By P. Sudhir The BJP has won the Delhi assembly election with a tally of 48 seats, polling 45.6 per cent of the vote. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won 22 seats getting 43.6 per cent of the vote. The difference between the two was only 2 per cent but it translated into 40 seats […]
Preference for Spontaneous Travel, Grabbing Cheap Flights and Travelling on a Whim HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific) Insurance Limited (“Blue Cross”) today announced the results of a survey1 of young people’s travel habits and preferences, as well as their level of protection awareness. The survey found that young people love to travel, with nearly 70% planning to […]
Plank Reloaded, a modern fork of the original Plank dock, has been introduced to enhance compatibility with the Cinnamon desktop environment and incorporate contemporary features. The project aims to maintain the simplicity of its predecessor while addressing previous limitations and integrating new functionalities. The original Plank dock was celebrated for its minimalist design, providing users with a straightforward application launcher. However, as desktop environments evolved, particularly Cinnamon, […]
Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai announced a partnership with Apple to integrate advanced artificial intelligence features into iPhones sold in China. Speaking at the World Governments Summit in Dubai on Thursday, Tsai emphasized the significance of this collaboration for both companies.
This strategic move comes as Apple faces declining iPhone sales in China, attributed to intense competition from domestic brands like Huawei and Vivo. The integration of Alibaba’s AI technology aims to bolster Apple’s position in the Chinese market by offering enhanced functionalities tailored to local consumers.
Following the announcement, Alibaba’s Hong Kong-listed shares surged by 9.2%, reaching a three-year high. This uptick reflects investor confidence in Alibaba’s AI capabilities and the potential success of the partnership.
Industry analysts have noted that the absence of advanced AI features has been a disadvantage for Apple in China. Local competitors have been quick to incorporate AI into their devices, appealing to tech-savvy consumers. By collaborating with Alibaba, Apple seeks to bridge this gap and meet the growing demand for intelligent smartphone features.
Alibaba has been at the forefront of AI development in China. The company recently unveiled its Qwen 2.5 model, which has been well-received in the tech community. This advancement has solidified Alibaba’s reputation as a leader in AI innovation, making it a valuable partner for global companies aiming to enhance their technological offerings in China.
The partnership is also expected to provide Apple with insights into Chinese consumer behavior, leveraging Alibaba’s extensive data on shopping and payment habits. This data-driven approach will enable the development of personalized AI services, enhancing the user experience for iPhone customers in China.
The Offbeat/TAP Staff In a move that has sparked significant discussion, the U.S. Geographic Names Information System has officially renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. This change, directed by President Donald Trump’s executive order titled “Restoring Names That Honor American Greatness,” was signed on January 20, 2025. Following this directive, major technology companies have updated their mapping services to reflect the new nomenclature […]
As the allure of train travel experiences a resurgence, 2025 presents an array of exceptional rail journeys that promise both luxury and adventure. From traversing Europe’s scenic landscapes to exploring the vast deserts of the Middle East, these routes offer unparalleled experiences for discerning travellers. The Orient Express La Dolce Vita is set to commence its inaugural journeys across Italy in April 2025. Travellers can anticipate itineraries […]
Australia has lodged a formal protest with Beijing following an incident where a Chinese Shenyang J-16 fighter jet released flares in close proximity to a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea. The Australian Department of Defence described the manoeuvre as “unsafe and unprofessional,” emphasizing that it posed a significant risk to both the aircraft and its crew. No injuries or […]
Apple is poised to unveil the fourth-generation iPhone SE, introducing significant design and feature enhancements that align it more closely with the flagship iPhone lineup. The forthcoming model is anticipated to feature an all-display design, eliminating the traditional Home button in favor of Face ID, marking a departure from its predecessors. The device is expected to sport a 6.1-inch OLED display with a notch, mirroring the aesthetics […]
The Saudi Export-Import Bank and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation have formalized a $5 million financing agreement with Alizz Islamic Bank in Oman. This initiative is part of the KSA SMEs Export Empowerment Program, aiming to facilitate Saudi non-oil exports’ entry into Omani markets and enhance export opportunities for the Kingdom’s small and medium-sized enterprises . The agreement was signed by Mohammed AlAbdulmohsen, Director of the […]
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – At the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) 2025, VinFast officially opened for sales for its mini-SUV VF 3. The company also announced a special policy providing free charging for all VinFast electric vehicles at VinFast charging stations operated by V-GREEN across Indonesia, reaffirming its commitment to delivering smart, accessible, and sustainable mobility solutions. VinFast announces the […]
