Nicholas Webb

ASX Initiates Significant Reform After Thorough Assessment

Nicholas Webb on December 15, 2025

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ASX to Revamp Transformation Following Critical Assessment

Quick Overview

The ASX is revamping its transformation strategy after a critical evaluation.
An interim assessment points out inadequate investment in technology and staffing.
ASX is required to retain $150 million in extra capital until mid-2027.
The exchange has encountered five significant technology issues in the past ten years.
ASX’s ‘Accelerate’ initiative will be revised to boost resilience.

Revamping ASX’s Transformation

ASX to revamp transformation following critical assessment

The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) is initiating a major revamp of its transformation strategy in light of a critical interim assessment. This report, resulting from an inquiry into ASX’s resilience, criticizes the organization for its lack of vision, innovation, and prolonged underinvestment in crucial sectors such as technology infrastructure and workforce.

Interim Report Highlights

The interim assessment presents a sobering message for ASX, indicating that the interests of shareholders have eclipsed other vital aspects of decision-making. It states that ASX’s operational and capital spending have not met necessary levels, leading to postponed technology advancements and oversight of core capabilities. The report recommends that ASX prioritize service delivery and infrastructural enhancements.

Obstacles and Recommendations

The assessment emphasizes ASX’s failure to recognize the long-term commitments necessary for managing Australia’s essential market infrastructure. It advocates for a bolder strategy, concentrating on excellence rather than simply bridging operational divides. The predominant ‘firefighting’ approach at ASX is attributed to increasing pressure from more than 120 external assessments since 2020, which have burdened the organization.

The Future Direction for ASX

In light of the report, ASX is mandated to maintain $150 million in additional capital until mid-2027 while reworking its ‘Accelerate’ program to bolster resilience and remedy existing deficiencies. ASX’s pledge to gather the necessary funds and enhance its organizational resilience signifies a pivotal moment in its operational approach.

Conclusion

The ASX is implementing a thorough overhaul of its transformation strategy following a critical interim assessment. This report points out major underinvestment in technology and personnel, calling for a more ambitious approach towards infrastructure and service delivery. The future strategy of ASX involves securing additional capital and revising its programs to strengthen resilience.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main driver behind ASX’s overhaul?

A: The overhaul is prompted by a critical interim assessment that highlights insufficient investment in technology and human resources.

Q: How much additional capital is required for ASX to hold?

A: ASX is required to maintain $150 million in extra capital until mid-2027.

Q: What does the ‘Accelerate’ program entail?

A: The ‘Accelerate’ program is ASX’s initiative aimed at identifying and addressing gaps in its resilience.

Q: How have shareholder interests influenced ASX’s decision-making?

A: The assessment indicates that shareholder interests have overshadowed important decision-making areas, affecting investments in technology and staffing.

Q: What challenges has ASX encountered recently?

A: ASX has faced five significant technology incidents in the last decade and over 120 external assessments since 2020.

Q: What are ASX’s upcoming steps?

A: ASX intends to revise its ‘Accelerate’ program and secure the additional capital needed by mid-2027.

Blue Origin, Bezos’ Space Initiative, Advances State-of-the-Art Orbital Data Center Technology

Nicholas Webb on December 15, 2025

Blue Origin’s Venture into Space Data Centres

Quick Read

Blue Origin is advancing technology for AI data centres in outer space.
SpaceX intends to deploy AI computing payloads aboard Starlink satellites.
Orbital data centres might exceed Earth-based ones due to constant solar energy access.
Space-based centres tackle the significant energy and water requirements of ground facilities.
SpaceX’s potential initial public offering in 2026 could elevate its worth beyond US$1 trillion.

Blue Origin’s Space Data Centre Effort

Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin has initiated a groundbreaking effort to create the technology necessary for artificial intelligence data centres in orbit. This project has been in progress for over a year, concentrating on utilizing the distinctive conditions of space to potentially outperform terrestrial data centres.

Blue Origin's space data centre technology

SpaceX’s Goals for Space-based AI

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is preparing to use upgraded Starlink satellites for carrying AI computing payloads. This action is part of a strategic stock offering that could value SpaceX at US$800 billion. The firm is anticipating a major IPO in 2026, which might increase its valuation to over US$1 trillion.

