VIDEO – Information sought after aggravated robbery in Tokoroa

March 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Tokoroa Police investigating an aggravated robbery of a commercial premises continue to appeal for information to assist in our investigation.

Detective Sergeant Neale Saunders says Police are now releasing this CCTV footage as we believe the three people in the video may be able to assist in our enquiries.

“On Tuesday 25 February, Police were alerted to an aggravated robbery on Bridge Street at around 6.20am.”

During the incident, an employee of the premises was assaulted during the incident and threatened with a weapon.

“Thankfully they were uninjured, however the staff member was understandably shaken by the incident.

“Police would like to acknowledge the public who have provided information so far and continue to ask anyone who has not yet spoken with us to come forward.”

If you recognise the people pictured, or have any information that may assist us in our investigation, please get in touch with us.

You can contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number 250225/2851.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Name release – homicide, Hokowhitu

LiveNews Publisher

March 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police can now release the name of the man who died following an altercation in Te Awe Awe Street on 11 March.

He was Juan Desmond Turner, 32, of Palmerston North.

We extend our sympathies to his family at this difficult time.

The 24-year-old man charged with Mr Turner’s murder is next due to appear in the Palmerston North High Court on 28 March.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Silver vs. Gold: Octa Broker’s Expert Take on the Future of Precious Metals

MIL OSI

March 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2025 – Silver is attracting investor interest, with market analysts predicting a potential leap to $40 per troy ounce in 2025. The metal is rising in global investment portfolios, providing stiff competition to gold’s long reign over commodity markets. Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains why silver has a very good opportunity to record significant growth this year.

Octa Broker

Current Market Conditions and Silver’s Performance in 2024

Silver prices increased by 18% in 2024, outpacing the more modest increase of gold. The price was driven by inflationary pressures and stronger industrial demand, particularly in renewable energy uses. While gold is a classic safe-haven investment, silver’s dual role as both an investment and industrial metal gives it a unique edge in volatile markets. Yet, risk management is crucial for avoiding unnecessary losses.

There are two major silver market growth drivers:

Industrial Demand: Silver’s use in renewable energy, particularly solar panels, electronics, and EV manufacturing continues to expand, distinguishing it from gold, which primarily serves investment and jewellery purposes.
Macroeconomic Trends: While both silver and gold typically hedge against inflation, silver price drops can be more significant compared to gold in times of economic uncertainty. For example, during the COVID-19 crisis, silver experienced a significant negative return of –20.0%, while gold delivered a positive return of 5.1% in the same period.

Silver Price Forecasts for 2025: Can It Surpass Gold?

Silver is expected to outperform gold in the coming years, whereby limited supply will be countered by increasing industrial demand. The price of silver can even reach $40 per ounce sometime in 2025, given the robust demand. This growth potential creates a nice buying opportunity for traders. Nevertheless, market liquidity risks, rising interest rates, and changes in investors’ sentiments, among other things, may affect the market negatively. What’s more, the asset is far more sensitive to economic cycles compared to gold. In case a recession occurs, silver may drop in price more steeply than gold. Traders should also monitor the gold-silver ratio. If it’s too high, investors may simultaneously sell gold and buy silver, assuming the ratio returns to its long-term average.

Those who consider opting for silver instead of gold should closely analyse both assets and compare their investment risks, nature, and potential profits. Here’s a brief overview of their pros and cons.

Liquidity & Market Depth: While gold remains a more liquid asset, silver’s increasing institutional interest is narrowing this gap, so the difference in liquidity is minor.
Volatility & Risk: While silver experiences greater price swings than gold, its volatility presents significant profit-making opportunities for active traders who practice strict risk management.
Portfolio Diversification: Silver serves as both an inflation hedge and a strategic asset tied to industrial demand.

Traders can tap into the potential of both silver and gold using various trading platforms. These days, the choice of a platform is not limited to MT4 and MT5, and other solutions step up their offerings. For example, Octa broker’ proprietary trading ecosystem, OctaTrader, offers CFDs on silver and gold. OctaTrader reports high trade volume for CFDs on gold this year despite the slackened interest towards the metal after Donald Trump’s election win. According to the Octa analysts, the demand for silver on OctaTrader is currently quite high, leading to amplified liquidity and more profit opportunities.

‘Silver’s long-term value is stable because of its underlying supply-demand dynamics. The metal is widely used in electronics, renewable energy, and medicine’, explains Kar Yong Ang. ‘The Silver Institute expects the total silver supply to increase by 3 percent and reach 1.05 ounces, an 11-year high. The demand is projected to remain at 1.20 billion ounces this year. Considering this, the demand is likely to outpace even the increasing supply. Although the demand for jewellery and silverware is to decline, gains are expected in the consumer electronics market and industrial fabrication. As a result, the deficit is likely to take place’, he adds.

