หมวดหมู่: ACN Newswire

DPC Dash – Domino’s Pizza China Drives Sales and Profit Growth and Optimizes Shareholder Structure

HONG KONG, Oct 18, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - As recent economic stimulus measures by the government of China boost consumer confidence, and propel a rally in domestic stock markets, consumption stocks have been leading the surge, closing strong in the third quarter of 2024 strong. DPC Dash – Domino’s Pizza China, ("DPC Dash" or the "Company") (1405.HK), Domino's Pizza's exclusive master franchisee in the China Mainland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China, and the Macau Special Administrative Region of China, has further optimized shareholder structure to deliver long-term and significant value to shareholders.In the third quarter of 2024, the Company announced its inclusion in the Hong Kong Hang Seng Composite Index and the Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect Programs, underscoring its market credibility and growth potential. The inclusion in both a major index and stock connect programs offered more liquidity. As of October 15, 2024, the company’s stock price has surged over 60% since its IPO on March 28, 2023, significantly outperforming the Hang Seng Composite Index during the same period[i]. In order to further optimize shareholder structure and enhance the Company’s trading liquidity, Domino’s Pizza LLC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Domino’s Pizza, recently announced an agreement to sell an aggregate of 10,000,000 of the Company’s shares, or 7.66% of its total issued share capital as of October 17, 2024, to purchasers including institutional investors through off-market block trades. Following this share sale, Domino’s Pizza LLC retains 6.21% of total issued share capital with a lock-up period of 90 days for its remaining shares. The enduring relationship between DPC Dash and DPZ remains robust. The allocation is an opportunity for DPC Dash to further improve liquidity and bring new dynamics to its shareholder structure. Notable international banks have rated DPC Dash as “Buy” or “Outperform”, showing confidence in the company’s fundamentals and stock performance.DPC Dash continues to demonstrate its market prowess with strategic growth, operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. The Company’s remarkable success can be largely attributed to its effective 4D strategy of Development, Delicious pizza at value, Delivery, and Digital. This comprehensive approach has enabled the company to serve high-quality, value-for-money pizzas to a steadily growing customer base. From 2021 to 2023, DPC Dash realized a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 37.6% in revenue. In the first half of 2024, revenue reached RMB2.04 billion while both reported and adjusted net profit after tax turned positive for the first time.The Company’s “Go Deeper, Go Broader” strategy has been instrumental in its growth. As of September 30, 2024, DPC Dash operates 978 stores across 33 cities, reflecting a robust expansion with 210 new stores opened year-to-date. The combined total of net new stores added this year, stores currently under construction, and stores with signed agreements has reached approximately 100% of the full-year opening target for 2024. It is confident in maintaining this strong expansion dynamic, with plans to open its 1000th store in the fourth quarter of 2024 and open 300 to 350 new stores annually in 2025 and 2026. The store network expansion is supported by strong performance metrics, including holding 28 of the top 30 positions for first 30-day sales among Domino’s global network of over 21,000 stores as of the end of the third quarter of 2024. Since the current management took the helm in the third quarter of 2017, DPC Dash has since achieved 29 consecutive quarters of positive same-store sales growth (SSSG) despite market and industrial turbulence. Meanwhile, the company’s digital initiatives played a crucial role in driving customer engagement and loyalty. The company’s loyalty program boasted 21.7 million members as of September 2024, with 11 million new customers placing their first orders in the past 12 months with Domino’s Pizza China.Looking ahead, DPC Dash remains focused on its expansion plans and operational enhancements, aiming for sustainable, profitable growth in China’s vast pizza market through continual innovation and optimization. The company’s resilient business model and strategic initiatives position it well for continued success in this competitive industry. The company will continue to strengthen its market position and add value to consumers by constantly enhancing product quality, service level, and customer experience.[i] Based on closed stock price of DPC Dash and HSCI of March 28, 2023 and October 15, 2024. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-18

Embracing the Future of Manufacturing with the 26th Edition of the South Africa Manufacturing Show

Johannesburg, South Africa, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - In the rapidly evolving field of healthcare, technological advancements are continually transforming both medical education and the delivery of healthcare services. Innovative solutions, in the healthcare field, present new possibilities for enhancing learning, improving patient outcomes, and advancing medical practices. These cutting-edge methods allow students and healthcare professionals to gain a deeper understanding of complex medical concepts and sharpen essential skills. Simultaneously, they foster the growth of local industries, driving innovation and creating economic opportunities, while addressing critical healthcare needs in a more sustainable and efficient way.One such innovation is focused on revolutionising medical education and healthcare in South Africa through the application of advanced 3D printing technology. By utilising this state-of-the-art tool, students and professionals are gaining unprecedented opportunities to deepen their knowledge of human anatomy, hone their surgical skills, and enhance patient care. This not only raises the standard of education but also contributes to the growth of local manufacturing industries, promoting healthcare excellence and economic development. Moreover, it strengthens South Africa's manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the production of medical devices.This collaboration fosters innovation and empowers small and medium enterprises (SMMEs) to compete on a global scale. With a focus on customized medical solutions, the initiative supports local manufacturing, creating jobs, and building a sustainable medical device industry. By encouraging collaboration between academic institutions and businesses, the project enhances the manufacturing ecosystem and contributes to South Africa's overall economic growth while addressing vital healthcare needs.Overview of the event: 26th Edition of the South Africa Manufacturing ShowThe 26th Edition of the South Africa Manufacturing Show is part of a global series that has been held in over 10 cities across multiple continents in recent years. This exclusive, invitation-only in-person event, which will be held on November 21, 2024 in  Qurtuba Convention Centre, Johannesburg is designed specifically for technology leaders from top businesses, institutions, and government officials representing South Africa’s manufacturing sector.The agenda for the South Africa Manufacturing Show has been carefully curated to pinpoint the essential strategies required for making informed business decisions, enhancing operational efficiency, and advancing digital culture. The Summit will gather more than 200 C-Level Executives, Directors, and Heads of Technology to explore the potential of AI, Web 3.0, IoT, Cyber Security, and other Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, providing the insights necessary to initiate meaningful change in the industry today.Who will attendPandelani Reuben Munyai, Group CIO, Transnet SOC Ltd.Dhevan Pillay, CEO, LTM Energy Group.Oltesh Thobias, Regional Chief Procurement & Contracts Officer, African Development Bank Group.Stavros Nicolaou, Group Senior Executive, Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Ltd.The event will cover topics like:From Factory to Future: Industry 4.0's Role in South Africa's Manufacturing Evolution.From Concept to Creation: The Synergy of AI, 3D Printing, and South African Innovation in Manufacturing.Powering South Africa's Green Industrial Revolution: Balancing Sustainability, Energy Resilience, and Manufacturing Growth.Unleashing Efficiency: Harnessing Data Analytics in Manufacturing Processes.Regional Manufacturing to Achieve Health Equity and Security on the African Continent.Building Supply Chain Agility: Crafting Resilient Supply Chains in South Africa.For more information on the 26th edition South Africa Manufacturing Show, click the LinkAbout ExitoExito, which means success in Spanish, embodies our commitment to the success of our customers. Each year, we host over 240 virtual and in-person conferences globally, bringing together audiences with world-class thought leaders and C-level executives across industries. Our meticulously crafted agendas, based on extensive research and valuable industry insights, facilitate business, knowledge transfer, deal flow, and impactful messaging for brands.For Media Enquiries, contact:Kasturi Nayak (Sr. Marketing Executive)Kasturi.nayak@exito-e.comEnquiry@exito-e.comExito Media Concepts Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

Graphene Manufacturing Group (GMG) Provides Commercialisation Update on Energy Savings Coating THERMAL-XR(R)

Brisbane, Queensland, Australia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - October 16, 2024) - Graphene Manufacturing Group Ltd. (TSXV: GMG) ("GMG" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a business update on the commercialisation progress of THERMAL-XR® Powered by GMG Graphene.CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT UPDATEGMG continues to carry out both Supply and Service Coating for various Air Conditioning Manufacturers, Distributors, Contractors and end equipment owners - including the large HVACR condensing units showing the black coating of THERMAL-XR on the condenser coils seen in Figure 1.Figure 1: GMG Team Members in front of large HVACR condensing units coated with THERMAL-XRTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/226793_4a202364a43cd862_001full.jpgAt an event on 4th October 2024 in Brisbane, Australia that included the broad participation of HVAC industry representatives, GMG successfully RE-launched THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE. The focus of the event was on Thermal-XR's unique heat transfer and corrosion protection capabilities. When first developed, the product was named THERMAL-XR® RESTORE because the Company believed its principal benefit was to restore the heat transfer capabilities of existing installed air conditioners. However, GMG has since proved with third party verification that the product can also enhance the heat transfer of new equipment; hence the re-branding to THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE.As a result, GMG now believes that THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE has exciting opportunities with HVAC Original Equipment Manufacturers ("OEMs") in addition to its potential in the HVAC aftermarket. Over the past several months, GMG has completed on-site testing of THERMAL-XR® with global Air Conditioning Manufacturers in China and the USA for potential introduction into their factories. While further customer testing will be required, GMG believes early results are promising.Apart from applications in the HVAC industry, the unique heat transfer capabilities of THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE has also led to potential new applications in a wide range of industries where reducing heat is important. For example, customer managed Third Party Laboratory Testing with THERMAL-XR® is now being done with companies that operate LNG facilities; companies that manufacture electronic products; and companies that produce motors for the industrial and automotive markets. Further testing will be required to confirm the benefits of using THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE in such applications.Figure 2: RE-LAUNCH of THERMAL-XR® ENHANCETo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/226793_4a202364a43cd862_002full.jpgAs shown in Figure 2, THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE will now be available in 5 litre pails, instead of the original 10 litre containers. Customers have expressed their preference for lighter weight pails because they believe they are easier to lift onto roof tops for spraying in-situ air conditioners. Generally, 5 Litres of THERMAL-XR can be used to spray up to 5 small to medium size air conditioners, covering approximately 50 square metres of solid plate.As previously announced, GMG and Nu Calgon have signed an agreement and are working with a consultant to prepare and submit a Pre-Manufacture Notice ("PMN") in conjunction with its USA Environmental Protection Agency's ("EPA") application to import and sell in the USA. The PMN application is expected to be submitted before the end of October, and the approval is expected to take less than 12 months. The PMN will be substantially different from the Low Volume Exemption ("LVE") PMN that was previously submitted by GMG. Unlike the LVE PMN application that was limited to 10 tons per annum and one application technique in the HVAC sector, the PMN EPA approval that GMG is now seeking will not be limited by volume, application and any one particular sector.INDUSTRY RECOGNITIONTHERMAL-XR® is a finalist in the AIRAH Product of the Year - to be announced on 21st November 2024. AIRAH, the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating, is the peak body representing the HVAC&R industry in Australia. Officially incorporated by guarantee on March 29, 1920, AIRAH celebrated its Centenary anniversary in 2020.The AIRAH Awards provide our industry with the opportunity to reflect, applaud, and raise a toast to our peers and their achievements - from promising future leaders to established sector veterans; from the finest new projects to the best retrofits; as well as the greatest in refrigeration, renewable energy, and research. Independent industry specialists determine a shortlist of finalists, from which a winner is selected by an expert judging panel. This rigorous and impartial process makes the AIRAH Awards the most highly prized accolades in Australia's HVAC&R building services industry.To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/226793_4a202364a43cd862_003full.jpgGMG's Managing Director and CEO, Craig Nicol, commented: "We believe GMG continues to make good progress in testing its products in large global OEM's for various types of products in various applications whilst our technical understanding of the coating improves - creating an exciting cycle of innovation and learning with our customers and how we make the graphene and coating, how it is applied and also how it is marketed and sold."GMG's Chairman and Director, Jack Perkowski, commented: "THERMAL-XR® testing in so many of these applications is very exciting to see and I am encouraged by its potential for progress in these markets."TEAM UPDATEGMG would like to thank Bobby Bran, Chief Projects Officer ("CPO"), for his near 6-year service at the Company. In the Company's continued efforts to transform into a commercial operation, the Company has decided to outsource major project activity going forward and as such will no longer need a CPO.On behalf of GMG and its Board of Directors, Craig Nicol and Jack Perkowski would like to thank Bobby for his dedication and service during his near 6-year tenure at the Company.About THERMAL-XR® powered by GMG Graphene:THERMAL-XR® COATING SYSTEM is a unique method of improving the conductivity of corroded heat exchange surfaces and improving and maintaining the performance of new units at peak levels. The process coats and protects heat exchange surfaces while improving and rebuilding the lost corroded thermal conductivity and increasing the heat transfer rate by leveraging the physics of GMG Graphene, resulting in an efficiency improvement and a potential power reduction.THERMAL-XR RESTORE® is powered by GMG Graphene. PATENT PENDINGAbout GMG www.graphenemg.comGMG is a clean-technology company which seeks to offer energy saving and energy storage solutions, enabled by graphene, including that manufactured in-house via a proprietary production process. GMG has developed a proprietary production process to decompose natural gas (i.e. methane) into its elements, carbon (as graphene), hydrogen and some residual hydrocarbon gases. This process produces high quality, low cost, scalable, 'tuneable' and low/no contaminant graphene suitable for use in clean-technology and other applications.The Company's present focus is to de-risk and develop commercial scale-up capabilities, and secure market applications. In the energy savings segment, GMG has focused on graphene enhanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC-R") coating (or energy-saving coating), lubricants and fluids.In the energy storage segment, GMG and the University of Queensland are working collaboratively with financial support from the Australian Government to progress R&D and commercialization of graphene aluminium-ion batteries ("G+AI Batteries").GMG's 4 critical business objectives are:Produce Graphene and improve/scale cell production processesBuild Revenue from Energy Savings ProductsDevelop Next-Generation BatteryDevelop Supply Chain, Partners & Project Execution CapabilityFor further information please contact:Craig Nicol, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of the Company at craig.nicol@graphenemg.com, +61 415 445 223Leo Karabelas at Focus Communications Investor Relations, leo@fcir.ca, +1 647 689 6041Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends", "expects" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or will "potentially" or "likely" occur. This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward‐looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, the potential for THERMAL-XR® to enable energy producers to produce additional energy more efficiently, the potential for THERMAL-XR® ENHANCE to enhance the heat transfer of new equipment and its opportunities with HVAC industry and other industries where reducing heat is important, the timing of submission of the Company's PMN application, the receipt, timing and nature of approval by the EPA of the PMN application, the Company's goal of achieving optimal production line performance for THERMAL-XR® and the entering of full production. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions of management, including, without limitation, assumptions regarding the development of extensions and enhancements to the THERMAL-XR® portfolio into a wider range of applications, that energy producers will be able to derive the expected benefits from the Company's products, that the Company's PMN application will be submitted on the timetable anticipated, that the EPA will approve the PMN application and on the timing anticipated, that the content of the EPA's approval will be as anticipated, and that the Company will be able to achieve optimal production line performance for THERMAL-XR® and enter full production. Additionally, forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of GMG to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: that there will be no developments of extensions or enhancements to the THERMAL-XR® portfolio into a wider range of applications, that energy producers will not derive the expected benefits from the Company's products, that the Company's PMN application will not be submitted on the timetable anticipated or at all, that the EPA will not approve the PMN application on the timing anticipated or at all, that the content of the EPA's approval will not be as anticipated, that the Company will be unable to achieve optimal production line performance for THERMAL-XR® or enter full production, risks relating to the extent and duration of the conflict in Eastern Europe and its impact on global markets, the volatility of global capital markets, political instability, the failure of the Company to obtain regulatory approvals, attract and retain skilled personnel, unexpected development and production challenges, unanticipated costs and the risk factors set out under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated October 3, 2024 available for review on the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca.Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/226793 Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

