Revolut has moved to position itself at the centre of the next phase of digital payments after confirming that its Revolut Pay service will support Google’s Agent Payments Protocol, a framework designed to allow artificial intelligence agents to complete transactions on behalf of users. The integration is expected to extend one-tap checkout functionality across the UK and the wider European Economic Area, signalling a shift in how […]
By Nitya Chakraborty 2025 was the year of the maverick U.S. President Donald Trump. The developments during the year beginning January 20 evolved around Trump. He was the key decision-maker, irrespective of what other countries leaders felt. He cared little for the United Nations, WTO, WHO and all other multilateral bodies. He openly said ‘I […]
The article 2025 Was Donald Trump’s Year But 2026 Is Going To Be The Year With Xi Jinping’s Domination appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
Vercel has unveiled a new product called Skills, positioning it as a shared marketplace of reusable capabilities for AI coding assistants and framing it internally as an “npm for AI agents”. The launch reflects growing pressure on developers and platform companies to bring consistency, security and best practices to the rapidly expanding use of autonomous and semi-autonomous coding tools across production environments. According to the company, Skills […]
First Shell Recharge Electric School Bus Charging Station installed in CUHK
As one of the leading global energy companies, Shell continues to focus on its strategy to deliver more value with less emissions while working to become a net-zero emissions business by 2050, contributing to global decarbonisation. This year, Shell installed CUHK’s first Shell Recharge electric school bus charging station, featuring two fast chargers with a power output of 120 kW, ensuring rapid and efficient energy replenishment for CUHK’s electric school buses. At the same time, Shell consistently upholds high safety standards, with stringent controls in the design, installation, and operation of the charging station to ensure a safe and reliable electric vehicle charging experience.
Since 2018, Shell has supported CUHK’s sustainability initiatives by supplying Shell FuelSave Diesel B5 for the university’s fleet, helping reduce emissions and enhancing operational efficiency. The collaboration has expanded with the introduction of fast-charging facilities further modernises CUHK’s transportation system and accelerates the adoption of innovative low-carbon technologies. Looking ahead, Shell will continue to work with CUHK to lead the development of advanced mobility solutions and demonstrate leadership in campus sustainability.
Mr. Yew Chong Tan, General Manager of Shell Commercial Fuels East, commented, “At Shell, we are committed to working with customers and partners to provide holistic energy solutions that power progress together. The installation of this electric school bus charging station at The Chinese University of Hong Kong exemplifies our dedication to such collaboration as we navigate the energy transition.”
First Hybrid School Bus to Begin Operates at CUHK
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) has provided CUHK with the first hybrid school bus ever deployed on a Hong Kong campus, which helps reduce diesel consumption and lower exhaust emissions compared to regular diesel coaches. When utilizing fast charging directly, it can reach an 80% battery charge in as little as 25 minutes.
Mr. Yonghai Du, Chief Innovation Officer of HKPC and General Manager, Centre of Advanced Power and Autonomous Systems (APAS), added, “This 12-meter plug-in hybrid bus is the first green transport project designed, developed, and assembled in Hong Kong by APAS, funded by the Innovation and Technology Fund and supported by our industry partners. This collaboration exemplifies the shared commitment of academia and industry to social responsibility. HKPC will continue to pioneer diverse innovative solutions, foster collaboration among ‘Government, industry, academia, research, investment, and applications’, expand the application demonstration of new technologies, products, and scenarios, and drive the transition towards green transportation.”
CUHK Advances Low-Carbon Transportation
These two major initiatives not only highlight CUHK’s dedication to sustainable development but also set a new standard for environmentally conscious transformation in transportation across Hong Kong.
Mr. Simon Lee, Director of Security and Transport at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, stated, “CUHK is committed to promoting sustainable development and embedding environmental protection principles within daily campus operations. By installing the EV charging station and introducing the hybrid campus bus, we aim to offer convenient transportation for staff and students while reducing carbon emissions and achieving low-carbon mobility. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Shell for its strong support of the charging station project and to the Hong Kong Productivity Council for its professional assistance in introducing the hybrid campus bus, enabling us to jointly drive campus transportation toward a new green milestone.”
