Start your day with the stories shaping Singapore — and your place in it.
Join Neil Humphreys and Audrey Siek as they cover the biggest headlines, trending topics, and everyday conversations, unpacked through fresh perspectives, expert insights, and engaging discussion. 
From current affairs and social issues to lifestyle trends and community voices, each segment offers a different lens on what’s happening — and what’s worth your attention.

And it’s not just talk — it’s your voice. Through polls, messages, and live call-ins, listeners are part of the conversation, sharing their views and shaping the discussion in real time. With a mix of clarity, curiosity, and personality, Let’s Talk, Singapore keeps you informed, connected, and ready for the day ahead.

Start your day with the stories shaping Singapore — and your place in it.

Join Neil Humphreys and Audrey Siek as they cover the biggest headlines, trending topics, and everyday conversations, unpacked through fresh perspectives, expert insights, and engaging discussion. From current affairs and social issues to lifestyle trends and community voices, each segment offers a different lens on what’s happening — and what’s worth your attention.

And it’s not just talk — it’s your voice. Through polls, messages, and live call-ins, listeners are part of the conversation, sharing their views and shaping the discussion in real time. With a mix of clarity, curiosity, and personality, Let’s Talk, Singapore keeps you informed, connected, and ready for the day ahead.

From current affairs and social issues to lifestyle trends and community voices, each segment offers a different lens on what’s happening — and what’s worth your attention.

Neil Humphreys, Audrey Siek

Let's Talk, Singapore

MONEY FM 89.3

Dan Koh, Trisha Yeong

Zia-ul Raushan

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Weekdays, 6 am – 10 am

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.
The show explores wellbeing in all its dimensions — from self-awareness and personal growth to money, investing, and everyday lifestyle. Through thoughtful interviews and engaging conversations, Michelle speaks with experts and changemakers on living and ageing well, while helping you discover new ideas — from great books on READ and inspiring voices on INFLUENCE, to practical financial insights on MONEY AND ME.

In a fast-moving world that can often feel overwhelming, Live Well offers a refreshing counterpoint — with insights, ideas and stories that help you feel informed, empowered and ready to take on the day.

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.

The show explores wellbeing in all its dimensions — from self-awareness and personal growth to money, investing, and everyday lifestyle. Through thoughtful interviews and engaging conversations, Michelle speaks with experts and changemakers on living and ageing well, while helping you discover new ideas — from great books on READ and inspiring voices on INFLUENCE, to practical financial insights on MONEY AND ME.

In a fast-moving world that can often feel overwhelming, Live Well offers a refreshing counterpoint — with insights, ideas and stories that help you feel informed, empowered and ready to take on the day.

Start your day on a positive note with Live Well with Michelle Martin.

Michelle Martin

Live Well with Michelle

Anthea Ng

Weekdays, 10am – 1pm

Take a step back, refocus, and Reset with Lynlee.
Airing weekdays from 1pm to 4pm, the show brings clarity to the stories shaping Singapore and the world — from current affairs and global developments to business trends and industry shifts. Through insightful conversations and fresh perspectives, Lynlee explores what’s driving the headlines and where things are heading next.

Featuring segments like Viewpoint, Industry Insight and Suite Talk, Reset goes beyond the noise to offer thoughtful analysis, real-world context and ideas that help you recalibrate for the rest of your day.

We delve into the latest news, current events, and market updates to provide you with valuable insights into making informed financial decisions.

Take a step back, refocus, and Reset with Lynlee.

Every weekday, Lynlee Foo speaks with the people behind the biggest stories in business, technology and society to help you understand not just what's happening—but why it matters and what's coming next.

From AI and consumer behaviour to leadership, geopolitics and the economy, Reset cuts through the headlines with intelligent, engaging conversations that help you make sense of a rapidly changing world.

Featuring Viewpoint, Industry Insight and Suite Talk, each episode offers practical insights, fresh perspectives and meaningful conversations with experts, business leaders and decision-makers.

Take a step back, refocus, and Reset with Lynlee.

Lynlee Foo

Reset with Lynlee

Alexandra Parada

Weekdays, 1 pm – 4 pm

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong is your 4–8pm drive companion, guiding you through the day’s biggest headlines, trending conversations and the issues shaping Singapore and the world.

From news and current affairs to lifestyle insights and generational perspectives, the show helps you make sense of what’s happening — with clarity, context and a touch of personality.

Whether you’re catching up after a long day or tuning in on the move, Your Way Home keeps you informed, engaged and connected — all the way home. 

And she closes the day with a song that says it all.

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong is your 4–8pm drive companion, guiding you through the day’s biggest headlines, trending conversations and the issues shaping Singapore and the world.

From news and current affairs to lifestyle insights and generational perspectives, the show helps you make sense of what’s happening — with clarity, context and a touch of personality.

Whether you’re catching up after a long day or tuning in on the move, Your Way Home keeps you informed, engaged and connected — all the way home.

And she closes the day with a song that says it all.

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong is your 4–8pm drive companion,

Hongbin Jeong

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong

Nadiah Koh, Nazirul Asrar

Weekdays, 4 pm – 8 pm

Start your weekend right with Saturday Mornings for sharp commentary on the stories that matter — without losing the lighter side of the weekend. Informative, conversational, and always relevant — Saturday Mornings with Glenn van Zutphen, only on MONEY FM 89.3.

Start your weekend right with Glenn van Zutphen and an interesting mix of guests. Weekly news commentary with international journalists, and tidbits on Singapore's most interesting places with award-winning author Neil Humphreys.

Glenn van Zutphen

Saturday Mornings with Glenn van Zutphen

Saturdays, 9 am – Noon

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1592954/Pudu-Robotics-Logo.jpg?id=OA2893923&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- <a href="https://www.pudurobotics.com/en" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Pudu Robotics</a>, a global leader in commercial service robotics, today announced the launch of <a href="https://www.pudurobotics.com/en/products/mp2000" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PUDU MP2000</a>, an AI-native pallet handling robot with a 2,000 kg payload capacity designed to simplify autonomous floor-to-floor material transport across warehouses, logistics facilities and manufacturing environments. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" align="center"> <iframe id="PlayMedia_1" src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971413/PUDU-MP2000-ID-b3e0687341e5.mp4?id=OA2893924" width="560" height="325" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe> PUDU MP2000: AI-Native Pallet Handling Robot </div> As industrial operations increasingly turn to robotics for repetitive material movement, autonomous pallet handling remains challenging to deploy at scale. Traditional solutions can require extensive site preparation, dedicated infrastructure and complex integration, while differences in pallet formats and operating environments can further limit flexibility. PUDU MP2000 takes a different approach by turning autonomous pallet handling from a project-heavy deployment into a standardized robotic solution designed to work with existing operations. Plug and Play, Deploy in Minutes PUDU MP2000 combines multi-sensor navigation, edge intelligence and AI-native perception to simplify deployment from the outset. It can map the operating environment for autonomous navigation and workflow setup without extensive site modifications, dedicated reflectors or QR codes, or complex platform integration. This enables rapid, minutes-level deployment, reducing the infrastructure and commissioning burden typically associated with autonomous forklift projects. For manufacturers, this can help minimize disruption when introducing automation. For logistics operators, the standardized deployment model provides greater flexibility to expand robotic capacity as operational needs evolve. AI-Native Adaptation for Real-World Operations Pallet handling rarely follows a single standard. PUDU MP2000 supports common pallet formats, including three-runner pallets and perimeter-base pallets, while also adapting to customized, non-standard load carriers. Its AI-native perception enables real-time, onboard understanding of changing handling conditions—from recognizing available storage locations and identifying load positions to adjusting for pallet misalignment. PUDU MP2000 can also assess the load's size and shape in real time to determine clearance and navigate through constrained spaces with greater precision. By connecting perception, decision-making and execution, PUDU MP2000 enables autonomous handling&nbsp;that continuously adapts to the environment rather than relying solely on predefined conditions. Fast Fork-In for High-Frequency Material Movement PUDU MP2000 is engineered for the repetitive, high-frequency movement that defines industrial pallet logistics. Its optimized fork-handling process enables fork-in in as little as 20 seconds, helping shorten pickup cycles and keep material moving efficiently between locations. The system is designed to reduce repeated positioning and pickup attempts, enabling more consistent handling across warehouse and factory workflows. 3D Perception for Safer Autonomous Transport PUDU MP2000 combines 3D LiDAR, depth cameras and multi-sensor perception to detect and interpret obstacles across different heights and positions. The robot can identify low-profile and overhead obstacles, navigate around static obstacles and respond to dynamic obstacles in real time. This enables more adaptive autonomous movement in environments where people, equipment and materials may be constantly changing. Distributed Intelligence and Flexible Control PUDU MP2000 combines local intelligence with fleet-level coordination for flexible, autonomous operation. Each robot can make real-time decisions independently, while multiple units coordinate tasks to maintain efficient and orderly workflows across the fleet. Fleet coordination can continue in offline environments, supporting reliable operation even when external network connectivity is unavailable. The system also integrates with compatible peripheral equipment to support different operational workflows. Operators can flexibly assign tasks and quickly take control when human intervention is required. Expanding PUDU's Industrial Delivery Portfolio The launch of PUDU MP2000 expands Pudu's industrial portfolio from flexible mobile delivery into standardized pallet handling and heavier-load transport. Pudu's T Series AMRs, including PUDU T300, address flexible delivery and material transport. PUDU MP2000 extends this capability into palletized, heavier-load and floor-to-floor transportation, covering core workflows across loading docks, warehouses, line-side storage and production workshops. Together, the two product categories provide a broader foundation for end-to-end industrial logistics automation, connecting flexible delivery with standardized pallet transport across the factory and warehouse. With PUDU MP2000, Pudu Robotics is bringing an AI-native approach to a traditionally infrastructure-heavy category of automation—making autonomous pallet handling easier to deploy, easier to adapt and easier to scale. About Pudu Robotics Pudu Robotics is a global leader in commercial service robotics and the industry's first company to offer a full portfolio spanning specialized, semi-humanoid, and humanoid robots. According to Frost &amp; Sullivan's latest market report, Pudu Robotics ranks No. 1 globally in commercial service robotics by both revenue and shipment volume. Built on its One Brain, Multiple Embodiments architecture, Pudu offers robots for service delivery, commercial cleaning, industrial delivery, and general embodied AI applications across hospitality, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, education, public services, and more. To date, Pudu Robotics has shipped over 130,000 robots to customers across 85+ countries and regions. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2"> </div>

Pudu Robotics Launches PUDU MP2000, an AI-Native Pallet Handling Robot, to Simplify Autonomous Pallet Handling for Industrial Logistics

MACAO, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- On August 15, 2026, the &quot;2026&nbsp;TME Chinese Music Impact Summit&quot;, hosted by Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME), was held in Macao, China. Themed &quot;Music IP: Where the Future Grows&quot;, the summit brought together leading figures from across the global music industry for a series of discussions on AI, live music, artists and super fans, jointly exploring the creation, growth, global expansion, and long-term value of music IP in the AI era. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder4323" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971454/20260818060454EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2893540&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971454/20260818060454EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2893540&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> In his opening remarks at the summit, Cussion Kar Shun Pang, Executive Chairman of Tencent Music Entertainment Group, said that AI enables the industry to produce large volumes of content in a short time, which also means high-quality music is becoming scarcer. High-quality music content creation and intellectual property protection are the foundation of the industry, Pang added, noting that TME hopes to work with the industry to develop higher-quality music IP, expand the boundaries of music value, and create new opportunities for industry growth. The AI Era Calls for a New Copyright Framework to Support the Growth of Music IP In the AI era, as technology continues to evolve, technological advances are giving music unprecedented distribution efficiency and new tools for creation. Liu Hua, Director of the China Office of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), delivered a video address on &quot;The Flow of Technology: Copyright Protection in the Music Industry in China&quot;. The first roundtable discussion, themed &quot;Sustaining Great Content: How Can Al Power Long-Term IP Growth?&quot;, brought together Sam Hu, Managing Director, Universal Music China &amp; SVP, Universal Music Greater China; Xin Liu, CEO, Grand Vista Music Group; Denver Chang, Chairman and Music Director, Linfair Records Ltd.; and TC Pan, Group Senior Vice President of TME, President of TME Content Cooperation, TME Distribution and TMELive, and Head of TMEA/TIMA. The panelists discussed what makes great content stand the test of time. Discussing how AI is reshaping music creation, the panelists agreed that AI should be a tool that supports creators, not a vehicle for infringing on original work. Regardless of how technology evolves, the industry must continue to prioritize high-quality content and develop fairer pricing and payment mechanisms and more equitable value-sharing models, so that works that stand the test of time can continue to generate value. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder5011" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971452/20260818060454EDT_image_7.jpg?id=OA2893538&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971452/20260818060454EDT_image_7.jpg?id=OA2893538&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> At a roundtable discussion themed &quot;Music in the Age of Al: New Creativity, New Rules, New Ecosystem&quot;, Zhang Jing, Chief Representative, International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC) Beijing Office; Yang Ming, Professor, Peking University School of Law and Executive Vice-Dean of PKU School of Intellectual Property; Kevin Yi, Renowned Lyricist and Music Planner; and Yang Qihu, Vice President and General Counsel, Tencent Music Entertainment Group, further focused the discussion on copyright rules and the creative ecosystem. They agreed that the industry must both protect the legitimate interests of rights holders and leave room for new technologies to be responsibly integrated into the creative process. They called for rules spanning training inputs, AI-generated outputs and platform governance, built around the principles of &quot;authorization, transparency and compensation&quot;. Through collaborative innovation and shared governance, the industry can move AI music from &quot;unregulated generation&quot; toward &quot;orderly co-creation&quot;. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder5104" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971456/20260818060454EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2893542&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971456/20260818060454EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2893542&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> Deepening Global Collaboration to Expand the Global Reach of Chinese-Language Music IP The summit also focused on how music IP can extend across live entertainment, artists and fans while expanding into international markets, exploring how China's music industry can develop distinctive music IP that can connect with global audiences. As the global live performance market continues to grow, for a show to evolve from a &quot;breakout hit&quot; into a &quot;legendary IP&quot;, it needs a recognizable content core, sustained audience engagement, and the ability to sustain audience engagement and operations beyond the live event itself. In the discussion, Danny Tang, Co-Founder &amp; CEO, Hero Esports, co-organizer of Tomorrowland China, Zhang Chongshuo, Founder &amp; CEO, Sparkle Live Entertainment, and Michael Tseng, Vice President of Content Cooperation and Live Performance Business, Tencent Music Entertainment Group, noted that while lineups can be replicated, the live experience and the emotional value it creates are far harder to replicate — and this is what sustains the long-term vitality of a live show IP. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder8477" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971453/20260818060454EDT_image_3.jpg?id=OA2893539&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971453/20260818060454EDT_image_3.jpg?id=OA2893539&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> On the topic of building artist IP, Kubert Leung, Renowned Music Producer and Music Director, Vince Amoroso, SVP and Global Head of Artist Services (Music), THE TEAM, and JINBYJIN, Renowned K-pop producer and Global A&amp;R Executive of Kreation Music Rights (KMR), focused on what cannot be replicated: an artist's musical identity and personal expression. Originality, innovation, and initiative, combined with an authenticity rooted in genuine personal experience, local culture, and musical language, define the lasting distinctiveness of iconic artists and are central to their ability to resonate with audiences globally. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder3504" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971459/20260818060454EDT_image_6.jpg?id=OA2893545&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971459/20260818060454EDT_image_6.jpg?id=OA2893545&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> As social platforms and fan community ecosystems continue to mature, fans are participating more proactively in the distribution, co-creation and&nbsp;monetization of music IP, with &quot;super fans&quot; becoming a core audience for the long-term growth of music IP. During the roundtable discussion, Lee Hak-hee, Vice President, DearU Co., Ltd., a Korean social platform; Dora Jin, Director of the Korean Cooperation Center, Content Co-operation Department, Tencent Music Entertainment Group; and Jane Yang, Director of Product &amp; Operations, QQ Music Commercialization Center, Tencent Music Entertainment Group, agreed that recurring engagement, fan initiative and two-way emotional connection are key characteristics of the super fan ecosystem. Platforms need to help fans build long-term connections with artists, cultivating relationships that progress from awareness and emotional engagement to a sense of belonging and co-creation, thereby retaining high-quality interactive content on the platform over time. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder9526" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971457/20260818060454EDT_image_5.jpg?id=OA2893543&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971457/20260818060454EDT_image_5.jpg?id=OA2893543&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> In recent years, streams of Chinese-language music have continued to rise on global platforms, but how to make Chinese-language pop music more widely heard and embraced by international audiences remains a key question for the industry. At the summit, Zhou Shen, Chinese male singer, sat down with Gurjeet Chima, PMC Global VP, Head of International Markets, for a special conversation titled &quot;The Sounds of Mandopop&quot;. Discussing the internationalization of Chinese-language music, the two argued that the first priority is simply to get the music heard rather than repeatedly explain what makes it unique. They also stressed the importance of authentic self-expression, local cultural identity and working with teams that genuinely understand international markets, helping Chinese-language music develop a clear voice for global audiences. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder6717" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971458/20260818060454EDT_image_4.jpg?id=OA2893544&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971458/20260818060454EDT_image_4.jpg?id=OA2893544&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> In a special awards presentation at the close of the summit, Tencent Music Entertainment presented annual honors to nearly 40 partners that had worked with TME over the past year to advance music content and IP development. The awards recognized and thanked the partners for their sustained efforts to support the creation and distribution of high-quality music content. Among them, Linfair Records, Hikoon Music Group, Warner Records, Universal Music, Media Asia Music, JVR Music, Grand Vista Music Group, TF Entertainment, SM Entertainment, Sony Music Entertainment, Taihe Music Group, and Emperor Entertainment Group received the &quot;Outstanding Content Partner of the Year&quot; honor; Elephant Music Group, Rock Forward Entertainment, Enlight Media, Rock Records, Haixi Music, Stellar, HUACE MUSIC, UEC, miHoYo, SNH48, StreetVoice, YH Entertainment Group, and DMG received the &quot;Pioneering IP Innovation Partner of the Year&quot; honor; Apple Music, Believe, Aimei Film and Television, Chunyu Film and Television, DearU, DouYu, Huawei Mobile Services (HMS), HIM International Music, Jiangsu Satellite TV, SY Music, XiXi Pictures, B'in Music, and Zhejiang Satellite TV received the &quot;Outstanding Music Ecosystem Partner of the Year&quot; honor. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder5457" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971455/20260818060454EDT_image_8.jpg?id=OA2893541&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971455/20260818060454EDT_image_8.jpg?id=OA2893541&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> As the rise of AI intersects with globalization, the value of music IP is being reassessed. Going forward, Tencent Music Entertainment Group will continue to provide an open, pragmatic platform for industry dialogue, foster consensus among stakeholders, and work with industry partners to unlock the long-term value of Chinese music IP in global markets, moving together toward a future of &quot;borderless IP&quot;. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

2026 TME Chinese Music Impact Summit Held: Music IP and New Growth Paths for the Industry in the AI Era

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1371504/Logo.jpg?id=OA2893223&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> PASAY CITY, Philippines, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SM Investments Corporation (SM), the parent company of the SM Group, reported consolidated net income of PHP45.9 billion in the first half of 2026, up 8% from PHP42.6 billion a year earlier, as sustained consumer demand and the strength of its diversified business model supported growth across the Group.&nbsp; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1"> </div> Consolidated revenues for the January to June period increased 6% to PHP339.2 billion, from PHP319.2 billion in the same period last year. &quot;Consumer spending in our retail stores and malls remained healthy despite recent economic shocks,&quot; said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments. &quot;The Filipino consumer was tested during the first half of the year but our businesses proved to be resilient. Steady demand across our consumer-led businesses plus solid contributions from our portfolio companies continue to reflect the strength of our diversified business model. This gives us the confidence to keep investing for long-term growth.&quot; In terms of net income, banking contributed 47% followed by property at 27%, retail at 15% and portfolio investments at 11%. SM Retail reported net income was up 5% to PHP8.9 billion while operating income grew 12% to PHP14.0 billion, demonstrating the company's ability to efficiently manage expenses amid a higher inflation environment. Growth was also broad-based, driven by resilient consumer demand for everyday essentials and the continued expansion of the group's store network. Food retail posted steady sales growth across its supermarket and minimart chain formats. Specialty retail registered higher sales, driven by the Home, Other Fashion and Kids categories. Growth in the Home category was due to sustained demand for power source alternatives. In the Other Fashion category, growth was led by Kultura and Crocs. The Kids category was bolstered by spending on toys, pets and stationery.&nbsp; As the Group's largest consumer-facing business, the unlisted SM Retail business contributes significantly to recurring cash flows at the parent level. Consumer demand was equally evident in the Group's mall business, where revenues grew 8% to PHP41.8 billion on the combined effect of higher occupancy, stronger tenant sales and improved operational efficiency. Banks posted mid-teens loan growth and remained the Group's largest earnings contributor, reflecting the continued strength of its core banking franchise.&nbsp; Portfolio investments delivered a stronger performance, driven by a turnaround in Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation, buoyed by higher copper prices. 2GO Group, Inc. recorded revenue growth across all categories, supported by higher passenger volumes in the travel segment and higher volumes in the logistics category from online purchases. Philippine Geothermal Production Company, Inc. revenues increased amid adjustments in energy prices. SM's scale, recurring income, and broad exposure to the country's consumer-driven economy enable it to generate cash reliably across economic cycles. The Group is able to allocate its resources toward expansion and long-term value creation, while the parent focusses on using its strong cash flows to increase returns to shareholders. Total assets stood at PHP1.82 trillion, with a conservative capital structure of 31% net debt to 69% equity. &quot;We remain positive about the outlook for the second half of the year, while staying mindful of macroeconomic uncertainties,&quot; Mr. DyBuncio said. &quot;Our diversified portfolio, prudent balance sheet and disciplined approach to capital allocation position us well to continue investing in the Philippines and creating long-term value for our customers, communities and shareholders.&quot; About SM Investments Corporation SM Investments Corporation (SM) is an owner-operator of market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property, with investments in high-growth opportunities in the Philippine economy. Through its portfolio, SM generates resilient cash flows and reinvests with discipline to compound value over the long term. Its retail operations are the largest and most diversified in the country. Its property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines. Its banking interests include BDO Unibank, Inc., the country's largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, one of the country's largest private domestic banks. For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.sminvestments.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">www.sminvestments.com</a>&nbsp;

SM Investments reports 8% growth in H1 net income to PHP45.9 billion on sustained consumer demand