The Emergence of Orbital Data Centres

With the rising demand for power and water to cool servers, orbital data centres present an innovative solution. Jeff Bezos envisions data centres in space powered on a gigawatt scale within the next twenty years, capitalizing on the consistent solar power available in the cosmos. This sustainable power source could allow these centres to perform better than their Earth-bound equivalents.

Summary

Blue Origin and SpaceX are leading a new chapter in data centre technology, investigating the expansive potentials of space-based infrastructure for AI and computing. With continuous solar energy and diminished environmental constraints, orbital data centres embody a hopeful future for the technology sector.

Q&A

Q: What draws Blue Origin and SpaceX to space data centres?

A: Space provides distinct advantages such as uninterrupted solar power and an absence of weather interruptions, making it an optimal setting for data centres.

Q: What benefits do space-based data centres offer over land-based ones?

A: They may function more effectively with constant solar energy and do not necessitate the same degree of cooling resources as Earth-based facilities.

Q: How does Blue Origin intend to implement space data centres?

A: The business is working on technology to facilitate AI data centres in orbit, which could lower expenses and enhance efficiency compared to terrestrial centres.

Q: Why is SpaceX’s potential IPO important?

A: SpaceX’s IPO could dramatically boost its valuation, generating additional capital to support its advancements in space technology and infrastructure.

CBA Encourages Agents to Initiate Application Modernization Initiatives

Nicholas Webb on December 4, 2025

CBA’s AI-Enabled Initiative for Application Modernisation

Quick Overview

CBA is enhancing its Lumos program to automate application modernisation.
AI agents could soon undertake modernisation autonomously.
Self-updating documentation may become a feasible option.
The aim is to develop “polyglot” agents skilled in various programming languages.
Pathways for modernisation are being created to enable efficient workflows.

The Development of Lumos

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) is pushing innovations with its Lumos initiative, focused on automating the modernisation of cloud applications. Ash Moollan, CBA’s general manager of cloud acceleration, has emphasized Lumos as a crucial component in preparing applications for cloud rehosting and modernisation.

CBA aims for agents to commence application modernisation

AI Agents Leading the Way

During the AWS re:Invent conference, Moollan highlighted the possibility of AI agents autonomously commencing the modernisation process. These agents could initiate the transition without the need for human assistance and call for further information as required.

Documentation That Updates Itself

Another promising advancement is the capability of AI agents to function continuously in the background, automatically refreshing technical documentation as changes happen. This could greatly simplify the documentation process, keeping it accurate and up-to-date.

Creating Polyglot Agents

The vision for Lumos comprises the creation of “polyglot” agents proficient in various programming languages. This would enhance the versatility and efficiency of the modernisation process.

Grasping Modernisation Pathways

Moollan also presented the idea of “modernisation pathways,” currently in development. These pathways are intended to steer the complete modernisation journey, integrating different accelerators into a unified workflow.

Conclusion

CBA’s Lumos initiative aspires to transform application modernisation by harnessing AI technology. The bank’s emphasis is on automating procedures, keeping documentation current, and crafting agents that can comprehend multiple programming languages. These advancements promise safer, quicker, and more efficient solutions for CBA’s clientele.

Q&A

Q: What does the Lumos initiative entail?

A: Lumos is CBA’s project aimed at automating the modernisation and rehosting of applications in the cloud.

Q: In what manner will AI agents commence modernisation?

A: AI agents will independently initiate the modernisation process, seeking human guidance only when needed.

Q: What defines “polyglot” agents?

A: These are AI agents capable of processing multiple programming languages, increasing the versatility of the modernisation process.

Q: How will documentation receive updates?

A: AI agents will consistently oversee changes and automatically refresh technical documentation as necessary.

Q: What are modernisation pathways?

A: These are structured workflows aimed at directing the entire application modernisation process.

Q: What significance does this innovation hold for CBA?

A: It improves the speed, security, and efficiency of cloud modernisation, fostering customer trust and minimizing vulnerabilities.

