Acrometa to Expand to Thailand through MOU with Waste Management Company on Construction and Operation of Laboratory

SINGAPORE, Mar 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – ACROMETA Group Limited, an established specialist engineering service provider in the field of controlled environments serving mainly the healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, research and academia sectors, announced that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a Thailand company whose principal activity is the provision of industrial waste disposal services.

The Thailand company provides non-hazardous waste disposal services. It owns and operates one of Thailand's largest landfills and requires a laboratory in Thailand ("Laboratory") for the testing and certification of solid waste and sludge to ensure proper treatment of any hazardous materials.

The MOU states the intention by the parties to jointly discuss and negotiate definitive agreements on:

1. The design and construction of the Laboratory by ACROMETA's wholly-owned subsidiary Acromec Engineers Pte Ltd
2. The operation of the Laboratory by ACROMETA's co-working laboratory space operator Life Sciences Incubator Pte Ltd ("LSI")
3. Opportunities for ACROMETA and/or its subsidiaries to participate as a joint venture partner in the ownership of the Laboratory.

The MOU shall be valid for a period of six months from the date of signing with the option for extension by mutual agreement.

ACROMETA's Future Economy + Synergy Strategy

On 20 February 2023, ACROMETA announced that it had entered into a binding letter of intent to purchase an additional 40% of the shares of LSI to become the controlling shareholder. On expected completion date, LSI will be a 70% owned subsidiary of ACROMETA.

ACROMETA Chairman Mr Levin Lee Keng Weng had said, "This potentially carves out a new promising mainstream business for us as controlled environment specialist."

The co-working laboratory space business has strong growth potential as Singapore transforms its economy towards high-value sectors such as Biotech, Agritech, and Foodtech with more and more companies conducting research & development activities. Serving SMEs and start-ups and in particular those in the MedTech, Biotech, Biopharma, FoodTech, and Healthcare sectors, LSI provides flexible co-working laboratory spaces for their research and development. It also has synergy with ACROMETA's core controlled environments design and construction business.

Chief Executive Officer Mr. Lim Say Chin had added, "Our wholly owned subsidiary Acromec Engineers, with its experience as builders of cutting-edge laboratories will continue to support LSI's expansion with its controlled environments engineering expertise in Singapore and the region."

On the MOU with the Thailand company, Mr. Lee said, "A future economy business such as the operation of co-working laboratory space plus its synergy with ACROMETA's current core controlled environments design and construction has the potential to elevate the Group to a higher growth trajectory. It also opens the door for ACROMETA to scale its business, including expansion overseas."

In its 20 February 2023 announcement, the Group also mentioned that it was in talks for the proposed development of a co-working laboratory space in Australia, with world-renowned co-working space operator who has in principle agreed, subject to binding agreement, to be one of the anchor tenants.

For a reference on ACROMETA's controlled environments engineering business, newly-acquired co-working laboratory and its Future Economy + Synergy growth strategy please see: https://www.investor-one.com/editorial/22635-ACROMETA-Future-Economy–Synergy-Higher-Growth-Rate

Reference:
https://links.sgx.com/1.0.0/corporate-announcements/517KQ9GG6NX97RM4/339498d63b4046b7f328cb64347577597f5e686256a6a656d6b8ee4eb6d5126b
https://links.sgx.com/FileOpen/Acrometa%20-%20MOU_210323_Final.ashx?App=Announcement&FileID=750414

About ACROMETA Group Limited (SGX Stock Code: 43F)

ACROMETA (Previously known as ACROMEC Limited) is an established specialist engineering services provider with more than 25 years of experience in the field of controlled environments.

The Group has over the years acquired expertise in the design and construction of facilities requiring controlled environments such as laboratories, medical and sterile facilities and cleanrooms.

ACROMETA's business is divided into three main business segments: (i) Engineering, procurement, and construction services, specialising in architectural, and mechanical, electrical and process works within controlled environments; (ii) Maintenance and repair services of facilities and equipment of controlled environments and their supporting infrastructure. (iii) Co-Working Laboratory business; currently operates a 6,500 sq feet co- working laboratory space at The German Centre in Singapore serving SMEs and start-ups.

The Group mainly serves the healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, research and academia, and electronics sectors. ACROMETA counts amongst its customers, hospitals and medical centres, government agencies, research and development companies or agencies, research and development units of multinational corporations, tertiary educational institutions, pharmaceutical companies, semiconductor manufacturing companies, and multinational engineering companies.

The company has been listed on the Catalist board of the Singapore Exchange since 2016.

