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Australia Set to Block AI Chatbots Without Age Verification

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ChatGPT is Still the King of Chatbots in Offices: AI

Australia is preparing to take a firm stance against AI chatbots that fail to restrict access for younger users. Everything is accessible now, especially with artificial intelligence making it even easier and faster in just a few clicks.

The latest reports suggest that regulators may soon require app stores to block AI services that do not implement proper age verification systems by March 9.

Millions in Fines for Non-Compliant AI Platforms

ChatGPT is Still the King of Chatbots in Offices: AI

The country’s eSafety commissioner has made the government’s position clear, warning that authorities will use “the full range” of enforcement powers against non-compliant services. This could include direct action against gatekeeper platforms such as search engines and app stores, which serve as primary access points for AI services.

A review cited by Reuters found that out of 50 leading text-based AI chat services operating in Australia, only nine have introduced or announced age assurance measures.

11 platforms reportedly applied blanket content filters or planned to block Australian users entirely. This leaves a substantial number of AI providers without visible safeguards just days before the compliance deadline.

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According to Engadget, companies that fail to meet the proposed requirements could face fines of up to A$49.5 million (approximately $35 million), highlighting how seriously regulators are treating child safety in the age of AI.

Back in 2024, Australia announced its plans to create its own AI advisory body amid the rising usage of chatbots.

Global Debate Over AI Content Responsibility

Australia’s crackdown occurs amid a wider international debate over who should protect minors from harmful digital content. In the United States, tech giants like Apple and Google have attempted to shift responsibility onto AI platforms rather than app stores.

Given Australia’s tight social media restrictions for users under 16, enacted last year, the country’s tougher regulatory approach to AI services aligns with national policy priorities and emphasizes child safety as a non-negotiable standard for emerging technologies.

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Australia is also concerned about AI’s security risks, especially when chatbots have access to government-owned devices. Last year, the country banned China’s DeepSeek, calling it an “unacceptable risk” to the local infrastructure.

Originally published on Tech Times

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Concurrent Technologies Plc (COTGF) Discusses Full Year Results and Leadership Transition with Strategic Business Updates Transcript

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OneWater Marine Inc. (ONEW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Concurrent Technologies Plc (COTGF) Discusses Full Year Results and Leadership Transition with Strategic Business Updates April 17, 2026 6:30 AM EDT

Company Participants

Miles Adcock – CEO & Executive Director
Kim Maria Garrod – CFO & Executive Director

Presentation

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Operator

Good morning, and welcome to the Concurrent Technologies Plc Final Results Investor Presentation. [Operator Instructions]

Before we begin, I would like to submit the following poll. And I would now like to hand you over to CEO, Miles Adcock. Good morning to you.

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Miles Adcock
CEO & Executive Director

Good morning, and welcome to our full year results for 2025.

Next slide, please. So my name is Miles. I’m the CEO. This is my fourth set of annual results, and I’m joined by Kim, our CFO. And I should note that at the same time as we issued our full year results, we also announced that Kim has decided to retire at the end of this year. My good friend and colleague, Kim, do you want to say a few words?

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Kim Maria Garrod
CFO & Executive Director

Yes. So I achieved a milestone birthday this year, and that made me rethink what I was going to do. So I have decided to retire, but I’m in the business until the end of the year. I’m very excited about the business, and I will be watching it very closely after I’ve gone, and I’ll be regularly calling Miles for updates. But I’m fully committed to the business. And as I say, I’ll be taking out for most of this financial year.

Miles Adcock
CEO & Executive Director

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Thank you, Kim. And just to note, Kim has generously given us until the end of the year to seek a replacement, and I’ve engaged Korn Ferry this week, and we’re working hard at finding a worthy successor.

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World weighs fate of Mideast ceasefire after US seizes Iranian cargo ship

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World weighs fate of Mideast ceasefire after US seizes Iranian cargo ship


World weighs fate of Mideast ceasefire after US seizes Iranian cargo ship

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MPLX: A Sound Growth Story Irrespective Of Iran Headlines

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Atmos Energy: A Stable Income Growth Stock In Uncertain Times (NYSE:ATO)

MPLX: A Sound Growth Story Irrespective Of Iran Headlines

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Budget won't be bonanza for cutting red tape: minister

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Budget won't be bonanza for cutting red tape: minister

Business groups have urged the government to cut a raft of regulations ahead of the federal budget, but the finance minister says changes have to make sense.

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China leaves lending benchmarks unchanged for 11th month in April

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China leaves lending benchmarks unchanged for 11th month in April


China leaves lending benchmarks unchanged for 11th month in April

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IPOs could raise up to $25 billion in 2026, too, despite D-St caution

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IPOs could raise up to $25 billion in 2026, too, despite D-St caution
Mumbai: A clutch of large IPOs is expected to prop up India’s primary market in 2026 even as market uncertainty slows down broader activity compared to the previous two robust years, said Ranvir Davda, co-head of investment banking at HSBC India.

