Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

• First automated tool that quickly analyses RNA changes across thousands of biological samples
• Scientists can now better understand how cells adapt to stress, infections or diseases by studying tiny chemical changes in RNA – a molecule that carries genetic instructions from DNA and regulates how genes respond to challenges
• This will help the healthcare and biomedical industry better identify disease markers, and develop targeted therapies and personalised treatment for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections.

Singapore, 04 September 2025 – Researchers at the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) interdisciplinary research group of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART), Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) research enterprise in Singapore, have developed a powerful tool capable of scanning thousands of biological samples to detect transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) modifications — tiny chemical changes to RNA molecules that help control how cells grow, adapt to stress and respond to diseases such as cancer and antibiotic‑resistant infections. This tool opens up new possibilities for science, healthcare and industry — from accelerating disease research and enabling more precise diagnostics, to guiding the development of more effective medical treatments for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections.

The research was led by SMART AMR, in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore), University of Florida, University at Albany, Lodz University of Technology and MIT.

Addressing current limitations in RNA modification profiling

Cancer and infectious diseases are complicated health conditions in which cells are forced to function abnormally by mutations in their genetic material or by instructions from an invading microorganism. The SMART-led research team is among the world’s leaders in understanding how the epitranscriptome – the over 170 different chemical modifications of all forms of RNA – controls growth of normal cells and how cells respond to stressful changes in the environment, such as loss of nutrients or exposure to toxic chemicals. The researchers are also studying how this system is corrupted in cancer or exploited by viruses, bacteria and parasites in infectious diseases.

Current molecular methods used to study the expansive epitranscriptome and all of the thousands of different types of modified RNA, are often slow, labour-intensive, costly and involve hazardous chemicals, which limits research capacity and speed.

To solve this problem, the SMART team developed a new tool that enables fast, automated profiling of tRNA modifications — molecular changes that regulate how cells survive, adapt to stress and respond to disease. This capability allows scientists to map cell regulatory networks, discover novel enzymes and link molecular patterns to disease mechanisms, paving the way for better drug discovery and development, and more accurate disease diagnostics.

Unlocking the complexity of RNA modifications

SMART’s research, recently published in Nucleic Acids Research, titled “tRNA modification profiling reveals epitranscriptome regulatory networks in Pseudomonas aeruginosa”, shows that the tool has already enabled the discovery of previously unknown RNA-modifying enzymes and the mapping of complex gene regulatory networks. These networks are crucial for cellular adaptation to stress and disease, providing important insights into how RNA modifications control bacterial survival mechanisms.

Using robotic liquid handlers, researchers extracted tRNA from more than 5,700 genetically modified strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that causes infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections and wound infections. Samples were enzymatically digested and analysed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a technique that separates molecules based on their physical properties and identifies them with high precision and sensitivity.

As part of the study, the process generated over 200,000 data points in a high-resolution approach that revealed new tRNA-modifying enzymes and simplified gene networks controlling how cells respond and adapt to stress. For example, the data revealed that the methylthiotransferase MiaB, one of the enzymes responsible for tRNA modification ms2i6A, was found to be sensitive to the availability of iron and sulfur and to metabolic changes when oxygen is low. Discoveries like this highlight how cells respond to environmental stresses, and could lead to future development of therapies or diagnostics.

SMART’s automated system was specially designed to profile tRNA modifications across thousands of samples rapidly and safely. Unlike traditional methods — which are costly, labour-intensive and use toxic solvents such as phenol and chloroform — this tool integrates robotics to automate sample preparation and analysis, eliminating the need for hazardous chemical handling and reducing costs. This advancement increases safety, throughput and affordability, enabling routine large-scale use in research and clinical labs.

A faster and automated way to study RNA

As the first system capable of quantitative, system‑wide profiling of tRNA modifications at this scale, the tool provides a unique and comprehensive view of the epitranscriptome — the complete set of RNA chemical modifications within cells. This capability allows researchers to validate hypotheses about RNA modifications, uncover novel biology and identify promising molecular targets for developing new therapies.

“This pioneering tool marks a transformative advance in decoding the complex language of RNA modifications that regulate cellular responses. Leveraging AMR’s expertise in mass spectrometry and RNA epitranscriptomics, our research uncovers new methods to detect complex gene networks critical for understanding and treating cancer as well as antibiotic-resistant infections. By enabling rapid, large-scale analysis, the tool accelerates both fundamental scientific discovery and the development of targeted diagnostics and therapies that will address urgent global health challenges,” said Prof Peter Dedon, Co-lead Principal Investigator (PI) at SMART AMR, Professor of Biological Engineering at MIT and corresponding author of the paper.

