Twin Hong Kong International Jewellery Shows Open Today as a New Round of Trade Fairs since Return to Normalcy

HONG KONG, Mar 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Social distancing measures came to an end, as the mask mandate was officially lifted today, expediting the recovery of business activities between Hong Kong, Mainland China and the rest of the world.
The 39th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the 9th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, open today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai.

The Hon Cheuk Wing-hing, Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration of HKSAR (front row, 5th from L) ; Dr Peter K N Lam, HKTDC Chairman (front row, 6th from L); Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director (front row, 7th from L) and guests attend the opening ceremony of the 39th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the 9th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show.

The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show offers a wide range of raw materials for jewellery and treasures


The 39th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the 9th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), are the first major trade fairs being held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai after the territory returns to normalcy. The twin shows run from today until 5 March.

The opening ceremony of the twin jewellery shows was held this morning with Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, The Hon CHEUK Wing-hing, GBS, JP, as the guest of honour. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lawrence Ma, Chairman of the Fairs' Organising Committee, said: "The twin jewellery shows are the first major international trade event since the complete lifting of anti-epidemic measures, projecting a gradual recovery of economy and trade between Hong Kong, the Mainland and the rest of the world. I hope the shows will create more business deals and collaboration opportunities for global exhibitors."

Keen participation from the Mainland and overseas exhibitors

With the global economy moving towards normalcy, both mainland and overseas exhibitors are enthusiastic to participate in this year's shows, with over 2,500 exhibitors from 36 countries and regions. The HKTDC has also organised 100 buying missions from 70 countries and regions. A total of 20 pavilions have been set up – including those from the mainland, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Turkey, Israel, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Brazil, Colombia and the United States.

Renowned jewellery industry organisations, such as the Asia Pacific Creator Association, International Colored Gemstone Association, Tanzanite Foundation and T-GOLD+METS Pavilion – co-organised by the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association and the Italian Exhibition Group – also return, signalling the confidence of international companies in Hong Kong as a business platform.

Seventeen themed zones gather world-class jewellers

Exhibitors value the first trade fairs after the pandemic and bring a wide range of valuable and unique jewellery items to both shows. This year's Hong Kong International Jewellery Show features 17 themed zones, including the Hall of the Extraordinary, Hall of Fame, Designer Galleria and World of Glamour, which showcases jewellery from local brands. A number of jewellers present high quality and distinct jewellery, including an exquisite jadeite bead necklace (On Tung Company, booth no: GH-C10); a classic elegant Burmese ruby ring (Fai Dee Limited, booth no: GH-C31); and a uniquely-crafted zodaria bracelet, a panther-shaped diamond bracelet in gold (Nico Juliany SL, booth no: GH-G03).

Also featured at the show is the 21st Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition Open Group award-winning pendant in 18K gold, diamonds, rubies and sapphires (Charente Fine Jewelry, booth no: 1CON-008). Additionally, a Korean exhibitor has brought along a magnificent brooch inspired by the natural bracken plants of Jeju Island (Gina Fine Jewelry Creator, booth no: 1CON-024), highlighting the refined, beautiful wares with sophisticated craftsmanship.

The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, held at the same time as the Jewellery Show, showcases the finest diamonds and pearls as well as quality gemstones and raw materials for jewellery from various origins in the Hall of Fine Diamond, Treasures of Nature and Treasures of Ocean. The show features natural coloured diamonds with cushion, oval pear, heart cuts and premium black opals from the Lightning Ridge in northern New South Wales, Australia; drop-shaped and hole-drilled emeralds; Canadian Ammonite and Ammolite; Mexican fire opals and various pearl products.

Various seminars and forums to facilitate business exchange

A number of seminars, forums and parades will be held during the twin jewellery shows to facilitate networking and keep participants abreast of the latest industry trends. These include a seminar titled "Hong Kong Jewellery Industry Shines over the World" and a buyer forum on "Updated Market Trend of Jewellery Market in ASEAN Markets" tomorrow (2 March). There will also be seminars on "Ammolite – A 71 Million-Year Natural Treasure only from Alberta, Canada" (3 March) and "Jewellery Industry: Go Smart and Green" (4 March) and more.

The results of the 24th Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition – which aims to raise the standard and quality of jewellery design, and to cultivate local creative talents – have been recently announced. The winning entries are currently displayed outside Hall 1E.

