Xbox Game Pass lost “millions” of subscribers after Microsoft lifted the monthly price of its Ultimate tier from $20 to $30 in October 2025, exposing the limits of consumer tolerance for subscription gaming even at one of the industry’s most heavily promoted services. Matthew Ball, Xbox’s chief strategy officer, said at The Game Business Live that the company “shed millions of subscribers over the span of a […]
Investment by leading industry institute supports Tracr’s evolution to becoming an independent, industry-wide platform for natural diamond provenance
LAS VEGAS, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 June 2026 – De Beers Group and GIA (Gemological Institute of America) today announced the signing of a definitive agreement for GIA to acquire a 30 per cent shareholding in Tracr, the De Beers Group-backed company behind the development of the pioneering diamond provenance blockchain-driven platform.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in Tracr’s evolution towards independence and reflects GIA’s confidence in the platform’s role as an industry-wide infrastructure to advance natural diamond provenance and traceability at scale.
GIA’s investment – which builds on a 2023 initiative to include diamond provenance information registered on Tracr’s platform on eligible GIA diamond grading reports – represents a significant step in this transition, reinforcing Tracr’s long-term credibility across the diamond value chain.
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said: “Consumers deserve to know where their diamonds come from and they should feel more confident in their understanding of each diamond’s source. At De Beers we have been providing provenance data on diamonds through Tracr for several years and we believe that delivering provenance should become an industry standard. Following our promise to open Tracr up to broad ownership, we are proud to be partnering with GIA as Tracr evolves into an independent, industry-wide platform. We will work alongside GIA to advance provenance transparency for the entire diamond sector.”
Pritesh Patel, President and CEO of GIA, said: “At GIA, our mission has always been rooted in trust, integrity, and consumer confidence. Our collaboration with Tracr over the past several years reinforced our belief that combining source-based blockchain provenance with GIA’s independent grading and identification expertise can help unlock a new level of transparency for the diamond industry. As Tracr continues to scale globally, we see a tremendous opportunity to deliver meaningful, verifiable provenance information from the source to the consumer. We are proud to deepen our commitment through this investment and help shape the next evolution of transparency, traceability, and trust across our industry.”
Jillian Wolk, CEO of Tracr, said: “The start of Tracr’s evolution into an independent platform, as a result of GIA’s investment, creates a strong foundation for the future. I am excited to continue scaling the platform and bringing more producers on board, which will support Tracr in enabling the individual journey of every registered diamond to come to life. Each stone carries its own narrative, defined by its source and the craftsmanship that has shaped it, and as Tracr continues to grow we have a fantastic opportunity to help reveal those unique stories.”
De Beers has been developing Tracr since 2018 and it is now a leading distributed diamond blockchain platform that starts at the source, registering diamonds at the point of recovery. In 2023, De Beers opened the platform to the wider diamond industry, positioning Tracr as an industry-wide, scalable solution for rough-to-polish verification of natural diamond provenance, which starts at a stone’s source.
Today, more than five million rough diamonds have been registered on Tracr at source, representing around two-thirds of De Beers’rough diamond production by value. Since January 2025, single country of origin for De Beers diamonds has been available on Tracr, with all newly sourced De Beers rough diamonds of one carat and above being registered on the platform.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo-American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.
About GIA An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight and, in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which is recognized around the world as the standard for diamond quality.
Through research, education, gemological laboratory services and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism.
