Kingsoft Announces 2022 Annual and Fourth Quarter Results

HONG KONG, Mar 22, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – On 21 March 2023, Kingsoft Corporation Limited ("Kingsoft" or the "Company"; HKEx stock code: 03888), a leading Chinese software and Internet service company, has announced its 2022 annual results and fourth quarter results for the period ended 31 December 2022.

For the year of 2022, the revenue of Kingsoft increased 20% year-on-year to RMB7,636.7 million. Revenue from the office software and services and online games and others represented 51% and 49%, respectively, of the Company's total revenue for the year of 2022. Gross profit for the year of 2022 increased 18% year-on-year to RMB6,177.0 million, while operating profit amounted to RMB1,868.7 million.

For the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company's revenue increased 16% year-on-year and 15% quarter-on-quarter to RMB2,112.4 million. Revenue from the office software and services and online games and others represented 52% and 48%, respectively, of the Company's total revenue for the fourth quarter of 2022. Gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 20% year-on-year and 19% quarter-on-quarter to RMB1,740.8 million, while operating profit amounted to RMB618.7 million.

Mr. Jun LEI, Chairman of Kingsoft, commented, "2022 was full of challenges and uncertainties, in which we actively embraced changes, maintained strategic focus, and further strengthened our core competitiveness. Kingsoft Office Group was committed to empowering the digital transformation of institutional customers and enhancing the cloud office user experience for individual users. Our business performance showed resilience, with the strategy of 'multi-screen, cloud, content, artificial intelligence ("AI") and collaboration'. Online games business focused on the development of premium games, and our flagship and new launched titles gained popularity. All these achievements have given us confidence to keep advancing our strategy in the enterprise services and online games sectors."

Mr. Tao ZOU, Chief Executive Officer of Kingsoft, added, "The Group's businesses continued to make robust progress in 2022, with total revenue reaching RMB7,636.7 million, increasing by 20% year-on-year. In 2022, the office software and services business maintained solid growth with revenue of RMB3,890.6 million, up 19% year-on-year. Notably, individual and institutional subscription businesses grew robustly. The online games and others business experienced solid growth, with annual revenue reaching a new record high of RMB3,746.2 million in 2022, up 21% year-on-year, as the result of outstanding performance of JX World III mobile game. Operating profit of the group was RMB1,868.7 million in 2022, increasing significantly by 37% year-on-year. These results reflected the resilience of our business model, efficiency of our business execution, as well as years of investment in R&D of our Group's core products."

BUSINESS REVIEW
Office Software and Services
In 2022, revenue from office software and services business increased 19% year-on-year to RMB3,890.6 million. The year-on-year increase was mainly due to the sustainable growth of individual subscription business, and fast growth of institutional subscription business, partially offset by the decreases in institutional licensing and internet advertising businesses of Kingsoft Office Group. Revenue in the fourth quarter increased 21% year-on-year and 9% quarter-on-quarter to RMB1,090.2 million. The year-on-year increase was mainly due to the sustainable growth of individual subscription business, and robust growth of institutional subscription business of Kingsoft Office Group.

Despite the sluggish shipments of global PC and smartphone markets, the number of monthly active devices of Kingsoft Office Group's main products continued to grow against the trend in 2022. We constantly optimized the user experience of our products in cross-platform scenarios such as cloud and collaboration to encourage users to use cloud document services continuously. By the end of 2022, the number of documents uploaded to the public cloud platform has exceeded 175.2 billion, up 35% year-on-year. We continued to add membership privileges of WPS and Docer to attract users to become paying subscribers, enhance user loyalty, achieve stable growth in the number of paying subscribers, increase the proportion of long-term members, and optimize the membership structure.

Kingsoft Office Group deeply served the digital transformation of domestic government and enterprises, catered for their needs of efficiency improvement, data management, information security and industry scenario applications, and continued to promote their end-to-cloud integration and collaboration process. In response to the government's demand for standardized, efficient, and long-term electronic document management, we launched an electronic document resource library product. Making full use of cloud computing, big data, AI and other technologies, we assisted party and government agencies in building electronic document resource library platforms and supported the full lifecycle management of electronic documents in digital government construction. For premium enterprise customers, we provided modular digital office empowerment services, continuously advancing the enterprise cloud integration process, addressing core pain points of enterprises, such as "improving efficiency, enhancing data security, and controlling costs", and assisting enterprises in achieving cost reduction and efficiency improvement. For the public cloud service, our full range of digital office platform products with tiered versions were utilized to encourage customers to use cloud and collaboration applications in high frequency, which enhanced user engagement and payment retention.

Kingsoft Office Group has closely monitored the localization industry policy changes and customer demand, and taken the initiative to tap local government and industry localization markets in advance. Starting from the replacement needs of industries such as finance, operators, and energy, we promoted the adoption of the Windows/Linux dual-version annual venue mode and deepened their cloud and collaboration office process.