Hashtag: #Shell #CUHK #ElectricBusChargingStation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi is set to host the 30th Gulf Cooperation Council Swimming Championship from January 22 to 25, bringing together around 200 male and female swimmers from six Gulf countries in what organisers describe as the largest and most competitive edition to date. The four-day event will be staged at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Sports Center and will feature age categories ranging from […]
Pressure is building on academic institutions across the United Kingdom to reassess their presence on X, as concerns over platform governance, content moderation and reputational risk sharpen following a series of controversies linked to the social media network owned by Elon Musk. Data tracking institutional behaviour suggests higher education may be nearing a decisive shift, with more universities poised to disengage than remain active. Debate over academic […]
OpenAI is preparing to introduce its first dedicated device later this year, marking a shift from being solely a software-led artificial intelligence company to one that also delivers consumer hardware designed around its models and services. The plan, acknowledged by people familiar with the company’s roadmap and echoed in public remarks by senior executives, signals OpenAI’s ambition to embed its technology more directly into everyday use beyond […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Two students from Georgetown University in Qatar have secured places in the highly selective Schwartzman Scholars programme, marking a notable academic milestone for the Doha-based campus and underscoring the growing links between Middle East institutions and leading centres of study in China. Kingwell Ma and Zarrish Ahmed have been awarded fully funded, one-year master’s degrees in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, […]
Microsoft has released XAML Studio as open-source software, opening up a Windows app design tool that had remained proprietary since its launch eight years ago, in a move aimed at rebuilding trust and momentum among developers working on modern Windows interfaces. The company confirmed that the source code for XAML Studio has been published under a permissive licence, allowing developers to inspect, modify and contribute to the […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Sharjah’s cultural publishing push is being highlighted at one of the Arab world’s most prominent literary gatherings, with more than 1,000 publications showcased by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage at the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair, opening on January 21 and running until February 3, 2026. Sharjah Institute for Heritage is presenting a wide-ranging catalogue that reflects decades of research […]
A Milestone in Sustainable Operations & Facility Management
Storefriendly stated: “Achieving this Excellent rating reinforces our commitment to ESG goals. By optimizing our operations management, we ensure that our self-storage facilities are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible, providing our customers with a superior and greener storage experience.”
Selective Scheme Focuses on Building Performance Across Key Assessment Areas
BEAM Plus EB reviews a building’s sustainability performance through multiple assessment areas, including Site, Management, Materials & Waste, Energy Use, Water, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation. Within these, the Management aspect places strong emphasis on responsible management practices and measures that promote the sustainable operation of building spaces. Achieving an Excellent rating in this aspect further validates Storefriendly’s ongoing investment and results in day-to-day operations management and its broader sustainability strategy.
Integrating Smart Technology with Green Logistics
Storefriendly continues to invest in cutting-edge technology—including AI-powered customer service systems and Safety Box. By combining smart access controls with energy-efficient facility management, the Group enhances both security and operational performance. This HKGBC recognition serves as a roadmap for the Group’s future, as it strives to modernize the mini storage industry with forward-thinking, sustainable solutions for both personal and business clients.
The following five Storefriendly Tower properties have been certified by HKGBC and included in the Existing Buildings portfolio assessment:
1. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula East): 82 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong
2. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis East): 13 Yip Cheong Street, Fanling, New Territories
3. Storefriendly Tower (Island East): 8 A Kung Ngam Village Road, Shau Kei Wan
4. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula West): 850-870 Lai Chi Kok Road, Cheung Sha Wan
5. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis West): 22-28 Tai Chung Road, Tsuen Wan
Hashtag: #Storefriendly
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Founded in 2002, Storefriendly Self Storage Group is one of Asia’s leading self-storage brands, with operations across Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, and Taiwan. The Group operates over 90 branches and more than 40,000 storage units. Over half of its branches are self-owned properties, conveniently located and equipped with 24-hour smart access and comprehensive security systems, providing safe and flexible storage solutions for both individual and business customers. The Group continues to invest in technology—including AI-powered customer service, wine storage, and smart safety boxes—to elevate service quality through innovation and deliver an enhanced storage experience.