Schneider Electric Advocates for Sustainability: A Commitment to Enhance Customer Success

Nicholas Webb on December 3, 2025

Schneider Electric Champions Sustainability: A Commitment to Enhance Customer Success

Quick Read

Schneider Electric is dedicated to sustainability, offering assistance for businesses at all points in their sustainability journey.
Decarbonisation of the value chain is a primary focus, presenting substantial opportunities for businesses to improve competitiveness and comply with regulatory standards.
Schneider Electric provides bespoke programs, sophisticated tools, and recognized guidance to empower companies in their sustainability endeavors.
The firm has achieved top positions in worldwide sustainability evaluations, illustrating its leadership in this sector.

Value Chain Decarbonisation: A Competitive Edge

In a time when sustainability is not merely an aspiration but a requirement, Schneider Electric shines as a frontrunner in assisting businesses with their sustainability paths. Acknowledging the significance of value chain decarbonisation, Schneider Electric is committed to supporting customers in reaching their fullest potential.

Empowering Sustainability: Schneider Electric's Commitment to Driving Customer Success

Decarbonising the value chain represents one of the most substantial chances to initiate systemic change towards a net-zero economy. Schneider Electric recognizes that alleviating carbon emissions in the value chain is essential not just for ecological well-being but also generates considerable opportunities for businesses. By prioritizing sustainability, companies can strengthen their competitive position, adhere to regulatory demands, and support global climate initiatives.

Initiatives to Kick-Start Sustainability

For companies embarking on their sustainability journey, Schneider Electric provides structured programs to assist in the initial phases. These include:

Sustainability Academy: Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Academy offers digital educational resources to train employees on sustainability methods and principles.
Awards for Sustainability Impact: Businesses can submit applications for the annual Schneider Electric Awards for Sustainability Impact, which acknowledge and rejoice in extraordinary sustainability milestones.
Conferences and Discussions: Schneider Electric hosts conferences and discussions to cultivate thought leadership and disseminate insights on sustainability investments.

Accelerating Sustainability Initiatives

For businesses aiming to enhance their sustainability initiatives, Schneider Electric provides advanced resources and services to facilitate development:

Emission Calculators and Trade-Off Tools: These resources aid businesses in creating solutions that maximize energy efficiency and minimize carbon footprints.
Digital Solutions and Software: The integration of digital solutions and software for oversight and upkeep improves insight and allows better decision-making concerning carbon emissions and asset longevity.
Cross-Partner Solutions: Schneider Electric’s engineering teams assist in constructing cross-partner solutions that fulfill sustainability targets.

Fostering Growth and Revenue

For businesses prepared to elevate their sustainability efforts, Schneider Electric offers specialized programs and financial support:

Decarbonisation Initiative: Utilizing Zeigo Activate and EcoStruxure IT Sustainability Dashboards enables businesses to construct comprehensive decarbonisation strategies.
Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Industry-wide virtual PPAs reinforce ongoing impact and leadership in sustainability.
Supply Chain Leadership: Schneider Electric’s Sustainability Consulting team provides funding opportunities to establish supply chain decarbonisation initiatives.

Global Recognition in Sustainability Leadership

Schneider Electric’s dedication to sustainability is acknowledged on a global scale. The company consistently receives high rankings in sustainability evaluations, including:

Corporate Knights Global 100: Schneider Electric has been recognized as one of the most sustainable companies for 12 years running.
Terra Carta Seal: Granted in 2022 and 2025, this seal honors global companies driving progress and commitment towards sustainable markets.
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP): Schneider Electric is the only company in its industry to maintain an “A List” status for 12 consecutive years.

Conclusion

Schneider Electric’s comprehensive approach to sustainability guarantees that businesses, no matter their current position on their journey, receive the necessary support to reach their objectives. By delivering customized programs, cutting-edge tools, and acknowledged leadership, Schneider Electric enables its clients to decarbonise their operations, foster growth, and play a part in creating a sustainable future through establishing a net-zero economy and unlocking the full potential of sustainable business practices.

Q&A

Q: What does value chain decarbonisation entail?

A: Value chain decarbonisation focuses on lowering the carbon emissions across a company’s entire supply chain, from production to delivery, to achieve sustainability and a net-zero economy.

Q: In what ways does Schneider Electric assist businesses on their sustainability path?

A: Schneider Electric provides various tailored support options such as educational programs, advanced tools, digital services, and specialized initiatives to aid businesses at multiple stages of their sustainability journey.