Looking forward, following the strategy of 'multi-screen, cloud, content, AI and collaboration', Kingsoft Office Group will focus on AI to achieve more breakthroughs in technology applications, and continue to explore innovative business models and optimize user experiences. At the same time, we will continuously improve service quality, empower government and enterprises with high-quality products and technological services, and assist them in achieving digital transformation more effectively.

Online Games and others
Revenue from the online games and others business for 2022 increased 21% year-on-year to RMB3,746.2 million. The year-on-year increase was mainly due to the successful launch of several mobile games which broadened our games portfolio in the fourth quarter of 2021, such as JX World III and JX I: Gui Lai, partially offset by decreased revenue from existing games. Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 11% year-on-year and 23% quarter-on-quarter to RMB1,022.3 million. The year-on-year increase was mainly due to revenue contribution from JX World III mobile game released in the fourth quarter of 2021, and revenue growth from JX Online III driven by continuous improvement in content, gameplay and overall user experience, partially offset by decreased revenue from existing games.

Online games business continuously cultivated key IP franchises more deeply and broadly, and further enhanced the value of core IPs. Flagship JX Online III marched into its thirteenth year and remained steady, and we put our focus on driving players' engagement. We launched two expansion packs and conducted multiple in-game events and campaigns to improve player activeness in 2022. In October, the number of daily active accounts achieved a recent high with the successful release of the anniversary expansion pack for JX Online III, Heng Dao Duan Lang. To further enrich our game content, we actively incorporated traditional cultural elements and launched a series of IP crossover campaigns in this game.

JX World III mobile game, one of the classic JX IP, performed strongly in 2022. In order to bring more immersive and authentic wuxia world experience to players, we continued to introduce distinctive gameplay and content to keep players engaged and entertained. We launched three expansion packs in 2022 on the basis of weekly updates. In August, we released the open beta across all platforms in Chinese mainland.

Looking ahead, we will proactively make progress in new game genres and overseas markets. Our new anime games, Snowbreak: Containment Zone and The Other Shore, have received the approval of gaming licenses and are expected to be released in China and aboard from the second half of 2023. We will focus on long-term operation of existing titles. The upgrade version of JX Online III PC game is expected to be launched by the end of 2023, laying the foundation for JX3 Ultimate and ensuring high-quality game iteration.

Mr. Jun LEI concluded, "In 2022, we achieved steady growth. In 2023, we will continue to seek progress while maintaining stability, and drive business growth with technology and service innovation. For office software and services business, we will continue to empower enterprises' digital transformation, focus on AI to achieve more breakthroughs in technology applications, reconstruct and optimize the membership system, further promote the transformation of subscriptions. For online games business, we will continue to extend the longevity of premium games based on original IPs, actively expand new game genres and pursue opportunities in overseas markets. Amid increasingly fierce industry competition, we believe that by relying on technological innovation, products and services enhancements and operations optimization, we will achieve further high-quality development."

About Kingsoft Corporation Limited
Kingsoft is a leading software and Internet services company based in China listed on the stock exchange of Hong Kong. It has three main subsidiaries including Kingsoft Office, Seasun and Kingsoft Shiyou. Following the implementation of its "mobile internet transformation" strategy, Kingsoft has completed the comprehensive transformation of its overall business and management models, and formed a strategic platform with office software and interactive entertainment as the pillars and cloud services and AI as the new directions. The Company has more than 7,000 staff around the world and enjoys a large market share in China. For more information, please visit http://www.kingsoft.com.

Kingsoft Investor Relations:
Francie Lu Tel: (86) 10 6292 7777 Email: ir@kingsoft.com
For further queries, please contact Hill+Knowlton Strategies Asia:
Ovina Zhu Tel: (852) 2894 6315 Email: kingsoft@hkstrategies.com


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

Freedom Business Summit 2023 brings together 5000+ entrepreneurs, freedom seekers and global citizens from all over the world

Estonia, Mar 22, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Join on 26-28 September 2023 for 3 powerful days for expert keynotes, workshops and panel discussions about Freedom Business, Global Citizenship and Freedom Lifestyle.



Freedom Business Summit 2023 is the premier online event for global citizens that brings together 5000+ attendees from 100 industries and 80 countries.

Connect with like-minded sovereign individuals, entrepreneurs, investors, global citizen experts to learn about:

– Best strategies about relocation and getting second citizenship
– Sovereign location independent lifestyle and Flags Theory
– Finding best jurisdiction, Incorporation and e-Residency
– Global Investing strategies, Investment Migration and Tax Planning
– Running remote company and managing distributed teams
– Building Safety Net, Personal Sovereignty and Inner Freedom
– Lifestyle Design and Holistic Life Approach

Learn the best strategies from world renowned speakers and companies like: e-Residency Estonia, SafetyWing, Running Remote, Upwork and others.