By Nantoo Banerjee It is good that the government has finally decided to introduce the Producer Price Index (PPI) as a more reliable inflation tracker than the Wholesale Price Index (WPI). However, it may not be desirable to dump WPI entirely after a period of the next five years. Wholesale price levels remain highly valuable […]
Open-source maintainers and software manufacturers are heading towards the European Union’s first Cyber Resilience Act enforcement milestone with deep gaps in awareness, preparedness and legal clarity, after new OpenSSF research found that about two-thirds of practitioners remain unready or unaware of the compliance timetable. The finding has sharpened concern across the software supply chain because the CRA’s vulnerability and incident reporting duties begin on 11 September 2026, […]
MetaMask has launched Agent Wallet, a self-custodial product designed to let AI agents trade and manage crypto activity while keeping users in control of funds, approvals and risk limits. The Consensys-owned wallet provider introduced the service on 8 June through a limited early-access programme, initially aimed at traders and developers testing autonomous finance tools. A wider rollout is planned over the coming months as crypto firms race […]
Software developers across close to 100 organisations have been targeted by a likely North Korea-linked hacking operation that used fake recruitment and code-review tasks to steal cryptocurrency, browser credentials and wallet data. The campaign, tracked by security researchers as UNK_DeadDrop, unfolded over April and May and reached targets in technology, finance, cryptocurrency, education, business services and other sectors. More than 250 phishing emails were sent during a […]
Citrini Research has placed Hyperliquid among its more compelling crypto ideas, arguing that the decentralised exchange stands apart from much of the digital asset market because it generates meaningful cash flow and channels a large share of trading fees into token buybacks. The research firm’s attention carries unusual weight after its February essay on artificial intelligence and market risk helped trigger a sharp sell-off across technology and […]
GenZVerse has completed a full burn of its liquidity provider tokens and moved core ecosystem contracts into a multisignature governance structure, positioning the Polygon-based Web3 project as it pushes ahead with plans for a broader “super app” model. The project said 100% of its LP tokens had been permanently burned, securing more than $170,000 in on-chain liquidity. LP tokens typically represent control over liquidity deposited into a […]
Digital gold has arrived in the Gulf. It still answers to the gram. 1. Two buyers, one price Walk through the Dubai Gold Souq on a busy evening and you will see two buyers who think they are doing completely different things. One is turning a 22-karat bangle over in his hand, watching the shopkeeper punch the day’s rate into a calculator. The other is standing a […]
The second edition of the popular topiary showcase introduces an interactive area starring Disney’s Frozen, and more beloved Disney and Pixar character dioramas including Toy Story 5 and Disney Princess
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 June 2026 – Disney magic blooms anew at Singapore’s premier horticultural destination Gardens by the Bay as the second edition of Disney Garden of Wonder, opens today. Featuring 23 vibrant topiaries inspired by beloved Disney and Pixar characters, the enchanting showcase transforms Floral Fantasy into a world of floral artistry and imagination through 14 March 2027.
Beauty and the Beast
Organised in collaboration with Disney and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, Disney Garden of Wonder is inspired by Disney and Pixar stories that have charmed generations of fans around the world, inviting people of all ages to re-discover their favourite stories of courage, kindness, friendship and love through the beauty of plants. Following the success of its debut at Gardens by the Bay in 2024, the enthralling floral showcase returns in an even more special second edition.
Anna and Olaf from Frozen
Visitors can look forward to five themed areas:
Frozen, in which topiary versions of Anna, Elsa and Olaf preside over an enchanting snowy landscape, brought to life through themed lighting that imagines a frost-kissed world of wonder. Inspired by Elsa’s Ice Palace, visitors can step on a floor where magical snowflakes dance and respond to movement.
Disney princesses, where Rapunzel appears alongside her best friend Pascal the chameleon; Belle is with the Beast and their enchanted companions; and Jasmine is accompanied by her loyal tiger Rajah.
Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Piglet and Tigger gather in a cheerful party scene. Tigger bounces up and down while Piglet twirls, and visitors can picture themselves joining everyone at the table!
Toy Story 5, where Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear appear as topiaries in a playful setting inspired by Bonnie’s Room, alongside displays of new characters Lilypad and Smarty Pants.
Go Local, a Singaporean-themed zone where Disney characters are reimagined in familiar local settings. Chip ‘n Dale perch atop a giant ice cream sandwich; Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck share the spicy rice noodle dish laksa; and Mickey Mouse makes the traditional beverage teh tarik with Donald Duck.
Outside Floral Fantasy, a 4m-tall Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey marks the entrance and welcomes visitors to Gardens by the Bay.
The hand-assembled topiaries are crafted from more than 40 species of preserved and dried floral materials, which took more than 16,000 man hours.
Each material was selected for its colour, texture and form, helping to reflect each character’s features. Plenty of flowers are used for the Disney princesses for example, while Rapunzel’s hair is crafted from Stipa, a perennial grass that has fluffy or oat-like flowerheads.
