Moldova Doubles Medical and Educational Service Exports Over Five Years, Emerges as Regional Leader in Medical Tourism

Chisinau, Moldova — 11 August 2025 — The Republic of Moldova has significantly strengthened its international position in medical and educational services, doubling its exports in these sectors over the past five years. With growing numbers of international patients seeking high-quality, affordable treatments and an increasing influx of foreign students pursuing medical and pharmacy studies, Moldova is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in the global healthcare and education markets.

According to official data, medical service exports nearly tripled from USD 25.1 million in 2020 to approximately USD 64.4 million in 2024. This upward trend continues steadily, with first-quarter figures rising from USD 14.09 million in 2024 to USD 16.49 million in the same period of 2025 — marking a 17% increase.


Medical Tourism: A Strategic Growth Sector

Moldova attracts patients primarily from Romania and Italy, but also from Ukraine, Germany, Poland, Switzerland, the UK, Israel, Canada, and the US. The most in-demand treatments include dentistry, cosmetic surgery, ophthalmology, in vitro fertilization, and complex medical procedures. Experts estimate that Moldova currently leverages only 5% of its medical tourism potential, with forecasts suggesting the sector could reach USD 1.5 billion in annual export revenues.

A landmark achievement for Moldova’s medical tourism industry was its election to lead the Global Healthcare Travel Council (GHTC) for 2024–2026, outpacing countries like Germany and Saudi Arabia.


“When we launched this project, I believed Moldova could become not only a regional hub but also a global reference point for medical tourism. We have top-tier specialists and competitive prices, complemented by our country’s stunning landscapes, cuisine, and world-class wines. To capitalize fully, we must develop infrastructure—including airport connectivity—digitize healthcare services, and confidently promote Moldova internationally.”

said Andrei Revenco, founder and Executive Director of the Medical Tourism Association of Moldova
Dentistry Leads as a Key Attraction

Dentistry is the most sought-after segment, confirmed by Professor Valeriu Fala, founder of Fala Dental Clinic:


“Patients from the diaspora and countries like Italy, Romania, France, Germany, the US, and Canada increasingly choose our clinics for complex treatments, particularly in masticatory rehabilitation. These require multidisciplinary teams, and our favorable quality-to-price ratio—with procedures up to five times more affordable than in developed countries—is decisive,”

noted Prof. Fala.
Education Exports Also See Robust Growth

Moldova’s educational service exports surged by 134% over five years, increasing from USD 10.66 million in Q1 2020 to USD 24.91 million in Q1 2025. Most students come from neighboring countries, attracted by international curricula, affordable fees, and prospects linked to European integration.



This growth is reflected in the performance of the Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, which annually enrolls over 1,800 international students from 33 countries.


“In 80 years of activity, including 40 focused on internationalization, we have trained over 51,000 specialists, with 8,000 graduates from 45 countries. Our strong reputation, WFME accreditation, affordable tuition, and multicultural environment attract students especially to Medicine and Dentistry programs. Through curriculum modernization and continuous investment, USMF has become a competitive education center contributing to Moldova’s global prestige,”

said Professor Emil Ceban, Rector of USMF.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

The outlook for Moldova’s medical tourism sector remains promising. From 25 to 28 September 2025, Moldova will host the Global Healthcare Travel Forum, with more than 50 countries and about 100 industry experts expected to participate — a clear testament to the country’s rising global profile.


“Leading the Global Healthcare Travel Council fuels medical tourism development and enhances Moldova’s global visibility. In a competitive regional economy, Moldova is demonstrating its ability to convert its strengths—highly skilled professionals, low costs, and quality services—into a national brand and strategic asset,”

said Natalia Ciobanu, President of the Medical Tourism Association of Moldova and GHTC Chair.

On 19 September 2025, Chișinău will host the HealthTech Forum 2025, a flagship gathering of innovators, investors, and healthcare leaders from Moldova and abroad, showcasing the country’s vision to become a regional hub for digital health, medical tourism, and pharma tech. Held under the theme “Moldova is Open for Health Innovation” and as part of the prestigious Moldova Business Week economic event, the forum will feature cutting-edge solutions in AI, IoT, blockchain, and digital twins for healthcare, alongside investment opportunities and export-ready projects. Participants will connect with decision-makers, discover pioneering startups, and explore Moldova’s role in shaping the future of health in Eastern Europe. Secure your spot now at www.mbw.md.