Accelerating research, industry and healthcare applications

This versatile tool has broad applications across scientific research, industry and healthcare. It enables large-scale studies of gene regulation, RNA biology and cellular responses to environmental and therapeutic challenges. The pharmaceutical and biotech industry can harness it for drug discovery and biomarker screening, efficiently evaluating how potential drugs affect RNA modifications and cellular behaviour. This aids the development of targeted therapies and personalised medical treatments.

“This is the first tool that can rapidly and quantitatively profile RNA modifications across thousands of samples. It has not only allowed us to discover new RNA-modifying enzymes and gene networks, but also opens the door to identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections. For the first time, large-scale epitranscriptomic analysis is practical and accessible,” said Dr Jingjing Sun, Research Scientist at SMART AMR and first author of the paper.

Looking ahead: advancing clinical and pharmaceutical applications

Moving forward, SMART AMR plans to expand the tool’s capabilities to analyse RNA modifications in human cells and tissues, moving beyond microbial models to deepen understanding of disease mechanisms in humans. Future efforts will focus on integrating the platform into clinical research to accelerate the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The translation of the technology into an epitranscriptome-wide analysis tool that can be used in pharmaceutical and healthcare settings, will drive the development of more effective and personalised treatments.

The research conducted at SMART is supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) Singapore under its Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) programme.

CAN SUPERMARKETS DO MORE IN FIGHTING PLASTIC POLLUTION? THE WORLD’S FIRST SUPERMARKET AUDITS SEEM TO INDICATE SO.

London, UK [September 16, 2025] – Today, Break Free From Plastic released a new report ‘Supermarket Audits: Stores' Untapped Potential in Fighting Plastic Pollution’, the first-ever global snapshot of the retail sector’s business practices in stores, focusing on their pivotal role in the global plastic pollution crisis.

From August 28 to November 15, 2024, 496 individual audits of 247 retailers in 27 countries were conducted by volunteers from BFFP member organisations, as part of the supermarket audits. Through this global citizen science initiative, BFFP found that stores are doing the bare minimum to reduce their single use plastic footprint, except where strong legislation compels them to.

These citizen science supermarket audits are inspired by BFFP’s successful Brand Audit project, which identified the world's top corporate plastic polluters over the past six years.

Here are the key findings from the report:

• Stores are performing poorly in adopting business practices that reduce plastic pollution, apart from where legislation requires them to do so. Nonetheless, we found examples of every positive business practice implemented somewhere in the world, highlighting their feasibility and acceptability to consumers. 
• Hardly any stores around the world have implemented simple plastic pollution positive actions such as bulk loose dry goods section (only 14% of audited stores do this) and removing plastic carrier bags for fresh produce (only 11%).
• 44% of audited stores have bottle deposit schemes, but those are largely attributed to audits in Germany, where of audited stores 96% have them as required by German law. Outside of Germany, only 17% of stores have such initiatives. This underscored how essential legislation is for driving plastic pollution reduction measures. 
• 58% of audited stores around the world have no single-use carrier bags available at check out, or place a small charge on them. This is likely due to the widespread regulations to reduce plastic bags around the world – over a 100 countries have them. 
• 53% of all audited stores globally have canvas shopping bags for sale as a reusable alternative to plastic bags.

Access the detailed results.

Supermarkets are key midstream players in the plastic lifecycle – they lie at a critical junction between producers and consumers, and have significant influence on product producers and consumer behaviour. Yet the role of the supermarket sector in plastic pollution, and its potential for positive change, has been largely overlooked.

BFFP found that a majority of supermarkets successfully prevent one type of plastic pollution by not providing free single-use carrier bags at checkout. Yet, plastic-conscious practices such as bulk dry goods sections, deposit return systems for beverage bottles, deli and butcher counters that allow customers to bring their own containers, and alternatives to plastic produce bags are rarely found in stores around the world.

The report calls on supermarkets to leverage their unique market position to implement comprehensive plastic reduction strategies – these can influence how and what consumers buy, and can reduce plastic waste generation and plastic pollution globally. Supermarkets can also drive supplier innovation and plastic reduction through ambitious targets and procurement policies, while supporting reusable packaging infrastructure, such as existing bottle deposit schemes. Supermarkets should not wait for legislation to act. In the face of the global plastic crisis, which is harming human health, the climate, and the environment, the entire sector needs to urgently address its plastic use.  

As negotiations on a global plastic treaty are ongoing, this report offers critical insights into how supermarkets can do so much more in averting the plastic crisis. The study hopes to expand annually and build a comprehensive dataset with more countries and retailers to showcase the best practices and pressure supermarkets to play a proactive role in mitigating the plastic pollution crisis.

