Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi-based conglomerate International Holding Company and the United States’ Development Finance Corporation have agreed to jointly deploy capital across emerging and frontier markets, marking one of the most ambitious investment alignments yet between a Gulf corporate heavyweight and Washington’s global development finance arm. The agreement, announced by both parties, sets out a framework to invest at scale in sectors considered critical […]
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2026– CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. (CDL Academy), the learning and development arm of YTL Cement Group, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 January 2026 to strengthen collaboration in talent development, applied learning, and sustainable construction practices for Malaysia’s engineering sector.
(from left to right): Datuk Aziyah Mohamed, Co-chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Dato’ Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria, Chairman of CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd., Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Bin Mohd Rahim, Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Associate Professor Ir. Dr. Noor Nabilah Sarbini, Director, Forensic Engineering Centre of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia during the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia.
The MoU was signed by UTM Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim and CDL Academy Chairman Dato’ Sr. Mohd Zaid Zakaria. It formalises the ongoing partnership between the two organisations and aims to provide students with industry exposure and practical experience, preparing them for careers in the construction sector.
Under the agreement, UTM and CDL Academy will pursue initiatives including professional training programmes, student internships, academic exchanges, workshops, seminars, and innovation projects in green building materials, advanced construction technologies, and cost management solutions.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is Malaysia’s premier university for engineering, science, and technology, committed to building partnerships that enrich research output and provide students with real-world learning opportunities. The collaboration with CDL Academy exemplifies UTM’s efforts to equip graduates with the skills and experience needed to contribute effectively to the nation’s development.
Since its inception in 2019, CDL Academy has delivered over 100 seminars and learning engagements, benefiting more than 10,000 participants across the construction and engineering ecosystem. The collaboration with UTM expands these efforts, supporting the development of industry-ready graduates and addressing emerging needs in sustainable construction and advanced building technologies.
The MoU will be in effect for three years, with opportunities for renewal. Coordinators from both parties will oversee programme development to ensure measurable outcomes for students, researchers, and the construction industry. Hashtag: #YTLCement, #CDLAcademy, #UTM, #ESG, #Sustainability, #Construction, #SustainableConstruction
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
CDL Academy Sdn Bhd
CDL Academy Sdn. Bhd. is the professional learning and development platform of the YTL Cement Group, established to support training and talent development within the construction industry. CDL Academy focuses on developing well-trained, industry-ready professionals through structured training and practical knowledge-sharing.
Beyond technical disciplines, CDL Academy serves as a hub for knowledge exchange, innovation and collaboration. It brings together practitioners, academics and universities, as well as industry leaders, industry associations and governing bodies through training programmes, seminars, workshops and strategic partnerships.
Through its commitment to quality education and best-practice sharing, CDL Academy aims to contribute to strengthening industry talent pipelines, supporting university–industry collaboration, and supporting the long-term advancement and sustainability of the construction ecosystem.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a premier public research university in Malaysia, specialising in engineering, science and technology. Located in Johor Bahru and with a campus in Kuala Lumpur, UTM is committed to producing globally competitive graduates and advancing cutting-edge research that addresses national and global challenges.
Apple has agreed to a multiyear partnership with Google that will see the Gemini artificial intelligence model integrated into Siri, marking one of the most significant shifts in Apple’s approach to core software in over a decade. The agreement, valued at about $1 billion a year, is aimed at delivering a substantially more capable version of Siri by 2026, as competition in generative AI intensifies across […]
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 January 2026 – Running shoes brand Xtep has announced that it will form a joint venture with Bonia, a distributor with over 50 years of market expertise in Malaysia, to jointly develop the Malaysian market. Analysts indicate that this move will accelerate Xtep’s drive to become the leading running brand in Southeast Asia. Notably, this new strategic direction also involves an adjustment to Xtep’s previous business cooperation model in Malaysia. In line with Xtep Group’s overall strategic shift, the company’s business model in Malaysia will be upgraded from a single exclusive distribution arrangement to a muti-channel setup. The former exclusive distributor, VGO, will transition to a “non-exclusive distributor” and remain a key partner for Xtep in deepening its local market presence. Before Xtep’s partnership with Bonia, VGO served as Xtep’s exclusive partner in Malaysia. As the initial partner facilitating Xtep’s entry into the Malaysian market, VGO laid a solid foundation for the brand’s successful entry. Xtep will continue its collaboration with VGO to advance the Xtep brand’s development through channels where VGO holds particular strength. Meanwhile, Bonia will focus on maximizing Xtep’s brand visibility in Malaysia’s core commercial districts and running brand hubs.
Xtep Expands Overseas: Deep Restructuring of Malaysian Channels Marks Entry into Intensive Global Strategy Phase
Chinese media reports highlight Malaysia as Xtep’s springboard for expansion into Southeast Asia, emphasizing that this business model transformation is crucial for implementing the “Chinese Root, World-Class Running Shoes” strategy proposed in 2022. Bonia’s sales network spans Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian markets. The company maintains strong, stable relationships with major shopping centers in these countries, possesses deep insights into local consumer needs, and has solid cross-border retail operation capabilities.
The first store under Xtep’s partnership with Bonia opened in Mid Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur. According to Xtep, this3,262-square-foot professional running flagship store displays performance running products by function and features services such as a trial running zone and foot shape and gait analysis, allowing runners to experience world-class running technology. This store also showcases stories of local runners and photos from local running events to enhance runners’ sense of belonging.
