Standard Chartered PLC (StanChart) on Thursday posted a 57% fall in annual profit, missing analyst estimates, on higher credit impairments due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

StanChart, which earns the bulk of its revenue in Asia, posted a pretax profit of $1.61 billion. That compared with $3.71 billion in 2019 and the $1.85 billion average of analyst forecasts compiled by the bank.

Credit impairments last year more than doubled compared with a year earlier to $2.3 billion because of the pandemic, the bank said, but noted the majority of these took place in the first half of the year.

The London-headquartered lender said it would return capital to investors via a 9 cents per share dividend and $254 million buyback, with the total payout being the maximum permitted under temporary 'guardrails' set by the Bank of England.

The central bank last year told Britain's largest lenders to suspend dividend payments and share buybacks for 2020 to help them maintain capital buffers against an expected hit to loan books from the pandemic.

"Having now resumed it, we expect to be able to increase the full-year dividend per share over time as we execute our strategy and progress towards a 10% return on tangible equity," Jose Vinals, Standard Chartered's chairman, said in the exchange filing.

The bank said its return on tangible equity, a key profit metric, would climb from 3% to 7% by 2023.

It also said overall income in 2021 is likely to be similar to 2020's because of the impact of global interest rate cuts.

Standard Chartered PLC (StanChart) on Thursday posted a 57% fall in annual profit, missing analyst estimates, on higher credit impairments due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Standard Chartered PLC (StanChart) on Thursday posted a 57% fall in annual profit, missing analyst estimates, on higher credit impairments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. StanChart, which earns the bulk of its revenue in Asia, posted a pretax profit of $1.61 billion. That compared with $3.71 billion in 2019 and the $1.85 billion average of analyst forecasts compiled by the bank. Credit impairments last year more than doubled compared with a year earlier to $2.3 billion because of the pandemic, the bank said, but noted the majority of these took place in the first half of the year. The London-headquartered lender said it would return capital to investors via a 9 cents per share dividend and $254 million buyback, with the total payout being the maximum permitted under temporary 'guardrails' set by the Bank of England. The central bank last year told Britain's largest lenders to suspend dividend payments and share buybacks for 2020 to help them maintain capital buffers against an expected hit to loan books from the pandemic. "Having now resumed it, we expect to be able to increase the full-year dividend per share over time as we execute our strategy and progress towards a 10% return on tangible equity," Jose Vinals, Standard Chartered's chairman, said in the exchange filing. The bank said its return on tangible equity, a key profit metric, would climb from 3% to 7% by 2023. It also said overall income in 2021 is likely to be similar to 2020's because of the impact of global interest rate cuts.

Standard Chartered profit falls 57 per cent as COVID inflates bad loans

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well.

Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue.

Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy.

"Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference.

Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi.

Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties.

(With Reuters inputs)

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country.

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well. Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue. Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy. "Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference. Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi. Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties. (With Reuters inputs)

Japan finalising plans to halt fresh aid to Myanmar, says report

US firm Moderna said on Wednesday that its new vaccine that targets South African variant of coronavirus is ready for testing. The company said that the doses have been shipped to US National Institutes of Health for testing. South African strain of coronavirus is considered to be more dangerous as it believed to hinder the action of antibodies that target the older strain of the virus.

This means that patients who were infected by the virus before may get the infection again. The South African variant has also resulted in reducing the protection provided by the current generation of vaccines.

While initial testing has shown that Moderna's original vaccine -- called mRNA-1273 -- remains effective against emerging variants, the company said it was pursuing the development of a variant-specific vaccine as part of a number of strategies being considered.

Either a South Africa variant-specific candidate, called mRNA-1273.351, could be used as a booster, or the company might use a booster that combines the classic vaccine with the variant-specific mRNA-1273.351 to create a new product.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/large-study-shows-pfizers-coronavirus-vaccine-94-effective-366057">Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective</a>

Another idea is that people could receive a third dose of the classic vaccine to raise their overall immunity.

Moderna is also looking at the possibility of using the South Africa variant-specific mRNA-1273.351 or the combination shot as the primary dose.

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) announced on Monday that companies developing variant-specific vaccines will not have to go through the same long authorisation process they had to for approval of their original shots.

Moderna also announced it was raising its global manufacturing capacity and would be able to produce up to 1.4 billion doses of its vaccine in 2022 if needed.

Additionally, it said it was increasing its plan for 2021 manufacturing from 600 million doses to 700 million doses globally. Moderna has so far shipped 60 million doses, 55 million within the US.

