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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 September 2026 –

Response by KK Chiu, International Director, Chief Executive, Greater China, Cushman & Wakefield:

Optimising the Housing Ladder and Improving Living Conditions

We welcome the Government’s commitment to increase housing supply, shorten the Composite Waiting Time for public rental housing and further strengthen the housing ladder. The adoption of a long-term housing supply framework comprising 40% public rental housing, 30% subsidised sale housing and 30% private housing, together with the delivery of approximately 196,000 public housing units over the next five years, will provide a clearer housing and homeownership pathway for different income groups.

We believe that increasing the supply of subsidised sale housing and enhancing the housing ladder will help more public housing tenants progress towards homeownership, accelerate housing mobility and enable families with genuine housing needs to gain access to public housing more quickly.

We support the Government’s efforts to increase public housing supply, continue the Light Public Housing programme and implement the Basic Housing Units regime in an orderly manner to phase out substandard subdivided units. This approach is consistent with our long-held view that increasing housing supply is the fundamental solution to improving inadequate housing conditions. With the Government targeting the resolution of substandard subdivided units in domestic buildings by 2030, we expect living conditions for grassroots households to improve progressively.

Urban Renewal Incentives

We support the Government’s more flexible approach to urban renewal, including transferable plot ratio arrangements and measures to unlock redevelopment potential. These initiatives will help enhance market participation, accelerate renewal in areas with pressing redevelopment needs and contribute to overall housing supply growth. We recommend the Government provide clearer guidance on application requirements and further streamline cross-departmental approval procedures to facilitate implementation.

Advancing the Yacht Economy

We welcome the Government’s continued efforts to promote the yacht economy. Beyond increasing marina berth supply and enhancing supporting infrastructure, we believe it is equally important to further facilitate cross-boundary initiatives, allowing greater mobility of yachts within the Greater Bay Area and fostering regional collaboration.

As more superyachts and high-net-worth visitors arrive in Hong Kong, demand is expected to rise across luxury tourism, hospitality, food and beverage, retail, marine services and waterfront commercial facilities, helping unlock the economic potential of Hong Kong’s coastline and island resources. At the same time, Hong Kong has the potential to develop a more comprehensive marine industry ecosystem encompassing yacht repair and maintenance, refitting services and specialised professional services. The development of a holistic marine services value chain will further strengthen Hong Kong’s competitiveness as a regional and international yachting hub.

Response by John Siu, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield:

Planning Ahead for AI and Data Centre Infrastructure

We welcome the Government’s commitment to accelerate the development of the Sandy Ridge Data Facility Cluster, which is expected to provide computing power equivalent to 36 times Hong Kong’s current capacity by 2032, alongside a HK$1 billion injection into the Artificial Intelligence Subsidy Scheme. These initiatives will provide important support for the development of Hong Kong’s artificial intelligence and data centre sectors, further strengthening the city’s position as a regional digital and innovation hub.

However, with rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, large language models and cloud computing, demand for computing power is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. We believe that, in addition to planning data centre sites, the Government should proactively review long-term requirements for power supply, electricity grid capacity and related infrastructure. As AI adoption becomes more widespread, access to reliable power and supporting infrastructure will be a key factor in maintaining Hong Kong’s competitiveness as a technology and data centre hub.

We support the Government’s stated direction of pursuing “high-efficiency computing power, stable electricity supply and low-carbon transition”. Looking ahead, we recommend that the Government regularly review future demand for land, power supply and supporting infrastructure arising from the growth of artificial intelligence and data centre activities, particularly within the Northern Metropolis and other strategic development areas. A coordinated approach to computing, energy and digital infrastructure planning will help attract more data centre operators and technology companies to Hong Kong, while supporting the city’s long-term development as a regional hub for data and artificial intelligence.

Response to the Budget 2026/2027 by Rosanna Tang,Deputy Managing Director, Head of Research, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield:

Clear Industry Positioning for the University Towns

We welcome the Government’s efforts under Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan to further define the positioning of the three university towns in the Northern Metropolis University Town, and are encouraged by its strategy to promote synergy among the university towns, the San Tin Technopole and surrounding industry parks. As the only city in the world with five universities ranked among the global top 100, Hong Kong possesses a strong foundation in higher education and research. At the same time, the San Tin Technopole is set to become a key innovation and technology hub. The complementary strengths of these two pillars, both geographically and strategically, provide a solid foundation for building a globally competitive innovation ecosystem in Hong Kong.

We are particularly encouraged by the Government’s emphasis on integrated industry-academia-research collaboration. The university towns should not be viewed merely as educational developments, but as strategic platforms for research commercialisation, international talent attraction and the cultivation of emerging industries. Closer collaboration among universities, research institutes, innovation and technology enterprises and industry parks will help establish a complete innovation value chain covering talent development, scientific research, technology transfer and industrial implementation.

In addition, the Plan proposes approximately 300 hectares of educational facilities as the core of the university towns, connected with adjacent strategic industry areas, distinctive conservation areas, sports and cultural facilities, and surrounding communities, bringing the overall development footprint to more than 1,000 hectares. Such a large-scale integrated education and industry development model is rare in Hong Kong’s urban planning history and clearly demonstrates the Government’s long-term vision of creating a knowledge-based city cluster and an international education hub in the Northern Metropolis.

Attracting Signature Industry Projects and Anchor Institutions to Enhance the Northern Metropolis’ Global Appeal

We welcome the Government’s efforts to establish differentiated industry positioning through the three university towns, while integrating key development nodes such as the San Tin Technopole, the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, the Hung Shui Kiu Industry Park and Ta Kwu Ling. This provides a clearer direction for industrial development in the Northern Metropolis and helps address long-standing market concerns regarding overlapping functions and unclear district positioning.

As highlighted in our previous research, we believe the next critical stage for the Northern Metropolis will be its ability to attract influential anchor institutions and leading enterprises. By bringing together universities, research institutes and industry leaders, Hong Kong can foster the clustering of businesses, talent and capital, gradually forming industry clusters with scale and international competitiveness. Hong Kong should also capitalise on its common law system, international financial centre status, intellectual property protection framework and global talent network by focusing on high value-added segments such as research and testing, intellectual property management, fundraising and listing activities, and international accreditation services. This will help Hong Kong establish an irreplaceable role within the Greater Bay Area industrial value chain.

Beyond strategic industries, we believe the Northern Metropolis could also explore internationally recognised and iconic industry projects to further enhance its global profile and attractiveness. For example, the Government may consider developing initiatives around new energy vehicles, smart mobility and advanced technologies, while exploring the feasibility of internationally recognised racing events, testing facilities or technology R&D platforms, such as those associated with Formula One. By leveraging motorsport-related economic activities and innovation-led development, Hong Kong could attract international automotive manufacturers, mobility technology companies and research institutions to establish regional headquarters, R&D centres or testing facilities in the city. This would in turn support the growth of engineering, intelligent transport, advanced manufacturing, tourism, hospitality, retail and convention and exhibition industries, further enriching the Northern Metropolis industrial ecosystem.

Accelerating Land Supply While Advancing Industries and Infrastructure in Parallel

We note that Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan proposes a significant acceleration in land and housing supply within the Northern Metropolis. Residential completions are expected to increase substantially from approximately 11,000 units during 2021/22 to 2025/26 to around 70,000 units during 2026/27 to 2030/31. Over the same period, the supply of “spade-ready sites” will rise from approximately 120 hectares to around 900 hectares, representing an increase of around 7.5 times. These figures demonstrate that the Northern Metropolis is transitioning from a planning and land formation phase to a new stage characterised by large-scale development, industrial implementation and population intake.

However, we believe the success of the Northern Metropolis should not be measured solely by the volume of land or housing delivered. As substantial residential, innovation and technology, and industrial sites come on stream, the focus should gradually shift from land supply to city-building. The Government should ensure the coordinated delivery of railway and cross-boundary infrastructure networks, industry parks, commercial facilities, public services and community amenities, while accelerating the introduction of leading enterprises and strategic industries to create sufficient, high-quality employment opportunities and achieve a genuine jobs-housing balance.

In particular, we believe the Northern Metropolis should be driven by industry-led development, with the San Tin Technopole, the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, the university towns and major industry parks serving as key growth engines. This would create a virtuous cycle in which industry attracts population, population supports consumption, and consumption drives urban development. Only through the coordinated growth of industry, talent, infrastructure and communities can the Northern Metropolis evolve from a large-scale land development project into a modern metropolitan district integrating industry, education, living and international exchange.

Response by Tom Ko, Executive Director, Head of Capital Markets, Hong Kong of Cushman & Wakefield:

New Opportunities for Student Accommodation Market

We welcome the Government’s initiatives to deepen Hong Kong’s development as an international hub for post-secondary education through the “Hong Kong: Your World-class Campus” campaign, expanded global student recruitment efforts and the extension of the Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates pilot arrangement to graduates from Greater Bay Area campuses of Hong Kong universities. These initiatives will further enhance Hong Kong’s attractiveness to overseas students and talent while reinforcing the “Study in Hong Kong” brand.

We are encouraged by the continued progress of the Hostels in the City Scheme. The scheme has already received 41 confirmed applications, providing approximately 10,800 bed spaces and demonstrating strong market confidence in the long-term growth of Hong Kong’s education sector.

The scheme has opened up a new supply channel for converting commercial buildings into student accommodation. At a time when hotel conversion opportunities are becoming more limited as tourism continues to recover, it provides an alternative pathway for investors while helping unlock the value of underutilised commercial assets and meet rising demand for student housing. As the Government prepares to tender the first dedicated student hostel site, we believe purpose-built student accommodation will gradually emerge as a distinct and scalable asset class within Hong Kong’s real estate market.

To further increase supply, we recommend that the Government continue reviewing and refining approval procedures for student hostel conversions. Greater flexibility and streamlined processes, while maintaining appropriate safety and operating standards, would encourage wider market participation and support Hong Kong’s ambition to become a leading international education destination.

(Click here for high-res pictures)

Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Cushman & Wakefield

Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for occupiers and investors with approximately 53,000 employees in over 350 offices and nearly 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2025, the firm reported revenue of $10.3 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit or follow us on LinkedIn ().

South Korea will not slow its artificial intelligence drive, Deputy Prime Minister and Science and ICT Minister Bae Kyung-hoon said on Wednesday, arguing that the country must pair rapid development with stronger safeguards rather than curb the technology’s advance.

Bae said South Korea was still trying to close the gap with leading AI powers while creating new markets, making its position different from countries or companies at the technological frontier. “We cannot afford to slow down AI right now,” he wrote on social media, describing the government’s approach as one of “speed responsibility” rather than speed control.

His remarks place Seoul firmly on the acceleration side of a widening debate over whether developers should moderate the pace of capable AI systems. Anthropic chief executive Dario Amodei has called for a slowdown in frontier model development to allow more time for safety work, while OpenAI chief executive Sam Altman and other technology leaders have voiced support for stronger precautions as capabilities advance.

Bae said South Korea should continue expanding research, industrial adoption and home-grown model development while strengthening protections against deepfakes, cyber threats and privacy violations. Faster progress, he said, required safety and trust measures to move at the same pace rather than follow after deployment.

The minister pointed to a broader technology agenda that includes sovereign foundation models, systems capable of processing vision and language, and models able to interact with physical environments. He said the country also needed to prepare for AI becoming deeply embedded across industries and everyday life.

The government has made domestic foundation-model development a central part of its ambition to place South Korea among the world’s top three AI powers. The Ministry of Science and ICT has been running a sovereign AI foundation model programme intended to improve domestic capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign technology.

Three teams led by Upstage, SK Telecom and LG AI Research advanced after the programme’s second-stage evaluation this year. The ministry has said models developed under the initiative were built with comparatively limited resources but were released as open source as part of an effort to expand the domestic AI ecosystem.

Bae indicated that further details on the next phase of the foundation-model programme would be announced after ongoing reviews. His comments also referenced government work on security-focused AI models and frontier systems, alongside an “AI for All” initiative intended to spread adoption across the economy.

The policy push is being developed alongside South Korea’s AI Basic Act, which establishes rules covering both the development of artificial intelligence and the creation of a framework for trust. The law’s stated purpose includes protecting rights and human dignity while supporting quality of life and national competitiveness.

That legal structure gives Seoul a basis for pursuing faster adoption without presenting safety as a separate objective. Bae said competitiveness and sustainability were linked, arguing that development speed and safeguards should advance together.

The global dispute has intensified as leading executives and policymakers weigh the economic benefits of faster AI deployment against concerns over misuse and loss of control. Amodei has proposed independent safety evaluators, coordination among major laboratories and greater international cooperation, while Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang has argued against slowing technological progress and favours advancing safety alongside innovation.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Wednesday backed calls for greater caution and said frontier AI laboratories would be invited for talks on managing risks. Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg, by contrast, said AI companies already had strong incentives to build systems safely and did not require an industry-wide slowdown.

Bae’s intervention highlights the competitive pressures facing countries outside the United States and China, where most frontier AI investment and model development remains concentrated. South Korea has strong semiconductor and technology industries, but its government has acknowledged the need to strengthen domestic models, computing capacity and commercial adoption to narrow the gap.

India summoned Pakistan’s top diplomat in New Delhi on Wednesday after naval vessels from the two countries collided in international waters of the northern Arabian Sea, escalating friction more than a year after their last military confrontation.

The Ministry of External Affairs said Pakistan’s Charge d’Affaires was called in and a strong protest lodged over what it described as “unacceptable and unprofessional conduct” by Pakistani naval units. The ministry said the conduct led to a collision with a unit of the Indian Navy and urged Pakistan’s authorities to ensure that military units exercise due care and observe existing bilateral agreements.

The collision occurred on Tuesday while a frontline warship from India was conducting what officials described as a routine surveillance mission. Officials from India said a Pakistan Navy vessel approached at high speed before the vessels collided. No major damage was reported, and there was no immediate public statement from Pakistan’s government or military responding to New Delhi’s account.

India also instructed its top diplomat in Islamabad to lodge a similar protest with Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry. The exchange elevated what could otherwise have remained a maritime safety incident into a formal diplomatic dispute between two nuclear-armed neighbours whose military contacts are governed by a series of confidence-building arrangements.

New Delhi said the episode breached a 1991 bilateral agreement covering military exercises, manoeuvres and troop movements. Under that agreement, naval ships and submarines of the two countries are required to remain at least three nautical miles apart in international waters to reduce the risk of accidents. India’s foreign ministry said the Charge d’Affaires had been asked to convey the need for all military units to respect those provisions and prevent a recurrence.

Pakistan had not, as of Wednesday afternoon, issued its own description of the encounter, leaving key operational details — including the precise movements of the vessels before impact — based on India’s official account. No ship names, casualty reports or detailed damage assessments were released publicly by either side.

The incident is the clearest publicly acknowledged military encounter between the neighbours since four days of hostilities in May 2025. That fighting followed an April 22 attack on tourists in Pahalgam, in Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 people. India blamed Pakistan for supporting cross-border terrorism, an allegation Islamabad rejected, and the crisis developed into missile, drone and artillery exchanges before both sides announced an understanding to halt the fighting.

Relations have remained strained since then despite the cessation of large-scale hostilities. Diplomatic ties had already been downgraded in 2019 amid disagreements over Kashmir, and neither country currently posts an ambassador in the other’s capital, with missions headed by Charges d’Affaires.

The latest protest focused narrowly on maritime conduct rather than broader political disputes. India’s statement did not announce retaliatory military measures or new diplomatic restrictions, and it called instead for compliance with the bilateral framework designed to prevent accidents between armed forces operating near one another.

The northern Arabian Sea is routinely used by both navies for patrols, exercises and surveillance. The 1991 agreement was intended to create practical safeguards at times of tension, alongside notification procedures for certain military activities. Its distance requirement gives commanders a defined separation standard when vessels or submarines from the two countries encounter each other beyond territorial waters.

The military relationship remains sensitive because both countries maintain forces across the Line of Control in Kashmir and continue to accuse each other of hostile activity. Their 2025 confrontation demonstrated how quickly a security incident can widen across domains, although neither government indicated on Wednesday that the naval collision had triggered wider force movements or changes in military posture.

Tuesday’s collision did not produce the kind of damage that would normally force a ship out of service, according to India’s account. The absence of reported casualties limited the immediate operational consequences, but the diplomatic summons ensured the episode received attention at the highest working level between the two foreign ministries.

Germany’s hospitals are accelerating preparations for a potential wartime surge of wounded patients, with military planners warning that a NATO conflict could send hundreds of casualties into the health system each day. The Bundeswehr has built scenarios involving 300 to 1,000 wounded service personnel arriving daily, a scale that would rapidly overwhelm Germany’s five military hospitals and require extensive use of civilian facilities. Military medical planners say […]

India’s Securities and Exchange Board has given arbitrage mutual funds greater flexibility to manage hedged equity positions around the new closing auction, a step aimed at increasing institutional liquidity in the end-of-day price-setting mechanism.

The regulatory relaxation allows fund managers more room to adjust the cash and futures legs of arbitrage trades while participating in the Closing Auction Session, people familiar with the change said. The move is intended to encourage funds that collectively manage a large pool of equity-linked assets to place orders in the auction rather than largely completing transactions beforehand.

The change addresses a central weakness that has emerged since the auction system was introduced on August 3 for shares with futures and options contracts. Trading during the closing window has at times been thin, leaving prices vulnerable to sharp moves when large buy or sell orders enter a relatively shallow order book.

Arbitrage funds are viewed as a potentially important source of balancing liquidity because they hold shares in the cash market while maintaining offsetting short positions in futures. That structure can enable them to sell stock when the closing auction is dominated by buyers, or buy when supply is heavy, without necessarily taking a directional market view.

SEBI has not issued a public circular detailing the latest operational flexibility. Existing mutual-fund rules require arbitrage schemes to maintain at least 65% of assets in equity and equity-related instruments, while their strategy is built around offsetting positions designed to capture differences between cash and derivatives prices.

The regulator’s intervention comes as it separately reviews the mechanics of the Closing Auction Session after volatile expiry-day moves raised concerns over price discovery and derivatives settlement. A consultation paper issued on September 12 proposed changes to the way settlement prices are determined when futures and options expire.

One option under consideration would blend the volume-weighted average price from the final 30 minutes of continuous trading with prices established in the closing auction. Another would temporarily retain the earlier 30-minute volume-weighted average methodology for derivatives settlement while the auction develops deeper liquidity.

SEBI has also proposed restrictions on order cancellations outside a specified range around the reference price, a shorter post-auction derivatives trading window and changes to the publication of indicative index closing levels during the auction. Public comments on those proposals are open until October 3.

The Closing Auction Session replaced the previous method of setting closing prices for eligible stocks through the volume-weighted average of trades during the last 30 minutes of normal trading. Under the new framework, eligible cash-market stocks move into an auction process late in the session, while equity derivatives continue trading until 3.40 pm.

The auction is intended to concentrate end-of-day orders and produce a closing price based on the level at which the greatest quantity of shares can be matched. Similar mechanisms are used in several major global markets, particularly for large institutional orders and benchmark-tracking flows.

Early trading under the system, however, produced unusually wide gaps between cash-market closing prices and futures values on some days. Those differences caused sharp one-day movements in the net asset values of arbitrage funds because the cash and derivatives legs of their portfolios were marked using prices generated under different trading conditions.

Fund managers and market participants have argued that broader institutional participation is essential if the auction is to deliver stable price discovery. Arbitrage funds, with assets of roughly ₹3.5 trillion according to industry estimates, represent one of the largest pools capable of supplying two-way liquidity without relying on outright directional bets.

The mutual-fund industry has also examined changes to futures valuation that would better align derivatives prices with the auction-determined cash close. One proposal would derive a theoretical futures closing value from the final cash-market price and the prevailing cash-futures spread, reducing temporary valuation mismatches in arbitrage portfolios.

China has pushed back against calls from leading US technology figures to slow frontier artificial intelligence development, sharpening differences over safety, access to advanced chips and technological competition before President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping meet in Washington next week.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Monday that artificial intelligence was a consequential technology for humanity and should be developed openly and inclusively. Asked about calls from Dario Amodei, Sam Altman and Elon Musk for companies to slow frontier development, Guo warned that “fear-mongering, confrontation and vicious competition” would hinder sound global AI governance.

The response came as Washington’s debate over AI safety widened into a strategic argument about China. Anthropic chief executive Amodei has urged tougher safeguards for advanced systems and has argued that a Chinese lead in frontier AI could create national security risks for the United States. OpenAI chief executive Altman and Musk have also called for stronger precautions as systems become more capable.

Trump, however, has resisted proposals that could materially slow US development. He said this week that America already had tools to police the industry and stressed the importance of maintaining leadership over China. House Speaker Mike Johnson similarly rejected a moratorium, saying any pause could hand Beijing a competitive advantage and create national security risks.

The dispute places AI governance among the issues likely to shadow the Trump-Xi meeting scheduled for September 24 in Washington. The leaders are also expected to confront trade disputes, semiconductor restrictions and China’s controls on rare-earth exports, all of which affect the broader contest over computing capacity and advanced manufacturing.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is due to meet Vice-Premier He Lifeng before the summit.

China has presented a different framework for AI governance, emphasising access, development and multilateral rules while opposing measures it regards as technological containment. At the BRICS summit this month, Xi proposed an open-source and inclusive AI initiative and said China would help establish a BRICS AI open-source community and digital ecosystem platform.

Beijing has nevertheless acknowledged the risks posed by increasingly powerful systems. Chinese officials have called for stronger global governance and risk awareness, while arguing that safety should not become a justification for blocking technological diffusion. The government has also supported the establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization, whose founding agreement was signed in Shanghai in July by 29 countries.

The argument over safety is closely linked to semiconductor controls. Washington has maintained restrictions on the export of advanced computing technology to China, although the Commerce Department in January shifted applications for Nvidia H200, AMD MI325X and comparable chips to case-by-case review under specified security conditions. Beijing has repeatedly criticised US technology restrictions as discriminatory and has threatened countermeasures when Chinese companies are targeted.

China’s Commerce Ministry last week also challenged a US cybersecurity advisory accusing China-based AI companies of using distillation campaigns against American models. The ministry said China was prepared for an intergovernmental AI dialogue with the United States but would respond if Washington used such allegations to suppress Chinese firms.

That exchange underscored the difficulty of separating AI safety from the strategic rivalry. US officials and technology executives increasingly frame advanced models as both commercial assets and national security capabilities, while China portrays broad restrictions as attempts to preserve US dominance.

There are areas of overlap. Both governments have said advanced AI presents risks requiring governance, and the two sides have agreed to launch an intergovernmental dialogue on the technology. Informal discussions among researchers and policy specialists have also continued, though official positions remain far apart on access to chips, model controls and the balance between safety and development.

The September 24 summit follows Trump’s May visit to China, when the two leaders agreed to pursue what the White House described as strategic stability and set up new bilateral trade and investment mechanisms. Artificial intelligence was not the centrepiece of those agreements, but it has since moved higher on the bilateral agenda as concerns over model capabilities, export controls and industrial competition have intensified.

OpenAI is using hundreds of outside contractors to examine real ChatGPT conversations and rate the system’s replies, with some reviewers earning more than $50 an hour, according to leaked internal materials that have sharpened scrutiny of the company’s privacy practices. The work is described in instruction guides, Slack messages and reviewer materials under an internal initiative known as Project Lily. Contractors are shown user prompts and, in […]

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SWISS REJU Introduces AI Algo Slimming and MedTech from Silicon Valley

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 September 2026 – Premier Hong Kong body-sculpting and wellness boutique SWISS REJU has added another prestigious accolade to its portfolio, shining brightly at the HK01 Health Easy Awards ceremony. Hosted by leading media platform HK01, the landmark industry event—featuring the “Health Industry Trends Symposium and HK01 Healthy Easy Awards”—was successfully held at The Ritz-Carlton, ICC, Hong Kong, drawing industry leaders for an evening of high-level exchange and celebration. The event opened with a keynote address by Dr. Ko Wing-man, a widely respected member of the Executive Council. SWISS REJU was honored to attend and was officially named the winner of the HK01 “Exquisite Body-Sculpting Reputable Brand Award.” The event paid tribute to Hong Kong’s most exceptional wellness brands. SWISS REJU is deeply honored to receive authoritative recognition at this highly credible awards ceremony.

SWISS REJU Wins "Exquisite Body-Sculpting Reputable Brand Award" from HK01, Following Exceptional User Reviews
SWISS REJU Wins “Exquisite Body-Sculpting Reputable Brand Award” from HK01, Following Exceptional User Reviews

The rigorous and meticulous evaluation mechanism of the Healthy Easy Awards combines months of authentic user voting with expert panel reviews, reflecting genuine client feedback alongside professional evaluation. This year’s winner’s circle featured an elite lineup of premier brands and institutions, including St. Paul’s Hospital, Hong Kong Baptist Hospital East Kowloon Medical Centre, iHerb, Nestlé ThickenUp, and Yakult. Each winning brand demonstrated professional excellence, standing out as an industry leader. Through ethical business practices and exceptional QCAC management, SWISS REJU K-Lipolysis® was likewise awarded the “Exquisite Body-Sculpting Reputable Brand Award.”

SWISS REJU extends its sincere gratitude for the glowing user reviews and expert support, remaining steadfast in its mission to advance Hong Kong’s wellness industry. This marks SWISS REJU’s third consecutive year receiving a major annual award from HK01. Coupled with earlier honors—including the Cosmopolitan Best of the Best Award, the Sunday More Hong Kong No.1 Best Body Contouring Treatment, and the JESSICA Annual Best AI Slimming Award—this also represents the 15th major annual accolade SWISS REJU has earned from prominent organizations. Achieving excellence across numerous voting polls, backed by the endorsement of industry experts, stands as a testament to the exceptional reputation of SWISS REJU’s signature K-Lipolysis body contouring program.

Celebrating a Decade of Excellence: SWISS REJU Marks 10 Years of Unrivaled Brand Prestige
“The HK01 Reputable Brand Award is a tremendous encouragement,” stated the brand spokesperson. “To be recognized as a premier, high-reputation brand among over 8,000 beauty and wellness enterprises in Hong Kong is a major encouragement. We remain firmly committed to our core values, continuing to deliver reliable, trusted body contouring, and advanced wellness services.”

Having operated in Central for nearly a decade, SWISS REJU has witnessed the rise of standardized, ethical business practices in Hong Kong, actively supporting the industry’s ongoing reform and optimization. Today’s consumers increasingly gravitate toward high-transparency, stable operations, and high-reputation brands offering flexible installment options. As public awareness grows, discerning clients prefer equipment and technologies backed by rigorous certifications, such as the U.S. FDA, EU MDR / Medical CE, and Hong Kong Department of Health MDACS. This is why SWISS REJU has consistently invested millions to introduce genuine, top-tier technologies, including BTL EXION, INDIBA, WINBACK, NeoCare Elite, ATP LIPO X, Lumenis Pollogen DMA, and VIORA Reaction. This strong technical advantage paired with nearly a decade of distinguished reputation, has established an extraordinary level of client trust.

Unveiling the All-New SWISS REJU AI Weight-Loss Algorithm X Silicon Valley Health Tech
This year’s seminar centered on advanced weight management and cross-border collaboration. SWISS REJU has long believed that the aesthetic and body-sculpting industry in Hong Kong can more proactively embrace its role as an international technological bridge. Consequently, the brand has taken the lead in introducing cutting-edge nutritional science and longevity research from Silicon Valley, combining advanced research with high-tech instrumentation to elevate the overall efficacy of K-Lipolysis program.

The pioneering AI Algo Slimming introduced by SWISS REJU utilizes artificial intelligence to automatically calculate energy output, dynamically mapping the optimal energy pathway every second to enhance efficacy and safety. By integrating Silicon Valley advanced health and nutritional management, SWISS REJU stands among the pioneering advanced body-sculpting brands in Hong Kong to champion Silicon Valley biohacking preventive medicine and longevity technology. This elevates the scientific standard of Hong Kong’s wellness sector, delivering a state-of-the-art body contouring and health experience for clients across Hong Kong and the the Greater Bay Area.

To learn more, visit: http://www.reju.hk

Hashtag: #swissreju #熱光溶脂

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 September 2026 – VX Logistics Development Group Co., Ltd. (“VX Logistics” or the “Company”), Asia’s leading cold chain logistics network operator, transforms the supply chain operation of fresh fruit and vegetables industry through applying AI technology and sophisticated automation and leveraging the world-first robot for metro delivery self-developed by the Company.

Emma Wu (Wu Beiwen) Chairperson, VX Logistics Emma Wu currently serves as the chairperson of VX Logistics. As an active practitioner of China's supply chain globalisation, she focuses on cold chain, fresh produce supply chain, logistics infrastructure, and industrial synergy. Under her leadership, VX Logistics has become an industry-leading integrated multi-temperature logistics service provider, with its cold chain capacity firmly leading in Asia and among the top tier globally.
Emma Wu (Wu Beiwen) Chairperson, VX Logistics Emma Wu currently serves as the chairperson of VX Logistics. As an active practitioner of China’s supply chain globalisation, she focuses on cold chain, fresh produce supply chain, logistics infrastructure, and industrial synergy. Under her leadership, VX Logistics has become an industry-leading integrated multi-temperature logistics service provider, with its cold chain capacity firmly leading in Asia and among the top tier globally.

The world-first robot designed for deliveries to metro-station retailers is self-developed by VX Logistics. The robot functions as an actual “on-duty” employee in VX Logistics’ day-to-day operations. It has been rolled out at 61 Shenzhen metro stations, handling replenishment and delivery tasks for on-site retailers.
Within VX Logistics’ business operations, these intelligent devices are working in tandem with the Company’s proprietary OTWB end-to-end management system and digital platforms such as IoT-based cold-chain temperature control. VX Logistics’ smart operation offers an efficient solution to every link of the supply chain.
“Each of these technologies is powerful on its own, but their true value emerges when they work together — data flows from the point of origin to end customer, and quality becomes predictable and controllable,” said Emma Wu (Wu Beiwen), chairperson of VX Logistics, adding that this is not merely an enhancement at any single stage of logistics services, but it represents a transformation in the very way the industry functions.

The value of technology goes beyond efficiency. Emma Wu noticed that a large number of overseas fresh fruit brands are stepping up their presence in China, while many domestic brands are showing a strong desire to go global. Emma Wu remarked: “A growing number of international brands are now registering Chinese brand names, setting up dedicated consumer brand teams, and increasing their investment at the retail end. The essence of branding lies in brand owners extending their quality commitment to the end consumer. This, in turn, requires them to maintain effective control of product condition at every link of the domestic supply chain. The same applies to Chinese brands going global.”

In the past, once imported fruit arrived at port, quality essentially entered a “black box” — brand owners had no visibility over key metrics like arrival temperature, handling status, or outbound records across the supply chain.

Emma Wu added that AI is transforming the fresh fruit and vegetables industry from one that “runs on experience” to one that “makes decisions with data.” In sorting and quality inspection, AI vision technology can assess coloration, size, and defects within a second — with greater accuracy and consistency than the human eye. In warehousing, automated equipment is taking over repetitive tasks such as material handling and palletizing. In transportation, IoT sensors track the temperature and location of every load in real time, and could raise the alarm before any issue arises.

Built around the unique characteristics of berry products, VX Logistics has customized a comprehensive end-to-end solution encompassing precision temperature and humidity management as well as rapid in-warehouse throughput — supporting the annual market launch of close to 200 million boxes of berries for Driscoll’s.

Zespri has been a partner of VX Logistics for over a decade. VX Logistics has built a full end-to-end system for Zespri in China – covering warehousing, quality inspection, ripening, automated sorting, and packaging.

“Cold-chain logistics is not a cost center — it is a value center.” She further pointed out that cold-chain logistics today is no longer merely a cost item for warehousing and transportation. It is a provider of supply chain solutions for brand clients. Both expanding overseas and deepening presence in China demand stable temperature and humidity control and quality assurance. The technological nature and professional reliability of cold-chain operations make cold-chain logistics an “added value” that safeguards product quality and reduces loss.

After 13 years of dedicated development, VX Logistics’ cold-chain scale now ranks first in Asia and stands firmly among the global top tier. As the supply chain service provider behind renowned fruit brands such as Zespri, Driscoll’s, Envy Apples, and Rockit, VX Logistics’ core competitive edge lies in its technology-driven supply chain services.
Hashtag: #VXLogistics

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

By TN Ashok The 18th BRICS Summit, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, was never going to escape Washington’s shadow — and it didn’t. Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi steered eleven member states toward a unanimously adopted New Delhi Declaration that pointedly avoided naming the United States, President Donald […]

The article India steers 18th BRICS summit deftly, keeps anti-West rhetoric at bay appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

As the Macau Grand Prix weekend revs up, on 20 and 21 November, Galaxy Macau gathers a standout line-up of 15 of Asia’s most awarded chefs and mixologists for the anticipated return of its eponymous dining festival – early bird tickets on sale now

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 September 2026 – On 20 & 21 November, Galaxy Macau elevates its gastronomic offering with the standout eponymous edition of Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026. The fourth presentation of Galaxy Macau’s large-scale immersive outdoor culinary event will showcase an elite line-up of 12 of the region’s most sought-after culinary masters, deliveringa cumulative 24 Michelin stars. In addition, featuring three prominent mixologists, including this year’s Asia’s 50 Best Bar’s champions. Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy cements its place as Asia’s leading dining destination, and home to some of the region’s most awarded restaurants, chefs and culinary experiences, all under one roof., under one roof.

Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, the next chapter of Macau's and Galaxy Macau's immersive elite dining festival, will be held from 20 to 21 November for three consecutive sessions, celebrating the best in culinary artistry presented by a constellation of award-winning Michelin-starred chefs and mixologists.
Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, the next chapter of Macau’s and Galaxy Macau’s immersive elite dining festival, will be held from 20 to 21 November for three consecutive sessions, celebrating the best in culinary artistry presented by a constellation of award-winning Michelin-starred chefs and mixologists.

The city’s most elevated sensory gastronomy festival takes place across three sittings from Friday 20 November, to Saturday 21 November, spanning two dazzling nights and one thrilling day-time session. Following the standout success of the festival’s first three years at Galaxy Macau, this cornerstone event during Macau Grand Prix weekend has cemented the city’s undisputed status as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the home of Formula 3 racing on the global stage.

Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy celebrates the elemental exchange of cultures, craftsmanship and creativity through a series of extraordinary dining experiences curated exclusively for Galaxy Macau. Tickets from MOP1,988 per person (min. 2 persons) are now on sale at www.galaxymacau.com with an incredible 20% early bird discount offer which includes a complimentary free-flow wine package, on or before 4 October, while tickets last.

Drawing inspiration from the nourishing philosophy of the Five Elements, Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 invites Asia’s top chefs to interpret Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth through their own creative culinary lens. Set against a vibrant al fresco backdrop of live performances at the Cabana, guests will be immersed in a celebration of flavour, creativity and craftsmanship led by Asia’s foremost culinary masters.

An All-Star Line-up of Culinary Visionaries

Working in small groups, 12 talented masters will showcase their distinct culinary philosophies through diverse ingredients and techniques, transforming nature’s bounty into dishes inspired by the Five Elements. Guests will enjoy an up-close and personal opportunity to engage with Asia’s leading celebrity chefs, as each dish is meticulously prepared in front of them.

Asia's most sought-after Michelin-starred chefs united at Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 include (from left): *Chef Eom Taejin *Chef Hiroyasu Kawate *Chef Jimmy Lim *Chef Vianney Massot *Chef Julien Royer *Chef Darren Teoh
Asia’s most sought-after Michelin-starred chefs united at Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 include (from left): *Chef Eom Taejin *Chef Hiroyasu Kawate *Chef Jimmy Lim *Chef Vianney Massot *Chef Julien Royer *Chef Darren Teoh

Gathered at Galaxy Macau will be a standout, award-winning team of Asia’s elite culinary talents, representing the pinnacle of excellence region-wide:

  • Chef Julien Royer: Three-Michelin-Starred Odette, Singapore
  • Chef Jimmy Lim: Three-Michelin-Starred JL Studio, Taichung
  • Chef Darren Teoh: Two-Michelin-Starred Dewakan, Kuala Lumpur
  • Chef Hiroyasu Kawate: Two-Michelin-Starred Florilège, Tokyo
  • Chef Vianney Massot​: Two-Michelin-Starred BLACKSWAN, Beijing
  • Chef Eom Taejun: One-Michelin-Starred Solbam, Seoul
Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel's elite team of highly-acclaimed chefs include (from left): *Chef Umberto Bombana *Chef Chan Chek Keong *Chef Vicky ChengChef Masaaki Miyakawa *Chef Xu Jingye *Chef Yam Lok Hin
Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel’s elite team of highly-acclaimed chefs include (from left): *Chef Umberto Bombana *Chef Chan Chek Keong *Chef Vicky ChengChef Masaaki Miyakawa *Chef Xu Jingye *Chef Yam Lok Hin

Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel’s elite culinary team is set to include:

  • Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, Three-Michelin-Starred Sushi Miyakawa & One-Michelin-Starred Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa
  • Chef Umberto Bombana: Three-Michelin-Starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANAHong Kong& One-Michelin-Starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA Macau
  • Chef Xu Jingye: Two-Michelin-Starred 102 House, Shanghai & House of Origin at Galaxy Macau
  • Chef Vicky Cheng: One-Michelin-Starred VEA Hong Kong, and Estuary by Vicky Cheng
  • Chef Chan Chek Keong: Two-Michelin-Starred Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel
  • Chef Yam Lok Hin, Assistant Vice President and Chef Creator – Pastry and Bakery, Galaxy Macau, StarWorld Hotel and Broadway Macau

Exceptional Pairings Beyond the Plate

Building on Galaxy Macau’s reputation as a bars innovator, the event brings together some of Asia’s most respected names in cutting-edge mixology.

Asia's leading mixology innovators (from left): *Nokoy Mak *Andrew Ho *Shelley Tai
Asia’s leading mixology innovators (from left): *Nokoy Mak *Andrew Ho *Shelley Tai

Leading the line-up is Andrew Ho of Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame, recognised as “Asia’s Best Bar” this year by Asia’s 50 Best Bars; alongside Shelley Tai, founder-mixologist of Hong Kong’s celebrated Mius, ranked No. 36 on this year’s list and recipient of the “Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award” at Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026. Representing Galaxy Macau is award-winning mixology innovator Nokoy Mak, Bar Manager at Long Bar, Raffles at Galaxy Macau and “Tatler Best 20 Bars 2026” in Macau.

Together, they will present an innovative collection of cocktails and non-alcoholic creations designed to complement the event’s culinary offerings with thrilling pairings.

A Culinary Journey Inspired by the Five Elements

With the elite assembly of 15 of Asia-Pacific’s most celebrated culinary and mixology masters, Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 presents a unique exchange of knowledge and skills. Guided by the Five Elements, each chef curates with their own distinctive approach, creating an immersive dining experience that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the region’s gastronomic landscape.

Each element embodies a distinctive flavour expression: Wood celebrates freshness and vitality; Metal highlights precision and purity; Water explores depth, texture and umami; Fire showcases transformation through grilling, roasting and seasoning; while Earth brings richness and grounding through nutty, root-driven and comforting flavours.

From 20-21 November, 2026, Galaxy Macau cements its place one of Asia’s most compelling dining destinations, offering a wide array of pristine dining options from Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrated chefs to acclaimed local delicacies. Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026 further reinforces this constellation of inspirational dining, offering guests a thrilling one-stop experience of Asia’s most acclaimed culinary artists – all within one destination, for one weekend only.

At Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, guests will be sampling refined culinary creations by a line-up of star-studded chefs and award-winning mixologists, elevated by an immersive al-fresco atmosphere.
At Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, guests will be sampling refined culinary creations by a line-up of star-studded chefs and award-winning mixologists, elevated by an immersive al-fresco atmosphere.

For more information about Galaxy Macau and Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Galaxy Stars of Gastronomy 2026

Date 20 November 2026 (Friday) | 18:30 – 22:30

21 November 2026 (Saturday) | 12:00 – 15:00 / 18:30 – 22:30

Venue Cabana – 2/F, Galaxy Macau
Price Early Bird Discount:

Tickets purchased on or before 4 October enjoy 20% off and complimentary wine package

Credit Card Privilege:

Tickets purchased with designated HSBC HK Credit Cards on or before 4 October enjoy 20% off and complimentary wine package

Tickets purchased with ICBC Visa Cards (issued in Macau) on or before 19 November enjoy 20% off, complimentary wine package, and exclusive dining gift certificates up to MOP1,800

Table Experience for 2 pax – MOP3,976 (Early Bird: MOP3,181)

Table Experience for 4 pax – MOP7,952 (Early Bird: MOP6,362)

Table Experience for 6 pax – MOP11,928 (Early Bird: MOP9,542)

Inclusive of:

  • Admission and seating on the pool deck*
  • Elemental signature delicacies prepared by acclaimed award-winning chefs
  • Choice of 3 welcome cocktails or mocktails per person, prepared by award-winning mixologists
  • Inclusive of a 10% service charge

*Seating will be assigned on site

Cabana VIP Experience for 8

8 pax – MOP18,888 (Early Bird: MOP 15,110)

Inclusive of:

  • Exclusive use of a private Cabana on the pool deck
  • Elemental signature delicacies prepared by acclaimed award-winning chefs
  • Choice of 3 welcome cocktails or mocktails per person, prepared by award-winning mixologists
  • Inclusive of a 10% service charge
Ticketing www.galaxyticketing.com

Bulk Purchase Offer
20-50 tickets 15% discount on tickets & wine package
51-100 tickets 20% discount on tickets & wine package
From 101 tickets 25% discount on tickets & wine package
*Bulk ticketing offers are exempt from the Early-bird Discount

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau, world-class luxury integrated resort, delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575 metres, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-metre high and 150-metre pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theatres are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit and .

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 September 2026 – The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) welcomed H.E. Mr. Abdulla Nigmatovich ARIPOV, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan, for an official campus visit on September 10, 2026, making HKUST the sole university included in his Hong Kong itinerary. The high-level visit underscored the growing partnership between Uzbekistan and HKUST, with a particular focus on advancing collaboration in higher education, research, innovation, and talent development.

H.E. Mr. Abdulla Nigmatovich ARIPOV, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan (seventh right, middle row); Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government (seventh left, middle row); Prof. Harry SHUM, Council Chairman of HKUST (sixth left, middle row); and Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST (sixth right, middle row), pose for a photo with students from Uzbekistan during the Prime Minister's official visit to HKUST.
H.E. Mr. Abdulla Nigmatovich ARIPOV, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan (seventh right, middle row); Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government (seventh left, middle row); Prof. Harry SHUM, Council Chairman of HKUST (sixth left, middle row); and Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST (sixth right, middle row), pose for a photo with students from Uzbekistan during the Prime Minister’s official visit to HKUST.

The Uzbek delegation of 24 members was warmly received by Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Harry SHUM, Council Chairman of HKUST; Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST, and senior university leaders.

In a high-level meeting with the University’s leadership, Prime Minister Aripov engaged in in-depth discussions on higher education development, artificial intelligence (AI), technological innovation, talent cultivation, research commercialization, and opportunities for closer collaboration between Uzbekistan and HKUST. The exchange also explored pathways for strengthening academic partnerships, expanding student and faculty mobility, and supporting Uzbekistan’s ambitions in developing a knowledge-based economy and emerging technology sectors.

Prime Minister Aripov said, “We are deeply impressed by HKUST’s achievements and its ability to translate cutting-edge research and innovation into practical industrial applications. With over 7,000 Uzbek students pursuing higher education across China, we see tremendous potential to strengthen our academic ties with Hong Kong and prioritize HKUST as a key destination for our students. As both Uzbekistan and HKUST mark their 35th anniversaries, establishing this partnership presents a symbolic and meaningful opportunity to expand educational excellence and global reach together.”

Prof. Shum said, “We are deeply honored to welcome Prime Minister Aripov and the distinguished Uzbek delegation to HKUST during the Belt and Road Summit. As a young, globally minded university celebrating our 35th anniversary, HKUST serves as a vital super-connector—bringing together diverse talent from over 80 nationalities. Building on our foundation with the El-Yurt Umidi Foundation, this visit marks a pivotal step in deepening ties between Hong Kong and Central Asia, opening up new horizons for collaborative growth and youth development along the Belt and Road.”

President Ip added, “We were delighted to engage in a highly productive and forward-looking dialogue with Prime Minister Aripov and his delegation. Uzbekistan’s strategic priorities in AI, robotics, fintech, and cybersecurity align closely with HKUST’s research strengths and advanced facilities. AI and medical science, in particular, offer promising areas for collaboration and could serve as important starting points for future joint initiatives. Beyond educational exchanges, we see tremendous opportunities to deepen cooperation in research, innovation, talent development, and knowledge transfer. We look forward to visiting Uzbekistan and working closely with our partners to co-create impactful solutions, nurture future-ready talent, and contribute to sustainable economic and technological development.”