The EndeavourOS development team has unveiled the “Mercury” release, introducing significant improvements to the Arch Linux-based distribution. This update focuses on refining the installation process, enhancing desktop theming, and resolving previous system issues. A notable enhancement in Mercury is the inclusion of a memory test feature for EFI systems, addressing a previously unfulfilled need. Additionally, challenges associated with BIOS/Legacy installations have been effectively resolved, ensuring a smoother […]
The KDE community has unveiled Plasma 6.3, introducing a suite of enhancements tailored for digital artists and creative professionals. This latest release focuses on refining the user experience, particularly in the realm of digital art, by overhauling the Drawing Tablet configuration interface. The System Settings’ Drawing Tablet page has been reorganized into multiple tabs, offering improved navigation and new configuration options. Artists can now map specific areas […]
Rajiv Jain, the billionaire founder and chairman of Florida-based investment firm GQG Partners, is actively expanding his investment footprint in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Following significant deals with prominent UAE entities such as International Holding Company , Aldar Properties, and ADNOC Gas, Jain is exploring further opportunities in these burgeoning markets. GQG Partners, managing assets worth approximately $160.4 billion, has recently executed a substantial […]
LEAP, the acclaimed technology event, is expanding into Asia with the introduction of LEAP East, scheduled at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre from 9 to 11 July 2026. Organised by Tahaluf, this inaugural event aims to attract global tech leaders, innovators, and investors to one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The conference will feature over 300 expert speakers and 300 exhibitors, showcasing advancements across […]
Pacific Investment Management Co. , a leading global investment firm managing approximately $2 trillion in assets, has inaugurated a new office in Dubai. This move signifies the company’s strategic effort to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, a region witnessing increased interest from major asset managers. The Dubai Financial Services Authority granted PIMCO a license on Wednesday, enabling the firm to operate within the Dubai International […]
Tabby, a prominent financial services and shopping application in the Middle East and North Africa , has successfully raised $160 million in a Series E funding round, elevating its valuation to $3.3 billion. This development positions Tabby as the most valuable fintech company in the region. The funding round was led by existing investors Blue Pool Capital, a Hong Kong-based investment firm, and Saudi Arabia’s Hassana Investment […]
OpenAI has announced the forthcoming release of GPT-5, which will incorporate the advanced o3 reasoning model. This integration aims to enhance the artificial intelligence’s capability to handle complex tasks by devoting additional deliberation time when addressing questions that require step-by-step logical reasoning. Notably, GPT-5 will be accessible to all ChatGPT users at no cost, providing unlimited chat access under standard intelligence settings. CEO Sam Altman emphasized the […]
Hong Kong-based Volar Air Mobility has announced plans to manufacture electric aircraft in Abu Dhabi, aligning with the United Arab Emirates’ commitment to sustainable transportation. The company aims to produce the RX4E, a four-seater electric aircraft designed for various applications, including eco-tourism, pilot training, medical evacuations, border control, and surveillance. The RX4E has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the world’s first electric aircraft certified under Part 23 regulations for commercial use. citeturn0search3
Volar Air Mobility has been actively collaborating with UAE authorities to advance green aviation initiatives. In September 2024, the company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority to establish a Green Aviation technological development hub in the country. Additionally, Volar partnered with Etihad Aviation Training to explore the development of a sustainability cluster focused on research and development in green aviation within the UAE. citeturn0search0
The UAE has been investing in sustainable transportation modes, including electric vehicles, buses, and the Dubai Metro system, significantly reducing the number of cars on the road. citeturn0search2 The UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy aims to stimulate economic and societal advancement by leading the transition to net zero emissions. citeturn0search16
Volar’s decision to establish production facilities in Abu Dhabi aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision for sustainable development. The RX4E’s applications in eco-tourism and pilot training are expected to contribute to the nation’s environmental goals. The aircraft’s capabilities in medical evacuations, border control, and surveillance also offer potential enhancements to public services.
Elon Musk announced that Grok 3, his latest AI chatbot developed by xAI, is in its final stages and set for release within a week or two. Speaking via video call at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, Musk highlighted Grok 3’s advanced reasoning capabilities, stating it has outperformed existing chatbots in tests conducted so far.
Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 but departed in 2018 due to strategic disagreements, established xAI to rival AI leaders like OpenAI and Google’s DeepMind. His renewed focus on AI comes as a consortium led by him has offered $97.4 billion to acquire the nonprofit controlling OpenAI. This move aims to prevent OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model, a shift Musk has publicly criticized.
