business 13 - The Latremie Post

EU wants to know how Apple, Google are tackling e-scams

**EU Investigates How Apple, Google, and Others Are Tackling Online Scams**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 23, 2025*

The European Union (EU) has launched a detailed scrutiny of major tech companies including Apple, Google, and Microsoft over their efforts to combat online scams. According to the Financial Times, this investigation is being conducted under the framework of the Digital Services Act (DSA). Alongside these tech giants, Booking Holdings — the global accommodation platform owner of Booking.com and other travel sites — is also under the EU’s regulatory spotlight.

**Regulatory Concerns and EU’s Commitment to Safer Online Spaces**

Henna Virkkunen, an EU official, highlighted the rising tide of criminal activities occurring on internet platforms. She stated, “We see that more and more criminal actions are taking place online.” Virkkunen emphasized the critical need for online platforms to proactively identify and prevent illegal content, underscoring the EU’s dedication to making cyberspace safer for all users.

**Focus Areas of the Scrutiny**

The EU’s investigation will specifically examine how Apple and Google address the issue of fraudulent apps, such as fake banking applications, available in their app stores. Moreover, Google’s and Microsoft’s search engines will be evaluated for their role in displaying fake or misleading search results. Booking Holdings will be assessed for how it manages bogus accommodation listings on its platforms.

This multifaceted approach reflects the EU’s broader goal of fighting online scams across various digital services, ensuring comprehensive protection for consumers.

**Potential Financial Consequences**

The information requests initiated by the EU could escalate into formal investigations. Should any wrongdoing be established, Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Booking Holdings may face substantial penalties — potentially fines up to 6% of their annual global turnover.

The ongoing EU inquiry highlights increasing regulatory pressure on major tech and platform companies to uphold safety and trust online. Users and industry watchers alike will be keenly observing how these companies respond to the demands for stronger anti-fraud measures in the digital ecosystem.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/eu-probes-apple-google-microsoft-over-online-scams/story

Amit Shah to inaugurate Startup Conclave 2025 at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar

The Gujarat government’s Education Department is set to organize a two-day Startup Conclave from September 23 to 24, aiming to set a new benchmark in India’s startup ecosystem. The event will bring together some of the country’s most dynamic voices in innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment on a single platform.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and State Higher and Technical Education Minister Rushikesh Patel are expected to participate in the opening ceremony, reported news agency IANS. The conclave will feature over 1,000 startups, 5,000 innovators, 100 industry mentors, more than 50 venture funds, and leading policymakers, all working together to boost India’s startup landscape.

One of the key highlights of the event will be the investor pitching sessions. More than 50 shortlisted startups will pitch their ideas across multiple parallel tracks before some of India’s top venture capitalists. These sessions are anticipated to unlock funding opportunities worth Rs 250 crore, building upon the success of the Startup Conclave 2023.

Even before the event, investor interest has already resulted in letters of intent and financial commitments amounting to Rs 150 crore for promising startups, as reported by IANS.

The conclave will be inaugurated by Home Minister Amit Shah and will showcase over 170 startups from 20 states. Participating startups have been selected by prominent initiatives such as Startup India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX).

Exhibitions will cover critical sectors including defence, aerospace, healthcare, clean energy, agritech, deep tech, and social impact innovations. This broad representation underlines India’s entrepreneurial drive towards achieving ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).

The opening session will also see the release of several important publications, including the Startup Conclave Coffee Table Book, the NEP-2020 Dashboard, and the Indian Knowledge System Compendium.

Additionally, the Gujarat state government will facilitate the signing of 50 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between startups, investors, and financial institutions. Funding cheques and Letters of Intent will be distributed to selected ventures during the event, further strengthening the support ecosystem for India’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

(With inputs from IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/amit-shah-to-inaugurate-startup-conclave-2025-at-mahatma-mandir-in-gandhinagar-23595420

Audi to launch third-generation Q3 SUV in India next year

**Audi to Launch Third-Generation Q3 SUV in India Next Year**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 23, 2025, 01:18 PM*

Audi is gearing up to introduce its third-generation Q3 SUV in the Indian market by the third quarter of 2026. The model made its global debut in June and is set to launch in Europe next month, signaling Audi’s commitment to expanding its premium SUV lineup in India.

