FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR, DELPHIX SPEEDS UP GROWTH, PROFITABILITY

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- Delphix, the industry leader in DevOps test data management (TDM), has announced closing fiscal year 2022 with a second consecutive year of accelerated revenue growth and profitability at a scale well over US$100 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR). (US$1 = RM4.355)

With increasing activity from hostile nation states and ransomware gangs, companies around the world need a solution to automate and secure test data for enterprise applications.

As a result, the company also reported 36 per cent faster year-over-year growth of its large, enterprise customer base driven by increasing data risks.

Delphix’s growth comes as companies worldwide continue to invest in innovative DevOps solutions to accelerate application delivery, modernise legacy infrastructure, and move applications across the multicloud. 

“Enterprise applications all need test data for fast, quality releases. But test data has traditionally been slow, complex, and filled with risk,” said Delphix Founder and CEO, Jedidiah Yueh in a statement.

“Delphix helps companies like Banco Carrefour, The University of Manchester, and BNP Paribas release applications quickly while improving data security and compliance.”

Delphix delivers an innovative API-first data platform that transforms application delivery with comprehensive data controls. By automating data delivery into test environments, Delphix helps software developers innovate faster while reducing compliance and security risk.

Test data management is a critical component of application development but is often slow and manual. The Delphix DevOps Data Platform enables teams to create, manage, and automate hybrid cloud-based data environments to support CI/CD pipelines and train AI/ML algorithms.

Delphix Growth Highlights include expanded large enterprise customer base; and, appointed new additions to the global leadership team. Delphix also introduced multiple innovations across the company’s product offerings in the last fiscal year.

Among new additions to the global leadership team include Robert Stevenson, VP of Japan Operations; Josh Harbert, Chief Marketing Officer; and, Pritesh Parekh, Chief Trust & Security Officer, VP of Engineering.

Delphix has introduced Continuous Vault, a ransomware-specific capability that boosts the Delphix platform’s data isolation capabilities and strengthens data protection for enterprises; and, Data Control Tower, which provides a single point of control for API-driven test data automation across development pipelines at scale.

More details at www.delphix.com.

-- BERNAMA

HERE TECHNOLOGIES FUELS ISUZU AUSTRALIA LIMITED FOR NAVIGATION SERVICES

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Isuzu Trucks, the market leading heavy commercial vehicle brand in Australia, has announced deploying HERE Navigation, an off-the-shelf navigation solution for embedded in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) platforms, in its new 2022 model year F Series, FX Series and FY Series trucks sold in the country.

HERE Navigation optimises Isuzu’s fleet operations with a connected in-vehicle navigation system from HERE Technologies, the leading location data and technology platform.

According to Isuzu’s Future of Trucking Report, fleet operators are seeking increased safety and business efficiency dividends from the technology incorporated in their road transport equipment.

With the new 2022 F Series, FX Series and FY Series trucks equipped with HERE Navigation, Isuzu truck drivers are able to receive the latest, updated and accurate maps, live traffic, and recommended truck routes to complete their jobs, by using mobile phone data from a tethered smartphone.

This fully integrated solution will be deployed on Isuzu’s embedded IVI platform – the MyIsuzu Co-Pilot, so drivers receive guidance on the go for safe driving.

In a statement, Daniel Antonello, General Manager of Australia and New Zealand at HERE Technologies said: “The Australian truck and road transportation industry is going through major changes exacerbated by the pandemic. With road freight demand expected to increase in the coming years, it’s important that we leverage the best location technology to ensure that drivers are driving safely and efficiently.

“We’re proud that HERE is able to support Isuzu as they continue to enhance its product offerings in Australia and cement their position as the country’s truck market leader.”

“HERE Navigation gives us the flexibility and agility required to offer one of the most interactive and intuitive navigation experiences on the market. The accurate maps and location data ensure that our operators have the latest route and navigation information available,” said IAL Chief of Strategy, Grant Cooper.”

For more information, visit www.here.com.

-- BERNAMA

MMEX, Tierra del Fuego Province announce Río Grande green hydrogen project

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- The Province of Tierra del Fuego and MMEX Resources Corporation have jointly announced the potential development of a green hydrogen project in the Río Grande area.

The Governor of the Province of Tierra del Fuego, Gustavo Adrian Melella announced: “MMEX, a North American company with operations in Texas, USA with extensive experience in the implementation, financing and operation of energy infrastructure in Latin America and the USA, is evaluating a project for the production of 55 tonnes of green hydrogen with 160 megawatts of base wind power.”

Melella said: “The excellent wind conditions in the Río Grande area, which allow efficient logistics and production and direct access to the sea, are the basis for MMEX's entry into Argentine Patagonia.

“The final objective would be the implementation of a green hydrogen node destined to export to Europe and Asia. We welcome and support the participation of MMEX in Tierra del Fuego.

“The province of Tierra del Fuego and MMEX have signed agreements on the exchange of technical information. This allows rapid progress in the preliminary assessment of wind potential.”