Running culture in Malaysia is maturing. Data from the World Bank and Euromonitor International shows that Malaysia has the largest sportswear and footwear market in Southeast Asia. The Malaysian Sports Culture Index 2023 survey revealed that 63% of respondents cited jogging as their favorite sport. In terms of road racing popularity, the 2024 Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon attracted over 40,000 participants.
Xtep entered the Malaysian market in 2024 and has consistently employed an operational strategy of “Professional-to-mass influence” coupled with a cultural strategy of “adapting to local conditions”. The brand has connected with local consumers through events and running communities. During its partnership with VGO, Xtep organized several large-scale running events in Malaysia, including the “10KM Time Challenge” held in Penang in August 2024, which attracted top athletes from Indonesia, Singapore, Uganda and Kenya. With Malaysia emerging as a strategic hub for international growth, Xtep envisions the country as both a blueprint for overseas expansion and a dynamic showcase of its running heritage.
Hashtag: #Xtep
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
A software flaw in Apple’s iOS 26 has caused photographs shared from Android devices to display with an unexpected red tint when viewed on iPhones, triggering complaints across user forums and social platforms and underscoring persistent friction between the two mobile ecosystems. Users began reporting that images sent from Android phones via common messaging and sharing methods appeared noticeably warmer or reddish on iPhones running iOS 26, […]
Apple will pay an estimated $1 billion a year for access to Gemini’s large language models, instantly extending Google’s AI reach across one of the most powerful consumer ecosystems on the planet. I believe the Apple-Google AI alliance marks the moment artificial intelligence stops being a story about potential and starts becoming a story about profits. For more than a decade, investors rewarded ambition, vision and experimentation. […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 January 2026 – Initiated by Ge Jun, Chairman and CEO of TOJOY Enterprise Services, Shape the Era, Pioneer the Times — Ge Jun 2026 New Year Eve’s Talk was grandly held at the Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center. At the crossroads of 2025 and 2026, more than a thousand entrepreneurs, founders, and distinguished guests gathered for this landmark intellectual event—one that blended trend foresight, humanistic reflection, and purposeful recharging. Together, they listened to the narrative of the times, and explored the path to becoming true pioneers of the era.
The “Ge Jun 2026 New Year Eve’s Talk” was grandly held in Guangzhou, bringing together prominent business leaders and more than 1,000 entrepreneurs to share insights on the AI revolution, economic transformation, and the future pathways of high-quality development.
From Hidden Cornerstones to Transformation Pioneers — Painting the Resilient Foundation of China’s Economy
In his keynote address, Ge Jun outlined a vivid panorama of “Era Pioneers.” The picture encompassed technology trailblazers riding the crest of the AI wave, transformation leaders revitalizing traditional industries, and countless unsung yet indispensable cornerstone entrepreneurs. Together, these diverse figures revealed an essential truth: regardless of scale or spotlight, true pioneers are those who continuously create value in their fields.
“If these stories from across the country are not shared more widely, it would be unfair to the entrepreneurial community—and irresponsible to our times.” Ge remarked with conviction. Over the past six years, he has traveled across the country, engaging with countless SME founders. In his view, it is precisely these resilient, often unsung enterprises that underpin the most authentic strength and enduring warmth of China’s economy.
A New Generation Takes the Stage — Writing New Answers with New Tools
Midway through the address, Ge shifted focus to the rising generation of entrepreneurs. He depicted their multifaceted profiles, and emphasized that the new generation is redefining what it means to be an era pioneer. With new perspectives, new tools and new value systems, they inject fresh momentum into the future.
Addressing the critical issue of generational succession in the private economy, Ge highlighted developments ranging from the revival of legacy brands to IP-driven transformation, and revolutionary changes in manufacturing and communications. True succession, as he emphasized, is never a simple replication of experience. It is the continuation of a courageous, innovative spirit, paired with comprehensive renewal of tools, methodologies and connection models.
The Future Is Now — Finding the “Boarding Pass” and “Charging Station” in the AI Era
Standing at the threshold of a new technological revolution, Ge raised a profound question: “As AI redefines the core of productivity, how can enterprises and individuals ensure they are not left behind?”
In response, he laid out three crucial action pillars, forming a clear strategic framework for enterprises to navigate transformation and unlock new growth:
All Things Reborn — Every industry can be renewed with new technologies and new ways of thinking. New value always emerges from the reshaping and integration of traditional business models.
Local-Driven Prosperity — By deeply cultivating local markets, leveraging regional advantages and policy dividends, and building competitiveness within the dual-circulation framework, enterprises can realize “globalization at their doorstep.”
Purposeful Recharging — In an age of accelerating technological changes, emotional connection and the shared pursuit of meaning are becoming the ultimate “charging stations,” something AI can never replace.
According to relevant reports, this New Year Eve’s Talk marks an important milestone in Ge Jun’s ongoing commitment to empowering the entrepreneurial community. In this year’s Grain Rain season, he will continue to provide forward-looking perspectives and long-term growth companionship for entrepreneurs navigating an increasingly complex era.
Hashtag: #TOJOY
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 January 2026 – Today, KGI has released its 2026 Global Market Outlook, covering markets in the US, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore.