QUOTES FROM BFFP MEMBERS

Maria José García Bellalta, founder, Fundación El ÁrbolXXX, Chile

In recent years, Chile has adopted significant policies, including the Plastic Bag Ban Law (2018) and the Law on Single-Use Plastics and Plastic Bottles (2021), to address plastic pollution. Yet 20 recent audits of supermarkets and convenience stores across two regions reveal that compliance is inconsistent. Large supermarkets have stopped distributing single-use plastic bags, yet many continue to sell so-called “reusable” plastic bags, which ultimately end up as waste once damaged. Smaller convenience stores still freely provide plastic bags to customers, with little to no oversight or enforcement. With Chile’s weak legislation and enforcement mechanisms, stronger and more inclusive measures are needed to address plastic pollution across establishments, accompanied by citizen and retailer education. Most importantly, effective oversight and meaningful sanctions are essential to ensure compliance and to foster real change.

Daru Setyorini, Executive Director, ECOTON, Indonesia

Plastic overproduction is fueling the triple planetary crisis, and supermarkets have been flooding us with plastic-packed products. Retail chains generate up to five times more packaging waste than traditional shopping — much of it from individually wrapped foods, plastic-bottled drinks, and disposable bags. We saw some supermarkets provide reusable options, but it’s too little and there is a lack of promotion by supermarkets. We want more! We need supermarkets to lead in replacing single-use plastics with locally sourced, plant-based materials and reusable containers. Make sustainable choices accessible, visible, and affordable. We demand eco-friendly packaging in every aisle, so that every purchase moves us closer to a healthier, zero-waste future.

Edith Monteiro, Adansonia.Green, Senegal

Every aisle in the supermarket can be part of the problem or part of the solution. Choosing less plastic means choosing a healthier future.

Emma Priestland, Corporate Campaigns Coordinator, Break Free From Plastic

This first ever snapshot of global supermarket business practices clearly shows that the sector has a long way to go in preventing plastic pollution. Supermarkets around the world are heavily reliant on single-use plastics, and this overconsumption is a key reason we are in a pollution crisis today. By implementing some simple and proven measures, stores can massively reduce their plastic footprint, and help their customers avoid unnecessary plastic – good for their health and the environment!

About Break Free From Plastic –  #BreakFreeFromPlastic is a global movement envisioning a future free from plastic pollution. Since its launch in 2016, more than 3,500 organizations representing millions of individual supporters around the world,  have joined the movement to demand massive reductions in single-use plastics and push for lasting solutions to the plastic pollution crisis. BFFP member organizations and individuals share the values of environmental protection and social justice, and work together through a holistic approach to bring about systemic change. This means tackling plastic pollution across the whole plastics value chain—from extraction to disposal—focusing on prevention rather than cure and providing effective solutions. www.breakfreefromplastic.org

Nauru is embarking upon a landmark educational reform agenda with the aim of creating the “smart nation” of the Pacific.

The ambitious strategy will equip Nauru’s next generation of students – and those in the future – with the knowledge and education skills they need to bring future prosperity to them, their families and the nation.

President David Adeang said the strategy builds on a series of knowledge-based initiatives to build economic resilience.

“Nauru is at the forefront of innovation in the Pacific and we’re charting a course for future prosperity where education will be a key to success,” he said.

“Our greatest assets are our people and the government is determined to equip them with opportunities that empower them as individuals, while helping to generate national wealth.”

He said a major priority was to strengthen student engagement and attendance through practical measures including prioritising tertiary scholarships over secondary scholarships, which will “elevate the overall standard of education in Nauru.”

“An improved local education system will also give more Nauruan students access to international educational opportunities that are key to realising our ambition to be the Pacific’s ‘smart state’.”

Education Minister Asterio Appi said the development of a new Assessment and Curriculum Framework along with new teacher standards were other key planks of the government’s education reform agenda.

“We’re undertaking national exam analytics to ensure students are rigorously assessed so that they’re properly equipped to benefit from a truly world class education,” the Minister said.

“I’m absolutely determined to get more kids back in the classroom because that’s where they need to be if they want to succeed and contribute to Nauru’s future.

“That’s why we’re implementing stronger enforcement of compulsory attendance while at the same time encouraging parents to view themselves as a child's “first teacher”.”

Mr Appi said parents needed to set the right example and that there would be consequences for the small minority that don’t.

“New regulations under the Education Act allow for fixed penalty notices to be issued to parents for non-attendance and we won’t hesitate to enforce these regulations.”

In support of these initiatives, the Nauru government is also trialling an early warning system giving authorities the power of intervention for students considered ‘at risk’ of low attendance.

President Adeang said Nauru’s path to future prosperity through recent innovative initiatives including the passing of digital asset legislation and the climate resilience citizenship program must be backed up by a quality, home-grown education system.

“The Government believes that the true prosperity of our nation rests in the strength of our human capital,” he said.

“That is why we are committed to investing in and empowering our youth through quality education, robust healthcare, and opportunities in sports and personal growth.

President Adeang said, “By nurturing their talents, energy, and potential, we are laying the foundation for a nation that is not only financially stable but also resilient, united, and prepared to face tomorrow's challenges with confidence and pride.”

