Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Pixel Watch owners are reporting another Fitbit-linked software problem, with sleep statistics disappearing from the watch even as the same data remains visible in the phone app. The issue appears to affect the on-watch sleep tile rather than the underlying tracking system. Users say their devices show the message “No recent data. Wear your watch to sleep” after a full night of use, […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 May 2026 – 2026 represents a definitive turning point as Artificial Intelligence transitions from experimental “pilot” phases to industrialized, enterprise-scale implementation. AI+ Power 2026, Hong Kong’s premier exhibition & conference for commercial AI applications, returns to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 4-5 Jun 2026. Now in its sixth edition, the event actively responds to the HKSAR Government’s “AI+” development strategy. Under the theme “AI+ Power in Action,” the expo focuses on how AI creates value and unlocks new market opportunities for enterprises. By showcasing a diverse array of AI solutions on-site, the event empowers businesses to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging business environment.
The 2026 Enterprise Imperative: Beyond Prompting – Agentic AI Enters the Era of Autonomous Execution
For today’s business leaders, the challenge is no longer understanding AI — it is choosing the right tools and applying them effectively. According to Gartner’s 2026 Strategic Trends, the enterprise landscape has moved beyond the initial GenAI hype into the era of Agentic AI — autonomous systems capable of independent decision-making and workflow execution. While most enterprises have begun AI deployment, the ultimate differentiator for 2026 is achieving the transition from “conversation to execution” and securing a measurable Return on Investment (ROI).
Culsin Li, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of AI+ Power, noted: “In 2026, the most critical executive skill is becoming leaders who can strategically direct AI adoption. With AI applications entering the ‘no-code’ era, technical implementation is no longer the primary hurdle; the focus for leadership returns to the core of business: identifying operational pain points and defining strategic needs. AI+ Power 2026 serves as a premier platform where attendees can gain insights from expert-led case studies and source ready-to-deploy AI solutions to immediately resolve bottlenecks. We provide a comprehensive one-stop ecosystem, enabling decision-makers to transition seamlessly from strategic inspiration to procurement and final implementation.”
AI+ Power 2026 features six high-impact pillars designed to accelerate AI adoption:
Pillar 1: AI+ Summit – Strategic Roadmaps for Vertical Transformation
The AI+ Summit features a formidable roster of global pioneers, including Microsoft, HP, Adobe, BytePlus, and iFLYTEK, who will dissect the shift from smart office revolutions to autonomous AI agents.
To address the critical pillars of corporate governance and financial practice, the Summit has curated two flagship strategic forums:
The Summit will also cover MarTech, enterprise productivity, retail, and education, featuring leaders from MTR Lab, HSBC, Maxim’s Group, Hong Yip, HKT, PrimeCredit, and Logitech, alongside academic representatives.
Pillar 2: AI+ Expo – The Modern Workplace & Smart Living Revolution
Industry leaders Canon HK, Logitech, Shure, and iFLYTEK will demonstrate how AI-driven hardware eliminates operational friction, allowing teams to focus on core creativity.
Pillar 3: AI+ Skills Lab — Zero-Barrier Mastery for Decision Makers
To address the enterprise talent gap, the AI+ Skills Lab has been launched this year to provide hands-on, practical training. Led by a team of veteran practitioners including Arik Chan from GDG HK (CISSP-certified), Frankie Wu from GDG HK and also Founder of Nexamind AI, and Roland Leung, Director of Datality Lab, the lab is tailor-made for non-technical decision-makers. It emphasizes a “small-class, laptop-ready” approach; featured highlights include OSINT-driven fraud detection using Google Gemini, the deployment of privacy-safe enterprise AI agents, and rapid AI-powered commercial video creation using Seedance 2.0 and KlingAI 3.0. This practical experience empowers participants to “Learn Today, Apply Tomorrow,” transforming AI into real-world productivity.
Pillar 4: Embodied AI & Robotics — The First “Smart Living Experience Zone”
Breaking away from pure software solutions, the event debuts the first “Smart Living Experience Zone,” presenting the physical manifestation of AI integrated with robotics in environmental management, medical rehabilitation, and gerontech. Highlights include environmental robots capable of automatic waste classification and autonomous cleaning; medical assistant systems for physical therapy and ward delivery; and non-invasive “passive fall detection” care solutions. These innovations are setting new benchmarks for automated operations across the property management, healthcare, and social welfare sectors.
Pillar 5: AI Strategic Advisory Hub & Industry Networking — Unlocking New Business Opprtunities
The event proudly presents the “AI Strategic Advisory Hub,” a flagship initiative designed to disrupt the traditional one-way nature of business matching. Technical experts from leading providers will transform into “Consultants”, offering decision-makers immediate diagnostics and tailored deployment advice. Navigating a vast array of technical choices can be overwhelming; this “Advisory Hub” is dedicated to helping enterprises pinpoint high-ROI implementation pathways, ensuring that technology investments translate directly into tangible profitability. Furthermore, the two-day event features exclusive industry networking sessions to foster deep dialogue and strategic exchanges between technology pioneers and enterprise leaders.
Pillar 6: AI+ Power Awards 2026 — Recognizing the Future Leaders of Commercial AI
The AI+ Power Awards 2026, a highly anticipated flagship event, returns to honor the region’s most innovative, impactful, and commercially viable AI applications. This year has seen an unprecedented level of competition, and the first-round finalists have officially been announced. Shortlisted organizations in key categories such as “AI+ in Business” and “AI+ Project of the Year” include industry pioneers such as Maxim’s Group, CITIC Telecom CPC, iFLYTEK, ASTRI, and Lingnan University. The final winners will be grandly unveiled in late May.
Capturing the Momentum of AI Scaling: Building a New Era for Innovation
AI+ Power 2026 responds proactively to the HKSAR Government’s “AI+” strategy, embodying the core spirit of “AI+ Power in Action.” We are committed to transforming policy vision into commercial reality, helping enterprises successfully transition from AI “observers” to “active practitioners.”
Through high-level summit exchanges, immersive exhibition experiences, step-by-step practical training, and prestigious award recognition, we empower every attendee to seize first-mover advantages in the age of AI scaling. Together, we are driving Hong Kong’s evolution into the premier Asia-Pacific hub for commercial AI innovation.
Secure Your Advantage: Register Now
Online pre-registration for AI+ Power 2026 is now officially open. Trade visitors and industry professionals are invited to register for free admission and pre-book seats for keynote summits and hands-on Skills Lab workshops. Please note that workshop seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Register Now: https://bit.ly/3R9W3fC
Event Details:
Hashtag: #AIPower #AIPower2026
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Baobab Tree Event Management Co., Ltd. (BTE) is a Hong Kong–based event and exhibition organizer founded in 2011, with offices in Guangzhou, Shanghai, and Beijing. With over 20 years of industry experience, the company specializes in event management, exhibition operations, marketing, sales, and on-site delivery.
