NASDAQ-Listed JE Cleantech Announces Strong FY2022 Results on the back of Post-Opening Economic Rebound

SINGAPORE, May 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Singapore-based precision cleaning and cleantech equipment manufacturer JE Cleantech Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ: JCSE) ("JCSE" or "JE Cleantech" or the "Company" and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") has released its annual report for the financial year ended December 31, 2022. The Group enjoyed a solid financial showing in financial year ended December 31, 2022, with gross profits surging from USD 1.7 million to USD 3.8 million or an increase of 120% YoY. The Group generated a net income of USD 0.9 million for the financial year ended December 31, 2022.

JE Cleantech's robust performance in the financial year ended December 31, 2022 comes on the back of a strong economic recovery in Asia following the Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. Its business momentum suggests a bright perspective for the coming years. During the financial year ended December 31, 2022, JCSE completed 30 more orders and increased revenue by 26.2% to USD 13.9 million. The majority of JCSE's orders came from (i) Singapore which accounted for 54.5% of JCSE's revenue, and revenue contributed from this region increased by 57.4%; and (ii) Thailand which accounted for 12.7% of JCSE's revenue, and revenue contributed from this region increased by 51.6%.

"The post-pandemic recovery has affected our business very positively and across our markets, we have seen an increase in demand, especially for our precision cleaning systems and centralized dishwashing systems," said Ms Hong Bee Yin, Founder and CEO of JCSE. "With many hospitality businesses gradually reaching their pre-pandemic peaks, we expect our centralized dishwashing systems to see even more demand."

Looking ahead, JCSE is expanding further into tech hardware and robotics. "Automation and digitization are core priorities for us along with expanding our product range," elaborated Ms Hong. "We are also looking into overseas expansion, but we remain committed to Singapore as a priority market." The Company is planning to use its internal resources to facilitate aggressive growth in 2023.

Earlier this year, JCSE partnered with a Singaporean deep-tech manufacturer to co-develop an industry-revolutionizing cleaning robot. Along with expansion plans, JCSE is looking further to improve its environmental footprint, having already announced the installation of solar panels in its main facility earlier this year.

Other Highlights for the Financial Year Ended December 31, 2022:
– Overall gross profit margin was 27.5%, up from 15.9% YoY
– Revenue from the provision of centralized dishwashing and ancillary services increased by 24.2% to USD 5.4 million YoY
– Revenue from sales of precision cleaning systems and other equipment segment increased by 27.8% to USD 8.5 million YoY
– The sale of precision cleaning systems and other equipment resulted in a gross profit margin of 40.8%, up from 23.3% YoY
– The provision of centralized dishwashing and ancillary services resulted in a gross profit margin of 11.1%, up from 4.5% YoY
– In 2022, JCSE was awarded the Clean Mark Silver Award by National Environment Agency of Singapore

About JE Cleantech Holdings Limited

JE Cleantech Holdings Limited is based in Singapore and is principally engaged in (i) the sale of precision cleaning systems and other equipment; and (ii) the provision of centralized dishwashing and ancillary services. Through its subsidiary, JCS-Echigo Pte Ltd, the company designs, develops, manufactures, and sells cleaning systems for various industrial end-use applications primarily to customers in Singapore and Malaysia. Its cleaning systems are mainly designed for precision cleaning, with features such as particle filtration, ultrasonic or megasonic rinses with a wide range of frequencies, high pressure drying technology, high flow rate spray, and deionized water rinses, which are designed for effective removal of contaminants and to minimize particle generation and entrapment. The Company also has provided centralized dishwashing services, through its subsidiary, Hygieia Warewashing Pte Ltd, since 2013 and general cleaning services since 2015, both mainly for food and beverage establishments in Singapore. For more information about JE Cleantech, please visit our website: www.jecleantech.sg.

Disclaimer: Forward looking statements

This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such words or phrases as "should," "intends," "is subject to," "expects," "will," "continue," "anticipate," "estimated," "projected," "may," "I or we believe," "future prospects," "our strategy," or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements made in this press release that relate to our future contract revenues among other things involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from those expected and stated in this announcement. We undertake no obligation to update "forward-looking" statements.

For Media Enquiries and Investor Relations, please contact:
jcse@preciouscomms.com

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

New Hope Service publishes 2022 ESG Report

HONG KONG, Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – New Hope Service Holdings Limited ("New Hope Service" or "the Company", stock code: 3658.HK), a comprehensive property management and lifestyle service operator in China, has published its 2022 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report.

New Hope Service has over the years strived to realize sustainable development. Positioning itself as a "people's livelihood service operator", the Company has optimized its structure, integrating ESG-related governance work into daily business and decision-making, plus maintaining close contact with stakeholders, insisting on fulfilling people's daily living needs, improving its corporate culture and promoting stable and sustainable development.

At those efforts, in 2022, the Company recorded revenue of RMB1,139 million, gross profit of RMB431 million, profit attributable to equity shareholders of RMB203 million, a 17.8% net profit margin attributable to the parent company and earnings per share of RMB0.25. It paid final dividend of RMB0.12 per share for the year. By enhancing management scale and independence, and improving service quality through multiple measures, the Company achieved high-quality growth in the results of its core business.

Photovoltaic power generation, low carbon and saving energy to protect the future
The Company has complied with the country's green development requirements and is determined to take the low-carbon development path. In the course of operation, it takes a lot of measures on carbon reduction, such as conserving materials, sorting wastes and raising the environmental awareness of property owners, staff and other stakeholders.

Electricity is a major energy source of the Company in property-related business. To reduce power consumption, New Hope Service has adopted various energy-saving measures in operation and also introduced photovoltaic power generation at the property projects it manages. The Dashanghui project in Nanning, for example, has become the first "green mall" in the industry with "generate electricity on the roof and make available in the building".

In addition, to save yet more energy, the Company has set regional temperature control requirements and promoted several hundred solar street lights retrofit with 200W projects across the country. As for water-saving measures, using certified water-saving faucets and installing pressure conversion heads, it has been able to prevent waste from water splashing.

Actively prevented pandemic spread to protect people's livelihood and the grassroots
In 2022, the sporadic flareups of the pandemic made prevention and control tasks extremely difficult. The Company placed great importance on aiding pandemic prevention, thus implemented "Six Epidemic Prevention Measures", including continuous publicity of the pandemic prevention and control policies, increasing disinfection frequency, assisting vaccination and nucleic acid testing, and strictly monitoring personnel traffic in and out of company premises. It also protected at full force the health and safety of property owners and employees amid the pandemic.