• HALA has rapidly scaled to serve over 142,000 businesses and now processes more than $8 billion of annual transactions, cementing its position as the region's MSME focused fintech leader.
• Landmark Investment to sustain HALA's leadership position in the market, launch new ventures, including lending products, and expand beyond borders.
• This marks The Rise Funds' first ever Middle East and KSA investment, demonstrating the strength of HALA's model, favourable demographics, and the opportunity to drive social impact at scale.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – September 15, 2025: HALA, Saudi Arabia's leading fintech and provider of embedded financial services to micro, small and medium enterprises, has raised $157 million in a Series B investment round — officially one of the largest fintech Series B funding rounds in the Middle East.

The funding round is led by The Rise Fund, TPG's multi-sector global impact investing strategy, and Sanabil Investments, a wholly owned company by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), with participation from QED, Raed Ventures, Impact 46, Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), Isometry Capital, Arzan VC, BNVT Capital, Kaltaire Investments, Endeavor Catalyst, Nour Nouf Ventures, Khwarizmi Ventures, and Wamda Capital. These funds will be utilized to strengthen HALA's position in the Saudi market and offer more embedded financial services, lending products catered to support the growth of MSMES and Freelancers as well as to expand HALA's presence regionally.

This investment follows on from HALA's impressive year-on-year growth that validates the robustness and scalability of its operating model, which is geared toward sustainable growth as well as playing a key role in its home market in supporting the Saudi Vision 2030 goal to significantly enhance the contribution of SMEs to GDP.

HALA offers a comprehensive embedded financial services offering, ranging from business accounts, card issuance, payment and transfer services, and POS solutions to financing and corporate cards. The company currently serves over 142,000 businesses and processes more than $8 billion of annual transactions.

The SME sector in Saudi Arabia presents a significant market opportunity for HALA, given the sector's vital role in the economy. With approximately 614,000 to 1.8 million SMEs, which account for about 90–99% of private sector businesses, the growth potential for digital payment solutions is substantial. These SMEs contribute an estimated 20–35% of the Kingdom's GDP, roughly $310–375 billion USD annually, and employ around 4.7 million people across key sectors like retail, manufacturing, and construction. The sector has experienced a 45% increase in GDP contribution from 2016 to 2021, driven by government initiatives, digital transformation efforts, and increased financing support, creating a fertile environment for innovative payment services.

Esam Alnahdi Co-founder and Chairman, HALA stated: “This landmark investment is a turning point for HALA, reflecting on our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in serving small businesses. We are honored that our new investors recognize the potential of our vision and the impact we aspire to make in the MSME landscape. Our journey is just beginning, and this support fuels our drive to create meaningful change.”

Maher Loubieh, Co-founder and Group CEO, HALA continued “We are honored by the continued trust and support of our existing investors – distinguished local and regional business leaders and funds – whose contributions have been instrumental to HALA's journey so far. At the same time, we are proud to welcome all our new partners, including TPG's Rise Fund and Sanabil, who, by joining our journey, gave a strong testimonial of the business that the team has built. As we look at the next phase of our growth, we believe that our diverse group of prominent investors bring valuable global expertise and perspective which will elevate our ambitions to execute with even greater scale and impact.”

Yemi Lalude, Partner at TPG and Head of Europe, Middle East and Africa for The Rise Funds, commented, “HALA is uniquely positioned to empower micro and small businesses, a key pillar in the region's economy, by delivering business owners and their customers a broad and growing set of payment solutions. We are excited to support the HALA team in building a clear leader in this underserved segment. Our investment underscores our belief in the growth potential of this market, the rising demand for robust digital banking solutions, and the critical role entrepreneurs play in shaping the next generation economy, not just though innovation but by creating jobs, expanding access, and delivering meaningful social impact.”

A spokesperson for Sanabil Investments added: “We are excited to lead this landmark Series B funding round for HALA. This investment underscores our belief in HALA's potential to reshape the future of financial services for SMEs and aligns with Sanabil's mission to support visionary companies with patient capital and strategic guidance. We look forward to partnering with HALA and the other investors in supporting their continued success and expansion.”

About HALA

HALA, co-founded by Esam Alnahdi (Chairman) and Maher Loubieh (CEO), is a leading fintech company based in Saudi Arabia, dedicated to empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with innovative financial services. Since its inception, HALA has rapidly grown its footprint by offering a comprehensive suite of embedded financial solutions, including business accounts, card issuance, payment and transfer services, and point-of-sale solutions. With a vision to transform the financial landscape for businesses, HALA has already supported over 140,000 enterprises, processing more than $8 billion in annual transactions. The company's commitment to innovation and excellence has solidified its position as a pioneer in the MSME fintech space, driving both economic growth and social impact across the region. For more information, please visit www.hala.com

About TPG and The Rise Funds

TPG is a leading global alternative asset management firm, founded in San Francisco in 1992, with $261 billion of assets under management and investment and operational teams around the world. TPG invests across a broadly diversified set of strategies, including private equity, impact, credit, real estate, and market solutions, and our unique strategy is driven by collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. Our teams combine deep product and sector experience with broad capabilities and expertise to develop differentiated insights and add value for our fund investors, portfolio companies, management teams, and communities.

