Findings from a team of researchers based in the UAE have revealed a previously undetected class of solar waves deep within the Sun, offering fresh insight into the behaviour of magnetic fields that drive solar activity and influence space weather. The study, led by scientists affiliated with New York University Abu Dhabi, identifies wave patterns occurring far below the Sun’s visible surface, in regions long considered beyond […]
Escalating conflict across key maritime corridors has exposed the Middle East’s dependence on imported food, with shipping disruptions forcing governments and logistics firms to reassess supply chains under mounting pressure. The warning comes from Vincent Clerc, chief executive of A. P. Moller-Maersk, who signalled that instability in the Gulf is tightening global shipping capacity and complicating the steady flow of essential commodities into the region. He described […]
Cisco has issued urgent security updates to address a critical vulnerability in its Secure Firewall Management Center software that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems without authentication, raising concerns across enterprise and government networks that rely on the platform for threat monitoring and control. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2026-20131, carries a maximum severity score of 10.0 under the Common Vulnerability Scoring System, indicating […]
Banks and cybersecurity teams are confronting a sharp rise in financial fraud linked to the growing use of cloud phone technology, a system that allows users to operate mobile devices remotely through servers housed in data centres. Security analysts warn that the model, originally developed for legitimate testing, automation and business continuity, is now being exploited by fraud networks to bypass safeguards and scale attacks across borders. […]
Elon Musk has unveiled a plan to integrate Tesla, SpaceX and xAI into a new semiconductor initiative in Texas, marking a deeper push into controlling the hardware underpinning artificial intelligence systems. The project, described internally as “Terafab”, aims to develop advanced chips tailored for AI training, robotics and space applications. The initiative reflects a broader shift among technology companies seeking to reduce dependence on external suppliers such […]
Officials and defence analysts indicate that the refusal centres on highly sensitive software governing the aircraft’s Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, mission computer architecture and the SPECTRA electronic warfare suite. These components underpin the Rafale’s operational edge, enabling advanced targeting, threat detection and real-time combat adaptability. Without access to underlying code, local engineers face restrictions in modifying or upgrading the systems independently.
The development comes at a time when the Air Force is seeking greater flexibility to integrate indigenous weapons, sensors and software into imported platforms. The Rafale fleet, inducted under an intergovernmental agreement signed in 2016, is widely regarded as one of the most capable multirole assets in service. However, the absence of deep software access limits the scope for customisation beyond manufacturer-approved pathways.
Defence planners have long sought to reduce reliance on foreign vendors for mission-critical technologies, particularly software-defined systems that determine how aircraft perform in evolving combat scenarios. The inability to access core programming frameworks means that even incremental upgrades—such as adapting radar modes or integrating new missile systems—must be routed through the original manufacturer, potentially adding time, cost and operational constraints.
French authorities have maintained that certain technologies embedded within the Rafale are protected by stringent export controls and intellectual property safeguards. Industry sources suggest that this position reflects a broader policy followed by advanced aerospace manufacturers, who rarely transfer full software control of high-end combat platforms. Such restrictions are often justified on grounds of security, technological advantage and contractual obligations tied to proprietary systems.
For New Delhi, the issue extends beyond a single aircraft programme. It underscores a structural challenge in defence procurement, where imported platforms may offer cutting-edge capabilities but limit sovereign control over upgrades and lifecycle management. Analysts argue that the balance between immediate capability acquisition and long-term autonomy has become increasingly complex as modern warfare shifts towards software-centric systems.
The Rafale’s SPECTRA suite, in particular, has drawn attention due to its role in electronic warfare and survivability. Designed to detect, identify and counter threats ranging from radar locks to missile engagements, the system operates through highly classified algorithms. Without access to these algorithms, domestic agencies are unable to independently adapt the suite to emerging threat environments or tailor it to specific operational theatres.
Similarly, the AESA radar’s performance is closely tied to software-defined modes that govern target tracking, electronic counter-countermeasures and situational awareness. Integrating locally developed weapons or sensors requires compatibility at the software level, which becomes challenging when access is restricted. Defence experts note that while some integration is possible through interface agreements, deeper optimisation remains dependent on the original equipment manufacturer.
The issue has also revived debate over the country’s broader push for self-reliance in defence production. Programmes aimed at developing indigenous fighter aircraft, avionics and electronic warfare systems have gained momentum, yet gaps remain in high-end technologies. The Rafale case is being cited by some policymakers as evidence of the need to accelerate domestic research and reduce dependence on external suppliers for core technologies.
