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JPMorgan has argued that bitcoin’s declining volatility relative to gold is reshaping long-term investment calculations, even as near-term pressures from exchange-traded fund outflows and futures market liquidations weigh on crypto prices. The bank’s analysts said the contrast between short-term stress and longer-horizon metrics highlights a shift under way in how institutional investors assess risk in digital assets. Bitcoin has traded within a tighter range over the past […]

Marathon Digital Holdings, the leading publicly traded Bitcoin miner, moved a substantial amount of its digital currency holdings this week, transferring around $87 million worth of Bitcoin across multiple trading desks and exchange addresses, according to on-chain tracking data. The largest portion of the movement was directed to the credit and trading firm Two Prime, which received more than 660 BTC, while other transfers were recorded to a […]

Today’s biggest stars express individuality and confidence with natural diamonds

LOS ANGELES, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – At this year’s GRAMMY Awards, the Red Carpet sparkled with natural diamonds punctuating the looks of today’s most celebrated music artists.

Natural diamonds take center stage on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. From left to right: Addison Rae, Bad Bunny, Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber, Olivia Dean
Natural diamonds take center stage on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards. From left to right: Addison Rae, Bad Bunny, Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber, Olivia Dean

Leading artists, performers and presenters showed up for music’s biggest night in diamond jewelry looks that spoke to creativity, individuality, glamour and power. From nominees Olivia Dean and Sabrina Carpenter to presenter Keltie Knight’s choices, natural diamonds expressed not only the timeless glamour and brilliance they’re known for, but their ability to amplify personal style. Natural diamonds were spotted in a range of tones from icy whites to deep whiskeys, and in settings from platinum to rose gold. Just as Hollywood stars are hitting the Red Carpet this year in Desert diamonds, the biggest new trend in natural diamonds, musical artists are experimenting with a bolder diamond palette, creating a more personality-driven red carpet.

Desert diamonds
Desert diamonds, ranging from warm whites to deep whiskeys, were spotted everywhere, including on presenter Keltie Knight, who opted for unique diamond and yellow gold hoops by RENNA, as well as a smattering of yellow gold, fancy-shaped diamond solitaire rings from the brand. Highlights also included power player J Balvin who chose a clean and classic tuxedo paired with a large cushion cut yellow diamond ring that added a nice balance to the traditionally masculine look.

Simple Drops
Simple drop earrings emerged as a quiet standout at the GRAMMYs, proving that restraint can be just as impactful as large statement pieces. Addison Rae and Madison Beer leaned into effortless glamour, choosing sleek diamond drops that framed the face with subtle movement and modern elegance. Billie Eilish brought her signature edge, using pared-back diamond drops to balance her bold black and white suiting. Kelsea Ballerini elevated the look in Sabyasachi, where refined diamond drops added softness and romance, while Reba McEntire turned to Martin Katz for timeless brilliance, opting for classic diamond drops that were sure to catch the eye.

Diamond Hoops for Men
Men are increasingly embracing minimalist yet impactful diamond hoop earrings as a refined accessory choice. Bad Bunny paired his sharp Schiaparelli tuxedo with a single diamond hoop earring, bringing a subtle but polished sparkle to his look that perfectly balanced his experimental sartorial vibe. Kaytranada’s red carpet presence and inclination for understated yet stylish accessories suggest that simple diamond hoops align naturally with his fashion-forward aesthetic. This trend points to a broader moment in men’s red carpet jewelry: pared-back diamond hoops that provide polished shine without overpowering the rest of the ensemble, signaling a move toward jewelry that feels personal, versatile, and modern.

Rings
Rings at the GRAMMYs reflected a dual trend of bold expression and refined delicacy, underscoring natural diamonds’ versatility. Sabrina Carpenter complimented her look in Chopard, opting for diamond rings that delivered impact without overpowering her look, while Sombr also made a striking impression with a diamond ring that was perfect high-jewelry shine to go with his existing sequined ensemble. In contrast, Olivia Dean showcased a more delicate approach in Cartier High Jewelry, layering elegant diamond rings that emphasized timeless sophistication perfectly echoing her Chanel gown. Miley Cyrus made perhaps the boldest ring statement of the night with several diamond rings stacked and worn over leather gloves.

Necklaces
Necklaces at the GRAMMYs showcased how natural diamonds can define both quiet refinement and bold presence on the red carpet. On the delicate end of the spectrum, Charlotte Lawrence in Messika exemplified understated luxury with a finely crafted diamond necklace that traced the neckline proving that less is more. In contrast, Hailey and Justin Bieber turned heads with matching Lorraine Schwartz statement diamond neck pieces that anchored their looks. Tate McRae also grabbed attention with a 50 carat Lorraine Schwartz necklace, while Pharrell Williams elevated his ensemble with a striking diamond necklace that blended artistry and scale. Together, these moments underscored a versatile necklace trend: from minimalist diamonds that whispered elegance to oversized, expressive pieces that commanded attention. Natural diamonds continue to serve as dynamic anchors in personal style storytelling.

Hashtag: #ADiamondisForever #NaturalDiamonds #diamonds #GRAMMYS




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

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services.

De Beers Group is committed to ‘,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are

discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit .

Dubai-based luxury property developer Binghatti Holding Limited has instructed banks to arrange a series of fixed income investor calls starting Tuesday, 3 February 2026, as it prepares the ground for a benchmark-sized, five-year, US dollar-denominated sukuk offering, according to transaction details communicated to the market. The planned issuance will take the form of a Regulation S senior unsecured sukuk under the $1.5 billion Trust Certificate Issuance Programme […]

  • Sales after nine months up on previous year, increasing by some 6.1 percent
  • Adjusted EBITDA considerably better than in previous year – efficiency measures having a clear impact
  • Incoming orders down on previous year, as expected, due to underlying economic conditions and absence of drupa effect
  • Successful positioning in security, defense, and energy technologies
  • Full-year forecast confirmed despite challenging environment

HEIDELBERG, GERMANY – News Aktuell – 5 February 2026 – After nine months of financial year 2025/26 (April 1 to December 31, 2025), developments at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) are in line with expectations. The company has achieved a considerable improvement in its profitability and is also resolutely pressing ahead with its strategic transformation, moving into new areas of business that are enjoying strong growth. Notwithstanding the challenging environment, sales after three quarters climbed to € 1,602 million – some 6.1 percent higher than the previous year’s figure of € 1,509 million – despite negative exchange rate effects amounting to around € 44 million compared with the equivalent period of the previous year. Business in Europe and with packaging and label printing presses saw particularly positive development during this period. At € 617 million, the sales figure for the third quarter was around 4 percent higher than in the equivalent quarter of the previous year and continued the quarter-on-quarter sales growth so far in the current financial year.