“The number of deals may come down, but the size and aggregate value may still be similar (to the previous years),” said Davda in an interview.

Reliance Industries’ telecom arm Jio Platforms, National Stock Exchange, Zepto, PhonePe, Manipal Hospitals and and SBI Funds Management are among the large issuances expected to hit the market in 2026. Together, these issues could raise ₹1 lakh crore (about $10.8-10.9 billion).

So far this year, 20 companies have raised $2.5 billion, according to Prime Database and ETIG Database. That comes after two record years that saw 94 and 115 mainboard IPOs in 2024 and 2025, raising nearly $21-23 billion.

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This year’s IPO fundraise could be between $21 billion and $25 billion.


“This year, a larger percentage of companies are mid to large-sized,” said Davda. “Many of these are backed by large groups or private equity investors and, therefore, have the flexibility to wait, ride volatility, and avoid pressing forward if valuations are not aligned.”
The early part of this year has been slower for the IPO market, with the West Asia conflict weighing on secondary markets, IPO subscriptions and listing gains, prompting several companies to defer offerings. “This year will be volatile. Windows to complete trades will be shorter, so readiness is critical,” Davda said.

At the same time, companies that need capital are showing more willingness to negotiate.

Issuers are increasingly tapping AIFs, family offices and special situations funds alongside traditional investors, while using pre-IPO placements as a bridge to raise capital with visibility to a listing over the next 6-18 months, he said. According to Davda, technology faces sharper scrutiny amid AI disruption, global uncertainty and profitability concerns, though large consumer-tech and fintech offerings are still likely to proceed as “must-own” India exposures.

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Janus Living: Valuation Seems To Have Priced In Near-Term Upsides (NYSE:JAN)

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Brookdale: Operational Leverage Signals A Major Pivot

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I focus on long-term investments while incorporating short-term shorts to uncover alpha opportunities. My investment approach revolves around bottom-up analysis, delving into the fundamental strengths and weaknesses of individual companies. My investment duration is the medium to long-term. Ultimately, I aim to identify companies with solid fundamentals, sustainable competitive advantages, and growth potential.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

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FMCG sector set for steady Q4 on rural demand and volume growth

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FMCG sector set for steady Q4 on rural demand and volume growth
ET Intelligence Group: The FMCG sector is expected to post a steady March-quarter performance, supported by stable rural demand, gradual urban recovery and volume growth even as pricing remains subdued in several segments. While steady raw material costs during most of the quarter are margin supportive, the recent rise in costs of crude-linked inputs such as packaging materials could weigh on margins. Companies with stronger execution, premium portfolios and better distribution reach are expected to outperform, while category-specific challenges and international headwinds may keep performance uneven across the pack.

Hindustan Unilever is expected to report mid-single digit revenue growth led by 4-5% volume growth. Growth is expected to be broad-based, with beauty and wellbeing growing in double-digits, while home care, personal care and foods & beverages are likely to grow in mid-single digits. The demerger of low-margin ice cream business may support operating margin before depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda margin).

ITC may show pressure in the cigarettes segment amid flat volume and higher taxes while displaying resilience in non-cigarette segments. The FMCG and agriculture related business is expected to remain robust, while paperboards business may grow in single digit. The margin for the cigarettes business is likely to contract amid rising leaf tobacco costs and limited pricing hikes.

FMCG Pack Heads for Steady Q4 Despite Patchy Category TrendsAgencies

Books & MARKS HUL, Nestlé and Britannia set for volume-led growth; high tax on cigarettes may weigh on ITC; Dabur may report modest int’l revenue

Nestle India’s consolidated revenue growth is expected to be in double-digits, led largely by volumes in the domestic market while exports may show recovery on a weak base. Normalisation is expected after GST-related disruptions in the previous quarter. However, margin is likely to contract on account of high inflation in the coffee segment.
Asian Paints is likely to report better volume growth for the domestic decorative paints segment on a weak base. Upcoming price increase may boost channel restocking thereby aiding primary sales. International business may be subdued due to the Middle East disruption. Margins are likely to improve on stable raw material prices during the quarter, with the impact of recent crude inflation expected to be limited for the March quarter.

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Varun Beverages is expected to report high-single digit revenue growth in the March quarter, with international markets likely to drive momentum through high double-digit volume growth. Ebitda margin is likely to contract, partly due to upsizing in India and ramp-up of snacks in Africa.
Britannia Industries may report double-digit revenue growth led by high-single digit volume expansion due to higher grammage in low-unit packs, which account for about two-third portion of sales. Margins are likely to improve supported by stable raw materials prices, especially in January and February. Dabur India is expected to post modest revenue growth, driven by mid-single digit volume growth in the domestic business. However, its international operations, particularly the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, which contributes around 8% of revenue may remain weak amid geopolitical tensions. Within domestic categories, home and personal care is expected to deliver double-digit growth, while healthcare and foods may see low single-digit expansion.