(From left) James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory; James Wey, Head of International Wealth Management at KGI; Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI
After a turbulent year of trade disruptions and policy uncertainty under President Trump, investors face new questions. China has unveiled its 15th Five-Year Plan, as policymakers aim to support domestic growth amid global challenges. The market outlook for 2026 is shaped by interest rate decisions, economic resilience, and shifting international dynamics.
Under this backdrop, we propose the “LEAD” strategy for 2026:
Liquidity Shift
Earnings Focused
Adding Credit
Diversified Assets
Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI, says: “Looking ahead to 2026, investors can adopt a LEAD strategy: L stands for Liquidity Shift, benefiting from a weakening US dollar and interest rate cuts, with funds expected to flow to non-US dollar and Asian currencies; E stands for Earnings Focused, focusing on earnings growth to support valuations and allocating to US, European, and Japanese stocks; A stands for Adding Credit, locking in the credit of leading companies and increasing holdings of A-rated investment grade bonds; and D stands for Diversified Assets, responding to the upward trend in both stocks and bonds by including alternative assets to optimize asset allocation.”
Macro & US Markets The US economy will experience a more pronounced downturn in 4Q25, which will extend into 1H26, and this will have a negative impact on consumption, slowing investment activity. Nevertheless, AI-driven productivity gains should provide some support, with US GDP growth in 2026 forecast at 2.2%. The eurozone will see moderate growth, with Germany benefiting significantly from fiscal expansion and economic improvement. Japan’s economy will strengthen on domestic demand, aided by additional fiscal stimulus. China has demonstrated resilience under trade protectionism in 2025. With inflation risks easing and labor market risks rising, the US Fed cut the interest rates in September 2025, with a total reduction of 75 bps in 2025, followed by an additional 50-75 bps in 2026.
Regarding US stocks, AI-driven productivity gains and cost reductions should sustain solid profitability, with S&P 500 earnings projected to grow by 13.55% year-on-year (YoY) in 2026. However, higher risk premiums may cap valuation upside, leading us to project a year-end target of 7,650 points. Market performance will reflect risk-driven declines in 1Q26, stabilize and recover in 2Q26, and rally significantly around the midterm elections in 4Q26. By sector, among AI-related themes we favor technology, semiconductors, utilities (on higher power demand), machinery for advanced manufacturing, and industrial REITs. Non-AI beneficiaries include aerospace and defense (on higher military spending), pharmaceuticals (on tariff benefits), and capital market segments (supported by active investment banking). As for fixed income, US economic weakness and Fed rate cuts will drive Treasury yields lower, with 10-year yields expected to fall to 3.5-3.7% by 2Q26. We recommend allocating to US Treasuries or high-rated investment-grade corporate bonds in 1H26, then rotating into high-yield bonds in 2H26 as policy rates and economic conditions reach a bottom.
James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory, says:“AI is triggering a new productivity revolution, supporting economic growth and strengthening corporate earnings. While the US economy is expected to slow, a recession remains unlikely, and the short-term impact of tariff policies should gradually fade by the first quarter of 2026. Although the Fed may shift from cutting rates at every meeting to cutting at alternating meetings, the overall environment remains a rate-cutting cycle. In a non-recession backdrop, lower interest rates should continue to support equity market performance.”
Mainland China and Hong Kong Markets In terms of the macroeconomy, with the conclusion of trade agreements among many countries, risks have subsided. However, due to external drag, China’s GDP growth is expected to slow slightly to 4.6% in 2026. In 2026, investors should focus on four key areas for Hong Kong and mainland China markets: (1) In the consumption sector, domestic demand continued to be the core growth driver, contributing more than half of GDP. As the “trade-in” effect diminishes, the central government is expected to implement the “15th Five-Year Plan” and economic conference plans, launching a new round of subsidies covering culture, entertainment, and sports to continuously boost consumer spending. (2) In the financial market, risk appetite has increased. Given the narrowing spread between bond yields and fixed deposit rates, large amounts of savings are flowing into the capital market seeking returns. The fundamentals of the banking and insurance industries have bottomed out, and the credit structure is accelerating its shift from real estate to supporting the real economy. (3) Regarding the issue of “anti-involution,” the PPI remains weak, and capacity reduction has become a focus. Compared to 2015, this round involves more downstream private enterprises and needs to consider employment, presenting greater challenges. While industry consolidation is expected to be lengthy, the impact is controllable and beneficial for long-term healthy development. (4) Regarding new quality productive forces, this will replace real estate and infrastructure as the main investment focus. Digital infrastructure supports AI and embodied intelligence, and humanoid robots are expected to see commercialization in 2026, “iPhone moment.” Leading companies with core technological autonomy in innovative drugs will enjoy higher valuation premiums.
Overall, we are optimistic on Hang Seng Index. We expect the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts to drive fund inflows to the Hong Kong and mainland stock markets. Based on an upward revision of the forward PE ratio to 13.5x and 8% earnings growth, we set a target of 30,000 points for the Hang Seng Index by the end of 2026, representing a potential upside of approximately 14%. As confidence recovers, the investment style is expected to shift from defensive to growth stocks. Recommended 12 stocks: XPeng Motors (9868), UBTECH (9880), Tencent Holdings (700), Alibaba (9988), China Hongqiao (1378), AIA Group (1299), Ping An Insurance (2318), China Merchants Bank (3968), Akeso Biopharma (9926), Pop Mart (9992), Tencent Music (1698), and Sino Land (83).
Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI, says: “2026 marks a crucial turning point for the Chinese economy. While the market anticipates GDP growth to slow to 4.6%, “new quality productive forces,” resembling humanoid robots, is taking over as a new growth engine. The most critical signal in the market is the “awakening” of idle cash—massive savings are flowing from low-interest fixed deposits to the capital market seeking returns. With risk appetite returning and policy support intensifying, now is the time to shift investment strategies from “defensive” to “growth.” Driven by both valuation repair and earnings growth, we are optimistic that the Hang Seng Index will reach 30,000 points, and the allocation value of Hong Kong and mainland China stocks has reappeared.”
Taiwan Market Compared to the dot-com era bull run, which lasted almost five years, the current AI frenzy has been around for about three years, suggesting that the uptrend is still in its middle phase and could extend through 2026.
AI plays are trading at high PEs, such valuations are backed by strong fundamentals. In fact, the PEG ratio of Taiwan’s AI supply chain has yet to surpass 1x. We estimate that aggregate earnings of AI plays will grow by 21% YoY in 2026, following impressive upticks of 35% in 2024 and 43% in 2025. AI stocks now account for more than 60% of TAIEX earnings, and with the ongoing AI arms race, overall TAIEX earnings growth is projected to accelerate from 14% in 2025F to 20% in 2026.
Although the AI frenzy should keep the bull market intact, volatility will rise in tandem due to: (1) substantial cumulative gains, and the fact that valuations are approaching historic highs; (2) policy and political uncertainty surrounding the US midterm elections; and (3) potential changes in the US Fed’s rate-cut pace. We expect the TAIEX to repeat a “smile-curve” pattern, featuring continued strength in 1Q26, followed by healthy corrections in 2Q-3Q26 before closing the year with a renewed upswing.
We think investors need to pay attention to two major themes. The first is a broad-based product spec upgrade trend across the AI supply chain, which will drive the industry into a new growth phase, with beneficiaries including foundries, GPU and ASIC designers, advanced packaging (such as CoWoS), and ODMs, as well as testing interfaces, memory, thermal solutions, CCL, ABF substrates, PCBs, switches, and power component suppliers amid strong AI computing demand and ongoing GPU platform upgrades. The second is diversification and defensive asset allocation. Innovations in consumer electronics, such as foldable iPhones and smart wearables, will provide growth opportunities, while companies with resilient domestic demand and stable high dividend yields offer a balanced strategy combining growth and income. Overall, investors should strike a balance between growth and resilience against volatility in their portfolios, in the face of market fluctuations.
James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory, says:“The solid earnings growth driven by AI and still reasonable valuations form a strong foundation for the ongoing bull market in Taiwanese equities. With AI adoption accelerating across enterprises and consumers, demand for computing power is rising rapidly. Yet supply remains constrained by chip and power bottlenecks, meaning hardware suppliers are likely to face continued shortages through 2026. Taiwan’s AI supply chain is set to remain a key beneficiary, particularly those tied to next-generation specification upgrades.”
Singapore Market In 9M25, the overall performance of Singapore’s economy was better than expected as the global trade tensions eased after the US pivoted on its reciprocal tariffs and reached deals with its major trading partners. The manufacturing, wholesale trade and finance & insurance sectors remained the growth pillars of the Singapore economy, and each sector delivered decent growth. In particular, manufacturing’s growth has been robust, driven by the electronics, transport engineering and biomedical manufacturing clusters. The full year outlook is upbeat, as the growth momentum shall continue till the end of the year.
Looking ahead, the global economic outlook for 2026 suggests slower GDP growth for most of Singapore’s key trading partners, including China and the Eurozone, largely due to the impact of US tariffs, which will temper demand for Southeast Asian exports, though US growth is expected to remain resilient from AI investment. Consequently, Singapore’s outward-oriented sectors, particularly manufacturing and trade-related services, are projected to expand at a slower pace than in 2025, although the electronics and related sectors will benefit from AI demand, while some precision engineering and biomedical output may moderate domestically, the construction sector is set to grow, but consumer-facing sectors are likely to remain subdued. However, the relatively low interest rates and continuous government support shall buffer the impact of the slowdown, and the capital market will still benefit from the upward re-rating catalysts.
Chen Guangzhi, Head of Research at KGI Singapore, says: “Thanks to trade de-escalation and the AI wave, Singapore experienced significant economic expansion in 2025. Proactive government initiatives turbo-charged the equity bull run, and this strong momentum is expected to deliver an optimistic economic outlook for 2026.” Hashtag: #KGI #MarketOutlook
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
KGI
KGI* has been a leading financial institution in Asia since 1997. Our scope of business encompasses wealth management, brokerage, fixed income, and asset management. We are committed to offering a comprehensive range of financial products and services to corporate, institutional, and individual clients throughout Asia. Backed by KGI Financial Group, we have a robust footprint in Asia, covering Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand^.
*KGI refers to KGI Asia Limited and its affiliates. ^an investee enterprise of KGI Securities, not a subsidiary.