At the same time, others caution against overstating the dispute, noting that limitations on source code access are common in international defence deals. They argue that operational effectiveness is not necessarily compromised, as manufacturers continue to provide upgrades and support under contractual arrangements. The Rafale fleet has demonstrated strong performance in exercises and deployments, reinforcing its value as a frontline asset.
Diplomatic considerations are also at play. France has been a key defence partner, with cooperation spanning submarines, helicopters and space technologies. The Rafale agreement itself was seen as a milestone in bilateral ties, reflecting a high degree of strategic trust. Any friction over technology transfer is therefore likely to be managed within the broader framework of long-standing cooperation.
Industry observers point out that negotiations over technology access often involve trade-offs between cost, capability and control. Full access to source codes would significantly alter the commercial and strategic dynamics of defence exports, potentially affecting pricing structures and intellectual property protections. As a result, such concessions are rarely granted, even to close partners.
The episode highlights a growing reality in modern military aviation, where software defines capability as much as hardware. Control over code translates into control over upgrades, interoperability and operational doctrine. For countries seeking to maintain strategic autonomy, this raises fundamental questions about how to structure future procurement and development strategies.
Saudi Arabia ordered Iran’s military attaché, his assistant and three other embassy staff to leave the kingdom within 24 hours after declaring them persona non grata, marking one of Riyadh’s sharpest diplomatic steps since the current regional war began. The Saudi foreign ministry said the expulsions were tied to what it called continued Iranian attacks on Saudi territory, after waves of missiles and drones were launched at […]
Iran has signalled that Japanese-linked vessels could be allowed through the Strait of Hormuz, opening a narrow diplomatic channel for one of Asia’s biggest energy importers as the waterway remains severely disrupted by the war involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Kyodo reported on Saturday that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran was prepared to support the transit of Japan-related ships after consultations between officials from […]
Federal safety regulators have widened scrutiny of Tesla’s driver-assistance technology, focusing on how the company’s Full Self-Driving system performs in adverse conditions and the continued absence of LiDAR sensors in its design. The move by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration signals mounting concern over whether camera-based systems can reliably interpret complex environments such as fog, heavy rain and low-light scenarios. Investigators are examining a growing body […]
A sharp escalation in mobile banking malware attacks targeting more than 1,200 financial brands across 90 countries is altering the global fraud landscape, with security experts warning that user devices have become the primary entry point for cybercriminals. Industry researchers tracking digital fraud patterns say the scale and sophistication of mobile-focused threats have expanded markedly, reflecting a shift away from traditional server-side breaches towards attacks that exploit […]
A security weakness in Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 and later versions has raised fresh concerns over the resilience of widely used Linux environments, after researchers confirmed that local attackers can exploit the flaw to gain full administrative control. The vulnerability, described as a local privilege escalation issue, allows a user with limited access to elevate permissions and execute commands as the root user, effectively compromising the entire system. […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – In 2026, KCM Trade proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary — a significant milestone made possible by the continued trust and support of its valued clients. To mark this special occasion, the company has announced its sponsorship of a premium sailing event in Sydney.
In partnership with the renowned yacht charter company Sydney by Sail, the event is themed “2026 KCM Trade Sailing Sydney | A Decade of Progress, A New Chapter Ahead.” Designed as an exclusive celebration at sea, the private sailing gathering will bring together distinguished clients for an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends festivity with meaningful connection.
Premium Yachts and an Elegant Atmosphere
To honour the occasion, KCM Trade has carefully selected high-specification sailing yachts renowned for their exceptional performance and superior comfort. Thoughtfully designed to balance elegance with practicality, each vessel is fully equipped with premium leisure amenities and comprehensive onboard facilities.
Set against the crystal-clear waters and expansive blue skies of Sydney, guests will enjoy the gentle sea breeze and the sight of graceful sails while engaging in relaxed conversation. The refined yet natural setting creates the ideal environment to strengthen relationships and foster deeper connections.
A Decade of Dedication and Industry Recognition
Since its establishment, KCM Trade has remained committed to professionalism, with innovation at the heart of its development. Over the past ten years, the company has steadily expanded its presence across the global financial markets, earning widespread recognition for its quality products and services, cutting-edge technological infrastructure, and comprehensive client protection.
Throughout this journey, KCM Trade has launched proprietary intelligent trading tools and actively supported a range of financial education initiatives, strengthening its brand influence while fulfilling its corporate social responsibilities.
Advancing Together Towards the Future
This sailing event not only reflects the achievements of KCM Trade’s first decade but also serves as an important opportunity to deepen client relationships and look ahead to the future together.
