As International Revenue Soars to $650M with 45% from SEA; Chiratae Expands SEA Regional Advisory Board with the addition of Mr. Puneet Pushkarna

SINGAPORE, Aug 24, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Chiratae Ventures, a leading venture capital firm, announces the appointment of Mr. Puneet Pushkarna to its esteemed Regional Advisory Board, reinforcing its commitment to the Southeast Asia (SEA) market.

The announcement comes soon after Chiratae’s significant milestone -its active portfolio companies surpass $650 million in revenue. Companies focusing on SEA or headquartered now contribute about 45% of the total international revenue across the company’s diverse portfolio. Companies such as Active.ai, Kristala.ai, and Lenskart have driven growth in the SEA market, with Lenskart’s strategic acquisition of Japan’s Own Days last year as a recent highlight.

Given the growing significance of SEA as an investor base and a burgeoning market, Chiratae Ventures has been active in the region, particularly in Singapore and Japan. The appointment of Puneet Pushkarna to the Regional Advisory Board reinforces Chiratae’s dedication to its growth and success in SEA. Puneet will provide strategic guidance to Chiratae’s international operations in this role.

*Mr Puneet Pushkarna (L) joins the Regional Advisory Board of Chiratae Ventures. In the picture with Mr Sudhir Sethi (R), Founder and Chairman of Chiratae Ventures.*

Sudhir Sethi, Founder and Chairman of Chiratae Ventures, shared, “With a strong foothold in the SEA market and our portfolio companies, either focusing on the region or being headquartered there, contributing over 45% of the total revenue, we are thrilled to welcome Puneet Pushkarna to our Regional Advisory Board. Puneet’s addition further bolsters our already formidable Advisory Board, whose collective efforts have significantly established Chiratae as one of India’s premier venture capital funds. His exceptional expertise and diverse background will undoubtedly guide our ventures to even greater heights within the Asian market while fostering stronger connections with our esteemed investors.”

Puneet Pushkarna brings a wealth of experience, currently serving as a General Partner at Solmark, a prominent private equity fund based in Singapore. Throughout his career, Puneet has excelled in nurturing and scaling companies in the competitive global landscape. He previously held the position of President at Headstrong, driving transformative initiatives in the Capital Markets domain through cutting-edge digital technology services. Additionally, Puneet co-founded TechSpan, backed by the prestigious institution Goldman Sachs, where he successfully led business solutions consulting and design thinking ventures, earning recognition as one of the fastest-growing companies in Silicon Valley.

Beyond his business acumen, Puneet is deeply involved in various Boards and Advisory Boards, including his role as Chairman of Core Committee, RIE2025, National Research Foundation, Singapore, Chairman Emeritus of TiE Singapore, and as a Board member of IIM Nagpur and Industry Advisory Board of SP Jain School of Management. Additionally, Puneet serves as a Catalyst at SMART (Singapore MIT Alliance for Research & Technology) and actively engages in philanthropic efforts, supporting initiatives such as the Indian Foundation for the Arts (IFA), the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS), and the South Asian Heart Society.

Puneet Pushkarna shared his excitement for the new role, adding, “I am honoured to join Chiratae Ventures and contribute to the growth of the platform they have built over close to two decades and its dynamic portfolio in Asia region. There are strong benefits for the Asian block to partner, invest and grow exponentially by understanding each other’s strengths and hope to bridge the gap. The Indian model of solving for population-scale problems using technology-led business models has relevance for the larger region and hoping to help Chiratae and its portfolio expand its regional footprint”

Anoop Menon, Principal-Investments who also leads Investor Relations in the East Asian region, says, “With the changing geo-political environment and India’s blistering economic growth, India has become a strong contender for increased investments and business partnership within Asia. Along with this, there is a strong need to contextualise the India narrative by a leader who has seen both sides closely, and Puneet helps us do that. Having him on our Advisory Board provides a valuable sounding board for our team and founders as we navigate the markets in Singapore, Japan, and other regions of Asia Pacific.”

Chiratae Ventures, recently announced the final close of its first Growth fund at $122 M, oversubscribed by 34% and is in the market for its next flagship Venture capital fund. It will continue looking to cement its presence in SEA and the larger Asian region, and Puneet will help strengthen the firm’s position as a leader in the Venture capital landscape.

About Chiratae Ventures:

Chiratae Ventures is a 16-year-old Indian technology venture capital fund advisor, having advised funds that collectively (across six funds) have $1.1 Bn AUM, 130+ investments, 48 exits, 8 Unicorns, 3 IPOs and a track record of having returned capital to LPs in each of the last 12 years. The funds advised by Chiratae Ventures have investments across sectors such as Consumer-Tech, SaaS, Fintech, and Healthtech and have been early backers of companies such as Bizongo, Fibe, FirstCry, Flipkart, Lenskart, Myntra, Pixis, PolicyBazaar and Uniphore, amongst many others.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Tanvi Dubey
Chiratae Ventures
+91-8792059986

Neha Chaturvedi
Adfactors PR
+65- 87098749

“SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme” Jointly Organised by Dah Sing Bank and Friends of the Earth (HK) Names Commendable Enterprises

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The "SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme" ("the Programme") jointly organised by Dah Sing Bank, Limited ("Dah Sing Bank") and Friends of the Earth (HK) ("FoE (HK)") announced today that 19 small to medium-sized enterprises ("SMEs") have received the Certificate of Recognition for taking the first steps in adopting environmental, social and governance ("ESG") practices. Coming from the local construction and real estate industry and the retail and e-commerce industry, the 19 commended SMEs received guidance from the Programme's "ESG Doctor" during the designated period, and managed to enhance their competitive advantages by putting their management resources to good use to practise sustainable development principles in various aspects of their businesses.

