How Malaysia Can Capitalise on the Eastward Shift in Maritime Trade

KUALA LUMPUR, June 23 (Bernama) -- The Middle East crisis is not ending; it is now just changing its shape. At present, what we are seeing is no longer a simple, temporary disruption, as analysts still expect, but a clear, structural reset across energy, freight, insurance, and logistics. Even if a fragile political arrangement lowers immediate tensions, Hormuz, the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb, and the East Med are going to be regarded and priced as risk-priced corridors for years, not weeks. Reuters already notes that the latest U.S.-Iran arrangement offers relief but, without any doubt, leaves core disputes unresolved, while the Strait of Hormuz flows are unlikely to return as quickly as some expect at present to pre-war levels. Taking the Red Sea example, the latter is still only at 60% of the level of shipping before Houthi actions, after a three-year “reopening”.

The key outcomes are clear. The first is partial de-escalation: prices soften, some tankers return, but what is much more important is that insurers, banks and charterers will continue to price political risk into every voyage. The second is renewed escalation: one missile, mine, boarding incident or Houthi miscalculation will be enough to push Red Sea and Gulf shipping again back into crisis, with most probably the same debilitating results. The third, and most likely, is managed instability, which means a situation not of full war, not of total peace, but of permanent friction for shipping, trade, and oil and gas markets, which is the most dangerous scenario because markets become numb while costs keep rising.

Institutions cannot “solve” this with statements; they all need redundancy. Governments, banks, insurers, ports and energy companies will have to treat maritime security as balance-sheet protection. The latter is very important, as this means diversified routing, strategic storage, pre-arranged insurance pools, state-backed guarantees, better convoy coordination, cybersecurity readiness and real-time risk intelligence. The result of the Hormuz (and Red Sea, or even the Baltic) crisis is the realisation that waiting for naval protection after a crisis starts is no longer a strategy on which to build your future.

“Having spent years setting up, advising and supporting trade operations across the GCC and Southeast Asia, including engagements with national banks, financial institutions, commodity traders, logistics operators and energy companies, I have seen firsthand how quickly geopolitical risk translates into commercial reality. Long before cargoes stop moving, banks begin adjusting credit lines, insurers tighten conditions, and trading houses alter routing decisions. The real impact of a crisis is often first visible in financing structures and trade flows rather than on shipping screens. Today’s Middle East crisis is following exactly that pattern,” said Dr. Cyril Widdershoven.

Middle Eastern and Arab NOCs understand this faster than many Western institutions. Aramco, ADNOC, QatarEnergy, KPC and others are no longer only selling molecules; they are securing corridors, terminals, fleets, storage, trading arms and downstream positions close to Asian demand. Asia is no longer a market; it has become the main anchor for the future. The shift is from FOB exports to integrated control. The latter means that there is a big push to bundle crude, LNG, petrochemicals, bunkering, refining, storage, and shipping into a single strategic chain. The latter issues and realisation are the main drivers behind Gulf players deepening their exposure to India, China, Southeast Asia, and flexible LNG networks. Aramco’s Jafurah monetisation and international LNG expansion through MidOcean are part of this wider infrastructure-as-strategy model.

Sanctions are accelerating this. Western sanctions and compliance uncertainty slow traditional trade finance and lead to higher costs and more selective strategies. Ships, cargoes, owners, insurers, banks and ports are all now screened as political assets. The consequence is simple: the landed cost of energy rises even when the commodity price does not. War-risk cover for Hormuz has reportedly risen from around 0.25% of vessel value to as high as 3% for some exposed vessels, while Lloyd’s-related high-risk designations have widened across the Gulf.

This changes freight financing not temporarily but permanently. International and regional banks will demand more margin, while insurers will demand exclusions. Charterers will demand optionality. Importers will pay for rerouting, delay, demurrage, storage and credit risk. For import-dependent economies, especially in Asia, Africa and parts of Europe, the latter means that for all the energy bill will increasingly include a hidden security premium. Oil at $85 can behave like $100 when freight, insurance and financing are added.

“My experience working with and advising trade-finance operations in the Gulf and Malaysia has consistently shown that energy trade is ultimately a financing business as much as it is a shipping business. Cargoes only move efficiently when banks, insurers, traders, ports and governments operate within a predictable framework. Once uncertainty enters the equation, liquidity becomes selective, transaction costs rise and risk premiums multiply throughout the supply chain. What is currently happening across Hormuz, the Red Sea and the wider Middle East is therefore not only a maritime-security challenge; it is increasingly a trade-finance challenge that will influence investment decisions, storage strategies and commodity flows for years to come.” Dr. Cyril remarked.