The HEIDELBERG Customer Portal is already the digital control center for over 3,000 print shops worldwide – a figure that is set to keep on growing.
The HEIDELBERG Customer Portal is already the digital control center for over 3,000 print shops worldwide – a figure that is set to keep on growing.

The adjusted operating result (EBITDA) after nine months increased significantly to € 114 million (adjusted figure for equivalent period of previous year: € 86 million) and the adjusted EBITDA margin improved considerably to 7.1 percent (equivalent period of previous year: 5.7 percent). Implementation of the personnel and efficiency measures envisaged in the plan for the future is having a clear impact. For example, production costs and total working costs improved compared with the corresponding period of the previous year. The personnel cost ratio was lower than in the first nine months of the previous year, falling to 36 percent (equivalent period of previous year, adjusted for special items: 39 percent). The company is expecting personnel costs as a whole to remain below the previous year’s figure for the rest of financial year 2025/26.

Incoming orders after nine months totaled € 1,628 million (previous year: € 1,823 million). Allowing for the fact that drupa resulted in the previous year being very strong, they were therefore in line with expectations. During the reporting period, the company saw a significant impact from negative exchange rate effects amounting to some € 46 million. Incoming orders in the third quarter stood at € 517 million (corresponding quarter of previous year: € 550 million). The development of incoming orders in the third quarter was particularly positive in the Americas Region, where they were up 17 percent on the equivalent quarter of the previous year.

HEIDELBERG pressing ahead with strategic transformation and tapping into new growth markets

Despite a market environment that remains challenging, HEIDELBERG is consistently pursuing its strategic transformation. Based on its strong industry and systems expertise, the company is systematically tapping into additional markets in the areas of defense, security, energy, charging infrastructure, and industrial system solutions. One key aspect of this process is combining all relevant activities under HD Advanced Technologies GmbH. This strategic further development is building HEIDELBERG a stronger future and opening up long-term growth opportunities.

In the HEIDELBERG Technology segment, sales after nine months totaled € 42 million – slightly higher than the previous year’s figure of € 41 million. Even though the development of sales is moderate at present, the strategic measures that have been initiated provide a basis for HEIDELBERG Technology to potentially make a much bigger contribution to business as a whole. In particular, the continuing strategy of tapping into new industries and the creation of new business models are raising expectations of a positive sales trend in the coming years.

“The measures we have initiated are confirmation of our growth plan,” says Jürgen Otto, CEO of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG. “Both strategically and operationally speaking, HEIDELBERG is extremely well positioned to actively hone this plan and leverage additional opportunities in dynamic future markets,” he adds.

Core business lays foundations for transformation

At the same time as new areas of business are being unlocked, the company’s core business is also developing robustly. In the Print & Packaging Equipment segment, HEIDELBERG is benefiting from its strong market position in packaging and label printing. In the reporting period, this segment’s sales increased to € 804 million (previous year’s figure: € 705 million). In the Digital Solutions & Lifecycle segment, the company is further expanding its role as a systems integrator – with hybrid printing, software, and service solutions as part of a digital ecosystem. In this segment, HEIDELBERG achieved nine-month sales of € 755 million (previous year’s figure: € 763 million).

“Our strength lies in the intelligent way we combine presses, software, and service operations,” says Dr. David Schmedding, Chief Technology & Sales Officer. “By specifically expanding our digital printing portfolio and launching new high-performance systems such as the Jetfire 75, we are creating additional growth potential – both in our core business and beyond,” he emphasizes.

The free cash flow of HEIDELBERG after three quarters was € -81 million, an improvement on the previous year (equivalent period of previous year: € -97 million). As expected, however, it was still negative. This is due to the Polar acquisition and restructuring costs in the high single-digit million-euro range. The net result after taxes of € 17 million after nine months represented a significant increase (corresponding period of previous year: € -42 million).

Full-year forecast confirmed despite challenging environment

The company is confirming its forecast for financial year 2025/26. A healthy order backlog, the current efficiency measures, and systematic implementation of the strategy are laying the foundations for achieving its targets. In view of macroeconomic developments, taking into account the various opportunities and risks, and assuming the global economy does not see weaker growth than predicted by the relevant institutions, the company is expecting sales of around € 2,350 million in financial year 2025/26 (2024/25: € 2,280 million). In view of the significant exchange rate effects, the continuing weak macroeconomic situation, and the uncertain trade situation, the company is assuming the increase in the adjusted EBITDA margin will be toward the lower end of the predicted range of up to 8 percent (previous year: 7.1 percent).

Image 1: A team from the Hoifu Group, gathered around Chairman Ou Shun Chou (front row, sixth from the left), with HEIDELBERG representatives including Steven Hou, General Manager South China, and Michael Nilges, Managing Director of the Shanghai site (front row, seventh and eighth from the left), during acceptance testing for the 1,000th Speedmaster CX 104 at the HEIDELBERG site in Shanghai.

Image 2: The digital printing line at rubmedia includes a Jetfire 50 and a Versafire LV from HEIDELBERG, as well as the corresponding postpress equipment. The media house can use this line for the complete, industrialized in-house production of personalized and high-quality short runs.

Image 3: The HEIDELBERG Customer Portal is already the digital control center for over 3,000 print shops worldwide – a figure that is set to keep on growing.