Ms Phoebe Wong, Deputy Chief Executive, Senior Executive Director, Group Head of Personal Banking, Dah Sing Bank, delivering speech in the SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme Results Announcement Ceremony

Mr Anthony Cheung, Vice-chairperson & Green Finance Convenor of FoE (HK), delivering speech in the SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme Results Announcement Ceremony

Group photos of the awardees of the SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme

Ms Phoebe Wong, Deputy Chief Executive, Senior Executive Director, Group Head of Personal Banking, Dah Sing Bank (left), Mr Anthony Cheung, Vice-chairperson & Green Finance Convenor of FoE (HK) (right)

One of the awarded SMEs shared its experience at the SME ESG Best Practices Recognition Programme Results Announcement Ceremony

Recognising the opportunities and challenges that ESG presents to SMEs, Dah Sing Bank and FoE (HK) joined hands last year to launch this Programme which was the first-of-its-kind in Hong Kong to focus on the construction and real estate industry and the retail and e-commerce industry respectively. The Programme also enlisted the support of a professional "ESG Doctor" to provide free assessment and practical guidance to the participating SMEs. A veteran in promoting sustainable development principles, the ESG Doctor offered invaluable advice to the participating SMEs on how to integrate ESG principles into their business operations. The Programme was well received by SMEs, and after rigorous reviews by its judging panel ("Judging Panel"), 11 SMEs from the construction and real estate industry and eight from the retail and e-commerce industry were confirmed to have achieved significant overall ESG improvements within the designated period.

Ms Phoebe Wong, Deputy Chief Executive, Senior Executive Director and Group Head of Personal Banking of Dah Sing Bank, said, "SMEs form the core of Hong Kong's economy, yet they tend to lack the know-how and resources to harness the growing significance of ESG. If more SMEs embrace ESG, that will certainly create a meaningful impact on the overall sustainable development of Hong Kong. We are pleased to see that the Programme has successfully inspired a growing number of SMEs over the past year to participate in the transition to a sustainable economy, helped them to recognise the challenges and opportunities in the trend towards a low carbon economy, and to make the necessary strategic adjustments to increase their competitiveness for long-term growth. We hope to see more SMEs embarking on the journey of sustainable development in the future."

Mr Anthony Cheung, Vice-Chairperson & Green Finance Convenor of FoE (HK), said, "With the urgent need to respond to climate change, it's crucial that every sector of society steps up to the plate. It's no longer a question of whether large corporations or SMEs should take action, but rather a matter of when and how they will respond to manage the climate-related risks and opportunities. At the heart of it, SMEs have a unique opportunity to examine their inherent operating models and align them with global sustainable development strategies. SMEs can boost their competitiveness in the post-pandemic market and contribute to the world's efforts to combat climate change."

According to the Judging Panel, there is general consensus amongst businesses for sustainable development. However, faced with limited resources, most SMEs mistakenly perceive that ESG principles are difficult to implement. The Programme aimed to increase SMEs' understanding and awareness of ESG, and to help them embark on their ESG efforts by first identifying the ESG factors of most importance to their businesses, and then by making gradual and systematic improvements. Benefiting from the help and sustained support from the Programme, the participating SMEs were able to enhance their operational efficiency through improvements in such areas as sourcing and procurement, supplier selection, warehousing and distribution, sales procedures, waste disposal and talent acquisition.

Formed by academics and experts from sectors including public utility, real estate and construction as well as SME associations, the Judging Panel boasts strong rich expertise and experience in ESG. Leveraging the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) as its framework, the Judging Panel assessed the sustainable development strategies and policies of the participating SMEs and their ability to manage and promote sustainable development performance. Environmental, social and governance performances accounted for 30%, 40% and 30% of the scores, respectively. Environmental considerations focused on energy efficiency and waste management; social considerations on employee health and safety, labour practices and human rights, while governance considerations concerned such themes as board diversity and independence and risk management.

The 19 commended SMEs will become ESG role models for other local SMEs. As Programme organisers, Dah Sing Bank and FoE (HK) sincerely hope that with the support of various trade associations, these SMEs will be able to deepen their ESG knowledge and passion on this sustainability journey, and that they will become torchbearers to accelerate Hong Kong's sustainable development through collaboration and exchanges to create common benefits amongst various sectors in our society.

List of SMEs Recognised for ESG Best Practices
Property and Construction
Company Name
1 Hong Kong BangMang Outsourcing Company Limited
2 Hang Kei Engineering Service Limited
3 Dehtlet Eco-System Ltd
4 York Joint Design & Construction Co., Limited
5 Ravia Global Appraisal Advisory Limited
6 RHL International Limited
7 Brilliant (Man Sau) Engineering Limited
8 Riskory Consultancy Limited
9 Sun Luen Shing Engineering Limited
10 Million Yield Properties Limited
11 Kudos Construction Limited

Retail and E-Commerce
Company Name
1 Viva Goods Company Limited
2 Chill In Mall
3 W Cellar Limited
4 StoryTaler HK Co Limited
5 City Cut Hair & Beauty Salon
6 Safe & Sound Solutions Limited
7 Crown Gas Stoves (Holdings) Company Limited
8 Diving Adventure Limited

About Dah Sing Bank
Dah Sing Bank, Limited ("Dah Sing Bank") is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dah Sing Banking Group Limited (HKG:2356) which is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Founded in Hong Kong over 75 years ago, Dah Sing Bank has been providing quality banking products and services to our customers with a vision to be "The Local Bank with a Personal Touch". Over the years, Dah Sing Bank has been rigorous in delivering on our brand promise to grow with our customers in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area and beyond – "Together We Progress and Prosper". Building on our experience and solid foundation in the industry, Dah Sing Bank's scope of professional services now spans retail banking, private banking, business and commercial banking. Meanwhile, Dah Sing Bank is also making significant investments in our digital banking capabilities to stay abreast with smart banking developments in Hong Kong and to support financial inclusion at large.

