U. S President Donald Trump intensified geopolitical tensions by openly warning of possible military action against Colombia following a dramatic U. S. operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuela’s president, Nicolas Maduro. Trump made the comments aboard Air Force One, accusing Colombian President Gustavo Petro of presiding over a “sick” government and suggesting Colombia could be targeted if illicit drug and security concerns were not addressed, […]
Taiwanese security officials and lawmakers have been assessing the implications of Donald Trump’s hardline language on Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro, viewing it as a signal of how a future Trump administration might project power abroad and deter coercive moves by Beijing, even as they privately acknowledge that no arrest of the Venezuelan leader has taken place. The discussion reflects Taipei’s constant effort to read Washington’s intentions amid growing […]
Private equity investor Oakley Capital has agreed to acquire a controlling interest in Global Loan Agency Services, the London-headquartered provider of loan administration and trustee services to global capital markets, marking one of the most significant deals in the debt services sector this year. Oakley, deploying capital through its Fund VI vehicle, will take a majority position from US buyout firm Levine Leichtman Capital Partners, which has owned the business since 2022 and will retain a modest shareholding after the transaction. The Canadian pension investor La Caisse, known formally as Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, is co-investing with Oakley, taking a minority stake alongside the new majority holder. Completion of the transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals.
GLAS has carved out a niche as a specialist provider of services that support the lifecycle of debt instruments, from syndicated loans and direct lending to private credit and leveraged finance transactions. Founded in 2011 by Mia Drennan and Brian Carne, the firm oversees administration for a substantial portfolio of assets under management running into the hundreds of billions of dollars and employs over 450 staff across 16 offices worldwide. Drennan is expected to remain at the helm as chief executive, reflecting continuity in leadership amid the change in ownership.
The strategic rationale behind the investment reflects broader shifts in global credit markets. Demand for outsourced loan administration and trustee services has grown as lenders and borrowers navigate increasingly complex financing arrangements and regulatory requirements. Private credit, in particular, has expanded sharply, with non-bank lenders and institutional investors seeking specialist support for documentation, compliance and reporting functions that underpin large, bespoke transactions. GLAS’s suite of services has made it a go-to partner in this space, particularly for institutional clients negotiating intricate debt structures.
Financial terms of the deal disclosed by Oakley indicate its indirect contribution via Fund VI will be up to about £55 million, but wider valuations implied by market coverage suggest a total enterprise value near £1 billion. That figure aligns with expectations from advisers and reflects both GLAS’s established market position and the strategic value investors place on firms that facilitate the expanding private credit ecosystem. Oakley’s purchase follows a period of growth for GLAS under Levine Leichtman’s ownership, during which assets under administration reportedly rose from roughly $120 billion in 2021 to more than $750 billion today, driven by geographic expansion, technology investment and targeted acquisitions.
Oakley Capital’s profile has broadened in recent years as the firm has backed a variety of businesses across sectors including consumer brands, technology and business services. Its backing of GLAS reflects a deliberate push into specialised financial services where structural trends favour outsourced, technology-enhanced solutions. The involvement of La Caisse, a major institutional investor, underscores the appeal of GLAS’s business model to long-term capital allocators seeking exposure to the infrastructure of global credit markets.
Industry analysts have noted the appetite for loan agency services has been underpinned by the proliferation of private credit funds and a resurgence of syndicated lending activity following periods of market volatility. As banks and alternative lenders diversify their portfolios and jurisdictions tighten reporting standards, demand for independent administrators with global reach has grown. GLAS’s deep bench of expertise in handling complex transactions and its geographic footprint are seen as competitive advantages that could support accelerated growth under Oakley’s stewardship.
Executives from both sides have highlighted the strategic fit. Mia Drennan said the partnership with Oakley and La Caisse positions GLAS to expand its offerings and deepen client relationships, building on a track record of innovation in service delivery. Josh Kaufman, partner and head of Europe at Levine Leichtman, expressed pride in the firm’s role in GLAS’s development and confidence in its future trajectory under new ownership. Advisers on the transaction included Deutsche Bank and Robert W. Baird, working with GLAS and Levine Leichtman, reflecting the complexity and market interest in the deal.
Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran, declaring the United States was “locked and loaded” should Tehran threaten American interests, as deadly protests inside the country intensified pressure on its leadership and sharpened an already volatile regional standoff. The remarks, delivered during a briefing in Washington, followed days of unrest across several Iranian cities after demonstrations turned violent, leaving dozens dead and hundreds injured, according to […]
Claims circulating across social media and some exile networks that President Nicolás Maduro had been captured in a U. S.-led operation triggered an emotional surge among Venezuelans living abroad, exposing both the depth of anger at Caracas and the fragility of trust shaped by years of unfulfilled expectations. No government in Washington or Caracas has confirmed any detention of Nicolás Maduro, and the authorities in Venezuela continue […]
Dubai Police have expanded coordination with public agencies and private firms to strengthen road safety and labour-area security, positioning enforcement, data-sharing and prevention as central pillars of the emirate’s broader safety agenda.