When the pandemic was most rampant in Chengdu, the Company issued and acted on "Ten Pledges in the Battle Against the Pandemic". It, together with the food, dairy and real estate operations of New Hope Group, responded swiftly in ensuring special need groups such as the elderly, the disadvantaged and pregnant women residents have access to daily necessities, offering them convenience services, such as purchase of fresh food, home delivery of food and meal boxes, availing professional and reliable "pandemic defense" to the public.

In addition, New Foodism, the group meal service business of New Hope Service, was admitted to the guaranteed supply list of Jinjiang District, Chengdu and added a guaranteed supply base for the canteen of Lansheng Brain Hospital on top of the oncology hospital canteens it has been serving already. It also provided food and meal boxes to some lockdown areas, assuring the freshness and safety of food ingredients, and offering germ-free packaging and safe delivery of food. As at 19 September 2022, New Foodism had provided a total of close to 40,000 hotpot vegetable packs to residents in Jinjiang District, effectively helping to fight against the pandemic.

"Weiguang Action", giving back to society through acts of charity
New Hope Service takes equal importance in developing its business and honoring social responsibility. While pursuing business excellence, it also fulfills its corporate social responsibility, engaging in charitable initiatives, voluntary services and community care services, participating in disaster relief, environmental protection, community charity works, anti-pandemic activities, as well as caring for the disadvantaged in society. Drawing on its property management advantages, it endeavors to create better lives for people and build an inclusive community.

In 2022, the Company actively participated in aiding the grassroots in society, serving different individuals, establishing links to bolster communication and trust, and mutual assistance and growth. In June 2022, through its public welfare brand "Weiguang Action", the Company organized job experience activities for primary school pupils, letting them through work role play gain better understanding of social values. The Company also set up "warm stops" across the country, for more of those who work outdoor, like delivery workers, couriers, decorators and janitors, among others, to have a place to rest, get drinks, and get first aid when under emergency.

People-centric, joining hands to share corporate value
The Company places utmost importance on selecting and nurturing talent, embracing the talent development concept of "green growth without boundaries" and the core value of "joining hands to share corporate value". As such, it has formulated scientific and complete talent development systems including a "Training Management System". It has also established the internal learning management platform New Hope Service Academy, which uses a digital learning system as the medium and is supported by a complete talent nurturing system and a comprehensive curriculum and teaching mechanism, enabling it to provide employees with extensive room for growth and a fair development platform. During the year, the Company organized a total of 8,621 different training sessions for 90,238 trainees. In addition, New Hope Service was the only enterprise that received the "Gold Award for Excellent Digital Learning Project" of the 4th Yuntu Awards in 2022 in the southwest region.

In the future, New Hope Service will adhere to the responsibility of serving society, shouldering the tasks of making lives better for the public and owners of the properties it serves, and building together with all a healthier and more harmonious green community. It will contribute to sustainable development and create greater long-term value.

New Hope Service Holdings Limited (stock code: 3658.HK)
New Hope Service (stock code: 3658.HK), as a lifestyle service provider, embraces the mission of "Happiness, make it everyday" and is committed to meeting the needs of customers. Boasting fully integrated and customized services, it has established presence in metropolitan areas and city clusters in China, providing customers in first-tier, new first-tier and second-tier cities with property management services, lifestyle services and commercial operation services, as well as value-added non-property owner services. Moreover, with its own business scaling up steadily and on the back of New Hope Group, a Fortune 500 enterprise, which has an extensive lifestyle service layout, New Hope Service is able to continuously guarantee customer satisfaction and report high-quality operating results. It ranked 25th among the "2022 Property Management Companies in China in terms of Comprehensive Strength" and won the "2022 Golden Kirin Hong Kong and US Listed Companies Awards – Best Small and Medium-Cap Company" award.

Company Website: https://www.newhopeservice.com.cn/

Press Contacts
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Yan Li / Grace Liu / Albert Chu
Tel: (852) 2114 4320 / (852) 2864 4170 / (852) 2114 4955
Email: yan.li@sprg.com.hk / grace.liu@sprg.com.hk / albert.chu@sprg.com.hk
Website: www.sprg.com.hk

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Record-breaking success at analytica Vietnam 2023. Return of the event draws largest ever crowd of attendees and participants

analytica Vietnam closes with an increase of 27% in visitor-ship, totalling 4802 unique buyers from 33 countries attending over the 3 days.
The event hosted 582 conference delegates, plus tailored laboratory tours, and exhibitor forum workshops on the show floor.
analytica Vietnam re-establishes its standing as the optimal one-stop-shop for analysis, diagnostic, laboratory and biotech professionals in the Vietnam and ASEAN market.

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Messe München announces the successful conclusion of analytica Vietnam 2023, the premier international trade fair for laboratory technology, analysis, biotechnology, and diagnostics held in Vietnam last week. The tradeshow and congress all together drew in 5384 industry professionals globally as well as over 200 international companies and brands filling the exhibition hall. The results have conclusively reflected analytica Vietnam as the ultimate platform for showcasing the latest advancements in the industry and fostering meaningful collaborations among key players in the field. The event saw unprecedented success with the largest ever edition of analytica Vietnam, featuring a 10% increase in exhibition space, with country pavilions from Germany, China, Singapore, Korea and Vietnam.

The three-day event was a hub of activity, with exhibits showcasing the latest technologies, a world-class conference program featuring over 30 conference sessions and panel discussions focussing on solutions to the latest challenges facing the industry and research findings presented by industry experts, pre-event laboratory tours, exhibitor forum, buyer-seller programs, networking nights, and hosted buyer delegations from Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The event kicked off its Opening Ceremony with presence from Minister Bộ trưởng Huỳnh Thành Đạt and Vice Minister Thứ trưởng Lê Xuân Định from the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) in Vietnam. Attendees had the opportunity to learn, network, and reconnect with confirmed exhibitors, international pavilions, and key industry leaders, all free of charge.

As the first face-to-face meeting for the industry since the impact of COVID-19, analytica Vietnam 2023 welcomed sponsorship from industry giants such as Thermo Fisher, BIOVIA, and BTG, and brought together a spectacular reunion of the science and research sector.

The exhibition featured national and international industry leaders, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, Shimadzu, Merck, Leco, ITS, DKSH, 2H Instruments, Scilab, Eppendorf, and Waters. International exhibitors from countries such as Germany, Italy, UK, Japan, Canada, Korea, France, Czech Republic, USA, Singapore, India, Thailand, and China also showcased their latest innovations. The German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises Singapore (ASME) supported the exhibition with their respective pavilions. The exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the event with Sho-Wen Yeo, Vice President and General Manager, Southeast Asia & Taiwan of Thermo Fisher Scientific stating “Our key areas are biopharma, clean energy, food safety, and research innovations so the opportunities presented in analytica Vietnam 2023 very much align with what we are focusing on, which is a great match.”