(With AFP inputs)

US firm Moderna said on Wednesday that its new vaccine that targets South African variant of coronavirus is ready for testing. The company said that the doses have been shipped to US National Institutes of Health for testing.

US firm Moderna said on Wednesday that its new vaccine that targets South African variant of coronavirus is ready for testing. The company said that the doses have been shipped to US National Institutes of Health for testing. South African strain of coronavirus is considered to be more dangerous as it believed to hinder the action of antibodies that target the older strain of the virus. This means that patients who were infected by the virus before may get the infection again. The South African variant has also resulted in reducing the protection provided by the current generation of vaccines. While initial testing has shown that Moderna's original vaccine -- called mRNA-1273 -- remains effective against emerging variants, the company said it was pursuing the development of a variant-specific vaccine as part of a number of strategies being considered. Either a South Africa variant-specific candidate, called mRNA-1273.351, could be used as a booster, or the company might use a booster that combines the classic vaccine with the variant-specific mRNA-1273.351 to create a new product. Also Read | Large study shows Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine 94% effective Another idea is that people could receive a third dose of the classic vaccine to raise their overall immunity. Moderna is also looking at the possibility of using the South Africa variant-specific mRNA-1273.351 or the combination shot as the primary dose. The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) announced on Monday that companies developing variant-specific vaccines will not have to go through the same long authorisation process they had to for approval of their original shots. Moderna also announced it was raising its global manufacturing capacity and would be able to produce up to 1.4 billion doses of its vaccine in 2022 if needed. Additionally, it said it was increasing its plan for 2021 manufacturing from 600 million doses to 700 million doses globally. Moderna has so far shipped 60 million doses, 55 million within the US. (With AFP inputs)

Moderna COVID vaccine for South Africa variant ready for testing: Company

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns stood at 277 in poor category and 124 in very poor category) respectively.

An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous.

"The overall Delhi air quality is in the Poor category as forecasted. Surface winds are low and forecasted to improve during the day. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate tomorrow and likely to stay at the Poor to the lower end of the Very Poor category. An increase in wind speed and boundary layer height is forecasted from 26 February. This is likely to influence AQI positively and Poor AQI is forecasted on 26 and 27 February," SAFAR said in its bulletin.

SAFAR, in its health advisory, stated that people should avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors. It urged the asthmatics to keep medicines handy. Meanwhile, the air quality in Maharashtra`s Mumbai also deteriorated to the `poor` category from the `moderate` category.

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.

The air quality in the national capital once again went down to the "very poor" category on Thursday with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 303. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), at 6 am, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns stood at 277 in poor category and 124 in very poor category) respectively. An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 is marked as severe or hazardous. "The overall Delhi air quality is in the Poor category as forecasted. Surface winds are low and forecasted to improve during the day. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate tomorrow and likely to stay at the Poor to the lower end of the Very Poor category. An increase in wind speed and boundary layer height is forecasted from 26 February. This is likely to influence AQI positively and Poor AQI is forecasted on 26 and 27 February," SAFAR said in its bulletin. SAFAR, in its health advisory, stated that people should avoid all physical activity outdoors and move activities indoors. It urged the asthmatics to keep medicines handy. Meanwhile, the air quality in Maharashtra`s Mumbai also deteriorated to the `poor` category from the `moderate` category.

Delhi's air quality 'very poor', AQI at 303

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has&nbsp;been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well.

Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials.

The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process".

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&nbsp;

"We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta.

Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts.

She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed.

<h1>'Stop negotiating with them'</h1>

For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta.

Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator".

"The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face.

"Please respect our votes and do hear our voices."

Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option."

(With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup.

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister on Wednesday visited Thailand as efforts were on by the regional countries to broker end to three weeks of deadly unrest that has been triggered by military coup. Indonesia is in talks with the military junta as well. Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin held talks with his counterparts from Thailand and Indonesia in what was the first known face-to-face meetings between a senior junta member and foreign government officials. The international condemnation over the coup has not deterred military junta so far. Daily nationwide protests have rocked Myanmar ever since government headed by Aung San Suu Kyi was removed by the military in February 1 coup. Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said she expressed concerns about the safety and welfare of Myanmar citizens and reiterated a need for an "inclusive democratic transition process". × "We ask all parties to exercise restraint and not use violence to avoid casualties and bloodshed," she told reporters in Jakarta. Marsudi has been on a "shuttle diplomacy" mission over the past two weeks discussing the Myanmar crisis during visits to Brunei and Singapore as well as phone calls with other Southeast Asian counterparts. She had hoped to travel to Naypyidaw after her visit to Bangkok to directly convey messages from Indonesia and other countries but confirmed the visit had to be postponed. 'Stop negotiating with them' For second consecutive day on Wednesday, Indonesian embassy in Yangon saw gathering of protesters that decriedn Indonesian efforts to have a dialogue with military junta. Angered that Jakarta was talking with the junta government -- officially named the State Administration Council -- demonstrators carried signs reading: "Stop negotiating with them" and "Indonesia, don't support dictator". "The Military's State Administration Council is not our legitimate government," said participant Seinn Lae Maung, who had a Myanmar flag painted on her face. "Please respect our votes and do hear our voices." Marsudi later hit back at the criticism, warning: "To do nothing is not an option." (With AFP inputs)