For more information, please visit www.acrometa.com.

Media and Analysts Contact:
ACROMETA Group Limited
Mr. Jerry Tan
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: +65 6415 0574
Email: jerry.tan@acromec.com

Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
Mr. Wayne Koo
Tel: +65 6958 8008 / +65 9338 8166
Email: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg
Email: query@waterbrooks.com.sg

Proud Investor Relations partner: https://www.shareinvestorholdings.com/ and https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/

This media release has been reviewed by the Company's sponsor, Evolve Capital Advisory Private Limited (the "Sponsor"). It has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the "Exchange") and the Exchange assumes no responsibility for the contents of this document, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this document.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr. Jerry Chua, 138 Robinson Road, #13-02 Oxley Tower, Singapore 068906, jerrychua@evolvecapitalasia.com.

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

SNS Network to Supply Apple Products and Accessories to Kumon Malaysia

IPOH, Malaysia, Mar 20, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – SNS Network Technology Berhad (Bursa: SNS, 0259), an ICT system and solutions provider, is pleased to announce that the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, SNS Network (M) Sdn. Bhd, has signed a collaboration agreement with Kumon Education (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. to supply Apple iPad products and accessories to Kumon Malaysia's students and parents.

Managing Director of SNS, Ko Yun Hung

Mr. Ko Yun Hung, Managing Director of SNS and Mr. Atsushi Hasegawa, General Manager of Kumon Malaysia [L-R]

Kumon Malaysia is part of the largest established after-school enrichment programme in the world with over 4 million students currently enrolled across 50 countries and regions. The collaboration agreement covers over 200 Kumon learning centres and can benefit more than 37,000 students in Malaysia.

As part of the agreement, SNS will create and maintain a portal from which Kumon Malaysia's parents and students can access while also undertaking all services related to the supply of Apple iPad products and accessories.

Managing Director of SNS, Ko Yun Hung said, "This collaboration enables Kumon Malaysia to gain access to a range of Apple products and accessories offered by SNS in a seamless manner and also allow us to better serve and communicate with parents and students through the dedicated portal. These products will enrich students' after-school learning experience, providing them access to tools to stimulate their minds and enabling them to interact with each other."

General Manager of Kumon Malaysia, Atsushi Hasegawa said, "The supply of iPad products and accessories through the collaboration with SNS is part of Kumon Connect feature launched in January 2023 to encourage students to enjoy the learning process together online. We believe that digital learning is increasingly an important part of the entire learning process for students and we would like them to have a great head start."

ABOUT SNS NETWORK TECHNOLOGY BERHAD

SNS Network Technology Berhad is principally involved in the provision of ICT products, services and solutions. The Group's core business activities are the sale of ICT products comprising hardware, devices and related peripherals, as well as the provision of ICT services and solutions and; provision of device repair and related services, as well as sale of broadband services.

Under ICT services and solutions, SNS offers JOI(R) smart classroom framework, which integrates and combines a broad range of features to support effective teaching and learning and, Device-as-a-Service (DaaS), a subscription-based service. DaaS offers customers bundled ICT products comprising devices and services according to their requirements.

ABOUT KUMON EDUCATION (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD

Kumon Education (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd is part of the largest established after-school enrichment programme in the world with over 4 million students currently enrolled across 50 countries and regions. Kumon Malaysia was formed in 1997 and is the country's largest after-school enrichment programme providing learning of Mathematics and English through the Kumon Method.

SNS Network Technology: 0259 [BURSA: SNS], https://www.sns.com.my/

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

China Everbright Limited Announces 2022 Annual Results

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – China Everbright Limited ("CEL" or "the Group", stock code: 165.HK) today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2022 ("the reporting period").

Financial Highlights of 2022 Annual Results
— Loss attributable to shareholders of the Company was HK$7.443 billion; the unrealised loss on investments was primarily due to a decrease in the valuation of investment projects.
— Fund raising continued and total AUM reached approximately HK$165.4 billion.
— Carried out diversified exits with 86 projects fully/partially exited, achieving a cash return of approximately HK$13.9 billion.
— Maintained strong liquidity with cash and cash equivalents of approximately HK$8.2 billion and with unutilised bank facilities available for use of approximately HK$12 billion.
— Maintained dividend payments with final dividend: HK$0.15 per share.

2022 was a challenging year. The international landscape was complex. Global economic growth decelerated, and the global capital market oscillated downward. All these posed major challenges to the Group's cross-border investment and asset management business in 2022. Consequently, there was a fall in the market value, and decline in the valuation, of the investment projects held by CEL throughout the reporting period, resulting in a loss attributable to shareholders of the Company of HK$7.443 billion. The unrealised loss on investments did not have a direct impact on the Group's cash flow.