Q: What are the advantages of sustainability for companies?

A: Sustainability enhances a company’s competitive advantage, aids in compliance with regulations, contributes to worldwide climate objectives, and can result in cost savings and a stronger brand image.

Q: How does Schneider Electric maintain its leadership in sustainability?

A: Schneider Electric’s leadership is evidenced by its continuous high rankings in global sustainability assessments and its commitment to providing innovative solutions and assistance to businesses worldwide.

Q: What type of tools does Schneider Electric offer to expedite sustainability initiatives?

A: Schneider Electric offers tools like trade-off tools, emission calculators, digital solutions, and monitoring software to enhance energy efficiency and lessen carbon footprints.

Q: What does the Corporate Knights Global 100 ranking signify?

A: The Corporate Knights Global 100 ranking showcases the most sustainable companies worldwide, and Schneider Electric’s ongoing presence on this list highlights its dedication to sustainability and innovation.

Federal Court Imposes $55 Million Penalty on Google for Unlawful Competitive Behavior

Nicholas Webb on December 2, 2025

Google Penalized $55 Million for Anti-Competitive Actions in Australia

Brief Overview

Google penalized $55 million by the Federal Court of Australia for anti-competitive actions.
Deals with Telstra and Optus to preload Google Search on Android devices were ruled unlawful.
Google assisted in the probe and acknowledged anti-competitive practices.
Telstra and Optus opted not to renew these deals after they conclude in 2024.
The ruling paves the way for alternative search engines to compete on Android devices.

Federal Court’s Ruling and Its Consequences

Federal Court directs Google to pay $55 million for anti-competitive practices

The Federal Court of Australia has levied a $55 million penalty on Google after determining that its agreements with Australian telecom firms Telstra and Optus violated competition regulations. These agreements involved having Google’s search engine preloaded on Android devices, which was ruled as anti-competitive by the court.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) instigated the legal proceedings, emphasizing that Telstra and Optus profited from advertising revenues linked to Google Search usage on these devices. This verdict highlights the significance of fair competition within Australia’s market economy, as noted by ACCC deputy chair Mick Keogh.

Google’s Reaction and Future Pledges

Google has complied with the ACCC’s investigation and recognized its participation in anti-competitive actions. The tech giant has agreed to a legally binding commitment to eliminate any pre-installed default search engine constraints from future agreements with Android device manufacturers and telecommunications companies.

A representative from Google conveyed contentment with addressing the ACCC’s issues and underscored the company’s commitment to granting greater flexibility to Android device producers. This aims to foster innovation and competition while ensuring affordability.

Effects on the Telecom Industry

While Telstra and Optus were not directly involved in the court case, they have agreed to let their agreements with Google lapse after their end in 2024. This resolution potentially opens opportunities for other search options, including those driven by artificial intelligence, to vie for pre-installation on Android devices in Australia.

Keogh pointed out that this result, along with Google’s commitments and those from the telcos, could result in an expanded choice of search options for millions of Australians.

Conclusion

In a significant ruling, the Federal Court of Australia has fined Google $55 million for anti-competitive actions linked to preloaded search engines on Android devices. This ruling, triggered by the ACCC, seeks to cultivate a more competitive landscape within the technology sector. Google has cooperated with the inquiry and pledged to provide additional flexibility to Android device manufacturers. The verdict sets the stage for alternative search engines to enter the Australian market.

Q&A

Q: What prompted the Federal Court of Australia to fine Google?

A: Google was fined $55 million for making agreements with Telstra and Optus to preload its search engine on Android devices, which was classified as anti-competitive.

Q: In what way did Telstra and Optus gain from the agreements with Google?

A: Telstra and Optus received a portion of advertising revenues from Google Search activity on preloaded devices, which the ACCC deemed anti-competitive.

Q: What commitments has Google made following the court’s decision?

A: Google has committed to eliminating pre-installed default search engine restrictions, offering increased flexibility to Android device manufacturers.

Q: What implications does this decision have for other search engines?

A: The ruling potentially enables other search options, including those enhanced by AI, to contend for pre-installation on Android devices, providing users with more choices.