Myanmar military junta's foreign minister in talks with Indonesia, Thailand

Indian government on Thursday announced new guidelines aimed at curbing misuse of social media and covered OTT platforms. The prominent feature of these guidelines was government's direction to platforms to appoint grievance mechanisms and for them to disclose first originator of mischievous information. The rules also asked the platforms to remove content depicting nudity or morphed pictures of women after receiving complaints and following procedures set up by the grievance redressal mechanism.

The rules were laid out in a press conference addressed by Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar and Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.&nbsp;

Both the ministers said that the guidelines were prepared after widespread consultations.

Prasad said that social media intermediaries will be categorised into two categories

1. Intermediaries 
2. Significant social media intermediaries

Prasad said that the classification has been done based on number of users and that the government will soon notify the exact number of users based on which the classification will be done. Significant social media intermediaries will have greater obligations.

As per the new rules, social media intermediaries have to appoint a grievance officer, who shall register complaints in 24 hours. The grievance redressal official must be resident in India, and monthly compliance reports will have to be filed by social media platforms.

Social media platforms on being asked by court or government will be required to disclose the first originator of the mischievous information.

Significant social media intermediaries will have to appoint a chief compliance officer in India. In addition to this, the platform will be required to have nodal contact person-resident in India-for coordination with law enforcement agencies, and have resident grievance officer for grievance redressal

"If there are complaints against dignity of users, particularly women - expose private parts of individuals or nudity or sexual act or impersonation etc - you'll be required to remove that within 24 hrs after complaint made. This is designed to respect dignity of women," said Ravi Shankar Prasad

"The laws made for significant social media will be implemented within 3 months so that they can improve their mechanism. The rest will come into effect from the day the rules are notified," he said.

During his address, Prasad said that every social media platform was "welcome" in India but added that there should not be "double standards"

"...If attack takes place on Capitol Hill, then social media&nbsp;supports police action but if there's aggressive attack on Red Fort, then you've double standards. This is plainly not acceptable," he said.

He also said that social media platforms should have provision for a "voluntary verification mechanism of the users"

'3-stair mechanism for OTT platforms'

I&amp;B Minister Prakash Javadekar spoke about mechanism for OTT platforms.

"We have decided to have a 3-stair mechanism for OTT platforms. OTT and digital news media will have to disclose their details. We are not mandating registration, we are seeking information," he said

"There should be a grievance redressal system in OTT platforms and digital portals. OTT platforms will have to have a self-regulating body, headed by retired Supreme Court or High Court judge or very eminent person in this category"

Javadekar made a case for self-classification of content on OTT platforms

"For OTT, there should be self-classification of content -- 13+, 16+ and A categories. There has to be a mechanism of parental lock and ensuring compliance that children don't see that," he said.

(With inputs from ANI and PTI)

Indian government on Thursday announced new guidelines aimed at curbing misuse of social media and covered OTT platforms. The prominent feature of these guidelines was government's direction to platforms to appoint grievance mechanisms and for them to disclose first originator of mischievous information.

