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Russia plans to take 1.48 million metric tons of refining capacity offline in December, up by 35% from a previous estimate but still below the 2.4 million tons in November, according to Reuters calculations based on data from industry sources. A decline in idle capacity means refineries use more crude oil to produce fuel, making fewer volumes available for export. Technological stoppages and maintenance of some units at the Ufaneftekhim, Komsomolsk, Volgograd, Novoshakhtinsk oil refineries will contribute to the upwards revision for December. Expected cumulative offline primary oil refining capacity in Russia reached 40.7 million tons in 2024, up 13% from 2023. Source: Reuters (Reporting by Reuters, Editing by Louise Heavens)

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has indicated that TikTok and X (formerly Twitter) are yet to comply with tax filing requirements in accordance with Nigeria’s regulatory framework. The social media platforms were identified in a report obtained by PRNigeria, titled “Analysis of Compliance with Laws and Misinformation Management by Social Media Platforms in Nigeria.” However, Google, LinkedIn, and Meta have met their tax compliance obligations as outlined in Part III, Sections 3–1, and Part II, Section 10 of the “Code of Practice for Interactive Computer Service Platforms and Internet Intermediaries (CoP for ICSP/II).” “The report underscores the importance of the Code in addressing the dualities of social media as both a tool for progress and a potential source of harm. By enforcing compliance, NITDA seeks to create a transparent and responsible digital ecosystem in Nigeria,” the review reads. ALSO READ: Custodial centres in FCT, Keffi overcrowded — Report The agency urged companies to prioritize compliance, emphasizing that conformity to the Code of Practice is crucial for cultivating trust, ensuring user safety, and preventing the misuse of digital platforms for damaging purposes. The Code, introduced by NITDA in September 2022 in collaboration with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), aims to mitigate online harm, promote accountability and create a safer digital environment. Part II, Section 10 of the Code mandates Large Service Platforms (LSPs) to submit annual compliance reports to NITDA to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and foster transparency. It also requires the establishment of physical offices, the appointment of liaison officers for government communication, and the engagement of certified fact-checkers. Already, major LSPs have registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The NITDA report further notes the significant content moderation efforts undertaken by LSPs, including actions on fake accounts and harmful content — child pornography, hate speech, and misinformation. As of 2023, many accounts in Nigeria were closed for breaching the NITDA Code and the community rules of different platforms: 9,610,054 on Google; 691,596 on LinkedIn; 599,776 on TikTok, and 1,198,205 on X. The platforms also deleted millions of posts that violated the provisions of the Code and community guidelines: 59,670,247 posts on Google; 237,837 on LinkedIn; 4,578,858 on TikTok, and 168,500 on X. NIGERIAN TRIBUNE

Nagpur: Even after spending approximately Rs 1,500 crore to convert tar roads into cement concrete roads, Nagpur's motorists, particularly two-wheeler riders, face serious safety hazards due to poorly maintained interlocking blocks (I-blocks) alongside cement roads. Uneven surfaces and gaps, caused by improper installation and lack of upkeep, lead to accidents and public outrage. In July this year, Nagpur bench of Bombay high court comprising Justices Nitin Sambre and Abhay Mantri, expressed serious concerns over deteriorating condition of city roads. The court noted that even recently constructed cement roads were riddled with cracks and potholes. It attributed the issues to mismanagement and unplanned execution of road projects. Observing that incorrect alignment of cement roads was causing waterlogging and bumpy rides, the bench had ordered formation of an expert committee to comprehensively address problems. But situation on ground remains unchanged, with road-owning agencies disregarding HC directives. The road agencies may face potential contempt of court charges for their inaction and unsafe road conditions continue to endanger people's lives. Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), along with other road-owning agencies like state Public Works Department (PWD) and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), initially converted tar roads into cement roads to reduce long-term maintenance costs. Cement roads, projected to have a lifespan of over 50 years, were seen as a better alternative to tar roads, which require frequent renovations. However, partial concretisation of roads has created a new set of challenges. During a survey, TOI observed that road-owning agencies left portions of roads covered with I-blocks to allow for future utility installations, such as pipelines and cables. In several areas, these blocks have sunk below the level of cement roads or caused large gaps. At some locations, the gaps are wide enough to trap two-wheeler tyres, leading to accidents. Several