Senior officers from Jebel Ali and Al Barsha police stations convened a high-level panel discussion titled Forecasting the Future of Road Safety and Labour Area Security in Dubai, drawing together municipal authorities, transport operators, construction firms and safety specialists. The forum underscored a shift towards anticipatory policing, with emphasis on risk forecasting, targeted inspections and early intervention rather than reactive enforcement alone.
Officials said the initiative reflects mounting pressures on transport networks and worker accommodation zones as Dubai continues to attract investment, logistics activity and large-scale construction. Traffic density around industrial areas, ports and residential labour clusters has risen steadily, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving heavy vehicles, buses and pedestrians. Police data presented at the session showed that incidents in such zones tend to involve multiple risk factors, including fatigue, limited visibility, non-compliance with speed limits and inadequate safety training.
Dubai Police leadership stressed that reducing fatalities and serious injuries requires tighter integration between enforcement agencies and employers. Participants discussed expanding joint patrols in high-risk corridors, using shared data dashboards to flag accident-prone locations, and aligning inspection regimes across transport, housing and occupational safety authorities. The approach aims to close gaps where responsibility has traditionally been fragmented between different regulators.
Road safety featured prominently in the discussions, with officials outlining plans to intensify monitoring of commercial fleets, particularly buses transporting workers to and from labour camps. Technology was cited as a critical enabler, including wider deployment of smart cameras, vehicle telematics and predictive analytics to identify unsafe driving patterns before accidents occur. Police officers noted that automated enforcement must be complemented by sustained awareness campaigns targeting drivers, supervisors and site managers.
Labour-area security formed the second core focus of the panel. Senior officers highlighted the importance of safe living environments in maintaining public order and worker wellbeing. Issues such as overcrowding, poor lighting, inadequate emergency access and weak access controls were identified as recurring vulnerabilities. Dubai Police said coordinated inspections with municipal bodies and civil defence teams would be expanded to ensure accommodation facilities meet safety and security standards.
Private-sector representatives acknowledged that compliance expectations are rising. Construction and logistics firms described increasing investment in driver training, fatigue management systems and on-site safety officers, driven both by regulatory pressure and operational risk. Several companies shared examples of internal monitoring tools that track driver behaviour and working hours, with data shared directly with police units during investigations or audits.
The panel also addressed the human dimension of safety enforcement. Police officials emphasised that communication with workers remains essential, particularly in multicultural environments where language barriers can undermine awareness of rules and emergency procedures. Plans were outlined to broaden multilingual outreach programmes and community policing initiatives in labour zones, enabling faster reporting of hazards and disputes.
From a policy perspective, the discussions aligned with Dubai’s long-term vision of zero fatalities on roads. Police leaders reiterated that while enforcement remains firm, the strategy increasingly prioritises prevention, education and partnership. Forecasting models presented during the session illustrated how combining traffic data, urban planning inputs and employer compliance records can help authorities anticipate emerging risks linked to new developments or shifts in traffic flows.
Experts attending the forum noted that Dubai’s approach mirrors global trends in urban policing, where safety is treated as a shared responsibility across government and industry. The emphasis on predictive tools and integrated oversight reflects lessons drawn from international transport safety frameworks, adapted to local conditions such as high temperatures, heavy freight movement and diverse workforce demographics.
The collaboration also carries reputational and economic implications. Officials said safer roads and secure labour environments underpin investor confidence and social stability, particularly as the emirate positions itself as a global logistics, tourism and business hub. Any sustained rise in accidents or security incidents would carry costs not only in human terms but also through delays, insurance claims and regulatory penalties.