Indian government on Thursday announced new guidelines aimed at curbing misuse of social media and covered OTT platforms. The prominent feature of these guidelines was government's direction to platforms to appoint grievance mechanisms and for them to disclose first originator of mischievous information. The rules also asked the platforms to remove content depicting nudity or morphed pictures of women after receiving complaints and following procedures set up by the grievance redressal mechanism. The rules were laid out in a press conference addressed by Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar and Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Both the ministers said that the guidelines were prepared after widespread consultations. Prasad said that social media intermediaries will be categorised into two categories 1. Intermediaries 2. Significant social media intermediaries Prasad said that the classification has been done based on number of users and that the government will soon notify the exact number of users based on which the classification will be done. Significant social media intermediaries will have greater obligations. As per the new rules, social media intermediaries have to appoint a grievance officer, who shall register complaints in 24 hours. The grievance redressal official must be resident in India, and monthly compliance reports will have to be filed by social media platforms. Social media platforms on being asked by court or government will be required to disclose the first originator of the mischievous information. Significant social media intermediaries will have to appoint a chief compliance officer in India. In addition to this, the platform will be required to have nodal contact person-resident in India-for coordination with law enforcement agencies, and have resident grievance officer for grievance redressal "If there are complaints against dignity of users, particularly women - expose private parts of individuals or nudity or sexual act or impersonation etc - you'll be required to remove that within 24 hrs after complaint made. This is designed to respect dignity of women," said Ravi Shankar Prasad "The laws made for significant social media will be implemented within 3 months so that they can improve their mechanism. The rest will come into effect from the day the rules are notified," he said. During his address, Prasad said that every social media platform was "welcome" in India but added that there should not be "double standards" "...If attack takes place on Capitol Hill, then social media supports police action but if there's aggressive attack on Red Fort, then you've double standards. This is plainly not acceptable," he said. He also said that social media platforms should have provision for a "voluntary verification mechanism of the users" '3-stair mechanism for OTT platforms' I&B Minister Prakash Javadekar spoke about mechanism for OTT platforms. "We have decided to have a 3-stair mechanism for OTT platforms. OTT and digital news media will have to disclose their details. We are not mandating registration, we are seeking information," he said "There should be a grievance redressal system in OTT platforms and digital portals. OTT platforms will have to have a self-regulating body, headed by retired Supreme Court or High Court judge or very eminent person in this category" Javadekar made a case for self-classification of content on OTT platforms "For OTT, there should be self-classification of content -- 13+, 16+ and A categories. There has to be a mechanism of parental lock and ensuring compliance that children don't see that," he said. (With inputs from ANI and PTI)

India announces new guidelines for social media, OTT platforms

Commerce and Industry Minister of India Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that 57 countries across the globe have supported proposal spearheaded by India and South Africa for COVID vaccine Intellectual Property Rights waiver. The proposal was submitted by India and SA last year, at World Trade Organisation (WTO).

57 countries have already joined India's leadership in demanding Intellectual Property Waiver for COVID-19 vaccine. Leaders everywhere are rising up to the challenge and joining PM Narendra Modi ji's call for affordable health for the entire world," he tweeted.

"World cannot continue to engage in endless discussions while millions of lives &amp; livelihoods are lost. Intellectual Property waiver on COVID-19 medicine provides an opportunity to rejuvenate the world. Hope the world leaders join India in that effort," he added.

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57 countries have already joined India's leadership in demanding Intellectual Property Waiver for COVID-19 vaccine. Leaders everywhere are rising up to the challenge and joining PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> ji’s call for affordable health for the entire world. <a href="https://t.co/iAajcP9r6B">pic.twitter.com/iAajcP9r6B</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1364832672011362308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The joint demand put forth by India and South Africa has found stiff opposition from western countries but has also found support from prominent power corridors.

114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have already issued declaration and have called on the bloc to support the proposal of IPR waiver for coronavirus vaccine.

The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines."

Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale."

European Council is due to meet on Thursday (February 25).

Commerce and Industry Minister of India Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that 57 countries across the globe have supported proposal spearheaded by India and South Africa for COVID vaccine Intellectual Property Rights waiver.

Commerce and Industry Minister of India Piyush Goyal said on Thursday that 57 countries across the globe have supported proposal spearheaded by India and South Africa for COVID vaccine Intellectual Property Rights waiver. The proposal was submitted by India and SA last year, at World Trade Organisation (WTO). 57 countries have already joined India's leadership in demanding Intellectual Property Waiver for COVID-19 vaccine. Leaders everywhere are rising up to the challenge and joining PM Narendra Modi ji's call for affordable health for the entire world," he tweeted. "World cannot continue to engage in endless discussions while millions of lives & livelihoods are lost. Intellectual Property waiver on COVID-19 medicine provides an opportunity to rejuvenate the world. Hope the world leaders join India in that effort," he added. 57 countries have already joined India's leadership in demanding Intellectual Property Waiver for COVID-19 vaccine. Leaders everywhere are rising up to the challenge and joining PM @NarendraModi ji’s call for affordable health for the entire world. pic.twitter.com/iAajcP9r6B — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) February 25, 2021 × The joint demand put forth by India and South Africa has found stiff opposition from western countries but has also found support from prominent power corridors. 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have already issued declaration and have called on the bloc to support the proposal of IPR waiver for coronavirus vaccine. The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines." Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale." European Council is due to meet on Thursday (February 25).