The surrounding landscapes also use plant palettes that reflect the mood of each zone — sunflowers and marigolds reflect the honey-toned meadow setting of Winnie the Pooh, while lilies and roses bring out the romantic and jewel-toned settings of Disney Princess stories. Hydrangeas and dusty miller evoke the icy blues, whites and silvers of Frozen.
Throughout the duration of Garden of Wonder, visitors can enjoy select weekend Meet and Greet sessions with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in outfits inspired by Singapore’s national flower, the Vanda Miss Joaquim. Donald Duck and Daisy Duck will also join the experience on select weekends, dressed for a sunny getaway on our tropical island. Meet and Greet dates are available at www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/disneygardenofwonder.
Visitors can round off their experience with shopping at the gift shop, which carries items launching exclusively at Disney Garden of Wonder.
Disney Garden of Wonder
Date: 8 June 2026 to 14 March 2027
Time: 10am to 9pm
Venue: Floral Fantasy at Gardens by the Bay
Details: Tickets are priced at SG$24 for adults and SG$16 for children
Getting here: Take the MRT to Bayfront station. Alternatively, drop off at the Bayfront Plaza carpark via taxi or ride-hailing service. More information available here.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Gardens by the Bay
An integral part of Singapore’s “City in Nature” vision, Gardens by the Bay is a national garden and premier horticultural attraction that showcases the best of garden and floral artistry for all to enjoy. Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore’s downtown Marina Bay, it comprises three waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. Bay South, the largest at 54 hectares, officially opened on 29 June 2012.
Guided by the vision to be a world of gardens for all to own, enjoy and cherish, the Gardens’ extensive plant collection, ever-changing floral displays, and myriad of engaging programmes have captured the imagination of many, while its Gift of Gardens community initiative, with Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore as Patron, reaches out to people from all walks of life.
Since opening, Gardens by the Bay has welcomed more than 115 million visitors and garnered numerous international accolades including the third Top Attraction in the World in Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026, Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2024, Best Theme Attraction at TTG Travel Awards 2022 and 2023, and Best Attraction Experience at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2019. The Gardens continues to refresh and refine its offerings, to be a place that everyone can enjoy – a garden where wonder blooms.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Qatar Airways has raised its Dubai schedule from two to five daily flights, restoring greater capacity on one of the Gulf’s busiest short-haul business and leisure corridors as regional carriers rebuild networks for the summer travel season. The expansion covers services between Hamad International Airport in Doha and Dubai International Airport, with the increase being introduced in stages from 5 June. The airline […]
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 June 2026 – Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) proudly unveils “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” at GalaxyArt, the multipurpose arts and cultural hub at the group’s flagship luxury resort, Galaxy Macau. Centred on innovative translucent materials, the exhibition blends the richness of Eastern cultural heritage by conceptualising themes from nature, presenting a distinctive contemporary artistic style.
The exhibition brings together over 60 pieces of signature works alongside new creations, accentuating cross-disciplinary philosophy of “Technology + Art + Eastern Culture” to achieve glittering and transparent art works. Through the use of innovative, crystalline materials and immersive, accessible artistic language, Wu Daijie Art Studio redefines artistic expression to deliver avant-garde works that resonate deeply with audiences.
GalaxyArt, the artistic and cultural hub of Galaxy Macau, proudly presents the “Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” exhibition, featuring over 60 art works. The exhibition is now open until September 13.
The Opening Ceremony was officiated by guests of honour, including Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office; Ms. Chan Lei Lei, Director of Macao Conservatory, Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau S.A.R. Government; Mr. Philip Cheng, Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group; and lead artist Wu Daijie.
The Opening Ceremony was held this morning, officiated by guests of honour, including Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (2nd from right); Ms. Chan Lei Lei, Director of Macao Conservatory, Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau S.A.R. Government (2nd from left); Mr. Philip Cheng, Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group (1st from right); artist Wu Daijie (1st from left).
At the opening ceremony, Mr Philip Cheng, Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group, said: “Galaxy Entertainment Group continues to align with the Macao SAR Government’s “Tourism + Culture” initiative, working closely alongside the government and industry partners to create distinctive cultural and artistic experiences. Through dedicated efforts, we present a diverse range of unique events that offer fresh and exciting experiences for visitors from around the world. This exhibition bridges artistic expression with technological innovation, inspired by interpretations and imagination rooted in traditional Eastern culture. We believe that this brand-new exhibition will bring renewed vibrancy and creative energy to Macao’s arts and cultural scene this summer.”
