US Focus on Auto Trade Gap Is Sticking Point for Japan Deal
A strong US focus on its auto trade deficit with Japan is a key factor keeping the two nations from reaching a deal, according to a Japanese opposition party leader who met with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to discuss the tariff negotiations.
Yoshihiko Noda, who heads the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, said on Thursday that he asked Ishiba what was preventing the two sides from finding common ground in the talks that have continued for around two months.
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News24
12 minutes ago
- News24
Trump vows ‘comprehensive and thorough vetting' for foreign students in US universities
US President Donald Trump's administration on Wednesday ordered the resumption of student visa appointments but will significantly tighten its social media vetting in a bid to identify any applicants who may be hostile towards the US, according to an internal State Department cable reviewed by Reuters. US consular officers are now required to conduct a "comprehensive and thorough vetting" of all student and exchange visitor applicants to identify those who "bear hostile attitudes toward our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles," said the cable, which was dated 18 June and sent to US missions on Wednesday. On 27 May, the Trump administration ordered its missions abroad to stop scheduling new appointments for student and exchange visitor visa applicants, saying the State Department was set to expand social media vetting of foreign students. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had said updated guidance would be released once a review was completed. The cable dated 18 June, which was sent by Rubio and sent to all US diplomatic missions, directed officers to look for "applicants who demonstrate a history of political activism, especially when it is associated with violence or with the views and activities described above, you must consider the likelihood they would continue such activity in the United States". The cable, which was first reported by Free Press, also authorised the consular officers to ask the applicants to make all of their social media accounts public. "Remind the applicant that limited access to... online presence could be construed as an effort to evade or hide certain activity," the cable said. The move follows the administration's enhanced vetting measures last month for visa applicants looking to travel to Harvard University for any purpose, in what a separate State Department cable said would serve as a pilot programme for wider expanded screening. Online presence The new vetting process should include a review of the applicant's entire online presence and not just social media activity, the cable said, urging the officers to use any "appropriate search engines or other online resources". During the vetting, the directive asks officers to look for any potentially derogatory information about the applicant. "For example, during an online presence search, you might discover on social media that an applicant endorsed Hamas or its activities," the cable says, adding that may be a reason for ineligibility. Rubio, Trump's top diplomat and national security adviser, has said he has revoked the visas of hundreds, perhaps thousands of people, including students, because they got involved in activities that he said went against US foreign policy priorities. Those activities include support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel's conduct in the war in Gaza. A Tufts University student from Turkey was held for over six weeks in an immigration detention centre in Louisiana after co-writing an opinion piece criticising her school's response to Israel's war in Gaza. She was released from custody after a federal judge granted her bail. Trump's critics have said the administration's actions are an attack on free speech rights under the First Amendment of the US Constitution. Fewer appointments? While the new directive allows posts to resume scheduling for student and exchange visa applicants, it is warning the officers that there may have to be fewer appointments due to the demands of more extensive vetting. "Posts should consider overall scheduling volume and the resource demands of appropriate vetting; posts might need to schedule fewer FMJ cases than they did previously," the cable said, referring to the relevant visa types. READ | Foreign students want to transfer from Harvard over Trump 'fear, concern, and confusion' The directive has also asked posts to prioritise among expedited visa appointments of foreign-born physicians participating in a medical programme through exchange visas, as well as student applicants looking to study in a US university where international students constitute less than 15% of the total. At Harvard, the oldest and wealthiest US university on which the administration has launched a multifront attack by freezing its billions of dollars of grants and other funding, foreign students last year made up about 27% of the total student population. The cable is asking the overseas posts to implement these vetting procedures within five business days.