Freedom Business Summit is a premier online event for those looking to mitigate geopolitical risks and take their freedom back.

Learn from top experts, gain valuable insights and connect with the global community to build your freedom lifestyle.

Explore unique opportunity – join Freedom Business Summit 2023 and Get Early Bird Free Access and register here www.freedomsummit.net.

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

Infocus International Relaunches Online Workshop on Human Capital, Succession Planning, Talent & Performance Management

Singapore, Mar 22, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Infocus International Group has relaunched their Human Capital, Succession Planning, Talent & Performance Management, which will be commencing on 11th April 2023.

This course is the A to Z on strategically managing and optimising your human capital to full potential in today's
difficult business climate. It is a highly practical, hands-on course that shows you exactly how to tackle those
intractable HR problems:

– Resistance from employees
– Favoritism and political games
– HR not a priority/not taken seriously
– Lack of senior executive support for HR
– Lack of funding

This course will give attendees the knowledge and tool to excite and re-energise your people to inspire a new-found
confidence and trust in HR in your business. Through discussion, examples and activities you will discover the way
forwards. The industry insights, templates and models will put you ahead of your competitors; ahead of the game in
designing and delivering winning HR initiatives which will earn your HR team praise and recognition and will take
your people to the next level.

This practical live online course will have attendees excited by the new possibilities to drive performance in your
organisation. The examples given are proven winners and the materials provide for easy adaptation to the business.
Within 5 sessions of completing the course attendees can be forging positive change for the organisation and
people.

A past attendee from Transportasi Gas shared that, "The program was designed and delivered very well. It was very
fruitful also for other functions outside the HR Department to gain understanding about the strategies to develop
people."

Another past attendee from Centenary Bank also commented that, "The program facilitator was excellent. He
provided practical solutios that can be applied at no or minimal cost to the organisation. I liked the tools shared as
they can be immediately used in my organisation."

Benefits of Attending
– Learn to conduct a Talent Retention Audit and to develop a Talent Retention Plan
– Discover innovative, practical and inexpensive solutions to a wide range of everyday HR challenges
and problems
– Identify why performance management systems so often fail and how to avoid these common
mistakes
– Work through a simple, effective model to help struggling employees improve their performance
– Design innovative approaches to succession planning for your valued employees

Want to learn more?
Simply email esther@infocusevent.com or call +65 6325 0210 to obtain your FREE COPY of event brochure. For
more information, please visit https://www.infocusinternational.com/hr

About Infocus International Group

Infocus International is a global business intelligence provider of strategic information and professional services for
diverse business communities. We recognise clients' needs and responds with innovative and result oriented
programmes. All products are founded on high value content in diverse subject areas, and the highest level of quality is ensured through intensive and in-depth market research from local and international insights. For more
information: www.infocusinternational.com.

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

Tradition Meets Innovation – A Digital Certificate for Authentic Italian Products

NEUCHATEL, SWITZERLAND, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Fake "Italian" products are a rising concern, with the market estimated to be worth over EUR 100 billion worldwide. Despite protected status and regulations, even iconic Italian products like Parmigiano Reggiano are not immune to counterfeiting, with the fake market worth $2 billion, close to the sales of authentic Parmigiano at $2.7 billion.
100% Made in Italy Certificate


Representing over 7,000 registered companies and diverse businesses across all sectors, FederItaly is a dynamic non-profit federation dedicated to safeguarding "Made in Italy" and fighting the damaging effects of Italian-sounding products to Italy's economy and reputation.

FederItaly has partnered with the ORIGYN Foundation, a Swiss non-profit that uses cutting-edge blockchain technology to prove authenticity, identity, and ownership of valuable assets through digital certificates. These certificates will include multimedia elements like images, documents and even entire applications. By leveraging the foundation's powerful digital certification technology, FederItaly aims to protect Italian brands and consumers alike.

ORIGYN's innovative technology is built on the Internet Computer, the most cost effective and greenest blockchain in existence, developed by the DFINITY Foundation, which ensures the utmost transparency and security in the fight against counterfeit Italian products.

"FederItaly's partnership with ORIGYN marks a milestone in certifying Italian products, promoting economic and social empowerment. With the Senate event, initiative of Senator Gianpietro Maffoni, we are launching the certification process, starting from the Consortium of Extra Virgin Oil from Monti Tifatini, located in a region facing economic and social challenges," said Carlo Verdone, President of FederItaly.

The "FederItaly 100% Made In Italy" mark offers a trusted symbol of authenticity and quality. Companies must undergo a rigorous validation to ensure that all materials and processes originate from Italy. The resulting digital certificate, securely stored on the Internet Computer blockchain, provides all the essential details, from the product's origin to its maker, accessible with a simple scan of the product's QR code.

