Tuesday, January 30, 2018

ALIBABA CLOUD LAUNCHES MALAYSIA CITY BRAIN TO ENHANCE CITY MANAGEMENT

Kuala Lumpur set to be first overseas city to implement smart city solution
 

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alibaba Cloud, the cloud computing arm of Alibaba Group, today announced the launch of its Malaysia City Brain initiative in collaboration with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the country’s digital economy development agency, and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), the city council in the capital, at a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur.

The Malaysia City Brain initiative is a significant milestone because it’s the first time for the City Brain solution to be adopted overseas. It is developed on Alibaba Cloud’s robust cloud computing infrastructure and will support Malaysia’s digital transformation with cloud technology and artificial intelligence.

Powered by Alibaba Cloud’s large-scale computing engine Apsara, Malaysia City Brain offers a comprehensive suite of acquisition, integration, and analysis of big and heterogeneous data generated by a diversity of sources in urban spaces through video and image recognition, data mining and machine learning technology. The power and functionality of the City Brain will enable Malaysian urban planners and city officials to upgrade their city governance and decision-making to turn the city into an intelligent one.

In the first phase of the program, the capital Kuala Lumpur will roll out the Malaysia City Brain for use in traffic management to improve mobility in the city. With its massive cloud computing and data processing capabilities, the City Brain can optimise the flow of vehicles and traffic signals by calculating the time to reach intersections. It will also be able to generate structured summaries of data, such as traffic volume and speed in particular lanes, which can be used to facilitate other tasks including incident detection.

In addition, City Brain can connect with various urban management systems including emergency dispatch, ambulance call, traffic command, and traffic light control. By integrating and analysing real-time data generated from these systems, City Brain can optimize urban traffic flow such as by identifying the quickest route for emergency vehicles to arrive at the scene within the shortest time frame.

As the City Brain’s functionality expands, enterprises, start-ups, entrepreneurs, universities, and research institutions will in the future also have the opportunity to access and leverage its artificial intelligence tools to drive a wide range of innovation.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31054

PAYVISION SECURES STRATEGIC INVESTMENT FROM ING GROUP

Speeding up further innovation in the payments space and business growth

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands, Jan 29 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Payvision, a global merchant acquirer and omnichannel payment provider, announced today a strategic partnership with ING, one of the largest European banks, with a strong international network. Payvision has agreed to sell a majority stake of 75%, creating a new synergy that will accelerate its ambitious growth plans within the dynamic payments market, extend its global network and broaden its payment product portfolio. Payvision is valued at €360 million.

Founded in 2002, in Amsterdam, Payvision is at the forefront of the payments industry and it has been growing at a very fast pace, registering a robust 66% volume growth in 2017. With the launch of Acapture, a new, scalable, data-driven payment service provider, in 2015, Payvision aims to bolster group’s position as a global merchant acquirer and omnichannel payment provider. The partnership with ING builds on Payvision’s strong foundation in the acquiring space and will support company’s goal to create innovative, tailor-made payments products designed for the fast-paced international retail environment. 

According to the deal, Payvision’s founding management team will hold a 25% minority stake and will continue to lead the company, backed-up by ING’s global presence and retail market share, its vast experience in financial services and its ability to streamline payment products.

Rudolf Booker, founder and CEO of Payvision, said: “It’s with great excitement that we’re announcing the partnership with ING today. Within 15 years of the company’s inception, we feel it’s the right time to make such a strategic step to strengthen the company’s foothold in the payments industry.” “This investment in the payments market, made by one of the world’s most innovative financial and banking services brands, acknowledges our vision to deliver leading payments capabilities to support customers to maximize their revenues,” continued Booker.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31051

TFI TAB FOOD INVESTMENTS LAUNCHES INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING

ISTANBUL, Turkey and NEW YORK, Jan 29 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TFI Tab Food Investments (“TFI”) today announced that it has commenced an initial public offering of 22,000,000  American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”), with each ADS representing 12 ordinary shares, including 4,500,000 ADSs to be sold by the Company and 17,500,000 ADSs to be sold by certain existing shareholders. The underwriters will have an option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 ADSs from certain existing shareholders. The Company will use the net proceeds it receives to repay a portion of outstanding indebtedness and will not receive any proceeds from the ADSs sold by the selling shareholders. The price range for the initial public offering is currently estimated to be between $9.00 and $11.00 per share. The Company has applied to list its ADSs on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “TFIG”.

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, are acting as bookrunning managers and representatives of the underwriters for the proposed offering. Citigroup Global Markets Inc. and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC are acting as bookrunners for the proposed offering. Rabo Securities U.S.A., Inc. is acting as a co-manager for the proposed offering.

The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the preliminary prospectus relating to the offering of these securities may be obtained from:

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, Attention: Prospectus Department, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014; Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC, Attn: Prospectus Department, One Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010, telephone: 1-800-221-1037 or by emailing newyork.prospectus@credit-suisse.com; or Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Prospectus Department, 200 West Street, New York, NY 10282, telephone: 1-866-471-2526, facsimile: 212-902-9316 or by emailing prospectus-ny@ny.email.gs.com.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31049

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF MEIJI YASUDA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY


HONG KONG, Jan 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company (Meiji Yasuda) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Meiji Yasuda’s balance sheet strength, which A.M. Best categorizes as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, favorable business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The company’s capital requirements, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), continue to be driven by asset risk, due to its sizeable investment assets relative to its capital and surplus. Also, the company maintains a modest gap between asset and liability durations. Meiji Yasuda’s financial leverage remains adequate for the current ratings.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31046

CAAS Gives System Contract To Metron Aviation

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 30 (Bernama) -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) has awarded Metron Aviation, an Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) system contract for the Singapore Air Traffic Control Centre (SATCC).

"A subsidiary of Airbus Americas, Metron will supply its flagship ATFM automation product, Harmony, for air navigation service providers.

"It provides advanced features to monitor air traffic demand in airspace areas and at airports in the strategic, pre-tactical and tactical timeframes," it said in a statement.

Metron Aviation president, John Kefaliotis said CAAS had a leadership role in the development of regional ATFM concept for the Asia Pacific region that would become a model for regional ATFM cooperation around the world.

"Selecting the Harmony platform to support the concept testifies to the advanced capabilities of the product," he added.

Under the 11-year contract, Metron will be responsible for the design, supply, delivery, installation, integration, testing and commissioning of the ATFM system after the start of the sales support service and acceptance of the initial system.

Metron's responsibilities also include the overall system implementation and maintenance over the duration of the contract.

-- BERNAMA

Monday, January 29, 2018

CORPORATE DIRECTORS TO CONVENE IN GENEVA FOR WORLD'S FIRST-EVER GLOBAL CYBER FORUM


NACD to Host Global Boardroom and Cybersecurity Leaders to Elevate Cyber-Risk Oversight Practices

WASHINGTON, Jan 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), the authority on boardroom practices representing more than 18,000 corporate board members, today announced its 2018 Global Cyber Forum, which will be held April 17–18 in Geneva, Switzerland. This event recognizes the global nature of cyber threats and gives international scope to NACD’s efforts to drive board members’ greater understanding of, and role in, cybersecurity oversight.