CEL made defensive decisions and overall arrangements in a timely manner. By stepping up the withdrawal and recovery of project funds, keeping strict control over business costs and expenses, and making selective investments in quality projects, the Group managed to secure the bottom line against risks and make sure business operations were conducted in an orderly manner. During the reporting period, HK$4.2 billion was contributed in aggregate to a total of 49 projects; and 86 projects were fully/partially divested, generating cash inflow of approximately HK$13.9 billion, marking good project exit and capital recovery.

As at the end of December 2022, the Group had cash and cash equivalents of approximately HK$8.2 billion and unutilised bank facilities available for use of approximately HK$12 billion. Liquidity stayed healthy and the overall financial, business and operating conditions remained sound.

During the reporting period, CEL continued to promote fund raising and maintain market leadership in fund management. As a result of exchange rate conversion, the decrease in AUM of secondary market funds under the impact of fund redemptions and the decrease in net asset value of secondary market funds, and the decrease in AUM due to the maturity of certain funds, the total AUM of the funds decreased slightly to HK$165.4 billion. There were 80 managed fund products, including primary market funds, secondary market funds and accounts, and Fund of Funds ("FoF").

To share the fruits of the Group's development with shareholders and investors, the Board declared a final dividend of HK$0.15 per share for 2022. (2021 final dividend: HK$ 0.30 per share)

Business Highlights of 2022 Annual Results

1. Fund Management Business

In 2022, CEL carried out the Fund Management Business in a steady and orderly manner, seizing the window of opportunity at each stage of "fundraising, investment, management and exit", while also adopting the strategy of "precise investment and stable exit" to promote high-quality business development.

Focused on emerging industries, while fundraising remained steady. CEL funds were established to focus on high-end manufacturing, information technology, green and environmental protection, new infrastructure and niche businesses as an investment approach, and the Group strengthened its investment in the Belt & Road Initiative Green Fund-of-Funds and the establishment of regional sub funds. Capital CEL Specialised and New Enterprises Fund and Nanjing Direct Investment Fund for Belt & Road Initiative Green Fund were set up. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has approved to commit US$100 million in CEL Infrastructure Investment Fund II.

Practiced the development of science and technology investment and captured investment opportunities prudently. The fund management of CEL made careful and prudent investment decisions in high-quality projects such as CNNP Rich Energy, Kunyu New Energy, Tianmu Xiandao Battery and Ganzhou HPY Technology, among which Tianmu Xiandao Battery and Ganzhou HPY Technology won a number of national awards in 2022.

Implemented diversified exit channels to speed up capital withdrawal. Transfer and IPO exit methods were combined together. The Group exited from overseas projects such as Norwegian public transportation project, vehicle inspection system and BPG project (an advanced equipment manufacturer) by way of transfer. Seven investment projects (Giant Biogene, Recbio, Credo Technology, SatixFy, ASR Microelectronics, iSoftStone and Haitai Solar) were listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, NASDAQ in the United States, Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market, Shenzhen Stock Exchange ChiNext and Beijing Stock Exchange respectively by way of IPOs.

2. Key Investee Companies

CALC was growing steadily with the strengthened layout of the entire aircraft industry chain. The fleet size continued to expand, and the number of fleets increased to 176. CALC has become the first aircraft recycling company accredited with Diamond Status (the highest level) by the Aircraft Fleet Recycling Association ("AFRA"). CALC has been firmly serving the national strategy of opening up the overseas market for China-made large aircraft. Its Indonesian airline TransNusa officially received the regional jet ARJ21, which was the first time China-made jets entered the overseas market. It was of great significance that the new development pattern is being built under the Belt & Road Initiative and the "Dual Circulation" strategy.

Everbright Senior Healthcare implemented social responsibility through development. With 34,000 beds under management, and 194 elderly care institutions and community service sites, it ranked second among "Integrated
Business Enterprises in the Impactful Healthcare Industry for 2022", as published by Guandian. At the same time, Everbright Senior Healthcare actively responded to the call of the state and participated in work related to the transformation of training and recuperation institutions organised by the National Development and Reform Commission, demonstrating its responsibility.

Terminus reached a new level of development with research on AIoT. A new upgrade of the operating system has been realised, and a number of research results have been included and published by CVPR, a top conference in the field of artificial intelligence. TacOS 3.0 and the cloud-edge integrated product matrix have been released. In addition, Terminus has recruited three world-renowned scientists, and has taken the initiative to undertake national-level technology research tasks, such as a multi-modal network based on 6G communication technology as well as national key communication R&D projects.