DISCLAIMER
All the information contained in this document is not intended for use by persons or entities located in or residing in jurisdictions which restrict the distribution of this document by KGI Asia Limited (“KGI”), or any other affiliates of KGI. Such information shall not constitute investment advice, or an offer to sell, or an invitation, solicitation or recommendation to subscribe for or invest in any securities, insurance or other investment products or services nor a distribution of information for any such purpose in any jurisdiction. In particular, the information herein is not for distribution and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States of America, or to or for the benefit of United States persons (being residents of the United States of America or partnerships or corporations organised under the laws of the United States of America or any state, territory or possession thereof). All the information contained in this document is for general information and reference purpose only without taking into account of any particular investor’s objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be redistributed, reproduced or published (in whole or in part) by any means or for any purpose without the prior written consent of KGI. Such information is not intended to provide any legal, financial, tax or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in that regard.
All investments involve risks. The prices of securities fluctuate, sometimes dramatically. The price of a security may move up or down, and may become valueless. It is as likely that losses will be incurred rather than profit made as a result of buying and selling securities.
Bond investment is NOT equivalent to a time deposit. It is NOT protected under the Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme. Bondholders are exposed to a variety of risks, including but not limited to: (i) Credit risk – The issuer is responsible for payment of interest and repayment of principal of bonds. If the issuer defaults, the holder of bonds may not be able to receive interest and get back the principal. It should also be noted that credit ratings assigned by credit rating agencies do not guarantee the creditworthiness of the issuer; (ii) Liquidity risk – some bonds may not have active secondary markets and it would be difficult or impossible for investors to sell the bond before its maturity; (iii) Interest rate risk – When the interest rate rises, the price of a fixed rate bond will normally drop, and vice versa. If you want to sell your bond before it matures, you may get less than your purchase price. Do not invest in bond unless you fully understand and are willing to assume the risks associated with it. Please seek independent advice if you are unsure.
You are advised to exercise caution and undertake your own independent review, and you should seek independent professional advice before making any investment decision. You should carefully consider whether investment is suitable in light of your own risk tolerance, financial situation, investment experience, investment objectives, investment horizon and investment knowledge.
No representation or warranty is given, whether express or implied, on the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of information provided herein. In all cases, anyone proposing to rely on or use the information contained herein should independently verify and check the accuracy, completeness, reliability and suitability of the information. Simulations, past and projected performance may not necessarily be indicative of future results.
Information including the figures stated herein may not necessarily have been independently verified, and such information should not be relied upon in making investment decisions. None of KGI, its affiliates or their respective directors, officers, employees and representatives will be liable for any loss or damage of any kind (whether direct, indirect or consequential losses or other economic loss of any kind) suffered or incurred by any person or entity due to any omission, error, inaccuracy, incompleteness or otherwise, or any reliance on such information. Furthermore, none of KGI, its affiliates or their respective directors, officers, employees and representatives shall be liable for the content of information provided by or quoted from third parties.
Members of the KGI group and their affiliates may provide services to any companies and affiliates of such companies mentioned herein. Members of the KGI group, their affiliates and their directors, officers, employees and representatives may from time to time have a position in any securities mentioned herein.
Abu Dhabi has constituted the board of its new sovereign investment platform, L’IMAD Holding Company, marking another step in the emirate’s drive to broaden revenue streams and deepen its presence in global deal-making. The formation of the board, announced by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, places the vehicle alongside a growing roster of state-backed investors tasked with deploying capital across sectors seen as strategic to long-term growth. […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Shares of Larsen & Toubro fell sharply in early trading on January 13, extending losses after reports indicated that Kuwait is weighing the cancellation of oil and gas project tenders with an estimated value of $8.7 billion, a development that unsettled investors exposed to the company’s hydrocarbons order book. The stock dropped close to 3 per cent during morning deals, touching a one-month […]
HARBIN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 January 2026 – On 10 January, the inaugural “HIT-Cambridge-Oxford Cup” Ice Dragon Boat International Friendship Race was held in Harbin, China’s “Ice City”. Fourteen teams participated, representing University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), other C9 League universities, as well as institutions from Hong Kong and Macao, competing in this exhilarating event.
The opening ceremony of “HIT-Cambridge-Oxford Cup” Ice Dragon Boat International Friendship Race
“This is incredible!” said Edward Townsend, a Cambridge student, his cheeks rosy from the cold wind and his eyes gleaming with excitement after an intense ice dragon boat race. “In the UK, the lowest temperature is around -5°C, but here it’s over -20°C. At first, we had no idea about ice dragon boating, but it’s more than just physical; it’s a test of teamwork. We’ve rowed on the River Cam, but this is our first time racing dragon boats on ice in China.”
“The biggest challenge is the technique difference. Ice dragon boating tests your core and upper body, while water rowing is more about the legs,” said Daniel Foran from Oxford. “But this challenge brought us closer as a team, and the HIT coaches were incredibly supportive, showing us how to use our strength effectively.”
“HIT-Cambridge-Oxford Cup” Ice Dragon Boat International Friendship Race
“Ice dragon boating has really shown me how sports can bring the world closer, making distance feel almost irrelevant,” said Na Boshi, a student at HIT who is competing in his third ice dragon boat race. “In the past, the event was mainly an opportunity to connect with students and faculty from other C9 universities in China. This year, however, it felt even more exciting, as we welcomed teams from Oxford, Cambridge, and universities in Hong Kong and Macao. HIT’s athletic programmes are becoming increasingly international, creating an incredible platform for cultural exchange and mutual learning.”