XRP has moved back into the top tier of digital assets by market value, overtaking Binance-linked BNB to reclaim fourth place among cryptocurrencies as trading momentum gathered pace and regulatory signals from Washington shifted. Data from major market trackers show the token’s market capitalisation pushing past that of BNB, leaving only Bitcoin and Ethereum ahead when stablecoins are excluded. The advance follows a sharp rally that lifted […]
By Nitya Chakraborty In the neighbouring Bangladesh, the political developments take unpredictable course many times, but the latest alliance between the NCP, the party of the students body which led the July Revolution and the fundamentalist Jamaat-e-Islami, has shocked the progressive forces who supported the uprising that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina […]
Brookfield Asset Management is preparing to launch a cloud computing business called Radiant that will lease artificial intelligence chips directly to developers, underpinned by a newly formed $10 billion AI fund as part of its broader strategy to build an integrated AI infrastructure platform. Radiant’s model aims to control key inputs in the AI value chain from land and power to compute, offering an alternative to conventional cloud […]
Iran has signalled that it is prepared to accept cryptocurrency as payment for advanced military hardware, a move that underscores Tehran’s efforts to widen its financial options under sanctions while raising fresh concerns among regulators and security analysts about the use of digital assets in global arms markets. Information published on a government-linked defence export website indicates that prospective buyers could settle contracts using cryptocurrencies for a […]
More than $110 billion in digital assets moved out of South Korea during 2025 as stringent trading restrictions and policy uncertainty pushed investors and firms to seek friendlier jurisdictions, according to estimates compiled from blockchain analytics, exchange disclosures and regulatory briefings. The scale of the outflows has sharpened debate in Seoul over how to balance market oversight with competitiveness at a time when global crypto activity is […]
Showcasing transparent MicroLED, ultra-bright HUD, and naked-eye 3D displays to redefine the display landscape across retail, cockpit, and smart device applications
LAS VEGAS, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – Innolux will showcase its next-generation display technology in Las Vegas, USA from January 6 to 8, under the theme “Display the Future, TOGETHER.” Powered by high brightness, high resolution, and immersive experiences, Innolux meets the evolving demands of smart retail, cockpit displays, smart homes, and commercial exhibitions, demonstrating its forward-looking strength in cross-domain integration, application innovation, and market deployments.
Next-generation MicroLED transparent displays reshape the visual experience across retail settings
For the first time, Innolux will unveil its next-generation “MicroLED Display Window,” delivering a clearer, more eye-catching spatial visual experience through high clarity, high transmittance, high brightness, and high resolution. Featuring self-illuminating technology, an advanced optical structure, and a wide color gamut, the product delivers outstanding visibility even in strong ambient light, while its high-resolution design blends visual elegance with clear and efficient information recognition. Transparent displays can simultaneously showcase product information, dynamic advertisements, and navigation content, cutting wait times and easing operational demands, while accommodating a variety of sizes and shapes with the world’s largest modular splicing unit. This solution seamlessly integrates digital information into real-world settings, making it ideal for applications such as commercial window displays and museum exhibits, while delivering a new immersive display experience for retail and smart environments.
Dual MicroLED technology debuts, upgrading marine and automotive displays with ultra-high brightness and minimalist aesthetics
Innolux is unveiling its first “Ultra-High Brightness MicroLED HUD,” delivering ultra-high direct brightness (50,000 nits) and reflective virtual image brightness (10,000 nits). This breakthrough solves the challenges of reflections and image blurring caused by intense light in marine and automotive environments. Even under strong sunlight or reflections from the sea surface or deck, the HUD clearly presents waterways, sea conditions, and navigation instructions, thereby enhancing cockpit visibility. Critical information can be projected directly in the line of sight or front field of vision, minimizing eye movement while improving operational safety and application flexibility.
This year’s event will also highlight the next-generation “MicroLED Decoration Display,” which pair high brightness with an elegant wood grain design, ideal for ship cabins and car interiors. When powered off, the display blends seamlessly into its surroundings like a wood panel; when on, its specialized optical structure delivers high transmittance with minimal brightness loss, meeting ESG standards. Leveraging MicroLED technology, the display achieves 2,000 nits brightness, 229 PPI resolution, and 115% NTSC color gamut, ensuring clear visibility even under strong light. By merging aesthetics with functionality, it broadens the range of applications for interior displays.
Multi-view 3D and mirror displays dramatically boost product display efficiency
Innolux has launched the industry’s first “65″ Multi-Users N3D & Kirameki Display(8K)” for retail and exhibition applications. The display combines exclusive N3D multi-view naked-eye 3D technology with the Kirameki algorithm, overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D displays and delivering a more immersive, lifelike stereoscopic experience. N3D allows multiple users to view 3D content simultaneously, maintaining comfort over extended periods while clearly rendering the product’s three-dimensional form. Meanwhile, Kirameki enhances luster, texture, and material details, creating a natural lighting effect from every angle. This boosts product recognition, extends customer engagement, and enriches the interactive experience, making it ideal for retail and boutique displays as well as digital advertising.
Also on display will be an industry first—the “InnoMirror,” which features high-reflection coated glass and local dimming technology to enhance contrast and sharpness while reducing mirror reflection interference. When powered off, the display appears as a mirror; when on, it delivers product information and enables virtual try-on, color matching, and item switching, thus reducing wait times, minimizing wear, and easing staff workloads. This makes it perfect for a range of environments, from boutiques and beauty retailers to smart homes.
Exclusive N3D display technology, paired with low-latency performance and eye-tracking, delivers an immersive naked-eye 3D experience
Innolux is unveiling its “16″ Single User N3D Display,” featuring exclusive N3D technology and a 2D restoration algorithm. The system limits 3D latency to under 1 millisecond, effectively reducing crosstalk and visual discomfort. It also supports seamless switching between 3D and 2D, while eye-tracking ensures a natural, immersive viewing experience.