Twin jewellery shows run under the EXHIBITION+ online and offline hybrid model

As the pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce, jewellery retailers are increasingly using social media and e-platforms to promote their brands and expand sales channels. To help companies adapt to the new normal, the HKTDC's EXHIBITION+ hybrid model combines physical fairs, the Click2Match smart business-matching platform, online-to-offline seminars and forums (Intelligence Hub), and the hktdc.com Sourcing platform. EXHIBITION+ extends face-to-face interaction and promotion activities from physical exhibitions to online.

The Click2Match smart business-matching platform for both jewellery shows is accessible from 1 to 12 March, allowing both buyers and sellers an extended period to meet online beyond the physical fairs to facilitate further collaboration.

Websites:
– Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkjewellery/en
– Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkdgp/en
– Activities Schedule: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkjewellery/en/intelligence-hub
– HKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/en
– Photos download: https://bit.ly/3YffTnk

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 Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org

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

Deloitte opens Innovation & Assets Development Center at Hong Kong Science Park and will invest over HKD200m to support Hong Kong’s I&T goals

HONG KONG, CHINA, Mar 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Deloitte China opened its Innovation & Assets Development Center (the Center) today at Hong Kong Science Park (the Park). The opening ceremony attracted more than 100 guests and was led by Deloitte China CEO Patrick Tsang, who welcomed senior officials including:






— Michael Wong Wai-lun, Deputy Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

— President of the Legislative Council, Andrew Leung Kwan-yuen

— Chairman of New Territories Heung Yee Kuk, Kenneth Lau Ip-keung

— Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology, and Industry of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Lillian Cheong Man-Lei

— Deputy Director-General of the Department of Administration and Finance of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government, Li Xuhong

Occupying a full floor at the Park, the Innovation & Assets Development Center is a unique, digital-focused service hub that reinforces Deloitte's commitment to the HKSAR Government's Innovation & Technology (I&T) Development Blueprint to drive Hong Kong's development as an international I&T powerhouse.
( https://www.itib.gov.hk/en/publications/I&T%20Blueprint%20Book_EN_single_Digital.pdf )

The Center will provide unprecedented proximity and access to Deloitte China's multidisciplinary model professional services (MDM) and INspire HK integrated value propositions (IVPs) in Digital, M&A, Sustainability, Smart City, and ONEinsurance to more than 1,200 technology companies and over 12,000 R&D practitioners at the Park, which is operated by Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP).

It will enable Deloitte to provide faster, more direct access to the firm's well-established global collaboration, investor networking, and commercialization support.

"The Digital, Sustainability, and Smart City IVPs of our INspire HK program are pivotal to Hong Kong's development as a global I&T center – a goal that the HKSAR government, HKSTP, and Deloitte all share. With this in mind, we aim to invest more than HKD200 million in this Center, including I&T initiatives and talent development, and to double our Hong Kong Deloitte Digital headcount to more than 1,000 tech and digital professionals by 2025" says Deloitte China CEO Patrick Tsang.

"We are proud to establish in Hong Kong our first dedicated Innovation & Assets Development Center at the Park. This will support I&T development in Hong Kong through ecosystem collaboration and be a base for investment in assets development for Deloitte to retain undisputed leadership in professional services and make an impact that matters for I&T development in Hong Kong."

In addition, the Center will accelerate commercialization and impactful innovation by our strategic alliances and partners and help local start-ups to accelerate business growth within the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and beyond, Patrick adds.

Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman of HKSTP, says, "I am delighted to welcome Deloitte into our vibrant ecosystem at the Science Park. The addition of such a world-class firm is a sign of strength for Hong Kong's thriving innovation scene and proof of the city's allure as a magnet for global tech talent.

"Deloitte's extensive industry knowledge and international business network, together with the state-of-the-art incubation support of HKSTP, will provide a powerful collaborative platform to accelerate the digital transformation of industries. Hong Kong is ready to open its doors. We stand ready to seize golden opportunities at a time when I&T is a key engine of global economic growth."

Deloitte China is committed to enhancing Hong Kong's status as a fundraising hub and springboard to international expansion for I&T ventures. The Innovation & Assets Development Center will promote Hong Kong's reputation as a destination of choice for international I&T companies seeking to enter the GBA and other Asian markets.

Furthermore, Deloitte China's Innovation & Assets Development Center demonstrates the firm's commitment to investing in its talent by expanding its presence with a spacious digital hub at the Park, where Deloitters can network and collaborate with groundbreaking I&T companies. With the recent launch of the firm's refreshed Employee Value Proposition – Shaping future talent through impact that matters – the firm will continue to focus on and invest in the four key differentiated attributes of Development, Caring, Happiness, and Inclusion.