In addition to its Hong Kong banking operations, Dah Sing Bank also has wholly-owned subsidiaries including Dah Sing Bank (China) Limited, Banco Comercial de Macau, S.A., and OK Finance Limited. It is also a strategic shareholder of Bank of Chongqing with a shareholding of about 13%. Dah Sing Bank and its subsidiaries now have around 60 operating locations in Hong Kong, Macau and Mainland China.

About Friends of the Earth (HK)
Friends of the Earth (HK), as a leading environmental advocate, focuses on protecting our local and regional environment, offers equitable solutions to help create environmentally sustainable public policies, business practices and community lifestyles and engages government, business and community to act responsibly. Friends of the Earth (HK) is dedicated to promoting green finance and cultivating ESG talents to transition HK and the Asia Pacific region into a carbon neutral economy. Friends of the Earth (HK) closely partners with SME associations in Hong Kong (with coverage >3,000 companies), as well as international associations (e.g., World Benchmarking Alliance), with strong access to ESG & green finance talents professionals in Hong Kong, through our CESGA alumni network.

Friends of the Earth (HK) launched the first Green Finance Roadmap of its kind in the APAC region in 2019. One of our key focuses would be on building capacity for industry practitioners and the general public towards green finance, and hence our events are centered around the "Green Finance Connect Education Series". Examples include Sustainability Leadership Seminars, our Green Finance Symposium on ESG integration. We aim to work with all sectors of the community to build a sustainable society and environment.

Media Enquiries

Dah Sing Bank, Limited
Emily Lam +852 2507 8629 emilywylam@dahsing.com

Friends of the Earth (HK)
Feynman O +852 3184 1500 feynmano@foe.org.hk

Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Margaret Lam +852 2114 4956 margaret.lam@sprg.com.hk
Cynthia Ng +852 2114 4952 cynthia.ng@sprg.com.hk

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

PrimePartners Group forges a strategic alliance with leading UK independent corporate advisory firm Strand Hanson to strengthen global connectivity

SINGAPORE, Jul 6, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – PrimePartners Group ("PrimePartners" or "PPG"), one of Singapore's leading investment banking advisory firms has entered into a strategic alliance with Strand Hanson, a London-based corporate advisory firm to explore areas of new listings and capital market transactions.

Strand Hanson has an extensive geographical footprint, particularly in emerging markets such as Africa, Southeast Asia, South America, and the Middle East. Similarly, PrimePartners also services a global client base, with an emphasis on the Southeast Asia region and Greater China.
Both parties are set to leverage one another's business connections to strengthen their respective cross-regional presence. This partnership will create a combined pool of diverse clients, which is expected to leverage a host of new opportunities, particularly in the area of energy transition where a key to success is effectively linking the producers of critical raw materials which feature strongly in Strand Hanson's client base with end users.

On top of the enhanced connectivity, the collaboration also enables knowledge transfer, especially in regard to regulations, legislation, and culture between the two firms, which will improve service efficiency levels in mutual regions.

Mark Liew, Chief Executive Officer of PrimePartners said, "Our respective strengths and focus in different geographical regions will open doors to a wider universe of potential clients to both of us, especially pertaining to capital market deals with cross-border elements. The extensive reach that Strand Hanson has is an attractive proposition and we look forward to growing together with our new partner."

Simon Raggett, Chief Executive of Strand Hanson said, "Singapore offers a strong combination of regulatory oversight, access to world-class talent and a vibrant capital market from which to access some of the world's fastest-growing economies. We are delighted to have formed a partnership with PrimePartners, which shares our values and commitment to servicing our clients.

"Strand Hanson has been advising clients with a global reach via its established network of offices and partnerships and is excited at strengthening its regional presence via this new relationship."

About PrimePartners Group

PrimePartners Group (PPG) was founded in 1994 by the late Mr Ng Soo Peng, Mr Quek Peck Lim, Mr Teo Ek Tor and Mr Hsieh Fu Hua, former senior Morgan Grenfell executives.
PrimePartners Corporate Finance (PPCF) was formed by PPG in 2003. PPCF is focused on providing advisory and capital raising services for private and public-listed small and medium sized companies operating in Singapore and internationally. Headquartered in Singapore, PPCF provides a comprehensive range of public listing, financial advisory, capital raising, mergers and acquisitions and continuing sponsorship services. PPCF is one of the pioneer group of full sponsors licensed by the Singapore Exchange and is the leading continuing sponsor on the Catalist market.

About Strand Hanson

Established in 1993, Strand Hanson is a leading adviser to SMEs on London's public markets, with a focus on growth companies both in the UK and internationally.

Drawing on the executive team's considerable experience across a significant range of sectors, geographies and transaction types, Strand Hanson is focused on delivering bespoke, strategic and timely advice, recognising that the "one size fits all" model does not maximise value or deliverability.

Issued for and on behalf of PrimePartners Group
By Financial PR

For more information, please contact:
Kamal SAMUEL / Hong Ee TANG
E-mail: kamal@financialpr.com.sg / hongee@financialpr.com.sg
Tel: 6438 2990

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

FTLife swept four awards at the Bloomberg Businessweek / Chinese Edition Financial Institution Awards 2023

HONG KONG, Jun 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – FTLife Insurance Company Limited ("FTLife") is delighted to announce that the company has swept four awards at the Bloomberg Businessweek / Chinese Edition Financial Institution Awards 2023 in recognition of its outstanding achievement in product development, talent development, and digital marketing strategies.

FTLife has swept four awards at the Bloomberg Businessweek / Chinese Edition Financial Institution Awards 2023 in recognition of its outstanding achievement in product development, talent development, and digital marketing strategies.