Data Sources: National Bank of Moldova (NBM), Medical Tourism Association of Moldova

Crypto Market Capitalisation Hits Record $4 Trillion as Trump Opens 401(k)s to Digital Assets

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – August 11, 2025: Global crypto markets have surged from recent lows, with bitcoin edging closer to a new all-time high. The rally follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s signing of an executive order last week permitting 401(k) retirement plans to invest in cryptoassets – a move widely viewed as a significant step toward the mainstream adoption of digital assets in the United States. According to Simon Peters, Crypto Analyst at eToro, “Trump’s executive order represents a pivotal moment for mainstream investor participation and adds strong momentum to the market.”

In parallel, spot bitcoin and ethereum ETFs have seen a return of inflows after a brief period of outflows, further bolstering market sentiment. Weaker-than-expected U.S. economic data has also strengthened investor expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates by 25 basis points at its September meeting, adding further momentum to prices. As of today, total crypto market capitalisation has reached a record $4.02 trillion.

Looking ahead, market participants are closely watching the release of key U.S. economic indicators this week, including the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Producer Price Index (PPI), and retail sales figures. Inflation data coming in below expectations, alongside softer retail sales, could support further gains in cryptoasset prices as investors anticipate rate cuts – and potentially deeper cuts of more than 25 basis points – at the Fed’s next meeting. Such developments could provide additional tailwinds for the market, pushing total crypto market capitalisation to new heights.

BIGGEST MOVERS

$LDO was one of the biggest moving cryptos last week, up 60% as bullish momentum in the Ethereum ecosystem continued. 
Lido is a decentralised autonomous organisation which simplifies staking participation for individuals on the Ethereum network, allowing users to pool their ethereum together and stake it on the blockchain without the need to operate their own nodes.
Other Ethereum ecosystem cryptos $AERO, $PENDLE and $LINK saw double digit gains, up 52%, 33% and 32% respectively.
Discover more here: https://www.etoro.com/discover/markets/cryptocurrencies/market-movers

EYE-CATCHING STORIES

US SEC and Ripple file joint dismissal to end five-year legal battle
The US Securities and Exchange Commission and Ripple Labs last week filed a joint dismissal of appeals concluding their near five-year legal battle.
Taking to social media platform X, Ripple’s chief legal officer Stuart Alderoty said “Following the Commission's vote today, the SEC and Ripple formally filed directly with the Second Circuit to dismiss their appeals. The end…and now back to business.”
$XRP rallied 11% on the news and is now currently trading at $3.234, 13% away from the $3.667 all-time high.

SharpLink Gaming raises $200 million to expand ethereum treasury
SharpLink Gaming announced last week that it has raised $200 million via a direct stock offering to institutional investors to buy more ethereum.
The company, which recently appointed Ethereum co-founder Joseph Lubin to Chairman of its board of directors, currently holds 521,939 ETH valued at over $2.03 billion and is one of a growing number of publicly listed companies adopting an ethereum treasury strategy, accumulating the digital asset through purchasing as well as staking rewards.
SBET share price is currently trading at $23.92. Although up 228% since 27th May when the company first announced its ethereum treasury strategy, it is still some way off its recent $124 high.
s we have seen with companies who have adopted bitcoin treasury strategies like Strategy and Metaplanet, if the underlying ethereum price increases over the coming weeks and months it could also bode well for the SBET price.

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"كلاوديرا" تطلق حلول الذكاء الاصطناعي الخاص داخل مراكز البيانات

حلول "كلادويرا" تتيح الاستفادة من الذكاء الاصطناعي من خلال تمكين المؤسسات من تشغيله على بياناتها داخل جدارها الناري

أعلنت شركة “كلاوديرا”، المزود الوحيد الذي يتيح تشغيل الذكاء الاصطناعي على البيانات في أي مكان، عن الإصدار الأحدث من خدمات البيانات من” كلاوديرا”، والذي يوفّر إمكانات الذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي الخاص (Private AI) في بيئة داخلية (On-Premises)، مما يمنح المؤسسات إمكانات آمنة ومعزَّزة بوحدات معالجة الرسوميات (GPU) لتشغيل الذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي خلف جدارها الناري.

تُعدّ المخاوف المتعلقة بحماية البيانات الحساسة والملكية الفكرية من أبرز العوامل التي تعيق تبنّي الذكاء الاصطناعي في المؤسسات عبر مختلف القطاعات. ووفقاً لشركة Accenture، فإن 77% من المؤسسات تفتقر إلى ممارسات أساسية في مجال أمن البيانات والذكاء الاصطناعي لحماية النماذج الحرجة، وخطوط أنابيب البيانات (Data Pipelines)، والبنى التحتية السحابية.

