Latest news with #bridging
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Hampshire Trust Bank supports MS Lending Group with $47.6m in funding
UK-based Hampshire Trust Bank (HTB) has extended a £35m ($47.6m) funding facility to MS Lending Group, aimed at enhancing its lending capabilities within the UK bridging market. The funding will cover residential, commercial and semi-commercial projects, boosting MS Lending Group's resources and supporting its growth ambitions. MS Lending Group plans to utilise this facility alongside its existing funding arrangements, providing an increase in its lending capacity. MS Lending Group CEO Michael Stratton said: 'This £35m facility from HTB is a major step forward for our business. It not only strengthens our capacity to meet growing demand but also reinforces our position as a serious player in the bridging market. We value our relationship with HTB and are excited to deepen this partnership as we continue our growth journey.' Hampshire Trust Bank's wholesale finance managing director Paul Maurici added: 'We are delighted to extend this facility to MS Lending Group. They are a dynamic, forward-thinking lender, and this expanded funding line reflects our confidence in their team, their strategy, and their future growth.' In January, One Stop Business Finance (OSBF) secured a £10m facility from HTB to support its growth. This funding aimed to expand OSBF's loan book, enabling the company to offer its flexible funding solutions to more small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK. OSBF specialises in custom-made financing options, offering services such as working capital solutions, revolving credit facilities, bridging, and development loans. In October 2024, HTB closed its asset finance division to new business, impacting vehicle stocking. The strategic decision was made to optimise the use of HTB's regulatory capital, which has been diminishing due to the bank's rapid expansion. "Hampshire Trust Bank supports MS Lending Group with $47.6m in funding " was originally created and published by Leasing Life, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Qatar Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
Failed Japan deal highlights US trade negotiation challenges
Agencies The United States failed this week to reach a tariff deal with Japan, a key Pacific Rim ally, and has threatened to notify multiple countries of new duty rates on imports after talks with only one, the United Kingdom, have shown any results. Those developments, which made the US look weak in the short term, should prompt China to take a harder line with Washington on reaching a deal, analysts said. China, the world's second-largest economy, was hit especially hard by US President Donald Trump on April 2, which he dubbed 'Liberation Day', when he raised duties on Chinese imports to more than 100 per cent. Citing concerns over US trade deficits, he also imposed double-digit tariffs on imports from many other Asian nations. Country-specific 'Liberation Day' tariffs were put on hold for 90 days the following week – until July 9 for most countries – pending trade negotiations. Following talks in Switzerland in early May, those on China were also paused for 90 days, until August 12. Beijing's negotiators would draw strength from the US threat to notify trading partners of new duties and the lack of a US-Japan deal because both showed it was hard for Washington to get what it wanted through talks this summer, said Chen Zhiwu, chair professor of finance at the University of Hong Kong. 'These kinds of threats should embolden the Chinese negotiators because it's a sign of desperation,' Chen said. Threats of letters that would unilaterally announce recalibrated tariffs on target countries and the lack of a Japan deal meant the US had 'not gained much ground' in negotiations around the world, he added. On the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in Canada on Monday, Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba made 'little headway in bridging gaps over tariffs', Kyodo News reported. Trump told reporters last week that Washington would send other countries letters that establish new US tariff rates despite ongoing negotiations with 17 major trading partners. The sheer number of tariff deals being sought was 'creating capacity constraints for US trade negotiators' as the 90-day pauses wound down, said Rajiv Biswas, CEO of the Asia-Pacific Economics research group in Singapore. The UK deal – Trump's first since April 2 – obliges the UK to lower certain non-tariff barriers on US goods and holds out the prospect that British exports of steel and aluminium could be exempted from US tariffs, pending further talks. The UK was exempted from a doubling of US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports to 50 per cent early this have described the UK deal content as thin, with the Brookings think tank calling it 'less a done deal than a first instalment in ongoing negotiations'. Unilateral changes in US tariff rates would show that the 90-day negotiation periods allowed too little time for deal making, said Jayant Menon, a senior fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore.