Meanwhile, MMEX CEO, Jack W. Hanks said in a statement: “We are very excited to join the Government of Tierra del Fuego to plan this project. The global focus on renewable energy and the need to reduce the planet's carbon footprint is at the core of Tierra del Fuego and MMEX's strategy, drawing on MMEX's green hydrogen expertise.”

The provincial government, within its support for the development of renewable energy industries, welcomes initiatives that allow the sustainable use of Tierra del Fuego's resources and reaffirms, as a government, its commitment to sustainable development, the preservation of the environment, investment and employment.

-- BERNAMA

PARTNERS LIFE MAIDEN NEW ZEALAND LIFE AND HEALTH INSURER GOING LIVE ON FINEOS PLATFORM

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- FINEOS Corporation, the market-leading provider of group and individual core systems for life, accident and health insurance, has announced that Partners Life has become the first life and health insurance company in New Zealand to go live on the FINEOS Platform.

The FINEOS Platform is a purpose-built end-to-end SaaS core platform for life, accident and health insurers.

The Partners Life and FINEOS partnership replaced the insurer’s existing system with FINEOS Claims, giving Partners Life unparalleled operational and customer service benefits.

The FINEOS Platform includes a market-tested, pre-configured business and regulatory content pack for the region known as FINEOS LISA (Life Insurance Solutions Australasia). Internally, the company will experience improved risk controls and claims management workflow covering life, TPD, trauma, income protection and medical products.

This launch is the first stage of the company's claims transformation journey, with medical claims debuting on the FINEOS Platform later this year, laying the foundation for the final stage where Partners Life clients will have access to digital self-service and elevated customer service.

“It is exciting for FINEOS to deepen our engagement in the region, which dates back almost 20 years and involves six of the largest life insurers in Australia. Partners Life brings FINEOS to the private life and health insurance sector in New Zealand,” said FINEOS CEO Michael Kelly.

“With Partners Life experiencing the benefits of our partnership and the FINEOS Platform, I’m confident additional growth opportunities will follow,” he said in a statement.

Partners Life Chief of Operations, Daniel Walker said: “Our clients, who are already managing health difficulties, will have an easier time accessing their benefits because of our digital transformation, and our employees are able to dedicate more time to helping them because of the benefits of automation brought by FINEOS.”

The FINEOS Platform provides a comprehensive SaaS end-to-end core solution for the Global Life, Accident and Health market.

For more information, visit www.FINEOS.com.

-- BERNAMA

Clearspan introduces Ping, a customisable communications & collaboration solution

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Clearspan has unveiled Ping, a customisable communications and collaboration solution delivering secure voice, video and messaging anywhere, anytime and on any device.

Purpose-built to serve the world’s leading service providers and largest organisations, Clearspan Ping is designed to deliver unique user experiences with the security, privacy and control that large organisations require.

According to a statement, Ping is the latest addition to Clearspan’s lineup of scalable communication technologies and serves as a foundational component in its journey to personalised communications.

“At Clearspan, we’re committed to creating solutions that make it easier to create unique user experiences while retaining the security, privacy and controls that large organisations require,” said Clearspan chief executive officer, Bill Crank.

“Clearspan Ping is the next generation communications portal that enables personalised communications and will continue to digitally transform today’s modern workforce, no matter where they’re located.”

Ping’s modern user features include point-to-point and multiparty voice, video and messaging; screen and file sharing; team rooms that allow private space for collaboration; PSTN calling; and, flexible access options including browser based, desktop, and mobile applications.

Ping sets itself apart with unique features including Brandable; Customisable; and, Secure. Ping is brandable for both service providers and organisations. There are no cobranding requirements, meaning Ping can truly reflect any organisation.

From easy integration of commonly used applications, such as call centre agent control, faxing, and SMS texting, to cross platform messaging and IoT device monitoring, Ping is built to be customised.

Available worldwide beginning May 1, Ping has already been trialled by some of the United States’ largest universities and global tier one service providers.

More details at www.ClearspanCloud.com.

-- BERNAMA

Global Titans Brings World's First NFT Pay-per-view Sports Event, May 14

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- Global Titans Fight Series has announced the WORLD’S FIRST EVER NFT SPORTS event will give access to an exclusive livestream pay-per-view for NFT ticket holders.

The Global Titans NFT tickets are considered a historic moment, where sports and tech fans take a giant leap forward, changing the way one interacts with live entertainment, according to a statement.

The NFT ticket will give access to watch Global Titans Dubai live online on May 14, where an epic night of boxing will be held on the helipad of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah hotel. The spectacular event boasts an explosive line-up including star champions Floyd Mayweather, Anderson Silva and many more.

A landmark moment for international sports, fans buying the NFT will also acquire a special Global Titans NFT ticket, that is highly collectable. 

More than an event ticket, NFT technology provides buyers with unique features such as future access, rewards and more – all that increase the value of its ownership long after the event.