The company manages the delivery of Hong Kong’s signature mega events, including the Hong Kong Chinese New Year Parade and the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, both organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, while also developing and managing professional exhibitions across multiple industry sectors such as AI and digital technology, Food & Beverage, Veterinary, Non-Woven, Professional AV, and PCB & electronics manufacturing, serving regional and international markets.
Committed to sustainable development, the company integrates ESG principles into its operations and has completed an independent ESG assessment, achieving Level 1 status under an assessment framework developed by the The University of Hong Kong and ESG Development Co., Ltd.
Official website: 
www.baobab-tree-event.com
NEW YORK, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 May 2026 – The 2026 Met Gala celebrating “Costume Art” took place May 4th at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, bringing together leading figures from across the globe for an unforgettable evening. These tastemakers showcased the most classic, refined and distinctive diamond jewelry looks of the season. Below, A Diamond is Forever highlights the standout trends from the event.
Desert diamonds
Desert diamonds emerged as a striking throughline on the Met Gala carpet, with a range of hues in distinctive settings taking focus.
Rihanna led the trend in a pair of exceptionally rare old Moghul Golconda fancy brown-yellow diamond earrings by Glenn Spiro, featuring two pear-shaped natural diamonds totaling 51.9 carats. Doja Cat offset her all nude look with a pair of large Leviev Diamonds floral-shaped earrings while Paloma Elsesser made a statement in a 29.5-carat diamond necklace by Bernard James, centered around a 15-carat fancy light yellow pear-shaped natural diamond. Cara Delevingne wore a De Beers London Forces of Nature High Jewelry ring, featuring marquise yellow diamonds set as eyes, while Emma Chamberlain opted for yellow and white diamond earrings by Chopard, underscoring the continued allure of warm diamond hues.
Magnificent Diamond Earrings
A wide variety of captivating silhouettes defined the natural diamond earrings on the Met Gala carpet. Zoë Kravitz delivered a modern twist with oversized diamond flower earrings by Jessica McCormack. Chase Sui Wonders opted for Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co. Sea Fan earrings, bringing an element of sculptural artistry to the look. Gracie Abrams selected gently dangling Chanel earrings, adding understated fluidity, while Connor Storrie selected simple hoop earrings from Tiffany & Co., reinforcing the clean and enduring appeal of natural diamonds.
Standout Diamond Moments
Natural diamonds appeared in personal, unconventional and eye-catching ways, offering moments of surprise and awe. Power couple Beyoncé and Jay-Z embodied this trend with Beyoncé wearing Chopard’s Queen of Kalahari necklace, named after the rare 342-carat diamond that provided 23 stones for Chopard’s Garden of Kalahari collection. Jay-Z contributed to the narrative with a vintage diamond brooch by Briony Raymond worn at the collar as an unexpected placement that underscored the piece’s versatility. Isha Ambani made the styling of diamonds an art form in itself, wearing her own diamond jewelry featuring approximately 150 carats of old mine-cut diamonds, including a three-strand necklace and chandelier earrings, while also incorporating diamonds sewn directly into the bodice of her sari to represent significant moments in her life.
Together, these looks highlighted a shift toward natural diamonds as vessels of personal expression, styled with intention, individuality, and a sense of the unexpected.
Hashtag: #MetGala #RedCarpet #ADiamondisForever #NaturalDiamonds #Diamonds
https://adiamondisforever.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/debeersgroup/
http://www.twitter.com/DeBeersGroup
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https://www.instagram.com/adiamondisforeverhk/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Taking place from May 12-14, 2026, the co-located events are expected to welcome 8,000 industry professionals from over 90 countries and regions. Spanning more than 30,000 sqm, the exhibition features over 150 brands showcasing next-generation technologies, immersive solutions, and digital infrastructure across the sector.
Against the backdrop of an estimated ~8% annual growth trajectory in Asia’s integrated resorts sector, according to a 2025 report by Research and Markets, the event underscores the region’s accelerating role as a global growth engine, where technology innovation and rising demand are increasingly converging.
Reflecting this shift, “Asia’s integrated resorts sector is entering a pivotal phase of transformation, as markets across the region continue to evolve with a broader mix of tourism, entertainment and lifestyle experiences,” said Yip Je Choong, Senior Vice President, Commercial, APAC, RX (Reed Exhibitions). “With G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo co-located, we are creating a platform that brings together stakeholders across the value chain to support innovation, collaboration and long-term, sustainable growth.”
Across the exhibition floor and conference programs, key industry leaders are actively engaging with peers to exchange insights and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
Leading Industry Figures Mark Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony, held in the Expo Hall, officially marked the commencement of G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo 2026, with senior industry figures from across gaming, hospitality, and entertainment in attendance.
Guests included: (List to be provided)
Their participation reflects the industry’s sustained engagement and long-term commitment to advancing innovation across integrated resorts, gaming, and entertainment ecosystems.
Conference Programs Led by Global Industry Voices
G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo each feature dedicated three-day programs led by senior industry figures addressing technologies, regulations, and market forces shaping the sector’s future.
On Tuesday, May 12, Mr. Grant Chum, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Sands China Ltd., delivers the opening keynote for G2E Asia Conference and Asian IR Summit, setting the strategic tone with insights into global industry trends shaping gaming and entertainment.
On Thursday, May 14, Mr. Mario Yau Kwan Ho, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of NIP Group INC., and Co-owner of Boston Celtics, is set to present a keynote for Asian IR Summit, offering perspectives on global market shifts and the evolving integrated resorts landscape.
Across both programs, speakers include:
Event Highlights Across May 12-14
Across three days, the co-located event presents a curated ecosystem of exhibition, education, and industry networking experiences.
Exhibition (May 12-14)
Discover innovation across gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts, with more than 150 brands spanning the full industry ecosystem.
G2E Asia Conference (May 12-14)
Access critical market insights, regulatory developments, and business opportunities across Asia from the region’s leading platform for gaming and entertainment leaders.
Asian IR Summit (May 12-14)
Explore strategic insights across hospitality, technology, sports, and entertainment with senior leaders across the evolving integrated resorts sector.
Tech Talk (May 12)
Gain actionable insights from leading experts on leveraging Artificial Intelligence, applying Machine Learning in real-world operations, and using data to drive smarter, more profitable decisions.
May 12 Slots Networking:
Engage in exclusive roundtables for slots operators and suppliers to co-design next-generation gaming cabinets with embedded biometric feedback.
May 12 G2E Asia After Party:
Unwind with industry peers at a Venetian-themed gala featuring a live preview of 2027’s most anticipated VR casino suite.
May 13 Table Games Networking:
Exchange insights between operators and providers on gameplay evolution, innovation, and future table game ecosystems.
Be Part of the Future of Entertainment and Integrated Resorts
Industry professionals from gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts sectors – including operators, providers, and hospitality experts – will gain strategic insights, networking opportunities, and explore cutting-edge innovations that are shaping the future of the sector.
Registration is available online and onsite.