The four accolades received by FTLife include:
— Saving Plan – Outstanding Performance
— Health & Protection – Outstanding Performance
— Training Academy of the Year – Outstanding Performance
— Digital Marketing – Outstanding Performance

Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of FTLife, said: "FTLife is going from strength to strength as it goes on to scoop four accolades at the Bloomberg Businessweek / Chinese Edition Financial Institution Awards 2023 after winning the prestigious 'Insurance Company of the Year' title at the 2022 Benchmark Wealth Management Awards earlier this year. This attests to the industry-wide recognition we receive for our excellent products, professional training, and brand reputation. Moving forward, we will continue to strive to become the Life Artisans for our customers, and promote shared-value, sustainable development, and life-long protection for everyone in the community through integrating our insurance business with New World Group's ecosystem."

Saving Plan – Outstanding Performance
Customers are increasingly seeking flexibility and diversification in insurance products to match their evolving lifestyle. Mindful of our customers' changing needs throughout various life stages, FTLife endeavours to fulfil the market gap by creating innovative services and products. Our award-winning Everglow 128 Insurance Plan, for example, provides a comprehensive wealth enhancement. Starting as early as the first policy anniversary, the policy will distribute a guaranteed cash coupon of up to 3% of the insured units (or total premiums)1 in every policy anniversary – all the way up to 128 years, generating a stable stream of funds for our customers to achieve their life goals. The Plan also allows unlimited changes of the insured and provides non-guaranteed annual dividend, thus providing customers with both wealth growth opportunities and effective wealth succession. The impressive range of financial needs the Plan covers has won itself the much-deserved honour of "Saving Plan – Outstanding Performance" award.

Health & Protection – Outstanding Performance
FTLife's commitment to providing all-rounded health and medical protection has inspired the creation of our "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan, which has won the "Health & Protection – Outstanding Performance" award. Providing enhanced medical protection on the top of Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS), the benefit limit is subject to amount per disability per policy year, and the Plan fully covers the eligible expenses of multiple benefit items2. It also provides double aggregate limit3 offered for common major illnesses such as major cancer, stroke and heart attack, providing comprehensive support to customers and their loved ones for them to enjoy a healthy life. These benefits are also globally applicable4, providing our customers with peace of mind as they are given access to comprehensive medical insurance without geographical restrictions.

Training Academy of the Year – Outstanding Performance
FTLife Financial Talent Development Center is committed to cultivating the next generation of high-preforming agency force. It has introduced "AI Drill", an artificial intelligence and big data-driven training tool, to provide our Life Artisans with comprehensive, personalised coaching. Greatly enhancing the effectiveness of our training, AI Drill helps our Life Artisans accelerate their career progression as they aspire to become excellent financial planning professionals. On top of AI Drill, FTLife also launched a virtual reality zone at The GalaMuse, where our Life Artisans understand a person's potential needs for protection and wealth management in different life stages effectively, enabling them to provide the best life planning to our customers. The innovative learning experiences also provide insight into Life Artisans' personal development, as well as their career development in the insurance industry. The seamless integration of new technologies with its well-designed training programme has won FTLife the prestigious award of "Training Academy of the Year – Outstanding Performance".

Digital Marketing – Outstanding Performance
In Q4 2022, FTLife has launched a series of "FTLife Power Up" promotions, leveraging the diverse ecosystem of New World Group to power our customers up with enhanced protection, rewards, privileges, and experiences. Using the O2O (Online-to-Offline) Marketing, we have crafted a social media content series to attract traffic, strengthen our relationship with new customers, and increase customer stickiness. The promotion campaign has reaped excellent results, winning itself the "Digital Marketing – Outstanding Performance" award.

Coming up to its nineth year, the Financial Institution Awards are hosted annually by iconic finance magazine Bloomberg Businessweek/Chinese Edition. The judge panel, comprised of representatives from the industry, government and academia, assessed submissions from the banking, insurance and securities sectors and ranked them according to four criteria, namely market performance, growth, development, and business strategy. The prestigious event promotes best practices in the industry, and affirms Hong Kong's status as an international financial centre.

Remark:
1. Units (or total premiums) = Annual Premium (referring to annual premium payment, any other premium discounts [if any] are excluded) x premium payment period
2. Fully covered refers to no itemised benefit sublimit. The actual amount of eligible expenses and other expenses payable is subject to the aggregate limit per disability per policy year.
3. Common major illnesses include: major cancer, severe heart attack, stroke, respiratory diseases and any disease declared as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern
4. Except for psychiatric treatments and cash benefit for room and board confinement below entitled ward class in a private hospital in Hong Kong (if applicable), all benefits shall be applicable worldwide

Disclosure of Important Information:
— This press release does not contain the full provisions of Everglow 128 Insurance Plan and "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. Everglow 128 Insurance Plan and "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan may be purchased as standalone plan(s) without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product. You are required to read the relevant product brochure, the Policy Provisions and the illustrations presented by your licensed insurance intermediary in order to fully understand the details of the definitions, charges, product features, exclusions, and conditions of payment of claims, etc. plus complete terms and conditions.
— For details of the product brochure of Everglow 128 Insurance Plan, please visit https://www.ftlife.com.hk/pdf/en/products/life-insurance/savings/everglow-128-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf
— For details of the product brochure of "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan, please visit https://www.ftlife.com.hk/pdf/en/products/life-insurance/health/FlexiCare-Product-Brochure.pdf
— For further enquiries, please contact FTLife's Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.
— This press release is for distribution in Hong Kong only. It is not an offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any insurance product outside Hong Kong. FTLife does not offer or sell any insurance product in any jurisdiction outside Hong Kong, in which such offering or sales of the insurance product is illegal under the laws of such jurisdictions.

About FTLife Insurance Company Limited
FTLife Insurance Company Limited (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability; "FTLife") is one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong and a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWS Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 0659). Building on a history of more than 30 years in the territory, FTLife provides individual and institutional clients with a diverse range of insurance and wealth management products and services, including life, health, accident, savings and investment insurance. As a member of New World Group, FTLife works with diversified businesses within the Group to create synergies and provides customers with best-in-class life-planning solutions, from wealth management and succession to health, wellbeing and quality of life enhancement.