57 countries join India on COVID vaccine IPR waiver: Indian minister

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has warned that Oximeters may not always give accurate measurement of oxygen levels in blood if used for patient with 'skin pigmentation'. This almost entirely translates to Oximeters not providing accurate results 100 per cent of the time for patients with dark skin. USFDA has issued a warning in this regard. It uses a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The study has been carried out by researchers from University of Michigan Medical School.

Oximeters are devices that are typically attached to fingertips of patients. Oximeters are non-invasive in their measurement of blood oxygen levels. In times of coronavirus pandemic, use of Oximeters has increased many times around the world. Drop in blood Oxygen levels may indicate that a person may be infected by COVID-19 virus.

The study carried out by researchers from University of Michigan compared Oxygen readings from Oximeters to those obtained by a more accurate method called Arterial blood gas. These 'pairs' of readings, taken from 10,001 patients were analysed. The patients had White as well as Black patients. It was found that occurrence of wrong reading of blood oxygen levels was three times more in Black patients than it was in White patients. In these patients, Oximeters gave a wrong reading about blood Oxygen levels being normal whereas it was not so.

Based on this study, USFDA has issued a warning that "pulse oximeters have limitations". It has then advised health care providers to supplement their readings with data from other tests and other information that may forthcoming during the examination of the patient.

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has warned that Oximeters may not always give accurate measurement of oxygen levels in blood if used for patient with 'skin pigmentation'.

US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has warned that Oximeters may not always give accurate measurement of oxygen levels in blood if used for patient with 'skin pigmentation'. This almost entirely translates to Oximeters not providing accurate results 100 per cent of the time for patients with dark skin. USFDA has issued a warning in this regard. It uses a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine. The study has been carried out by researchers from University of Michigan Medical School. Oximeters are devices that are typically attached to fingertips of patients. Oximeters are non-invasive in their measurement of blood oxygen levels. In times of coronavirus pandemic, use of Oximeters has increased many times around the world. Drop in blood Oxygen levels may indicate that a person may be infected by COVID-19 virus. The study carried out by researchers from University of Michigan compared Oxygen readings from Oximeters to those obtained by a more accurate method called Arterial blood gas. These 'pairs' of readings, taken from 10,001 patients were analysed. The patients had White as well as Black patients. It was found that occurrence of wrong reading of blood oxygen levels was three times more in Black patients than it was in White patients. In these patients, Oximeters gave a wrong reading about blood Oxygen levels being normal whereas it was not so. Based on this study, USFDA has issued a warning that "pulse oximeters have limitations". It has then advised health care providers to supplement their readings with data from other tests and other information that may forthcoming during the examination of the patient.

Oximeters may not always give accurate reading on dark skin: Study

Anti-coup protesters on Monday defied military junta's warning to take to streets. Businesses around the country observed a general strike. There were protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday, from the northern hills on the border with China to the central plains, the Irrawaddy river delta and the southern panhandle.

Images posted on social media showed a police water cannon truck and numerous other vehicles closing in to break up a procession of chanting people in Naypyitaw, where the military is headquartered. As the protesters scattered, police on foot chased them, wrestling several to the ground.

"They're chasing and arresting us. We're just protesting peacefully," one woman said in video clip posted on Facebook.

The protests have been going on daily ever since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's government on February 1. The military has been unable to stop the protests.

Three people have lost lives so far. Two were shot dead in Mandalay on Saturday. Funeral of the third protester, a young woman, was carried out on Sunday. It drew hundreds of people.

"Everyone is joining this," said San San Maw, 46, at the Hledan junction in the main city of Yangon, which has become a rallying point for the protests. "We need to come out."

In a country where dates are seen as auspicious, protesters noted the significance of the date 22.2.2021, comparing it with demonstrations on Aug. 8, 1988 when a previous generation staged anti-military protests which were bloodily suppressed.

Military's response so far has been less deadly. The army also said one policeman died of injuries in the protest.

"Stop the repression"

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on Myanmar military to stop the "repression" immediately.

"Today, I call on the Myanmar military to stop the repression immediately. Release the prisoners. End the violence. Respect human rights, and the will of the people expressed in recent elections," Guterres told the UN Human Rights Council in a pre-recorded video message.

Guterres has been increasingly vocal about situation in Myanmar.