3. Rich Resource Reserves

Increased liquidity reserves. In 2022, the new bank loan facilities of CEL exceeded HK$21.2 billion. In June, the Group successfully issued RMB3 billion 3-year medium-term notes at the National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors. As at the end of December 2022, the Group's cash on book amounted to approximately HK$8.2 billion and unutilised bank facilities amounted to approximately HK$12 billion.

Enhanced the coverage of scientific and technological innovation resources. CEL supported innovative development based in Hong Kong, with China Everbright Hong Kong Innovation Centre and CEL Global Partner Project in the Hong Kong Science Park as our backup; CEL supported the construction of an innovation and technology centre in Hong Kong to incubate start-ups and capture investment opportunities. In particular, the incubator at China Everbright Hong Kong Innovation Centre is currently over-occupied with start-ups.

Strengthened regional development to increase investment exposure in a mass market. CEL carried out an in-depth layout of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, the Yangtze River Delta, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and actively participated in the build-up of the Chengdu-Chongqing Economic Circle, Hainan Free Trade Port and Xiongan New Area. The overall planning comprised of software and networks, retailing, consumer goods, healthcare and other fields.

4. Comprehensive Improvement of Environmental, Social and Governance

CEL continued to enhance its ESG management policy, optimised a number of internal management rules and regulations such as risk management guidelines and the board diversity, and improved its climate change management policy and organisational structure. CEL benchmarked itself against the industry's state-of-the-art technology by officially becoming a TCFD sponsor. During the reporting period, MSCI adjusted the Group to the more competitive category of "Asset Management and Custodian Bank" during the reporting period. The Group's ESG rating was upgraded from B to BB, with a score increase of 48%.

Over the past 25 years, the Group has been firmly committed to its long-term investment strategy and deep involvement in promising specialised industries. The Group has gone through multiple economic and industry cycles and built valuable and rich management experience and a solid track record. The 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China has embarked a new journey of Chinese-style modernisation, and the new development pattern of China's economy is being accelerated. Hong Kong is ushering in a new chapter of development from governance to prosperity, and Hong Kong's unique competitive advantages and favourable development conditions are being further highlighted. CEL will firmly seize the opportunity to work hard, utilise cross-border resources, strengthen fundraising, invest prudently and prevent risks. Through a series of proactive measures, CEL will spare no effort to promote the high-quality development of the Group's business to build a leading Chinese cross-border investment and asset management company.

Mr. Zhang Mingao, Executive Director and President of China Everbright Limited, said: "In 2022, in the face of severe market environment and challenges, CEL has risen to the occasion, actively addressed risks, stabilised business development, improved management efficiency, achieved cost reduction and efficiency, and laid a solid foundation for high-quality development. Standing at a new historical starting point, we have full confidence in the future. In 2023, we will uphold our business philosophy of 'seeking progress while maintaining stability' to address 'risks' and 'opportunities' and coordinate 'stability' and 'progress', continue to expand AUM to increase the contribution of management fee income, and re-achieve efficient value creation through precise investments and reliable exits. In addition, we will continue to develop an asset-liability structure with sufficient liquidity, and further enhance dividend-paying ability to share the fruits of the Group's development with shareholders and investors."

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

Resolve2Win campaign debuts in Bangkok, promoting Hong Kong’s legal services

HONG KONG, Mar 17, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – To consolidate Hong Kong's strategic position as a centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific under the National 14th Five Year Plan, the Department of Justice (DoJ) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) are organising the Resolve2Win – Legal Services of Hong Kong, Opportunities for All campaign (Resolve2Win). The signature promotion in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) for Hong Kong's legal and dispute resolution services debuted with a delegation visit to Bangkok, Thailand on 15 to 17 March. Mr Horace Cheung, Deputy Secretary for Justice, led nearly 30 representatives from Hong Kong's legal sector in face-to-face talks with Thai legal and business representatives to promote the advantages of Hong Kong legal services, encourage collaboration between Hong Kong and Thailand and seize opportunities in the region.

The Resolve2Win – Legal Services of Hong Kong, Opportunities for All campaign debuted in Bangkok, Thailand on 15 to 17 March Nearly 30 representatives from the Hong Kong legal sector join the delegation.