Silver’s strong market momentum, industrial applications, especially for renewable energy and solar panels in particular, and potential price appreciation make it an asset to watch in 2025. While volatility remains a factor, strategic investments in silver may yield higher returns compared to gold. Traders who aim to deal with the asset should address it carefully.

Firstly, keep an eye on inflation trends, central bank policies, and industrial demand to conduct fundamental analysis and identify factors of potential price swings. To manage risks, balance your portfolio and do not build an oversized position in any single asset. If your trading budget is limited, especially after you diversify your investments, you can access an increased balance through trading instruments like CFDs. Platforms like Octa broker provide flexible CFD trading options for silver, allowing traders to capitalise on short-term price movements.

Disclaimer: Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision.

Hashtag: #Octa

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Konica Minolta wins 2025 A3 Line of the Year Award and four Pick Awards from Keypoint Intelligence

MIL OSI

March 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2025 – Konica Minolta has been awarded five Buyers Lab (BLI) Awards from Keypoint Intelligence, a world-leading independent evaluator of document imaging hardware, software, and services. These awards recognise the capabilities of Konica Minolta’s multi-functional print devices (MFPs), with four individual devices receiving Pick Awards, and Konica Minolta earning the 2025 A3 Line of the Year Award.

Award-Winning A3 Multi-Functional Print Device Portfolio

Keypoint Intelligence commended Konica Minolta’s comprehensive A3 range, presenting the 2025 A3 Line of the Year Award.

Evaluators cited “superior performance during Keypoint Intelligence’s testing across the entire A3 line,” and praised the company for its “fresh, broad portfolio with a strong feature set that can meet and exceed the needs of hybrid working environments.”

The MFPs also offer cloud-enabled capabilities, facilitating secure document storage and access for remote work. Keypoint Intelligence noted the “simplified setup process and robust administrative capabilities,” as well as “outstanding efficiency, professional-looking print quality, and excellent usability” across the product range. Security features were also highlighted, with the awards acknowledging the “robust security offering to safeguard sensitive data.”

Innovative, Industry-Leading Print Technologies

Four Konica Minolta MFPs—the bizhub C451i, bizhub C551i, bizhub C651i, and bizhub C751i —received Pick Awards 2025. Keypoint Intelligence’s long-term testing revealed “faster-than-average job streams and first-print-out times,” contributing to the devices’ productivity. Evaluators also recognised the MFPs’ suitability for modern work environments, noting “above average scan speeds” that address digitisation needs for hybrid workers.

Evolving to Meet the Needs of Modern Businesses

“As office environments continue to evolve, businesses require print solutions that seamlessly align with their changing needs. While productivity, usability, and high-quality output remain fundamental, the growing demand for hybrid work and digital transformation calls for enhanced connectivity, robust security, and seamless integration with cloud services. Winning the 2025 A3 Line of the Year Award and four Pick Awards from Keypoint Intelligence is a testament to Konica Minolta’s commitment to delivering innovative, future-ready solutions that empower businesses to work smarter and more securely,” said Mr. Francis Chua, General Manager of Regional Sales & Marketing HQ, Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia Pte Ltd.

Keypoint Intelligence’s recognition of Konica Minolta’s A3 line and individual MFPs underscores the company’s ability to meet these evolving needs and provide businesses with reliable, advanced printing solutions that meet the challenges of today’s dynamic work environments.

The award-winning products are part of Konica Minolta’s next generation of bizhub i-Series MFPs, designed with a focus on security and ease of use.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Police assisting at Waiuku College fire

LiveNews Publisher

March 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Emergency services responded to reports of a minor fire at Waiuku College earlier today.

At about 11.45am, Police responded to a report of two small fires on the grounds of the school.

Investigations are in the early stages and we are continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the fires, however they are not thought to be linked to any events earlier this week.

Police will remain on scene with Fire and Emergency NZ while a scene examination is completed.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

GROW with Singlife and aberdeen Launch New Exclusive Share Class of Global Income Bond Fund to Deliver Sustainable Payouts Amid Market Volatility

MIL OSI

March 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Globally diversified portfolio of crossover bonds aims to deliver attractive yields for investors

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2025 – GROW with Singlife (“GROW”), the integrated investment platform under leading homegrown financial services company Singlife, in partnership with aberdeen Investments (“aberdeen”), today launches a new share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund (the “Fund”). Currently exclusive to GROW on its platform, the A Gross Inc Hedged SGD offers investors a compelling Yield to Worst of 6.5% (USD hedged)[1], comprising appealing monthly payouts with potential capital appreciation.