Image material and further information about the company are available in the Investor Relations portal and Press Lounge of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG at www.heidelberg.com.

Important note:

This release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions and estimates by the management of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft. Even though the management is of the opinion that these assumptions and estimates are accurate, the actual future development and results may deviate substantially from these forward-looking statements due to various factors, such as changes in the overall economic situation, in exchange and interest rates, and within the print media industry. Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft provides no guarantee and assumes no liability for future developments and results deviating from the assumptions and estimates made in this press release.
Hashtag: #HEIDELBERGDruckmaschinenAG

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

About HEIDELBERG

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) is a leading technology company that has been standing for innovation, quality, and reliability in mechanical engineering worldwide for 175 years. With a clear focus on growth and as a total solution provider, HEIDELBERG is driving further development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions, and lifecycle business with service and consumables so that customers can achieve maximum productivity and efficiency. The company is also focusing on expanding into new business areas such as high-precision plant engineering with integrated control systems, automation technology, robotics, and the growing green technologies sector. With its strong international presence in approximately 170 countries, the creative power and expertise of its roughly 9,500 employees, its own production facilities in Europe, China, and the USA, and one of the largest global sales and service networks, the company is ideally positioned for future growth.

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi has opened the second round of trilateral talks bringing together delegations from Russia, Ukraine and the United States, reinforcing the UAE’s growing role as a discreet diplomatic venue for high-stakes dialogue amid a protracted conflict in Eastern Europe. The discussions, convened under the auspices of the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, follow an initial round held earlier and are designed to […]

Designed by Skechers & Alpro Physiotherapists for comfort and fall prevention, the shoes are introduced alongside the Silver Line Walk & Run family event.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2026 – For many families, a simple walk is no longer taken for granted. As parents and grandparents age, everyday movement can become a real concern, from the risk of slipping on smooth floors to the strain of bending down just to put on shoes. These challenges often cause seniors to walk less, gradually limiting their independence and keeping them from enjoying outings, travel, and daily activities with their family members.

The Alpro x Skechers Silver Line Walk & Run Event held on 31 January 2026.
The Alpro x Skechers Silver Line Walk & Run Event held on 31 January 2026.

Recognising the growing impact of mobility-related issues among older adults, Alpro Physio, the physiotherapy arm of Alpro Group specialising in mobility and rehabilitation, has partnered with Skechers Malaysia to introduce Silver Line, an exclusive footwear line for seniors available at Alpro. The series brings clinical insight directly into everyday product design, with the goal of helping seniors move more safely and confidently.
Silver Line is not just a walking shoe, but a mobility support solution built around the real challenges faced by the elderly. As Malaysia’s ageing population continues to grow, mobility issues are becoming an increasingly urgent public health concern. Falls remain one of the leading risks among older adults, often linked to poor balance, unsuitable footwear, or the physical strain of wearing shoes. Joint pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility can further discourage regular movement, affecting both physical health and emotional well-being.
Safety is at the heart of Silver Line’s design. The shoe features Skechers’ Hands-Free Slip-ins™ technology, allowing seniors to put on their shoes without bending down, helping to reduce strain and the risk of losing balance. An enhanced anti-slip outsole improves grip on tiled and smooth surfaces, supporting better stability and lowering the risk of falls.
Comfort is equally essential. Extra cushioning helps reduce pressure on knees, joints, and heels, while the lightweight construction makes walking less tiring. A wider, senior-friendly fit accommodates swollen or sensitive feet, helping seniors stay active longer with less discomfort and greater confidence.

The introduction of Silver Line is marked by the “Silver Line Walk & Run,” a family-friendly community event that encourages Malaysians to stay active across generations, especially alongside their parents and grandparents. The initiative reflects a shared belief that healthy ageing should be supported not only through medical care, but also through practical lifestyle solutions like shoes designed with safety in mind.
Eugene Siow, Chief Physiotherapist of Alpro Physio, shared that many elderly patients experience limited mobility not simply because of age, but due to preventable factors such as inappropriate footwear. He explained that Silver Line was created to support balance, reduce joint strain, and most importantly, help seniors move with confidence and maintain independence.
Stephanie Chang, Senior General Manager of Skechers Malaysia, added that Skechers has long focused on comfort-led innovation, with Slip-ins™ technology offering significant benefits for seniors who struggle with bending or balance. She noted that the availability of this range through Alpro allows more seniors to access footwear that goes beyond comfort to genuinely support ageing communities.

The Silver Line shoe is exclusively available through Alpro OneClick, Alpro’s official online pharmacy platform. More than just footwear, it is a thoughtful and practical gift choice for parents and grandparents, one that supports their independence, comfort, and confidence with every step. More information about the Silver Line collection can be found at https://bit.ly/AlproxSkechersSilverLine.
Hashtag: #AlproxSkechersSilverLine

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

Alpro Group

Founded in 2002, Alpro Group’s ecosystem has grown to include Alpro Pharmacy, Apotek Alpro, Alpro スギ (Sugi) Pharmacy, Alpro Physio, Alpro Clinic, Alpro Baby, Alpro OptiSaver, Alpro Audiology, and Alpro Health. Supported by a team of more than 1,000 healthcare professionals, including doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, dietitians, physiotherapists, optometrist and many others, Alpro serves over 5 million families in Malaysia and Indonesia through its extensive network of 500 physical outlets.

Alpro Pharmacy is the first and only community pharmacy in the region to offer product liability insurance of MYR 1 million in Malaysia and IDR 3 billion in Indonesia, ensuring the supply of genuine medications and enhancing consumer trust.

With the vision of a healthy and vibrant world, Alpro Group aims to become the No. 1 prescription pharmacy chain in Southeast Asia.

