With the rapid advancement of technology in the smartphone industry, Xiaomi has always been at the forefront of innovation, consistently pushing boundaries and introducing cutting-edge devices to the market. Among its highly anticipated upcoming releases is the Xiaomi YU7, a device that has stirred up a lot of speculation and excitement among tech enthusiasts. While details about the phone are still scarce, there have been several rumors and leaks circulating online that give us a glimpse of what to expect from this highly anticipated device.IN BRIEF: • Financial controllers need to step beyond compliance to create value and remain indispensable copilots to CFOs in driving organizational innovation and growth. • AI adoption enhances controller impact on enterprise-wide operational efficiency, contributing to macroeconomic growth. The rapid acceleration of digital transformation is reshaping the business landscape, compelling finance teams to manage returns on investment goals, meet customer demand for innovation, and align with long-term sustainability objectives — all at the same time. This intersection of often-competing demands characterizes today’s Age of And, where success relies on an organization’s ability to effectively navigate and excel in managing these demands simultaneously. This evolving landscape necessitates a strategic shift in roles. Financial controllers, in particular, are moving beyond their traditional focus on operational tasks such as bookkeeping, compliance, and resource allocation and are now positioned as strategic enablers of value creation. According to the 2024 EY DNA of the Financial Controller Report, 86% of surveyed controllers across 28 countries recognize that their responsibilities will evolve substantially over the next five years. To execute their redefined responsibilities, controllers must harness tools such as analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform vast amounts of data into actionable insights that can support strategic decision-making. Predictive analytics enables controllers to identify trends, forecast scenarios, and optimize budgeting. For example, analyzing historical financial data facilitates cash flow prediction and improves financial planning, allowing for agile responses to business challenges. Automation tools like robotic process automation (RPA) streamline reconciliations and report generation, reducing errors and accelerating processes. Automating financial statement consolidation enhances accuracy and delivers timely insights, empowering controllers to focus on strategic activities. AI-powered solutions, such as machine learning algorithms, detect anomalies, assess credit risk, and anticipate market trends. These capabilities help controllers proactively manage risk and capitalize on strategic opportunities, reinforcing their role as value creators. However, the successful integration of these tools requires controllers to adapt their skillsets and embrace a more collaborative role with Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) as copilots in driving innovation and organizational agility. This shift fosters greater cohesion within finance teams, breaking down traditional silos that often hinder efficiency and strategic alignment. CREATING VALUE FROM DATA Organizations are sitting on a gold mine of financial data, yet this resource often remains underutilized. Controllers can unlock this value using AI tools to transform complex datasets into actionable strategies. AI automates routine workflows, such as data consolidation and reporting, enhancing accuracy and freeing controllers to concentrate on strategic responsibilities like risk assessment and planning. Additionally, AI-driven analysis empowers controllers to forecast trends and develop proactive strategies, elevating their role as strategic contributors. Beyond its micro-level benefits, AI has the potential to stimulate macroeconomic growth. In fact, a study by a global tech company estimates that AI adoption among Philippine businesses could contribute P2.8 trillion to the economy by 2030. In the vital sector of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 99.63% of Philippine businesses according to the 2023 List of Establishments compiled by the Philippine Statistics Authority, a data-driven ecosystem is essential for streamlining operations, boosting productivity, and achieving sustainable growth. AI tools play a pivotal role by automating routine financial tasks such as accounts receivable (AR) collection. For instance, an AI-powered AR Collection Assistant helps prioritize accounts, identify at-risk customers, and recommend optimal actions. Integration with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems creates a unified platform for agents, improving efficiency and simplifying follow-up processes. By leveraging AI and automation, businesses can strengthen governance, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency, leading to long-term value creation. Additionally, integrating AI into business processes allows MSMEs to analyze complex datasets swiftly, uncovering actionable insights for strategic decision-making. For example, AI-driven predictive analytics can forecast financial trends, enabling businesses to proactively align strategies with organizational goals. UPSKILLING FOR THE FUTURE While many companies understand the importance of digital transformation, recognition alone will not drive progress. Delayed implementation risks leave organizations mired in inefficiency while competitors advance toward innovation and growth. In the Philippines, a disconnect between ambition and readiness for AI adoption stalls digital transformation among companies. A survey by another global tech company