stretches like in Ram Nagar, North Ambazari Road, VIP Road, Great Nag Road, and Inner Ring Road are among the worst affected where several riders have been injured. Uneven surfaces are further exacerbated by raised road heights, making navigation difficult. Waterlogging during rainy season often conceals these hazards, compounding the risk for motorists. Residents and urban planners have voiced their discontent, pointing to the lack of accountability and quality checks by NMC. "We have repeatedly complained about these gaps, but no action has been taken. These roads are a disaster waiting to happen," said Pravil Palkar, a resident of Narendra Nagar. Experts from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) have recommended implementing a ‘Pavement Management System' to road-owning agencies, including NMC, to address these issues effectively. This system, designed to ensure uniformity in road surfaces and better maintenance, could resolve the recurring problems of uneven I-blocks. "The system includes all the necessary clauses to handle such issues," said VNIT Professor and Head of the Department (Civil Engineering), Vishrut Landge. He criticised the lack of commitment from authorities, stating, "It is unfortunate that there is no willingness among officials to tackle the problem. The current state of cement roads is extremely disappointing and poses a significant risk of serious accidents." NMC chief engineer Leena Upadhaye had earlier said, "We are conducting a survey to identify accident-prone areas caused by uneven I-blocks. Necessary repairs will be carried out soon, and we will implement stricter quality checks." However, no substantial progress has been made on the ground, leaving citizens frustrated and vulnerable. Accident Hazards Uneven I-blocks alongside cement roads are a significant safety risk, especially for two-wheeler riders. Gaps between cement roads and I-blocks trap tyres, leading to accidents, particularly during rains when gaps are concealed. HC Observations Bombay high court's Nagpur bench expressed concerns over deteriorating cement roads. Highlighted poor alignment leading to waterlogging, cracks, and bumpy rides. Ordered the formation of an expert committee to address the issue, but no visible progress has been made. Recommendations VNIT experts suggest a ‘Pavement Management System' to ensure uniformity in road surfaces and address I-block issues. Nagpur: Even after spending approximately Rs 1,500 crore to convert tar roads into cement concrete roads, Nagpur's motorists, particularly two-wheeler riders, face serious safety hazards due to poorly maintained interlocking blocks (I-blocks) alongside cement roads. Uneven surfaces and gaps, caused by improper installation and lack of upkeep, lead to accidents and public outrage. In July this year, Nagpur bench of Bombay high court comprising Justices Nitin Sambre and Abhay Mantri, expressed serious concerns over deteriorating condition of city roads. The court noted that even recently constructed cement roads were riddled with cracks and potholes. It attributed the issues to mismanagement and unplanned execution of road projects. Observing that incorrect alignment of cement roads was causing waterlogging and bumpy rides, the bench had ordered formation of an expert committee to comprehensively address problems. But situation on ground remains unchanged, with road-owning agencies disregarding HC directives. The road agencies may face potential contempt of court charges for their inaction and unsafe road conditions continue to endanger people's lives. Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), along with other road-owning agencies like state Public Works Department (PWD) and National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), initially converted tar roads into cement roads to reduce long-term maintenance costs. Cement roads, projected to have a lifespan of over 50 years, were seen as a better alternative to tar roads, which require frequent renovations. However, partial concretisation of roads has created a new set of challenges. During a survey, TOI observed that road-owning agencies left portions of roads covered with I-blocks to allow for future utility installations, such as pipelines and cables. In several areas, these blocks have sunk below the level of cement roads or caused large gaps. At some locations, the gaps are wide enough to trap two-wheeler tyres, leading to accidents. Several stretches like in Ram Nagar, North Ambazari Road, VIP Road, Great Nag Road, and Inner Ring Road are among the worst affected where several riders have been injured. Uneven surfaces are further exacerbated by raised road heights, making navigation difficult. Waterlogging during rainy season often conceals these hazards, compounding the risk for motorists. Residents and urban planners have voiced their discontent, pointing to the lack of accountability and quality checks by NMC. "We have repeatedly complained about these gaps, but no action has been taken. These roads are a disaster waiting to happen," said Pravil Palkar, a resident of Narendra Nagar. Experts from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) have recommended implementing a ‘Pavement Management System' to road-owning agencies, including NMC, to address these issues effectively. This