SINGAPORE and HONG KONG, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (&quot;GTJAI&quot;, Stock Code: 1788.HK), a company of Guotai Haitong Group, has generated a strong market response across Asia for its 2026 &quot;818 Wealth Management Festival&quot; since launching on August 1, with campaign momentum intensifying heading into mid-August. Anchored around the theme of technology-driven investment and global multi-asset strategy, the annual festival combines expert-led investment research livestreams, exclusive client privileges, interactive public installations, and digital wealth management innovations. Together, these initiatives deliver a professional, technology-enhanced wealth management experience tailored to high-net-worth individuals, institutional clients, and global investors seeking resilient capital growth. 1. Macro Strategy Panel: Navigating Fed Policy and the Disinflationary AI Wave A flagship highlight of this year's festival occurred on August 18, when GTJAI Chief Economist Zhou Hao hosted an in-depth macro strategy panel alongside Ding Yifei, Head of Asset Management at GTJAI, and Dr. Wang Shengzu, Head of Asset Management at Haitong International. The panel analysed Federal Reserve monetary policy trajectories, global capital flows, and cross-asset allocation strategies for the second half of 2026. The expert panel reached a clear consensus that the probability of further interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve in the second half of the year remains exceptionally low. Addressing market concerns regarding artificial intelligence and inflation, the panellists noted that while massive capital expenditure driven by the AI boom creates near-term upward pressure on prices, the structural impact over a longer horizon tells a different story. Over time, AI integration will substantially enhance total factor productivity across industries, ultimately acting as a powerful disinflationary force for the global economy. In fixed income markets, Dr. Wang Shengzu projected a stabilising-to-declining trajectory for 10-year US Treasury yields throughout H2, elevating the tactical appeal of high-quality financial bonds. Recognising supply-side pressures on longer-duration US Treasuries, Ding Yifei advised conservative investors to overweight short-to-medium-duration, high-grade credit as well as emerging market investment-grade bonds with maturities under three years to lock in historically attractive yields with high certainty. Regarding global equities, Dr. Wang maintained a long-term optimistic outlook on US technology equities, supported by resilient corporate balance sheets, steady earnings growth, and favourable structural tailwinds. He recommended that investors adopt a &quot;Stay Invested&quot; strategy to navigate short-term macroeconomic noise and market volatility. Turning to Hong Kong equities, Ding pointed out that valuations remain at historic lows relative to major global benchmarks. This presents compelling entry opportunities for long-term investors seeking high-dividend yield targets alongside market-leading technology enterprises. Beyond his positive stance on Hong Kong equities, Ding further recommended incorporating a strategic allocation of 5% to 10% in gold-related assets to enhance portfolio resilience and act as an inflation hedge within a diversified multi-asset framework. 2. Dual-Hub Synergy: Unlocking Hong Kong and Singapore Advantages As part of GTJAI's commitment to expanding its international wealth management footprint, the Company collaborated closely with its Singapore subsidiary to host a dedicated strategic forum. Li Xuan, Head of Wealth Management at GTJAI Singapore, and Liu Xin, Head of Asset Management at GTJAI Singapore, explored the complementary attributes of Hong Kong and Singapore as Asia's premier wealth management centres. Li Xuan underscored Hong Kong's irreplaceable position as the primary bridge connecting Chinese Mainland's deep liquidity pools with global financial markets. Hong Kong excels in offering deep liquidity within the offshore RMB ecosystem, access to standardised financial instruments, and direct investment links into Chinese Mainland. Conversely, Singapore has solidified its reputation as a leading global asset allocation hub and safe haven, distinguishing itself through multi-regional asset diversification, cross-border corporate structuring, family office administration, and alternative asset structuring. Li emphasised that sophisticated investors should view accounts across both jurisdictions not as isolated pools, but as a unified, dual-hub framework—leveraging Hong Kong for China-focused market opportunities and Singapore for global risk dispersion. Addressing the broader economic backdrop characterised by persistent inflation, market volatility, and selective growth opportunities, Liu Xin noted that fixed-income yields remain near two-to-three-decade highs. He favoured short-duration (under three years) emerging market investment-grade bonds and short-term US Treasuries to capture solid income. On the equity side, AI-driven structural growth remains a key conviction theme. To further enhance portfolio resilience, Liu suggested allocating 10% to 20% across gold and commodities as alternative asset hedges. Furthermore, he highlighted that establishing robust trust structures and family office frameworks in Singapore provides an effective layer of risk isolation between enterprise operational liabilities and private family wealth. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2987" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971371/20260818024522EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2892927&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971371/20260818024522EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2892927&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> 3. Accelerating Digital Transformation to Reshape Wealth Management 2.0 At the core of GTJAI's strategic vision is the transformation of wealth management through cutting-edge technology. GTJAI continues to pioneer digital solutions by embedding artificial intelligence directly into its core financial service chain: <ul type="disc"> <li>Junhong Global App (君弘全球通): GTJAI's flagship, one-stop global execution platform enables clients to seamlessly allocate capital across major international markets and execute multi-asset strategies with single-click efficiency.</li> <li>&quot;Archer&quot; AI Robo-Adviser: GTJAI introduced &quot;Archer&quot;, a next-generation intelligent robo-advisory system integrated with automated, real-time AI compliance verification mechanisms. Archer analyses cross-market dynamics to deliver customised, risk-adjusted asset allocation solutions tailored to individual investor profiles while ensuring strict compliance with regulatory standards.</li> </ul> 4. Omnichannel City Engagement Across Hong Kong Complementing its digital offerings, GTJAI launched a multi-channel public marketing campaign across Hong Kong from August 15 to 19. The Company transformed the landmark Central Market into an interactive wealth management experience centre. Visitors engaged with brand mascot &quot;Lingxi&quot;, explored digital onboarding tools, and accessed exclusive onboarding promotional packages offering rewards valued up to HK$2,500+. The initiative was further supported by a fleet of branded mobile advertisements navigating Hong Kong Island's taxi networks, bringing modern financial concepts into everyday public life. Looking forward, GTJAI remains committed to leveraging technology innovation and research capabilities to upgrade its wealth management product suite and service offerings. By offering smart, secure, and globally diversified wealth management solutions, GTJAI empowers global investors to capture market opportunities and achieve long-term, sustainable wealth preservation and growth. Investment involves risks; the price of a security may move up or down. Prior to making an investment decision, investors should consider whether an investment is suitable for them in view of their own financial situation, investment objectives and experience, risk tolerance, and other needs. Investors should obtain independent professional advice if they have any inquiries about the investment. Any views or opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not represent the position of the Company (Guotai Junan Securities (Hong Kong) Limited); the relevant information is provided for discussion and reference only. This document does not constitute an offer, solicitation, recommendation, opinion, or guarantee of any securities, financial products, or instruments. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

GTJAI 818 Wealth Management Festival: AI-Driven Global Asset Allocation Redefines Wealth Management 2.0

BEIJING, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from People's Daily: Taizhou, located in eastern China's Zhejiang province, is a city shaped by mountains and sustained by the sea. Its distinctive geography has fostered a culture of openness and inclusiveness. In recent years, Taizhou has continued to advance its high-level opening-up, improve its business environment, and enhance public services. As a result, an increasing number of foreigners are coming to the city to work, start businesses, settle down, and build their lives, linking their personal aspirations with the city's development. Argentine designer Rodrigo Alvarez serves as chief designer at Jinlang Science &amp; Technology Co., Ltd., a motorcycle manufacturer. Working alongside the company's R&amp;D team, he has tailored motorcycle designs to the aesthetic preferences, riding habits, and usage scenarios of Latin American consumers. By making targeted improvements to features such as appearance and body proportions, his efforts have helped the company better meet market demand and gradually build a differentiated competitive edge. Alvarez said he has witnessed the company's transition from exporting products to building brands overseas. &quot;More than 10 years ago, Chinese products mainly entered the Latin American market based on price advantage. Today, Chinese brands place much greater emphasis on design and quality.&quot; In recent years, Taizhou has continued its transition from a &quot;manufacturing hub&quot; to a &quot;smart manufacturing center.&quot; Top technical talent from China and abroad has converged in the city. Foreign experts with cutting-edge expertise and hands-on experience in international projects have taken root in local industries, injecting fresh vitality into the upgrading of Taizhou's manufacturing sector. At Taizhou Tailleur Sewing Equipment Co. Ltd. in Jiaojiang district, rows of industrial sewing machines stand neatly arranged. Al-Fosaiel Khaled Abdulatef Ahmed, head of the company, was busy fine-tuning a new model ahead of an upcoming international sewing equipment exhibition. Born into a Yemeni family with a long tradition in the sewing machine business, Ahmed came to China at the age of 17 to learn the technology. After visiting cities such as Shanghai, Wuhan, and&nbsp;Yiwu, he gradually developed the idea of starting his own sewing machine brand in China. He ultimately chose Taizhou because of its complete industrial and supply chains. From whole-machine manufacturing and component production to servo motors and electronic control systems, more than 400 sewing equipment manufacturers operate across the industry, covering virtually every stage of industrial sewing machine production. Ahmed was also deeply impressed by the support and healthy competition among local businesses. Early in his entrepreneurial journey, he secured a large order but lacked the funds to pay the full deposit for the components he needed. The general manager of another local sewing machine company stepped forward to provide a guarantee, helping him overcome the difficulty. Whenever he encounters challenges in R&amp;D, production and delivery, market expansion, or policy applications, local industry associations and fellow businesses in Taizhou are ready to lend a hand. The local government has continued to improve the business environment, strengthening market regulation, legal services, and government service to support business growth. Today,&nbsp;Taizhou is home to more than 3,000 foreign-invested enterprises, four provincial-level foreign-funded R&amp;D centers, and the Zhejiang China-Germany (Taizhou) Industrial Cooperation Park. Years ago, a young German woman whose Chinese name is Pan Moli came to Linhai, a county-level city administered by Taizhou, and married into Baishuiyang village in Baishuiyang town. In her eyes, Baishuiyang is a clean and pleasant place to live, with well-developed public facilities and a rich array of cultural and sporting activities. The village basketball league, in particular, left a lasting impression on her. &quot;Men and women, young and old, all come to watch because everyone loves the games. I had never seen anything like this in Germany,&quot; she said. Villagers who work and chat together during the day become opponents on the court at night. They compete fiercely during the games, yet afterward they are still laughing and chatting together. &quot;I think this is a reflection of Taizhou's culture of harmony,&quot; she said. Today, Pan Moli serves as an overseas communications ambassador for Taizhou. She uses her phone to film village basketball games and document Dragon Boat Festival traditions such as making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), crafting scented sachets, and hanging mugwort. She then shares the videos on social media, allowing followers overseas to discover everyday life in Taizhou's rural communities through her lens. In recent years, Taizhou has made notable progress in coordinated urban-rural development. In 2025, the urban-rural income ratio in Taizhou fell to 1.79, down 0.03 from the previous year, keeping the income gap relatively low. The exit-entry administration department of the city's public security bureau, together with the city's foreign experts service center, has set up a dedicated service counter at the municipal administrative service center. The counter handles five frequently requested services, including work permit issuance, employer registration, visa extensions, residence permit issuance, and document replacement or&nbsp;reissuance. Through one-stop processing with parallel approvals, overall processing times have been cut by more than 60 percent. Walking through the streets of&nbsp;Taizhou, one often encounters people from around the world. Some came for the city's industries, while others stayed for its quality of life. Here, they have built both their careers and their lives. For them, Taizhou is no longer just a name on a map, but a city where they can put down roots, pursue their dreams, and grow alongside the community.

Foreigners find careers and a home in Taizhou

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1815695/Prodigy-Technovations-Logo.jpg?id=OA2893161&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> BENGALURU, India, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --&nbsp;Prodigy Technovations Pvt. Ltd, a leader in protocol analysis solutions, proudly announces the successful testing and launch of the <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/product/ufs-5-0-protocol-exerciser-and-analyzer/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PGY-UFS5-EX-PA</a>. This groundbreaking tool is the industry's first UFS 5.0 protocol exerciser and analyzer&nbsp;designed to accelerate the development of next-generation flash memory interfaces required for the burgeoning AI-driven ecosystem. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" align="center"> <iframe id="videoMedia_1" width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fZZQK5O_Smc" frameborder="0"></iframe> UFS 5.0 Protocol Exerciser &amp; Analyzer | 46.64 Gbps HSG6B PAM4 Validation | Prodigy Technovations </div> Supporting MIPI M-PHY&reg; v6.0, MIPI UniPro&reg; v3.0, and the JEDEC UFS 5.0 specification, the <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/product/ufs-5-0-protocol-exerciser-and-analyzer/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PGY-UFS5-EX-PA</a>&nbsp;enables data transfer rates of 46.64Gbps per lane. This massive leap in throughput is critical for the seamless execution of artificial intelligence (AI) workloads, high-speed mobile computing, automotive ADAS, and immersive AR/VR applications. As AI moves from the cloud to the 'edge,' mobile devices and automotive SoCs require unprecedented storage performance to handle complex large language models (LLMs) and real-time data processing. The PGY-UFS5-EX-PA provides design and test engineers with the essential tools to validate UniPro v3.0 and UFS 5.0 designs, ensuring they meet the rigorous reliability and performance standards of the AI era. &quot;The shift toward on-device AI demands a fundamental change in how data is accessed and moved,&quot; said Godfree Coelho, Founder and CEO of Prodigy Technovations. &quot;Our innovative probing solution and protocol analysis capabilities in the <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/product/ufs-5-0-protocol-exerciser-and-analyzer/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PGY-UFS5-EX-PA</a>&nbsp;address the unique signal acquisition challenges of PAM4 at 46.64Gbps. By overcoming these hurdles, we are empowering SoC and UFS 5.0 vendors to build the high-performance, low-latency storage foundations that AI-driven applications require.&quot; Prodigy Technovations has been a steadfast Contributor member of the MIPI Alliance, actively participating in the M-PHY and UniPro working groups. &quot;MIPI Alliance welcomes continued development activity around tools such as the <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/product/ufs-5-0-protocol-exerciser-and-analyzer/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PGY-UFS5-EX-PA</a>&nbsp;that support implementation and validation of M-PHY v6.0 and UniPro v3.0,&quot; said Peter Lefkin, executive director, MIPI Alliance. &quot;These efforts contribute to a healthy ecosystem by helping companies evaluate and adopt these specifications for a range of applications.&quot; Key features of the <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/product/ufs-5-0-protocol-exerciser-and-analyzer/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">PGY-UFS5.0-EX-PA</a>&nbsp;include: <ul type="disc"> <li>Support for 46.64Gbps per lane to handle data-intensive AI workloads</li> <li>Flexibility to capture very large data using continuous streaming of protocol data</li> <li>Real-time protocol decode with error analysis</li> <li>Trigger based on M-PHYv6.0, UniProv3.0 and UFS 5.0 layer packet content</li> <li>M-PHYv6.0, UniProv3.0 and UFS 5.0 layer protocol decode and analysis</li> </ul> Pricing and Availability The PGY-UFS5.0-EX-PA is available for order immediately. For evaluation requests or pricing information, please contact <a href="mailto:contact@prodigytechno.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">contact@prodigytechno.com</a>. About Prodigy Technovations <a href="https://www.prodigytechno.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Prodigy Technovations</a>&nbsp;provides protocol analysis, decode, and PHY layer testing solutions for technologies including PCIe 5.0, eMMC, SD, SDIO, UHS-II, MIPI I3C, MIPI RFFE, and MIPI SPMI, helping engineers validate complex hardware designs. Contact: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/godfreecoelho/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Godfree Coelho</a> <a href="mailto:Godfree.coelho@prodigytechno.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Godfree.coelho@prodigytechno.com</a>&nbsp; +91 8042126100 &nbsp; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2"> </div>

Prodigy Technovations Unveils Industry's First UFS 5.0 Protocol Exerciser and Analyzer to Power the AI-Driven Storage Era

Registration opens for a renewed Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific, bringing global industrial expertise together with Singapore's advanced manufacturing, AI and robotics ecosystem SINGAPORE, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific (ITAP) returns on 21–22 October 2026 at Suntec Singapore, marking the formal relaunch of the region's industrial platform under a new strategic partnership between Deutsche Messe and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF). Under the theme &quot;Transform Tomorrow Today&quot;, 2026 edition directly addresses a critical shift across regional manufacturing: moving beyond pilot projects into full commercial deployment and integration. The joint initiative combines Deutsche Messe's global industrial network and HANNOVER MESSE expertise with SMF's deep ties to Singapore's manufacturing community, strengthening the connection between international technology developments and the immediate needs of manufacturers in Singapore and across the Asia-Pacific region. A Renewed Platform Built Around Industry ITAP 2026 introduces an intentionally curated, conference-led format complemented by a focused exhibition showcase. The two-day event creates an executive environment for senior manufacturing leaders, plant directors and technology decision-makers to explore industrial AI, automation, digitalisation, smart manufacturing and advanced robotics. The programme draws on Singapore's advanced manufacturing and innovation ecosystem, with involvement from A*STAR and national initiatives including the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), National Robotics Programme (NRP) and Sectoral AI Centre of Excellence for Manufacturing (AIMfg). Together, the organisations bring research, technology development and industry closer together, reinforcing ITAP's renewed role as a platform where manufacturers can connect global innovation with real-world industrial application. The programme will also include a dedicated learning journey for around 150 students from Singapore's institutes of higher learning, providing firsthand exposure to industrial AI, robotics, automation and advanced manufacturing, alongside the plant directors and engineers deploying them. It is part of SMF's wider push to show young Singaporeans how manufacturing has transformed. Built for Manufacturing of Every Size SMF represents close to 5,000 corporate members, the majority small and mid-sized manufacturers for whom the calculus on new technology looks different from an MNC. ITAP 2026's curated format is designed around that reality: a narrower, more practical question of which technologies are worth the investment for a smaller operation and who can help implement them. SMF members will have access to guidance connecting them from the exhibition floor to the federation's own industry group and support schemes, so a visit to ITAP translated into a next step, not just a next conversation. &quot;Most of Singapore's manufacturers are small and mid-sized companies, and for them the question isn't whether to adopt AI or automation, it's which investment actually pays off on their shop floor. We want manufacturers of every size to walk away with something they can act on: a supplier to call, a use case that matches their operation, a clearer sense of what to invest in next. And we want the students joining us to walk away with a reason to see themselves in this industry's future. &quot; Wayne Yap, Chief Executive Officer, SMF. From AI Ambition to Physical Implementation Physical AI and the future of humanoid robotics will be among the technologies in focus, with Mavarick Ho, Co-founder and Vice President of Advanced Development at NEURA Robotics, confirmed as a keynote speaker. Ho will address &quot;Physical AI: Where Humanoid and Cognitive Robotics Is Actually Heading&quot;, examining how cognitive robotics is moving towards real-world industrial deployment. Across two days, ITAP will span four critical operational domains including industrial AI and automation, smart manufacturing and digitalisation, advanced production technologies, and sustainable manufacturing, supported by perspectives from industry, technology companies and Singapore's research and innovation ecosystem. Building towards ITAP 2027 ITAP 2026 serves as the foundational launchpad for the platform's full-scale expansion at Marina Bay Sands in 2027, when it will broaden its exhibition, programme and regional participation. The curated 2026 edition will establish the programme direction, partnerships and manufacturing community underpinning that growth. Registration is now open for Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific 2026. Event: Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific (ITAP) 2026 Dates: 21–22 October 2026 Venue: Suntec Singapore Registration: <a href="https://industrial-transformation.com/ticketing-options/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://industrial-transformation.com/ticketing-options/</a> Exhibition and Sponsorship Enquiries&nbsp; Mike Nissen&nbsp; Senior&nbsp;Commercial Director&nbsp; Hannover Fairs&nbsp; +61 (0)405 421 838&nbsp; <a href="mailto:mike.nissen@hannoverfairs.com.au" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">mike.nissen@hannoverfairs.com.au</a>&nbsp; - End -&nbsp; About Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific Industrial Transformation Asia-Pacific (ITAP) is a platform dedicated to advancing smart manufacturing and industrial transformation across Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region. Relaunched in 2026 under a new partnership between Deutsche Messe and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, ITAP connects manufacturers with global technology expertise, Singapore's manufacturing and innovation ecosystem, and the technologies and partnerships needed to turn industrial ambition into implementation. The 2026 edition marks the beginning of ITAP's renewed direction and lays the foundation for the platform's full-scale return in 2027.

Deutsche Messe and Singapore Manufacturing Federation Relaunch ITAP 2026

CHATSWORTH, Calif., Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=683808905&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aitechsystems.com%2F&amp;a=Aitech" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Aitech</a>, a global leader in AI-powered rugged embedded computing and connectivity systems for defense and space applications, today announced the new <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=124912625&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Faitechsystems.com%2Fproducts%2Fmil-aero%2Fethernet-switches%2Fu-c6850-3u-vpx-managed-ethernet-switch-router&amp;a=U-C6850" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">U-C6850</a>&nbsp;10/40GbE Fully Managed Ethernet Switch/Router, a SOSA&reg;-aligned, high-speed, flexible and secure Ethernet connectivity solution for military and aerospace systems. <div id="prni_dvprnejpga3a2left" dir="ltr" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnewswire.com/media/MS1968298/Aitech-Logo_original.jpg?id=OA2862541&amp;token=eyJhbGciOiJkaXIiLCJlbmMiOiJBMjU2R0NNIn0..CsBRHb_2vE-kNU2o.5K-Vl3AUDdklWgLq7PsZN8LjFjE24AHQhA4OY0QfBq2GDa6LPFcmqBoIIl2WgUMlXG-f8Q9o70tOAnPj-7U0-96BFS2XTczsUhcy_BQkXZ3no4St7RvUU5-EMBj9vw7QBA4._8rzfHJIiXHbAE8-Hb-qKA" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img id="prnejpga3a2left" title="Aitech is a leading provider of rugged embedded systems for use in military aerospace and space platforms" src="https://mmx.prnewswire.com/media/MS1968298/Aitech-Logo_original.jpg?id=OA2862541&amp;token=eyJhbGciOiJkaXIiLCJlbmMiOiJBMjU2R0NNIn0..CsBRHb_2vE-kNU2o.5K-Vl3AUDdklWgLq7PsZN8LjFjE24AHQhA4OY0QfBq2GDa6LPFcmqBoIIl2WgUMlXG-f8Q9o70tOAnPj-7U0-96BFS2XTczsUhcy_BQkXZ3no4St7RvUU5-EMBj9vw7QBA4._8rzfHJIiXHbAE8-Hb-qKA" alt="Aitech is a leading provider of rugged embedded systems for use in military aerospace and space platforms" align="middle" /></a> Aitech is a leading provider of rugged embedded systems for use in military aerospace and space platforms </div> As its first SOSA-aligned Ethernet Switch/Router, Aitech is expanding its portfolio of high-speed connectivity solutions for military and aerospace platforms to support a more modular, interoperable and future-ready approach to defense system design. &quot;The new SOSA-aligned U-C6850 Ethernet Switch provides the high-speed networking backbone needed to connect compute resources, sensors and communications systems while supporting the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) architectures defense customers need,&quot; said Alex Trigoub, product manager, Aitech. &quot;By enabling seamless integration into open architectures, the U-C6850 helps customers modernize legacy platforms with advanced networking technology, accelerate technology insertion and reduce lifecycle risks associated with proprietary systems.&quot; The U-C6850 is based on an advanced and flexible Layer2/Layer3 (L2/L3) Ethernet switch and packet processor and offers up to 320 Gbps of total switching capacity, through configurations supporting up to 8x 40GbE or 32x&nbsp;10GbE Ethernet interfaces, for data-intensive defense applications. By enabling high-speed data exchange across compute, sensors and communications networks, the new U-C6850 enables high-speed, low-latency video and data processing capabilities across modern sensor fusion architectures. In addition to its networking performance, the U-C6850 supports SWaP-C optimization by delivering high bandwidth and port density with relatively low power consumption, helping defense contractors and system integrators maximize performance while minimizing size, weight, power and lifecycle costs. The U-C6850 complements the <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=731865147&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Faitechsystems.com%2Fproducts%2Fmil-aero%2Fethernet-switches%2Fm622-xmc-managed-ethernet-switch-router%2F&amp;a=M622" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">M622</a>&nbsp;10/40GbE Ethernet Switch/Router on an XMC form factor, giving Aitech customers two available SWaP-C optimized high-speed connectivity form factors depending on the number of required Ethernet ports and the target system architecture: a fully managed Switch/Router on an XMC or a fully managed 3U SOSA-aligned board. The new rugged Ethernet Switch/Router is designed for military and aerospace platforms that rely on fast, reliable movement of data across distributed mission systems and high-performance computing environments where bandwidth and low latency are crucial. Its SOSA-aligned architecture makes it particularly well suited for technology refresh and modernization initiatives where system integrators need to upgrade networking, sensor processing and mission computing capabilities within existing aircraft, ground vehicles, naval platforms while minimizing redesign efforts. Key features include: <ul type="disc"> <li>Up to 320Gbps total switching capacity</li> <li>Configurations supporting 8x 40GbE or 32x10GbE&nbsp;Ethernet interfaces</li> <li>Advanced networking capabilities, supporting a full range of Layer2 (Switching) and Layer3 (Routing) standards and protocols</li> <li>Fast boot with all features enabled</li> <li>Integrated security features</li> <li>3U&nbsp;VPX form factor, aligned with SOSA Technical Standard</li> <li>Low power consumption supporting&nbsp;SWaP-C optimization</li> <li>Rugged design optimized for military and aerospace systems</li> <li>IEEE 1558v2 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) support for accurate network time synchronization</li> </ul> Availability and Technical Details The <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=124912625&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Faitechsystems.com%2Fproducts%2Fmil-aero%2Fethernet-switches%2Fu-c6850-3u-vpx-managed-ethernet-switch-router&amp;a=U-C6850" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">U-C6850</a>&nbsp;is now available for mission development. For more information, visit <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=3352205395&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Faitechsystems.com%2Fmil-aero-products%2Fgpgpu-mil-aero%2F&amp;a=Aitech%27s+website" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Aitech's website</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp; About Aitech Aitech Rugged Group, Inc. (&quot;Aitech&quot;)&nbsp;is the world's first independent, open-systems COTS/MOTS innovator, offering rugged boards and subsystems that serve as the building blocks for integrated computing and networking solutions. With a portfolio of SOSA-aligned SBCs, high-performance AI-enabled GPGPUs and Ethernet switches, Aitech enables defense customers to build comprehensive, high-performance mission computing architectures from a single trusted supplier. With more than 40 years of experience in aerospace, defense, and space, Aitech delivers mission-proven, customizable solutions across sea, land, air, and space domains. Customers include Airbus, BAE Systems, Boeing, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Larsen &amp; Toubro Limited (L&amp;T), Leonardo, Lockheed Martin, NASA, Northrop Grumman, Rafael, and Virgin Galactic. Aitech is committed to building a better tomorrow with reliable, cost-effective embedded systems engineered for the most demanding missions. For more information, visit <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4750863-1&amp;h=2480651925&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aitechsystems.com%2F&amp;a=www.aitechsystems.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">www.aitechsystems.com</a>. &nbsp;