Q: Will Telstra and Optus extend their agreements with Google?

A: No, Telstra and Optus have decided not to renew their agreements with Google once they reach their expiration in 2024.

Labor allocates funds to establish a new agency for the regulation of AI firms

Nicholas Webb on November 25, 2025

Quick Summary

The Australian administration creates the Australian AI Safety Institute (AISI) to supervise AI technologies.
AISI will evaluate AI-related risks and guarantee adherence to Australian regulations.
The Department of Finance is also developing a new AI oversight committee.
This committee will ensure the accountable application of AI within government agencies.
The Department of Home Affairs is informing tech providers about AI regulations and security measures.

Australian Government Initiates Efforts to Regulate the AI Sector

The Australian Labor government is undertaking crucial measures to promote the safe and accountable utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in the nation. A new body, the Australian AI Safety Institute (AISI), is being established to guide AI policies and advocate for the secure use of this technology.

Labor relies on agency to oversee AI firms

Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry, Science and Resources.
Supplied

The Purpose of the Australian AI Safety Institute

Minister for Industry, Science and Resources Tim Ayres has stated that AISI will be the primary institution for AI safety expertise within the government. The institute will take on the role of an authority in evaluating the hazards related to AI technologies and ensuring that AI enterprises comply with Australian regulations.

Regulatory Oversight and Adherence

While details about the institute’s specific functions are not yet fully defined, its creation is part of a larger initiative by the government to regulate AI technologies. Concurrently, the Department of Finance, along with the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA), is forming a committee to ensure the responsible implementation of AI in government fields.

Plans for Future AI Regulation

The new committee, anticipated to be operational by the end of next year, is an essential element of the comprehensive AI strategy proclaimed by Finance minister Katy Gallagher. The committee aims for complete functionality by early 2027, facilitating consistent and responsible deployment of AI technologies.

Engagement with the Industry and Briefings

The Department of Home Affairs is proactively engaging with Commonwealth technology vendors to deliberate on fresh AI policies and security systems. Recently, Home Affairs held a town hall gathering with approximately 80 suppliers, including major tech players like Google, Amazon Web Services, IBM, Microsoft, and Oracle, to address compliance with the new Hosting Certification Framework.

Conclusion

The creation of the Australian AI Safety Institute signifies a pivotal initiative by the Labor government to guarantee that AI technologies are deployed safely and responsibly. In conjunction with the development of an oversight committee by the Department of Finance, these actions are poised to set a robust regulatory framework for AI in Australia.

Q: What is the aim of the Australian AI Safety Institute (AISI)?

A: AISI is intended to evaluate AI risks and ensure compliance with Australian regulations, serving as the government’s main source of AI safety expertise.

Q: What function does the Department of Finance have in AI oversight?

A: The Department of Finance is forming an oversight committee aimed at ensuring the responsible use of AI in governmental departments, collaborating with the Digital Transformation Agency.

Q: When is the AI oversight committee expected to commence operations?

A: The committee is projected to become operational by late next year and achieve full functionality by early 2027.

Q: How is the Department of Home Affairs involving technology suppliers in discussions about AI policies?

A: Home Affairs is updating technology suppliers on new AI policies and security frameworks through meetings and town halls to ensure compliance with the Hosting Certification Framework.

Q: Which companies are participating in AI policy discussions with Home Affairs?

A: Companies involved include Google, Amazon Web Services, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, among others certified to offer generative AI technologies.

Bendigo Bank Collaborates with Google Cloud for Pioneering AI Project

Nicholas Webb on November 25, 2025

Bendigo Bank and Google Cloud: A New Chapter in AI Innovation

Bendigo Bank partners with Google Cloud for significant AI initiative

Quick Overview

Bendigo Bank teams up with Google Cloud for an extensive AI rollout.
All bank personnel will have access to Google’s Gemini tools.
This effort seeks to make AI accessible throughout the workforce.
AI tools are being evaluated in primary areas such as lending and data evaluation.
Google’s Anti Money Laundering AI will boost compliance measures.
The bank will shift to Google Security Operations for superior risk oversight.
VMware platforms will transition to Google Cloud for enhanced service resilience.
Recent restructuring led to 145 job reductions in the tech sector.