system, designed to ensure uniformity in road surfaces and better maintenance, could resolve the recurring problems of uneven I-blocks. "The system includes all the necessary clauses to handle such issues," said VNIT Professor and Head of the Department (Civil Engineering), Vishrut Landge. He criticised the lack of commitment from authorities, stating, "It is unfortunate that there is no willingness among officials to tackle the problem. The current state of cement roads is extremely disappointing and poses a significant risk of serious accidents." NMC chief engineer Leena Upadhaye had earlier said, "We are conducting a survey to identify accident-prone areas caused by uneven I-blocks. Necessary repairs will be carried out soon, and we will implement stricter quality checks." However, no substantial progress has been made on the ground, leaving citizens frustrated and vulnerable. Accident Hazards Uneven I-blocks alongside cement roads are a significant safety risk, especially for two-wheeler riders. Gaps between cement roads and I-blocks trap tyres, leading to accidents, particularly during rains when gaps are concealed. HC Observations Bombay high court's Nagpur bench expressed concerns over deteriorating cement roads. Highlighted poor alignment leading to waterlogging, cracks, and bumpy rides. Ordered the formation of an expert committee to address the issue, but no visible progress has been made. Recommendations VNIT experts suggest a ‘Pavement Management System' to ensure uniformity in road surfaces and address I-block issues.Friday, December 27, 2024 China, the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh are rapidly emerging as pivotal markets for the global travel industry. These nations boast burgeoning middle classes, increasing disposable incomes, and a growing appetite for travel, both domestically and internationally. India and China lead the way with their vast populations and rapidly expanding economies, offering opportunities for airlines, hotels, and tour operators. The Philippines and Indonesia, with their stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cultures, are attracting adventure and leisure travelers. Vietnam and Bangladesh, with their rich histories and emerging infrastructures, are increasingly appealing to global tourists. As travel infrastructure develops and connectivity improves, these markets are becoming hotspots for inbound and outbound tourism. Travel brands are tailoring offerings to cater to their preferences, making Asia a powerhouse in shaping the future of the global travel landscape. These emerging markets represent immense growth potential for the global tourism industry. Fast-growing Asian nations are poised to double the size of the global economy in the next 15 years, according to the latest forecast by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR). The world’s gross domestic product is expected to reach $221 trillion by 2039, up from $100 trillion today, with emerging Asian markets playing a pivotal role in this transformation. For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TTW newsletter . Asia’s economies dominate the fastest risers in the CEBR’s World Economic League Table, with India leading the charge. India’s burgeoning middle class, structural reforms, and investments in infrastructure and green energy are driving its rapid growth. Currently the world’s fifth-largest economy, India is forecast to replace Japan as the fourth-largest by 2025 and surpass Germany by 2029 to become the third-largest economy globally. By 2039, India’s GDP is projected to reach $12.8 trillion. “India continues its ascent, driven by its growing middle class, structural reforms, and targeted investments in infrastructure and green energy,” said Pushpin Singh, senior economist at CEBR. Despite challenges like inflation and slowing consumption, India’s long-term outlook remains robust, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of global economic growth. Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous nation, is another standout performer. Predicted to rise from the 16th-largest economy to the top 10 by 2039, Indonesia’s growth underscores the region’s economic dynamism. Bangladesh, too, is making remarkable progress, set to jump 16 places to 21st, fueled by a rapidly growing middle class and robust development strategies. Meanwhile, Vietnam and the Philippines are poised for significant economic advancements. Vietnam is expected to rise nine spots to rank 25th, while the Philippines climbs ten positions to 23rd, showcasing the region’s diverse growth engines. For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TTW newsletter . While many Asian economies soar, China’s trajectory appears less optimistic. Once predicted to overtake the United States as the world’s largest economy, China is now grappling with numerous challenges. “China’s economy is facing significant hurdles, including a slowdown in domestic activity, persistent deflationary pressures, and demographic shifts,” said Sam Miley, CEBR’s managing economist. China’s economic slowdown stems from a property crisis, subdued household and business confidence, and weakening domestic demand. While the World Bank recently revised its growth forecast for China’s GDP to 4.9% in 2024 and 4.5% in 2025, concerns