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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi has added a new regulated player to its financial landscape with the formal launch of EmCoin, positioned as the country’s first onshore, Capital Market Authority-regulated multi-asset investment platform. The company says the platform allows investors to access crypto assets, foreign exchange, equities and other asset classes through a single, domestically licensed structure, marking a notable step in the UAE’s effort to […]

AACHEN, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 4 February 2026 – Aachen, FEV has teamed up with Daimler Buses to create the first coach with a hydrogen fuel cell drive system. The starting point for the “H₂ Coach” technology demonstrator, which is intended for testing purposes, was a conventional Setra coach. This marks an important step toward locally emission-free long-distance travel: short refueling times, ranges of at least 800 kilometers per tank filling, and quiet operation underscore its practicality.

FEV and Daimler Buses have jointly developed the "H2 Coach", the first coach with a hydrogen-based fuel cell drive system. Source: Daimler Buses
FEV and Daimler Buses have jointly developed the “H2 Coach”, the first coach with a hydrogen-based fuel cell drive system. Source: Daimler Buses

Daimler Buses and FEV jointly carried out the complete system transformation from diesel drive to fuel cell electric vehicle. After creating the overall vehicle concept, FEV took over the mechanical and E/E integration. One distinguishing feature is that the individual components deployed – including fuel cells, high-voltage components (such as batteries and electric motors), H₂ tank assemblies, control units including software – originate from different technology platforms from Daimler Buses and Daimler Truck. FEV integrated the systems into a functional powertrain in the overall vehicle.

An important factor in the development process was safety. Measures were developed for various crash load cases as well as for functional, high-voltage, and hydrogen safety.

“The ‘H₂ Coach’ impressively demonstrates how complex subsystems can be integrated into a testable, safe complete vehicle when vehicle, powertrain, and E/E expertise come from a single source,” said Klaus Wolff, Vice President Project Management at FEV. “With our one-stop-shop approach, we quickly and efficiently delivered the desired customized solution to our customer – from concept to approval.”

After successful approval by German technical inspection authority TÜV and passing electromagnetic compatibility tests, FEV handed over the vehicle to Daimler Buses in the summer of 2025 after approximately two years of joint project work.

Hashtag: #FEV

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

Aldar Properties and Mubadala Investment Company have completed a strategic joint venture that brings together two of Abu Dhabi’s most prominent retail destinations into a single platform valued at about AED 10 billion, marking one of the emirate’s largest consolidations in the retail real estate segment. The transaction combines Yas Mall and The Galleria Luxury Collection under a unified ownership and management structure, with Aldar appointed as […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi’s sovereign investor Mubadala Investment Company has been awarded more than €700 million in arbitration tied to the failure of Europe’s sprawling Signa property empire, according to creditor protection group Creditreform. The ruling underscores the scale of losses facing lenders and investors after one of the continent’s largest real estate groups unravelled under the weight of higher interest rates and rising financing […]

Microsoft has rolled out an optional Windows 11 update aimed at stabilising the sign-in experience after a bug left some users unable to see the password entry icon on the lock screen. The patch, labelled KB5074105, addresses an issue traced to an earlier cumulative update issued on August 29, 2025, identified as KB5064081, and bundles a wide set of reliability and usability refinements. The missing password icon […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai UAE and Ecuador have formalised a new layer of institutional cooperation aimed at strengthening public accountability, audit standards and anti-corruption frameworks, signing a set of memoranda of understanding that officials on both sides say are designed to translate political intent into operational coordination between oversight bodies. The agreements, concluded between the UAE Accountability Authority and Ecuador’s national audit institutions, seek to improve information-sharing, […]

Apple has disclosed a new approach to artificial intelligence–driven speech synthesis that restructures how sounds are handled before they reach neural networks, a change the company says can significantly accelerate voice generation while preserving naturalness. The technique groups phonetically similar audio units into clusters prior to processing, reducing computational load and enabling faster output, a development with implications for on-device features, accessibility tools and data privacy. According […]

French prosecutors have carried out a judicial operation targeting offices and data linked to Elon Musk’s social media platform X as part of an inquiry into how the company’s recommendation systems operate, widening the scope to include examination of its artificial intelligence chatbot, Grok. The move places one of the world’s most influential digital platforms under intensified regulatory and legal scrutiny in Europe at a time when […]

Plastic fragments have been detected in fish from some of the most isolated waters of the Pacific, underlining how far synthetic pollution has spread through the world’s oceans. An extensive scientific assessment of fish caught around Fiji, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu found that about one in three specimens contained microplastics, small fragments produced as larger plastic items break down. The findings challenge assumptions that distance from industrial […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Gold prices have swung with an intensity more often associated with speculative equities, unsettling investors who have long treated the metal as a steady store of value. Sharp intraday moves, rapid reversals and heavy retail participation have given bullion trading a momentum-driven character that echoes the behaviour of so-called meme stocks, challenging assumptions about how gold responds to risk, inflation and monetary policy. […]

Spin the lucky windmills at Galaxy Macau to generate vitality and good luck with glittering offers breezing through the luxury resort to shower guests with good fortune

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 – Galaxy Macau, Asia’s leading luxury integrated resort, proudly launches “Start the Year Lucky at Galaxy Macau” Chinese New Year Campaign, inviting guests to embrace good fortune through a curated selection of festive activities, culinary experiences, exclusive shopping privileges and immersive entertainment from February 4 to March 3. Signup on WeChat for Galaxy Ultimate membership to enjoy every bit of each visit.

Start the Year Lucky at Galaxy Macau
Start the Year Lucky at Galaxy Macau

Spin lucky windmills to receive great blessings

This year’s celebrations are built around the central theme of the lucky windmill, a playful and symbolic motif believed to usher in luck. Throughout the season, Galaxy Macau will be adorned with enchanting windmill décor—each spin symbolising the arrival of good fortune. Across Galaxy Promenade, in resemblance of spring flowers in full bloom, giant displays of peach blossom and daffodil windmills symbolise a continuous flow of good fortune and blossoming prosperity. Guests will discover these windmills thoughtfully placed across the resort and are invited to spin selected ones to capture auspicious blessings for the coming Chinese New Year and take wonderful photos, creating visual harmony with the resort’s gilded architecture and inviting visitors to welcome luck at every turn.