“The success of analytica Vietnam 2023 exceeded our expectations, and we are thrilled to have welcomed leading professionals and companies from the laboratory technology, analysis, and biotechnology industries,” said Mr. Michael Wilton, CEO & Managing Director of MMI Asia Pte Ltd, organiser of the exhibition and a subsidiary of Messe München GmbH. “The event provided unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and discovering the latest products and technologies in the industry.”

The Vietnamese government and Messe München have been at the forefront of industry development in Vietnam, and analytica Vietnam has been the perfect platform to support the further development of the industry in the country, facilitate know-how transfer, and promote investment in laboratory and biotechnology, according to Armin Wittmann, Project Director at Messe München GmbH.

As the organizer of analytica Vietnam, MMI Asia takes pride in hosting a successful event that facilitated knowledge exchange, networking, and business opportunities for all participants. The event provided a unique platform for stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

The impressive gathering at analytica Vietnam 2023 underscores the increasing demand for laboratory technology, analysis, and biotechnology solutions in the region, and the event has set the stage for further advancements in the industry. As the most significant gathering of professionals in Southeast Asia, analytica Vietnam continues to play a pivotal role in driving innovation, promoting investment, and facilitating knowledge exchange in the laboratory and biotechnology sectors. Plans are already underway for the next edition of analytica Vietnam, scheduled to be held on April 2-4 2025, at Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, which is set to be even bigger and better, building on the success of this year’s event.

For more information, please visit: www.analyticavietnam.com

analytica Vietnam Main Conference

The analytica Vietnam Conference, took place parallel to the trade fair, featured over 30 conference lectures presented by national and international experts from the science and research sector across the globe. Topics covered included biomedical and forensic analysis, novel analytical methods, food analysis, environment analysis, and quality control. The conference was organized by Prof. Dr. Oliver J. Schmitz from the University of Duisburg-Essen (Faculty of Chemistry) and Prof. Dr. Pham Hung Viet from VNU University of Science, KLATEFOS, as the program chairs.

Highlights of the analytica Vietnam 2023 conference included insightful panel discussions that brought together industry leaders, researchers, and decision makers to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the laboratory technology, analysis, and biotechnology sectors. The panel discussions delved into topics such as digitalization and automation in laboratories, advancements in precision medicine, sustainable solutions for environmental analysis, and the future of biotechnology in Southeast Asia.

Laboratory Tours

The pre-event laboratory tours allowed attendees to visit leading laboratories and research facilities in Ho Chi Minh City and gain first-hand insights into cutting-edge technologies and best practices. Participants were able to personally witness and gain the know-how into the procedure and technicalities of the laboratories in Vietnam, supported through the guided tour and allowing them to garner a deeper understanding of ASEAN research facilities.

Buyer-Seller Meeting Program

The buyer-seller programs went one step further to facilitate meaningful interactions between exhibitors and potential buyers, creating a conducive environment for business collaborations and partnerships. This edition saw the successful completion of 338 pre-arranged business meetings, reflecting a positive increasing trend from previous editions. On top of that, the networking nights and hosted buyer programs provided ample opportunities for participants to connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and foster new business relationships. The event also witnessed the participation of high-level delegations from Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam, further enhancing regional cooperation and collaboration in the laboratory and biotechnology industries.

About Messe München GmbH

Messe München GmbH is one of the world’s leading trade fair organizers with more than 50 trade fairs for capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies. Every year, Messe München organizes more than 200 events in Munich, Germany, and abroad, attracting over 30,000 exhibitors and 2 million visitors. The company’s mission is to create innovative, sustainable, and profitable platforms for its customers to do business and connect with their target markets.

analytica Vietnam

analytica Vietnam is the premier trade fair for laboratory technology, analysis, and biotechnology in Southeast Asia. Organized by Messe München, the event brings together industry professionals, researchers, and policymakers to showcase the latest technologies, exchange knowledge, and foster business collaborations. analytica Vietnam features an exhibition, conference, pre-event laboratory tours, buyer-seller programs, and networking opportunities, providing a comprehensive platform for the laboratory and biotechnology industries in the region. The upcoming edition is set to take place from April 2 to 4, 2025 at the SECC – Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center. More details can be found at https://www.analyticavietnam.com/.

analytica worldwide

Messe München is the world’s leading trade fair organizer for laboratory technology, analysis and biotechnology. The international network of exhibitions includes analytica, analytica China, analytica Anacon India & India Lab Expo, analytica Vietnam and analytica Lab Africa. Additional information about these exhibitions and their programs of events is available at http://www.analytica.de.

MMI Asia Pte Ltd

MMI Asia Pte. Ltd. was set up as the regional headquarter and a wholly owned subsidiary of Messe München in 1992. With subsidiaries in China and India, MMI Asia organizes trade fairs in China, India and ASEAN countries; promotes global trade expansion by facilitating participation of Asian exhibitors in Messe München fairs worldwide; it also provides consultancy in professional trade fair and conference management to government bodies, international trade and promotion organizations, and trade associations.

Contact:
MMI Asia Pte. Ltd.
Daniel Shi
Exhibition Director
Daniel@mmiasia.com.sg

The 6th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) will showcase the country’s finest to domestic, international property seekers

AN EXCLUSIVE GALA DINNER AND PRESENTATION CEREMONY WILL BE HOSTED IN MELBOURNE FOR THE 2023 EDITION

SYDNEY, AU, Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) programme officially opened its sixth edition in 2023 as overseas property seekers return to the renowned investment destination.

CaptFrom L-R: Josh Chye, Partner, Tax Consulting, HLB Mann Judd, the awards official supervisor;
Lui Violanti, Chairperson of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) and regional manager
for Western Australia at Inhabit Group; Jules Kay, General Manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property
Awards and Events; and Sally Picot, Group General Manager of Sales, Scape Australiaion

Australia’s finest developers and design practices may submit their entries to the 6th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia), which will be presented for the first time ever in Australia during a black-tie gala dinner and ceremony in Melbourne in October.

Entry submissions are accepted online until 4 August 2023 via: asiapropertyawards.com

The launch of the Awards in Australia comes as residential real estate in the country strengthens its reputation as a long-term, stable-growth asset class for end use and investment. Australia during the pandemic emerged as a safe haven where residential property prices have since continued to grow, according to research by Property Report by PropertyGuru, the official magazine of the Awards. This has emboldened Asian buyers to look for second homes in the popular international education destination following eased border restrictions.

Jules Kay, general manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events, said: “The Awards in Australia have grown to be much more comprehensive in the post-pandemic era, expanding to cover more states and a wider range of developers. This reflects the needs of an increasingly diverse pool of domestic and international property seekers, including upgraders, seniors, international students and foreign investors. This year, we plan to celebrate the diversity and success of the Australian market in new, even more exciting ways.”