An elite group of nonexecutive directors (NEDs) of multinational corporations, C-suite and managing-director-level executives, cybersecurity experts, global cybersecurity policy and law enforcement officials, and other thought leaders will attend the forum. Participants will examine leading board-level cyber-risk oversight practices and explore key themes that include cross-border law enforcement, the shifting global regulatory landscape, the impact of emerging technologies on cybersecurity, and leading practices in cyber hygiene. The forum will engage attendees in a cyberbreach simulation for interactive learning.

“As new threats arise amid increased global integration and connectivity, corporate boards need to be well-versed in their companies’ vulnerabilities in order to be prepared in the event of a cyberbreach,” said NACD CEO Peter Gleason. “Our primary goal is to provide NEDs and company leaders with practical information they can take back to the boardroom.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31026

BUDDHIST LEADER IKEDA URGES HUMAN RIGHTS FOCUS AS KEY TO RESOLUTION OF GLOBAL ISSUES AND NUCLEAR WEAPONS ABOLITION

BUDDHIST LEADER IKEDA URGES HUMAN RIGHTS FOCUS AS KEY TO RESOLUTION OF GLOBAL ISSUES AND NUCLEAR WEAPONS ABOLITION

FedEx To Commit Over US$3.2 Bln Under US Tax Cuts And Jobs Act

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 29 (Bernama) -- FedEx Corp, United States-based transportation, e-commerce and business services company has announced three major programmes following the recently enacted US Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

In a statement today, it said, over US$200 million in increased compensation, of which two-thirds would go to hourly team members by advancing 2018 annual pay increases by six months, while the remainder would fund performance-based incentive plans for salaried personnel.

Under the act, a voluntary contribution of US$1.5 billion is allocated for FedEx's pension plan to ensure it remains as one of the best funded retirement programmes in the country.

FedEx is also investing US$1.5 billion to expand its Express Indianapolis hub in the next seven years, while the Memphis SuperHub will be modernised and enlarged in a major programme.

FedEx believes the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will likely increase gross domestic product and investment in the US.

-- BERNAMA

TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION INTRODUCES SOI PROCESS WITH LOW NOISE FIGURE FOR LOW-NOISE RF AMPLIFIERS FOR SMARTPHONES

TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC DEVICES & STORAGE CORPORATION INTRODUCES SOI PROCESS WITH LOW NOISE FIGURE FOR LOW-NOISE RF AMPLIFIERS FOR SMARTPHONES

ALGECO SCOTSMAN ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF CERTAIN INFORMATION

ALGECO SCOTSMAN ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF CERTAIN INFORMATION

Saturday, January 27, 2018

CORPORATE COMPANIES INVITED TO PARTAKE IN MYTN50 BOOK EFFORT



KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) – The Persatuan Kesejahteraan Rakyat 1Malaysia (KER1M) invites corporate companies including government-linked investment companies and government-linked companies to collaborate with the association in publishing the MYTN50 book. 
The association, in a statement, said the publishing of the book was to support the government’s initiative to empower the National Transformation 2050 (TN50) agenda.
“The objectives and targets outlined in the MYNT50 policy document will be published in early 2020. The MYTN50 is a long-term national development initiative from 2020 to 2050.
“In preparing for MYTN50, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has given the mandate to KER1M to get the attention and full involvement of the corporate sector in providing the input in steering the country’s future,” it said.
Sponsorship of the MYTN50 book publishing effort qualifies for tax exemption.
For more information on the KER1M programme, call Isma Zaimei  Ishak, Nur Shaqhiroh Hussin or Mastura Umar Baki at 03-88617557.

-- BERNAMA

Friday, January 26, 2018

BEST'S BRIEFING: TYPHOON HATO SHOWS MACAU'S INSURANCE AND REINSURANCE MODELS TO BE ROBUST

HONG KONG, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Macau non-life insurance industry ability to withstand 2017’s Typhoon Hato (Hato) shows that despite the market’s small size, it remains a healthy one, with well-capitalized companies that have strong earning capabilities to help withstand losses, according to a new A.M. Best briefing.
 
The new Best’s Briefing, titled “Typhoon Hato Shows Macau’s (Re)insurance Models to be Robust,” states that Macau’s insurance regulator takes a conservative approach by requiring a minimum solvency margin for non-life business based on gross premiums written. Under these high capital requirements, local insurance companies tend to focus on the bottom line in order to deliver their shareholders an expected return-on-equity (ROE). As a result, the earning capabilities of the top three non-life insurers in Macau, which represent 70% of the market share, are considered strong, with five-year ROEs ranging from 9% to 24%.
 
The vast majority of insured losses associated with Hato were ceded to the international reinsurance market, with only a very small portion retained in the local market. As a result, the net retained losses from Hato, which made landfall in August 2007 as the strongest typhoon to hit Macau in more than half a century, are manageable for local insurers. Although Macau is an affluent city, risk awareness is relatively low. Because of this, personal lines penetration is low, with fairly simple product offerings that meet only basic needs.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31021

Thursday, January 25, 2018

SPOTSEE PURSUES LEGAL ACTION AFTER COUNTERFEIT RAID IN TAIWAN

DALLAS, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- SpotSee, a global internet of things (IoT) connectivity platform and parent company to leading logistics monitoring brands ShockWatch®, SpotBot, ShockLog® OpsWatch, ShockTrak and WarmMark®, orchestrated a raid of suspected ShockWatch product counterfeiters in Taiwan on October 26, 2017.

The goods seized, primarily ShockWatch counterfeit products, infringe on trademarks and patents and are considered fraudulent. Counterfeit and knock-off materials, which do not perform to SpotSee specifications, have been found to cause false activations and increased damage claims for customers.

“We take the illegal use of our intellectual property very seriously, and we take swift action to stop the unauthorized use of our name, designs and trademarks,” said Tony Fonk, CEO, SpotSee. “It’s important we stop this fraud because it directly costs our customers money.”

Both manufacturers and distributors of counterfeit SpotSee products will be held accountable as SpotSee actively works to put an end to all activities involving the illegal use of its brand. The penalties for counterfeiting can be up to five years of imprisonment and/or a fine of NT $2,000,000 (approximately USD $66,666).

To further address the counterfeit issue, SpotSee has designed authentication methods such as serialization and QR codes into their newest line of indicators known as the ShockWatch ShockDot.

“The ShockDot allows customers to validate that they purchased a genuine product in addition to other benefits such as 50 percent more indication area and 360-degree activation,” said Angela Kerr, vice president of product management, SpotSee. “We are taking a legal and an innovative, product-based approach to solving this problem.”

ShockWatch indicators, manufactured by SpotSee, show when a product or asset has been mishandled in the supply chain. Incorrect activation can misrepresent that a package or shipment has been mishandled, when it may not have been. Alternatively, the counterfeit or knock-off indicators may not go off at all when mishandling actually occurs.