Moving forward, KCM Trade will continue to uphold its win–win philosophy, delivering enhanced services, forward-thinking innovation, and unwavering commitment. Together with its clients, the company will confidently navigate the evolving industry landscape and craft the next chapter of shared success.
Hashtag: #KCMTrade #kcmtrade10yrs #Globalbrokers #Sponsor #Sailing
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Open interest on Hyperliquid’s HIP-3 permissionless derivatives market has climbed past $1.43 billion, underscoring intensifying appetite among traders for decentralised perpetual futures and signalling a shift in how digital asset markets are evolving beyond traditional crypto pairs. The milestone reflects a rapid expansion in activity on the decentralised exchange, where traders can create and trade perpetual contracts without centralised oversight. Market participants have been drawn to the […]
Cloud infrastructure provider Vultr has introduced a production-ready artificial intelligence inference stack built on NVIDIA’s Rubin platform, marking a significant expansion of their collaboration as enterprises accelerate adoption of generative AI workloads. The deployment is designed to provide scalable, cost-efficient inference capabilities across Vultr’s global cloud network, targeting businesses seeking to operationalise AI models without the high capital expenditure typically associated with dedicated infrastructure. The Rubin platform, […]
Security researchers have identified a technique that could allow attackers to execute malicious code within AI-assisted development environments by manipulating installation links, raising fresh concerns about the integrity of modern coding workflows. The method, termed “CursorJack”, exploits how some AI development tools handle external package installation and repository linking. By redirecting or tampering with these links, attackers can introduce harmful code into a developer’s environment without immediate […]
United States public debt has crossed the $39 trillion mark, setting a new milestone that underscores mounting fiscal pressures in the world’s largest economy and intensifying debate over long-term sustainability. Data from the US Treasury shows total federal debt outstanding rising past the $39 trillion threshold, reflecting continued borrowing driven by persistent budget deficits, higher interest costs and structural spending commitments. The figure combines debt held by […]
Security researchers have uncovered a vulnerability in Amazon Web Services Bedrock’s code interpreter environment, raising concerns over the robustness of isolation safeguards in generative AI systems and prompting renewed scrutiny of cloud-based development tools used by enterprises. The flaw, identified in Bedrock’s sandboxed execution layer, centres on weaknesses in DNS handling that could allow data exfiltration from supposedly isolated environments. Analysts say the issue highlights structural challenges […]
The event was attended by an official delegation from the Embassy of Malaysia in the Philippines, Mr. Norjufri Nizar Edrus, Deputy Chief of Mission; Ms. Azlina Che Dir, Trade Commissioner; and Mr. Mohd Amsyari Yahya, Assistant Trade Commissioner from MATRADE Manila.
The conference highlighted AutoCount’s product developments, software localization for Philippines BIR compliance, and 2026 roadmap, reinforcing its commitment to helping SMEs thrive in the country’s digital economy and cashless payment ecosystem.
Driving the Cashless Revolution: Euronet QRPH Integration
The key highlight of the conference was the unveiling of AutoCount’ integrated Point of Sale (POS) solution. By partnering with Euronet Services Inc., AutoCount now enables merchants to accept standardized QRPH payments directly within their existing POS workflow.
This integration eliminates the need for additional external hardware and complex manual entry, addressing the growing consumer preference for contactless transactions in the Philippines. Key benefits for merchants include:
Full BIR Compliance for Philippine SMEs
Navigating tax regulations is a challenge for local businesses. Retailers can now operate with confidence that their system meets BIR requirements for official receipts, sales reporting, and proper record-keeping, eliminating compliance concerns and allowing them to focus on growing their business instead.
Speaking at the launch, AutoCount CEO, Mr. Choo Yan Tiee highlighted, “The retail landscape is changing fast. Customers expect convenience, cashless options, and faster checkout. QR payments are no longer optional. They are becoming the standard. With this integration, we are equipping our partners, and support merchants with a future-ready solution that aligns with the Philippines’ digital payment direction.”
Empowering a Growing Partner Ecosystem
The conference was attended by over 60 partners from the Philippines, and Malaysia, reflecting the growing strength of AutoCount’s regional network. A dedicated session showcased partner-developed plugins, proving the software’s flexibility and extensibility to support diverse industries and business requirements.
Strategic Vision for 2026
The event concluded with a roadmap focused on deeper localization and strengthening the Authorized Partner network in Philippines. As the digital economy accelerates, AutoCount remains committed to delivering compliant, scalable, BIR CAS-ready accounting and POS solutions for SMEs.