remain over the sustainability of this growth. “Recent signals of forthcoming fiscal stimulus offer some optimism, but uncertainty surrounds their potential to counter the mainland’s economic challenges,” Mr. Miley added. The CEBR no longer predicts China will surpass the United States in GDP terms within the forecast horizon, marking a significant shift in global economic projections. The economic rise of nations like India, Indonesia, and Bangladesh signals a broader shift in global power dynamics. As these countries climb the ranks, they bring with them a host of opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation. This growth reflects a catch-up by less developed nations, enabling them to play a more prominent role in shaping the global economy. Asian economies’ advancements also highlight the importance of sustainable development. Investments in green energy, digital infrastructure, and education are key factors driving these nations’ long-term success. With a focus on inclusive growth, countries like India and Indonesia are setting examples for how emerging markets can balance rapid development with social and environmental responsibility. While Asia takes the lead, other emerging markets worldwide are contributing to global economic expansion. Africa and Latin America, in particular, are experiencing noteworthy growth, driven by urbanization, resource development, and technological adoption. However, Asia’s sheer scale and momentum make it the focal point of the global economy’s transformation. For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TTW newsletter . The rapid ascent of Asian economies opens new avenues for international trade and investment. Businesses worldwide are keen to tap into these growing markets, leveraging their expanding consumer bases and manufacturing capabilities. For example: The next 15 years will witness a dramatic reshaping of the global economic landscape, driven largely by the rapid growth of Asian nations. India’s rise as a global economic powerhouse, Indonesia’s steady ascent, and Vietnam’s and Bangladesh’s advancements highlight the region’s potential. While challenges remain, particularly for China, the overall outlook for Asia is one of optimism and opportunity. As the world’s GDP doubles to $221 trillion by 2039, the influence of these emerging markets will be undeniable. Their growth represents not only economic progress but also a rebalancing of global power dynamics, offering lessons and opportunities for the rest of the world. Read Travel Industry News in 104 different regional platforms Get our daily dose of news, by subscribing to our newsletters. Subscribe here . Watch Travel And Tour World Interviews here . Read more Travel News , Daily Travel Alert , and Travel Industry News on Travel And Tour World only.

Daniel Jones Released by Giants, Eyes New Opportunity ElsewhereLiverpool power seven points clear, Man Utd crash at Wolves

Rapes, torture, killings -- a litany of abuses blamed on Assad forcesPresident Emmanuel Macron is to name a new prime minister on Friday, aides said, after days of deadlock over finding a candidate to replace Michel Barnier whose ousting by parliament pushed France into a fresh crisis. Barnier was toppled in a historic no-confidence vote on December 4 and there had been expectations Macron would announce his successor in an address to the nation even a day later. But in a sign of the stalemate in French politics after inconclusive legislative elections this summer, he did not name his successor then and has now missed a 48-hour deadline he gave at a meeting meeting of party leaders on Tuesday. On Thursday, Macron left France on a day-long trip to key EU and NATO ally Poland but shortened the visit in an apparent bid to finalise the appointment. "The statement naming the prime minister will be published tomorrow (Friday) morning," said an aide to to the president, asking not to be named, late Thursday just after Macron touched down from the trip to Poland. "He is finishing his consultations," the aide added, without giving further details. Whoever is named will be the sixth prime minister of Macron's mandate after the toppling of Barnier, who lasted only three months, and faces an immediate challenge in thrashing out a budget to pass parliament. Each premier under Macron has served successively less time in office and there is no guarantee for the new premier that they will not follow this pattern. Macron remains confronted with the complex political equation that emerged from the snap parliamentary polls -- how to secure a government against a no-confidence vote in a bitterly divided lower house where no party or alliance has a majority. All the candidates widely floated so far have encountered objections from at least one side of the political spectrum. "They are stuck," said a person close to Macron, asking not to be named and lamenting that "each name gets blocked." "No one is in agreement around the president," added the source, expressing hope Macron will surprise everyone with an unexpected choice. Macron's rumoured top pick, veteran centrist Francois Bayrou, raises hackles on the left -- wary of continuing the president's policies -- and on the right, where he is disliked by influential former president Nicolas Sarkozy. Beyond Bayrou, prime