The Rise Funds are a core pillar of TPG's global impact investing platform. Founded in 2016 by TPG in partnership with Bono and Jeff Skoll, The Rise Funds invest behind impact entrepreneurs and growth-stage, high potential, mission-driven companies that are focused on building and scaling solutions to the world's most complex challenges. The Rise Funds deliver capabilities and expertise across a wide variety of sectors and countries at scale, focusing on opportunities in climate and decarbonization, education, financial inclusion, healthcare, and impact technology.

TPG's Impact Platform is the world's largest of its kind, managing approximately $29 billion in assets across a family of funds that pursue non-concessionary returns and social and environmental impact at scale through growth equity, private equity, and infrastructure investing strategies.For more information, visit https://www.tpg.com/platforms/impact/the-rise-funds

About Sanabil

Sanabil is a financial investment company, wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), that commits more than $3 billion in capital per annum into global private investments that include VC/Growth. Sanabil is a dynamic, nimble, and highly experienced team of investment professionals. Sanabil provides partners with patient capital, the ability to invest across multiple funding rounds, and access to the region. At Sanabil, we invest in great ideas, great minds, and great companies.

Chișinău, Republic of Moldova, 15 September 2025 – Today marked the official opening of Moldova Business Week 2025 (MBW25), the 10th edition of the country's largest economic forum, which gathered more than 700 participants on site. The week-long agenda (15–19 September) features over 30 events bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, high-level officials and experts from more than 40 countries.

The event was inaugurated by Natalia Bejan, Director General of the Invest Moldova Agency, who highlighted the forum's role in showcasing the Republic of Moldova's investment and business opportunities:

“We are presenting success stories of investors who already contribute to the development of our national economy. This edition will place a strong emphasis on high-quality networking throughout the entire week”, said Natalia Bejan.

Prime Minister Dorin Recean underscored the Government's strategic priorities:

“We are focusing on education and on maintaining an attractive fiscal regime for the IT sector. We are investing in industrial infrastructure so that companies can operate from anywhere in the world and attract global talent. This year, key topics at MBW25 include the digitalization of public services, Moldova IT Park, state aid for industrial sectors, Ukraine's reconstruction, and Moldova's role in the region.”

Representing the European Union, H.E. Iwona Piorko, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, emphasized the country's progress in economic integration:

“Economically, Moldova has made remarkable steps towards integration into the EU Single Market. Just a few days ago we marked 11 years since the EU–Moldova Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area Agreement entered into force—an important instrument for modernizing the economy”, noted Iwona Piorko.

Doina Nistor, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, highlighted Moldova's achievements in digitalization and competitiveness:

“This year we rank 7th in the Global Gender Gap Index – a key indicator for an innovative society. Digitalization is one of Moldova's greatest achievements, and our objective is clear: 100% digital by 2030. The Republic of Moldova is strengthening its economic position through integration into SEPA (March 2025), expanding access to European financial markets and boosting the competitiveness of its business environment”, said Doina Nistor.

Investors & Exporters on the MBW Stage

From technology and mobility to manufacturing, agriculture and insurance, seven companies presented concrete examples of Moldova's investment and export potential:

Eduard Suchanek, Regional Director, Bolt – officially announced the launch of Bolt's taxi service in the Republic of Moldova, integrating it into the local mobility ecosystem.
 
Victor Nistorică, CEO, Brutăria Bardar – showcased artisan “Made in Moldova” bakery products standardized for scaling to external markets. Brutăria Bardar products are already available in more than 700 stores across the European Union, including Kaufland, Carrefour and Lidl in Romania.
 
Vadim Vetrilă, Co-founder & CEO, Smile Dent Team – highlighted the export of medical services and international standards in dentistry. Since 2009, more than 40,000 patients have been treated by Smile Dent, generating approximately €15 million annually.
 
Nicolae Gudumac, CTO & Co-founder, Planable – presented the Moldova-born SaaS platform used by global brands, proving that local technology competes on the world stage.
 
Ion Tașca, Board Member, PorcoBello SRL – outlined investments in agriculture and operational efficiency across the entire value chain. The company produces 12,000 pigs annually and operates the most modern slaughterhouse in the region.
 
Peter Höfinger, Deputy CEO, Vienna Insurance Group (VIG) – shared insights on strategic capital and strengthening of the insurance market to build investor confidence. On 1 September 2025, VIG won the public tender and acquired an 80% stake in Moldasig S.A., one of Moldova's leading general insurance companies, reaching an estimated 30% market share after the transaction.
 