Making AI Accessible in Banking

Bendigo Bank has commenced a significant transformation by partnering with Google Cloud for its inaugural large-scale enterprise AI implementation. This strategic partnership will extend Google’s Gemini tools throughout the organization, enabling all staff to leverage innovative AI functionality. CEO Richard Fennell notes that the initiative is designed to provide employees with essential capabilities for future achievements.

Past AI Initiatives

The bank has previously engaged in AI initiatives, albeit on a more limited basis. Utilizing MongoDB tools, Bendigo Bank effectively re-engineered the code of a retail banking application. AI has also contributed to improvements in their contact center operations through Amazon Connect and reinforcement of compliance and home lending processes.

Utilizing Google’s AI Solutions

In its evaluations, Bendigo Bank has tested Google’s AI solutions across several core operations, such as lending, refinancing, and data examination. The goal was to discover product deficiencies and enhance overall productivity. The rollout will further allow developers to access Gemini Code Assist, facilitating quicker and more uniform system development.

Improving Security and Compliance

To strengthen its measures against financial crime and customer safety, Bendigo Bank is implementing Google’s Anti Money Laundering AI. Additionally, the bank intends to shift to Google Security Operations and its cloud-based Security Command Center, striving to lower risks and enhance response capabilities to threats.

Broadening Google’s Influence

This collaboration reinforces Google’s presence within Bendigo Bank’s infrastructure. The bank is moving its VMware environments to Google Cloud to guarantee a smooth, zero-downtime transition while sustaining high service continuity. Plans are also underway to incorporate Google’s BigQuery, upgrading their data warehousing abilities.

Restructuring and Impact on Staff

Amid these technological upgrades, Bendigo Bank has executed substantial restructuring in its technology division. In September, the bank revealed a streamlining initiative that resulted in the elimination of 145 positions, affecting a total of 637 technology employees, as reported by the Finance Sector Union.

Conclusion

Bendigo Bank’s alliance with Google Cloud represents a crucial turning point towards AI-driven sophistication in the banking industry. By empowering its workforce with advanced AI technology, the bank aspires to enhance operational performance and customer satisfaction. This initiative not only fortifies Bendigo Bank’s technological framework but also aligns with its strategic long-term objectives concerning risk management and compliance.

Q: What is the primary goal of Bendigo Bank’s collaboration with Google Cloud?

A: The main aim is to democratize AI across the bank’s workforce, providing employees with sophisticated tools to boost operational efficacy and readiness for the future.

Q: In what ways will Google’s AI solutions be utilized by Bendigo Bank?

A: Google’s AI solutions will be applied across various fundamental functions, such as lending, refinancing, and data analysis, to pinpoint product voids and enhance efficiency.

Q: What security protocols is Bendigo Bank putting in place through this partnership?

A: The bank plans to transition to Google Security Operations and its cloud-based Security Command Center, with the goal of minimizing risks and improving response abilities to threats.

Q: What effect does the restructuring have on Bendigo Bank’s staff?

A: The restructuring has resulted in a reduction of 145 jobs within the technology division, impacting a total of 637 technology personnel.

Discovering the Vast Wilderness: The Performance of the Segway Max G3 in Off-Road Excursions

Nicholas Webb on November 23, 2025

Brief Overview

The Segway Max G3 excels not only in cityscapes but also showcases impressive off-road abilities.
Put through its paces on the diverse landscapes of the 81km High Country Rail Trail.
Attributes such as dual braking systems, traction management, and oversized wheels boost off-road efficiency.
Electric scooters provide a distinct method of discovering the great outdoors.

Overview

The Segway Max G3 is changing perceptions of electric scooters, demonstrating their capacity beyond metropolitan areas. We recently evaluated the Max G3 on a demanding 20km off-road trek along the High Country Rail Trail, revealing the scooter’s outstanding performance over various surfaces, including asphalt, gravel, and dirt tracks.

Commencing the Journey

The High Country Rail Trail extends for 81km, offering a picturesque stretch that’s ideal for testing the Max G3. With a blend of terrains including dirt, gravel, and raised bridge sections, this trail provides an excellent venue to push the scooter to its limits. Kicking off beneath the power lines, the trek quickly tested the Max G3’s off-road capabilities.