found that although 65% of Philippine companies allocate 10-30% of their IT budgets to AI adoption, only 22% are fully prepared to implement AI technologies. One critical obstacle is the skills gap, with only 23% of survey respondents reporting employee proficiency in managing AI tools. Within finance teams, this shortfall hinders controllers from meeting their redefined responsibilities, ultimately limiting their contributions and impacting organizational success in an increasingly complex business landscape. REIMAGINING TALENT STRATEGIES Redefined roles often encounter resistance, particularly as traditional roles for controllers have focused primarily on value protection (e.g., regulatory compliance) and value optimization (e.g., budget planning, cost analysis, and investment evaluation). To address this, organizations must prepare teams for future-oriented responsibilities in value creation. One clear step is articulating a compelling vision for the controller role, emphasizing how their redefined responsibilities can contribute to the company’s long-term growth strategy. This approach not only clarifies their evolving responsibilities but also motivates teams to align with broader organizational objectives. For new hires, prioritizing adaptable mindsets and a willingness to learn over rigid credentials ensures a more future-ready workforce. Meeting evolving role expectations also requires targeted upskilling through robust training programs, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, enabling controllers to excel in their redefined roles. ACTIONS FOR FINANCE LEADERS Organizational support is critical to empower controllers and their teams to develop the necessary skills while managing day-to-day responsibilities. According to the EY report, 59% of controllers state that their organizations encourage them to evolve into value creators to a large extent. However, many feel they lack adequate resources and support to make the transition. CFOs and senior leaders can address this gap by allocating budgets for technology adoption and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Providing autonomy and facilitating engagement with the C-suite and key stakeholders can transform controllers into strategic drivers of value. CFOs can further empower financial controllers by: Integrating innovation into roles. Redefine job descriptions to include innovation as a core responsibility, directly linking it to performance metrics to ensure that controller efforts contribute to enterprise-wide value creation. Leading transformative projects. Provide controllers with leadership opportunities in transformation initiatives, supported by adequate budgets, staffing, and mentorship. These experiences cultivate strategic thinking and innovation capabilities. Focusing on future-ready skills. Equip controllers with expertise in data analytics, AI, and strategic decision-making. These skills will prepare them for evolving financial landscapes and amplify their organizational impact. Expanding responsibilities strategically. Gradually assign controllers additional responsibilities to deepen their expertise and prepare them for future leadership roles, including the position of CFO. Developing a talent pipeline. Build a robust talent pipeline by identifying high-potential candidates for controllership roles. Provide these individuals with targeted training and mentorship to ensure the role remains a source of innovation and leadership. THE FUTURE-READY CONTROLLER Controllers must take an active role in their evolution. By embracing opportunities to view value creation through a broader lens, they can enhance their contributions to financial planning and analysis (FP&A) and investor relations. Strengthening engagement with the C-suite and other key internal and external stakeholders is equally essential. Successful transformation into a redefined role ultimately requires a commitment to continuous personal development. To achieve this, controllers should focus on the following key areas: Embracing uncertainty and disruption. Proactively seek new opportunities to create organizational value, balancing these initiatives with compliance oversight and operational efficiencies. Exploiting the potential of data and AI. Leverage financial data alongside operational and external data sources to generate insights that enable informed executive decision-making. Additionally, develop a roadmap for an AI-enabled controllership team, identifying the necessary data, processes, and controls. Equipping teams for the future. Encourage agility by fostering diverse skills within teams, including business, personal, and technological capabilities. Inspire team members to view themselves as innovators and problem-solvers beyond their roles as financial and compliance experts. PRIORITIZING CULTURAL ADAPTABILITY Organizations must embrace a cultural shift that prioritizes adaptability and a growth-oriented mindset over reliance on legacy processes. To complement this shift, organizations must integrate a digital-first culture to break down silos and enhance operational efficiency, giving way for better, data-driven decision-making across all functions. In doing so, controllers can leverage their redefined roles to streamline processes, provide actionable trends and insights, and drive innovation, making them integral contributors to sustainable growth and organizational success. This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice where the facts and circumstances warrant. The views and opinions expressed above are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of SGV & Co. Anna Maria Rubi B. Diaz is an assurance partner under the Financial Accounting Advisory Services (FAAS) of SGV & Co.
