Latest news with #Vision
Observer
3 hours ago
- Business
- Observer
Oman Vision 2040 is a blueprint for sustainable growth: World Bank
From digital corridors to investment pipelines, Oman Vision 2040 is transforming the present for a stronger future, and symbolizes yet another chapter of strategic evolution that has characterized the country from prehistoric Majan to modern Oman, said the World Bank in its blogs. "Developed through extensive consultations with citizens, Vision 2040 enshrines a diversified and resilient economy less reliant on oil while fostering a globally integrated and prosperous society. What began under the leadership of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, with the careful planning of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, is a roadmap charting how Oman can adapt to changing economic conditions, shifting culture, and disrupting technology to steer Oman toward economic diversification, sustainability, and global competitiveness. Oman's steady progress under Vision 2040 offers a model for other emerging economies navigating uncertainty through long-term planning. It further guides Oman's increased global engagement and partnership with organizations like the World Bank Group," the blog said. Oman and the World Bank Group have enjoyed an active partnership for decades. This has led to working together on a range of areas aligned to Vision 2040, from national development plans and budget system modernization to transport and fisheries. A key focus right now is strengthening the investment climate to support private sector-led growth and job creation. The World Bank is bringing global knowledge and advice on best practices in business environment reforms tailored to the Omani context. IFC, the Bank Group's private sector arm, recently announced new investments to bolster the country's sustainable finance market and empower the private sector. MIGA, home of the World Bank Group Guarantee Platform, secured $1.2 billion in commercial financing of the infrastructure works for the Duqm Special Economic Zone. Central to Oman Vision 2040 is the imperative of economic diversification and building a knowledge, technology-driven economy. In practice, this means investing in digital infrastructure, encouraging R&D, and nurturing new industries. Major regulatory reforms have been rolled out to catalyze private-sector growth and foreign investment. For example, a new Foreign Capital Investment Law took effect in 2020, removing minimum capital requirements and allowing 100% foreign ownership in many sectors. Attracting foreign direct investment and strengthening the private sector are key components of the Vision, and these reforms unlock those opportunities. Oman is also leveraging its strategic geography to become a logistics and trade hub. Positioned outside the Strait of Hormuz on major global trade routes, it has prioritized modernizing ports, free zones, and airports. The development of Duqm – a vast special economic zone with a deep-sea port – and upgrades at Salalah and Sohar ports exemplify this push. Such investments aim to streamline the flow of goods and make Oman a vital link in global supply chains. Already, early results of the economic transformation are visible: non-oil sectors like construction, manufacturing, and transport are growing quickly. Maintaining this momentum will require sustained reform, and Oman's multi-pronged approach – from startup incubators to industrial free zones – is steadily transforming the economy. Sustainable development is an overarching principle, and Oman's fisheries sector is a standout success story for this agenda. Fisheries have evolved from a traditional, artisanal industry into a technology-enabled sector that contributes to diversification. The government, with World Bank support, crafted a Fisheries and Aquaculture Vision to create a profitable world-class sector that is ecologically sustainable and a net contributor to Oman's economy. The innovation shown in the Omani sustainable fisheries sector is yielding impressive results. The sector is expanding at near double-digit rates, with a recorded 7.5 percent sectoral growth in the first three quarters of 2024. This progress reinforces the country's ambition for economic diversification by setting a high bar, with the sector aiming to reach 10 percent annual growth and contribute 2 percent to the national GDP. Developing human capital is another key element of Oman's vision. A skilled, educated populace is the bedrock of competitiveness. Educational reforms are underway to align curricula with future labor market needs and improve quality at all levels. Oman's ambition includes ranking among the top 20 countries in global education indices by 2030, and top 10 by 2040. Investments in schools and universities over the past decades have dramatically expanded access. Now the focus is on boosting outcomes in science, technology, engineering, and math to nurture a knowledge economy. Equally important, Oman is fostering a culture of research and entrepreneurship. Through its Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, new programs are funding research and the commercialization of ideas. Innovation parks and incubators have been launched in partnership with the private sector to mentor startups and turn student projects into marketable products. Aspiring young entrepreneurs receive support via financing initiatives and training programs, often co-sponsored by government and industry. Public-private partnerships are helping build this innovation ecosystem – for example, technology companies are collaborating with Omani colleges on coding academies, and energy firms are investing in technical training centers. These efforts are bearing fruit: a burgeoning startup scene is evident in Muscat, and the number of Omani tech SMEs is on the rise. In parallel, Oman has worked to make its labor market more flexible and dynamic, implementing new labor policies in 2023–24, adding more benefits for women, and encouraging private-sector hiring of Omanis. With 64% of the population under 30, all these measures aim to harness Oman's demographic dividend by equipping its youth with the skills and opportunities to innovate. To ensure the successful realization of Oman Vision 2040, a specialized entity—the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit—was established by Royal Decree 100/2020. Reporting directly to the Council of Ministers, the Unit plays a central role in monitoring the progress of the vision, facilitating coordination across sectors, addressing challenges, and providing strategic support to align efforts with the national vision. Looking forward to the next 15 years, there will be continued opportunities as well as challenges in realizing the vision. Successful implementation requires continued commitment, adaptability, and engagement with global partners. Oman's journey towards realizing its 2040 vision can serve as a valuable case study for other countries navigating uncertainties and striving for economic diversification, sustainability, and global integration.