Visit Storefriendly: 
https://www.store-friendly.com/en/
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Municipality has invited bids from prequalified developers and consortiums for a key phase of the Dubai Strategic Sewerage Tunnels programme, signalling momentum on one of the emirate’s largest long-term infrastructure undertakings aimed at overhauling wastewater collection and transfer. The authority said requests for proposal have been issued for the Phase II Links Package of the project, which is designed to connect outlying […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia, led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, is set to take part in the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026, underlining Riyadh’s effort to shape global economic and political debates at a time of shifting trade patterns, energy transitions and geopolitical uncertainty. Officials familiar with the plans said the delegation would include […]
Greenlogue/AP Abu Dhabi’s flagship Al Dhafra Solar Photovoltaic Independent Power Plant has secured long-term refinancing through a major green bond issuance worth US$870.75 million, underscoring the emirate’s ambition to anchor clean energy financing in global capital markets. The transaction was announced during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 by a consortium led by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC, working alongside Emirates Water and Electricity Company, Abu Dhabi […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi-based clean energy company Masdar has reached financial close on the Ibri III Solar Independent Power Project in Oman, marking a milestone for the sultanate’s power sector as it brings together utility-scale solar generation with battery energy storage for the first time. The project is being developed by a consortium comprising Masdar, Al Khadra Partners, Korea Midland Power Co. and OQ Alternative […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai is preparing to introduce electric air taxis into commercial service before the end of the year, marking a pivotal step in the emirate’s push to reshape urban mobility through cleaner, faster transport options. The timeline was outlined by Mattar Al Tayer, chairman of the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, who said regulatory approvals and infrastructure preparations are advancing in parallel with […]
Greenlogue/AP A consortium led by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company Masdar has achieved financial close for Oman’s first utility-scale solar power project integrated with battery energy storage, marking a significant step in the Sultanate’s clean energy transition and long-term decarbonisation strategy. The project, located in the Wilayat of Manah in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate, is designed to supply enough electricity to power about 33,000 homes while avoiding […]
Meta Platforms has exempted Brazil from a policy that barred third-party artificial intelligence chatbots from operating through WhatsApp’s Business API, adjusting its global stance after intervention by the country’s competition authority. The decision allows businesses in Brazil to continue deploying external AI tools on WhatsApp, reversing a restriction that had drawn complaints from technology firms and raised concerns about market foreclosure. The change follows scrutiny by Brazil’s […]
Dubai Shopping Festival 2026 has transformed Mercato and Town Centre Jumeirah into a focal point for entertainment-led retail, drawing families and tourists with a blend of live performances, promotional campaigns and prize-driven shopping incentives that underline the emirate’s strategy of linking leisure with commerce. Running until 1 February, the festival’s programme at Mercato reflects a broader push by Dubai’s retail sector to sustain footfall through experiential attractions […]
ONYX Hospitality Group oversees renowned brands including Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence across key destinations in the Asia–Pacific region. This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening ONYX’s presence in the Chinese market. Scheduled to open in Q4 2026, the hotel supports ONYX’s long-term growth strategy as it works toward its target of managing more than 75 properties by 2030.
Mr Yuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, commented: “This collaboration reflects the strong confidence Yee Fung Group has in ONYX, following our successful partnership in managing Y Hotel Hong Kong. It represents a significant step forward in building on that success and further expanding ONYX’s presence in the Greater China market. At the same time, this partnership reinforces ONYX’s position as a distinctive ‘Regional Player’, well-positioned for stable and sustainable growth across the region.”
Y Hotel Nanshan Shenzhen featuring 82 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites, located within YEE FUNG PLACE on a strategically significant site surrounded by key national infrastructure. The area is supported by five major national sea and land ports, including Shekou, Chiwan and Mawan, servicing more than 150 shipping routes. It is also situated at the heart of one of China’s leading innovation and industrial hubs, home to sectors such as integrated circuits, artificial intelligence, biomedicine and the marine economy, alongside more than 50 specialised industrial parks.
Y Hotel Nanshan Shenzhen is ideally suited for leisure travellers, offering convenient accessibility just 35 minutes from Shenzhen Baoan International Airport and 31 minutes from Shenzhen North Railway Station, and only 650 metres from Lilin Subway Station. The surrounding area features vibrant food markets and nightlife destinations such as Nanyi Fang, Shekou Sea World, Green World and Houhai, as well as cultural and recreational attractions including Shenzhen Poly Theatre, Shenzhen Talent Park, Nanshan Museum, Nanshan Park and Shenzhen Bay Park. Guests will also find leading shopping centres nearby, including Walmart, Xinhe Shopping Plaza, Garden City, Haiya Mega Mall, Coastal City and Shenzhen Bay MixC.
Furthermore, the hotel is located close to the headquarters of major national technology companies such as ZTE, Tencent, Huawei, Alibaba, Han’s Laser and Mindray, as well as Shenzhen University, positioning it as both a relaxing retreat and a strategic hub for business travellers seeking comfort alongside a distinctive lifestyle experience.Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup #YeeFungGroup #YHotel #HospitalityManagement #HotelManagement #LifestyleHotel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group/
https://www.facebook.com/ONYXHospitalityGroup
https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in Southeast Asia’s hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence – catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers in Southeast Asia where their expertise lies. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food and beverage. With over five decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers.