Finding a sweet spot between investment-grade bonds and high-quality high-yield debt, the Fund invests substantially in global multi-sector bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade rating) and BB (the highest high-yield rating). This dual-market approach appeals to both conservative investors seeking stability and those pursuing higher returns. With a globally diversified portfolio spanning investment-grade, high-yield, government, and emerging markets bonds, the Fund offers attractive yield potential while maintaining moderate credit risk, making it a compelling long-term solution for income-focused investors.

The launch comes at a pivotal time in the market. With inflation easing across most global markets and central banks expected to begin rate-cutting cycles, returns from short-term cash management instruments such as fixed deposits and money market funds have declined, making them less appealing to investors looking for higher yields. In such an environment, fixed income investments are gaining attention for their ability to provide higher yields and more sustainable returns. According to Morningstar, a leading global investment research firm, fixed income funds saw record inflows of USD1 trillion in 2024, trumping all other asset classes.

Tim Wong, Head of Product at GROW with Singlife, said: “As part of our commitment to provide advisers and their clients access to innovative and high-quality investment opportunities, we are proud to partner with aberdeen for the launch of an exclusive share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund. With rising life expectancy and increasing cost of living, many investors are looking for ways to secure reliable income to support their retirement goals. This Fund represents a compelling option for those seeking attractive, stable income solutions with controlled risks.”

As Singapore’s population ages and life expectancy continues to rise, the need for reliable retirement income is becoming increasingly critical. A 65-year-old today requires an estimated $685,000 to fund 20 years of retirement, or approximately $2,856[2] per month, covering basic expenses. With stable and attractive payouts to support long-term financial security, the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund offers a sustainable solution for investors.

Natalie Tan, Head of Wholesale Southeast Asia at aberdeen Investments, said: “We are thrilled to partner with GROW with Singlife to introduce a new share class of the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund to investors. This Fund reflects aberdeen’s commitment to help investors navigate market transitions with innovative solutions that aims to achieve sustainable, long-term returns. Looking at the existing landscape, the current bond yields across nearly all major fixed income sub-asset classes well exceed their 10-year averages, presenting an enticing entry point for fixed income investors. With a globally diversified portfolio of bonds, this Fund will be a valuable addition to any income-focused portfolio, offering the potential for high-yield returns at investment-grade risk levels.”

The Fund has a strong history of delivering consistent income and competitive performance. Over the past decade, it has consistently ranked among the top performers in its category, according to Morningstar. As of December 2024, the Fund is in the top 25% in terms of performance over the last one, five, and seven years within its category. This demonstrates its ability to generate attractive, risk-adjusted returns across different market conditions, making it a reliable choice for income-focused investors.

GROW officially introduced the abrdn SICAV II – Global Income Bond Fund, A Gross Inc Hedged SGD, at a launch event at Marina One, attended by industry leaders and financial advisers. Investors can contact their Financial Adviser Representatives or visit grow.singlife.com to learn more.

[1] Source: aberdeen Investments, 31/12/2024, USD Yield to Worst (USD Hedged) is the weighted average yield of all the bonds in the fund’s portfolio. It represents the expected rate of return if the investment is held until all the bonds in the portfolio mature. It also evaluates the lowest possible yield without defaults. It represents the worst-case scenario for yield, assuming the bond is called or retired early by the issuer. The figure also captures the effect of non-USD exposure being hedged back to the base currency (USD). Yield to Worst is not a representation of a distribution yield.

[2] Singlife’s Financial Freedom Index 2024.

Hashtag: #GROWwithSinglife

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Singapore G Unveils the Largest Cold Storage Facility in Central Singapore, Reinforcing Its Commitment to Supporting SMEs and Business Growth

MIL OSI

March 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2025 – Singapore G, a trailblazer in space solutions, today announced the grand opening of MustardSeed@SG Cold Store, a cold storage facility in the heart of Singapore. This new facility, the largest in central Singapore, includes 16 cold storage rooms ranging from 300 to 1,500 square feet, tailored to meet the needs of SMEs, logistics providers, and wholesalers. The launch underscores Singapore G’s ongoing commitment to providing solutions designed by an SME, for SMEs.