يتيح الإصدار الجديد للمؤسسات خفض تكاليف البنية التحتية بشكل كبير، وتبسيط دورة حياة البيانات، وتعزيز إنتاجية فرق البيانات. كما يمكن تسريع نشر أحمال العمل، وتعزيز الأمان عبر أتمتة المهام المعقدة، وتحقيق أسرع عائد على الاستثمار في نشر حلول الذكاء الاصطناعي. ويوفّر للمستخدمين مرونة بيئة السحابة الأصلية داخل جدارهم الناري، ما يتيح لهم التوسع بكفاءة دون المساس بالأمان.

وباتت كل من خدمة الاستدلال بالذكاء الاصطناعي من “كلاوديرا” واستوديوهات الذكاء الاصطناعي) متاحة الآن في مراكز البيانات، بعد أن كانت حصرية للسحابة. وتأتي هذه الخطوة لتمكين المؤسسات من تسريع تبنّي الذكاء الاصطناعي وبناء وتشغيل تطبيقات الذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي (GenAI) بأمان داخل مراكز بياناتها، بما يحافظ على الملكية الفكرية الحساسة خلف جدارها الناري. ويتميّز كل حل من هذه الحلول على النحو الآتي:

• تُعدّ خدمة الاستدلال بالذكاء الاصطناعي من “كلاوديرا”، المدعومة بتقنيات إنفيديا، من أوائل خدمات الاستدلال بالذكاء الاصطناعي في القطاع التي توفر إمكانات NVIDIA NIM المدمجة كخدمة مصغّرة داخلية. وتتيح “كلاوديرا” الآن نقل قدراتها في تبسيط نشر وإدارة النماذج واسعة النطاق إلى مراكز البيانات، من خلال محرّك آمن وقابل للتوسّع يساعد على نشر وإدارة دورة حياة الإنتاج للذكاء الاصطناعي، في الموقع الذي توجد فيه البيانات بأمان.
• تعمل استوديوهات الذكاء الاصطناعي من “كلاوديرا” في بيئة داخلية على إتاحة دورة حياة تطبيقات الذكاء الاصطناعي بالكامل للجميع، من خلال قوالب منخفضة البرمجة (Low-Code Templates) تمكّن الفرق من بناء ونشر تطبيقات ووكلاء الذكاء الاصطناعي التوليدي بسهولة.

وبحسب دراسة مستقلة أعدّتها Forrester Consulting بتكليف من “كلاوديرا” بعنوان "الأثر الاقتصادي الكلي"، فإن مؤسسة مركّبة تمثّل نموذجاً للعملاء الذين اعتمدوا خدمات البيانات من “كلاوديرا” في بيئة داخلية حققت:

• تسريعاً بنسبة 80% في وقت الوصول إلى القيمة عند نشر أحمال العمل،
• زيادة بنسبة 20% في إنتاجية المتخصصين في البيانات وفرق المنصات،
• وفورات إجمالية بنسبة 35% بفضل البنية السحابية الأصلية الحديثة.

كما أظهرت الدراسة مكاسب ملحوظة في الكفاءة التشغيلية، حيث حسّنت بعض المؤسسات معدل استخدام الأجهزة من 30% إلى 70%، وأفادت بأنها تحتاج إلى سعة أقل تتراوح بين 25% وأكثر من 50% بعد التحديث.

Trump’s Nvidia, AMD China export deal could undermine market stability

August 11 2025

 

Nvidia and AMD have agreed to give the US government 15% of their China AI chip revenues in exchange for export licences – a never-before-seen move that the CEO of global financial advisory deVere Group, says risks recasting export controls as financial transactions and undermining the foundations of global trade.

The arrangement covers Nvidia’s H20 and AMD’s MI308 semiconductors, both tailored for the Chinese market after earlier restrictions.

It follows a meeting between Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang and US President Donald Trump, with the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security beginning to issue licences two days later.

“This is the first time in US history that access to export licences has been monetized in this way,” says Nigel Green.

“Export controls are meant to protect national security, not to serve as revenue-sharing schemes.

“The moment you convert them into commission deals, you change their purpose entirely – and send a destabilizing message to global markets.”

Nvidia could sell 1.5 million H20 chips in China in 2025, generating around $23 billion. For AMD, China remains a major growth driver, with the market accounting for roughly a quarter of its total revenue last year.