Following the opening ceremony, the officiating guests visit the exhibition under docent introduction of lead artist Wu Daijie.
Lead artist Wu Daijie added: “Macau serves as the gateway for Chinese and Western interaction and a vital hub for cultural exchange within the Greater Bay Area. Galaxy Macau and GalaxyArt – world-class integrated resort and arts platform – continuously offer forward-thinking experiences. I am deeply honoured to present my exhibition here, which is not only a sharing of my personal artistic endeavours at this stage, but also a way to contribute to the popularisation of art.”
Structured around four thematic expressions, the exhibition unfolds a poetic journey through light, form and emotion. “Luminosity · The Spirit of Nature” captures the ethereal beauty of living beings, distilling their essence into luminous, crystallised forms that reflect the pure vibrancy of living creatures. “Luminosity · The Glow of Modernity” presents whimsical perfection and unlimited possibilities seen in fairy tales through light and shadows, creating striking, avant-garde visual narratives.
In “Luminosity – Beyond Void & Form,” the serene elegance of Zen philosophy is reinterpreted through a delicate interplay of classical and modern aesthetics, while “Luminosity – Flowing like Water” evokes fluidity and abundance, expressing grace, balance and openness.
A Vivid Transformation into Luminous Clarity
‘Ethereal Flow’, which includes a striking aerial installation and inspired by Laozi’s philosophy—evoking water’s quiet virtue of nurturing all without contention through a dazzling, immersive visual experience.
“Ethereal Flow” — a contemporary, fashion-forward series that includes a large-scale aerial installation – is the highlight in the “Luminosity · Flowing like Water” section series. Inspired by a classic passage from Laozi’s Tao Te Ching— “The highest goodness is like water; water benefits all things without contention, embodying the virtue of humility”—the work reflects the idea that true virtue, like water, nurtures and sustains all without striving. With its dynamic sense of scale and dazzling visual impact, the installation invites audiences to reflect on reality and the nature of humanity.
Ethereal Stone: A Modern Table – 4.2-metre-long and only eight pieces in the world – draws inspiration from the classic anecdote of Mi Fu reverently addressing a scholar’s rock, reflecting the deep-rooted Chinese tradition of stone appreciation and its unique cultural heritage.
“Ethereal Stone” and “Timeless Dialogue: Taihu Stone” is a collection of four pieces at the “Luminosity – Beyond Void & Form” section. The works draw inspiration from the classic anecdote of Mi Fu reverently addressing a scholar’s rock, reflecting the deep-rooted Chinese tradition of stone appreciation and its unique cultural heritage. Centred on the intricate beauty of Taihu stones, the works reinterpret their delicate, sculptural forms through a contemporary lens. By bringing traditional culture into dialogue with modern artistic expression, the series creates a poetic exchange across time. It also serves as a gentle reflection for today’s fast-paced society—encouraging a return to inner contemplation, and a rediscovery of cultural identity and humanistic spirit through the philosophies of Chinese tradition.
“Dazzling Galaxy – Crystalline Art Exhibition” – open now until September 13 at GalaxyArt – invites visitors to immerse themselves in a radiant convergence of innovation, culture and artistry, further enriching Galaxy Macau’s dynamic cultural landscape and reaffirming the award-winning luxury resort’s commitment to world-class creative experiences.
For more information about Galaxy Macau and GalaxyArt, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort
Galaxy Macau, world-class luxury integrated resort, delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575 metres, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-metre high and 150-metre pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.
As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theatres are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.
Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
Dubai’s premium fitness market has gained a new large-format health club with the opening of FITCODE Q-East in Al Quoz, bringing a performance-led training, recovery and wellness model to one of the city’s emerging lifestyle districts. The flagship mixed health club spans nearly 24,000 sq ft at Q-East, a luxury destination positioned around creative, retail, food, entertainment and wellness concepts. The opening marks FITCODE’s third Dubai location […]
By Asad Mirza Marking exactly 100 days since a catastrophic conflict reordered the Middle East, a fragile, US-brokered truce violently collapsed as Israeli jets struck deep inside Iranian territory. By directly defying President Donald Trump’s explicit warnings to exercise restraint, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed the region into uncharted waters, leaving a heavily […]
UAE residents are entering the FIFA World Cup 2026 cycle with access to the country’s first licensed online sports wagering and internet gaming platform, marking a significant shift in a market that has long treated gambling as tightly restricted activity. Play971, operated by Abu Dhabi-based Coin Technology Projects LLC, is listed by the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority under both internet gaming and sports wagering categories. The […]
Spearheads Cross-border Tech Collaboration Leveraging Hong Kong’s Role as Superconnector
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 June 2026 – The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is set to make its debut at Paris-based Viva Technology 2026 (VivaTech), Europe’s flagship premier event dedicated to technological innovation and startup collaboration. PolyU’s first-ever participation at the prestigious tech summit which is composed of a startup exhibition and two insight-packed seminars, will be led by Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU’s Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), and Prof. Zijian ZHENG, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer). This milestone underscores the University’s expanded global outreach and strengthened engagement with European markets.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University will showcase five promising PolyU startups at Paris-based VivaTech 2026. Visitors are welcome to interact with these innovative ventures and join its insight-packed seminars.
During this year’s event scheduled from 17 to 20 June 2026 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, PolyU will showcase its achievements at the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Located at Booth 1C11, Hall 7.1, the University will present five outstanding PolyU-nurtured startups across high-growth tech domains, including AI and Robotics, Health Tech, Sustainable and Climate Tech, and FinTech. For more information about these innovative ventures, please check out the event’s online leaflet.
As Europe’s most influential innovation gathering, VivaTech brings together global visionaries, startup founders, industry leaders, investors and corporate innovators, providing as a pivotal platform for cross-border collaboration and technological knowledge exchange. PolyU’s participation at VivaTech further extends its global innovation footprint into Europe, and connects the University and its startups with international investment and market resources.
In addition to the exhibition, PolyU will host an exclusive thematic session on-site and engage in high-level industry dialogues to deepen collaboration between Europe and Hong Kong. On 18 June, PolyU will stage a dedicated seminar titled “Breaking Barriers with Autonomous Systems: Transforming Industries with AI Innovation”, where Prof. Chao will deliver the opening remarks, and Prof. Zheng will share his insight on how Hong Kong is scaling innovation as a leading AI hub, driving technological advancement and fostering global collaboration. Meanwhile, the five PolyU startups will share about their journeys in innovation and entrepreneurial endeavours.
On 19 June, Prof. Chao will participate as a distinguished speaker in the Executive Dialogue during the HKTDC-hosted Hong Kong Seminar-cum-Networking Reception. Centred on the theme “Talent & Infrastructure Powering the Hong Kong Tech Leadership and Global Collaboration”, the high-level seminar also features distinguished leaders representing the forefront of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology ecosystem. Prof. Chao will engage in in-depth topics such as how to attract and nurture global talent, and how academia-driven initiatives can drive technological synergies between Hong Kong and Europe.
For full details of PolyU’s participation at VivaTech 2026, please visit the webpage of PolyU’s Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office.
Hashtag: #PolyU
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Capital. com has enabled a Model Context Protocol server plugin that allows traders to connect their accounts directly with compatible AI assistant environments, marking a step towards more integrated use of artificial intelligence in retail trading and market research. The free, open-source tool links a trader’s Capital. com account to an AI assistant running on a desktop environment, giving users the ability to view market data, analyse […]
Reserve Bank of India has pushed its net short dollar position past $110 billion, taking a key currency-defence tool to a record high as pressure on the rupee forces heavier use of forward-market intervention.
The rise marks a sharp escalation in the central bank’s effort to cushion the currency after the rupee weakened to a record low near 97 to the dollar on 20 May. The position, built through forward and offshore derivative contracts, shows how the central bank has increasingly relied on future dollar sales rather than only spot-market intervention to manage disorderly moves in the exchange rate.