Aitech Announces New U-C6850 SOSA-Aligned Rugged High-Speed Ethernet Switch/Router for Defense and Aerospace Systems

BATANGAS, Philippines, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --&nbsp;Envision Energy, a global leader in green technology, has inaugurated its Philippines National Distribution Center, marking another milestone in strengthening its localized supply chain and lifecycle service capabilities in the Philippines. The facility underscores Envision's long-term commitment to the country's renewable energy sector while reinforcing the operational foundation for a more resilient Future Energy System across the Philippines and Southeast Asia. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder5293" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971368/20260818024147EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2892920&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1971368/20260818024147EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2892920&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> Spanning approximately 1,500 square meters, the Philippines National Distribution Center serves as Envision Energy's central logistics hub for the storage and management of major wind turbine components, as well as medium- and small-sized spare parts. Supporting multiple Envision wind projects across the country, the facility enhances on-site operations and maintenance by improving parts availability, enabling faster response to operational needs, and supporting reliable project performance. With critical inventory and logistics now positioned closer to project sites, the facility helps shorten delivery lead times, reduce reliance on cross-border transportation, and improve overall supply chain efficiency. These capabilities help minimize the risk of project downtime and maintenance delays, while providing customers with faster, more efficient and dependable lifecycle support. The inauguration of the Philippines National Distribution Center further expands Envision Energy's global service and logistics network. By combining global resource coordination with localized inventory deployment, Envision Energy is enhancing the responsiveness, efficiency and resilience of its international service capabilities. The Philippines facility will work alongside the company's wider network of regional and national distribution centers to provide customers with faster local response and more reliable lifecycle services. Edward Hou, Senior Vice President &amp; President of Asia-Pacific at Envision Energy, said: &quot;As renewable energy deployment accelerates across the Philippines and Southeast Asia, energy systems require not only advanced generation technologies, but also dependable local infrastructure and responsive service networks to ensure clean energy assets perform reliably over the long term. Our Philippines National Distribution Center brings critical components and service capabilities closer to projects and customers, improving delivery efficiency and strengthening long-term operational assurance. By combining AI-enabled future energy system with strong local execution and long-term service support, Envision Energy is helping build durable, high-performing clean energy infrastructure and accelerate the energy transition across the region.&quot; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

Envision Energy Inaugurates Philippines National Distribution Center, Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience and Lifecycle Services Across Southeast Asia

XUZHOU, China, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --&nbsp;The 15th China Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship Competition – &quot;AI + Construction Machinery&quot; Division opened for registration on August 13 under the theme &quot;Green Intelligence for a Better World.&quot; Co-organized by XCMG, the competition invites innovators, engineers, scientists and tech enthusiasts to develop solutions that advance intelligent and green technologies for construction machinery. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970416/20260817044514EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888985&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970416/20260817044514EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888985&amp;p=medium600" title="XCMG Co-organizes 15th China Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship Competition “AI + Construction Machinery” Division as Registration Opens" alt="XCMG Co-organizes 15th China Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship Competition “AI + Construction Machinery” Division as Registration Opens" /></a> XCMG Co-organizes 15th China Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship Competition “AI + Construction Machinery” Division as Registration Opens </div> More than a contest, the competition serves as a launchpad for problem-solving, a fast track for bringing lab-based technologies to construction sites, and a platform for exchange and collaboration. It features three tracks — Professional Contest, Customer Co-Creation and Open Challenge — and welcomes universities in China and abroad, research institutions, global customers, supply chain partners, and science and technology companies. The Professional Contest track comprises an Enterprise Group for unlisted companies and a Team Group. It invites AI-driven solutions across three dimensions: AI + Product, including innovative complete-machine configurations, humanoid intelligent architectures, and new-energy digital-intelligent hardware ecosystems; AI + Worksite Scenarios, covering autonomous operations, multi-machine coordination and energy-replenishment models for mining, earthmoving and agriculture; and AI + Operations: AI agents for requirements analysis, document generation and customer interaction. The Customer Co-Creation track seeks practical solutions to frontline operational pain points in mining, earthmoving and agriculture, covering equipment packages, full-lifecycle operation and maintenance, intelligent assistance and unmanned operations. The Open Challenge track focuses on three technical challenges with performance targets: Autonomous Excavation under Complex Material Conditions, with a task success rate of at least 95%; Multi-Sensor Fusion Perception in High-Dust Environments, with recognition accuracy of at least 97%; and Battery State-of-Health assessment under heavy-duty operating conditions, with an SOH estimation error of no more than 3%. The competition is hosted by the Torch High Technology Industry Development Center of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Industry and Information Technology Department of Jiangsu, the Jiangsu Education Department, the Xuzhou Municipal People's Government, the China Machinery Industry Federation, and the China Construction Machinery Association. XCMG is among the organizers. The competition provides participating projects with support spanning commercialization, capital support, talent attraction and sustained incubation, accelerating their path from the competition arena to the marketplace. Registration is open through September 15, with project submissions due by September 25 (Beijing Time). Participants can register through the China Innovation &amp; Entrepreneurship Competition website at <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4753511-1&amp;h=2174745844&amp;u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cxcyds.com%2F&amp;a=www.cxcyds.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">www.cxcyds.com</a> or XCMG's website at <a href="https://edge.prnewswire.com/c/link/?t=0&amp;l=en&amp;o=4753511-1&amp;h=3866318019&amp;u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.xcmg.com%2F&amp;a=www.xcmg.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">www.xcmg.com</a>.

XCMG Co-organizes 15th China Innovation & Entrepreneurship Competition "AI + Construction Machinery" Division as Registration Opens

Returning this August 27 to 30, TMEX pairs a four day industry market with the JAM JAM ASIA festival, headlined by Taeko Onuki, HYUKOH, Asian Dub Foundation and Accusefive ft. Mayday Masa. TAIPEI, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Under the theme &quot;Tune in to Taiwan. Sync with Asia,&quot; TAIPEI MUSIC EXPO (TMEX) will be held from 27 to 30 August 2026 at Taipei Music Center, bringing more than 100 industry professionals from 15 markets and over 60 exhibiting brands across the region, including Goldenvoice, Live Nation, Fuji Rock Festival, Summer Sonic, YG PLUS, Zandari Festa, MPMG, Zepp, Beggars Group, and Secretly Group. JAM JAM ASIA, its music festival, connects Asia Pacific music scenes by making Taipei the shortest route between them. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970356/20260816235612EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888661&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970356/20260816235612EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888661&amp;p=medium600" title="" alt="" /></a> </div> Making full use of the Taipei Music Center site, TMEX operates as a B2B2C platform, carrying forward its five core pillars of brand exhibition, business matching, forums, emerging talent showcases and fan engagement, to open new routes for the Taiwan music scene into global markets. The first two days are reserved for industry delegates, while the weekend opens to the public with showcases and live performances. A Global Platform for Industry Exchange The TMEX Forum opens with the team behind Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters. Director Maggie Kang, producer Michelle Wong and THEBLACKLABEL songwriter Danny Chung, the voice of Baby Saja, discuss what the film changes for Asia Pacific artists entering global markets. Grammy winning mastering engineer Howie Weinberg makes his Taiwan debut with a session on the sonic aesthetics behind 9,000 records. A festival curation panel brings programmers from the US, UK, Korea, Japan and Taiwan together on how festivals build identity, audiences and cross-border partnerships. Further sessions cover generative AI in music production with Suno and KKBOX, international marketing for artists and sustainability in live events. TMEX links artists and businesses with global curators and buyers, bringing together music festivals, record labels, artist management companies, digital platforms, and music-related brands from Taiwan and across the Asia-Pacific region. New to the exhibition floor this year are the region's music export agencies, including Thailand's Creative Economy Agency, the Vietnam Cultural Industry Development Association, Sounds Australia, and Taiwan's TAICCA. JAM JAM ASIA: A Sonic Map of the Asia Pacific Across Seven Stages More than 80 acts from 14 markets play across seven stages over 29 and 30 August, JAM JAM ASIA bringing Japanese city pop to Indonesian metal, Thai indie to Kazakh electronic. This immersive vision comes to life across a dynamic venue layout—featuring four indoor air-conditioned halls, a 3,000-capacity outdoor stage, free stages for emerging artists, and overnight DJ takeovers running from day into late night. The lineup spans Japanese city pop originator Taeko Onuki, Filipino American neo-soul artist ((( O ))), and Indonesian metal trio Voice of Baceprot, continuing with Bangkok rapper R&eacute;jizz, the first Thai artist on Marshall Records; Korean Australian rap collective 1300; Seoul indie band HOA; Japanese four-piece ATARASHII GAKKO!; and Japanese hip-hop producer DJ KRUSH. HYUKOH play with Kuo of Sunset Rollercoaster. Taiwanese acts include math rock band Elephant Gym and psychedelic rock band Amazing Show. Highlighting its commitment to international exchange, JAM JAM ASIA partners with global festivals and music organizations to present cross-border showcase acts, including TV Tairiku Ondo from Fuji Rock Festival. TMEX Official Website: <a href="https://tmex.tw/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://tmex.tw/</a>

Oscar and Grammy Winning KPop Demon Hunters Team Heads to TAIPEI MUSIC EXPO 2026, the Asia Pacific Music Platform

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1876813/d9f19e4fbf294e2c99df1d69114fe853-original-Logo.jpg?id=OA2888921&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Traveloka's inaugural SEA Index maps a region trading up: from Ph&uacute; Quốc to Krabi, Southeast Asia's own beaches break out; travelers go deeper on stays and experiences; and China's fast-rising second cities lead the outbound story. SINGAPORE, Aug. 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --&nbsp;Traveloka today released the inaugural edition of the <a href="http://www.traveloka.com/en-sg/traveloka-sea-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Traveloka SEA Index</a>, a quarterly read on how the region actually travels, built entirely on the platform's own first-party booking and search data across Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The Q2 2026 debut points to a Southeast Asian traveler who is not simply traveling more, but traveling better: venturing further afield, staying longer, and channeling spend into richer experiences on the ground. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970409/20260817043056EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888918&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970409/20260817043056EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888918&amp;p=medium600" title="The Traveloka SEA Index examines how Southeast Asia actually travels each quarter, read straight from Traveloka's own search and booking data across five markets." alt="The Traveloka SEA Index examines how Southeast Asia actually travels each quarter, read straight from Traveloka's own search and booking data across five markets." /></a> The Traveloka SEA Index examines how Southeast Asia actually travels each quarter, read straight from Traveloka's own search and booking data across five markets. </div> Southeast Asia's own coastline was the region's quiet powerhouse this quarter, as it flocked to Vietnam's islands, Thailand's beaches and Malaysia's shores. Outbound demand stayed strong, led by East Asia and China's second cities. Quick peek: where is each market going <div align="left"> <table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" class="prnbcc"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="prnpr2 prnpl2 prnvam prntal prncbts prnbrbrs prnbbbs prnbsbls" colspan="1" rowspan="1">From&nbsp;</td> <td class="prngen3" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Highest-demand domestic destination (Demand Score)</td> <td class="prngen3" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Highest-demand international destination (Demand Score)</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen4" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Indonesia</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Malang (90)</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Seoul (99)</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen4" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Malaysia</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Kuala Terengganu (76)</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Krabi (100)</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen4" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Singapore</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Singapore (20)*</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Fukuoka (100)</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen4" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Thailand</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Nakhon Phanom (92)</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Seoul (100)</td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen4" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Vietnam</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Ph&uacute; Quốc (100)</td> <td class="prngen5" colspan="1" rowspan="1">Tokyo (96)</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Demand Score (0–100) ranks each destination's year-on-year booking growth within its market; 100 is the fastest-growing. *In Singapore, the only domestic option is a local staycation. About the Traveloka SEA Index The <a href="https://www.traveloka.com/en-sg/traveloka-sea-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Traveloka SEA Index</a>&nbsp;is a quarterly, retrospective barometer of Southeast Asian travel, drawn entirely from Traveloka's first-party data across the region's five largest markets. Rather than forecasting what travelers might do, it reports what they actually did, scoring every destination with a Demand Score (0–100) that ranks how fast its bookings grew against every other destination in that market. It is designed to give the travel industry, its partners and the traveling public a clear, comparable and genuinely data-led picture of how the region moves, one quarter at a time. &quot;The first Traveloka SEA Index reveals a Southeast Asian traveler who is more confident and more curious than ever, willing to go further, stay longer, and invest in the experiences that make a trip memorable, and increasingly to find them on the region's own coastline,&quot; said Umang Choudhary, VP of Product, Accommodation, Traveloka. &quot;We created the Index to share that story with the industry and the public every quarter, grounded not in surveys or forecasts, but in what travelers across the region actually chose to do.&quot; Key Findings 1. Southeast Asia's own coastline is a breakout star The quarter's powerhouse was the region's own beaches. In Vietnam, a homegrown coastal sweep put Ph&uacute; Quốc (Demand 100, bookings +86% year-on-year), Con Dao, Hoi An and Da Nang at the top of the momentum table, with Da Nang's flagship Ba Na Hills attraction up 132%. Thailand's Krabi was Malaysia's fastest-growing destination, booking at roughly five times last year's pace; Malaysia's east-coast gateway of Kuala Terengganu, the springboard for Redang and the Perhentian Islands, more than doubled year-on-year; and Bali matured into a longer, do-it-proper holiday, with Malaysian bookings doubling and stays lengthening. Southeast Asia is not only sending travelers out; its own coast is pulling them in. 2. Travelers are going deeper, not just further Across markets, the Index shows longer, richer trips rather than simply more of them. Malaysian travelers stretched their Bali stays from 2.3 to 2.7 nights and traveled in larger, family-sized groups; Da Nang drew the region's biggest travel parties at 2.23 people per booking; and Vietnamese stays in Bangkok lengthened from 3.2 to 3.6 nights. Where travelers took fewer or shorter flights, they redirected that spend into accommodation and experiences. A quarter defined by making each trip count. 3. East Asia is the biggest draw abroad, and four cities won everywhere Among outbound destinations, four grew faster than their market average in all five Southeast Asian source markets: Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai and Taipei. They were the only destinations to do so, and every one is in East Asia. It remains the region's strongest outbound pull, even as the freshest energy sits one rung down. 4. China's second cities are the breakout obsession Beyond the headline names, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Kunming and Chongqing grew at roughly two to four times the market's pace across multiple source markets, the fastest-rising cluster on the Index. The momentum is underpinned by expanding access: <a href="https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202506/03/content_WS683efb48c6d0868f4e8f30c1.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">mutual visa-free arrangements</a>&nbsp;between China and Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, and China's unilateral visa-waiver program, <a href="https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202511/04/content_WS69094ae0c6d00ca5f9a07472.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">extended through end-2026</a>. 5. Wildcard: Qingdao Each edition of the Index closes with one surprising anomaly. This quarter it is Qingdao, a Chinese coastal city whose combined bookings from four Southeast Asian markets rose roughly nine-fold year-on-year, off a small but unmistakable base. The likely trigger is a rapid expansion of<a href="http://qingdao.chinadaily.com.cn/2026-02/11/c_1160917.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">&nbsp;</a><a href="http://qingdao.chinadaily.com.cn/2026-02/11/c_1160917.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">direct flights</a><a href="http://qingdao.chinadaily.com.cn/2026-02/11/c_1160917.htm" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">&nbsp;linking Qingdao to Southeast Asia, including new services to Ho Chi Minh City</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php?id=2518907" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Penang</a>&nbsp;in early 2026. How each country traveled, in one line Indonesia: The quarter of the value-led holiday, as culture-rich second cities such as Yogyakarta, Bandung and Malang surge and travelers trade up on experiences. Malaysia: Nearly half of all trips now cross a border; Bali is maturing into a longer, do-it-properly family holiday, and Krabi is booking at around five times last year's pace. Singapore: Traveling further and spending more, with East Asia, from Fukuoka and Jeju to Chengdu, leading the momentum. Thailand: Coastal favorites are surging, led by Pattaya, while travelers also invest in bigger journeys abroad to Seoul and Tokyo. Vietnam: A homegrown beach boom, with Ph&uacute; Quốc, Da Nang, Hoi An and Con Dao sweeping the momentum table. Read the full index <a href="https://www.traveloka.com/en-sg/traveloka-sea-index" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">here</a>. About Traveloka Traveloka is Southeast Asia's leading all-in-one travel platform, bringing flights, hotels, activities, travel insurance, and eSIM together in a single app. Founded in 2012, Traveloka now operates across Australia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. With over 140 million app downloads, Traveloka was named Best Travel App at the Sensor Tower APAC Awards. With access to over 2 million hotels worldwide and 24/7 live chat support, Traveloka's mission is to make travel more accessible and enjoyable for everyone across the region and beyond. &nbsp; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2"> </div>

Traveloka SEA Index Q2 2026: Southeast Asians Are Booking Longer Stays and the Region's Own Beaches Are Winning

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970585/20260817095836EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2890216&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> NEW YORK and NOIDA, India, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --<a href="https://www.hcltech.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF"> HCLTech</a> (NSE: HCLTECH) (BSE: HCLTECH), a leading global technology company, in partnership with Mobile World Live, a global telecom industry destination, today unveiled findings from its Telecom Pulse Survey Report, highlighting an execution gap between telecom leaders' AI ambitions and their readiness to deploy AI-native, autonomous and cloud native services at scale. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1"> </div> Based on insights from nearly 200 senior executives across network operators, MVNOs, communication service providers (CSPs) and OEMs worldwide, the survey reveals that while 60% of telecom leaders see AI as a key driver of future revenue, only 25% believe their organizations are ready to operationalize AI at scale, preventing the essential shift from a telco to an AI-native TechCo. Persistent challenges around legacy infrastructure, cloud native modernization and skills continue to slow progress for the industry to be prepared for an AI-driven future. The findings also underscore mounting pressure on traditional telecom business models. Nearly 70% of respondents agree that connectivity services are increasingly commoditized, reinforcing the need for differentiated digital services and platform-led growth. However, innovation velocity remains constrained, with nearly 80% launching fewer than five new digital products or services in the past year, pointing to ongoing challenges in product engineering and time-to-market acceleration. Ecosystem collaboration emerged as a critical enabler, with nearly half of telecom leaders citing partnerships with hyperscalers, AI platform providers and software vendors as essential to accelerating innovation and monetization. Despite this shift, success metrics remain heavily skewed toward cost optimization, with operational efficiency continuing to dominate how AI and digital transformation outcomes are measured. &quot;The telecom industry is at a defining moment as AI transforms networks into intelligent, platform-driven ecosystems and this research recognizes that connectivity alone is no longer sufficient to sustain growth,&quot; said Anil Ganjoo, Chief Growth Officer and Global Head of Telecom, Media and Technology at HCLTech. &quot;HCLTech's AI-intrinsic approach helps telcos accelerates the shift to become TechCos, further scaling innovation and embracing AI-native and autonomous operations.&quot; To read the full report, please visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.hcltech.com%2Fen-us%2Ftelecom-pulse-survey-report&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cnitin-shukla%40hcltech.com%7C730f93fe1b554b96fa2608defc42f27a%7C189de737c93a4f5a8b686f4ca9941912%7C0%7C0%7C639225561619795878%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=TgZSgQ3tDUyD94QjuxeB3i%2FHmOMsE3RU9Lr9izvNn78%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://www.hcltech.com/en-us/telecom-pulse-survey-report</a>. About HCLTech <a href="https://www.hcltech.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">HCLTech</a>&nbsp;is a global technology company, home to more than 223,000 people across 60 countries, delivering industry-leading capabilities centered around AI, digital, engineering, cloud and software, powered by a broad portfolio of technology services and products. We work with clients across all major verticals, providing industry solutions for Financial Services, Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Healthcare, Technology &amp; Services, Semiconductor, Telecom and Media, Retail and CPG, Mobility and Public Services. Consolidated revenues as of 12 months ending June 2026 totaled $14.8 billion. To learn how we can supercharge progress for you, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hcltech.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">hcltech.com</a>.

