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Month: January 2025

Opéra de Monte-Carlo to host acclaimed French tenor Benjamin Bernheim

by: Elsa Carpenter
27/01/2025

Renowned tenor Benjamin Bernheim, whose career has soared since Cecilia Bartoli, Director of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, invited him to join Massenet’s Cléopâtre at the Salzburg Whitsun Festival in 2012, will perform in Monaco at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo next month.

Born in Paris and raised in the French-speaking region of Switzerland, Benjamin Bernheim has become one of the most sought-after tenors of his generation.

His career has flourished since his 2012 debut in Cléopâtre at the Salzburg Whitsun Festival, at the invitation of the event’s Artistic Director and now Director of the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, Cecilia Bartoli. Over the last decade, he has performed at prestigious opera houses and festivals around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera in New York, the Paris Opéra, the Vienna State Opera and La Scala in Milan.

Known for his intelligent career management, Bernheim has focused on a select repertoire, with a particular affinity for French music. His exceptional timbre, impeccable diction and emotive style have earned him the title of today’s French tenor “par excellence”.

In Monaco, Bernheim will bring his passion for French music to the forefront, performing a rare tenor and piano arrangement of Hector Berlioz’s Les Nuits d’Été. The recital will also include works by Henri Duparc and Ernest Chausson, such as Chausson’s Poème de l’Amour et de la Mer and Duparc’s evocative L’Invitation au Voyage and Phidylé. This emotionally rich and nuanced repertoire demands the interpretive sophistication of a true professional.

Bernheim will be accompanied by pianist Carrie-Ann Matheson, a frequent collaborator and highly regarded vocal coach and accompanist. Matheson’s sensitive playing is the perfect complement to Bernheim, and the performance will no doubt be a showcase of their extraordinary musical synergy.

The recital will take place on 9th February at 5pm. For more information on all Opéra de Monte-Carlo events, click here.

Read related:

Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo reveals captivating spring/summer 2025 programme

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo source: Benjamin Bernheim, Facebook

Generative and quantum AI lead the agenda at 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival

by: Stephanie Horsman
27/01/2025
World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival

More than 300 global leaders in AI will be on stage at the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival (WAICF) in February, an event set to showcase the latest developments and innovations in the sector, from generative and quantum AI to edge computing.

Between 13th and 15th February, the WAICF will take over the Palais des Festivals in Cannes for four days of talks, presentations and networking opportunities. Now in its fourth year, the event has established itself as a global hub for the artificial intelligence industry and is set to host over 300 speakers from around the world, who will share their insights on groundbreaking AI innovations and how these emerging technologies are shaping the world.

At the forefront of the 2025 event will be generative AI, quantum AI and edge computing. These cutting-edge technologies are expected to drive discussions on the future of AI, from its impacts on healthcare and education to cybersecurity and climate change.

Sessions on generative AI, with its ability to create content, solve complex problems and drive creativity, will explore its potential to transform industries, from designing new drugs to creating art and music, while also addressing the ethical considerations that come with such powerful tools.

Equally prominent will be explorations of the potential of quantum AI. Quantum computing’s ability to process vast amounts of data and perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds will be a key topic, particularly in the fields of finance, healthcare and materials science.

Edge computing, which brings computation closer to the data source, will also feature heavily at WAICF 2025, as the industry looks to harness the power of AI to improve everything from IoT devices to real-time data processing.

Alongside these technical discussions, WAICF 2025 will feature expert dialogues on AI trust, security, privacy and implementation strategies. These sessions will provide practical guidance for scaling AI projects while ensuring they are ethically developed and securely deployed.

The festival promises to be an invaluable networking opportunity for innovators, decision-makers and those curious about the impact of AI on our world. With a dynamic programme designed to foster collaboration and spark creativity, WAICF 2025 aims to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of AI.

For more information and to register for the event, click here.

Read related:

France’s AI report warns of US “hegemonic power” and risks to Europe’s digital sovereignty

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo source: Palais des Festivals, Facebook

Basketball: AS Monaco extend winning streak with hard-fought victory over Le Mans

by: Elsa Carpenter
27/01/2025
as monaco le mans betclic elite

Wins are racking up for AS Monaco Basketball, who secured their sixth consecutive victory in the Betclic Elite by defeating Le Mans 81-74 over the weekend.

The game at the Antarès Arena on Sunday 26th January was hard-fought, with both sides exchanging blows from the start.