More information: www.onyx-hospitality.com
HONG KONG/BANGKOK – EQS Newswire – 16 January 2026 – Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited (“Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group”, the “Group” or the “Company”; SEHK stock code: 1929), the global Chinese luxury group built on a nearly-century old legacy of trust and innovation, announces the opening of a key strategic store in Bangkok, Thailand, within the iconic Siam Paragon, as well as the appointment of acclaimed Chinese actor Yang Yang as its Global Brand Ambassador. These initiatives mark significant milestones in the Group’s brand transformation journey as it redefines global luxury through Chinese craftmanship and artistry.
The Group, which operates over 5,000 stores globally with a market capitalisation of approximately HK$122 billion, equivalent to US$16 billion, (as of 31 December 2025), is strengthening its presence in luxury destinations across international markets as part of its brand transformation. The new store at a Southeast Asian luxury retail landmark showcases Chow Tai Fook Jewellery’s blend of modern sophistication with the richness imbued by cultural heritage.
In addition, the appointment of Global Brand Ambassador Yang Yang reflects the commitment to engaging new audiences and deepening emotional resonance with overseas consumers. Yang Yang, a renowned globally recognised Chinese actor, is set to strengthen the brand’s presence in key international markets, positioning it as a modern, elegant embodiment of Chinese luxury on the world stage.
A New Expression of Heritage and Modern Luxury
The new Siam Paragon store features the brand’s iconic “Chow Tai Fook Timeless Red” throughout. The space celebrates the beauty of Chinese craftsmanship and artistry with the use of refined materials and thoughtful lighting that create a warm, gallery-like ambience. To build connections and emotional resonance, the Group is introducing a selection of Thai-exclusive pieces that honour local culture.
“As we advance our dynamic brand transformation journey, curating exceptional retail experiences in international markets is pivotal in Chow Tai Fook Jewellery’s overseas expansion strategy. This expansion is part of our ambition to establish Chow Tai Fook Jewellery as a leading force in global luxury, while reinforcing our legacy of innovation, excellence, and cultural resonance,” said Ms Sonia Cheng, Vice-chairman of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group.
She further remarked: “Another key aspect of our strategic vision is the appointment of Yang Yang as our Global Brand Ambassador. Through this alliance, we will cultivate a refined and contemporary identity for a Chinese luxury brand on the world stage.”
Accelerating Global Reach to Redefine Luxury Across Borders
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery’s international business expansion is guided by a two-pronged approach: revitalising key existing markets and expanding into high-potential new territories for sustainable growth. With around 60 points of sales across international markets in 1HFY2026 (April to September 2025), the Group’s retail sales in Other Markets segment (including China duty-free) grew nearly 17% year-on-year.
The opening of the Siam Paragon store follows the debut of the Group’s first newly designed store in Southeast Asia, which opened at Singapore Changi Airport in November 2025. Building on this momentum, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery is set to further expand its international retail network, with plans to open its first store in Australia and an additional store in Canada by the end of June 2026. The Group also intends to expand into the Middle East market within two years.
Redefining Global Luxury Through Chinese Artistry
In celebration of its 95th anniversary, the Group embarked on a brand transformation journey in 2024 to redefine global luxury. By blending heritage with contemporary iconic designs, the Group showcases the beauty of China to the world through exquisite jewellery that honours tradition while embracing modern elegance.
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery is the first Chinese jewellery brand to appoint a Creative Director with international perspectives and exposure, underscoring its commitment to innovative design and narrative-driven branding. Led by Creative Director of High Jewellery, Nicholas Lieou, the Group introduced its signature collections, including the CTF Rouge and CTF Joie Collections.
Hashtag: #ChowTaiFook
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MNA Ventures, a premier diversified holding group and “one-stop-shop” conglomerate, today released its 2025 Year-End Summary. The report details a transformative period of internal optimization and aggressive international growth, reinforcing the group’s position as a global parent entity across the UAE, Europe, and emerging markets. Throughout 2025, MNA Ventures continued to execute its “solutions-first” strategy—developing internal tools to resolve complex corporate challenges before scaling them into market-leading subsidiaries. […]
By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers When India’s finance minister Ms Nirmala Sitharaman rises to present the 7th Union Budget on February 1, a record of sorts, the moment will carry an uncommon weight. This is no routine fiscal exercise, no mere balancing of columns and commas. Instead, the budget is being cast — by industry leaders, […]
The article 2026-27 Budget Offers Modi Govt A Great Opportunity To Reshape Strategy appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
Organised by MP Singapore, and presented by the Franchising & Licensing Association (Singapore), FLAsia 2026 marks a new chapter for the long-running industry event as it enters its 21st edition under a new organiser partnership. The appointment of MP Singapore brings expanded regional reach, deeper industry engagement and a strengthened focus on business outcomes for exhibitors and visitors across Asia.