ministerial contenders include former Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve, current Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, a Macron loyalist, and former foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. Another name being discussed in the media is Roland Lescure, a former industry minister, but the nomination of the former Socialist risks inflaming the right. These "are names that have been around for years and haven't seduced the French. It's the past. I want us to look to the future," Greens leader Marine Tondelier said. "The French public want a bit of enthusiasm, momentum, fresh wind, something new," she told France 2 television. Polls indicate the public is fed up with the crisis. Just over two-thirds of respondents to one Elabe poll published on Wednesday said they want politicians to reach a deal not to overthrow a new government. But confidence is limited, with around the same number saying they did not believe the political class could reach agreement. In a separate IFOP poll, far-right National Rally (RN) figurehead Marine Le Pen was credited with 35 percent support in the first round of a future presidential election -- well ahead of any likely opponent. She has said she is "not unhappy" that her far-right party was left out of the horse-trading around the government, appearing for now to benefit from the chaos rather than suffer blame for bringing last week's no-confidence vote over the line. In a critical looming moment, Le Pen on March 31, 2025 faces the verdict in an embezzlement trial on charges she denies. If convicted, she could lose the chance of standing in the 2027 elections and with it her best chance yet of winning the Elysee. burs-tgb-sjw/rlpIndia's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies at 92

‘Fake voting’: BSP to not contest any bypollsPEP GUARDIOLA plans to hit the January sales for the first time in SEVEN years in a bid to halt Manchester City’s alarming slump. Guardiola will be handed a war chest after the champions made more than £250million on player trading over the past two years. Newcastle ’s Bruno Guimaraes and fellow midfielder Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad are on City’s radar following Ballon d’Or winner Rodri’s season-ending ACL injury. The champions have lost seven of their last 10 matches with injuries hitting them hard during a nightmare six weeks. So they will scour the market when the window opens next month in a bid to save their faltering season. City are aware it is difficult to sign top players in the winter and have not done major business since they signed centre-back Aymeric Laporte in 2018. Read More on Football And the board will back Guardiola if the right man is available at a good price. Bruno is believed to be keen on a move to City but persuading the Toon to part with one of their key men in the middle of the season will be tricky. He was valued at £100m by his club in the summer - which was considered unrealistic by City - but his form this season has not justified that figure. Zubimendi was a target for Liverpool earlier this year and opted to stay in Spain but is now more open to offers. Most read in Football BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER S The Etihad hierarchy have always tried to plan their windows in advance but the long list of injuries has left the squad creaking with a lot of matches still ahead. Meanwhile City’s below par Champions League form has already cost them almost £6m. And they could be hit in the pocket by another £9m if they fail to reach the Last 16 in the New Year. Under the new league format, teams receive £1.7m for a win and around £600,000 for a draw. Rivals Liverpool have led the way, banking the maximum amount from their six league fixtures so far. Meanwhile, City have won just two of theirs – against Slovan Bratislava and Sparta Prague. They drew with Inter Milan as well as Feyenoord and lost to Sporting Lisbon as well as Juventus – leaving their participation in the latter rounds in the balance. Under Guardiola, City traditionally made light work of the group stages – and won all six last year. This time they sit back in 22nd place in the table and will need points in their final two games next month to avoid an embarrassing early exit. MAN CITY began the season as favourites to win the Premier League title yet again – but there is one elephant in the room that threatens to put the skids under the Etihad giants. Sunsport’s MARTIN LIPTON discusses what the next few months could hold with Head of Sport SHAUN CUSTIS .... Custis: So the big question – will there be a resolution this season? Lipton : Yes.... probably! It will take at least a month to go through the evidence. So I suspect around March, April time, we will get a result. But that’s where it starts to get tricky. Custis : Why is that? Lipton : If the result is in City's favour, that's the end of the matter. They will be cleared. They will have no punishment to face. But if City are found guilty, these will be the heaviest penalties ever imposed by the Premier League. I suspect if they are found guilty, they will be expelled from the league or given a massive points deduction and a huge fine so that they're not in the Premier League next season. Check out the full discussion on Man City's future .