The fragmentation of the energy mix makes this even more important. Hydrocarbons, LNG, biofuels, methanol, ammonia, and future green fuels will not neatly replace one another; they will coexist. At present, there is no real full-scale substitution for hydrocarbons, while energy and product demand are still increasing and will be for decades. That means more terminals, more storage tanks, more safety rules, more specialised vessels, more port-side infrastructure and more regulatory complexity. Energy security will no longer be about a single pipeline or tanker route; it has to be built around and linked to multi-fuel optionality.

ASEAN and Malaysia now sit at the center of this new map. The Strait of Malacca is not just a shipping lane; it is the Asian energy bloodstream. The latter is clear, as even the IEA and the EIA identify Hormuz and Malacca as the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints. The EIA has even stated that Malacca handled an estimated 23.2 million barrels per day in 1H25, which is a staggering 29% of global maritime oil flows.

He continued, “My observation is that ASEAN understands the commercial opportunity, but readiness is uneven. Having worked extensively with trade, energy and logistics stakeholders in Malaysia and across the wider ASEAN region, including advisory engagements involving banking and financial-sector trade operations, I view Malaysia's potential from both a commercial and financial perspective. The country's geographic position along the Strait of Malacca remains one of its greatest strategic advantages. However, future success will depend not only on infrastructure investments, but equally on creating a trusted ecosystem for financing, insurance, customs efficiency, energy trading and international dispute resolution. Infrastructure attracts attention; financial credibility attracts capital. Both will be needed if Malaysia is to capitalise on the structural shift currently underway in global energy and maritime trade.”

There is no doubt that Singapore is the most important asset in the region, widely recognised as world-class. However, it is also currently already fighting an uphill battle, as it is congested and expensive. At the same time, Malaysia has geography, land, political ambition, and room for new energy infrastructure. The main constraints to be dealt with at present are that it still needs to demonstrate execution, governance, security, and investor confidence. Another Asian country, again in the same arena, Indonesia has scale but regulatory complexity. Others, such as Thailand and Vietnam, have industrial demand but less chokepoint leverage. The region is strategically important, but not every player is equally prepared.

That is why new freeport and energy-zone concepts matter. Maharani Freeport will be of interest as it introduces a potential Malaysian energy, logistics, storage and maritime services node directly along the Strait of Malacca. Its own project material describes it as Malaysia’s first duty-exempted energy freeport, within Muar Port limits, with deep-water access exceeding 24 meters and VLCC capability. In other reports, it is stated that it is a 3,200-acre, three-island deep-water free zone designed for oil and gas activity, with energy hub, seaport, industrial park, and financial hub components.

Don’t think that Maharani will replace Singapore. That is the wrong question. The real dynamic is that Singapore may no longer be the only logical answer for storage, blending, bunkering, finance and energy logistics in the Malacca system. If Maharani, Port Klang, PTP, Johor, and other Malaysian assets are coordinated properly, Malaysia could become a complementary yet strategically valuable alternative: cheaper, closer to land-based industrial development, and potentially more flexible for Middle Eastern, Chinese, Indian, and ASEAN energy players.

For Singapore, this means competition as well as validation. Singapore remains the benchmark for reliability, arbitration, bunkering, finance and maritime services. But its premium model becomes vulnerable, especially if international and regional energy companies decide they need redundancy more than prestige. For Malaysia, the opportunity is enormous, but so is the risk. A freeport will need security, transparent rules, bankability, and international trust to succeed; otherwise, it will only be real estate. However, when set up with all factors in mind, especially storage, customs efficiency, financing, bunkering, digital tracking, ship services, and energy trading, it will become a major and highly strategic infrastructure.

The conclusion is blunt: the Middle East crisis has moved the center of gravity eastward. The Gulf is still the source, but Asia is the battleground for access. The Strait of Malacca is no longer just a passage; after Hormuz, it has clearly become the insurance policy for the future energy system. Middle Eastern NOCs, Asian importers, banks and ports that understand this early will build permanent advantage. Those still waiting for the “old normal” to return are already behind.