"ORIGYN Foundation is delighted to collaborate with FederItaly and DFINITY to help protect the integrity of Italy's finest products and creations, whose authenticity is passionately sought by so many the world over," said Mike Schwartz, ORIGYN Co-Founder and Councilmember.

FederItaly and ORIGYN are also developing a secure and decentralized e-commerce platform for small and medium-sized Italian businesses, with the ultimate goal to promote and preserve Italian excellence globally.

Starting from March 21, 2023, FederItaly will accept application requests for the "FederItaly 100% Made in Italy" digital certificate using the ORIGYN certification platform.

About ORIGYN

ORIGYN creates powerful biometric digital certificates that prove authenticity, identity and ownership of valuable assets, securely and permanently storing their data on the blockchain. ORIGYN's digital certification technology establishes an irrefutable connection between a physical asset-such as luxury watches, jewelry, gemstones, manufactured goods and fine artworks-and a forgery-proof, customizable digital certificate, while also offering a host of value-added services to businesses and consumers. ORIGYN serves as a universal, global certification standard for increasing trust, securing data and generating new revenue streams for businesses through digital certificates, which have now officially launched worldwide. Headquartered in Neuchatel, Switzerland, ORIGYN operates as a foundation dedicated to its mission to build trust in what is most valuable. For more information, visit origyn.com.

About FederItaly

FederItaly is the premier Italian federation dedicated to protecting, promoting and disseminating the excellence of "Made in Italy" products and services worldwide. Established in 2021, the organization quickly established itself as a leading voice among companies and media outlets. With over 7,000 registered companies, 12 trade associations, 5 consortia, and over 500 professionals, FederItaly has a proven track record of success in promoting the best of Italian production and professional excellence.

Contact Information
Cassidy Esper
cassidy@origyn.ch

SOURCE: ORIGYN Foundation

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

Accurate Background Acquires Australia’s VerifyNow

IRVINE, CA, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Accurate Background, the world's largest privately held provider of compliant background checks, drug and health screening, and monitoring solutions, today announced the acquisition of VerifyNow Pty Ltd, an employment screening provider in Australia. The acquisition complements Accurate's global strategy and expands its portfolio of international compliance-driven employment screening solutions. VerifyNow will continue to operate under the leadership of Khai Ngo, who will join Accurate's senior leadership team.
Aaron Hayes

Tim Dowd


"We remain committed to our global employment screening capabilities while continuing to advance our innovative approach to candidate and client experience, screening technology, and compliance expertise," said Tim Dowd, CEO of Accurate Background. Dowd added, "Accurate and VerifyNow have been partners for several years, and we are excited to deepen this relationship as we seek to better serve our clients' background screening needs in Australia and beyond."

The acquisition further expands Accurate's global business footprint and comes on the heels of the successful acquisition of Vero Screening in July 2022. Accurate gains a new office in Australia, where the VerifyNow team will continue to serve its existing client base while offering support to Accurate's roster of multinational clients.

"Our customers and employees will benefit greatly from this acquisition by Accurate as we look to expand our service and capabilities within Australia and New Zealand and provide better screening options for multinational clients with the Accurate platform," said Khai Ngo, the CEO of VerifyNow.

To manage the global expansion, Aaron Hayes has been promoted to General Manager and EVP, International, overseeing Accurate's EMEA and APAC regions.

"The need to tap into a global hiring pool continues to grow, and employment screening on an international level is more important than ever," said Hayes. "Our expanded global footprint helps us serve Accurate customers with an entrepreneurial mindset and helps ensure a seamless, unified candidate experience at scale."

Dowd added, "As we evaluate opportunities to expand our business footprint to better serve our customers, it is vital that we select partners who share our vision, our values and strengthen our overall capabilities for our customers. We look forward to the opportunities that this acquisition will bring."

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Gilbert + Tobin represented Accurate in the transaction while the sellers of VerifyNow were represented by MV Law.

About Accurate Background

Our vision is to make every hire the start of a success story. As a trusted provider of employment background screening and workforce monitoring services, Accurate Background gives companies of all sizes the confidence to make smarter, unbiased hiring decisions at the speed of demand. Experience a new standard of support with a dedicated team, comprehensive technology and insight, and the most extensive coverage and search options to advance your business while keeping your brand and people safe. To learn more, visit accurate.com.

About VerifyNow

The VerifyNow mission is to help organisations build a trusted workforce. We offer a range of background checks and assessments to support the screening of new hires and the existing workforce. We also offer expertise in psychometric and aptitude testing. To learn more, visit verifynow.com.au.