Media Inquiries
Branding & Communications
FTLife Insurance Company Limited
Suki Kwong
+852 2591 8504
suki.kwong@ftlife.com.hk

Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Yoko Li / Cynthia Ng
+852 2864 4813 / +852 2114 4952
yoko.li@sprg.com.hk / cynthia.ng@sprg.com.hk

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

Asia’s Banking, Payments, E-Commerce and Retail Leaders to Gather in Singapore this Month for the First Time in More Than Four Years at Seamless Asia

Seamless Asia, the leading annual gathering of Asia’s commerce leaders, will take place in Singapore at Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre on 27 – 28 June 2023. After a series of annual virtual editions, the event marks the first in-person edition of the event since 2019.

Over 2,500 of the region’s leading banks, payments players, digital wallets, e-commerce retailers, telcos, government bodies will attend Seamless Asia 2023 to reconnect, explore and shape the future of digital commerce in Asia. From structured round-table sessions to informal networking gatherings, there will be ample opportunities for attendees to build relationships and forge meaningful partnerships.

“With digital payments in Asia forecast to exceed $350 billion USD by 2026 and with e-commerce spending in Southeast Asia expected to reach $180 billion USD by 2025 it’s a time of tremendous growth in the region” says Paul Clark, Managing Director – Asia, Terrapinn Pte Ltd. “Over recent years, the payments, banking and e-commerce sectors have been at the forefront of innovation. Now is the perfect time to bring together the region’s digital commerce leaders to explore how to truly capitalise on this growth, how to ride the waves of market volatility and to explore what we can expect next in the world’s fastest growing commerce market.”

More than 200 thought leaders will share insights across seven key content pillars: Payments Innovation, Payments Security, eKYC & Authentication, Banking Transformation, E-commerce Strategy, E-commerce Marketing and Online Payments. The engaging presentations and panel discussions will address pressing trends, challenges and opportunities in digital commerce. Speakers at the event include:

Albert Tinio, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Chief Commercial Officer, GoTyme Bank
Alin Dobrea, Head of Marketing Solutions & Partnerships, Zalora
Carlo Brillantes, Head of Digital Payments, foodpanda
Chandana Sunder, Senior Vice President, LazMall Marketing Solutions, Lazada
Darrick Rochili, Chief Innovation Officer, DANA Indonesia
Dipashree Das, Head of Partner Marketing, APAC & ANZ, Amazon
Henry Aguda, CEO and President, UnionDigital Bank
Hung Nguyen, Head of Regional D2C & Emerging Verticals, TikTok
Ida Mok, Co-Founder and President, Women In Blockchain Asia (WIBA)
Ingrid Rose Ann Beroña, Chief Risk Officer, Gcash
Julie Reyes, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer, Maya
Lito Villanueva, Executive VP & Chief Innovation & Inclusion Officer, RCBC
Lucose Eralil, Executive Vice President and Head of Enterprise Technology and Operations, Security Bank
Lynn Huang, Ex-CMO, Asia Pacific, Honeywell SPS, Motorola Solutions
Sharon Tan, Chief Operating Officer, DBS Bank
SheueChee Beh, Director, Payments APAC, Uber
Smriti Modi, Head of Consumer & eTail Marketing, APAC, Poly (HP)
Sonal Kapoor, Senior Director, Flipkart
Tiffany Chng, Co-Founder & Marketing Director, cheak
Will Vayakornvichit, Chief Financial Officer, Love, Bonito

Over 170 sponsors, exhibitors and partners will showcase their cutting-edge products, services, and solutions, including Platinum Sponsors 8×8, Alipay+, CleverTap, HPS, Stripe and World First Asia Pte Ltd. On the exhibition floor, attendees will have the chance to demo solutions and interact directly with product experts to discover innovations that will propel their businesses forward and identify new partnership opportunities.

Seamless Asia 2023 will help accelerate the transformation of digital commerce in Asia. For event information and full conference agenda, visit www.terrapinn.com/SeamlessAsia.

About Seamless Asia 2023

Seamless Asia 2023 will take place at Marina Bay Sands Expo and & Convention Centre, Singapore on 27 – 28 June 2023.

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:
Jia Le Lim
Marketing Manager
Terrapinn Asia
jiale.lim@terrapinn.com

FTLife won six awards and named “Insurance Company of the Year 2022”, becoming the most awarded insurer at the Benchmark Wealth Management Awards 2022

HONG KONG, Jun 9, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – FTLife Insurance Company Limited ("FTLife") is delighted to have become the biggest winner in the insurance industry at the 2022 Benchmark Wealth Management Awards by scooping a total of six accolades, including the most coveted award – "Insurance Company of the Year". The stellar results not only break the company's recent record but also a recognition of its outstanding distribution channel, talent training and development, product development and social media engagement, as well as its ESG (environmental, social and governance) integration.

FTLife has scooped a total of six awards including the grand title of "Insurance Company of the Year" at the 2022 Benchmark Wealth Management Awards in recognition of its outstanding distribution channel, talent training and development, product development and social media engagement, as well as its ESG (environmental, social and governance) integration.

The six accolades received by FTLife include:
— Insurance Company of the Year 2022
— Broker Support – Best-in-Class (6th consecutive year)
— Academy of the Year 2022 (2nd consecutive year)
— Health Care Product – Best-in-Class
— Social Media Engagement – Outstanding Achiever
— ESG Integration – Merit

FTLife Chief Executive Officer Man Kit Ip said, "2022 has been a challenging year, but we have been able to deliver excellent results despite market headwinds. I feel very proud of the smashing success of my team, who has won us six accolades at the 2022 Benchmark Wealth Management Awards, taking home the grand title of 'Insurance Company of the Year 2022'. We shall continue our commitment to nurturing our talents to become great Life Artisans, crafting the best insurance solutions for our customers and creating meaningful shared value."