To learn more about G2E Asia, visit www.G2EAsia.com.
To learn more about Asian IR Expo, visit www.AsianIRExpo.com.
Hashtag: #G2EAsia #AsianIRExpo2026
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
NUREMBERG, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 11 May 2026 – Innomotics, a globally leading supplier of electric motor and large drive systems, has won several major orders for electrified LNG projects in Europe, Canada, Middle East and Australia. The total volume for all orders is in the higher double-digit million EUR range.
Innomotics is driving the transformation of LNG production with its innovative eLNG solutions. By replacing conventional gas turbine-based liquefaction processes with electrified drive systems, LNG operators can significantly increase efficiency, reduce emissions, and lower operating costs.
As global demand for cleaner energy continues to grow, LNG remains a key component of the energy mix. However, traditional LNG production is energy-intensive and associated with high greenhouse gas emissions. eLNG addresses these challenges by using electricity – including renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydropower – to liquefy natural gas, enabling a more sustainable and efficient production process.
The electrification of LNG plants is a key step in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and achieving decarbonization targets. Electric drive systems from Innomotics offer system efficiencies of up to 95%, significantly exceeding the performance of conventional gas turbines. At the same time, operators benefit from reduced maintenance requirements, with systems capable of running up to five years without scheduled shutdowns, and increased plant availability of up to 99.9%.
By integrating high-voltage motors and variable speed drives across the entire LNG value chain – from compression and refrigeration to storage and gas treatment – Innomotics enables a fully electrified production process. When powered by renewable energy, eLNG solutions can eliminate direct CO₂ emissions and reduce annual emissions by up to 500,000 tons, supporting operators in meeting regulatory requirements and sustainability goals.
“Electrification is the foundation for a sustainable future of LNG production. With our eLNG solutions, we enable operators to significantly improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and enhance reliability across the entire process. This not only strengthens competitiveness but also accelerates the transition towards net-zero operations,” says Michael Reichle, CEO of Innomotics.
He adds, “Operators are under increasing pressure to balance sustainability with profitability. Our electric drive systems deliver a compelling business case by lowering lifecycle costs, minimizing downtime, and ensuring maximum operational performance in demanding LNG environments.”
Recently awarded eLNG Projects
Pioneering eLNG success for Hammerfest in Norway:
Hammerfest is home to the world’s first all-electric LNG plant, operational since 2007. Equipped with two 65 MW refrigeration compressor drives, the facility has achieved over 15 years of successful operation with minimal maintenance and an exceptional availability rate of 99.88%. This project set a new standard for reliability and efficiency in the LNG sector, proving the long-term value of electric drive systems in demanding environments
Innovative floating LNG project in Canada:
This project represents the world’s first floating all-electric LNG facility. With four complete drive train systems of 35 MW each powering the main refrigeration compressors, the plant is designed to export three million tons of eLNG per year. The project demonstrates the scalability and flexibility of Innomotics technology, delivering high performance and low emissions in a unique offshore setting
Setting the global benchmark for an LNG plant in Qatar:
This LNG plant features multiple 60 MW and 45 MW trains, each with three refrigeration compressors. As the world’s LNG market leader, Qatar relies on Innomotics systems to deliver maximum availability and operational excellence. This large-scale deployment showcases our ability to support complex, high-capacity facilities with proven reliability and efficiency.
Lowest emissions through renewables at an LNG project in Canada:
The LNG plant is powered by renewable hydropower and features 50 MW LCI eLNG trains. The facility is designed to produce 2.1 million tons of LNG per year with the lowest emissions in the global LNG export industry. This reference highlights the environmental benefits of integrating electric drive technology with renewable energy sources.
Driving sustainability with carbon capture at a CCUS LNG project in Australia:
This project utilizes multiple medium voltage motors and drive systems totalling 297 MW for LNG production, combined with a carbon capture project. This installation demonstrates the compatibility of Innomotics solutions with advanced sustainability initiatives, enabling operators to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining process efficiency
Additional eLNG materials:
Whitepaper on eLNG
Expert Video concerning electrified LNG
Reference projects and success stories
3D visualization in our virtual world: Innomotics Electrosphere
For more information, visit https://www.innomotics.com/hub/en/applications/electrified-lng
Follow us on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/innomotics
Hashtag: #Innomotics
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
False ship positions have multiplied around the Strait of Hormuz, with vessels shown inland, clustered at impossible coordinates and moving at implausible speeds as electronic interference intensifies around one of the world’s most sensitive energy corridors. The disruption has emerged alongside renewed attacks and drone activity across the Gulf, sharpening concerns for crews, shipowners, insurers and energy buyers already dealing with curtailed traffic through the waterway. The […]
Sony’s PlayStation business booked a $765 million impairment charge tied to Bungie, sharply weakening fourth-quarter profit even as the games division delivered record full-year operating income. The charge, recorded against Bungie’s intangible and other assets, amounted to ¥120.1 billion for the year ended 31 March 2026. It included ¥31.5 billion in the second quarter and a larger ¥88.6 billion hit in the fourth quarter, turning the acquisition […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai’s automotive data market is moving deeper into predictive intelligence after Seez entered a strategic collaboration with AutoData Middle East to strengthen vehicle valuation and market analytics across the region. The agreement brings Seez’s artificial intelligence models into AutoData Analytics, with an immediate focus on the platform’s Future Residual Value module. The integration is intended to improve projections of how vehicles retain value […]
Hackers are using sponsored Google search results to steal ManageWP credentials, raising fresh concerns over the exposure of agencies, developers and businesses that administer large fleets of WordPress websites through a single GoDaddy-owned dashboard. The campaign places a fraudulent advertisement above the legitimate ManageWP search result, copying the platform’s branding and directing users to a look-alike login page. Victims who search for ManageWP rather than typing the […]
By T N Ashok The verdict from India’s sprawling five-state assembly elections of 2026 has redrawn the country’s political map with a force few had anticipated. What began as a routine electoral cycle across West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam and Puducherry has culminated in something far more consequential: a consolidation of power for the […]
The article Fall Of Two Regional Pillars Mamata And Stalin Weakens Fight For Federal India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 May 2026 – SEMICON Southeast Asia (SEMICON SEA) 2026 was officially launched today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), bringing together policymakers, manufacturers, suppliers, researchers, investors and emerging talent from across the global semiconductor ecosystem for three days of industry dialogue, technology showcases and business engagement.
The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and attended by SEMI leadership, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) led by the Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, and senior executives from global semiconductor companies.
Held under the theme ‘Transform Tomorrow’ in strategic partnership with MITI and MIDA, SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 is expected to welcome more than 20,000 innovators, policymakers and technology experts. The three-day event focuses on key industry priorities including manufacturing scale-up, advanced packaging, intelligent manufacturing and workforce development, as companies respond to demand driven by artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and advanced electronics.
Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA, said Malaysia is approaching the next phase of semiconductor growth as an active builder rather than a beneficiary of global trends.