Navigating Elevated Bridges

Initial Elevated Bridge

The elevated bridges encountered during the ride presented unique challenges and fun opportunities. These structures keep the trail traversable during floods, an issue not faced during our outing. The Max G3’s suspension and generous wheel size facilitated confident navigation of these areas.

Subsequent Elevated Bridge

The next bridge was longer and produced more noise due to its grate-style design, yet the scooter’s configuration allowed us to sustain high speed effortlessly.

The Challenge of Low Bridges

An additional low bridge introduced an element of thrill and challenge to the expedition. Its height necessitated careful maneuvering, making it essential to navigate with precision. The Max G3’s wide handlebars and ample grips enhanced the excitement of this portion of the ride.

Contemplations at Bonegilla

The route led us past the historic Bonegilla Station, now characterized by rusty luggage. This flat tarmac section provided an opportunity to test the cruise control feature while steering clear of obstacles on the path.

Successful Conclusion at Hume Weir

Arriving at the Hume Weir signified the successful end to our expedition. The breathtaking vistas and the scooter’s performance validated the Max G3’s aptitude for off-road adventures. Its range of features, including traction management and dual braking systems, were vital.

The Return Trip

The return journey allowed for more chances to enjoy the trail’s beauty and the scooter’s functionality. Despite encountering steep elevation changes, the Max G3 smoothly navigated every obstacle without the need to step off, courtesy of its dependable braking and traction systems.

Conclusion

The Segway Max G3 showcased its adaptability and power in an off-road context, affirming that electric scooters can provide an exhilarating way to explore nature. Its features render it well-suited for a variety of terrains, serving as an exciting alternative to conventional outdoor pastimes.

Q: Is the Segway Max G3 equipped to manage off-road conditions?

A: Absolutely, it is built to handle various terrains, including dirt, gravel, and bridge crossings.

Q: Which features enable the Max G3 to excel off-road?

A: Notable features include large wheels, dual braking systems, traction management, and a sturdy suspension setup.

Q: Is it safe to ride the Max G3 on these types of trails?

A: Yes, with appropriate respect for the terrain and employing safety measures like brakes and traction control, it is secure.

Q: How does the Max G3 stack up against other scooters for off-road use?

A: Its design and features grant it superior capability compared to many other scooters in off-road scenarios.

EU Identifies Amazon and Google as ‘Essential’ Tech Providers for Financial Sector

Nicholas Webb on November 19, 2025

TechBest – EU Identifies Essential Tech Providers

Quick Read

EU has designated 19 tech firms as essential for its finance sector.
Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Microsoft are included in this designation.
The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is now in force.
It aims to safeguard the finance industry against tech failures and disruptions.
The UK is contemplating a similar regulatory framework.

Amazon, Google recognized as essential tech providers for finance sector

Understanding DORA and Its Consequences

The European Union’s Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) took effect in January 2025, focusing on strengthening the bloc’s financial sector against possible technological disruptions. According to DORA, three principal EU financial regulators will supervise tech firms categorized as critical.

Designated Key Tech Providers

Included among the 19 firms classified as critical are the European divisions of Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Microsoft, IBM, and others. This initiative is intended to diminish risks that may emerge from a significant tech provider suffering outages.

Responses from the Tech Giants

Leaders in the industry have reacted favorably to this classification. Google Cloud and LSEG have voiced their support, while Microsoft and Amazon Web Services pledged to comply with European cybersecurity regulations.

Concerns Regarding Financial Sector Resilience

Officials in Europe have heightened worries regarding the resilience of their financial systems, citing concerns such as geopolitical tensions and tech disruptions. This has led to regulatory measures aimed at ensuring stability.

UK’s Parallel Efforts

The UK is investigating a similar regulatory system but has not yet designated any companies. UK regulators have updated the finance ministry, with designations anticipated by the following year.

Summary

The EU’s choice to label certain tech companies as critical under DORA represents a significant advancement towards protecting its financial sector. This initiative highlights rising apprehensions over technological dependencies and intends to bolster the resilience of vital financial services.

Q&A

Q: What does DORA stand for?

A: DORA refers to the Digital Operational Resilience Act, an EU regulation to guarantee resilience in the financial sector against tech disruptions.