Being named the "Broker Support – Best-in-Class" for the sixth consecutive year, FTLife is also well recognised in the industry for its robust support for its partners. Our Partnership Distribution team and Premier Business team are committed to delivering the ideal business solutions, and the best possible pre-sale and after-sale support to our brokers and their customers. Meanwhile, FTLife also continues to optimise its information technology infrastructures, providing a one-stop digital platform that empowers its partners to operate their business with ease.

True to its accolade as the "Academy of the Year", FTLife places great emphasis on talent development. Last year, FTLife repositioned its consultants as "Life Artisans", equipping them to provide comprehensive planning and protection for our customers to meet their needs at different life stages. As a keen believer in innovative technologies, on top of AI Drill, FTLife also launched a virtual reality zone at The GalaMuse, where our Life Artisans understand a person's potential needs for protection and wealth management in different life stages effectively, enabling them to provide the best life planning to our customers. Innovative learning experiences will also provide insight into Life Artisans' personal development, as well as their career development in the insurance industry.

FTLife's VHIS Certified Plan "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan has been awarded with the "Health Care Product – Best-in-Class", thanks to its immense popularity in the market. With its benefit limit calculated on a per disability per policy year basis, the product offers double aggregate limit to common major illnesses including major cancer, severe heart attack, stroke, respiratory diseases, and any disease declared as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. In addition, the coverages are globally applicable*, enabling customers to enjoy comprehensive medical insurance without geographical restrictions.

Passionate about changing for a better future, FTLife has integrated social media engagement with traditional media and off-line advertisement (such as on the MTR platforms) in its recent branding/recruitment campaign under the theme of "Championing Spirit". Taking reference of the digital platform and social media consumption patterns of various audience groups, FTLife was able to enhance both customer engagement and interaction rates. The success of this impactful campaign, and the effectiveness of FTLife's overall social media engagement strategies were further affirmed by the "Social Media Engagement – Outstanding Achiever" Award.

Going beyond insurance, FTLife not only strives for business success, but also cares for the long-term wellbeing of its customers, employees, community, as well as the environment. Sharing the New World Group's "Sustainability Vision 2030", FTLife is committed to creating shared value for all stakeholders by adhering four strategic pillars: Green, Wellness, Smart and Caring. The impact of our continuous ESG efforts is recognised by the "ESG Integration – Merit" Award.

*Except for psychiatric treatments and cash benefit for room and board confinement below entitled ward class in a private hospital in Hong Kong (if applicable), all benefits shall be applicable worldwide.

Disclosure of Important Information:
— The information contained in this press release is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. For details, please refer to relevant insurance product brochures and promotion flyers. Please refer to the policy contract for details of full terms and conditions.
— This press release does not contain the full provisions of "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan may serve as standalone plan without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product.
— For details of the product brochure of "FlexiCare" Medical Insurance Plan, please visit https://www.ftlife.com.hk/pdf/en/products/life-insurance/health/FlexiCare-Product-Brochure.pdf
— For further enquiries, please contact FTLife's Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.
— This press release is for distribution in Hong Kong only. It is not an offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any insurance product outside Hong Kong. FTLife does not offer or sell any insurance product in any jurisdiction outside Hong Kong, in which such offering or sales of the insurance product is illegal under the laws of such jurisdictions.

About FTLife Insurance Company Limited
FTLife Insurance Company Limited (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability; "FTLife") is one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong and a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWS Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 0659). Building on a history of more than 30 years in the territory, FTLife provides individual and institutional clients with a diverse range of insurance and wealth management products and services, including life, health, accident, savings and investment insurance. As a member of New World Group, FTLife works with diversified businesses within the Group to create synergies and provides customers with best-in-class life-planning solutions, from wealth management and succession to health, wellbeing and quality of life enhancement.

About the Awards Organiser
WealthAsia, a Profit-for-Purpose organisation, is committed to promoting best practices within the financial ecosystem by recognising best-in-class awards and outstanding achievers who share the same mission in Hong Kong's wealth protection industry.

About the Benchmark Awards
The 13th annual Benchmark Wealth Management Awards assesses insurance companies and advisories by highly qualified industry veterans across six pillars: Value for Money, Client Support, Digital, Brand Strength, Governance, and Sustainability. In conjunction with BlueOnion, Benchmark's sister company in ESG data aggregation and analysis, Benchmark undertakes a mission to expose Green, Blue, SDG, and Sustainability washing. Insurers who have scored the highest over 22 Environment, Social, Governance, and Climate KPIs are recognised for their contribution this year.

Media Inquiries
Branding & Communications
FTLife Insurance Company Limited
Suki Kwong
+852 2591 8504
suki.kwong@ftlife.com.hk

Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Yoko Li / Cynthia Ng
+852 2864 4813 / +852 2114 4952
yoko.li@sprg.com.hk / cynthia.ng@sprg.com.hk

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

Nomination Opens for Directors Of The Year Awards 2023 In the Theme “Transform for a Better Tomorrow”

HONG KONG, Jun 6, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The Hong Kong Institute of Directors ("HKIoD") has announced that its annual Directors Of The Year Awards 2023 are now open for nominations.

From left to right: Dr Christopher To, Dr Carlye Tsui, Ms Alice Yip, Ir Edmund K H Leung and Mr Vincent Chan provide an overview of the Directors Of The Year Awards 2023 during the briefing session.

Under the theme of "Transform for a better tomorrow", this year's Awards aim to recognise and honour the exemplary leadership of directors and boards who have steered their companies through the unprecedented challenges brought by the pandemic. These Awards acknowledge the efforts made by leaders who have not only managed to keep their businesses afloat during the crisis, but have also found innovative ways to adapt and transform their operations. The focus on transformation highlights the need for companies to embrace change and innovation in order to create a brighter future. By honouring these leaders, the Awards aim to inspire others to follow in their footsteps and drive positive change in their organisations, communities, and beyond. The awards also serve to promote the significance of corporate governance among the public.