Dr Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, gave welcoming remarks

Mr Horace Cheung, Deputy Secretary for Justice gave the opening remarks

Encouraging Thai businesses to choose Hong Kong as a platform

The promotion visit aimed to let Thai businesses understand the unique advantages of Hong Kong legal services more comprehensively, raising awareness on resolving commercial disputes through arbitration and mediation, while encouraging them to choose Hong Kong as their preferred trade and dispute resolution platform and help Hong Kong legal professionals seize opportunities and develop business in Thailand. Legal groups from Hong Kong and Thailand responded proactively. The Hong Kong Bar Association, Law Society of Hong Kong, Thailand Arbitration Center and Thai Branch of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators are supporting organisations.

At the plenary session – Hong Kong as a Deal Making and Dispute Resolution Hub – Mr Cheung and Dr Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, were officiating guests. In his welcome remarks, Dr Lau said: "Hong Kong has a large, well-established legal sector full of professionals well-versed in legal systems across the world, making the city the perfect choice for anyone seeking legal services. As business links grow between ASEAN countries and Mainland China, particularly the Greater Bay Area, disputes are bound to arise. All parties would agree that arbitration and mediation is a better approach than litigation. In today's forum, we will find out how businesses in Thailand, ASEAN and Mainland China can use Hong Kong as a dispute-resolution platform."

Highlighting the unique opportunities offered by Hong Kong as the only common law jurisdiction within China under "one country, two systems", Mr Cheung pointed out that national strategies – including the 14th Five-Year Plan, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development and the Belt and Road Initiative – had injected continuous impetus to the growth of Hong Kong and brought opportunities to ASEAN member states.

He further said that as the leading legal and dispute resolution services centre in the Asia-Pacific, Hong Kong had a strong pool of legal talents, particularly in dispute resolution services. He encouraged enterprises and talents to capitalise on Hong Kong's unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under "one country, two systems" to tap into development opportunities in the GBA and beyond.

Mr Cheung reiterated that the National Security Law had provided stability and a secure environment to enterprises and investors, which was conducive for both local and international businesses in Hong Kong to flourish.

The plenary session was hosted by Mr Jose Maurellet, Senior Counsel, Des Voeux Chambers, Vice-Chairman of Hong Kong Bar Association, with panelists Ms Winnie Tam, SBS, SC, JP, Senior Counsel, Des Voeux Chambers and Mr Tommy Tong, Partner, Herbert Smith Freehills LLP. The speakers shed light on Hong Kong's advantages in corporate and commercial legal services and illustrated why Hong Kong was an effective arbitration and mediation platform for resolving commercial disputes. They also provided practical tips for Thai businesses to handle cross-border commercial disputes, especially when Mainland Chinese parties were involved.

The next session, Mediate First Pledge, featured speakers Mr Rimsky Yuen, Chairman, Hong Kong Mediation Accreditation Association Limited, and Ms Ereblinda Sadiku, Legal Counsel, Thailand Arbitration Center. They focused on the flexibility and other advantages of mediation for dispute resolution. More than 10 Thai companies confirmed their willingness to deploy mediation before turning to other resolution methods, including litigation. The HKTDC also arranged a luncheon and interaction session where more than 200 legal representatives from Hong Kong and legal and business sectors from Thailand conducted in-depth discussions on the story in Hong Kong.

Networking for Hong Kong legal practitioners and Thai businesses

During the three-day trip, the Hong Kong legal delegation paid a courtesy visit to legal and business groups, including Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Thailand Arbitration Center and Lawyers Council of Thailand to discuss potential collaboration.

After the Resolve2Win Campaign launch in Thailand, the HKTDC will continue to work with DoJ. The campaign will promote legal and dispute resolution services of Hong Kong in the GBA early next year, showcasing the robust legal system, solid foundation of the rule of law and diversified legal and dispute resolution services in Hong Kong while helping to better understand the views of mainland stakeholders and their needs towards Hong Kong's legal and dispute resolution services.

Photo download: http://bit.ly/3LyOXfB

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:
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

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

A Reimagined Vision of The Future of Digital Banking

DUBAI, Mar 16, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – "Our challenges have changed but we still share similarities with ancient banking times, when we were all looking for fast-paced abilities to adapt banking delivery to our lifestyle challenges," said Noelia Romanillos – Head of Financial Services GTM South Europe & UKI at ServiceNow – at this year's 2nd Annual Future Banks Summit MENA which took place last week at Swissotel Al Murooj, Dubai, UAE. In a highly digitalized world, we tend to notice an ongoing trend – every aspect of society is going through a technological transformation, especially when we're looking at banking and finance. Today, both individuals and corporations have the ability – round-the-clock – to look into their financial information, make payments and proposals, and perform a whole host of transactions with the click of a few buttons.