### Launch Plans and Upcoming Models

Alongside the new Q3, Audi plans to bring several other models to India. These include the new A5 sedan, the next-generation Q5, and the A6, all featuring combustion engines. Additionally, Audi is preparing to introduce its electric range with models such as the Q6 e-tron and the A6 e-tron Sportback, broadening its electric vehicle portfolio for Indian consumers.

### Vehicle Details: Engine Options and Dimensions

The third-generation Audi Q3 is built on the latest iteration of the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform. While the European version offers petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid variants, the Indian market will receive a 204 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Dimension-wise, the new Q3 is approximately 40mm longer than its predecessor and features a more pronounced front overhang, contributing to a bolder road presence.

### Design and Interior Upgrades

The new Audi Q3 showcases a modern design language with distinctive split headlamps, sharper body lines, and split taillamps that emphasize its sporty character. It will be available in both the standard SUV and the Sportback (coupe-SUV) body styles, catering to diverse customer preferences.

Inside, the SUV receives a significant technology upgrade. The dashboard houses a large 12.8-inch touchscreen, accompanied by 11.9-inch digital instrument dials and a head-up display, enhancing the overall driving experience and connectivity.

### Market Positioning and Pricing

In terms of pricing, the new Audi Q3 is expected to be positioned around INR 50 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. This places it in direct competition with premium compact SUVs like the BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, making the refreshed Q3 a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

**Stay tuned for more updates on Audi’s upcoming launches and detailed reviews once the new Q3 hits Indian roads.**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/audi-to-launch-new-gen-q3-suv-in-india-by-2026/story

Battle for Global Talent: UK Mulls Offering Free Visas for Top Talent as Trump Enforces $100k H-1B Fee

In a high-stakes transatlantic showdown for the world’s brightest minds, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is aiming to eliminate visa fees for elite scientists and digital experts to supercharge Britain’s economic growth. This bold move comes in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s executive order on 19 September 2025, which imposed a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee on new H-1B visas, reshaping high-skilled immigration overnight.

As global competition for top talent intensifies, Britain’s strategy signals a clear pivot to attract world-class innovators amid America’s tightening immigration policies.

### Scrapping Fees: UK’s Strategic Lure for High-Skilled Innovators

Starmer’s global talent taskforce, co-chaired by Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance and business adviser Varun Chandra, is pushing to abolish application costs for outstanding foreign professionals.

“We’re talking about the sort of people who have attended the world’s top five universities or have won prestigious prizes. We’re kicking around the idea of cutting costs to zero,” an official told the *Financial Times* on 22 September 2025.

The proposal extends to waiving fees for partners and children, easing family relocation for individuals in science, engineering, and digital technology fields.

The Home Office supports the initiative, stating it will “attract and retain high-skilled talent, particularly in science, research, and technology, to maintain the UK’s status as a leading international hub for emerging talent and innovation.”

Discussions between Number 10 and the Treasury intensified following Trump’s announcement, with insiders noting it “put wind in the sails” of immigration reform ahead of the 26 November 2025 Budget.

Importantly, no job offer is required under this visa, which fast-tracks settlement for leaders in their fields and is endorsed by organizations such as UK Research and Innovation. Official statistics show grants surged 76% to 3,901 in the year to June 2023.

### Trump’s H-1B Hammer: $100k Fee Upends US Tech Hiring

Trump’s executive order mandates a $100,000 (approximately £74,000) annual fee for new H-1B visa petitions, affecting fresh applicants from the February 2026 lottery.