Site Is in One of The Country's Fastest Growing Areas with One of The Strongest Economy And Provides Easy Access to The Crossroads of America SALT LAKE CITY , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- VanTrust Real Estate today announced the acquisition of 32 acres, located at 5998 West Parkway Blvd, in West Valley City, Utah , to build four industrial warehouse buildings. The site's prime location offers easy access to the "Crossroads of America" – a network of interstates, local highways, roads and rail lines that converge in Utah's capital city area. The site is located just south of State Route 201 and west of Mountain View Corridor. It is also near the Salt Lake City International Airport, Interstate 80, Interstate 15, and the Union Pacific Railroad intermodal hub. The site will accommodate four buildings that will provide 600,000 square feet of new Class A industrial space to this growing logistics area. According to Tom Freeman and Travis Healy of Colliers, the leasing team VanTrust has hired to market the buildings, there is consistent demand for space in this area due to its strategic position in the Salt Lake Valley, and because the area is one of the fastest growing and has one of the strongest economies in the country. "We are thrilled to have acquired this advantageously located site on which to build new industrial warehouses," said Chris McCluskey , VanTrust's Executive Vice President of Development for Salt Lake City . "One of our specialties at VanTrust is industrial properties, and we are excited to add this tremendous location to our portfolio." VanTrust anticipates construction on the first two buildings will start in late spring 2025 and deliver late spring 2026. Construction timing on the second two buildings is still to be determined. Specific tenants for the warehouses have not yet been identified. Since its inception in 2010, VanTrust has experienced rapid growth. The full-service real estate development company is based in Kansas City , with offices in Columbus , Dallas , Phoenix , Jacksonville , and Salt Lake City . VanTrust has developed more than 68 million square feet of office, industrial, multifamily, science + technology, and mixed-use development. The company has more than $7 billion of product nationwide. About VanTrust Real Estate VanTrust Real Estate, LLC is a full-service real estate development company. The company acquires and develops real estate assets for the Van Tuyl family portfolio and offers a broad range of real estate services including acquisition, disposition, development, development services, corporate services, and asset enhancement. Product types include office, industrial, multifamily, mixed-use and science + technology. VanTrust works nationally with regional offices in Columbus , Dallas , Phoenix , Jacksonville and Salt Lake City with its headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri . For more information, visit www.vantrustre.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vantrust-real-estate-acquires-strategically-located-salt-lake-county-site-to-build-four-new-industrial-warehouses-302330708.html SOURCE VanTrust Real EstateAuthorities in Zhengzhou have assured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and to prevent such occurrences in the future. In the meantime, the bath center in question has been temporarily closed for further evaluation and necessary repairs.Furthermore, the escalating tensions in the Korean Peninsula, exacerbated by North Korea's nuclear ambitions and provocations, could also have implications for China-South Korea relations. China has been a key player in efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and maintain peace and stability in the region. The ongoing challenges in the Korean Peninsula could test the strength of the partnership between China and South Korea and require both countries to navigate carefully to prevent any escalation of tensions.
Doug Meacham returning to Oklahoma State as offensive coordinatorDespite the mystery surrounding her late-night hospital visit, one thing is certain – Liu Yuning's fans continue to show unwavering support and love for the talented actress. Messages of encouragement flooded social media platforms, with fans expressing their admiration for her strength and resilience in the face of unknown challenges.