Media Relations Contacts
Media@accurate.com

VerifyNow Contact
info@verifynow.com.au

SOURCE: Accurate Background LLC

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

With U.S. Health Systems Under Growing Pressure to Fill Staff Vacancies, CGFNS Alliance Releases Updated Standards for Ethical Recruitment of Foreign Health Workers

Philadelphia, PA, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – As U.S. healthcare employers confront major staffing challenges, the Alliance for Ethical International Recruitment Practices, a division of CGFNS International, Inc. (CGFNS), has updated and strengthened its ethical recruitment code, which establishes best practice standards for fair and transparent recruitment of foreign-educated health professionals into the U.S.


The fourth edition of the Health Care Code for Ethical International Recruitment and Employment Practices, known as the "Alliance Code," strengthens recommendations around contract transparency and orientation programs. The Alliance Code was developed by a multistakeholder group representing interests across the sector, including employers, unions, recruiters, and representative nurse organizations.

It comes at a time when a growing global health worker shortage has left health systems struggling to fill vacancies and considering a variety of options, including sometimes turning to recruiting trained professionals from abroad. In the past five years, CGFNS has seen a doubling of its applications from foreign-trained health workers who are seeking eligibility to work in the U.S.

This trend has raised further concerns about ensuring that international recruitment practices are ethical, that they protect the rights of migrating health workers while establishing their obligations, and that recruiting agencies and employers are held accountable in the process. First published in 2008, the Alliance Code is reviewed and updated every five years to adapt to changes in the recruitment landscape and ensure its provisions continue to address basic rights and responsibilities of both migrating health professionals and those who recruit them to work in the U.S. The Code provides guidelines for recruitment agencies and employers, addressing migrant rights including the right to receive a fair contract, to provide informed consent and to access justice.

The Code has been voluntarily adopted by 12 firms that collectively recruit thousands of employees each year and that have undergone the Alliance's rigorous certification process, including a contract review and health professional survey. A list of recruitment firms that have been certified as in compliance with the Alliance Code can be found here. https://www.cgfnsalliance.org/certification_process/view-certified-recruiters/

The 2023 Alliance Code is being released after a year of internal and external review by the Alliance's Board of Governors.

"With the recent pandemic having further driven the growth in global demand for nurses and other health workers, there is increasing concern about ensuring that international recruitment processes are ethical and sustainable," said Alliance Director, Mukul Bakhshi, JD. "This updated 2023 Code reflects recent changes in the recruiting landscape, and we hope it will help push the industry forward in ensuring that recruitment practices are fair and respect basic rights."

"Our organization has been engaged in the work of the Alliance since its inception and fully endorses the Alliance Code," said AONL Chief Executive Officer, Robyn Begley, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Chief Executive Officer of the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL). "A fair and equitable process of recruiting foreign-educated nurses is foundational to achieving a professional practice environment for all nurses. We remain committed to the advancement of high standards of treatment for all staff."

"As the global leader in international credentials evaluation to support health worker mobility, at CGFNS we know that health worker migration into the U.S. brings individuals with critical skills to provide life-saving care. With the shortage persisting and employers stepping up their recruitment of foreign-trained nurses and other health workers, we must all work together to provide better protections to prevent exploitation," said CGFNS President and Chief Executive Officer, Peter Preziosi, PhD, RN, CAE. "We are proud of our work through the Alliance to continue to do our part to support nurses coming into the U.S."

About CGFNS International, Inc.

Founded in 1977 and based in Philadelphia, CGFNS International is an immigration-neutral not-for-profit organization, proudly serving as the world's largest credentials evaluation organization for the nursing and allied health professions. For more information, visit www.cgfns.org.

About The Alliance for Ethical International Recruitment Practices

Since 2008, the Alliance has fostered compliance to standards that advocate responsible, ethical, and transparent recruitment practices in the health care sector. The Alliance monitors certified recruitment organizations and verifies their processes to ensure that these standards are upheld and provides foreign-educated professionals resources to make informed decisions. The Alliance became a division of CGFNS International, Inc., in September 2014. For more information, visit www.cgfnsalliance.org.

Contact Information:
Mukul Bakhshi, Esq.
Chief of Strategy and Government Affairs
mbakhshi@cgfns.org
(215) 243-5825

SOURCE: CGFNS International

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

Global Digital Payments Leader, Visa joins Dubai FinTech Summit as Co-host

DUBAI, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The Dubai FinTech Summit welcomes Visa as a co-host sponsor for the two-day event taking place on 8 and 9 May this year. Visa is a global leader in digital payments that is connecting the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive.




"FinTechs are propelling innovation in the payments industry which is helping expand access to quality, affordable financial services, and innovative payment solutions. At Visa, we are empowering FinTechs to help grow the digital economy for the benefit of consumers and businesses in the region. Our partnership with DIFC's Dubai FinTech Summit provides us and our industry partners the platform to explore how we can continue to collectively bring innovations in digital commerce that uplift everyone, everywhere," said Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Visa's Senior Vice President and Group Country Manager for GCC region.

