South Africa’s upcoming national budget will be closely monitored as analysts focus on key issues, including the debt-to-GDP ratio, government spending, and fiscal challenges that could further strain the country’s finances. In October’s medium-term budget policy statement (MTBPS), the government reported that tax collection for the 2024/25 financial year fell short of expectations. However, recent data indicates a 5.3% increase in tax revenue this year, with government spending rising by just 4%. This raises the question of whether South Africa’s National Treasury could have met its elusive target of a primary budget surplus. Despite these positive signs, the country’s debt…
Author: Introducing Live
Leading industrial automation provider ARBOR Technology has announced its participation in the upcoming Embedded World 2025, set to take place from 11-13 March at the NürnbergMesse GmbH. The company will showcase an array of cutting-edge industrial products designed to enhance efficiency, productivity, and flexibility across various sectors. The highlight of ARBOR’s showcase will be its advanced FPC-5211, a powerful edge AI device built to meet the demanding computational needs of modern applications. Specially designed for smart city applications, the FPC-5211 is capable of processing vast amounts of data from sensors, such as LiDAR systems used for autonomous vehicles and cameras…
The logistics sector is undergoing a significant transformation as businesses prepare for rising costs, potential trade wars, and the looming threat of a global economic downturn. According to a recent survey by Agility, over 62% of logistics professionals have redesigned their supply chains to mitigate risks from inflation, trade protectionism, and geopolitical uncertainties. The findings, part of Agility’s 2025 Emerging Markets Logistics Index, underscore the challenges facing the logistics industry as it navigates a turbulent global landscape. The survey of 567 logistics executives highlights growing concerns about rising tariffs, particularly following expected U.S. tariff hikes and an influx of Chinese…
As the world prepares to mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Discovery Education has launched new resources aimed at inspiring the next generation of female STEM innovators. The resources, available through Discovery Education’s award-winning platforms, DoodleMaths, Espresso, and Immersive Learning, are designed to engage primary school pupils in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning, while promoting gender equality in these crucial fields. Celebrated annually on February 11, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an initiative adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. The observance aims to promote equal access and participation…
As National Apprenticeship Week kicks off, Dalcour Maclaren, a leading consultancy in land consent and environmental planning for major infrastructure projects, is calling on more businesses to invest in apprenticeship schemes to address the widening skills gap in the UK’s energy, utilities, and infrastructure sectors. These industries are crucial to achieving the UK’s Net Zero targets, but the talent pool is struggling to keep pace with the demand for skilled professionals. In partnership with ITN, Dalcour Maclaren has released a video highlighting the importance of apprenticeships, which will be premiered during National Apprenticeship Week. The firm believes that apprenticeships are…
BWS, a studio renowned for its innovative animation and immersive storytelling, has reached a significant milestone on YouTube, surpassing 100,000 subscribers. This achievement has earned the creative powerhouse the coveted Silver Play Button plaque from the video-sharing platform, marking a new chapter in its growing online presence. The milestone highlights the success of BWS’ approach to producing high-quality animated content that resonates with viewers globally. With a commitment to pushing creative boundaries, the studio has carved a distinctive place for itself in the world of animation and film. The 100,000 subscribers reflect both the studio’s tireless creative efforts and the…
Huawei has been recognised as the global leader in CloudOps strategy and execution in the latest Omdia Universe: CloudOps, 2025 report. The Chinese tech giant also ranked second globally in terms of solution breadth, with Huawei Cloud Stack earning top marks in areas such as observability, data management, and security operations. Omdia, a leading global technology research firm, highlighted Huawei Cloud Stack’s strong performance in two key subcategories: solution breadth and market momentum. The company’s cloud management platform (CMP), ManageOne, was particularly praised for its ability to help businesses effectively manage both private and public cloud resources. Huawei’s comprehensive monitoring…
A new AI-driven companion, Hi BFF, has been launched in the UK with the mission of combatting loneliness and promoting personal growth through meaningful conversations and enhanced social confidence. As the world grapples with rising loneliness and social anxiety, the platform aims to offer a solution that empowers users without replacing human relationships. While AI companionship services have become increasingly popular, many experts have raised concerns about the long-term psychological impact of such technology, particularly regarding dependency and unrealistic relationship dynamics. Hi BFF sets itself apart by prioritising ethical AI design, focusing on fostering positive, real-world social skills that improve…
Whisky collectors and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the auction of two extremely rare bottles of whisky, each aged for more than 50 years. These exceptional spirits are expected to fetch a significant sum, attracting bidders from around the world. According to National Daily Press, the bottles come from a prestigious distillery and have been carefully preserved for over half a century. Given their rarity, age, and provenance, experts predict they could command record-breaking bids when they go under the hammer. A Coveted Prize for Whisky Collectors Aged whisky of this calibre is highly sought after, with collectors and investors willing…
Navigating the world of drug testing in the UK can be challenging for employers seeking cost-effective solutions. With regulations such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, compliance is crucial for maintaining a safe workplace. The most cost-effective drug testing methods in the UK are typically urine and saliva tests, which strike a balance between affordability and reliability. Most UK employers prefer these options for pre-employment screening, random checks, and post-incident testing. It’s important for employers to ensure that any drug testing is conducted with proper consent and in line with…