Lui Violanti, chairperson of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) and regional manager for Western Australia at Inhabit Group, said: “With great excitement and pride, we open the 2023 edition of the Awards in Australia to worthy entries from all over the country. We challenge Australia’s finest developers and design practices to showcase their latest and greatest achievements to the rest of Asia Pacific as property seekers across the region eagerly search once more for the country’s best homes, aged-care environments, student accommodations, commercial spaces, mixed-use sites, and investment assets. The sixth edition of the Awards in Australia are truly something to look forward to this year.”

In a milestone occasion, the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) will be celebrated for the first time within the country at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne ballroom on Friday, 13 October.

Key dates for the 2023 edition:
4 August 2023 – Entries Close
28 August – 15 September 2023 – Site Inspections
19 September 2023 – Final Judging
13 October 2023 – Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Melbourne, Australia
8 December 2023 – Regional Grand Final Gala Presentation in Bangkok, Thailand

The public are also encouraged to submit their nominations before the deadline of entries on 4 August 2023 here: asiapropertyawards.com/nominations

Jules Kay, General Manager of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards and Events

Connecting with international property seekers

Jules Kay and Lui Violanti led the ‘Connect with Southeast Asia’ event at Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour that officially launched the 2023 edition of PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia).

Sally Picot, group general manager of sales at Scape Australia, winner of the Best Student Accommodation Development award at the 5th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) 2022, attended the launch in Sydney. Also in attendance was Josh Chye, partner and head of tax at HLB Mann Judd, representing HLB, the official supervisor of the Awards.

HLB, the global network of independent advisory and accounting firms, is responsible for upholding the fairness, credibility, and integrity of the selection process. As the official supervisor of the Awards, HLB makes full use of a professionally run, fully transparent judging system.

The selection process, which includes rigorous site inspections and deliberations, involves an independent panel of judges. Led by Lui Violanti, the judging panel is composed of experts in a wide array of fields from architecture and design to real estate consultancy.

Top award recipients from Australia will be eligible to compete with their peers across the Asia-Pacific region at the 18th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final 2023 on 8 December in Bangkok, Thailand. Last year, Spacious Group won the Best Boutique Developer (Asia) title at the 17th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final. Paradiso Place by SPG Land clinched both the Best Smart Building Development (Asia) and Best Integrated Work From Home Development (Asia) awards while Zero Gipps by Dare Property Group and The Archwood Residences by Mayrin Group won the Best Eco Friendly Commercial Development (Asia) and Best Housing/Landed Architectural Design (Asia) awards, respectively.

Established in 2005, the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards continue to reward high-calibre work within the industry, encompassing property development, construction, architecture, interior design, and sustainable building practices. The series initially covered Southeast Asia and has expanded over the years to include the region’s dynamic property markets, including Australia, China, Greater Niseko in Japan, and India.

Organised by PropertyGuru Group (NYSE: PGRU), Southeast Asia’s leading property technology company, the 6th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) are supported by official magazine Property Report by PropertyGuru; official publicity partner Good Talent Media; media partners Australian Property Journal, The Property Tribune, and Your Investment Property Magazine; and official supervisor HLB.

For more information, email awards@propertyguru.com or visit the official website: AsiaPropertyAwards.com.

ABOUT PROPERTYGURU ASIA PROPERTY AWARDS

PropertyGuru’s Asia Property Awards, established in 2005, are the region’s most exclusive and prestigious real estate awards programme. The Asia Property Awards are recognised as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in the Asian property sector. Boasting an independent panel of industry experts and trusted supervisors, the Awards have an unparalleled reputation for being credible, ethical, fair and transparent.

In 2023, the Awards series is open to more than a dozen key property markets around the region. The exciting gala events welcome senior industry leaders and top media, as well as reach property agents and consumers via live streaming. Recognising excellence within each Asian market with a variety of categories, including green and sustainable development, each local awards programme will culminate in the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, which takes place after the PropertyGuru Asia Real Estate Summit during ‘PropertyGuru Week’ in December 2023.

For more information, please visit AsiaPropertyAwards.com

PROPERTYGURU CONTACTS:

General Enquiries:
Richard Allan Aquino, Head of Brand & Marketing Services
M: +66 92 954 4154
E: allan@propertyguru.com

Media & Partnerships:
Nate Dacua, Media Relations & Marketing Services Manager
M: +66 92 701 2510
E: nate@propertyguru.com

Sponsorships:
Kanittha Srithongsuk, Regional Manager, Awards Sponsorship
M: +66 93 293 9794
E: kanittha@propertyguru.com

Sales & Nominations:

Watcharaphon Chaisuk (Jeff), Solutions Manager

M: +66 95 797 0595

E: jeff@propertyguru.com

NOTE: Use of the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards logo is limited to the publication of this article only.

PreIPO Chosen to raise $250M for SPiCE Fund II, shortly after SPiCE Fund I named leading VC fund of 2022 in Blockchain Ecosystem

BOCA RATON, Fla., Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – PreIPO, a leading provider of innovative financial technology solutions, is pleased to announce a new partnership with SPiCE VC. This partnership will enable PreIPO to further expand its offerings and bring cutting-edge financial technology to a broader market. SPiCE Fund I has yielded a market leading 50.7% IRR and we are pleased to announce the offering of SPiCE Fund II. SPiCE VC has been deemed the best Venture Capital Fund of 2022 in the blockchain and tokenization ecosystem.

Through this partnership, SPiCE Fund II will be featured on the PreIPO Platform, with a robust data room including key due diligence documents and marketing materials. Marking the first of many funds to be fully available for investment within the PreIPO ecosystem. This also includes access to PreIPO's network of industry experts, investors, and potential partners, as well as its experience in helping companies scale and succeed.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with PreIPO," said Rene Eichenberger, Partner of SPiCE VC. "Their expertise and support will be invaluable as we continue to develop and bring our innovative funds to the market."

PreIPO is a leader in the Pre-IPO market of the fintech industry, offering a range of products and services designed to improve capital formation processes and make them more efficient and accessible. This includes solutions for subscription documents, SPVs, data room consolidation, and much more. Check out our website and platform here (www.preipo.com).

"PreIPO has a strong team delivering innovative financial technology solutions," said Rob Roy Roedel, Partner at SPiCE VC. "We are excited to be partnering with them and supporting their growth as they continue to drive the fintech industry forward."

This partnership represents a significant step forward for PreIPO and will help the company continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of financial technology. We look forward to the exciting developments and growth that this partnership will bring.

If you would like to find out more information about investing in SPiCE Fund II via PreIPO's proprietary platform visit the data room now (https://docsend.com/view/s/uxw5gii6k4pgrqs5) or please feel free to reach out to invest@preipo.com.