'RESTRAINT'

As well as local stores, international chains announced closures on Monday, including Yum Brands Inc.'s KFC and delivery service Food Panda, owned by Delivery Hero. Southeast Asian company Grab stopped delivery services too but left its taxis running.

Authorities were "exercising utmost restraint", the foreign ministry said in a statement. It rebuked some countries for remarks it described as flagrant interference in Myanmar's internal affairs.

Several Western countries have condemned the coup and decried the violence against protesters.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Twitter the United States would continue to "take firm action" against authorities violently cracking down on opponents of the coup in the Southeast Asian country that is also known as Burma.

"We stand with the people of Burma," he said.

Britain, Germany, Japan and Singapore have also condemned the violence and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said lethal force was unacceptable.

(With Reuters inputs)

Anti-coup protesters on Monday defied military junta's warning to take to streets. Businesses around the country observed a general strike. There were protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday, from the northern hills on the border with China to the central plains, the Irrawaddy river delta and the southern panhandle.

Anti-coup protesters on Monday defied military junta's warning to take to streets. Businesses around the country observed a general strike. There were protests in cities and towns across the country on Monday, from the northern hills on the border with China to the central plains, the Irrawaddy river delta and the southern panhandle. Images posted on social media showed a police water cannon truck and numerous other vehicles closing in to break up a procession of chanting people in Naypyitaw, where the military is headquartered. As the protesters scattered, police on foot chased them, wrestling several to the ground. "They're chasing and arresting us. We're just protesting peacefully," one woman said in video clip posted on Facebook. The protests have been going on daily ever since the military toppled Aung San Suu Kyi's government on February 1. The military has been unable to stop the protests. Three people have lost lives so far. Two were shot dead in Mandalay on Saturday. Funeral of the third protester, a young woman, was carried out on Sunday. It drew hundreds of people. "Everyone is joining this," said San San Maw, 46, at the Hledan junction in the main city of Yangon, which has become a rallying point for the protests. "We need to come out." In a country where dates are seen as auspicious, protesters noted the significance of the date 22.2.2021, comparing it with demonstrations on Aug. 8, 1988 when a previous generation staged anti-military protests which were bloodily suppressed. Military's response so far has been less deadly. The army also said one policeman died of injuries in the protest. "Stop the repression" UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on Myanmar military to stop the "repression" immediately. "Today, I call on the Myanmar military to stop the repression immediately. Release the prisoners. End the violence. Respect human rights, and the will of the people expressed in recent elections," Guterres told the UN Human Rights Council in a pre-recorded video message. Guterres has been increasingly vocal about situation in Myanmar. 'RESTRAINT' As well as local stores, international chains announced closures on Monday, including Yum Brands Inc.'s KFC and delivery service Food Panda, owned by Delivery Hero. Southeast Asian company Grab stopped delivery services too but left its taxis running. Authorities were "exercising utmost restraint", the foreign ministry said in a statement. It rebuked some countries for remarks it described as flagrant interference in Myanmar's internal affairs. Several Western countries have condemned the coup and decried the violence against protesters. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Twitter the United States would continue to "take firm action" against authorities violently cracking down on opponents of the coup in the Southeast Asian country that is also known as Burma. "We stand with the people of Burma," he said. Britain, Germany, Japan and Singapore have also condemned the violence and U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said lethal force was unacceptable. (With Reuters inputs)

Myanmar: Protesters defy military's lethal warning to take to streets again

As constitutional crisis escalated in Haiti, people took to streets demanding President Jovnel Moise's term in office to end. Political turmoil in Haiti is due to dispute between Moise government and the opposition over when the president's term is supposed to end.

Protesters called Moise a dictator and alleged that he was being supported by th US, OAS (Organization of American States) and other international organisations such as the United Nations. Protesters appeared to vow to continue their street protests.

Haiti's opposition claims Moise should step down since his five-year term in office was completed on February 7 following 2015 elections, which were disputed and the result cancelled by the electoral council

Moise rejects those claims, arguing he took power in February 2017 after winning fresh elections in 2016 and has pledged to step down next year.

Washington recently appeared to back Moise's timeline, with a State Department spokesperson saying a new leader should replace Moise in February 2022.

Tensions flared recently after Moise alleged there was an attempt to overthrow the government and 23 people were arrested, including a Supreme Court judge and a senior police official.

The United States has said it was "deeply concerned" about Haiti's fragile institutions, although it stopped short of chastising Moise after his government retired three Supreme Court judges who posed a threat to his leadership.