Q: Which companies are impacted by this designation?

A: Firms such as Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, Microsoft, IBM, and others have been identified as critical providers.

Q: Why has the EU enacted these regulations?

A: The EU seeks to shield its financial sector from risks linked to reliance on external tech providers.

Q: How have the companies reacted?

A: Most firms have embraced the designation and are dedicated to adhering to the newly established rules.

Q: Is the UK introducing similar regulations?

A: Yes, the UK is evaluating a similar strategy, with expectations for designations by the next year.

Q: What risks could arise if a tech provider experiences an outage?

A: An outage could disrupt crucial banking services, jeopardizing financial stability across the EU.

Hydrohertz Reveals Dectravalve: Transforms EV Battery Cooling and Reduces Charging Duration to 10 Minutes

Nicholas Webb on November 16, 2025

Hydrohertz unveils Dectravalve technology for accelerated EV charging.
Dectravalve enhances thermal regulation in EV batteries.
Enables a 10-minute fast charge without altering battery chemistry.
Independent zone cooling avoids thermal discrepancies.
Tests demonstrated a 68% cut in charging durations.

Advancement in EV Rapid Charging

The electric vehicle (EV) sector is approaching a transformative shift, thanks to Hydrohertz’s latest Dectravalve technology. Aimed at solving the well-known problem of lengthy charging times, the Dectravalve aspires to reduce charging periods to merely 10 minutes. This groundbreaking approach focuses on refining current battery technology instead of reinventing it.

Addressing Thermal Management Issues

A significant challenge in EV charging is controlling the thermal variances within battery cells. Fast charging can cause uneven heating of the cells, resulting in throttled charging speeds to avert damage. The Dectravalve mitigates this by providing accurate, independent cooling to various zones within the battery pack.

The Dectravalve Approach

In contrast to conventional systems that regard the battery pack as a whole, the Dectravalve delivers targeted thermal management. It includes a compact, multi-zone valve system capable of overseeing up to four or more separate zones. This approach halts the ‘thermal domino effect’ and guarantees that each segment of the battery receives optimal cooling.

Hydrohertz's Dectravalve - Transforming EV Battery Cooling

Consequences for Consumers and Manufacturers

Hydrohertz CTO Martyn Talbot emphasizes the accuracy of the Dectravalve, which maintains battery cell temperatures within 2-3°C. This accuracy leads to faster charging, longer battery life, and greater safety. CEO Paul Arkesden underscores the affordability and transformative potential of this technology for both manufacturers and consumers alike.

Hydrohertz Dectravalve - Innovation in EV Battery Cooling

Third-Party Testing and Findings

Third-party evaluations conducted by the Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) revealed remarkable outcomes. A 100kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery outfitted with Dectravalve sustained a peak temperature of 44.5°C, with minimal temperature variance throughout the pack. Charging durations were shortened by 68%, making EV refueling comparable to conventional petrol or diesel stops.

TechBest’s View

While the Dectravalve offers encouraging results, it has yet to be adopted in commercial vehicles. Factors regarding in-cabin space and cost implications continue to be deliberated. However, for models where the technology is feasible, the reduction in charging time could present a substantial advantage.

Conclusion

The Dectravalve from Hydrohertz is set to transform EV charging by optimizing thermal management without altering battery chemistry. With the potential to reduce charging times to just 10 minutes, it addresses a key consumer concern, paving the way for broader EV acceptance.

Q&A

Q: What is the primary innovation of the Dectravalve?

A: The Dectravalve offers precise, independent thermal management for multiple zones within an EV battery pack, decreasing the likelihood of overheating and facilitating quicker charging.

Q: What effect does the Dectravalve have on charging durations?

A: In tests, the Dectravalve cut charging times by 68%, reducing an average 30-minute charge to only 10 minutes.

Q: Is the Dectravalve currently in use in EVs?

A: Currently, the technology is not yet utilized in commercial vehicles, and factors regarding space and cost are under evaluation.

Q: What advantages does it offer EV manufacturers?

A: Manufacturers can improve the performance of existing battery technologies, providing consumers with faster charging and enhanced battery longevity without waiting for new battery chemistries.

For additional details, visit hydrohertz.com