Developing special technologies, ROQUMedia and Yakomoz Events, the founders of Global Titans, have teamed up with Web3 experts, MintGate for this NFT.

Robert Quirke, ROQUMedia (CEO) stated: “For many people, this will be the first time they will buy an NFT. We made sure to provide them with great value, by including exciting digital assets that can be traded and combined to watch the Floyd Mayweather fight livestream online.”

Buyers will be able to watch the livestream of these inaugural fights directly from anywhere in the world without requiring access codes or passwords. NFT owners can simply connect their crypto wallets (such as MetaMask) for instant access.

Seat to attend the event and collectable NFT ticket Pay-Per-View livestream are available at www.globaltitans.com.

-- BERNAMA

PANDO SOFTWARE BEGINS PRE-REGISTRATION OF THREE NEW P2E PANDONIA UNIVERSES

 

^{Three new P2E Pandonia Universes have started pre-registration ahead of their worldwide release. The three Pandonia Universes include ‘Pandonia Arena,’ ‘Guardians of Pandonia,’ and ‘Dragons of Pandonia.’ Pre-registration is available now on the official website. (Graphic: Business Wire)}


SEOUL, South Korea, April 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The new P2E Pandonia Universe starts pre-registration ahead of its simultaneous worldwide release. The three Pandonia Universes include ‘Pandonia Arena,’ ‘Guardians of Pandonia,’ and ‘Dragons of Pandonia.’ Pre-registration is available now on https://pandonia.co.

 

‘Pandonia Arena’ with unique heroes

‘Pandonia Arena’ was issued as non-fungible tokens (NFT) for heroes with distinctive visuals and unique skills. The control method that allows anyone to play easily, such as battle royale mode, big boss mode, and crown mode, is a huge advantage. The global No.1 Arcade NFT-based P2E game ‘Pandonia Arena’ will be released in May.

New collectible RPG, P2E game ‘Guardians of Pandonia’

‘Guardians of Pandonia’ is a mobile collectible RPG where you can create your own team with up to six characters and enjoy adventures, raids, and PvP content. In particular, there are high expectations for this new collectible P2E game in Japan, so it is planned to be released in June.

MMORPG 'Dragons of Pandonia,' a story created with a variety of dragons

‘Dragons of Pandonia’ is an MMORPG focused on dragons. It is the P2E-based MMORPG where users write their own huge and powerful stories relying on five different occupation types and various dragons. Development is underway aiming at a global launch in July.

Special benefits for pre-registrants of the three Pandonia Universes

For pre-registered users, Pando Software has announced that it will provide game-related privileges along with an airdrop event in which 10,000 mPANDO will be drawn and distributed, fitting the game's official release date.

In the three new Pandonia Universes, users can acquire mPANDO through gameplay as well as through other games currently being serviced by Pando Software. mPANDO is a MainNet coin and is designed to be used for various in-game applications.

Starting with the ‘Legend of Pandonia’ as its first P2E project in 2022, Pando Software has continued with the ‘I Love Pandonia’ release to the global market.

The detailed schedule and news about the three Pandonia Universes can be checked on the official website (https://pandonia.co).

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/52698853/en

Contact

Pando Software Inc
Lucia Tanti
+82-70-5100-0815
pr@pandosoft.co.kr

Source : Pando Software Inc

'The Sixth Sense' meets 'Get Out' as D’Amelio debuts in supernatural thriller Home School

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- Home School, the first in an eight-film franchise of supernatural thrillers starring two-time Kids Choice Award winner Charli D'Amelio, will be produced by EGOT nominee (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) Ryan Kavanaugh—directed by F. Javier Gutierrez.

Kavanaugh has brought more than 200 feature films, and 40 TV shows to audiences worldwide, and this will be the second film to list on the entertainment stock exchange, esx.io.

Award-winning visionary horror film director Gutiérrez (Before the Fall, Rings) has come on board to direct. Home School marks the live-action feature film debut of D'Amelio, the first TikTokker to accrue 100 million followers on the platform.

Production begins July 2022, according to a statement.

“We've been developing this project for a few years to bring something new and exciting to the screen. Having Javier direct and Charli star is the perfect package. We are going for 'The Sixth Sense' meets 'Get Out’,” said Kavanaugh.

In Home School, Charli will play ‘Mira’, a 17-year-old who moves to a different town to live with her aunt after her mother passes away. After arriving in what seems like the all-too-perfect town, Mira soon discovers that her mother's death and her own future are intertwined supernaturally.

“As soon as I read Home School, I knew it was for me. I connected with the character, Mira, the story, the script, and the team. I knew if I was going to do a movie, it needed to be something fun, edgy, and fresh,” says D’Amelio.

Meanwhile, Gutiérrez said: “When Ryan and I met while developing The Crow remake with Luke Evans, we knew we wanted to foster a creative partnership further. I'm thrilled for Home School to mark our first official project together.”

Home School is written by Casey Giltner, a Minneapolis-based screenwriter whose script On the First Day of Christmas was featured on the 2021 BloodList and was recently picked up by Village Roadshow and Brillstein Entertainment Partners.