SOURCE: Blue Water Strategy

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Dr. Cyril Widdershoven
Tel: +316 5381 9265
Email: cyril@bluewaterstrategy.eu

--BERNAMA

POSTAL FORUM URGES PUBLIC VIGILANCE AGAINST RISING POSTAL AND DELIVERY SCAMS

CYBERJAYA, June 23 (Bernama) -- Postal Forum, the self-regulatory industry body for the postal and courier sector designated by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) pursuant to the Postal Services Act 2012, today issued a public advisory calling upon Malaysian citizens to exercise heightened caution amid increasing reports of scams impersonating postal and courier service providers.

As part of its ongoing consumer protection mandate, Postal Forum is issuing this advisory proactively — recognising that public awareness is the first and most effective line of defence against fraud. Reports of fraudulent communications — including fake parcel delivery notifications, demands for bogus customs clearance fees, Cash-on-Delivery (COD) payment manipulation, and phishing links disguised as tracking updates — have been received across multiple channels, targeting consumers of all age groups through SMS, WhatsApp, and email.

HOW THE SCAMS WORK

Scammers typically contact victims posing as courier companies or postal agents, claiming that a parcel is being withheld pending payment of duties, redelivery fees or verification charges. Victims are directed to click on links leading to counterfeit websites designed to harvest personal and banking information.

A growing variant involves Cash-on-Delivery (COD) scams, where consumers receive unsolicited parcels at their doorstep — deliveries they never ordered. Assuming the parcel was perhaps a gift or a forgotten purchase, victims pay the COD amount upon delivery, only to find the package empty or containing a low-value item worth far less than what they paid.

Common red flags include:
• Unexpected messages about parcels that were never ordered;
• Requests for payment via online transfer, e-wallet or prepaid card;
• COD payment demanded for a parcel you never ordered;
• Links to websites with unusual or misspelt domain names; or
• Urgency tactics pressuring you to act immediately or face parcel being returned to sender.

“Postal and courier scams are an organised threat that exploits the trust consumers place in the delivery ecosystem. Postal Forum takes this seriously — our mandate is to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of the postal and courier industry,” said Nurhafizah Hanifah, Head of Postal Forum.

She added that when scammers impersonate legitimate operators, it is the reputation of the entire sector that suffers. In that regard, she cited obligations of postal and courier operators to uphold selfregulatory standards — active communication with consumers through verified channels, disclosure of official contact points, and prompt reporting of fraudulent impersonation to the relevant authorities are not only aligned with established best practices, but are also critical steps in curbing the crime.

“Self-regulation only works when every industry player takes ownership and this is the moment to demonstrate that commitment.”

WHAT SHOULD THE PUBLIC DO

Postal Forum advises the public to exercise vigilance and take the following preventive steps:-

1. Track what you order — reject what you didn't

If you are expecting a parcel, track its movement through the official tracking mechanism made available by the relevant courier service provider. If you receive a delivery notification for something you never ordered, you are strongly urged to avoid clicking on suspicious links or responding to the notifications. Refuse the parcel and report the incident.

2. For COD purchases, inspect before you pay

If a COD parcel arrives that you did not order, do not pay. Scammers send unsolicited parcels knowing that some recipients will pay first and ask questions later. If you pay and open the package to find it empty or containing a cheap item, the money is lost. Always refuse COD payment for deliveries you cannot verify.

3. Verify before you act

Scammers are now sophisticated, where messages that used to appear as an obvious scam tactic may now appear more formal and can cause genuine panic. Stay calm and contact your courier or postal service provider directly using details from their official website to verify – not from any links in a suspicious message.

4. Do not click unfamiliar links

Phishing links often mimic real courier tracking pages. Look out for minor misspellings or replacement of numerical or alphabetical characters in website addresses which often look too similar to the original link. Always type the official URL directly into your browser.

5. Never pay through informal channels

Legitimate operators do not request payment via personal bank transfers, e-wallets, or prepaid cards for customs or redelivery fees. By standards under the Code of Practice for Postal Services (CPPS), there should not be any hidden charges and any such fees should have been accounted for at the point of shipment booking.

6. Report suspicious messages

If you receive a suspicious message or have been a victim of a scam, lodge a report with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) or contact the National Scams Response Centre (NSRC) hotline at 997.