Kincora Announces Strategic Investment & Expanded Partnership with Fleet Space

Kincora to raise A$1.27 million (C$1.19 million) via strategic investment by Fleet Space, existing major shareholder, directors and new investors participationRaise conducted at A$0.038 (C$0.036) with 1:2 attaching option at A$0.075 (C$0.07)Fleet Space to invest A$400,000 (C$373,832) to take initial ~4% strategic stake in KincoraExpanded partnership with Fleet Space including Kincora's recently secured and wholly owned Wongarbon ProjectMultiphysics survey agreement comprising Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) and gravity surveys with Fleet Space's end-to-end mineral exploration solution, ExosphereFleet Space has the right to fund a minimum 2,000m drill program to earn a 20% stake in the ProjectThe Wongarbon Project is interpreted to host one of the last remaining untested and large intrusive complexes of the Macquarie Arc situated on an interpreted common transverse structure that is a key control to the 14.7Moz gold equivalent inventory within Alkane Resources Limited's Northern Molong Porphyry Project (NMPP) 1Final interpretations are pending for a recent Fleet Space ANT survey at the NMPP and multiphysic surveys at the Nyngan Project ahead of imminent drill testingMelbourne, Australia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - October 16, 2024) - Kincora Copper Limited (TSXV: KCC) (ASX: KCC) (Kincora or the Company) is pleased to have expanded its partnership with Fleet Space Technologies Pty Ltd (Fleet Space) to include: (i) a listed equity investment, (ii) multiphysics surveys at the Wongarbon Project to identify and refine targets, and, (iii) the right to drill test targets to earn an asset level interest in the Wongarbon Project.Fleet Space is Australia's fastest growing company 2 and widely recognised as Australia's leading space exploration company. Fleet Space seeks to revolutionise mineral exploration with its vertically integrated technology stack, ExoSphere, which combines the latest advances in satellite connectivity, 3D multiphysics data acquisition and AI to map mineral systems in real-time to streamline exploration and improve success rates for new economic discoveries.The Wongarbon Project has never been drilled, is located in the interpreted extension of the Northern Molong Belt of the Macquarie Arc, NSW, and is considered to be highly prospective for a new large-scale porphyry copper-gold complex and series of discoveries.Sam Spring, President and CEO of Kincora, commented: "Kincora and Fleet Space strongly believe the Wongarbon Project has the potential to be a new porphyry district and it is a prime candidate for major discovery. We are very pleased to have entered this innovative and multiple phase agreement. The results of our recent multiphysics surveys at our Nyngan Project are pending and the structure of this expanded partnership with Fleet Space provides unique alignment. We look forward to shortly advancing the first new exploration at the Wongarbon Project in almost 30-years with a pathway for refining and drilling true and large-scale virgin targets. This is Kincora's fifth recent partnership further demonstrating how we work with technical partners to apply industry leading exploration techniques to systematically advance, fund and de-risk our project pipeline of highly prospective porphyry targets. Further deals and partnerships are proposed for other Kincora projects and we thank existing shareholders for their support in the capital raising and welcome some good new groups to the register."Fleet Space Director, CFO and Financial Strategy & Investment Officer, Federico Tata-Nardini, said:"In a major advance for exploration in the Macquarie Arc, we are excited to deploy Fleet Space's proprietary ExoSphere technology stack and multiphysics surveys at the Wongarbon Project, building upon our relationship with Kincora. These agreements reflect a complete end-to-end deployment of ExoSphere, from target generation to drill testing on a project that offers new district scale potential and has never been drilled. Fleet Space has invested very significantly in the Macquarie Arc and established a unique knowledge of a number of the key porphyry systems and emerging discoveries. We have completed five surveys, including recently at the Boda-Kaiser deposits. Why Because we believe there are further Cadia-scale deposits to be found and that our Exosphere technology will play a fundamental role in uncovering the next one as we continue to enhance mineral systems knowledge worldwide.Wongarbon's geological and geophysical setting is favourably located in a highly prospective area of the Arc. It has clear analogues of the nearby porphyry complexes and existing Tier 1 deposits. We believe the project is at the stage where we can add significant value and mutually share major discovery potential with Kincora."Capital Raising In conjunction with these agreements with Fleet Space, the Company is pleased to announce that it has received binding commitments for a two tranche share placement comprising 33.5m shares at an issue price of $0.038 (C$0.036) per share to raise A$1.27m (C$1.19m) (before costs) with 1:2 attaching option at A$0.075 (C$0.07) with a 2-year term (the "Placement"). The issue price is a 12% discount to the last close price (October 10th, 2024) and 16% discount to the 15 day VWAP (on the ASX).The Offering has been led by strategic investments for A$400,000 (C$373,832) by Fleet Space's investment fund, a new arms-length investor, and Big Ben Holdings, a long-term shareholder of Kincora's maintaining its 12.9% stake.Allotment of tranche 1 of the Placement to professional and sophisticated investors will take place on October 22nd, 2024, with 12.6m shares being issued under Kincora's Listing Rule 7.1 placement capacity. Tranche 2 of the Placement (comprising 20.9m shares and 16.8m attaching options) will be subject to shareholder approval pursuant to a General Meeting, with further details to be provided to shareholders in a Notice of Meeting to be lodged shortly.Subject to shareholder approval, Directors intend to purchase C$50,000 of shares under tranche 2 of the Placement with Fleet Space and Big Ben Holdings also agreeing to participate in tranche 2. Fleet Space has agreed to a 12-month voluntary escrow period.Morgans Corporate Limited acted as Lead Manager to the Placement. A cash transaction cost of 3.9% of the Placement is payable.In addition to the Placement, the Company will issue 11m accrued remuneration shares to Kincora's board and senior management under the Equity Incentive Plan approved by shareholders.Post the proposed issuances, Kincora's total outstanding number of fully issued shared is anticipated to be 291.7m with 69m total options outstanding.Use of FundsThe funds used from the Placement is intended to support:(i) drilling and exploration at the Condobolin Project;(ii) Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) and gravity surveys at the Wongarbon Project with target refinement ahead of Fleet Space's right to drill a minimum of 2000 metres to earn a 20% stake in the Project; and,(iii) offering costs, working capital, new direct application license acquisition and general project generation opportunities.The New Partnership Fleet Space and Kincora have entered an agreement to commence multiphysics surveys at the Wongarbon Project with a path to asset level partnership:1) Fleet Space will have a right to fund a minimum of 2,000m drill program, with drill targets:identified and refined from the multiphysics surveys using Fleet Space's ExoSphere Discovery technology; and,mutually agreed by Kincora and Fleet Space.2) An exercise of the right in 1) will entitle Fleet Space to a 20% equity interest in the Wongarbon Project.3) The right in 1) may be exercised within 6 months of the completion of the multiphysics surveys.4) Should Fleet Space exercise the right, the parties will enter into a Joint Venture Agreement (JV Agreement). Key principles governing the JV Agreement will be customary for such stage exploration project including both parties having the right to provide additional funding maintain their respective ownership interests and dilution provisions should either party not participate in additional project funding, noting that any holder of a project interest less than 10% will have its interest converted to a 1% Net Smelter Return (NSR) royalty.Fleet Space is to be the operator of the multiphysics surveys, with support from Kincora, and Kincora the operator of the drilling program.The multiphysics surveys will comprise real-time 3D Ambient Noise Tomography (ANT) and ground gravity surveys applying industry leading technology to generate and interpret new homogeneous and primary datasets via Fleet Space's proprietary and vertically integrated technology stack, ExoSphere, and be integrated with existing regional geophysical surveys and geological data.While interpretations are ongoing by Kincora, Fleet Space and AngloGold Ashanti the multiphysics surveys have confirmed and refined a regionally significant priority target ahead of imminent drilling. The surveys have also generated a number of previously unrecognised areas of interest and potential new target areas with a final review to integrate the results of the commenced drilling program results in conjunction with AngloGold Ashanti.About the Wongarbon ProjectPegged as open ground and secured only in June 2024, the Wongarbon project (EL9652) covers 173km2 and is interpreted to host one of the last remaining untested and large intrusive complexes of the Macquarie Arc:Regionally significant magmatic complex situated on the interpreted under cover extension of the northern Molong Belt coincident with an intrusive level cross arc structure supporting a series of large and untested porphyry targets.Clear analogues of the nearby complexes and existing Tier 1 deposits in the Arc and aeromagnetic signatures of other globally significant porphyry deposits.Previously identified as a large-scale new intrusive complex target by Newcrest but not drill tested at the time due to focus on the Cadia Far East and Ridgeway discoveries.Recent interpretations support immediate high priority targets for drilling.The Wongarbon project has never been drilled.Alkane and Magmatic Resources' have recently undertaken drilling at a total of seven porphyry targets along a common transverse structure that is interpreted to extend into the Wongarbon Project and be a key control to the 14.7Moz gold equivalent inventory at the Boda and Kaiser porphyry deposits 1. These recent programs have been encouraging with follow up exploration either planned and/or ongoing at these and other regional targets 3.Fleet Space has recently undertaken regional and infill ANT surveys at Alkane's Northern Molong Porphyry Project (NMPP), including the Boda and Kaiser deposits, with analysis and interpretation ongoing. Similar Fleet Space surveys across the Macquarie Arc, including Kincora's Nyngan Project, are noted as having refined and generated multiple new porphyry targets.Further details on the Wongarbon Project, including a detailed project level presentation, are available at: https://kincoracopper.com/wongarbon-project/ (Projects/Wongarbon).Further details on Kincora's wholly owned, district scale project portfolio and drill ready copper-gold porphyry projects are available on the Company's website: https://kincoracopper.com.About Fleet Space Technologies Fleet Space is private and widely recognised as Australia's leading space exploration company. Fleet Space seeks to revolutionise mineral exploration with its vertically integrated technology stack, ExoSphere, which combines the latest advances in satellite connectivity, 3D multiphysics data acquisition, and AI to map mineral systems in real-time.Fleet Space's ExoSphere technology enables an end-to-end approach to high-quality data acquisition, processing, interpretation and targeting to streamline exploration and improve success rates for new economic discoveries.Leveraging Fleet Space's proprietary satellite network in low Earth orbit, smart seismic sensors enabled with edge computing and rapid data processing, ExoSphere delivers real-time 3D mapping of mineral systems and AI-powered drill targeting with near-zero environmental impact.In the last quarter, Barrick Gold announced it would partner with Fleet Space to survey copper porphyry complexes across 1,150km² of the world-class Reko Diq project 4 and in the last month Gold Fields announced a similar relationship to advance exploration at the Salares Norte project in Chile 5.Recently, Inflection Resources' announced new targets generated by ExoSphere, leading AngloGold to accelerate their Exploration Agreement and drilling with Inflection 5. Inflection and Fleet Space have also recently announced the results of the world's largest real-time ANT survey across 1818km², built an AI-powered district scale copper prospectivity map which, when integrated with other existing datasets (including airborne magnetics and gravity), has resulted in four new priority targets, three of which are within 2km's of Kincora wider project portfolio in the northern Junee-Narromine Belt 6.ExoSphere's rapid global adoption has propelled Fleet Space's exponential growth, including a A$50 million Series C funding round, a doubling of its valuation to A$350 million, plans to send a variant of ExoSphere to the Moon in 2026, and recognition as Australia's fastest growing company 2.For more information please visit Fleet Space's website at https://www.fleetspace.com.About Kincora Kincora Copper is dual listed on the ASX and TSX-V (ticker "KCC") and is an active explorer and project generator focused on world-class copper-gold discoveries that has recently executed five agreements that unlock up to >A$60 million in multiple year partner funding. Further new projects that offer a clear value path and targeted partnerships are proposed.Kincora's portfolio includes district scale landholdings and scale-able drill ready targets in both Australia and Mongolia's leading porphyry belts, the Macquarie Arc and Southern Gobi, respectively, and, the Company is targeting exposure to 10,000-30,000m pa of drilling.For more information please visit Kincora's website at www.kincoracopper.comReferences:(1) Annual Resources & Reserves Statement FY24 - Alkane Resources Limited (ticker ALK.ASX) release September 4, 2024(2) According to the Australian Financial Review (2023)(3) 2Q'2024 Quarterly Activities Reports - Alkane Resources Limited and Magmatic Resources Limited (ticker MAG.ASX)(4) ANT geophysics defines additional epithermal-porphyry targets at Spur Project - Waratah press release May 23, 2024(5) Reimaging porphyry copper exploration using Exosphere: Ambient Noise Tomography from the Duck Creek project, Macquarie - Fleet and Inflection Case Study 2023 (6) Completes 1,800Km2 Ambient Noise Tomography Survey Across Portfolio of Projects in New South Wales - Inflection press release July 10, 2024(7) Fleet Space's Exosphere Enhances Barrick Gold's Data-Driven Copper Exploration at Reko Diq - Fleet Space press release July 9, 2024(8) Gold Fields Taps ExoSphere To Advance Exploration at Salares Norte in Chile - Fleet Space release October 3, 2024(9) Inflection Resources Defines New Priority Targets Based on Results of Regional ANT Survey in New South Wales - Inflection press release September 12, 2024This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Kincora Copper Limited (ARBN 645 457 763)For further information please contact: Sam Spring, President and Chief Executive Officer sam.spring@kincoracopper.com or +61 431 329 345Executive office400 - 837 West Hastings Street Vancouver, BC V6C 3N6, CanadaTel: 1.604.283.1722 Fax: 1.888.241.5996Subsidiary office Australia Vista Australia Level 4, 100 Albert RoadSouth Melbourne, Victoria 3205Qualified Person The scientific and technical information in this announcement was prepared in accordance with the standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum and National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and was reviewed, verified and compiled by Kincora's staff under the supervision of Peter Leaman (M.Sc. Mineral Exploration, FAusIMM), Senior Vice-President of Exploration of Kincora, and John Holliday (BSc Hons, BEc, member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists), Non-Executive Director and Chairman of Kincora's Technical Committee, who are Qualified Person(s) for the purpose of NI 43-101.JORC Competent Person StatementInformation in this announcement that relates to Exploration Results, Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves are those that have been previously reported (with the original release referred to in this announcement) and the Company is not aware of any new information or data which materially affect the information included in those prior reports and, in the case of Mineral Resources or Ore Reserves the material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates have not materially changed, and have been reviewed and approved by John Holliday and Peter Leaman, who are Competent Person(s) under the definition established by JORC and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves'. John Holliday and Peter Leaman consent to the inclusion in this report of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears. The review and verification process for the information disclosed herein for Kincora's projects have included the receipt of all material exploration data, results and sampling procedures of previous operators and review of such information by Kincora's geological staff using standard verification procedures.Forward-Looking StatementsCertain information regarding Kincora contained herein may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements may include estimates, plans, expectations, opinions, forecasts, projections, guidance or other statements that are not statements of fact. Although Kincora believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Kincora cautions that actual performance will be affected by a number of factors, most of which are beyond its control, and that future events and results may vary substantially from what Kincora currently foresees. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration results, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions. The forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The information contained herein is stated as of the current date and is subject to change after that date. Kincora does not assume the obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) or the Australian Securities Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/226763 Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

The Electronics Fair and electronicAsia attract more than 60,000 buyers

- The two major electronics fairs concluded today, attracting over 60,000 industry buyers from 136 countries and regions- 53% of respondents in an on-site survey expect overall sales to increase over the next 12-24 months, while 43% expect sales to remain stable- Most respondents believe there is a “very promising” or “promising” market potential for wearable electronic products (65%) and robotics technology (59%)HONG KONG, Oct 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and electronicAsia, jointly organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia Pte Ltd, concluded their physical exhibitions today.The four-day events attracted more than 60,000 industry buyers from 136 countries and regions. The number of buyers from Malaysia, Türkiye, Argentina and the UAE increased from last year. This reflects the exhibitions' status as important sourcing platforms for the industry.Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "The global trend towards smart living is driving demand for innovative products and solutions. The Electronics Fair and electronicAsia serve as efficient platforms for the industry, enabling exhibitors to showcase their electronic products and technology solutions to buyers. We are pleased to see exhibitors and buyers successfully exploring business opportunities at the exhibitions, which are expediting Hong Kong's development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre.”In late October, the HKTDC will host the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo and ECO Expo Asia to create more cross-industry business opportunities.Industry optimistic about India, the Middle East, Latin AmericaAn independent survey agency commissioned by the HKTDC interviewed 1,091 Electronics Fair buyers and exhibitors about growth prospects for the industry. 53% of respondents expect overall sales to increase in the next 12-24 months, while 43% anticipate that they will remain stable. Most respondents believe that the electronics industry has the most growth potential in emerging markets, such as India, the Middle East and Latin America over the next two years, followed by Korea, Mainland China, Australia and the Pacific Islands.In terms of trends in electronic products, most respondents believe there is a “very promising” or “promising” market potential for wearable electronic products (65%) and robotics technology (59%).Meanwhile, 56% of respondents believe that the market potential for e-sports products and equipment is high. Most respondents consider these products to have the greatest growth potential in North America and Northern and Western Europe.Exhibitors attract quality buyers at fairsThis year's Electronics Fair featured more than 20 zones, gathering the latest electronic products and innovative solutions from global exhibitors in areas such as smart cities, smart mobility, gerontechnology and digital entertainment.First-time exhibitor and Founder of Zunosaki Limited, Newmen Ho, promoted the company's hand rehabilitation robot in the Startup Zone, seeking Mainland China and overseas distributors, partners and investors. In the first half of the exhibition, he met potential buyers from Taiwan’s nursing homes and from Korea. Additionally, a buyer from India expressed interest in applying the company's robotic hand technology across different industries.Hong Kong's renowned consumer electronics brand Momax achieved impressive results at the fair. The company's Founder and CEO John Cheng stated that in the first two days of the Fair, the team met some 60 buyers from the Asia-Pacific region and Europe. Momax also formed a long-term partnership with a publicly listed company in Papua New Guinea and is currently discussing an initial order valued at US$50,000.Additionally, through HKTDC’s Click2Match smart business matching platform, the company connected with another quality buyer from Australia, with the intent to collaborate long-term. Mr Cheng said: "Hong Kong's exhibitions are world-class, featuring high-quality buyers from a diverse range of countries. This year's Autumn Electronics Fair saw a significant turnout, and the buyers were very engaged. We will definitely participate again next year."Dongguan Maochang Printed Circuit Board Ltd, which develops technological solutions, participated in electronicAsia to stay updated on industry trends and identify potential buyers. The company's Sales Director, Michael Tsang, said: "Expanding onto the international stage is our primary goal for participating in the exhibition. I am glad that we met with over 200 potential buyers in the first three days to gain a deeper understanding of customer needs."Buyer seeks new products to expand marketVinal Patel, Chief Commercial Officer of UK buyer Brand Collective, has been attending the Electronics Fair for over 20 years. During the first two days of this year's fair, he secured over US$2 million worth of purchases, including charging cables, power banks and wireless speakers from two exhibitors. He is also considering expanding the range of products he distributes after discovering new offerings at the Fair. Mr Patel said: "The line-up at the exhibition gets better every year, even more impressive than before the pandemic. I will definitely participate in the Electronics Fairs in April and October in the future."Turkish buyer and Co-founder of Robotistan Elektronik Tic AS, Yusuf Gündogdu, visited electronicAsia with a purchasing budget of around U$100,000-200,000 for electronic products. He said: "The Electronics Fair is the best opportunity for me to interact face-to-face with exhibitors from around the world. I always find the best prices here. Meeting the founders of start-ups in the Startup Zone excites me. These companies are poised to become some of the best in the future and will drive market development through innovation, which I eagerly look forward to."The organisers held 78 events and forums during the exhibitions, inviting industry leaders to share unique insights and the latest industry information. These events included the Symposium on Innovation & Technology, Hong Kong Electronic Forum and Reliability Assurance for Electronic Systems Forum. Other on-site activities catered to start-ups, including investment matching, the Hong Kong Value Creation for Technology: Pitching Competition, Meet the Mentors sessions and Start-up Smart Launch.Under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, exhibitors and buyers can use the Click2Match smart business matching platform to conduct online meetings, in addition to attending the physical fair. Exhibitors and buyers can still explore business opportunities and conduct online negotiations through Click2Match until 23 October.Photo Download:https://bit.ly/3BVmX2RHong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia successfully concluded. The four-day events attracted over 60,000 buyers from 136 countries and regionsThis year's Symposium on Innovation & Technology, themed 'When Two Worlds Collide: The Confluence of Digital Twins & Real-Life Applications', featured heavyweight guests and attracted numerous industry professionalsThe Hall of Fame gathered consumer electronic products from renowned brands worldwide. Among them, Asia Kingston (HK) Limited, specialising in brand licensing, presented a gaming chair featuring the NASA logoLocal brands, including well-known electronic brand Momax, promoted their products to global buyersThe Tech Hall showcased products using a variety of cutting-edge technologies, including 3D printing, Internet of Things, robotics, AR and XRThis year's Electronics Fair introduced a Digital Entertainment Experience Zone, where buyers could try and explore products on-siteThe concurrent electronicAsia featured multiple zones, exhibiting products, such as electronic components and parts, keyboards and switches, power supply equipment and moreThe Hong Kong Electronic Forum, co-organised by the HKTDC, MMI Asia Pte Ltd and the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, was themed “Innovation Unleashed: The Intersection of Microelectronics, AI, and Open-Source Ecosystems”WebsitesHong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition):  hkelectronicsfairae/enelectronicAsia: electronicasia/enMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Katy WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgSnowy ChanTel: (852) 2584 4525Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong ’s trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

HKTDC welcomes 2024 Policy Address

HONG KONG, Oct 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) welcomes the 2024 Policy Address, delivered today by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s (HKSAR) Chief Executive John Lee.The Policy Address presents a comprehensive set of measures, ranging from the economy and trade and people’s livelihood to high-calibre talent attraction and youth development. Leveraging Hong Kong’s one country, two systems advantages, the policies will fuel the city’s continued economic growth.Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said: “The Policy Address highlights the Hong Kong SAR Government’s efforts in seeking innovation and change, while striving for excellence. It addresses a wide range of areas covering economic growth, trade and investment, SME support, culture and creative as well as construction and planning. Riding on Hong Kong’s eight centre advantages, the Policy Address promotes new quality productive forces and high-quality economic development.”The annual address announced various measures to reinforce the city’s status as an international financial, shipping and trading centre. Dr Lam believed the move echoes the 20th Central Committee’s Third Plenary Session’s Resolution to develop Hong Kong into a supply chain service centre: “The HKTDC will continue to proactively promote Hong Kong’s eight centre advantages and enhance the development of high value-added supply chain services. We will step up cooperation with InvestHK to set up a mechanism and enhance the interface for attracting mainland enterprises to establish their international or regional headquarters in Hong Kong and provide one-stop diversified professional advisory services to help them go global via the Hong Kong platform.”He added that the HKTDC will strengthen advisory services of its Transformation Sandbox (T-box) programme to cover a wider range of areas and support Hong Kong enterprises as well as mainland companies in Hong Kong in regard to business transformation, sustainable development and operational upgrade. Businesses are encouraged to leverage the HKTDC’s trade platforms and events to go global and explore international market opportunities, especially in the high-potential ASEAN region.Dr Lam welcomed the HKSAR Government’s SME support measures, including the relaunch of the Principal Moratorium scheme, a HK$1 billion injection into the BUD Fund and an additional HK$500 million provision for the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0. He believes the measures will foster SMEs’ sustainable development and reinforce Hong Kong’s role as a leading convention and exhibition hub.The Policy Address stated the Hong Kong Shopping Festival will be relaunched in the next two years to help SMEs tap into the mainland e-commerce sales market. Dr Lam said: “The inaugural Hong Kong Shopping Festival organised by the HKTDC in August this year received an enthusiastic response. Not only did it raise participants’ brand exposure, but also provided them with practical experience in e-commerce operations. We will build on this year’s success and host the second edition of the Festival next August, and in the ASEAN market in due course, to enable Hong Kong SMEs to explore market opportunities via e-commerce and social media platforms.”To help SMEs understand e-commerce marketing, the HKTDC will publish research reports and analyses on e-commerce ecosystems in different markets, such as ASEAN, to help businesses lay a solid foundation in e-commerce operations. Through its Digital Academy and Design Gallery’s (DG) cross-border e-commerce shops on Taobao and JD International, the HKTDC has been offering comprehensive support to Hong Kong SMEs to leverage diverse e-commerce and digital marketing channels to explore mainland opportunities. DG’s 70 physical sales network in the mainland serve as an ideal platform to promote Hong Kong brands in the region. As for the ASEAN market, the HKTDC’s DG Studio programme helps connect local businesses with ASEAN physical retailers and e-commerce platforms.In terms of strengthening SMEs’ brand development, the HKTDC will continue to organise some 40 international exhibitions and conferences in Hong Kong every year. We will also set up more Hong Kong Pavilions in mainland and overseas exhibitions and further enhance business matching, to support SMEs in developing their brand and tapping global opportunities.On promotion of Hong Kong's cultural and creative industries, as mentioned in the Policy Address, more Hong Kong, mainland and overseas cultural and creative products will be added to the Asia IP Exchange (AsiaIPEX), managed by the HKTDC, to facilitate cross-sector exchanges and cooperation and contribute to Hong Kong’s development into a regional IP trading centre. Currently, the platform displays more than 28,000 IP projects available for trading. The HKTDC will continue to promote cultural and creative products as well as IP transformation and trading on its platforms, such as the Business of IP Asia Forum, Hong Kong International Licensing Show and the Hong Kong International Film and TV Market.Dr Lam also welcomed measures addressing new quality productive forces, the Northern Metropolis, digital economy and silver economy, which will help Hong Kong businesses further explore opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Belt and Road countries and regions.Addressing the reduction of the liquor duty rate, Dr Lam believes that the move will strengthen related trade and further promote Hong Kong as a regional wine trading hub. He added that the 16th Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair will be held from 7 to 9 November, which will showcase fine wines from around the world, including liquors and white wines in the mainland pavilions, whiskeys from Japan and Ireland and spirits from around the world. Fair seminars will highlight the prospects of Hong Kong’s spirits market, while Chinese liquor promotional events will help the industry seize new opportunities.In conclusion, Dr Lam said: "The HKTDC will continue to support and complement national development and the Hong Kong SAR Government's policies. We will work closely with the business community to leverage Hong Kong's advantages and promote sustainable economic growth."Media enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC’s Communication & Public Affairs Department:Sam HoTel: (852) 2584 4589Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.orgTo view press releases in Chinese, please visit http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tcAbout HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