HCLTech report reveals telecom leaders identify AI as top revenue driver, but only 25% ready to scale

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- XPPen, a global leader in digital art innovation, today unveiled the Artist Ultra 14, an Ultra Clear True Color Portable Drawing Display featuring a 2.8K OLED display, studio-grade color performance, the advanced X-Touch solution, and an ultra-slim design. Marking XPPen's 21st anniversary, the Artist Ultra 14 combines flagship-level performance with exceptional portability, empowering creators to bring professional creativity wherever inspiration strikes. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1196" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966645/20260809230929EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2850632&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966645/20260809230929EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2850632&amp;p=medium600" title="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" alt="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" /></a> XPPen Artist Ultra 14 </div> &quot;Creative workflows are becoming increasingly flexible, and creators today need tools that can adapt to the way they work,&quot; said Brian Huang, Marketing Director at XPPen. &quot;The Artist Ultra 14 is designed for professional creators seeking greater mobility without compromising visual quality or creative performance. It gives artists the freedom to create across different environments, expanding the possibilities of professional digital art.&quot; Professional-Grade Performance for Creative Excellence The Artist Ultra 14 features a 2.8K OLED display with a True RGB Stripe pixel arrangement, native 10-bit color depth, and 99% Adobe RGB, 99% sRGB, and 99% Display P3 color gamut coverage, delivering exceptional clarity and true-to-life colors. With Delta E &lt; 1 color accuracy and Calman Verified certification, it ensures reliable color precision for illustrations, animations, and other professional creative workflows. With a 90Hz refresh rate and ultra-fast OLED response time, the Artist Ultra 14 minimizes motion blur and pen latency for smoother pen strokes and fluid playback. A 100,000:1 contrast ratio further enriches visual depth with finer shadow detail and more lifelike images. Its AG nano-etched glass surface helps reduce glare in bright environments, while the hybrid dimming solution minimizes flicker, helping to reduce eye strain during extended creative sessions. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder5004" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966644/20260809230929EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2850631&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966644/20260809230929EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2850631&amp;p=medium600" title="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" alt="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" /></a> XPPen Artist Ultra 14 </div> Beyond visual performance, the Artist Ultra 14 provides a natural and intuitive drawing experience with two X3 Pro series styli, each supporting 16K pressure levels and 60&deg; tilt recognition for precise and responsive strokes. XPPen's X-Touch solution further streamlines interaction with intuitive multi-finger gestures, customizable touch zones, and a floating shortcut menu, allowing creators to navigate and control their canvas with greater efficiency. The new virtual tablet mode lets creators use the stylus to control up to 10 screens with smooth cross-screen operation, making it easy to drag files and move windows seamlessly. Built around the way creators work, the Artist Ultra 14 features two side buttons preset for the floating menu and virtual tablet interface, while remaining customizable to suit individual workflows. Together with the included ACK05 Shortcut Remote, foldable stand, and pen case, it provides a complete and efficient creative setup. Ultra-Slim Design for Creative Mobility At just 6mm thin and weighing only 720g, the Artist Ultra 14 is engineered for effortless portability for creators who work across multiple locations. Its 16:10 display provides more vertical workspace than traditional 16:9 screens, offering additional room for toolbars, timelines, and creative workflows. Combined with a floating etched glass design and an ultra-narrow 14.5mm bezel, the display maximizes every inch of space to deliver an immersive, near-borderless canvas that keeps creators focused on their work. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder3593" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966643/20260809230929EDT_image_3.jpg?id=OA2850630&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1966643/20260809230929EDT_image_3.jpg?id=OA2850630&amp;p=medium600" title="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" alt="XPPen Artist Ultra 14" /></a> XPPen Artist Ultra 14 </div> The slightly curved edges provide a more comfortable wrist-resting position during extended creative sessions, while the aluminum alloy back panel enhances heat dissipation and structural durability. For flexible creative setups, a single full-featured USB-C connection supports power, video, and data transmission through one cable, enabling a clean, clutter-free workspace and quick setup whether at home, in the studio, or on the go. Price &amp; Availability The Artist Ultra 14 is available starting August 17, 2026, at a retail price of $699. Pricing and availability may vary by region. For more information, please visit: <a href="https://www.xp-pen.com/product/artist-ultra-14.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://www.xp-pen.com/product/artist-ultra-14.html</a>. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

XPPen Unveils Artist Ultra 14, Bringing Professional Drawing Performance to a More Portable Form Factor

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1658823/H-World-Group-Logo.jpg?id=OA2889846&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> SINGAPORE and SHANGHAI, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- H World Group Limited (&quot;H World&quot; or the &quot;Group&quot;) (NASDAQ: HTHT; HKEX: 1179), one of the world's leading hotel groups, today announced its unaudited financial results for the second quarter of 2026, delivering strong profitability, continued improvement in its asset-light business and another quarter of solid execution. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970470/DSC01374-編輯.jpg?id=OA2889845&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970470/DSC01374-編輯.jpg?id=OA2889845&amp;p=medium600" title="A GRAND JI Hotel guest room." alt="A GRAND JI Hotel guest room." /></a> A GRAND JI Hotel guest room. </div> As of June 30, 2026, the Group operated 13,539 hotels or 1,335,445 hotel rooms, with a pipeline of 3,089 hotels. For the quarter, hotel GMV reached RMB 30.5 billion, representing an increase of 13.2% year-on-year.&nbsp; Jin Hui, CEO of H World commented: &quot;During the second quarter, we delivered another quarter of RevPAR expansion. Our blended H World China ADR rose 2.6% year-on-year, fueling a 1.1% year-over-year lift in blended RevPAR. This performance was underpinned by ongoing product upgrades and a suite of revenue-management optimization initiatives. Meanwhile, our hotel network kept expanding at a solid pace, with 498 newly-opened hotels across China; and the number of hotels in our pipeline grew both year-over-year and quarter-over quarter. We remain firmly on track to hit our full‐ year gross opening guidance of 2,200 ‐ 2,300 hotels.&quot; Strong Financial Performance H World delivered a strong financial performance during the second quarter, with revenue increasing 10.8% year-over-year to RMB7.1 billion. Total adjusted EBITDA increased 20.0% year-on-year to RMB 2.7 billion. Manachised and franchised (&quot;M&amp;F&quot;) revenue increased 25.2% year-over-year to RMB3.6 billion over the same period last year. Gross operating profit from the M&amp;F business increased 18.5% to RMB 2.2 billion, reflecting continued progress of the Group's asset-light operating strategy. Accelerating Shareholder Returns The Group has completed ahead of schedule the US$2 billion shareholder return plan announced in 2024, underscoring the strength of its cash generation and balance sheet. Building on this progress, the Board has approved a new three-year shareholder return plan with an aggregate amount of US$ 2.5 billion effective from August 17, 2026, through cash dividends and share repurchases. Looking ahead, H World will remain focused on delivering 'brand-led' high-quality hotel network expansion, backed by its H Rewards membership program, technology development, and further driving operational efficiency. For the full-year of 2026, H World raised its guidance of revenue growth to the range of 4%-8%. For the full release please visit:&nbsp; <a href="https://ir.hworld.com/news-releases/news-release-details/h-world-group-limited-reports-second-quarter-and-interim-2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://ir.hworld.com/news-releases/news-release-details/h-world-group-limited-reports-second-quarter-and-interim-2026</a>&nbsp; About H World Group Limited Originated in China, H World Group Limited (NASDAQ: HTHT; HKEX: 01179) is a key player in the global hotel industry. Over the past 20 years, H World has developed into a leading hospitality group with a presence across diverse market segments, from economy to upper-midscale and lifestyle hotels. H World's brands include HanTing Hotel, JI Hotel, Orange Hotel, Steigenberger Hotels &amp; Resorts, MAXX, Jaz in the City, IntercityHotel, Zleep Hotels and Steigenberger Icons. In addition, H World holds the rights as master franchisee for Mercure, Ibis and Ibis Styles, and co-development rights for Grand Mercure and Novotel in the pan-China region. For more information, please visit H World's website: <a href="https://ir.hworld.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://ir.hworld.com</a>&nbsp; H World undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable law. For media inquiry, please contact: <a href="mailto:media@hworld.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">media@hworld.com</a>&nbsp; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2"> </div>

H World Group Reports Strong Second-Quarter 2026 Performance and Announces New Shareholder Return Plan

<table name="logo_release" border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1761509/Thunes-Logo.jpg?id=OA2889086&amp;p=medium600" border="0" alt="" title="logo" hspace="0" vspace="0" width="118" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Capability enables Fiserv merchant customers to offer real-time international payouts via a single integration. SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ --&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thunes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Thunes</a>, the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world, and<a href="https://www.fiserv.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.fiserv.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">Fiserv</a>, a leading global provider of payments and financial services technology, today announced a strategic collaboration to transform how global platforms and marketplaces handle international payouts. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1"> </div> Through the alliance, Thunes will support payouts for Fiserv's merchant ecosystem, enabling ecommerce platforms, marketplaces and other Fiserv clients to send money instantly around the world to pay employees, bills and suppliers. By leveraging Thunes' Direct Global Network, Fiserv clients will gain the ability to reach 12 billion bank accounts and mobile wallets in over 140 countries and 90 currencies. Sanjay Saraf, Chief Product Officer, Fiserv Merchant Services, said: &quot;As merchants expand across borders, they need payments that are as seamless as their growth ambitions. Our work with Thunes helps businesses move money globally with greater speed, transparency and predictability, supporting more efficient and scalable global operations.&quot; Chlo&eacute; Mayenobe, Deputy CEO at Thunes, added: &quot;We are thrilled to enable cross-border payments infrastructure for Fiserv as they expand the boundaries of what their customers can achieve. This collaboration further validates Thunes' ability to support the world's largest fintechs with a robust global network designed to support compliant and efficient cross-border payouts. Together with Fiserv, we are powering the future of global commerce by making cross-border payments transparent, reliable, and real-time in supported markets.&quot; Kyle Rosen, Head of Americas at Thunes, added: &quot;This collaboration with Fiserv captures the powerful momentum we are building in the US. U.S. platforms and marketplaces have historically faced significant friction when paying out globally at scale. Together, Thunes' licensed U.S. payments capabilities and Fiserv's merchant ecosystem can unlock increased speed and efficiency for businesses looking to capture global growth. We are proud to be the infrastructure engine driving this next chapter of real-time commerce for U.S. enterprises.&quot; This latest collaboration for Thunes represents another milestone for its growth in the Americas having obtained money transmission licenses in all U.S. states where required. Thunes continues to grow its support for major fintechs in the U.S. and around the world, offering fast, secure and reliable global money movement through its Direct Global Network. About Thunes: For more information, visit:<a href="https://www.thunes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.thunes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://www.thunes.com/</a>

Thunes to Support Fiserv's Real-Time Global Payouts for Platforms

TBILISI, Georgia, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- China has further upgraded technical standards for overseas bridge construction, and a &quot;Belt and Road&quot; super arch bridge has completed a comprehensive verification of its wind resistance performance. The B3 Arch Bridge, a key control project on Georgia's North-South Corridor Road Section, has successfully completed a full series of wind tunnel tests covering critical construction conditions and the completed-bridge state at the National Key Laboratory of Bridge Engineering Safety and Resilience of Hunan University. As the concrete arch bridge with the longest span in the Caucasus region and the fourth-longest span of its kind in the world, the bridge has&nbsp;innovatively completed field-based verification of wind resistance throughout its entire life cycle, from construction to operation. This effectively addresses the technical challenges posed by extreme environmental conditions at the bridge site, including Level-9 winds, temperatures as low as -20&deg;C, and snow accumulation of up to 2 meters, providing solid technical support for the left-side main arch closure scheduled for 2026 and the bridge's long-term safe and stable operation. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder6987" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970404/20260817040306EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888879&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970404/20260817040306EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2888879&amp;p=medium600" title="Aeroelastic study site of B3 arch bridge for the Georgia North-South Corridor Road Section" alt="Aeroelastic study site of B3 arch bridge for the Georgia North-South Corridor Road Section" /></a> Aeroelastic study site of B3 arch bridge for the Georgia North-South Corridor Road Section </div> It is understood that the B3 Arch Bridge of the Georgia North-South Corridor Road Section, constructed by China Railway 23rd Bureau Group Co., Ltd., is an upper-deck reinforced concrete bridge with twin box-section arch ribs. The bridge has a total length of 437.875 meters, a main arch clear span of 286 meters, and a vertical clearance of 164 meters from the bridge deck to the valley bottom. It is being constructed using a cable-stayed tie-back system and cantilever casting with form travelers. The bridge is a key control project of the Georgia North-South Corridor Road Project. Located in a mountainous canyon, the bridge site is subject to extremely harsh environmental conditions. The regional extreme wind speed reaches Level 9, the minimum winter temperature drops to -20&deg;C, and the maximum snow depth reaches 2 meters. Such complex and extreme climatic conditions pose stringent challenges to the safety and stability of the bridge during both construction and operation. Previously, the project had completed wind tunnel testing for the bridge under the maximum cantilever construction condition, addressing the risk of strong winds during the most vulnerable stage of construction. The current test focused on two key areas to address gaps in technical risk control. First, a full-bridge model wind tunnel test was conducted to verify the bridge's long-term wind resistance performance during operation and establish a closed-loop safety verification system covering the entire cycle of the project. Second, with particular focus on the critical left-side arch ring closure scheduled for 2026, a special test was carried out for the high-risk condition of asymmetric construction of the left and right arch ribs. During this stage, the bridge structure is subjected to unbalanced forces. Combined with canyon turbulence and aerodynamic interference between the twin arches, the construction risks are particularly high. By accurately simulating the actual wind field through a physical model, the technical team comprehensively investigated and eliminated potential wind-induced safety hazards. The current tests were conducted in strict accordance with the FIDIC contract provisions and European engineering standards, ensuring the reliability and authority of the measured results. The test results show that, after completion, the bridge will be capable of withstanding extreme winds far exceeding those of a once-in-100-years event and will fully satisfy operational safety requirements. During the asymmetric arch-ring closure construction in 2026, wind-induced vibration and deformation of the bridge, as well as structural stresses, will remain within safe and controllable limits, with all indicators meeting the requirements of the contract and applicable technical specifications. The project has integrated the results of the two rounds of wind tunnel tests and optimized its wind-resistance and vibration-control construction procedures and on-site control measures. A comprehensive wind-resistance safety system covering the entire process of construction, arch closure, and operation has thus been established. Compared with the theoretical calculation and assessment methods commonly used for similar overseas projects, this project adopts physical model testing under all relevant conditions, significantly improving the accuracy of the safety assessment and achieving an upgrade in wind-resistance technology for long-span arch bridges. As a landmark overseas infrastructure project under the Belt and Road, the project has leveraged top-tier domestic scientific research capabilities to develop and apply mature and advanced empirical technologies for bridge wind resistance. It has also established a comprehensive construction solution adapted to the complex cold-climate canyon environment and compliant with European and international construction standards. Next, the project team of China Railway 23rd Bureau Group Co., Ltd. will implement all relevant safety control measures, steadily advance construction, and make every effort to ensure the timely completion of the left-side arch-ring closure milestone in 2026, further demonstrating the technological strength of China's infrastructure construction and its international project delivery capabilities. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

China Conducts a Comprehensive "Wind-Induced Vibration Check-Up" for a Super Bridge in Georgia, withstanding Gale-Force Winds of Level 9 and Temperatures as Low as -20°C

TAIPEI, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Taiwan will host Taiwan Weeks 2026 from Nov. 3 to 13, bringing together global asset managers, exchange leaders, and institutional investors as Taiwan strengthens its position as an Asian Asset Management Center (AAMC). <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970417/20260817045726EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2889073&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970417/20260817045726EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2889073&amp;p=medium600" title="FSC Chairman Jin-lung Peng invites participants from Taiwan and around the world to join Taiwan Weeks 2026." alt="FSC Chairman Jin-lung Peng invites participants from Taiwan and around the world to join Taiwan Weeks 2026." /></a> FSC Chairman Jin-lung Peng invites participants from Taiwan and around the world to join Taiwan Weeks 2026. </div> The Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC) announced the event in partnership with the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE), Taipei Exchange (TPEx), Taiwan Futures Exchange (TAIFEX), and Taiwan Depository &amp; Clearing Corporation (TDCC). Expanding Taiwan's global financial reach Now in its second year, Taiwan Weeks will feature broader participation from global financial leaders under the theme &quot;From Tech Island to Capital Hub.&quot; The event will highlight Taiwan's strengths in technology and capital markets, its role in global supply chains, and growing demand for wealth management services across Asia. &quot;This year's Taiwan Weeks will continue to strengthen international connections and showcase Taiwan, with a broader range of topics and participants,&quot; said FSC Chairman Dr. Jin-lung Peng. &quot;As global markets evolve rapidly, the government will continue to advance market-opening measures to support Taiwan's financial and industrial transformation. Taiwan Weeks will help the international community better understand Taiwan and explore new investment opportunities.&quot; The inaugural Taiwan Weeks attracted nearly 28,000 visits, with institutional participation exceeding 1,200 attendees and more than 250 international investor representatives. AI, ETFs and global market trends in focus This year's program will feature 12 core events and over 30 series events, with more than 30 asset managers, banks, securities firms, and other organizations hosting related events. Key topics will include artificial intelligence (AI), exchange-traded funds (ETFs), financial resilience, and innovative financing solutions. The Grand Opening event on Nov. 3 will bring together global asset managers and international exchange leaders to discuss developments in global capital markets and Taiwan's market potential. Other highlights include the Asian Asset Management Center Forum in Kaohsiung on Nov. 6, which will showcase progress in the city's asset management zone, and the TiBOOST -INNOVATION GROWTH PROGRAM on Nov. 10, which will connect promising AI startups with capital market resources and international investors. Adding to this year's program, the Asian Corporate Governance Association (ACGA) will hold its 25th Annual Conference in Taiwan for the first time during Taiwan Weeks. The event is expected to attract investment and corporate governance professionals from around the world, further strengthening Taiwan's connections with global capital markets. The official Taiwan Weeks website (<a href="https://www.taiwanweeks.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="color: #0000FF">https://www.taiwanweeks.com</a>) will provide program information, speaker profiles, registration details, and regular updates for investors and market participants. The platform will also highlight Taiwan's transformation from a &quot;Technology Island&quot; to a &quot;Capital Hub.&quot; About TWSE The Taiwan Stock Exchange (the TWSE) commenced operations on February 9, 1962, and is responsible for operating and advancing Taiwan's securities market. Its core business activities include listing, trading, clearing and settlement, and market surveillance. These functions encompass listing promotion and review, post-listing supervision and corporate governance, maintaining orderly market operations, securities firm services, investor protection, clearing and settlement activities, safeguarding against market defaults, and monitoring illegal trading activities. Through these efforts, the TWSE provides comprehensive services to support the development and integrity of Taiwan's securities market. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder2" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970418/20260817045726EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2889074&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970418/20260817045726EDT_image_1.jpg?id=OA2889074&amp;p=medium600" title="The FSC, National Development Council, Kaohsiung City Government, and Taiwan’s securities and futures institutions officially launch the promotion of Taiwan Weeks 2026." alt="The FSC, National Development Council, Kaohsiung City Government, and Taiwan’s securities and futures institutions officially launch the promotion of Taiwan Weeks 2026." /></a> The FSC, National Development Council, Kaohsiung City Government, and Taiwan’s securities and futures institutions officially launch the promotion of Taiwan Weeks 2026. </div>

Taiwan Weeks 2026 set for Nov. 3-13 with expanded international participation

NINGDE, China, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- CATL today announced it had achieved its 2025 target of carbon neutrality across core operations as scheduled, with all 20 battery plants certified as carbon neutral, and unveiled its action roadmap toward full value-chain carbon neutrality by 2035. This signals that decarbonization has evolved from a corporate social responsibility to a core growth driver for CATL. At a launch event held in Ningde on Monday, the company also called on global partners to accelerate decarbonization across the battery value chain. It announced procurement guidelines that require suppliers to provide carbon footprint data from 2027, and offers favorable terms to suppliers with better carbon emission performance. &quot;Before contributing to global carbon rules and standards, CATL must first prove what is possible through our own industrial practice,&quot; said Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of CATL. &quot;As the world ramps up efforts toward net-zero, zero-carbon batteries will not be a choice but a necessity in the near future. We are ready to share our technologies and experience with partners across the industry, helping to shape global carbon standards and advance industry-wide decarbonization.&quot; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1190" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970392/20260817031942EDT_image1.jpg?id=OA2889024&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970392/20260817031942EDT_image1.jpg?id=OA2889024&amp;p=medium600" title="Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of CATL, delivers a speech at the event" alt="Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of CATL, delivers a speech at the event" /></a> Robin Zeng, Chairman and CEO of CATL, delivers a speech at the event </div> 2025 Carbon Neutrality Target for Core Operations Delivered as Planned Since the commissioning of our first battery factory in 2012, CATL has been exploring and validating every aspect of zero-carbon manufacturing. This has become an integral part of CATL.&nbsp; Jiang Li, Vice President, Board Secretary and Head of Corporate Sustainable Development Management Committee of CATL, said, &quot;Carbon neutrality cannot be built on estimates alone. It requires reliable data, clear boundaries and systematic execution.&quot; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder1439" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970407/20260817031942EDT_image2.jpg?id=OA2889026&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970407/20260817031942EDT_image2.jpg?id=OA2889026&amp;p=medium600" title="Jiang Li, Vice President, Board Secretary and Head of Corporate Sustainable Development Management Committee of CATL, introduces the six key zero-carbon initiatives at the event" alt="Jiang Li, Vice President, Board Secretary and Head of Corporate Sustainable Development Management Committee of CATL, introduces the six key zero-carbon initiatives at the event" /></a> Jiang Li, Vice President, Board Secretary and Head of Corporate Sustainable Development Management Committee of CATL, introduces the six key zero-carbon initiatives at the event </div> To build this data foundation, CATL independently developed the CATL Carbon Chain Management System (CCMS) in 2022 to monitor and calculate carbon emissions at its plants and production lines. To date, CATL CCMS has covered carbon data across battery production operations and core upstream suppliers, generating more than 1,000 product and raw material models. Based on this data system, CATL embeds decarbonization efforts across process and equipment optimization, battery design, green energy consumption, raw‑material sourcing and recycling. In 2025, zero-carbon electricity accounted for 100% of electricity consumption in its core operations, with more than 18 billion kWh of zero-carbon power consumed cumulatively since 2023. Energy consumption per unit of product at its battery manufacturing bases decreased by 28% compared with 2022, below the industry average. Its carbon emission intensity decreased by approximately 77% compared with 2022. From 2023 to 2025, CATL delivered a cumulative carbon reduction of over 10 million tons of CO₂ equivalent, comparable to Brunei's total national carbon emissions in 2025. The milestone not only marks CATL's first fulfilled carbon neutrality commitment, but also sets a new benchmark for carbon neutrality practices in the lithium-ion battery industry. Advancing Toward Full Value-Chain Carbon Neutrality by 2035 More than 80% of carbon emissions across CATL's product lifecycle stem from its supply chain, with total value-chain emissions exceeding five times those generated in core operations. Bryan Huang, Head of Procurement Center at CATL, said: &quot;CATL will advance value-chain decarbonization across key areas including material innovation, material manufacturing, green logistics, and battery recycling. This requires collaboration across the entire battery value chain.&quot; <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder3256" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970395/20260817031942EDT_image3.jpg?id=OA2889027&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970395/20260817031942EDT_image3.jpg?id=OA2889027&amp;p=medium600" title="Bryan Huang, Head of Procurement Center at CATL, delivers a speech at the event" alt="Bryan Huang, Head of Procurement Center at CATL, delivers a speech at the event" /></a> Bryan Huang, Head of Procurement Center at CATL, delivers a speech at the event </div> In terms of data management, baseline carbon data has been established for more than 100 core Tier 1 suppliers, and CATL aims to progressively achieve 100% data coverage across key upstream links. For emissions reductions, CATL will pursue decarbonization in four pillars: material and process innovation, manufacturing, green logistics and battery recycling. <ul type="disc"> <li>Material innovation: CATL is focusing on green material innovation and low-carbon process upgrades. For example, for anodes, the company is promoting the adoption of low‑carbon materials such as raw petroleum coke with lower moisture and volatile content.</li> <li>Material manufacturing: Given the energy-intensive nature of upstream raw material production, CATL has launched a green power coverage plan, targeting 100% green electricity usage across the value chain by 2035.</li> <li>Green logistics: Leveraging its advanced battery technology and battery swapping network, CATL is promoting 100% zero-carbon logistics solutions across the industry chain.</li> <li>Battery Recycling: CATL will continue to accelerate the development of a global battery recycling network through Brunp Recycling.</li> </ul> To support supplier decarbonization, CATL will issue its Green Procurement Guidelines requiring new suppliers to provide product carbon footprint data and incorporating renewable electricity usage and energy efficiency into annual supplier reviews. Under comparable conditions, suppliers with stronger low-carbon performance may be prioritized in order allocation and supported through long-term agreements. CATL will also launch its Zero-Carbon Supply Chain Empowerment Initiative, launching in-depth joint decarbonization initiatives with an initial cohort of 30 core suppliers. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder8439" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; WIDTH: 100%"> <a href="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970393/20260817031942EDT_image4.jpg?id=OA2889025&amp;p=medium600" target="_blank" style="color: #0000FF"><img src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1970393/20260817031942EDT_image4.jpg?id=OA2889025&amp;p=medium600" title="CATL Launches Its Value-Chain Carbon Neutrality Action" alt="CATL Launches Its Value-Chain Carbon Neutrality Action" /></a> CATL Launches Its Value-Chain Carbon Neutrality Action </div> The economics of zero-carbon opens substantial new growth opportunities. CATL is making strong efforts in zero-carbon mobility, zero-carbon power, and the electrification of industries, with several application scenarios already implemented. Together with global partners, CATL aims to expand the zero-carbon economy, accelerate the global clean energy transition, and help create a more sustainable future. <div class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference" id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0"> </div>

CATL Achieves 2025 Core Operation Carbon Neutrality Target, Sets Path to 2035 Value-Chain Goal