The Innovation & Assets Development Center will further enhance not only our Deloitters' career journeys as an inspiring hub for talent development, but also contribute to talent development in Hong Kong via internship arrangements with regional universities and the INspire HK: Future Ready Talent program.

About Deloitte China

Deloitte China provides integrated professional services, with our long-term commitment to be a leading contributor to China's reform, opening-up and economic development. We are a globally connected and deeply locally-rooted firm, owned by its partners in China. With over 20,000 professionals across 30 Chinese cities, we provide our clients with a one-stop shop offering world-leading audit & assurance, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, business advisory and tax services.

We serve with integrity, uphold quality and strive to innovate. With our professional excellence, insight across industries, and intelligent technology solutions, we help clients and partners from many sectors seize opportunities, tackle challenges and attain world-class, high-quality development goals.

The Deloitte brand originated in 1845, and its name in Chinese denotes integrity, diligence and excellence. Deloitte's professional network of member firms now spans more than 150 countries and territories. Through our mission to make an impact that matters, we help reinforce public trust in capital markets, enable clients to transform and thrive, and lead the way toward a stronger economy, a more equitable society and a sustainable world.

About Deloitte

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited ("DTTL"), its global network of member firms, and their related entities (collectively, the "Deloitte organization"). DTTL (also referred to as "Deloitte Global") and each of its member firms and related entities are legally separate and independent entities, which cannot obligate or bind each other in respect of third parties. DTTL and each DTTL member firm and related entity is liable only for its own acts and omissions, and not those of each other. DTTL does not provide services to clients.

Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited is a company limited by guarantee and a member firm of DTTL. Members of Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited and their related entities, each of which are separate and independent legal entities, provide services from more than 100 cities across the region.

Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more.

Disclaimer

This communication contains general information only, and none of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited ("DTTL"), its global network of member firms or their related entities (collectively, the "Deloitte organization") is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser.

No representations, warranties or undertakings (express or implied) are given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information in this communication, and none of DTTL, its member firms, related entities, employees or agents shall be liable or responsible for any loss or damage whatsoever arising directly or indirectly in connection with any person relying on this communication. DTTL and each of its member firms, and their related entities, are legally separate and independent entities.

2023. For more information, please contact Deloitte China.

Contact: Ashley Leung
Tel: +852 2109 5261
Email: asleung@deloitte.com.hk

Contact: Lyanna Chan
Tel: +852 2238 7111
Email: lyachan@deloitte.com.hk


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

17th Edition of Digital Transformation Summit: Qatar

QATAR, UAE, Mar 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Exito Media Concepts is organizing a tech summit which is aligned with the Qatar's National Vision 2030 that is driving significant advancements in the country.

The 17th Edition of Digital Transformation Summit Qatar is taking place on 16th of March 2023 at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa. The summit will bring together senior government representatives, thought leaders, and leading industry experts to share their knowledge and experience on the latest technologies and trends shaping industries in the region.

At the summit, you will hear from top IT experts on emerging technologies, strategies, action plans and best practices towards building an agile digital organization. We will have panel discussions, industry keynotes and solution showcases that will enable IT leaders to chart out the optimal strategic path. The Summit is taking place with the support of The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF).

The event will focus on topics like 5G, Cloud Technology, IoT, Cyber Security, Smart Cities, Intelligent Automation and others helping in transforming organizations into digital businesses.

Experts joining the conference are:

– Kareem Refaay, Managing Director, The London Institute Of Banking & Finance MENA
– John Mankarios, Vice President – IT, QInvest LLC
– Dr Mohamed Elhindi, CIO, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)
– Amr Metwally, Assistant Executive Director, ITQAN, Clinical Simulation And Innovation Centre, Hamad Medical Corporation
– Alexey Sidorov, Data Management Director & Chief, Evangelist Middle East'S, Denodo
– Santiago Banales, Managing Director – Iberdrola Innovation Middle East
– Imran Chowdhury, Global Head Of Data Protection & Governance, Al Jazeera Media Network
– Hamid Menouar,Senior R&D Expect And Product Manager, Qatar Mobility Innovations Center (QMIC)
– Najmul Haque, Head of PMO, Public Works Authority 'Ashghal'
– Hamdan Merchant, Sr Director Innovation, IT & Operational Excellence, GWC
– Faizal Babu Kavungal, Head Of Enterprise Risk Management & Governance, Gulf Drilling International Ltd (Q.S.C.)