Geek Tyrant
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
Marvel's VISION Reportedly Adds Human Version of Spider-Man's E.D.I.T.H. From SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME — GeekTyrant
Marvel's Vision series is quietly assembling one of the most fascinating lineups of characters the MCU has seen in a while, and the latest addition has ties to Tony Stark and Peter Parker. According to reliable scooper Daniel Richtman, Schitt's Creek star Emily Hampshire has joined the cast of Vision as the human form of E.D.I.T.H., the Stark-created AI system first introduced in Spider-Man: Far From Home . If true, it marks a big evolution for the character, who until now has only existed as a voice inside Tony's tech. While Marvel hasn't officially confirmed the casting, Richtman's recent scoop about T'Nia Miller being cast as Jocasta in the show was verified hours later by trades, so this one's likely on the money too. For those who forgot, E.D.I.T.H. was Stark's posthumous gift to Peter Parker, an augmented reality AI defense system housed in a pair of slick sunglasses, granting access to Stark's satellites, drones, and firepower. Things went south when Peter handed it off to Mysterio, and the Department of Damage Control seized it after the London debacle. Originally voiced by Dawn Michelle King, a respected film editor on projects like Ant-Man and Spider-Man: Homecoming , E.D.I.T.H. was never portrayed physically. So casting Hampshire makes sense if the series is bringing her into the flesh. Showrunner Terry Matalas, who previously worked with Hampshire on 12 Monkeys , seems to be leaning into the idea of giving physical identities to familiar AIs. Vision is already stacked with Paul Bettany back in the lead, James Spader returning as Ultron, and appearances from Marvel deep cuts like Faran Tahir reprising his Iron Man role as Raza. Hampshire will join a growing cast that also includes Todd Stashwick, and Ruaridh Mollica (rumored to play Tommy Maximoff). There are also whispers of appearances from Elizabeth Olsen's Wanda and Joe Locke as Billy Maximoff, though that hasen't been confirmed. Bettany teased the show last year, saying, 'We're cooking up something that I'm really excited about.' And when pressed for more details? 'Snitches end up in ditches,' he joked. Vision is set to begin filming in 2025 and premiere on Disney+ in 2026. Whatever form this strange techno-spiritual sequel to WandaVision takes, it sounds like it's embracing some interesting corners of the Marvel Universe.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Coke Florida Announces Key Executive Leaders
Andy Hill Promoted to President, Cass Black Joins as Chief Customer Officer TAMPA, Fla., May 27, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC ("Coke Florida"), the 6th largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States announces key leadership appointments. Andy Hill has been promoted to President of the company. Hill previously served as the company's Chief Customer and Commercial Officer. Coke Florida also announced that Cass Black, a consumer-packaged goods industry veteran with over 30 years of sales and customer management experience, has joined the company as Chief Customer Officer. "Andy continues to drive transformational commercial strategy and execution changes across our business to help position us for continued growth and operational improvements," said Troy Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of Coke Florida. "As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary and begin our 'Next 10' strategy focused on being the #1 employer to our incredible Coke Florida team, #1 with our customers through world class execution, and the #1 community partner with our consumers as we partner to play a leading role in driving The Coca-Cola Company's 2035 Vision. In the 'Next 10' years, Coke Florida will drive unprecedented growth, share, and per caps, capitalizing on the extraordinary diverse Florida market and all its annual visitors," Taylor continued. Hill added, "It's a tremendous honor and responsibility to lead Coke Florida into the 'Next 10' years. With our solid foundation, a committed and talented team, and the partnership of The Coca-Cola Company, we will reimagine and deliver to our greatest potential." Black, a visionary sales and category leader with a distinguished career in driving customer-centric strategies, brings a wealth of experience to Coke Florida. Previously as the Customer Vice President Mondelez, he led the strategic transformation of the direct store delivery operating model. He most recently served as Chief Customer Officer for Tate's Bake Shop. In his new role he will lead Coke Florida's retail customer management, food service and onpremise, and the field operations team. As a member of the company's executive leadership team, Cass will also provide strategic oversight to teams across Coke Florida. "I am excited to join Coke Florida at this pivotal moment," said Black. "I look forward to partnering with our customers and the incredible Coke Florida team to drive growth, strengthen execution, and deliver exceptional experiences for the partners we serve." About Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) is the sixth largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. Coke Florida markets, sells, manufactures, distributes, and merchandises products of The Coca-Cola Company in an exclusive territory that covers over 21 million consumers across Florida that includes the Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville metropolitan areas. The company employs over 5,000 associates and has four GreenCircle certified manufacturing facilities and eighteen sales and distribution centers. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Tampa, Coke Florida is the one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States and is Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certified. In 2025, Coke Florida was recognized as a US Best Managed Company by Deloitte-Private and The Wall Street Journal for the fourth consecutive year, achieving the Gold Winner Standard. To learn more, visit View source version on Contacts Media Contact: J. Katrinda McQueenVice President, Communicationskmcqueen@ 813-557-9088 Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Coke Florida Announces Key Executive Leaders