The 15% deal would divert billions into the US Treasury – but at a cost, says Nigel Green.

“This isn’t just a one-off commercial arrangement,” he notes.

“It could act as a template. If the US, the world’s largest economy, can charge companies for permission to export, other governments will take note.

“We could quickly see an environment where market access is auctioned off, dictated by political leverage rather than clear, consistent rules. This is the opposite of what global business needs.”

The policy shift came after the Trump administration in April moved to ban the H20 outright. The ban was reversed in June, but no licences were issued until the revenue-sharing agreement emerged.

Some US security officials warn the chips could boost China’s artificial intelligence capabilities in ways that might indirectly support its military. Supporters argue the deal keeps US companies competitive in a key market while funding national priorities.

Nigel Green argues that mixing these objectives corrodes the credibility of trade policy:

“Export controls work when they are grounded in consistent, technical criteria. When they are applied based on a company’s willingness to pay, they become bargaining chips. That undermines their legitimacy and erodes trust among allies and investors.”

The deal comes as Washington and Beijing hold sensitive trade talks, with China pressing for looser controls on high-bandwidth memory chips – another critical AI component. If revenue-linked licensing becomes a norm, Nigel Green warns, it could spark tit-for-tat measures worldwide.

“Other countries will use this precedent to justify their own pay-to-play trade restrictions,” he says.

“That would make international supply chains less predictable, raise costs, and force companies to build costly redundancy into operations. Ultimately, it could accelerate the shift of investment and R&D away from the US.”

Investors prize predictability in policy. When the rules change unpredictably or become negotiable for a fee, companies will adapt defensively. This may include shifting production, diversifying export markets, or avoiding deep exposure to the US regulatory environment altogether.

“Businesses thrive on certainty,” affirms the deVere CEO.

“If they start factoring in the risk that tomorrow’s policy will come with a new price tag, it will change capital allocation decisions. That’s not good for innovation, competitiveness, or the market as a whole.”

Nigel Green concludes that the long-term risk is systemic. “Once you open the door to transactional licensing, it’s almost impossible to close it. This isn’t just about semiconductors or one country.

“It’s about whether the US – and by extension the global trading system – can maintain rules that are applied transparently, not traded for revenue.

“Without that, trust will unravel, and markets will respond.”

 

-ENDS-

Pearson launches new PTE centers in Egypt with top education partners to meet rising demand for global English certification

Egypt, 11th August 2025 – In response to the rising demand in Egypt for globally accepted English certifications, Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the world’s lifelong learning company, has announced the launch of Pearson Test of English (PTE) authorized test centers in Egypt, in partnership with the UH-GAF, a part of the University of Hertfordshire in New Administrative Capital, and Global Education Foundation (GEF) in Alexandria. A PTE Preparation Centre is also opening in partnership with Nile University in Cairo, in addition to the four existing test centers in Misr University for Science & Technology (MUST). 

The new PTE test centers add to Pearson's growing presence in Egypt, offering secure, inclusive support for the PTE Academic exam in the country, expanding access for students and professionals pursuing international education, migration, and employment. Strong English skills can boost earning potential by up to 80%, making assessments like PTE a valuable tool for professional and academic advancement."

“UH-GAF is proud to announce its designation as a Pearson authorized testing center for the PTE Academic exam. This allows students to take the globally recognized English proficiency test directly on campus, in a secure and professional environment. As a key requirement for international education and career opportunities, the PTE Academic provides a fast and reliable way to demonstrate English language skills," said Prof. Ashraf Abd El-Basset, Provost, University of Hertfordshire, hosted by Global Academic Foundation. "In addition, UH-GAF offers a comprehensive PTE preparation course designed to help students reach their highest potential. With expert instruction, simulated practice tests, and personalized support, this course equips students with the strategies and confidence to succeed in the exam.”

These new centers offer PTE Academic, a fast, fair, and secure English proficiency exam accepted by over 3,500 universities and colleges globally, including 100% of institutions in Australia and New Zealand, 99% in the UK, 100% in Canada, and more than 1,500 in the US, such as Harvard Business School and Yale. It is also accepted by the governments of the UK, Australia, and New Zealand for migration.