According to Visa, 4 in 5 consumers surveyed in the UAE would switch merchants based on the payment methods offered, with most preferring digital payments over cash.

Dr. Jaffar added, "The unprecedented digitisation during the pandemic has changed consumer expectations. This shift is prompting businesses to respond quickly, and FinTechs are helping develop the solutions businesses need to be competitive in our digital-first world. At Visa, we remain committed to growing digital commerce by providing FinTechs with access to our experts and technology through initiatives such as the Fast Track program so they can more easily create solutions for businesses to offer their customers faster, more secure ways to pay and to manage their expenses and get working capital. We are also working with FinTech leaders to embed finance across key categories such as digital wallets and "Buy Now, Pay Later", which are both increasingly popular with consumers."

Currently home to 60 per cent of all FinTech companies based in the GCC, Dubai and DIFC is being recognised as a global centre for innovation, with its unique ecosystem and comprehensive approach to business, driving not only the future of finance but increasingly the future economy.

Mohammad Alblooshi, Head of DIFC Innovation Hub and FinTech Hive said, "Organised by DIFC, the leading international financial hub in the (MEASA) region, the Summit will bring together 5,000 global FinTech and technology experts and will provide the perfect environment for connecting start-ups, investors and industry leaders tapping into this opportunity as they advance in the region and beyond."

The Dubai FinTech Summit will take place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. Visitors can now purchase tickets (https://bit.ly/3n74kBM) for the Dubai FinTech Summit, with early bird prices available till 15 April 2023.

About Dubai International Financial Centre

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's most advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), which comprises 72 countries with an approximate population of 3 billion and an estimated GDP of USD 8 trillion.

With a close to 20-year track record of facilitating trade and investment flows across the MEASA region, the Centre connects these fast-growing markets with the economies of Asia, Europe and the Americas through Dubai.

DIFC is home to an internationally recognised, independent regulator and a proven judicial system with an English common law framework, as well as the region's largest financial ecosystem of over 36,000 professionals working across over 4,300 active registered companies — making up the largest and most diverse pool of industry talent in the region.

The Centre's vision is to drive the future of finance through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and partnerships. Today, it is the global future of finance and innovation hub offering one of the region's most comprehensive FinTech and venture capital environments, including cost-effective licensing solutions, fit-for-purpose regulation, innovative accelerator programmes, and funding for growth-stage start-ups.

Comprising a variety of world-renowned retail and dining venues, a dynamic art and culture scene, residential apartments, hotels and public spaces, DIFC continues to be one of Dubai's most sought-after business and lifestyle destinations.

For further information, please visit our website: difc.ae, or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @DIFC.

About Visa

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement.

Learn more at About Visa, visamiddleeast.com/blog and @Visamiddleeast.

About Trescon

Trescon is the world's fastest-growing business-to-business events, training, marketing and consulting company primarily focused on the adoption of sustainability, inclusive leadership and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, metaverse, cloud, fintech, data analytics and cyber security.

Our summits, conferences, and expos create real economic impact by connecting and empowering the key ecosystem of government organizations, regulators, policymakers, private sector companies, solution providers, startups, investors, accelerators, advisors, consultants, associations, academia and more.

Thought leadership, knowledge exchange, brand positioning, business expansion, market penetration, lead generation, finding solutions & services, capital raising, capacity building, training and networking are among the key objectives of our stakeholders.

With the help of our 250+ employees across offices in 6 countries, several of our clients have quadrupled their leads, shortened sales cycles by half or less, entered markets three times faster, closed deals within unimaginable timelines and grown their businesses ultimately.

Whether you are an organization or an individual, Trescon has something to offer you.

For further details about the announcement, please contact:
Nupur Aswani
Head, Media, PR and Corporate Communications, Trescon
+91 95559 15156 | media@tresconglobal.com

For further information : please visit – www.tresconglobal.com.

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

HKTDC Export Index 1Q23: Hong Kong Export Index rebounds sharply

HONG KONG, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The HKTDC Export Index grew 9.3 points to 39.0 in January-March this year, indicating a significant improvement in business sentiment among Hong Kong exporters after borders between Hong Kong and Mainland China reopened in early February. Full benefits are expected to materialise in coming months.
HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan [R] and Senior Economist (Greater China) Ms Cherry Yeung [L] announced the HKTDC Export Index for the first quarter of 2023 at a press conference today.


The first-quarter export survey by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) showed that almost all respondents (98%) reported positive impacts from the gradual resumption of normal cross-border travel since early January, especially from the more flexible and frequent business travel and cross-border engagements.

More than one-third of the exporters (36.5%) would increase shipments through Hong Kong, after cross-boundary land cargo transport was normalised, driven primarily by end-user requests and a preference for storage, sub-packaging and processing to be done in the city.