This month, Verve Management hosted its 2nd Annual Future Banks Summit MENA, where attendees explored the path to fintech transformation within the region, eventually making it a global leader in finance. This has much to do with the region embracing advances in technology, to steer the industry toward the direction of delivering efficient products and services to a young demographic in order to meet the expectations of the digital consumer. Concerning untapped potential, the region is well-positioned to become a sizeable territory for effective digital banking innovation, which is what key industry professionals focused on throughout the course of the two-day summit.

This heightened digitalization can, however, be a double-edged sword. Through the course of his keynote discussion on the era of digitalization, Vilmos Lorincz – Managing Director of Data Products at Lloyds Banking Group UK – provided the attendees with insight on rethinking business strategies in order to flourish within the ecosystem. "The compliance level is just the baseline; it's really important that you protect the data of people, ethically." He said, emphasizing the importance of data protection. The distinguished use of digitalization within the BFSI sector pushes the requirement for substantial regulations in order to eradicate any negative outcomes on both the workforce and the end consumer.

Through digitalization, the banking sector is viable to both innovation and a rise in entrepreneurship; however, some corporations are still wary about going digital due to the high level of risk involved. "Security and compliance must become part of the culture of organizations to mitigate risk truly," said Kiran Bafna – Managing Director – APAC, India & Japan at Thomson Reuters – on his views surrounding the steps taken to enable cultural change in a truly modern technological ecosystem. "Only if technological integration is in line with an organization's vision, true integration can take place," he added.

Some of the corporations in continual support of the Future Banks Summit MENA this year were our Gold Sponsors – Kissflow, ServiceNow & Enfint; our Silver Sponsor – Confirmation.com; our Bronze Sponsors – eMudhra, Keyless Technologies, Creatio + Banza, & Thought Machine; our Networking Sponsor – Trejhara; and our Associate Sponsor – System Technologies.
All in all, Verve Management was honored to be in the presence of some of the most renowned thought leaders – both internationally and regionally – focused on one goal, which was to explore the MENA region's financial landscape and the process through which it is driven by innovation and technological advancement.

Verve Management
Isha – Marketing Executive
isha@verve-management.com
Dubai, UAE

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

Amazfit Launches GTR Mini in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Mar 15, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Zepp Health Corporation (Zepp), a leading smart wearable and health technology specialist, today launched the Amazfit GTR Mini of smartwatches in Malaysia packed with the super-sleek design and all-round functions of the GTR Mini.

Wu Jin, Amazfit General Manager of APAC

Forth from left Benky Lin, Country Manager of Amazfit Malaysia, Wu Jin, Amazfit General Manager of APAC, Law Kar Man, CEO of Comsat Distributions Sdn Bhd

Amazfit is the premium smart wearable hardware brand owned by Zepp that fuses fashion and innovative technology reflecting the personal style of wearers while at the same time allowing them to seamlessly connect their healthy and active lifestyles through a range of cutting-edge devices.

Amazfit General Manager of Asia Pacific, Wu Jin said, "The GTR Mini punches above its own weight, offering wearers the flexibility in style to go with their everyday lives, together with the fashionably sleek design and cutting-edge technology that Amazfit smartwatches are well known for. We are delighted to finally launch the GTR Mini in Malaysia as another addition to our range of smart wearables."

The unique and compact round body of the Amazfit GTR Mini packs into a 9.2mm slim stainless steel middle frame and button with a mirror-polished finish, together with a skin-friendly silicone strap weighing a light 24.6g. Designed with practicality in mind, its minimalist style allows wearers to mix and match with various outfits while the HD AMOLED display offers a clear and vibrant visual experience with more than 80 watch faces, including the new portrait watch face, to match the mood and fashion of wearers.

With up to 14 days of battery life, wearers can go about their activities freely as the GTR Mini also comes with over 120 sports modes with smart recognition of seven sports, 5 satellite positioning system and 5 ATM water-resistance. Health-tracking features include blood-oxygen level measurements, heart rate and stress monitoring, sleep quality monitoring and menstrual cycles. The Zepp operating system 2.0, which comes with 16 mini apps including three new mini games, can help manage wearers' work and life more efficiently.

The competitively priced Amazfit GTR Mini comes in Midnight Black, Misty Pink and Ocean Blue. The screen is made with 2.5D curved glass to enhance the rounded feeling and the anti-fingerprint coating also keeps the screen glass clean and bright.