President Emmanuel Macron is to name a new prime minister on Friday, aides said, after days of deadlock over finding a candidate to replace Michel Barnier whose ousting by parliament pushed France into a fresh crisis. Barnier was toppled in a historic no-confidence vote on December 4 and there had been expectations Macron would announce his successor in an address to the nation even a day later. But in a sign of the stalemate in French politics after inconclusive legislative elections this summer, he did not name his successor then and has now missed a 48-hour deadline he gave at a meeting meeting of party leaders on Tuesday. On Thursday, Macron left France on a day-long trip to key EU and NATO ally Poland but shortened the visit in an apparent bid to finalise the appointment. "The statement naming the prime minister will be published tomorrow (Friday) morning," said an aide to to the president, asking not to be named, late Thursday just after Macron touched down from the trip to Poland. "He is finishing his consultations," the aide added, without giving further details. Whoever is named will be the sixth prime minister of Macron's mandate after the toppling of Barnier, who lasted only three months, and faces an immediate challenge in thrashing out a budget to pass parliament. Each premier under Macron has served successively less time in office and there is no guarantee for the new premier that they will not follow this pattern. Macron remains confronted with the complex political equation that emerged from the snap parliamentary polls -- how to secure a government against a no-confidence vote in a bitterly divided lower house where no party or alliance has a majority. All the candidates widely floated so far have encountered objections from at least one side of the political spectrum. "They are stuck," said a person close to Macron, asking not to be named and lamenting that "each name gets blocked." "No one is in agreement around the president," added the source, expressing hope Macron will surprise everyone with an unexpected choice. Macron's rumoured top pick, veteran centrist Francois Bayrou, raises hackles on the left -- wary of continuing the president's policies -- and on the right, where he is disliked by influential former president Nicolas Sarkozy. Beyond Bayrou, prime ministerial contenders include former Socialist prime minister Bernard Cazeneuve, current Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu, a Macron loyalist, and former foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian. Another name being discussed in the media is Roland Lescure, a former industry minister, but the nomination of the former Socialist risks inflaming the right. These "are names that have been around for years and haven't seduced the French. It's the past. I want us to look to the future," Greens leader Marine Tondelier said. "The French public want a bit of enthusiasm, momentum, fresh wind, something new," she told France 2 television. Polls indicate the public is fed up with the crisis. Just over two-thirds of respondents to one Elabe poll published on Wednesday said they want politicians to reach a deal not to overthrow a new government. But confidence is limited, with around the same number saying they did not believe the political class could reach agreement. In a separate IFOP poll, far-right National Rally (RN) figurehead Marine Le Pen was credited with 35 percent support in the first round of a future presidential election -- well ahead of any likely opponent. She has said she is "not unhappy" that her far-right party was left out of the horse-trading around the government, appearing for now to benefit from the chaos rather than suffer blame for bringing last week's no-confidence vote over the line. In a critical looming moment, Le Pen on March 31, 2025 faces the verdict in an embezzlement trial on charges she denies. If convicted, she could lose the chance of standing in the 2027 elections and with it her best chance yet of winning the Elysee. burs-tgb-sjw/rlp

NonePhoto credit: WorldCC MELBOURNE, Australia, Dec. 18, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new report from World Commerce & Contracting (WorldCC) and Randstad Australia sounds the alarm on the state of procurement and contract management in Australia. The report, ‘Workforce Dynamics in the Modern Era: Bridging Skills Gaps and Embracing Future Needs’ , uncovers a profession grappling with a widening skills gap, uncertainty surrounding AI, and a lack of clear career pathways – all of which could hinder Australia’s competitiveness in the global market. The report, based on a comprehensive survey of professionals across Australia, paints a worrying picture: Skills gaps: While 76% feel confident in their analytical abilities, a staggering 90% recognise a critical need for upskilling in risk management. Adding to this, 74% of respondents acknowledge the critical need for improved tools and training, with just 15% considering the current tools available within procurement fit for purpose. Career paths: A mere 6.5% of procurement professionals have a clear understanding of their career progression opportunities. This lack of direction, coupled with the fact that only 46% are satisfied with current career development opportunities, contributes to a sense of career ambiguity and potentially hinders motivation and retention. AI apprehension: Perhaps most surprisingly, the research uncovered a widespread lack of awareness surrounding the impact of AI. Almost 50% of respondents don’t believe AI will significantly impact their roles in the near future. This points to a critical need for education and open communication to dispel myths and anxieties surrounding AI adoption. Adding to the concerns around career progression, Rachel Homer, National Manager – Procurement, Contracts & Supply Chain at Randstad Australia, warns: “The lack of clear career pathways isn’t just a statistic—it’s