SpotSee customers who are concerned they may be victims of counterfeit products should contact SpotSee at +1 214-736-4578.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31002

Wednesday, January 24, 2018

LEADING MEDICAL ORGANIZATIONS UPDATE GUIDELINE FOR MOLECULAR TESTING AND TARGETED THERAPIES IN LUNG CANCER

LEADING MEDICAL ORGANIZATIONS UPDATE GUIDELINE FOR MOLECULAR TESTING AND TARGETED THERAPIES IN LUNG CANCER

CRYPTOS FUND, A QUASI-ETF, IS NOW OPEN TO INVESTORS

The first fund to passively track the CCI30 Cryptocurrency Index
 
ZUG, Switzerland, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Cryptos Fund allows investors to gain exposure to Cryptocurrencies with reduced risk in a regulated environment.

Cryptos Fund is the brainchild of a team of leading academics, quants and security experts based in Zug, Switzerland. It is designed to passively track the CCI30 index (www.cci30.com), an indicator of cryptocurrencies valuations and the benchmark for the sector.

Carlo Scevola, one of the fund’s principals, says: “Cryptos Fund was initially created as a private investment vehicle. I first bought Bitcoin in 2011, and when its value became substantial I wanted to diversify into other cryptocurrencies with a rigorous scientific approach. There was no suitable option available, so I created my own fund.” Cryptos Fund is also a response to heavy investor demand: “It bridges the gap between the traditional financial system and the cryptocurrencies sector. Investors need to participate in the cryptocurrency market via a regulated entity, which didn’t exist until now.”

Cryptos Fund is the only regulated fund offering a passive index tracking investment strategy on cryptocurrencies and charging no performance fees.

The CCI30 index allows for the creation of a balanced portfolio that maximizes returns while minimizing risk and volatility. The fund replicates the CCI30 index passively by investing in the components of the index (the 30 cryptocurrencies with the largest market capitalization).

Participation in the fund requires a minimum investment of USD 100,000. The fund’s annual management fee, just 0.99%, and zero performance fee make it by far the least expensive fund in the sector.

“No single investor can realistically own multiple cryptocurrencies directly. It requires time and experience to buy 30 different cryptocurrencies and keep the portfolio balanced. There are also technical and security requirements that only a dedicated professional structure can meet,” says Scevola. “Through Cryptos Fund, anyone can gain exposure to the main cryptocurrencies while reducing the volatility of the investment.”

Running an index fund requires a variety of financial and quantitative skills, along with a world-class security operation. Three partners began Cryptos Fund and are responsible for its management:
  • Igor Rivin, Professor of Mathematics at Temple University and Regius Professor at St. Andrews, one of the world’s most respected mathematicians. Recognized for his skills at the intersection of mathematics and finance; he is responsible for the research and theoretical underpinnings of Cryptos Fund.
  • Carlo Scevola, esteemed provider of legal and financial advisory services, economist and investor; Scevola is responsible for the fund organization.
  • Jeff Zorn, global security expert. Formerly the military aide to the U.S. president responsible for carrying the nuclear “football,” Zorn now advises governments and corporations on cybersecurity, threat identification and neutralization. He is responsible for all security aspects of the fund.
Baker Tilly, a full-service global accounting firm, is the fund’s appointed auditor; Trident Trust, one of the world’s top firms, is the independent administrator.

“Cryptocurrencies are not correlated with other asset classes,” professor Rivin says. “This makes Cryptos Fund the perfect vehicle for adding diversification to a portfolio. The fund can also be viewed as a safe vehicle for storing capital. Its low fees make it viable for those who want to keep their money outside the traditional banking system, while enjoying the benefits of a regulated entity and the high level of security provided by its structure.”

Operations started with a capital of $12m and institutional investors have already committed for further $100m.

Professional investors wishing to participate in Cryptos Fund can learn more at www.thecryptosfund.com.

Contacts
Cryptos Fund
Carlo Scevola, +41.445.853.445
info@thecryptosfund.com
 
Source: Cryptos Fund

​NASDAQ WELCOMES CIELO S.A. TO THE NASDAQ INTERNATIONAL DESIGNATION

​NASDAQ WELCOMES CIELO S.A. TO THE NASDAQ INTERNATIONAL DESIGNATION

BRANDSAFWAY ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF VENKO GROEP BV

BRANDSAFWAY ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF VENKO GROEP BV

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

MEDROBOTICS® CORPORATION RECEIVES FDA CLEARANCE FOR WORLD'S FIRST AND ONLY FLEXIBLE TRANSABDOMINAL AND TRANSTHORACIC ROBOTIC SCOPE

Company Now Cleared to Market Flex® Robotic System for Robot-Assisted Visualization in General Surgical, Gynecological and Thoracic Procedures
 

RAYNHAM, Mass., Jan 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Medrobotics Corp., a medical robotics company, announced today it has received FDA regulatory clearance to market the Flex® Robotic System for robot-assisted visualization in general surgical, gynecological and thoracic procedures in the United States. This clearance reaffirms the Company’s progress to develop transformative products for single-port general, gynecological, thoracic and urological surgeries.

“With this new FDA indication, the use of Medrobotics’ flexible robotic technology extends beyond natural orifices,” said CEO Samuel Straface, Ph.D. “This clearance is a vital step in our commitment to minimize the impact of surgery by offering less invasive procedures through a single incision in the abdomen or thoracic cavity versus the multiple incisions that are currently required.”

Medrobotics markets the Flex® Robotic System, the world’s first and only robotic surgical platform which provides Scarfree™ access to hard-to-reach anatomy in otolaryngology and colorectal procedures. The Company is also pursuing expansion of applications to other areas including transvaginal gynecologic procedures.

The award-winning Flex® Robotic System has been widely recognized for advances in surgical robotic technology, including Best-in-Show at the 2016 Medical Design Excellence Awards (MDEA) and a Best New Product at the 2017 Edison Awards. The mobility and short learning curve of the Flex® Robotic System offer the promise of scheduling flexibility and efficiency not seen with other surgical systems. Patients who seek care from hospitals with comprehensive robotics programs that include the Flex® Robotic System may enjoy the best chance for the least invasive treatment of their condition.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30985

​THE SEARCH FOR #ACONFIDENTYOU ROLE MODELS KICKS OFF AT THE XEHAR FASHION FAIRIES CONFERENCE




Expanding their Fashion Fairies Program, Xehar Teaches and Inspires Women Through Confidence

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, the Xehar team announces the Xehar Fashion Fairies Conference, which takes place over three days in Los Angeles, January 19th-21st. The conference gathers aspiring fashionistas to celebrate self love, natural beauty, and learn what it takes inspire women to be more confident.

With powerful keynotes, exciting breakout sessions, a fashion show and international networking opportunities, the conference is a unique blend that is new to the fashion industry.

“We are searching for our 2018 Fashion Fairies who are serious about a career in fashion and want to inspire women worldwide,” says Hadari Oshri, founder and CEO of Xehar. “Attendees will learn how to become one of our exclusive #AconfidentYou Fashion Fairies.”