Business revives

Releasing the survey today, HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan said: "As normal travel between Hong Kong and the rest of the world resumes, hundreds of thousands of high-spending mainland and overseas business travellers have been coming back to Hong Kong in recent months, creating impetus for the city's economic recovery."

Ms Fan anticipated that more global buyers would visit trade fairs in Hong Kong during the peak sourcing season to replenish inventory and meet pent-up demand. "All these developments are the pull factors for the city's trade outlook, and we expect a gradual pick-up in the second half of 2023," she said. "Taking into account the external challenges and uncertainties, our export forecast for this year remains unchanged at a 5% growth year-on-year."

Versatility in business strategy

More than half the respondents (55.7%) expected production and operating costs to increase, mainly because of higher raw material, logistics and labour costs.

Against this backdrop, local exporters have adopted a versatile approach. In addition to cash-flow management (39.9%, up 5.3 percentage points), more exporters have focused on e-commerce development (36.3%, up 7.5 percentage points), value-added service provision (31.6%, up 6.6 percentage points) and overseas market expansion (30.5%, up 7.5 percentage points) in the first quarter of 2023.

Clothing sector most optimistic in 12 years

The HKTDC conducts the Export Index survey every quarter, interviewing 500 exporters from six major industries – machinery, electronics, jewellery, watches and clocks, toys and clothing – to gauge business confidence in near-term export prospects. The Index indicates an optimistic or pessimistic outlook, with 50 as the dividing line.

HKTDC Senior Economist (Greater China) Ms Cherry Yeung said all industry sectors saw an upturn in exporter confidence, indicating improving sentiment. "Clothing is the most promising sector, which swings back to the expansionary territory (51.5, up 27.7 points) since the third quarter of 2011, followed by toys (47.9, up 19.0 points) and timepieces (47.5, up 10.7 points)," she said. Ms Yeung attributed the leap to the high penetration of fashion e-commerce during the pandemic and surging demand for new clothes as the world returned to normal.

She added: "Mainland China (47.9) overtook Japan (46.9) as the most upbeat market, followed by ASEAN (44.8). Improving sentiment was also seen towards the United States and European Union markets."

Sub-indexes, including the Trade Value Index (48.0, up 8.8 points), Employment Index (47.6, up 7.3 points) and Offshore Trade Index (28.0, up 8.3 points), also moved up. The Procurement Index remained subdued at 28.4 (down 0.5 point), but momentum varied across sectors – clothing, jewellery and toys improved, while timepieces and electronics slightly declined.

References
– HKTDC Research website: http://research.hktdc.com/
– HKTDC Export Index 1Q23: Sharp rebound in export confidence as China re-opens https://bit.ly/3YZJoKe
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3Jrhbq4

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

Media enquiries
Please contact the HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs Department:
Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org

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

Vietnam: Can it become the Fintech Mecca of the east?

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Vietnam's fintech has reached new heights and the newly introduced regulatory sandbox is further fueling its growth. It's forecasted that the country's fintech market will reach a staggering $18 billion mark by 2024.

Also, the approval for the National Digital Transformation Programme by 2025 given by the country's prime minister couldn't have happened at a better time, as it has accelerated the inclination towards fintech.

Housing close to 200 fintech organizations, now 66% of adults have payment accounts as listed by the Ministry of Planning and Investment. Not to forget, the perfect medley of 91.3 million smartphone subscribers and an internet penetration rate of 73.2 percent have made the situation more conducive for the industry's growth.

The success of these promising fintech organizations has been linked with their close ties with the banking sector that has created invaluable synergies.

Vietnam Banks Association (VNBA) has always been upfront in bringing favourable changes to the country's financial services industry, be it for lowering SMS charges for banking services or urging Visa and Mastercard to reduce several types of fees on Vietnamese banks during Covid. Its most recent move got a lot of attention when it stepped forward as the official supporting partner for World Financial Innovation Series (WFIS) that's shaping to be the country's premier fintech event.

In a statement issued, post confirming VNBA's support for WFIS, the Secretary General from Vietnam Banks Association, Dr. Nguyen Quoc Hung expressed his views on the event, he said, "This event, WFIS 2023, will be an opportunity for leaders, experts, technology and business executives from leading Banking, Insurance & Microfinance institutions in the region to share and update information related to digital transformation and also an opportunity for member organizations of HHNH to attend."

The World Bank Group has also been actively supporting Vietnam in becoming a high-income economy by 2045 and its Senior Financial Sector Specialist, Ketut Ariadi Kusuma who earlier spoke to VGP about the development prospects of corporate bond market in the country, is now keen to encourage technology innovations in Vietnam's FSI. He will also be seen as a key speaker for the same fintech event that's WFIS.

For big players, investors and even newcomers, the current nascent stage and relatively small size of the country's fintech market is making it particularly attractive for investment, considering there are a plethora of opportunities to get involved and scaling big.