OpenAI’s leadership, including CEO Sam Altman, has dismissed Musk’s offer as a tactic to disrupt the company’s restructuring plans. Altman emphasized that OpenAI is not for sale and remains committed to its mission of developing safe and beneficial AI technologies.
The proposed acquisition has raised concerns about the concentration of power in the AI industry. Regulatory authorities in the United States are scrutinizing major AI firms, including OpenAI and its partners, for potential antitrust violations. Musk’s bid, coupled with his legal actions against OpenAI’s leadership, underscores the escalating tensions and competition within the AI sector.
Alpha Data, a prominent UAE-based technology services firm, has unveiled plans to list on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange by offering 400 million shares, representing 40% of its capital. This move marks the inaugural public offering on the ADX for 2025. The shares being offered are currently held by Bin Hamoodah and Ibbini Investment, who retain the discretion to adjust the offering size before the subscription period concludes.
In the fiscal year 2024, Alpha Data reported a net profit of AED 127 million and revenue totaling AED 2.32 billion. The company has engaged EFG Hermes and Emirates NBD Capital as advisors for the potential share sale. While the specifics of the sale are preliminary and subject to change, the firm is reportedly aiming to raise approximately $200 million through this listing.
The ADX is poised to witness several major IPOs this year, including the Gulf’s first airline IPO by Etihad Airways, which has already engaged advisors for the sale, and supermarket chain LuLu Group. Additionally, the exchange recently saw the IPO of edtech firm Alef Education.
Alpha Data’s decision to go public aligns with a broader trend of private-sector companies in the GCC region pursuing IPOs, particularly in sectors such as e-commerce and IT. Analysts anticipate that private-sector IPOs in the GCC will range between $300 million to $500 million this year, with government listings likely to be larger.
The ADX has been actively encouraging private companies to list, aiming to diversify its offerings and attract a broader range of investors. Alpha Data’s IPO is expected to contribute to this diversification and provide investors with exposure to the growing technology services sector in the UAE.
The offering is anticipated to attract significant interest from both regional and international investors, given Alpha Data’s established presence in the UAE’s technology sector and the ADX’s reputation as a leading financial market in the region.
South Korea’s Financial Services Commission has unveiled a structured plan to permit corporate entities to engage in cryptocurrency transactions through real-name accounts. This initiative, set to commence in the first half of 2025, aims to integrate corporate participation in the digital asset market while ensuring regulatory oversight.
The FSC’s strategy involves a three-phase rollout. Initially, non-profit organizations, law enforcement agencies, and cryptocurrency exchanges will be granted access to real-name accounts. This move is designed to facilitate activities such as the conversion of platform fee income into fiat currency for exchanges and the handling of confiscated assets by law enforcement. However, exchanges will be subject to government guidelines to prevent market volatility.
In the subsequent phase, slated for the second half of 2025, professional investment entities—including listed companies and registered investment institutions—will be authorized to participate in crypto asset trading. These entities must adhere to stringent anti-money laundering protocols and undergo evaluations by banks and crypto exchanges to ensure compliance.
The final phase envisions extending crypto investment capabilities to general enterprises. This stage remains under long-term consideration and is contingent upon the successful implementation of preceding phases, as well as the establishment of comprehensive regulations encompassing stablecoins, exchange operations, and cross-border crypto transaction monitoring.
FSC Vice Chairman Kim So-young emphasized the importance of a cautious and measured approach, stating that the policy’s implementation must be gradual and carefully monitored to prevent market disruptions. He highlighted the necessity of clear AML guidelines to maintain market integrity throughout the rollout process.
This policy shift addresses longstanding challenges within South Korea’s crypto industry, particularly for small and mid-sized exchanges that have struggled with liquidity constraints. By enabling corporate accounts, these exchanges are expected to enhance their operational capabilities and competitiveness within the market.
Robinhood Markets Inc. has reported a significant increase in its fourth-quarter earnings, driven by a substantial rise in cryptocurrency trading activity. The company’s total revenue for the quarter reached $1.01 billion, marking the first time it has surpassed the billion-dollar threshold. This performance exceeded analysts’ expectations, which had projected revenue of $934 million.
A key contributor to this growth was the surge in cryptocurrency trading revenue, which escalated by 700% year-over-year to $358 million. This increase accounted for more than half of Robinhood’s transaction-based revenue, which itself saw a 200% rise to $672 million. The heightened interest in digital assets, particularly Bitcoin, which recently surpassed the $100,000 mark, played a significant role in this development.