The Amazfit GTR Mini is now available at a launch price at RM579, exclusively on Shopee for three days. It comes with a ONE year warranty and will retail at RM599 each after the launch.

Find out more about the Amazfit GTR Mini smartwatch at https://www.amazfit.com/my or Amazfit's e-commerce partner platform https://bit.ly/AmazfitMY_Shopee.

Amazfit: www.amazfit.com

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

Tonghai Financial Announces Appointment of Christopher Tang to CEO of China Tonghai Asset Management

HONG KONG, Mar 14, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – China Tonghai International Financial Limited (Stock Code: 00952.HK) announced the appointment of Mr. Christopher Tang to the CEO of its wholly owned subsidiary China Asset Management Limited ("Tonghai Asset Management"), effective March 1, 2023.

Christopher has held various senior private banking roles across different jurisdictions, helping oversee a series of businesses as well as complex transformation projects. Previously, Christopher had previously served as CEO at Crosby Wealth Management, establishing a multi-Family Office business servicing family offices, ultra-high net worth and high net worth clients. Prior to Crosby, Christopher was a Managing Director at BNP Paribas wealth management business.

Christopher has joined the team in providing management and expert advice on adding value to high net worth and core affluent clients' wealth. As well as traditional financial services, the team will be looking to provide more popular investment themes such as financial technology, medical technology, ESG and luxury lifestyle. Tonghai Financial intends to expand its services and products, and explore more investment opportunities in virtual assets.

Christopher is also the owner of SHOUT Art Hub & Gallery which has 4 shops in first class shopping malls in HK and Singapore. Leveraging the capabilities of SHOUT, the art advisory and finance solutions at Tonghai Financial not only offers art financing, but worldly connections to art curators, gallerist, artists, collectors to offer identify, research, evaluate, and negotiate acquisitions and sales of art on our client's behalf.

Tonghai Financial hereby extends a warm welcome to Christopher, and the team on taking their respective new roles. The team joins with extensive professional experience and a profound knowledge of the financial services industry, and will complement efforts in boosting Tonghai Financial aims tour asset management and wealth planning businesses.

About China Tonghai International Financial Limited
China Tonghai International Financial Limited (the "Company", Stock Code: 00952.HK) is a Hong Kong based financial services group which is listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The Company was publicly listed in Hong Kong in 1997, it is committed to building a comprehensive, full-licensed integrated financial platform. The core businesses of the Company are brokerage business, interest income business, corporate finance business, asset management business and investments and others businesses. The Company strives to become the ideal partner for both corporate and individual investors in Hong Kong and China. The Company also offers premier one-stop financial services to its clients.

For further information, please contact:
Quam IR Limited
Mandy Lo Tel: (852) 2217-2753 Email: mandy.lo@tonghaifinancial.com
Charlie Chan Tel: (852) 2217-2504 Email: charlie.chan@tonghaifinancial.com

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

Tonghai Financial Announces Appointment of Ambrose Lam as Co-Chairman of China Tonghai Capital (Holdings) Limited

HONG KONG, Mar 14, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – China Tonghai International Financial Limited (Stock Code: 00952.HK) is pleased to announce that Mr. Ambrose Lam as the Co-Chairman of its wholly owned subsidiary China Tonghai Capital (Holdings) Limited (Tonghai Capital), with effect from January 15, 2023.

Ambrose is a fellow member of The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales and a member of Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree from University of Newcastle Upon Tyne in England. Ambrose has over 40 years of experience in professional accounting, merchant banking and financial services and has served in senior management roles in a number of major international banking and financial institutions.

In the new role of Co-Chairman of China Tonghai Capital, Ambrose will support the Group in encompassing all of Tonghai Capital's businesses including IBD, Debt Capital Markets and Capital Market Solutions, providing our clients with a comprehensive service to facilitate their different financing demands. He brings with his experience in business building, transformation and business restructuring, knowledge of the world of business and entrepreneurs. These qualities and active involvement in banking and financial services industries will enable him to follow through on current projects, while tackling Tonghai Capital's growth and challenges in the years to come. With the broad-based experience, we also believe he is a well-rounded leader, who is equally comfortable with high-level strategy and hands-on operating details.

Tonghai Financial is delighted to welcome Ambrose to his new role. Ambrose is joining Tonghai Financial with impressive track records, adding a wealth of experience at this important juncture. He is expected to drive our corporate finance business into the future, with the clear objective to position Tonghai Financial for a successful future and realize its full potential.