Călin Botean, Regional Director Eastern Europe, Gebauer & Griller – detailed the company's integrated industrial solutions and connection to European production chains. Gebauer & Griller's investments in expansion and innovation in Moldova total €60 million.
 
Capital Market: Memorandum for the New Stock Exchange

Also today, the partnership to launch the new Stock Exchange of the Republic of Moldova was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, reinforcing strategic cooperation between the authorities of Chișinău and Bucharest. Romania, Moldova's main trading partner and gateway to the European Union, will share the expertise of the Bucharest Stock Exchange (BVB) to help implement a modern capital market model. The new exchange will support the attraction of international companies, the development of financial infrastructure and the diversification of financing sources for the local business environment.

A Unified Message from the MBW Stage: Moldova is Open for Business!

Moldova is a market growing through technology, quality and partnerships—with a strong focus on both investment and export.

The Invest Moldova Agency is the public institution founded by the Government of the Republic of Moldova, operating under the Prime Minister's Office. It is mandated to attract strategic investments into the country, provide post-investment support to investors, boost exports, promote the nation's image abroad and advance economic diplomacy.

The issue of climate change and its associated impacts, especially on African cities, is a critical topic that demands urgent attention.  

Every day, Africa faces the consequences of something it did not cause. While 7 out of the 10 world most climate vulnerable countries are in the African region, Africa only emits about 4% of greenhouse gases, and in terms of historical contributions the content ranks even lower – according to World Meteorological Organization's State of the Global Climate report 2022.

Heatwaves, heavy rains, floods, tropical cyclones, and prolonged droughts, which are some of the effects of climate change, are having devastating impacts on communities and economies, with increasing numbers of people at risk across the continent. Africa's rapidly expanding cities are hotspots of this vulnerability and impact.

According to the OECD report, Africa is one of the world's least urbanized continents, yet hosts the most rapidly urbanizing region – the Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The region has an urban population of 500 million people, accounting for approximately 40% of the continent's population, and an urban growth rate double that of the global average at 4.1% per year, compared to the global average of 2.1%. By 2050, it is estimated that over 60% of Africans will be living in urban areas.

This accelerated urban growth puts further pressure on existing challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, insufficient access to basic services, unemployment, and housing shortages. About 56% of urban population in Africa reside in informal settlements, compounded by insecure land tenure and constrained access to essential infrastructural services such as sanitation, water and energy, according to the African Cities Research Consortium and Brookings – 2024 reports.

A Climate Crisis

It's widely acknowledged that climate change will affect Africa's socio-economic development trajectory, threatening the continent's attainment of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the objectives of the Africa Union's Agenda 2063.

In UN Secretary-General António Guterres' own words, “Africa is on the frontlines of the climate crisis. The time for action is now. We must invest in sustainable solutions to protect our people and planet.”

But all is not lost. One of the recent global developments in climate policy has been the establishment of the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), which aims to provide financial support to vulnerable countries affected by climate disasters.

The Fund, established during the COP27 negotiations, holds significant potential for African nations, especially in the context of urban development and the challenges faced by rapidly growing cities across the continent. It has the potential to serve as a powerful tool to address both the immediate impacts of climate disasters and the longer-term need for sustainable urban development in Africa, through the principle of “building back better”.

Firstly, the Fund could be channeled into immediate relief and rebuilding efforts, such as reconstructing homes, improving drainage systems to mitigate flooding, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation. For example, funding could support the delivery of infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters, such as resilient affordable housing and other related climate resilient infrastructure for cities. Ensuring climate resilience and addressing key infrastructural shortages that exacerbate vulnerability is crucial in all activities the Fund will support.

Such projects would create more sustainable cities that are better equipped to handle the intensifying impacts of climate change while simultaneously offering economic opportunities through job creation.

Secondly, the Fund could be used to empower local communities, particularly marginalized populations in urban slums and informal settlements, who are often the hardest hit by climate disasters. Supporting these actors to adapt and develop is crucial for sustained resilience. Also, the informal economy – which forms a significant part of Africa's urban economy – should not be left behind.

Finally, the Fund could be used to support capacity building initiatives such as training local leaders, strengthening disaster management systems, and creating meaningful climate partnerships.

Reimagining African cities

That said, the Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage has the potential to play a transformative role in the urban development of African cities, particularly in mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Whether this potential is reached depends on the setup of the Fund and the criteria used to assess projects – and whether those are in line with African realities in terms of data and capacity availability. It also depends on careful planning and effective collaboration to ensure that the Fund benefits those who need it most.

This is a unique opportunity to not only address the consequences of climate change, but also to reimagine African cities as models of sustainability and inclusivity for the future.

Dr Gambo is the Head of Policy, Research and Partnerships at Shelter Afrique Development Bank.