FLAsia 2026 is expected to welcome more than 7,000 trade visitors and over 250 exhibiting brands from franchising, licensing, character IP, retail concepts and emerging business models. The event will continue to serve as a central marketplace for brand owners, franchisors, licensors, investors and entrepreneurs to connect, explore partnerships and identify expansion opportunities across regional and international markets.
Building on the momentum from previous edition, the Brand Licensing Village will return in 2026. The dedicated zone will spotlight locally developed intellectual property that has already been successfully commercialised, offering visitors a focused platform to discover market-ready IP, connect with licensing experts and explore collaboration opportunities across categories. The Licensing Village reinforces FLAsia’s role in supporting IP growth and brand extension within the region’s licensing ecosystem.
On the franchising front, the Chinese Franchise Conference will make a return, reflecting continued interest from Chinese brands and investors seeking expansion opportunities across Southeast Asia and beyond. Curated in collaboration with key industry stakeholders, the conference will provide targeted insights, market perspectives and networking opportunities for Chinese franchise brands and regional partners.
FLAsia 2026 will also feature international pavilions and brand participation from key markets, with brands from Korea, Thailand and other regional economies expected to be present, further strengthening the show’s international profile. Alongside the exhibition showcase, the event will include curated business sessions, industry sharing, talent and career touchpoints, and dedicated zones highlighting innovation, IP development and brand growth, reinforcing FLAsia’s position as a leading gateway for franchising and licensing opportunities in Asia.
“Partnering with MP Singapore marks a dynamic leap forward for FLAsia. Together, we’re amplifying the event’s influence and reach, ensuring the franchising and licensing community thrives as the industry surges across Asia.” Mr Gan Shee Wen, President, Franchising & Licensing Association (Singapore).
“FLAsia is a well-established platform with strong industry trust, and we are pleased to be organising the event for the first time. By leveraging on MP’s global network, we will connect brands, partners and stakeholders in a way that will foster an environment that encourages collaboration, supports quality participation and drives tangible outcomes for both exhibitors and visitors. We are excited to grow FLAsia alongside the industry in the years ahead.” Jason Ng, Managing Director of MP Group.
Franchising & Licensing Asia has, over the years, established itself as a key business platform for brands seeking growth, market entry and partnership opportunities in Asia. With Singapore as its springboard, the event continues to attract regional and international participation, reinforcing its role as a gateway to Asian markets.
More information about FLAsia 2026 can be found at www.franchiselicenseasia.com.
Hashtag: #FLAsia2026 #Franchising #Licensing #BrandExpansion #TradeShowAsia #BusinessNetworking
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Franchising & Licensing Asia (FLAsia) – 21st Edition – Asia’s leading marketplace for franchising and licensing, FLAsia brings together reputable brand owners, business leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to create a dynamic platform for accelerating business growth, expanding professional networks, and increasing brand visibility across the vibrant Asian market. FLAsia provides the chance for exhibitors to showcase unique business concepts, engage in face-to-face meetings with high quality visitors and create meaningful business connections. Visitors get to connect directly with brand owners, franchisors, licensors, industry experts, and like-minded leaders, attend insightful conferences, and access high quality business opportunities.
Franchising and Licensing Association (FLA Singapore), one of the founding members of the World Franchise Council, was established in 1993 with the mission to nurture and develop Singapore’s franchising industry. An essential component of Singapore’s knowledge-based economy, FLA Singapore promotes and facilitates the use of franchising, licensing and branding as a growth strategy for Singapore enterprises, thus contributing to turning Singapore into a regional franchise and license hub.
Through its partnership with Singapore government agencies and international franchise and license bodies, FLA Singapore also assists its members in their international development programmes. With an active growing membership of close to 150 companies, representing more than 250 strong brands, FLA (Singapore) is led and managed by a dedicated team of advisors, committee members and a full-time secretariat with the goal of supporting Singapore companies to expand internationally.
The MP Singapore (MP) is a global full-service agency that specialises in connecting and building eco-systems, industry engagement, events management and marketing. Established since 1987, MP embodies more than a quarter century of event building, marketing and management experience in both Eastern and Western cultures, practices, and business philosophies. We bring world-class talent, industry expertise, and incredible enthusiasm into the design and management of extraordinary online-to-offline experiences for your organisation.
MP is part of Pico Group, a global group of agencies specialising in engaging people, creating experiences and activating brands for businesses, institutions and governments. As part of the Pico group, MP has unlimited access to a wide network of industry contacts and resources. Pico Far East Holdings has been listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since 1992.