<table border="0" cellspacing="10" cellpadding="5" align="right"> <tbody> <tr> <td><img title="logo" src="https://mmx.prnasia.com/media/MS1969768/GXS-Logo-POS-Nebula-RGB-2.jpg?id=OA2887216&amp;p=medium600" alt="" width="118" border="0" hspace="0" vspace="0" /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Offering up to 10 per cent cashback in GrabCoins for Grab and 1.75 per cent cashback on Singtel payments and everyday spending SINGAPORE, Aug. 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Earning cashback just got even simpler for consumers in Singapore with the launch of the GXS Credit Card. Customers can earn up to 10 per cent instant cashback in GrabCoins on all Grab spending, with higher cashback rates unlocked as monthly Grab spending increases, making it one of the best credit cards in the market for Grab users. <img src="https://mmx.prnewswire.com/media/MS1970454/20260814062149EDT_image_2.jpg?id=OA2887171" alt="" /> Customers who pay their Singtel bills with the GXS Credit Card will also earn 1.75 per cent unlimited cashback with no minimum spend requirement or cashback cap. This means that they will earn cashback for every dollar that they pay for their Singtel bills. For all eligible local non-Grab and Singtel bill payments, the GXS Credit Card offers 1.75 per cent unlimited cashback on all eligible transactions. To enjoy cashback on these spends, customers simply need to spend a minimum of S$500 within their monthly billing cycle. With the&nbsp;GXS Credit Card, customers can enjoy: <ul type="disc"> <li>Unlimited instant cashback in GrabCoinson eligible Grab spending at home or overseas, with higher cashback rates unlocked as monthly Grab spending increases. <ul type="circle"> <li>Instant cashback credited in GrabCoins immediately after every eligible Grab transaction across Grab rides, GrabFood, GrabMart and GrabExpress</li> <li>No minimum spend required to earn cashback on Grab spending.</li> </ul> </li> <li>No foreign exchange fees on all overseas spend</li> <li>1.75 per cent cashback on all eligible Singtel bill payments, with no minimum spend requirement and no cashback cap.</li> <li>1.75 per cent unlimited cashback on all other eligible local spending (non-Grab and non-Singtel bills), subject to a minimum monthly spend of S$500, with no cashback cap.</li> </ul> Earn GrabCoins and offset your Grab spend instantly with the GXS Credit Card Grab customers can earn 3, 5 and 10 per cent of instant cashback in GrabCoins when they use the GXS Credit Card for Grab rides, GrabFood, GrabMart and GrabExpress. There is no minimum spend required to earn&nbsp;cashback on Grab spending, while higher cashback rates are unlocked as monthly Grab spending increases. Customers also enjoy no foreign exchange fees on overseas spending, while continuing to earn cashback based on their applicable Grab monthly spending tiers. More details as illustrated in the table below. How&nbsp;cashback works on the GXS Credit Card: <div> <table class="prnbcc prndbtst prndrbrst prndbbst prndsblst" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Spending Category </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Monthly Spend Bracket </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Cashback Rate &amp; Type </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Eligibility </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Local Grab Spends </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Any amount under $500 </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> 3% (Base GrabCoins Rewards) </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Base tier. No minimum spend required. </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Local Grab Spends </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> From S$500 onwards </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> 5% back in GrabCoins, comprising: <ul type="disc"> <li class="prnews_li">Base GrabCoins Reward of 3% back in GrabCoins AND</li> <li class="prnews_li">Bonus GrabCoins Reward of 2% back in GrabCoins</li> </ul> </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> &nbsp; <ul type="disc"> <li class="prnews_li">Total non-Grab spend of at least S$500/month</li> </ul> </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Local Grab Spends </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> From S$1,000 onwards </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> 10% back in GrabCoins, comprising: <ul type="disc"> <li class="prnews_li">Base GrabCoins Reward of 3% back in GrabCoins AND</li> <li class="prnews_li">Bonus GrabCoins Reward of 7% back in GrabCoins</li> </ul> </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> &nbsp; <ul type="disc"> <li class="prnews_li">Total non-Grab spend of at least S$500/month</li> </ul> </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Overseas Grab Spends </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Any amount </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> 10% (GrabCoins) </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> No minimum spend, no cap. </td> </tr> <tr> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> General / Off-Grab Spend </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Any eligible spend </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> 1.75% (Cashback) </td> <td class="prngen2" rowspan="1" colspan="1"> Requires a total minimum card spend of S$500/month. No cap. </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> Fuss-free&nbsp;cashback on Singtel bill payments&nbsp; Customers earn 1.75 per cent&nbsp;cashback on all eligible Singtel bill payments, with no minimum spend requirement and no monthly cashback cap. The same&nbsp;cashback rate also applies to other eligible Singtel spending, with no monthly cap and no need to activate bonus categories or register for promotions. The minimum card spend of S$500 within the monthly billing cycle will apply. For more information on the GXS Credit Card, visit <a style="color: #0000ff;" href="https://gxs.com.sg/creditcard" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://gxs.com.sg/creditcard</a> About GXS Bank GXS Bank is a digital bank focused on making banking better for the everyday consumer and businesses. The Bank aims to improve financial inclusion and to drive financial revolution for its customers through the secure and ethical use of technology and data. GXS Bank holds a banking licence issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. It is owned by a consortium consisting of Grab Holdings Inc. &ndash; Southeast Asia's leading super app, and Singtel &ndash; Asia's leading communications technology group. As part of a regional network of digital banks, GXS Bank also works closely with GXBank, its digital bank subsidiary in Malaysia and Superbank, a digital bank in Indonesia in whom the Bank has a minority stake. <div id="DivAssetPlaceHolder0" class="PRN_ImbeddedAssetReference">&nbsp;</div>

The GXS Credit Card is Singapore's highest unlimited cashback credit card and one of the best for Grab and Singtel customers

<h4>As EV adoption develops across the Middle East, VinFast is working with local partners across distribution, charging and aftersales to strengthen the ownership experience.</h4>DUBAI, UAE – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – The global EV market is entering a stage where selling the vehicle is only part of the challenge. As more electric vehicles reach new markets, automakers with international reach also need to build the infrastructure, service capabilities and customer support systems that can sustain ownership long after the initial sale. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://images.media-outreach.com/release.php/Thumb/1600x1127/798555/798555-Photo-jpg-1600x1127.jpeg" alt="Building a Global EV Footprint: How VinFast and Local Partners Power Middle East Expansion" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="1600"> </figure> This is particularly relevant in the Middle East, where EV adoption is gaining momentum and international brands are expanding their presence. For newer EV manufacturers, establishing a reliable ownership ecosystem requires more than simply importing vehicles. It also means working with local partners that understand the market, regulations and customer expectations. Vietnam-based VinFast is among the companies taking this approach. As it enters the Middle East, the company is making substantial commitments to customers, including a 10-year/200,000-km vehicle warranty, a 10-year unlimited-kilometer battery warranty and five years or 100,000 km of free service for the all-electric mid-size VF 8. Supporting such commitments requires an aftersales infrastructure capable of serving customers throughout the ownership journey, which is why VinFast is taking a partnership-led approach to its expansion in the UAE, combining its EV business with established local expertise across distribution, service and charging. VinFast signed an exclusive dealership agreement with Al Tayer Motors in 2024 for the distribution of VinFast EVs in the UAE. Established in 1982, Al Tayer Motors is one of the UAE's leading automotive groups and represents major European and American automotive brands. It has a network of sales, service and parts centers, supported by 2,700 employees and digital platforms including e-commerce and a dedicated app. Al Tayer Motors also planned to establish a network of VinFast facilities across the UAE, extending the brand's local service infrastructure. VinFast has continued to strengthen that infrastructure through additional partnerships. In February 2026, VinFast Middle East signed a Memorandum of Understanding with PlusX Electric, a DEWA-approved EV charging and electric mobility solutions provider in the UAE. The partnership focuses on charging accessibility and customer support, with the two companies exploring Portable EV Charging Pods, on-demand mobile charging and emergency charging as part of EV roadside assistance. They will also explore scalable charging and mobile-support solutions for commercial and fleet customers, as well as digital integration to streamline charging bookings and service updates. The same partnership model extends to VinFast's wider global aftersales strategy. At its 2026 Global Business Conference, the company signed MOUs with 29 aftersales partners across its international markets, including the Middle East. The partners are expected to establish EV service workshops that meet VinFast's global standards, while VinFast aims to expand to more than 1,100 service workshops globally in 2026. The network will be supported by standardized technician training and certification, consistent operating procedures and quality controls, while its parts network targets delivery of common spare parts within 24 hours in key markets. For EV brands entering the Middle East, the strength of the local support network can therefore become a competitive advantage. As VinFast's UAE strategy shows, bringing an EV to market increasingly means building the capabilities around it that can make ownership dependable over the long term. Hashtag: #VinFast The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481679/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

Building a Global EV Footprint: How VinFast and Local Partners Power Middle East Expansion

<h4>Agreement follows TitanBeach Mining License and establishes a full, non-dilutive 32% carried interest for NSM Capital in the project's development</h4>Muskoka, Ontario - <a href="https://www.newsfilecorp.com/">Newsfile Corp.</a> - August 18, 2026 - Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. (CSE: SCM) ("Steadright" or the "Company") is pleased to provide shareholders with an update on the TitanBeach Titanium Project in the Kingdom of Morocco, following last week's announcement of the TitanBeach Mining License. NSM Capital SARL ("NSM Capital"), the Moroccan entity in which Steadright holds a 76.5% interest, has secured a full 32% carried interest in the TitanBeach Project, and approval of the environmental permit has passed the public process stage and is waiting to be signed any day now. <img src="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/newsinfo/310203/332"> NSM Capital's Moroccan management team has finalized a binding 32% carried interest in the TitanBeach Titanium Project with Homme Construction, a Moroccan company. The interest carries no dilution risk to NSM Capital and requires no further contribution toward exploration or production costs. The 192 sq. km TitanBeach claim package includes a 16 sq. km area that has now been converted to a permitted mining concession, representing the first mining license granted for coastal-waters heavy mineral sands (HMS) recovery in the Atlantic Ocean. Formation of the Shan Tang Mining SPV / SOE NSM Capital and Homme Construction have formed a Moroccan special purpose vehicle, Shan Tang Mining, into which the TitanBeach claims have been transferred. NSM Capital holds a full 32% carried interest in Shan Tang Mining, and NSM Capital General Manager L. Jouak will serve as one of two General Managers of the new entity. Shan Tang Mining has signed a Framework Cooperation Agreement with a State-Owned Enterprise engineering and construction Group (the "SOE Partner"). The agreement covers planning, design, permanent works, and operations and maintenance. The SOE Partner brings full-process capability and established mining technology, equipment, and project-operation systems to the HMS development. Under the Framework Agreement, the SOE Partner's initial scope comprises a Pilot Plant operation at TitanBeach, alongside development of a long-term mining strategy, which is subject to pilot plant results. The agreement contemplates installation of additional beneficiation processing equipment, which was signed on July 10th, 2026. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: <a href="https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9924/310203_steadrightimg1.1.jpg">https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9924/310203_steadrightimg1.1.jpg</a> Ownership and Attributable Interest Steadright's economic exposure to the TitanBeach Project is held indirectly, through its 76.5% equity interest in NSM Capital and NSM Capital's 32% full carried interest in the Shan Tang Mining SPV. The table below summarizes the ownership structure as currently disclosed. <table style="width: 100%;border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);border-collapse: collapse;overflow: revert"> <tbody> <tr style="margin: 6px;border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left"> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Interest </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Holder </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Percentage </td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 6px;border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left"> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Steadright equity interest in NSM Capital </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> 76.5% </td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 6px;border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left"> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> NSM Capital carried interest in Shan Tang Mining / TitanBeach </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> NSM Capital SARL </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> 32.0% (full carry - no further cost obligation) </td> </tr> <tr style="margin: 6px;border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left"> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Steadright's attributable share of NSM's carried interest </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. (indirect) </td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);text-align: left;padding: 6px;vertical-align: top"> ≈24.5% effective </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> *Under a Shareholders Agreement with Critical Foundation Metals Inc, Steadright can obtain an additional 3.5% which will bring Steadright to 80% of NSM Capital Sarl. Management Commentary NSM Capital management stated: "Work continues toward substantial progress for the TitanBeach Titanium and Iron Project, alongside the Copper Valley Mining Concession. The new 32% carried interest is expected to provide meaningful value to our shareholder, Steadright Critical Minerals Inc., alongside a multinational partner with the scale required to operate an HMS project of this potential size. The Shan Tang Mining SPV allows NSM Capital to participate in project design and operations while benefiting from our partners' expertise and financial capacity. NSM Capital looks forward to providing continued updates to Steadright. We also extend particular thanks to Mr. Rachid Manar, Regional Director of the Department of Energy Transition in Guelmim, and his team, for their professionalism and support throughout this process." Steadright CEO Matt Lewis commented: "We are proud of what the NSM Capital team and L. Jouak have achieved. Securing this license and forging agreements of this caliber represents significant progress. We look forward to advancing the TitanBeach Project and to the continued development of these partnerships." About Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. is a mineral exploration company established in 2019, focused on advancing exploration and historical mining projects toward production within Morocco's critical minerals sector. Steadright holds its interest through NSM Capital SARL, which controls the 192 sq. km TitanBeach Titanium Project and the Copper Valley Project. Steadright also holds a binding memorandum of understanding for the historic Goundafa Mine in Morocco, which holds a permitted mining license. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Simon Chapelle, Director &amp; Secretary Steadright Critical Minerals Inc. Email: <a href="mailto:enquiries@steadright.ca">enquiries@steadright.ca</a> Tel: 1-905-410-0587 <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/4YG2YtWXDN">www.steadright.ca</a> Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation, including statements regarding the TitanBeach Project, the Framework Cooperation Agreement, planned pilot and large-scale production phases, and any potential production or revenue outcomes referenced herein. Forward-looking information is based on assumptions and is subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including but not limited to: uncertainty as to whether ongoing programs will result in successful exploration or development; uncertainty as to actual exploration, development, or operational results; availability and terms of future financing; timely receipt of permits and governmental approvals; general business, economic, competitive, political, and social conditions; capital markets and commodity price volatility; changes in project parameters as plans are refined; risks inherent to mining, including accidents and lack of insurance; delay or failure to obtain board or regulatory approvals; changes in legislation, including environmental and tax legislation; the results of future economic evaluations; and the availability of qualified personnel. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The securities referenced have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. Persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481672/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

SteadRight Critical Minerals Inc.

NSM Capital SARL Signs Framework Cooperation Agreement with Multinational Construction and Engineering SOE for the TitanBeach Mining Project

<h4>Companies to explore long-term HALEU supply arrangement supporting advanced reactor deployments and strengthening the U.S. nuclear fuel supply chain</h4>New York, New York and Boston, Massachusetts - <a href="https://www.newsfilecorp.com/">Newsfile Corp.</a> - August 18, 2026 - NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) ("NANO Nuclear" or "the Company"), a leading advanced nuclear micro modular reactor and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, and Quadrant Nuclear Industries, Inc. (QNI), a developer of integrated nuclear fuel cycle capabilities, today announced they have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) establishing a non-binding framework for collaboration on the future supply of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) fuel. The MoU reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the domestic nuclear fuel supply chain, accelerating deployment of advanced reactors, including NANO Nuclear's KRONOS MMRTM Energy System, and supporting U.S. energy security and decarbonization objectives. Under the MoU, NANO Nuclear and QNI will engage in discussions over the coming years regarding the potential supply and long-term offtake of HALEU produced at QNI's planned Vanguard facility at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). Figure 1 - NANO Nuclear Energy and Quadrant Nuclear Industries Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Domestic HALEU Fuel Supply. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: <a href="https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11703/310223_67201351342e68ba_003full.jpg">https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11703/310223_67201351342e68ba_003full.jpg</a> "We are pleased to establish this MoU with QNI as we continue advancing our multi-pronged business plan, including development of our microreactor technologies and future deployment strategies," said James Walker, CEO of NANO Nuclear Energy. "Access to reliable, domestically produced HALEU will be a key element in supporting the growth of advanced nuclear energy. We look forward to collaborating with QNI as we evaluate additional fuel supply options that can enhance flexibility and strengthen the resilience of our long-term commercialization strategy." "Reliable nuclear fuel supply is one of the critical enablers of advanced reactor deployment," said Dee Mewbourne, CEO of QNI. "Our MoU with NANO Nuclear reflects the importance of connecting fuel production with reactor development early in the development and commercialization process. Together, we are helping build the supply chain foundation needed to support the next generation of nuclear energy." QNI is developing an integrated HALEU production capability in coordination with the U.S. Department of Energy and other key stakeholders. Its planned Vanguard facility at INL is designed to produce up to eighteen metric tons of HALEU annually at full capacity, supporting both commercial and government markets for advanced nuclear reactors. The companies intend to collaborate on areas including fuel supply planning, technical interface requirements, commercial structuring, regulatory coordination, logistics considerations, and demand forecasting associated with future HALEU supply arrangements. This collaboration provides a foundation for potential commercial agreements as both companies advance their respective development programs. About QNI Quadrant Nuclear Industries, Inc. (QNI) is a U.S.-based nuclear energy company focused on building an integrated, domestic nuclear fuel cycle to support the next generation of advanced reactors. The company is developing capabilities across fuel production, recovery, and reprocessing, with a focus on enabling a reliable, secure, and sustainable supply of nuclear fuel in the United States. QNI is advancing key initiatives in coordination with the U.S. Department of Energy and national laboratories, including activities at Idaho National Laboratory aimed at the responsible recycling of used nuclear fuel. Through its technology-driven and execution-focused approach, QNI seeks to strengthen U.S. energy security and accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear energy systems. About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc. NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is a North American advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel supply chain, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear's reactor products in development include the proprietary KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, "ZEUS", a portable solid core battery reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors. Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, bolstered by the May 2026 acquisition of Secured Transportation Services (STS), is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world and provides nuclear engineering and materials transport services in the U.S. and globally. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear's own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry. NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear's developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS' initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon's surface. For more corporate information please visit: <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/gJz3AcNzQm">https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/</a> For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact: Email: <a href="mailto:IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com">IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com</a> Business Tel: (212) 634-9206 PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE: NANO Nuclear Energy <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/YEP71SxR21">LINKEDIN</a> NANO Nuclear Energy <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/0p42Pi5Mnb">YOUTUBE</a> NANO Nuclear Energy <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/RYmL1TwML1">X PLATFORM</a> Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear's management and collaborators in connection with this news release contain or may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "explore," "plans", "aim," "goal," "believes", "potential", "will", "should", "could", "would" or "may" or derivations of these words and other words of similar meaning about the future, although forward-looking statements may be denoted by other terms. In this press release, forward-looking statements include those relating to the exploratory collaboration between NANO Nuclear and QNI, which may not lead to the execution of definitive fuel supply arrangements or other positive business developments for NANO Nuclear. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management's current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy ("DOE"), U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission ("NRC"), Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission ("CNSC") or related state or other U.S. or non-U.S nuclear licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complementary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE, and the NRC, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act and the May 23, 2025 Executive Orders seeking to streamline nuclear regulation, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating a developing business a highly regulated, competitive and rapidly evolving industry, including that our plans may change and we may use our cash on hand faster or in different ways than anticipated as our business requires. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/WAon1cnxVb">www.sec.gov</a> and at <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/qp5EniM8AK">https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings</a>. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481665/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

NANO Nuclear Energy Inc.

NANO Nuclear and Quadrant Nuclear Industries Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Domestic HALEU Fuel Supply

<ul> <li> allnex is the global market and technology leader for Sag Control Agent (SCA) resin, a unique technology enabling excellent appearance of Automotive OEM coatings. </li> <li> Today allnex announced to build its first SCA production facility in APAC, the largest global Automotive market. </li> <li> This investment will significantly improve regional supply resilience, reduce lead times, and enhance service for our customers based in the APAC region </li> <li> And it will support faster adaptation of the next-generation of SCA's including high-solid, low-bake, and sustainable "green SCA" solutions. </li> </ul> FRANKFURT, GERMANY – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – allnex, a leading global manufacturer and solution provider of coating resins and additives, today announced plans to expand its manufacturing footprint in Asia-Pacific with a strategic investment in Sag Control Agent (SCA) capacity at its Rayong site in Thailand. Scheduled to begin operations in January 2028, this new SCA capacity investment, signifies allnex's commitment to support its customers in the world's fastest-growing automotive coatings markets. By bringing SCA production into the APAC region, and importantly closer to customers, allnex will strengthen supply reliability, shorten lead times, and provide greater responsiveness to evolving market needs. SCAs are a unique and cornerstone technology of allnex's Automotive OEM product portfolio and they define its market leadership position in this application. allnex SCA resins have superior sag control functionality, enabling exceptional appearance in premium high-gloss clearcoats. These specialty resins ensure that coating manufacturers are able to meet the ever increasing demands of car producers for performance, efficiency, and sustainability. Since allnex invented SCA resins four decades ago, all allnex SCA production was concentrated in its Bergen op Zoom facility in The Netherlands. In the last few years, APAC has become the largest SCA market globally with strong future growth projections driven by increased car production and requirements for better appearance. By making this investment in APAC, allnex will not only provide customers with proximity of supply and greater assurance, it will also ensure to have enough capacity available in time, to meet future growth. "This strategic capacity investment for a unique technology, is driven by our commitment to our customers and their growth ambitions in Asia-Pacific. By localizing SCA production in Thailand, we are responding directly to customer needs for greater supply security, shorter lead times, and faster access to innovation. The new facility will strengthen our ability and agility to support both global and regional customers in APAC and allows us to meet future market demand." said Ruben Mannien, Senior Executive Vice President APAC. The Rayong site was selected following a comprehensive evaluation of multiple locations across the region. The site offers existing infrastructure, strong technical capabilities, and strategic proximity to key automotive manufacturing hubs, including China, India, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The investment will include dedicated reactors for the production of SCA resins for plastic automotive parts and metal car bodies. Beyond improving supply resilience, the new facility will support allnex's latest SCA innovations designed for next-generation clearcoat systems, including high-solid, low-bake, and more sustainable coating technologies. These solutions help customers improve productivity, reduce energy consumption, and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, ensuring production readiness ahead of anticipated market growth. Hashtag: #allnex The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481658/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

allnex

allnex Announces the Next SCA Capacity Investment In APAC

<h4>C$0.50-per-share conversion completes longstanding Chairman loan as Focus strengthens its financial position amid growing government and industry support</h4>Ottawa, Ontario - <a href="https://www.newsfilecorp.com/">Newsfile Corp.</a> - August 18, 2026 - Focus Graphite Inc. (TSXV: FMS) (OTCQB: FCSMF) (FSE: FKC0) ("Focus" or the "Company"), a Canadian developer of high-grade flake graphite deposits and advanced graphite materials for battery, defence and industrial applications, is pleased to announce that Chairman Jeff York, through his holding company JJJY Holdings Inc. ("JJJY Holdings"), has agreed to convert the final C$835,000 outstanding balance of his longstanding loan to the Company into equity at C$0.50 per share. <img src="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/newsinfo/310208/332"> Under the proposed transaction, Mr. York will convert C$835,000 into 1,670,000 common shares of Focus at a deemed price of C$0.50 per share, representing an approximately 11% premium to the Company's C$0.45 closing share price on August 17, 2026. The financing relationship dates back to 2019 and 2020, when Mr. York, through JJJY Holdings, provided significant capital to support Focus and its ongoing activities. By September 30, 2020, amounts due to JJJY Holdings had reached approximately C$3.05 million. Since that time, the balance has been progressively reduced through a series of previously disclosed settlements and equity conversions. The C$835,000 conversion announced today represents the final outstanding balance of Mr. York's longstanding shareholder loan to the Company. The transaction removes the Company's remaining obligation under the longstanding shareholder loan without requiring a cash repayment, preserving capital for its development priorities and further strengthening its financial position. "My decision to convert the remaining balance of my loan into equity reflects my continued confidence in Focus Graphite and the progress we are making across the business," said Jeff York, Chairman of Focus Graphite. "With the loan now fully converted into equity, I am further aligning my interests with our shareholders while strengthening the Company's financial position. Focus has made significant progress across its projects, technology and strategic partnerships, supported by growing government investment, and I remain committed to supporting the Company as we move into the next stage of development." The conversion also follows new federal support for the Lac Knife Graphite Project ("Lac Knife" or the "Project"). On August 17, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced major clean-energy and critical-minerals investments and specifically identified Focus Graphite's Lac Knife infrastructure project among the strategic pre-development projects being supported through Natural Resources Canada's ("NRCan") First and Last Mile Fund ("FLMF") 1. The federal announcement highlighted pre-construction work for a new transmission line and road connecting Lac Knife to Hydro-Québec's power grid, supporting the development of graphite supply for battery and energy-storage technologies. The final conversion further strengthens Focus's financial profile and preserves capital for its development priorities as the Company advances its Quebec graphite assets, downstream technology and broader commercial strategy. Focus continues to advance Lac Knife, its downstream advanced-materials initiatives and broader commercial strategy amid growing government and industry support for secure, resilient North American critical-mineral supply chains. The shares-for-debt transaction remains subject to approval by the TSX Venture Exchange. About Focus Graphite Advanced Materials Inc. Focus Graphite is building an integrated graphite platform to supply the industries shaping the future. Through the development of world-class graphite resources, advanced processing technologies and higher-value advanced materials, the Company is positioning itself to support battery, defence, advanced manufacturing and other strategic industries across North America and allied markets. The platform is anchored by the Company's two 100%-owned graphite assets in Quebec. Lac Knife is one of North America's highest-grade feasibility-stage graphite deposits, while Lac Tetepisca is one of the largest identified graphite resources globally. Together with strategic technology partnerships and government-supported innovation initiatives, these assets provide the foundation for a secure, scalable and increasingly integrated graphite supply chain. For more information on Focus Graphite Inc. please visit <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/ejr7OtQPJm">http://www.focusgraphite.com</a> LinkedIn: <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/87B2qImrGZ">https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-graphite/</a> Facebook: <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/y4Y2Auy21e">https://www.facebook.com/focusgraphite</a> X: <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/1Kj2qIQ2r2">https://x.com/focusgraphite</a> Investors Contact: Dean Hanisch CEO, Focus Graphite Inc. <a href="mailto:dhanisch@focusgraphite.com">dhanisch@focusgraphite.com</a> +1 (613) 612-6060 Jason Latkowcer VP Corporate Development <a href="mailto:jlatkowcer@focusgraphite.com">jlatkowcer@focusgraphite.com</a> Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could," "intend," "expect," "believe," "will," "projected," "estimated," and similar expressions, as well as statements relating to matters that are not historical facts, are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current beliefs or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking information regarding, among other things, the proposed shares-for-debt transaction involving the conversion of the remaining C$835,000 balance of the longstanding shareholder loan into 1,670,000 common shares of the Company at a deemed price of C$0.50 per share; the anticipated completion of the transaction and receipt of TSX Venture Exchange approval; the expected impact of the transaction on the Company's financial position, capital structure and financial flexibility; the anticipated preservation of capital for the Company's development priorities; the continued advancement and future development of the Lac Knife Graphite Project and the Company's other Quebec graphite assets; the advancement of the Company's downstream processing, purification and advanced-materials initiatives; the Company's broader commercial strategy and potential future commercial opportunities; the continued development of strategic partnerships and government and industry collaboration; the potential benefits of government-supported infrastructure initiatives for the Lac Knife Graphite Project; and the Company's strategy to contribute to the development of secure and resilient North American critical-mineral and advanced graphite supply chains. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks related to market conditions, regulatory approvals, changes in economic conditions, the ability to raise sufficient funds on acceptable terms or at all, operational risks associated with mineral exploration and development, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure documents available under its profile on SEDAR+. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties, and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. <hr> 1 <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/A8YR7tXJyP">https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2026/08/17/prime-minister-carney-announces-largest-clean-energy-investment-north</a> The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481630/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

Focus Graphite Inc.