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and Temasek Foundation have launched the Green Shift programme to create enabling ecosystems that support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in accelerating their green transition in Malaysia, the Philippines, and across South-East Asia.

The initiative aims to drive systemic change by strengthening the capacity of both SMEs and the government agencies that support them. It will identify green corporate procurement opportunities, facilitate market linkages between green SMEs and large enterprises, and promote regional-level impact through the exchange of effective practices. Over the next two years, the programme will boost green transition efforts by equipping SME development agencies with training toolkits and coaching SMEs to put green action plans into practice. These plans will not only help businesses operate more sustainably, but also open doors to new markets and corporate supply chains.

Speaking at the launch, Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP said, “SMEs are the backbone of South-East Asia's economy, and the green transition cannot happen without them. This partnership between ESCAP and Temasek Foundation will support SMEs turn sustainability into a competitive advantage. Businesses that fail to embed green practices risk falling behind in an increasingly competitive market, while those that do will be better positioned to access new markets, attract investment, and build long-term resilience.”

Ng Boon Heong, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Temasek Foundation, said, “SMEs are central to the region's low-carbon transition. This programme will equip SMEs with practical tools and partnerships that will enable SMEs to implement green action plans, helping businesses lower their carbon footprint while contributing towards a more sustainable future. Through this partnership with United Nations ESCAP, Temasek Foundation aims to empower SMEs to go green and unlock new market opportunities, driving resilient growth across the region.”

Both Malaysia and the Philippines have shown strong leadership in supporting the green transition of SMEs through national initiatives. This partnership between ESCAP and Temasek Foundation complements and builds on those efforts.

In Malaysia, the programme will be delivered in close collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MECD) and implemented through SME Corp. Malaysia and the Centre for Entrepreneur Development and Research (CEDAR). Notably, CEDAR has been appointed as ASEAN's Centre of Excellence for MSMEs in Green Transition, further reinforcing its strategic role in advancing the programme's objectives and regional reach. In the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development (BSMED) will be leading the programme activities.

“This initiative is an important milestone in strengthening our national institutional capacity. By equipping SME development agencies like SME Corp. Malaysia and CEDAR with the right tools, knowledge, and frameworks, we are ensuring that our SMEs are well supported in their green transition. This will not only help them adopt sustainable practices but also position our SMEs in Malaysia to be more competitive and resilient in the global marketplace” said Dato' Sri Khairul Dzaimee bin Daud, Secretary General of the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development.

Similarly, Emma Asusano, Director of the Philippines' Department of Trade and Industry's Bureau of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, remarked, “This initiative strengthens the Philippines' ability to guide SMEs in their green transition, unlocking market opportunities and building long-term resilience.”
The Green Shift programme is an important step toward inclusive, sustainable economic transformation in South-East Asia, positioning SMEs at the heart of the region's green transition. By combining ESCAP's regional networks and policy expertise with Temasek Foundation's commitment to fostering resilient and vibrant communities in Asia, the partnership advances a shared vision of green economic growth that leaves no one behind.

About ESCAP
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region. The Commission promotes cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members in pursuit of solutions to sustainable development challenges. ESCAP is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.

The ESCAP secretariat supports inclusive, resilient and sustainable development in the region by generating action-oriented knowledge, and by providing technical assistance and capacity-building services in support of national development objectives, regional agreements and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. For more information, visit: https://www.unescap.org/  
 
About Temasek Foundation  
Temasek Foundation supports a diverse range of programmes that uplift lives and communities in Asia, including Singapore. Made possible through philanthropic endowments gifted by Temasek, an investment company headquartered in Singapore, Temasek Foundation's programmes strive towards achieving positive outcomes for individuals and communities now, and for generations to come. Collectively, Temasek Foundation's programmes strengthen social resilience, foster international exchange and regional capabilities, advance science, and protect the planet. For more information, visit: www.temasekfoundation.org.sg

September 15 2025 – The Federal Reserve stands at a pivotal crossroads this week. If policymakers deliver only a quarter-point rate reduction at next week's meeting, they risk allowing economic conditions to deteriorate before policy can catch up, deVere Group cautions.

The global financial advisory giant is calling for a half-percentage-point cut while acknowledging that markets still expect a smaller move.

“The US central bank has little room for hesitation,” says Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group.

“The labor market is losing momentum, unemployment is at a four-year high, and wage growth is easing. A 25-basis-point trim would leave policy trailing the reality on the ground.”

August payroll data underscored the slowdown. Nonfarm job growth came in well below forecasts and the unemployment rate jumped to 4.3%, the highest since late 2021.

Average hourly earnings also cooled. Futures tracked by the CME FedWatch tool show investors pricing roughly a 90% chance of a quarter-point cut and only a small probability of a larger move.

“Markets are conditioned for caution, but the economy demands something bolder,” Nigel Green continues.