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

CoinFlip’s New Crypto Platform ‘Olliv’ Aims to Make Cryptocurrency a Simple Part of Everyday Life

CHICAGO, IL, Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – CoinFlip, a leading fintech company powered by cryptocurrency, announces today a new chapter of growth and product evolution with the launch of 'Olliv,' a safe, inclusive, self-custody-powered crypto platform delivering financial services in the digital economy accessible to everyone. Olliv is breaking down the exclusivity barrier of cryptocurrency and offering a space that welcomes the next generation of investors to the digital economy while serving as an onramp for the future of blockchain utility and tokenized assets. The Olliv platform provides a frictionless way for consumers to buy, sell, send, receive, and swap assets securely stored on a self-custodial wallet, removing the uncertainty of unknown third-party custodians. Leveraging CoinFlip's existing network of crypto ATMs and award-winning customer service, Olliv serves to bridge the gap between physical and digital investing, expanding accessibility to this emerging technology.

Olliv recognizes the future of crypto isn't about who's already in it, it's about onboarding new users and propelling mass adoption. Education, simplicity, and ease of use are at the core of Olliv's ethos, as the platform looks to offer guidance and insights that make it easier to achieve financial freedom. Packaged in user-friendly software, Olliv enables 'Olliv Us' to participate in the digital economy in a way that makes customers feel safe, supported, and in control.

"With the launch of Olliv, our goal is to demystify cryptocurrency and create an inviting community for everyone. We aim to welcome customers with open arms into this next step toward financial revolution, regardless of their financial knowledge or background," said Ben Weiss, CEO and co-founder of CoinFlip. "We''e always looking for ways to invest in our customers that will contribute to the future of DeFi. We are confident our self-custodial model, a key value of CoinFlip's business since inception, will pave the path for a significant and much-needed shift in the industry. We look forward to continued growth and innovation in the coming year as we get one step closer to on-ramping the next generation of crypto investors."

Amongst its suite of services, Olliv features an intuitive interface for secure transactions and state-of-the-art encryption. Olliv also offers CoinFlip's award-winning 24/7 live customer service and provides educational resources via user-friendly content. The platform's commitment to transparency ensures users have visibility to all applicable fees, which are amongst the lowest in the industry, while trusted payment integrations enable secure and seamless payments.

"We envision a future where everyone can participate in the digital economy and utilize their holdings to make everyday purchases and gain access to previously hard-to-buy assets such as precious metals, real estate, and energy, without the need for frustrating third-party intermediaries," said Rory Herriman, Chief Technology, Digital, and Strategy Officer of CoinFlip. "Our vision for Olliv is to innovate and break down barriers around safety, security, and sovereignty, to empower people to invest and give them individual ownership of their assets thanks to the accessibility cryptocurrency provides."

Olliv is creating a unique space for people to join the crypto ecosystem at a pivotal point where technology and use cases for digital currency are rapidly evolving. The company will continue to grow its offerings and add additional features to support a user throughout their financial lifecycle. With a commitment to providing services that disrupt the traditional finance system, Olliv is poised to become a leader in the fintech space, providing essential services for all users, regardless of level of experience.

Amid challenging market conditions, CoinFlip remained a trusted resource for customers showcasing dedication to industry compliance and transparency. In doing so, the company demonstrated impressive growth, nearly doubling its headcount and expanding its ATM presence to Puerto Rico, Canada, and Australia. The company's 2022 revenue exceeded $100 million and its team is projected to grow by 23% by the end of 2023. CoinFlip's exceptional growth has been recognized by Crain's Chicago Business, which named it the No. 1 fastest-growing company in Chicago for two consecutive years and by Inc. 5000, where it has ranked within the top 100 in 2021 and 2022. With the launch of Olliv, CoinFlip solidifies its position as a leader in the financial revolution fueled by cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

Starting today, Olliv is offered in the United States and Puerto Rico, except for Alaska, Iowa, New York, Oregon, Nevada, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Vermont with intentions to expand in accordance with local regulation. To learn more about Olliv and to sign up, please visit Olliv.com.

About Olliv by CoinFlip

Olliv is a next-generation financial services platform powered by cryptocurrency that offers consumers a safe, inclusive, and supportive on-ramp to financial freedom. The omnichannel offering includes the Olliv digital platform and the CoinFlip network of cryptocurrency ATMs. With more than 4,000 machines in 49 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Canada, and Australia, Olliv leverages CoinFlip's network of cryptocurrency kiosks to bridge the gap between physical and digital currency and introduce crypto to the masses. Olliv was founded as CoinFlip in 2015 and is headquartered in Chicago. To learn more, visit Olliv.com.

Contact:
Bryan Feinberg
zephyr@platodata.io.

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

James Shapiro’s 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare Wins the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction Winner of Winners Award

Edinburgh, Apr 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare by James Shapiro is tonight, Thursday, April 27, named winner of the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction 'Winner of Winners' Award. The winner was announced by Chair of Judges, Jason Cowley, at a ceremony hosted at the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh.

Baillie Gifford Prize Winner of Winners James Shapiro
Baillie Gifford Prize Winner of Winners James Shapiro with 1599: A Year in the Life of William
Shakespeare at a photocall at Waterstones in Edinburgh

The Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction Winner of Winners Award marks the 25th anniversary of the UK's premier non-fiction book prize by crowning the best work of non-fiction from the last 25 years of the prize. As the winner, Shapiro will receive GBP25,000.

The winner was chosen by a judging panel comprising of: New Statesman editor-in-chief, Jason Cowley (chair); academic, critic and broadcaster, Shahidha Bari; journalist, author and academic, Sarah Churchwell; and biographer and critic Frances Wilson. Their selection was made from a shortlist of six books, taken from the previous 24 prizewinning books.

In the course of 1599, Shakespeare completed Henry V, wrote Julius Caesar and As You Like It in quick succession, and produced the first draft of his greatest play, Hamlet. In his winning book 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare, Shapiro shows how The Bard progressed from his tale of two star-crossed lovers to Hamlet. Shapiro finds one question the most pressing: how did Shakespeare become Shakespeare – one of the greatest writers who ever lived?

James Shapiro is Professor of English at Columbia University, where he teaches Shakespeare. His earlier books have received international acclaim, including 1606: The Year of Lear, which won the James Tait Black Prize; 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare, which won the Samuel Johnson Prize; and Shakespeare in a Divided America, selected as one of the 10 best books of the year by the New York Times. Shapiro is also the author of Contested Will: Who Wrote Shakespeare?, Oberammergau: The Troubling Story of the World's Most Famous Passion Play, Shakespeare and the Jews, and Rival Playwrights: Marlowe, Shakespeare, Jonson, and edited the Library of America anthology, Shakespeare in America. His reviews have appeared in The New York Times Book Review, Times Literary Supplement, the London Review of Books, and other publications. He has served on the board of directors of The Royal Shakespeare Company, and advises productions for the Public Theatre in New York and other companies. Shapiro was a collaborator on The King and the Playwright, a series he hosted for the BBC and also hosted the BBC The Mysterious Mr. Webster. In 2011, he was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He is currently serving as a Booker Prize judge.