“In Chinese culture, the dragon boat symbolises unity, progress, and excellence, values that resonate with the British ideals of courage, courtesy, and responsibility,” said Chen Jie, HIT Party Secretary. “Although China and the UK are at opposite ends of the Eurasian continent, this event bridges Oxford and Cambridge’s century-old rowing tradition with HIT’s engineering legacy and fosters cultural understanding between our youth.”
Beyond the competition, the cultural exchange was equally vibrant. Participants had the chance to visit Harbin Ice-Snow World, feed Siberian tigers up close, taste traditional Northeast Chinese cuisine, and explore the century-old Chinese Baroque district. These immersive experiences gave the foreign students a new and deeper understanding of China.
As a leading engineering university in China, HIT’s hosting of the event was more than a sports competition; it was an effort to explore new pathways for opening up higher education in today’s complex international landscape.
Hashtag: #HIT
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
National Stock Exchange of India has set its sights on filing draft initial public offering documents by the end of March, signalling a decisive step towards a long-anticipated market listing after years of regulatory uncertainty and governance resets.
People familiar with the matter say preparatory work is advancing, with internal approvals and compliance checks being aligned to meet the timeline. The exchange, which dominates equity and derivatives trading in the country, has been seeking to revive its listing plans after earlier attempts were stalled by regulatory scrutiny and leadership changes.
The move hinges on the receipt of a no-objection certificate from the market regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India, which would clear the way for formal appointments of investment bankers and legal advisers. Those appointments are expected to follow swiftly once regulatory clearance is in hand, allowing the exchange to progress towards a draft red herring prospectus.
A potential filing by the end of March would place the exchange on track for a listing later in the financial year, subject to market conditions and regulatory review. Such a timeline would mark a turning point for the bourse, which has remained unlisted despite being among the world’s largest exchanges by trading volumes.
The exchange’s renewed push comes after a period of structural and governance reforms aimed at addressing issues that emerged earlier in the decade. These included concerns around preferential access to trading systems and lapses in oversight, which led to enforcement actions and delayed the listing roadmap. Since then, the exchange has reconstituted its board, strengthened compliance frameworks, and worked to restore regulatory confidence.
Market participants view the IPO as a significant milestone for capital markets, offering investors exposure to a cash-generative infrastructure asset with a dominant market position. The exchange commands a substantial share of equity derivatives trading globally and has expanded its product offerings across equities, indices, commodities, and data services.
Financial performance has also supported renewed listing ambitions. The exchange has reported steady growth in revenues driven by trading fees, clearing and settlement income, and technology-related services. Operating margins have remained robust, reflecting the scale advantages of its platform and relatively low incremental costs as volumes rise.
Valuation expectations, while not formally disclosed, have been the subject of market discussion for several years. Unofficial estimates have ranged widely depending on assumptions around growth, regulatory constraints, and competitive dynamics. A formal IPO filing would provide the first detailed, regulator-reviewed snapshot of the exchange’s finances, risks, and strategic priorities.
The listing process is expected to draw intense scrutiny from the regulator, given the exchange’s systemic importance and its history. Any draft filing will need to address past issues comprehensively, outline governance safeguards, and demonstrate sustained compliance with regulatory norms. Observers expect the regulator to take a cautious but structured approach, balancing investor protection with the broader objective of deepening capital markets.
For investors, the exchange’s ownership structure adds another layer of interest. Several domestic and global financial institutions hold stakes, some of which have been illiquid for years due to the absence of a public market. An IPO would offer a potential exit route and price discovery mechanism for these shareholders, while also broadening public participation in a key piece of market infrastructure.
Competition in the exchange space has intensified, particularly in derivatives and technology-driven trading solutions. Rival platforms have sought to chip away at market share through pricing, product innovation, and regulatory appeals. Even so, the exchange’s network effects, liquidity depth, and brand recognition continue to underpin its leading position.
Analysts note that the timing of an IPO will also be influenced by broader market conditions. Equity markets have shown periods of volatility, and new listings have faced varying levels of investor appetite. A filing by March-end would allow flexibility to choose a launch window that aligns with sentiment and valuations.
Tether has frozen $182 million worth of its USDT stablecoin across five wallets operating on the TRON blockchain, signalling an assertive enforcement step as the issuer tightens controls around illicit finance risks. The action was executed on January 11, 2026, and followed coordination with law-enforcement and compliance partners, according to people familiar with the move. The freeze places the affected balances beyond transfer or redemption, effectively neutralising […]
Dubai’s financial regulator will bar privacy-enhancing cryptoassets from operating inside its main international finance hub from January 12, 2026, sharpening the emirate’s stance on anti-money laundering and sanctions compliance while tightening how stablecoins can be issued and used. The decision by the Dubai Financial Services Authority applies within the Dubai International Financial Centre and prohibits regulated firms from trading, holding, promoting or facilitating privacy tokens and transaction-obfuscation […]
UAE authorities and major lenders have warned customers to stay on high alert after disclosures of a dangerous WhatsApp security flaw that can allow attackers to compromise smartphones through a single call, exposing banking credentials, personal data and private communications. Advisories circulated by banks and cyber security teams say the vulnerability exploits the way WhatsApp handles voice calls, enabling so-called zero-day or zero-click attacks that do […]
Germany’s opposition leader Friedrich Merz has suggested that a long-stalled trade agreement between the European Union and India could be clinched by the end of January, injecting momentum into negotiations that Brussels and New Delhi have struggled to close for more than a decade as global supply chains remain under strain from geopolitical frictions.
Speaking at a policy forum, Friedrich Merz said the bloc and India were “closer than many assume” to resolving key differences, adding that the economic case for a deal had sharpened after prolonged disruptions linked to strategic competition between major powers. His comments come as European manufacturers continue to grapple with uneven access to critical inputs following China’s tightening of export controls on minerals vital for electric vehicles, electronics and defence applications.
Negotiations for an EU–India free trade agreement were relaunched in 2022 after an eight-year hiatus, with both sides aiming to expand trade that exceeded €120 billion in goods and services last year. Officials involved in the talks say progress has been made on tariff reductions and rules governing digital trade, though sensitive areas such as agriculture, labour standards and intellectual property remain contentious. Merz’s remarks underscore a growing sense in Berlin and other capitals that the agreement has moved from a strategic aspiration to an economic necessity.
Germany, Europe’s largest economy, has been among the strongest advocates of diversifying trade ties beyond China, particularly after export controls imposed by Beijing on gallium, germanium and graphite created months of bottlenecks for automotive and renewable energy firms. Those controls, introduced amid the broader U. S.–China trade dispute, highlighted vulnerabilities in Europe’s dependence on a narrow set of suppliers for critical raw materials.
Executives in the auto sector say shortages of battery-grade materials last year forced production adjustments and delayed investment decisions. While some supply has since stabilised, industry groups argue that long-term resilience requires deeper partnerships with alternative producers and manufacturing hubs. India, with its expanding industrial base and policy push to attract foreign investment, has emerged as a central pillar of that strategy.
European officials note that the proposed agreement would not only cut tariffs—currently as high as 60 per cent on some vehicles entering India—but also establish clearer rules for public procurement and data flows. For India, the deal promises greater access to the European market for pharmaceuticals, textiles and IT services, while also encouraging technology transfer and skills development.
Trade analysts caution that closing the pact by late January would require political compromises on both sides. European negotiators have pressed for stronger environmental and labour commitments, while Indian counterparts have sought flexibility to protect small farmers and domestic manufacturers. Still, the geopolitical context is shifting calculations. The European Union has accelerated its “open strategic autonomy” agenda, seeking to balance openness with security of supply, and India has signalled willingness to align more closely with Western economies without abandoning its strategic independence.
Merz’s intervention also reflects domestic pressures within Germany, where exporters are seeking new growth markets as demand in China cools. German industry groups have repeatedly urged policymakers to prioritise agreements with fast-growing economies, arguing that delays risk ceding ground to competitors from East Asia and North America.
The broader backdrop includes intensifying scrutiny of China’s role in global supply chains. Beijing has defended its export controls as legitimate measures to safeguard national security and manage resources, but the ripple effects have reinforced calls in Europe for diversification. The European Commission has already launched initiatives to secure access to lithium, cobalt and rare earths through partnerships in Africa, Latin America and Asia, with India seen as both a market and a manufacturing partner.
Diplomats familiar with the EU–India talks say technical chapters are largely drafted, leaving political decisions to bridge remaining gaps. Any agreement would still need approval from member states and the European Parliament, a process that could extend beyond the negotiating deadline even if a political deal is struck.
Moves to prohibit political donations made in cryptocurrency are gathering pace at Westminster, as lawmakers warn that digital assets could be exploited by hostile states and anonymous actors to influence elections and undermine democratic safeguards. Cross-party concern has sharpened following intelligence assessments that flagged the vulnerability of political finance rules to opaque funding channels. Legislators argue that while donations in cash and traditional banking systems are subject […]
Lowering the legal age of adulthood to 18 has been written into a far-reaching overhaul of the country’s civil legal framework, a step the authorities say is intended to align civil capacity with contemporary economic and social realities while widening opportunities for younger people to participate fully in the economy. The change is embedded in a newly issued Federal Decree Law promulgating the Civil Transactions Law, which […]
Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are set to join a United States–led initiative aimed at securing global artificial intelligence and semiconductor supply chains, signalling a widening of Washington’s technology diplomacy into the Gulf and underlining the strategic importance of advanced computing hardware to future economic and security policy. The planned inclusion of the two Gulf states was outlined by Jacob Helberg, the US undersecretary of state […]
Instagram moved to contain concerns over account security after confirming it had corrected a password reset flaw that cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes described as a breach, signalling a swift response as scrutiny of social media safety intensifies. The platform, owned by Meta Platforms, said the issue affecting its password recovery process had been fixed after being flagged by researchers at Malwarebytes, who warned that the vulnerability could have […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Saudi Basic Industries Corporation has agreed to divest its European petrochemicals arm and its engineering thermoplastics operations across the Americas and Europe, marking a significant portfolio shift by the chemical producer as it sharpens its focus on core businesses. The company said it has signed a definitive agreement with Germany’s AEQUITA SE & Co. KGaA to sell 100 per cent of its shares […]
Chainlink’s token LINK is showing signs of technical strain as chart patterns point to a bearish pennant forming against a backdrop of fading institutional demand for exchange-traded crypto products tied to the oracle network. The setup has drawn attention across digital-asset desks at a time when broader crypto markets remain sensitive to shifts in liquidity, regulatory signals and risk appetite. LINK has spent several weeks consolidating after […]
Samsung Electronics has warned that a tightening supply of memory chips risks pushing up prices for televisions, smartphones and home appliances, broadening the impact of a global shortage driven by surging demand for artificial intelligence hardware. The caution underscores how constraints in a core component are rippling across consumer electronics at a time when manufacturers are racing to invest in AI-centric products. Speaking on the outlook […]
Bengaluru | Banking-as-a-Platform is moving from concept to commercial backbone across the country’s financial system, as lenders open their digital rails to fintech partners and reposition themselves as infrastructure providers rather than closed institutions. The model allows banks to expose core capabilities—accounts, payments, lending, compliance and data—through secure application programming interfaces, enabling third parties to build, distribute and monetise financial products at speed.