At the exhibition, Innolux will showcase a range of innovative displays for applications including laptops, AI notebooks, and outdoor and in-flight entertainment, highlighting its latest breakthroughs in display technology. Products on display include the “Multi-Frequency Display (MFD)” and the “Integrated Touch Display.” The former leverages multi-frequency display technology to automatically switch between 24Hz, 60Hz, and 120Hz refresh rates depending on the content, thus optimizing video quality, gaming and graphics smoothness, and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the Integraded Touch Display incorporates a tTED IC chip design, supports refresh rates from 30Hz to 120Hz, streamlines the PCBA assembly, and features a thin, lightweight form factor. Also on display are the “Ultra Slim and Light LCD Display with Carbon Fiber Bezel,” the “17.3″UHD MiniLED Local Dimming” and the “13.3″ MiniLED for in Fly Entertaiment Display.” Through these debuting products, Innolux exemplifies the integration of high performance, energy efficiency, and portability, reinforcing its leadership in defining the next generation of smart display technology.
Hashtag: #Innolux
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai High-refresh 1440p gaming has settled into a clear sweet spot for PC players, balancing visual fidelity with frame rates that comfortably exceed 100 frames per second in demanding titles. Entering 2026, the market for graphics cards capable of driving 1440p monitors at 144Hz and beyond has become more stratified, shaped by architectural advances, shifting pricing strategies and a growing focus on memory capacity […]
Tuba, an artificial intelligence-driven healthcare benefit management platform, has been accepted into NVIDIA Inception, a global programme designed to support technology start-ups developing advanced AI solutions. The move places Tuba among a curated group of early-stage companies working with high-performance computing, data science and machine learning tools to scale products in complex sectors such as healthcare, finance and advanced manufacturing. The company’s entry into the programme […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – This season of giving, A Diamond is Forever joins hands with Asia’s premier luxury retailer, Lane Crawford, in paying tribute to the beauty and authenticity of natural diamonds. Together, they bring forward a shared commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and responsible sourcing.
Renowned actress Charmaine Sheh (left) and fashion trendsetter Hilary Tsui (right) are invited to the event. Charmaine and Hilary discover natural diamonds and experience how diamond detection instruments can distinguish between natural and synthetic diamonds.
“The Forever Gifts: A Natural Diamond Series” the ultimate destination for bespoke natural diamond master creations in Hong Kong, launched with a line-up of activities at Lane Crawford’s flagship retail space in IFC mall. Renowned actress Charmaine Sheh, fashion trendsetter Hilary Tsui, VIPs, media members and influencers from Hong Kong and China were invited to explore exquisite natural diamond collections, thoughtfully curated by Lane Crawford.
Natural diamond workshops are held at Lane Crawford IFC, guiding guests through an immersive journey to explore diamonds from rough to polished
This special series starts with a selection of contemporary fine jewellery brands, each offering a unique design story and a commitment to creativity and excellence. They include State Property, YEPREM, Mio Harutaka, KORLOFF and Claudia Ma Fine Jewellery. “This collaboration marks an important moment for Lane Crawford. Together with De Beers, we’re creating a destination that celebrates the beauty of natural diamonds through exceptional craftsmanship and global creativity. This exclusive space reimagines how clients engage with fine jewellery – bringing artistry, innovation, and the opportunity to design something truly personal.” Emily Wong, Senior Vice President of Merchandising at Lane Crawford.
The exclusive event brought a series of interactive workshops led by experts Jodine Bolden and Samantha Sibley from the De Beers Institute of Diamonds alongside London-based multi-disciplinary artist Annette Fernando.
Left to Right: Fashion stylist Veronica Li, famous influencer Ansheles, international fashion blogger Steph Hui, actor Bruce Tong and actor and singer Chris Tong attend the natural diamond workshop to experience the extraordinary charm of natural diamonds
At the natural diamond workshop, participants gained hands-on experience on rough diamond sorting, polished diamond grading, and differentiation of natural diamonds versus synthetics. Participants also had the unique opportunity of viewing a nearby 297-carat rough diamond and kimberlite carrying a 22-carat rough diamond. Also on display was a gem called “Beating Heart”, a 0.329-carat rough diamond that features a smaller diamond moving freely inside its larger counterpart, a rarity that showcases the extraordinary conditions under which diamonds can form. This exquisite piece, recovered by De Beers Group and analyzed at the facilities of De Beers Institute of Diamonds, is recorded on the Tracr platform, giving insight into its history and heritage. Upon completion of the workshop, each participant received a natural diamond masterclass certificate from the De Beers Institute of Diamonds.