Eng Kong has installed Singapore’s first automated seal dispenser system in one of their container depots

- Eng Kong is the first depot in Singapore to trial and customised this technology, after several locations such as Korea's HMM PSA New-port Terminal in Busan who has also adopted similar technology.- The Singapore version is environmentally friendly as it will address carbon emissions, carbon footprint and reduce air pollution due to paperless processing.- Significant productivity, safety and manpower advantages with process times halved. Drivers can remain in their vehicles while streamlining the depot administration process.- Eng Kong plans to expand the system to its other Singapore depots by 1Q2025, potentially boosting efficiency and boosting throughput.SINGAPORE, Oct 17, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - EKH Pte Ltd. (“Eng Kong” or the “Company”, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), one of Asia-Pacific’s largest shipping container depot operators, has installed and customised Singapore’s first automated container seal dispenser systems to fit their depot’s Container Management Systems (CMS) systems.The Group intends to expand the system to its other three Singapore depots by 1Q2025 and eventually its mega depot 3Q2026. Eng Kong’s mega depot, spanning 80,000 square metres, will be Singapore’s largest depot. The system will have significant productivity, safety and manpower advantages compared to traditional methods.Container seals are required to prevent theft and unauthorized access to the container contents. Previously, the seal collection process was highly manual, administrative and time-consuming, taking an average of 30 minutes before drivers could obtain seals.Eng Kong's wholly owned subsidiary, Eng Kong Container Agencies Pte Ltd, has installed and customised Singapore’s first fully automated seal dispenser system which has helped cut collection time by half. The system is fully localized for Eng Kong’s depots, ensuring seamless integration with their current logistics infrastructure.Drivers now follow a seamless and safer flow, and no longer need to disembark their vehicles - much like a drive through. Upon entering the depot, time-consuming procedures are now eased up with the use Automated Gate Registration, Acceptance and Payment Functions with the use of Depot Appointment Information and Licensed Plate Recognition (LTR) Licensed Plate Recognition (LPR) technology and a cashless payment system. The driver then collects and quality-checks the container and seals at the automated seal dispenser.Labour shortage pressures could be further eased through automation, drivers will be able to transport more containers, and administrative staff could be trained for more strategic positions.In Singapore, a total of 39.01 million TEUs were processed in 2023(1). At Eng Kong’s domestic depots, the introduction of automated seal dispensers is expected to significantly boost efficiency. As each minute saved per container adds up significantly, it has been estimated that this new initiative can save up to an estimated 50,000 of man-hours per annum for the entire process from the time the driver arrives, processing, mounting the containers and collecting the seal from the dispenser machine near the entrance. These time savings will enable for reskilling the staff to other job opportunities, enhancing workforce capabilities and booth the driver(s) earning, while increase efficiency.Additionally, Singapore’s handling capacity is expected to double once the PSA Tuas Port is completed in 2040(2). Traffic congestion around busy depots will be eased and safety for drivers improved as they no longer alight their vehicles. Labour shortage pressures could be further eased through automation, drivers will be able to transport more containers, and administrative staff could be trained for more strategic positions.Paul Ng, Co-Chairman of Eng Kong said, “As one of Singapore’s largest depot operators, we are committed to improving operational efficiency, reducing manual labour dependency and improving the safety of our depots. As Singapore’s depots transition to Tuas, which is set to be the world’s largest automated port, investing in automated solutions will allow Eng Kong to remain at the forefront of this digital transformation. The world is watching Singapore and depot operators have a role to play in embracing technology and integrating advanced solutions, driving progress across the industry.”(1) S’pore port handled record 39.01 million shipping containers in 2023, Straits Times, 13 Jan 2024(2) World’s largest automated terminal: PSA Tuas Port pioneering automation transformation with event-driven architecture, Seatrade Maritime News, 14 Feb 2024About Eng KongFounded in 1975, Eng Kong is an integrated logistics operator and a key provider of container related services to global firms operating in the Asia-Pacific region. In 1986, Eng Kong broadened its business portfolio to become regional player. Eng Kong operates 20 fully integrated container depots spanning across Singapore, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam, totalling 705,100 sq. meters.Eng Kong provides comprehensive depot related services such as storage and handling, repair and maintenance, and new build container inspection and survey. Transportation. Over the years, we have established a sound reputation for reliable, cost-efficient service.For more information, please visit https://www.engkong.com.                            Issued for and on behalf of EKH Pte. Ltd.By Financial PRFor more information, please contact:Kamal SAMUEL / LEE Ke Wei E-mail: kamal@financialpr.com.sg / kewei@financialpr.com.sgTel: +64 6438 2990 Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

MarTech Leader WebEngage Gets Momentum in Asia Pacific

- Company aims to revolutionise customer engagement for B2C businesses through insights-driven strategies and retention consulting - Momentum in Asia Pacific is witnessed on the back of proven incremental results delivered for iconic businesses like PFI Mega Life, Unilever, Arabian Oud, and PasarPolis, among others - WebEngage has established a dedicated team of growth consultants and domain experts based out of Jakarta, Indonesia as well as a strong and expanding partner ecosystem in the region including Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines   Jakarta, Indonesia & Mumbai, India, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN/NewsVoir) - According to an IDC report, Generative AI investments in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are projected to reach $110 billion in the next four years with AI-powered insights and solutions expected to transform the future of business. With this region set to drive technological progress, WebEngage, a global leader in retention consulting and customer engagement, has today announced its expansion in the Asia Pacific market. The company aims to revolutionise how businesses in the APAC region engage with their customers by offering a comprehensive suite of tools to empower marketers to create personalized and effective campaigns. With ambitious goals to achieve 5x growth by 2027, this strategic move aims to leverage the region's thriving startup ecosystem and digital-first legacy businesses. WebEngage is set to enhance customer experiences and drive sustainable growth in APAC for B2C brands with advanced, AI-powered, insights-driven strategies. Hetarth Patel, Vice President of Growth Markets (MEA, Americas, APAC), WebEngage, emphasized the importance of APAC as a key market for the company, given the rising demand for customer engagement solutions fueled by the region's dynamic digital economy. He stated, “In today's competitive landscape, businesses are increasingly realizing the necessity of hyper-personalized customer engagement to foster loyalty and improve Customer Lifetime Value. Our AI-powered CDP, personalisation engine and engagement suite have been delivering consistent uplift of revenue and margins to businesses in the Asia Pacific market for clients such as PFI Mega Life, Unilever, Arabian Oud, and PasarPolis, among others. We aim to become the most preferred marketing automation and customer engagement platform partner for businesses in Asia Pacific by 2027. We are also building a strong ecosystem of partners such as Global System Integrators, Consulting Houses and Digital Marketing Agencies across Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines.” The current landscape reveals a significant gap in generative AI adoption among businesses, limiting their ability to create hyper-personalised content and conduct experimentation. "Our goal is to change that narrative," Patel stated. "By integrating our proven AI capabilities packed for specific industries and sub-industries, businesses can unlock new levels of creativity and efficiency." WebEngage is dedicated to a long-term growth strategy in APAC, focusing on innovation to address the market's unique needs. The company has established a strong foothold with prominent clients such as PFI Mega Life, PasarPolis, TyrAds, QBFoods, and MedsGo, spanning industries including e-commerce, retail, finance, and more. WebEngage clients have witnessed a remarkable uplift in revenues and margins by up to 40% across industries. WebEngage is a leading marketing automation platform that delivers customized marketing analytics solutions. By leveraging first-party data and actionable insights, WebEngage has empowered over 800 brands across India, the Middle East & Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia to develop personalised engagement strategies tailored to their unique customer needs. For more information about WebEngage, visit the website: https://webengage.com/ About WebEngage: WebEngage helps consumer brands engage and retain their customers towards higher lifetime value and marketing ROI. The product stack includes a robust customer data and analytics platform - unifying data across silos, the best-in-class engagement layer with a multi-channel journey builder, and a personalization engine that helps boost conversion for all channels, including the web and mobile apps. Ranked #1 consistently across all review platforms on ease of use and comprehensiveness of the platform, WebEngage is used by 800+ brands across India, the Middle East & Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asian markets. The roster across E-Commerce & Travel,  Edtech, BFSI & Fintech industries includes brands like Unilever, Walmart, Airtel, Myntra, L'Occitane, Cipla, Reliance General Insurance, Tata Mutual Fund, Unacademy, Pepperfry, GoIbibo, Adani One, PFI Mega Life, PasarPolis, Wego, Groww, Acko, Blackberrys among others. For media enquiries APRW: Ferry Prihardiputra H/P: +62 817 526 8638 E-mail: ferry@aprw.asia WebEngage: Anand Vaidya Mobile: +91 99300 58087 E-mail: anand.vaidya@webengage.com WebEngage: Simone Chhabda Mobile: +91 9619128455 E-mail: simone.chhabda@webengage.com

2024-10-17

Athos Announces Positive Topline Phase 1 Data for its AI-Generated, Novel, Oral G9A Inhibitor ATH-063, Demonstrating Selective Expansion and Activation of Potent Anti-Inflammatory Regulatory T Cells

ATH-063 significantly increased the number of circulating regulatory T cells (Tregs) across all doses and demonstrated enrichment in six well-described genes related to induced Treg anti-inflammatory activitiesNo serious adverse effects or dose limiting toxicities were observed at any dose level, and ATH-063 demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetics (PK) The data provides clinical verification for Athos’ Proprietary AI2 (Artificial Intelligence for Autoimmune drug development) computational software platform which generated ATH-063LOS ANGELES, CA, Oct 17, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Athos Therapeutics, Inc. ("Athos"), a clinical stage biotechnology company pioneering the development of precision small molecule therapeutics for patients with immune-mediated diseases, today announced topline results for the company's Phase 1 clinical trial of ATH-063, an investigational oral small molecule G9A inhibitor and the company's lead asset in development for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).The clinical trial was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy volunteers designed to evaluate safety and PK as well as provide pharmacodynamic (PD) data to provide confirmation of ATH-063's proposed mechanism of action. The trial was conducted as sequential single ascending dose (SAD) (n=32) and multiple ascending dose (MAD) (n=32) arms, and a separate food-effect (FE) (n=12) arm. Four doses (25, 75, 150, and 250 mg) of ATH-063 were administered orally.PD data showed ATH-063 selective expansion and activation of Tregs, consistent with predictions made by Athos' AI2 platform:Statistically significant increases (p<0.001) in the number of blood Tregs were observed at all ATH-063 dose levels compared to placebo subjects, and demonstrated correlation between ATH-063 blood levels and number of TregsBlood ATH-063 concentration positively correlated with increase in multiple key biomarkers of Treg activity, including strong correlation with FOXP3 (p=0.003)Induced Tregs demonstrated enrichment of six well-described genes related to Treg anti-inflammatory activitiesSTAT5A, a key signaling molecule related to induced Tregs, was activated in all cohorts and doses (p=0.0003)PD data demonstrated correlation with key biomarkers of IBD disease activity, supporting further development of ATH-063 as a treatment for IBD:Blood ATH-063 concentration correlated (p=0.012)with reduction of OSM, a well-established biomarker related to TNFA resistanceBlood ATH-063 concentration correlated with reduction of calprotectin monomers, which is an established biomarker for IBDATH-063 was well tolerated across all dose groups: No serious adverse effect or dose limiting toxicities were observed at any dose levelRobust PK results and dose proportional increases in blood levels: ATH-063 showed favorable PK results with dose-proportional increases in blood ATH-063 concentrations throughout the study"The results of our first-in-human clinical trial of ATH-063 exceeded our high expectations," said Dimitrios Iliopoulos, PhD, MBA, Founder, President & CEO, Athos. "We used the Athos AI2 drug development platform to identify a previously unrecognized and novel therapeutic target, to create ATH-063, and to preclinically predict the compound's proposed mechanisms of action. We are delighted that these Phase 1 results serve as clinical verification for the predictions made by the Athos AI2 computational engine" added Dr. Iliopoulos."Our Phase 1 data showed that once daily, oral dosing of ATH-063 was well tolerated and showed expansion of Tregs," commented Allan Pantuck, MD, MS, FACS, Chairman, Founder & CMO. "We are excited to move to our next stage of clinical development in subjects with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. The rapid pace of the ATH-063 program, from initial target identification to a completed Phase 1 trial, was enabled by the use of our innovative approach to leveraging Artificial Intelligence for drug development."About ATH-063ATH-063 is a novel, investigational, AI-generated, oral, small molecule, G9A inhibitor in development for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease and other autoimmune diseases. G9A is a central hub on a gene network that was identified by the Athos AI2 platform through the integration of multi-omic and longitudinal clinical data from Athos' IBD biorepository. ATH-063 is designed to directly target G9A enzymatic activity in human CD4 T cells and GI epithelial cells, acting both by suppressing pro-inflammatory responses through expansion and activation of regulatory T cells and inducing direct mucosal healing through regulation of tight junction proteins.About Athos TherapeuticsAthos Therapeutics is a clinical stage biotechnology company seeking to develop potential first-in-class therapeutics that significantly impact the lives of patients with autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammatory diseases. The Athos drug development platform begins with over 25,000 high-quality patient samples sourced from premier global hospital systems. Athos' AI2 platform identifies novel drug targets by integrating multi-omic and longitudinal clinical datasets and matches them to its small molecule computational chemistry platform. The AI2 platform includes the Athos data lake, singular well-established omics workflows, and an integrative deep machine learning engine. The company's lead drug compound is ATH-063, an investigational, oral small molecule G9A inhibitor for inflammatory bowel disease.Athos is also developing a pipeline of additional small molecule approaches for various autoimmune diseases.Additional information about Athos Therapeutics can be found at https://athostx.com/Contact:Athos Therapeutics, Inc.Keith Hoffman, PhD, Chief Business Officerkhoffman@athostx.comSOURCE: Athos Therapeutics, Inc. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-17

Doubleview Announces First Drill Results of This Season

Highlights:62.0m of 1.12% Cu, 0.79 g/t Au, and 23.9 g/t Sc (1.81 % CuEq*, not incl. Sc)in 154.0m of 0.66% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, and 24 g/t Sc (1.07% CuEq*, not incl. Sc) Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 16, 2024) - Doubleview (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (FSE: 1D4) (the "Company or "Doubleview") is pleased to announce the first set of drill hole assay results from its 2024 drilling campaign at its 100% owned Hat polymetallic porphyry in northwestern British Columbia.Highlights and significant downhole intervals include the following:Drill hole H072:686.0m of 0.23% Cu, 0.16 g/t Au, 64 g/t Co, 0.33 g/t Ag and 25.7 g/t Sc (0.38% CuEq*)including 154.0m of 0.66% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 112 g/t Co, 0.96 g/t Ag and 24 g/t Sc (1.07% CuEq*)including 62.0m of 1.12% Cu, 0.79 g/t Au, 173 g/t Co, 1.62 g/t Ag and 23.9 g/t Sc (1.81 % CuEq*)including 2.0m of 5% Cu, 2.96 g/t Au, 511 g/t Co, 5.03 g/t Ag and 7 g/t Sc (7.48% CuEq*)Drill hole H073:109m of 0.29% Cu, 0.21 g/t Au, 83 g/t Co, 0.47 g/t Ag and 29.6 g/t Sc (0.5% CuEq*).Drill hole H074:128 m of 0.18%Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 82 g/t Co, 0.29 g/t Ag and 29 g/t Sc (0.33% CuEq*)(Note 1: CuEq currently does not include the Scandium)H073, depth: 420m, strong chalcopyrite mineralization.To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_001full.jpgThe recent drill holes were strategically directed towards untested central areas of the Lisle Zone, which are integral to the block model developed by our consulting team for the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE). All three drill holes are situated within the mineral resource pit, as detailed in Doubleview's news release dated July 25, 2024. These drill results not only validate the existing block model but also provide additional data that enhances our confidence in its accuracy. In preparation for the upcoming enhanced resource estimate for the Hat deposit, our primary objective of demonstrating continuity, increasing the density of data, and further improving the quality of the geological models, has been successfully achieved. The three cross sections included in this release illustrate the intersected mineralization within the Hat polymetallic mineral deposit, highlighting the mineralized blocks for each drill hole.Figure 1: Drill hole H072To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_002full.jpgFigure 2: Drill hole H073To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_003full.jpgFigure 3: Drill hole H074To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_004full.jpgFarshad Shirvani, President and CEO, comments that, "The objectives of the 2024 drilling program are to enhance the data intensity where it is warranted, identify additional near surface copper and gold mineralization, and increase the tonnage and volume of the Hat deposit. These drill holes provide important geological information and data that bridge the area between drill holes H034 and H031, H012 and H071 while verifying the block model. We are pleased to see the years of work on the Hat project come to fruition, particularly to see the continuation of long intervals of strong copper mineralization."Table 1 lists significant assay intercepts of drill holes H072 to H074DDHFrom (m)To (m)Length (m)**Cu (%)Au (g/t)Co (g/t)Ag (g/t)Sc (g/t)CuEq (%) not incl Sc*H07262.0686.0624.00.230.16640.3325.70.38incl.80.0586.6506.60.270.19710.3825.80.45incl.161.7543.0381.30.340.25810.4726.10.57incl.382.0536.0154.00.660.461120.9624.01.07incl.382.0384.02.05.002.965115.037.07.48incl.411.0536.0125.00.700.501171.0623.91.14incl.440.0502.062.01.120.791731.6223.91.81incl.452.0463.011.02.361.953453.1717.03.99H073159.0424.0265.00.160.15760.2926.30.32incl.282.0424.0142.00.250.18820.4129.40.43incl.315.0424.0109.00.290.21830.4729.60.50incl.378.0424.046.00.420.31890.6927.50.70H07495.8409.0313.30.120.12880.2526.40.26incl.148.0195.047.00.090.121060.1722.70.24incl.281.0409.0128.00.180.14820.2929.00.33 Notes:- Metal equivalents should not be relied upon for future evaluations.- Drill hole intercepts included in this news release are core lengths that may or may not be true widths of mineralization. It is not possible to determine true widths.- Parameters used to calculate Copper Equivalent:Au price (US$/oz): 1900; Ag price (US$/oz): 24; Cu price (US$/lb): 4; Co price (US$/lb): 22.Au recovery: 89.0%; Ag recovery: 68.0%; Cu recovery: 84.0%; Co recovery: 78.0%.* Copper Equivalent CalculationCuEq in % = ([Ag grade in ppm] *24*0.68/31.1035 + [Au grade in ppm] *1900*.89/31.1035 + 0.0001* [Co grade in ppm] *22*0.78*22.0462 + 0.0001* [Cu grade in ppm] *4*0.84*22.0462)/(4*22.0462*0.84). Scandium is not part of the copper equivalent calculation.** Downhole core lengths, true widths are unknownTable 2 illustrates the location and direction of the reported drill holes:DDH IDUTM-EastUTM-NorthElevation (m)Max-Depth (m)Azimuth (°)Dip (°)H072347,8666,453,952956.576121275H073347,8666,453,952956.577122585H074347,8666,453,952956.560926285 H073, depth 563.8m: Chalcopyrite mineralization (+ spotty Pyrite) in Epidote veinTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_005full.jpgH074, depth 412m: Chalcopyrite mineralizationTo view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_006full.jpgQuality Assurance and Quality Control:Core samples were prepared at the North Vancouver facility of ALS Canada Ltd. using their PREP-31, PGM-ICP24, ME-MS61, and ME-ICP06 packages. Each core sample is dried, then crushed to 70% passing a 2mm screen. All material is processed in an automatic Riffle splitter to yield a 250g homogenized, representative sample. This sub-sample is then pulverized to 85% passing a 75-micron screen. All samples are analyzed for Au, Pt, Pd by 50g fire-assay fusion/ICP-ES finish, using PGM-ICP24 package. A separate 0.25g pulp split is analyzed by Four Acid digestion/ICP-MS finish, reporting 48 elements. Over limit elements are analyzed by Ore Grade Four Acid digestion/ICP-ES finish using ME-OG62 assay package. All of Doubleview's core samples are analyzed or assayed at independent ISO 17025 and ISO 9001- certified laboratories.Doubleview maintains a website at www.doubleview.ca.Qualified Persons:Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview's Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.About Doubleview Gold CorpA mineral resource exploration and development company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GER: A1W038), and (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview focuses on identifying, acquiring, and financing precious and base metal exploration projects across North America, with a strong emphasis on British Columbia. The company enhances shareholder value through the acquisition and exploration of high-quality gold, copper, cobalt, scandium, and silver projects-collectively critical minerals-utilizing cutting-edge exploration techniques.Doubleview's success is deeply rooted in the unwavering support of its long-term shareholders, supporters, and institutional investors. Their ongoing commitment has been instrumental in advancing the company's strategic initiatives. Doubleview looks forward to further collaborative growth and development and continues to welcome active participation from its valued stakeholders as the company expands its portfolio and strengthens its position in the critical minerals sector.About the Hat Polymetallic DepositThe Hat Deposit, located in northwestern British Columbia, is a polymetallic porphyry project with major resources of copper, gold, cobalt, and the potential for scandium. As one of the region's significant sources of critical minerals, the Hat deposit has undergone targeted exploration and development. The 0.2% CuEq cut-off resource estimate, as of the recently completed Mineral Resource Estimate and the Company's July 25, 2024 news release, is summarized below:Open Pit Model HatResource CategoryTonnageAverage GradeMetal ContentCuEqCuCoAuAgCuEqCuCoAuAgMt%%%g/tg/tmillion lbmillionlbmillionlbthousand ozthousand ozIn PitIndicated1500.4080.2210.0080.190.421,353733289292,045Inferred4770.3440.1850.0090.150.493,6191,945912,3287,575 Scandium potential for the Hat Deposit is estimated to be 300 to 500 million tonnes at an average grade of 40 ppm (0.004%) Sc2O3.For further details, please refer to the Company's July 25, 2024 news release.On behalf of the Board of Directors,Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive OfficerFor further information please contact:Doubleview Gold CorpVancouver, BC Farshad ShirvaniPresident & CEOInstitutional Investor Line: (604) 607-5470T: (604) 678-9587E: corporate@doubleview.caNEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/226781 Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-16