(With Reuters inputs)

As constitutional crisis escalated in Haiti, people took to streets demanding President Jovnel Moise's term in office to end. Political turmoil in Haiti is due to dispute between Moise government and the opposition over when the president's term is supposed to end.

As constitutional crisis escalated in Haiti, people took to streets demanding President Jovnel Moise's term in office to end. Political turmoil in Haiti is due to dispute between Moise government and the opposition over when the president's term is supposed to end. Protesters called Moise a dictator and alleged that he was being supported by th US, OAS (Organization of American States) and other international organisations such as the United Nations. Protesters appeared to vow to continue their street protests. Haiti's opposition claims Moise should step down since his five-year term in office was completed on February 7 following 2015 elections, which were disputed and the result cancelled by the electoral council Moise rejects those claims, arguing he took power in February 2017 after winning fresh elections in 2016 and has pledged to step down next year. Washington recently appeared to back Moise's timeline, with a State Department spokesperson saying a new leader should replace Moise in February 2022. Tensions flared recently after Moise alleged there was an attempt to overthrow the government and 23 people were arrested, including a Supreme Court judge and a senior police official. The United States has said it was "deeply concerned" about Haiti's fragile institutions, although it stopped short of chastising Moise after his government retired three Supreme Court judges who posed a threat to his leadership. (With Reuters inputs)

Haiti: People protest on streets as political tension rises

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report. FATF keeps global money laundering and terrorism financing under check. FATF placed Pakistan on 'grey list' in June 2018 and asked it to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019.

FATF 's virtual plenary meeting is set to begin today (February 22). It will go on till February 25. A decision is likely to be taken on the fate of Pakistan in this meeting.

In the last plenary held in October 2020, the FATF concluded that Pakistan will continue in its 'grey list' till February 2021 as it has failed to fulfil six out of 27 obligations of the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog that include failure to take action against two of India's most wanted terrorists Jaish-e Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar and Jamaat-ud-Dawah head Hafiz Saeed.

Azhar and Saeed are most wanted terrorists in India for their involvement in numerous terrorist acts, including 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and bombing of a CRPF bus at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted an official source who claimed that Pakistan had complied with the remaining six recommendations and has submitted relevant details to FATF secretariat.

The paper, quoting a journalist covering the FATF said that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to the FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the grey list and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad.

Other European countries are also supporting France, he said.

France was not happy with the recent response of Islamabad on the cartoon issue, he said.

Pakistan has not even posted a regular ambassador in Paris, he said, adding that diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries were not up to the mark.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-slams-frances-anti-radicalism-bill-warns-of-serious-repercussions-365264">Pakistan slams France's anti-radicalism bill, warns of 'serious repercussions'</a>

The US has also expressed concern over the acquittal the accused in American journalist Daniel Pearl's kidnapping and murder case.

It is feared that the US may also lobby for continuation of Islamabad on the grey list at least until June this year.

Pakistan's Supreme Court last month ordered release of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides in the 2002 Pearl murder case, a judgement denounced by the American journalist's family as "a complete travesty of justice." There was a major global uproar against the court decision.

(With PTI inputs)

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report. FATF keeps global money laundering and terrorism financing under check. FATF placed Pakistan on 'grey list' in June 2018 and asked it to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019. FATF 's virtual plenary meeting is set to begin today (February 22). It will go on till February 25. A decision is likely to be taken on the fate of Pakistan in this meeting. In the last plenary held in October 2020, the FATF concluded that Pakistan will continue in its 'grey list' till February 2021 as it has failed to fulfil six out of 27 obligations of the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog that include failure to take action against two of India's most wanted terrorists Jaish-e Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar and Jamaat-ud-Dawah head Hafiz Saeed. Azhar and Saeed are most wanted terrorists in India for their involvement in numerous terrorist acts, including 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and bombing of a CRPF bus at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir last year. Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted an official source who claimed that Pakistan had complied with the remaining six recommendations and has submitted relevant details to FATF secretariat. The paper, quoting a journalist covering the FATF said that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to the FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the grey list and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad. Other European countries are also supporting France, he said. France was not happy with the recent response of Islamabad on the cartoon issue, he said. Pakistan has not even posted a regular ambassador in Paris, he said, adding that diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries were not up to the mark. Also Read | Pakistan slams France's anti-radicalism bill, warns of 'serious repercussions' The US has also expressed concern over the acquittal the accused in American journalist Daniel Pearl's kidnapping and murder case. It is feared that the US may also lobby for continuation of Islamabad on the grey list at least until June this year. Pakistan's Supreme Court last month ordered release of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides in the 2002 Pearl murder case, a judgement denounced by the American journalist's family as "a complete travesty of justice." There was a major global uproar against the court decision. (With PTI inputs)

FATF set to decide Pakistan's fate in money laundering and terror financing

A top Chinese official on Monday talked about outlining plans that will ensure that Hong Kong would be run by 'patriots'. Xia Baolong, head of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, made this speech just two weeks ahead of the annual meeting of China's rubber-stamp parliament. There is speculation that China is planning further moves that will tighten its grip on Hong Kong.