“We are pleased to partner with Lane Crawford for this special series of events to proudly recognize the enduring value of natural diamonds, and to honour the artists who continue to bring life to these creations.” says Loletta Lai, Vice President, Natural Diamonds APAC De Beers Group.
Complementing the technical insight offered by the De Beers Institute of Diamonds, artist Annette Fernando shared her art creations inspired by natural diamonds, named The Multi-Faceted Self. Through a reflective coloring workshop, Annette invited participants to explore the transformative journey of natural diamonds as a metaphor for personal growth and resilience.
The partnership between A Diamond is Forever and Lane Crawford spotlights crafted natural diamond pieces sourced and styled from around the globe, the most treasured gifts ever! These iconic legacy brands and exciting new talent alike, all centered around the timeless beauty of natural diamonds, come together at Lane Crawford, the ultimate destination for discovery, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.
Featured Brands
Claudia Ma Fine Jewellery Claudia Ma, driven by a passion for modern high jewelry and an unwavering dedication to quality, founded her eponymous brand, Claudia Ma, in 2000. With a distinctive design sensibility and an eye for artistic aesthetics, she masterfully reinterprets classic themes through innovative modern expressions. Her creations have earned widespread acclaim for their signature style and exceptional craftsmanship. Over the years, Claudia has collaborated with renowned names such as Shanghai Tang, Lane Crawford, and De Beers Group Forevermark, solidifying her brand’s standing in Hong Kong’s fine jewelry landscape.
Her latest work draws inspiration from the barbell as a symbol of balance, focus, and strength. Crafted in 18k gold and accented with natural diamonds, these versatile pieces embody resilience while seamlessly elevating everyday style.
According to Claudia, “Natural diamonds and craftsmanship go hand in hand. Craftsmanship brings out the diamond’s inner brilliance, while my design presents this timeless classic in a modern way for generations to enjoy. Without this artistry, even the finest diamond remains just a hidden treasure.”
State Property An award-winning contemporary fine jewellery label from Singapore, State Property fuses modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Founded in 2015 by a jeweller and an industrial designer, the brand draws inspiration from culture, literature, and history—bringing to life structured silhouettes in precious metals that embrace the softness of the human form.
“There’s an emotional gravity with natural diamonds that’s hard to replicate, State Property shares. “Their rarity, beauty, and resilience make them extraordinary. Each one a fragment of the earth’s story, time in a crystallised form. We’re drawn to materials that carry meaning, and diamonds embody permanence, memory, and the quiet luxury of time. At State Property, we strive to have those same qualities reflected in our own work — creating jewellery with intention, designed to endure and be cherished across generations.”
YEPREM Known for its avant-garde creations, House of YEPREM is a family-run brand that continues to push the boundaries of contemporary diamond jewellery. With a legacy rooted in timeless craftsmanship and visionary design, YEPREM’s striking pieces are now celebrated across America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
“Natural diamonds are the ultimate expression of authenticity and endurance, virtues that mirror YEPREM’s journey and craftsmanship. Born from time, pressure, and perseverance, each diamond holds the essence of transformation and strength. Their inherent brilliance and purity transcend trends, embodying emotion and individuality. In YEPREM’s world, a natural diamond is not merely a material, it is the foundation upon which stories of resilience and radiance are told.”
Mio Harutaka Crafted in Japan by local artisans, MIO HARUTAKA channels the beauty of Mother Nature into every design. The brand, founded in 2011, is committed to achieving diamond traceability and sustainability while maintaining exceptional artisanal craftsmanship. Harutaka shares: “Craftsmanship is essential—it accounts for almost everything. All of these details depend entirely on the skills of the craftsmen. Craftsmanship is what allows me to welcome close, hands-on appreciation, knowing that each piece will meet that level of scrutiny with confidence and beauty.”
KORLOFF Since 1978, KORLOFF has been a symbol of true femininity—magnetic, adventurous, and bold. Renowned for crafting exquisite bespoke jewelry, each piece reflects daring designs and the unmatched artistry of French craftsmanship, showcasing the Maison’s boundless creativity and passion. “Our story began with a diamond, the Black Korloff, the largest brilliant-cut natural black diamond in the world. Its uniqueness, shaped over millions of years, continues to inspire us every day as a symbol of mystery, transformation, and the magic of nature. Natural diamonds possess an authenticity and depth that no other material can replicate. They remind us that beauty is born from time, pressure, and light, forces that mirror the creative journey behind each Korloff jewel.”
Meet the De Beers Institute of Diamonds Experts:
Jodine Bolden, Director of Education De Beers Institute of Diamonds Jodine has previously developed her career as an operations line manager within large FMCG companies, and European HR Management roles within the luxury Health & Beauty industry where she first developed her passion for creating exceptional consumer experiences. After moving to De Beers, she worked as HR Manager for 5 years and discovered her fascination for diamonds as she supported various global functions across the De Beers estate, she then involved creating the Institute of Diamonds Education Service and developing each course that they now offer to their clients.