TAMPA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC ('Coke Florida'), the 6 th largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States announces key leadership appointments. Andy Hill has been promoted to President of the company. Hill previously served as the company's Chief Customer and Commercial Officer. Coke Florida also announced that Cass Black, a consumer-packaged goods industry veteran with over 30 years of sales and customer management experience, has joined the company as Chief Customer Officer. 'Andy continues to drive transformational commercial strategy and execution changes across our business to help position us for continued growth and operational improvements,' said Troy Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of Coke Florida. 'As we celebrate our 10-year anniversary and begin our 'Next 10' strategy focused on being the #1 employer to our incredible Coke Florida team, #1 with our customers through world class execution, and the #1 community partner with our consumers as we partner to play a leading role in driving The Coca-Cola Company's 2035 Vision. In the 'Next 10' years, Coke Florida will drive unprecedented growth, share, and per caps, capitalizing on the extraordinary diverse Florida market and all its annual visitors,' Taylor continued. Hill added, 'It's a tremendous honor and responsibility to lead Coke Florida into the 'Next 10' years. With our solid foundation, a committed and talented team, and the partnership of The Coca-Cola Company, we will reimagine and deliver to our greatest potential.' Black, a visionary sales and category leader with a distinguished career in driving customer-centric strategies, brings a wealth of experience to Coke Florida. Previously as the Customer Vice President Mondelez, he led the strategic transformation of the direct store delivery operating model. He most recently served as Chief Customer Officer for Tate's Bake Shop. In his new role he will lead Coke Florida's retail customer management, food service and onpremise, and the field operations team. As a member of the company's executive leadership team, Cass will also provide strategic oversight to teams across Coke Florida. 'I am excited to join Coke Florida at this pivotal moment,' said Black. 'I look forward to partnering with our customers and the incredible Coke Florida team to drive growth, strengthen execution, and deliver exceptional experiences for the partners we serve.' About Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida) is the sixth largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. Coke Florida markets, sells, manufactures, distributes, and merchandises products of The Coca-Cola Company in an exclusive territory that covers over 21 million consumers across Florida that includes the Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville metropolitan areas. The company employs over 5,000 associates and has four GreenCircle certified manufacturing facilities and eighteen sales and distribution centers. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Tampa, Coke Florida is the one of the largest Black-owned businesses in the United States and is Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certified. In 2025, Coke Florida was recognized as a US Best Managed Company by Deloitte-Private and The Wall Street Journal for the fourth consecutive year, achieving the Gold Winner Standard. To learn more, visit
Geek Tyrant
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Geek Tyrant
T'Nia Miller Joins Marvel's VISION Series as Jocasta, a Vengeful AI with a Complicated Past — GeekTyrant
Marvel Studios is continuing to expand the WandaVision legacy with its upcoming Disney+ spinoff Vision , and we now know one of the most intriguing additions to the cast, The Fall of the House of Usher standout T'Nia Miller has signed on to play Jocasta. According to Deadline, Miller is believed to be one of the series' leads, starring opposite Paul Bettany, who returns as the synthezoid Vision. The show is expected to pick up after the events of WandaVision , with Vision on a journey to piece together his fractured memory and rediscover what it means to be human. Miller's character, Jocasta, comes with deep Marvel lore. Originally introduced in 1977's Avengers #162, Jocasta was created by Ultron as a robotic companion modeled on the brain patterns of Janet Van Dyne (aka the Wasp). In the comics, Jocasta ultimately rebels against her programming and sides with the Avengers, later struggling with her own identity and even attempting to become more human. The casting breakdown for the series described Jocasta as 'cunning, powerful, determined, and motivated by revenge.' That lines up with her comic book roots, though the revenge angle raises questions. Is she still Ultron's creation in the MCU? Or does Vision offer a completely new take? The inclusion of James Spader in the cast, reprising his role as Ultron, adds even more weight to this storyline. Could this series give us a long-overdue reunion, or reckoning between Vision and his homicidal "father"? Also joining the cast are Todd Stashwick, Ruaridh Mollica, and Faran Tahir, who returns as Raza from the original Iron Man. This marks the second spinoff to emerge from WandaVision , following Agatha All Along , which stars Kathryn Hahn. With Daredevil: Born Again also underway, Marvel's Disney+ slate continues to build its roster of character-focused, lore-deep series. While we still don't have an official release date, the cast and concept alone make Vision one of the more interesting Marvel projects on the horizon.