Yahoo
36 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Noble Plains Uranium Secures Duck Creek Project in Heart of Powder River Basin Uranium District
Over 4,000 Historic Drill Holes Outline 3-Mile Uranium Trend in One of America's Most Prolific ISR Districts Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - June 19, 2025) - Noble Plains Uranium Corp. (TSXV: NOBL) (OTCQB: IXIXF) (FSE: INE0) ("Noble Plains" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a property option agreement to acquire an 80% interest in the Duck Creek Project ("Duck Creek Property", "Duck Creek", the "Project", or the "Property"), a strategically located brownfield uranium asset in Wyoming's highly productive Powder River Basin. The Project spans 4,133 acres (6.5 square miles) of mineral rights and is directly surrounded by a cluster of major in-situ recovery ("ISR") uranium resources and operations—including those held by Uranium Energy Corp., Cameco Corporation, and GTI Energy Limited (see Figure 1). These neighboring operations, together with the Project's dense historical drill coverage and shallow roll-front mineralization, strongly support the prospectivity and strategic value of Duck Creek. "Duck Creek sits in the heart of a proven uranium district and is backed by an enormous amount of historical drilling, giving us high confidence in the geological potential," said Drew Zimmerman, President of Noble Plains. "This is exactly the kind of brownfield project we target—shallow mineralization, extensive data, and near existing infrastructure. It aligns with our goal of building out pounds in the ground quickly and efficiently to provide shareholders real leverage to the uranium market." The Property includes 78 lode mining claims (1,573 acres) and four State of Wyoming mineral leases (2,560 acres). Importantly, the Project hosts a 3-mile-long corridor of high-density drilling completed by Kerr-McGee Nuclear Corporation in the 1970s. A total of 4,068 historical drill holes outline a consistent, shallow roll-front uranium system within the Eocene-aged Wasatch Formation, with mineralization occurring from less than 50 feet to 260 feet below surface. Surface features also show evidence of historic open-pit production from these same mineralized zones (see Figure 2). "The Powder River Basin is reasserting its importance as a centre of U.S. uranium production," added Paul Cowley, CEO of Noble Plains. "Our review of the historic dataset for Duck Creek confirmed not only the continuity of near-surface mineralization, but also significant upside in the untested deeper Fort Union Formation which hosts resources and production from many of our neighbours. It's a rare combination of near-term development potential and meaningful exploration upside." Figure 1: Duck Creek Project Surrounded by resource and production projects To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Note: source of resource numbers: Allemand-Ross, Barge, and Ludeman projects, from 2022-09 technical report Exhibit 96.1. Smith Ranch Highland, from Cameco website. Lo Herma, from company website. Technical and scientific information disclosed from neighbouring properties does not necessarily apply to the Duck Creek Project. Figure 2: 3-mile-long trend of high-density historic drilling and historic production areas To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: A National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") technical report is nearing completion and will present an exploration target of pounds of uranium based on the historical drilling, prepared by an independent Qualified Person. Noble Plains has spent the last two months conducting a detailed review of the drillhole database and modeling key mineralized zones, and the Company is confident in both the data quality and the resource potential. Confirmation drilling is planned for later this year to advance the Project toward an initial NI 43-101 compliant resource estimate. Strategic Context Wyoming has produced over 238 million pounds of uranium since the 1950s, with the Powder River Basin(the "PRB") representing a key district in that legacy of production. With ISR now the dominant extraction method in the PRB and Wyoming overall, Duck Creek represents a low-impact, low-cost path to resource development. ISR mining allows for faster permitting, minimal surface disturbance, and lower capital and operating costs-aligned with Noble Plains' strategy of environmentally responsible uranium development. The addition of Duck Creek significantly strengthens Noble Plains' Wyoming portfolio, following the Company's recent acquisitions in the Shirley Basin, including the Shirley Central project announced earlier this month (see news release dated June 3, 2025). Terms of Transaction The Company has entered into a property option agreement (the "Agreement") effective June 13, 2025, with a private vendor (the "Optionor") pursuant to which the Company can acquire an 80% interest in the Duck Creek Property over three years. Pursuant to the Agreement and within seven days of TSX Venture Exchange approval, the Company will (a) pay US$250,000 to the Optionor; (b) reimburse the Optionor staking costs and Bureau of Land Management fees; and (c) issue 1,250,000 shares of Noble Plains ("Shares") to the Optionor. On or before the first anniversary of the Agreement, the Company will (a) pay a further US$300,000 to the Optionor, and (b) issue 1,500,000 Shares to the Optionor (or pay US$200,000 to the Optionor at the Optionor's option). On or before the second anniversary of the Agreement, the Company will (a) pay a further US$450,000 to the Optionor, and (b) issue 1,500,000 Shares to the Optionor (or pay US$300,000 to the Optionor at the Optionor's option). On or before the third anniversary of the Agreement, the Company will (a) pay US$500,000 to the Optionor, and (b) issue 1,250,000 Shares to the Optionor (or pay US$400,000 to the Optionor at the Optionee's option), at which time a joint venture will be created on a 80:20 ratio, subject to a 1% net smelter royalty retained by the Optionor. The Duck Creek Property option transaction requires acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange prior to closing. No finder's fees are being paid in connection with the Duck Creek Property transaction and the Shares to be issued pursuant to the Agreement will be subject to the statutory hold period of four months from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Shares have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to available exemptions therefrom. About Noble Plains Uranium Corp. Noble Plains Uranium (TSXV: NOBL) is focused on acquiring and advancing U.S.