"Organizational digital transformation is a key driver of economic growth and diversification that is in line with Qatar's 2030 National Vision. Now in its 17th Edition, the Digital Transformation Series is coming to Qatar and is the ideal summit that will enable the public and private sectors to embrace technologies that will foster change and unlock operational efficiencies," said Rishikesh Shetty, CEO, of Exito Media Concepts, the organizer of the event.

The summit is expected to attract 150+ attendees from across the region, making it a must-attend event for everyone in the industry.

For more information and to register for the event, Visit: http://www.digitaltransformationsummit/qatar

About Exito

We are a global B2B business events company focused on crafting bespoke solutions and contexts by designing platforms that create new business opportunities for our clients across concepts and industries. We cherish the trust over the last 12 years garnered from our partnering organizations globally, and with a growing team of young, vibrant, and creative individuals, Exito aims at success and perfection!

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

2023 World Championship F1 Powerboat accomplished, empowers local economy in Lake Toba

Lake Toba, N. Sumatra, Indonesia, Mar 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) lauded the event of the 2023 World Championship F1 Powerboat (F1H2O) that potentially improved the local economy.




"This is a fascinating event, and this is the first time I watched this F1 Powerboat," Jokowi said after attending the event in Muliaraja Napitupulu Port in Lake Toba, North Sumatra, on Sunday.

The event could encourage economic growth around the race area, which needs to be balanced with infrastructure improvements.

Several improvements are needed in several parts of the Lake Toba area, including the infrastructure and the airport terminal.

President Jokowi and First Lady Iriana arrived on Sunday to watch the 2023 F1H2O World Championship. Jokowi also greeted and took a picture together with the F1H20 racers.

Additionally, the Director General of Information and Public Communication at the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, Usman Kansong said on Friday (Feb 24) the F1 Powerboat Championship can encourage Indonesian tourism, especially Lake Toba, as the main destination choice for world tourists.

The local government prepared at least 502 outlets for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) actors to exhibit and promote their products, which varied from food products and beverages to souvenirs during the event.

The state-owned tourism and aviation holding, InJourney, said the 2023 F1H2O was held successfully. "This event has been successfully completed, namely the qualification round and the race," InJourney Director Dony Oskaria said.

The success of the F1 Powerboat event impacts the society's economy ranging from lodging, MSMEs, transportation, and others. "This is our target in preparing every event. By broadcasting F1 Powerboat on 15 international television stations and being watched by hundreds of millions, Lake Toba will become more famous worldwide," he remarked.

The event also empowered several local motorized rickshaw taxi or bentor drivers.

On Sunday, a bentor driver named Daniel Manurung said the event brought him more passengers, amounting to three to four times the number he got on regular days. On weekdays, his average daily income ranged from Rp50 thousand to Rp80 thousand, but Manurung could earn around Rp150 thousand to Rp 200 thousand per day during the event.

The F1H2O World Championship is a flagship international race series of single-seater sport boats held by the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM). Ten teams joined the current F1H2O with a total of 20 racers.

There are eight racing series in one championship season, with the first being held in Lake Toba, Indonesia, in 2023. Bartek Marszalek of Stromoy Racing earned full points after winning Race 1 of the F1 Powerboat (F1H2O) World Championship's first round in Lake Toba on Sunday. In the 30-minute race, the Polish rider finished first after crossing the 2.2 kilometer circuit with 18 laps. Marszalek gained 20 points, becoming a valuable resource to compete in the next seven rounds in this year's F1H2O.

"It is incredible to win the race. I really enjoyed it. This morning's weather was perfect for the qualifier, and we had a lot of spectators around the lake; so many smiles gave extra motivation. I was excellent on the motorboat," Marszalek said after the race.

Sami Selio of the Sharjah team won second place at 01.97 seconds behind Marszalek, while Erik Stark from the Victory team won third place at 03.26 seconds behind the first winner.

After the race, President Jokowi handed the trophy directly to the winner on the podium.