United News of India
19-06-2025
- Business
- United News of India
NONSTOP sets a new standard as India's first and largest modern retail format for mobility solutions
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 18: In a rapidly evolving landscape of accessibility, eldercare, and rehabilitation, NONSTOP has emerged as India's first and largest modern retail format dedicated to mobility and healthcare solutions. More than a retail chain, NONSTOP is a mission-driven movement focused on restoring independence, dignity, and quality of life for millions. With multi-brand offerings, world-class assistive devices, and thoughtfully designed stores across major cities, NONSTOP is becoming the go-to destination for consumers, caregivers, hospitals, and health professionals seeking dependable mobility solutions. Transforming an Unorganised Market India's assistive care sector has long been fragmented and underserved. NONSTOP identified this critical gap and responded by creating an ecosystem that fuses innovation with empathy, offering modern, accessible, and reliable mobility solutions under one roof. 'India's mobility and healthcare retail landscape was in dire need of an upgrade,' 'People were depending on outdated or unsafe equipment. NONSTOP is here to change that—with not just better products, but better care' says Iftekhar Ahmed, Founder and CEO, NONSTOP. India's First Inclusive Mobility Retail Experience Try-and-buy experience zones Wheelchair-friendly layouts and live demo areas In-store physiotherapists and expert consultations EMI and rental options Pan-India delivery and support From essential aids like wheelchairs, hospital beds, and orthopaedic supports to advanced solutions such as stair-climbers, mobility robots, and standing wheelchairs, NONSTOP provides future-ready mobility technologies for all needs and budgets. Its MEXPLE product line further enhances accessibility through ergonomic, affordable, and internationally certified devices. Building a Holistic Mobility Ecosystem NONSTOP's vision extends beyond retail, evolving into India's most trusted mobility ecosystem, including: Physical retail stores E-commerce with nationwide shipping Home assessments and physiotherapy services Equipment rentals and B2B hospital support With stores already operational in Mumbai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, and Chennai, and soon expanding to Delhi, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, and Calicut, NONSTOP plans to reach 20+ cities within two years, bridging the accessibility gap across India. Partnering for Impact NONSTOP works closely with physiotherapists, orthopaedic surgeons, geriatric experts, and rehab specialists to ensure clinical relevance and ease of use. It also invites global brands to test, launch, and scale their mobility innovations through its trusted retail network. 'Our stores are not just showrooms—they are testing grounds for the future of mobility. We invite innovators and partners to join us in co-creating scalable solutions' adds Iftekhar Ahmed. Driven by a Social Mission: Mobility with Dignity NONSTOP's philosophy centres around mobility as a right, not a privilege. This is reflected in its community programs, free demo services, caregiver training, and rural outreach. The company actively hosts product trials, awareness camps, and physiotherapy workshops in partnership with senior care institutions and hospitals. Recognised Leader, Expanding Horizons NONSTOP has quickly earned recognition as a category leader in organised healthcare retail, transforming lives through better access, education, and care. Looking ahead, it plans to expand its offerings with: NONSTOP Cares: At-home patient care services NONSTOP Physio: Clinic and home-based physiotherapy NONSTOP Digital: A mobile platform for consultations and bookings Rural Access Vans: Reaching Tier 2/3 towns Franchise Model: Partnering with local entrepreneurs The Future is Mobile, Inclusive and Empowered NONSTOP is setting a bold new benchmark for mobility and healthcare retail in India—combining cutting-edge products, inclusive design, community-first services, and a powerful social mission. As the country ages and awareness grows, NONSTOP is leading the charge towards a more accessible, dignified, and mobile future for all. If you object to the content of this press release, please notify us at We will respond and rectify the situation within 24 hours.
Time of India
16-06-2025
- General
- Time of India
Digital revolution in remote tribal village: Maharashtra's Rohini becomes model gram panchayat
By Anjali Ojha Dhule: In the quiet, remote tribal-majority village of Rohini, tucked away at the foothills of Satpura in Maharashtra's Dhule district, the rugged terrain stood as a barrier to basic services, but a silent digital revolution is transforming lives and bridging the gap. "Using technology here for us was not an option, it was an opportunity," Chief Executive Officer of the Jila Parishad, Dhule, Vishal Narwade, said. Mobile internet and e-governance applications have made essential services such as healthcare, education and finance increasingly accessible to residents while also empowering them through digital democracy at the grassroots level. The gram panchayat was recently awarded the gold medal in a first-of-its-kind award for 'Grassroots level initiatives for deepening service delivery at gram panchayats or equivalent traditional local bodies' for its exemplary digital initiatives. With the population scattered in hamlets, access to services was always a challenge. The gram panchayat is now using information and communication technology not just to provide amenities and disseminate information but to also enable the locals to join Gram Sabha meetings virtually. Narwade said while only 45% of the local tribals are literate according to the last census figures, digital literacy is at 100%. "We informed the locals, held meetings of the Gram Sabha, made the locals aware, and convinced them that digital technology can help as they are struggling for physical connectivity. "Education, health, Anganwadi - technology is