Recently, a shocking incident occurred in Zhengzhou, where multiple individuals fainted at a local bath center. According to reports from the authorities, the incident took place at a popular bath center in the city, where several customers suddenly lost consciousness. Emergency services were immediately contacted, and all affected individuals were promptly transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.OTTAWA - Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario's threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * OTTAWA - Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario's threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? OTTAWA – Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump is brushing off Ontario’s threat to restrict electricity exports in retaliation for sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods, as the province floats the idea of effectively barring sales of American alcohol. On Wednesday, Premier Doug Ford said Ontario is contemplating restricting electricity exports to Michigan, New York state and Minnesota if Trump follows through on a threat to impose a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada. “That’s OK if he that does that. That’s fine,” Trump told American network CNBC when asked Thursday about Ford’s remarks on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. “The United States is subsidizing Canada and we shouldn’t have to do that,” Trump added. “And we have a great relationship. I have so many friends in Canada, but we shouldn’t have to subsidize a country,” he said, claiming this amounts to more than US$100 billion annually in unspecified subsidies. Meanwhile, an official in the Ford government says it’s considering restricting the Liquor Control Board of Ontario from buying American-made alcohol. The province says the Crown agency is the largest purchaser of alcohol in the world. The province also says it could restrict exports of Canadian critical minerals required for electric-vehicle batteries, and bar American companies from provincial procurement. Ford doubled down Thursday on the idea of cutting off energy exports. The province says that in 2013, Ontario exported enough energy to power 1.5 million homes in those three states. “It’s a last resort,” Ford said. “We’re sending a message to the U.S. (that if) you come and attack Ontario, you attack livelihoods of people in Ontario and Canadians, we are going to use every tool in our tool box to defend Ontarians and Canadians. Let’s hope it never comes to that.” Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the province would rather have co-operation with the U.S., but has mechanisms to “end power sale into the U.S. market” the day Trump takes office on Jan. 20. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith ruled out following suit. “Under no circumstances will Alberta agree to cut off oil and gas exports,” she said. “Our approach is one of diplomacy, not threats.” Michael Sabia, president and CEO of Hydro-Québec, said “it’s not our current intention” to cut off Quebec’s exports to Massachusetts or New York state, but he conceded it might be possible. “Our intention is to respect those contracts, both because they’re legally binding, but also because it’s part of, in our view, a sound relationship with the United States,” he said. “It’s a questionable instrument to use in a trade conflict.” Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew would not directly say whether Manitoba would threaten to withhold hydroelectric exports. “We are preparing our list and starting to think through what those options should look like,” he said. “I’m not going to make specific news today about items that we’re looking at.” Kinew added that some premiers felt retaliatory measures wouldn’t work in a call Trudeau held Wednesday. Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey said “we have no interest in stopping” the export of energy to the U.S., adding that a trade war would hurt both countries. “We hope it is just bluster; we’re preparing as if it is not,” he said. Canada supplies more oil to the U.S. than any other country. About 60 per cent of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, and 85 per cent of U.S. electricity imports as well. Canada sold $170 billion worth of energy products last year to the U.S. It also has 34 critical minerals and metals the Pentagon is eager for. Trump has threatened to impose a 25 per cent tax on all products entering the United States from Canada and Mexico unless they stem the flow of migrants and drugs. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. Canadian officials have said it is unfair to lump Canada in with Mexico. U.S. customs agents seized 43 pounds of fentanyl at the Canadian border last fiscal year, compared with 21,100 pounds at the Mexican border. Canada since has promised more border security spending to address Trump’s border concerns. Ford said that will include more border and police officers, as well as drones and sniffer dogs. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 12, 2024. — With files from The Associated Press, Liam Casey in Toronto, Lisa Johnson in Edmonton and Steve Lambert in Winnipeg. Advertisement AdvertisementPolice hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's masked killer after 'brazen, targeted' attack on NYC street NEW YORK (AP) — UnitedHealthcare’s CEO has been shot and killed in what police say is a “brazen, targeted attack” outside a Manhattan hotel where the health insurer was holding its investor conference. The shooting rattled the city and set off a massive dragnet hours before the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting. Police say 50-year-old Brian Thompson was shot around 6:45 a.m. Wednesday as he walked alone to the New York Hilton Midtown from a nearby hotel. New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch says the shooter appeared to be “lying in wait for several minutes” before approaching Thompson from behind and opening fire. Police have not yet established a motive. UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New York NEW YORK (AP) — Brian Thompson led one of the biggest health insurers in the US but was unknown to millions of people his decisions affected. The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's chief executive on a midtown Manhattan sidewalk Wednesday became a mystery that riveted the nation. Police say it was a targeted killing. Thompson was 50. He had worked at the company for 20 years and had run health care giant UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s insurance business since 2021. It provides health coverage for more than 49 million Americans and brought in $281 billion in revenue last year. Thompson's $10.2 million annual