The rupee traded around 95.3 to the dollar on 8 June, giving back part of the gains made after the central bank announced measures on 5 June to attract foreign-currency inflows and ease pressure on the balance of payments. The currency had closed near 94.95 on 5 June, its strongest one-day performance in about two months, after the measures were unveiled.
Forward-market intervention allows the central bank to signal dollar availability without immediately drawing down spot reserves. By selling dollars for future delivery, the RBI can influence market expectations, compress forward premiums and reduce one-way speculative pressure against the rupee. The method, however, creates future obligations and can complicate liquidity management when contracts mature.
The central bank’s net short forward book had already reached about $104 billion by the end of March, rising sharply from around $77 billion a month earlier. The move beyond $110 billion indicates that intervention continued through May and early June as global and domestic pressures intensified.
Oil prices, portfolio outflows, a firm dollar and geopolitical tensions have weighed on the rupee through much of the year. India’s large crude import bill makes the currency sensitive to oil-market swings, while higher US yields reduce the appeal of emerging-market assets. Equity outflows have added to the pressure, leaving the central bank to balance currency stability with the need to preserve reserves and domestic liquidity.
The RBI’s latest package seeks to reduce that burden by bringing in dollar flows rather than relying only on intervention. Measures include concessional foreign-exchange swaps for public-sector companies raising external commercial borrowings, support for banks mobilising foreign-currency non-resident deposits, and expanded access for overseas investors to longer-tenor government securities under the fully accessible route. Concentration limits for such investments were also relaxed.
The government’s decision to exempt overseas investors from capital gains tax on certain government bond transactions has strengthened the policy push. Market expectations now centre on whether these steps can draw $30 billion to $50 billion in medium-term inflows, with a higher figure possible if global bond investors increase allocations.
The central bank has avoided using interest-rate increases as the primary defence for the rupee, preferring targeted foreign-exchange and inflow measures. That approach reflects the RBI’s effort to separate currency management from domestic monetary policy. Keeping policy rates focused on inflation and growth gives the central bank room to support activity while using reserves, swaps and forward positions to contain currency volatility.
Foreign-exchange reserves remain sizeable, though they have fallen from their February peak as the central bank intervened to smooth the rupee’s decline. The reserves provide an important buffer, but the growing forward position shows that the defence is no longer confined to visible reserve movements. Market participants are watching both the headline reserves number and the maturity profile of the forward book for signs of future stress.
A large net short dollar position is not unusual during periods of currency strain, but the scale now matters. When contracts mature, the central bank must either deliver dollars, roll positions forward, or offset the impact through liquidity operations. Each option carries trade-offs for money-market rates, banking-system liquidity and the credibility of currency management.
For importers, the intervention has helped reduce the risk of abrupt rupee depreciation, though hedging costs and uncertainty remain elevated. Exporters face a more complex picture, as a weaker rupee supports earnings in local-currency terms but volatility makes pricing and cash-flow planning harder. Banks, meanwhile, are adjusting positions as forward premiums move in response to central bank activity.
CPX Holding has unveiled a refreshed brand identity in Abu Dhabi, positioning the G42 company for its next phase of growth as demand rises for AI-led cybersecurity, sovereign digital capability and stronger protection of critical infrastructure across the UAE. The new identity, built around the promise “Secure what’s next”, marks a shift in CPX’s public positioning from conventional cyber defence towards enablement, resilience and intelligence-led security. The […]
Facebook’s creator payment system has become entangled in Alberta’s separatist politics after an investigation identified overseas-run accounts impersonating local activists and publishing content that promoted breaking away from Canada. The accounts presented themselves as voices from inside Alberta’s independence movement, using names, profile images and language designed to appear local. Several were linked to operators outside Canada who appeared to be using divisive political material to attract […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Bahrain-based Investcorp has launched an Artificial Intelligence Investment Framework to guide its investment decisions across private equity, real assets and credit, positioning the technology as a central factor in deal screening, portfolio construction and value creation across its global alternatives platform. The framework, set out in a new report, formalises how the Manama-headquartered firm will assess AI-led opportunities and risks at a time […]
A powerful offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines early Monday, killing at least 12 people, damaging buildings in General Santos City and sending coastal residents racing to higher ground after tsunami waves hit parts of Mindanao. The magnitude was placed at 7.8 by global monitors, while domestic bulletins initially listed the tremor at 7.4. The quake struck at 7.37am local time, with its centre at sea near […]
Built for caregivers, Vision One combines intelligent detection, plain-language alerts, and daily summaries to help families know when Mum or Dad needs attention, without constant checking
SINGAPORE / KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 June 2026 – Hello Ello, a Singapore-based AI caregiving technology company has launched ELLO’s Vision One care camera for families in Singapore and Malaysia to help families care for ageing parents at home without relying on constant calls, manual check-ins, or noisy security camera alerts.