Since 2004, the H-1B program has been capped at 85,000 visas annually and faced criticism for suppressing wages. Yet, tech giants like Amazon — which secured 12,000 approvals in early 2025 — remain heavily reliant on it.

White House aide Abigail Jackson clarified on 20 September 2025 that existing visa holders will be exempt from the fee, urging those currently abroad to return quickly.

India accounted for 71% of 2024 approvals, and China 11.7%, according to US data.

US Labour Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer is reviewing prevailing wage regulations to better protect American workers.

This order forms part of Trump’s broader immigration clampdown initiated in January 2025 and has alarmed sectors such as IT, prompting companies to scramble amid talent shortages.

Elon Musk backed the measure for addressing genuine workforce gaps, while critics warn it could stifle innovation.

### UK Gains Edge in High-Skilled Immigration Tug-of-War

Starmer’s May 2025 white paper raised skilled worker thresholds to RQF level 6 and increased the Immigration Skills Charge by 32%, now standing at £2,400 for small firms and £6,600 for large ones.

Despite these hikes, elite visa pathways remain open for AI pioneers and engineers, with no salary floors applied.

“This isn’t about diluting our determination to bring down net migration, but it’s about getting the brightest and best into Britain,” Lord Vallance affirmed.

Trump’s hefty H-1B fee may reroute 7,000 to 8,000 workers annually, benefiting UK firms under the current minimum cap of 41,700 visas from 22 July 2025.

English language requirements for visa extensions will also rise to B2 level.

*Financial Times* journalist John Reed posted on X: “Will America’s loss be Britain’s gain? UK explores plan to drop visa fees for top global talent.”

Meanwhile, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering tax adjustments for non-domiciled residents to further boost the UK’s appeal.

With net migration approaching one million by June 2023, this strategy reflects a delicate balance between immigration control and ambitious economic growth.
https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/battle-global-talent-uk-mulls-offering-free-visas-top-talent-trump-enforces-100k-h-1b-fee-1744982

Bitcoin ETF Surge Prompts Warning From $20B Asset Manager

South African asset manager Sygnia Ltd., which oversees around $20 billion, is riding the wave of interest in digital assets. However, its leadership is warning investors not to get carried away.

Speaking to Bloomberg, CEO Magda Wierzycka acknowledged the strong inflows into Sygnia’s recently launched Bitcoin ETF, yet stressed that the fund should not be treated as a core holding. She advised that crypto exposure remain limited to no more than 5% of discretionary or retirement portfolios, emphasizing that the messaging around such products must be realistic.

### Balancing Growth and Risk

Wierzycka argued that while Bitcoin has potential as a long-term investment, its volatility makes it dangerous for households in developing economies. In markets like South Africa, where average incomes are far lower than in wealthier countries, she warned that sudden price swings could wipe out life savings if investors allocate too aggressively.

Her comments highlight the delicate balance asset managers face: encouraging adoption of innovative products while shielding clients from extreme downside risk.

### More ETFs on the Horizon

Despite its cautious tone, Sygnia is not turning away from the sector. The firm is preparing to file for additional crypto ETFs on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, pending regulatory clearance. This move underscores the rising appetite for regulated exposure to digital assets among South African investors.

### A Rapidly Growing Market

South Africa is emerging as one of Africa’s most active crypto hubs. Local exchanges are proliferating, adoption among businesses and individuals is accelerating, and forecasts suggest that over 10% of the population will be engaged with crypto by 2025.

Unlike some governments that have restricted or banned digital assets, South African regulators are integrating them into the financial system by classifying them as financial products.

For Wierzycka, the message remains consistent: innovation is welcome, but responsibility is essential. “Bitcoin can play a role,” she said, “as long as investors understand its risks and keep it in proportion.”