SVP of Production at Proxima, Daniel Herther, who shepherded the development of Home School, will be producing as well. Kavanaugh's partner Bobby Sarnevesht and Marc, Heidi, and Dixie D'Amelio will serve as executive producers.

-- BERNAMA

Qianhai invites Hong Kong entrepreneurs via institutional innovation

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- April 27 marks the seventh anniversary of the inauguration of Qianhai Shekou Free Trade Zone, whose day-to-day changes are always fascinating.

According to Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, in 2021, the number of Hong Kong-funded enterprises registered in Qianhai increased by 156 per cent year-on-year, and the actual use of Hong Kong capital accounts for 93.8 per cent of the total foreign investments.

Its Q1 2022 actual use of Hong Kong capital amounted to US$1.272 billion, accounting for 92.97 per cent of its foreign investments, a rise of 148.01 per cent, according to a statement. (US$1 = RM4.355)

At the junctures of the global economic recovery, China continues to renew the layout of Qianhai, incorporating the development of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.

Institutional innovation turns to be the foundation for cultivating a first-class business environment in Qianhai, thus enticing many entrepreneurs from Hong Kong. Any sharp-eyed entrepreneur would lose no time in seizing the opportunities.

Located in the west of Shenzhen and on the east bank of the Pearl River Estuary, Qianhai has been designated a ‘special area of the Special Economic Zone’ since the State Council approved the Overall Development Plan for Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industrial Cooperation Area of Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in 2010.

As the outside world sees it, Qianhai Cooperation Area is unswervingly forging a ‘Qianhai model’ with institutional innovation in investment, trade, finance and rule of law as its core, making it an important ‘source’ to be drawn upon by other places of China.

Partner of KPMG Intelligent Innovation Space, Sun Lecheng points out that Qianhai has set far-reaching goals of institutional innovation in the rules, systems, mechanisms and models. Not only is the standard high, but also ‘practicable and solid’.

Qianhai is known to have been promoting institutional innovation in multiple sectors, including justice, finance, supply chain, integration of services and manufacturing industries, new technologies, and new business models, among others.

-- BERNAMA

DIGITAL WALLETS TRANSACTION VALUE EXCEEDS US$12 TRILLION IN 2026 - JUNIPER RESEARCH

KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 (Bernama) -- A new study from Juniper Research has found the value of digital wallet transactions will exceed US$12 trillion in 2026, from US$7.5 trillion in 2022. (US$1 = RM4.350)

To capitalise on this substantial growth, the research predicts leading digital payment vendors will diversify their payment products to include new solutions, such as buy-now-pay-later and cryptocurrencies.

Digital wallets are software-based systems that securely store users’ payment information for many payment methods in one location.

The new research, Digital Wallets: Key Opportunities, Vendor Analysis and Market Forecasts 2022-2026, found increasing merchant acceptance of digital wallet methods at eCommerce checkouts has been a driving force behind enabling further digital wallets use.

It predicts APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that connect financial institutions to local retailers will be key to the international growth of digital wallets usage for large, cross-border eCommerce merchants.

According to a statement, the research also recommends that digital wallet vendors look to offer value-added services, such as loyalty rewards and credit, to diversify their revenue streams; capitalising on a highly active user base.

Juniper Research’s Competitor Leaderboard for the digital wallets market has identified the five leading market vendors as follows: 1.PayPal; 2.Alipay; 3.WeChat Pay; 4.Apple Pay; 5.Google Pay.

Juniper Research’s Competitor Leaderboard provides an independent assessment of the market standing of the leading digital wallets players. It includes a robust and transparent assessment methodology, including heatmap analysis and a thorough explanation of each company’s market position.

The Leaderboard tool assesses each vendor’s capacity, capability, and products. This analysis includes assessing the size of their operations, financial performance and the sophistication of their digital wallets offerings.

-- BERNAMA

CWT announces Patrick Andersen appointment as Chief Executive Officer

KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 (Bernama) -- CWT, the Business-to-Business-for-Employees (B2B4E) travel management platform, has announced that Michelle McKinney Frymire has decided to step down from her roles at the Company.

As part of the Company’s long-term succession planning process, the Board of Directors has appointed President and Chief Commercial Officer Patrick Andersen as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 1.

He will also serve on the Company’s Board of Directors, according to a statement.

“We are excited that Patrick will serve as our next CEO, given his outstanding track record as Chief Commercial Officer and 13 years in international leadership roles at CWT,” said Chair of the CWT Board, Jim Abrahamson.

“He has deep-rooted relationships with our customers and stakeholders and has demonstrated superb leadership through overseeing our strategic priorities, expanding RoomIt, and launching our groundbreaking myCWT China technology platform.

“On behalf of the Board and our global colleagues, we thank Michelle for her many contributions since she joined the Company in 2019 and wish her well in her next endeavours.”