Mike James and Donatas Motiejunas led the way for Monaco early on, while Alpha Diallo provided his trademark energy on both ends of the court. A stunning alley-oop finish by Jaron Blossomgame, set up by Diallo, gave the Roca Team a slight edge in the first quarter, which ended 24-17.

Le Mans fought back in the second quarter, led by Buchanan and Delaunay, going on a 17-4 run to take the lead, capitalising on Monaco’s lapse in execution. By halftime, the Roca Team trailed 42-37.

“We knew we had to adjust and bring more intensity in the second half,” said James, who finished with a game-high 23 points.

The adjustments paid off. Monaco dominated the third quarter, outscoring Le Mans 28-15. Diallo hit clutch three-pointers and contributed to a strong defensive effort, while Matthew Strazel added eight of his 16 points during this stretch.

Despite Monaco carrying an eight-point lead into the final quarter (65-57), Le Mans refused to back down, narrowing the gap to just one point midway through. Strazel then hit a spectacular off-balance three-pointer to regain the lead, while Mam Jaiteh and Petr Cornelie made crucial defensive plays to keep Le Mans at bay before James sealed the win with a three-pointer in the closing minutes.

“We stayed together and trusted each other,” said Diallo, who tallied 12 points. “That’s what made the difference tonight.”

Speaking after the game, head coach Vassilis Spanoulis noted, “It’s always tough to play here, especially without some of our key guys [Jordan Loyd, Elie Okobo and Georgios Papagiannis], but the team stepped up, stayed focused and delivered when it mattered.”

Monaco will next face Real Madrid in a EuroLeague fixture at home in the Salle Gaston Médecin on Friday 31st January. Tickets for the highly anticipated game have already sold out.

Read related:

AS Monaco Basketball stage incredible comeback to beat Virtus Bologna

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

 

Photo source: AS Monaco Basketball

Monaco House shines at Davos as a global showcase for innovation and sustainability

by: Cassandra Tanti
27/01/2025

Monaco made a powerful impression at the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos with the debut of the Monaco House, a dedicated space promoting the Principality’s excellence to global leaders. Hosted by Monaco’s Cellule Attractivité in collaboration with the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, the event welcomed over 400 participants from 50 countries, positioning itself as a standout feature of this prestigious global gathering.

“Monaco’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration demonstrates our determination to be a force for positive change on the global stage,” said Prince Albert II during his closing speech. “Through initiatives like the Monaco House, we can share our vision and build partnerships that inspire a more sustainable and prosperous future.”

A day of dynamic dialogue and impactful speakers

The Monaco House offered a programme of 14 conferences featuring 30 influential speakers, including Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, McKinsey France CEO Clarisse Magnin, Solar Impulse Foundation President Bertrand Piccard, Carlyle Group Co-founder David Rubenstein, and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. According to a statement by the Monaco Government, the sessions facilitated in-depth discussions on some of the most pressing global challenges and opportunities.

Strategic partnerships also took centre stage, with key players such as the Monaco Economic Board (MEB), the Association Monégasque des Activités Financières, Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM), and Monaco Private Label (MPL) participating. The MPL hosted an exclusive evening for its members and international investors, fostering valuable connections and advancing Monaco’s global appeal.

“With the Monaco House, Monaco’s economic players are building strategic partnerships with global leaders,” said Frédéric Genta, Interministerial Delegate for Attractiveness and Digital Transition.

Chloé Boscagli, Director of Monaco Private Label, added, “This event demonstrates the strength of our collective. The mobilisation of Monaco’s key economic players and the involvement of MPL members were instrumental in its success.”

Justin Highman, Deputy CEO of MEB, Peter Kütemann, President and Founder of Dietsmann, and Cesare Canevese, CEO of Dietsmann. Photo source: MEB

Highlighting Monaco’s economic excellence

As part of the Monaco House programme, the Monaco Economic Board led a session on ‘Mobilising innovation from Monaco: Leaders’ ideas on transforming the energy sector for a sustainable future’. Dietsmann, a long-established Monaco-based company specialising in energy operations and maintenance, was highlighted as a case study in entrepreneurial success.

Dietsmann’s Founder and President, Peter Kütemann, shared the company’s growth journey since its establishment in Monaco in 1981, growing from four employees to over 120 in Monaco and 4,500 globally. He credited Monaco’s political and fiscal stability, safety, and exceptional quality of life as key factors in the company’s success.