being used everywhere to ensure delivery," Narwade told PTI. "Any model will be successful only with local participation. We used government platforms and we developed a website through which one can access all services sitting at home," he said. Narwade said a website was developed for the panchayat by a local youth, who has also taken the responsibility to maintain it. "You will see a smartphone in everyone's hand. They already knew how to use smartphones, we just trained them how to use government and panchayat websites and apps to make their lives easier," he said. "We ensured that they don't need to come physically to the Gram Panchayat for small things - like if they need any certificate - birth, death, or marriage certificate, they can get it online," he said. Besides the local panchayat's website, government websites like the Meri Panchayat app, and digital platforms like e-Gram Swaraj, and Panchayat Nirnay App are among those being used. Narwade said when the Gram Sabha meeting is called, those who cannot join the meeting physically can join it online, ensuring more people's participation in decision-making. The journey was not easy though. In this remote area with hilly terrain, the internet was not always available. The gram panchayat has seven hamlets with scattered population of 7200. Deputy Sarpanch of the village Vasant Pawda said local demand for better internet connectivity grew louder, with some even suggesting boycott of elections at one point. They reached out to telecom companies, and the government departments, eventually leading to telecom infrastructure seeing improvement. Mobile phones are also being used to enable access to telemedicine facilities for locals. "The population here is scattered and doctors can't go there every time. So the health workers here, ASHA and ANMs, visit local homes and they connect them to doctors," said Dr Rashtrapal Ahire, Medical Officer, PHC, Rohini. If locals have an issue with mobile connectivity, the volunteers use their own mobile phones to connect them to the doctors, and also provide them medicines, he said. Tele-medicine facilities are also available for cattle, who are tagged and their information digitised in a database making it easier to track the animal for vaccination and monitoring. The village Anganwadi is also leveraging on government's platforms like the Poshan Tracker app, and a dashboard at the Anganwadi centre helps in monitoring progress. Vasant Pawda, deputy sarpanch of the village, said they aim to become a global model for digital democracy at the grassroots level. He said they aim to have a Single Digital Window for the village for all programmes and digital inclusion of every citizen. "With scattered population, remote villages, and migrant worker population, access to services was an issue, which could be resolved due to internet. Now we aim to have one window through which all services and information can be accessed," Pawda said. Rohini is a gram panchayat under Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, (PESA) with over 80% tribal population. It is located at the foothills of Satpura Hills at the interstate border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, around 85 km away from the district headquarters. PTI>
Straits Times
13-06-2025
- Straits Times
Nanyang Poly student engineers comeback after near-expulsion, wanting to 'throw studies away'
He was at risk of flunking out. But being given a second chance made all the difference for Seamus Liew, who is now one of Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP)'s most outstanding graduates. He recently won a gold medal in Mechanical Engineering CAD (Computer-Aided Design) at WorldSkills Singapore 2025 - his first major competition and proudest achievement to date. "Because not only did I do it for myself, I did it for my teachers. I had promised them that I would win something. I also did it for my family and my friends, so winning made me very proud," Seamus told Stomp. Getting here was far from easy, however. Seamus opened up about a dark time in his life, when he had to "put aside" his studies due to personal struggles. He was then in the Polytechnic Foundation Programme (PFP), a bridging year at NYP designed to prepare students for their diploma courses. "I actually overlooked a test. I completely didn't see the email. And because of that, I failed one of the modules and had to appeal against being expelled from the programme," he recounted. "That put me in a deeper hole, because I was already dealing with some personal stuff. I felt like giving up and just throwing my studies away. "I asked the director of PFP to give me another chance. He empathised with my situation and gave me that second chance. I took it." Even after graduating with a Diploma in Engineering with Business, Seamus has not stopped upskilling or pursuing his passion. He currently helps out at NYP's Mechatronics department while awaiting enlistment into National Service. Seamus at his NYP workspace. PHOTO: STOMP Seamus, who also has interests in accounting, computing and mechanical design, said perseverance and commitment are key. He added: "Because when I feel like giving up, I also feel motivated to not give up. It's like a loop and I think that is my greatest strength." The WorldSkills Singapore 2025 competition tested that mindset to the limit. "The first day, I went in thinking that I could do it. Turns out I could not, because some of the tasks were intentionally designed to be impossible to complete," Seamus recalled. "It was very daunting and really demotivating for the participants, and I felt like giving up. "However, I remembered my loop. Through it, I gained motivation for the next two days and pushed through." Seamus is a gold medallist at WorldSkills Singapore 2025. PHOTO: NANYANG POLYTECHNIC The aspiring design engineer hopes to next make his mark at the WorldSkills ASEAN Competition and snag gold for Singapore. His mantra? "Don't give up even when things seem impossible." Click here to contribute a story or submit it to our WhatsApp Get more of Stomp's latest updates by following us on:
