HKTDC Export Index 3Q23: Export sentiment softens in Q3

HONG KONG, Sept 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The HKTDC Export Index fell 7.3 points to 40.5 in the third quarter of 2023, caused primarily by weak global demand, in line with weakness in exports across the region.

HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan [L] and Senior Economist Ms Cherry Yeung [R] announced the HKTDC Export Index for the third quarter of 2023 at a press conference today.

Economic risks remained exporters’ top concern. Almost half of survey respondents (48.6%) saw economic slowdowns or recession risks in overseas markets as the biggest challenge, followed by ongoing geopolitical tensions (17.9%) and a smaller-than-expected boost from Mainland China’s economic recovery (16.5%).

Despite the softened export sentiment, traders intend to adopt pro-growth business strategies to strengthen their resilience in the longer term.

Pro-growth business strategies

While increased marketing and promotional activities (41.4%) remained exporters’ key strategies in the third quarter, a significantly higher number of exporters said they plan to provide a wider range of value-added services (40.5%, up 19.2 percentage points).

The third top strategy is to stabilise finances to ensure sufficient cash flow (32%, up 4.7 percentage points). Diversifying sales to additional markets (26.3%) and increasing e-commerce activities (25.7%) were also among the five most popular strategies identified.

Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Director of Research Ms Irina Fan said in response to an uncertain global business environment, traders are adopting a more cautious approach. “At the same time, they are still eager to grow their businesses with proactive measures, such as stepping up marketing and promotional activities, offering more services and expanding to new markets,” she added.

Exporters tend to keep low inventory

Local exporters tended to run down on inventory (51.5) in the third quarter, suggesting they are holding slightly lower-than-normal inventory, compared with higher-than-normal stocks (48.5) in the second quarter.

Ms Fan added: “Keeping low inventory levels may mean exporters are trying to minimise the costs of holding stocks and ensure that sufficient resources are available to respond promptly to buyers’ demands.”

More than 70% of the respondents said they are currently operating at smaller-than-normal capacity in terms of manpower and production equipment.

Brighter spots

HKTDC Senior Economist Ms. Cherry Yeung said the sentiment towards all key export markets was below 50, but local exporters are more optimistic about the Asian market, being the most positive about ASEAN (41.6), followed by Japan (39.1) and Mainland China (38.6).

While export confidence was highest in the toys (42.2, down 13.2 points) and electronics (40.8, down 6.9 points) sectors, confidence levels have dropped substantially regarding timepieces (32.9, down 15.9 points).

Stable or higher export profitability expected

New orders activity also remained weak. The Current New Orders Index fell 12.5 points to 32.6 in the third quarter. However, exporters are more positive about new orders in the fourth quarter, resulting in an overall Expected New Orders Index of 46.2.

Despite that, exporters remained mostly optimistic about their operations’ profitability outlook and shared similar views as in the second quarter. The majority of respondents (61.7%) expected to see stable (34.3%) or higher (27.4%) profit margins.

Based on a quarterly HKTDC survey of 500 exporters from six major industries – clothing, electronics, jewellery, machinery, timepieces and toys – the index above 50 indicates an optimistic outlook and below 50 as pessimistic.

Two new markets – India and Taiwan – were added to provide insights into additional markets in the HKTDC Export Index for the third quarter of 2023. The study now covers seven major export markets contributing some 85% of Hong Kong’s total exports (in value terms).

Taking all these factors into account, HKTDC Research has revised its forecast for Hong Kong’s export growth this year to between -7% and -9%.

To view press releases in Chinese, please visit http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tc

References

HKTDC Research website: https://research.hktdc.com/en/

HKTDC Export Index 3Q23: Export sentiment softens from two-year high: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MTQ4NzAxNDQ3Mw

Photo download: https://bit.ly/3rvWAvS

Media enquiries

Please contact the HKTDC’s Communication and Public Affairs Department:

Jane Cheung, Tel: +852 2584 4137, Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.org

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

Forum Asset Management Launches Initiative in International Institutional Markets And Hires Andrew J. Kavouras to Spearhead Growth

TORONTO, ON / ACN Newswire / September 25, 2023 / Forum Asset Management Inc. collectively with its affiliates (“Forum”), announce the appointment of Andrew J. Kavouras in the newly established role of Managing Director, Institutional Investments. In this role, Mr. Kavouras will spearhead Forum’s expansion in various institutional markets across the globe and will help Forum achieve its growth targets as a premier alternative asset manager headquartered in Canada. He will report to Richard Abboud, Founder and Chief Executive Officer.

“Andrew is a proven asset management leader with global experience in both alternative and traditional investments as well as sustainability investing/ESG implementation,” said Richard Abboud. “Andrew’s 30 plus years of experience in the asset management industry will certainly be vital in Forum’s growth trajectory. His work with institutional investors around the globe will be an invaluable asset for Forum.”

Mr. Kavouras joined Forum earlier this year working on an assignment with the Forum team. He has provided consultancy in the field of growth strategy, product capability, sustainable investing and real asset funds, to a variety of institutional investors in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, including Korea and Japan, as well as Australia.

He has held executive roles at National Australia Bank Group subsidiaries, Zurich-based RobecoSAM, Fidelity Investments and Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec. Andrew holds a Master of Science from the University of London and a Bachelor of Arts from McGill University, both in Economics. He has also attended executive education at the Wharton School, at University of Pennsylvania.

“The launch of our growth initiative in international markets is an integral part of Forum’s business strategy in our evolution as an alternative asset manager, delivering top-tier results to our clients,” said Abboud. “We are delighted to welcome Andrew to our team.”

About Forum

Forum is an investor, developer and asset manager with a focus on real estate, infrastructure, and private equity. Since its founding in 1996, Forum has worked with its partners to pursue value-added and opportunistic investments and achieve aggressive growth through innovation and active management. Forum is committed to exploring innovative and sustainable opportunities that deliver Extraordinary Outcomes™ to our stakeholders.

For more information about Forum, visit: www.forumam.com.

Contacts

Name: Sydney MacDougall, Manager, Corporate Operations

Email: sydneym@forumam.com Phone number: 416-947-0389

BDO ESG Awards: 5th anniversary of ESG Awards kicks off with Carbon Neutrality theme – attracting overwhelming nominations

Hong Kong, Sept 25, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – BDO, the world’s fifth largest accountancy and advisory network, inaugurated the BDO ESG Awards back in 2018, becoming a pioneer in advocating companies’ acceptance of their social responsibilities through the integration of sustainable practices into their business models. With 2023 marking the 5th anniversary of the Awards, it has again sought to be both an important motivator of positive change and a symbol of excellence bestowed on companies that have excelled in the areas of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).

The 2023 ESG Awards have been well received by listed companies in Hong Kong, with overwhelming nominations. All of the winners of the various categories will be officially announced on 12 October 2023 at the BDO ESG Awards Presentation Ceremony at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, including Best in ESG Awards, Best in Reporting Awards, the ESG Report of the Year Awards, the Theme Award as well as the newly launched Outstanding ESG Performance of H-share Companies Awards.

In line with the Awards’ position as a champion of ESG excellence, it has adopted ‘Carbon Neutrality’ as the theme this year in recognition of the urgent need to combat climate change. Fittingly, this year’s Theme Award will recognise listed companies that have directed efforts in realising net-zero carbon emission and demonstrated excellence in one of three key aspects: i) biggest reduction in carbon emission (absolute and intensity) from business for the year; ii) carbon reduction initiatives launched during the year that could significantly reduce carbon emission from business in the long-run; and iii) long-term vision and action plans implemented to achieve carbon neutrality. A symposium about ‘Shaping business strategies for carbon neutrality’ will also be held during the presentation ceremony and representatives from BDO, university and industry association are invited to share their insights and recommendations with the listed companies in Hong Kong.

Ricky Cheng, Director and Head of Risk Advisory of BDO, said, “We are delighted by the strong turnout for this year’s BDO ESG Awards, which will conclude with the first physical awards presentation ceremony since the COVID outbreak. The overwhelming response of nominations is a testament to the growing prominence of the Awards, which not only recognise companies for their outstanding ESG efforts, but just as importantly, raise awareness of the need for enterprises to honour their social responsibilities by integrating sustainability into their business practices. By motivating companies to fulfil their ESG commitments, they will be better equipped to meet their compliance obligations, leading ultimately to sustainable long-term growth.”

Earlier this year, The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited has proposed a set of new climate-related reporting requirements. The new Code, which corresponds with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) S2 Climate-related Disclosures standards released by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), will call for more rigorous climate-related disclosures, hence requiring enterprises to make relevant investments in systems, processes and expertise ahead of the 1 January 2024 financial year implementation date.

“Interlinked with global warming, the major cause of climate change has been the rise in human emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, more enterprises are conscious of their responsibility to develop and adhere to a long-term ‘net-zero’ carbon emission business model to tackle climate-related risks as well as to create long-term and sustained value for all stakeholders. BDO believes the new Code will encourage Hong Kong listed companies to align with IFRS standards and continue to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a trusted and leading financial hub for investors,” Ricky concluded.

About BDO

BDO’s global organisation extends across 164 countries and territories, with more than 111,300 professionals working out of 1,803 offices – and they’re towards one goal: to provide our clients with exceptional service. BDO was established in Hong Kong in 1981 and is committed to facilitating the growth of businesses by advising the people behind them. BDO in Hong Kong provides an extensive range of professional services including assurance services, business services and outsourcing, risk advisory services, specialist advisory services and tax services. For more details, visit www.bdo.com.hk.

Mitrade Earns Prestigious Honors as Global Fintech Broker and LATAM’s Most Transparent Broker at Global Forex Awards

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA, Sept 21, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Mitrade was recognized as the “Best Fintech Broker – Global” and “Most Transparent Broker – LATAM” for its market growth and notable improvements this year at the prestigious Global Forex Awards held on September 14th in Limassol, Cyprus. The event brought together the best brokers and top performers from the global financial sector.

The grand ceremony provided a platform for the global forex community, including OctaFX, FPmarkets, Axi, Forex.com, and other brokers, to come together, exchange ideas, and celebrate excellence.

According to Mike Boydell, Director of Holiston Media, the organizing body of the Global Forex Awards, “These awards are the biggest of their kind and the most transparent and trustworthy.” He further emphasized, “This year, we received an unprecedented number of business nominations and votes, underscoring that winning one of these awards is a remarkable testament to trust and success in this highly competitive industry.”

The awards are a reflection of Mitrade‘s continued efforts to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the forex trading space, owing to their exceptional performance. This takes into account factors such as trading platform quality, execution speed, customer service, and overall client satisfaction. Mitrade’s commitment to transparency, integrity, and innovation sets it apart in a highly competitive industry, creating a trading environment that empowers both novice and experienced traders. Mitrade will continue to demonstrate its commitment to innovation and user-centric solutions, following a successful branding revamp earlier this year.

About Mitrade:

Mitrade is a leading global online CFD trading platform that offers a diverse range of financial instruments to traders worldwide. With over 400 markets to choose from, traders have unparalleled opportunities to engage in various assets, including stocks, commodities, currencies, and indices. Whether it’s exploring the stock market, delving into the intricacies of forex trading, or navigating the world of commodities, Mitrade provides a comprehensive selection of trading products. For more information, please visit www.mitrade.com.

Social Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MitradeOfficial

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitradeOfficial

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitradecom/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitrade_official/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Mitradeglobal/

Media Contact

Brand: Mitrade

Contact: Media team

E-mail: branding@mitrade.com

Website: https://www.mitrade.com/

Mercury Securities Group Berhad Debuts on ACE Market

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 19, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Mercury Securities Group Berhad (“Mercury Securities” or “Company”), debuted today on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (“Bursa Securities”), opening at RM0.27 per share which represents a premium of 8% over the initial public offering (“IPO”) price of RM0.25 per share.

[L-R] 1. Datin Chua Suat Khim, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; 2. Mr. Chan Kim Hing, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; 3. Dato' Baharon Bin Talib, Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Mercury Securities; 4. Dato' A. Rahman Bin Safar, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; 5. Mr. Chew Sing Guan, Managing Director of Mercury Securities; 6. Ms. Himahlini A/P M. Ramalingam, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities — [L-R] Datin Chua Suat Khim, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Mr. Chan Kim Hing, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Dato’ Baharon Bin Talib, Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Mercury Securities; Dato’ A. Rahman Bin Safar, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities; Mr. Chew Sing Guan, Managing Director of Mercury Securities; Ms. Himahlini A/P M. Ramalingam, Independent Non-Executive Director of Mercury Securities

Mercury Securities is listed under the stock name of “MERSEC” with stock code of “0285”.

The Group raised a total of RM39.27 million through the IPO, from which RM26.86 million of the proceeds is allocated for margin financing facility services. RM2.88 million is allocated for the enhancement of digitalisation programme and marketing activities for the stockbroking business and operations of the Group. RM4.63 million of the proceeds will be used for working capital purposes while the remaining RM4.90 million is allocated for estimated listing expenses.

Managing Director of Mercury Securities, Mr. Chew Sing Guan said, “I would like to thank the SC and Bursa Securities for their continued stewardship of our capital market. I would also like to thank the entire Mercury Securities team and due diligence working group for their hard work to make today possible.”

Upon its listing on the ACE Market, Mercury Securities will have a market capitalisation of RM223.25 million based on the issue price of RM0.25 per share and its enlarged issued share capital of 893.00 million shares.

Mercury Securities Group Berhad: https://www.mercurysecurities.com.my/

Artroniq Enters Transformative Distribution Agreement with PT. Terang Dunia Internusa

JAKARTA, Sep 11, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Artroniq Berhad, a key contender on the ACE Market, is thrilled to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Artronic Itech Sdn. Bhd. ("AiTech" or "Distributor"), has entered into a transformative Distribution Agreement with PT. Terang Dunia Internusa, the parent company of Indonesia's renowned United Motors. This landmark deal aims to propel Artroniq and PT. Terang to the forefront of the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market while enhancing their reach across the ASEAN economic community.

Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq Berhad

[L-R] Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq Berhad Hendry Mulyadi, Director of PT. Terang Dunia Internusa (United Motors)

United Motors, a subsidiary of PT. Terang Dunia Internusa, has been an industrial stalwart in Indonesia since its inception in 1971. Transitioning from a spare parts importer to an electric mobility pioneer, the company has launched a diverse line of electric motor products under the United E-Motor brand. Their commitment to electric mobility was further solidified with the opening of a dedicated electric vehicle and bike factory in Curug, Tangerang.

Under this Distribution Agreement, Artronic Itech Sdn Bhd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Artroniq, is appointed by PT. Terang Dunia Internusa as the exclusive distributor for electric motor products in Malaysia. Products will be purchased in a Completely Knocked Down (CKD) state and assembled at Artronic Itech's factory in Malaysia.

The signing of the Distribution Agreement was witnessed by Dr. Ir. Budi Karya Sumadi, the Indonesian Minister of Transportation; Dr. Jerry Sambuaga, the Deputy Minister of Trade of Indonesia; Drs Hendro Sugiatno, Director General of Land Transportation of Indonesia; and Mr. Budiharjo Iduansjah, General Chairman of HIPPINDO (Himpunan Peritel & Penyewa Perbelanjaan Indonesia/Association of Indonesian Shopping Centres, Retailers and Tenants).

Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq (Link) Mr. Marcus Chin Choon Wei, CFO of Artroniq, commented, "This Distribution Agreement marks a momentous leap forward for Artroniq, a pivotal step in our relentless pursuit of excellence in sustainable transportation and technological innovation. We are committed to not only meeting but exceeding the evolving needs of our customers and partners. This agreement perfectly aligns with our core values of sustainability, quality, and progress. It fortifies our position as a key player in the ASEAN region's electric mobility sector and underscores our unwavering dedication to reducing environmental impact while driving progress."

Hendry Mulyadi, Director of PT. Terang Dunia Internusa (United Motors) added, "Artroniq's unwavering dedication to innovation and sustainability seamlessly complements our strategic vision at PT. Terang Dunia Internusa. We are embarking on a journey that goes beyond mere collaboration; it is a synergistic partnership aimed at shaping the future of sustainable transportation across ASEAN. Together, we will harness the power of technology, innovation, and shared values to drive positive change. This agreement is not just a milestone; it is a testament to our collective commitment to creating a greener, more connected, and sustainable future for the ASEAN region and beyond."

As at 11 September 2023, the share price of Artroniq is RM0.82, representing a market capitalisation of RM323 million.

Artroniq Bhd: 0038 [BURSA: ARTRONIQ] [RIC: ARTR.KL] [BBG: ARTRONIQ:MK], https://www.artroniq.com/

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

Mercury Securities Group Berhad’s IPO Shares Oversubscribed By 45.45 Times

KUALA LUMPUR, Sep 8, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Mercury Securities Group Berhad is pleased to announce that the share application from the Malaysian public for its initial public offering (IPO) which was open for 5 market days and closed on 5 September 2023 has been oversubscribed by 45.45 times.

Mr. Chew Sing Guan, Managing Director of Mercury Securities

Mercury Securities is an investment holding company and through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Mercury Securities Sdn Bhd (a Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad ("Bursa Securities") and a Recognised Principal Adviser by the Securities Commission Malaysia) (collectively "Group") is principally involved in the provision of stockbroking, corporate finance advisory services and other related businesses such as margin financing facilities services, underwriting and placement services, as well as provision of nominee and custodian services.

Mercury Securities' IPO comprising the following:

(i) public issue of 157,095,700 new ordinary shares in Mercury Securities ("Share(s)"), at an issue price of RM0.25 per Share, representing 17.59% of the enlarged issued Shares of Mercury Securities; and

(ii) offer for sale of 71,512,300 existing Shares at an offer price of RM0.25 per Share, representing 8.01% of the enlarged issued Shares of Mercury Securities.

For the public portion, 7,957 applications for 1,508,338,900 Issue Shares were received, which represents an oversubscription rate of 66.56 times.

For the Bumiputera public portion, 4,969 applications for 565,774,500 Issue Shares were received, representing an oversubscription rate of 24.34 times.

In total, 12,926 applications for 2,074,113,400 Issue Shares with a value of RM518,528,350.00 were received from the Malaysian public representing an overall oversubscription rate of 45.45 times.

Meanwhile, the total of 22,325,000 Issue Shares available for application by the Eligible Persons were fully subscribed.

Further, the Placement Agent has confirmed that 45,470,700 new Shares made available for application by way of private placement to selected investors as well as 44,650,000 new Shares made available for application by way of private placement to Bumiputera investors approved by the MITI have been fully placed out.

The notices of allotment will be posted to all successful applicants on or before 15 September 2023.

Managing Director of Mercury Securities, Mr. Chew Sing Guan said, "We are deeply grateful for the enthusiastic response we've received from investors for our IPO. This reinforces the fact that our Company's fundamentals and prospects have been positively acknowledged. We shall continue to upscale our growth and create value for our stakeholders going forward."

Public Investment Bank Berhad is the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Underwriter and Sole Placement Agent in conjunction with the IPO.

The Group is expected to list on the ACE Market of Bursa Securities on 19 September 2023.

Mercury Securities Group Berhad: https://www.mercurysecurities.com.my/

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

1MetaWorld and EQBR launch Strategic Joint Venture to Accelerate Web3 Adoption

SINGAPORE, Sep 6, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – 1MetaWorld (1MW), a member of ONERHT, and EQBR, a leading Korean Web3 technology firm, have launched a strategic Joint Venture (JV) to accelerate the regional adoption of Web3 with Singapore as the epicenter.

Witnessing the signing ceremony were Mr. Lee Jung Geun (back, L), Chairman of EQBR Group and Mr. Tan Chong Huat, Chairman of RHT AlDigi Financial Holdings. Signing the agreement were Mr. Cheong Seongkoo (front, L), CEO of EQBR Networks Pte. Ltd. and Mr. Lee Seck Hwee, CFO of 1Metaworld Pte. Ltd.

ONERHT through its investments and development of Recognised Market Operator SDAX, a digital asset exchange, and ACX, a global digital carbon exchange, has already demonstrated its ambition in developing the digital economy and this once again is aligned with the Monetary Authority of Singapore's push to safeguard and advance best practices and technical standards for Singapore's financial system through Project Guardian.

About the Joint Venture

The JV aims to focus on tangible and operational Web3 business opportunities such as:

– Tokenization of Real-world Assets: Including maritime assets, real estate, and art. This provides liquidity, fractional ownership, and global market access.

– Securitized Token Offerings: Fundraising via compliant token offerings, which have the potential for a wider investor base, reduced intermediaries, and real-time settlement.

– Web3 Payment Solutions: On-ramp and off-ramp payment solutions that facilitate cross-border multi-currency transactions. This has the potential for worldwide financial access and licensing to handle Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) for tokenized transactions.

– Close Collaboration: 1MW will work with AlDigi Technologies and the EQBR technology team in the development of the above solutions.

The Future is Web3

Mr Chen Jiejing, CEO of 1MW, said, "The future is undoubtedly Web3, but the transition from Web2 to Web3 is complex and time-consuming. With this JV, we're offering ready technology and a ready team for a world that's ready to make that transition."

"The JV is currently applying its solutions for regulated Securitised Token Offerings. We also see strong interest in Web3 solutions as businesses explore new opportunities, especially within lifestyle festivals and digital content distribution encompassing music, dance, fashion and entertainment," he added.

Technology, Finance, Governance and Legal Synergy

EQBR brings to the table its proprietary technology, Equilibrium, which powers its no-code Web3 infrastructure platform, EQ Hub. With over 1.5 million user downloads for its Whisper MSG, EQBR is a leader in enterprise blockchain technology.

Backed by ONERHT, an integrated multidisciplinary platform of professional and specialist services, 1MW powers Web3 innovation across its three pillars of digital finance, digital lifestyle creator economy, and Web3 commerce. The JV reflects ONERHT's continued focus on Web3 innovation, and brings deep expertise across finance, legal and corporate governance matters to support the JV's growth as a trusted Web3 platform.

Singapore, The Epicentre For The Global Digital Economy

Mr Cheong Seongkoo, CEO of EQBR Networks, said, "Following the MAS' revision of its stablecoin regulatory framework, we are confident that Singapore will lead the global Web3 revolution as digital asset ecosystems continue to strengthen further, enabling us to leverage on our first-mover advantage based on our established experience in Singapore."

1MW envisions a drive towards a decentralized regional P2P economy and aims to align this vision with existing regulatory frameworks, making Singapore the ideal location to launch this JV with regional aspirations as the adoption of Web3 innovation continues to accelerate across Asia.

For more information, please contact:
Chen Jiejing, CEO, 1MW, jiejing.chen@rhtgoc.com
Lee Min Ki (Michael), CMO, EQBR, mklee@eqbr.com

About 1MetaWorld

1MetaWorld is a member of ONERHT, an integrated multidisciplinary platform of professional and specialist services. 1MetaWorld aims to be the gateway for investors, consumers, and service providers in the Metaverse. It seeks to provide a secure transaction platform and curated lifestyle privileges for consumers and investors, as well as empower service providers with a plug-and-play secured mechanism to access opportunities in the Metaverse.

About EQBR

EQBR is a leading Korean technology firm specializing in Web3 technology. Its proprietary blockchain engine, Equilibrium, drives the core secure Web3 technologies in EQ Hub, a no-code Web3 infrastructure platform. For more information, please visit: www.eqbr.com

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

Artroniq Berhad Secures Pivotal RM9.6 Million E-Commerce and Retail Software Development Project

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Sep 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Artroniq Berhad, a key contender on the ACE Market, is thrilled to announce the awarding of a substantial new project in the realm of E-Commerce and Retail Software Development. With a project price of RM9,596,000.00, this latest venture is slated to begin in October 2023 and will run over a span of 12 months.

Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq Berhad

In collaboration with Kiddie Shoppe, Artroniq's subsidiary, EA Global Integrated Sdn Bhd ("EAG"), will provide customised services designed to propel Kiddie Shoppe's retail capabilities to new heights. As part of the services, EAG will offer rigorous training to Kiddie Shoppe's team, ensuring that they are adept at maximising the functionalities and features of the new software. Additionally, EAG will be responsible for ongoing maintenance and support services, all in accordance with the comprehensive Service Agreement.

Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq (Link) Mr. Marcus Chin Choon Wei, CFO of Artroniq, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "This new venture is an epitome of Artroniq's agility and adaptability in the ever-evolving technological landscape. The project not only diversifies our portfolio but also aligns perfectly with our long-term growth strategy."

He further elaborated on the company's strategic direction: "Securing this project augments our existing ventures and opens doors to new market opportunities. This is yet another steppingstone in the actualisation of our corporate vision. With a fortified balance sheet and a growing portfolio, Artroniq is well-positioned to scale new heights in the foreseeable future."