Focus Graphite Chairman Converts Final C$835,000 Loan to Equity at a Premium to Market

<h4>With 1.93 million tertiary-educated workers in roles below their qualification level, employment alone may no longer be an adequate measure of career progress.</h4>KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – Malaysia's labour market has remained resilient, with overall unemployment falling to <a href="https://www.dosm.gov.my/portal-main/release-content/labour-force-survey-report-first-q12026?">2.9%</a> in the first quarter of 2026. However, the figures may conceal a deeper challenge faced by qualified workers who may be employed without meaningfully progressing in their careers. During the same period, 1.93 million tertiary-educated workers, or <a href="https://www.dosm.gov.my/uploads/release-content/file_20260512113744.pdf">35.2%</a>, were employed in semi-skilled or low-skilled roles. This points to a gap between employment and career progression, particularly whether the workers' qualifications and experience are helping them move into more skilled, complex and higher-values roles. "We need to shift the conversation from employability to career mobility. Being employed is not the same as progressing," said Lim Bee Ing, Centre Director of The University of Manchester South East Asia Centre. "For experienced professionals in Malaysia, progression increasingly requires the ability to lead across functions, make strategic decisions and navigate change. Purposeful postgraduate education can help build those capabilities." Evidence across Manchester's MBA programmes also points to rising cross-field mobility rather than individual employment factors like qualification alone. Its latest MBA employment report found that <a href="https://www.alliancembs.manchester.ac.uk/media/ambs/content-assets/documents/mba/ambs-2025-ftmba-employment-report.pdf?">59% of the 2024</a> class changed sector, while <a href="https://www.alliancembs.manchester.ac.uk/media/ambs/content-assets/documents/mba/ambs-2025-ftmba-employment-report.pdf?">27% changed country</a>, industry and job function. Experience alone does not guarantee progress For working professionals, career mobility depends on more than time spent in a role. Both workplace experience and postgraduate education can support progression when they help build broader capabilities, prepare professionals for more complex work and lead to greater responsibility. Experience builds capability when professionals encounter new problems, assume higher responsibilities and make increasingly complex decisions. Years spent performing largely the same scope of work, however, may not translate into equivalent professional growth. Similarly, a Master's can support progression when it is linked to a clear career transition, such as moving from a specialist to a managerial role, changing functions or industries, taking on regional responsibilities, or leading digital and organisational transformation. It is less likely to deliver meaningful results when pursued as a standalone credential or with the expectation of an automatic promotion or salary increase. "For experienced professionals, the value of an MBA is not simply in acquiring more knowledge, but in seeing their experience through a broader business lens," said Xavier Duran, Global MBA Programme Director at Alliance Manchester Business School. "That broader perspective can help prepare them for the next stage of their career, whether that means moving into leadership, changing function or industry, or even taking on greater international responsibility." Preparing professionals for changing employer needs Employer expectations are also evolving. Communication, problem-solving and strategic thinking remain important, while organisations increasingly require professionals who can interpret data, understand technology and navigate the impact of artificial intelligence. As these demands reshape the workplace, an individual can remain technically qualified and continuously employed while becoming less prepared for their next role. Studying while working can help bridge this gap by allowing professionals to apply new concepts directly to live organisational challenges. It also enables them to examine their experience critically and connect their existing expertise with wider areas such as strategy, finance, people and technology. The Manchester Global Part-time MBA follows this model through flexible learning, interactive workshops and practical business projects for experienced professionals. Their applicants enter with an average of 12 years of professional experience, including six years in management, underscoring that the programme is designed to build on established careers rather than replace workplace experience. Postgraduate education is not for salary increase alone Career progression should be looked at beyond just salary benchmarking. More meaningful indicators include movement into higher-skilled work, broader decision-making responsibility, access to regional or international opportunities and the ability to lead more complex projects. Malaysia has made progress in helping graduates enter and remain in the workforce. The next priority should be to turn employment into sustained progression, ensuring that talent continues to develop and move into work that makes fuller use of its capabilities. More information on the MA in Educational Leadership in Practice (ELiP) is available at <a href="http://www.manchester.com.my/ma-educational-leadership-in-practice/">www.manchester.com.my/ma-educational-leadership-in-practice/</a>. Hashtag: #UniversityofManchester <a href="http://www.manchester.com.my/ma-educational-leadership-in-practice/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">http://www.manchester.com.my/ma-educational-leadership-in-practice/</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About The University of Manchester &amp; Alliance Manchester Business School </h4>The University of Manchester is ranked 35th in the world by QS World University Rankings 2026, 5th in the UK research powerhouse in REF 2021 and 2nd in THE Impact ranking 2025. With as many as 26 Nobel Prize winners, the University’s academic pedigree is among the best globally. Alliance Manchester Business School, part of the University of Manchester, is one of the UK’s leading business schools and holds triple accreditation from AMBA, AACSB and EQUIS. The university has a global alumni network and more than 60,000 graduates across 176 countries. <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481322/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

MBS-logo-new-retina.jpg

Employed but stuck: Malaysia’s resilient labour market masks a career mobility gap

<h4>A First-Of-Its-Kind Collaboration Uniting Industry, Academia And Government To Drive Sustainable Industrial Innovation In Support Of Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR)</h4>SELANGOR, MALAYSIA - <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com">Media OutReach Newswire</a> - 18 August 2026 - Linde Malaysia Sdn Bhd, in partnership with Monash University Malaysia and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), successfully convened the Linde-Monash University Sustainability Conference 2026, a landmark tripartite summit that brought together industry, academia and government to accelerate practical industrial decarbonisation solutions and support Malaysia's energy transition agenda. Explaining the initiative, Linde Malaysia Managing Director, Ms. Hoo Peih Yoke, said, "This collaboration connects sustainability ambitions with practical industry action by bringing together technology, research and supportive policy frameworks. By leveraging the combined strengths of each partner, the conference sought to facilitate knowledge exchange and identify actionable pathways for sustainable growth within the nation's industrial sector. The focus is to ensure accessibility and usability within the industrial sector to drive real-world application and meaningful progress." Anchored on the theme "Shaping Tomorrow's Energy", the conference brought together Linde Malaysia's expertise as a leading industrial gases and engineering solutions provider, Monash University Malaysia's strengths in sustainability research, innovation and talent development, and national policy priorities represented by key government agencies, including the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA). The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of clean energy solutions and green investments, foster dialogue between industry, academia and government, and showcase viable technologies that support zero-emission and low-carbon industrial transformation. These efforts align with Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which charts an energy transition pathway towards a low-carbon economy and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The conference featured distinguished special addresses from key government and industry leaders, underscoring the national importance of the energy transition agenda. Delivering an address on behalf of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, YAB Dato' Sri Haji Fadillah Yusof, was Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Secretary‑General (KSU), Dato' Sri Hj Mad Zaidi Bin Mohd Karli, who said: "We welcome more collaborations that strengthen industrial capabilities, accelerate technology adoption and support the development of local expertise." Dato' Sri Hj Mad Zaidi added, "These partnerships are instrumental in ensuring Malaysia remains an attractive destination for high‑value investments while advancing towards our energy transition goals." The Linde-Monash University Sustainability Conference 2026 attracted approximately 400 participants, comprising government officials, more than 200 corporate representatives from key industrial sectors, academic leaders, researchers, and students. Held at the Monash University Malaysia auditorium, the conference served as a platform for cross-sector collaboration to advance sustainable industrial practices. Monash University Malaysia Head of School, Professor Anthony Guo, said, "This conference represents a true tripartite strategic alliance between government policy, industrial deployment, and academic research. It reflects Monash's deep commitment to advancing sustainability through research excellence, preparing future‑ready talent to lead Malaysia's energy transition and building partnerships that help shape tomorrow's energy landscape." A key highlight of the Linde-Monash University Sustainability Conference 2026 was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Linde Malaysia and Monash University Malaysia, officiated by Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Secretary‑General (KSU), Dato' Sri Hj Mad Zaidi Bin Mohd Karli. The MoU marks a significant milestone in strengthening industry-academia collaboration to support Malaysia's sustainability and energy transition ambitions. The partnership establishes a framework for long-term collaboration in education, research, talent development, and sustainability initiatives, fostering knowledge exchange, practical learning opportunities, and the advancement of industrial decarbonisation efforts. At its core, the collaboration pursues three clear objectives: accelerating corporate and industrial adoption of clean energy and green investments across Malaysia; establishing an open dialogue platform that connects industry players, academic researchers, and government stakeholders; and showcasing viable, highly technical solutions for zero-emission and low-carbon industrial setups. These efforts are squarely aligned with Malaysia's National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which charts the country's shift from a fossil-fuel-based economy to a low-carbon framework, with a net-zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) target as early as 2050. The conference featured discussions on practical, commercially deployable technologies that can be integrated into existing industrial operations, including hydrogen solutions, electrolysers, Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS), biomethane and biomass LNG, Cryogenic Energy Recovery (CER), and cleaner combustion technologies. Primary sectors poised to benefit include oil and gas, oleochemicals, chemicals, food and beverage, semiconductors, energy, steel and metallurgy, and glass manufacturing. These heavy and precision industries stand to achieve substantial carbon reductions alongside meaningful operational efficiencies by adopting these solutions. Throughout the conference, Linde's panel of speakers shared international success stories and proven case studies from markets where these technologies are already in operation. Participants also gained insights into emerging green investment frameworks supported by MIDA, practical pathways for scaling up sustainable technologies, and Linde's portfolio of readily deployable solutions that help industries achieve their sustainability goals while supporting Malaysia's energy transition. Looking ahead, the tripartite framework is aimed at fostering further collaboration between industry, academia and government through ongoing dialogue, knowledge sharing and joint initiatives that advance research, technical education and industrial innovation, supporting Malaysia's long-term energy transition and net-zero ambitions. Hashtag: #Energy #EnergyTransition #NETR #MalaysiaNETR #SustainableMalaysia #GreenInvestmentMalaysia #MalaysiaEnergyTransition #NetZero2050 #Decarbonisation #CleanEnergy #LowCarbonFuture #Sustainability #SustainableGrowth #TripartiteCollaboration #IndustryAcademiaGovernment #PublicPrivatePartnership #CollaborationForImpact #ShapingTomorrowsEnergy #MoU #FutureReadyTalent #InnovationInAction #SustainabilityResearch #EngineeringForNetZero #MonashMalaysia <a href="https://www.linde.com/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.linde.com/</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/lindeinasean/?originalSubdomain=my" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-linkedin-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.linkedin.com/company/lindeinasean/?originalSubdomain=my</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lindeplc/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/resize-instagram-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.instagram.com/lindeplc/</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About Linde</h4>Linde is a leading global industrial gases and engineering company with 2025 sales of $34 billion. We live our mission of making our world more productive every day by providing high-quality solutions, technologies and services which are making our customers more successful and helping to sustain, decarbonize and protect our planet. Linde serves a variety of end markets such as chemicals &amp; energy, food &amp; beverage, electronics, healthcare, manufacturing, metals and mining. Linde's industrial gases and technologies are used in countless applications, enabling space exploration and launch technologies, delivering ultra-high-purity and specialty gases for semiconductor manufacturing, providing life-saving medical oxygen and enabling clean hydrogen production and carbon capture to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Linde also delivers state-of-the-art gas processing solutions to support customer growth, efficiency improvements and emissions reductions. For more information about the company and its products and services, please visit www.linde.com <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481497/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

About Linde

Linde Malaysia, Monash University Malaysia And Mida Champion Industrial Decarbonisation Through Landmark Tripartite Conference

SINGAPORE – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – V3 Group Limited, the Singapore-based holding company with a diversified portfolio spanning well-being, luxury gourmet, capital markets, real estate, and integrated healthcare services segments, announced today that its health and wellness supplements arm, LAC Global ("LAC"), has completed the acquisition of MASQUELIER'S® French Pine Bark Extract ("MASQUELIER'S®"). By acquiring MASQUELIER'S® patented technology, LAC brings over 70 years of pioneering European nutritional science into its portfolio, combining proven scientific heritage with an Asian platform to build a mass-premium wellness proposition for global consumer. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://release.media-outreach.com/release.php/Images/798303/LAC-Banner-596x448px.jpg" alt="V3 Group's Health and Wellness Supplements Brand LAC Acquires MASQUELIER'S® French Pine Bark Extract; Continues Business Expansion Across East Asia, the Middle East and Africa" width="100%" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px"> </figure> Rooted in the work of renowned French scientist Professor Jack Masquelier, a pioneer in the research and development of oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), MASQUELIER'S® is distinguished by its proprietary fingerprinted format's extraction expertise, and decades of scientific research into the antioxidant properties of OPCs, supported by clinical studies. Ron Sim, Founder and Executive Chairman, V3 Group, said, "Health is becoming one of the defining priorities for consumers globally. People are living longer, but the opportunity is to help them live better. The acquisition of MASQUELIER'S® brings decades of European nutritional science into LAC, strengthening the scientific foundation of our portfolio. Singapore remains our home market, and we are grateful for the trust our customers have placed in us over the years. We remain committed to serving them through our extensive retail presence across Singapore's malls, even as we take LAC into new markets and pursue our ambition to build a health and wellness brand born in Asia for consumers globally." MASQUELIER'S® is also the originator and trademark holder of MASQUELIER'S® Anthogenol, one of the most widely recognised OPC supplement brands across Asia Pacific. LAC's acquisition extends beyond a single product line to bring the foundational intellectual property and scientific heritage behind an established category into its portfolio. To date, MASQUELIER'S® French Pine Bark Extract has sold over 250 million tablets, making it one of LAC's most significant and enduring product platforms across its Asian markets. Accelerating LAC Global's Regional Expansion LAC has continued to accelerate its regional expansion since the start of 2026, building on nearly three decades of organic growth across Asia Pacific. Today, LAC operates more than 250 retail stores across Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan China, Hong Kong and Vietnam, complemented by franchise operations in Mongolia, India, Indonesia and Thailand. Its physical footprint is supported by a growing e-commerce business, extending access to LAC's portfolio of health and wellness solutions across the region. Beyond Asia, LAC products are also available in select markets across Africa, the Middle East and South America. This expansion reflects LAC's ambition to become Asia's defining homegrown health and wellness brand. Through its directly owned retail and e-commerce network, supported by continued product innovation, LAC is making science-backed nutrition and supplementation more accessible to consumers across the region. As ageing populations, rising health consciousness and growing wellness expenditure reshape consumer priorities, LAC is well positioned to meet increasing demand for preventive health and everyday wellness solutions. Looking ahead, LAC will deepen its presence in existing markets while pursuing new growth opportunities across Asia Pacific and internationally. Alongside its geographic expansion, LAC will continue to invest in product innovation and science-backed nutritional solutions, with a focus on preventive health, healthy ageing and the evolving wellness needs of consumers. As LAC's parent company, V3 Group will continue to support its growth through strategic capital, operational capabilities and regional connectivity. Across its broader portfolio, V3 Group remains focused on businesses with strong fundamentals and long-term growth potential, with the aim of building category-leading brands and platforms from Asia for the world. Hashtag: #LAC #V3Group <a href="https://www.lac.com/en/home" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.lac.com/en/home</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About LAC Global </h4>Headquartered in Singapore, LAC Global is one of Asia's largest specialty retailers in nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal, and other specialty supplements in Anti-ageing and Beauty, Immunity, Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, and Energy. The Company owns the LAC brand, short for Leader in Antioxidative Control™, a leading health and wellness supplement brand with a global presence. Since its founding, LAC has embarked on a pioneering journey to develop scientifically based formulas, harnessing the best of eastern wisdom and western technology to fight free radicals, combat ageing brought forth by oxidative stress, and support you daily in looking, feeling, and functioning at your best. Having established a global presence since 1997, LAC's reach includes Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Philippines, Vietnam, U.S., Central and South Americas, Africa and the Middle East.<h4>About V3 Group </h4>V3 Group is a Singapore-based holding company with a globally diversified portfolio that includes leading brands and businesses in the well-being, luxury gourmet, capital markets, real estate, and integrated healthcare services segments. The Group is guided by three Vs – the Vision to create exceptional brands of distinctive quality, nurtured by leaders with Valour, and anchored by our Values of innovation, ownership, and excellence. V3 refers to these three core qualities, as well as the three units that drive our growth – V3 Assets, V3 Brands, V3 Capital. Collectively, our brands and businesses engage over 3 million customers worldwide with a combined footprint of over 5,000 retail touchpoints in 118 cities across 26 countries. The Group has its roots in the iconic OSIM brand founded by visionary entrepreneur Ron Sim over 40 years ago. A pioneer in well-being technology in Asia, Ron has forged ahead on the success of OSIM to create valuable brands and assets in sectors that include e-commerce, nutrition, gourmet lifestyle, real estate assets and integrated healthcare services.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481560/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

V3 Group’s Health and Wellness Supplements Brand LAC  Acquires MASQUELIER’S® French Pine Bark Extract;  Continues Business Expansion Across East Asia, the Middle East and Africa

V3 Group’s Health and Wellness Supplements Brand LAC Acquires MASQUELIER’S® French Pine Bark Extract;  Continues Business Expansion Across East Asia, the Middle East and Africa

BANGKOK, THAILAND – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – As travel becomes less about simply changing destinations and more about spending meaningful time with oneself, solo travel is gaining popularity among today's travellers. From working professionals and lifestyle travellers to those seeking time to rest, recharge and find new inspiration, more people are embracing the freedom to shape their journeys around their own interests, pace and preferences. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://images.media-outreach.com/release.php/Thumb/1600x1068/798275/798275-ONYX-Solo-Travel-1-jpg-16.jpeg" alt="ONYX Solo Travel (1)" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="1600"> </figure> This trend reflects ONYX Hospitality Group's "More of What You Love" philosophy. As a leading hospitality management company for hotels, resorts, serviced apartments and luxury residences across the Asia-Pacific region, ONYX believes that memorable journeys are shaped by experiences throughout every stage of travel. Beyond accommodation, this includes enjoying local cuisine, discovering destinations, experiencing local culture and making time for the small moments that give each journey meaning. For solo travellers, these experiences offer the freedom to create a journey at their own pace and discover what brings them joy in a way that suits their individual lifestyle. For solo travellers, choosing where to stay is no longer simply about comfortable accommodation. Confidence in the standards and quality of a property, convenient locations, safety, access to public transport, restaurants, cafés and attractions, as well as opportunities to experience local communities and ways of life, all play an important role in creating a journey filled with memorable experiences. Those planning a solo journey can choose from ONYX Hospitality Group's diverse range of destinations and stays, from exploring the energy of the city and relaxing by the sea to connecting with nature and travelling based on personal interests. Each destination gives travellers the freedom to spend time at their own pace and create experiences that reflect their lifestyle and the things they love. Travellers looking to begin their journey by exploring the city will find Amari Bangkok located in the Ratchaprasong area, with convenient access to shopping destinations, restaurants, cafés, attractions and public transport. It is well suited to discovering new sides of Bangkok, trying restaurants of interest or returning to the hotel to relax and enjoy wellness experiences, including Breeze Spa or time by the hotel's swimming pool. Another way to experience city living is at Shama Yen-Akat, which offers flexibility for those looking to combine work and relaxation, whether staying for a short or extended period. With serviced apartment-style accommodation, spacious living areas and a warm, home-like atmosphere, it provides a comfortable setting for travellers to create their own daily rhythm. Meanwhile, Oriental Residence Bangkok offers a calm and private setting in the heart of the city, ideal for those looking to spend quality time with themselves. Thoughtful and discreet service, with every detail carefully considered, creates a sense of relaxation and comfort throughout the stay. When it is time to trade the pace of the city for the coast, resort destinations near Bangkok offer another way to experience solo travel. Amari Pattaya invites guests to discover the energy of a vibrant seaside city, with easy access to the beach, cafés, restaurants and local attractions. Meanwhile, Amari Hua Hin captures the relaxed character of a classic seaside destination, ideal for slowing down, taking a walk along the beach, discovering local restaurants and enjoying Hua Hin at one's own pace. Those looking to travel further and connect with the natural beauty of the Andaman coast can stay at Amari Phuket, which offers views of the Andaman Sea and convenient access to the vibrant atmosphere of Patong Beach. OZO Phuket is just steps from Kata Beach, making it ideal for travellers who enjoy beach walks, cafés, restaurants, night markets or trying their hand at surfing. For those looking to slow down and reconnect with nature, Amari Vogue Krabi offers a peaceful setting on Tubkaek Beach, surrounded by views of the sea and mountains, providing an ideal place to relax and enjoy time alone. Travellers choosing Koh Samui as their destination can stay at Amari Koh Samui, which combines a relaxed seaside setting with opportunities to discover the character of the island. Meanwhile, OZO Chaweng Samui is located on Chaweng Beach, surrounded by restaurants, cafés and vibrant nightlife, making it well suited to travellers looking to enjoy an energetic beachside lifestyle while still setting the pace of each day for themselves. Beyond city and seaside escapes, solo travel can also begin with a personal interest or passion. Amari Buriram United, located near Chang Arena and Chang International Circuit, offers travellers an opportunity to experience the energy of Thailand's sports city while exploring the local culture of Isan, sampling regional cuisine and visiting key attractions in Buriram. It adds another dimension to solo travel, showing that a journey does not have to be solely about relaxation but can also be an opportunity to discover new experiences through the things one loves. Solo travel is not about being alone. It is an opportunity to discover new perspectives, connect with local people and cultures, and live at a pace of one's own choosing. Whether stepping into a small café for the first time, exploring an unfamiliar neighbourhood or simply sitting back to take in the atmosphere of a city, every moment can become part of an experience that inspires, refreshes and makes each journey meaningful in its own way. Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About ONYX Hospitality Group:</h4>ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in the Asia-Pacific hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands - Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence - catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers across the region where it has deep expertise. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food &amp; beverage. With six decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers. More information: <a href="http://www.onyx-hospitality.com/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">www.onyx-hospitality.com</a> Find us on social media: Follow us on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/resize-instagram-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/</a> Follow us on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-linkedin-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group/</a> Follow us on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ONYXHospitalityGroup" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-facebook-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.facebook.com/ONYXHospitalityGroup</a> <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481553/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

