy will grow at 2% this year and over the long term. Fiscal consolidation Hong Kong aims to cut public recurrent expenditure by 7% from now till 2027/28 to tackle its rising deficit. “It gives us a clear pathway towards the goal of restoring fiscal balance in the operating account, in a planned and progressive manner,” Chan said in his speech. That comes as the Asian financial hub saw a steep decline in government revenue from land sales in the past financial year. Land sales have been a key source of income for the government and contributed to over 20% of coffers, a figure has now plunged to about 5%, Reuters reported. Natixis’ Ng expects the government to focus strongly on fiscal consolidation by restricting expenses and moderately increasing revenue. “That will be a direction that we will continue to see, probably in the next few years, because Hong Kong’s fiscal deficit problem is increasingly structural,” he added. Source link #Government #invests #research #institute Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]

Following delay, Israel agrees to release ************ detainees in new exchange as fragile Gaza ceasefire appears intact – CNN Following delay, Israel agrees to release ************ detainees in new exchange as fragile Gaza ceasefire appears intact – CNN Following delay, Israel agrees to release ************ detainees in new exchange as fragile Gaza ceasefire appears intact CNNLIVE: Israel bombs Syria; ****** says deal reached on prisoner release Al Jazeera EnglishGaza ceasefire deal impasse resolved by mediators, officials say BBC.comVideo: Brother of ****** hostage describes psychological ‘torture’ of waiting for his release CNNIsraeli official says hostages’ remains to be released on Wednesday The Times of Israel Source link #delay #Israel #agrees #release #************ #detainees #exchange #fragile #Gaza #ceasefire #appears #intact #CNN Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content] For verified travel tips and real support, visit: [Hidden Content]

Lucas Hetebry-Roberts: Man, 19, charged with attempted ******* after alleged Northbridge steak knife stabbing Lucas Hetebry-Roberts: Man, 19, charged with attempted ******* after alleged Northbridge steak knife stabbing A 19-year-old who allegedly stabbed a man sleeping outside a Lake Street building has fronted court wearing a forensic jumpsuit. Source link #Lucas #HetebryRoberts #Man #charged #attempted #******* #alleged #Northbridge #steak #knife #stabbing Pelican News View the full article at [Hidden Content]