About China Tonghai International Financial Limited
China Tonghai International Financial Limited (the "Company", Stock Code: 00952.HK) is a Hong Kong based financial services group which is listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The Company was publicly listed in Hong Kong in 1997, it is committed to building a comprehensive, full-licensed integrated financial platform. The core businesses of the Company are brokerage business, interest income business, corporate finance business, asset management business and investments and others businesses. The Company strives to become the ideal partner for both corporate and individual investors in Hong Kong and China. The Company also offers premier one-stop financial services to its clients.

For further information, please contact:
Quam IR Limited
Mandy Lo Tel: (852) 2217-2753 Email: mandy.lo@tonghaifinancial.com
Charlie Chan Tel: (852) 2217-2504 Email: charlie.chan@tonghaifinancial.com

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

Asia Allied Infrastructure Concludes HK$1.1 Billion 3-Year Term Loan Agreement

HONG KONG, Mar 14, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited ("Asia Allied Infrastructure", "AAI", or "the Group") (stock code: 00711) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a HK$1.1 billion term loan agreement with 6 banks. Part of the loan will be used to refinance the loan portfolio of the Group, while the rest will be used to support future operations and development. This facility will enhance the Group's financial flexibility and financing capability, as well as fully reflect the Group's future business development strength and potential.

The 3-year facility carrying an interest rate of HIBOR+1.65% was arranged by The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Bank of Shanghai (Hong Kong) Limited, China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited, CMB Wing Lung Bank Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited and The Bank of East Asia, Limited.

Mr. Dominic Pang, Chairman of Asia Allied Infrastructure, said, "We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the banks for their continual trust and support to AAI, it means a lot to us. The new loan facility shows the banking community's confidence in the Group's strong fundamentals and development strategies. Riding on AAI's long-established strong business foundation, industry experience and healthy financial position, we will continue to capture market opportunities and do our best to enhance shareholders' value and return."

Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited (stock code: 00711.HK)
Asia Allied Infrastructure Holdings Limited ("Asia Allied Infrastructure") is listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under stock code 00711. The Group operates businesses such as construction engineering and management, property development and assets leasing, security and facility management, tunnel management, non-franchised bus services, as well as medical technology and healthcare. Its subsidiary "Chun Wo" is a renowned construction contractor and property developer in Hong Kong. Chun Wo's solid construction experience and professional capabilities have enabled the Group to seize suitable development opportunities, allowing the Group to enhance its overall profitability and investment value.

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

Tonghai Securities Obtains Approval from SFC, Becomes One of the Pioneers to Provide Virtual Asset Related Services in Hong Kong

HONG KONG, Mar 13, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – China Tonghai International Financial Limited (Stock Code: 00952.HK) is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary China Tonghai Securities Limited ("Tonghai Securities" or "the Company") is now one of the first full-fledged brokerage firms in Hong Kong to provide virtual asset ("VA") dealing and advisory services to the professional investors.

Tonghai Securities has been licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) to conduct Type 1 (dealing in securities), Type 4 (advising on securities) and Type 9 (asset management) regulated activities. Pursuant to the regulatory approach outlined in "SFC-HKMA Joint Circular on Intermediaries' Virtual Asset-related Activities", the Company has successfully obtained the SFC's approval for expansion of its business scope to cover (i)distribution of VA-related products; (ii)provision of VA dealing services; and (iii)provision of VA advisory services, subject to additional licensing conditions. .

Mr. Calvin Chiu, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Tonghai Securities says, "In recent years, VA have been undergoing rapid development. Effectivesupervision is essential to promote investor confidence as well as to support a healthy and long-term development of the industry. The newly approved business scope marks the refreshing beginning of our business. We will take advantage of the new services to expand our presence in the market. In addition to that, we are more focused than ever in our commitment to protect interests of clients by providing safe and reliable services in the VA market."

About China Tonghai International Financial Limited
China Tonghai International Financial Limited (the "Company", Stock Code: 00952.HK) is a Hong Kong based financial services group which is listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited. The Company was publicly listed in Hong Kong in 1997, it is committed to building a comprehensive, full-licensed integrated financial platform. The core businesses of the Company are brokerage business, interest income business, corporate finance business, asset management business and investments and others businesses. The Company strives to become the ideal partner for both corporate and individual investors in Hong Kong and China. The Company also offers premier one-stop financial services to its clients.

For further information, please contact:
Quam IR Limited
Mandy Lo Tel: (852) 2217-2753 Email: mandy.lo@tonghaifinancial.com
Charlie Chan Tel: (852) 2217-2504 Email: charlie.chan@tonghaifinancial.com

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