Jason Cowley, Chair of judges, says: "1599 is a remarkable and compelling book. A history of four masterpieces and of so much more, it produces a life of Shakespeare, about whom so little is known, through an ingenious fusion of history, politics, and literary criticism. The result is a poised and original re-imagination of biography. Shapiro returns Shakespeare to the stage of his own world, and in so doing, he transforms our understanding – not only of the great works but also of the social atmosphere of his times. Erudite, accessible and formally bold, it will appeal to anyone interested in history, politics, literature and good writing."

Peter Singlehurst, Partner at Baillie Gifford, says: "The strapline for the Baillie Gifford Prize is 'all the best stories are true'. But it is not necessarily their factfulness that makes these books so special, it is the stories about people, ordinary and extraordinary. Choosing one book seems an impossible task and we thank the judges for taking on the unenviable responsibility. Many congratulation to James Shapiro."

Sir Leonard Blavatnik, Head of the Blavatnik Family Foundation, says: "For twenty-five years, the Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction has recognized immensely talented authors. We congratulate James Shapiro on this exceptional achievement. We are proud to be the long-time sponsor of the podcasts showcasing the short-listed books and their authors, as well as the annual celebratory gala in London when the winners are announced."

thebailliegiffordprize.co.uk | @BGPrize | #BGPrize25

Images of the winning author and book are available to download here. https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r5roed7142d4sjz/AABhgKCjEwluQERRixTia2Zxa?dl=0

This folder is being updated with images from the ceremony.

Contact Information
Julie Holman
Account Director
julie.holman@fourcommunications.com
+44 (0)7841 672 393

Nathaniel Ashley
Account Executive
nathaniel.ashley@fourcommunications.com
+44 (0)20 3103 9598

Related Files
The Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction Winner of Winners Award – Winner Announced – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE.pdf https://cdn.newswire.com/files/x/6a/f0/28959db2c29a38a2999f02b09cc9.pdf

SOURCE: Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Wintermar Offshore (WINS:JK) Reports 1Q2023 Results

JAKARTA, Apr 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – PT Wintermar Offshore Marine Tbk (WINS:JK) has announced results for 1Q2023. Operating Profit rebound to US$1.6 million from a loss of US$1.4 million in 1Q2022 after strong increase in Revenues. Stronger charter rates contributed to the 51%YOY increase in total revenue to US$15.9 million and gross profit of US$3.0 million for 1Q2023.

Owned Vessel Division

During the first quarter of 2023, charter rates were higher, boosting Owned Vessel revenue by 46%YOY to US$9.7 million, and generating a turnaround in the division with a positive gross profit of US$1.7 million for 1Q2023 compared to a loss of US$0.6 million for 1Q2022. Quarterly utilization for 1Q2023 was 67%, higher than 61% in 1Q2022, but lower than the high utilization of 82% in 4Q2022, as several longer-term contracts completed in 1Q2023 and vessels underwent interim maintenance while being prepared for new contracts.

Direct Expenses were 10.6% higher, mainly due to higher maintenance (+154.4%YOY) and operations (+30.6% YOY) costs for parts and consumables. Depreciation was slightly lower at US$3 million (-2.5%YOY) as some of the additional vessels were not yet activated. Crewing costs rose by 2.6%YOY to US$2.1 million for 1Q2023.

Chartering and Other Services

Gross Profit from the Chartering Division rose by 16.6% YOY to US$0.4 million while Gross Profit from Other Services rose by 124.9% to US$0.9 million as demand for ancillary services also improved.

Total Gross Profit jumped to US$3.0 million for 1Q2023, compared to only US$0.2 million in 1Q2022, reflecting more robust conditions in the industry.

Indirect Expenses and Operating Profit

During 1Q2023, total Indirect Expenses fell by 9.4%YOY to US$1.4 million. Staff salaries increased by 5.1%YOY due to new hires during 2022 after a hiring freeze ended during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this was offset by lower employee benefit expenses as actuarial liabilities were adjusted to comply with the new Omnibus law. Office utilities rose 39%YOY to US$0.1 million as most employees returned to work in the office compared to 1Q2022 where employees were still working from home.

Operating Profit saw a convincing turnaround for 1Q2023 at US$1.6 million, compared to a loss of US$1.4 million in 1Q2022.

Other Income, Expenses and Net Attributable Profit

The better operating conditions has contributed to higher cash flow as EBITDA saw a sharp increase to US$4.6 million in 1Q2023 from US$1.7 million in 1Q2022.

As the Company's borrowings fell to US$16.1 million by 31 March 2023 compared to US$24.3 million at end March 2022, net interest expenses continued to fall by 28.6%YOY to US$0.26 million.

Associate companies recorded a loss of US$ 0.4 million, from the cost of preparing an additional vessel for operations. For 1Q2023, Total Net Income before tax and minorities stood at US$0.85 million compared to a loss of US$2.0 million for 1Q2022.

Net Attributable Profit to Parent Entity for 1Q2023 amounted to US$0.18 million compared to a loss of US$1.8 million for the same period in 2022.

Business Outlook

OPEC+ members announced a voluntary production cut beginning from May 2023 to the end of the year, indicating that oil prices should remain firm. This confirms the positive outlook for oil and gas exploration as more new projects are being announced.

There has been an increase in optimism in upstream activities in Asia where more drilling projects are being approved. During the first quarter there were several new requests for proposals in the region, including in Brunei, Thailand, Malaysia as well as Indonesia. Charter rates are rising as demand for OSVs has picked up while supply has been stagnant.

Rystad Energy has estimated that South East Asian upstream investments will grow by 10% in 2023 and 15% in 2024, largely in offshore fields. This is positive for our fleet expansion strategy.

Fleet utilization fell in 1Q2023 because some vessels have come off longer term contracts when charter rates were lower. The Company will be looking to deploy these in contracts with higher charter rates in the coming months.

Contracts on hand as at end March 2023 amounted to US$72 million.

About Wintermar Offshore Marine Group

Wintermar Offshore Marine Group (WINS.JK), developed over nearly 50 years with a track record of quality that is both a source of pride and responsibility that we are dedicated to upholding, and sails a fleet of more than 48 Offshore Support Vessels ready for long term as well as spot charters. All vessels are operated by experienced Indonesian crew, tracked by satellite systems and monitored in real-time by shore-based Vessel Teams.