Meanwhile, McKinney Frymire said: “Leading CWT through such a critical phase in its evolution has been a great honour. Now, with a strong financial foundation in place, CWT is positioned to accelerate its growth plan and I’m pleased to pass the baton to Patrick.”

“I’m delighted and honoured to lead CWT to its next stage of growth. As travel demand increases, CWT is well positioned to invest in and expand its industry leadership and global relationships,” said Andersen.

“Importantly, I’ll continue our commitment to our core values and look forward to working with our Board and the CWT team to enhance our technology, and further strengthen the travel and events services we provide to our customers around the world.”

Prior to his role as President and Chief Commercial Officer, Andersen served as Chief Strategy Officer and before that President of the Americas. He has over 30 years’ experience in global travel & logistics, with various international leadership roles at Deutsche Post Worldwide and DHL.

-- BERNAMA

KIOXIA EXTENDS LINEUP OF PCIE® 4.0 SSDS FOR HIGH-END CLIENT APPLICATIONS

 

^{Kioxia Corporation: XG8 Series PCIe® 4.0 SSDs for High-End Client Applications (Photo: Business Wire)}


New KIOXIA XG8 Series Delivers High Performance, Latest Security Features


TOKYO, April 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- In a move that bolsters its comprehensive PCIe^® 4.0 solid-state drive (SSD) portfolio, Kioxia Corporation has introduced the KIOXIA XG8 Series of client SSDs for high-end notebooks, desktops, gaming systems, workstations, as well as data center boot applications.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220425005410/en/

 

Designed to bring next-generation performance to demanding client environments, the XG8 Series enables power users to take advantage of PCIe Gen4 x4 speed and ample storage space.

The XG8 Series is available in an M.2 type 2280 form factor and supports optional security features using the latest TCG Pyrite 2.01 and TCG Opal 2.01 standards^[1] to ensure data is kept secure at home, in the office or on the road. In addition, the XG8 Series features end-to-end data path protection for greater data integrity.

Additional features include:

• Forward-looking support for NVMe™ 1.4 feature set and Basic Management Commands over System Management Bus (SMBus), which enables tighter thermal management for PCs
• Power Loss Notification is supported to protect data against forced shut-downs
• Sideband signals (PERST#, CLKREQ# and PLN#) are available in both 1.8V and 3.3V (current client models support only 3.3V), enabling support for more platforms

The XG8 Series is offered in capacities of 512GB, 1024GB, 2048GB and 4096GB, and is now available for customer evaluation.

Notes
[1] Availability of security/encryption options may vary by region.

*The samples are for evaluation purposes. The specifications of the samples may differ from the production models.

*Definition of capacity: Kioxia defines a megabyte (MB) as 1,000,000 bytes, a gigabyte (GB) as 1,000,000,000 bytes and a terabyte (TB) as 1,000,000,000,000 bytes. A computer operating system, however, reports storage capacity using powers of 2 for the definition of 1Gb = 2^30 bits = 1,073,741,824 bits, 1GB = 2^30 bytes = 1,073,741,824 bytes and 1TB = 2^40 bytes = 1,099,511,627,776 bytes and therefore shows less storage capacity. Available storage capacity (including examples of various media files) will vary based on file size, formatting, settings, software and operating system, and/or pre-installed software applications, or media content. Actual formatted capacity may vary.

*PCI Express and PCIe are registered trademarks of PCI-SIG.
*NVM Express and NVMe are registered or unregistered marks of NVM Express, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
*All other company names, product names and service names may be trademarks of their respective companies.

About Kioxia
Kioxia is a world leader in memory solutions, dedicated to the development, production and sale of flash memory and solid-state drives (SSDs). In April 2017, its predecessor Toshiba Memory was spun off from Toshiba Corporation, the company that invented NAND flash memory in 1987. Kioxia is committed to uplifting the world with “memory” by offering products, services and systems that create choice for customers and memory-based value for society. Kioxia's innovative 3D flash memory technology, BiCS FLASH™, is shaping the future of storage in high-density applications, including advanced smartphones, PCs, SSDs, automotive and data centers.

Customer Inquiries:
Kioxia Corporation
Sales Promotion Division
https://business.kioxia.com/en-jp/buy/global-sales.html

*Information in this document, including specifications, content of services and contact information, is correct on the date of the announcement but is subject to change without prior notice.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220425005410/en/

Contact

Media Inquiries:
Kioxia Corporation
Sales Strategic Planning Division
Koji Takahata
Tel: +81-3-6478-2404

Source : Kioxia Corporation

UPGRAD PARTNERS WITH GOLDEN GATE UNIVERSITY - SAN FRANCISCO TO CONTINUE ITS GLOBAL EXPANSION

 ~ The partnership to offer over $100M in scholarships to students across geographies and introduce 8 new online programs for the global workforce in the areas of Management and Law ~


ATLANTA, April 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- upGrad, Asia’s higher EdTech leader in a most recent development, has joined forces with Golden Gate University - one of California's oldest private universities to launch 8 new online programs in the areas of Management and Law as a part of its initial expansion phase.