HKUST also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The agreement establishes a framework for educational collaboration and promotes excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research. Witnessed by Prime Minister Aripov, Dr. Choi, and Prof. Shum, the MOU was signed by President Ip and Mr. Salomov Uktam RAHIMOVICH, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The Prime Minister and his delegation toured the HKUST Von Neumann Institute, where they learned about the University’s world-leading research and innovation capabilities in AI. The delegation was introduced to HKUST’s latest advancements in next-generation multimodal AI systems, robotic intelligence technologies, AI-driven 3D understanding and generation, and large-scale healthcare models, as well as their potential applications in addressing societal and industrial challenges. During the visit, the delegation met with 31 Uzbek students studying in Hong Kong, including 14 undergraduates currently enrolled at HKUST, to learn about their academic experiences and life in the city.

Hashtag: #HKUST

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) () is a world-class university renowned for its innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. Adopting a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to education, HKUST was ranked 33rd globally and 6th in Asia in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and QS Asia University Rankings 2026, respectively. It was also ranked 20th worldwide in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026, placing first among universities in Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland for the third consecutive year. Eleven HKUST subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026. In addition, HKUST’s Computer Science discipline, which encompasses areas such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, was ranked No. 1 in Hong Kong for the tenth consecutive year in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2026. Its graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In research and entrepreneurship, more than 80% of HKUST’s research was rated “world-leading” or “internationally excellent” in the University Grants Committee’s Research Assessment Exercise 2020. As of July 2026, HKUST members had founded more than 2,000 active start-ups, including 11 unicorns and 22 successful exits through initial public offerings (IPOs) or mergers and acquisitions (M&A).

WRISE Prestige records over300% revenue growth in HK since end-2024, expands to more than 400 IWCs and advances a new professional standard combining human expertise, independence and AI

  • Assets under management increased by 927%, revenue grew by 301% and the number of clients increased by 382% compared with the end of 2024.
  • WRISE Prestige’s network has expanded to more than 400 Independent Wealth Consultants (IWCs) in Hong Kong.
  • The broader WRISE ecosystem has added capabilities spanning family office and wealth planning, corporate advisory, trust and legacy planning, structured products, international insurance and AI labs, while the IWC proposition evolves from Independent Wealth Consultant to Intelligent Wealth Consultant.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 September 2026 – WRISE Prestige, a core business of WRISE Group serving affluent and high-net-worth clients through a network of wealth consultants, is set to celebrate its second anniversary in Hong Kong on 16 September, marking two years of rapid growth and the next chapter in its approach to wealth advisory.

Since the end of 2024, WRISE Prestige in Hong Kong has recorded 927% growth in assets under management (AUM), 301% growth in revenue and a 382% increase in the number of clients. Its Hong Kong network has also grown to more than 400 IWCs, reflecting rising demand for independent, people-led advice and broader access to integrated wealth solutions.

Two Years of Growth and an Expanding Wealth Ecosystem

Over the past two years, WRISE Prestige has broadened its role within the WRISE ecosystem, connecting clients with capabilities across different aspects of wealth and advisory. These include WRISE Capital for corporate finance and advisory services, WRISE Private for family office solutions and sophisticated wealth planning, and WRISE Master Trust for wealth structuring and legacy planning.

WRISE Prestige has broadened its solution capabilities in parallel, expanding its insurance spectrum from local offerings to Bermuda solutions and connecting clients with investment, banking, protection, trust and corporate advisory resources.

Client demand has become increasingly diverse, spanning liquidity, income, diversification, downside management, succession and cross-jurisdictional wealth planning. Structured products may be considered as part of client solutions where suitable, depending on risk tolerance and circumstances, illustrating the need for tailored risk-return outcomes rather than one-size-fits-all distribution.

The Group’s expanding regional footprint, including presences in Taipei, Shenzhen, Changsha, Chengdu, Wuxi and Vancouver, further strengthens WRISE Prestige’s ability to connect clients and wealth consultants with capabilities across markets.

From Independent Wealth Consultant to Intelligent Wealth Consultant

The evolution comes as Hong Kong’s wealth management industry reaches a new scale. According to the Securities and Futures Commission, AUM in Hong Kong’s private banking and private wealth management business rose 24% year-on-year to HK$12.9 trillion at the end of 2025.[1]

As wealth grows, the needs behind it are becoming increasingly complex. Clients require holistic advice connecting investments and protection with family governance, business interests, succession and intergenerational planning. They increasingly value sound judgement, independence, expertise, trust and connectivity to a wider wealth ecosystem.

WRISE Prestige believes this is expanding the role of the wealth consultant. Building on the foundations of independent wealth advisory, the IWC approach puts the individual at the centre, considering their family, business, aspirations, risks and legacy, while drawing on a broader ecosystem to address wealth more holistically. Within this approach, independence refers to an open-architecture model that gives wealth consultants the flexibility to consider solutions from a broad range of financial institutions and providers, rather than being tied to a single institution or product. This approach does not imply the absence of conflicts of interest; any applicable conflicts are managed and disclosed in accordance with relevant policies and regulatory requirements.

IWC is now entering its next chapter, evolving from Independent Wealth Consultant to Intelligent Wealth Consultant. The new proposition builds on the open-architecture approach, trusted human relationships and professional expertise that have defined IWC, while bringing together the research, analytical and efficiency capabilities of AI.

Technology can enhance how wealth consultants analyse information, generate insights and serve clients, while human judgement, accountability and relationships remain at the heart of wealth advice. The goal is not to replace wealth consultants with AI, but to empower them with greater capabilities to support better-informed, more holistic wealth decisions.

As part of this evolution, WRISE Prestige is also strengthening the professional development pathway for its IWC network through QLC, a structured professional assessment covering four specialist areas relevant to the evolving needs of high-net-worth clients: Family Office, Trust, Offshore Insurance and Advanced Investment. IWCs who complete the QLC examination will earn the designation of IWC-Certified, establishing a common foundation of professional knowledge and standards across the network. Following certification, IWCs can continue to develop through pathways recognising both professional expertise and business performance.

Henry Shin, CEO of WRISE Prestige Hong Kong, said: “The wealth management industry has continuously evolved, from traditional institution-led models, to the emergence of independent financial advice, and now towards a new generation of wealth advisory. We believe the next stage of this evolution is intelligence.

Intelligent Wealth Consultant brings together the independence and trust that have always been fundamental to wealth advice with professional expertise, human judgement, and the insights and analytical capabilities of artificial intelligence. This is not about replacing the human element with technology, but about empowering our consultants with technology to deliver deeper insights and help clients make more informed and holistic wealth decisions.

At WRISE Prestige, we aspire to take this evolution one step further, not simply to witness the transformation of our industry, but to work alongside the industry in helping shape best practices for the next generation of wealth advisory.”

Building the Next Chapter of Wealth Advisory

Looking ahead, WRISE Prestige expects wealth management to become more connected, technology-enabled and accessible. Its focus will remain on combining technology with human judgement and relationships, using technology to improve connectivity, insight and scalability while maintaining appropriate professional and regulatory standards.

Over the next two to three years, WRISE Prestige plans to expand its business-to-business capabilities and advance an Open-EAM architecture that connects IWCs, external asset manager partners and clients through the broader WRISE ecosystem. The architecture is intended to make it easier for wealth consultants and partners to access specialist capabilities across wealth management, banking, investments, protection, trust and corporate advisory services, supported by technology and the WRISE platform.

Through this approach, WRISE Prestige aims to create greater connectivity and scale for wealth consultants, more integrated choices for clients, and a stronger professional ecosystem for Hong Kong and the region. Its ambition for the next chapter is not only to grow its own platform, but also to contribute to the continued development of wealth advisory across the industry.