Since 2018 the De Beers Institute of Diamonds Education Service has provided education on a range of diamond subjects including, Rough Diamond Sorting, Polished Diamond Grading and Laboratory-Grown Detection.
Samantha Sibley, Technical Liaison Manager De Beers Group, UK With over 30 years’ experience in De Beers’ research, development and commercial teams, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge regarding the characteristics of both natural and laboratory-grown diamonds. She has been involved in the development of De Beers Group’s current and previous suites of verification instruments and currently also facilitates training and educational courses around the world on the use of these instruments for accurate screening results. Other projects involve research into irradiation and HPHT colour treatments and the utilisation of this information to develop screening processes within the De Beers grading laboratories.
Sam has a BTEC Higher National Certificate in Physics, is a diamond fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (DGA) and holds a team leader qualification from Leadership Management UK and the Chartered Management Institute. She has presented on diamond topics globally and has had first-hand experience of the diamond industry over many years through visits to mines, cutting centres, polishing factories, gemmological laboratories and tradeshows.
Annette Fernando, Commissioned Artist, “The Multi-Faceted Self” at The Forever Gifts: A Natural Diamond Series Annette Fernando (b. 1991, London) is a multi-disciplinary artist and curator. She holds a BA in Fine Art from Central Saint Martins and is currently pursuing an MA in Contemporary Art at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, where she was awarded the prestigious Cultural Leaders Scholarship.
Fernando’s artistic repertoire spans drawing, printmaking, painting, and film. Fernando’s current work is driven to immortalise natures scenes, capturing the beauty of moments often overlooked through various mediums. Fernando’s work has garnered significant recognition, including winning the Jerwood Drawing Prize in 2014 and selections for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 2021 and 2023. Her pieces are held in public and private collections across the USA, France, Hong Kong, and the UK.
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 Lane Crawford
Founded in 1850, Lane Crawford is an iconic luxury department store, with a mission to search the world for the most exciting talent and product, to create the ultimate luxury edit of fashion and lifestyle for its customers across Greater China. Featuring the largest own-bought designer portfolio across Womenswear, Menswear, Beauty & Wellbeing,
Home and Lifestyle, and Fine Jewellery in the region, Lane Crawford constantly evolves its product, experience, and services offer to embrace the most innovative and relevant designers and exceptional craftsmanship of the season, and to reflect the dynamic pace of its market and customers.
With four stores in Hong Kong; and three stores across Shanghai, Beijing and Chengdu, supported by a global digital flagship, and a purpose-built ecommerce site for China and WeChat store, Lane Crawford is Greater China’s first and only omni-channel luxury fashion retailer. Each store is personalised to its location and designed to provide sensory experience, fusing fashion, design, art and music, while offering exceptional service.
Lane Crawford is a part of The Lane Crawford Joyce Group, Asia’s premier fashion retail, brand management and distribution group, which also includes cutting-edge fashion boutique Joyce; and fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brand management and distribution business ImagineX Group.
Abu Dhabi Government has enacted a sweeping overhaul of its human resources framework, introducing legislation that redefines how the public sector hires, develops and rewards its workforce of more than 25,000 employees. The 2026 Human Resources Law, which takes effect on 1 January 2026, is positioned by policymakers as a cornerstone reform aimed at making the government an employer of choice while embedding meritocracy across all levels of service.
Officials say the law marks a decisive shift away from traditional tenure-driven systems towards performance-based employment, aligning public sector practices with international standards followed by leading governments and multinational organisations. By prioritising capability, outcomes and continuous development, the framework seeks to attract high-performing professionals, retain specialist talent and strengthen institutional efficiency as Abu Dhabi advances its long-term economic and social ambitions.
Under the new legislation, recruitment and promotion will be governed by transparent, merit-based criteria designed to ensure fairness and competitiveness. Vacancies are to be filled through processes that assess skills, experience and demonstrated results rather than length of service alone. Career progression pathways have been formalised, providing employees with clearer expectations on how performance, leadership potential and expertise translate into advancement.
Compensation and benefits have also been recalibrated to enhance competitiveness with the private sector and global public institutions. The law introduces a more flexible benefits structure that can be adapted to different professional categories, recognising the need to attract scarce skills in areas such as digital transformation, policy design, financial oversight and advanced technical roles. While base pay structures remain regulated, performance-linked incentives are expected to play a larger role in recognising exceptional contribution.
Training and professional development form a central pillar of the reform. The legislation mandates structured learning pathways aligned with organisational needs and individual career plans, reinforcing the principle that advancement is tied to continuous capability building. Government entities are required to invest systematically in upskilling, leadership development and succession planning, ensuring that talent pipelines are sustained internally rather than relying heavily on external recruitment.