Cesare Canevese, Dietsmann’s CEO, also emphasised Monaco’s strategic advantages, including its proximity to Nice airport, strong connectivity, and alignment with sustainability goals championed by Prince Albert II. “Our innovation in reducing carbon footprints resonates with the Principality’s vision for a sustainable future, which our clients value deeply,” he said, according to a statement by the MEB.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo: Prince Albert II with, from left to right, PFA2 Vice President Olivier Wenden, Director of Monaco Private Label Chloé Boscagli, Interministerial Delegate for Attractiveness and Digital Transition Frédéric Genta, and Anastasios (Tassos) Economou, Global Chairman YPO

 

Sébastien Ogier clinches historic 10th victory at Rallye Monte-Carlo

by: Cassandra Tanti
27/01/2025

Sébastien Ogier has once again etched his name into the history books, claiming an unprecedented 10th victory at the iconic Rallye Monte-Carlo. The Frenchman led Toyota to a one-two finish alongside teammate Elfyn Evans, while Adrien Fourmaux celebrated his debut podium with Hyundai.

Ogier’s dominance at Monte-Carlo, which began in 2009, now spans over a decade with triumphs in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2023, and now 2025. The latest win cements his reputation as the ultimate maestro of this legendary event.

The final day of the rally was marked by high drama, as drivers faced a tense three-hour wait between the penultimate stage and the decisive Power Stage over the Col de Turini. Weather conditions and tire choices added an extra layer of suspense. Some drivers, including Ogier, opted for studded tires in anticipation of snow at higher altitudes, while others gambled on a warmer midday thaw and chose standard setups.

The strategy paid off for Ogier and Evans, who delivered remarkable performances on the snowy and icy final stretch. Adrien Fourmaux, alongside co-driver Alexandre Coria, also capitalised on a strong tire choice, securing a well-deserved podium and outpacing Ott Tänak in the critical moments of the stage. This marked a career milestone for the French driver, achieving his first podium at the Monte-Carlo rally.

Elfyn Evans provided Toyota with a crucial second-place finish, although not without a scare as a minor collision momentarily threatened his campaign. Nonetheless, his solid drive ensured Toyota’s dominance, setting the tone for the 2025 season.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: Stéphane Danna, Goverment Communication Department

 

Prince Albert II champions water conservation as world-changing initiatives celebrated at GAEA Awards

by: Cassandra Tanti
27/01/2025

Prince Albert II of Monaco took center stage at the inaugural GAEA Awards Gala Dinner in Davos on 26th January, delivering an impassioned call to action on the importance of water preservation. The event, held as part of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, celebrated five trailblazing initiatives that are tackling the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges through innovation, collaboration, and systemic change.

Under the theme ‘Water: Weaver of Life’, the evening brought together global leaders to spotlight transformative partnerships addressing critical climate and nature issues. In his keynote address, Prince Albert II spoke about the need for bold, united efforts to protect the lifeblood of the planet. “It is now possible to act very concretely and very effectively to preserve this common heritage that is water. We can do this through actions that combine economic development, social progress, and the preservation of nature,” he said.

The Giving to Amplify Earth Action (GAEA) Awards, launched by the World Economic Forum in partnership with Kearney and other global experts, celebrated five initiatives chosen from more than 120 nominations. The winners were recognised for their groundbreaking approaches to advancing climate and nature goals, with projects ranging from sustainable agriculture to fossil-free steelmaking and renewable energy solutions.

Among the winners was Decarbonising Rice, which has transformed rice farming by dramatically cutting methane emissions and water usage while boosting yields. Built by Nature, another awardee, is redefining the construction industry by promoting sustainable timber materials to significantly reduce carbon emissions and protect forests. HYBRIT, a Swedish collaboration, is leading the charge in fossil-free steel production, setting a powerful example for industrial transformation on a global scale. The Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP) has mobilised over $1 billion to deliver renewable energy projects in 40 countries, reducing emissions and improving livelihoods. Meanwhile, the Youth Climate Justice Fund is empowering young leaders with funding for grassroots climate initiatives, expanding its support to hundreds of projects worldwide.

Prince Albert II with the 2025 GAEA Award winners. Photo source: Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation

The awards jury, composed of leading figures in sustainability, including André Hoffmann and Johan Rockström, hailed the winners for their ability to drive systemic change. Speaking on behalf of the panel, Hoffmann said, “These partnerships stood out for their ability to mobilise multi-sector collaborators and integrate equity and inclusion into their work.”

The GAEA Awards aim to inspire further collaboration and innovation by showcasing what is possible when businesses, governments, and civil society work together to tackle global crises. Over the coming year, the winners will receive tailored support to expand their impact and accelerate solutions to the pressing environmental challenges they address.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Main photo of Prince Albert II courtesy Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation