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The revised plan would involve the sale of a 2.5 per cent stake through new shares, with the proceeds flowing to Jio Platforms rather than to shareholders seeking exits. The change marks a significant adjustment in what is expected to be one of the largest public offerings in the country’s capital markets, and places long-term growth funding ahead of partial monetisation by early backers.

Jio Platforms, controlled by Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Industries, owns Reliance Jio Infocomm and houses a broad portfolio of digital services spanning telecom, broadband, cloud, media, payments and consumer technology platforms. Its shareholder base includes Meta, Google, Vista Equity Partners, KKR, Mubadala, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, many of which entered the company during the 2020 fundraising cycle.

Earlier discussions had explored an offer-for-sale structure under which foreign investors could have sold about 8 per cent of their individual holdings, amounting to roughly 2.5 per cent of Jio Platforms. That approach has now been set aside, with investors opting to remain exposed to the business rather than reduce stakes at the listing stage.

The decision strengthens Reliance’s control over the IPO narrative. A fresh issue allows the company to present the listing as a growth-financing event instead of an exit window for private investors. It also limits the risk that the market interprets selling by marquee shareholders as a signal of valuation caution, particularly at a time when global technology listings are being judged closely on profitability, cash generation and regulatory exposure.

Jio Platforms is widely seen as the centrepiece of Reliance Industries’ transition from an energy-heavy conglomerate to a broader consumer, digital and technology group. The telecom arm has become one of the world’s largest mobile operators by users, while its digital ecosystem has helped Reliance build links across retail, entertainment, finance and enterprise services.

The company’s operating performance has supported expectations of a high-profile listing. Jio Platforms reported strong profit growth for the quarter ended March 2026, helped by tariff-led gains, subscriber additions, higher data consumption and expansion in home broadband. Average revenue per user rose to ₹214, reflecting improved monetisation after tariff increases and a better customer mix.

The proposed IPO has been closely watched since Ambani told shareholders that Jio Platforms was being readied for a market debut in the first half of 2026. Preparations gathered pace after listing rules were adjusted to make it easier for very large companies to float a smaller portion of equity while still meeting public-shareholding requirements over time.

A 2.5 per cent offering would keep public float modest at the start, but even that limited stake could translate into a multibillion-dollar transaction if the company commands a valuation close to estimates that have placed Jio Platforms around $180 billion. At that level, the IPO could rank among the largest listings ever seen on domestic exchanges.

The timing remains sensitive. Equity markets have been volatile as investors weigh interest-rate expectations, geopolitical risks, technology valuations and capital flows into emerging markets. Several large companies have adjusted listing timetables as issuers and bankers test demand from institutional and retail investors.

Reliance has assembled a large banking syndicate for the transaction, underlining the scale and complexity of the planned sale. The deal will require careful pricing to balance investor appetite, Reliance’s valuation expectations and the interests of existing shareholders who invested at a premium during the digital fundraising boom.

For Meta and Google, continued ownership preserves access to one of the world’s largest digital consumer markets through partnerships linked to messaging, cloud services, devices and online commerce. For sovereign wealth funds and private equity investors, remaining invested offers exposure to a mature telecom platform with rising cash flows and expanding digital adjacencies.

The IPO will also have implications for Reliance Industries’ own market valuation. Investors have long debated whether separate listings of Jio Platforms and Reliance Retail could unlock value trapped inside the conglomerate structure. A successful Jio debut may narrow the holding-company discount, while a weak listing would raise questions over the pace and pricing of Reliance’s broader demerger and monetisation strategy.

Richard Cheng, Associate Commercial Director (Hong Kong & Macau) at BeOne, said: “We are honored to receive this award from the Hong Kong Commercial Times. BeOne has built differentiated capabilities across clinical development and manufacturing, supported by a broad and diverse R&D pipeline. In Hong Kong, we have introduced several therapies, including BTK, PD-1 and IL-6 inhibitors. Looking ahead, we will continue to advance our plans in Hong Kong by leveraging opportunities enabled by the ‘1+’ policy and the planned establishment of the Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation (CMPR) and its ‘primary evaluation’ mechanism. Supported by our global supply network, we aim to bring additional medicines to patients in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area and help improve access to treatments aligned with international standards.”

Global R&D and Innovation

Founded in 2010, BeOne is focused on accelerating key stages of oncology innovation—from discovery through development to patient access. Through an integrated model spanning R&D, manufacturing and commercialization, the company works to translate innovation into clinical value. Today, BeOne operates across six continents in more than 45 markets and is supported by more than 1,200 oncology R&D professionals.

BeOne’s R&D platform has advanced more than 35 clinical-stage drug candidates, including three internally developed products that have received commercial approval, reaching more than 2 million patients worldwide.

Pipeline Highlights

BeOne continues to expand its global footprint through a portfolio of internally developed products, including:

• BTK Inhibitor: As the company’s first self-developed innovative drug, it holds a significant position in the global market (including Hong Kong), particularly in the field of B-cell malignancies.
• PD-1 Inhibitor: Launched in more than 50 markets worldwide, reaching 1.8 million people. In Hong Kong, it has been approved for six indications, including immunotherapy for lung, esophageal and gastric cancers.
• Next-Generation BCL-2 Inhibitor: Approved for certain lymphoma indications in Mainland China. It has been granted Priority Review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and a marketing application has been submitted in the European Union.

Manufacturing Network Supporting Global Supply

BeOne maintains an integrated chain from R&D to manufacturing and commercialization, supported by production sites in the United States and China designed to help maintain a stable global supply:

• New Jersey, U.S.: A North America biologics hub integrating manufacturing and clinical R&D. The site spans 1.82 million square feet, including a dedicated 400,000-square-foot production facility.
• Suzhou, China (small molecule manufacturing): Supports clinical and commercial-scale production in accordance with applicable FDA, EMA and GMP requirements.
• Guangzhou, China (biologics and ADC manufacturing): A 1.3 million-square-foot facility supporting R&D and production of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and serving as a supply hub for the Greater Bay Area, including Hong Kong.

BeOne has also been recognized by industry organizations for its innovation, including being named one of the “Top 10 Most Inventive” pharmaceutical companies by IDEA Pharma in 2025^[1]. The company will continue to advance programs in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, with Hong Kong serving as a strategic hub to support the delivery of innovative therapies globally.

1. 2025 Pharmaceutical Innovation and Invention Index, IDEA Pharma

This material is intended for the purpose of communicating disease-related knowledge and cutting-edge medical information to the public and is not intended for promotional or advertising purposes. It does not constitute a promotion or recommendation for any medication or treatment plan, nor can it serve as a substitute for the advice of medical and health professionals. If you have any questions, please consult a medical or health professional.

Hashtag: #BeOneMedicines

https://www.beonemedicines.com/

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

About BeOne Medicines

BeOne Medicines is a global oncology company domiciled in Switzerland, focused on discovering and developing innovative treatments designed to be more affordable and accessible to cancer patients worldwide. With a portfolio spanning hematology and solid tumors, BeOne is advancing a diverse pipeline of novel therapeutics through internal capabilities and collaborations. With a growing global team of nearly 12,000 colleagues spanning six continents, the Company is committed to improving access to medicines for more patients. To learn more about BeOne, please visit www.beonemedicines.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

About HKCT Business Awards 2026

Organized by the Hong Kong Commercial Times, the HKCT Business Awards is a representative annual event in the Hong Kong business community. It honors companies demonstrating excellence, innovation, and significant contributions to Hong Kong’s economy and society across dimensions including technological innovation and market competitiveness.

Partnership pairs international leading longevity institution with HSBC’ to build the region’s first integrated “health and wealth” ecosystem for high‑net‑worth families.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 May 2026 – Humansa, international leading integrated longevity institution and a premier destination for preventative healthcare, today announced the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) and HSBC Life (International) Limited. This strategic collaboration aims to integrate advanced health optimisation with financial and insurance services, redefining how clients manage both their healthspan in Hong Kong and across the region.

A unified vision: healthspan as a core family asset

In a city renowned for its financial sophistication, the HSBC x Humansa alliance introduces a new paradigm: treating healthspan as a critical component of the modern family portfolio. As longevity science advances and demand for preventative healthcare accelerates, the partnership establishes a pioneering framework for an integrated “health and wealth” ecosystem designed specifically for high‑net‑worth and ultra‑high‑net‑worth clients.

Research from the Stanford Center on Longevity and other leading institutions highlights that many people in developed markets may live close to 100 years, making sustained cognitive and physical performance essential for a life of purpose and fulfilment. Simultaneously, global wealth reports show that affluent families are shifting spending from status goods toward wellness and longevity, and expect their financial partners to support this transition.

Moving beyond siloed services that treat health, wealth and insurance separately, Humansa contributes clinical excellence and geroscience‑based, data‑driven insights, while HSBC brings its wealth and insurance capabilities and a long‑term commitment to Asia as the world’s next major cross‑border wealth hub. Together, the parties aim to build the specialised infrastructure needed to manage health as a high‑value, appreciating asset over a 100‑year life.

Research‑driven excellence for high‑net‑worth clients

Humansa will lead the exploration of specialised longevity programs and dedicated physical spaces that combine clinical precision, behavioural coaching, and premium client experiences tailored to HSBC’s clients. By merging Humansa’s geroscience expertise with HSBC’s global wealth management reach and HSBC Life’s insurance capabilities, the partnership seeks to ensure that clients living longer – and better, at every stage of life.

Directives of the strategic collaboration: three pillars of “Longevity as an Asset”

Under the terms of the MoU, the parties have committed to three key pillars:

Longevity hubs and programs for HSBC clients – Explore the development of flagship “Longevity as an Asset” hubs and programs, where HSBC high-net-worth clients can access Humansa’s advanced diagnostics, health assessments and geroscience‑based services designed to preserve and grow their healthspan capital.

Integrated health‑wealth and insurance advisory – Pilot models where Humansa’s health insights can complement HSBC’s wealth and HSBC Life’s insurance advisory, enabling clients to align wealth management protection and succession strategies with their projected healthspan and personal goals.

Thought leadership and ecosystem building – Co‑create thought‑leadership platforms including research, client forums and CEO‑level dialogues in Hong Kong and other regional hubs to advance understanding of the economics of a 100‑year life, positioning Hong Kong at the forefront of longevity‑driven innovation.

These pillars provide a structured roadmap for turning the idea of “longevity as an asset” into practical offerings and experiences for clients across Asia.

“Humansa was founded on a simple belief: in a 100‑year life, healthspan is the most under‑managed asset on the family balance sheet,” said Don So, Chief Executive Officer of Humansa. “By joining forces with HSBC and HSBC Life, we are building the infrastructure that clients need to measure, protect and grow that asset – with clinical rigour, personalised programs and experiences that match the sophistication of their financial lives.

“Health, wealth and protection are deeply interconnected and shouldn’t be treated in isolation. As people live longer and spend more years beyond working life, they need trusted solutions to protect, grow and pass on their wealth — especially in an increasingly uncertain macro environment. Our partnership with Humansa brings together the best of both organisations to offer high net worth customers a seamless, one-stop health and wealth management solution.” said Daisy Tsang, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Life Hong Kong and Macau.

“People are living longer, and that changes what ‘wealth planning’ really means. Our partnership with Humansa will help our clients treat healthspan as a core family asset, alongside their financial wealth, so they can stay well, stay active and keep their options open over a longer life. By combining Humansa’s longevity expertise with HSBC’s wealth capabilities, we’ll explore new ways to deliver a premium client experience that supports wellbeing and long-term resilience, setting a new standard for how high‑net‑worth families live well across generations.” said Brian Hui, Chief Customer Officer, Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #Humansa

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

About Humansa

Humansa is a leading healthcare and wellness brand dedicated to extending the human healthspan through evidence-based preventative medicine, advanced diagnostics and holistic lifestyle solutions. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Humansa operates an extensive network of centres, offering services that span health assessments, medical services, restorative therapies, wellness coaching and skin aesthetics in a refined, hospitality-inspired environment.

About HSBC and HSBC Life

The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited is the founding member of the HSBC Group and one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations, serving customers across Asia and beyond. HSBC Life (International) Limited is a leading life insurance company, offering a comprehensive range of protection and savings solutions to individuals and corporations across the region. Together, they provide integrated banking, wealth and insurance services designed to meet the evolving financial and lifestyle needs of their clients.

Cinema star C. Joseph Vijay took office as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister on Sunday after his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam secured outside support from smaller parties, ending decades of dominance by the DMK and AIADMK in one of the country’s most industrialised states.

Vijay was sworn in by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar in Chennai after TVK, which emerged as the single largest party in the 234-member assembly, crossed the majority threshold with backing from allies and smaller groups. The result marks a dramatic transition for a politician who launched his party only two years ago and built his campaign around welfare promises, anti-corruption messaging, youth mobilisation and a direct appeal to voters frustrated with entrenched Dravidian party structures.

TVK won 108 seats, short of the 118 needed for a simple majority, but support from Congress, Left parties, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi and the Indian Union Muslim League gave Vijay the numbers to stake claim to power. The Bharatiya Janata Party said it would neither support nor participate in government formation, leaving the new administration dependent on a coalition arrangement that will test Vijay’s ability to move from mass politics to legislative management.

The swearing-in has wider economic significance because Tamil Nadu is a key manufacturing base for automobiles, electronics, textiles, renewable energy components and iPhone assembly. The state hosts major production networks linked to Apple suppliers, including Foxconn near Chennai, Tata Electronics in Hosur and facilities connected with Pegatron’s operations. Its industrial corridors around Chennai, Sriperumbudur, Hosur, Coimbatore and Tiruchirappalli have made it central to efforts to expand high-value manufacturing supply chains outside China.

Vijay’s first orders signalled an effort to combine welfare politics with a law-and-order pitch. His early decisions included 200 units of free electricity for households, a dedicated anti-drug task force and a separate mechanism for women’s safety. He also moved to seek a white paper on the outgoing government’s finances, a step likely to shape the first phase of political confrontation with the DMK.

The new Chief Minister used his first speech to frame the victory as a social justice mandate, telling supporters that his government would represent ordinary people rather than political dynasties. His language echoed themes that powered TVK’s campaign: dignity for poorer households, jobs for young voters, clean administration and a break from the established rivalry between the DMK and AIADMK.

Tamil Nadu’s business community will be watching how the new government handles investment approvals, land acquisition, labour relations, power subsidies and infrastructure spending. The state has attracted large investments in electronics and electric vehicles while retaining a strong automobile base built over several decades. Any uncertainty in policy execution could affect expansion plans, but a stable administration could strengthen Tamil Nadu’s position as a production hub at a time when global manufacturers are diversifying supply chains.

Vijay’s cabinet includes a mix of TVK loyalists and figures brought in to manage administration, political outreach and coalition discipline. N. Anand, Aadhav Arjuna and other senior party functionaries are expected to play central roles in converting a campaign-driven organisation into a governing machine. The inclusion of experienced political hands will be closely scrutinised because TVK lacks the administrative depth of the DMK and AIADMK.

The DMK, led by M. K. Stalin, now faces a sharp reversal after years in office, while the AIADMK’s weakened position raises questions about the future of the opposition space. Vijay’s rise has disrupted the familiar structure of Tamil Nadu politics, where cinema and politics have long intersected but power has remained largely within parties rooted in the Dravidian movement. His victory shows that celebrity appeal, when tied to welfare messaging and anti-incumbency sentiment, can still reshape electoral arithmetic.

Coalition pressures may emerge quickly. Parties extending support to TVK will expect policy consultation, constituency-level influence and space in governance decisions. Welfare commitments, including subsidised power, will also place pressure on state finances unless matched by revenue growth and investment-led job creation.

By K Raveendran Friday’s twin constitutional dramas exposed two serious threats to Indian democracy: the refusal of a defeated ruler to leave office, and the reluctance of a constitutional referee to invite a claimant who appeared to be assembling the numbers to form a government. Mamata Banerjee’s refusal to resign after the Trinamool Congress lost […]

The article Indian Democracy’s Black Friday: Popular Will Held Hostage By Power And Prejudice appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

By Dr. Gyan Pathak With the publication of the final rules under the Code on Wages, 2019 and Industrial Relations Code, 2020 on Friday, May 8, 2026, the Union Government of India has fully operationalized them. Apart from these, the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment has also notified the Model Standing Orders, 2026, for […]

The article India Operationalises New Labour Codes On Wages And Industrial Relations appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The agreements were signed at the Vietnam–India Business Forum, held as part of the State visit of General Secretary and President To Lam to India, in the presence of General Secretary and President To Lam and Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis.

The partnerships are expected to open direct access channels to all customer segments, stimulate travel demand and experiential tourism, and ultimately position Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for India’s 1.47 billion people.

Representing India are three of the country’s most influential and trusted travel distribution channels: Thomas Cook India, SOTC Travel, and MakeMyTrip. Thomas Cook India has strong expertise in group travel, corporate travel, and large-scale MICE tourism. SOTC Travel is well known for family vacations, group tours, and mid- to high-end leisure travel. Meanwhile, MakeMyTrip, India’s leading online travel platform, has a strong advantage in reaching younger travelers, independent tourists, and digitally-driven booking behaviors.

Representing Vietnam is Vinpearl, the country’s leading hospitality, tourism, and entertainment brand, operating nearly 60 properties nationwide. Its diverse five-star “all-in-one” ecosystem offers accommodation, shopping, dining, entertainment, golf, and MICE services, making it particularly well-suited to the travel preferences of Indian visitors, including large group travel, multi-generational family vacations, and experience-rich holidays.

Through these partnerships, the parties aim to maximize each other’s strengths, enhance tourism development capabilities, and shape tailored travel products, gradually positioning Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for Indian travelers in the near future.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Ngo Thi Huong, CEO of Vinpearl, said: “India is one of the key markets in Vinpearl’s international expansion strategy. Through partnerships with leading industry players, we are not only broadening our market reach but also proactively developing products tailored to each customer segment. Vinpearl aims to strengthen its presence in the Indian market while contributing to positioning Vietnam as an attractive and distinctive destination on the global tourism map.”

Mr. Anubhav Bansal, Vice President of MakeMyTrip and representative of the three Indian partners, added: “Vinpearl operates one of the region’s leading integrated tourism and hospitality ecosystems, with a scale, product diversity, and destination experience portfolio that increasingly align with the preferences of Indian travelers. We believe Vinpearl is playing an important role in positioning Vietnam as an attractive destination for this market. Combined with the extensive distribution strengths of both sides, this partnership is expected to significantly boost Indian tourist arrivals to Vietnam in the coming years.”

India is currently the world’s most populous country, with 1.47 billion people. The country’s rapidly expanding middle class is driving a strong surge in demand for international travel.

Recognizing the strategic importance of the Indian market, Vinpearl has not only leveraged its scale and integrated “all-in-one” ecosystem but has also continuously developed specialized offerings for Indian travelers, including luxury wedding tourism, MICE travel, multi-generational family holidays, group trips, and couple getaways. In 2025, the number of Indian guests staying within the Vinpearl system surged by a record 402% year-on-year, followed by a further 335% increase during the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year.

The signing of MoUs with these three major market access partners marks the next step in Vinpearl’s strategy to sustainably grow its visitor base from the 1.47 billion-population Indian market, while also helping position Vietnam as a “preferred destination” for Indian travelers.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

https://vinpearl.com/en

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About Vinpearl

Vinpearl is Vietnam’s leading hospitality, tourism, and entertainment brand, currently operating 60 properties across 20 provinces and cities nationwide. Its ecosystem includes a network of five-star hotels and resorts in 35 provinces and cities with more than 17,300 rooms; 15 VinWonders theme parks offering attractions for all age groups; six world-class golf courses; and three international-standard convention centers and theaters under the VinPalace brand. The ecosystem also features two semi-wildlife conservation and care parks, an equestrian academy, and spectacular multi-million-dollar live performance shows in destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, attracting millions of visitors each year.

About Thomas Cook India

Founded in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL) is one of India’s leading omnichannel travel and tourism groups, operating across foreign exchange, corporate travel, MICE, leisure travel, and value-added services.

TCIL owns and operates several major B2C and B2B brands, including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Sterling Holiday Resorts, Asian Trails, and Desert Adventures. The group has a presence in 28 countries across five continents and is one of the largest travel service networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region.

About SOTC Travel

Established in 1949, SOTC Travel is one of India’s oldest and most reputable travel and tourism brands. The company is part of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL).

Operating through an omnichannel model, SOTC offers a wide range of services across leisure travel, incentive travel, and corporate travel. With more than 75 years of experience, SOTC has served millions of travelers across destinations worldwide and is recognized for its deep understanding of Indian travelers’ preferences and behaviors.

About MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip is India’s leading online travel booking platform, holding a dominant position in flight bookings, hotel reservations, and travel packages. With tens of millions of users and a strong digital ecosystem, MakeMyTrip covers the entire customer journey while maintaining a strong advantage in reaching younger travelers and independent tourists.

The event, with the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Hong Kong International Legal Talents Training Academy as the key sponsors, gathered more than 400 leaders, policymakers and distinguished professionals from 48 countries and regions. They explored frontier topics such as cross-cultural international mediation, financial and investment dispute mediation, and the development of a global mediation ecosystem.

Speaking at the Summit, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), noted that Hong Kong has long supported mediation.

“Hong Kong is committed to becoming a global mediation capital. And we are well-positioned to do so,” Mr Lee said.

“Under ‘one country, two systems’, Hong Kong is a thriving hub for international finance, shipping and trade. We benefit from our country’s strong support and the opportunities it gives us, while maintaining extensive international connectivity as a world city.

“Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country. And our legal professionals are internationally acknowledged for their professionalism and integrity. And now, as IOMed’s headquarters, Hong Kong is at the very heart of global dispute resolution and its promising future.”

Paul Lam, Secretary for Justice of the HKSAR, highlighted the HKSAR Government’s ongoing support for the IOMed in different ways.

“First, it will be responsible for the maintenance of the Headquarters. Second, the DoJ will continue to second Hong Kong legal professionals to the IOMed Secretariat. Since 2023, the DoJ has already seconded a total of four counsel to assist in the establishment of the IOMed. Third, the Government will actively promote the use of IOMed mediation by, among other things, taking the lead in procuring the inclusion of an IOMed mediation clause in suitable international agreements to which the HKSAR Government is a party,” Mr Lam said.

“Hong Kong is well recognised as a leading international legal and dispute resolution services centre. Indeed, one of the mandates stated in the National 15th Five-Year Plan is that Hong Kong shall strengthen its status in this respect.”

Since the IOMed’s inauguration, the number of signatory states has climbed from 37 to 41, while the number of contracting states has gone from eight to 13.

“IOMed is the first inter-governmental international organisation set up by a Convention to promote exclusively the use of mediation,” said Professor Teresa Cheng, Secretary-General of IOMed, in her welcome remarks at the summit. “It fills an institutional gap and brings forth mediation as a true viable alternative to resolving international disputes alongside litigation and arbitration.”

Professor Cheng shared two important developments of the IOMed.

First, a maritime dispute was successfully resolved through mediation administered by IOMed at its Hong Kong Headquarters in early May, just a few days ago. “The case marks an important milestone: it is the first international maritime dispute involving a charterparty chain referred to IOMed for mediation,” Professor Cheng said.

Second, aligning with Hong Kong’s goal to further develop the commodities market, and the intention to stipulate use of IOMed mediation in the related contracts and policy, the Secretariat of IOMed is working with the HKSAR Government and other stakeholders to explore the establishment of a dedicated special panel of mediators for commodities market disputes under the IOMed framework.

The Global Mediation Summit is the finale event of the Mediation Week 2026 held in Hong Kong under the theme of “Mediate First: An Attempt of Mediation, Harvests Abundant Harmony”, with a view to promoting mediation as a friendly way to amicably resolve disputes and conflicts, and to build a more harmonious community.

“Our commitment to mediation, locally and globally, is clear in the five-day Mediation Week programme that ends today with this Summit,” Mr Lee said. “Mediation Week events spotlighted disputes related to schools, sports, neighbourhoods and the elderly. The goal in each case was to apply mediation structure and skills to achieve peaceful and rational solutions to our problems.”

Hashtag: #hongkong#brandhongkong#asiasworldcity#globalmediationsummit#IOMed

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By T N Ashok CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu’s political drama entered its most decisive phase on Friday evening as actor-turned-politician C. Joseph Vijay moved within touching distance of forming the State’s next government after the Communist Party of India and the CPI(M) extended unconditional support to his fledgling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. The support of the two […]

The article Instability Stares At Tamil Nadu Polity Even If Vijay Cobbles Up A Majority Of 118 appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Park Lane Hong Kong on 16–17 MayCaption

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Hong Kong this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Park Lane Hong Kong (Canvas, 26F) on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Hong Kong buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.

The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Hong Kong remaining one of the Group’s most consistent source markets.

The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.

“Hong Kong has consistently been one of our strongest buyer markets, and we look forward to welcoming buyers in person to discover what we believe is an exceptional line-up of new homes,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Hong Kong or other major cities.”

Bellaguna Lake Residences

Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.

Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.

Bellaguna Golf Residences

Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.

All three projects now have show units available to view at Laguna Property Sales Gallery

Banyan Living

Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.

Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.

Why Phuket, Why Now

Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.

Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.

Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Park Lane Hong Kong, Canvas (26F), on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.

Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket #PhuketProperty

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About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.

Sarvam has partnered with YCP India to help enterprises move artificial intelligence projects from small pilots into structured, organisation-wide deployments aimed at measurable business gains.

The collaboration brings together Sarvam’s full-stack sovereign AI platform and YCP India’s consulting, digital transformation and execution capabilities. The two companies plan to work with businesses on use-case selection, technology integration, change management and deployment across functions where AI can cut costs, improve productivity or strengthen customer engagement.

The partnership comes as companies across sectors are trying to convert interest in generative AI into practical results. Many organisations have tested chatbots, document automation, coding assistants and customer-service tools, but have struggled to scale them because of legacy systems, data-quality issues, compliance concerns and weak alignment with business priorities. Sarvam and YCP India are positioning their alliance as a response to that gap, with an emphasis on deployment rather than experimentation.

Sarvam’s platform covers language, voice and multimodal systems, with a focus on operating conditions in India, including regulatory requirements, data sovereignty and cost-efficient deployment. That positioning is significant for banks, insurers, retailers, healthcare providers, manufacturers and public-facing enterprises that need AI tools capable of working across languages, accents and workflow environments.

YCP India is expected to bring sector knowledge, programme management and strategy advisory support. The company’s role will include helping clients identify high-impact use cases, redesign workflows, manage adoption within teams and ensure that AI deployments are tied to commercial outcomes rather than isolated technology trials.

The partnership will focus on three broad areas. The first is identifying and prioritising AI opportunities that have clear business value. This could include automating customer queries, improving internal knowledge retrieval, digitising documents, supporting frontline staff or building multilingual service channels. The second is co-delivering integrated solutions that connect Sarvam’s technology stack with enterprise systems. The third is joint execution, where YCP teams work with Sarvam engineers to support implementation and change management.

The timing reflects a wider shift in the AI market. Enterprises are moving from proof-of-concept work to production systems, but the transition requires more than access to a large language model. Companies need governance frameworks, reliable data pipelines, security controls, integration with enterprise resource planning and customer relationship management platforms, and clear accountability for outcomes. Without these elements, AI projects risk remaining confined to innovation teams without affecting day-to-day operations.

Sarvam has emerged as one of the key domestic AI companies building models and applications designed for the country’s linguistic and business environment. Its products include speech-to-text, text-to-speech, translation, document digitisation and conversational AI tools. The company has also been associated with broader efforts to develop sovereign AI capabilities, including foundational models built for secure, population-scale use.

The enterprise opportunity is expanding rapidly. The country’s AI market is expected to grow strongly through 2027, supported by enterprise technology spending, a deepening talent base and rising investment in AI-led transformation. Technology services firms and global capability centres are also pushing generative AI into software development, business process management, IT consulting and customer operations.

For Sarvam, the alliance with YCP India could strengthen access to boardroom-level transformation projects, where decisions are shaped by business value, risk controls and execution capacity. For YCP India, the tie-up adds a technology partner focused on locally relevant AI capabilities at a time when clients are demanding practical deployment roadmaps rather than advisory reports alone.

The challenge will be delivery. Enterprises often face fragmented data, uneven digital maturity and uncertainty over how AI should be governed. Regulated sectors also need clarity on privacy, auditability and accountability when automated systems influence customer interactions or internal decisions. The partnership will have to demonstrate that sovereign AI can be not only locally relevant but also robust, secure and commercially competitive against global platforms.

Cost will be another deciding factor. Many businesses are assessing whether AI systems can deliver enough savings or revenue gains to justify investment in infrastructure, integration and training. Sarvam’s emphasis on cost-efficient deployment could appeal to companies that want AI capabilities without depending entirely on expensive global model providers.