-based uranium projects amenable to In-Situ Recovery (ISR)-the most capital-efficient and environmentally responsible method of uranium extraction. The Company targets historically explored, geologically robust projects in uranium-friendly jurisdictions with the goal of rapidly delineating NI 43-101 resources and building out a pipeline of ISR-development opportunities. "Paul Cowley", CEO For further information, please contact Paul CowleyTelephone: (604) 340-7711 Website: Bradley Parkes, VP Exploration and Director of Noble Plains Uranium Corp., is the Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, who has read and approved the technical content of this news release. Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating to the future operations and activities of Noble Plains, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things, the acquisition of an 80% interest in the Duck Creek Property, the merits of the Project, including potential mineralization therein, completion of an NI 43-101 compliant technical report on the Property, and the planned 2025 exploration program to advance the Project towards an NI 43-101 compliant resource estimate. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by Noble Plains, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability of the Company to obtain TSX Venture Exchange approval, the ability of the Company to complete proposed exploration work, the results of exploration, continued availability of capital, and changes in general economic, market and business conditions. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. Readers are urged to refer to the Company's filings on SEDAR+ at for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects. Noble Plains does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, change, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
37 minutes ago
- Yahoo
TGE's Successful Strategy in Japan Has Garnered Positive Feedback, Enhanced Market Exposure, and Established Solid Contribution to Business Growth
PARIS and NEW YORK and SINGAPORE, June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- AMTD Group Inc. ("AMTD" or the "Group"), alongside The Generation Essentials Group (NYSE: TGE), a subsidiary of the Group under AMTD Digital (NYSE: HKD), is proud to announce the upcoming release of its fourth L'Officiel Japan Issue, scheduled for June 28. Launched in September 2024, L'Officiel Japan marks TGE's full-scale efforts to engage the Japanese market. Since its launch, it has received widespread acclaim and positive feedback both locally and internationally. Japan is one of the key markets' focuses for TGE. Building on this, TGE has leveraged the AMTD L'Officiel intellectual property and successfully launched the world's first-ever L'Officiel Coffee in Omotesando, Tokyo. To further expand its presence, the board of directors of TGE has approved plans to open 2-3 additional L'Officiel Coffee shops across Japan, including key locations in Tokyo, Kyoto, and/or Osaka. On the magazine side, L'Officiel Japan is planning to launch L'Officiel Hommes Japan next year, while also introducing TGE's global Watch and jewellery Magazine brand - La Revue des Montres, to the Japanese market. The latest L'Officiel Japan summer 2025 issue features TWICE's MINA on the cover. Mina is a member of the globally active girl group TWICE, which debuted in South Korea in 2015. In 2024, TWICE performed at Nissan Stadium, becoming the first overseas female artist group to perform there. In 2023, she formed the sub-unit MISAMO with fellow Japanese members MOMO and SANA. As MISAMO, they held a concert at Tokyo Dome in 2025, breaking a new record for the fastest Tokyo Dome performance by a female artist. She also became an ambassador for BOUCHERON starting in 2024. Mina makes a dazzling appearance on the cover wearing high jewelry from Boucheron, exemplifying the brand's ever-evolving aesthetic vision. Inside the latest L'Officiel Japan issue, readers will find an exclusive interview with contemporary artist Tomokazu Matsuyama, whose "FIRST LAST" exhibition at AzabudaiHills sparked widespread acclaim. The issue also features a stunning fashion story by photographer Yoshihiko Ueda, capturing his wife, Karen Kirishima, ahead of his upcoming solo exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art, Hayama. Rounding out the issue is Shunsuke Michieda of Naniwa Danshi, whose delicate expressions captivate the viewer in every frame. This issue will be widely distributed across Japan in partnership with Asahi Shimbun Publications Inc., with whom TGE maintains a smooth and strong collaboration. The issue will be available at bookstores across Japan, through online retailers, and at L'Officiel Coffee Japan location. About The Generation Essentials Group (formerly known as World Media and Entertainment Universal Inc.) The Generation Essentials Group, jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) and AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD), is headquartered in France and focuses on global strategies and developments in multi-media, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide as well as hospitality and VIP services. TGE comprises L'Officiel, The Art Newspaper, movie and entertainment projects. Collectively, TGE is a diversified portfolio of media and entertainment businesses, and a global portfolio of premium properties. About AMTD Group AMTD Group is a conglomerate with a core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality sectors. About AMTD IDEA Group AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) represents a diversified institution and digital solutions group connecting companies and investors with global markets. Its comprehensive one-stop business services plus digital solutions platform addresses different clients' diverse and inter-connected business needs and digital requirements across all phases of their life cycles. AMTD IDEA Group is uniquely positioned as an active super connector between clients, business partners, investee companies, and investors, connecting the East and the West. For more information, please visit or follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") at @AMTDGroup. About AMTD Digital Inc. AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) is a comprehensive digital solutions platform headquartered in France. Its one-stop digital solutions platform operates key business lines including digital media, content and marketing services, investments as well as hospitality and VIP services. For AMTD Digital's announcements, please visit Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the beliefs, plans, and expectations of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and/or AMTD Digital, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the filings of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and none of TGE, AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law. For AMTD IDEA Group:IR OfficeAMTD IDEA GroupEMAIL: ir@ For AMTD Digital Inc.:IR OfficeAMTD Digital ir@ For The Generation Essentials Group:IR OfficeThe Generation Essentials GroupEMAIL: tge@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE AMTD IDEA Group; AMTD Digital; The Generation Essentials Group 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