This Chinese New Year, spin the lucky windmills at Galaxy Macau to wish for fortune and health, while enjoying the wondrous array of privileges across the award-winning luxury resort.
This Chinese New Year, spin the lucky windmills at Galaxy Macau to wish for fortune and health, while enjoying the wondrous array of privileges across the award-winning luxury resort.

Beginning on February 4, the day marking the start of spring in the traditional lunisolar calendar, Galaxy Macau’s iconic, multisensory Diamond Show will transform into a special seasonal format, accompanied by two gigantic windmills that accentuate the elements of luck, adding dazzling brilliance to the resort’s celebrations. During Chinese New Year, traditional lion dances and God of Fortune greetings will shower auspicious blessings on guests, strengthening the spirit of renewal and good luck throughout the luxury resort.

From February 4 to March 3, guests spending MOP300 or more, or presenting a hotel keycard with holder or same-day show tickets at mall concierge counters at Galaxy Promenade, will receive a lucky gift prepared to spread the vibrant festive greetings.

Families checking in over the festive period can look forward to a rich programme of Chinese New Year–themed workshops at the Galaxy Kidz Edutainment Center. Specially designed for younger hotel guests, these workshops offer engaging, hands‑on experiences that introduce children to festive icons, seasonal crafts and cultural stories associated with the Chinese New Year. These activities not only add playfulness and creativity to the celebrations but also allow children to shape cherished memories during their stays at Galaxy Macau.

Shop at Galaxy Promenade this Chinese New Year for the perfect gifts for loved ones, while receiving captivating rewards and privileges.
Shop at Galaxy Promenade this Chinese New Year for the perfect gifts for loved ones, while receiving captivating rewards and privileges.

Open blind boxes to get lucky rewards

Galaxy Macau’s luxury retail destination – Galaxy Promenade, home to world‑renowned fashion houses, lifestyle brands and specialty boutiques – will further elevate the festive environment with themed storefronts and specially curated gift items. Between February 13 and 23, guests can enjoy up to 6% shopping and dining rebate upon designated spending at Galaxy Promenade, along with the chance to instantly win a Blind Box and receive lucky souvenirs at the brand-new Italian Shopping Area or Pearl Lobby.

Besides house-operated exciting rewards, the house of brands along Galaxy Promenade, such as Cartier, Delvaux, Dior and Prada, will run highlight seasonal activations to maximise the festive ambiance.

Sumptuous festive delicacies await at Galaxy Macau to spread luck, joy, health and togetherness for the Chinese New Year.
Sumptuous festive delicacies await at Galaxy Macau to spread luck, joy, health and togetherness for the Chinese New Year.

Festive delicacies to share good fortune

Central to Galaxy Macau’s Chinese New Year celebrations is an exquisite range of gourmet festive delicacies. Whether enjoyed in a festive reunion meal or as part of traditional seasonal rituals, these delicacies reflect Galaxy Macau’s dedication to culinary excellence.

From February 14 to March 8, “Lai See” dining vouchers will be awarded to guests spending designated amounts at selected restaurants for use during returning visits, so as to maximise the celebratory atmosphere and bring joy to gatherings of family and friends. Festive delights are served at more than 10 Galaxy Macau restaurants, from traditional Chinese to global flavours.

Get lucky at Galaxy Macau’s house of top performance venues while enjoying top tier shows from stars from around the world.
Get lucky at Galaxy Macau’s house of top performance venues while enjoying top tier shows from stars from around the world.

Spectacular entertainment to welcome good fortune

Galaxy Macau’s entertainment offerings shine even brighter during the campaign. This Chinese New Year, Galaxy Macau’s collection of world-class performance venues are filled with spectacular shows.

Besides Hollywood star Jimmy O. Yang’s variety spectacles at Galaxy Arena on February 21 and 22 featuring special guests including singer Jackson Wang, Cantopop star Wan Kwong and rising Hong Kong star musician Tyson Yoshi, K-Pop boy group RIIZE is set to stage the Macau shows of their [RIIZING LOUD] Concert Tour at the same venue on February 7 and February 8.

Chinese singer Tian Zhen, will take the stage at Galaxy Arena on February 19 to mesmerise fans on the third day of the Year of the Horse. Popular star Silence Wang will join the line by performing for three nights from February 27 to March 1 at Galaxy Arena to explain his interpretation of “Rise of Romance”, which is the name of his concert tour.

On February 5, Galaxy Cinemas dazzles with star power, as Hong Kong film “Night King” will present its World Premiere at Galaxy Macau’s East Square with a crew meet-and-greet, featuring some of the biggest names in Hong Kong film industry, led by the director of the film Jack Ng joining the stars and fans.

GalaxyArt presents from now until April 12 the works of pioneer Chinese master copper sculptor Zhu Bingren, an artisan who revived the historic artform through boundless exploration and imagination.
GalaxyArt presents from now until April 12 the works of pioneer Chinese master copper sculptor Zhu Bingren, an artisan who revived the historic artform through boundless exploration and imagination.

The Golden Glow of Art Welcomes the New Year

GalaxyArt, the artistic arm of Galaxy Macau, is presenting “Golden Fortunes: the Macau Debut of Zhu Bingren’s Copper Art” until April 12. National-level artist and pioneer of the “molten copper” artistic technique, Master Zhu joins hands with his son, Mr Zhu Junmin, to showcase at GalaxyArt a series of 68 glittering copper arts and other artforms, some of which being national diplomatic gifts and others – galloping horses and elegant peacocks – wishing good prospects for the New Year. Guests are invited to savour an artistic spring season at Galaxy Macau.

GEG Presents: Lai Chi Vun Shipyards Spring Festival Bazaar of Fortune

Celebrate Chinese New Year together amidst festive cheer at Lai Chi Vun Shipyards! Tradition and excitement converge at this year’s spectacular bazaar, featuring stunning attractions including Macau’s largest display of 302 dancing lion heads—an innovative check-in spot, Chinese New Year limited festive wishing trees, and a popular ice-skating rink. This seasonal celebration will take place from February 14 to 22 and on weekends between February 28 and March 8. With plenty more to explore, the Spring Festival Bazaar of Fortune is the Chinese New Year destination for everyone!

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

StarWorld Hotel will be festively decorated every corner to boost the celebratory atmosphere, amid sumptuous festive delicacies presented by its award-winning culinary team.
StarWorld Hotel will be festively decorated every corner to boost the celebratory atmosphere, amid sumptuous festive delicacies presented by its award-winning culinary team.

StarWorld Hotel dresses up for Chinese New Year

Located in the heart of Macau Peninsula, StarWorld Hotel celebrates the Chinese New Year in parallel style. The hotel will be festively decorated every corner to boost the celebratory atmosphere. Amidst the joyful vibes, guests are invited to savour seasonal delicacies meticulously prepared by StarWorld’s award-winning restaurants – immerse in warm wonders as unlimited gatherings take place.

For more details on StarWorld Hotel, please visit www.starworldmacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau, The 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 the opening-soon 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-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters 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 .

About StarWorld Hotel Macau

StarWorld Hotel, Galaxy Entertainment Group’s (GEG) first five-star flagship hotel, is located in the heart of Macau’s business and entertainment hub on the Macau Peninsula. The iconic 39-storey hotel is famed for its distinctly Asian characteristics of intelligence, experience and innovation and its star-rated quality in hospitality, entertainment, accommodation and dining.

Opened in 2006, StarWorld Hotel is the hub to see everything the city has to offer, and it appeals to tourists from all over the world. Renowned for its ultra-high levels of personal services to guests, StarWorld has won numerous prestigious awards including the 5-Star Diamond Award from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, the Top 100 Hotels of China designation from the China Hotel Industry Summit, the Top 10 Glamorous Hotels of China designation from the China Hotel Starlight Awards, the Supreme Award for the Most Glamorous Hotel of Asia from the Golden Horse Awards of China Hotels and the “Top Class Comfort Hotels” from Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau from 2014 to 2020.

For more information, please visit .

Energy cooperation between India and Bhutan has moved into a sharper operational phase, with both governments signalling alignment on stalled hydropower projects, new transmission corridors and a longer-term framework for electricity trade that underpins Bhutan’s public finances and supports India’s clean-energy transition.

Officials from the two sides held detailed consultations this week focused on accelerating work at the Punatsangchhu hydropower complex and reviving momentum on the long-discussed Sankosh project, while also reviewing cross-border transmission upgrades needed to evacuate power to the Indian grid. The talks came against the backdrop of rising electricity demand in eastern and northern India and Bhutan’s dependence on hydropower exports for fiscal stability.

The centrepiece remains the Punatsangchhu projects on the Punatsangchhu river, split into two plants. Punatsangchhu-I, designed for 1,200 MW, has faced prolonged delays following geological surprises that required major redesign of the dam structure and stabilisation of slopes. Officials familiar with the discussions said construction schedules are now being re-sequenced, with civil works and electro-mechanical installations aligned to a phased commissioning plan rather than a single completion date. Punatsangchhu-II, with a capacity of 1,020 MW, is at a more advanced stage, and planners are focusing on synchronising turbine commissioning with downstream transmission readiness.

Attention has also returned to the Sankosh Hydroelectric Project, a 2,560-MW venture long seen as a potential game-changer for Bhutan’s export capacity. Earlier hesitations over cost, resettlement and environmental impacts had pushed the project into limbo. The latest exchanges indicate a renewed willingness to revisit the detailed project report, reassess financing structures and examine whether a modular execution approach could reduce upfront risks. For Bhutan, Sankosh represents scale and revenue predictability; for India, it offers a large block of firm renewable power that complements solar and wind additions.

Beyond generation, transmission infrastructure featured prominently. Power evacuation from central and western Bhutan requires high-capacity lines linking to India’s eastern grid, where load centres are expanding. Officials reviewed progress on new substations and high-voltage corridors, with an emphasis on synchronising completion timelines to avoid stranded generation. Grid planners also discussed redundancy and resilience, reflecting lessons from weather-related disruptions and the need for stable cross-border flows during peak demand periods.

The partnership rests on an established model in which Indian public sector utilities assist with project execution and financing, while Bhutan retains ownership and earns export revenue. Hydropower accounts for a significant share of Bhutan’s gross domestic product and exports, making timely commissioning critical for debt servicing and social spending. Delays at Punatsangchhu have weighed on fiscal projections, prompting a stronger push for resolution.

For India, the engagement fits into a broader regional energy strategy. Hydropower imports from Bhutan provide dispatchable renewable electricity that balances variable solar output, particularly during evening peaks. Policymakers view this as complementary to domestic clean-energy targets and as a stabilising factor for grid operations. Electricity trade with Bhutan also aligns with New Delhi’s neighbourhood-first approach, where infrastructure and energy ties reinforce diplomatic relations.

Technical experts involved in the discussions highlighted the importance of geotechnical due diligence and adaptive engineering, especially in Himalayan terrain prone to landslides and seismic activity. Updated monitoring systems, revised dam designs and contingency buffers are being incorporated to mitigate risks that previously caused setbacks. Financing terms are also under review to manage cost escalations without overburdening Bhutan’s balance sheet.

Commercial arrangements formed another strand of the talks. Officials examined tariff structures, power purchase agreements and the scope for longer-tenure contracts that provide revenue certainty. There was also discussion on integrating future Bhutanese hydropower into emerging regional electricity markets, which could eventually allow surplus power to be traded beyond bilateral arrangements, subject to regulatory clearances.

By Nitya Chakraborty The announcement on India-US trade deal was expected, but the manner in which both President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi did the same in social media has led to big confusion. After a phone call with Narendra Modi, Trump claimed on Monday that the US had reached a trade arrangement […]

The article Total Confusion Over The Status Of India-US Trade Deal Prevailing appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

  • First-of-its-kind multi-region study on the perceptions of ageing and ageing well officially launched at the Intercontinental Alliance for Integrated Care (IAIC) gala dinner.
  • The study featured insights from five member regions to advance support for ageing.
  • The Alliance welcomed seven new members, strengthened its local chapters and handed over 2026 hosting duties to the United Kingdom.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2025 – The Intercontinental Alliance for Integrated Care (IAIC), hosted by the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), today launched its first-ever multi-region study on the perceptions of ageing and ageing well. Now in its second edition, the Alliance’s annual flagship event IAIC 2025 brought together partners from across Asia, Europe, and North America, including new members from Estonia, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and Chinese Taipei, to advance new knowledge, partnerships and innovations shaping the future of ageing and integrated care.

Launch of the IAIC Multi-Region Study Report

Led by SUSS and co-developed with IAIC members, the multi-region study – A Study on Perceptions of Ageing and Ageing Well: Exploring Older Adults’ Experiences and Coping Strategies Across Regions – draws insights from five regions: Singapore, Canada, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR and the United Kingdom. It examines how older adults across different societies understand ageing, navigate later-life transitions and define what it means to age well.

Guest-of-Honour, Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor, SUSS, at the official launch of the IAIC Multi-Region study.
Guest-of-Honour, Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor, SUSS, at the official launch of the IAIC Multi-Region study.

Placing the lived experiences of older adults at its core, the study offers a clearer picture of what ageing well means to them and underscores the role of families, communities and care systems in shaping those experiences. It provides a cross-cultural view of older adults’ aspirations and coping strategies, revealing how social, economic and policy contexts influence their day-to-day realities. Insights from Brunei and Thailand will be incorporated in the next phase and shared progressively.

Across regions, the findings highlight a common theme: ageing is shaped not only by biological changes, but also by social and cultural contexts. A recurring paradox emerges – despite physical decline, many older adults continue to experience purpose, connection and well-being.

Singapore Chapter: Local Insights into Ageing Well

Within this broader landscape, the Singapore chapter adds depth to how these themes manifest locally, drawing on responses from about 1,000 survey respondents and 15 in-depth interviews. Several key insights emerged on how older Singaporeans understand and experience ageing. For instance:

  • Women aged 75–84 placed higher value on family and close relationships than men of the same age bracket, underscoring the central role of social bonds. Staying socially connected helps them remain emotionally engaged and supported by strong community ties. Men, by contrast, are more vulnerable to isolation after retirement, particularly when their identities were closely tied to work.
  • The study also highlighted “mastery” – the belief that one can still influence the course of one’s life – as a strong predictor of successful ageing. Older adults with a strong sense of mastery tend to stay socially connected, feel more satisfied, and continue pursuing activities that bring purpose and joy. They remain active not simply because they are physically stronger, but because they believe their actions continue to matter.

For the full report, please visit https://suss.to/iaic2025-report.

Associate Professor Justina Tan, Vice President of Strategic Partnership and Engagement at SUSS and Principal Investigator for the study, shared “As Singapore becomes ‘super-aged’ next year, the multi-region study aims to provide us with invaluable insights to guide more targeted policies and interventions. By understanding the unique needs and aspirations of our older adults, we can design programmes that not only preserve autonomy and foster meaningful conversations but also ensure that support is tailored to help every senior thrive in their own way.”

Following today’s launch, the IAIC partners will move into the implementation phase, where each country will adapt insights into on-the-ground pilot initiatives within their local care systems.

IAIC 2025: Beyond Borders, Beyond Age

Themed “Beyond Borders, Beyond Age: Shaping Tomorrow’s Tapestry of Integrated Care”, IAIC 2025 convened like-minded partners such as academic institutions, care providers, policymakers, and innovators across regions to shape care systems that transcend geographical, generational, and institutional boundaries.

Across the two-day programme, delegates took part in discussions, learning journeys and collaborative sessions focused on integrated care and healthy ageing. A key highlight was a visit to TOUCHpoint@AMK 433 this morning, where participants learned about Singapore’s community-based approaches to ageing well and supporting seniors to age in place.

The event culminated in a gala dinner at Conrad Singapore Marina Bay, where Guest-of-Honour, Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor, SUSS, witnessed the official launch of the multi-region study together with IAIC representatives from Singapore, Canada, Mainland China and the United Kingdom.

In her address, Mdm Halimah said “Ageing is not a burden to be managed. It is a season of life to be respected, supported, and reimagined, where every person, regardless of age, continues to have value, voice, and belonging.” She added, “As we look to the future, the challenge of ageing will test every society’s capacity for compassion, creativity, and courage. It also offers a profound opportunity to redefine what it means to live and age well, and to reaffirm our shared humanity.”

Alliance Expansion and New Local Chapters

IAIC 2025 also marked a significant milestone for the Alliance with the addition of seven new member institutions, welcomed through a symbolic handprint ceremony. Led by SUSS, the IAIC is supported by 12 founding members across Asia, Europe and North America, each contributing expertise in ageing and integrated care.

This year, the Alliance expanded its network with the following new members:

  • Jeonbuk National University (South Korea)
  • Center for Sports Science and Healthy Aging, National Cheng Kung University (Chinese Taipei)
  • National Mental Health and Welfare Commission (South Korea)
  • Public Health Foundation India (India)
  • Tallinn University (Estonia)
  • Teikyo University (Japan)
  • Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (Malaysia)

SUSS also formalised two new Local Chapter Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Presbyterian Community Social Services Limited and Singapore Hospice Council. These partnerships seek to strengthen community-based initiatives, pilot projects and workforce development in integrated care, while advancing applied research and fostering innovation to better serve community needs.

Intergenerational Fashion Runway Featuring Seniors and Young Designers

A highlight of the gala dinner was a vibrant intergenerational fashion showcase co-created by seniors from Lions Befrienders and student-designers from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), University of the Arts Singapore (UAS), in partnership with SUSS.

Themed “Tapestry of Style: Weaving Generations Together through Fashion,” the showcase brought together lived experience, creativity and technical skill as seniors and students co-designed each ensemble. It celebrated seniors as active creators, spotlighting their stories, perspectives and style while demonstrating the value of intergenerational collaboration.