–Antara

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

SCIKIQ Accelerates SCIKIQ-Control, a Data Management Solution to Streamline Data Governance and Compliance

Monroe NJ, Mar 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – SCIKIQ, a leading provider of data management solutions, accelerates SCIKIQ-Control, aimed at helping businesses streamline Data Governance and Compliance. Recognized by Forrester in its Augmented Business Intelligence Report 2023, SCIKIQ complements data privacy and simplifies data access and management for businesses of all sizes.
Gaurav Shinh, Founder & CEO of SCIKIQ


"SCIKIQ-Control is designed to help organizations contextualize their data better while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements," said Gaurav Shinh, Founder and CEO of SCIKIQ.

SCIKIQ-Control addresses critical gaps of current deployment, including:

– Data Quality: With built-in AI/ML models, the solution performs advanced functions like auto-recommendation such that enterprises' can leverage its data assets to maximize benefit.

– Data Governance and Compliance: The solution provides automated data management workflows and controls to meet regulatory requirements, including GDPR and HIPAA.

– Comprehensive solution includes Data Catalog, Data Lineage, Active Metadata and Observability: The solution empowers the enterprise to implement end-to-end data stewardship and helps rebuild trust in consumption data for increasing adoption of data analytics in enterprise, which currently languishes at less than 40%.

Siddhartha Mishra, CRO of SCIKIQ, said, "SCIKIQ-Control is a user-friendly and scalable solution designed to enhance visibility and re-instate trust in enterprise data assets for frictionless collaboration to spark data democratization at scale."

SCIKIQ-Control launch comes at a crucial time as business grapple with challenges of managing large amounts of varied data while staying compliant with ever-changing regulations and market dynamics. According to a recent study by Gartner, Data management in general and Data Quality in particular are top concerns for CIOs, who must ensure their organizations can effectively manage, protect, and leverage data.

SCIKIQ is committed to helping businesses overcome these challenges with SCIKIQ-Control. The solution is available now and can be customized to fit the unique needs of any organization.

About SCIKIQ

SCIKIQ is a leading provider of data management solutions. The company's mission is to simplify data management and contextualize data for business decisions. It leverages automation & AI capabilities for faster implementation and cost savings and eliminates the need for multiple data vendors – all at a fraction of the cost and time of traditional solutions. SCIKIQ's platform is built to be flexible and scalable, allowing it to be tailored to the unique needs of each business. https://scikiq.com/

For more information, please contact:
Gaurav Shinh
Gaurav@SCIKIQ.com
Phone: +1(862) 414 0862

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

Investment surges in DIFC FinTech firms ahead of Dubai FinTech Summit

  • Investment in DIFC’s FinTech and innovation community exceeded USD615 mn in 2022.
  • First edition of Dubai FinTech Summit, organised by DIFC, set to convene over 5,000 international experts and policymakers in Dubai.
  • E. Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy to join plenary session.
  • Speakers include global heads and founders from Citi Venture, Coinbase, FireBlocks, and Standard Chartered PLC among others.

Dubai, Feb 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Dubai continues to solidify its reputation as a global hub for FinTech and Innovation ahead of the Dubai FinTech Summit taking place on 8 and 9 May this year under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE; and President of the Dubai International Financial Centre. During 2022, investment in DIFC’s FinTech and innovation community exceeded USD615 mn and the total number of active firms in the sector grew 36 per cent to 686.

The Fintech and Innovation sector in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region is growing at pace with a market value forecasted to double in size from USD135.9 bn in 2021 to USD266.9 bn in 2027 according to DIFC FinTech Hive’s 2022 FinTech Report. The Dubai FinTech Summit 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.

Organised by DIFC, the leading international financial hub in the (MEASA) region, the Summit will bring together 5,000 global FinTech and technology experts to discuss innovations and challenges in the sector, as well as spotlight all things impacting the future of finance – from Web 3.0, Metaverse and Blockchain to decentralised finance, regulation and policymaking, and the greater need for increased financial inclusivity. Visitors will also be able to meet more than 100 FinTech exhibitors and join a series of panels and fireside chats. The Dubai FinTech Summit will take place at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai.

The event will host esteemed local voices such as H.E. Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and H.E. Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC. The impressive roster of speakers at the summitinclude Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered PLC; Brad Garlinghouse, CEO of Ripple; Melissa Guzy, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Arbor Ventures; and Michael Shaulov, CEO of Fireblocks; among others.

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. As per MAGNITT, FinTech start-ups in MENA recorded a 183 per cent year-over-year growth in funding in 2021.