Designed for adult children balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities, ELLO combines the Vision One 3K WiFi Camera with the ELLO App to detect critical events such as falls, fainting, wandering, smoke, and signs of distress, sending caregivers a clear, plain-language alert within 60 seconds when something needs attention. Its Daily Summary feature also gives families a simple overview of their loved one’s day, helping them stay connected while preserving a calmer, less intrusive approach to home care.
“Most families do not need another camera that creates more work for them. They need something that understands when something is wrong and tells them clearly, so they can act,” said Ivan Mun, Founder of Hello Ello. “With ELLO, we wanted to build care technology that works quietly in the background, respects the dignity of ageing parents, and gives families the reassurance that someone is always paying attention to what matters.”
Vision One is built around the realities of care at home. The camera offers 3K clarity, a 135-degree wide view, night vision, two-way talk, and context-aware alerts that distinguish between motion and meaning. Through the ELLO App, families can receive alerts for falls, fainting, wandering, smoke, and distress detection, as well as a short daily summary every evening to understand how their loved one’s day went.
For many families, this demographic shift is already being felt at home. Adult children are increasingly balancing work, parenting, and the responsibility of checking in on ageing parents, especially those who live alone, live with a helper, or require support due to memory loss, frailty, or changing routines. Hello Ello’s core users are not necessarily the elderly themselves, but the “sandwich generation” of caregivers, particularly those in their 40s to 60s who are caring for parents in their 80s and 90s while also managing their own families.
Unlike regular security cameras that record footage and require users to review what happened after the fact, ELLO is designed to watch for caregivers. It learns daily routines, identifies unusual activity, and alerts families only when something appears wrong. Through the app, caregivers can receive critical event notifications, check live streams, review key moments, and ask plain-language questions such as “Where’s Dad?” or “Has Mum been up today?” without having to scroll through hours of video footage.
The need for this is especially clear in homes where traditional monitoring tools fall short. Wearables require seniors to remember to charge or wear them, while emergency buttons only work if the person is able to press them. ELLO removes that burden by working quietly in the background, with no bracelet, button, or watch required.
Privacy and dignity are also central to the product. According to Hello Ello, only invited family members or caregivers can access alerts and daily summaries, and users can choose between cloud storage or local microSD storage. The company also states that it does not sell user data, share it with advertisers, or use what happens inside a parent’s home to train other AI models.
“Ageing at home should not mean families are left to worry in silence, and care should not feel like surveillance,” added Ivan. “The goal is not to watch parents all day. The goal is to help families know when to step in, while allowing Mum or Dad to continue living with independence and dignity.”
Vision One is priced at SGD$89 for the camera, with the ELLO Family plan at S$29.90 per month. The plan includes fall and faint detection, wandering alerts, smoke detection, distress detection, Daily Summary, family sharing, Ask ELLO conversational AI, 30-day cloud storage, one detection zone, and support for up to three cameras. The first month is free, with no contract or lock-in.
Hashtag: #HelloEllo
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About Hello Ello
Hello Ello is a Singapore-based AI caregiving technology company founded by Ivan Mun. Its flagship care solution, ELLO, combines the Vision One 3K WiFi Camera with the ELLO App to help families look after ageing parents at home. Designed for caregivers, ELLO detects critical events such as falls, fainting, wandering, smoke, and signs of distress, while providing plain-language alerts, daily summaries, family sharing, and conversational AI support through the app. Hello Ello is built around a simple belief: care technology should provide clarity and reassurance without adding noise, anxiety, or unnecessary complexity to family life. For more information please visit: https://www.helloello.co/
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