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*Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.*

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**Author**
Alex is a reporter at Coindoo and an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast. With over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries, he is well-versed in the complex and ever-evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. Alex’s approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up to date with the most important trends and topics.
https://coindoo.com/bitcoin-etf-surge-prompts-warning-from-20b-asset-manager/

‘Muhurat Trading’ for Diwali on October 21: Check timings

**Muhurat Trading for Diwali on October 21: Check Timings**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 22, 2025, 08:00 PM*

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has announced a special Muhurat Trading session to commemorate Diwali this year. Scheduled for October 21, the session will run from 1:45 PM to 2:45 PM. Notably, the pre-opening session will be held from 1:30 PM to 1:45 PM, a change from the usual evening timing.

**What is Muhurat Trading?**

Muhurat Trading marks the beginning of a new Samvat, or Hindu calendar year. It is considered an auspicious time for trading, believed to bring prosperity and financial growth to investors and stakeholders. During this special session, various market segments will be covered, including equity, commodity derivatives, currency derivatives, equity futures and options, as well as securities lending and borrowing (SLB).

**Stock Market Closure and Trading Details**

On Diwali, the stock market will remain closed for regular trading, except for this exclusive one-hour Muhurat Trading session. All trades executed during this period will lead to settlement obligations. Despite its short duration, the session is conducted with full market formalities and records, just like any other trading day.

Investors often view Muhurat Trading as an auspicious opportunity to invest, with many purchasing shares for long-term holding or as part of family rituals during the festival.

**Historical Market Trends During Muhurat Trading**

Historically, Muhurat Trading sessions have tended to yield positive returns, even though the trading volumes are usually low. Over the last 16 years, the market indices have closed in the green in 13 of these sessions, highlighting the favorable trend associated with this event.

Last year’s Muhurat Trading saw the Sensex climb by 335 points (0.42%) to close at 79,724, while the Nifty gained 99 points (0.41%), ending at 24,304 — a strong finish that underscores the positive sentiment during this auspicious trading hour.

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Make the most of this festive trading opportunity by marking your calendars for October 21 and participating in the Muhurat Trading session to start the new Samvat year on a prosperous note.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/nse-announces-muhurat-trading-for-diwali-on-october-21/story

US government approves Meta’s LLaMA for official use

**US Government Approves Meta’s LLaMA for Official Use**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 22, 2025, 06:31 PM*

The US government has officially approved the use of Meta Platforms’ artificial intelligence (AI) system, LLaMA, as part of its ongoing efforts to integrate commercial AI tools into federal operations. Josh Gruenbaum, the General Services Administration (GSA)’s procurement lead, confirmed that LLaMA will be added to the list of approved AI tools available for use by federal agencies.

**About LLaMA**

LLaMA is a family of large language models (LLMs) developed by Meta that can process diverse types of data, including text, video, images, and audio. This versatility allows the tool to support a wide range of government applications.

In recent months, the GSA has also approved AI tools from major tech companies such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI. These companies have committed to offering their paid AI products at discounted rates, while ensuring compliance with stringent government security standards.

**Enhancing Government Efficiency**

The GSA has confirmed that LLaMA meets all the government’s security and legal requirements. This approval enables federal agencies to experiment and utilize this free AI tool confidently and without concerns.

The inclusion of LLaMA is part of a larger initiative to boost efficiency and productivity across various government departments. Agencies will be able to leverage LLaMA for multiple tasks, such as accelerating contract reviews and swiftly resolving IT issues, ultimately streamlining operations.

As the government continues embracing advanced AI technologies, tools like LLaMA are set to play a key role in transforming public sector workflows and services.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/us-government-can-now-use-meta-s-ai-tool-llama/story

US government approves Meta’s LLaMA for official use

**US Government Approves Meta’s LLaMA for Official Use**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 22, 2025, 06:31 PM*

The US government has officially approved Meta Platforms’ artificial intelligence (AI) system, LLaMA, for use in federal operations. This decision aligns with the current administration’s broader efforts to incorporate commercial AI tools into government workflows.