compensation made him one of the company’s highest-paid executives. Hegseth fights to save Pentagon nomination as sources say Trump considers DeSantis WASHINGTON (AP) — Pete Hegseth, Donald Trump’s Pentagon pick, is fighting to hold on to his Cabinet nomination amid growing questions about his personal conduct as the president-elect’s team considers alternatives, including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. But Hegseth says, “We’re not backing down one bit." The Trump transition team is concerned about Hegseth’s path to Senate confirmation and is actively looking at potential replacements, according to a person familiar with the matter. Hegseth is under pressure as senators weigh a series of allegations that have surfaced against him. Beyond DeSantis, there have been discussions about shifting Michael Waltz, who was named by Trump as his national security adviser, to the Defense Department Supreme Court seems likely to uphold Tennessee's ban on medical treatments for transgender minors WASHINGTON (AP) — Hearing a high-profile culture-war clash, the Supreme Court on Wednesday seemed likely to uphold Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for minors. The justices’ decision, not expected for several months, could affect similar laws enacted by another 25 states and a range of other efforts to regulate the lives of transgender people, including which sports competitions they can join and which bathrooms they can use. The case is being weighed by a conservative-dominated court after a presidential election in which Donald Trump and his allies promised to roll back protections for transgender people. The Biden administration’s top Supreme Court lawyer warned a decision favorable to Tennessee also could be used to justify nationwide restrictions on transgender healthcare for minors. Peter Navarro served prison time related to Jan. 6. Now Trump is bringing him back as an adviser WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is bringing Peter Navarro back to the White House for his second administration. Trump announced Wednesday on Truth Social that Navarro will serve as a senior counselor for trade and manufacturing. He was a trade adviser in Trump's first term. Navarro served four months in prison after being held in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena from the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump also chose Daniel Driscoll as Army secretary, Jared Isaacman as NASA administrator and Adam Boehler as special presidential envoy for hostage affairs. Israeli strikes on a Gaza tent camp kill at least 21 people, hospital says KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — A Palestinian health official said Wednesday that at least 21 people were killed in Israeli strikes on a camp housing displaced people in Gaza. The Israeli military said it struck senior Hamas militants. The strikes hit in the Muwasi area, a sprawling coastal camp housing hundreds of thousands of displaced people. It came after Israeli forces struck targets in other areas of Gaza. According to Palestinian medics, strikes in central Gaza killed eight people, including four children. The war in Gaza is nearly 14 months old and showing no end in sight, despite international efforts to revive negotiations toward a ceasefire. South Korean President Yoon's martial law declaration raises questions over his political future SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — President Yoon Suk Yeol’s stunning martial law declaration lasted just hours, but experts say it raised serious questions about his ability to govern for the remaining 2 1/2 years of his term. The opposition-controlled parliament overturned the edict, and his rivals on Wednesday took steps to impeach him. Yoon's move baffled many experts. One analyst called his action “political suicide.” Yoon’s political fate may depend on whether a large number of people in coming days take to the streets to push for his ouster. Yoon hasn't commented on the impeachment bid. But the political instability he unleashed could make it more difficult for his government to nurse a decaying economy. French lawmakers vote to oust prime minister in the first successful no-confidence vote since 1962 PARIS (AP) — France’s far-right and left-wing lawmakers have joined together to vote on a no-confidence motion prompted by budget disputes that forces Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his Cabinet to resign. The National Assembly approved the motion by 331 votes. A minimum of 288 were needed. President Emmanuel Macron insisted he will serve the rest of his term until 2027. However, he will need to appoint a new prime minister for the second time after July’s legislative elections led to a deeply divided parliament. Macron will address the French on Thursday evening, his office said, without providing details. Barnier is expected to formally resign by then. White House says at least 8 US telecom firms, dozens of nations impacted by China hacking campaign WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says at least eight U.S. telecom firms and dozens of nations have been impacted by a Chinese hacking campaign. Deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger offered the new details Wednesday about the breadth of the sprawling Chinese hacking campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Neuberger divulged the scope of the hack a day after the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued guidance intended to help root out the hackers and prevent similar cyberespionage in the future. White House officials cautioned that a number of telecommunication firms and countries impacted could still grow. Harris found success with women who have cats, but Trump got the dog owner vote: AP VoteCast WASHINGTON (AP) — The lead-up to the 2024 election was all about cat owners. But in the end, the dogs had their day. Donald Trump won more than half of voters who own either cats or dogs, and he had with a big assist from dog owners. That's according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters. Dog owners were much more likely to support Trump over Kamala Harris. Cat owners were evenly split between the two candidates. Harris did end up decisively winning support from women who own a cat but no dog. Past comments by Trump's running mate, JD Vance, about “childless cat ladies” briefly became a campaign issue.What The US Army's High-Tech HADES Aircraft Will Be Able To Do Once It Hits The Skies