a barrier to attracting and retaining top commercial and contracting talent in Australia. Ambitious professionals need to see a future within their organisation. People leaders must prioritise building transparent, accessible career trajectories, supported by robust mentorship and development. This isn’t just about retention; it’s about cultivating the next generation of leaders who will drive innovation and elevate Australia’s competitive edge.” This need for a skilled and future-ready workforce is echoed by Tim Cummins, President at WorldCC, who emphasises the importance of proactive measures: “The future of procurement and contract management depends on a workforce equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate an increasingly complex landscape. We need to move beyond simply acknowledging the skills gap and actively invest in upskilling the workforce. This means providing targeted training in crucial areas like risk management and AI, but also creating clear career pathways that empower professionals to grow and thrive.” Finally, the report also highlights the importance of fostering inclusivity and driving innovation. It calls on organisations to create a culture of collaboration where diverse perspectives are valued and employees are empowered to contribute their unique talents. “Workforce Dynamics in the Modern Era” is an essential resource for anyone involved in procurement and contract management. Download the full report today and discover how you can build a future-ready workforce: https://info.worldcc.com/workforce-dynamics-report-2024 About WorldCC World Commerce & Contracting is a not-for-profit association dedicated to helping its global members achieve high-performing and trusted trading relationships. With 75,000 members from over 20,000 companies across 180 countries worldwide, the association welcomes everyone with an interest in better contracting: business leaders, practitioners, experts and newcomers. It is independent, provocative, and disciplined, existing for its members, the contracting community and society at large. About Randstad Australia Randstad is a global talent leader with the vision to be the world’s most equitable and specialised talent company. As a partner for talent, we provide clients with the high-quality, diverse and agile workforces they need to succeed in a talent-scarce world. We help people secure meaningful roles, develop relevant skills, and find purpose and belonging in their workplace. Through the value we create, we are committed to a better and more sustainable future for all. Our national team of procurement, contracts & supply chain recruiters is composed of experienced recruitment consultants and full-time candidate managers, responsible for daily candidate generation. Our innovative sourcing techniques and technologies, combined with our extensive local procurement, contract, and supply chain industry connections, ensure we continually build our talent pipeline and provide our partners with access to the best talent. With 31 offices in Australia servicing the local market, and headquarters in the Netherlands, Randstad operates in 39 markets and has approximately 40,000 employees. In 2023, we supported 2 million talents to find work and generated revenue of €25.4 billion. Randstad N.V. is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam. Contact Information: Kate Hodgins Head of Marketing & Communications World Commerce & Contracting +44 7793 026783 khodgins@worldcc.com www.worldcc.com Mikaela Johnson Head of Communications ANZ Randstad Australia +61 2 80951747 mikaela.johnson@randstad.com.au www.randstad.com.au A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5167deb2-118d-4f86-8d57-7ceffc2e2ffe

AP Trending SummaryBrief at 6:01 p.m. EST

OpenAI has been announcing a lot of new features and enhancements for ChatGPT in recent days, and the company still has a few more cards up its sleeve. Now OpenAI is introducing an intriguing feature: the ability to call ChatGPT using your phone line without the need for cellular data. ChatGPT now has its own phone number The announcement was made by OpenAI via a live stream on YouTube and shows the technology in action. Essentially, anyone in the US can now call 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478) to talk to ChatGPT and get access to the same advanced answers you can get from the chatbot on the web. ChatGPT via telephone uses Advanced Voice Mode technology to provide a natural conversation with the user. The main idea of offering access to ChatGPT via a regular phone line is to let people talk to the chatbot when they are in an area without an internet connection. In the demo, OpenAI gave the example of people on a road trip who want to know more about something they’ve seen without having to upload a photo or video. For users in the rest of the world, OpenAI also announced that ChatGPT is now available on WhatsApp, so that users can chat with the chatbot by text directly from Meta’s messaging platform. To do this, simply start a chat with the same phone number mentioned above (1-800-242-8478). OpenAI says it’s working on letting users log into their ChatGPT accounts with the WhatsApp bot. Earlier this week, OpenAI also made ChatGPT Search available to everyone for free . With ChatGPT Search, users can ask questions and get answers with data collected from the web in real time. OpenAI has also added video support to ChatGPT’s Advanced Voice Mode , so that users can have a natural conversation with the chatbot via video chat. In addition, with the release of iOS 18.2 last week , iPhone and iPad users can now talk to ChatGPT right from Siri. The ChatGPT app is available for free on the App Store . It requires an iPhone running iOS 16.4 or later. Read also ChatGPT for iOS adds new shortcut for using SearchGPT ChatGPT for macOS now works with third-party apps, including Apple’s Xcode ChatGPT may show ads to non-paying users in the future ChatGPT Pro coming soon for $200/month, per OpenAI leak iWork just entered the Apple Intelligence era Parallels Desktop brings Apple Intelligence Writing Tools to Windows apps Apple Intelligence set to launch in the EU for iPhone and iPad early next year Buy Apple products at a discount