Nomination for the Awards will close on 31 July 2023. The Panel of Judges consists of leaders, professionals and regulators in Hong Kong. Director Of The Year Awards 2023 recognises excellence in the following categories:

Company Categories
1. Listed Companies
2. Non-Listed Companies
3. Statutory/Non-Profit-Distributing Organisations*

Director Categories
1. Executive Directors
2. Non-Executive Directors
3. Boards

Note: *A non-profit-distributing organisation is defined as an organisation of which profits are not distributed to its shareholders, members, directors, employees or any other persons, with objectives including, but not limited to charitable welfare, social service, health and medical care, education, research, trade and industrial alliance, professional advancement, self-help support, etc.

The Awards nomination form and related information are available on The Hong Kong Institute of Directors website at www.hkiod.com.

About Directors Of The Year Awards
Launched in 2001, the Directors Of The Year Awards was the first of its kind organised in Asia. It is now an annual project of impact in the community. Its objectives are to recognise directors and board of directors for outstanding director practices and corporate governance, to publicise the significance of good corporate governance and to promote awareness of good corporate governance and director professionalism in Hong Kong. Nominations are open to the public. As good corporate governance is vital to all types of organisations, and professional practices from directors in all board roles are encouraged, the Awards recognise excellence in categories by company types, including listed companies, private companies and statutory/non-profit-distributing organisations, and categories by roles, including Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors and Boards. For more details on the previous years' Awards, please visit https://www.hkiod.com/directors-of-the-year-awards-2023/

About The Hong Kong Institute of Directors
The Hong Kong Institute of Directors is Hong Kong's premier body representing directors to foster the long-term success of companies through advocacy and standards-setting in corporate governance and professional development for directors. A non-profit-distributing organisation with membership consisting of directors from listed and non-listed companies, HKIoD is committed to providing directors with educational programmes and information service and establishing an influential voice in representing directors. With international perspectives and a multi-cultural environment, HKIoD conducts business in biliteracy and trilingualism. Website: http://www.hkiod.com

Directors Of The Year Awards 2023 Enquiries:
The Hong Kong Institute of Directors
Odessa So
+852 2889 4988 / odessa.so@hkiod.com
Fax: +852 2889 9982

Media Enquiries:
Strategic Public Relations Group
Brenda Chan
+852 2114 4396 / brenda.chan@sprg.com.hk
Fax: +852 2114 4948

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

MDRT Global Services Announces 2023 Culture of Excellence Award Winners

HONG KONG, May 25, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – MDRT Global Services has announced the 131 winners ( https://www.mdrtgs.org/coe-award-winners ) of the prestigious 2023 MDRT Culture of Excellence Awards, the global standard for achievement in financial services leadership. This year, seven agency leaders from Hong Kong won the awards, which have been an important resource available to Global Services members to measure individual and agency-wide performance and foster a comprehensive approach to leadership excellence.

Winners will be honored at special ceremonies during the 2023 MDRT Annual Meeting (June 25-28 in Nashville, Tennessee, USA) and the 2023 MDRT Global Conference (August 27-30 in Singapore). The Culture of Excellence Awards are the only awards bestowed by the MDRT Family of Brands.

Global Services members are field and home office leaders who continually work to broaden their leadership skills, establish an MDRT culture of excellence within their agencies, and advance professionally and personally. They are empowered and inspired year-round by educational content, peer-to-peer study groups, webcasts, attending MDRT meetings, and other Global Services tools and resources.

Within that fast-growing global community, the Culture of Excellence Awards are bestowed upon the "best of the best" – agency leaders who track and submit results in production, recruitment, retention, persistency, work/life balance ("Whole Person") and MDRT membership. The 5 Diamond Agency winners achieved at least five of the six criteria; 15 Platinum Agency winners achieved four of six criteria, and 111 Gold Agency winners achieved three of six criteria.

Special mention goes to the following companies with the highest number of 2023 Culture of Excellence Award winners: Pru Life Ins Corp of UK – 69 award winners, Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (PTE) Limited – 24 award winners, and Great Eastern Life – Singapore – 22 award winners. The full list of winners is found on the Global Services website at https://www.mdrtgs.org/coe-award-winners .

"The Culture of Excellence Awards are the most prestigious field leadership awards in the financial services profession," said Peggy Tsai, RFP, CCFP, 2023 MDRT President and an agency leader at Shin Kong Life Insurance Co. in Taipei, Taiwan. "MDRT Global Services creates a community of financial services leaders committed to excellence in the profession, and winning this award recognizes their ability to galvanize and coach their teams to become the best. It is noteworthy that there are seven winners from Hong Kong this year. Although Hong Kong is a small city, the quality of her financial service leaders is unquestionable and their performances deserve applause. I hope the leaders will continue to contribute to our industry and more of them from different places will make the winner list in the future."

About MDRT Global Services
As the newest association under the global MDRT Family of Brands, MDRT Global Services was created exclusively for financial services field and home office leaders. As a separate, individual membership association, MDRT Global Services provides its members with exceptional value and leadership growth opportunities. MDRT Global Services membership allows increased engagement within the MDRT community while providing leaders with strategies to develop a culture of excellence within their respective organizations. To learn more visit
https://www.mdrtgs.org/.

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

T4 Banking Philippines 2023: Trends, Tactics, Trust Building Components, and Technology in the Philippine banking landscape

MANILA, May 4, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – As one of Philippines' premium conference brands for banking community, T4 Banking is considered as a bridge, and an arena where we connect the thinkers, innovators, disruptors and most importantly all of the decision-makers in the Philippine banking ecosystem.

The live, in-person event will be the gathering of all business executives from banks, financial regulators, pan-financial companies, and technology solution providers across the entire country. The 2023 Edition with the theme "Digital readiness and the future of banking in the Philippines" will be hosted on August 17, 2023 in The Manila Hilton Hotel, where you can expect to see more than 300 high profile delegates such as Technical Directors, CEO, CIO, CTO, CDO, Risk Control Directors, Information Security Heads, and a lot more.