Hashtag: #WRISEGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About WRISE

WRISE is one of Asia’s fastest-growing financial firms, driven by strategic acquisitions of companies with deep expertise and solid foundations. With a strong presence across key financial hubs including Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, Tokyo, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Changsha, Chengdu, Wuxi, Taipei and Vancouver, WRISE is home to one of the largest networks of independent qualified advisors. With over 600 employees located globally, supported by an ecosystem of over 200 financial intermediaries and access to eight booking centres worldwide, WRISE ensures unparalleled service and expertise in navigating today’s financial landscape.

WRISE Group of companies include WRISE Wealth Management (Singapore), WRISE Wealth Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Wealth Management Middle East Ltd (DIFC, regulated by the DFSA), WRISE Prestige (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Securities (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Asset Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Capital (Hong Kong), WRISE Financial Services (Hong Kong), and affiliates including WeWrise Services.

A browser extension used by nearly 31,000 Twitch viewers has been found forwarding live OAuth session tokens to proxy infrastructure controlled by the operator of a Russian-language commercial bot service, exposing credentials that can grant access to account functions without requiring passwords or two-factor authentication. Security company Socket said the extension, “Twitch Enhanced Viewer | JeetBot”, was available through both the Chrome Web Store and Mozilla’s Firefox […]

By R Suryamurthy The 2026 New Delhi Declaration arrives at a revealing moment for BRICS: two decades after the grouping emerged as a shorthand for the rising economic weight of the Global South, it is no longer merely demanding a larger seat at the table of global governance, but is beginning to construct the institutional […]

The article BRICS is not building a new order, but a hedge against the old one appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Calls by leading artificial intelligence executives to slow development of advanced models pressured Asian semiconductor shares on Monday, but investors and strategists said robust spending on computing infrastructure was likely to keep the longer-term AI investment cycle intact. Samsung Electronics fell as much as 4.1% in early trading, while South Korea’s SK Hynix dropped 5.8%. Japan’s Advantest declined 4.7% and Kioxia Holdings slid 9.3% as markets assessed […]

Chinese foreign exchange regulators are stepping up pressure on banks to persuade corporate clients to hedge more of their currency exposure, to reduce companies’ vulnerability to yuan swings.

Some local branches of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange have urged lenders to encourage businesses to increase hedging, extending a campaign that has pushed corporate derivatives use to record levels. The guidance targets companies with sizeable foreign-currency receipts or payments as the yuan trades near three-year highs.

The push reflects Beijing’s preference for companies to manage exchange-rate risk through forwards, swaps and options. SAFE has repeatedly promoted what it calls an exchange-rate risk-neutral approach, arguing that companies should focus on their underlying business and use hedging tools to reduce the effect of currency movements on earnings.

Corporate hedging has risen sharply this year. SAFE said enterprises used foreign-exchange derivatives covering 35.3 per cent of their currency transactions in the first half of 2026, up 5.3 percentage points from the full-year level in 2025. The contracted value of derivatives used for exchange-rate risk management reached nearly $1.4 trillion, an increase of about 40 per cent from a year earlier.

The regulator has also broadened access to hedging services. About 130 major domestic and foreign-funded banks can provide foreign-exchange derivatives to companies, while a SAFE database shared with lenders covers about 290,000 foreign-trade enterprises. Authorities have encouraged banks to expand online dealing channels and improve credit and margin arrangements for smaller businesses.

The effort also seeks more balanced corporate behaviour. The latest local instructions add to earlier informal guidance from the central bank and SAFE asking some lenders to lift corporate hedging ratios. Such measures are part of a wider effort to prevent companies from building large unprotected positions after periods when many exporters assumed the yuan would remain weak or move gradually.

That behaviour became more costly as the currency strengthened. The yuan has appreciated this year against the dollar and was trading near a three-and-a-half-year high last week, while global currency markets have been unsettled by changing interest-rate expectations, higher energy prices and geopolitical tensions. Exporters receiving dollars can suffer valuation losses when the yuan rises unless they hedge future receipts.

Beijing has simultaneously tried to avoid an excessive or disorderly rise in the currency. The People’s Bank of China removed a 20 per cent foreign-exchange risk reserve requirement on forward dollar purchases from March 2, lowering the cost of buying dollars forward after a strong yuan rally. The move gave companies and banks more flexibility while signalling that policymakers wanted to discourage one-sided appreciation expectations.

SAFE data show that China’s foreign-exchange market remains supported by large trade and capital flows. Banks recorded a $271.2 billion surplus in foreign-exchange settlement and sales in the first half. The regulator said the ratio measuring companies’ willingness to convert foreign-currency earnings into yuan stood at 65 per cent, while the ratio reflecting demand to purchase foreign currency was 61 per cent.

Foreign-exchange reserves rose to $3.438 trillion at the end of August from $3.419 trillion a month earlier. The yuan gained 0.49 per cent against the dollar during August, while the dollar weakened against a basket of major currencies, contributing to valuation changes in China’s reserve holdings.

Officials have stressed that greater hedging is intended to strengthen corporate resilience rather than direct the yuan toward a particular level. SAFE has said exchange rates are determined by market supply and demand and are difficult to predict, making risk management more important as two-way fluctuations become more common.

The regulator has reduced some transaction costs for smaller companies and encouraged financial institutions to simplify documentation for derivatives. Banks have been asked to use enterprise data to identify firms with foreign-currency exposure and offer products suited to their cash flows rather than promote speculative positions.

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 September 2026 – Azbil Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange Code: 6845) announces that it will participate as a Gold Sponsor at Data Centre World Asia 2026 (hereinafter “DCWA”), Asia’s leading event for data centre technologies and digital infrastructure. The event will take place from 29 – 30 September 2026, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore.

DCWA Gold Sponsor
DCWA Gold Sponsor

DCWA is part of Tech Week Singapore and serves as a key platform for data centre operators, technology providers, and industry stakeholders to exchange insights and explore emerging technologies shaping the future of digital infrastructure.

As demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, data centre operators face increasing pressure to maintain reliable operations while improving energy efficiency. Azbil applies its expertise in measurement, control, and automation to help optimize building and cooling-system operations in mission-critical environments.

At DCWA, Azbil will highlight its Building Automation solutions and specialized services for mission-critical environments, including an intelligent building management system and the chiller plant digital twin. These solutions leverage advanced technologies to improve energy efficiency, support informed decision-making, and enhance the reliability and resilience of critical infrastructure operations.

Guided by its Purpose, “Expanding Technological Frontiers, Unlocking Human Potential,” Azbil will continue to create new value through its advanced measurement, control, and automation technologies and through co-creation with customers and partners, contributing to more reliable, efficient, and sustainable digital infrastructure.

Event Overview

Event Data Centre World Asia 2026
Dates 29 – 30 September, 2026
Location Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre
Basement 2, Hall E, Booth M15
Registration

(Free registration for Visitor Pass)

Product Showcase Building Automation

  • Intelligent Building Management System

An open and scalable platform that integrates, monitors, and controls multiple building systems through a unified interface. It provides operational insights that support efficient facility management and efforts to improve Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).

  • Chiller Plant Digital Twin

A virtual replica that simulates energy optimization strategies, detects anomalies, and provides real-time insights to improve chiller plant operations and enhance energy efficiency.

For details, please visit the following website.

* Posted information is accurate as of the date of announcement.

Hashtag: #Azbil #DCWA


The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Azbil Corporation

Azbil Corporation, formerly known as Yamatake Corporation, is a leading company in building and industrial automation, using its measurement and control technologies to provide customers with high value-added solutions to make their operations more efficient and sustainable. Founded in 1906, the Azbil Group consists of 30 companies and operates in 16 countries, providing cutting-edge solutions and services to meet the diverse needs of its global customers. As of March 31, 2026, Azbil employed about 9,000 people worldwide and generated JPY 298.9 billion in revenue. To learn more about Azbil Corporation and its solutions, please visit Azbil’s website at .

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