“The semiconductor industry is at an inflection point, and Malaysia intends to be at the centre of what comes next. Under the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, we are not simply maintaining our position in the global semiconductor supply chain, we are deliberately reshaping it. The NIMP 2030 sets a clear direction for the E&E sector to move beyond assembly and test into design, advanced packaging and innovation-driven manufacturing, and MIDA is here to make that transition real. The RM28.5 billion secured by the E&E sector in 2025 is proof that global confidence in Malaysia has not wavered. What we are now building is the ecosystem to match that confidence, through supply chain integration, local capability development and the kind of high-value partnerships that platforms like SEMICON Southeast Asia are uniquely placed to catalyse,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim.
“SEMI’s role has always been to bring together the global semiconductor ecosystem, and that responsibility becomes even more important as the industry grows in scale and complexity. Today, innovation is no longer confined to a single segment. It requires closer alignment across design, manufacturing, materials and supply chains. SEMICON Southeast Asia provides a platform to bridge these different parts of the ecosystem, enabling stakeholders to engage in more meaningful collaboration and move from discussion to execution,” said Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI.
“As demand continues to be driven by artificial intelligence, high-performance computing and advanced electronics, the ability to coordinate across regions and capabilities will be critical. SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 is not only about showcasing technology, but about strengthening the partnerships needed to support long-term industry growth and resilience.”
The event features key leadership programmes including the Executive Leadership Summit, MIDA Strategic Semiconductor Forum and Seminar, Sustainability and Energy Summit, TechZoomers Challenge and TalentCONNECT, reflecting SEMICON Southeast Asia’s role not only as an exhibition platform, but as a convening point for leadership, capability and execution across the region’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Marking over a decade of strategic collaboration, MIDA and SEMI today reinforce 12 years of a transformative partnership dedicated to elevating Malaysia’s standing in the global semiconductor value chain. This enduring alliance remains anchored on three core pillars designed to future-proof the nation’s industrial landscape:
SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 runs from 5–7 May 2026 at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur, with participation from companies and organisations across Asia, the United States and Europe.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.
SEMI® is the global industry association connecting over 4,000-member companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management and other programs. Our SEMICON® expositions and events, technology communities, standards and market intelligence help advance our members’ business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.
By Nitya Chakraborty The results of the five assembly elections available on Monday May 4 give unmistakeable signs of further consolidation of the BJP pan India and fresh setbacks for the opposition INDIA Bloc. Two stalwarts of the opposition Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal and M. K. Stalin in Tamil Nadu have been defeated. While […]
The article State Assembly Results Signal Big Pan India Consolidation Of BJP appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
Wall Street’s latest rally is being driven less by relief over geopolitics than by a force investors can measure more easily: earnings. Morgan Stanley strategists say the strength of US corporate profits, led by technology companies, is giving equities enough support to look beyond the market risks created by the Iran conflict and the disruption around the Strait of Hormuz. The bank’s team, led by Michael Wilson, […]
Tamil Nadu’s vote count pointed to a dramatic political rupture on Monday, with actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam emerging as the strongest challenger to the ruling DMK and threatening to redraw the balance of power in one of the country’s most important industrial states.
Trends through the afternoon showed TVK ahead in more than 100 seats in the 234-member Assembly, close to the 118-seat majority mark. The AIADMK alliance was holding second place in several tallies, while the DMK, led by Chief Minister M K Stalin, slipped sharply from its dominant position. The count remained fluid, with leads shifting by constituency and round, but the scale of TVK’s performance confirmed that Vijay’s first full electoral test had moved beyond symbolism.
The most striking signal came from Kolathur, Stalin’s long-held constituency in Chennai, where TVK candidate V S Babu established a lead during counting. Udhayanidhi Stalin also faced pressure in Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni, intensifying the perception of an anti-incumbency wave cutting through the DMK’s urban and welfare-heavy support base. Vijay himself was leading in both seats he contested, strengthening expectations that he could become central to government formation if TVK sustains its advantage.
TVK’s surge is particularly significant because Tamil Nadu has for decades been shaped by two Dravidian blocs, with the DMK and AIADMK alternating in power. Vijay entered politics with a campaign built around corruption allegations, youth unemployment, social justice language and a promise to offer an alternative to entrenched party networks. His appeal among young voters, first-time voters and urban families appears to have translated into a statewide challenge rather than a personality-driven protest vote.
The outcome carries implications well beyond party politics. Tamil Nadu is a manufacturing and export powerhouse, with deep clusters in automobiles, electronics, textiles, leather, engineering, logistics and renewable energy. Chennai and its surrounding industrial belt host major auto and component manufacturers, while Hosur, Sriperumbudur, Coimbatore, Tiruppur and Ranipet have become key nodes in supply chains tied to smartphones, electric vehicles, garments and precision manufacturing.
Investors will be watching whether a possible TVK-led government preserves policy continuity. The state has benefited from a predictable administrative culture, skilled labour, ports, highways, renewable energy capacity and sector-specific industrial policies. Major projects involving Tata Electronics, Foxconn-linked supply chains, Hyundai, Renault Nissan, Ola Electric, VinFast, Tata Motors’ Jaguar Land Rover facility and a wide network of small suppliers rely on stable land, power, logistics and labour arrangements.
Vijay’s party has promised cleaner governance and a people-focused administration, but it is yet to demonstrate how it would manage fiscal pressures, industrial incentives, welfare spending and Centre-state relations. Tamil Nadu’s welfare model is expensive, and any new government would inherit commitments on subsidies, social schemes, infrastructure projects and public-sector obligations. A sharp shift in policy could unsettle investors, while a calibrated transition could allow TVK to combine political change with economic stability.
For the DMK, the trends represent a severe test of its governance record. Stalin’s administration has promoted Tamil Nadu as a trillion-dollar economy contender, pushed investment summits, expanded electronics manufacturing and defended its welfare programmes. Yet voter fatigue, price pressures, local grievances, perceptions of dynastic control and the attraction of Vijay’s outsider image appear to have weakened the ruling party’s hold.
The AIADMK, despite remaining competitive in parts of western and southern Tamil Nadu, also faces a strategic challenge. TVK’s ability to draw votes across urban, semi-urban and rural seats threatens to disrupt the opposition space that the AIADMK had hoped to consolidate. If no party crosses the majority mark, negotiations with smaller parties and alliance partners could determine the next government.
This year’s AGM saw members returning to Singapore to attend in person, alongside strong participation from those joining virtually.
A year of reset and strategic investment
In 2025, ISCA recorded its first operating deficit in a decade. This was the result of a deliberate decision to invest in areas that will strengthen the Institute’s long-term value to members and the profession. ISCA continues to maintain a strong financial position, with healthy reserves and a resilient balance sheet.
Rather than maintaining the status quo, ISCA undertook a year of reset and renewal, with spending focused on building stronger capabilities, growing the talent pipeline, expanding into new markets and building new growth engines.
