Capacity development

Bank of America advises clients to invest in crypto

Bank of America is expanding cryptocurrency access for its wealth management clients, recommending a 1–4% allocation of digital assets across portfolios. The move brings crypto exposure to a broader range of clients, beyond the bank’s previously ultra-wealthy clientele.

Starting January 5, the bank will cover four of the largest Bitcoin ETFs, including Bitwise Bitcoin ETF, Fidelity’s Wise Origin Bitcoin Fund, Grayscale’s Bitcoin Trust, and BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin Trust, which collectively manage over $94 billion in assets.

The recommendation aligns with a broader trend among traditional financial institutions encouraging crypto adoption.

Firms such as Morgan Stanley, BlackRock, and Fidelity have issued similar guidance in the past year. Vanguard recently opened its brokerage platform to ETFs and mutual funds that primarily hold cryptocurrencies.

Chris Hyzy, Chief Investment Officer at Bank of America Private Bank, said that a modest allocation of 1–4% in digital assets may suit investors who are comfortable with high volatility and interested in thematic innovation.

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V3.2 models signal renewed DeepSeek momentum

DeepSeek has launched two new reasoning-focused models, V3.2 and V3.2-Speciale. The release marks a shift toward agent-style systems that emphasise efficiency. Both models are positioned as upgrades to the firm’s earlier experimental work.

The V3.2 model incorporates structured thinking into its tool-use behaviour. It supports fast and reflective modes while generating large training datasets. DeepSeek says this approach enables more exhaustive testing across thousands of tasks.

V3.2-Speciale is designed for high-intensity reasoning workloads and contests. DeepSeek reports performance levels comparable to top proprietary systems. Its Sparse Attention method keeps costs down for long and complex inputs.

The launch follows pressure from rapid advances by key rivals. DeepSeek argues the new line narrows capability gaps despite lower budgets. Earlier momentum came from strong pricing, but expectations have increased.

The company views the V3.2 series as supporting agent pipelines and research applications. It frames the update as proof that efficient models can still compete globally. Developers are expected to use the systems for analytical and technical tasks.

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Thrive Holdings deepens AI collaboration with OpenAI for business transformation

OpenAI and Thrive Holdings have launched a partnership to accelerate enterprise adoption of AI. The work focuses on applying AI to high-volume business functions such as accounting and IT services. Both companies say these areas offer immediate gains in speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency.

OpenAI will place its teams inside Thrive Holdings’ companies to improve core workflows. The partners want a model they can replicate across other sectors. They say embedding AI in real operations delivers better results than external tools.

Executives say AI is reshaping how organisations deliver value in competitive markets. OpenAI’s Brad Lightcap described the collaboration as an example of rapid, organisation-wide transformation. He said the approach could guide other businesses seeking practical pathways to use advanced AI tools.

Thrive Holdings views the initiative as part of a broader shift in how technology is adopted. Founder Joshua Kushner said industry experts are now driving change from within their sectors. He added that Thrive’s portfolio offers the data and domain knowledge needed to refine AI for specialised tasks.

Both partners expect the model to scale into additional business areas as uptake grows. They see long-term opportunities to adapt the framework to more enterprise functions. The ambition is to demonstrate how embedded AI can boost performance and sustain operational improvements.

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SIM-binding mandate forces changes to WhatsApp use in India

India plans to change how major messaging apps operate under new rules requiring SIM binding and frequent re-verification. The directive obliges platforms to confirm that the original SIM remains active, altering long-standing habits around device switching. Services have 90 days to comply with the order.

The Department of Telecom says continuous SIM checks will reduce misuse by linking each account to a live subscriber identity. Companion tools such as WhatsApp Web will automatically log out every 6 hours. Users will need to relink sessions with a QR code to stay connected.

The rules apply to apps that rely on phone numbers, including WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, and local platforms. The approach mirrors SIM-bound verification used in banking apps in India. It adds a deeper security layer that goes beyond one-time codes and registration checks.

The change may inconvenience people who use Wi-Fi-only tablets or older devices without an active SIM card. It also affects anyone who relies on WhatsApp Web for work or on multi-device setups under a single number. Messaging apps may need new login systems to ease the shift.

Officials argue that tighter controls are needed to limit cyber fraud and protect consumers. Users may still access services, but with reduced flexibility and more frequent verification. India’s move signals a broader push for stronger digital safeguards across core communications tools.

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Safran and UAE institute join forces on AI geospatial intelligence

Safran.AI, the AI division of Safran Electronics & Defence, and the UAE’s Technology Innovation Institute have formed a strategic partnership to develop a next-generation agentic AI geospatial intelligence platform.

The collaboration aims to transform high-resolution satellite imagery into actionable intelligence for defence operations.

The platform will combine human oversight with advanced geospatial reasoning, enabling operators to interpret and respond to emerging situations faster and with greater precision.

Key initiatives include agentic reasoning systems powered by large language models, a mission-specific AI detector factory, and an autonomous multimodal fusion engine for persistent, all-weather monitoring.

Under the agreement, a joint team operating across France and the UAE will accelerate innovation within a unified operational structure.

Leaders from both organisations emphasise that the alliance strengthens sovereign geospatial intelligence capabilities and lays the foundations for decision intelligence in national security.

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Singapore and the EU advance their digital partnership

The European Union met Singapore in Brussels for the second Digital Partnership Council, reinforcing a joint ambition to strengthen cooperation across a broad set of digital priorities.

Both sides expressed a shared interest in improving competitiveness, expanding innovation and shaping common approaches to digital rules instead of relying on fragmented national frameworks.