The law also introduces clearer frameworks for performance management and accountability. Employees will be assessed against defined objectives linked to institutional priorities, with evaluations feeding directly into promotion, development opportunities and, where necessary, corrective measures. This approach is intended to foster a culture of results, collaboration and innovation across departments.
Labour relations and employee wellbeing are addressed through updated provisions governing work arrangements, leave policies and workplace conduct. Flexible working models are expanded to reflect evolving expectations around productivity and work-life balance, while safeguards are strengthened to ensure fairness, inclusivity and professional integrity. Disciplinary procedures have been standardised to provide due process and consistency across government entities.
From a governance perspective, the reform centralises strategic oversight of human resources while allowing operational flexibility at entity level. This balance is designed to maintain uniform standards across the public sector while enabling departments to respond to their specific workforce needs. Digital systems are expected to support implementation, enabling data-driven workforce planning and more accurate measurement of performance outcomes.
Policy analysts view the legislation as part of a broader regional trend in which Gulf governments are modernising civil service frameworks to support economic diversification and competitiveness. Abu Dhabi’s approach stands out for its emphasis on measurable performance and its explicit effort to position public service as a destination for top-tier talent rather than a default career choice.
Business leaders and human capital specialists note that the success of the law will depend on consistent execution and cultural adoption. Embedding meritocracy requires not only new rules but also managerial capability to assess performance objectively and provide constructive feedback. The transition period in 2026 is therefore expected to involve extensive training for line managers and human resources professionals.
United Arab Emirates authorities said they would withdraw remaining military personnel from Yemen, citing operational considerations and safety concerns, a move that underlines shifting dynamics within the Saudi-led coalition as the conflict enters another uncertain phase. The announcement followed a flare-up in tensions with Saudi Arabia over the conduct and coordination of military operations in the war-torn country, according to officials familiar with the matter. The UAE […]
Abu Dhabi Global Market, the international financial centre of the capital, has crossed a defining threshold as it enters its second decade, announcing the onboarding of 11 major global financial institutions that together manage more than $9 trillion in assets. The expansion has lifted total assets under management on its platform to about $746 billion, up sharply from $635 billion a year earlier and roughly $450 billion […]
BYD has unveiled a high-power “Flash Charging” system that it says can add up to 400 kilometres of driving range in around five minutes, a claim that—if replicated at scale—would narrow one of the biggest gaps between electric vehicles and petrol cars and intensify pressure on rivals led by Tesla. The announcement underscores how the Chinese manufacturer has moved from being a price-competitive disruptor to a technology […]
BNW Developments has unveiled the Tonino Lamborghini Residences on Al Marjan Island, marking the first time the Italian luxury lifestyle brand has anchored a residential project in Ras Al Khaimah and setting a new benchmark for branded waterfront living in the northern emirate. The launch positions the privately held developer behind what it describes as Ras Al Khaimah’s largest private real estate venture at the centre of a market drawing growing international investor interest.
The project brings together BNW Developments and Tonino Lamborghini, the brand founded by the son of the legendary Italian carmaker, to deliver a design-led residential community that blends Italian heritage with contemporary coastal architecture. Planned as a large-scale, master-planned development, the residences are set on Al Marjan Island, a man-made archipelago that has emerged as the emirate’s most prominent tourism and lifestyle hub.
Executives involved in the announcement said the collaboration reflects a deliberate strategy to move beyond conventional luxury offerings towards globally recognised branded residences that command long-term value. For Ras Al Khaimah, the development underscores a shift towards higher-end projects aligned with the emirate’s tourism and economic diversification agenda, particularly as hospitality, leisure and residential segments converge along the coastline.
The Tonino Lamborghini Residences are being positioned as ultra-luxury waterfront homes, with interiors inspired by Italian craftsmanship and modern European aesthetics. Design elements are expected to reflect the brand’s signature language, incorporating bespoke materials, curated finishes and lifestyle-focused amenities. While detailed specifications and unit pricing have not been formally disclosed, the developer has indicated that the project targets high-net-worth buyers seeking branded homes with strong rental and capital appreciation potential.
BNW Developments has expanded rapidly within Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate sector, capitalising on policy reforms, infrastructure spending and rising tourism flows. Al Marjan Island, in particular, has become a focal point for premium residential and hospitality investments, supported by new resorts, entertainment attractions and improved connectivity. Property consultants tracking the market say branded residences on the island are increasingly appealing to overseas buyers from Europe, Asia and the wider Middle East, drawn by comparatively attractive entry prices and long-term growth prospects.
The arrival of Tonino Lamborghini adds another internationally recognised name to the island’s evolving skyline, reinforcing a trend in which global lifestyle brands are lending their identity to residential projects across the UAE. Analysts note that branded developments typically command a premium over non-branded counterparts, supported by perceived quality assurance, curated services and brand-driven design consistency.