Dr. Eng. Amr Ramadan, Founder of Global Education Foundation, commented, “My decision to become a success partner with Pearson—whether as a test center or a preparation center—was driven by several important factors. Pearson’s dedication to delivering high-quality educational services, its globally recognized certifications, and its innovative approach to assessment technology were especially compelling. What also stood out was the flexibility and ongoing support Pearson provides to its partners. Their commitment to professional development and continuous learning aligns perfectly with my vision of sustainable educational excellence. These values make Pearson an ideal partner on this journey.”

Ipek Aydin, Director-PTE, Middle East, Africa, and Turkey Country Coordinator at Pearson said: "I am delighted to announce the launch of our new PTE centers in Egypt. This initiative is a significant step towards empowering learners with the tools they need to succeed in a globalized world. By providing access to high-quality English proficiency assessments, we are opening doors to countless opportunities for education and career advancement. Our partnership with both UH-GAF and Global Education Foundation is particularly noteworthy, as it allows students to take the globally recognized PTE Academic exam directly on campus, in a secure and professional environment. Both our partners’ commitment to educational excellence and their comprehensive PTE preparation courses, designed to help students reach their highest potential, align perfectly with Pearson's vision of sustainable educational excellence. Together, we are creating vibrant learning experiences that have a real-life impact, helping individuals realize the life they imagine through learning."

Pearson is also highlighting that it offers an English Test for Migration to Canada accepted by the IRCC, which is PTE Core, a four-skills test approved by the Government of Canada for migration and permanent residency. PTE Core assesses everyday English skills and is ideal for individuals seeking to work or settle in Canada. 

Both PTE Academic and PTE Core offer unique benefits, making them ideal choices for learners and professionals alike. Tests can be booked up to 24 hours in advance, and results are typically delivered in under 48 hours, offering a faster turnaround for time-sensitive applications. The exams are scored using a combination of AI and expert human assessors, ensuring fair, bias-free evaluation. They are also simpler, with a single 2-hour format that eliminates the need for a separate speaking component. 

Supporting this expansion are Pearson’s preparation partners, GrowSkills, PTE Peak, IG Club, Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport (AASTMT) and Lingua, who play a vital role in increasing awareness of the PTE brand and supporting candidates in their preparation journey through workshops, online resources, and guided learning for learners across Egypt.

From August 2025, PTE Academic will include two new speaking tasks, “Respond to a Situation” and “Summarize a Group Discussion”, along with an enhanced scoring model combining AI with human experts and new prep tools to support test takers.

Pearson plans to continue expanding its PTE network across Egypt to meet rising demand and help more learners achieve their academic, migration, and career goals.

For more information on PTE, visit: https://www.pearsonpte.com/

END

بيرسون تطلق مجموعة من المراكز الجديدة لاختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية في مصر

لتلبية الطلب المتزايد على الشهادة العالمية لإتقان اللغة الإنجليزية بالتعاون مع نخبة من شركاء التعليم البارزين 

مصر، 11 أغسطس 2025 - استجابةً لتزايد الطلب في مصر على شهادات اللغة الإنجليزية المعترف بها عالميًا، أعلنت شركة بيرسون (رمزها في بورصة لندن: PSON.L)، الشركة العالمية في مجال التعلم مدى الحياة، عن إطلاق مراكز معتمدة لاختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية (PTE) في مصر، وذلك بالتعاون مع UH-GAF، التابعة لجامعة هيرتفوردشاير في العاصمة الإدارية الجديدة، ومؤسسة التعليم العالمي (GEF) في الإسكندرية. كما سيتم افتتاح مركز تحضير لاختبار PTE بالتعاون مع جامعة النيل في القاهرة، بالإضافة إلى أربعة مراكز اختبار حالية في جامعة مصر للعلوم والتكنولوجيا (MUST).

تُعزز مراكز اختبار PTE الجديدة من حضور بيرسون المتنامي في مصر، حيث توفّر بيئة آمنة وشاملة لدعم اختبار PTE Academic في البلاد، مما يوسع نطاق وصول الطلاب والمهنيين الراغبين بالتقديم للاختبار بهدف التعليم الدولي أو الهجرة والتوظيف. وبما أن إتقان اللغة الإنجليزية يعزز من إمكانات الكسب بنسبة تصل إلى 80%، أصبح التقييم اللغوي مثل اختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية أداة قيمة للتقدم المهني والأكاديمي.