For the fourth consecutive year, Washington Monthly ranked Golden Gate University as America's #1 School for Adult Learners at 4-Year Colleges, in its annual College Guide and Rankings. GGU is also ranked amongst the Top 10% US Colleges by multiple publications.

The partnership will unlock and deepen upGrad’s accessibility into the local American markets while also expanding its international program portfolio for learners who are based out of diverse geographies. The curriculum will offer an in-depth subject understanding along with industry projects which shall remain at par with the international market and industry requirements. Other career service value additions like 1:1 mentorship and coaching and masterclasses have also been incorporated into the program curriculum to offer wholesome and outcome-driven learning.

Furthering its ambition, the global EdTech company and Golden Gate University are jointly awarding more than USD 100Mn scholarships; 5000+ students will be given a 70% scholarship on the tuition fee for these Bachelors, Masters & Doctorate programs.

A power-pack of 8 online programs in phase 1, upGrad and the Golden Gate University also aims to take a diversified route to create a mark with its learning content that is expected to be rolled out in foreign languages like Arabic, Vietnamese, Bahasa, and Spanish in the near future. “Golden Gate University has a 120+ years legacy of helping working adults achieve their career aspirations. With this alignment in vision, we are really excited to partner with GGU to offer globally accredited, high quality, low cost degree programs to thousands of learners globally," added Phalgun Kompalli, Co-Founder of upGrad.

"upGrad is one of the world's largest online higher education platforms and has always been a pioneer in creating world class learning experiences and outcomes for learners globally. GGU also has a rich history of being an innovator in higher education and we have always leveraged technology to provide better access and quality. upGrad was a natural partner of choice and we are excited to make a global impact with a strong portfolio of programs and with USD100M+ scholarships on offer," said Prof Brent White, Provost & VP Academic Affairs at Golden Gate University.

About upGrad

upGrad - started in 2015 is a pioneer in the online education revolution, focused on powering career success for a global workforce of over 1.3 billion. It is one of the few Integrated LifeLongLearning Tech Companies in the world - spanning the college learner to the working professional from the age group of 18-50 years and across Undergrad courses, Campus & Job Linked Programs, Studying Abroad, short form to executive programs to Degrees, Masters and Doctoral - with a learner base of over 2 million across 100+ countries and over 300 University partners and a robust enterprise business with a client base of 1000 companies worldwide.

upGrad’s Global Learning Engine rests on four pillars - (a) its large repository of original & owned content and IP, (b) its own best-in-class proprietary tech platform, (c) its high touch human-led delivery service backed by coaches & mentors, and (d) an 85% course completion track record, backed by a further 80% career outcomes guaranteed performance.

Already termed Asia’s higher EdTech leader it has offices in the UK, U.S., Middle East, India, Singapore & Vietnam, and with presence in many more countries.

About Golden Gate University

Golden Gate University, a private nonprofit university in the heart of San Francisco, empowers working adults to achieve their professional goals with nationally renowned undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates. Founded in 1901, GGU has been a leader in online education for nearly three decades and Washington Monthly ranked GGU first on their list of Best Colleges for Adult Learners for four years in a row (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019). GGU’s primary campus is in downtown San Francisco, with teaching locations in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Silicon Valley. GGU is accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20220422005304/en/

Contact

upGrad | Neha Prasad | Asst. Manager – PR | neha.prasad@upgrad.com

Source : upGrad

INTERNET PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEO FESTIVAL DISPLAYING TIBET BEAUTY CONCLUDES LHASA

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- An internet photography and video festival with works displaying the landscape and development of southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region has been concluded in Lhasa, the regional capital.

With the theme of ‘witnessing the great leap forward of beautiful and happy Tibet’, the festival aimed at showing the region's beautiful landscape and development achievement to make the new Tibet in the New Era better known and recognised.

In the award ceremony recently, 46 works were granted prizes of different levels, according to a statement.

Tsering Chusang, a cadre from Tashigang Township from Gar County in the prefecture of Ngari, won the gold prize for his video work showing the life of a border patrolman.

"Tashigang is a border township in Ngari, and my work was inspired by the frontline patrollers guarding the border," he said.

In a work that won bronze, Padma Yangjen and other students from Tibet's Lhasa middle school respectively sang songs in not only Tibetan and Mandarin but also English, Korean and other languages.

The activity was launched in August 2021, and in the following four months, 37,000 photos and 400 videos were collected, including more than 100 works from overseas.

-- BERNAMA

CIMB UPLIFTS FESTIVE SPIRIT VIA ITS HARAPAN RAMADAN PROGRAMME

The programme is driven by both CIMB Islamic and CIMB Foundation’s community outreach initiatives which aim to deliver positive impact and spread cheer this festive period

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB Group” or “the Group”) has launched Harapan Ramadan, a series of community outreach programmes through CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB Islamic”) and CIMB Foundation, which saw a distribution of over RM750,000 worth of essential items and Baju Raya to the underserved communities. Done in conjunction with Ramadan and the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the programme is a collaboration with four non-governmental organisation (“NGO”) namely Adab Youth Garage, Islamic Relief Malaysia, Yayasan Belia Malaysia and Yayasan Al-Khalifah.