Propelled by the successful launch of its existing influencer outreach, Xehar has now expanded their Fashion Fairies program to include over 20 women and counting. All have graduated the brand ambassador program and are eligible to develop their own fashion lines.

“Being able to inspire others through a combination of fashion and mentorship is rewarding,” says Tammy Bove, Xehar Fashion Fairy. “It’s not just about selling clothes, it’s about empowering women.”

Oshri is bringing a number of her personal advisors to the conference to help teach and mentor the aspiring Fashion Fairies. Featured keynote speaker, Connie Frank will help attendees focus on the power of self confidence. She is expert in helping individuals use their inner beauty to achieve massive successes. Once Fashion Fairies go through an extensive training program at Xehar University, they can build custom fashion lines under their own name. These collections will be available through Xehar.com, giving customers access to curated outfits that will help them be more confident.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30976

WEDGE HOLDINGS: CONCLUDING LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR GAME SYSTEM OF

WEDGE HOLDINGS: CONCLUDING LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR GAME SYSTEM OF

NEW US PATENT FOR SOLIDIA TECHNOLOGIES' COSUB/2/SUB-CURED CONCRETE ADVANCES PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY OF BUILDING MATERIALS

NEW US PATENT FOR SOLIDIA TECHNOLOGIES' COSUB/2/SUB-CURED CONCRETE ADVANCES PERFORMANCE AND SUSTAINABILITY OF BUILDING MATERIALS

EQUIS AND GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERS ANNOUNCE CLOSING OF US$5.0 BILLION RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION ACQUISITION OF EQUIS ENERGY

Singapore, Jan 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Equis Pte. Ltd (Equis) and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) announced today the closing of the previously announced sale by Equis of 100% of the equity interest in Equis Energy to GIP and its co-investors, for an enterprise value of USD5.0 billion (including assumed liabilities of USD1.3bn). The net transaction consideration has been settled in cash.

Headquartered in Singapore, Equis Energy is the largest renewable energy independent power producer(IPP) in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), with more than 180 assets comprising 11,135MW in operation,construction and development across APAC including Australia, Japan, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.

The transaction is the largest renewable energy generation acquisition in history and positions GIP as a dominant renewable energy developer in the key OECD growth markets of Australia and Japan, as well as across India and South-East Asia.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30977

Monday, January 22, 2018

GLOBAL MUSLIM POPULATION GROWS 18 PERCENT, DRIVING RECORD DEMAND OF HALAL PRODUCTS

SINGAPORE, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global market research company Euromonitor International unveiled via webinar the latest trends shaping the halal market as companies race to benefit from a pool of untapped consumers.
 

“Population changes, increasing disposable income and growing internet penetration are some of the key factors driving growth of halal products demands. Disposable income of countries with the top five biggest Muslim-populations such as Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Iran, have grown by 257 percent and internet penetration has risen by 31 percent for these same markets,” says Euromonitor International’s senior analyst, Emil Fazira.

According to the webinar, ‘New Consumerism and the Global Halal Market’, the Muslim population grew by 18 percent over the last 10 years compared to the global population growth of 11 percent, strengthening demand for halal food, drinks, beauty and fashion products among others. “Young adults are the main users of social media and internet. They become more interested in the latest trends, global events, and use multiple social media platforms. This makes new food and service experiences, fashion and cosmetic products more accessible to them,” Fazira added.

Within Asia, non-Muslim majority countries like Singapore and Philippines are major markets for halal packaged food and drinks, at US$1.4 billion and US$7.5 billion respectively. This is partly due to the integration and acceptance of halal products in the general community, as well as strengthening halal infrastructure. Indonesia on the other hand, is expected to show the largest sales gains in US dollars over the next 5 years, due to its significant market size and positive forecast growth.

“When identifying markets and industries, studying the market’s halal infrastructure to balance halal-certification with consumer values is crucial. Choosing the right audience and catering to them is another issue that companies must keep in mind,” concludes Joanna Chan, research analyst at Euromonitor.

To download the free webinar, visit: https://goo.gl/d9gy1K

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30966

ANT FINANCIAL HOSTS TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE IN SILICON VALLEY

Conference featured global fintech leaders and showcased Ant Financial’s capabilities across blockchain, AI, security, IoT and computing


SANTA CLARA, Calif., Jan 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ant Financial today hosted the Ant Technology Exploration Conference (ATEC) in Silicon Valley, bringing together global partners and technology leaders to explore new innovations and technologies that further Ant Financial’s mission of bringing the world equal opportunities. This was the first ATEC held outside of China, following the inaugural ATEC held in Hangzhou in October 2017.

The conference featured a diverse range of speakers from academia and industry to better explore the future of fintech, including Turing Award winner and MIT Professor Silvio Micali; Partner and Director of blockchain-based global payment platform Ripple, Emi Yoshikawa; founder of prediction market Bodhi, Xiahong Lin; and Director of JPMorgan Chase’s digital channels, Umar Farooq, among others. Ant Financial’s Vice President and Chief Architect, Hu Xi; Vice President and Chief Data Scientist, Alan Qi; and Vice President and Head of Ant Technology Labs, Geoff Jiang also participated.

Ant Financial’s principal mission is to bring inclusive financial services to unbanked and underbanked consumers and small businesses globally. Ant Financial aims to work with partners around the world to forge new applications around its five core technology tenants: Blockchain, AI, Security, Internet of Things and Computing (‘BASIC’).

In his keynote address, Hu Xi said: “BASIC underpins everything we do at Ant Financial, so that we are able to better serve our users, and at the same time, open up platforms to the tech community to build on and create new applications to improve the user experience.”

ATEC’s focus on exploring cutting-edge technology brings together the world’s best minds and addresses key goals and challenges, including future AI applications within fintech and wide applications of blockchain.

As Alan Qi said, “We are truly excited about the AI research and development driven by extremely complex problems at the unprecedented large scale we encounter at Ant Financial. We have opened up the state-of-art financial AI platforms we developed – such as graph embedding technologies – to our partners and clients; the purpose is to use technology to help the financial industry improve efficiency, reduce cost and control risk.”

ATEC 2017

At the inaugural ATEC last year, held in conjunction with the Alibaba Cloud Computing Conference, Ant Financial announced a range of new services and initiatives, such as an upgraded financial cloud offering and biometric identification services from independent subsidiary ZOLOZ to help partners build identity verification capabilities. Ant Financial also released blockchain capabilities to support open and transparent supply chains, particularly for food safety and imported goods.

Long-term Goals of ATEC

Ant Financial hopes that ATEC can serve as a platform to build a collaborative ecosystem for its global partners and technology leaders, as well as showcase and share Ant Financial’s latest technological capabilities and developments. In addition to the Silicon Valley event, ATEC plans to host future events in Singapore, London and other major fintech hubs.

About Ant Financial

Ant Financial Services Group is focused on serving small and micro enterprises, as well as individuals. Ant Financial is dedicated to bringing the world equal opportunities through building a technology-driven open ecosystem and working with other financial institutions to support the future financial needs of society. Businesses operated by Ant Financial Services Group include Alipay, Ant Fortune, Zhima Credit and MYbank.