وبهذه المناسبة، صرح الدكتور أشرف عبدالباسط، الرئيس الأكاديمي لفرع جامعة هيرتفوردشاير في مصر، قائلاً: "تفتخر جامعة هيرتفوردشاير في مصر بالإعلان عن اعتمادها كمركز لاختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية. يأتي هذا التعاون مع بيرسون بهدف تسهيل وصول الطلبة مباشرة إلى اختبار إتقان اللغة الإنجليزية المعترف به عالمياً في بيئة آمنة ومهنية في الحرم الجامعي. يُعد اختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية شرطاً أساسياً للتعليم الدولي وفرص العمل، ويوفر طريقة سريعة وموثوقة لإثبات مهارات اللغة الإنجليزية."

وتابع: "بالإضافة إلى ذلك، تقدّم جامعة هيرتفوردشاير في مصر دورة تحضيرية شاملة لاختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية مصممة لمساعدة الطلاب على تحقيق أقصى إمكاناتهم. من خلال التدريب المتخصص، واختبارات التدريب بالمحاكاة، والدعم الشخصي، تُزود هذه الدورة الطلاب بالاستراتيجيات والثقة اللازمة للنجاح في الاختبار."

ومن جهته، علق الدكتور المهندس عمرو رمضان، مؤسس المؤسسة العالمية للتعليم، قائلاً: "يأتي قراري بأن أصبح شريكاً ناجحاً مع بيرسون، سواءً كمركز اختبار أو مركز إعداد، مدفوعاً بعدة عوامل مهمة، على رأسها التزام بيرسون بتقديم خدمات تعليمية عالية الجودة، وشهاداتها المعترف بها دولياً، ونهجها المبتكر في تقنيات التقييم، فضلاً عن المرونة والدعم المستمر الذي تقدمه بيرسون لشركائها. يتماشى التزام بيرسون بالتطوير المهني والتعلم المستمر تماماً مع رؤيتي للتميز التعليمي المستدام. هذه القيم مهمة جداً فهي تجعل بيرسون الشريك المثالي لنا في هذه المرحلة المحورية والتجربة الحاسمة."

تقدم هذه المراكز الجديدة اختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية، وهو اختبار سريع وعادل وآمن لإتقان اللغة الإنجليزية، معتمد من قبل أكثر من 3,500 جامعة وكلية حول العالم، بما في ذلك 100% من المؤسسات التعليمية في أستراليا ونيوزيلندا، و 99% من المؤسسات التعليمية في المملكة المتحدة، و 100% من المؤسسات التعليمية في كندا، وأكثر من 1,500 مؤسسة تعليمية في الولايات المتحدة، مثل كلية هارفارد للأعمال وجامعة ييل. كما أنه معتمد من قبل حكومات المملكة المتحدة وأستراليا ونيوزيلندا لأغراض الهجرة.

وأعربت آيبك أيدين، منسق اختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية ومنسق أعمال بيرسون في الشرق الأوسط وأفريقيا وتركيا، عن سعادتها بإطلاق المراكز الجديدة قائلة: "يسرني أن أعلن عن إطلاق مراكزنا الجديدة لاختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية في مصر. تُعد هذه المبادرة خطوةً هامةً نحو تمكين المتعلمين بالأدوات اللازمة للنجاح. من خلال توفير إمكانية الوصول إلى تقييمات عالية الجودة لكفاءة اللغة الإنجليزية، تعمل بيرسون على فتح آفاق لا حصر لها من فرص التعليم والتقدم الوظيفي. تُعد شراكتنا مع جامعة هيرتفوردشاير في مصر والمؤسسة العالمية للتعليم مهمة بشكل خاص، حيث تتيح للطلاب إجراء اختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية المعترف به عالمياً مباشرةً في في بيئة آمنة ومهنية في الحرم الجامعي. يتماشى التزام شركائنا بالتميز التعليمي ودوراتهم التحضيرية الشاملة لاختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية تماماً مع رؤية بيرسون للتميز التعليمي المستدام ومساعدة الطلاب على تحقيق أقصى إمكاناتهم. معاً، نبتكر تجارب تعليمية هادفة تترك أثرها على أرض الواقع وتساعد الأفراد على تحقيق الحياة التي يحلمون بها من خلال التعلم."

كما يسرّ بيرسون تسليط الضوء على الاختبارات التي تقدّمها وعلى رأسها اختبار “PTE Core”، الاختبار المعتمد من قِبل وزارة الهجرة واللاجئين والمواطنة الكندية للراغبين في الهجرة والإقامة الدائمة . يُقيّم اختبار “PTE Core” أربع مهارات، بما فيها مهارات اللغة الإنجليزية اليومية، وهو مثالي للأفراد الذين يسعون للعمل أو الاستقرار في كندا.