"The most vital and pressing task to enforce rule by patriots is to improve the relevant systems, particularly the relevant electoral system," Xia said, according to a speech published by his office.

"Being patriotic means loving the People's Republic of China."

Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997. During the handover, China agreed to grant a certain autonomy and liberty to Hong Kong for 50 years. This model was dubbed as "One Country, Two systems".

However, China has been criticised for not honouring the commitment in recent years.

Hong Kong has never been a democracy -- something that has fuelled years of protests and resentment towards Beijing.

But until recently, the city had a veneer of choice that allowed a small and vibrant opposition to flourish at certain local elections.

After huge and often violent democracy protests swept the city in 2019 -- and opposition politicians won a landslide in district council elections -- Beijing responded with a major crackdown.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-detains-bloggers-for-questioning-official-version-of-galwan-clash-365352">India-China standoff: China detains bloggers for questioning official version of Galwan clash</a>

At its last annual meeting, China's National People's Congress imposed a sweeping national security law that outlawed much dissent in Hong Kong and radically transformed its relationship with the authoritarian mainland.

Hong Kongers are therefore looking closely at what the next meeting might bring.

Xia's comments suggest Beijing is seeking to ensure no opposition candidates are able to stand in the city's limited elections and come after weeks of calls in China's state media for such a purge.

Authorities, he said, must "close loopholes" that allow "anti-China troublemakers" into politics.

"Improving the relevant electoral system must be led by the central government," he added.

Xia also laid out the criteria for what makes a "real patriot", which included love for the People's Republic of China, its constitution and the Communist Party of China.

He added that members of the judiciary must also be patriots -- a potentially ominous warning for those who fear Beijing is planning to overhaul Hong Kong's independent courts, one of the pillars of its success as a business hub.

(With AFP input)

A top Chinese official on Monday talked about outlining plans that will ensure that Hong Kong would be run by 'patriots'. Xia Baolong, head of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, made this speech just two weeks ahead of the annual meeting of China's rubber-stamp parliament.

A top Chinese official on Monday talked about outlining plans that will ensure that Hong Kong would be run by 'patriots'. Xia Baolong, head of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, made this speech just two weeks ahead of the annual meeting of China's rubber-stamp parliament. There is speculation that China is planning further moves that will tighten its grip on Hong Kong. "The most vital and pressing task to enforce rule by patriots is to improve the relevant systems, particularly the relevant electoral system," Xia said, according to a speech published by his office. "Being patriotic means loving the People's Republic of China." Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997. During the handover, China agreed to grant a certain autonomy and liberty to Hong Kong for 50 years. This model was dubbed as "One Country, Two systems". However, China has been criticised for not honouring the commitment in recent years. Hong Kong has never been a democracy -- something that has fuelled years of protests and resentment towards Beijing. But until recently, the city had a veneer of choice that allowed a small and vibrant opposition to flourish at certain local elections. After huge and often violent democracy protests swept the city in 2019 -- and opposition politicians won a landslide in district council elections -- Beijing responded with a major crackdown. Also Read | India-China standoff: China detains bloggers for questioning official version of Galwan clash At its last annual meeting, China's National People's Congress imposed a sweeping national security law that outlawed much dissent in Hong Kong and radically transformed its relationship with the authoritarian mainland. Hong Kongers are therefore looking closely at what the next meeting might bring. Xia's comments suggest Beijing is seeking to ensure no opposition candidates are able to stand in the city's limited elections and come after weeks of calls in China's state media for such a purge. Authorities, he said, must "close loopholes" that allow "anti-China troublemakers" into politics. "Improving the relevant electoral system must be led by the central government," he added. Xia also laid out the criteria for what makes a "real patriot", which included love for the People's Republic of China, its constitution and the Communist Party of China. He added that members of the judiciary must also be patriots -- a potentially ominous warning for those who fear Beijing is planning to overhaul Hong Kong's independent courts, one of the pillars of its success as a business hub. (With AFP input)

Hong Kong: Top Chinese official talks of plans to let 'patriots' run the city

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