Highlighting the impact of the growing FinTech sector in the region, Mohammad Alblooshi, Head of DIFC Innovation Hub and FinTech Hive said: “The demand for FinTech services has grown significantly in the last few years, powered by digital technologies and innovation across sectors. In recent years, DIFC has successfully cemented its position as the finance and innovation hub in the MEASA region by offering the most comprehensive FinTech and venture capital environments. In line with its vision to drive the future of finance, DIFC has created lucrative opportunities for start-ups, global players, and unicorns to set up base in the Emirate.

He added: “I’m confident that the Dubai FinTech Summit, organised by DIFC, will soon become the premier platform allowing us to capture the industry’s attention and fulfil our vision of making Dubai a new home for the future of FinTech and finance.

“Dubai’s work in the digital asset space, in the last few years, has been nothing short of remarkable. The government’s collaborative approach with the industry has drawn some of the most dynamic and innovative companies in the digital asset space to its shores, cementing its position as a leading FinTech hub and securing its economy for the future. Fireblocks is excited to participate in the Dubai FinTech Summit and explore some of the best FinTech solutions from around the world,” said Michael Shaulov, CEO, Fireblocks – a secure digital asset infrastructure company.

Luis Valdich, Managing Director at Citi Ventures added, “FinTech is one of the most exciting industries in tech and banking alike. Trends like digitisation, open banking, embedded finance, financial inclusion, the democratisation of investing, the modernisation of the core banking stack, and the emergence of the creator and shared economies are driving disruption and economic progress, all over the world. I am excited to further explore these and other innovations we are seeing across the industry, as part of this exciting summit.”

Visitors can now purchase tickets for the Dubai FinTech Summit, with early bird prices available till 15 March 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 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 cybersecurity.

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.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Rasha Mezher | Dubai International Financial Centre Authority
Consultant, Marketing & Corporate Communications
+97143622451
t-rasha.mezher@difc.ae

Nupur Aswani,
Head – Media, PR & Corporate Communications,
Trescon
media@tresconglobal.com |+91 9555915156



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

ZeroBounce Releases The Email List Decay Report for 2023

SANTA BARBARA, CA, Feb 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – ZeroBounce announces the release of The Email List Decay Report for 2023, unveiling the latest statistics about the lifecycle of email databases. In the report, ZeroBounce shares data trends it gathered after validating more than six billion email addresses.
The ZeroBounce Email List Decay Report for 2023 –
ZeroBounce announces the release of The Email List Decay Report for 2023.


The findings are eye-opening for email marketers and companies relying on email for vital communications. At least 22.71% of the average email list degrades annually, the ZeroBounce report shows. At 20.19%, invalid email addresses made up most of the obsolete data processed by the email validation and deliverability company. Also prevalent were catch-all, disposable, abuse, spam trap, and toxic email addresses. In total, only 57.21% of all the emails ZeroBounce verified were valid and safe to use.

"Any database can acquire poor-quality email addresses which cause email deliverability to plummet," says ZeroBounce founder and CEO Liviu Tanase. "Reaching the inbox is getting increasingly difficult, and using a healthy email database is a must. This report paints a clear picture of how fast email data degrades. The good news is that email marketers can stay on top of their email list health so they can be in the inbox and increase revenue."

The Email List Decay Report for 2023 also reveals how likely users are to misspell their email addresses when filling out a sign-up or registration form. In just one year, ZeroBounce detected more than 10 million typos via its real-time email verification API. The software thus prevents potential bounces and continues to ensure companies build more reliable lead acquisition programs.

"Letting go of obsolete data makes an email list more responsive and more likely to convert. While so many companies focus on quantity, those who pay attention to data quality will see a boost in email ROI," says ZeroBounce Chief Operating Officer Brian Minick.

To create the report, ZeroBounce analyzed the data it processed between January and December 2022. The benchmarks apply to companies of all sizes, across various industries, as ZeroBounce's customers range from solo business owners to Fortune 500 companies.

Read the complete Email List Decay Report for 2023 at https://www.zerobounce.net/email-list-decay.html.

Recently, ZeroBounce relaunched its platform, now offering 99% accurate email validation, increased security, and a more modern and intuitive user experience.

About ZeroBounce

ZeroBounce is an email verification and deliverability platform helping 200,000+ customers land more emails in the inbox. The service removes email typos, nonexistent and abuse email accounts, spam traps, and other risky email addresses. ZeroBounce's email deliverability toolkit further supports inbox placement. The company has recently attained the SOC 2 Type 2 and ISO 27001 certifications. ZeroBounce has validated more than 18 billion emails. Some of the companies it serves are Amazon, Disney, and Netflix. In 2022, ZeroBounce founded Email Day (April 23), now an international holiday honoring email inventor Ray Tomlinson. For more information, visit https://www.zerobounce.net/.