7. Share awareness

Help protect family and friends, especially elderly relatives, by sharing this information.

Postal Forum urges the public to stop, verify, and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or making payments without first confirming directly with your courier service provider through official channels. “Legitimate postal and courier operators will never request personal banking details or urgent fee payments through unofficial messaging platforms. When in doubt, visit the official website or call the verified hotline,” Nurhafizah reiterated.

POSTAL FORUM’S COMMITMENT

Postal Forum continues to work with industry players and MCMC to strengthen consumer protection standards across the postal and courier sector. Ongoing initiatives include consumer advocacy and research, complaint resolution coordination, and the Code of Practice for Postal Services (CPPS) as the benchmark for service standards, underpinning a safer delivery experience for all Malaysians.

Members of the public with complaints relating to postal or courier services may also channel their concerns via MCMC Consumer Redress Portal at https://aduan.mcmc.gov.my/ or email to feedback@postalforum.my.

Issued by:

Postal Forum
Secretariat — Advocacy and Communications Unit
Date: 22 JUNE 2026

About Postal Forum

Postal Forum is a self-regulatory body designated by the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) under Section 49 and 50 of the Postal Services Act 2012 (Act 741) to give feedback and make recommendations to the MCMC on matters concerning the interest of consumers of the postal and courier services industry.

Amongst our functions are to identify and keep under review matters affecting the consumers, represent consumers' interests including complaints-handling and promote consumers' interest in relation to the tariffs and standards of the postal and courier industry.

Log on to https://postalforum.my/ for more information.

SOURCE: Postal Forum

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Irsalina Rusli
Advocacy & Communications Unit
Tel : +6012-260 0336
Email : irsalina@postalforum.my

--BERNAMA

FEYTECH Inks the First CAuto Partnership to Address Critical Automotive Talent Gap for EV Era

Caption (From left to right):

1. Mohd Riduan Abd. Rahman, Executive Director, Investment Facilitation, MIDA
2. Datuk Syed Hisham Syed Wazir, Chairman, Progressive Impact Corporation Berhad
3. Prof. Dr. Yatimah Binti Alias, Vice Chancellor, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA)
4. Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman, Bermaz Auto Berhad
5. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO, MIDA
6. Connie Go, CEO, Feytech Holdings Berhad
7. Dato’ Mazlan Mohamad, Independent Non-Executive Chairman, Feytech Holdings Berhad


Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) leads a five-university academic front to deploy the structured 'MRI3' framework for advanced industrial internships and direct employment pipelines.

KUALA LUMPUR, June 23 (Bernama) -- As Malaysia's electric vehicle (EV) transition accelerates, Feytech Holdings Berhad (Feytech) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Consortium Automotive of Malaysian Universities (CAuto), led by Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) and witnessed by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to establish an industry-first multi-university internship pipeline connecting five major technical public universities with the automotive manufacturing sector.

CAuto’s formation unifies Malaysia’s top technical universities into a singular academic front, and this milestone agreement with Feytech delivers concrete pathways for students.

Under the joint Ministry of Higher Education Research and Industry-Infused Incubator (MRI3) framework, Feytech will provide critical work-based learning (WBL), industrial training and final year project opportunities.

It also provides competitive internship allowances and commits to full sponsorships for select student final year projects to build a resilient employment pipeline. Suitable engineering graduates will be targeted for strategic career pathways within Feytech’s ecosystem, keeping Malaysian engineering talent at the forefront of the EV and smart manufacturing era.

Witnessing the MoU signing, MIDA CEO, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said that this partnership comes at an opportune time and is instrumental in empowering local public technical institutions to align more closely with the needs of next-generation automotive ecosystems.

He said, “Malaysia’s ability to attract and sustain high quality investments depends on the strengths of its talent pipeline. As the automotive industry undergoes rapid transformation driven by electrification, automation, and digitalisation, closer collaboration between industry and academia has become more important than ever.

This collaboration goes beyond internships and industrial training. It creates a pathway for students to learn from real manufacturing environments, work with actual production technologies, solve industry challenges, and contribute to innovation even before they graduate. At the same time, it supports the development of local capabilities and talent required to strengthen supply chain localisation, enhance competitiveness, and increase the participation of Malaysian companies in higher value-added activities within the automotive ecosystem.”

Meanwhile, the CEO of Feytech, Connie Go emphasised the importance of talent development and technology advancement as the country transitions rapidly towards EV adoption.