ISCA emphasised that these investments were not made for growth alone, but more importantly, to better support members and provide greater member value in a rapidly evolving business and professional landscape.
Looking ahead, ISCA’s priorities remain clear: to deliver a better member experience, strengthen the talent pipeline and enhance its regional relevance. In 2026, the focus will be on ensuring that these investments translate into tangible and visible outcomes for members.
Expanding opportunities through internationalisation
At the AGM, ISCA Council and management addressed members’ questions on the institute’s plans to expand internationally. ISCA’s regional efforts are aimed at making it easier for members to access opportunities beyond Singapore. For members based in Singapore, this means more job opportunities, potential clients and partnerships across the region. For members based overseas, it means stronger local support and a more connected ISCA network where they live and work. ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor cited an example of a member who had spent over 20 years building his career in China and was looking to return to Singapore. Through ISCA’s network, he was connected to a listed company seeking deep China experience, creating an opportunity that would otherwise have been difficult to access.
Progress across key areas
Despite being an investment year, ISCA reported progress across several areas:
2026 ISCA Council Lineup
The newly-elected Council Members are:
The re-elected Council Members are:
The Council also appointed Ms Juliet Teo Juet Sim, Joint Head, Portfolio Development Group and Head, Ecosystem Enablement, Temasek Singapore Pte Ltd. Ms Teo was appointed for her expertise on how the finance profession is evolving in response to changing business models, sustainability priorities and global economic trends.
Office bearers
At the first Council meeting following the AGM, the ISCA office bearers were appointed. Mr Teo Ser Luck, immediate past president, was also appointed as ISCA Adviser.
President: Mr Lee Boon Teck
Vice Presidents:
Treasurer: Mr Song Yeow Chung
Secretary: Ms Judy Ng
Leadership perspectives
The newly elected ISCA President, Mr Lee Boon Teck, said: “The investments we have made over the past year lay the groundwork for a stronger, more connected profession. Our focus now is to ensure that every member, whether they are starting their career, leading an organisation, or building a practice overseas, can see and feel the difference ISCA makes. I am honoured to lead ISCA at this pivotal moment, and I look forward to working with the Council and our members to build on the strong foundations we have in place.”
ISCA Adviser and immediate past President Mr Teo Ser Luck said: “It has been a great privilege to serve ISCA, our members, and the accountancy sector over the past four years. This journey has been one of the most fulfilling I have ever embarked on. None of it would have been possible without an exceptional Council, a dedicated management team, and members who believed in what we were building together. My sincere appreciation to ISCA and our members for the opportunity to serve.”
ISCA CEO Ms Fann Kor said: “2025 was a year of deliberate investment to strengthen what matters most to our members and to the profession. We invested in the talent pipeline, member support, digital capability and regional connectivity so that ISCA can continue to stay relevant and useful in a changing environment. I would also like to thank Mr Teo Ser Luck for his leadership and contributions over the past four years. Under his stewardship, ISCA made meaningful progress in strengthening the profession, growing the Singapore CA Qualification and expanding our regional footprint. Management looks forward to working closely with the new Council to turn these investments into stronger outcomes and clearer value for members.
For the biographies of the elected office bearers, new and re-elected Council Members, please click here.
Hashtag: #DifferenceMakers #Accountancy #ISCACouncil #AGM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore. Established in 1963, ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the designated entity by the Singapore Ministry of Finance to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore [CA (Singapore)] designation.
ISCA supports over 43,000 members across industries in Singapore and globally, with members in more than 40 countries. With a growing international presence, ISCA has 12 overseas chapters, 7 offices across 10 countries and a network of over 150 strategic partners, strengthening professional connections and opportunities across borders. ISCA is also a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global network representing more than 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students across over 190 countries.
ISCA advances professional development and lifelong learning through ISCA Academy, its training arm and drives community impact through ISCA Cares, its charity arm.
For more information, visit www.isca.org.sg.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Gulf Bank has renewed its long-term strategic collaboration with Mastercard, strengthening a payments alliance aimed at expanding digital banking services, improving transaction security and responding to changing customer behaviour across Kuwait’s financial sector. The renewed agreement gives Gulf Bank continued access to Mastercard’s payment technologies, digital solutions and global expertise, with a focus on contactless payments, mobile wallet services, card security, customer convenience […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – In a world where beauty trends are increasingly shaped by everyday creators, Vaseline is redefining its role from product maker to platform for its community. Rather than simply validating trends, the brand is now taking the next step by turning ideas from the community into real products and recognising the original voices who brought them to life.
Introducing Vaseline Originals (OGs), a first-of-its-kind product line inspired by verified viral hacks and the voices behind them. Developed by Ogilvy Singapore for Unilever’s Vaseline, the campaign flips the script on how beauty products are made, turning real community ideas into actual products.
“For years, creators have been reimagining what Vaseline jelly can do, often without recognition. This campaign is about giving credit where it’s due: acknowledging, celebrating and rewarding the people behind those ideas. More than a campaign, it signals how we want to build going forward with our community, not just for them,” said Nathalia Amadeu, Global Brand Director, Vaseline at Unilever.
From Hack to Shelf: Meet the Vaseline OGs
At the heart of the campaign are two content creators who were among the early voices sharing hacks that helped shape the brand’s newest innovations.
In 2008, beauty creator Jen Chae (@frmheadtotoe) shared a simple Vaseline brow tamer hack on her blog. Lauren Luke (@laurenluke_panacea81), one of YouTube’s earliest beauty creators, introduced her Vaseline primer hack, making beauty techniques more accessible to everyday users.
Today, almost two decades later, their ideas have inspired actual Vaseline products. These include the Vaseline Brow Tamer, inspired by Jen Chae, and Vaseline All-In-One Primer & Highlighter Jelly, inspired by Lauren Luke. Beyond product innovation, the campaign recognises these content creators as Vaseline OGs and acknowledges their role in shaping ideas that have since become part of global beauty culture.
Both products sold out within minutes during their TikTok Live debut on 30 March 2026, featuring both content creators.
From Vaseline Verified to Vaseline Originals
What began as individual beauty hacks has grown into a global movement, with more 3.5 million Vaseline hack-related posts shared online. This is a testament to the brand’s enduring role in everyday routines and conversations across generations.
The campaign builds on Vaseline Verified, the brand’s award-winning effort that validated hacks shared by thousands and earned multiple Grand Prix awards, including the coveted Titanium Lion at Cannes Lions. Where Vaseline Verified proved what works, Vaseline Originals shines a spotlight on the people behind some of the most popular hacks.
And this is just the beginning. The search for content creators behind other viral Vaseline hacks is ongoing. More individuals are set to be recognised and certified as Vaseline OGs, bringing more of the community into the brand’s future.
Nicolas Courant, Chief Creative Officer at Ogilvy Singapore, said, “We started with a simple creative provocation: what if the best ideas were never in the boardroom, but already in people’s bedrooms and everyday routines? We traced how Vaseline was being used in culture back to its origins and found the OG creators who had been shaping these hacks long before they became mainstream. Vaseline Originals is a move from ownership to stewardship, honouring our OG content creators by sharing our success with them.”