For more information on Ant Financial, please visit our website at www.antfin.com; or follow us on Twitter @AntFinancial.

Ant Financial Media Contact
Chenni Xu / Anna Wang
+19176642125 / +16464201479
chenni.xu@antfin.com / anna.wan@antfin.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a2ac282e-4aac-4dca-86b5-0b18dbb4e367


SOURCE : Ant Financial Services Group

ZEROSTACK ANNOUNCES CLOUD INNOVATION PARTNER PROGRAM TO ACCELERATE PARTNERS' ABILITY TO OFFER PUBLIC CLOUD BENEFITS IN A PRIVATE OR HYBRID CLOUD SOLUTION


SINGAPORE, Jan 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- ZeroStack, Inc., creators of a self-driving on-premises cloud, today announced the ZeroStack Cloud Innovation Partner Program, its inaugural program for its global partner ecosystem.

Designed for resellers who can see the writing on the wall and want to transition to selling cloud platforms and services, the worldwide Cloud Innovation Partner Program is designed to accelerate partners’ ability to bring their customers the benefits of public cloud at a fraction of the cost, and to offer the control, security and performance of a private cloud environment. The program supports the success of resellers (Cloud Innovation Partners), service providers (Cloud Innovation Service Providers), and Distributors (Cloud Innovation Distributors), and provides unique benefits tailored around the capabilities of each partner. Each partner category has a customized partnership model within the program, which is designed to maximize value for that partner type’s unique business model.

Benefits of the program include customized product access and sales incentives that enhance partner profitability with predictable sales engagement, expertise development with sales and technical training to ensure partners are well versed on the ZeroStack cloud platform, and marketing and sales tools. Essentially, the program simplifies and accelerates a partner’s ability to help its customers start experiencing the benefits of migrating away from the expensive V-tax or stopping the spiraling costs of a third-party public cloud.

“ZeroStack’s 100 percent channel model makes it easy for our partners to work with us to revolutionize their customers’ cloud infrastructure,” said Joel Norton, ZeroStack’s regional manager Asia South at M5 Technologies. “With our new Cloud Innovation Partner Program, our partners can work with us in a simple and predictable engagement model that presents opportunities for new revenue streams and gives our partners the opportunity to show their customers immediate ROI and drive greater partner profitability with our transformational cloud technology.”

“We are always looking for new solutions that streamline our customers’ operations, and ZeroStack’s on-premises cloud platform unifies IT operations in a solution that is easy to deploy and requires little cloud expertise,” said Linus Shi, CTO at Titan System Integration. “ZeroStack truly put us in the cloud solutions business so we could offer our customers an alternative to the high cost of public clouds with the same ease of use.”

“Any new managed services provider that doesn’t have a cloud offering isn’t going to stay in business very long,” said Ryan Ameen, managing director at Blunova Group (M). “We selected ZeroStack as our fundamental cloud platform because it allows us to rapidly provision and fully manage clouds for our customers.”

Helpful Links
Suggested Tweet: ZeroStack Launches Cloud Innovation Partner Program

About ZeroStack

ZeroStack uses intelligent software to deliver a self-driving private cloud platform that enables agile DevOps practices with self-service creation of custom workspaces. With the ZeroStack private cloud, developers have one-click deployment of popular DevOps tools with appropriate compute, storage and networking resources while IT operations retains control over the underlying infrastructure. In addition, ZeroStack uses machine learning and AI techniques to deliver a self-healing architecture that minimizes IT overhead. Founded by senior engineers from VMware and Google, the company is funded by Formation 8 and Foundation Capital, and is based in Mountain View, California.
 
Contacts
StoryPR for ZeroStack
Michael Schoolnik, 415-420-2391
michael@storypr.com
 

Source: ZeroStack, Inc.

Friday, January 19, 2018

NTT COMMUNICATIONS TO PROVIDE HITACHI WITH JAPAN'S TOP-SCALE SD-WAN NETWORK SOLUTION FOR GLOBAL BUSINESS EXPANSION

Agile, secure solution to be deployed in 1,000 offices
 
TOKYO, Jan 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), the ICT solutions and international communications business within the NTT Group (TOKYO:9432), announced today that it will sequentially deliver its SD-WAN solution for Hitachi, Ltd. (Hitachi)’s “GWAN” global network used in about 40 countries and regions from January 22. The solution will be deployed in 1,000 offices, making it among the largest-scale solutions of its kind ever delivered in Japan. One of the offerings in NTT Com’s SD-WAN lineup, the solution leverages Master’s ONE CloudWAN provided by NTTPC Communications.

The solution uses a SD-WAN created with software defined networking (SDN) technology to control network environments that will automatically allocate MPLS network and Internet usage according to communication needs.

Features
  • Enhanced agility
    NTT Com’s solution will enable flexible and speedy system changes in Hitachi global organization. Utilizing a control panel, users will be able to reconfigure the network structure and routers of 1,000 offices within just several tens of seconds to five minutes.
  • Optimized network bandwidth
    The solution will optimize GWAN’s network bandwidth with a breakout function that uses Internet, such as public clouds, directly from offices instead of data centers. The benefits will include greater operational flexibility for GWAN and increased business speed within the Hitachi group.
  • Strengthened security
    The solution’s segmentation function will enable Hitachi’s network to be divided by system or group company. In the case a cyberattack, for example, this would help to minimize the impacted area instead of allowing the attack to spread throughout GWAN.
Motoaki Satoyama, General Manager, United IT Platform Office, IT Services Division of Hitachi, Ltd. said, “Flexibility and agility are crucial for the Hitachi’s network because we operate a broad range of business spanning more than 850 group companies in about 70 countries and regions. In seeking a partner that could work with us to meet the challenge of strengthening our large-scale network infrastructure, we decided that NTT Com has the right mindset to grasp future trends and challenge new things. Another key was NTT Com’s capability to realize changes that we had envisioned.”

Going forward, NTT Com will work with Hitachi to deploy network functions virtualization (NFV) technologies for a solution to operate cloud-based security equipment, including firewalls, both in Japan and overseas.

Hitachi group is providing solutions to answer social issues and delivering in a broad range of business including electric power, infrastructure systems, information & telecommunication systems, construction machinery, high-function materials, and much more. Hitachi is working to leverage digital technologies such as big data and AI for Social Innovation Business that combine IT and operational technology, one of the company’s strengths. Looking to the future, Hitachi determined that it vitally needed to strengthen its network infrastructure to better support their broad range of business. In particular, its GWAN network infrastructure used in some 40 countries and regions was experiencing issues with flexibility and agility, such as the speed of changing network structure and equipment, as well security. NTT Com’s solution will enable Hitachi to address these issues and capably expand its global businesses.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30962

COLLIERS LAUNCHES REAL ESTATE TECHNOLOGY ACCELERATOR WITH TECHSTARS

Partnership with Global Technology Investor and Accelerator Leader Highlights Commitment to Real Estate Industry Innovation

TORONTO, Jan 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) and (TSX:CIGI), a global leader in commercial real estate services, today announced the launch of the Colliers Proptech Accelerator powered by Techstars.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30958


Thursday, January 18, 2018

​BNKTOTHEFUTURE RAISES INITIAL $30 MILLION FOR TOKENIZED SECURITIES MARKET AND DUE DILIGENCE PLATFORM

​BNKTOTHEFUTURE RAISES INITIAL $30 MILLION FOR TOKENIZED SECURITIES MARKET AND DUE DILIGENCE PLATFORM

​VIETNAM AS NEXT GLOBAL BLOCKCHAIN HUB - VIETNAM BLOCKCHAIN WEEK


HO CHI MINH, Vietnam, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vietnam will host Vietnam Blockchain Week - its first global conference dedicated to blockchain technology and development.