This year, the Group shared its Ramadan blessings through the distribution of essential items and Baju Raya to 4,000 households, which includes single mothers and those from the Asnaf and B40 community in the states of Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Negeri Sembilan, Perak, Sabah, Sarawak and Selangor. The intention is to alleviate their burden and reduce the cost of daily expenses, so they are able to observe Ramadan with fewer worries. The programme also saw volunteers from CIMB assisting in the delivery of Bakul Ramadan boxes containing rice, canned food, cooking oil, and other essential food supplies.

Datuk Mohd Nasir Ahmad, Chairman of CIMB Group and CIMB Foundation said, “The holy month of Ramadan represents a key opportunity for us to serve and bring about meaningful impact to the communities we serve across Malaysia. We sincerely hope our distributions under Harapan Ramadan will bring some cheer to our beneficiaries this Ramadan as well as for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri. We are happy to work closely with our partners in achieving this objective as we strive to practice the concept of Fastabiqul Khairat, or the act of pursuing every opportunity to serve and perform good deeds. The programme, which is jointly led by CIMB Islamic and CIMB Foundation captures the values of CIMB Group as a whole, realising our efforts to create sustainable impact and long-term value through our initiatives that prioritise the wellbeing of underserved and underprivileged communities.”

CIMB UPLIFTS FESTIVE SPIRIT VIA ITS HARAPAN RAMADAN PROGRAMME

Hisense scores with hi-tech devices donation to Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund

 

_{Cantine Solidaire (Photo: Business Wire)}

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- Global leading technology enterprise, Hisense, which became a global partner with Paris Saint-Germain in 2020, has since been benefiting from this partnership and gained much recognition and support from consumers and built stronger emotional connections with football fans worldwide.

As a socially responsible enterprise, Hisense took a step further and elevated its partnership by donating multiple hi-tech devices to non-profit programmes and became a patron of Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund.

Hisense donated TVs to the Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund; these TVs were used in the Cantine Solidaire organised by the Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund in March 2022, where 200 teenagers were welcomed to the Parc des Princes.

According to a statement, the event focused on equality, sport, culture, digital world, citizenship, and music with students treated to lunch and sports and leisure activities and a CV workshop.

Vice President of Hisense France, Cédric Audebert said: “As a partner of Paris Saint-Germain, we are very interested in the social initiatives of the Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund.

“Sport is a means of sharing and expressing solidarity, two values that are essential to us. Our goal is to show unstinting support for Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund, and we urge all companies to come and join us.”

Hisense devotes to charity and sustainable development worldwide, it has donated many high-tech home appliances exclusively for Paris Saint-Germain Endowment Fund programmes.

As part of the above donation, Hisense donated TVs for ‘PSG HOLIDAYS’, provided better equipment for children to have better training experience; also, Hisense donated a large screen TV for ‘Red & Blue School program’, provided long-term support and better environment for after-school training.

-- BERNAMA

CertiK declares additional US$60 million investment

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- CertiK, the leading global Web3 and blockchain security firm, has announced an additional US$60 million investment from SoftBank Vision Fund 2 and Tiger Global. (US$1 = RM4.332)

According to a statement, this marks SoftBank’s first venture into the Web3 security space.

“We’re very pleased with this follow-up to our latest round of transaction. These contributions further underscore the importance of web3 security and will help us to further protect the blockchain industry, and build trust in the crypto project community,” said CertiK founder and CEO, Ronghui Gu.

“Events such as cross-chain attacks, flash loans, rug pulls and more have demonstrated the need for end-to-end web3 security that we’re proud to be able to offer, including smart contract auditing, 24/7 threat monitoring, and KYC.”

Meanwhile, Managing Partner at SoftBank Investment Advisers, Dennis Chang said: “We believe CertiK combines deep expertise in cybersecurity, blockchains, and systems verification to provide companies with a leading solution in blockchain security and auditing. We are delighted to partner with Professor Gu and the team to support their mission of securing the Web3 world.”

CertiK’s US$88 million series B3 round and US$2 billion valuation were announced within the past month, led by Insight Partners. This additional funding brings the total amount invested in CertiK over the past nine months to US$290 million.

CertiK’s mission is to secure the Web3 world through an end-to-end set of security services, providing clients with a one-stop-shop for all their security needs.

The growing demand for Web3 security has driven the need for further development and operation of more innovative and data-driven security products for the blockchain industry.

CertiK is meeting these demands through innovative products like Security Leaderboard, Code Auditing, and Skynet, a 24/7 threat monitoring service. It also recently launched its KYC and fraud detection service in response to the growing trend around project rug-pulls and scams.

More details at https://www.certik.com/

-- BERNAMA

Milliken & Company publishes fourth annual Sustainability Report

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- Diversified global manufacturer Milliken & Company has published its fourth annual Sustainability Report, a key reporting component in the company’s progress toward its 2025 Sustainability Goals.