Hashtag: #BusinessSolutions #SMEGrowth #DigitalTransformation #DigitalEconomy #AccountingSoftware #POSSoftware #BIRAccredited #CashlessPayments #PhilippinesSMEs #EntrepreneursPH #PhilippinesBusiness #AutoCount #PartnerConference2026 #Euronet #MATRADE
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The Group is principally engaged in the development and distribution of financial management software comprising accounting, Point of Sale (POS) and payroll under its “AutoCount” brand. Its range of software is designed to support the fundamental finance and accounting functions of a business.
VinFast plans to restart construction of its electric vehicle manufacturing complex in North Carolina this year, even as the Vietnamese automaker reported a deeper quarterly loss driven by rising costs tied to expansion, marketing and production ramp-ups.
The company said the project in Chatham County will move forward after earlier delays tied to supply-chain adjustments and financing decisions. The facility, once completed, is expected to anchor VinFast’s ambitions in the United States market, producing electric sport utility vehicles and battery packs aimed at competing with established global manufacturers.
The announcement came alongside financial results that showed losses widening in the final quarter of the year as the company continued investing heavily in overseas manufacturing capacity and global sales networks. VinFast, part of Vietnam’s conglomerate Vingroup, has been expanding aggressively beyond Southeast Asia in a bid to gain a foothold in one of the world’s largest electric-vehicle markets.
Chief executive Le Thi Thu Thuy said the company remained committed to its strategy of building a manufacturing presence close to customers in key markets. Executives argue that local production in the United States will help VinFast reduce logistics costs, navigate tariff regimes and qualify for incentives tied to domestic manufacturing under US clean-energy policies.
The North Carolina facility represents one of the most significant foreign manufacturing investments announced by a Vietnamese company. Plans call for an initial production capacity of around 150,000 vehicles annually once the site becomes operational. The project also includes battery production facilities and a supplier ecosystem expected to attract component manufacturers to the region.
Construction began after the project was announced with strong backing from state authorities, who offered incentive packages to attract the investment. Delays followed as the company reviewed construction schedules and adjusted financing strategies while global demand for electric vehicles experienced uneven growth. VinFast has now indicated work will restart this year as preparations move into the next phase.
The company’s financial statements showed that aggressive expansion continued to weigh on profitability. VinFast has been spending heavily on vehicle development, dealer networks, charging infrastructure partnerships and marketing campaigns in North America and Europe. These investments have expanded operating losses even as vehicle deliveries increased.
VinFast’s product portfolio currently includes several electric SUVs, including the VF 6, VF 7, VF 8 and VF 9 models, which target different segments of the global market. Early deliveries in the United States began with the VF 8, while additional models are being introduced gradually as the company builds service and distribution networks.
Industry analysts say VinFast’s strategy mirrors that of other emerging electric-vehicle manufacturers that are prioritising market share and brand recognition over short-term profitability. Building manufacturing capacity in major markets is seen as essential for competing with established automakers and benefiting from incentives tied to local production.
Global demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, though the pace has moderated in some markets as higher interest rates and infrastructure challenges influence consumer purchasing decisions. Established manufacturers including Tesla, General Motors and Ford have adjusted production plans in response to evolving market conditions, while new entrants continue pushing forward with long-term investments.
VinFast’s push into the United States comes as competition intensifies across the electric-vehicle sector. Chinese manufacturers have rapidly expanded production capacity and export volumes, while European and North American automakers are investing billions of dollars in battery technology and electric platforms.
Executives at VinFast argue that the company’s vertically integrated model, which includes battery development and vehicle production within the broader Vingroup ecosystem, gives it flexibility to adapt to changes in supply chains and technology. The company has also explored partnerships with technology firms and battery specialists as it scales manufacturing.
North Carolina officials have described the planned factory as a potential economic catalyst for the region, with expectations of thousands of jobs and the development of an automotive supply chain around the plant. Infrastructure upgrades and workforce training programmes are being planned alongside the project as authorities prepare for construction to accelerate.
VinFast’s global expansion forms part of Vietnam’s broader push to develop advanced manufacturing industries capable of competing internationally. The country has emerged as a major hub for electronics production, and policymakers have encouraged the growth of domestic companies capable of expanding into high-technology sectors such as electric mobility.
Financial markets have watched VinFast closely since its public listing in the United States, where its share price has experienced sharp swings amid changing investor expectations about the pace of growth in the electric-vehicle sector. Investors have been assessing the company’s ability to scale production, expand deliveries and narrow losses as global competition intensifies.