يُقدّم اختبار بيرسون الأكاديمي للغة الإنجليزية واختبار “PTE Core” مزايا فريدة، مما يجعلهما خيارين مثاليين للمتعلمين والمهنيين على حدٍ سواء. يُمكن حجز الاختبارات قبل 24 ساعة مُسبقاً وتوقّع استلام النتائج في غضون 48 ساعة لتسريع تقديم الطلبات المُرتبطة بإطار زمني محدد. يتم تقييم الاختبارات باستخدام مزيج من الذكاء الاصطناعي والخبرات البشرية، مما يضمن تقييماً عادلاً وخالياً من التحيز. كما أن صيغة هذه الاختبارات، ومدّتها ساعتان، أبسط وموحّدة مما يغني عن ضرورة إضافة عنصر مُنفصل للمحادثة. 

يدعم هذا التوسع شركاء بيرسون الاستراتيجيين في منظومة إعداد الاختبارات، وهم “GrowSkills”، “PTE Peak”، “IG Club”، والأكاديمية العربية للعلوم والتكنولوجيا والنقل البحري، و “Lingua”، ويقدّر دورهم الحيوي في تعزيز الوعي باختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية ودعم المتقدّمين للاختبار عن طريق إعدادهم من خلال ورش العمل وتوفير الموارد ذات الصلة أونلاين ودفع عجلة التعلّم الهادف في جميع أنحاء مصر.

اعتبارًا من أغسطس 2025، سيتضمن اختبار PTE Academic مهمتين جديدتين في قسم التحدث، وهما "الرد على موقف" و"تلخيص نقاش جماعي"، إلى جانب نموذج تقييم مطوّر يجمع بين الذكاء الاصطناعي وخبراء بشريين، وأدوات تحضيرية جديدة لدعم المتقدمين للاختبار.

هذا وتخطط بيرسون لمواصلة توسيع شبكة اختبارات بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية في جميع أنحاء مصر لتلبية الطلب المتزايد ومساعدة المزيد من المتعلمين على تحقيق أهدافهم الأكاديمية والمهنية وتلبية متطلبات الهجرة.

للمزيد من المعلومات عن اختبار بيرسون للغة الإنجليزية، الرجاء زيارة الموقع الإلكتروني:  https://www.pearsonpte.com/

St. James’s Place Releases Latest CIO Quarterly Insights, Highlighting Diversification and Long-Term Strategies for Investors in the Middle East

 

CIO Angelina Lai: “For Investors Across the Middle East, Navigating Global Uncertainty Demands Resilience and Precision”

Dubai, UAE – 11 August 2025 – St. James’s Place (SJP), a FTSE-listed global financial advisory firm with over one million customers and $245 billion in assets under management, released the latest edition of its CIO Quarterly Insights, titled “Red Caps and the US Concentration Conundrum”. The latest insights, authored by Angelina Lai, Chief Investment Officer for Asia & Middle East, examine the growing turbulence in US markets and its implications for global investors.

The report is particularly relevant for investors across the UAE, GCC, and broader Middle East, where global diversification and capital preservation remain top of mind amid increasing exposure to international markets. It offers a timely perspective on how to balance regional opportunities with global risks and reinforces the importance of resilience and discipline in long-term portfolio strategy.

“For investors across the Middle East, navigating global uncertainty requires both perspective and precision,” said Angelina Lai, Chief Investment Officer, Asia & Middle East at St. James’s Place. “As international exposure increases, so too does the need for thoughtful diversification and a disciplined, long-term strategy that aligns with regional ambitions and global realities.”

This edition covers the impact of US political volatility, rising market concentration in US equities, emerging opportunities in undervalued regions like Asia, and the behavioural pitfalls investors should avoid during periods of uncertainty.

US Political Volatility Driving Market Uncertainty

Recent geopolitical developments and policy swings under the Trump administration, including tariff changes and Truth Social announcements, are contributing to increased market instability. 

The US Concentration Conundrum:

The report highlights a critical trend - two-thirds of global equities are now in the US, with just 10 mega-cap stocks making up over a third of the US index. This is the highest market concentration seen in 60 years, raising concerns about overexposure and systemic risk. Against this backdrop, the report underscores the importance of maintaining a disciplined approach to overall risk. If an investor’s risk appetite has not fundamentally changed, it is difficult to justify holding more of a concentrated market at higher valuations.