**What is LLaMA?**

LLaMA is a family of large language models (LLMs) developed by Meta that can process a variety of data types, including text, video, images, and audio. Its versatility makes it suitable for numerous applications across different federal agencies.

**Government Approval and Collaboration**

Josh Gruenbaum, the General Services Administration (GSA)’s procurement lead, confirmed that LLaMA will be added to the list of approved AI tools available for use by federal agencies. This addition joins other recently approved AI tools from technology giants such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI.

These companies have agreed to provide their paid AI products at discounted rates while meeting the government’s strict security and legal standards.

**Enhancing Operational Efficiency**

The GSA has ensured that LLaMA complies with all necessary security and legal requirements, allowing federal agencies to use this powerful AI tool confidently and without concerns.

The approval of LLaMA is part of a wider initiative to boost efficiency and productivity within government departments. Federal agencies will be able to leverage LLaMA’s capabilities for a range of tasks, including speeding up contract reviews and rapidly resolving IT issues.

This move marks a significant step towards modernizing government operations by integrating advanced AI technologies from leading industry players.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/us-government-can-now-use-meta-s-ai-tool-llama/story

US government approves Meta’s LLaMA for official use

**US Government Approves Meta’s LLaMA for Official Use**
*By Akash Pandey | Sep 22, 2025, 06:31 PM*

The US government has officially approved the use of Meta Platforms’ artificial intelligence (AI) system, LLaMA, as part of its ongoing effort to integrate commercial AI tools into federal operations.

Josh Gruenbaum, the General Services Administration (GSA)’s procurement lead, confirmed that LLaMA will be added to the list of approved AI tools available for use by federal agencies.

### About LLaMA and Its Capabilities

LLaMA is a family of large language models (LLMs) capable of processing diverse data types including text, video, images, and audio. This versatility makes it a valuable tool for various government tasks.

In recent months, the GSA has also approved AI solutions from other major tech companies such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, Google, Anthropic, and OpenAI. These providers have committed to offering their paid AI products at discounted rates while ensuring compliance with government security standards.

### Enhancing Government Efficiency

The GSA has verified that LLaMA meets all necessary security and legal requirements, allowing federal agencies to experiment with this free tool confidently.

This approval aligns with a broader initiative to boost efficiency and productivity across multiple government departments. Agencies will now be able to leverage LLaMA to expedite contract reviews, resolve IT issues more quickly, and streamline various administrative processes.

By incorporating advanced AI tools like LLaMA, the government aims to modernize operations and deliver faster, more effective public services.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/us-government-can-now-use-meta-s-ai-tool-llama/story

Long-Term Interest Rates in Japan Rise to 17-Year High

Long-term interest rates in Japan, which influence fixed mortgage rates, rose to their highest level in 17 years. The yield on 10-year government bonds briefly reached 1.665 percent during trading on September 22nd, marking the highest level since 2008.

In an innovative approach to electricity demand control, frozen tuna stored at minus 60 degrees Celsius are now being used as a cooling agent. By temporarily shutting down refrigeration units and utilizing the fish itself to maintain storage temperatures, companies are beginning to reduce power consumption effectively.

The Consumer Affairs Agency has announced that Ajinomoto and Inglewood are suspected of engaging in stealth marketing practices related to their frozen home-delivery meal brand, “Aete.” The companies allegedly asked individuals to post on social media in exchange for free products and later republished those posts on their sales sites.

Seven-Eleven Japan has completed a large-scale overhaul of the store system used by approximately 21,000 outlets nationwide. This milestone comes five years after the project was first conceived. The new system marks a significant step in digital transformation, replacing the company’s traditional infrastructure with a cloud-based model designed to enhance efficiency and service.

On September 19th, the Bank of Japan decided to maintain its policy interest rate at 0.5 percent, marking the fifth consecutive meeting without a rate change. This decision, supported by a majority of the Policy Board, comes as the central bank closely monitors the impact of U.S. tariffs, commonly referred to as the Trump tariffs.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146971.php