ONYX Solo Travel  (1)

Set Off on a Solo Journey to Reconnect with Yourself, Recharge, Embrace New Experiences and Rediscover Joy in Your Own Way

QIONGHAI, CHINA – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – On the evening of August 16, 2026, the 7th Hainan Sports Games opened at the Qionghai Culture and Sports Center. Feng Fei, Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee, declared the Games open, and Liu Xiaoming, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and Governor of Hainan Province, delivered the opening address. This marks the first comprehensive sporting event held in Hainan since the island-wide special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port of China took effect. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://release.media-outreach.com/release.php/Images/798247/photo-1-.jpg" alt='"This Sea Embraces All" — The 7th Hainan Sports Games Open in Qionghai' style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="100%"> </figure> The opening ceremony, themed "This Sea Embraces All," featured a cultural performance structured around the Wanquan River as its narrative thread. Dynamic ground projection technology brought the river "into" the stadium, showcasing Hainan's development trajectory, from its ecological splendor to its ever-expanding openness. The performance comprised chapters including "Wanquan River in Pictures," "Hainan Flowers Facing the Sun," "Passion in Motion," "Hainan Acceleration," and "Under the Same Expanse of Blue," integrating Hainan's revolutionary heritage, mass participation in sports, the Free Trade Port's "Five-Pronged Development" strategy, and the spirit of openness embodied by Boao. Chief Director Wu Wanting said she hoped the imagery of the Wanquan River would convey a sense of "the sea and sky becoming one, and hearts beating as one." One of the highlights of this year's Provincial Games is extensive public participation. Fourteen community contingents and more than 10,000 residents voluntarily signed up for the pre-opening ceremony group singing activities. More than 700 performers in the warm-up program came from 21 community groups, ranging in age from 6 to 72, truly embodying the spirit of "performed by the people, watched by the people, and enjoyed by the people." More than 4,200 athletes from 18 delegations across the province are competing in 18 sports comprising 21 disciplines. As home to the permanent home of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) and the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, Qionghai is using the Provincial Games as a showcase for the vitality and openness of a "New Qionghai Powered by the Free Trade Port." The Games will continue until August 26. Hashtag: #CultureandTourismofGuizhouProvince #Qionghai The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481483/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

"This Sea Embraces All" — The 7th Hainan Sports Games Open in Qionghai

<h4>Second-year cross-border program connects Citigold Summer Analysts and Citigold Wealth Analysts with fintech leaders, artificial intelligence (AI) applications and emerging trends transforming wealth management</h4>HONG KONG SAR - <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire </a>– 18 August 2026 – Citigold recently concluded its second cross-border field trip, a full-day immersive visit to Shenzhen designed to equip the next generation of wealth professionals with firsthand insights into the forefront of technology and financial services in the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Organized in partnership with the FinTech Association of Hong Kong (FTAHK) and the Shenzhen FinTech Association (SZFTA), the initiative brought together the Class of 2026 Citigold Summer Analysts, Citigold Wealth Analysts and senior leaders for a day of high-impact cross-border learning and exchange. As a powerhouse of the GBA's innovation economy, Shenzhen offered participants an unfiltered ground-level view of how AI and next-generation technologies are reshaping client expectations and redefining the wealth management industry. Building on the success of last year's inaugural trip, the 2026 program deepens Citi's commitment to investing in young talent at every stage of their careers, broadening perspectives and cultivating the forward-looking mindset required to steer the future of the wealth industry. During the trip, Citigold Summer Analysts and Citigold Wealth Analysts had the opportunity to connect with senior leaders from Ping An OneConnect, Tencent Cloud andfounders of fintech startups. Moving beyond observation, the Citigold Summer Analysts were integral to the program's dialogue. They moderated a startup panel discussion with fintech founders, exploring themes of entrepreneurship and AI-driven innovation. The day also featured a two-way exchange session with Tencent Cloud interns, where Citigold Summer Analysts shared reflections from their Citi internship experience and discussed practical AI use cases being explored. Following the visit, the Citigold Summer Analysts gathered for an engaging debrief session to share key takeaways, highlighting the potential of advanced AI capabilities and digital tools to automate workflows and elevate client experiences in their current roles. Reflecting on the trip's highlights, they noted the inspiring real-world impact of technology far beyond finance, extending into healthcare, the arts, and the broader community. Others drew valuable inspiration from the startup panel, which sparked ideas on cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset and illustrated successful collaboration between agile startups and major financial institutions to accelerate innovation. The debrief concluded with the cohort reflecting on the importance of these learnings in shaping their future careers as they navigate the rapidly evolving wealth management landscape. Vicky Kong, Head of Wealth for Asia North and Australia, Citi, said, "At Citi, we believe one of the most crucial investments is in the talent who will shape the future of wealth management. Our Citigold Summer Analysts are at the start of their professional journeys, and an experience like this can have a lasting impact. As client expectations continue to evolve, future wealth professionals need to understand how innovation and technology are transforming the way we engage with and serve clients. It was inspiring to see them engage with industry leaders, explore new ideas and consider how technology is reshaping financial services. By fostering this forward-looking mindset, we are ensuring that Citi remains at the forefront of wealth management and continues to deliver unparalleled value to our clients." Michele Fung, Board Member of the FinTech Association of Hong Kong (FTAHK), said, "The Greater Bay Area continues to cement its status as a premier global hub for financial innovation. Cross-border talent cultivation initiatives like Citigold's field trip are absolutely vital to bridging Hong Kong's deep wealth management expertise with Shenzhen's cutting-edge fintech engine. By immersing the next generation of wealth professionals directly in the GBA ecosystem—where real-world applications of agentic AI, digital transformation, and advanced investment tools are rapidly scaling—we are actively building a highly adaptable, future-ready workforce. The FinTech Association of Hong Kong remains deeply committed to strengthening these cross-border industry ties, ensuring our talent is uniquely equipped to spearhead the future of AI-driven wealth management in the region." The Shenzhen immersion is a flagship component of the broader Citigold Summer Analyst Program. Now in its second consecutive year, the initiative continues to provide curated exposure to market-leading technologies and developments across the Greater Bay Area, preparing the next generation of wealth professionals for an increasingly complex and digitally-driven future. This year, Citi Hong Kong welcomed a highly competitive cohort of Summer Analysts across its various business lines, attracting top talent from leading universities around the world. The comprehensive 10-week program provides Summer Analysts with hands-on experience, global exposure, deep insights into Citi's overall business and strategy, and the opportunity to be offered a Full-time Analyst role after successful completion of the internship. Later this month, Citi Hong Kong will host an Open Day for students from global universities, providing a chance to hear from senior business leaders and connect with Citi Analysts while gaining insights into the future of banking and Citi's 2027 Summer Analyst Program. Hashtag: #Citi #FTAHK #SZFTA The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481532/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

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Citigold Equips Future Talent Through Greater Bay Area Innovation

<h4>Platform launches new “Personalised Targeting” feature this month, leveraging AI to improve hiring outcomes</h4>HONG KONG SAR – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – <a href="https://hk.jobsdb.com/">Jobsdb by SEEK</a>, Hong Kong's leading employment marketplace, successfully hosted the third edition of its "HR Conference 2026" on 7 August at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. Under the theme "Empowering Talent and Technology Towards Tomorrow", the event brought together nearly 500 human resources professionals to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace while enhancing the efficiency and quality of talent matching and recruitment. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://images.media-outreach.com/release.php/Thumb/1600x1067/798128/798128-260807-1022-HN205130-jpg-.jpeg" alt="Jobsdb by SEEK, Hong Kong's leading employment marketplace, successfully hosted the third edition of its &quot;HR Conference 2026&quot; on 7 August at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. Under the theme &quot;Empowering Talent and Technology Towards Tomorrow&quot;, the event brought together nearly 500 human resources professionals to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace while enhancing the efficiency and quality of talent matching and recruitment." width="1600" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px"> <figcaption class="" style="text-align: left;font-size: 16px;line-height: 24px;display: block;margin: 0px;width: 100%"> <div align="left" style="margin-top: 16px;text-align: start"> Jobsdb by SEEK, Hong Kong's leading employment marketplace, successfully hosted the third edition of its "HR Conference 2026" on 7 August at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. Under the theme "Empowering Talent and Technology Towards Tomorrow", the event brought together nearly 500 human resources professionals to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace while enhancing the efficiency and quality of talent matching and recruitment. </div> </figcaption> </figure> Daryl Lau, Sales Director, Hong Kong, Jobsdb by SEEK, said: "AI and innovative technologies are reshaping recruitment and talent management at an unprecedented pace, and this year's conference theme reflects the profound transformation currently taking place in Hong Kong's workplace. According to our platform data, competition among job seekers in Hong Kong has continued to intensify in recent years, while talent mobility has remained high, driving up recruitment costs for employers. The core recruitment challenge facing enterprises today is how to quickly assess and identify the most suitable candidates from a vast pool of applications with limited resources. At the same time, growing demand for AI skills has made recruitment even more complex. Furthermore, our market insights show that job seekers' expectations are no longer focused solely on salary and benefits. They are placing greater emphasis on purpose at work, growth opportunities and an inclusive workplace culture. Jobsdb is committed to connecting talent and technology, helping enterprises formulate more resilient talent strategies, seize opportunities in a rapidly changing market and match with the most suitable talent." Industry leaders explore how AI is redefining the role of HR The conference featured multiple panel discussions offering in-depth perspectives on the future development of the HR profession. The first panel, titled "How AI Will Elevate and Redefine HR", featured Edward Ng, Regional Human Resources Director, Vita Green Group; Fanny Lau, Director – Human Resources, New World Development &amp; K11 Hong Kong; Jeff Tang, Partner, Market Development Leader, Consulting, Ernst &amp; Young Advisory Services Limited; and Tina Au-Yeung, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Emperor Group. The speakers shared an optimistic outlook on the industry's future, highlighting how AI can optimize day-to-day workflows while noting that uniquely human soft skills – such as communication and collaboration – will become increasingly valuable. They encouraged HR professionals to harness AI tools alongside their professional judgement and experience to create irreplaceable impact and unlock broader career development opportunities. Spotlight on the talent war in Asia and diverse recruitment strategies Another key panel discussion, "The Talent War in Asia: Attracting and Retaining the Next Generation Workforce", brought together Annie Wong, Assistant Director, Office of Co-operative Education Programme, The Chinese University of Hong Kong; Janet Law, Head of Sales (Hong Kong and Greater China), FDM Group; Jovi Yan, Group Learning Lead, AIA Group; and Nishilla McKeogh, Client Director – Early Careers &amp; Campus APAC, AMS. The experts exchanged insights on key issues including expectations of young talent, cross-border hiring, employer value propositions and regional talent mobility trends, offering attendees practical recommendations for developing effective talent strategies. The conference also featured wide-ranging discussions on a variety of forward-looking topics. Andrew Lee, Head of Corporate Solutions Strategy at AIA Hong Kong and Macau, shared total wellbeing strategies that go beyond traditional medical and group insurance; Stacy Liao, Head of People – Human Resources Department at China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited, explored the role HR can play in an enterprise's AI development journey; Anna Au, Deputy Director of Hong Kong Talent Engage, shared strategies for attracting global talent and supporting their long-term development by helping them integrate into the local community; Winnie Tam, Head of People and Culture at KOS International, elaborated on human-centric leadership in the age of AI; and Keith Chau, Senior Consultant at the School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, shared emerging AI trends and practical response strategies for HR leaders. Jobsdb launches new AI features to transform how hirers discover and hire talent With the goal of delivering better hiring outcomes, Jobsdb announced the launch of its new "Personalised Targeting" feature this August. The feature builds on its market-level intelligence to also learn from each employer's unique hiring activity and role requirements, with targeting getting sharper with every hire. In addition, the platform introduces "Assist", an always-on hiring partner that works alongside employers from vacancy to hire, conducting AI pre-screens and automating reference checks on their behalf so they can move with greater speed and confidence. Jobsdb also previewed the future development of agentic AI capabilities and applications to further enhance the overall recruitment experience. As a leading employment marketplace in the Asia Pacific region, Jobsdb remains dedicated to combining its deep local market expertise with SEEK's world-class AI technology, continuing to deliver better job and talent matches for the Hong Kong market, partnering with enterprises to embrace the new normal of recruitment. The success of HR Conference 2026 was made possible by the generous support of its sponsors and partners, including Gold Sponsor AIA; Strategic Partner KOS International; and Silver Sponsors Adecco, ASUS, Moka, Talent Axis, Co-Op@CUHK, The University of Manchester, United Technologies, Wai Yuen Tong, and Wallstone. For more insights into talent strategies for 2026, please refer to Jobsdb by SEEK's new "2026 Talent Blueprint": <a href="https://hk.jobsdb.com/page/jobsdb-talent-blueprint-2026">https://hk.jobsdb.com/page/jobsdb-talent-blueprint-2026</a> Click <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hsNDfEMSg3ZXcnOHcNeeWVIWr2BzGl1L?usp=sharing">here</a> for high resolution images. Hashtag: #Jobsdb #AI The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About Jobsdb by SEEK</h4>Jobsdb is a leading employment marketplace, connecting the right people with the right work in Hong Kong since 1998. Operated by SEEK, an Australian Securities Exchange-listed company, Jobsdb combines its deep local expertise with SEEK's world-class AI technology and platform to create relevant job and talent matches across Asia Pacific. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.jobsdb.com/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">www.jobsdb.com</a>. <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481448/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

Jobsdb by SEEK, Hong Kong's leading employment marketplace, successfully hosted the third edition of its "HR Conference 2026" on 7 August at the JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. Under the theme "Empowering Talent and Technology Towards Tomorrow", the event brought together nearly 500 human resources professionals to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the workplace while enhancing the efficiency and quality of talent matching and recruitment.

Jobsdb by SEEK Hosts 3rd "HR Conference 2026" Bringing Together Nearly 500 Industry Professionals to Explore Emerging AI Recruitment Trends

SABAK BERNAM, SELANGOR – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – Selangor Aviation Technology and Innovation (SELATI), in collaboration with Universiti Selangor (UNISEL), launched the Droneport-1000 initiative on 30 July 2026, marking a significant step in the development of Malaysia's Low Altitude Economy. Droneport-1000 is a proposed test and evaluation facility designed to support the safe development of unmanned aircraft systems, Advanced Air Mobility and next generation drone technologies. The initiative will provide a platform for collaboration among government, academia and industry, with a focus on research, testing, talent development and the responsible commercialisation of unmanned aviation solutions. The initiative supports the wider Sabak Bernam Development Area (SABDA), a flagship regional development programme spearheaded by Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) under the Selangor State Government's Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1) and continuing under Rancangan Selangor Kedua (RS-2). Droneport-1000 is expected to complement Sabak Bernam's established strengths in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and environmental stewardship. Unmanned aviation technologies have potential applications in precision agriculture, crop monitoring, logistics, infrastructure inspection, emergency response and biodiversity conservation. These applications could help improve productivity, strengthen public services and create new economic opportunities for local communities. YB Dr Mohammad Fahmi bin Ngah, Selangor State Executive Councillor for Islamic Affairs and Innovation Culture, said, "Droneport-1000 reflects Selangor's commitment to building the ecosystem required for the Low Altitude Economy. By bringing together technology, digital infrastructure and collaboration across government, academia and industry, we are creating a platform that supports innovation while preparing Malaysia for the future of unmanned aviation. "The State Government's role is to ensure that the necessary infrastructure, ecosystem and talent are in place to support the responsible and sustainable long-term growth of the industry." Puan Zannifa Azura binti Ahmad, Head of the SABDA Economic Development Zone and Chief Executive Officer of SELATI, said, "Droneport-1000 has the potential to be a game changer for Sabak Bernam. Its applications can extend across agriculture, fisheries, logistics, tourism, conservation and public services, creating new opportunities for businesses and communities throughout the district. "This initiative demonstrates how technology and investment can work alongside food security, biodiversity conservation and community prosperity to build a more sustainable future for Sabak Bernam." SABDA is transforming one of Selangor's most productive agricultural districts into an integrated economic corridor centred on resilience, food security, environmental stewardship and community led development. Through 18 strategic initiatives, SABDA is creating opportunities in smart agriculture, fisheries, integrated logistics, ecotourism, agritourism, research and innovation. It is also strengthening the critical infrastructure required to attract investment and improve the quality of life of local communities. Key catalytic projects include the 600-acre Sungai Lang Fisheries Industrial Zone, the Sekinchan Integrated Landing Port, Ban Canal Ecotourism and the proposed Anjung Utara Selangor Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme. Sabak Bernam already plays an important role in Selangor's food security ecosystem. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the district has approximately 48,216 hectares of agricultural land and remains one of the state's most important food producing regions. The district contributes significantly to paddy production, fisheries, fruit, vegetables and aquaculture. Agriculture also remains an important contributor to the local economy alongside manufacturing and services. Recent indicators demonstrate the district's growing momentum. Tourist arrivals increased by 74 per cent between 2024 and 2025, while marine fisheries landings grew by more than 42 per cent. Household incomes have also continued to rise. The award-winning Ban Canal Carnival has further strengthened Sabak Bernam's profile as an emerging ecotourism destination. The event attracts visitors while promoting local culture, cottage industries and community entrepreneurship. Another defining aspiration of SABDA is the proposed Anjung Utara Selangor Biosphere Reserve. Covering approximately 297,661 hectares across Sabak Bernam and parts of Kuala Selangor and Hulu Selangor, the proposed reserve reflects Selangor's commitment to balancing biodiversity conservation with sustainable economic development. Its nomination dossier is targeted for submission to UNESCO by the end of September 2026. Together, Droneport-1000 and SABDA demonstrate how advanced technology can support sustainable regional development. The initiative aims to attract investment, strengthen food security, protect natural assets and create meaningful opportunities for the people of Sabak Bernam. Hashtag: #SELATI #UNISEL #SABDA #MBISelangor <a href="https://sabda.com.my/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://sabda.com.my/</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>Sabak Bernam Development Area</h4><div> The Sabak Bernam Development Area (SABDA) is a strategic economic development initiative of the Selangor State Government under Rancangan Selangor Pertama. SABDA seeks to unlock Sabak Bernam's full economic potential while strengthening Malaysia's food production, raising local incomes and improving community livelihoods. Its vision is to establish Sabak Bernam as a driver of sustainable economic growth, food security, resilience and environmental stewardship. </div> <h4>Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporation) (MBI Selangor)</h4><h3> </h3> Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporation) (MBI Selangor) is the strategic investment arm of the State Government of Selangor, mandated to drive sustainable economic growth and long-term value creation for the state. <div style="text-align: left"> </div><div style="text-align: left">MBI Selangor plays a central role in catalysing high-impact developments, facilitating strategic partnerships and unlocking the potential of key sectors to strengthen Selangor's position as a leading economic hub in Malaysia and the region. Its investment focus spans infrastructure, industrial development, energy, digital economy and other priority sectors aligned with the state's long-term development agenda.</div> <div style="text-align: left"> </div><div style="text-align: left">Guided by the aspirations of Rancangan Selangor Pertama (RS-1), MBI Selangor actively supports initiatives that enhance competitiveness, attract quality investments and create meaningful socio-economic opportunities for the people of Selangor.</div> <div style="text-align: left"> </div><div style="text-align: left">Through a disciplined and forward-looking investment approach, MBI Selangor is committed to delivering sustainable, inclusive and resilient growth, while strengthening governance, environmental stewardship and stakeholder value across its portfolio.</div> <div style="text-align: left"> </div><div style="text-align: left">For more information, visit: <a href="https://www.mbiselangor.com/" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255)" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.mbiselangor.com</a></div> <div style="text-align: left;font-weight: normal"> </div><div style="text-align: left"> Contacts:</div><div style="text-align: left">Wan Laila Fatihah, Head of Corporate Communications</div><div style="text-align: left">Tel: +6012-672 3632 | E-mail: wan.laila@mbiselangor.com.my</div> <div style="text-align: left"> </div><div style="text-align: left">Muhammad Zulhilmi, Senior Executive Corporate Communications</div> <div style="text-align: left"> Tel: +6013-390 3804 | E-mail: zulhilmi@mbiselangor.com.my </div> <div style="text-align: left"> </div><img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481469/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