Wintermar is the first shipping company in Indonesia to be certified with an Integrated Management System by Lloyd's Register Quality Assurance, and is currently certified with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality), ISO14001:2015 (Environment) and OHSAS 18001:2007 (Occupational Health and Safety). For more information, please visit www.wintermar.com.

For further information, please contact:
Ms. Pek Swan Layanto, CFA
Investor Relations
PT Wintermar Offshore Marine Tbk
Tel (62-21) 530 5201 Ext 401
Email: investor_relations@wintermar.com

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

BioMed X Launches XSeed Labs in the US with Boehringer Ingelheim – a New Model for Building an External Innovation Ecosystem on an Industry Campus

RIDGEFIELD, CT, Apr 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – BioMed X announced today the expansion of its collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim with the launch of a new model for biomedical research: XSeed Labs. The first research project of the new lab will focus on fibrotic disease processes, a key focus area of Boehringer Ingelheim. It will aim for a better understanding of wound healing and fibrosis in diseases of high unmet need, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), scleroderma, progressive fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (PF-ILDs), and Crohn's disease, to pave the way for developing treatments that significantly improve patient outcomes.

XSeed Labs – Powered by BioMed X

Using its global crowdsourcing process, the BioMed X Institute will recruit a team of outstanding early-career life scientists to form a first-of-its-kind research group that will be hosted at Boehringer Ingelheim's US site in Ridgefield, CT. The goal of this new collaboration is to bring BioMed X's successful innovation model to Boehringer Ingelheim's main US research and development campus and serve as a nucleus for a vibrant external innovation ecosystem. This collaborative effort will aim to further fertilize the company's research and development initiatives in an effort to transform the lives of patients with high unmet medical needs.

Dr. Christian Tidona, Founder and Managing Director of BioMed X, explains: "The principle behind BioMed X has always been to combine the best of both worlds – academia and industry. We started by creating an independent research institute located on a traditional university campus in Heidelberg, Germany. Now, backed by 10 years of experience, we were able to translate the BioMed X concept into something that can be implemented on a research and development campus of a pharmaceutical company. We are grateful to Boehringer Ingelheim for embracing this new concept."

The XSeed Labs will be managed by the newly founded BioMed X Institute in New Haven, CT, which is also home to the world-renowned Yale University. "We are excited to establish this new model here in the US, which will allow us to promote scientific exchange between all major players in the field of biomedical research," says Mark Johnston, CEO of BioMed X USA.

Within the XSeed Labs framework, the teams will focus on chronic fibroinflammatory disease hallmarks such as aberrant tissue repair, pathological matrix production, macrophage and fibroblast activation, as well as metabolic reprogramming. To understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fibrosis as compared to normal wound healing, more complex and physiologically relevant disease models are needed. The new research group at XSeed Labs will focus on developing complex ex vivo tissue culture models to study this process to develop innovative therapies that significantly reduce the progression of fibrosis.

Life sciences researchers who are interested in becoming part of this new BioMed X team on the Boehringer Ingelheim Ridgefield campus are invited to respond to this international call for applications by submitting a project proposal via the BioMed X Career Space ( https://career.bio.mx/call/2023-RDG-C01 ) before June 18, 2023.

About BioMed X and XSeed Labs

BioMed X is an independent research institute located on the campus of the University of Heidelberg in Germany, with a worldwide network of partner locations. Together with our partners, we identify big biomedical research challenges and provide creative solutions by combining global crowdsourcing with local incubation of the world's brightest early-career research talents. Each of the highly diverse research teams at BioMed X has access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and is continuously guided by experienced mentors from academia and industry. At BioMed X, we combine the best of two worlds – academia and industry – and enable breakthrough innovation by making biomedical research more efficient, more agile, and more fun.

BioMed X started working with Boehringer Ingelheim in 2015 with a series of joint research projects hosted by the BioMed X Institute in Heidelberg, Germany. The new collaboration model – called XSeed Labs – entails an open innovation incubator embedded in the Boehringer Ingelheim Ridgefield campus in Connecticut, USA. The topic of the first research project within this new framework is wound healing and fibrosis.

Contact Information
Flavia-Bianca Cristian
Recruiting & Communications Manager
fbc@bio.mx
+49 6221 426 11 706

SOURCE: The BioMed X Institute

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Hong Kong advantages in green buildings

HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Link Asset Management Limited (Link) released a survey study, "Hong Kong Green Capabilities in Real Estate Development and Property Management: RCEP Opportunities", which highlights seven distinct advantages of Hong Kong in the field of green buildings.

Irina Fan, Director of HKTDC Research (L) and George Hongchoy, Executive Director and Chief Executive
Officer of Link (R)

The report also underscores green building challenges across the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) countries, with which Hong Kong can strengthen collaboration in four major areas to expand Hong Kong's and regional green building capacities to create a greener and sustainable future: climate risk assessment and design consulting; green financing; construction and facility management digitalisation; and green material certification and sourcing.

Mr George Hongchoy, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Link Asset Management Limited, said: "We are delighted to learn that Hong Kong's real estate sector is in a leading position in terms of green competences among the major RCEP markets being examined. As a real estate asset manager and investor based in Hong Kong, sustainability is at the heart of Link's operation. We have been incorporating sustainability consideration in almost every part of our business, pioneering many sustainability applications in our daily operations, and striving to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2035. We are keen to work with other industrial practitioners to further advance sustainability initiatives in Hong Kong and showcase the city's green capabilities in RCEP markets to capture new opportunities in the region."

Ms Irina Fan, Director of HKTDC Research, said: "Green real estate development and property management are a key element in achieving net zero by 2050, particularly in the case of Hong Kong, where 50,000 private and government buildings generate 60% of the city's carbon emissions. The progress made towards green buildings in Hong Kong in recent years is encouraging, thanks to the joint efforts of industry stakeholders. At the same time, demand for green real estate and property management services in RCEP economies is also growing. Hong Kong practitioners are well placed to take advantage of the momentum to seize business opportunities in RCEP countries, establish Hong Kong's leading position in green buildings in the global marketplace and create stronger synergies."

Hong Kong's seven green building advantages

The survey has been compiled through a three-pronged approach: (1) Desktop research on Mainland China, Hong Kong and other RCEP countries of interest to understand and compare green buildings trends; (2) In-depth interviews with more than 70 stakeholders in the real estate and property management sectors in RCEP countries and Hong Kong between July and November 2022 to assess the green capabilities of Hong Kong's real estate and property management industries; (3) Questionnaire survey via phone and online of 300 practitioners from Australia, Japan, Mainland China, Singapore and South Korea with the aim of gaining a better understanding of the green capabilities of the real estate and property management sectors across the RCEP bloc, while exploring collaboration opportunities for Hong Kong practitioners. All survey respondents are manager level or above and have been involved in green construction, property development or facility management projects for more than four years.