“A half-point cut would reinforce consumer confidence and business investment at a time when trade frictions and rising input costs are already weighing on activity.”

Trade tensions are adding complexity. President Trump's extensive tariff program is pushing up import costs from electronics to industrial metals, while energy prices have climbed through late summer.

Core inflation remains close to the Fed's 2% goal, but forward-looking indicators of hiring and output point to a broader slowdown.

“Inflation is no longer the overriding threat,” notes the deVere chief executive.

“The greater risk is a loss of growth momentum. The Fed's dual mandate—price stability and maximum employment—requires decisive action when one side of the equation weakens.”

Nigel Green points to the Fed's recent history as a cautionary tale.

“In 2021, the central bank misread the persistence of inflation, holding rates near zero while prices surged.

“Policymakers assured the public it was 'transitory,' only to scramble with aggressive hikes later. That delayed response forced steeper tightening and rattled both markets and households.

“History teaches us that waiting for perfect data can be costly.”

Global markets are already positioning for easier policy. Treasury yields have fallen to three-month lows, the dollar has softened against risk-sensitive currencies, and US equities are approaching record highs as traders bet on lower borrowing costs.

“The Fed has an opportunity to demonstrate leadership,” Nigel Green adds. “A half-point cut now would not be reckless. It would be a strategic step to protect growth and safeguard jobs.”

deVere expects the central bank to deliver at least 75 basis points of total easing by year-end if the labor market continues to weaken, with a quarter-point this month followed by additional reductions later in the year.

“Investors and the broader economy need reassurance that the Federal Reserve is prepared to move with the pace of change.

“A larger cut this week would send that signal and help secure the expansion,” concludes the deVere Group CEO.

deVere Group is one of the world's largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

Gizo Primary School in the Western Province on September 8, 2025, joined schools nationally and internationally to commemorate International Literacy Day (ILD) with a vibrant celebration centered on the theme: Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.

The event aimed to highlight the importance of fostering literacy skills and learning among students in today’s rapidly evolving digital age.

The program featured a variety of engaging activities staged by students, including student-led skits, singing and action performances, and speeches that reflected the significance of literacy in modern times.

Representing Western Education Provider at the event as guest of honour was Liliati Pitakija, ECE Coordinator.

“Today, as we gather to celebrate International Literacy Day, we are reminded that literacy is not just the ability to read and write, but it is the foundation of opportunity, empowerment, and lifelong learning,” Ms. Pitakija said when delivering her keynote address.

She added that in this digital era, literacy has taken on new dimensions, offering both exciting opportunities and pressing challenges.

“In the past, literacy meant mastering the printed word. Today, it means navigating a world of screens, apps, and online platforms. Digital literacy is now essential — our children must learn not only to read books but also to interpret information online, communicate responsibly, and think critically in a fast-changing digital landscape,” she emphasized.

“…We recognize the importance of bridging traditional literacy with digital fluency. Whether it is through using tablets in the classroom, accessing e-books, or exploring educational games, technology can be a powerful tool to ignite curiosity and deepen understanding,” Ms. Pitakija said.

Meanwhile, on accessibility, she admitted that many communities in the province face barriers like limited internet, lack of devices, and insufficient training, adding that this is why the Western Education Provider is committed to supporting schools like Gizo Primary with resources, teacher development, and community partnerships. “We believe every child, regardless of where they live, deserves the chance to thrive in the digital age.”

While recognizing educators who are embracing new methods, integrating digital tools, and guiding students with wisdom and care, Ms. Pitakija called on families to be partners in this journey by encouraging reading at home, exploring digital content together, and nurturing a love for learning.

“Let us invest in our children’s minds, equip them with the skills they need, and ensure that literacy — both traditional and digital — is a right, not a privilege. And on this International Literacy Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to empower, educate, and elevate. Because when we promote literacy in the digital era, we are not just teaching children to read — we are teaching them to lead,” Ms. Pitakija underscored.

Emphasizing this year’s ILD theme, Gizo Primary School Principal Dickson Nathan reminded everyone that while technology brings new ways to learn and connect, literacy remains the key to unlocking these opportunities.

“Our role as educators, parents, and community members is to ensure every child has the skills and access needed to thrive in this changing world.

“Today, we celebrate not only the joy of reading and writing but also the power of literacy to shape brighter futures for our children. Together, let us continue to promote literacy as a bridge to knowledge and opportunity,” Mr. Nathan said.

The celebration concluded with the presentation of prizes to the classes that demonstrated exceptional organization and delivered outstanding performances.

Teachers, students, parents, and guardians attended the program.

The Gizo school management expressed profound gratitude to parents, students, and everyone whose participation and contributions made the event a success.

Gizo Primary School remains committed to nurturing literacy skills that empower students for the future. This celebration underscored the collective effort needed to achieve this vital goal.