The rapid advancement and adoption of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of communications. AI-powered tools can now generate convincing text, images, audio and video from textual prompts. While generative AI is powerful, useful and convenient , it introduces significant risks, such as misinformation, bias and privacy. Generative AI has already been the cause of some serious communications issues. AI image generators have been used during political campaigns to create fake photos aimed at confusing voters and embarrassing opponents. AI chatbots have provided inaccurate information to customers and damaged organizations’ reputations. Deep-fake videos of public figures making inflammatory statements or endorsing stocks have gone viral. As well, AI-generated social media profiles have been used in disinformation campaigns . The rapid pace of AI development presents a challenge. For example, the increasing realism of AI-generated images has improved dramatically , making deterring deepfakes much harder. Without clear policies for AI in place, organizations run the risk of producing misleading communication that may erode public trust, and the potential misuse of personal data on an unprecedented scale. Establishing AI guidelines and regulation In Canada, several initiatives have been underway to develop AI regulation to varying reception. The federal government introduced controversial legislation in 2022 that, if passed, will outline ways to regulate AI and protect data privacy. The legislation’s Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA), in particular, has been the subject of strong criticism from a group of 60 organizations, including the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Civil Liberties Union , which have asked for it to be withdrawn and rewritten after more extensive consultation. Recently, in November 2024, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) announced the creation of the Canadian Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute (CAISI). CAISI aims to “support the safe and responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence” by collaborating with other countries to establish standards and expectations. CAISI’s development allows Canada to join the United States and other countries that have established similar institutes that will hopefully work collaboratively to establish multilateral standards for AI that encourage responsible development while promoting innovation. The Montreal AI Ethics Institute offers resources like a newsletter, a blog and an interactive AI Ethics Living Dictionary . The University of Toronto’s Swartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society and the University of Guelph’s CARE-AI are examples of universities building academic forums for investigating ethical AI. In the private sector, Telus is the first Canadian telecommunications company to publicly commit to AI transparency and responsibility. Telus’s Responsible AI unit recently published its 2024 AI Report that discusses the company’s commitment to responsible AI through customer and community engagement. Read more: Bletchley declaration: international agreement on AI safety is a good start, but ordinary people need a say – not just elites In November 2023, Canada was among 29 nations to sign the Bletchley AI Declaration following the First International AI Safety Summit. The goal of the declaration was to find agreement about how to assess and mitigate AI risk in the private sector. More recently, the governments of Ontario and Québec have introduced legislation on the use and development of AI tools and systems in the public sector. Looking forward, in January 2025, the European Union’s AI Act will come into force — dubbed “the world’s first comprehensive AI law.” Turning frameworks into action As generative AI use becomes more widespread, the communications industry — including public relations, marketing, digital and social media and public affairs — must develop clear guidelines for generative AI use. While progress has been made by governments, universities and industries, more work is needed to turn these frameworks into actionable guidelines that can be adopted by Canada’s communications, media and marketing sectors. Industry groups like the Canadian Public Relations Society, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Canadian Marketing Association should develop standards and training programs that respond to the needs of public relations, marketing and digital media professionals. The Canadian Public Relations Society is making strides in this direction, partnering with the Chartered Institute for Public Relations, a professional body for public relations practitioners in the United Kingdom. Together, the two professional associations created the AI in PR Panel , which has produced practical guides for communicators who want to use generative AI responsibly. Establishing standards for AI To maximize the benefits of generative AI while limiting its downsides, the communications field needs to adopt professional standards and best practices. The past two years of generative AI use have seen several areas of concern emerge, which should be considered when developing guidelines. Transparency and disclosure. AI-generated content should be labelled. How and when generative AI is used should be disclosed. AI agents should not be presented as humans to the public. Accuracy and fact-checking. Professional communicators should uphold the journalistic standard of accuracy by fact-checking AI outputs and correcting errors. Communicators should not use AI to create or spread disinformation or misleading content. Fairness. AI systems should be regularly checked for bias to make sure they are respectful of the organization’s audiences along variables such as race, gender, age and geographic location, among others. To reduce bias, organizations should ensure that the datasets used to train their generative AI systems are accurately representative of audiences and users . Privacy and consent. Users’ privacy rights should be respected. Data protection laws should be followed. . Personal data should not be used for training AI systems without users’ expressed consent. Individuals should be allowed to opt out of receiving automated communication and having their data collected. Accountability and oversight. AI decisions should always be subject to human oversight. Clear lines of accountability and reporting should be spelled out. Generative AI systems should be audited regularly. To effect these policies, organizations should appoint a permanent AI task force accountable to the organization’s board and membership. The AI task force should monitor AI use and regularly report findings to appropriate parties. Generative AI holds immense potential to enhance human creativity and storytelling. By developing and following thoughtful AI guidelines, the communications sector can build public trust and help to maintain the integrity of public information, which is vital to a thriving society and democracy .