The event is strongly committed in providing its audience deeper knowledge with 4 Ts – Tactics, Trends, Trust Building Components, and Technology in the Philippine banking landscape. The community aims to accelerate the transformation to a future digital banking ecosystem. This conference will be a closed door, B2B oriented forum. Varies type of arrangements will be presented during the event such as lucky draws, interactive panel discussions, roundtable luncheon, booth making contest, one-to-one private meetings, networking and awards-giving.

This is not your ordinary conference. We will be bringing the highest level of excitement and energy showcasing the world's top banking technology providers and bank participants, all in one roof!

KEY SUBJECTS:
1. Data governance mechanisms to drive bank performance
2. Banks evolving as API providers: Open banking takeaways
3. Artificial intelligence for the banking ecosystem
4. Bank intelligent branches and digital tools
5. AI: The secret sauce to banks risk management strategy
6. The fundamental elements of core modernization for banks
7. Digital customer banking experience: From journeys to intent
8. Cybersecurity in banking: Importance, threats, and challenges
9. Banking risk and compliance management 2023 outlook
10. Upgrading bank marketing technology to become future-ready
11. Philippine banking: Talent acquisition, development, retention and engagement
12. Global banking innovations and emerging technology trends

For sponsorship, and speaking engagement please contact our event director at jimby@t4bevent.com or visit our event website at www.t4bevent.com.

Don't miss the opportunity to be a part of the biggest event in the Philippine banking ecosystem! Witness how we gather all of the leading experts in the industry and share their thoughts and insights with very timely topics.

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

Chiratae Ventures Maiden Growth Fund-I announces its close at INR 1001 cr, oversubscribed by 34%

Singapore, May 3, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Chiratae Ventures, India's largest homegrown venture capital fund, has successfully concluded the fundraising for its first Chiratae Growth Fund (CGF-I), raising INR 1001 cr. On a targeted INR 750 crore, CGF-I has been oversubscribed by 34%. The announcement of the close of CGF-I comes on the heels of Fund 4, which was oversubscribed by 22%. This marks a continued trend of Chiratae's funds being oversubscribed, highlighting the confidence and faith placed in the firm's ability to identify and nurture promising startups poised for growth and success.

CGF-I will invest in the growth rounds of market-leading technology startups from its portfolio and other new opportunities, making it a sector-agnostic fund to support the growth and expansion of companies.

CGF-I is supported by Chiratae's existing investors, including Pratithi (Family Office of Kris Gopalakrishnan, the Co-Founder of Infosys), 57 Stars (a global alternative asset manager) and Manish Choksi (Vice Chairman and non-executive board member of Asian Paints) and his Family Office and, new investors including State Bank of India, India Infoline Limited (IIFL), Axis Bank and others. With this new CGF-I, Chiratae Ventures will continue its mission of supporting innovative technology startups in their growth stage and unlocking their potential.
Chiratae Ventures has a successful track record of investing in early and growth-stage startups over the past 16 years. The Chiratae Funds collectively (across 6 funds) have $1.1 Bn in AUM, 130+ investments, 48 exits, 8 Unicorns, 3 IPOs and a track record of having returned capital to the investors in each of the last 12 years. Chiratae Ventures has been an early backer of technology-led companies such as Bizongo, Curefit, Fibe, Firstcry, Lenskart, Myntra, PolicyBazaar, Pixis, Vayana, and Uniphore, amongst others.

Sudhir Sethi, Founder and Chairman of Chiratae Ventures, said, "We are excited to have raised our first Growth Fund, enabling us to continue supporting the growth and expansion of market-leading technology startups in India and beyond. The oversubscription of the fund by 34% is a testament to the trust and confidence our investors have placed in us. As we embark on this exciting new chapter, we remain committed to identifying and investing in innovative startups that have the potential to drive transformative change and create long-term value. Thank you to our existing investors Pratithi (Family Office of Kris Gopalakrishnan, the Co-Founder of Infosys), 57 Stars (a global alternative asset manager) and Manish Choksi (Vice Chairman and non-executive board member of Asian Paints) and his Family Office and, we welcome the new ones, State Bank of India, IIFL, Axis Bank and others."

On closing the Chirataes' first Growth Fund, TC Meenakshi Sundaram, Founder and Vice-Chairman of Chiratae Ventures, said, "The successful fundraising for Chiratae's First Growth Fund is a testament to the quality of the investment strategy and our team's ability to identify and support exceptional entrepreneurs. With the Growth Fund -I, we are well-positioned to continue to support promising startups through their growth journey and create value for all stakeholders by becoming market leaders. We thank all our investors for their continued support to Chiratae."

About Chiratae Ventures

Chiratae Ventures is a 16-year-old Indian technology venture capital fund, which collectively (across 6 funds) has $1.1 Bn AUM, 130+ investments, 48 exits, 8 Unicorns, 3 IPOs and a track record of having returned capital to LPs in each of the last 12 years. The Chiratae funds have investments across sectors such as Consumertech, SaaS, Fintech, and Healthtech and have been early backers of companies such as Myntra, Flipkart, Lenskart, FirstCry, PolicyBazaar, Bizongo, Uniphore, Pixis, and Fibe, amongst many others.

Chiratae Ventures's Global Advisory board consists of esteemed personalities such as Mr Ratan Tata (Chairman), Mr Kris Gopalakrishnan, Mr Manish Choksi (Vice Chairman Asian Paints), Mr Bruno Raschle (Founder Adveq Zurich), Dr Andreas Hettich (Chairman Hettich Corporation Germany) and Dr Ferzaan Engineer (Founder Cytecare and Nightingale).

Contact:
Namrata Sharma
Namrata.sharma@adfactorspr.com
+6581383034

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