Discussions covered AI, cybersecurity, online safety, data flows, digital identities, semiconductors and quantum technologies.

Officials highlighted the importance of administrative arrangements in AI safety. They explored potential future cooperation on language models, including the EU’s work on the Alliance for Language Technologies and Singapore’s Sea-Lion initiative.

Efforts to protect consumers and support minors online were highlighted, alongside the potential role of age verification tools.

Further exchanges focused on trust services and the interoperability of digital identity systems, as well as collaborative research on semiconductors and quantum technologies.

Both sides emphasised the importance of robust cyber resilience and ongoing evaluation of cybersecurity risks, rather than relying on reactive measures. The recently signed Digital Trade Agreement was welcomed for improving legal certainty, building consumer trust and reducing barriers to digital commerce.

The meeting between the EU and Singapore confirmed the importance of the partnership in supporting economic security, strengthening research capacity and increasing resilience in critical technologies.

It also reflected the wider priorities outlined in the European Commission’s International Digital Strategy, which placed particular emphasis on cooperation with Asian partners across emerging technologies and digital governance.

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UNDP highlights rising inequality in the AI era

AI is developing at an unprecedented speed, but a growing number of countries lack the necessary infrastructure, digital skills, and governance systems to benefit from it. According to a new UNDP report, this imbalance is already creating economic and social strain, especially in states that are unprepared for rapid technological change.

The report warns that the risk is the emergence of a ‘Next Great Divergence,’ in which global inequalities deepen as advanced economies adopt AI while others fall further behind.

The study, titled ‘The Next Great Divergence: Why AI May Widen Inequality Between Countries,’ highlights Asia and the Pacific as the region where these trends are most visible. Home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies as well as countries with limited digital capacity, the region faces a widening gap in digital readiness and institutional strength.

Without targeted investment and smarter governance, many nations may struggle to harness AI’s potential while becoming increasingly vulnerable to its disruptions.

To counter this trajectory, the UNDP report outlines practical strategies for governments to build resilient digital ecosystems, expand access to technology, and ensure that AI supports inclusive human development. These recommendations aim to help countries adopt AI in a manner that strengthens, rather than undermines, economic and social progress.

The publication is the result of a multinational effort involving researchers and institutions across Asia, Europe, and North America. Contributors include teams from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the London School of Economics and Political Science, the Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Tsinghua University, the University of Science and Technology of China, the Aapti Institute, and India’s Digital Future Lab, whose collective insights shaped the report’s findings and policy roadmap.

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Italy secures new EU support for growth and reform

The European Commission has endorsed Italy’s latest request for funding under the Recovery and Resilience Facility, marking an important step in the country’s economic modernisation.

An approval that covers 12.8 billion euros, combining grants and loans, and supports efforts to strengthen competitiveness and long-term growth across key sectors of national life.

Italy completed 32 milestones and targets connected to the eighth instalment, enabling progress in public administration, procurement, employment, education, research, tourism, renewable energy and the circular economy.

Thousands of schools have gained new resources to improve multilingual learning and build stronger skills in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

Many primary and secondary schools have also secured modern digital tools to enhance teaching quality instead of relying on outdated systems.

Health research forms another major part of the package. Projects focused on rare diseases, cancer and other high-impact conditions have gained fresh funding to support scientific work and improve treatment pathways.

These measures contribute to a broader transformation programme financed through 194.4 billion euros, representing one of the largest recovery plans in the EU.

A four-week review by the Economic and Financial Committee will follow before the payment can be released. Once completed, Italy’s total receipts will exceed 153 billion euros, covering more than 70 percent of its full Recovery and Resilience Facility allocation.

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Australia launches national AI plan to drive innovation

The Australian Government has unveiled its National AI Plan, aiming to harness AI to build a fairer, stronger nation. The plan helps government, industry, research and communities collaborate to ensure everyone benefits as technology transforms the economy and society.

AI is reshaping work, learning and service delivery across Australia, boosting productivity, competitiveness and resilience. The plan outlines a path for developing trusted AI solutions while promoting investment, innovation and national capability.

Key initiatives focus on spreading benefits widely, supporting small businesses, regional communities and groups at risk of digital exclusion.

Programs such as the AI Adopt Program and the National AI Centre provide guidance and resources. At the same time, digital skills initiatives aim to increase AI literacy across schools, TAFEs and community organisations.

Safety and trust remain central, with the government establishing the AI Safety Institute to monitor risks and ensure the ethical adoption of AI. Legal, regulatory and ethical frameworks will be reviewed to protect Australians and establish the country as a leader in global AI standards.

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Philips launches AI-powered spectral CT system

Philips has unveiled Verida, the world’s first detector-based spectral CT fully powered by AI. The system integrates AI across the imaging chain, enhancing image quality, lowering system noise, and streamlining clinical workflow for faster, more precise diagnostics.

Spectral CT allows tissues to be distinguished based on how they absorb different x-ray energies, providing insights that conventional scans cannot. Verida reconstructs 145 images per second, completing exams in under 30 seconds, allowing up to 270 scans daily with lower doses and up to 45% less energy use.

Clinicians are already seeing benefits, especially in cardiac imaging. Prof. Eliseo Vañó Galván, Chairman of CT & MR at Hospital Nuestra. Sra. Del Rosario in Madrid, said the system could boost confidence, reduce invasive procedures, and expand spectral imaging.

Built for high-demand environments, Verida combines AI-driven reconstruction with Philips’ Nano-panel dual-layer detector and proprietary Spectral Precise Image technology. The system is CE-marked and 510k pending, with availability in select markets expected in 2026.

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