Championing SMEs: A Total Space Provider

Over the years, Singapore G has not only served multinational corporations (MNCs) and large SMEs but has also championed the needs of smaller SMEs and business owners by offering a comprehensive range of services, including self-storage, serviced office spaces, e-commerce solutions, and secure deposit box facilities. As a dedicated Total Space Provider, Singapore G understands the challenges of running a business firsthand because it is an SME itself. This deep understanding has driven the company’s mission to deliver quality services at fair value, ensuring that businesses of all sizes have access to the infrastructure they need to grow and thrive.

Cold Chain Facility: Built by an SME, for SMEs

MustardSeed@SG Cold Store continues this legacy by offering flexible, scalable storage solutions specifically designed for SMEs in industries such as food & beverage, floristry, and pharmaceuticals. The facility includes frozen storage at -18°C for meat wholesalers and chilled storage at +4°C for dairy products, ensuring the safe preservation of perishable goods.

Fully certified by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), the facility features a dedicated SFA inspection room for imported meat inspections, ensuring full regulatory compliance. With eight strategically located loading bays, businesses can easily pick up and drop off goods without the long queues typically found in larger logistics hubs like those in the Western and Northern regions of Singapore. This unique approach allows SMEs to have direct, immediate access to their inventory, enhancing efficiency and control over daily operations.

Expanding Secure Storage: Asia’s Largest Personal Vault Facility

Beyond cold storage, Singapore G is also home to Asia’s largest personal vault facility, offering a secure and smart storage solution for businesses and individuals. Equipped with five automated delivery robots, the facility securely houses over 4,000 individual safe deposit boxes. Each vault is reinforced with two layers of steel and concrete, providing maximum protection for valuable assets such as documents, jewellery, rare collectibles, and other valuables. Located on the third floor of the company-owned building within a secure industrial area, the vault offers 24/7 accessibility with complete anonymity and peace of mind.

A Legacy of Stability and Innovation

Since its founding in 1973, Singapore G Pte Ltd has remained a family-owned business committed to long-term stability and sustainable growth. The company’s full ownership of its facilities allows it the freedom to innovate and expand without the risks associated with relocation. This stability ensures that Singapore G can continue to provide high-quality, affordable space solutions tailored to businesses at every stage of their journey.

Next-Generation Leadership: A New Chapter for Singapore G

Singapore G is now entering a new phase of leadership with the appointment of Dr. Elishea Lim Hidajat as the new Assistant General Manager. As the daughter of Managing Director, Mr Lim King BW Hidajat, she represents the third generation of the family leading the company. Her vision aligns with Singapore G’s core mission of providing flexible, secure, and innovative storage solutions for businesses of all sizes.

“We are dedicated to empowering SMEs and business owners by offering high-quality space solutions tailored to their unique needs,” said Dr. Elishea Hidajat. “As an SME ourselves, we understand the challenges our customers face, and we remain committed to delivering reliable, scalable solutions that support their growth. My team and I look forward to building on the legacy established by my grandfather, ensuring that Singapore G continues to evolve alongside the needs of our clients.”

Singapore G’s latest cold storage facility reaffirms its position as a trusted Total Space Provider, delivering innovative and practical solutions to businesses across industries. As it continues to expand and adapt, Singapore G remains steadfast in its mission to support SMEs with the space and resources they need to succeed.

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Release: Auckland needs second harbour crossing

LiveNews Publisher

March 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Labour Party

Labour supports Minister Chris Bishop’s call for input on the second Waitematā Harbour crossing.

“Auckland needs this project, it has needed it for at least a decade. It’s time to get on with it,” said Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere.

“Labour had options for a second harbour crossing, and we announced a preferred route before the election. The Minister needs to make clear the details around options for this major project as soon as possible.

“Working towards a cross-party agreement on long-term infrastructure projects is the best way to make sure work can continue after a change of government,” said Tangi Utikere.

“The Government also needs to include the Auckland Mayor and council in these discussions. A second harbour crossing is an integral project for New Zealand’s biggest city,” said Labour Auckland spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni.

“A decision is needed urgently for Auckland. The Government should be transparent on the work done to this point so that we are best equipped to make a decision as soon as possible.”

Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

MIL OSI

Business – Australasian real estate giant Raine & Horne turns up the volume in NZ

LiveNews Publisher

March 14, 2025

Source: Raine & Horne

Real estate super brand goes all in on a nationwide radio blitz through Newstalk ZB and its NZME stablemates to reach collectively 1.86 million Kiwis weekly.

Highlights:

Raine & Horne has launched a strategic nationwide radio advertising campaign in partnership with NZME to enhance brand awareness and engagement across New Zealand.
Since acquiring Mike Pero Real Estate in December 2023, Raine & Horne has grown to over 60 offices, and the campaign will reinforce its visibility in big cities, small towns, and regional communities.
The strategic campaign includes over 3,000 advertisements across leading NZME radio stations, reaching 1.86 million Kiwis weekly. 85% of listeners have a vested interest in the property market.