“While the Government continues to support the industry through progressive policies, industry players must play their part by creating opportunities for students, developing future-ready talent and supporting technology transfer.

“This partnership with CAuto ensures we're not just meeting today's workforce needs but preparing students for the AI-integrated smart factories and EV production environments of tomorrow,” she added.

At the same time, Prof. Ts. Dr. Yatimah Alias, the Chairman of CAuto and ViceChancellor of UMPSA, representing the five-member universities (UMPSA, UTHM, UTeM, UniMAP, and UTM), highlighted the collective strength of the academic network.

"This partnership is an important step in bringing universities and industry closer together. Through CAuto, students from five public universities will have greater access to meaningful industry exposure and practical learning opportunities in the electric vehicle and automotive manufacturing sectors.

We want our students to understand real industry expectations, apply what they learn in the classroom and be better prepared for the workplace. At the same time, this collaboration will help universities keep their programmes relevant to the changing needs of the industry,” she said.

For more information about the companies, please refer: https://tinyurl.com/5n8tevy7

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Puan Azrina Hashim
Designation: Director, Industry Talent Management and Expatriate Division
Tel: +603-2267 3454
Email: azrina@mida.gov.my

Feytech Holdings Berhad
Name: Ms Michelle Tan
Designation: P.A to CEO
Tel: +6012-2188861
Email: pa.ceo@gosfordseat.com

UMPSA
Name: Mimi Rabita Abdul Wahit
Designation: Director for Corporate Communications
Tel: +6019-9887321
Email: mimirabitah@umpsa.edu.my

--BERNAMA

CIMB introduces first-of-its-kind First Car Solution for new car owners

The programme includes two years of complimentary road tax renewal, comprehensive financing, Purchase Price GAP protection and credit card benefits

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- CIMB Bank Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Bank”) has announced its “First Car Solution” (“the Programme”), aimed at providing first-time car owners automotive financing with competitive financing rates, complemented by essential financial protection facilities, including insurance and Takaful protection, as well as CIMB credit cards. The comprehensive ecosystem is designed to assist customers aged 18 to 30 years old in effectively managing their finances through tailored financing and protection options. With this initiative, CIMB reinforces its position as the preferred banking partner for lifestyle and mobility needs, delivering affordable and flexible solutions for aspiring car owners.

First-time car buyers will enjoy complimentary road tax renewal for two years amounting to RM240, making CIMB the first bank in Malaysia to offer this value-added facility. Competitive financing rates make the car‑buying process more convenient and accessible. The inclusion of insurance and Takaful protection through Bancassurance Financing offers a safety net against unforeseen circumstances such as accidents or life events that may impact financial commitments, offered at a minimal cost to deliver greater peace of mind. A key benefit includes full payout of purchase price for a car in case of total loss, available with Purchase Price GAP (“PPG”) insurance. PPG covers the difference between motor insurance payout and the original purchase price of the vehicle. The First Car Solution reflects the Bank’s brand promise of “Moving You Forward”, enabling customers with access and opportunities so that they can progress to achieve their long-term goals.

Gurdip Singh Sidhu, Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Malaysia and CIMB Bank Berhad said, “Car ownership in Malaysia requires careful consideration, particularly for first-time buyers navigating competitive vehicle prices and balancing rising living costs. Beyond access to financing, buyers should ensure monthly commitments remain manageable over time. CIMB’s First Car Solution reflects CIMB’s approach to responsible lending by incorporating features that help reduce common cost pressures associated with car ownership, such as road tax and insurance protection. By addressing these practical considerations upfront, we aim to support customers in making informed ownership decisions that are financially sustainable.”

Meanwhile, credit card privileges promote responsible spending habits and provide added value to customers including cashback on petrol and car related expenses of up to RM1,200 per annum, as well as groceries and dining cash rebates. These offerings help alleviate the financial obligations associated with car ownership, ensuring first-time car owners focus on their mobility needs without worrying about additional expenses, while empowering them to cultivate sound financial practices for the future.

Haniz Nazlan, Chief Executive Officer of Group Consumer Banking, CIMB Group, said, “We understand that, for young adults it is not just about owning a car, but it is also important to build a foundation for financial independence and security. The Programme is designed to make that goal happen through a well-structured car ownership programme to help the buyer in planning for long-term financial wellbeing. By combining lifestyle benefits and protection plans, we’re helping the next generation build financial resilience and make sustainable financial choices whilst staying committed to our broader purpose of advancing customers and society.”