In 2019, Milliken laid out 12 sustainability goals, focused on its people, its products and the planet, as a roadmap to achieving a healthier tomorrow. Guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, these 12 goals signal the company’s commitment to sustainability in all forms.

In 2021, Milliken eliminated coal as a primary fuel after investing US$25 million into cogeneration, which combines steam and power generation. Notably, Milliken also increased the diversity of its U.S. management team by eight per cent, announcing its entire flooring portfolio was now carbon neutral. (US$1 = RM4.332)

“Our shared purpose and our material science expertise make us uniquely Milliken,” shares Milliken & Company president and CEO, Halsey Cook in a statement.

“We embrace not only our ability to make a positive impact on the world around us but also our responsibility to build a healthier future for this generation and generations to come.”

Completed in line with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards: Core, Milliken’s fourth report details the holistic sustainability progress made in 2021.

These efforts include: Recording zero lost time safety incidents from COVID-19; Logging 27,000 volunteer hours—the greatest number in company history; and, Partnering with groups including Accelerating Circularity, Polypropylene Coalition, PureCycle Technologies and the Alliance to End Plastic Waste to lend expertise in solving product end-of-life challenges.

“The cover of this year’s report is an image from the documentary, Everest, which details the dramatic true story of a team of four climbers who ascended the mountain,” says Kasel Knight, senior vice president and general counsel.

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today.

-- BERNAMA

Dual Miners becomes game changer in cryptocurrency mining

KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- Dual Miners has recently earned the distinction of becoming the first company ever to introduce an extraordinary range of endothermic cryptocurrency mining rigs.

According to a statement, a team of investors is working towards making crypto mining simple and profitable.

Others have argued that cryptocurrency mining is becoming increasingly difficult, but a new announcement from Dual Miners, which is currently releasing worldwide, the world's first dual-miner hardware, uses both SHA-256 and Scrypt to mine.

Additionally, the dual-miners can be configured to process transactions for other cryptocurrencies that use the SHA-256 or Scrypt hashing algorithms.

Due to innovative hardware design, Dual Miner's mining chip, FM9800-XD112, achieves high hash rates while consuming the least amount of energy possible. They come with a built-in controller as well as software already installed.

Following an extensive period of testing that included evaluating, prototyping, and extreme-condition pressure testing, the Dual Miner's DualPro and DualPro Max hardware products, as well as the DualPremium hardware products, are now ready for mass production.

The Dual Miners Enhance Energy Saver system advantages, according to the solution's inventors, include each machine will be equipped with a cooling system, a 7-nanometer chip, a noise reduction mechanism, a regulated operational humidity with a power supply, and a wireless network connection (Wi-Fi) or an Ethernet connection.

With a short delay, users can mine Bitcoin (BTC), Litecoin (LTC), Monero (XMR), Ethereum (ETH), and several other cryptocurrencies thanks to the algorithm attached to the system, which comprises globally known software and hardware technologies.

Dual Miners is a chip design and manufacturing firm with its headquarters in London, United Kingdom. It has a number of teams with in-depth expertise of blockchain technology and technological design.

More details at www.dualminers.com.

-- BERNAMA

AM BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF TOWER LIMITED

 SINGAPORE, April 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” (Excellent) of Tower Limited (Tower) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Tower’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

Tower’s balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), which was at the strongest level at fiscal year-end 2021 (30 September 2021) and is expected to remain at least at the very strong level over the medium term. Whilst the company is expected to maintain an elevated dividend payout ratio, retained earnings are expected to be sufficient to support new business growth and sustain robust regulatory solvency coverage. AM Best views Tower as having strong financial flexibility, a prudent reinsurance programme and a conservative investment strategy.

AM Best assesses Tower’s operating performance as adequate. Following the settlement of the majority of claims arising from the Canterbury Earthquake events, the company’s underwriting profits have improved notably over the past three fiscal years, with the combined ratio remaining below 95% during this period. Prospectively, AM Best expects Tower to report positive underwriting and operating results, supported by appropriate risk selection and pricing, as well as through anticipated expense efficiencies achieved by core system upgrades in recent years.

AM Best views Tower’s business profile as neutral. The company is a medium-sized non-life insurer that operates predominantly in New Zealand, with some operations based in the Pacific Islands. Tower has a market share of approximately 5% in New Zealand’s general insurance market and reported gross written premium of NZD 405 million (USD 280 million) in fiscal year 2021. The company’s core product offerings are domestic home and motor insurance, typically distributed through direct channels and partnerships.

Tower’s ERM framework is developed and considered appropriate given the size and complexity of its operations. The company’s risk management capabilities also are assessed to be robust and typically aligned with the profile of the company’s key risks.

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright © 2022 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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Contact

Yi Ding
Senior Financial Analyst
+65 6303 5021
yi.ding@ambest.com

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Manager, Public Relations
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Source : AM Best