The report identifies seven advantages of Hong Kong in the green building field, including:

1. Green finance: Hong Kong is Asia's leading green finance hub with a deep capital pool capable of meeting the diverse financing needs of the real estate sector;

2. Green building products and embodied carbon reduction: Local manufacturers of construction materials have made use of waste materials in their production processes to reduce embodied carbon emissions;

3. Industry coherence: Hong Kong's well-established testing, inspection and certification (TIC) industry plays a pivotal role in certifying green building products and projects;

4. Innovative construction methods: The application of new construction approaches with higher efficiency and lower production costs, like digitalisation and prefabrication, has been pioneered by Hong Kong's real estate developers;

5. Facility management: World-renowned for its skyline of supertall skyscrapers, Hong Kong is now turning up the dial on high-rise sustainable development and management;

6. Alternative and renewable energy and sustainable lifestyle: Hong Kong's power suppliers have been promoting a sustainable lifestyle and energy efficiency through measures like renewable energy development, energy management, digitalisation and retrofitting; and

7. Sustainable community development: Hong Kong's industry practitioners have built features, such as common social facilities and shared climate-resilient infrastructure into the design of real estate developments, to create sustainable, well-connected communities.

Challenges for RCEP members

Our survey results show that reducing energy consumption, encouraging sustainable business practices and lowering greenhouse gas emissions are the top three reasons for adopting green building practices, as indicated by 43%, 41% and 35% of the respondents, respectively. In terms of specific green building approaches, site planning and construction management (85%) is ranked highest, followed by sustainable architectural design and construction techniques (83%), and energy and waste management (81%).

The aspects that are considered the most challenging by respondents are efficient use and reduction of construction materials (18%), air quality monitoring and air purification (18%), monitoring and reducing energy consumption (17%) and use of recycled or eco-friendly construction materials (17%). Passive design (2%), BIM modelling (4%) and Daylighting designs (6%) are considered the least challenging in the region, perhaps reflecting Asia's strong expertise in architectural design.

While sustainability has gone mainstream, challenges for green building activities vary across countries. Japan, South Korea and Singapore face high initial costs, with 46%-56% of respondents citing costs as the top challenge for increasing green building activities. Mainland China is faced with a lack of experienced talent (44%), while Japan is struggling with securing financial resources (40%). The low availability of certified green building products and services is another area of concern among the South Korean (32%) and mainland Chinese (33%) respondents.

Hong Kong can meet the needs of the RCEP market in four major areas

The views of the survey respondents together with the in-depth stakeholder interviews carried out in Hong Kong and the five selected RCEP markets summarise four major areas, for which Hong Kong's green building capabilities can best meet the needs of RCEP markets. They are: climate risk assessment and design consulting services; green financing; construction and facility management digitalisation; and green building product certification and sourcing.

1. Climate risk assessment and design consulting services

Hong Kong has a well-established TIC industry and is seen as an experienced player in handling a volatile climate. With 72% of respondents saying that they believe Hong Kong excels in design concepts and construction techniques, the city's experience in handling volatile climates and constructing high rises could be valuable in RCEP markets. According to the survey, biophilic design / landscaping with greenery (42%) and climate risk assessment (34%) will be the most and the fifth most popular green building approach, respectively, for the next 12 months. Hong Kong is well placed to ride on its experience to provide these services to Australia, Mainland China, Singapore, and South Korea.

2. Green financing

Hong Kong is a leading financial centre that actively participates in sustainable finance development and can play a key role in providing green financing and carbon trading services to Japan, Mainland China and South Korea. According to the survey, 84% of the respondents showed an interest in increasing the use of green finance products and services in the coming 24 months, to enhance public recognition of (cited by 72%), public engagement with (cited by 65%) and transparency (cited by 60%) of their sustainability strategies.

3. Construction and facility management digitalisation

Hong Kong is experienced in the adoption of BIM, MiC and DfMa, while city practitioners are also good at implementing digitalisation in facility management and retrofitting existing buildings. Hong Kong can transfer knowledge of installing indoor air monitoring and control systems and smart waste management systems to RCEP. According to the survey, AI to improve energy efficiency (41%) and the construction process (37%) will be the second and the third most popular green building approaches, respectively, for the next 12 months.

4. Green building products certification and sourcing

As the world's sixth largest trading entity in merchandise trade, Hong Kong has a well-established assessment and certification protocol for green construction materials that can facilitate the sourcing of eco-friendly materials, and Japan, Mainland China and South Korea will be the focus markets. According to the survey, even though 40% of the respondents have already adopted recycled or eco-friendly construction materials in their projects, they still find the sourcing and application of eco-friendly materials a challenge due to the lack of standardisation and certification. Hong Kong can work with the RCEP market to develop a standardised assessment and certification protocol for green construction materials and set up a comprehensive regional database and platform of eco-friendly materials and suppliers.

References
– HKTDC Research Portal: http://research.hktdc.com/
– Hong Kong Green Capabilities in Real Estate Development and Property Management: RCEP Opportunities https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MTM2MTk3MTk5Nw
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/40KTqQl

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn.

About Link

Link Real Estate Investment Trust (Hong Kong stock code: 823) is the largest REIT in Asia by market capitalisation. It is managed by Link Asset Management Limited, a leading real estate investor and asset manager in the world. Since its listing in 2005 as the first REIT in Hong Kong, Link REIT has been 100% held by public and institutional investors. It is a constituent of the Hong Kong securities market benchmark Hang Seng Index, as well as a component of the Dow Jones Sustainability Asia Pacific Index, the FTSE4Good Index Series and the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index. From its home in Hong Kong, Link Asset Management Limited owns and manages a diversified portfolio including retail facilities, car parks, offices and logistics assets spanning from China's Beijing, Greater Bay Area (Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen), and Yangtze River Delta centred around Shanghai, to Singapore, Australia's Sydney and Melbourne and the UK's London. Link Asset Management Limited seeks to extend its portfolio growth trajectory and grasp expansion opportunities in different markets in pursuit of sustainable growth. For details, please visit https://www.linkreit.com

Media enquiries
For enquiries please contact:
HKTDC
Corporate Communication & Marketing Department
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org
Eric Wong, Tel: +852 2584 4575, Email: eric.ks.wong@hktdc.org

Link Asset Management Limited
Kelvin Tam, Tel: +852 2175 1870, Email: kevin.hf.tam@linkreit.com
Krista Chan, Tel: +852 2175 1344, Email: krista.hl.chan@linkreit.com

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com