Fosun Secures EUR670 Million for Completion of Ageas Sale

HONG KONG, Oct 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - According to Ageas's press release, BNP Paribas notified Ageas on October 3, 2024, that its current shareholding in Ageas reached 10.91%. This change in shareholding is based on the agreement reached between BNP Paribas and Fosun International on April 14, 2024. Fosun International entered into an agreement with BNP Paribas to sell up to 15,401,253 shares of AGEAS SA/NV for a total consideration between EUR626 million and EUR670 million.Source familiar with the matter stated that Fosun International acquired Ageas shares at a low price in its early years. Dividends over the years and proceeds from the disposal have yielded Fosun a considerable return. The transaction was completed on October 3, 2024, and Fosun has received a full payment nearly EUR670 million in cash, the source said. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-16

Empowering Audiences: The Role of Content and Connectivity in Vietnam’s Media Evolution

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM, Oct 16, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Over 100 industry delegates from across Asia gathered at the Asia Video Industry Association’s (AVIA) Vietnam in View conference, opened by the Deputy Director General of the Authority for Broadcast and Electronic Information (ABEI), Nguyen Ha Yen, on 9 October in Ho Chi Minh City.Despite the challenges of 2023 in the post-Covid landscape, the pay TV market in Vietnam continued to evolve, achieving a 4% increase in revenue and a 14% rise in subscriptions compared to 2022, as noted by Deputy Director General Nguyen. He emphasized that, amid fierce competition and rapid changes in consumer behaviour and technology, developing new business models for sustainable growth was essential for the future of pay TV. Both regulatory bodies and industry leaders will play crucial roles in shaping this strategic direction, he added.This was further reiterated by Thanh Vu, Deputy Regional Managing Director and Representative, US-ASEAN Business Council, in his market overview of Vietnam. Vietnam was fast approaching market maturity, with total subscriptions at almost 20 million, with 5.8% annual growth since 2018. And with pay TV penetration at 66%, there was still lots of room for growth, shared Thanh Vu. However, the clear winner was OTT and IPTV, which had become mainstream, and its revenue share accelerating from just 11% in 2019 to 45% by end of 2023, almost catching up with cable TV. Despite a sharp decline in subscriptions over the past 4 years and a modest subscription share of only 20% today, cable still accounted for over 50% of total Pay TV revenue.However regardless of platform, content very much remained the key driver for consumers, and critical to the business, said Pham Thanh Phuong, Managing Director, Viettel TV360. Offering the largest mobile and fixed-line network infrastructure in the Vietnamese market, with up to 80 million mobile broadband subscribers, bundling television and fixed broadband services was essential for them, and the smartest and fastest way to acquire the largest television customer base at the lowest cost and in the shortest time. But to keep their customers in the ecosystem, differentiation was important, especially from the international OTT platforms. “When we invest in local content, we can create a difference,” said Phuong.This sentiment was also clearly presented in the data from Kantar Media, on Who’s Watching What, Where and How in Vietnam. Local content reigned supreme across linear viewing, rounding up the top 10 most watched titles, with local Vietnamese series also driving over 30% of non-linear viewing. And from a platform perspective, the two most important devices were the Connected TV (CTV) and the smartphone, with CTV penetration at a striking 91% in the market. “It’s not a case of linear TV being replaced by video on demand, but that they complement each other. For the TV industry to develop, we must find out a way to serve the target audience according to their needs," said Tran Thi Thanh Mai, General Director, Kantar Media Vietnam.For Esther Nguyen, Founder & CEO, POPS Worldwide, their content strategy was always to look at the audience first, and the lifetime value of that audience, and serving the content that they want to watch, when they want to watch and on the platform of their choice. However, “playing in the digital world and operating among many different platforms is a double-edged sword,” shared Nguyen. “Platforms are global and have democratized content and what audiences watch. Audiences are now open to watching content from all over the world. We are no longer competing with just local content, but with global content,” she surmised in her closing keynote session.Vietnam in View is proudly sponsored by Lead Sponsor Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA); Silver Sponsors A+E Networks Asia, INVIDI, PubMatic and TV5MONDE.Visit our media gallery for photos from event.About the Asia Video Industry AssociationThe Asia Video Industry Association (AVIA) is the trade association for the video industry and ecosystem in Asia Pacific. It serves to make the video industry stronger and healthier through promoting the common interests of its members. AVIA is the interlocutor for the industry with governments across the region, leads the fight against video piracy through its Coalition Against Piracy (CAP) and provides insight into the video industry through reports and conferences aimed to support a vibrant video industry.For media enquiries and additional background information, please contact:Charmaine KwanHead of Marketing and CommunicationsEmail: charmaine@avia.org | Website: www.avia.orgLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/asiavideoia |Twitter: @AsiaVideoIA Disclaimer: The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-16

AI-Powered Innovations: Securing Your Reputation with Ensign InfoSecurity’s Digital Reputation Risk Management Suite

SINGAPORE, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Ensign InfoSecurity (“Ensign”), one of Asia’s largest comprehensive cybersecurity solutions providers and a Diamond sponsor at Govware 2024, will showcase its Digital Reputation Risk Management Suite. This AI-powered, modular solution provides a comprehensive, real-time visibility and defence against digital threats that can tarnish reputations and erode stakeholder trust.As misinformation, deepfakes, and website spoofing attacks become more sophisticated, businesses face unprecedented risks to their reputation and market trust. A major attack can undo years of reputation building, threatening long-term relationships, customer loyalty, and business growth. Organisations need more than just isolated alerts – they need a unified, real-time platform offering a comprehensive suite of solutions to provide early warning, scam protection, and brand monitoring across the deep and dark web. This approach enables seamless collaboration, allowing teams to anticipate and stop threats before they cause significant damage, ensuring the business not only runs smoothly but thrives.The ZEUS Engine: Cyber Central Command System (C3S) for Reputation Risk ManagementAt the core of Ensign’s Digital Reputation Risk Management Suite is our proprietary ZEUS Engine, a field-tested AI-powered solution that provides a unified view of an organisation’s digital reputation. By leveraging advanced anomaly detection and real-time analytics, ZEUS identifies malicious activity, correlates it with other attacks, and assesses whether the organisation is facing isolated incidents or a more coordinated campaign that warrants urgent action. This precision helps leaders make faster and better-informed decisions, preventing small issues from escalating into full-blown crises. With this comprehensive solution, businesses can:Identify and mitigate reputational threats and risks in real time, including assessing potential coordinated campaign activity.Proactively manage their digital reputation by monitoring misinformation and website spoofing attempts.Gain insights into the attacker’s tactics and how they view your organisation.Key Features of the Digital Reputation Risk Management SuiteThe suite consists of three modular solutions designed to offer comprehensive protection across multiple threat vectors:1. Anti-Scam ModulePhishing scams and digital fraud are constantly evolving, posing serious risks to organisations’ data integrity and brand trust. This module uses AI to identify and block these sophisticated attacks in real time. It combines advanced threat intelligence and machine learning analytics to detect deepfakes, phishing attempts, and fraud, offering actionable insights that empower organisations to mitigate risks quickly and decisively.The Anti-Scam Module is supported by:Ensign Aletheia detects deepfakes in real time within seconds, on-device, across multiple modalities (audio and video), with up to 90% accuracy, safeguarding organisations from sophisticated digital frauds.Ensign Helios combats phishing attacks by using advanced AI to detect malicious emails and protect against frauds.2. Early Warning Module:Waiting for a cyberattack is no longer an option. This module continuously scans an organisation’s digital footprint for potential vulnerabilities and suspicious activity. With advanced detection capabilities, it identifies exposed assets and vulnerabilities, enabling businesses to take proactive steps to secure their environment before malicious actors can strike.The Early Warning Module is supported by:Ensign Aegis, enhanced with proprietary telemetry, provides a comprehensive view of external-facing assets, identifying vulnerabilities before they are exploited to keep organisations ahead of threats.Ensign Ares monitors threat exposure, analysing vulnerabilities in real time to prioritise and mitigate risks.3. Brand Monitoring Module:In a world where misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly, it is critical for businesses to have real-time oversight of their brand’s digital presence. This module continuously tracks online sentiment, leaked sensitive information, social media conversations, and digital channels to detect potential reputational threats. It allows organisations to respond swiftly, ensuring they can take control of the narrative and safeguard their reputation before false information causes irreparable damage.The Brand Monitoring Module is supported by:Ensign Hermes utilises AI-powered natural language processing to monitor online sentiment and detect misinformation, disinformation, and mal-information to protect brand reputation.Ensign Athena delivers proactive cyber threat intelligence, providing early warnings and actionable insights to defend against evolving threats.(For more information on Ensign’s Digital Reputation Risk Management Suite, please scan the QR code on page 3)“As the digital landscape becomes increasingly complex, businesses face threats that go beyond financial loss, directly impacting trust and reputation,” said Tammie Tham, Group CEO, Ensign InfoSecurity. “At Ensign, we have developed a solution that combines the best in people, processes, and technology. By working closely with boards and C-suites, we gain a deep understanding of their unique challenges, leveraging our proprietary AI, threat intelligence, and telemetry solutions, setting us apart from others. This suite is designed to keep organisations ahead of threats and safeguard the trust that underpins their success.”Join us at GovWare 2024, from 15th -17th October at Booth H02, Sands Expo Convention Centre, Singapore, and discover how our patented AI-powered cybersecurity solutions are designed to protect your reputation.About Ensign InfoSecurityEnsign InfoSecurity is the largest comprehensive cybersecurity service provider in Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, Ensign offers bespoke solutions and services to address their clients’ cybersecurity needs. Their core competencies are in the provision of cybersecurity advisory and assurance services, architecture design and systems integration services, and managed security services for advanced threat detection, threat hunting, and incident response. Underpinning these competencies is in-house research and development in cybersecurity. Ensign has two decades of proven track record as a trusted and relevant service provider, serving clients from the public and private sectors in the Asia Pacific region.For more information, visit www.ensigninfosecurity.com or email media@ensigninfosecurity.com.Scan this QR code for more information on Ensign’s Digital Reputation Risk Management Suite. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-16

Transoft Solutions Acquires Advanced Mobility Analytics Group (AMAG)

Vancouver, BC, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Transoft Solutions Inc. ("Transoft") - a global leader in transportation engineering, analysis, and operations software - announced today that it has acquired Advanced Mobility Analytics Group Pty Ltd ("AMAG"), a leading developer of video-based analytics software to facilitate improved traffic safety and management of road infrastructure, headquartered in Brisbane, Australia.Transoft Solutions Acquires AMAGThe secure cloud-based SMART platform developed by AMAG supports Vision Zero and Safe Systems approaches globally. Using computer vision, big data analytics, and advanced econometrics, its predictive analytics help organizations to create a safer and better managed road infrastructure."We are delighted to welcome AMAG's employees to Transoft," said Daniel Shihundu, P.Eng., CEO at Transoft. "We feel there is an excellent cultural fit, and combining our talented teams will accelerate research and development. The technologies present in our companies, independently, are truly remarkable, and merging the SMART and TrafxSAFE products under one umbrella will create a platform with unique capabilities. It will also allow us to explore synergies with our other products and create a software ecosystem where safety analytics can contribute to multiple stages in infrastructure development, from planning and design through to operations and maintenance. The Brisbane office, in addition to our current location in Sydney, will strengthen our presence in Australia and Asia-Pacific.""We are extremely excited to be joining Transoft," said Simon Washington, PhD, CEO of AMAG. "We enjoy cultural alignment, share the same vision, and with our combined technical expertise and software solutions, will be well positioned to serve the growing number of road safety and traffic operations projects in markets Transoft serves globally. Our latest continuous monitoring and decision support platform for traffic operations management has been gaining traction in several markets globally and is providing our customers with valuable infrastructure insights not possible with traditional sensor technologies. Through the Transoft offices and partner network, we are excited to offer this technology to additional markets across the globe."The integration of AMAG's business activities into the Transoft organization will ensure that its customers experience a seamless transition and a continued high quality of customer care and service. AMAG and their SMART platform are welcome additions to Transoft's portfolio and mark another step forward in the company's commitment to road safety initiatives like Vision Zero. Simon Washington will lead the combined AMAG and Transoft safety teams under a single Safety and Traffic Operations business unit at Transoft.About Transoft SolutionsTransoft Solutions develops innovative and highly specialized software for aviation, civil infrastructure, and transportation professionals. Since 1991, Transoft has remained focused on safety-oriented solutions that enable transportation professionals to work effectively and confidently. Our portfolio of planning, simulation, modeling, and design solutions are used in over 150 countries serving more than 50,000 customers across local and federal agencies, consulting firms, airport authorities, and ports. We take pride in providing the highest quality of customer support from our headquarters in Canada, and through our offices in Sweden, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, India, Belgium, France, Spain, and China. For more information on Transoft's range of aviation, civil design, and traffic safety solutions, visit transoftsolutions.comContact InformationMedia Relationspublicrelations@transoftsolutions.com+1 604 244 8387 ext 2245Related ImagesTransoft Solutions Acquires AMAGSimon Washington will join Daniel Shihundu's Transoft team to helm Safety & Traffic OperationsSOURCE: Transoft Solutions Inc. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

GMG Recognized for Innovation by the Australian Financial Review

Brisbane, Queensland, Australia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - October 15, 2024) - Graphene Manufacturing Group Ltd. (TSXV: GMG) ("GMG" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has been recognized as one of the Most Innovative Companies in the Manufacturing & Consumer Goods category for 2024 by the Australian Financial Review, which is Australia's most-read premium business masthead.The AFR BOSS Most Innovative Companies list celebrates Australian businesses that are challenging the status quo. Now in its thirteenth year, this prestigious annual list ranks the most innovative organisations from Australia and New Zealand, and is the only national, cross-industry list of its kind.GMG's work in graphene production and product development has positioned the company at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field, enabling sustainable solutions in energy storage, electronics, and beyond."We are honored to receive this recognition, which reflects the hard work and dedication of our team," said Craig Nicol, CEO of Graphene Manufacturing Group. "This award validates our mission to harness the unique properties of graphene to develop innovative products that can positively impact the world."GMG's Chairman and Director, Jack Perkowski, commented: "Great to see the Company's innovative world leading work getting acknowledged in this way - congratulations to the team."Figure 1To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/226664_cc296f8a948ea8f2_001full.jpgAbout GMGGMG is a clean-technology company which seeks to offer energy saving and energy storage solutions, enabled by graphene, including that manufactured in-house via a proprietary production process. GMG has developed a proprietary production process to decompose natural gas (i.e. methane) into its elements, carbon (as graphene), hydrogen and some residual hydrocarbon gases. This process produces high quality, low cost, scalable, 'tuneable' and low/no contaminant graphene suitable for use in clean-technology and other applications.The Company's present focus is to de-risk and develop commercial scale-up capabilities, and secure market applications. In the energy savings segment, GMG has focused on graphene enhanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning ("HVAC-R") coating (or energy-saving coating), lubricants and fluids.In the energy storage segment, GMG and the University of Queensland are working collaboratively with financial support from the Australian Government to progress R&D and commercialization of graphene aluminium-ion batteries ("G+AI Batteries").GMG's 4 critical business objectives are:Produce Graphene and improve/scale cell production processesBuild Revenue from Energy Savings ProductsDevelop Next-Generation BatteryDevelop Supply Chain, Partners & Project Execution CapabilityFor further information please contact:Craig Nicol, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of the Company at craig.nicol@graphenemg.com, +61 415 445 223Leo Karabelas at Focus Communications Investor Relations, leo@fcir.ca, +1 647 689 6041Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/226664 Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

The 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) celebrate modern and heritage real estate at Melbourne gala