Aanchal Sethi, Asia Managing Director Unilever, Ogilvy Singapore said “Vaseline Originals represents a deliberate strategic shift in how we build this brand, moving from validating what the community creates to actively shaping and developing ideas inspired by them. The commercial signals have been unambiguous: products selling out in minutes, demand scaling with every drop. But what this campaign confirms goes beyond a single launch. It shows that community-led innovation isn’t just culturally resonant. It’s a growth engine. This is how Vaseline stays relevant for the next generation, and how we intend to keep building.”
Link to campaign assets here.
| Campaign Credits |
| Agencies: Ogilvy Singapore (Creative & PR), Edelman UK (PR), RADA (PR & Influencer), Acommerce (PR), PinPung (Influencer), Catch+Release (Research) |
| Production Houses: Double Y (Film), Chameleon (Post-Production), Pop & Strange (Post-Production), Neon Sound (Music) |
| Client: Unilever / Vaseline
– Leandro Barreto, Chief Marketing Officer – Fernando Kahane, Global Brand Vice President, Vaseline |
| – Nathalia Amadeu, Global Brand Director, Vaseline
– Stella Megalou, Global Project Lead, Vaseline – Rebecca Thomas, Global Senior Manager Brand Public Relations |
| – Shazan Zahir, Head of Beauty and Wellbeing Unilever International
– Xingyun Tan, Assistant Brand Manager, Unilever International – Sarah Guia, Regional eCommerce Manager, Unilever International – Manali Deshmukh, Global R&D Lead, Vaseline, Unilever International – Manan Goel, Packaging Lead, Unilever International – Sabhya Gupta, SEA R&D Lead |
| Agency: Ogilvy Singapore |
| – Liz Taylor, Global Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy
– Reed Collins, Chief Creative Officer, Asia, Ogilvy – Nicolas Courant, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy Singapore – Marco Versolato, Chief Creative Officer, WPP@Unilever |
| – Maggie Michella, Associate Creative Director, Art, Ogilvy Singapore
– Elder Caldeira, Associate Creative Director, Art, Ogilvy Singapore – Nusrah Nizam, Junior Art Director, Creative, Ogilvy Singapore – Sneha Sanil, Junior Copywriter, Ogilvy Singapore |
| – David Dahan, Global Client Lead, Unilever
– Aanchal Sethi, Managing Director, Unilever – Nayna Kotian, Group Account Director, Ogilvy Singapore – Aurea Nonis, Account Manager, Ogilvy Singapore – Bok Jo-Ann, Project Manager, Ogilvy Singapore |
| – Sumegha Rao, Chief Strategy Officer, WPP@Unilever
– Shivendra Dikshit, Senior Strategy Director, Ogilvy Singapore – Mellita Angga, Senior Strategist, Ogilvy Singapore |
| – James Baldwin, Head of Influencer, Asia – PR & Influence, Social, Ogilvy Singapore
– Jesslyn Laiyenes, Manager, Influence, Ogilvy Singapore |
| – Gerri Hamill, Head of Production
– Carolyn Ong, Senior Integrated Producer – Siti Saleh, Project Manager |
| Campaign Assets |
| Links to original hacks: |
| – Jen Chae’s blog post: Clean & Natural Eyebrows Tutorial |
| – Lauren Luke’s YouTube video: Vaseline Primer Hack |
| Follow the conversation: #VaselineOriginals #VaselineVerified |
Hashtag: #Ogilvy #Vaseline
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Vaseline is the OG, a household staple for over 155 years, trusted by generations for its healing properties. As one of Unilever’s most iconic global brands, Vaseline continues to evolve, listening to its community and finding new ways to show up for the people who have championed it most.
Ogilvy has been creating impact for brands through iconic, culture-changing, value-driving ideas since the company was founded by David Ogilvy in 1948. It builds on that rich legacy through Borderless Creativity – innovating at the intersections of its advertising, public relations, relationship design, consulting, and health capabilities with experts collaborating seamlessly across more than 120 offices spanning 90 countries. Ogilvy currently ranks as the #1 global agency network for creative excellence and effectiveness by WARC, signifying its ability to deliver creative solutions that drive unreasonable impact for clients and communities. Ogilvy is a WPP company (NYSE: WPP). For more information, visit Ogilvy.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook
Amid ongoing regional uncertainty, demand for U.S. residency options continues to grow across the GCC, prompting The American Legal Center, a Dubai-based firm, to host an open house aimed at helping investors better understand the evolving EB-5 landscape. The event comes at a time when interest in EB-5 has been steadily increasing, particularly among expatriate communities in the UAE. For many, the program is viewed as a […]
A newly disclosed cyberattack using destructive malware known as Lotus Wiper has put Venezuela’s energy and utilities sector under sharper scrutiny, highlighting how digital sabotage is moving beyond theft and extortion towards permanent operational damage. Security researchers say the malware was designed to erase data, cripple recovery options and leave affected systems unusable, signalling a far more aggressive intent than the ransomware campaigns that have dominated critical […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) today outlined how enterprise AI adoption across Asia Pacific (APAC) is moving from experimentation to implementation, with 48% of organisations with more than 500 employees in the region already deploying AI PCs and 95% expecting workstations to play a critical or important role in AI initiatives over the next two years. Together, these trends point to a more distributed AI environment – one that brings intelligence closer to users while supporting increasingly complex and compute-intensive workloads.
Two IDC InfoBriefs, commissioned by Dell Technologies and Intel reinforce this shift – Future-Ready Workforce: The Strategic Case for AI PC Adoption and Powering Future-Ready Computing with Workstations: Built for AI. Built for You. The research highlights growing enterprise momentum behind both intelligent endpoints and higher-performance systems as organisations shape the next phase of AI adoption.
For Dell, this shift reflects a broader industry trend toward aligning the right compute resources with specific workload requirements, as organisations balance intelligent endpoints for everyday productivity with high-performance systems designed for advanced AI and professional use cases. Enterprise AI deployments are increasingly spanning client devices, edge environments and the data centre, reflecting a more distributed approach across the IT environment.
AI PCs: Bringing intelligence closer to everyday work
AI PCs are becoming a core component of the modern workplace, enabling AI workloads to run directly on the device to deliver faster, more responsive user experiences while reducing reliance on continuous cloud connectivity. This approach also supports enhanced data privacy and security, provides IT teams with greater control over deployment and management across device fleets, and enables more consistent scaling of AI capabilities across the workforce.
The IDC research commissioned by Dell Technologies and Intel underscores this momentum. As AI becomes embedded in day-to-day work, device strategy is shifting accordingly. 89% of APAC organisations now consider AI capabilities a very important factor in future PC purchasing decisions.