Call it a coincidence but even the Executive Vice President from Techcombank (TCB), Kanishk Upadhyay has confirmed his spot as key speaker at WFIS and his views on the same has been very similar to Dr. Hung's where he expressed, "WFIS 2023 is bringing together leaders, experts, technology and business executives from leading Banking and Fintechs. The fully packed roster, is a great opportunity to not only update yourself on information related to the latest digital happenings, but also a chance to meet and pick the brains of the expert speakers in attendance. Can't wait!"

About Tradepass

Providing access to the global emerging markets, Tradepass brings together people, products and solutions to power events for unparalleled business and networking opportunities. Being the most accredited event company, it helps organizations: enter new markets, grow sales pipeline, close prospects, raise capital and identify the right solution-providers.

As a deal facilitator, Tradepass is always determined about exposing the most agile liquid growth markets, to enable all-round scalability and growth.

Media contact:
Shrinkhal Sharad
PR & Communication Lead
shrinkhals@tradepassglobal.com
+ (91) 80 6166 4401
Tradepass

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

Clean energy leaders to gather in Manila this May at The Future Energy Show Philippines and Solar Show Philippines

MANILA, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – After a triumphant return in 2022, the 9th edition of The Future Energy Show Philippines and Solar Show Philippines will take place in Manila this 15-16 May 2023. Firmly established as the largest and most significant event for the sector in the Philippines, the 2023 edition will be bigger and better than ever before.



The Future Energy Show Philippines & Solar Show Philippines will convene 150+ exhibitors at SMX Convention Center Manila, offering attendees the chance to evaluate solutions from leading energy players such as Jinko Solar, Trina Solar, Longi, Sungrow, CHINT Electric Global, Enphase Energy, Growatt, CSI Technology, Alpha ESS, Ginlong, and Mibet Energy, and many more.

In addition to walking the exhibition floor and browsing the hundreds of products on offer, attendees can expect to experience 7 tracks of free content across 4 theatres, covering Large Scale Solar, Rooftop Solar, Rural Electrification, Smart Grid/T&D, Energy Storage, Alternative Renewables and brand new for 2023, a Solar Installer University.

More than 150 speakers from across the Philippines and beyond will be sharing their insights and ideas on the latest developments in renewable energy and smart energy solutions. Confirmed senior speakers include:
– Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla, Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Department of Energy
– Rowena Cristina Guevara, Undersecretary, Department of Energy
– Atty. Monalisa Dimalanta, Chairperson & CEO, Energy Regulatory Commission
– Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, Senator, Vice Chairman- Senate Committee on Energy, Senate of the Philippines
– Quintin Pastrana, President, WEnergy Power Pilipinas
– Alexander Ablaza, CEO, Co-Chairman, President, Climargy Inc., ASIA Pacific ESCO Industry Alliance, Philippines Energy Efficiency Alliance Eric San Pedro, Country Business Head, Entoria Energy
– Pete Maniego, Chairman, Energy Lawyers Association of the Philippines/ Chairman, NREB
– Luis Gonzales, Chief Data & AI Officer, Aboitiz Power
– Ferdinand O. Geluz, Chief Commercial Officer, Meralco
– Tetchi Capellan, President, Sun Asia
– Atty. Richard J. Nethercott, President and CEO, Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines
– Jason Soberano, Vice President, and Chief Business Development Officer, SN Aboitiz
– Ruth Yu-Owen, President & CEO, Upgrade Energy Philippines

Over 6,000 attendees are expected to attend over the two day event, which offers a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, innovators and potential investors.

"We are thrilled to once again bring together the Philippines' top clean energy leaders and their partners together," said Paul Clark, Managing Director at Terrapinn Asia, "With a sold-out exhibition floor that has already had to be expanded to accommodate demand, The Future Energy Show Philippines and The Solar Show Philippines truly bring together the people that can shape the Philippines energy future and we look forward to another outstanding event."

For more information about the event, visit the official website at www.terrapinn.com/energyshowacn

About The Future Energy Show Philippines 2023 & The Solar Show Philippines 2023

The Future Energy Show Philippines & The Solar Show Philippines will take place at SMX Convention Center Manila, Seashell Lane, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines on 15-16 May 2023. The event will comply with prevailing guidelines on COVID-19 safety put in place by the Philippines Government or SMX Convention Center Manila.

About Terrapinn

Terrapinn has been sparking ideas, innovations and relationships that transform business for over 30 years. Using our global footprint, we bring innovators, disrupters and change agents together, discussing and demonstrating the technology, strategies and personalities that are changing the way the world does business. Whether you're looking to make new connections, introduce product or inspire change in your industry, we invite you to join us as agitators of change. Terrapinn – spark something.

Press attendance is complimentary. Enquiries should be directed to:
Danelle Filipinas
Marketing Manager
Terrapinn Pte Ltd
Danelle.filipinas@terrapinn.com

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