Colgate-Palmolive India is expected to report low single-digit volume growth on a weak base, after three consecutive quarters of declines. The margin could contract due to higher promotions and advertisement spends.

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Oil claws back losses as Strait of Hormuz is closed again

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Oil claws back losses as Strait of Hormuz is closed again
SINGAPORE: Oil prices rebounded more than 6% on Monday after tumbling more than 9% on Friday on news the Strait of Hormuz is closed again after both the U.S. and Iran said the other party had violated their ceasefire deal by attacking ships over the weekend.

Brent crude futures jumped $6.11, or ‌6.76%, to $96.49 ⁠a barrel ⁠by 2327 GMT and U.S. West Texas Intermediate was at $90.38 a barrel, up $6.53, or 7.79%.

The U.S. military had seized an Iranian cargo ship that tried to run its blockade, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday, while Iran said it would not participate in a second round of peace talks despite Trump’s threat of renewed airstrikes.

The United States has ⁠maintained a ‌blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has lifted and then reimposed its own blockade of the Strait, which handled roughly ⁠one-fifth of the world’s oil supply before the war began almost two months ago.

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“Oil markets continue to gyrate in response to oscillating social media posts by the U.S. and Iran, rather than the realities on the ground which remain challenging for oil flows to resume in a rapid fashion,” Saul Kavonic, MST Marquee’s head of research, said.


Both contracts posted on Friday their largest daily ‌declines since April 18 after Iran said passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz was open for the remaining ceasefire period and ⁠Trump said Iran had agreed to never close the strait again.
“The announcement of the Strait opening proved premature,” Kavonic said. “Ship owners will be twice shy about heading towards the Strait again without receiving much more confidence that any announced passage is real.”

More than 20 ships passed the strait on Saturday carrying oil, liquefied petroleum gas, metals and fertilizers, Kpler data showed, the highest number of vessels crossing the waterway since March 1.

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Global Market Today: Oil jumps, stocks wobble as Mideast ceasefire hangs in the balance

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Global Market Today: Oil jumps, stocks wobble as Mideast ceasefire hangs in the balance
SINGAPORE: Oil prices jumped, the U.S. dollar lifted from lows and stock markets wobbled on Monday as rising tension in the Middle East kept shipping in and out of the Gulf to a bare minimum, though traders were holding out hope for a resolution.

The ceasefire in the Iran war, due to run until Tuesday, was in doubt after the U.S. seized an Iranian cargo ship and Tehran’s top military command vowed to retaliate.

Iran has re-imposed its de facto closure of the Strait of ‌Hormuz, though Kpler ⁠data showed ⁠that more than 20 vessels carrying oil products, metals, gas and fertiliser passed through it on Saturday, the busiest day for the chokepoint since March 1.

Brent crude futures jumped about 6% to $96 a barrel in early Asia trade. The dollar, which sold off sharply on Friday when the strait briefly opened, rose slightly.

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S&P 500 futures fell around 0.7%, a modest move considering the index notched a record closing high on Friday. Asia-Pacific markets were mixed, with Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 down 0.5% and Japan’s benchmark Nikkei up 0.7%.


Bond markets, which rallied on Friday, retreated.
“The headlines look bad; it looks like ⁠there’s disagreement … which ‌has led to a little bit of re-escalation,” said Damien Boey, portfolio strategist at Wilson Asset Management in Sydney. “But I think, ultimately, both sides want to be able to do a deal – that’s part ⁠of the reason why the market’s optimistic and not selling off too much.”

Iran rejected new peace talks with the U.S., its state news agency reported on Sunday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was sending envoys for talks in Pakistan and would launch new strikes on Iran unless it accepts his terms.

FOCUS ON HORMUZ
In forex news, the euro was down 0.1% at $1.1735 and the yen eased around 0.3% to 159 per dollar, while the Australian and New Zealand dollars fell slightly.

Bonds likewise partially retraced Friday moves, with benchmark 10-year U.S. Treasury yields, which had fallen 6.5 basis points on Friday, rising by 3.2 bps ‌to 4.276%.

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Investors sold fixed income assets through March in anticipation of higher oil prices driving inflation – something they have tempered a little in recent weeks.

“Our base case (AKA guess) is still resolution to the war. Trump is still focused on November midterm ⁠elections,” said Paul Chew, head of research at Singapore’s Phillip Securities in a note to clients.

Wall Street indexes touched record highs on Friday, supported by expectations of robust first-quarter earnings, the bulk of which come this week. China is expected to hold benchmark lending rates steady on Monday.

British inflation data, U.S. retail sales and European purchasing managers’ index figures are due later in the week, though much of markets’ focus will be on Gulf shipping.

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“The critical barometer of geopolitical risk has been distilled into one data point: The number of ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” said Bob Savage, head of markets macro strategy at BNY.

“Peace talks matter, but the immediate focus is on oil and other supply shortages driving inflation.”

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