This shift has gathered momentum as regulatory digital public infrastructure, rising smartphone penetration and instant payments have converged. Unified Payments Interface volumes continue to expand across peer-to-peer and merchant transactions, while account aggregation frameworks allow consent-based data sharing that reduces onboarding friction and credit assessment time. Against this backdrop, platform-led banking is emerging as a scalable engine for fintech growth, changing how products are designed, priced and distributed.
Large lenders and new-age banks have invested heavily in API layers that sit atop legacy cores, separating product logic from distribution. This architectural change allows fintechs to “plug” into regulated balance sheets without becoming banks themselves, “play” by composing features such as KYC, payments or credit scoring, and “scale” nationally without building costly compliance stacks. For banks, the appeal lies in fee income, wider distribution and better utilisation of capital through co-lending and embedded finance.
Executives across the sector say the platform approach has shortened product launch cycles from months to weeks. Consumer lending, merchant credit, wealth distribution and cross-border remittances have been early beneficiaries, with embedded finance extending to ride-hailing, e-commerce, logistics and software-as-a-service platforms. Small enterprises, long constrained by paperwork and collateral requirements, are gaining access to working capital through cash-flow based underwriting that draws on real-time transaction data.
The commercial logic is reinforced by economics. API monetisation—charging per call, per transaction or via revenue sharing—creates annuity-like income streams for banks. Fintechs gain variable cost structures that align expenses with growth. Analysts note that platforms with high uptime, predictable latency and robust documentation are attracting repeat developers, creating network effects similar to cloud marketplaces.
Regulatory guardrails remain central to the model’s credibility. Data localisation rules, customer consent standards and outsourcing guidelines shape how banks expose systems and how partners handle information. Supervisors have emphasised accountability, making licensed entities responsible for customer outcomes even when services are delivered through partners. This has pushed banks to strengthen vendor risk management, audit trails and incident response, while fintechs have had to mature governance and security practices.
Competition among banks has intensified around developer experience. Dedicated sandbox environments, self-serve onboarding and standardised APIs are becoming differentiators. Some lenders have carved out platform subsidiaries to attract talent and ring-fence technology risk, while others have partnered with specialist middleware firms to accelerate rollout. Public sector banks, once seen as slow movers, are also modernising stacks to participate in ecosystem distribution rather than cede ground.
The platformisation trend is reshaping balance-sheet strategies. Co-lending arrangements allow banks and non-bank financiers to share risk, with fintechs originating and servicing loans using data-driven models. In payments, banks are focusing on high-volume, low-cost rails while fintechs compete on user experience and value-added services. Wealth platforms are distributing mutual funds, bonds and insurance through APIs that streamline compliance and reporting.
Challenges persist. Legacy core systems can constrain throughput, requiring phased migrations that test execution discipline. Cybersecurity threats rise with greater connectivity, demanding continuous monitoring and zero-trust architectures. Pricing APIs too aggressively risks discouraging innovation, while underpricing leaves money on the table. There is also the question of differentiation: as APIs commoditise, banks must decide where to invest for unique value, whether in data analytics, sector-specific products or risk pricing.
Talent remains a pressure point. Demand for engineers fluent in financial protocols, security and scalable systems outstrips supply, pushing up costs. Cultural change inside banks—shifting from project delivery to product thinking—has proven as important as technology. Successful platforms tend to empower cross-functional teams, publish clear roadmaps and treat external developers as customers.
https://ytlcement.my/cdl-academy
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ytl-cement-group/
https://www.facebook.com/KGI.HongKong?mibextid=JRoKGi&rdid=a4NoCGXY72nFghtQ&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F15kKKLreMr%2F%3Fmibextid%3DJRoKGi#
https://www.instagram.com/kgi.hongkong?igsh=MTI5ems1ZzNlZ3YyMQ==
Bengaluru | Banking-as-a-Platform is moving from concept to commercial backbone across the country’s financial system, as lenders open their digital rails to fintech partners and reposition themselves as infrastructure providers rather than closed institutions. The model allows banks to expose core capabilities—accounts, payments, lending, compliance and data—through secure application programming interfaces, enabling third parties to build, distribute and monetise financial products at speed.