The Project's scope of work is detailed and thorough, necessitating close collaboration between EAG and Kiddie Shoppe. Any amendments to the customised services will require formal agreement, ensuring both parties are committed to achieving the highest standards.

In recent months, Artroniq has been instrumental in driving transformative changes across various sectors, including electric vehicles and now, E-Commerce. The new project provides another testament to Artroniq's unwavering commitment to innovation and growth.

This high-value procurement adds a new layer to Artroniq's business model, reinforcing its reputation as a versatile player in the competitive marketplace.

Artroniq Bhd: 0038 [BURSA: ARTRONIQ] [RIC: ARTR.KL] [BBG: ARTRONIQ:MK], https://www.artroniq.com/

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

Appia Deploys Third Drill at PCH Ionic Clay Project in Brazil

TORONTO, ON, Aug 31, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (the "Company" or "Appia") Appia is pleased to announce the deployment of a third drill on-site to investigate a significant geophysical anomaly at depth below Target IV at Appia's PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project, Goias State, Brazil.

Summary:

– Appia is currently using three (3) drills – one RC, one Auger, and one Diamond drill.
– A comprehensive geophysical investigation has led to the identification of a significant magnetic anomaly at over 300 metres and open at depth.
– The initial target will be drilled to 250 metres depth to test both the ionic clay and hardrock mineralization below Appia's priority ionic clay structures which reach an average depth from surface of +/- 12 metres.
– This program is designed to expand on the diamond drilling that was completed by the Vendor in prior seasons.

"A study by a Brazilian Geographer/Geophysicist Master's student from the University of Brasilia was conducted on Target IV of the PCH Project, where an induced polarization (IP) program as well as detailed ground magnetics, and gamma surveys were carried out, inverted, and subsequently analyzed by senior University, and Appia, geologists and geophysicists. This comprehensive investigation led to the identification of a significant magnetic anomaly at over 300 metres and open at depth," commented Stephen Burega, President.

"The arrival of the diamond drill marks a pivotal advancement in our exploration initiative. It underscores our commitment to investigating not only the potential genesis of Ionic Adsorption Clay but also the exciting opportunity for REE mineralization in hard rock formations," Burega continued.

The ongoing diamond drill hole operation aims to extend the investigation below the known ionic clay through saprolite structures to greater depths of up to 250 metres to test the continuation of mineralization at depth.

Furthermore, Appia's ongoing Reverse Circulation (RC) and auger drilling program of 300 holes is in full swing. (See August 24th, 2023 Press Release – Click Here). The Company's primary objective is to accurately delineate the extent of the mineralized zone and to assess its economic significance.

To achieve this, a rigorous sampling procedure is being employed, including one-meter samples that will be carefully collected and subsequently shipped to SGS Geosol laboratory. Assays from this program are expected to be received within 2 months of being submitted.

Image #1 – Diamond drilling at the PCH Target IV in Goais State, Brazil
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/5416/179202_appiaimage1.jpg

Background on the PCH Project

The PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project is located within the Tocantins Structural Province in the Brasilia Fold Belt, more specifically, the Arenopolis Magmatic Arc. The PCH Project is 17,551.07 ha in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. It is classified as an alkaline intrusive rock occurrence with highly anomalous REE and Niobium mineralization. This mineralization is related to alkaline lithologies of the Fazenda Buriti Plutonic Complex and the hydrothermal and surface alteration products of this complex by supergene enrichment in a tropical climate. The positive results of the recent geochemical exploration work carried out to date indicates great potential for REEs and Niobium within lateritic ionic adsorption clays.

The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (Appia)

Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario. Lastly, the Company holds the right to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Ionic Adsorption Clay Project which is 17,551.07 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. (See June 9th, 2023 Press Release – Click Here). https://api.newsfilecorp.com/redirect/BpWOKTLNgA

Appia has 130.5 million common shares outstanding, 143.3 million shares fully diluted.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For more information, visit www.appiareu.com.

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For further information, please contact:
Tom Drivas, CEO and Director: 416- 546-2707, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) tdrivas@appiareu.com
Stephen Burega, President: (cell) 647-515-3734 or (email) sburega@appiareu.com

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