JD. com has launched a sweeping push into Europe, opening its online retail platform across several major markets including the United Kingdom, marking a strategic attempt by the Chinese e-commerce giant to compete with Amazon and diversify beyond its highly competitive domestic market. The company introduced its international marketplace under the Joybuy brand in the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, offering a wide range […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – To celebrate its 50th Anniversary, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (hereafter “the HKIE”) has organised “The HKIE ‘Together we RISE’ Carnival” (hereafter “the Carnival”) at High Lawn, Art Park, WestK. The opening ceremony took place today, officiated by Ms Bernadette LINN Hon Ho, JP, Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government; Mr YE Shuiqiu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Ir Ricky LAU Chun Kit, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works); and Ir The Hon Aaron BOK Kwok Ming, Legislative Council Member (Functional Constituency – Engineering) cum Past President of the HKIE. They were joined by Ir Alice CHOW, President of the HKIE; Ir Prof Frank CHAN Fan, GBS, JP, Senior Vice President of the HKIE; Ir Rupert LEUNG Kwok Yiu, Vice President of the HKIE; Ir William LUK Wai Lam, Vice President of the HKIE and Ir Prof Alfred SIT Wing Hang, GBS, JP, Chief Executive and Secretary of the HKIE to kick off this two-day event.
With the theme “Together we RISE”, the Carnival aims to highlight the engineering profession’s outstanding contributions to social progress, technological innovation, and sustainable development. Running from 14-15 March, the Carnival features over 40 interactive booths and game zones designed by various organisations and HKIE divisions. The booths showcase exciting innovations including robot and robot dog demonstrations, model displays, VR experiences, UAV flight simulators, a water pumping robot, and more, offering enjoyable, hands-on exploration of the diversity and fun of engineering for the whole family over the weekend.
The Carnival also features a travelling exhibition, “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence”, celebrating 19 excellent engineering projects honoured with The HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award. The exhibition highlights the remarkable achievements and milestones that have shaped Hong Kong’s engineering landscape over the past five decades. In addition, the winning entries from the “Together we RISE” school competition held by the HKIE earlier will be showcased, reflecting the creativity and imagination of the younger generation in building sustainable and innovative cities.
Ir Alice CHOW, President of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, remarked, “The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers has grown alongside Hong Kong over the past 50 years, witnessing and contributing to many of the city’s landmark infrastructure and urban development projects. Through the Carnival, we hope the public can gain a deeper understanding of the vital role engineers play in society, while inspiring the younger generation’s interest and creativity in the engineering profession. ‘Together we RISE’ is not just a theme; it also expresses our commitment to fostering innovation, uniting the industry, and building the future, leveraging Hong Kong’s unique advantages of being ‘backed by our motherland and connected to the world’!”
The HKIE 50th Anniversary “Together we RISE” Carnival
| Date and time: | 14 March 2026 (Sat) 10am-6pm
15 March 2026 (Sun) 10am-6pm |
| Location: | High Lawn, Art Park, WestK |
| Fee: | Free of charge |
Hashtag: #HKIE
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The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) – previously The Engineering Society of Hong Kong – was founded in 1947. In 1975, the HKIE was incorporated under The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Ordinance, Chapter 1105 of the Laws of Hong Kong. Today the HKIE has over 32,000 members, of which around 17,000 are Corporate Members.
The Institution aims to bring together engineers of different disciplines for their common good. The HKIE is committed to upholding the quality of membership, and sets standards for the training and admission of engineers from 22 engineering disciplines. It also has strict rules governing members’ conduct and is dedicated to raising the ethical standards of professional engineers in Hong Kong. For more information about the HKIE, please visit https://hkie.org.hk
Google has finalised its $32 billion acquisition of the cloud security firm Wiz, marking one of the largest deals in the cybersecurity sector and underscoring the growing importance of protecting complex cloud infrastructure as companies expand their use of artificial intelligence and distributed computing. The purchase brings Wiz into the Google Cloud division while allowing the company’s technology to continue operating across multiple cloud platforms. Executives from […]
Digital asset markets received renewed attention after Coinbase chief executive Brian Armstrong argued that tokenisation of financial assets could remove entrenched inequities in global finance by widening participation in investment markets and lowering structural barriers that historically limited access. Armstrong, speaking in comments circulated across financial and crypto industry platforms, said tokenisation could “strip away a huge amount of unfairness from the system by increasing asset access […]
Autonomous delivery robots are beginning to move beyond pavements and into urban streets, as robotics company Coco Robotics deploys a faster generation of machines guided by mapping technology originally developed for the global mobile game Pokémon GO. The company says its latest machine, known as Coco 2, can travel at speeds of up to 13 miles per hour while navigating city roads and bicycle lanes where local […]