Contact Information:
Corina Leslie
PR Manager
support@zerobounce.net
+1-888-500-9521

SOURCE: ZeroBounce

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

Bintai Kinden Posts 9M Revenue of RM93.80 Million

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Feb 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad (Bursa: BINTAI, 6998), a mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering services specialist, today announced that the Company recorded 60.8% gain in revenue to RM93.80 million for the nine months ended 31 December 2022 (9M FY2023) compared with RM58.34 million in the corresponding period of the last financial year (9M FY2022).
Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Bintai Kinden


The Company reported a loss before tax (LBT) in 9M FY2023 of RM2.22 million compared with profit before tax (PBT) of RM2.62 million in 9M FY2022.

For the third quarter ended 31 December 2022 (3Q FY2023), revenue decreased 22.7% to RM22.36 million compared with RM28.93 million in 3Q FY2022. The Company recorded LBT of RM3.38 million for 3Q FY2023 compared with PBT of RM1.13 million in 3Q FY2022.

En. Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Bintai Kinden said, "The Company's revenue increase for 9M FY2023 reflected the better contribution from the M&E business. The LBT reflected the higher costs of operations and bad debts incurred in 3Q FY2023. For the quarter under review, revenue decreased due to the lumpiness of projects as the M&E business is highly dependent on the stage of completion of various projects."

"We expect to see more revenue coming in from the newly awarded projects from Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) over the coming quarters compared to 3Q FY2023 where several of the projects are at the end-stage phase. The Company will continue to assess the risks and opportunities of diversifying into other businesses while ensuring the growth of the M&E business."

TNB recently awarded a total of RM53.2 million in M&E contracts to the Company for the installation of underground cables, bringing the total unbilled orderbook to RM142.95million.

Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad: 6998 [BURSA: BKC], http://bintai.com.my/

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

Leon Fuat Records Revenue of RM1.03 Billion for the FY2022

SHAH ALAM, Malaysia, Feb 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – LEON FUAT BERHAD, a manufacturer and trader of steel products specialising in rolled long and flat steel, today announced that the Group reported a 15.6% increase in revenue to RM1.03 billion for the financial year ended 31 December 2022 (FY2022) compared with RM886.58 million recorded for the preceding financial year (FY2021).
Calvin Ooi Shang How, Executive Director of Leon Fuat


For the financial year under review, the Group reported a profit before tax (PBT) of RM36.92 million, a 78.6% decrease compared with RM172.85 million for the FY2021. For the FY2022, the Group registered profit after tax (PAT) of RM29.54 million, a 78.3% decrease compared with RM135.98 million for the FY2021.

The Group reported revenue of RM238.15 million for the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2022 (Q4FY2022), which is a 6.3% decrease compared with RM254.21 million reported for the corresponding quarter of the preceding financial year (Q4FY2021).

For the Q4FY2022, the Group recorded a loss before tax of RM7.49 million compared with PBT of RM38.61 million registered for the Q4FY2021 while a net loss of RM5.14 million was reported for the Q4FY2022 as compared with PAT of RM29.09 million recorded for the Q4FY2021.

For the quarter under review, the trading segment contributed 32.7% to revenue while the processing segment contributed 67.2%.

Calvin Ooi Shang How, Executive Director of Leon Fuat said, "While there was an increase in revenue for the FY2022 attributable to the increase in revenue for both the trading and processing segments of the Group, the gross profit margin decreased by approximately 14.8 percentage points compared to the FY2021 and that has had an impact on the Group's overall gross profit (GP), which decreased 58.8% to RM91.26 million. The overall GP was also affected by inventories written down of RM12.93 million compared with RM0.37 million for the FY2021 as certain inventories were measured at its estimated net realisable value."

"The Group will continue to expand market reach leveraging on its diversified customer base comprising small-medium enterprises (SMEs) across various industries. We remain cautious on the outlook for 2023 despite the domestic economy's growth momentum in 2022 as exports face headwinds while the operating landscape continues to be impacted by inflationary pressure and a weak ringgit, which also affect SMEs. We will continue to take the necessary proactive measures to enhance productivity and efficiency of our operations."