Passing the Baton

IAIC 2025 drew to a meaningful close with a symbolic handover ceremony, where SUSS formally passed hosting duties to Royal Holloway, University of London, which will host IAIC 2026. After two years of stewardship in Singapore, the Alliance now continues its journey of learning and collaboration beyond Singapore’s shores.

The handover highlighted IAIC’s rotating stewardship model and its commitment to continuity, shared leadership and cross-border knowledge exchange. It reaffirmed the Alliance’s vision of a global community working together to advance integrated care through partnership, research and collective progress.

Professor Tan Tai Yong, President, SUSS, said “The Intercontinental Alliance for Integrated Care reinforces a collective commitment across regions to rethinking how societies can better support ageing populations. SUSS is proud to take the lead in convening this year’s Alliance and in spearheading the multi-region study with our partners. The intergenerational elements woven into this year’s edition – from the study’s findings to the collaborative fashion showcase with Lions Befrienders and the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts – remind us that strengthening care systems requires the voices, creativity and participation of all ages.”
Hashtag: #IAIC2025 #SUSS #HealthyAgeing #IntegratedCare #ActiveAgeing #SeniorsWellbeing #PublicHealth #SocialCare #Gerontology #AgeFriendlySociety


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

About Singapore University of Social Sciences

At SUSS, we have a singular vision to be a university that inspires learning for life and impacts lives, regardless of age, background or life path. Our university is a vibrant tapestry of ages and experiences. From recent JC and polytechnic graduates to seasoned professionals, parents seeking new horizons and individuals redefining their careers in their golden years—our diverse community comes together for one common goal: to empower themselves with an education that impacts lives and society.

We offer more than 110 undergraduate and graduate programmes, available in full- and part-time study modes which are flexible, modular and interdisciplinary, catering to both fresh school leavers and adult learners. SUSS also offers a broad range of continuing education and training modular courses for the professional skills upgrading of Singapore’s workforce.

Our programmes and courses are offered by our six schools:

  • S R Nathan School of Human Development
  • School of Business
  • School of Humanities & Behavioural Sciences
  • School of Law
  • School of Science & Technology
  • School of Social Work & Social Development

Since becoming an Autonomous University in 2017, over 25,000 graduates have experienced our unique brand of education. More than 19,000 students are currently pursuing their full- and part-time studies with us.

The Institute for Adult Learning (IAL), as part of SUSS, leads in the field of research on adult and workplace learning and training of adult educators to build capabilities of the training and adult education sector in Singapore and beyond.

For more information about SUSS, please visit .

Cochin International Airport Ltd has begun the procurement process for hydrogen fuel cell electric buses, positioning the Kochi hub to operate what is being described by officials as the country’s first airport-based fleet powered entirely by hydrogen. The move places ground transport at the airport within a wider transition to low-emission mobility and aligns with Kerala’s push to build a hydrogen ecosystem tied to national climate and energy goals.

The plan covers the purchase and operation of three hydrogen fuel cell buses to handle airside passenger movement, a segment traditionally dominated by diesel vehicles. Airport authorities say the buses will be deployed on routes linking terminals and remote aircraft bays, where stop-start driving and idling make emissions reductions particularly challenging. The project is being executed by Cochin International Airport through its airport operating company, which has already gained global attention for running entirely on solar power.

The initiative forms part of the Kerala Hydrogen Valley programme, a state-led framework intended to aggregate demand, anchor pilot projects and attract private investment into hydrogen production, storage and end-use. State officials describe the airport deployment as a visible demonstration use case that can validate hydrogen technology in public transport settings and reduce perceived risk for other operators. The hydrogen valley concept is designed to link generation from renewable sources with consumers such as mobility providers, ports and industrial users, building scale over time rather than relying on isolated pilots.

At the national level, the project sits under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which targets the creation of a domestic hydrogen market and seeks to lower the cost of green hydrogen through incentives, demand aggregation and infrastructure support. The mission, backed by the Government of India, prioritises applications where hydrogen can displace fossil fuels in hard-to-abate sectors, including transport, fertilisers and refining. Aviation ground operations have emerged as a promising niche because fleets are centrally managed and refuelling can be controlled within secure perimeters.

Airport officials say the buses under procurement will be fuel cell electric vehicles, generating electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water vapour as the only tailpipe emission. Compared with battery-electric buses, hydrogen vehicles offer faster refuelling and longer range, features considered important for continuous airport operations. The buses will require dedicated refuelling infrastructure within the airport campus, and plans include on-site safety systems and training for personnel handling hydrogen.

Industry analysts note that hydrogen mobility in the country remains at an early stage, with high vehicle costs and limited refuelling networks acting as constraints. Fuel cell buses can cost several times more than diesel equivalents, and the economics depend heavily on access to competitively priced green hydrogen. Kerala’s approach has been to pair demand-side pilots with efforts to scale renewable-powered hydrogen production, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels while addressing local air quality concerns.

Kochi airport’s history of renewable adoption has been cited by policymakers as a reason it was selected for the hydrogen bus deployment. The airport became the first fully solar-powered airport in the world and has since expanded its renewable portfolio, including battery storage and electric vehicle charging for landside transport. By extending decarbonisation to airside mobility, the airport is attempting to address a segment that contributes to operational emissions but often receives less public scrutiny than aircraft themselves.

Transport experts caution that the success of the hydrogen buses will depend on operational reliability and lifecycle emissions, not just tailpipe performance. Green hydrogen must be produced using renewable electricity to deliver meaningful climate benefits, and storage and distribution losses need to be minimised. Safety protocols will also be closely watched, given hydrogen’s flammability, although proponents point out that fuel cell vehicles have been operating in several countries under stringent standards.

The Kochi deployment is being monitored by other airports and urban transport authorities exploring alternatives to diesel. Several metropolitan transport agencies have trialled electric buses, while hydrogen has so far been limited to a handful of demonstration projects in public transport. If the airport fleet performs as expected, officials believe it could accelerate adoption in other controlled environments such as ports, logistics hubs and industrial campuses.

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