MELBOURNE, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - PropertyGuru Group (NYSE:PGRU), Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, today announced the winners of its Australian real estate awards at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne.The gala ceremony of the 7th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia), supported by Sub-Zero Wolf, showcased the achievements of developers and design practices in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia.BHC Property, Best Developer WinnerBHC Property has been crowned Best Developer, in addition to earning the title of Best Luxury Townhouse Development (Victoria) for its distinguished Mercer project.Polytec Australia, Best Boutique Developer WinnerPolytec Australia won the title of Best Boutique Developer, with its project Beauchamp Sydney receiving the Best Luxury Apartment Architectural Design (New South Wales) award.MRCB International, Sustainable Design Award WinnerMRCB International made history by winning the inaugural Sustainable Design Award. Its project 26 Vista was recognised for Best Apartment Architectural Design.Sydney Ma, Managing Director of Top Spring Australia, Australia Real Estate Personality of the Year Award WinnerOSK Property gained the prestigious Best Apartment Development (Australia) title for BLVD, which also garnered accolades for Best Wellness Residential Development, Best Integrated Work from Home Development, and Best Apartment Interior Design.Hexa and IFD won the prestigious Best Townhouse Development (Australia) title for Lumina Townhomes, which was also named Best Townhouse Development (Victoria). Meanwhile, Hexa and Spectre Property took home the Best Industrial Development award for Found Huntingdale.Blairgrove Group emerged as one of the most awarded companies of the year, winning Best Retail Development for The Burwood Chinatown and Best Retail Interior Design for The Grand Shanghai Hotel.In addition to outstanding modern developments, this year’s awards showcased Australia’s historic properties. Blairgrove Group also won the Best Heritage Development award for the Leichhardt Hotel while The Playford Adelaide – MGallery by Hachem Architecture Pty Ltd won the Best Heritage Interior Design and Best Hotel Interior Design awards.Other winning design practices include CHT Architects, winning Best Office Architectural Design for 101 Cremorne, and Parallel Workshop Architects, winning Best Apartment Architectural Design (Victoria) for Sculpt Hawthorn.Multi-award winners include Kingsbridge by Hermitage Building Group, which took Best Housing Architectural Design and Best Housing Interior Design, and Elements at Carousel by Jean Yip Developments, which won Best Investment Apartment Development and Best Apartment Development (Western Australia).Golden statuettes were also presented to Burswood Point by Golden Sedayu for Best Mixed Use Development; Chatswood Garden by FY Property, Kooringa Group, MA Financial, CPDM for Best Townhouse Development (New South Wales); and Scape Victoria Street by Scape Australia Pty Ltd for Best Student Accommodation Development.Sydney Ma, managing director of Top Spring Australia, received the Australia Real Estate Personality of the Year award from the editorial team of Property Report by PropertyGuru, recognising his company’s impressive portfolio of community-focused and sustainable projects.Jules Kay, general manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events, said: “From high-tech buildings to heritage landmarks, Australian real estate beautifully blends the old and the new. As we host our second physical gala in Melbourne, we take pride in recognising the forward-thinking, culturally attuned companies that have set a benchmark for quality and sustainability in the built environment. Australia faces many global challenges head-on and has increasingly embraced the needs of diverse demographic segments such as seniors and students. We are delighted to showcase the best projects, designs, and achievements of our winners to property seekers, investors, and agents throughout Australia and the Asia Pacific.”Ivan Lam, chairperson of the Awards in Australia, said: "We are proud to present the most coveted awards in Australian real estate to these paragons of development and design excellence. The wide range of titles awarded this year proves how developers are excelling not only in creating new builds but also in revitalising Australia’s rich legacy of heritage buildings. Our award winners have also demonstrated leadership in promoting environmentally friendly, socially responsible development and addressing the housing needs of Australians across all ages and backgrounds. Australia’s finest real estate reinforces the country’s strong cross-border appeal to inbound investors and property seekers, and we are delighted to showcase such properties on the international stage.”The independent panel of judges consists of Ivan Lam, executive director, international business, Charter Keck Cramer; Lui Violanti, vice-chairperson of the Awards in Australia and regional manager for Western Australia, Inhabit Group; Benson Zhou, director, hotels, CBD and metropolitan sales, and state head, Asia markets, Savills Australia; Catherine Tan, senior interior designer, Interite; Jackson Liew, director, Cameron Chisholm Nicol; Karen Kong, head of property lending, Bendigo Bank; Karl Fu, partner, Asian markets, Winning Commercial; Michelle Tay, group executive director, The SILC Group; Peter Li, general manager, Plus Agency; Richard Newling Ward, director, Bayleyward; Shanker Ramakrishnan, director, SR Business & Finance Consulting Pty Ltd; and Steven Yu, founder and CEO, Valorton Group.The fairness, transparency, and integrity of the judging process was overseen by Josh Chye, partner and head of tax at HLB Mann Judd – HLB Australasia. The official supervisor is part of the “2024 Network of the Year” winner HLB International, the global network of independent professional accounting firms and business advisers.Winners of the awards will be eligible to compete in the 19th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final on 13 December 2024. This will be held in Bangkok, Thailand during PropertyGuru Week that also features the annual PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate SummitOrganised by PropertyGuru Group (NYSE:PGRU), the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) are made possible by silver sponsor Sub-Zero Wolf; supporting associations Australasia Property Advisory Association; Australia Malaysia Business Council Victoria, Australian Property Developers Association, and Melbourne Chinatown Association; official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; official publicity partner Good Talent Media; media partners Australian Property Investor Magazine, Australian Property Journal, Marketing In Asia, PhilTimes.com.au, The Property Tribune, and Your Investment Property Magazine; and official supervisor HLB.For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: asiapropertyawards.com.COMPLETE LIST OF WINNERSDEVELOPER AWARDSBest DeveloperWINNER: BHC PropertyBest Boutique DeveloperWINNER: Polytec AustraliaTHE ESG DEVELOPER AWARDSustainable Design AwardWINNER: MRCB InternationalDEVELOPMENT AWARDSBest Mixed Used DevelopmentWINNER: Burswood Point by Golden SedayuBest Industrial DevelopmentWINNER: Found Huntingdale by Hexa and Spectre PropertyBest Retail DevelopmentWINNER: The Burwood Chinatown by Blairgrove GroupBest Heritage DevelopmentWINNER: Leichhardt Hotel by Blairgrove GroupBest Luxury Townhouse Development (Victoria)WINNER: Mercer by BHC PropertyBest Townhouse Development (New South Wales)WINNER: Chatswood Garden by FY Property, Kooringa Group, MA Financial, CPDMBest Townhouse Development (Victoria)WINNER: Lumina Townhomes by Hexa and IFDBest Investment Apartment DevelopmentWINNER: Elements at Carousel by Jean Yip DevelopmentsBest Apartment Development (Western Australia)WINNER: Elements at Carousel by Jean Yip DevelopmentsBest Wellness Residential DevelopmentWINNER: BLVD by OSK PropertyBest Integrated Work from Home DevelopmentWINNER: BLVD by OSK PropertyBest Student Accommodation DevelopmentWINNER: Scape Victoria Street by Scape Australia Pty LtdDESIGN AWARDSBest Luxury Apartment Architectural Design (New South Wales)WINNER: Beauchamp Sydney by Polytec AustraliaBest Apartment Architectural DesignWINNER: 26 Vista by MRCB InternationalBest Apartment Architectural Design (Victoria)WINNER: Sculpt Hawthorn by Parallel Workshop ArchitectsBest Housing Architectural DesignWINNER: Kingsbridge by Hermitage Building GroupBest Office Architectural DesignWINNER: 101 Cremorne by CHT ArchitectsBest Apartment Interior DesignWINNER: BLVD by OSK PropertyBest Housing Interior DesignWINNER: Kingsbridge by Hermitage Building GroupBest Retail Interior DesignWINNER: The Grand Shanghai Hotel by Blairgrove GroupBest Hotel Interior DesignWINNER: The Playford Adelaide - MGallery by Hachem Architecture Pty LtdBest Heritage Interior DesignWINNER: The Playford Adelaide - MGallery by Hachem Architecture Pty LtdBEST OF AUSTRALIA AWARDSBest Apartment Development (Australia)WINNER: BLVD by OSK PropertyBest Townhouse Development (Australia)WINNER: Lumina Townhomes by Hexa and IFDPUBLISHER’S CHOICEAustralia Real Estate Personality of the YearWINNER: Sydney Ma, Managing Director, Top Spring AustraliaABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA PROPERTY AWARDSPropertyGuru’s Asia Property Awards, established in 2005, are the region’s most exclusive and prestigious real estate awards programme. The Asia Property Awards are recognised as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in the Asian property sector. Boasting an independent panel of industry experts and trusted supervisors, the Awards have an unparalleled reputation for being credible, ethical, fair, and transparent. In 2024, the Awards series is open to key property markets around the region. The exciting gala events welcome senior industry leaders and top media, as well as reach property agents and consumers via live streaming. Recognising excellence within each Asian market with a variety of categories, including green and sustainable development, each local awards programme will culminate in the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which takes place after the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit during ‘PropertyGuru Week’ in December 2024. For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.comABOUT PROPERTYGURU GROUPPropertyGuru is Southeast Asia’s leading1 PropTech company, and the preferred destination for over 28 million property seekers2 to connect with almost 46,000 agents3 monthly to find their dream home. PropertyGuru empowers property seekers with more than 2.1 million real estate listings4, in-depth insights, and solutions that enable them to make confident property decisions across Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.PropertyGuru.com.sg was launched in Singapore in 2007 and since then, PropertyGuru Group has made the property journey a transparent one for property seekers in Southeast Asia. In the last 16 years, PropertyGuru has grown into a high-growth PropTech company with a robust portfolio including leading property marketplaces and award-winning mobile apps across its core markets; mortgage marketplace, PropertyGuru Finance; home services platform, Sendhelper; a host of proprietary enterprise solutions under PropertyGuru For Business including DataSense, ValueNet, Awards, events and publications across Asia.For more information, please visit: PropertyGuruGroup.com; PropertyGuru Group on LinkedIn(1) Based on SimilarWeb data between October 2023 and March 2024. (2) Based on Google Analytics data between October 2023 and March 2024.  (3) Based on data between January 2024 and March 2024. (4) Based on data between October 2023 and March 2024.PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:General Enquiries:Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing ServicesM: +66 92 954 4154E: allan@propertyguru.com   Media & Partnerships:Nate Dacua, Senior Manager, Media and Marketing ServicesM: +66 92 701 2510E: nate@propertyguru.comSales & Nominations:Watcharaphon Chaisuk (Jeff), Solutions ManagerM: +66 95 797 0595E: jeff@propertyguru.comMonika Singh, Solutions ManagerM: +66 87 677 4812E: monika@propertyguru.com  Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

US Rate Cut and China Stimulus Ignite Fosun’s Surge

HONG KONG, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - As we enter the fourth quarter, the market buzzes with optimism. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate reduction, aimed at bolstering liquidity, has drawn Chinese mainland capital inflow into the Hong Kong stock market. Just before China’s National Day holiday, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) unveiled a series of pivotal measures: a reserve requirement ratio cut, an interest rate reduction, and a decrease in existing mortgage rates. Analysts and commentators widely regard these moves as unprecedented since 2008. Notably, the PBOC’s injection of at least RMB 800 billion into the stock market represents a historic milestone.On 10 October, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) made a significant move by introducing a swap facility, initially valued at RMB500 billion. This facility aims to bolster capital market development and further invigorate both the Hong Kong and A-share markets. Just two days later, on 12 October, Lan Fo’an, Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China, announced a forthcoming series of targeted incremental fiscal policy measures. These measures are designed to support high-quality economic development, with a focus on stabilizing growth, expanding domestic demand, and mitigating risks. As the economy stabilizes and corporate earnings improve, the overall market is poised for a new phase of growth.Interest rate cuts poised to register gains in Hong Kong’s stock marketThe U.S. Federal Reserve has implemented a 50-basis-point interest rate cut, the first in four years. According to the Fed’s projections, the federal funds rate is expected to reach 4.4% by year-end, falling within a target range of 4.25% to 4.5%. Looking ahead, the rate is anticipated to decrease further to 3.4% by 2025 and 2.9% by 2026. Market sentiment suggests that another 50-basis-point rate cut may occur this year, with expectations of a full 100-basis-point reduction next year.As the Federal Reserve initiates rate cuts, it will ease the capital outflows and stabilize currency fluctuations in countries beyond the United States. This policy shift also grants greater flexibility to central banks worldwide, including China, enabling them to tailor their monetary strategies to foster economic expansion and bolster stock market performance. In this evolving landscape, bonds emerge as an attractive option. As deposit rates are projected to gradually decrease during the rate-cutting cycle, investors can secure appealing fixed returns over the long term. Additionally, both stocks and bonds—particularly those with robust growth potential and stable fundamentals—are poised to attract significant interest among investors in the short term.Despite several major supportive measures introduced by the central government, the stock market experienced a pullback after the National Day holiday. Nevertheless, institutions like Morgan Stanley, HSBC, and CITIC have expressed confidence in the government’s unwavering dedication to economic stimulation. These institutions anticipate the gradual introduction of additional measures, amounting to trillions, with an aim at bolstering the economy. Market sentiment suggests that these economic stimulus measures will be moderate and sustained, recognizing that a steady rise in stock market plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and encouraging consumer spending.Given the government’s steadfast commitment to boosting consumption, Fosun International (00656), a leading global innovation-driven consumer group, remains undervalued for an extended period. It is poised to emerge as a frontrunner. Notably, the significant increase in Fosun International’s share price subsequent to earlier stimulus measures underscores its considerable growth potential. Successfully building industry leaders to strengthen core industrial advantagesSince 10 September, Fosun International’s stock price has steadily risen, resulting in an impressive cumulative increase of 58.46%. Notably, this increase surpasses the Hang Seng Index’s 34.26% increase during the same period.   The recent surge in Fosun International’s share price is underpinned by the company’s solid fundamentals. Guo Guangchang, Chairman of Fosun International, emphasized during the interim results presentation that despite the challenging macro environment, Fosun International remains committed to its core business-focused strategy and continued to cultivate industry-leading companies and develop excellent products in advantageous sectors. So far, this strategy has yielded positive results.Recently, Fosun International strengthened its advantages in core industries such as pharmaceuticals, tourism, consumption, and insurance by focusing on its core businesses, garnering market optimism. During the National Day holiday, the tourism sector experienced a strong start, with the tourism-related stocks seeing significant growth. During the first week of October, Fosun Tourism Group’s (FTG) share price surged nearly 40%, reflecting the market’s high recognition of the company’s asset-light strategy and investors’ confidence in FTG’s growth potential. Currently, 85% of FTG’s resorts operate under an asset-light model, making it one of the few leading tourism companies in the domestic market with both an asset-light approach and global operational capabilities.Guo Guangchang mentioned on Weibo that the stock market’s rally before the holiday gave everyone a sense of financial comfort. The wealth effect of rising stocks has truly stimulated consumer demand and driven an increase in spending. Sales of the company’s Atlantis Sanya and Shede’s baijiu saw a rapid rise during the holiday. Taking Shede as an example, as a renowned Chinese liquor company, it carried out promotions across its entire product line during the National Day holiday. Several products showed significant year-on-year increases compared to last year’s sales. Among them, the high-end strategic product in the RMB1,000 price range, Collection Shede 10-Year Edition, saw a remarkable year-on-year sales growth of 384%. Crystal Shede experienced a 224% increase in sales, while the sales of T68 Tuopai Exceptional grew 80%, and the sales of Tuopai Qiujiu rose 69%.In addition to the improving tourism and consumer businesses, Fosun’s pharmaceutical and insurance businesses have also attracted positive market attention. As a leader in pharmaceutical innovation in China, Fosun Pharma has been optimizing its asset structure and accelerating cash inflow this year. It recently announced its plans to privatize its innovative drug platform, Shanghai Henlius, and to fully acquire the core cell therapy platform, Fosun Kite, with a view to focusing on its core innovative assets. Supported by favorable national measures and strong R&D and commercialization capabilities, Fosun Pharma has established itself as a leader in China’s innovative drug market. In the first half of the year, it generated over RMB3.7 billion in revenue from innovative drugs, with steady growth expected in the second half. During the National Day holiday, Fosun Pharma’s share price performed well and continued to increase. Since September, its share price has risen nearly 25%.Recently, Fitch, one of the leading international credit rating agencies, upgraded Fidelidade’s Insurer Financial Strength (IFS) Rating to “A+” from “A” and its Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to “A” from “A-”, maintaining stable outlooks. This represents the highest ratings Fitch has granted to a Portuguese financial company. The upgrade confirms that strategies implemented by Fidelidade have consistently strengthened its financial stability and reflects the improvement in Fosun’s global operational capabilities. Fitch highlighted Fidelidade’s sound business profile, strong capitalization, robust financial performance and profitability, and low investment portfolio risk.USD888 million syndicated loan issuance demonstrates continued recognition of Fosun’s credit quality by domestic and international banksOn 30 September, Fosun International announced the closure of a sustainability-linked syndicated loan totaling USD888 million through greenshoe, one of the largest of its kind issued by Chinese private enterprises this year. It is worth mentioning that the loan is a three-year senior unsecured working capital loan and the participating banks include several leading banks from Greater China, the Asia-Pacific region, and Europe and the Americas. This reflects the continued recognition of the Group’s credit quality by both domestic and international banks. Fosun’s sound financing channels can lay a solid foundation for the company’s steady development.Recently,several securities firms have highlighted the effectiveness of Fosun International’s core business-focused strategy, with innovation and globalization driving healthy growth, while maintaining a declining leverage ratio and sound financials. Fosun has actively optimized its asset portfolio, consistently reduced leverage and strengthened cash reserves. As of 30 June 2024, the Group’s adjusted total debt-to-capital ratio was 50.2%, maintaining a downward trend since 2020. In June 2024, international rating agency S&P fully recognized the effectiveness of Fosun’s financial strategy and affirmed its rating outlook as “stable”.According to various research reports, as Fosun’s business becomes more focused and its financial indicators improve, its future business development and profitability are becoming more predictable. Notably, globalization, innovation, and its sound asset-light operational capabilities are poised to drive a new round of growth for Fosun.It is evident that benefiting from national measures, Fosun International and its subsidiaries have entered a new phase for potential valuation enhancement. The recent pullback in share prices could be an attractive buying opportunity for investors. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

GA-ASI Completes Full-Scale Fatigue Test on MQ-9B for Second Lifetime

SAN DIEGO, CA, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - On Sept. 30, 2024, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed a major milestone with the full-scale fatigue testing of an MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). The team completed the "second lifetime" of fatigue testing, which is equivalent to 80,000 operating hours and represents an important step in validating the design of the airframe system. The testing is part of the aircraft certification to NATO standard STANAG 4671, where the aircraft will ultimately be tested through three lifetimes, thereby proving the 40,000-hour lifetime of the airframe.The full-scale fatigue test simulates the aircraft's design service through the application of repeated structural loading on the assembled airframe. The testing identifies any potential structural deficiencies ahead of fleet usage and assists in developing inspection and maintenance schedules for the airframe. The results of the test will be used as part of the documentation for certification and will form the basis for in-service inspections of structural components.MQ-9B is GA-ASI's most advanced RPA and includes the SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian® models as well as the new Protector RG Mk1 that is currently being delivered to the United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF)."Full-scale fatigue testing is an integral part of validating the airframe design and a key input for the certification of the airframe prior to entering service," said Chris Dusseault, vice president of MQ-9B in Europe. "The completion of the fatigue test builds confidence for our MQ-9B customers that the SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian meets the stringent design rigor and is mature at Entry into Service."The testing is the validation of years of design and analysis efforts. This is the second of three lifetimes of testing for the airframe. Two of the lifetimes simulate the operation of an aircraft under normal conditions, and the third has intentional damage inflicted on the airframe's critical components to demonstrate its resistance to operational damage that may occur over the lifetime of the air vehicle.Testing was conducted from Jan. 31, 2024, through Sept. 30, 2024, at Wichita State University's National Institute for Aviation Research in Wichita, Kansas. The airframe tested is a production airframe purpose-built to support the test campaign.In addition to the RAF, contracts have been signed for MQ-9B with Belgium, Canada, Japan, Taiwan and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. The Japan Coast Guard is currently operating the SeaGuardian for maritime operations, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) selected SeaGuardian for its Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) RPA System Trial Operation Project.About GA-ASIGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a leading designer and manufacturer of proven, reliable RPA systems, radars, and electro-optic and related mission systems, including the Predator® RPA series and the Lynx® Multi-mode Radar. With more than eight million flight hours, GA-ASI provides long-endurance, mission-capable aircraft with integrated sensor and data link systems required to deliver persistent situational awareness. The company also produces a variety of sensor control/image analysis software, offers pilot training and support services, and develops meta-material antennas.For more information, visit www.ga-asi.com.Avenger, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are registered trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.Contact InformationGA-ASI Media Relationsasi-mediarelations@ga-asi.comSOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

CTF Life Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Launch of MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2