Shift Toward Diversification:

Despite the US remaining SJP’s largest equity position, the firm is currently underweight in US equities (15% below market weight in core portfolios) and sees more attractive opportunities in Europe, Japan, and Emerging Markets.

Geopolitical Pressures Beyond the US:

Tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing war in Ukraine continue to threaten global supply chains and drive oil prices. 

Investor Sentiment Turns Cautiously Optimistic:

The latest US consumer sentiment data shows a slight uptick in economic confidence, the first in six months, suggesting a tentative shift in perception amid persistent volatility.

“In times of heightened market uncertainty, it’s more important than ever to stay focused on your long-term goals and ensure your portfolio remains resilient. At St. James’s Place, we don’t chase headlines - we ground our investment approach in fundamentals, diversification, and discipline” added Lai. “Valuations alone don’t tell the full story; something that looks attractively priced isn’t always a good investment. That’s why we tailor our asset allocation to each client’s objectives and risk tolerance, constantly reviewing global markets, macro trends, and valuation dynamics to make informed, forward-looking decisions.”

-ENDS-

Beyond Skyscrapers: The GCC’s Path to Low-Carbon Construction

 

 

The ever-evolving skyline of the GCC reflects its ambitious developments and rapid infrastructure growth. However, as urbanization accelerates, the need for smarter, more sustainable building practices becomes increasingly critical. As buildings soar higher and megaprojects reshape the landscape, the region faces a defining challenge: ensuring that its construction industry builds not only for today but also for the future. Sustainability is no longer a choice or a responsibility; it is an obligation. The decisions made now will determine the resilience of the cities to come.

 

In response, companies and authorities across the region are implementing bold environmental initiatives, driving the construction industry to embrace cutting-edge materials, pioneering technologies, and enhanced regulatory measures to create a more sustainable future.

 

Rethinking Materials for a Net-Zero Future

With energy efficiency at the core of sustainability efforts, the GCC is focusing on reducing the environmental impact of its buildings. Air conditioning, a major contributor to energy consumption in the region, is driving demand for better insulation, passive cooling techniques, and integrated renewable energy solutions.

 

Concrete remains a fundamental component of construction in the GCC, yet its carbon footprint is significant. The industry is shifting toward Low Carbon Alternative Cement, a solution gaining traction through regional standardization efforts. This innovation significantly reduces CO₂ emissions while improving durability, especially when paired with advanced concrete admixtures that enhance strength and longevity.

 

Revolutionizing Construction Methods

The GCC has positioned itself as a global leader in 3D printing for construction, with the UAE at the forefront. Dubai’s 3D-printed office stands as a testament to the technology’s potential in reducing waste, shortening construction timelines, and enabling intricate and customized architectural designs. This shift toward digitally driven construction not only optimizes resources but also enhances the region’s ability to meet stringent sustainability targets.

 

Revolutionizing Cooling: Smarter HVAC for a Sustainable Future

Innovations in cooling, driven by renewable energy integration and intelligent, demand-driven solutions, are transforming how buildings manage climate control. These advancements allow for significant reductions in energy consumption while maintaining ideal indoor conditions, supporting the region’s efforts toward net-zero goals. In the GCC, cooling systems account for up to 70% of a building’s energy use, making improvements in HVAC efficiency both a financial imperative and an environmental necessity.

 

Turning Sustainability Commitments into Action

Sustainability in the GCC is no longer just an aspiration; it is a structured, strategic shift backed by national policies such as Saudi Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 initiative. These frameworks lay the groundwork for a carbon-conscious construction sector that prioritizes efficiency, resilience, and long-term environmental impact. In 2021, the UAE became the first country in the Middle East to commit to net-zero emissions by 2050, while Saudi Arabia set its sights on 2060 under the Saudi Green Initiative.

 

A skilled workforce is essential to meeting these goals. Industry-focused training and certification programs, such as those provided by the International Code Council (ICC), equip construction professionals with the expertise needed to implement sustainable building practices. Furthermore, the integration of international building codes, such as those developed by the ICC, has been instrumental in aligning regulatory frameworks with sustainability goals, providing a structured path toward practical implementation.

 

By championing technological innovation, embracing forward-thinking sustainability policies, and prioritizing workforce development, the GCC is not merely building structures; it is shaping a future where architectural brilliance seamlessly aligns with environmental stewardship. The region is on the brink of setting new global standards, demonstrating that sustainable construction is not just a choice, but an essential commitment for the future.