Leon Fuat Berhad: [BURSA: LEFU] , https://www.leonfuat.com.my/

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

HKTDC takes Building for the Future campaign to Indonesia

HONG KONG, Feb 28, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – To help Hong Kong's infrastructure and real estate-related services (IRES) sectors seize arising opportunities, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is promoting its Building for the Future campaign in Indonesia for the first time, bringing a delegation to Jakarta from 27 February to 2 March.


Ir Dr Hon Lo Wai-kwok, GBS, MH, JP, Member of the Legislative Council of HKSAR (4th from L, front row), and Mr Stephen Liang, HKTDC Assistant Executive Director (2nd from R), co-led a delegation to Indonesia, and called on the local officials and industry associations, including Dr. Achmad Jaka Santos Adiwijaya, S.H., LL.M., Secretary General, Nusantara Capital City Authority (3rd from L), to explore collaboration opportunities in infrastructure construction between Hong Kong and Indonesia.

The "Building for the Future" promotion was held in Indonesia for the first time, with the highlighted "Hong Kong Forum on Urban Development" attracting more than 300 representatives from Indonesian government departments and businesses.

Dr Ir Herry Trisa Putra Zuna, Directorate General of Ministry of Public Works and Housing, Republic of Indonesia, gave remarks at the Forum.


Through events, including the Hong Kong Forum on Urban Development, business matching sessions and meetings with government and business leaders, the wide-ranging promotion gives Indonesia and Hong Kong companies an opportunity to explore partnerships.

In recent years, Indonesia has accelerated infrastructure construction in order to boost economic growth. The government allocated an infrastructure development budget of Rp392 trillion (US$26 billion) in 2023 to improve the provision of basic services, and productivity through connectivity and mobility infrastructure.

The delegation, co-led by Ir Dr Hon Lo Wai-kwok, GBS, MH, JP, Member (Functional Constituency – Engineering) of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and HKTDC Assistant Executive Director Mr Stephen Liang, comprises 17 delegates from a wide range of professional sectors, including architecture, engineering, property development, construction and urban planning.

A highlight of the mission, the Hong Kong Forum on Urban Development focused on smart city, modern city development and urban planning, and architecture design. It introduced the strengths and value-added services of Hong Kong IRES and explored collaboration opportunities between Indonesia and Hong Kong in infrastructure development projects. Dr Ir Herry Trisa Putra Zuna, Directorate General of Ministry of Public Works and Housing, Republic of Indonesia, gave remarks at the Forum, with more than 300 Indonesian government and businesses leaders attended.

"As the world's largest archipelagic state, Indonesia places much emphasis on infrastructure. With its rapid infrastructure development and capital relocation, there are many arising opportunities," Mr Stephen Liang said in his welcome remarks at the forum. "The post-pandemic new normal has set in, the Hong Kong-Mainland China border has reopened, and Hong Kong has removed international travel restrictions. In this period of revitalisation, there is no better time than the present to capture new opportunities that will benefit Indonesian and Hong Kong businesses communities and strengthen economic growth in both places."

He added, "Hong Kong has long been a leader in infrastructure and real estate-related services, from building and construction to architecture, engineering and surveying. Equipped with decades of experience in large-scale building projects, Hong Kong businesses are ideally placed to provide quality services in infrastructure and real estate-related services."

The plenary session featured internationally renowned Hong Kong IRES companies – namely Arup, hpa, MVA, and Sino Group – which discussed smart city development, the infrastructure outlook as well as urban construction.

Two thematic sessions were followed, with Hong Kong delegates sharing success cases on environmental engineering and sustainable urban architecture.

The forum also featured business matching sessions for Indonesian enterprises to have one-on-one meetings with Hong Kong delegates to explore opportunities and exchange ideas about Indonesia's infrastructure and urban construction projects.

Hong Kong is known as a leading financial centre around the world. With an extensive global network, a full range of financial products and a large talent pool, Hong Kong is an ideal place for Indonesian companies to engage in IRES projects.

Over the course of the next two days, the delegation will meet with Indonesian government and business leaders during visits to prominent infrastructure and urban development to capture business opportunities between Indonesia and Hong Kong.

Since the launch of the Building for the Future campaign in 2015, the HKTDC has led Hong Kong urban development services missions to eight cities in Mainland China and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The HKTDC will continue to organise promotions to highlight Hong Kong's strengths in infrastructure and urban construction.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/41vWbXi

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:
Kate Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4239, Email: kate.hy.chan@hktdc.org

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