Germany is the poster child for everything that is wrong with the European economy. GDP is on track to fall for a second straight year. Energy-intensive industries like chemicals and metalwork are in the tank. National champions such as Volkswagen and ThyssenKrupp have announced unprecedented job cuts and factory closures. The best way to understand these problems is as a negative consequence of Germany’s own prior economic success and of the institutional underpinnings of those earlier achievements. The German economy’s current malaise is further evidence of this. In the aftermath of World War II – a period of upheaval and crisis but also of renovation and opportunity – what was then West Germany developed a set of economic and political institutions ideally suited to the conditions of the time. To capitalise on its existing prowess in quality manufacturing, policymakers put in place successful vocational training and apprenticeship programmes that expanded the supply of skilled mechanics and technicians. To exploit rapidly growing world trade and penetrate global export markets, German industry doubled down on the production of motor vehicles and capital goods, fields where it had developed a pronounced comparative advantage. At the same time, West Germany built a bank-based financial system to channel funds to dominant firms in these sectors. To ensure harmony in its large companies and limit workplace disruptions, it developed a system of management codetermination that gave workers’ representatives input into C-suite decisions. Finally, to limit disruptive politics, and specifically to check the kind of political extremism and parliamentary fragmentation that had haunted Germany in the past, a proportional electoral system was put in place so that all mainstream parties had a voice, subject to a 5% minimum threshold for parliamentary representation (to limit the influence of fringe parties). The happy result of this alignment of institutions and opportunities was the Wirtschaftswunder, the growth miracle of the third quarter of the twentieth century, when West Germany outperformed its major advanced-economy rivals (with the sole exception of Japan). Unfortunately, these same institutions and arrangements proved exceedingly difficult to modify when circumstances changed. Focusing on quality manufacturing became problematic with the rise of new competitors, including China, yet German firms remained heavily invested in the strategy. Attempts to alter workplace organisation, much less close down uneconomical plants, were stymied by codetermination. Funding startups in new sectors was not the natural inclination of fusty banks accustomed to dealing with long-established customers engaged in familiar lines of business. And a proportional electoral system with a 5% threshold yielded unsatisfactory results and unstable coalitions when voters moved to the extremes, positioning the Alternative for Germany on the right and the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance on the left to earn parliamentary representation, while leaving the more moderate Free Democrats at risk of being shut out. The solutions, it would seem, are obvious: Invest more in higher education and less in old-fashioned apprenticeships and vocational training so that Germany can become a leader in automation and artificial intelligence. Develop a venture capital industry to take risks that banks are unwilling to shoulder. Use macroeconomic policies to stimulate spending instead of relying on tariff-ridden export markets. Rethink codetermination and a mixed-member proportional electoral system that has outlived its usefulness. Not least, release the “debt brake,” another inheritance from the past, which limits public spending. Doing so will permit the government to invest more in research and development and in infrastructure, two critical determinants of economic success in the twenty-first century. Imagining such changes may be easy, but implementing them is not. Change is always hard, of course. But it is especially hard when one seeks to modify a set of institutions and arrangements whose successful operation, in each case, depends on the operation of the others. Attempting to do so is akin to replacing a Volkswagen’s transmission while the engine is running. To take one example, German banks, which rely on their existing customer relationships, are most comfortable when lending to long-established firms doing business in long-established ways. In turn, those firms perform best when they have long-standing relationships with banks on which they can rely for finance. Replace those established firms with startups, and the banks, lacking the expertise of venture funds, will be at sea. If they lend nonetheless, they are at risk of going under. Replace banks with venture capital funds, which have little interest in stodgy metal-bending firms, and those firms will lose access to the external finance on which they depend. Such is the nature of Germany’s institutional gridlock. The bad news, then, is that there is a serious mismatch between Germany’s current economic situation and its institutional inheritance, and that there are major obstacles to altering the latter to realign it with the former. The good news is that a crisis that prompts a wholesale rethink of that institutional inheritance could conceivably break the logjam. Maybe this is just the crisis that Germany needs. Related Story Qatar stresses need to preserve Syria's unity Qatar establishes WEF's Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution

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