For more information about the Programme, please visit https://www.cimb.com.my/firstcar. Terms and conditions apply.

About CIMB

CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM81.6 billion as at 31 March 2026. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines.

Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 545 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 March 2026. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award-winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.45% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.

SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com

--BERNAMA

Defiance Launches Europe’s First Memory UCITS ETF (DRAM)

• Defiance has expanded its European ETF lineup with the launch of the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF (ticker: DRAM).
• The ETF seeks to provide exposure to companies involved in the development, manufacturing, commercialisation, and storage of memory semiconductors and data storage systems.
• In the U.S., memory-focused ETFs have gathered around $20 billion in assets under management (AUM).1
• The ETF is listed on Xetra and Borsa Italiana, with the London Stock Exchange to follow.

MIAMI, June 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Defiance ETFs is excited to announce the launch of the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF (ticker: DRAM), Europe’s first memory ETF. The Fund seeks to provide exposure to companies involved in the development, manufacturing, commercialisation, and storage of memory semiconductors and data storage systems.

Defiance Memory UCITS ETF
ISIN: IE000CEUZ052
TER: 0.69%
Exchange Bloomberg Ticker SEDOL Trading Currency
Xetra DRAM GY BVVG296 EUR
Borsa Italiana DRAM IM BVVG2B8 USD

Memory prices are moving higher. Demand from AI, cloud computing, and data centres is absorbing a growing share of advanced memory capacity, while major manufacturers are prioritising higher-margin areas such as high-bandwidth memory and server-grade DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) over more commoditised consumer applications.2

This shift is creating pressure across the wider technology supply chain. As supply is redirected towards AI infrastructure and hyperscale data centres, manufacturers of everyday devices are facing higher input costs and tighter availability.

This year, it is expected that there will not be enough memory to meet worldwide demand.3 DRAM and solid-state drive (SSD) prices could rise as much as 130% by the end of 2026, according to Gartner.4

Exposure to the memory sector through ETFs has so far only been possible in the U.S., where assets are now around $20 billion.5 The Defiance Memory UCITS ETF seeks to give European investors the opportunity to access the memory sector, which will need to expand to keep up with AI-driven demand.

This is Defiance’s 4th launch since entering the European UCITS ETF market earlier this year.

Defiance UCITS Lineup Ticker
Defiance AI & Power Infrastructure UCITS ETF AIPO
Defiance Memory UCITS ETF DRAM
Drone UCITS ETF DRON
Ukraine Reconstruction UCITS ETF UKRN

Sylvia Jablonski, CIO of Defiance ETFs, commented: “Memory is the foundational layer of the AI economy. Every model training run, inference workload, and hyperscale data centre expansion depends on DRAM, HBM, and advanced storage. DRAM gives European investors a direct, rules-based way to access this segment of the AI value chain, complementing the power infrastructure exposure already available through AIPO.”

Hector McNeil, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of HANetf, commented: “We are delighted to be partnering with Defiance to launch the Defiance Memory UCITS ETF. The ETF captures a sector that has seen significant growth recently, driven predominantly by the rise of AI and its infrastructure. This ETF particularly complements Defiance’s AIPO ETF, which provides access to the power infrastructure behind the AI buildout.”

For full fund details, including the prospectus and Key Information Document, visit hanetf.com.

About Defiance ETFs

Founded in 2018, Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. The firm manages 75+ ETFs designed to provide targeted exposure to high-growth sectors including AI infrastructure, quantum computing, drones and modern warfare, and other emerging technologies.

About HANetf

HANetf is an independent provider of UCITS ETFs, working with asset management companies to bring differentiated, modern, and innovative exposures to European ETF investors. Via our white-label ETF platform, HANetf provides a complete operational, regulatory, distribution and marketing solution for asset managers to launch and manage UCITS ETFs. www.hanetf.com

Media Contact

Brenda Hentschel | bhentschel@gregoryagency.com | 201.705.3758

For European media enquiries:
Italy: Elena Soffientini, Mymediarelation | soffientini@mymediarelation.it | +39 375 670 62 07
Germany: Caroline Chojnowski, Public Imaging | Caroline.Chojnowski@publicimaging.de | +49 (0)40-401 999 - 23

Important Information

Communications issued in the European Economic Area (“EEA”)
The content in this document is issued and approved by HANetf EU Limited (“HANetf EU”). HANetf EU is authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. HANetf EU is registered in Ireland with registration number 728832.