In Singapore, 54% of organisations have already deployed AI PCs – 12% higher than the regional average – highlighting strong early adoption momentum. Southeast Asia’s AI PC adoption is outpacing the regional average by 6%, driven by the ability to adopt new technologies without legacy constraints, strong infrastructure in markets like Singapore, favourable market conditions and supportive government initiatives.
APAC Organisations with over 50% AI PCs in their fleet report saving 2.17 hours per employee per day, a 30% productivity increase compared to using AI on traditional PCs. AI PCs are enabling a new class of enterprise use cases – from real-time collaboration and report generation to natural language search and content creation – delivering tangible productivity gains.
In practical terms, this can translate into faster proposal turnaround for sales teams, quicker analysis cycles for finance and operations, streamlined drafting for HR, faster document review for engineering teams, and more responsive support for customer-facing employees. As organisations prepare for more autonomous and agentic AI in hybrid work environments, AI PCs are increasingly becoming the governed way to scale intelligent experiences across the workforce – safely, consistently, and with clearer business impact.
Four out of five APAC organisations expect AI PCs to drive adoption of agentic AI, with the same proportion agreeing they enhance control and security for these applications. The broader momentum is clear: within APAC, 84% of organisations expect AI PCs to increase employee productivity, while 78% cite security benefits and 77% highlight cost advantages of running AI locally.
This shift is leading to a tangible investment. Across APAC, 65% of organisations are willing to pay a premium of 10% or more for AI PCs, reflecting their role as core infrastructure for enterprise AI.
Workstations: Powering advanced AI and specialised workloads
While AI PCs distribute intelligence across the workforce, workstations continue to serve as the performance backbone for more demanding workloads – particularly as organisations shift more AI development on-premise. Developers, engineers, designers, and data teams rely on workstation-class systems for AI model development, simulation, rendering, data preparation, and other compute-intensive activities that require reliability, low latency, and sustained performance.
The IDC research on workstations reflects this reality. 95% of organisations across APAC expect workstations to play a critical or important role in AI initiatives over the next two years, while 50% would choose a workstation as their preferred device for AI development, and 97% of organisations agree workstations are high-performance devices that fuel innovation for the organisation by empowering teams to explore cutting-edge technology like AI and Machine Learning models.
Across Southeast Asia, 92% of organisations surveyed reported higher productivity among workstation users, while 52% expect the share of workstations in their fleet to grow over the next five years. Organisations in this part of the region also reported workstation use for data preparation (66%), model fine-tuning (62%), and foundational model training (55%), underscoring the role of high-performance systems in advanced AI and professional workloads.
Use cases vary by sector – from engineering and architecture workflows in manufacturing, to content rendering in media, software development in technology, and risk modelling in financial services. AI has become the top technical computing use case for workstations, supporting the full lifecycle from data preparation (62%) and model training (60%) to fine-tuning (59%), deployment (44%) and inference (29%).
This also shifts the conversation from upfront device price to total cost of ownership – including lifecycle longevity, scalability, performance consistency, and risk reduction. As AI initiatives move closer to production, workstations are increasingly seen as long-term platforms that can scale with evolving workloads, rather than short-term tools for experimentation.
Toward an AI compute continuum that supports the next phase of enterprise AI
Together, AI PCs and workstations form an AI compute continuum, supporting everything from everyday productivity to advanced AI development and professional workloads across the enterprise.
For organisations across Asia Pacific, the next phase of AI will not be defined by a single environment or device category, but by the ability to place the right workload on the right compute. AI PCs are extending AI into everyday workflows, while workstations are helping organisations industrialise more advanced, compute-intensive, and specialised AI use cases. Combined, they give leaders a more practical foundation for scaling AI with greater speed, control, and long-term value.
Perspectives:
“AI is changing where work happens and where intelligence needs to live,” said Jacinta Quah, vice president, client solutions group, Asia Pacific, Japan and Greater China (APJC), Dell Technologies. “AI PCs and workstations are not simply device categories in a refresh cycle – they are foundational platforms built for the next phase of enterprise AI era. AI PCs bring intelligence to everyday workflows, at the fingertips of employees where data is generated. Meanwhile, workstations provide the performance and control needed for more specialised, compute-intensive workloads. Together, they enable organisations to scale AI more effectively, strengthen security and privacy, and drive meaningful business outcomes.”
“AI is placing new demands on compute, requiring both local intelligence and high-performance processing to work seamlessly together,” said Jack Huang, regional sales director, PC client commercial and channel, Asia Pacific and Japan, Intel. “As AI workloads become more diverse, organisations need silicon innovations and platforms that can support both efficient on-device experiences and more demanding workstation use cases. Together with Dell, we are helping to enable the next phase of enterprise AI with technologies built for responsiveness, efficiency and scale.”
“The speed at which AI models are being compressed to run on-device has been remarkably fast,” said Bryan Ma, vice president, client devices, IDC. “In the next year or two, very robust models will run on PCs that far exceed today’s capabilities. At the same time, organisations continue to depend on high-performance workstations for advanced AI development and specialised workloads, reinforcing a more distributed AI environment across the enterprise.”
Research Methodology:
The findings are based on two IDC InfoBriefs:
Future-ready Workforce: The Strategic Case for AI PC Adoption is based on a survey of 720 IT and business decision-makers across Asia Pacific organisations with more than 500 employees. Powering Future-Ready Computing with Workstations: Built for AI. Built for You surveyed 960 IT and business decision-makers in the region to assess workstation adoption, usage, and their role in enterprise AI strategies.
Hashtag: #DellTechnologies
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Dell Technologies (NYSE: DELL) helps organisations and individuals build their digital future and transform how they work, live and play. The company provides customers with the industry’s broadest and most innovative technology and services portfolio for the AI era.
Arjavi Indraneesh While demand for shisha smoking is steadily going up, air quality regulations, fire safety concerns and the operational burden of managing charcoal-based systems have historically presented challenges to hospitality venues. Ronan Barry, Chief Legal and Corporate Affairs at AIR, the global leader in hookah and pioneer in advanced inhalation technologies, spoke to the Arabian Post on the emerging shisha trends and the company’s future plans. […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – Hong Kong has long maintained a robust bilateral relationship with Malaysia. As ASEAN’s third-largest economy, Malaysia possesses strong manufacturing and service sectors and stands as Hong Kong’s eighth-largest trading partner. Amidst the global restructuring of supply chains, Hong Kong leverages its unique position as an international innovation and technology centre anchored by its regional connectivity while remaining integrated with the world. It serves as a vital springboard and strategic hub for Malaysian enterprises expanding into regional markets and for emerging firms seeking to go global. The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the establishment of a deep strategic partnership. By integrating the resource advantages of both regions, the collaboration will provide technological innovation and market expansion support for enterprises in Hong Kong and Malaysia, optimising global supply chain layouts and helping Hong Kong better implement the “Bringing in and Going Global” strategy to seize regional development opportunities within ASEAN.