Blockchain’s Explosive Growth in Southeast Asia

Malaysian banks piloting blockchain payment systems, Singaporean incubators investing heavily in 4.0 technology startups, India putting land rights on blockchain and Indonesian regulators developing technology sandboxes - Southeast Asia is quickly establishing itself as a region eager to adopt, explore and innovate blockchain technologies. Vietnam is the latest country to gain attention for its potential as a major hub.

Why Vietnam?

Vietnam’s potential as a blockchain leader will be highlighted at the nation’s first major blockchain conference. The nation is one of the world’s fastest growing economies (6-7% growth per annum) with a young population (over 40% of the 95 million population are under the age of 24) that is hungry for blockchain and other 4.0 technologies. In 2017, universities across the country began offering exclusive blockchain courses and the motivated graduates along with Vietnam’s forward-looking and robust tech talents are exploring blockchain-driven innovations for the nation’s rapidly expanding technology and service sectors. Vietnam Blockchain Week will discuss impacts to these fields inside and outside the region.

Why Vietnam Blockchain Week?

Vietnam Blockchain Week will showcase the significant growth of blockchain in the country as well as the many involved companies, institutions and organizations. Two uniquely curated panel and presentation tracks will be available - one for business/regulators and one for developers. Key topics will include incubation efforts, how blockchain can impact the unbanked, global supply chains, digital payment systems and IoT. Blockchain’s role in Regtech will be highlighted, including discussions about blockchain regulations, government partnerships and compliance services. Special attention will also be paid to examining Vietnam’s blockchain landscape.

Technology, regulation and development experts from blockchain startups and major corporations from Vietnam and around the world will share their experiences, insights, and knowledge with more than 1,500+ attending professionals. Speakers include executives at Hong Kong Fintech Association, NEO, Hyperledger and National Payment Corporation of Vietnam.
 

Vietnam is in a rare position to leapfrog to the front of the global blockchain community and this conference will provide a revealing survey of its future impacts.

NASDAQ LAUNCHES PASSIVEIQ™ FOR INVESTOR RELATIONS PROFESSIONALS

First IR-specific solution to provide comprehensive passive index investment data

NEW YORK, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nasdaq Corporate Solutions, a business of Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq:NDAQ), today announced the launch of passiveIQ™, a new analytics tool designed to provide investor relations (IR) professionals with comprehensive and actionable insights into passive index investment data from mutual funds and ETFs. passiveIQ is available as a supplementary service to Nasdaq IR Insight®.

Index ownership has created a shift in today’s capital markets: the value of passive fund assets increased year over year by 30 percent to $6.6 trillion as of the end of December 2017*. passiveIQ is the first IR-specific solution built to benchmark passive ownership in a company’s shares relative to its peers and is designed to appeal to all public companies, regardless of market capitalization or geographic location. passiveIQ’s other features are designed to help IR professionals understand the latest trends in index ownership and gain insight into the index funds and ETFs they are, and are not, receiving capital from.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30952







1000 GIRLS IN PAKISTAN TO RECEIVE EDUCATION THROUGH THE BIG HEART FOUNDATION AND MALALA FUND

SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates, Jan 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), a global humanitarian charity based in Sharjah, UAE, is funding the second phase of a school for girls in Pakistan in keeping with its dedication to ensuring children have access to education, enabling them to contribute to the development of their communities. The project will be funded by the TBHF ‘Girl Child Fund’, in cooperation with the ‘Malala Fund’, launched by Nobel Laureate and education activist, Malala Yousafzai.

The initiative was announced in the presence of Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, The Big Heart Foundation’s Humanitarian Envoy, and Malala Yousafzai following an agreement signed in Oxford by Mariam Al Hammadi, Director of TBHF, and Farah Mohamed, CEO of the Malala Fund.

The school is being constructed in Swat Valley, Yousafzai’s home district in Pakistan. The TBHF donation of USD 700,000 will fund the school’s second phase of development, which is set for completion in April 2018. It will open its doors to 350 girls in its 11 classrooms. Gradually, the educational services and school infrastructure will expand to accommodate 1,000 students of all grades.

TBHF Girl Child Fund will also partially cover the first two years of the school’s operational costs, including staff salaries, medical and security expenses, transportation, uniforms, books and stationary.

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi said: “Under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council Ruler of Sharjah, and the directives of His Wife, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, the emirate of Sharjah believes educating future generations is a fundamental responsibility of every society.”

Commenting on the agreement, Malala Yousafzai, said: "I overwhelmingly thank The Big Heart Foundation for believing in my dream of a world where girls can choose their own future path. With their support, the Malala Fund can provide education for girls in my hometown Swat Valley in Pakistan."

In June 2015, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi officially launched The Big Heart Foundation to coincide with the World Refugee Day. The foundation aims to protect and enable vulnerable and marginalized children and their families, focusing primarily on the Arab world, but extending support to areas most in need.

 
Contacts
Fadia Daouk
National Network Communications (NNC)
Mob: +971 52 617 2111


Source: Sharjah

ASCOM WINS AGREEMENT WITH IDN MUNSON HEALTHCARE IN THE USA

Ascom secures an agreement with the Integrated Delivery Network (IDN) Munson Healthcare to upgrade its flagship medical center. The agreement amounts to CHF 1.1 million and includes the full Ascom Healthcare Platform.

BAAR, Switzerland, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Munson Healthcare, a nine hospital non-profit Integrated Delivery Network (IDN) serving the state of Michigan, selected Ascom (SWX:ASCN.SW), the leading global healthcare Information and Communication Technology (ICT) provider, for a comprehensive technology retrofit of its flagship Munson Medical Center. The CHF 1.1 million agreement signed in the second half of 2017 is notable for encompassing the full Ascom Healthcare Platform, including Telligence nurse call, Unite software, EMR and RTLS integrations, Ascom mobility handsets and clinical consulting and training.

Challenged with inefficient legacy systems unable to upgrade to current technology, Munson valued partnering with Ascom versus using multiple vendors for an end-to-end replacement solution. Centralized management also proved key to the middleware sale, as Munson’s flagship will serve as the central hub to manage all messaging and reporting for the rest of the network. Telligence nurse call deployments were completed in October, and the Unite and Mobility installations are underway this December into early 2018.