Communications issued in the UK
The content in this document is issued by HANetf Limited (“HANetf”) and approved by Privium Fund Management (UK) Limited (“Privium”). HANetf is an appointed representative of Privium, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The registered office of Privium is The Shard, 24th Floor, 32 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9SG.

This communication has been prepared for professional investors, but the ETCs and ETFs set out in this communication (“Products”) may be available in some jurisdictions to any investors. Please check with your broker or intermediary that the relevant Product is available in your jurisdiction and suitable for your investment profile.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The price of the Products may vary and they do not offer a fixed income.

This document may contain forward looking statements including statements regarding our belief or current expectations with regards to the performance of certain assets classes. Forward looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. There can be no assurance that such statements will be accurate and actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Therefore, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

The content of this document is for information purposes and for your internal use only, and does not constitute an investment advice, recommendation, investment research or an offer for sale nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any Product or make any investment.

An investment in an exchange traded product is dependent on the performance of the underlying asset class, less costs, but it is not expected to track that performance exactly. The Products involve numerous risks including among others, general market risks relating to underlying adverse price movements in an Index (for ETFs) or underlying asset class and currency, liquidity, operational, legal and regulatory risks. In addition, in relation to Cryptocurrency ETCs, these are highly volatile digital assets and performance is unpredictable.

The information contained on this document is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, an advertisement or any other step in furtherance of a public offering of securities in the United States or any province or territory thereof, where none of the Issuers (as defined below) or their Products are authorised or registered for distribution and where no prospectus of any of the Issuers has been filed with any securities commission or regulatory authority. No document or information on this document should be taken, transmitted or distributed (directly or indirectly) into the United States. None of the Issuers, nor any securities issued by it, have been or will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 or the Investment Company Act of 1940 or qualified under any applicable state securities statutes.

The Issuers:
1. HANetf ICAV and HANetf ICAV II are open-ended Irish collective asset management vehicles and are the issuers of the ETFs under the terms in the relevant Prospectuses and relevant Supplements for each ETF approved by the Central Bank of Ireland (“CBI”) (each an “ETF Prospectus” and together the “ETF Prospectuses”). Investors should read the current version of the relevant ETF Prospectus before investing and should refer to the section of the relevant ETF Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETFs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETF Prospectuses.

2. HANetf ETC Securities plc, a public limited company incorporated in Ireland, issuing under the terms in the Base Prospectus approved by the Central Bank of Ireland and the final terms of the relevant series (“ETC Securities Documentation”) is the issuer of the precious metals ETCs. Investors should read the latest version of the ETC Securities Documentation before investing and should refer to the section of the Base Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETC Securities Documentation.

3. Bitwise Europe GmbH, a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Federal Republic of Germany, issuing under the terms in the Prospectus approved by the Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht (“BaFin”) and the final terms (“Cryptocurrency Prospectus”) is the issuer of the ETCM ETCs. Investors should read the latest version of the Cryptocurrency Prospectus before investing and should refer to the section of the Cryptocurrency Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs contained in the Cryptocurrency Prospectus. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the Cryptocurrency Prospectus.

4. HANetf Multi-Asset ETC Issuer plc, a public company incorporated in Jersey, issuing under the terms in the Base Prospectuses approved by the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (Sw. Finansinspektionen) (the “SFSA”), the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) and the final terms of the relevant series (“Multi-Asset ETC Securities Documentation”) is the issuer of ETCs linked to and secured by various underlying assets. Investors should read the latest version of the ETC Securities Documentation before investing and should refer to the section of the relevant Base Prospectus entitled ‘Risk Factors’ for further details of risks associated with an investment in the ETCs. Any decision to invest should be based on the information contained in the ETC Securities Documentation.

The relevant ETF Prospectuses, ETC Securities Documentation, Multi-Asset ETC Securities Documentation and Cryptocurrency Prospectus can all be downloaded from www.hanetf.com.

The decision and amount to invest in any Product should take into consideration your specific circumstances after seeking independent investment, tax and legal advice. We do not control and are not responsible for the content of third-party websites.