The signing ceremony of the MoU took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 20, 2026. Witnessed by Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM; Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Soh Thian Lai, President Emeritus of FMM; Mr Owin Fung Ho Yin, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Kuala Lumpur; and Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, the MoU was signed by Datuk Dr Yeoh Oon Tean, CEO of FMM, and Mr Mohamed D. BUTT, Executive Director of HKPC. This collaboration will facilitate the development of a new value chain connecting Hong Kong, Malaysia and ASEAN, driving new industrialisation in both regions while accelerating industrial upgrading and technological application.
Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, said, “Under the national 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong has become a vital platform for enterprises to go global. Malaysia maintains robust ties with the Asian region, as well as the global industrial and trade markets. The signing of this MoU between HKPC and FMM marks a key milestone in the collaboration on industrial modernisation. We are committed to technological innovation, with a focus on enhancing expertise in automation, Industry 4.0, AI, and robotics, and actively building business matching platforms to facilitate business opportunities and expand our scope of cooperation. This not only deepens the partnership between the two organisations, but also establishes a strategic hub connecting Hong Kong with the ASEAN market. Hong Kong will fully leverage its ‘Bringing in and Going Global’, helping Malaysian enterprises precisely connect with the vast regional and global market while supporting Hong Kong companies in rooting themselves in ASEAN, co-creating a resilient and innovative cross-border value chain.”
Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM, stated, “This MoU is just the beginning with our roadmap including joint technical training, workshops, technology visits and pilot projects to provide our members with first-hand exposure to the latest manufacturing innovations. We envision a future where Malaysian and Hong Kong companies collaborate on research and development (R&D), pilot new technologies and co-create solutions for emerging challenges”
Six Key Areas to Empower New Regional Industrial Upgrading
HKPC and FMM will launch comprehensive cooperation to help enterprises transform technological empowerment into competitive advantage in today’s dynamic market. The two parties will focus on Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, AI & Robotics Innovation, Digital Transformation & Cybersecurity, Cross-border Business Ecosystems and Talent Development.
This collaboration integrates FMM’s extensive supply chain network of over 4,000 member enterprises with HKPC’s profound R&D capabilities in product innovation and technology transfer. Through organising delegations, professional training, business matching, and technical seminars, we will assist enterprises in precisely mastering cutting-edge technologies and market trends. Furthermore, by promoting reciprocal visits between enterprises in both regions, we aim to foster mutual economic and trade empowerment. This synergy not only strengthens corporate resilience against supply chain risks but also ensures that enterprises from both regions secure a proactive position in global supply chain competition, co-creating a distinct competitive advantage.
Hashtag: #HKPC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Gold prices fell on Monday as a fresh flare-up in waters around the Strait of Hormuz rattled energy markets, pushed up the dollar and Treasury yields, and raised doubts over diplomatic efforts aimed at halting the war. Bullion, which often draws support in periods of geopolitical strain, came under pressure as traders focused instead on the inflationary impact of another oil-supply shock. The move highlighted a familiar […]
According to statistics from the China General Administration of Customs, emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America have become a key driver of export growth. However, underdeveloped local financial infrastructure, incomplete cross-border payment systems, and shortages of foreign exchange mean buyers often struggle to access U.S. dollars. As a result, exporters in these markets frequently face low settlement efficiency, slow cash recovery, and risks such as account freezes.
To address these collection challenges, XTransfer has developed a comprehensive set of cross-border collection solutions. In 2025, payment collections from emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America rose 106% year-on-year. By region, collections increased 273% in Africa, 82% in Southeast Asia, and 94% in Latin America.
Over the same period, customs statistics show that in 2025, China’s total goods exports to Asia, Africa, and Latin America increased 14.6% year-on-year, with exports to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America up 26.6%, 14%, and 8%, respectively. XTransfer’s significantly faster growth in collections compared with export growth suggests exporters are accelerating the shift from informal channels to secure, compliant collection methods, and that market recognition of high-quality cross-border payment services continues to rise.
Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer, said emerging markets offer long-term opportunities for Chinese exporters, but many are held back by the “last mile” of collections. He added that XTransfer is committed to helping SMEs collect funds safely and quickly through secure, compliant, and efficient cross-border financial services comparable to those used by multinational companies.
Release of XTransfer PMI
At the Canton Fair, XTransfer partnered with the Yicai Research Institute to publish the “China Small and Medium Enterprises (B2B) Merchandise Export Purchasing Manager Index” (XTransfer Export PMI), offering operational guidance and decision-making reference for small and micro export-oriented businesses.
This edition draws on a sample survey of XTransfer’s 800,000 SME users, selecting over 3,000 companies nationwide. It covers the full export process across export orders, pricing, procurement, logistics, staffing, and cash flow. The report shows that the March 2026 XTransfer PMI was 51.56%, indicating export conditions for SMEs are generally improving. Despite a complex external environment, SMEs have remained resilient and steadily strengthened their pricing power in international markets. Meanwhile, demand structures in emerging markets are reshaping, with export focus shifting toward intermediate goods and higher value-added products.
Resilience Amid Geopolitical Disruptions
Customs data show that in the first quarter, China’s goods exports reached RMB 6.85 trillion, up 11.9% year-on-year, marking a strong start to the year and benefiting SMEs. The XTransfer PMI also shows expansion in the export order index (53.85) and the export price index (56.15). While seasonal factors like the Spring Festival affected the short term, the underlying “volume and price rising together” trend suggests SMEs are accelerating their shift from “low-price internal competition,” strengthening pricing power through technology upgrades and improved quality.
Geopolitical disruptions have also extended delivery times, pushing the logistics time PMI down to 37.50. In contrast, the sales collection (receivables) index rose to 68.59, showing a pattern of “goods moving slower, money returning faster”. This suggests overseas buyers remain strongly tied to China’s high-quality supply chain and are willing to raise prepayment ratios or shorten payment terms to secure capacity. One exhibitor, Mr Wang, said, “A Southeast Asian customer increased its deposit from 30% to 70% to lock in production, worried our capacity would be booked by others.“
Emerging Markets Demand Trends Toward “High-End” Upgrading
The report highlights a shift toward higher-end demand in emerging markets. Africa’s export orders index (57.55) points to rising infrastructure-related demand; Latin America’s export orders index (56.47) and price index (57.81) signal opportunities in electromechanical and optical medical equipment; and Southeast Asia is absorbing components and semi-finished goods, calling for SMEs to move from finished-goods suppliers to supply-chain partners.
As industrialisation accelerates in emerging markets, demand for high-quality intermediate goods, complete electromechanical equipment, and technical services is rising. SMEs are moving from “low-end capacity exports” to “exports of technology and supply chain support”.
The composite PMI for the “New Three” (new energy vehicles, photovoltaics, and lithium batteries) was 54.59. The “New Three” sectors continue to hold growth potential, and enterprises need to enhance profit margins by delivering differentiated value.
Hashtag: #XTransfer #PMI #Crossborder #Payment #SMEs
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