“This is a significant IDN win for us because it continues to demonstrate the value of the holistic Ascom platform as a solution across an entire health system,” says Francis Schmeer, Head of Marketing and Business Development. “Our engagement with the clinical and executive leadership of Munson, coupled with the longstanding relationship of our local partner Ascomnorth, proved invaluable during system design and selection. The clinical consulting and training included in this agreement will deliver customized, consistent workflows that are streamlined, efficient and patient-centric.”  

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

GATSBY CREATIVE AWARDS SELECTS TOP CANDIDATES IN COMMERCIAL AND ART CATEGORIES AS ASIAN STUDENTS APPROACH THE FINAL AWARDS SHOWDOWN!

A largest creative awards supporting students across Asia


OSAKA, Japan, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The 12th GATSBY CREATIVE AWARDS, sponsored by Mandom Corp. (TOKYO:4917), is one of Asia's largest creative awards for students, and is held in 12 Asian countries and regions with the focus on supporting and encouraging students across Asia.

In the two categories of COMMERCIAL and ART, which began accepting entries on Friday, September 1, award candidates for each country and region have been selected through primary judging and web-based voting. In the upcoming 12th GATSBY CREATIVE AWARDS FINAL, scheduled to be held in Tokyo on Saturday, March 10, 2018, Asia's top awards in each category will be chosen from among the nominated candidates selected in this round.

An impressive 526 entries from 12 countries were submitted in the COMMERCIAL category while 241 entries from 4 countries were submitted in the newly established ART category. The entries succeeded in conveying a sense of GATSBY's uniqueness in ways that transcend borders and language.

37 of the 526 entries received from the 12 countries and regions participating in the COMMERCIAL category passed the stringent primary judging. Similarly, 48 of the 241 entries received from 4 countries and regions participating in the ART category passed.

After the ensuing popular vote conducted online, on Friday, December 15 the pool of candidates was narrowed down to the final top award candidates for each country and region in each category. Despite the many different countries and languages, all selected works shared a common point in that they all conveyed a sense of GATSBY's uniqueness. 

POLYPLASTICS OFFERS BROAD SLATE OF ENGINEERING THERMOPLASTICS FOR LASER WELDING

TOKYO, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- Polyplastics Co., Ltd. offers an extensive range of engineering thermoplastics which facilitate laser welding of housing components for the automotive and electrical/electronics industries. Materials such as DURACON(R) POM and DURANEX(R) PBT are highly compatible with laser welding and are finding broader end-use applications.

(Image: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201801129848/?images)

Laser welding is a bonding method that utilizes the laser transmissibility of a plastic material on one side (transmitting material) and another material containing additives such as carbon black that absorb laser light (absorbing material) on the other side. The wavelength of lasers, such as diode lasers or YAG lasers, is approximately 800-1,200nm which is slightly longer than the wavelength of visible light.

Polyplastics' slate of laser welding grades includes DURANEX PBT, a cost-balanced resin that exhibits excellent heat resistance, moldability, and electrical properties for housings. The company has optimized its DURANEX PBT family by re-examining the rubber content, together with its compounding agents, to develop DURANEX PBT 730LW which enables laser welding of workpieces as thick as 2mm which could not be achieved with a predecessor material.

Another key product is DURACON POM which exhibits excellent light transmissibility, even when compared to other semi-crystalline engineering plastics. It also has a low melting point, allowing the laser output required for welding to be kept low, Polyplastics has released DURACON POM M90LP, which uses pigments that do not inhibit laser transmissibility.

Polyplastics not only performs grade selection and development suitable for the laser welding method; it also offers CAE product design support and an evaluation system that utilizes an actual laser welding machine.

For more information, visit https://www.polyplastics.com/en/support/proc/laser/index.vm

DURACON(R) is a registered trademark of Polyplastics Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries.
DURANEX(R) is a registered trademark of Polyplastics Co., Ltd. in Japan and other countries and is used by WinTech Polymer Ltd. under license.

About Polyplastics
Polyplastics is a global leader in the development and production of engineering thermoplastic solutions. The company's broad product portfolio includes POM, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), and liquid crystal polymer (LCP). The company has the largest global market share of POM. With more than 50 years of experience, the company is backed by a strong global network of R&D, production, and sales resources.

BY 2025, ALL OF MCDONALD'S PACKAGING TO COME FROM RENEWABLE, RECYCLED OR CERTIFIED SOURCES; GOAL TO HAVE RECYCLING AVAILABLE IN ALL RESTAURANTS

OAK BROOK, Ill., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) announces goals to improve its packaging and help significantly reduce waste to positively impact the communities the company serves around the world.  

By 2025, 100 percent of McDonald’s guest packaging will come from renewable, recycled, or certified sources with a preference for Forest Stewardship Council certification. Also by 2025, the company has set a goal to recycle guest packaging in 100 percent of McDonald’s restaurants. McDonald’s understands that recycling infrastructure, regulations and consumer behaviors vary city to city and country to country around the world, but it plans to be part of the solution and help influence powerful change.

This expands upon McDonald’s existing goal that by 2020, 100% of fiber-based packaging will come from recycled or certified sources where no deforestation occurs.

“As the world’s largest restaurant company, we have a responsibility to use our scale for good to make changes that will have a meaningful impact across the globe,” said Francesca DeBiase, McDonald’s Chief Supply Chain and Sustainability Officer. “Our customers have told us that packaging waste is the top environmental issue they would like us to address. Our ambition is to make changes our customers want and to use less packaging, sourced responsibly and designed to be taken care of after use, working at and beyond our restaurants to increase recycling and help create cleaner communities.”

To reach these goals, McDonald’s will work with leading industry experts, local governments and environmental associations, to improve packaging and recycling practices. Together they will work to drive smarter packaging designs, implement new recycling programs, establish new measurement programs and educate restaurant crew and customers.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30948

Monday, January 15, 2018

TIENS GROUP CHAIRMAN LI JINYUAN ATTENDED THE FIFTH CHINA SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISE GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT FORUM

HANGZHOU, China, Jan. 15, 2018 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/--
 
On January 10, 2018, the Fifth China SME Global Development Forum and the Fifth China Brand Innovation and Development Forum were held at the Hangzhou Intercontinental Hotel. Tiens Group Chairman Li Jinyuan, as the Senior Vice President of the Global Alliance of SMEs of China Region, attended the event and discussed with other international leaders and experts about new SME development opportunities around the world in 2018 to help SMEs collect international resources, expand into global markets, and discover opportunities for cooperation to jointly develop and create new platforms.
 
Also in attendance was Mr. Hou Yan, Assistant to President of Tiens Group and Ms. Huang Jiazhen, Senior Director of Tiens Group Branding and Global Public Relations Department.
 
The event was organized by the Global Alliance of SMEs, the United States-China International Cooperation and Exchange Association, and the China Brand Innovation and Development Project. With the "New Era" as its theme, the conference comprehensively analyzed the economic development in 2017 and actively explored the trends of the Chinese and international markets in 2018 to quickly gain a grasp of global business opportunities.
 