How to start investing in cryptocurrency: A guide for beginnersNone
On one hand, Nvidia's own actions have come under scrutiny in the lead-up to the investigation. The company's aggressive approach to acquisitions and its growing influence in the semiconductor market have raised concerns about its commitment to fair competition and market integrity. Some observers point to Nvidia's track record of acquiring key players in the industry and question the company's motives and the impact of its consolidation efforts on the broader tech ecosystem.
CATL launches new battery packs with 373-mile range, targets 30,000 swap stations
Chen Xiao's appearance at the airport immediately caught the attention of fans and paparazzi, who were quick to capture photos and videos of the actor as he made his way through the terminal. Speculation and whispers about the reason for his solo outing quickly spread across social media platforms, with many wondering if this was a sign of trouble in paradise for the couple.
Car Detailing Services Market Growth Opportunities and Forecast Sector Growth Report: Market Size, Share, 2024 - 2031Ahead of second Trump term, California vows 'ironclad' abortion accessBy Patricia Zengerle (Reuters) -The United States will send Ukraine $725 million of missiles, ammunition, anti-personnel mines and other weapons, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday, as President Joe Biden's outgoing administration seeks to bolster Kyiv in its war with Russian invaders before leaving office in January. The assistance will include Stinger missiles, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), drones and land mines, among other items, Blinken said in a statement. Reuters reported last week that the Biden administration planned to provide the equipment, much of it anti-tank weapons, to ward off Russia's attacking forces. Moscow's troops have been capturing village after village in Ukraine's east, part of a drive to seize the industrial Donbas region, while Russian airstrikes target a hobbled Ukrainian energy grid as winter sets in. "The United States and more than 50 nations stand united to ensure Ukraine has the capabilities it needs to defend itself against Russian aggression," Blinken's statement said. The announcement marks a steep uptick in size from Biden's recent use of so-called Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which allows the U.S. to draw from current weapons stocks to help allies in an emergency. Recent PDA announcements have typically ranged from $125 million to $250 million. Biden has an estimated $4 billion to $5 billion in PDA already authorized by Congress that he is expected to use for Ukraine before Republican President-elect Donald Trump takes office on Jan. 20. WAITING FOR TRUMP Trump is widely expected to change U.S. strategy on Ukraine, after he criticized the scale of Biden's support for Kyiv and made quickly winding down the war a central campaign promise. Last week, he picked Keith Kellogg, a retired lieutenant general who presented him with a plan to end the war, to serve as special envoy for the conflict. Kellogg's plan for ending the war, which began when Russia invaded Ukrainian sovereign territory, involves freezing the battle lines at their prevailing locations and forcing both Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiating table, Reuters reported in June. The tranche of weapons represents the first time in decades that the United States has exported land mines, the use of which is controversial because of the potential harm to civilians. Although more than 160 countries have signed a treaty banning their use, Kyiv has been asking for them since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in early 2022, and Russian forces have used them on the front lines. The land mines that would be sent to Ukraine are "non-persistent," with a power system that lasts for just a short time, leaving the devices non-lethal. This means that - unlike older landmines - they would not threaten civilians indefinitely. (Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; additional reporting by Rami Ayyub; editing by Jonathan Oatis and Stephen Coates)
One of the key drivers behind the increase in the SME development index is the continued support and policies introduced by the Chinese government to promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Initiatives such as tax incentives, access to financing, and streamlined regulations have helped reduce barriers to entry and provided SMEs with the necessary tools to grow their businesses.The situation is similar at XYZ Gold Emporium, where gold prices have fallen by 2% since yesterday. Market analysts believe that concerns about rising inflation and interest rates have contributed to this decline. However, some experts predict that gold prices may rebound in the near future, so strategic buyers are keeping a close watch on the market before making any decisions.