View from the Press Rooms Donald Trump’s return as the 47th President of the United States has sent ripples across global politics, as reported by The Hindu. His swearing-in ceremony, a $200 million spectacle heavily sponsored by TikTok and Meta, marked a strategic re-entry into domestic and global discourse. Bhavika Rathore from Hindustan Times highlighted the stark contrast between Biden’s low-key demeanour versus Trump’s theatrical pomp. From inviting foreign leaders—conspicuously excluding the UK, Germany and France—to announce his plan to sign 200 executive orders on day one of taking office, as opposed to 160 that Biden signed during his four-year tenure. Trump’s bold moves have reignited the "America First" narrative while the rest of us could be looking at a new world disorder. Through the Digital Lens Surabhi Agarwal for the Economic Times detailed TikTok’s strategic sponsorship, signalling a thaw in US-China tech relations. Trump’s lifting of the app�

The Public Interest Journalism Initiative (PIJI) has announced Alex Cramb as its new CEO, as the organisation continues its mission to sustain public interest journalism amid industry challenges, a media release from the organisation revealed. Cramb, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in politics and communications, has served as a senior press secretary for both the NSW and Federal Government, including roles with the Australian Labor Party and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.  He also spent over a decade at GRACosway advising clients across sectors such as defence, infrastructure, and transport. Taking on the role at a pivotal time, Cramb highlighted the crucial role public interest journalism plays in democracy. "I look forward to advocating for its long-term viability and impact," he said. PIJI chair Professor Allan Fels AO commended Cramb’s diverse background and noted his expertise in politics, advocacy, corporate communications, and journalism.  The org

Jessica Bailey has been appointed editor of ELLE Australia, starting February 10, according to a Mediaweek report.  A seasoned fashion and lifestyle journalist, Bailey will lead the brand’s content and growth, focusing on Gen Z and young millennial women. Bailey brings over a decade of editorial experience, including a successful tenure as editorial director of Grazia Australia, where she shaped the publication’s voice and editorial strategy.  Reflecting on her career, Bailey shared her excitement about returning to ELLE, where she began her journey 16 years ago. “It feels incredibly special to lead ELLE Australia into its 80th anniversary year,” she said. ELLE is a global fashion leader, with 50 editions and a significant digital presence, including 37 million social media followers and 70 million monthly visitors.  ELLE reaches over 1.5 million women in Australia through its digital platforms, with TikTok driving recent growth. Nicky Briger, Are Media’s general m

Pickr Founder and Editor Leigh Stark went to air for the first time as ABC Adelaide’s Tech Expert last Monday for its “Mornings” program as part of a new half-hour segment. Stark described the on-air experience as “really exciting.” “My radio appearances are an extension of how I write, which is how I talk.” Stark told Influencing Tech. “What I love about radio is the conversation, radio has this exciting conversational feel. You can delve in and help make it safe and easy. I like that and I want more of that.” Stark said the call-up “was a bit of a surprise” after being asked just several days before his first appearance.  “I've been doing a bit of radio here and there, but for this, I got the call on the Friday before the first show from the ABC Adelaide’s Mornings program producer to ask if I wanted to do be the Tech Expert and I immediately accepted.” “Since then, it’s exploded, and I’m quite chuffed. I get to help more people with technol

With domestic demand seen waning amid a spike in inflation and input costs, investment plans by India’s private sector took a notable hit, falling 1.4 per cent in the October-December 2024 quarter (Q3) after a fleeting recovery in the second quarter (Q2) of 2024-25. The initial trend in the October-December results season shows single-digit growth in aggregate revenue and net profit for the second consecutive quarter. Hot off the Press Though private investments dipped, the government capex plans registered a sharp growth, lifting overall fresh investments in the economy by 9.9 per cent in Q3 to Rs 11.46 lakh crore from an updated tally of Rs 10.43 lakh crore recorded in Q2. This rise was led by a 34.6 per cent spike in fresh investments by State governments over Q2 levels, almost thrice the 11.8 per cent growth in new outlays announced by the Union government, reported Vikas Dhoot for The Hindu. India's GDP growth had already slowed to a seven-quarter low of 5.4 per cent in

The Zee Real Heroes Awards 2025 lit up the Grand Hyatt in Mumbai recently, celebrating individuals who have made transformative contributions to society. The event brought together leaders from politics, cinema, and various fields to honour extraordinary achievements. Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari attended as chief guests, alongside Bollywood stars Ajay Devgn, Kartik Aaryan, and Pankaj Tripathi. Spiritual leaders Amogh Lila Das and Dhirendra Krishna Shastri also graced the occasion. Actor and TV presenter Annu Kapoor introduced the ceremony, hosted by Zee Media anchors, as inspiring stories of courage, perseverance, and innovation took centre stage. Ajay Devgn was named ‘Impactful Personality of the Year’, while Anupam Kher received the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Cinema’ award. Kartik Aaryan was recognised as ‘Best Actor,’ and Pankaj Tripathi as ‘Mega Performer of the Year.’ Legendary playback singer Kumar San

Jonesy and Amanda at Gold101.7 are bolstering their team with both new and returning staff, alongside fresh branding, according to Radio Info. Helen Tzarimas joins as the new newsreader following Natasha Lee’s departure after seven years to focus on family. Jacinda Gugliemino returns from maternity leave in a new show director role focusing on ratings and revenue growth. Jo Ockwell, who covered for Jacinda, remains the executive producer with Megan Smith being promoted to senior producer. Thomas Gosby shifts from engineering to a panel operator/producer role. Sue Carter, head of content for the GOLD Network, expressed confidence in the team noting they are poised to build on the station’s record-breaking success. Jonesy and Amanda kicked off 2025 on January 20 with their new GOLD101.7 branding ahead of their 20th anniversary and continued success including five ACRA awards for Best On-Air Team (Metro).