CTF Life’s celebration dinner to mark its towards 40th anniversaryis inaugurated by Brian Cheng, Executive Director and Group Co-ChiefExecutive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTFLife (third from right); Gilbert Ho, Executive Director and GroupCo-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executiveDirector of CTF Life (second from left); and Man Kit Ip, ChiefExecutive Officer of CTF Life (centre), along with the managementteam of CTF Life.HONG KONG, Oct 14, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) recently celebrated its towards 40th anniversary with a celebration dinner themed “Value Beyond Insurance” at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. To further promote the value of CTF Life in providing customers with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences over the years, CTF Life also announced the launch of its MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, which empowers customers with faster and higher projected returns, greater autonomy and greater flexibility in inheritance planning, helping customers embrace a fulfilling life.The celebration dinner was inaugurated by Brian Cheng, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life; Gilbert Ho, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life; and Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, along with the company’s management team. The highlight of the event was a performance by singer-songwriters Phil Lam and Cath Wong, while renowned artist Kelly Chen appeared as a guest performer.To further promote its brand awareness, CTF Life displayed its new company name on the rooftop LED billboard of COFCO Tower on Hong Kong Island and the large outdoor advertisement at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in Causeway Bay. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the company also advertised on billboards on five major commercial buildings, including Far East Finance Centre, Harcourt House, Sing Ho Finance Building, Chinachem Century Tower and V Point.Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, said: “CTF Life is embarking on a new journey in 2024, proudly stepping into its 40th year. Over the years, we have overcome challenges and seized opportunities together with Hong Kong, achieving remarkable growth. Looking ahead, we will further strengthen our collaboration with the diverse conglomerate of the Chow Tai Fook Group, leveraging its robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe to continue to expand our service network and optimise our products and services. Drawing on our roots in Hong Kong, we will extend our reach across China and other Asian markets, continually creating value beyond insurance for our target customers.”MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 for Flexible Wealth ManagementTo celebrate its 40th anniversary and meet the financial needs of customers at different stages of life, CTF Life has launched MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (MyWealth 2), building on the success of its MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan (MyWealth 1). The new plan features the first-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option” 2, which allows customers to change the amount components under the policy to help enhance the projected returns. The plan’s special-in-market1 “Wealth Accumulation Switching Options” 3 give customers greater autonomy to cater their investment preferences at different life stages. MyWealth 2 features “Dual Succession”, which allows unlimited changes of Insured4 and entitles the policy owner to assign up to two beneficiaries for legacy planning, ensuring the continuation of the policy and maximising the efficacy of wealth inheritance.Jarita Kwan, Chief Product Officer of CTF Life, said, “Based on the thoughtful features of MyWealth 1, CTF Life has launched MyWealth 2 to meet the financial needs of customers at different stages of life. Taking USD policy as an example, MyWealth 2 offers a shorter breakeven period, higher projected returns, and greater flexibility. It enhances withdrawal advantages, allowing customers to seize market opportunities in a timely manner, helping wealth accumulation and inheritance.”The three main advantages of MyWealth 21.Shorter breakeven periods, higher projected returns and more flexible withdrawal arrangements- With a five-year premium payment period5, customers can achieve total breakeven and guaranteed breakeven on the 7th and 13th policy anniversaries, respectively. Furthermore, the total policy value is projected to exceed 200% of the total premiums paid by the end of the 17th policy anniversary. Moreover, MyWealth 2 offers potentially higher projected returns than MyWealth 1.- Building on the strengths of MyWealth 1, MyWealth 2 offers more flexible withdrawal arrangements to meet the needs of customers at various stages of life.2.Greater autonomy- First-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option” 2: On the 10th policy anniversary or any policy anniversary thereafter, customers can apply once to exercise the first-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option”2 . This allows customers to change the amount components# under the policy according to the long-term target asset allocation under this option in order to enhance the projected return of their policy.- “Wealth Accumulation Switching Option” 3: The 3 special-in-market1 Switching Options, including “Advance”, “Balanced” and “Conservative”, allow customers the flexibility to choose the value ratio of their “Stable Asset Account” 6 from three preset Switching Options, starting from the 10th policy anniversary, fulfilling their financial needs at different stages of life. MyWealth 2 allows customers to apply for this option five years earlier than with MyWealth 1.- Free conversion of the policy currency: On the 3rd policy anniversary and any policy anniversary thereafter, customers can apply to exercise the “Currency Switching Option”, changing the policy currency of the basic plan to a different currency (US dollar, Hong Kong dollar, Chinese yuan, British pound sterling, Euro, Singapore dollar, Australian dollar or Canadian dollar), accommodating their global wealth management goals.- “Policy Split Option” 7: After the end of the 5th policy year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later), customers can split the existing policy into two by allocating a portion of the Units of the basic plan under the existing policy to a sperate “Split Policy”. The process involves splitting a policy into two, then two becomes four, and so on, allowing customers to maximise the power of asset allocation.- Premium Holiday8 of up to four years: Customers can apply for a Premium Holiday of up to four years, on or after the 2nd policy anniversary. The premium payment of their next policy anniversary will be suspended, and customers do not need to worry about the immediate termination of their policy and the loss of protection.3.Greater flexibility on inheritance- Dual Succession: After the 6th policy monthly anniversary, customers may change the Insured for unlimited times4. The coverage period will be adjusted to age 128 of the new Insured (“Changed New Insured”), allowing sufficient time for wealth accumulation of the policy. In addition, MyWealth 2 provides a “Policy Continuation Option”9, enabling the Policy Owner to assign up to two beneficiaries and specify the proportion of the Death Proceeds to be paid for each beneficiary. Upon the death of the Insured, the designated beneficiaries will become the new Insured(s), offering flexibility on inheritance.- Customised Death Benefit Settlement Option: The Policy Owner can designate a specified year or a specified age of the beneficiary to start paying the death benefit. This flexible payment allows each beneficiary to have the most appropriate arrangement, leaving a lasting legacy of love.- Premium Waiver10: Accidents or diseases are unforeseeable. MyWealth 2 offers “Waiver of Premium Benefit” and “Payor Benefit” to ensure that the accumulated wealth remains unaffected and to safeguard the financial future of the customer’s children.To help customers realise their financial plans more easily, they can enjoy a First-Year Premium Refund11 of up to 26% when they successfully apply for MyWealth 2. If all premiums payable are settled through a lump sum prepayment, the remaining balance from the prepayment will enjoy a guaranteed interest rate of up to 5% p.a. throughout the whole premium payment period12. This allows customers to start their financial plans at a lower cost.#The amount components refer to Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses and Terminal Bonus (if any) and accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan.Remarks:1.“Special-in-market” and “First-in-market” are the results of comparing similar major life insurance savings products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 26 September 2024.2.Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customer may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Booster Option to adjust the Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any), and the accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan to other pre-set level(s) (to be determined by the Company and elaborated in an endorsement and new policy specifications) according to the new long-term target asset allocation, without providing any evidence of insurability while subject to the following conditions: (i) all premiums due and payable under the policy must be settled and any Indebtedness must be fully repaid; (ii) no Premium Holiday is in effect, no application for exercising Policy Split Option, Currency Switch Option, Wealth Accumulation Switching Option or Change of Insured Option is in progress, and no claim is in progress under the basic plan of the policy upon request exercising this Option; (iii) the request cannot be changed or withdrawn once it is submitted; and (iv) this Option can only be exercised once under the policy. After the Wealth Booster Option becomes effective, (i) the Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted at the sole discretion of the Company while the Unit will remain unchanged. The future amounts of Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) will also be determined accordingly; (ii) the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be reset as “Advance” (i.e. the allocation and value in Stable Asset Account are both zero); (iii) all Complementary Policies (if any) and riders (if any) under the policy will remain in force after the change, subject to the then prevailing rules of the Company; (iv) the beneficiary(ies), policy owner, contingent policy owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, policy currency, Policy Date, policy effective date and Policy Years of the basic plan of the policy will remain unchanged; and (v) previous instruction(s) made under the basic plan of the policy including but not limited to Death Benefit Settlement Option and Policy Continuation Option will remain unchanged unless otherwise specified. In the event that both Wealth Booster Option and Wealth Accumulation Switching Option are elected on the same policy anniversary, the Wealth Booster Option will be exercised while the elected Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be automatically withdrawn immediately. Policy owner may elect the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option again in the next policy anniversary. As the equity-like assets in the new long-term target asset allocation are relatively higher, the Guaranteed Cash Value may be subject to reduction and the risk may increase accordingly after the Wealth Booster Option has been exercised. If customer has any questions, customer can contact financial consultant for more details or seek independent professional advice. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Booster Option.3.Wealth Accumulation Switching Options and its portfolio ratioSwitching option(s)“Stable Asset Account” allocationAllocation of the cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any)and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any)Advance0%100%Balanced40%60%Conservative80%20%“Stable Asset Account Allocation” = the value of “Stable Asset Account” ÷ (cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) + cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) + value of Stable Asset Account) x 100%Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customer may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option to adjust the Switching Option of the basic plan of the policy to achieve Stable Asset Account Allocation at desire of customer, subject to the following conditions: (i) the Switching Option applied for must be different from the default Switching Option of the Basic Plan of the policy (for the first exercise of this option) or the latest Switching Option as shown in our record (if customer has already exercised this option before); (ii) except the first time of exercise of this option, the switch date of each subsequent request must be separated by a period of not less than 1 year from the switch date of the preceding exercise of this option; and (iii) all indebtedness must be fully settled before exercising this option. Once the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option is exercised, we will correspondingly adjust the amount of any future cash values and face values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus at a rate to be determined by us based on the change(s) of the cash values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus. Once the Company approves the request of Wealth Accumulation Switching Option, we will determine the value of Stable Asset Account immediately following such exercise of Wealth Accumulation Switching Option (“Target Value”). The Target Value equals the product of Stable Asset Account Allocation of the elected Switching Option and the aggregate of (i) the accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) immediately before such exercise (“Existing Value”); and (ii) the cash values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus immediately before such exercise. We will then adjust the balance of Stable Asset Account from the Existing Value to the Target Value at the switch date, which in the case that the Existing Value is lower than the Target Value, the deficit will be resolved by transferring the latest cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) to the Stable Asset Account; or in the case that the Existing Value is higher than the Target Value, the surplus from the Stable Asset Account will become the cash value of Reversionary Bonus and cash value of Terminal Bonus. In the event that both Wealth Booster Option and Wealth Accumulation Switching Option are elected on the same policy anniversary, the Wealth Booster Option will be exercised while the elected Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be automatically withdrawn immediately. Policy Owner may elect the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option again in the next policy anniversary. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option.4.Changing the Insured is subject to the prevailing administrative rules and designated requirements. The Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any), any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account, Policy Date and Policy Years will remain the same on the Insured-Change Effective Date while the Plan End Date will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured or following the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured (whichever is applicable). The Changed New Insured must be aged 64 (last birthday) or below. The change of Insured must be endorsed by the Policy Owner, proposed new Insured and Assignee (if any). Both the new Insured and the current Insured must be alive and the policy is in force at the time the Insured is changed and provided with satisfactory proof of evidence of insurability for the proposed new Insured. We shall cease to provide any coverage for the initial Insured or the prior Insured on our record (when applicable and as the case may be) as from the Insured-Change Effective Date. All riders (if any) will be terminated on the Insured-Change Effective Date. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Changing of Insured Option.5.This is an example of a policy denominated in USD with a 5-year premium payment period.  The annual premium payment is US$100,000, resulting in a total premiums paid of US$500,000, without exercising any policy options.6.Account determined in accordance with the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option provision in which its long-term target asset allocation is 100% in fixed income type securities. The value in the Stable Asset Account will be accumulated at such interest rate as may be declared by us from time to time. Interest rates on the Stable Asset Account are not guaranteed and may even be 0% in any year.7.While the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 5th Policy Year (Applicable to MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier))/while the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 5th Policy Year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later) (Applicable to MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige)), and subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, customer may exercise Policy Split Option to create a separate policy (the “Split Policy”), allocating a portion of Unit from the basic plan of the policy to the Split Policy but subject to the following conditions without providing any evidence of insurability: (i) after the policy Split Option has been exercised (the “Split”), the respective Unit of the basic plan of the policy and Split Policy must not be less than the minimum Unit amount we permit at the time of the request of customer; (ii) the insured of the Split Policy must be the same as the Insured of the basic plan of the policy; (iii) no claim is in progress under the basic plan of the policy upon request exercising this option; (iv) customer’s request for the policy Split Option cannot be changed or withdrawn once it is submitted; (v) any indebtedness under the basic plan of the policy must be fully repaid before we approve customer’s request ; and (vi) Policy Split Option can only be exercised once during a Policy Year. After the Split is approved, (i) the provisions of the Split Policy will be the same as the basic plan of the policy unless otherwise specified; (ii) the Unit, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) will be reduced and transferred to the Split Policy according to the ratio of the Unit allocated to the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy. We will determine the existing and future amounts of Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any); and future premium respectively for both the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy according to customer’s allocation of the Units; (iii) the total premiums paid for both the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy will be adjusted according to customer’s allocation of Units and will be used to calculate death benefit; (iv) subject to the rules of the Company, all riders (if any) under the policy will continue to be effective after the Split; (v) the beneficiary(ies), Policy Owner, Contingent Policy Owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, Policy Currency, Policy Date, Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the basic plan of this Policy will remain unchanged and the Split Policy will have the same beneficiary(ies), Policy Owner, Contingent Policy Owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, Policy Currency, Policy Date, Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the basic plan of this Policy; and (vi) previous instruction(s) made under the basic plan of the policy including but not limited to Wealth Accumulation Switching Option, Wealth Booster Option, Death Benefit Settlement Option and Policy Continuation Option will also apply to the Split Policy unless otherwise specified. The Split Policy will be effective only after its policy provisions and policy specifications are issued. Please refers to the Policy Provisions for more details of Policy Split Option.8.Premium Holiday is not applicable to the policy with a 2-year premium payment period. The length of a Premium Holiday for each application should be a multiple of 1 year until it reaches the maximum limit. Premium Holiday is only applicable to the basic plan and will be effective on the next policy anniversary, but all riders attached to the policy will be terminated at the same time. We will defer the premium end date and premium due date according to the Premium Holiday Period approved. Riders attached to the policy can be re-attached after Premium Holiday, however, the premium and approval should be subject to rider application at that time. During the Premium Holiday, customer does not need to pay premiums for the basic plan, the Units, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account and protection under the basic plan will remain unchanged during the period, provided that customer has not partially surrendered during the Premium Holiday. The cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any) are non-guaranteed. During the Premium Holiday, we will not declare any face value of non-guaranteed Reversionary Bonus. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Premium Holiday.9.Prior to the death of the Insured, the Policy Owner can assign one or two beneficiary(ies) for the Policy Continuation Option and specify the proportion of the Death Proceeds to be paid to each beneficiary for the Policy Continuation Option. Upon the death of the Insured, if the Policy Owner (still alive) and the Insured are different persons, the beneficiary will become the Continued New Insured; if the Policy Owner died at the same time or the Policy Owner and the Insured is the same person, subject to the prevailing administrative rules of the Company, the beneficiary will become the new Policy Owner and Continued New Insured of the policy in order to keep the policy in force after the Insured dies. If Policy Continuation Option has been exercised, and (i) only one beneficiary is designated under the policy and such beneficiary has been elected for the Policy Continuation Option prior to the death of the Insured, after this option has been exercised, all Units, Total Premiums Paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any), Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable); (ii) if there is more than one beneficiary designated under the policy and one or two beneficiary(ies) has/have been elected for the Policy Continuation Option prior to the death of the Insured, one or two basic plan(s) of the policy will be created upon the death of the Insured, and regarding each newly created basic plan, the respective unit, Total Premiums Paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the respective face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the respective face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any respective accumulated values of the Stable Asset Account will be adjusted according to the proportion of the Death Proceeds specified by the Policy Owner for each beneficiary selected for the Policy Continuation Option. The respective Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable). The surrender payment may be equal to or lower than death benefit before this option has been exercised. If the Death Benefit Settlement Option has already been selected for the beneficiary who has also been elected for the Policy Continuation Option, customer shall cancel the Death Benefit Settlement Option arrangement for such beneficiary before submission of any written request for the Policy Continuation Option. All riders (if any) will be terminated on the Policy Continuation Effective Date. For the beneficiary(ies) who has/have not been elected for the Policy Continuation Option (if any), the Death Benefit will be paid to each of these beneficiary(ies) in a lump sum or the respective option under the Death Benefit Settlement Option provision elected by the Policy Owner. If the Policy Owner has selected both Policy Continuation Option and Death Benefit Settlement Option, Policy Continuation Option will automatically be exercised (regardless of the order of selection). After Policy Continuation Option has been exercised, the Policy Continuation Option and Death Benefit Settlement Option previously selected by the Policy Owner will automatically become invalid Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Policy Continuation Option.10.There are 2 types of premium waivers: (i) “Waiver of Premium Benefit” is applicable to the Insured whose age at policy issuance or the change of Insured is between 18 and 60 and is the Policy Owner at the same time, and is diagnosed with total permanent disability before the age of 75. (ii) “Payor Benefit” is applicable to the latest Insured whose age at policy issuance or the change of the Insured is at the age 17 or below; the latest Policy Owner (including contingent Policy Owner) whose age at policy issuance or the change of the Policy Owner (including Contingent Policy Owner) is at the age of 60 or below, and dies or is diagnosed with total permanent disability before the age of 75. After the waived premium of the basic plan reaches the maximum total amount of premium waived (per Insured) and/ or on the waiver of premium end date (until the premium end date that is set at the time of policy issuance), the Policy Owner should pay the remaining premium; otherwise, the automatic premium loan will be applied, or the policy will be terminated. In addition to the premiums stated above, if premiums falling due in the relevant Waiver of Premium Benefit Period are paid before we approve a claim of this benefit, such premiums will be fully refunded (with no interest). If the incident is resulted from accident, immediate protection will be given. If a person dies or is diagnosed with total permanent disability due to illness, a 2-year waiting period is required. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of “Waiver of Premium Benefit” and “Payor Benefit”.11.  Subject to terms and conditions, for details, please refer toMyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige) First-Year Premium Refund:https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-prestige-insurance-plan-premium-refund-flyer.pdfMyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier) First-Year Premium Refund:https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-premier-insurance-plan-premium-refund-flyer.pdf12.  Subject to terms and conditions, for details, please refer tohttps://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/guaranteed-interest-rate-for-prepaid-premium-offer-promotion-flyer.pdfImportant notice:- The information contained in this press release is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 features Prestige Version and Premier Version. For more details, please refer to the product brochures, promotion leaflets, and policy documents. For details regarding the CTF Life MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, the terms and conditions of the policy contract shall prevail.- This press release does not contain the full provisions of MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 may serve as standalone plan(s) without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product. Please refer to the main product brochure and policy terms and conditions, as well as the explanatory documents provided by your licensed insurance intermediary, to fully understand the details and complete terms and conditions regarding the mentioned definitions, fees, product features, exclusions, and compensation payment conditions related to the MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2.- Please refer to the product brochure for more information on MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige): https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-prestige-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf- Please refer to the product brochure for more information on MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier): https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-premier-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf- For further details, please contact CTF Life’s Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.- This press release is intended to be distributed in Hong Kong only and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or provision of any of our products outside Hong Kong. Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited hereby declares that it has no intention to offer to sell, to solicit to buy or to provide any of its products in any jurisdiction other than Hong Kong in which such offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any product of Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited is illegal under the laws of that jurisdiction. About CTF LifeChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) is proud of its rich, nearly 40-year legacy in Hong Kong. CTF Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWS Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) and one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong. As a member of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, CTF Life consistently strengthens its collaboration with the diverse conglomerate of the Cheng family (“Chow Tai Fook Group” or “the Group”) to support customers and their loved ones in navigating life’s journey with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences. By leveraging the Group’s robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe, CTF Life aspires to become a leading insurance company in the Greater Bay Area while continuously creating value beyond insurance.Media enquiriesCTF LifeSuki Kwong+852 2591 8504suki.kwong@ctflife.com.hkParadigm ConsultingEvan Lu+852 6707 3281Ctflife@paradigmconsulting.com.hkChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

Frederic Imbert Commemorates 15 Years of Bitcoin through Art with the Bitcoin Masterpiece

NEW YORK, Oct 15, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - On the occasion of Bitcoin's 15th anniversary, renowned artist Frédéric Imbert unveils The Bitcoin Masterpiece, an innovative work that fuses art and technology. This limited edition collection consists of 99 pieces. The artwork pushes the boundaries of art while carving its place in the history of the crypto space.The Bitcoin Masterpiece: An Artwork Reflecting the Bitcoin RevolutionAn exceptional piece of art is set to leave its mark on the history of cryptocurrency. Frédéric Imbert, alongside his son Bastien Imbert, is preparing to launch The Bitcoin Masterpiece, a groundbreaking creation inspired by the Bitcoin logo, merging art with cutting-edge technology.This work stands out with its sleek and sophisticated design. The carbon and aluminum frame, measuring 95 cm x 95 cm x 5 cm and weighing 12.8 kg, incorporates advanced electronic components. Using 146 glass displays and 217 low-pressure neon lamps, the piece lights up the Bitcoin logo second by second, through successive patterns, creating a stunning visual effect. Frédéric Imbert meticulously hand-assembles each piece in his Paris workshop, ensuring exceptional quality.The artwork offers a dynamic and captivating representation of the Bitcoin universe. It incorporates several interactive elements, making it a living and evolving piece:Progressive and random illuminations of the Bitcoin logoReal-time display of Bitcoin's market price, allowing for real-time tracking of its fluctuationsPresentation of essential Bitcoin-related data, providing an overview of the ecosystemThis fusion of art and technology transforms each piece into a gateway to the crypto world, while maintaining a refined aesthetic worthy of the most prestigious contemporary art pieces.The Limited Edition for Enthusiasts and CollectorsThe Bitcoin Masterpiece collection is available in 99 numbered pieces. Each piece, unique and customizable upon request, receives the artist's meticulous attention. Its rarity, combined with artisanal quality and technological innovation, makes it a potential investment for art collectors and crypto enthusiasts alike.Each piece is priced at 1 Bitcoin, reflecting the ambition of the project, its symbolism, and its deep connection to the leading cryptocurrency.The Bitcoin Masterpiece will debut at an exclusive vernissage held at The Outpost, a private mansion in the heart of Paris's 17th arrondissement. The event that will take place on October 23rd will mark the official launch of the collection.To register for the event, visit: https://lu.ma/afep9ro4The Visionary Artist Behind The Bitcoin MasterpieceFrédéric Imbert, the creative mind behind The Bitcoin Masterpiece, is a renowned artist and engineer. Born in Monaco and based near Paris, he has distinguished himself for more than two decades by his ability to fuse art and science into unique contemporary creations.His passion for electronics and intricate watchmaking is reflected in each of his works, which often incorporate rare and iconic electronic components. Imbert's distinctive style is characterized by the use of vintage and modern parts, creating visual symphonies that celebrate the passage of time and pay homage to technological and architectural icons.The Collection Backed by Esteemed PartnersThe Bitcoin Masterpiece is already supported by several renowned partners in the crypto and digital art industries. These collaborations will help boost the artwork's visibility and strengthen its position in the world of crypto art.The Bitcoin Masterpiece represents the convergence of technological innovation and artistic expression. This creation by Frédéric Imbert offers collectors, cryptocurrency enthusiasts, and digital art lovers the chance to own a work that stands at the crossroads of these worlds. The Bitcoin Masterpiece is destined to become a symbol of the crypto era in the art world.Social LinksTwitter : @BTC_MasterpieceInstagram : thebitcoinmasterpieceEvent : https://lu.ma/afep9ro4Media ContactBrand: The Bitcoin MasterpieceContact: Media teamWebsite: https://www.thebitcoinmasterpiece.com Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-15