In addition to the rise in crypto trading, Robinhood experienced growth in other areas. Options trading revenue increased by 83% to $222 million, while equities trading revenue rose by 144% to $61 million. The company’s assets under custody expanded by 88% to $193 billion, with net deposits reaching a record $16 billion during the quarter.
ADNEC Group has announced that TAG Dynamics, a globally recognised leader in manufacturing custom armoured and non-armoured vehicle solutions, will serve as a Premium Partner for the upcoming International Defence Exhibition and Naval Defence & Maritime Security Exhibition 2025. These events are scheduled from 17th to 21st February at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre .
IDEX and NAVDEX have, for over three decades, convened global leaders, policymakers, and experts to showcase the latest advancements in defence technologies. The exhibitions offer a comprehensive view of innovations shaping the future of international security.
Saeed Al Mansoori, Advisor for Defence Exhibitions at Capital Events, a subsidiary of ADNEC Group, emphasised the significance of this collaboration: “The partnership with TAG Dynamics highlights the true purpose of IDEX and NAVDEX: to bring the world together to showcase advanced technologies and forge meaningful collaborations, aligning with the UAE’s vision for progress and security through collaboration and partnership.”
TAG Dynamics plans to unveil a series of groundbreaking innovations designed to enhance security, mobility, and operational effectiveness. These developments reflect the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in service of the defence sector.
Mahmoud Gharghar, Chief Executive Officer of TAG Dynamics, expressed the company’s enthusiasm: “IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 represent a cornerstone for innovation and collaboration in the defence industry, and TAG Dynamics is honoured to serve as the Premium Partner of this prestigious event. Our commitment to advancing safety through cutting-edge technologies such as AI and remote-controlled systems is at the heart of everything we do.”
IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 are anticipated to attract a significant number of international delegations, defence contractors, and industry professionals. The events will feature live demonstrations, product launches, and discussions on the latest trends in defence and maritime security.
The collaboration between ADNEC Group and TAG Dynamics underscores a shared vision of fostering innovation and strengthening global defence partnerships. As the defence landscape evolves, such alliances play a crucial role in addressing emerging security challenges and advancing technological frontiers.
The UAE continues to position itself as a central hub for international defence exhibitions, facilitating dialogue and collaboration among global stakeholders. The upcoming IDEX and NAVDEX 2025 are set to further this objective, providing a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strategic partnerships.
TAG Dynamics’ participation as a Premium Partner highlights the company’s dedication to contributing to global security and its commitment to innovation in defence technology. Attendees can look forward to experiencing the latest advancements that TAG Dynamics and other industry leaders will present during the exhibitions.
As the defence sector faces rapidly changing challenges, events like IDEX and NAVDEX serve as vital platforms for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the promotion of peace and security worldwide. The partnership between ADNEC Group and TAG Dynamics exemplifies the collaborative efforts necessary to navigate the complexities of modern defence and security landscapes.
The United Arab Emirates has secured a position among the top ten countries globally for the number of artificial intelligence companies per million inhabitants, as highlighted in the Global AI Competitiveness Index. This achievement underscores the nation’s rapid advancement in the AI sector.
The Global AI Competitiveness Index, a collaborative effort between the International Finance Forum and Deep Knowledge Group, analyzed over 55,000 AI companies worldwide to assess their density, financing, and development. The UAE’s prominent ranking reflects its strategic focus on fostering AI innovation and enterprise.
In 2017, the UAE appointed the world’s first Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, signaling its commitment to AI development. Subsequently, the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 was launched, aiming to position the UAE as a global leader in AI by 2031. This strategy aligns with the broader UAE Centennial 2071 vision, focusing on economic, educational, and governmental transformation through AI.
The National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 outlines several key objectives, including establishing a network of researchers, industry experts, and policymakers; supporting the development of domestic AI startups and products; encouraging foreign direct investment and partnerships with global AI firms; and providing guidance and financial support for local businesses to expand globally.
The UAE’s strategic investments in AI are evident through initiatives such as the establishment of the Technology Innovation Institute, which has developed advanced open-source large language models like Falcon. Additionally, the UAE has launched the $100 billion MGX fund, targeting AI investments globally. These efforts are complemented by partnerships with major U.S. technology companies, including Nvidia, AMD, Microsoft, OpenAI, and IBM, enhancing the UAE’s access to cutting-edge AI technologies.