We believe the information in this document is based on reliable sources, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The views expressed are the views of HANetf at time of publication and may change. Neither Privium nor HANetf is liable for any losses relating to the accuracy, completeness or use of information in this communication, including any consequential loss.

FOR SWISS INVESTORS ONLY: The Fund has appointed as Swiss Representative Waystone Fund Services (Switzerland) SA, Av. Villamont 17, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland, Tel: +41 21 311 17 77, email: switzerland@waystone.com. The Fund’s Swiss paying agent is Helvetische Bank AG. The Prospectus, the Key Investor Information Documents, the Instrument of Incorporation as well as the annual and semi-annual reports may be obtained free of charge from the Swiss Representative in Lausanne. The issue and redemption prices are published at each issue and redemption on www.fundinfo.com.

1Source: ETFBook. Data as at 06/16/2026.
2Source: Forbes, 2026.
3Source: CNBC, 2026.
4Source: Gartner, 2026.
5Source: ETFBook. Data as at 06/16/2026.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a566fcca-b8ad-4109-9d41-2af9ee73c275

SOURCE: Defiance ETFs

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA

MAVENIR LAUNCHES UNIFIED DIGITAL APP FOR ENET

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Mavenir, the cloud-native network software provider, has launched a unified digital platform for Guyanese telecommunications operator ENet, bringing mobile, broadband, fixed-line and IPTV services into a single application (app).

The My ENet App enables consumer and enterprise customers to manage voice, SMS, data, broadband, fixed-line and IPTV services through one digital platform, replacing multiple apps previously used across different business support systems.

According to Mavenir in a statement, the app integrates customer onboarding, self-service functions, payments, loyalty programmes and eSIM provisioning, providing users with a single digital touchpoint for managing their services.

Mavenir Senior Vice President and General Manager of Business Solutions, Sandeep Singh said the app demonstrates how telecommunications operators can use digital platforms to expand beyond traditional connectivity services and develop new monetisation opportunities.

Meanwhile, ENet Chief Executive Officer, Vishok Persaud said the platform delivers a more streamlined customer experience while creating opportunities for future digital services and innovation.

A key feature of the app is a centralised digital wallet that allows customers to manage payments across all ENet services through a single account. The capability could support future third-party payment services and new digital revenue opportunities.

The platform was built on Mavenir’s Digital Enablement platform and delivered through the company's Agile Delivery Squad model, which provides dedicated development resources for ongoing enhancements and system integration. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices.

The launch builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies. In 2023, ENet launched new 4G and 5G services in Guyana powered by Mavenir's cloud-native IMS and Digital BSS, laying the foundation for the latest digital transformation initiative.

-- BERNAMA

MAVENIR, RED HAT LAUNCH AI MONETISATION PLATFORM

KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Mavenir has launched an integrated artificial intelligence (AI) platform developed in collaboration with Red Hat, enabling network operators to offer and bill AI services through token-based consumption models using existing telecom billing systems.

The platform combines Mavenir's AI software with Red Hat's AI and Kubernetes capabilities running on Red Hat OpenShift, allowing operators to deploy AI services on their own infrastructure while maintaining control over pricing, service levels, data and model selection.

Mavenir Chief Technology and Strategy Officer, Bejoy Pankajakshan said the platform enables operators to become AI service providers rather than merely supplying connectivity.

He said operators would be able to monetise AI usage through existing business support systems while retaining control over data, pricing and service quality.

Meanwhile, Red Hat Chief Technology Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Engineering, Chris Wright said the hybrid architecture allows operators to run most AI workloads on sovereign on-premises infrastructure while selectively connecting to external models when advanced capabilities are required.

In a statement, Mavenir said the platform supports three operating models: operator-branded AI services for subscribers, AI infrastructure for operator-managed AI grid deployments, and managed AI services for enterprise customers on a token-based consumption basis.

The company said the platform is designed to help operators generate new revenue streams from AI services through token-based plans, while providing control over data sovereignty, service assurance and spending on external AI models. The architecture supports both on-premises small language models and selective access to advanced frontier models through policy-based routing.

The platform includes AI operations, model management, token charging and billing capabilities, as well as security and service assurance features designed for carrier-grade deployments.

Mavenir will showcase the platform at DTW Ignite 2026, which takes place from June 23 to 25.

-- BERNAMA