Standard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Survey shows softer business performance in Q3

HONG KONG, Oct 14, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Standard Chartered and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today released the Standard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) for the third quarter of 2024. The “expectations” index rose for a second straight quarter to 55.2 from 54.8 in Q2, reflecting sentiment continued to improve modestly among firms. The “current performance” index for business activity fell to 50.6 from 54.1 in Q2, indicating a further weakening of economic momentum after a challenging first half of 2024.Hong Kong leads bullsAt city level, Hong Kong and Dongguan registered improvements in both current performance and expectations sub-indices. Hong Kong posted the highest “expectations” index, rising to 58.8 from 49.7 in Q2, the steepest rise among the 11 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area cities, while “current performance” slightly increased by 0.2 points to 47.3. The “expectations” index of the other five cities in the survey were all above the 50 neutral mark.In line with the soft set of China macro data in July and August, the sub-indices for industry categories trended down in general, with the manufacturing sector suffering the most. In terms of “expectations”, while GBA manufacturers’ confidence may have been affected by a potential surge in US tariffs against China-origin products in the event of a Trump win in the November US presidential election, the score remained stable at 54.1, well above the neutral mark.Kelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered, said: “The survey findings are in line with the economic data released in August, pointing to a slower industrial production, retail sales and fixed asset investment growth on subdued domestic demand and adverse weather. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that the optimism associated with China’s stronger-than-expected stimulus package introduced in late-September, together with the new phase of Fed’s rate cut cycle, has yet to reflect in the third quarter survey findings. We believe the business sentiment among GBA companies can be boosted in the near term, driven by the positive sentiment and jump in equity market turnover following the announcement of the stimulus measures.”60% GBA companies express concerns over risk factors – rates, economic growth and trade barriers topped the listWhile the rate-cutting cycle can serve as a tailwind to business, the market outlook remains challenging. 60% of respondents saw external and internal risks posing a substantial risk to their overall business in the next 12 months. “Higher global inflation and interest rates” (47%), “renewed China growth slowdown” (46%) and “trade tariffs, sanctions against China-origin products” (42%) were the top three concerns. The Fed’s recent jumbo rate cut in September, signalling potential relief to GBA companies, likely offset lingering trade and geopolitical risks in the run-up to the US presidential election.During the survey period, the discussion on tariff hikes against products of Chinese origin arose again. In terms of trade barriers, 47.2% of respondents said they were negatively impacted by tariff hikes versus 44.2% by sanctions and 34.6% by non-tariff barriers.In the event of further rise in trade disputes between China and the US/EU, of the 37% survey respondents involved in external trade and anticipating a change to their external trade in the next few months, 88% said they would front-load their second-half export orders, while 81% said they would front-load their imports to minimise the potential impacts to their businesses.  Irina Fan, HKTDC Director of Research, said: “GBA manufacturers may have concerns about a potential surge in US tariffs against China-origin products after the November US election. However, some 50-60% of the respondents do not anticipate any potential negative impacts on their business.”About the GBAIThe GBAI is the first forward-looking quarterly survey in the market that looks at the business sentiment and synergistic effects in cities and industries across the GBA. It is compiled based on a survey of more than 1,000 companies in the GBA covering the manufacturing and trading, retail and wholesale, financial services, professional services and innovation and technology sectors. The index enables investors and businesses to better understand the current business climate, gauge future performance prospects and formulate their market strategies for the GBA.Related materialsStandard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index Report: https://www.sc.com/hk/gba/gba-index-report/HKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MTgyMTM1MTk5NwPhotos download: https://bit.ly/3NrhLXcKelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered, and Irina Fan, Director of Research, HKTDC, announced the latest GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) today (14 October). Kelvin Lau, Senior Economist, Greater China, Standard Chartered Irina Fan, Director of Research, HKTDCMedia enquiriesCorporate Affairs DepartmentStandard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) LimitedFlora ChiuTel: (852) 3843 2285Email: flora.chiu@sc.comCommunications & Public Affairs DepartmentHKTDCKaty Wong                         Clayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4524              Tel: (852) 2584 4472Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org     Email:clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout Standard CharteredWe are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 53 of the world’s most dynamic markets and serving clients in a further 64. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges.The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC. For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-14

ASTRI’s Innovative Smart Mobility Technologies Shine at Autumn Electronics Fair

HONG KONG, Oct 14, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) is showcasing smart mobility technologies, including cutting-edge Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technologies aim at enhancing autonomous driving safety, at the 44th HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), running from 13-16 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).The exhibition, drawing thousands of buyers and industry professionals from home and abroad, is one of the world’s premier electronics marketplaces, fostering industry exchange and collaboration.  Participation at this annual flagship event would help promote ASTRI’s connected autonomous vehicles technology, bringing homegrown innovation to the global arena, and reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a leading international innovation and technology hub.With smart mobility taking centre stage at this year’s Electronics Fair, ASTRI hosted a seminar today titled “Navigating Tomorrow: How Connected Autonomous Vehicles Reshape Industries”, where industry leaders shared insights into the future of autonomous driving, including market potential and associated challenges.ASTRI’s Chief Operating Officer Ir Chris Chong said at the seminar that autonomous vehicle (AV) technology mitigates human error and driving misconduct, thereby enhancing road safety. He added that the city’s autonomous driving technology is progressing in tandem with global developments. In alignment with the government’s initiative to further advance driverless technologies, ASTRI plans several autonomous bus trial runs at different locations in Hong Kong next year.Other seminar speakers include Mr Kenny Chan, Chief Director, Innovative Mind, ASTRI; Dr Weisong Wen, Assistant Professor, Department of Aeronautical and Aviation Engineering, and Team Member of Research Centre for Deep Space Explorations, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Mr Richard Lee, Functional Manager, CUHK Jockey Club Institute of Ageing and CUHK Institute of Health Equity; Ms Doris Leung, Founder and CEO, Diamond Cab (Hong Kong) Limited; Mr Jojo Xu, CEO and Co-founder, Libpet Tech Ltd; and Mr Falcon Chan, Partner, Strategy, Risk & Transactions, Deloitte China.ASTRI’s booth is located at HKCEC’s Convention Hall Foyer [booth number: CH-J04], and the smart mobility technologies on display at the fair are:1. Smart Mobility Management PlatformASTRI's platform offers comprehensive fleet management, including vehicle status monitoring and dispatching. Seamlessly integrating connected and autonomous vehicles (CAV), it meets the evolving demands of future smart mobility. By combining V2X systems with traffic data from open sources and ASTRI's own deployments, the platform leverages AI to provide real-time insights, transforming urban mobility. These insights facilitate informed and cautious decision-making, enhancing the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.2. Pilot Project of Autonomous AIBus Operation on Public Road with Real TrafficThe pilot project funded by the Smart Traffic Fund is being trailled firstly on public roads in Hong Kong. Following the Code of Practice for Trial and Pilot Use of Autonomous Vehicles published on 1 March 2024. The West Kowloon Cultural District serves as the testbed, the total length of the route is tentatively scheduled to be approximately two kilometers. A road test with selected passengers is scheduled to be commenced in 2025, providing practical data for the future adoption of autonomous driving technology on public roads in Hong Kong.3. Privacy-Preserving Sensing System on Roadside Units (RSUs)These systems collect environmental information while safeguarding personal privacy by processing data locally, without transmitting to cloud servers. This ensures real-time, low-power sensing capabilities, ideal for applications like smart home automation and robotics. This combination of data privacy and efficient sensing facilitates more secure and reliable technology integration into everyday life.4. Mid-Range and High-Precision Full-Dome Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)Utilising ASTRI-owned intellectual property, this LiDAR achieves high scanning accuracy at economical cost. Designed for medium-range, high-precision 3D sensing, it serves applications in building information modeling (BIM), security, intelligent logistics, and smart cities. The LiDAR enhances overall efficiency by generating detailed BIM models within seven minutes. Its integration with V2X technology advances smart mobility, detecting movements of road users in real-time, enhancing navigation capabilities of CAVs.5. Real-Time On-Train Intrusion Detection SystemThis system, which is co-developed by MTR and ASTRI, offers real-time detection of unexpected objects within tunnels, using multi-sensing fusion technology. It identifies objects even in extremely low-light conditions, generating a 3D train envelope and providing instant alerts. This enhances railway safety and contributes valuable data for the development of Smart Railway.Meanwhile, Dr Justin Chuang, Vice President, Communications Technologies, ASTRI spoke at the Symposium on Innovation & Technology, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Electronics and Technologies Association, where he discussed the role of wireless communications technologies in promoting digital twins and related applications.Media EnquiryConnie Lau       Tel: (852) 3406 2506 / (852) 9497 5390    Email: connielau@astri.orgBeatrice Lam     Tel: (852) 3406 0196 / (852) 9036 0212    Email: beatricelam@astri.orgPhoto Download https://bit.ly/4eEkNTZLegislator The Hon Ir Dr Lo Wai Kwok (sixth from right), visits ASTRI’s booth at the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) with the accompany of HKTDC Electronics and Electrical Appliances Advisory Committee Chairman Professor Steve Chuang (fifth from right) and HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Ms Sophia Chong (seventh from right), along with other guests. Ms Jamie Cheng (eighth from right), Senior Director of Ecosystem University Technology Transfer and Marketing of ASTRI, introduces the latest smart mobility technologies on display. Both Professor Chuang and Dr Alfred Ng (fourth from left) are ASTRI’s Board of DirectorsASTRI is exhibiting at the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) from 13-16 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, showcasing cutting-edge smart mobility technologies to international buyers and industry professionals. Picture shows Legislator The Hon Duncan Chiu (third from left), Mr Tony Wong (fourth from right), Commissioner for Digital Policy, HKSAR Government visiting ASTRI’s boothDr Alfred Ng (seventh from left) and Mr Anthony Tong (sixth from left) from ASTRI’s Board of Directors joined Ir Chris Chong (fifth from left), Chief Operating Officer, ASTRI and Ms Jamie Cheng (seventh from right), Senior Director of EUTT and Marketing of ASTRI, along with other ASTRIANs at the boothIr Chris Chong, Chief Operating Officer, ASTRI delivers welcome remarks at the “Navigating Tomorrow: How Connected Autonomous Vehicles Reshape Industries” seminar     Dr Justin Chuang, Vice President of Communications Technologies at ASTRI, speaks at the Symposium on Innovation & Technology, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and the Hong Kong Electronics and Technologies Association    About ASTRIHong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) was founded by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2000 with the mission of enhancing Hong Kong’s competitiveness through applied research. ASTRI’s core R&D competence in various areas is grouped under five Technology Divisions: Advanced Electronic Components and Systems; Artificial Intelligence and Trust Technologies; Communications Technologies; Innovative Mind, and IoT Sensing and AI Technologies. It is applied across six core areas which are Smart City, Financial Technologies, New-Industrialisation and Intelligent Manufacturing, Digital Health, Application Specific Integrated Circuits and Metaverse.Over the years, ASTRI has nurtured a pool of research, I&T talents and received numerous international awards for its pioneering innovations as well as outstanding business and community contributions. ASTRI has transferred more than 1,500 technologies to the industry and has been granted over 1,100 patents in the Mainland, the United States, and other countries. For further information, please visit www.astri.org Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-14

GF Securities Fully Supports Hong Kong Youths to Achieve Entrepreneurship Dreams

HONG KONG, Oct 14, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The HKUST-Sino One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition (referred to as 'HKUST Entrepreneurship Competition') Hong Kong Regional Final has successfully concluded, and the 'GF Innovation Award' sponsored by GF Securities (000776.SZ; 1776.HK) was ultimately won by the Pest0 team. The Pest0 team is applying for a patent for their natural pest-repellent pellets, which have won high recognition from the judges for its eco-friendly, reusable, and safe features.Group photo of Mr. Wu Xin ,the Managing Director of GF Holdings (Hong Kong)Corporation Limited (third from left),and members of Pest0, winning team ofthe 'GF Innovation Award'Mr. Charles Lin, CEO of GF Holdings (Hong Kong) Corporation Limited, said, 'In the current landscape of global economic development, entrepreneurial spirit is like a lighthouse, illuminating the journey of innovation. Entrepreneurs are not only dream chasers but also shapers of the future. They act like catalysts, stimulating the innovation and vitality of the entire society, and building a business ecosystem full of infinite possibilities. Through One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition, we witnessed the inheritance and promotion of such entrepreneurial spirit. GF Securities (Hong Kong) is willing to walk side by side with all entrepreneurs with dreams, writing a new chapter of high-quality innovative development together.'As a leading national securities firm in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, GF Securities has always been committed to serving the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and enhancing its financial competitiveness. Hong Kong is located in the heart of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area with a high degree of internationalization in its capital markets, providing a favorable growth environment for startups. In response to the emerging innovative and entrepreneurial new forces with a global vision in the Greater Bay Area, GF Securities has sponsored the 'HKUST Entrepreneurship Competition for eight consecutive years since 2017, donating more than RMB1 million. With its own advantages, GF Securities actively promotes the younger generation rooted in Hong Kong and with a global outlook to devote themselves to entrepreneurial endeavours, and cultivates more outstanding entrepreneurs for the future in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area with an eye on the international market.Up to now, the 'HKUST Entrepreneurship Competition' has been successfully held for 14 years, expanding to five regions including Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan and Hong Kong. It has identified and nurtured many projects and teams with commercial prospects, including well-known enterprises such as DJI drones and Yunzhou unmanned surface vehicles. In 2024, the Competition has more than 300 participating teams from Hong Kong and around the world by adding the 'International Student Track', which invited teams from 15 countries and regions including Australia, Canada, Germany, India, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam, further enhancing its influence.GF Securities, as the platinum sponsor of the HKUST Entrepreneurship Competition, participated and offered full support throughout the event. In addition to establishing GF Innovation award, GF Securities also leveraged its professional advantages in the capital market to provide professional guidance and support for college entrepreneurs. GF Securities appointed experienced investors as judges to engage in face-to-face exchanges with participating student teams, facilitating the progress of the HKUST Entrepreneurship Competition in good order.Over the years, the 'GF Innovation Award' has achieved remarkable performance, with innovative projects covering emerging fields such as Fintech, biology, IoT, new energy, and healthcare, where unicorn companies have been continuously emerging in recent years. It's represented by the Allegrow Biotech team established in 2023 and its three co-founders, namely Dr. Laurence Lau, Dr. Melody Chung, and Prof. Chau Ying, all coming from the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Dr. Laurence Lau said: 'We hope to show the innovative immune cell manufacturing technology of Allegrow through the Competition. Meanwhile, the cash awards and investment opportunities provided by the Competition are also of great help to the company's further development and expansion, contributing to the commercialization plan of our products.'At present, with the support of cash awards provided by GF Securities and the Competition, the Allegrow team has steadily developed three products to meet the needs of different immune cell therapeutics manufacturing. For the future, Dr. Laurence Lau said that the team will continue to optimize AimGel technology, diversify manufacturing applications for different targeted immune cells, expand a broader market, and assist innovative biopharmaceutical companies in conducting batch immune cell manufacturing more efficiently and conveniently. It is expected that products reaching GMP level will be launched in 2026 to embark on a new stage.In mainland China, GF Securities has initiated the Small-scale Start-up Support for University Students of GF Securities for 10 consecutive years, with a cumulative investment of more than RMB20 million in financial support, has issued RMB9.7 million in support for 470 outstanding entrepreneurship projects, and has engaged more than 300 startup mentors for more than 60 universities to carry out a series of entrepreneurship activities. These activities not only provide valuable support and guidance to university students but also effectively promote the integration of industry-university-research, as well as the cultivation of innovative and entrepreneurial talents.In addition, GF Securities has also made great efforts in the field of social responsibility. GF Securities Social Charity Foundation, jointly initiated by GF Securities, GF Fund, GF Futures, and GF Xinde in 2011, is the first foundation with a securities firm as the main initiator and has received the highest 5A rating in social organization evaluation in China. For over ten years, the foundation has carried out a series of influential social welfare projects focusing on rural revitalization, educational assistance, financial empowerment, and medical assistance. As of now, GF Securities Social Charity Foundation has donated nearly RMB300 million in total.Looking ahead, GF Securities will continue to uphold its welfare concept of 'Gathering the Love from the Bottom of Heart', actively fulfill social responsibilities, and strive to promote the vigorous development of youth innovation and entrepreneurship at home and abroad, contributing its strength to the prosperity and development of the Greater Bay Area and society as a whole. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-14

Electronics Fair and electronicAsia open today

- Exhibitors from 19 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Mainland China, Japan, Korea, various ASEAN countries, the UAE, other Asian countries as well as the United States and Europe- The Electronics Fair highlights products and technology solutions for smart mobility, the silver economy, digital entertainment and more, while electronicAsia also presents various zones- The two fairs will host more than 70 events and forums, including the Symposium on Innovation & Technology, co-organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association, taking place on 14 OctoberHONG KONG, Oct 13, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and electronicAsia, organised by the HKTDC and MMI Asia Pte Ltd, open today and will run until 16 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).The two fairs bring together some 3,200 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and India, key ASEAN countries, including the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam, as well as the UAE, the United States and Europe.HKTDC has also arranged for 110 buying missions from around the world to visit the exhibitions, facilitating business opportunities and fostering global industry exchange.Electronics Fair showcases trendsetting productsThis year's Electronics Fair, themed World’s Leading Electronics Marketplace, provides a platform to showcase cutting-edge products and innovative ideas to global buyers. More than 20 zones have been set up at the fair, with key highlights including the Hall of Fame, Tech Hall and Startup Zone.To align with trends in innovative technology and market sourcing demands, a new Digital Entertainment Experience Zone features products that use VR and AR technologies, while an Energy Storage Zone showcases EV chargers and high-capacity, high-power portable energy sources.The Electronics Fair highlights products and technology solutions in the areas of smart mobility, the silver economy, digital entertainment and more, including:Smart Mobility:Smart Traffic Management PlatformThe Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) (booth number: CH-J04) is showcasing smart mobility tech, including a smart traffic management platform, an autonomous bus pilot project for the West Kowloon Cultural District and privacy-protecting sensing tech for roadside equipment.Intelligent Cabin SolutionsHardstone Intelligent Cabin Solutions (Hardstone Mobile Media (Asia Pacific); booth: 1CON-025) features an AR display that provides useful information for drivers, including navigation suggestions, lane change alerts and collision warnings. The solution also include a multimedia entertainment system.Silver Economy:Thermal Imaging Fall DetectorCollie R1 (ThingX Technologies Limited; booth number: CH-B02), an AI-powered thermal imaging fall detector, can monitor human activities in real-time, accurately identifying falls and issuing alerts. It is suitable for residential areas, nursing homes and public places.Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS)The TENS (Hivox Biotek Inc.; booth number: 3F-E15) provides physiotherapy treatment for pain relief.A Smart Ageing Products label will also be provided to exhibitors with products and solutions for the silver market, making it easier for buyers to source relevant products.Digital Entertainment:3D Naked-eye Holographic ScreenThe 3D Naked-eye Holographic Screen (Dongguan Ruyuan Intelligent Technology; booth number: GH-C10) can create 3D animations that do not require 3D glasses for viewing. Images can also be controlled in real-time through a mobile app.Web 3.0 Travel PlatformMr Panda! (Charming Panda(HK) Technology; booth: CH-D11) is an AI-driven Web 3.0 platform that provides travel information, itinerary planning and AI tour guide services, while offering AR and MR immersive experiences.Other Areas:Smart LockKeyin Smart Lock, (Raonark Inc.; booth number: 5C-C10), which uses patented technology, is equipped with an intelligent anti-theft chain. Traditional anti-theft chains can only be opened from the inside. This smart anti-theft chain can be unlocked from the outside through a mobile application, eliminating the need to trouble family members inside to open the door.Outdoor Security Patrol RobotThe outdoor security patrol robot (Tobot Solution Limited; Booth: CH-L03) can operate on slopes and areas with obstacles, cracks, sand, snow and grass. It monitors crowd gatherings and identifies fires. It can also be equipped with devices for putting out fires and for disinfection.The concurrent electronicAsia also features different zones, including electronic components, keyboards and switches, power supplies, printed circuit boards and electronic manufacturing services, display technology, and test and inspection equipment.Among the exhibitors is Chip Sun Technology from Shenzhen, recognised by the government as a 'specialised, refined, distinctive and innovative small and medium enterprise in Guangdong Province'. The company is renowned for its quartz crystals that are used in mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, GPS systems, WiFi technology, smart home applications and various other sectors.The organisers and partners are hosting more than 70 events and forums during the two fairs.The Symposium on Innovation & Technology, jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association and themed 'When Two Worlds Collide: The Confluence of Digital Twins & Real-Life Applications', will take place on 14 October. Tony Wong, Commissioner for Digital Policy of Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau’s Digital Policy Office, will deliver the opening remarks.Distinguished speakers from Arup, ASMPT SEMI Solutions Segment, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, ASTRI and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University will explore how simulations and predictions in the virtual world can enhance decision-making and productivity.The HKTDC, the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association and Centre for Advances in Reliability and Safety have jointly organised today's Reliability Assurance For Electronic Systems Forum, which kicks off a series of activities.The Hong Kong Electronic Forum, co-organised by the HKTDC, MMI Asia Pte Ltd and the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, scheduled on 15 October, will discuss “Innovation Unleashed: The Intersection of Microelectronics, AI, and Open-Source Ecosystems”, delving into industry trends, technological advancements and practical applications.During the exhibitions, there will also be different events for start-ups to promote their ideas, seek investor support and learn from industry experts. These events will include start-up investment matching, the Hong Kong Value Creation for Technology: Pitching Competition, Meet the Mentors sessions and Start-up Smart Launch.Under the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, exhibitors and buyers can meet online through the HKTDC Click2Match smart business matching platform, in addition to attending the physical fairs.Photo Download:https://bit.ly/4h3ovbiThe Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition) and electronicAsia open today and will run until 16 October at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition CentreThe Startup Zone at the Electronics Fair gathers a wide range of young entrepreneurs, presenting innovative products and solutionsThe Hall of Fame presents consumer electronics products from globally renowned brands.The new Digital Entertainment Experience Zone allows buyers to try out products that use AR and VR technologiesThe Electronics Fair highlights smart mobility, with a local startup presenting an EV converted from Bentley's classic car using oil-to-electric technologyA Smart Ageing Products label has been provided to exhibitors with products and solutions for the silver market, making it easier for buyers to source relevant productsThree Korean pavilions are participating in this year's Electronics Fair, presenting cutting-edge electronic products and technology solutionselectronicAsia features a range of offerings, including electronic components, keyboards and switches, power supplies, printed circuit boards and electronic manufacturing services, display technology, and test and inspection equipmentThe HKTDC, the Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association and Centre for Advances in Reliability and Safety have jointly organised today's Reliability Assurance For Electronic Systems ForumWebsites- Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition): https://hkelectronicsfairae.hktdc.come- lectronicAsia: http://www.electronicasia.comMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition)electronicAsiaKaty Wong       Tel: (852) 2584 4524         Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgSnowy Chan      Tel: (852) 2584 4525         Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout the HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via trade publications, research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-13

5 Ways Your Credit Card Can Help You Save and Earn Money

SINGAPORE, Oct 12, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - A credit card is a valuable financial tool that ensures fast, safe and convenient payments. Over time, it also helps you build credit. However, with the right credit card, you can do even more. Get deals and discounts on dining, shopping, travel, and petrol. Here are a few ways your credit card can help you save money.Rewards programsA rewards credit card will typically earn you entry into a rewards program offered by the credit card issuer or a partner company. Rewards programs vary from one card to the next, but most of them enable cardmembers to earn reward points on eligible transactions like online grocery, online or in-store shopping purchases, food delivery, travel expenses, dining, bill payments, fuel, etc. Cardmembers can usually redeem their reward points from a wide range of merchandise, convert points to cash rebates or use points to offset and pay for your purchases.Cashback programsA cash back credit card grants cardholders a rebate on eligible transactions, including grocery purchases, fuel purchases, shopping and dining. Earned cash back may be credited to your account at the end of your billing cycle or you may have the option to pay for purchases with cash back points. Your credit card may even offer you bonus cash back rates in certain categories or if you have a savings account with the bank. Enjoy the convenience of redeeming your cash back on-the-go through your mobile. Familiarising with the cash back program can help you maximise your cash back earnings.Sign-up offersMany credit cards offer sign-up bonuses or offers, where you can earn a significant amount of points or cash back after spending a certain amount within the first few months. This is a one-time offer that's usually reserved for new cardmembers and may expire if the points or cash back are not used on time. Taking advantage of a sign-up bonus is a great way to save or earn money with your credit card in the first year.Discounts and promotional offersA credit card company may partner with retailers, dining establishments and ecommerce platforms to offer their cardmembers impressive discounts and savings on eligible purchases. These are usually instant discounts of up to 50% on select purchases. Cardmembers who track deals and shop smartly can save thousands of dollars every year.Travel benefitsTravel credit cards feature a range of benefits designed to make travel more convenient and enjoyable for cardmembers. Some cards allow cardholders to earn miles on eligible purchases. Miles usually function similarly to reward points and can be redeemed against travel purchases like airfare, accommodation, dining, etc. Travel cards may also offer perks like complimentary access to airport lounges and accelerated miles on online travel bookings, which can save you money on travel expenses. Some cards include travel insurance, which can come in handy if your baggage is lost in transit or delayed.Different credit cards may offer a range of ways to help consumers to save money and earn rebates. However, it's important to use your card responsibly to ensure you get the maximum benefit. Don't forget to consider any fees or charges associated with your credit card (such as annual fees) to get a full picture of your true credit card savings. Lastly, ensure you keep your account in good standing so you can continue to enjoy these benefits.Notice:Opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the select editorial staff alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any third party.Contact Information:Name: Sonakshi MurzeEmail: Sonakshi.murze@iquanti.comJob Title: ManagerSOURCE: iQuanti Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-12

Retail Revolution Took Center Stage at Rockbird Media’s Inaugural Retail & E-Commerce Summit Asia Singapore

SINGAPORE, Oct 11, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The retail and e-commerce landscape in Southeast Asia witnessed a transformative moment as Rockbird Media successfully hosted the first-ever Singapore edition of its Retail & E-Commerce Summit Asia (RESA) on September 26, 2024, at One Farrer Hotel. Under the theme "Retail Revolution: The Limitless Growth in the Age of AI," this groundbreaking event brought together over a hundred visionaries, including CEOs, CTOs, and digital transformation leaders from across the region.With Singapore's retail and e-commerce revenue projected to reach an impressive US$5,901 million in 2024, RESA emerged as a timely platform to explore the transformative potential of AI in this burgeoning sector. The summit delivered on its promise to be a crucible of innovation, offering attendees a rich tapestry of keynote addresses, interactive breakout sessions, and panel discussions led by industry titans.Key highlights of the event included in-depth explorations of AI-driven personalization, predictive analytics in inventory management, and the seamless integration of online and offline retail experiences.As Singapore cements its position as a hub for retail innovation, the insights shared at RESA are poised to influence strategies across the region. Participants left the event equipped with practical, actionable knowledge to navigate the AI-driven retail landscape, which are essential in implementing new strategies in their organizations.RESA Singapore 2024 stands as a true testament to the dynamic evolution of retail in the digital era. Looking ahead, Rockbird Media is optimistic with expanding its scope and reach in the coming years, continuing efforts to solidify RESA’s position as a must-attend event in the retail and e-commerce calendar.For more information, please visit https://rockbirdmedia.com/About rockbird mediaRockbird media is an international business media company that produces B2B events and offers business solutions.Whether it is through online media and content, must-have business intelligence and analytics, effective networking, and partnering solutions, we help businesses and professionals learn more about the latest trends, and know more about their customers, peers, and competition, to make that decision that allows them to grow.Media contact:Ann Jubelle De Veraannjubelle@rockbirdmedia.com Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-11

25th BFSI Summit 2024: Leading the Future of Financial Services in South Africa

Johannesburg, South Africa, Oct 11, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - South Africa's BFSI business is rapidly expanding, driven by innovation and technology to improve service delivery and efficiency, as demonstrated by a leading banking institution that has successfully deployed over 100 robotic process automation (RPA) robots to automate a variety of operations.This initiative has significantly increased efficiency while highlighting challenges in transitioning from third-party solutions to a custom-built RPA system. The organization’s experience underscores the importance of addressing both technical and non-technical aspects during RPA deployment to ensure a smoother integration process. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and RPA is transforming processes in South Africa's banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) industry, resulting in improved service delivery. However, to realize the benefits of these technologies fully, it is essential to address talent shortages and employee concerns. RPA enables organizations to automate routine processes by simulating human actions, which enhances efficiency while maintaining a human-like interaction with computer systems.Overview of the event: The 25th BFSI Innovation & Technology Summit will take place on November 20, 2024, in Johannesburg, bringing together over 200 leaders from South Africa’s banking and financial services industry. Dr. David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance for South Africa, will be the keynote speaker, sharing insights on how fiscal policies are shaping the future of the BFSI sector. The event, themed "Pioneering Tomorrow: Unleashing IT Excellence," will focus on aligning financial strategies with government priorities while driving innovation and financial inclusion.The summit will cover important topics such as overcoming fiscal challenges, the rise of digital banking, the future of electronic payments, and the need for strong data privacy measures. With input from CTOs, CIOs, and cybersecurity experts, attendees will have the chance to learn, network, and collaborate on new ideas. This event will offer industry leaders a unique platform to discuss transformative strategies that will shape the future of South Africa’s BFSI industry.Who will attendDr. David Masondo, Deputy Minister of Finance,The Finance Ministry,Republic of South Africa.Luyanda Ndlovu, Chief Information Officer, Department Of Communications and Digital Technologies, Republic of South Africa.Khetha Cele, Group Chief Information Officer, IDFC.Mandi Scott, Chief Information Officer, Digital and e-Commerce Group, Personal and Private BankStandard Bank Group.Kholeka Tsotsotso, Chief Information Officer, Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).The event will cover topics like:CBDCs: Shaping Tomorrow's Financial Horizon.Transforming BFSI Operations with AI, ML, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA).Progressing in Digital Banking: Pursuing Excellence in South African BFSI.Sustainable Digital Transformation in South African BFSI: Addressing Challenges, Seizing Opportunities, and Ensuring Inclusive GrowthExploring Future Possibilities: Utilizing Generative AI to Revolutionize BFSI.Advanced Cybersecurity Solutions for the South African BFSI Industry.For more information on the 25th Edition of BFSI Innovation & Technology Summit click the: LinkAbout Exito:Exito, which means success in Spanish, embodies our commitment to the success of our customers. Each year, we host over 240 virtual and in-person conferences globally, bringing together audiences with world-class thought leaders and C-level executives across industries. Our meticulously crafted agendas, based on extensive research and valuable industry insights, facilitate business, knowledge transfer, deal flow, and impactful messaging for brands.For Media Enquiries, contact:Kasturi Nayak (Sr. Marketing Executive)Kasturi.nayak@exito-e.comEnquiry@exito-e.comExito Media Concepts Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-11

Malaysia’s Digital HR Revolution Unfolds at Rockbird Media’s HR Leaders & HR Tech Strategy Meeting

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The 16th edition of the HR Leaders & HR Tech Strategy Meeting, organized by Rockbird Media on September 24, 2024, at Berjaya Times Square in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, served as a beacon for HR innovation. Under the theme "Advancing into the Nexus of Human and Technology," the gathering became a melting pot of ideas for CHROs and HR leaders from Malaysia and beyond.With Malaysia's HR Technology market poised for a 12% annual growth over the next five years, the event tackled the pressing need for technological adaptation in HR. Attendees immersed themselves in a tapestry of keynote addresses, interactive sessions, and panel discussions, all aimed at mastering cutting-edge tools and bridging the tech skills gap in HR.The summit spotlighted crucial areas such as operational efficiency enhancement, employee engagement boosting, and data-driven HR decision-making. Participants delved into strategies for workforce reskilling, seamless tech integration, and elevating the employee experience in our digital age.This knowledge exchange hub fostered networking among HR leaders from diverse industries, sparking potential collaborations through one-on-one meetings. As Malaysia solidifies its position as an HR innovation epicenter, the insights gleaned from this meeting are set to ripple across regional HR strategies.This edition of the HR Leaders & HR Tech Strategy Meeting stands as a testament to the dynamic evolution of HR in the digital era, equipping attendees with fresh perspectives to navigate the rapidly changing HR landscape.Looking ahead, Rockbird Media promises to build on this year's success with even more groundbreaking content and expanded networking opportunities next year.For more information, please visit https://rockbirdmedia.com/About rockbird mediaRockbird media is an international business media company that produces B2B events and offers business solutions.Whether it is through online media and content, must-have business intelligence and analytics, effective networking, and partnering solutions, we help businesses and professionals learn more about the latest trends, and know more about their customers, peers, and competition, to make that decision that allows them to grow.Media contact:Ann Jubelle De Veraannjubelle@rockbirdmedia.com Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-11

A Strategic Union: Public Bank to Acquire a Controlling Stake in LPI and the Teh Family Refines their Equity Position in Public Bank Berhad

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 10, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Public Bank Berhad (“Public Bank”) had on 10 October 2024 entered into a conditional sale and purchase agreement (“SPA”) with the Estate of the Late Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow (“Estate”) and Consolidated Teh Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (“ConTeh”) to acquire in aggregate 175,896,000 ordinary shares in LPI Capital Bhd (“LPI”), representing approximately 44.15% equity interest in LPI, for a total cash consideration of RM1.72 billion (“Proposed Acquisition”).LPI, a company listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia, has been in operations for over 60 years and is mainly involved in the underwriting of general insurance. It currently has 21 branches throughout Malaysia, 1 branch in Singapore and also operates in Cambodia through an associate company.Speaking at the press conference after the SPA signing ceremony, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Public Bank said, “The Proposed Acquisition represents a strategic opportunity for Public Bank to further expand its general insurance segment into the Malaysian market through the LPI Group. This will allow the enlarged Public Bank Group to establish an immediate market presence and strong foothold in the general insurance segment in Malaysia as a comprehensive complementary service to its current financial services and Family Takaful offerings.”He further added that, “The Proposed Acquisition is also in line with our Group’s plans to expand beyond just organic growth but through strategic acquisitions to expand our product and service offerings as evident by our recent completion of the acquisition of Public Bank Securities Vietnam Company Limited which allowed our Group to expand our financial services offering in Vietnam with the inclusion of securities trading services.”Tan Sri Tay concluded by saying, “This strategic acquisition of LPI Group, a long-established and leading general insurance player in Malaysia, represents a clear and unique opportunity for us to accelerate our vision to move towards a “Universal Banking Model” that offers comprehensive and diverse range of financial and other related products and services under the same group.With our existing network of over 260 branches located throughout the country, LPI Group would be able to leverage and expand its distribution channels and further grow its general insurance business in Malaysia. In addition, we would also be able to tap into the sales and distribution network of LPI and further expand our reach to cover clients and customers of LPI.Aside from the mutual cross selling of products and services, Public Bank and LPI will also explore possibilities on developing new integrated products and services catering to our customers’ financial and insurance needs.”As this is a related party transaction, the Proposed Acquisition is subject to the approval of the non-interested shareholders of Public Bank at an Extraordinary General Meeting (“EGM”) to be held at a later date. Should the Proposed Acquisition be approved at the EGM, Public Bank will be obliged to extend an unconditional mandatory take-over offer (“MGO”) (“Proposed Offer”) for the remaining equity interest in LPI not already owned by it.It is pertinent to note that Public Bank has received the approval from the Ministry of Finance and Bank Negara Malaysia for the Proposed Acquisition and is expected to complete this corporate exercise in the 1st quarter of 2025.Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the Proposed Acquisition is expected to be value accretive and contribute positively to the future earnings of the Public Bank Group.At the same press conference, Teh Li Shian Diona, the youngest daughter of the late Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow also announced that the Estate and ConTeh intends to undertake a restricted offer for sale (“ROFS”) of a portion of their Public Bank Shares, progressively over a 5-year period and will be in compliance with the Financial Services Act.Diona Teh said, “My father often said that the success of Public Bank was not his alone – it is built on the trust and loyalty of its shareholders and the relentless commitment of its employees, or as he would like to call them his “corporate family”.“To honour his legacy and to show our deep appreciation and gratitude, we will be undertaking an exercise to distribute a portion of our Public Bank shares at a discount to all employees, directors and eligible shareholders of the Public Bank Group. This initiative aims to ensure that Public Bank remains in the hands of those who have nurtured its growth and success over the years, enabling us to continue building our legacy together.”She further added that, “Although we will be streamlining our stake, I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our firm and unwavering commitment to continue as the major shareholders of Public Bank. This is not just a role or title for us – it is an honour and a responsibility that we deeply cherish. We are devoted to upholding my father’s legacy and continuing the stewardship of this esteemed institution.”“For this, we are deeply grateful to Bank Negara Malaysia and the Ministry of Finance for their trust in us by granting us the approval to continue helming Public Bank. With their support, we will perform our utmost best to lead Public Bank with the same passion, integrity, and vision that has defined the PBB group thus far.”Issued By: Swan Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. on behalf of Public Bank BerhadFor more information, please contact:Xinyi ChingEmail: x.ching@swanconsultancy.biz Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-10

AI and Personalisation to Lead the Way in 2025 for UK Organisations: Insights from the Customer Experience Live Show UK 2024

LONDON, Oct 10, 2024 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - In the face of rapid digital transformation across the UK and Ireland, businesses are increasingly turning to AI and personalisation technologies to enhance customer engagement in 2025, according to the newly released ‘Customer Experience Live UK Intelligence Report 2024'.  The report, unveiled at the co-located Customer Experience Live Show UK and Digital Experience Show UK  2024, reveals that 62% of companies are investing in AI, while 52% are focusing on personalising service delivery to meet rising customer expectations.The report outlines how businesses are focusing on improving customer journey mapping (53%) and re-evaluating voice-of-customer initiatives (49%), underscoring that organisations are intensifying efforts to better understand and anticipate customer needs. The rising use of AI is set to transform the way businesses deliver real-time, tailored customer interactions, with 49% of companies re-assessing chatbot and automation solutions to optimise customer service operations.One of the key challenges facing enterprises in the region is re-imagining CX, with 50% of respondents citing this as a priority, alongside data-driven decision-making (47%), and increasing customer satisfaction and retention (38%). As companies work towards achieving operational efficiency (33%), the emphasis on digital transformation initiatives is undeniable. To address these challenges, businesses are upgrading their digital solution stacks, with 47% improving their digital engagement and customer care platforms. Additionally, 46% are investing in customer analytics and personas to gain deeper insights into customer behaviour, while 43% are turning to omnichannel engagement strategies to deliver cohesive, seamless experiences across all touchpoints.Commenting on the findings, Ayusha Tyagi, Managing Director of Customer Experience Live, noted, "The intelligence report highlights a pivotal moment for UK & I businesses. As companies amplify their investment in AI and digital technologies, they are not only meeting customer demands for personalised, real-time experiences but also setting themselves up for long-term success in an increasingly digital marketplace."The Customer Experience Live Show UK and Digital Experience Show UK 2024, held at Hilton Syon Park in London, brought together senior industry leaders to explore the latest trends shaping customer and digital experiences. Featuring expert discussions on brand experience, business transformation, data excellence, AI, automation, and omnichannel strategies, the event provided a crucial platform for businesses in the region to share best practices and future-shaping solutions.The event was supported by leading sponsors and partners, including Verint, Concentrix, Talkdesk, Konnect Insights, Squiz, manifesto, Acquia, Zoho, and Answered by Aramex, alongside strategic partners such as the International Customer Experience Institute, Customer Institute, and Directors Club, with BNC as the Project Intelligence Partner. Media partners included Customer Data Platform Institute, ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com, Siliconindia, StartupNews.fyi, and CIOReview. Thought leaders from prominent organisations, including NHS, Bank of England, Rolls-Royce, Electrolux, Close Brothers, Formula E, and Adidas, shared valuable insights on navigating the complexities of digital transformation while keeping the customer at the heart of decision-making.A highlight of the conference was the Customer Experience Live Awards UK 2024, which celebrated organisations that have made remarkable strides in CX innovation. Among the distinguished winners were Telecommunications And Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), Tawuniya, Saudi Electricity Company, OVO Energy, Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority (ZATCA), Quilter, Riyadh Airports Company, Espire Infolabs, MSD, and Verint, who were recognised for their exceptional efforts in transforming customer engagement and delivering cutting-edge service through digital innovation.For more insights into the digital CX strategies driving the future of customer experience in the region, download the full 'Customer Experience Live UK Intelligence Report 2024' at www.customer-experience.live/industry-reports.About Customer Experience LiveCustomer Experience Live is a leading digital customer experience insights and research powerhouse in the EMEA region. The company is committed to rigorous research that drives the conceptualisation of programs and activations essential for top-level executives to fuel growth within their organisations. With a keen focus on assisting leading solution providers in navigating the EMEA market, it delves into understanding end-user needs comprehensively, facilitating the generation of high-quality leads and ultimately securing successful business ventures.For more information, please contactRiji Raju, Customer Experience LiveEmail: riji.raju@customer-experience.live  Copyright 2024 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

2024-10-10