As an outstanding corporate representative of the going global strategy for Chinese national brands, entrepreneurs in attendance highly praised the international strategy of Tiens Group. The Global Alliance of SMEs, the organizer of the conference, said that Chairman Li led Tiens Group into the international market with the brand image of China. The globalization strategy and outstanding achievements of Tiens Group are highly recognized both at home and abroad. The Global Alliance of SMEs appointed Chairman Li Jinyuan as Senior Vice President of the China Region to help guide and assist Chinese enterprises in going global and shape the Chinese brand image.
 
During the forum, Chairman Li Jinyuan was invited to take part in a dialogue between the former British Prime Minister David Cameron and Chinese entrepreneurs. Wang Zhenghua, chairman of Chunqiu Group, Li Guangdou, CCTV brand consultant and famous brand marketing strategy expert, and Chen Jun, Chairman of Guo-Chuang Limited together with David Cameron had an in-depth exchange of ideas on globalization and how governments can help businesses develop. Chairman Li Jinyuan said that the events of the forum has greatly enhanced the friendship between China, Britain, France, South Korea, and other countries and has set up a very good platform for cooperation and exchange among enterprises.
 
During the dinner after the forum, Chairman Li Jinyuan and attending guests exchanged in-depth views on the global strategy of Tiens Group's health business and the strategy of their third startup. Chairman Li Jinyuan said that as a transnational conglomerate integrating industry capital, commercial capital, and financial capital in multiple fields such as biotechnology, health management, hotel tourism, education and training, e-commerce, international trade, and financial investment, Tiens Group is guided by the strategic principles of business diversification, network integration, and business synergy. With a global vision based on the Belt and Road strategy, Tiens Group will promote the launch of multiple business models around the world to share innovative models of economic and customer experience-based marketing. We will continue to promote consumption to create wealth, create greater wealth for family businesses, integrate social resources, and combine e-commerce with retail shops, achieving value appreciation and forming a global alliance.
 
He expressed that a "healthy China" has already become China's national strategy. Tiens Group, as a leader in the health industry, conforms to government policies and general trends, pushing ahead with the development of the health industry by optimizing and integrating Tiens Group's global network resources. Currently, Tiens Group has established branches in 110 countries and regions, re-dividing the global market into 21 regions and is also entering new markets in 37 countries and regions, such as Australia, France, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. Tiens Group has formed strategic alliances with top international enterprises and has set the bar on internationalization for Chinese enterprises.
 
Source: Tiens Group
 
Image Attachments Links:
http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=304749
 
--BERNAMA

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30934

AOI TYO HOLDINGS INVESTS IN SPIRAL VENTURES ASIA FUND I

TOKYO, Jan 15 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AOI TYO Holdings Inc. (TOKYO:3975), which provides a wide variety of creative services for advertising and video, including the largest television commercial production business in Japan, has invested five million US dollars in Spiral Ventures Asia Fund I for the purpose of expanding its business in the Asian market.
 
Since being established in February 2013, Spiral Ventures Pte. Ltd. has utilized its global and diverse human resources to conduct investment in Southeast Asia, while maintaining strict risk management and compliance, including the acquisition of a Registered Fund Management Company license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The company mainly invests in start-up companies in the early to growth stage in Southeast Asia and India, areas which both have high target rates for economic growth, and aims to improve the corporate value of its investment outlets by providing management advice, opportunities for business matching with Japanese companies, and assistance for starting or expanding their business in the Japanese market.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=30933

DSM SINOCHEM PHARMACEUTICALS SUCCESSFULLY LAUNCHES ROSUVASTATIN FINISHED DOSAGE FORMULATION IN WESTERN EUROPE

Rijswijk, Netherlands, Jan 15 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Upon patent expiry at the end of December 2017, DSM Sinochem Pharmaceutical (DSP) has successfully launched its fully backward integrated, generic Rosuvastatin drug product in multiple Western European countries. The successful launch will be extended to additional countries prior to the end of January, among which is the Netherlands.
 
After being one of the first companies globally to receive a CEP in early 2016 for Rosuvastatin API, DSP again proves to be a frontrunner by being one of the first to launch Rosuvastatin drug products in Western Europe using its in-house produced API.

Statins are currently the most prescribed drug class globally for high cholesterol and cardiovascular diseases and are among the top selling drugs worldwide. Rosuvastatin is used for reducing high cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease, which is the number one cause of death worldwide.
 
Quality, Reliability and Sustainability

In line with its brand promise of Quality, Reliability and Sustainability, DSP’s Rosuvastatin offers customers superior performance in all three areas. For its finished dosage formulations, DSP uses its own in-house manufactured API. This proprietary, backward integrated, process, which is protected by 10 patent families, involves a highly efficient enzymatic coupling step, and offers customers independence from third party intermediate suppliers. Additional advantages to its API include unrivalled product quality with an assay of >99% and large batch sizes of 200 kg. This further results in significantly reduced Quality Assurance and testing costs, the absence of hazardous residual chemicals and a 35% reduced carbon footprint related to production.

Expanding portfolio

With the successful launch of the Rosuvastatin finished dosage formulation, on top of the earlier successful launch of DSP’s beta lactam drug products, and the upcoming launch of Atorvastatin in Europe by summer 2018, the company is quickly expanding its drug product portfolio. What sets DSP apart from competitors is its backward integration and full control of its supply chain.

CEO, Karl Rotthier: “I am proud that our company, together with our partners, is among the first worldwide to launch a generic Rosuvastatin finished dosage formulation in Western Europe upon patent expiration; after being one of the first to offer the Rosuvastatin API under CEP. This shows our dedication to excellence and our aspiration to continue to be an industry leader”.

BU Director Drug Products, Lucas Wiarda: “As with every one of our products, Rosuvastatin delivers superior performance on quality, reliability and sustainability compared to the industry average. This is largely due to DSP’s full control of its manufacturing process from start to finish. Building on our strong position in beta lactams, Rosuvastatin is an excellent addition to our drug products portfolio which we proudly offer to our customers.”

Currently DSP holds an eCTD dossier for Rosuvastatin finished dosage formulations (5,10,20 & 40mg FCT) containing Zone II & IV stability data and a 36 month shelf life.


About DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals

DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals (DSP) is the global leader in sustainable antibiotics, next-generation statins and anti-fungals. DSP develops, produces and sells intermediates, active pharmaceutical ingredients and drug products. Our employees worldwide work together to deliver cutting-edge generics solutions that help to keep customers ahead of the competition.

Headquartered in Singapore, the group has manufacturing sites and sales offices in China, India, Egypt, the Netherlands, Spain, the USA and Mexico. DSP is a 50/50 Joint Venture of Royal DSM, a global science-based company active in health, nutrition and materials, and Sinochem Group, a Fortune 500 enterprise.

For more information please visit www.dsm-sinochem.com or contact DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals Corporate Communications, Erin van Wijngaarden, Manager PR & Corporate Communications. E-Mail: communications@dsm-sinochem.com

Attachments:

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ac00118-d5bc-405d-a32d-b02d5c584c11


Erin van Wijngaarden
DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals
communications@dsm-sinochem.com

SOURCE : DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals