Wednesday, May 30, 2018

THIS IS WHY HUOBI IS A LEADER GLOBAL BLOCKCHAIN ASSET PROVIDER

SINGAPORE, May 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- No matter where you go, you hear about cryptos. All media have adopted this buzzword, in an online publication, ads, and news sites. However, are crypto buyers still early adopters?

Crypto is indeed at its early stage, and for all of those approaching the world of cryptocurrencies, a frequent question is: which is the best platform to start trading? But being objective giving a clear distinction between platforms around the web, it might be a difficult task.

In this article, we present Huobi a platform that stands out for its well-achieved interconnectivity and interface. Initiated in 2013, it is one of the best alternatives in cyberspace when it comes to crypto exchange.

Huobi Super Rebate Program.

The new benefit that Huobi has implemented is its system of discounts, where each user of the cryptocurrencies can receive a commission by generating their own invitation link and invite new users to register in the currency.
 
How to get started with referrals?

1- First you must enter the tab that says invitation, which is in the upper right corner of the website. Search for "My invitation code" and click to enter.

2- To obtain the invitation code, you can register and invite new users in two ways: first you must send your code to your guest and, while he registers, complete the registration to obtain the invitation code.

Or you can also send the invitation link through social networks, when both are registered through that link, the system will complete the following registration by giving you the invitation code.

3- In "Invite", click on "Registration of the invitation" to see if the registration of the invited user is successful. You can only see the result if it is recorded correctly.

4- After verifying the successful registration of your guest, the platform will calculate the amount of rebate of the transaction and the transfer of the user account the next day. The commission will be issued in the form of USDT and on a points card.

In short, when inviting a new user to trade with cryptocurrencies in Huobi, and the latter makes a transaction within 90 days, the inviter will receive 30% of the total commission.

Why Choose Huobi? 

A platform like Huobi makes very easy to get started into crypto guiding you step-by-step in what to do and what don’t. If you are a newbie in the exchange of digital currencies, Huobi gives you the key to achieve the desired success. Besides, Huobi has a new intelligent contract platform: EOS. The Enterprise Operation System is based on the blockchain and aims to implement a blockchain architecture similar to an operating system that supports distributed applications. This architecture can provide accounts, identity authentication, database, asynchronous communications and programming of programs and parallel operations in tens of thousands of CPU / GPU clusters. 

If you are interested in getting more details about the invitation program or platform itself, click here.
 
Media contact:
Lingtong Miao
lingtong.miao@kolads.com
 
SOURCE: Huobi
 
--BERNAMA   

Monday, May 28, 2018

OSAKA GAS ENGINEERING TO PROVIDE CONSULTING SERVICES ON CONSTRUCTION OF LNG RECEIVING TERMINALS IN TAIWAN

OSAKA, Japan, May 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Osaka Gas Engineering Co., Ltd. (OGE), a subsidiary of Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. (Osaka Gas)(TOKYO:9532), has entered into an agreement to provide consulting services on construction of LNG receiving terminals of CPC Corporation, Taiwan (CPC) and Taiwan Power Co., Ltd. (TPC) respectively.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180524005452/en/

In CPC’s third LNG receiving terminal construction project, OGE will conduct Front End Engineering & Design (FEED) and provide technical consulting services on regasification facilities as part of building a 3 million tons per annum (mtpa) LNG receiving capacity in the first phase of a 6 mtpa LNG terminal project planned to commence operation in 2023. With this agreement following the previous one signed this March for consulting services on engineering and construction of four full containment pre-stressed concrete (PC) LNG tanks for the terminal, OGE will provide consulting services for the entire first phase construction project.

In the meantime, with TPC, OGE has reached an agreement to conduct FEED and provide technical consulting services to TPC for the first time on five full containment PC LNG tanks and regasification facilities for TPC’s Taichung LNG receiving terminal, which is planned to be built with a 4.1 mtpa capacity and scheduled to start its commercial operation in 2023 along with a power plant in Taichung area.

With these contracts, OGE plays an integral part in basic designs of all the LNG terminal projects currently going forward in Taiwan, where LNG import has been growing to meet the increasing power demand while its government plans to phase out of nuclear power generation by 2025.

Globally, Osaka Gas has been providing consulting services on safe and efficient construction, operation, and maintenance of LNG receiving terminals under 23 contracts in 10 countries, including CPC’s LNG receiving terminals in Yong’an and Taichung, leveraging its knowhow gained through more than 40 years of experience.

Under its long-term business vision "Going Forward Beyond Borders 2030,” which focuses on overseas energy markets as one of the growth areas, the Daigas Group pursues its endeavor to expand its energy businesses globally along the value chain.
 

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180524005452/en/

 

Contact
Osaka Gas Engineering Co., Ltd.
Shun Yamagami, +81-6-6220-2118
s-yamagami@oge.co.jp

Source : OSAKA GAS CO., LTD.

Saturday, May 26, 2018

Malaysia among countries to receive aprotinin injection by Clinigen

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Clinigen Group plc, a global pharmaceutical and services company has signed an agreement with Nordic Pharma Ltd to supply and distribute aprotinin in a range of countries in Asia Pacific and South Africa including Malaysia.

Under the terms of this agreement, Clinigen will make aprotinin available to physicians and pharmacists on an unlicensed, on-demand basis for patients who lack other suitable therapeutic options in a number of countries.

The agreement grants Clinigen the exclusive rights to supply aprotinin in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Hong Kong and South Africa, a statement said.

"This agreement demonstrates Clinigen's ongoing commitment to providing physicians and pharmacists with the access to medicines they require to address patients' unmet medical needs," said head of Global Access at Clinigen, Julie Gosper in a statement.

"Nordic Pharma is committed to improving the access to aprotinin worldwide, which is an important lifesaving product in the arsenal of patient blood management," said chief executive officer of Nordic Pharma, Hans Schram.

Aprotinin Injection belongs to a group of medicines called anti-fibrinolytics (medicines to prevent blood loss). It can help to reduce blood loss and the need for blood transfusions during isolated cardiopulmonary bypass graft surgery.

Healthcare professionals can obtain details about aprotinin by emailing medicineaccess@clinigengroup.com.

Shihang produces seamless copper nickel pipes with 419mm outer diameter

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Shanghai Shihang Copper Nickel Pipe Fitting Co Ltd -- a global leader in manufacturing CuNi 90/10 & CuNi 70/30 pipes, flanges and pipe fittings -- has began producing seamless copper nickel pipes with a 419mm outer diameter.

The production comes after Shihang upgraded their manufacturing plant, with a new furnace and a 300T hydraulic elongator to produce the OD 419 copper nickel pipes.

Shihang focuses to meet the high demand for these piping systems as only a few companies are producing the seamless copper nickel pipes of 419mm outer diameter, a statement said.

The new seamless nickel pipes are suitable for marine industry, offshore oil and gas platform, nuclear power, gland steam condensers, turbine coolers and oil well pump liners.

Shihang is an ISO 9001:2008 certified copper nickel manufacturer.

--BERNAMA

Friday, May 25, 2018

Eze Software, Sherpa Funds Technology offer advanced portfolio construction

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- Eze Software -- a Boston-based global investment technology provider, has partnered with Sherpa Funds Technology to offer advanced portfolio construction and factor analytics capabilities to its clients.

Managing Director of Eze Software in Asia Pacific, R.G. Manalac said: "We are always looking for ways to help our clients simplify their portfolio construction processes, enabling them to generate better returns while minimizing unwanted risk.

He added that the partnership will enable users to account for all their business goals while optimising their portfolios by accessing Sherpa´s time-tested models and processes, aided by Eze Order Management System.

Sherpa tools´ help funds build portfolios that dynamically express investment managers´ alpha decisions, their risk appetite and market conditions, a statement said.

The technology also enables portfolio managers to deliver more consistent and better returns whilst matching the risk exposure objectives of investors and consultants.

Clients can specify criteria they want their portfolios to follow, including liquidity, style factor, yield and sector exposures, access Sherpa´s powerful risk portfolio and performance analytics and receive a portfolio construction that best expresses their alpha.

The suggested portfolio can then be seamlessly loaded into Eze OMS and implemented.

Further information can be accessed at www.ezesoft.com.

--BERNAMA

Ferrexpo adopts Chinsay's platform to optimise global freight operations


KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 (Bernama) -- Ferrexpo -- a London Stock Exchange listed iron ore company, signed an agreement with Chinsay -- a market leader in dry bulk freight software, to implement Chinsay´s Recap Manager (RM).


Chinsay´s RM is a single cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) system and will be used for end-to-end contract management and counterparty collaboration tool for Ferrexpo´s ocean freight operations, a statement said.

The iron ore company will use Chinsay´s system in managing digital freight contracts across their offices worldwide. Ferrexpo will be able to create, edit, review and share contract information both internally and externally.

The platform will also enable Ferrexpo to reduce the time to finalise all their charter party work and minimise the potential for contractual errors with risk and compliance oversight.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Chinsay, Dag Sundén-Cullberg said: "We will be able to provide Ferrexpo with market best practices by using our secure cloud based collaborative platform to help identify and manage risk and use analytics technologies to enhance their performance. " Chinsays has offices in Singapore and Sweden.

Meanwhile, Global Freight Manager, Michael Gardiner said with operations across the globe, the company view Chinsay as an efficient and critical tool to ensure operational excellence in contract operations.

--BERNAMA


MARKETFACTORY® ANNOUNCES GLOBAL AVAILABILITY OF REFLECTOR, THE FIRST PRE-TRADE LIMIT MONITOR

NEW YORK, May 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- MarketFactory, the industry-leading foreign exchange technology platform, announced today the broad release of their new software product Reflector, a pre-trade risk management solution used by banks, prime brokers and funds to ensure trading limits are never broken.

Reflector addresses the need for risk management software that eliminates installation for the client, works with any FIX API, and monitors and balances all limits and positions across all trading venues. Additionally, it checks all orders pre-trade with a latency impact under three microseconds 99.999% of the time and supports over 60 trading venues.

“Runaway algorithms or simply breaking a limit remain a major risk in an increasingly complex market,” said James Sinclair, Executive Chairman of MarketFactory. “We are very excited to see the positive impact that Reflector has for our customers. This includes both ensuring limits will be not be breached and allowing more efficient use of available credit.”

MarketFactory’s software suite also includes, Whisperer, an API that connects 80+ foreign exchange venues for: taker, maker, spot, forwards, swaps, non-deliverable forwards and non-deliverable swaps. Whisperer is live with over 40 customers, including 25% of the Euromoney top 50 banks.

To learn more about Reflector, please visit: info.marketfactory.com/reflectordemo

About MarketFactory

MarketFactory is a financial technology company that provides software-as-a-service to currency markets. Our platforms power currency trading that seamlessly connects to 80+ FX venues, delivers ultra-low latency, improves time to market and enables risk monitoring. Currently, MarketFactory partners with over 100 banks, funds, brokers and ECNs/exchanges. MarketFactory has offices in New York City and London. For more information, please visit www.marketfactory.com or follow us @MarketFactory.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31961

​TELEDYNE E2V AWARDED SECOND PHASE OF €42M CONTRACT TO PROVIDE CUSTOM IMAGE SENSORS FOR ESA PLATO MISSION

CHELMSFORD, United Kingdom, May 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The European Space Agency (ESA) has awarded Teledyne e2v, a division of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), with the second phase of a €42M ($47M) contract to produce high-end Charge Coupled Device (CCD) visible light image sensors for the PLATO (Planetary Transits and Oscillations of stars) mission. PLATO is a planet hunting spacecraft that will seek out and research Earth like exoplanets around Sun like stars. About 100 Teledyne e2v large area CCDs will allow the mission to detect minute changes in the apparent brightness of stars, orbited by planets.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31967

Wednesday, May 23, 2018

China's banana production output expected to fall

KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 (Bernama) -- China's banana planting area and production output will fall year over year, according to a report on development of the domestic banana industry.
China Economic Information Service (CEIS) of Xinhua News Agency released the report jointly with the the Chengmai County of Hainan Province, a statement said.

Head of Hainan Research Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Rural Economy, Ke Youpeng said in 2018, the national banana market supplies will be reduced, with the market price expected to be higher than the previous three years.

Youpeng added that the area of special banana plantation shall be gradually increased. The brand awareness in the banana industry should be strengthened.

According to the report, although China is a big producer of banana, it is not a banana trade power. The international competitiveness of China's banana industry is relatively weak and there is room for improvement.

In 2016, the international market share (MS), the trade competitiveness index (TC) and the revealed comparative advantage of China\'s bananas ranked 43rd, 73rd, and 77th, respectively, in the world.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, May 22, 2018

FOREIGNER'S VIEW OF JIANGSU -- VISIT TO DAFENG MILU DEER HOMETOWN

DAFENG, China, May 21 (Bernama) -- 
 

On May 5-6, nearly 30 foreign friends from 18 countries, such as Russia, Germany, Italy, Pakistan, gathered on the shore of the Yellow Sea and participated in the event of "Foreigner's View of Jiangsu -- Visit to Dafeng Milu Deer Hometown" sponsored by the Information Office of the People's Government of Jiangsu Province. They jointly experienced the unique charm of Dafeng.

During the stay in Dafeng, foreign friends visited the Dream Maze, the largest botanic maze over the world. In Dafeng National Milu Deer Nature Reserve, where the world's largest Milu Deer gene bank is located, they visited the Milu Deer Habitat and the Milu Deer Free Pasture Zone, experienced the Milu Deer domestication program and got close to Milu Deer. In the first tulip sea in China, Holland Flower Sea, they visited the art exhibition of "Van Gogh Alive 2", watched and experienced Holland characteristic clog dance and flower performance, where the spot interaction was extremely warm. In the Plum Bay -- the largest watery plum park in Northern Jiangsu, they enjoyed and joined in intangible cultural heritage programs of Yancheng, like dragon dance and flower-boat and blossom-picul-stick performances, Taijiquan performance, flour sculpture, sugar sculpture, porcelain carving and other handicraft performances, elicited rapturous applause and cheers.

"I've learnt a lot in this Dafeng Trip. I'll bring my family here again! Thank the government for setting up this platform for us to understand the culture and perceive changes in Jiangsu," said Amir, an Algerian student from Nanjing University of the Arts after having understood great social and economic changes of Dafeng in 40 years of reform and opening-up. The international friends all indulged in and highly praised the beautiful natural scenery and graceful wetland environment.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31939

Monday, May 21, 2018

China Launches Rocket To Verify Drag And Heat Reduction For Product Design

KUALA LUMPUR, May 21 (Bernama) -- China recently launched an OS-X rocket to test the X-series rockets’ functions and complete scientific research tasks of verifying drag reduction and heat reduction of pneumatic struts, providing technical support for future product design.
The rocket named ‘Chongqing Liangjiang Star’ was launched in a test field in Northwest China developed by OneSpace Technology, a Beijing-based private firm, a statement said.
“The success of the flight has proved the effectiveness of cooperation between higher-education institutions and companies,” said founder and chief executive officer of OneSpace, Shu Chang.
The statement from Chongqing Liangjiang New Area Management Committee said the launching marks the first time a non-state Chinese rocket has successfully entered orbit. The rocket is nine meters long and weighs 7,200 kilograms with maximum altitude of 38.742 kilometers.
The OS-X rockets are flight carrying platforms specifically designed for aerospace technologies test. It will fill the gap in China's aviation test industry and will promote practices and applications of advanced aerospace technologies.
OneSpace Technology has set up a branch in Chongqing Liangjiang New Area, focuses on production and assembly while the Beijing headquarter centers on research and development.
The development of the OneSpace rocket has lifted the new area's aerospace industrial competitiveness to a new level as it has developed a comprehensive industrial cluster with presence at general-purpose aviation, transportation aviation and aerospace.
Chongqing Liangjiang New Area is the third national new area approved by the state council after Shanghai's Pudong New Area and Tianjin's Binhai New Area. More information at http://english.liangjiang.gov.cn/
--BERNAMA

SRX makes home loan deals in Singapore easier with 'Myhome Finance'



KUALA LUMPUR, May 18 (Bernama) -- Singapore´s SRX today launched myHome Finance, a home loan platform that enables users to access great home loan deals and complete a paperless application in five minutes accessible through srx.com.sg or mySG Home App.

"Our founding ethos was to apply big data and advanced technology to make transacting real estate transparent and efficient. We are proud to continue to lead the industry forward to this goal, " said SRX chief technology officer, Jeremy Lee.

The platform is utilising the government´s MyInfo platform to automatically complete all of the loan application requirements with an advanced artificial intelligence engine that helps users identify their preferred loan and the best rates offered from its partner banks, a statement said.

Users also able to search for a new home on srx.com.sg then easily apply for a new loan using myHome Finance as SRX is the first to utilise MyInfo for home loan applications with banks and other financial institutions.

MyInfo was developed by the Government Technology Agency and it is a government digital service for SingPass users to manage the use of their personal data when transacting online with participating government agencies and commercial entities.

The myHome Finance is the latest in a series of innovations from SRX and the company is the first to make transparent computer-based home values freely available in Singapore with its X-Value service.

SRX is Singapore´s most comprehensive resource for real estate. The company helps home seekers find and transact their perfect home through srx.com.sg and is myProperty Concierge and SRX Valuations services.

--BERNAMA 



Friday, May 18, 2018

AVIATION AND AEROSPACE CONSULTING VETERANS CELEBRATE SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF ALTON AVIATION CONSULTANCY




NEW YORK, May 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alton Aviation Consultancy is celebrating its successful first year as an independent boutique advisory firm focused on the aviation and aerospace industries.

Experienced consulting executives Adam Cowburn and John Mowry set out to serve the aviation community with an agile, client-centric approach that aligns with rapidly changing global market dynamics. They have been joined by seasoned aviation consultants Laetitia Achille and Jonathan Berger, both Managing Directors, in addition to Directors Ma Min and Adam Guthorn, and a global team of managers and associates.

“Alton is dedicated to delivering the objective, data-driven guidance and insight that our clients require to inform business decisions regarding capital allocation, resource prioritization, and risk management,” said Mowry, who previously was a leader of the aviation consulting practice at SH&E and ICF, and began his career with General Electric.

Alton advises aviation and aerospace companies across the entire value chain on strategy and business plan development, financial transaction support, and operational performance improvement. Clients include: airlines; lessors and aircraft financiers; aerospace manufacturers; maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and aftermarket service providers; and the financial and investment community.

As a privately-held independent firm, Alton has no joint ventures, affiliations, or other business associations that divert principals from their singular mission – serving the best interests of their clients.

“Our independence, global market coverage, and experience across the entire aviation and aerospace value chain provide Alton with unique insight into the challenges faced by our clients, in addition to their end customers,” said Cowburn, former head of Asia-Pacific for aviation consulting firms SH&E and ICF.

“We are dedicated to making Alton synonymous with deep aviation domain expertise and a relentless focus on delivering tangible results for our clients,” said Berger. Prior to joining Alton, Mr. Berger was a vice president at SH&E and ICF, where he launched and led their global MRO advisory practice. Before that, he was the general manager of Delta Air Lines’ maintenance & engineering business responsible for the Europe, Africa and Middle East region

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31902

Thursday, May 17, 2018

NTT SECURITY ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF ADVANCED SECURITY SERVICES IN INDIA AND PHILIPPINES

NTT SECURITY ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF ADVANCED SECURITY SERVICES IN INDIA AND PHILIPPINES

Hilton Kuala Lumpur one of top 50 meeting hotels in Asia Pacific



KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Hilton Kuala Lumpur is ranked 4th in the Top 50 Meeting Hotels in Asia Pacific, Cvent Inc -- one of market leader in meetings, events and hospitality technology announced.

Among the top 10 hotel properties are

Hyatt Regency Sydney; Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore; Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney; Pan Pacific Singapore and InterContinental Sydney.

Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt are the top three hotel chains represented on the Top 50 list, a statement said.

Cvent evaluated hotel properties that generated business through the Cvent Supplier Network -- one of the world's largest and most accurate databases of detailed venue information -- from January through December 2017.

The properties were ranked according to various criteria, including total requests for proposals (RFPs), awarded RFPs, total room nights, awarded room nights, major metropolitan area (MMA) market share, conversion rate, and the hotel's unique profile visits in the Cvent Supplier Network.

The criteria are designed to provide the most accurate reflection of the top meeting hotels in the US, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific regions.

The list was compiled by analysing group booking activity -- sourced more than US$14.7 billion (RM57.62 billion) and more than 40 million room nights in 2017, helping to support more than 715,000 events worldwide.

--BERNAMA


SPARK NEW ZEALAND TO DEPLOY CLOUD UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONS SUITE WITH BROADSOFT

Spark Cloud Phone Targets High Growth SMB Market with Complete BroadSoft Unified Communications (UC) Solution

GAITHERSBURG, Md. and AUCKLAND, New Zealand, May 15 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BroadSoft, Inc., now a part of Cisco, and a global market leader in cloud calling, meeting, messaging and contact center software as a service (SaaS), announces that Spark, one of New Zealand’s largest telecommunications providers, will now be offering Spark Cloud Phone powered by the BroadCloud calling platform to small and medium businesses throughout New Zealand.

Spark Cloud Phone will provide the company with a proven SaaS service delivery platform, allowing the company to quickly deploy a complete UC solution with a flexible OPEX service delivery model.

The BroadCloud calling platform will provide Spark Cloud Phone customers with a complete suite of UC services based on the BroadSoft UC-One application including, instant messaging and presence (IM&P), hosted voice, mobile client support, a full-featured soft client for computing devices, desktop and file sharing, virtual meeting rooms and voice and video conferencing.

“We are very pleased to be working with Spark in New Zealand to bring their cloud UC offering to market on BroadCloud,” said Jonathan Reid, Managing Director, Worldwide Sales, Cisco Cloud Calling. “Spark has outstanding reach in the New Zealand market and a world class engineering team behind the new Spark Cloud Phone product line.  We look forward to working closely with them as they bring the new service to market in the first half of this year.”

Sally Gordon, Head of Business Marketing for Spark, said, “We’re thrilled to bring Spark Cloud Phone to market with BroadSoft UC-One. Our business customers tell us they need a feature-rich calling solution that helps improve collaboration and can easily scale as their business needs change. We believe Cloud Phone will deliver that for them and help give their business an edge.” 


​MOTION GESTURES LAUNCHES BREAKTHROUGH GESTURE RECOGNITION PLATFORM AND CLOSES $1.65 MILLION USD IN SEED FINANCING

​MOTION GESTURES LAUNCHES BREAKTHROUGH GESTURE RECOGNITION PLATFORM AND CLOSES $1.65 MILLION USD IN SEED FINANCING

BREALTIME AND CLEARSTREAM MERGE TO FORM EMX, A NEW DIGITAL MEDIA MARKETPLACE

NEW YORK, May 14 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- bRealTime and Clearstream have merged to form EMX, a new programmatic marketplace. EMX will offer more powerful media solutions across supply, demand and data to publishers, advertisers, ad tech providers and agencies, including increased efficiencies, heightened transparency and an overall lift in ROI.

EMX combines the services of bRealTime, an automated global marketplace specializing in direct-to-consumer access through technologies like header bidding, with Clearstream, the leading deterministic data and decisioning platform for advertisers and brands. As an integrated business, EMX gives clients access to a unified supply chain providing access to more audiences on all screens, including TV, OOH, mobile and desktop.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31872

Wednesday, May 16, 2018

Colombian coffee growers wins 3 sustainability and quality awards

KUALA LUMPUR, May 16 (Bernama) -- The Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) has received three sustainability and quality awards from key players in the global coffee industry including Rainforest Alliance, the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

FNC received one of the Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Standard-Setters Awards on May 9, 2018 for its exceptional commitment to sustainability, improving coffee farmers´ livelihoods, and conserving forests, a statement said.

The company was also honored with 2018 Leadership Medal of Merit, in the corporate category from CQI on April 21, 2018 for commitment of over 90 years to improve farmers´ livelihoods, fostering sustainability and increasing coffee quality, helping to strengthen the Colombian coffee sector.

The CQI recognised FNC having undertaken important initiatives and taken visionary measures to strengthen the Colombian coffee sector including its programs also help farmers prepare for challenges ahead, adapting to climate change, fostering sustainable coffee farming, and stimulating generational continuity.

Addition to the recognition, the Manos al Agua Project implemented by the FNC as part of a public-private partnership was granted the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Sustainability Award 2018 on April 19 in the category of Sustainable Projects.

The award was achieved thanks to the importance and results of Manos al Agua, an innovative project for integrated water resources management in coffee river basins, a replicable model for sustainable rural development in Colombia, the statement said.

The SCA Sustainability Award is granted since 2004 to companies and organisations that create and implement innovative projects or business models to expand and promote coffee sustainability in the world while inspiring others to start similar initiatives.

--BERNAMA

THE 3RD SILK ROAD EXPO KICKS OFF IN XI'AN, A NEW PATTERN OF TWO-WAY OPENING-UP TAKES SHAPE ALONG THE BELT AND ROAD

XI'AN, China, May 15, 2018 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/--

On May 11, the Third Silk Road International Exposition and the Investment and Trade Forum for Cooperation between Eastern and Western China ("the 3rd Silk Road Expo") opens in Xi'an, Northwest China's Shaanxi province. Guests and investors from 75 countries and regions like the UK, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Cambodia, Iran, South Korea, Nepal and South Africa are participating in the event, with the UK and Malaysia as guests of honor.

The theme of this year's Silk Road Expo is "New Age, New Pattern and New Development". Forty activities covering over 20 fields like trade, culture, investment, science and finance are held in the forms of governmental dialogues, enterprise collaborations, people-to-people exchanges and intercity interactions. The six pavilions provide transnational, inter-regional and crossover displays, highlighting aerospace, electronic information technology products and intelligent manufacturing in high-tech industries.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=31896

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Global gig economy creates on-the-go gig workers

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Eighty three per cent of gig workers in Singapore, UK, and US are interested in relocating to another country for a contract job.

Also globally, the on-demand gig economy is creating on-the-go gig workers -- who are willing to relocate to other countries for the right contract job, according to a survey by Wakefield Research for Graebel Companies Inc,

The survey was conducted among 200 gig workers in each of three markets -- UK, US and Singapore between March 27 and April 10, using an email invitation and an online survey, a statement said.

While contract workers are drawn to global relocations, they are still holding out for jobs with the right benefits -- almost 3 in 5 (57 per cent) respondents said they rather move to a less desirable destination if the trade-off was better pay and benefits.

Meanwhile, there are three top benefits gig workers look into which are; paid time off (94 per cent) -- important since contractors would move away from friends and family; relocation cost and/or financial support for moving expenses (93 per cent) and repatriation assistance (93 per cent) -- to help workers move back home after their contract is complete.

The most important relocation support also includes a housing allowance and/or financial assistance for rent (92 per cent); personal spending stipends (91 per cent); language courses and/or cultural training (91 per cent).

Ascom Telligence nurse call system installed in Canadian Health Facility


KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Bernama) -- Ascom Holding AG and its partner Houle will introduce a large Ascom Telligence nurse call installation with 155 beds and five ORs at Penticton Regional Hospital, a Canadian Interior Health facility in British Columbia.

Houle´s account manager, Levis Veilleux said Ascom Telligence platform provides instant communications and audio connections to staff mobile devices with near zero second delay.

"Houle is actively including Ascom Telligence in many more projects and looks forward to helping more facilities maximize their nurse call investment to provide more patient-centered care, " he added.

The campus-wide implementation includes the hospital´s new tower as well as its existing building and will be the sole nurse call system in use, a statement said.

Ascom´s Telligence is a scalable clinical workflow and communications management solution that supports both centralised and decentralised care models which integrates with wireless devices to ensure that patient calls are rapidly delivered to the appropriate caregiver, regardless of location.

Ascom´s integrated network of staff and patient-room devices ensures that the right information is delivered to the right caregiver at the right time for appropriate responses and simplified workflows.

"Working with Houle, Ascom looks forward to helping more facilities close digital information gaps and enable more responsive and informed clinical communication and collaboration, " said President Ascom North America, Rob Goldman.

Ascom is a global solutions provider focused on healthcare Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and mobile workflow solutions. More information can be accessed at https://www.ascom.com

--BERNAMA
 

Invivoscribe submits study on acute myeloid leukemia in adult patients

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Invivoscribe Technologies Inc has submitted a study evaluating gilteritinib for the treatment of FLT3 mutation-positive (FLT3mut+) relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in adult patients.

A pre-market approval application (Shonin) has been submitted to Japan´s Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) for the LeukoStrat CDx FLT3 Mutation Assay, a statement said.

Invivoscribe also submitted a panel track supplement to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to update the FDA-approved LeukoStrat CDx FLT3 Mutation Assay´s Intended use, specific for gilteritinib.

"These submissions in Japan and the US represent a significant step in our ongoing efforts to harmonize molecular diagnostic testing for what is one of the most important driver mutations in AML in support of precision medicine," said chief scientific officer & chief executive officer of Invivoscribe, Jeffrey Miller.

Invivoscribe, the first company to receive FDA approval for an AML companion diagnostic has collaborated with Astellas Pharma Inc to develop a companion diagnostic to aid in identifying these FLT3mut+ AML patients.

Invivoscribe Technologies Inc is a biotechnology company providing high quality, standardized reagents, tests and bioinformatics tools to advance the fields of personalized molecular diagnostics and personalized molecular medicine. More information at www.invivoscribe.com.

Crownbio releases scientific posters on preclinical oncology research

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Crown Bioscience - a global drug discovery and development services company - has released scientific posters on innovations in CrownBio's Internal R&D focusing on preclinical oncology research.

The library of poster presentations includes details on the development and application of several innovative humanized models, a new largescale ex vivo PDX drug screening service and a novel IDO1 inhibition assay platform.

Collectively, the data demonstrates CrownBio's unique capacity to enhance knowledge, guide development decisions and advance immunotherapy programs.

The scientific posters are now available on-demand and narrated by CrownBio scientists, a statement said.

"We are committed to sharing with scientists globally the cutting-edge tools that are available to accelerate, inform and enlighten contemporary evaluation of cancer therapies and immunotherapies," said CrownBio's vice-president of Translational Oncology, Dr. Henry Li.

The posters were presented at the American Association of Cancer Research's (AACR) 2018 meeting and can be downloaded at https://www.crownbio.com/posters/

Monday, May 14, 2018

Three winners for YPO 2018 Global Innovation Award

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Young Presidents' Organization Inc (YPO) has named X-Halo, Ignite Power and Cicil as the winners for the 2018 Global Innovation Award in New York - as part of its third annual YPO Innovation Week.

"The Global Innovation Awards highlight those who are leading the way in creating forward-thinking companies and significant opportunities now and for future generations," said chair of YPO Innovation Week, Keith Alper in a statement.

The winners and their innovations are:

+Chief executive officer of X-Halo, Harjit Gill - the world's first device to detect the early onset of respiratory diseases before any signs of symptoms. Connected to a smartphone, the device gives early warnings of disease and track lung health by measuring breath temperature.

+Chief executive officer of Ignite Power, Yariv Cohen - a Pan-African developer and financier of safe clean energy solutions. The solutions is a solar system for rural homes that integrates with mobile money for a pay-as-you-use energy and leasing model costing as little as US$4 per month.

+Co-founder of Cicil, Leslie Lim - a Google launchpad accelerator startup focused on providing financial access to the underserved Indonesian university student segment. Cicil provides micro loans to students, helping them in financing laptops and tablets, sports equipment.

Further information can be accessed at YPO.org

NRI upgrades its I-STAR suite for settlement of Japanese govt bonds

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Nomura Research Institute Ltd (NRI) has upgraded its popular I-STAR Suite to I-STAR CORE to provide enriched real-time processing, reliability and expandability ready for T+1 settlement of Japanese government bonds.

The upgrade is to support T+0 settlements of general collateral repurchase transactions, promoted by Japan Securities Clearing Corporation (JSCC), a statement said.

"NRI has been working in parallel with the JSCC's regulatory changes to ensure that financial institutions can transition their operations to the new regulations," said managing director of NRI, Masaaki Yamazaki.

I-STAR/LC, a functionality of I-STAR/CORE can now calculate and submit allocable balances stating the issues available for allocation and their balance by each netting account or fund (positive list) to JSCC in real-time.

The real-time submissions enable I-STAR users to improve the efficiency of operations as well as to increase organisational transparency that enables users to respond in a timely manner to regulatory changes in the industry and reduce the cost burden of upgrading the system each time.

NRI is a leading provider of consulting services and system solutions which providing insight-driven research, consulting and managed services. More information at https://www.nri.com/fit

Tuesday, May 8, 2018

NAM Asia Hong Kong adopts unexplored projects

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 (Bernama) -- NAM Asia Hong Kong Co Ltd -- a healthcare information technology (IT) company specialising in artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain -- have been adopting IPA unexplored projects by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

The projects represent a large number of representatives of Japanese IT companies in 2016 and 2017 and independent businesses, a statement said.

The company's initial coin offering (ICO) was started on January 28, and listed on multiple exchanges in China, Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Russia, Switzerland and Brazil.

The company has also developed an AI chatbot service, development of electronic medical record, genome testing service and medical clinic to the world it develops.

WILLIS LEASE FINANCE CORPORATION REPORTS FIRST QUARTER PRETAX PROFIT OF $9.6 MILLION

NOVATO, Calif., May 8 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Willis Lease Finance Corporation (NASDAQ:WLFC) today reported a pre-tax profit of $9.6 million in the first quarter of 2018. The Company achieved record quarterly lease rent revenue of $39.6 million in the period driven by 86% average utilization of a portfolio that grew 9.2% to $1.466 billion at quarter-end compared to $1.343 billion at December 31, 2017. Aggregate lease rent and maintenance reserve revenues were $55.1 million for the first quarter 2018. Diluted weighted average earnings per common share was $1.00 for the three months ended March 31, 2018.

“We have continued to maintain strong lease engine utilization while growing the portfolio with the purchase of modern new engines,” said Charles F. Willis, Chairman and CEO.  “We plan to maintain strong utilization while growing not only the lease engine portfolio but also our surplus material, asset management and consultancy businesses.”

“The first quarter of 2018 was marked by a tremendous amount of activity across the Platform, including in leasing, acquisitions, spare parts sales and our asset management and services businesses and our people have done a tremendous job managing all of this activity,” said Brian R. Hole, President. “We, and our customers, are very fortunate to have such a dedicated and talented group of professionals leading this Company forward.”

First Quarter 2018 Highlights (at or for the periods ended March 31, 2018, as compared to March 31, 2017, and December 31, 2017):
  • Lease rent revenue achieved a record quarterly high of $39.6 million in the first quarter of 2018; 31.1% growth from $30.2 million in the same quarter of 2017.
  • Quarterly Maintenance reserve revenue decreased by $16.5 million due to fewer long-term leases expiring as compared to the prior year period.
  • Spare parts and equipment sales decreased as there were no equipment sales in the current period, compared to $6.4 million in the first quarter of 2017.
  • General and administrative expenses increased, primarily due to costs associated with transitioning employees to our new Coconut Creek facility.
  • Average utilization in the quarter was approximately 86%, compared to 89% during the first quarter of 2017.  Utilization was influenced by the Company’s acquisition of new equipment.
  • Our equipment lease portfolio grew 9.2% to $1.466 billion, from $1.343 billion at December 31, 2017, net of asset sales and depreciation expense.  The book value of lease assets we own directly or through our joint ventures was $1.7 billion at March 31, 2018. 
  • The Company purchased $154.9 million of equipment in the first quarter of 2018, compared to $40.3 million in the first quarter of 2017.
  • The Company maintained $286 million of undrawn revolver capacity at March 31, 2018.
  • Tangible book value per diluted weighted average common share outstanding increased 0.8% to $41.96 at March 31, 2018, compared to $41.63 at December 31, 2017.
  • A total of 297,367 shares of common stock were repurchased in the first three months of 2018 for $10.2 million.
  • During the first quarter of 2018, the Company entered into agreements to purchase $217.1 million of engines and related equipment for our lease portfolio. 
 
Balance Sheet
As of March 31, 2018, the Company had a total lease portfolio consisting of 243 engines and related equipment, 15 aircraft and 9 other leased parts and equipment with a net book value of $1.466 billion. As of December 31, 2017, the Company had a total lease portfolio consisting of 225 engines and related equipment, 16 aircraft and 7 other leased parts and equipment, with a net book value of $1.343 billion.

Willis Lease Finance Corporation
Willis Lease Finance Corporation leases large and regional spare commercial aircraft engines, auxiliary power units and aircraft to airlines, aircraft engine manufacturers and maintenance, repair and overhaul providers in 120 countries. These leasing activities are integrated with engine and aircraft trading, engine lease pools and asset management services supported by cutting edge technology through its subsidiary Willis Asset Management, as well as various end-of-life solutions for aircraft, engines and aviation materials provided through its subsidiary, Willis Aeronautical Services, Inc.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  Do not unduly rely on forward-looking statements, which give only expectations about the future and are not guarantees.  Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update them.  Our actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements.  Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: the effects on the airline industry and the global economy of events such as terrorist activity, changes in oil prices and other disruptions to the world markets; trends in the airline industry and our ability to capitalize on those trends, including growth rates of markets and other economic factors; risks associated with owning and leasing jet engines and aircraft; our ability to successfully negotiate equipment purchases, sales and leases, to collect outstanding amounts due and to control costs and expenses; changes in interest rates and availability of capital, both to us and our customers; our ability to continue to meet the changing customer demands; regulatory changes affecting airline operations, aircraft maintenance, accounting standards and taxes; the market value of engines and other assets in our portfolio; and risks detailed in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and other continuing reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Monday, May 7, 2018

Global apparel and footwear market expected to grow from US$1.7 trillion by 2022

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 (Bernama) -- The global apparel and footwear market top US$1.7 trillion (RM6.58 trillion) in 2017 and is expected to grow by two per cent by 2022, a statement from market research company, Euromonitor International said.

It shows that the fast fashion trend has reshape the apparel industry in recent years, as frequent purchase of products that only last one season has led to the concept of disposable clothing whereby 350,000 tonnes of used clothing worth millions is disposed every year in the UK alone, according to WRAP charity.

The company's 2017 Global Consumer Trends Survey found that 65 per cent of respondents try to have a positive impact on the environment through everyday actions and over 60 per cent are influenced by friends and peer-to-peer opinions on social media, a statement said.

"In this hyper-transparency age, better informed consumers want to know how materials used in their garments and footwear are sourced and disposed of,? said senior research analyst at Euromonitor International, Marguerite LeRolland."

"They are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of human activities on the planet which has led to companies being exposed to greater reputational risks if they are found to have unfair practices," she added.

Meanwhile, executive editor at Women's Wear Daily (WWD), Arthur Zaczkiewicz said the fashion industry becoming extremely creative when working on several platforms to build a more eco-friendly and ethical brand image from the manufacturing phase to the post-sale treatment of unwanted clothes.

Further insights will be discussed in the webinar ?Ethical Fashion: How to Meet Industry Needs and Demands', hosted by Euromonitor and WWD on May 10, 2018.

Euromonitor International is the provider for global business intelligence and strategic market analysis with 40 years of experience publishing international market reports, business reference books and online databases on consumer markets.