Industry observers also point to Ras Al Khaimah’s regulatory environment and measured approach to development as factors supporting sustained demand. Unlike more saturated markets, the emirate has emphasised phased growth, balancing tourism expansion with residential supply. This has helped maintain pricing discipline while attracting developers focused on differentiated offerings rather than volume-led construction.
For BNW Developments, the Tonino Lamborghini partnership is intended to elevate its profile beyond a regional developer into a player capable of executing globally benchmarked luxury projects. Company officials have described the residences as a long-term investment in brand equity, aligning the developer with an internationally known lifestyle name while contributing to the emirate’s ambition to compete with established luxury destinations.
Tonino Lamborghini’s leadership has framed the project as a natural extension of the brand’s presence in hospitality, accessories and interior design, translating its identity into a residential environment shaped by coastal living. The brand’s involvement is expected to extend beyond naming rights to include design oversight and lifestyle integration, a factor often scrutinised by buyers in the branded residences segment.
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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 December 2025 – Dhanarak Asset Development Co., Ltd. (DAD), the state-owned enterprise responsible for managing Thailand’s Government Complex, has announced the successful transformation of the site into a pioneering green and walkable urban prototype, positioning it as a model for sustainable government-led city development.
City of Green Lifestyles by Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit
Under the leadership of Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit, President of DAD, the multi-year redevelopment program reimagines state-owned land, one that treats public land not as a bureaucratic perimeter, but as shared civic infrastructure that prioritizes people, health, and nature.
Dr. Nalikatibhag Sangsnit, DAD’s President
“For decades, government districts in Thailand were designed to manage paperwork, not people,” Nalikatibhag said. “We wanted to reverse that logic. A city, especially a city owned by the state, must first work for human life: how people walk, how they rest, how they breathe, and how they coexist with nature in their daily routines.”
Before-and-after comparison of Government Complex Bangkok after its green redevelopment
From Bureaucratic Grey to Green Living
The centrepiece of the initiative is the newly opened 5.1-rai landscaped connector between Buildings B and C, a site that once functioned primarily as a traffic corridor and noise buffer. The area has been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly green passage linking offices, transit access points and communal spaces within the Government Complex.
Designed as urban infrastructure, a climate buffer reduces heat, improves water absorption and supports daily movement across the site. It also opens previously restricted government land to wider public use, blurring the boundary between administrative space and the city around it.
The project aligns with Thailand’s broader sustainability frameworks, including environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and the government’s bio-circular-green (BCG) economic model. Design features focus on expanding tree canopy, increasing permeable surfaces and creating flexible areas that can support exercise, informal gatherings and community activity.
A Scalable Blueprint for State-Led Urban Transformation
Over the past six years, DAD has increased green spaces within the Government Complex by more than 47 rai, and when combined with adjacent landscaped zones, the total reaches over 138 rai, creating one of northern Bangkok’s largest continuous public green areas.
Nalikatibhag describes the City of Green Lifestyles concept not as a one-off redevelopment, but as a template for future public-sector land use, particularly in rapidly urbanising Asian cities where governments remain among the largest landowners.
“This is about proving that sustainability is not an added cost or a branding exercise,” he said. “When green infrastructure is designed as part of the system, when it improves health, reduces stress, lowers energy demand and invites public use, it becomes economically rational and socially inevitable. The role of the state is not only to regulate cities, but to set an example of how cities should be lived in.”
Global Recognition for Innovation
DAD’s sustainability efforts have earned international acclaim. In 2025, the company became the only public-sector organisation to win the Asia-level International Innovation Awards for two consecutive years, recognising its Government Complex Smart City initiative and the GCC Super Application, a digital platform integrating transport, navigation, and public services within the complex.
The awards, selected from more than 160 entries across 30 countries, underscore Thailand’s growing leadership in sustainable and technology-driven public sector transformation.
Redefining the Role of the State in City-Making
Unlike large-scale urban megaprojects, the Government Complex Bangkok initiative relies on system-based, incremental transformation, repurposing existing assets instead of acquiring new land. Urban policy analysts note that this approach provides a scalable blueprint for other governments managing extensive real estate portfolios.
“A government city should not feel separate from everyday life,” Dr. Nalikatibhag said. “If public space eases the intensity of daily life, improves health and restores a sense of balance between people and nature, then governance itself becomes more humane.”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Dhanarak Asset Development Co., Ltd.
Dhanarak Asset Development Co., Ltd. is a state-owned enterprise under Thailand’s Ministry of Finance, responsible for managing and developing the Government Complex and related assets. DAD is committed to advancing sustainable, human-centered urban development and creating models for environmentally and socially responsible government infrastructure.
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