Day: October 12, 2025
Fortress Group to Feature Leading Product Lines of AkijBashir Group
AkijBashir Group has recently teamed up with Fortress Group to expand the reach of high-quality building materials and improve the standard of premium living in Bangladesh. The two companies signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a programme on October 9. The MoU outlines plans for enhanced cooperation between the two companies, with Fortress Group set to feature AkijBashir’s leading product lines. Products from Akij Ceramics, ROSA Sanitaryware, Akij Board, Akij Door, and Akij Glass will be featured by Fortress. As part of the collaboration, customers will gain access to a complete range of tiles, sanitaryware, bathware, boards, doors, and glass products. Both companies said the partnership is aimed at providing an integrated offering for modern construction and interior design needs. AkijBashir Group Chief Operating Officer Mohammod Khourshed Alam and Fortress Group Chairman Lutfur Rahman signed the MoU in the presence of senior officials from both organisations. “We are delighted to collaborate with Fortress Group in expanding the reach of AkijBashir’s premium product portfolio to a broader customer base,” said Alam. Rahman said the partnership would allow Fortress Group to introduce a wider selection of quality products to customers, enhancing convenience and lifestyle. The two companies said the agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter in their efforts to support the creation of elegant, sustainable, and modern living spaces across the country. Written by Nibir Ayaan
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World Investor Week rings the bell on financial fraud awareness
A global initiative to promote investor education and protection is underway as World Investor Week 2025 runs from October 6 to 12, led by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO). Now in its latest edition, the campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of financial literacy, responsible investing, and the protection of investors in an increasingly digital and complex financial landscape. The global campaign features participation from securities regulators, exchanges, financial organisations, and educators across six continents, with events tailored to national and regional contexts. Activities include public awareness drives, webinars, training sessions, and outreach campaigns designed to help investors make informed decisions and guard against fraud. A flagship feature of the campaign is the “Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy” initiative, held in collaboration with the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE). Stock exchanges around the world symbolically “ring the bell” to demonstrate their commitment to investor education and market transparency. Focus on Fraud, Digital Threats, and Investor Awareness This year’s programme includes a strong emphasis on the emerging threat of digital fraud, particularly those involving artificial intelligence and online scams. On October 7, U.S. regulators including the National Futures Association (NFA), FINRA, and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) hosted a webinar titled “Deconstructing to Disrupt Fraud”, which was a two-part event featuring Dr. Arda Akartuna. The session explored how AI technologies are being weaponised by fraudsters, and how regulators and investors can respond with vigilance and education. In Indonesia, the national financial regulator Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK) is hosting a regional webinar on October 9 titled “Empowering Investors: Invest Wisely and Stay Safe from Fraud and Scams.” The event features speakers from IOSCO’s Committee on Retail Investors and will discuss practical strategies to improve retail investor protection. Investor education for older adults is also a priority in this year’s campaign. In the United States, the CFTC, FBI, and AARP have partnered on outreach aimed at Americans aged 50 and older, focusing on helping them identify and avoid scams. The organisers report that over 250 participants registered for this dedicated session. Global Backing and Institutional Support World Investor Week is supported by a wide range of international partners, including: The World Bank OECD G20 Sustainable Stock Exchanges (SSE) Initiative International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Foundation European Fund and Asset Management Association (EFAMA) These partnerships reinforce IOSCO’s broader mission to promote not only awareness, but also long-term behavioural change among investors and institutions globally. As the global standard-setter for securities regulation, IOSCO collaborates closely with the Financial Stability Board (FSB) and the G20 to ensure that investor protection remains a key pillar of global financial integrity and stability. Building Resilience in a Complex Investment Landscape With financial markets rapidly evolving due to digitisation, AI technologies, and cross-border investment platforms, retail investors are exposed to new complexities and risks. World Investor Week serves as a timely reminder of the need for robust financial education, stronger regulatory safeguards, and proactive public engagement. As the campaign continues through October 12, organisers hope to empower individuals with the knowledge to navigate risks, detect fraud, and contribute to more resilient financial markets across all levels of society. Written By Nibir Ayaan
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