Sabak Bernam Development Area

Droneport-1000 to Advance Malaysia’s Low Altitude Economy from Sabak Bernam

<h4>Driving the Thai Economy and Charting New Strategic Pathways for the Future of ASEAN</h4>BANGKOK, THAILAND – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB), comprising the Thai Bankers' Association, the Board of Trade of Thailand, and the Federation of Thai Industries, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), and the World Bank, has announced its readiness to convene a high-level leadership conference, 'The Bangkok Business Summit 2026,' under the theme 'Reinvent Thailand, Resilient ASEAN.' <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://release.media-outreach.com/release.php/Images/798044/Picture1.jpg" alt="Picture1" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="100%"> </figure> To be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), the summit will showcase the vision of public-private sector collaboration aimed at restructuring Thailand's economy. This event serves as a milestone paving the way toward the IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026, which Thailand will proudly host in Bangkok in October 2026, as well as Thailand's upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2028. A key highlight of The Bangkok Business Summit 2026 includes a keynote address entitled 'Thailand's Offer to the World' by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand. The address will declare Thailand's readiness as a global investment hub, shifting the nation from cost-based competition to enhancing capabilities, innovation, and digital infrastructure. Furthermore, Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, will deliver a policy address on 'Unlocking the Next Growth Engines for Thailand &amp; ASEAN,' revealing policy reform steps designed to unlock private sector investment and drive the country's new economic engines. Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, will address positioning Thailand as a regional investment platform for high-tech industries. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://release.media-outreach.com/release.php/Images/798051/Picture2.jpg" alt="Picture2" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="100%"> </figure> Mr. Payong Srivanich, Chairman of the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB), stated that this event aims to answer a critical question: How can Thailand transform global shifts and its central location in ASEAN into new opportunities for investment, job creation, and sustainable growth? "The Bangkok Business Summit 2026 is not merely a platform for exchanging perspectives, but a venue where Thailand presents its concrete strengths, opportunities, and development directions to the global business community—bridging the government's vision, recommendations from international organizations, and the practical expertise of the private sector," Mr. Payong stated."Thailand's challenge today is not just growth, but building competitive growth in a rapidly changing world. We need a platform for collaborative efforts to 'Reinvent Thailand' by creating new economic engines and elevating our competitiveness so Thailand can capture new opportunities and become an integral part of a 'Resilient ASEAN' capable of adapting to global dynamics." Key Highlights &amp; Session Overview <ul> <li> Special Keynote: Mr. Vitai Ratanakorn, Governor of the Bank of Thailand, will present on 'Thailand's New Horizons: From Ambition to Delivery.' </li> <li> Global Insights Panel: Featuring in-depth discussions with Mr. Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for East Asia and Pacific, Mr. Sarvesh Suri, Regional Vice President for Asia and Pacific, The International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Mr. John W.H. Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) exchanging views on economic trends, investments, and business opportunities. </li> <li> Report Launch: Launch of the World Bank's latest report, 'Building Thailand's Future Today: The Investment and Growth Playbook.' The report proposes a roadmap for Thailand to achieve high-income country status through investment and reforms that create jobs, boost productivity, and lay the foundation for long-term growth, highlighting potential industries such as advanced manufacturing, sustainable &amp; wellness tourism, digital services, agriculture &amp; food, and the creative economy. </li> <li> Luncheon Discussion: Thai Beverage Public Company Limited will host a special session entitled 'Growth Reaches Communities: Sufficiency Economy Philosophy,' presenting the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy as a framework that creates balance, strength, and sustainability from local communities to the business sector and macroeconomy. </li> </ul> <h4> </h4> Afternoon Tracks <ul> <li> Track 1: Building Resilience (Infrastructure, Energy, and Digital Finance): Led by Mr. Piti Disyatat, Deputy Governor for Monetary Stability, Bank of Thailand, in building competitiveness and the ability to attract future industries to the country. The session will include discussions on the topics of 'Efficient Energy &amp; Low-Carbon Infrastructure' and 'Policy Architecture and Low-Carbon Cities in Action' focusing on investing in key infrastructure that will drive the industrial transition to a low-carbon society, with leaders from various sectors, including the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, PTT Public Company Limited, Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, Siam Cement Public Company Limited, Thai Airways Public Company Limited, and Google LLC and the topic of 'Building Thailand's Trusted Economy: Digital Public Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth,' focusing on digital public infrastructure in the financial sector for sustainable growth, and safe and inclusive digital finance, with senior executives from Bangkok Bank, Krungsri Bank, TMBThanachart Bank, and Ascend Money. </li> <li> Track 2: New Horizons (Future Industries, Agri-Food, and Human-Centric Economy): Led by Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, focusing on developing high-potential talent within organizations and positioning Thailand as a regional investment platform for high-tech industries, semiconductors, AI infrastructure, and advanced R&amp;D. </li> </ul> Additionally, the Bangkok Business Summit 2026 will feature a panel discussion titled 'The Future of Agrifood Business.' Under the concept of Elevating to a Regional Strategic Asset, leaders from top companies including Sea Value PCL and Olam Agri (Singapore) will share their perspectives on how Thailand's agrifood industry is evolving beyond its traditional role as the 'Kitchen of the World' to become a vital strategic asset for regional food security, and another discussion on 'The Future of the Human-Centric Economy,' integrating health, wellness, tourism, and the creative economy centered around people rather than isolated sectors. Panelists include Minor International, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), and Cerecin. Closing &amp; Actions To conclude the summit, leaders from the three JSCCIB member organizations will summarize actionable proposals to transform insights into concrete practices. These encompass enhancing competitiveness, building investment ecosystems, and developing future industries. The event will culminate in the signing of a Letter of Intent for Cooperation on the Digital &amp; AI Compact between Thailand's economic agencies and the World Bank. Note: Speakers and the event program are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Hashtag: #JSCCIB The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481420/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

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JSCCIB Joins Forces with Public Sector and World Bank to Launch "The Bangkok Business Summit 2026: Reinvent Thailand, Resilient ASEAN"

<h4>Through its parent company, TD SYNNEX, the expansion strengthens scale, consistency, and execution across the region</h4>HONG KONG/HANOI/PHNOM PENH – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 18 August 2026 – Tech Data, a TD SYNNEX company, and a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator for the IT ecosystem, today announced the expansion of its IBM distribution footprint across Asia Pacific (under the Tec D brand in Malaysia). This is part of TD SYNNEX's global expansion of their IBM distribution, spanning <a href="https://www.tdsynnex.com/content/dam/tds-site/americas/us/vendors/ibm/ibm-global-fact-sheet.pdf">20 new countries</a> across Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, advancing global scale and enabling more consistent, partner-led growth across markets. Through this expansion, Tech Data is extending access to IBM solutions while enabling partners to grow and scale with greater confidence across regions. This broader footprint supports a more consistent partner experience and unlocks new growth opportunities across both existing and expansion markets. "This expansion reflects the continued strength of the partnership between Tech Data, a TD SYNNEX company, and IBM across Asia Pacific," said Jaideep Malhotra, President, TD SYNNEX APJ. "We are excited to expand our portfolio of IBM solutions to six additional markets - Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, and the Philippines, building on our existing specialized IBM practice in Australia, India, Singapore, and Vietnam. Together, we are creating greater access to IBM technologies, expertise, and support for partners across ten APJ markets, enabling them to capture new growth opportunities and deliver greater value to their ecosystem and customers." "With this expansion, we are extending our reach into additional markets while connecting with a broader set of partners looking to grow their IBM business," said Mark Martin, VP, Global Vendor Management, TD SYNNEX. "And through our program Select Blue, we're providing a clear path to engage, specialize, and execute confidently, helping both new and existing partners enter new markets and accelerate revenue growth." The expanded footprint gives more partners access to <a href="https://news.tdsynnex.com/amplify/td-synnex-ibm-select-blue-launch/">Select Blue</a>, a focused initiative from TD SYNNEX, built with IBM, designed to help partners move from opportunity to execution faster, and with less guesswork. Through specialization in high-growth areas like AI, data and automation, Select Blue enables partners to deliver outcomes that matter and stand out in a crowded market. Tech Data provides end-to-end capabilities spanning enablement, financing, pre-sales support, and go-to-market execution, helping partners accelerate time to revenue and scale their IBM business. Execution in all markets will be anchored in a globally consistent framework with local execution, enabling outcome-based solutions, supported by scalable processes and performance accountability. Partners interested in growing their IBM business with Tech Data can explore available opportunities and connect with a Tech Data IBM specialist through the <a href="https://www.tdsynnex.com/na/us/ibm/select-blue/">Select Blue landing page</a>. Hashtag: #TechData The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About Tech Data</h4>Tech Data, a TD SYNNEX (NYSE: SNX) company, is a leading global distributor and solutions aggregator, that plays a central role in connecting the technology ecosystem. We support more than 150,000 customers across over 100 countries with a comprehensive edge-to-cloud portfolio spanning cybersecurity, analytics, artificial intelligence, mobility, and Everything-as-a-Service. We are a Fortune 100 company that helps partners maximize the value of technology investments and achieve measurable business outcomes through our global reach, expertise and enablement capabilities. Headquartered in Clearwater, Florida, and Fremont, California, the Company's distribution business brings together a broad portfolio of IT hardware, software and systems, providing access to products across the global IT ecosystem. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.techdata.com/sg" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">www.techdata.com/sg</a> or follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/techdata-apac/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-linkedin-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">LinkedIn</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TechDataCorporation" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-facebook-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">Facebook</a>. Safe Harbor Statement Statements in this news release that are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to be materially different from any future performance that may be suggested in this release. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release. Copyright 2026 TD SYNNEX Corporation. All rights reserved. TD SYNNEX, the TD SYNNEX Logo, and all other TD SYNNEX company, product and services names and slogans are trademarks of TD SYNNEX Corporation. Other names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481161/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

About Tech Data

Tech Data Expands IBM Distribution to Accelerate Partner-Led Growth Across Asia Pacific

<h4>GoTyme Bank becomes the first digital bank in the Philippines to enable Apple Pay, expanding secure and seamless digital payments for 10 million customers </h4>MANILA, PHILIPPINES - <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> - 18 August 2026 - <a href="https://www.paymentology.com/en/">Paymentology</a>, the leading global issuer processor, today announced the successful launch of Apple Pay for <a href="https://www.gotyme.com.ph/">GoTyme Bank</a> in the Philippines. Through this launch, GoTyme becomes one of the first issuers in the Philippine market to enable Apple Pay, giving 10 million customers an easy, secure and private way to pay using their Apple devices. As one of the country's fastest-growing digital banks, GoTyme continues to accelerate its digital payments strategy by expanding secure, seamless and convenient payment experiences for Filipino consumers. Customers can now securely add their GoTyme debit card to Apple Wallet and make contactless payments in stores, within apps and online wherever Apple Pay is accepted. Apple Pay uses industry-leading tokenisation technology, meaning card numbers are never stored on devices or shared with merchants. Instead, a unique Device Account Number is assigned, with every transaction authenticated through Face ID, Touch ID or a device passcode, providing an additional layer of security while delivering a fast, frictionless checkout experience. Nate Clark, President and CEO at GoTyme Bank commented: "At GoTyme Bank, we're constantly looking for ways to make banking simpler, safer and more rewarding for our customers. Bringing Apple Pay to GoTyme Bank customers in the Philippines gives them an easy and secure way to pay wherever they shop while continuing to earn rewards points on all their transactions. This is another step in our commitment to making everyday banking more beautiful and convenient for our customers. The launch comes as digital payments continue to reshape the Philippine economy. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), digital payments now account for more than half of all retail payment transactions, as consumers increasingly embrace mobile-first banking and contactless payments. Meanwhile, smartphone penetration continues to rise, supporting growing demand for digital wallets and tokenised payment experiences. As digital commerce accelerates, enabling secure mobile payments through services such as Apple Pay is becoming an increasingly important differentiator for financial institutions. Minh-Ha Truong, Head of Growth, APAC at Paymentology, added: "As a long-standing partner to GoTyme, we're proud to support another significant milestone in its growth journey. Bringing Apple Pay to market demonstrates how modern, cloud-native issuer processing enables digital banks to rapidly deliver innovative payment experiences while maintaining the highest standards of security, scalability and performance. Together, we're helping shape the future of digital payments in the Philippines." The launch further strengthens GoTyme's position as one of Southeast Asia's leading digital banks and highlights the value of Paymentology's cloud-native issuer processing platform in helping banks and fintechs rapidly introduce innovative payment capabilities that meet evolving customer expectations. Hashtag: #Paymentology <a href="https://www.paymentology.com/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.paymentology.com/</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/paymentology/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-linkedin-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.linkedin.com/company/paymentology/</a> <a href="https://x.com/Paymentology" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/iconmonstr-twitter-1-24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://x.com/Paymentology</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/479796/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

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Paymentology Powers GoTyme Bank’s Apple Pay Launch in the Philippines

SINGAPORE - <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> - 18 August 2026 - Under the Hakka Liugdui Sun, a brand-new three-part documentary by Discovery produced in partnership with the Hakka Affairs Council in Taiwan, takes audiences deep into Liugdui, a historic Hakka settlement region in southern Taiwan that has been home to Hakka communities for more than 300 years. Through stories of water stewardship, agricultural innovation, and food traditions, the documentary reveals how one community continues to adapt, thrive, and pass on its cultural heritage across generations. Set against the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Taiwan, Under the Hakka Liugdui Sun highlights how the people of Liugdui have thrived alongside the land for over 300 years. Following local scholars, farmers, and artisans, the documentary explores how this community adapts its deep-rooted traditions—from water stewardship to food heritage—in response to environmental and economic change, offering vital modern insights on sustainability, rural revitalization, and cultural continuity. Across three episodes—Water, agriculture, and food—the documentary explores how the people of Liugdui blend tradition with modern innovation. Viewers meet groundwater experts, farmers pioneering sustainable crops, and artisans repurposing local materials like betel nut, alongside culinary practitioners who preserve Hakka identity through ancestral rituals, communal feasts, and family traditions that unite generations. Audiences will discover a community that views tradition not as something fixed in the past, but as a living legacy that continues to evolve. From innovative groundwater management and botanical dyeing to ritual feasts and modern interpretations of Hakka cuisine - the documentary celebrates the creativity, resilience, and values that have sustained Liugdui for centuries. Under the Hakka Liugdui Sun premieres in Southeast Asia on Discovery Channel, Thursday, August 20 at 7:10pm; TLC Channel, Monday, August 24 at 7:10pm; and Discovery Asia, Tuesday, August 25 at 9:25pm. Hashtag: #Discovery The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About Discovery Channel</h4><div> <div> Across every platform, Discovery Channel is dedicated to connecting audiences who have a passion for adventure and crave a connection to the world around them. Popular series including Deadliest Catch, Expedition Unknown and Gold Rush, along with Shark Week, the annual tentpole programming event, serve as trusted portals that transport viewers directly into thrilling, real, high stakes moments. Through smart, authentic characters whose stories inform and inspire, Discovery celebrates the men and women who will stop at nothing to explore new spaces and achieve their dreams. For more information, please visit <a href="http://www.discovery.com." class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">www.discovery.com.</a> </div> </div><img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481399/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

About Discovery Channel

New Documentary Under the Hakka Liugdui Sun From Discovery to Debut on August 20 in Southeast Asia

KEY HIGHLIGHTS <ul> <li> $154.7 Million PIPE Financing Closed: Zhibao Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: ZBAO) ("Zhibao," "we," or the "Company") has closed its previously announced private investment in public equity ("PIPE") financing for an aggregate purchase price of $154,700,000. </li> <li> Streamlined Unit Structure: The transaction comprises 442,000,000 PIPE Units at $0.35 per Unit (each consisting of one Class A Ordinary Share and one two-year Warrant exercisable at $0.35 per share), with 395,678,152 Units delivered at closing and the remaining 46,321,848 Units to be delivered following shareholder approval. </li> </ul> SHANGHAI, CHINA - Newsfile Corp. - August 17, 2026 - Zhibao Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: ZBAO) ("Zhibao," "we," or the "Company"), a leading high-growth InsurTech company and pioneer of the 2B2C digital embedded insurance model in China, today announced the successful closing of its private placement financing pursuant to the Securities Purchase Agreement dated July 31, 2026, as amended on August 17, 2026 (the "Amended Securities Purchase Agreement"), with a syndicate of non-U.S. investors (the "Investors") in reliance upon Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Pursuant to the Amended Securities Purchase Agreement, the Company has completed the PIPE financing for an aggregate of 442,000,000 PIPE Units at a purchase price of $0.35 per Unit, representing an aggregate purchase price of $154,700,000. The total purchase price has been fully satisfied and deemed paid in full at the closing through the contribution by the Investors of 2,380 Bitcoins to the Company's designated wallet account, based on a reference price of $65,000 per Bitcoin determined with reference to prevailing market prices as of July 30, 2026. Each PIPE Unit consists of one Class A Ordinary Share, par value $0.0001 per share, and one Warrant to purchase one Class A Ordinary Share at an exercise price of $0.35 per share, exercisable for a period of two years from the closing date. At the closing, the Company delivered 395,678,152 PIPE Units, with the remaining 46,321,848 PIPE Units to be delivered following shareholder approval, with no additional consideration required from any Investor. Management Commentary "The successful closing of this $154.7 million investment marks one of the most transformational moments in Zhibao's 10-year history, strengthening our financial foundation and significantly accelerating our future growth potential," said Mr. Botao Ma, Director of Zhibao. "Our teams and operating entities remain passionately committed to following through on our foundational vision: providing the world's best digital insurance brokerage services to individuals and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) via our 2B2C business model and utilizing our Platform as a Service (PaaS)." Mr. Ma continued: "I am very hopeful for the future as this investment solidifies our foundations and ensures we are even better positioned to deepen our scenario integrations, expand our AI-driven capabilities, and provide top-notch service to our existing and future clients. Our investors bring with them deep understanding and technical ability of cryptocurrency markets and Web3 infrastructure. I am confident that our combined might will unlock new and innovative synergies and scenarios that will extend our lead in the Insurtech space and unlock sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders, partners, and clients worldwide." Registration Rights Under the terms of the transaction agreements, the Company will use commercially reasonable efforts to file a registration statement on Form F-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) within forty-five (45) calendar days following the July 31, 2026 effective date, covering the resale of the Class A Ordinary Shares, Warrant Shares, and certain management shares. Hashtag: #ZhibaoTechnology The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<h4>About Zhibao Technology Inc.</h4>Zhibao Technology Inc. is a leading and high-growth InsurTech company primarily engaging in providing digital insurance brokerage services through its operating entities ("Zhibao China Group") in China. 2B2C ("to-business-to-customer") digital embedded insurance is the Company's innovative business model, which Zhibao China Group pioneered in China. Zhibao China Group launched the first digital insurance brokerage platform in China in 2020, which is powered by their proprietary PaaS ("Platform as a Service"). Zhibao has developed over 40 proprietary and innovative digital insurance solutions addressing different scenarios in a wide range of industries, including but not limited to travel, sports, logistics, utilities, and e-commerce. Zhibao acquires and analyzes customer data, utilizes big data and AI technology to continually iterate and enhance its digital insurance solutions. This iterative process, in addition to continually improving its digital insurance solutions, will keep it abreast of the new trends and customer preferences in the market. For more information, please visit: <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/rpLvqSqeYB" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">ir.zhibao-tech.com</a>. Forward-Looking Statements Statements in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects, as well as any other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "is/are likely to," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," "would" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations that arise after the date hereof, except as may be required by law. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions, the receipt of shareholder approval, the satisfaction of post-closing covenants, and other factors discussed in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual reports on Form 20-F (as amended) and registration statements on Form F-1 (as amended) that have been filed or will be filed from time to time with the SEC. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company's registration statements and other filings with the SEC. Additional factors are discussed in the Company's filings with the SEC, which are available for review at <a href="https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/VvL7aUYzv0" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">www.sec.gov</a>. Investor Relations Contact Zhibao Technology Inc. Investor Relations Office Email: <a href="mailto:ir@zhibao-tech.com" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/mail_icon_24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">ir@zhibao-tech.com</a> Skyline Corporate Communications Group, LLC Scott Powell, President Avenues Tower 1177 Avenue of the Americas, 5th floor New York, NY 10036 Office: (646) 893-5835 Email: <a href="mailto:info@skylineccg.com" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/mail_icon_24.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">info@skylineccg.com</a> <img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481392/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

About Zhibao Technology Inc.

Zhibao Technology Inc. Announces Closing of $154.7 Million PIPE Financing

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com/">Media OutReach Newswire</a> – 17 August 2026 – The Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area Headquarters , Tourism Administration, MOTC Aug.13 announced the launch of the 2026–2027 "Greetings from Taiwan Springs" campaign. Highlighting "Four-Season Springs Travel" and "Taiwanese Healing Wellness," the initiative connects 19 unique spring destinations across Taiwan, integrating culinary experiences, cultural tours, and distinctive accommodations to establish hot spring travel as a year-round attraction. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://images.media-outreach.com/release.php/Thumb/1600x1067/797785/797785-picture-JPG-1600x1067.jpeg" alt="Edward Lee and Andrew Chau Serve as Hot Spring Travel Guides, Exploring Local Terroir and Regional Specialties across Taiwan" width="1600" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px"> <figcaption class="" style="text-align: left;font-size: 16px;line-height: 24px;display: block;margin: 0px;width: 100%"> <div align="left" style="margin-top: 16px;text-align: start"> Edward Lee and Andrew Chau Serve as Hot Spring Travel Guides, Exploring Local Terroir and Regional Specialties across Taiwan </div> </figcaption> </figure> The launch press conference broke away from tradition with a vibrant runway show featuring celebrity "Hot Spring Travel Navigators," including acclaimed chef Edward Lee from Netflix's Culinary Class Wars, visual identity creative director Yen Po-Chun, TSUTAYA BOOKSTORE Taiwan Chairman Kazuma Otsuka, and actor-host Andrew Chau. Together with local businesses, they showcased regional agriculture, specialties, and lifestyle products. The official launch celebration kicks off on September 4 at Guguan Park in Taichung, featuring a themed parade with over 500 participants and the lighting ceremony for the Lishan–Guguan Light Art Festival, which stars a massive eight-meter "OhBear" light installation. The festivities continue on September 5 with a guided tribal trekking tour in Guguan, offering participants an exclusive NT$500 accommodation discount. To promote four-season wellness tourism globally, the campaign partners with the East Asia Hot Spring Association for an international symposium on September 4. Key promotions also include complimentary LINE POINTS for new followers, curated packages starting at NT$299, and a flash sale of 800 limited NT$1 Hot Spring Vouchers for the Double 11 Shopping Festival. Furthermore, cross-sector collaborations offer half-price entry to national forest areas, limited-edition Taiwan Railway bento boxes, and Guanziling mud spring skincare products to enrich the travel experience.Hashtag: #TaiwanFourSeasonSprings <a href="https://www.trimt-nsa.gov.tw/zh-tw/" class="social-media-link"><img style="margin-right: 7px;vertical-align: middle;display: inline-block !important;width: 24px" src="https://release.media-outreach.com/Release/templates/images/socialMedia/generic_link.png" width="24" height="24" data-no-lazy="1">https://www.trimt-nsa.gov.tw/zh-tw/</a>The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481259/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

Edward Lee and Andrew Chau Serve as Hot Spring Travel Guides, Exploring Local Terroir and Regional Specialties across Taiwan

2026 Taiwan Four-Season Springs Travel Campaign Officially Launches

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - <a href="https://www.media-outreach.com">Media OutReach Newswire</a> - 17 August 2026 - NEXA CORE, a Jakarta-based AI infrastructure company, showcased its integrated "Chip-to-Application AI Hub" at the Indonesia Technology and Innovation (INTI) Expo 2026. The showcase underscores the company's commitment to delivering a holistic AI stack that addresses Southeast Asia's surging demand for enterprise-grade AI models and agents. <figure data-image-width="0" data-image-height="0" style="display: block;width: 100%;margin: 0px;padding: 0px;text-align: center" align="center"> <img src="https://images.media-outreach.com/release.php/Thumb/1600x900/798002/798002-5cdf0a6c48939de05da2c6e4f.jpeg" alt="NEXA CORE booth at INTI 2026" style="width: 100%;margin: 0px" width="1600"> <figcaption style="text-align: left;font-size: 16px;line-height: 24px;display: block;margin: 0px;width: 100%" class=""> <div style="margin-top: 16px;text-align: start" align="left"> NEXA CORE booth at INTI 2026 </div> </figcaption> </figure> Founded in Jakarta in 2025, NEXA CORE aims to provide customers from Indonesia to Southeast Asia with an enterprise-grade platform that integrates its self-developed ASIC chip, AI server infrastructure, foundation models, AI agents, and enterprise AI applications, enabling organizations to accelerate AI deployment while reducing infrastructure fragmentation and operational complexity. Held from 11–13 August at the Jakarta International Expo, INTI 2026 is Indonesia's premier technology and innovation gathering, featuring over 4,000 enterprises and 1,400 exhibitors across AI, cloud, cybersecurity, semiconductors, robotics, and digital infrastructure. "Southeast Asia requires home-grown, cohesive, and scalable AI infrastructure – not just point solutions," said the spokesman of NEXA CORE. "At NEXA CORE, we aim to enable companies to build, run, and grow their AI capabilities seamlessly by provided vertically integrated approach from proprietary ASIC chips to ready-to-deploy enterprise applications." <div style="text-align: center"> </div> A key highlight of NEXA CORE's participation is its expanding partnership with the Indonesia Chip Design Collaborative Center (ICDeC) – a national consortium comprising many leading Indonesian universities focused on chip design research, talent development, and ecosystem building. NEXA CORE and ICDeC are working together on AI deployment initiatives and technical training programmes. Looking ahead, the two parties are actively exploring a joint AI chip development project, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia's quest to build indigenous semiconductor intellectual property and reduce reliance on imported chip technologies. As Southeast Asia rapidly expands investment in AI infrastructure and deployment, NEXA CORE aims to build the foundational AI layer from compute infrastructure to real-world enterprise applications throughout the region. Its presence at INTI 2026 reaffirms the company's role in advancing Indonesia's technological sovereignty and regional competitiveness. For more information, visit: <a href="http://nexacoreteknologi.com/">nexacoreteknologi.com </a> Hashtag: #NEXACORE The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.<img src="//track.media-outreach.com/index.php/WebView/481364/44375" alt="" width="1" height="1" style="width:1px;height:1px;">

NEXA CORE booth at INTI 2026

NEXA CORE Showcases Chip-To-Application AI Hub at INTI 2026, Deepens ICDeC Partnership Toward Joint AI Chip Development

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