Christchurch, NZ (14 March 2025) – Raine & Horne, Australasia’s fastest-growing real estate group, has launched a nationwide radio advertising campaign in collaboration with leading integrated media company New Zealand Media and Entertainment (NZME).

NZME’s portfolio includes some of New Zealand’s most influential media brands, such as talkback ratings leader Newstalk ZB, major mastheads such as The New Zealand Herald and BusinessDesk, and leading community and regional newspapers. Its digital platforms also feature OneRoof, a premier property destination offering thousands of listings, accurate estimates, and the latest market insights.

This strategic initiative aims to boost brand awareness and engagement with Raine & Horne among property owners, buyers, investors, and tenants. Since entering the New Zealand market in April 2023, Raine & Horne has rapidly expanded, now boasting over 60 offices nationwide.

Mr Angus Raine, Raine & Horne Executive Chairman, who spearheaded the group’s expansion into New Zealand, stressed the importance of the nationwide radio campaign.

“We have already kicked plenty of goals, including successfully integrating the Mike Pero Real Estate group into our brand last year. But we don’t want to be known as New Zealand’s best-kept secret,” Mr Raine said.

“This campaign is strategically designed to engage property owners and buyers across New Zealand’s big cities, small towns, and regional communities, reinforcing our growing brand presence.”

The radio campaign, airing throughout March, will further strengthen the brand’s visibility and awareness as it approaches its highly successful second anniversary in New Zealand.

“By partnering with trusted radio stations through the NZME network, Raine & Horne has the opportunity to connect with millions of potential customers,” Mr Raine said.

The campaign will air across some of New Zealand’s most influential and widely listened-to stations, including ratings leader Newstalk ZB—akin to Australia’s top talkback stations such as 2GB, 3AW, and 4BC—along with ZM, which parallels KIIS FM, as well as The Hits, Coast, Radio Hauraki, Flava, and the NZME podcast network and iHeartRADIO, which collectively reach 1.86 million Kiwis weekly.

“Notably, 85% of this audience has a vested interest in property, ensuring the campaign reaches the right market,” Mr Raine added.

The campaign will deliver over 3,000 advertisements nationwide in March, including 2,824 guaranteed spots plus additional bonus placements. The reach of the campaign is substantial:

89% of people living in Auckland
87% of people living in the North Island
76% of people living in Otago and Southland
73% of people living in the South Island.

Radio remains one of the most effective advertising mediums, offering the frequency and credibility required to build brand recognition and trust.

“By aligning ourselves with respected and influential radio shows and hosts through the NZME network, we can leverage the credibility of their world-class journalists and broadcasters and their excellent audience engagement to underpin our rapidly expanding position in New Zealand’s real estate market,” Mr Raine said.

“This high-impact campaign also reinforces our long-term commitment to the New Zealand real estate market, ensuring property owners are well-informed about our network’s evolution and the advantages of working with a trusted global real estate brand such as Raine & Horne.”

MIL OSI

It costs nothing to be kind

LiveNews Publisher

March 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Officers who stumbled across a man in need have helped get him back on track after a chance encounter.

Just before 2am, the Police Eagle helicopter and Delta dog unit were in Papakura looking for a suspected stolen vehicle.

Acting Counties Manukau South Area Commander, Inspector Matt Hoyes says Eagle spotted an unrelated person lying on the front lawn of a Walter’s Road property.

“Units arrived and spoke to the man, who they quickly realised wasn’t in a good way.

“Unfortunately he had travelled to Tāmaki Makaurau for medical treatment and no longer had anywhere to stay.”

Inspector Hoyes says officers on the ground described the situation as ‘extremely sad’.

“The man was lying next to dog faeces and was hungry.

“Officers have delivered the man some food and within an hour they have managed to find him somewhere to live.”

And he says the empathy shown from staff didn’t stop there.

“Officers have taken him to his new address where the first thing he wanted to do was have a shower.

“One of our constables has then driven to her own home and provided him a towel and some soap, before contacting a social worker to assist in getting him back on his feet.”

He says the man was visibly touched by the kindness shown by everyone involved.

“I sincerely want to thank all the staff involved who showed empathy and respect to help turn this man’s life around.

“We have plenty of difficult days doing what we do, and it’s days like this that reinforce why we do it.”

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

1...783784785...1,092 Page 784 of 1,092