News related to
business

The program has brought in local recycling startup The Loops Hong Kong (“The Loops”) as its strategic partner. By leveraging advanced recycling equipment and a well-established processing system, the initiative introduces a breakthrough approach—rinse-free recycling. Customers no longer need to wash out bottles or disassemble components. Instead, they simply hand over used fragrance bottles or skincare cosmetics containers to store staff for collection. The materials are then sent to The Loops’ Hong Kong facilities for processing and ultimately transformed into recycled resources—lowering the barrier to recycling and making participation far more convenient.

Hong Kong’s first rinse-free recycling program

“Green is Eternal” is built on two key advantages: rinse-free and all brands. It greatly simplifies the recycling process—customers do not need to wash away any residue left in the bottles, nor do they need to remove decorative elements from packaging. Eligible glass or plastic bottles can be handed directly to store staff at designated Eternal Beauty locations to complete the recycling process.

The eligible recycling scope includes fragrance bottles, skincare product bottles, home fragrance bottles, and cosmetics packaging from various brands. Excluded from the program are personal care products (such as shampoo and hair-care products, body wash, body-care products, aerosol spray containers, and makeup tools), as well as fragrance bottles with a capacity of less than 10ml.

To encourage widespread public participation, the program features an incentive mechanism: for every eligible fragrance or skincare cosmetics bottle recycled, customers receive an electronic stamp. After collecting 10 electronic stamps, they can redeem them for a shopping voucher.

The program is already up and running at the Group’s eight outlets and offices across Hong Kong. The Group has also provided dedicated environmental recycling training for frontline staff to ensure the recycling process is standardized, efficient, and seamlessly woven into everyday customer service. Throughout the year, the Group will collaborate with a local charity to host recycling facility tours, guiding the public and students through the inner workings of recycling operations—raising environmental awareness and helping cultivate lasting recycling habits.

Beyond recycling: Advancing sustainability at the community level

“Green is Eternal” is more than an environmental recycling initiative—it is a structured sustainability project that blends retail-based education with deep community engagement. According to industry data, packaging is one of the major sources of carbon emissions in the sector. Furthermore, recycling fragrance and makeup bottles poses significant challenges due to the complexity of residual ingredients, which limits the adoption of recycling practices and results in persistently low voluntary recycling rates for these containers.

Drawing on its industry expertise, the Group partners with The Loops to tackle the challenges of traditional recycling through professional technology. The company also works with community organizations to build an educational and awareness platform, bringing employees, community members, and students into recycling facilities for in-depth environmental learning, while encouraging the public to integrate recycling into daily life. The goal is to establish a sustainable corporate model that is both socially responsible and environmentally friendly.

Wendy Lau, Executive Director of Eternal Beauty and Chairperson of its ESG Committee of the Group, commented: “Understanding the core challenge in traditional recycling systems—that customers are required to put in effort to clean bottles—explains why many people give up on participation. We are delighted to work with The Loops, whose advanced recycling system and equipment can effectively address the impact of residual ingredients in fragrances and cosmetics, truly enabling rinse-free recycling. We hope this program motivates more customers to take the initiative in environmental protection and, together with our partners, promotes sustainable development across the fragrance and beauty industry.”

Jorch Wong, Founder of The Loops Hong Kong, added: “This program marks a major milestone for sustainability in the fragrance and beauty industry. In recent years, while the number of recycling programs has increased, recycling fragrance and beauty packaging has remained difficult and cumbersome, leading to persistently low recycling rates for this category. As an industry leader, Eternal Beauty has proactively taken the lead in launching Hong Kong’s first rinse-free recycling program. This not only strengthens consumers’ environmental awareness but also helps the public build long-term recycling habits—an important encouragement for the entire recycling industry and a replicable model for sustainable development.”

As a leader in China’s fragrance industry, the Group fosters sustainable development through four key pillars: Environment, People, Product, and Community, while actively fulfilling its corporate social responsibility. Following the successful launch of “Green is Eternal” in Hong Kong, the Group aims to expand the program to its distribution points across Mainland China within the year—strengthening environmental collaboration between Hong Kong and Mainland markets, extending the program’s environmental impact, and encouraging the broader industry to move toward sustainability.

Note: The recycling scope does not include personal care products (such as shampoo and hair-care products, body wash, body-care products, aerosol spray containers, and makeup tools), nor fragrance bottles with a capacity of less than 10ml.

Green is Eternal Collection Points:

For campaign details, please visit https://www.eternal.hk/green-is-eternal/campaign.

Hashtag: #EternalBeautyHoldings

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

About Eternal Beauty Holdings Limited (Stock Code: 6883.HK)

Eternal Beauty Holdings Limited is the largest perfume group (apart from brand-owner perfume groups) in China (including Hong Kong and Macau) in terms of retail sales in 2023. It primarily sells and distributes products procured from third-party brand licensors, and deploys market for these brand licensors, offering such services as brand management, and designing and implementing customized market entry and expansion plans for their brands. The Group boasts large and diversified brand portfolios that include not only perfumes, but also color cosmetics, skincare products, personal care products, eyewear and home fragrances. As at 30 September 2025, it conducted product distribution and market deployment for a total of 74 external brands, including Hermès, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chopard, Albion and Laura Mercier, with products in different pricing tiers and of versatile features that meet the differentiated demands of consumers in Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong and/or Macau.

About The Loops Hong Kong

The Loops, founded in 2019, is Hong Kong’s premier one-stop recycling center, offering door-to-door collection, sorting, and reporting. Handling over 40 recyclable types in a single basket, we simplify waste management for homes and businesses, provide real-time ESG data, innovative food waste recycling, and dirty recycling services, fostering sustainable practices. The Loops also empowers disadvantaged homemakers with flexible work, supports families, and transforms waste into resources for a sustainable future through a circular economy.

“Across Hong Kong, organizations are rethinking how work gets done with agentic AI—moving beyond experimentation to running operations at scale,” said Judson Althoff, CEO of Microsoft’s Commercial Business. “Frontier Transformation is helping them deliver business impact and measurable outcomes by embedding AI into real workflows, with trust, security, and governance fully integrated throughout.”

Frontier Success Framework: How Microsoft Helps Organizations Scale Agentic AI with Confidence

As AI matures, success is no longer defined by deploying individual tools. At the AI Tour, Microsoft shared its Frontier Success Framework—a practical approach designed to help organizations turn agentic AI into business real, measurable business value. The framework centered on four outcomes: enrich employee experience, reinvest customer engagement, reshape business process, and bend the curve on innovation.

As part of this journey, Microsoft announced that Wave 3 of Microsoft Copilot, delivered through Microsoft 365 E7 (Frontier Suite) will reach general availability in Hong Kong on 1 May 2026. Built on the principles of Intelligence and Trust, Microsoft 365 E7 brings together Microsoft 365 Copilot, Work IQ and Agent 365, alongside enterprise security, identity, and agent governance. By grounding AI in deep work context—understanding how people collaborate, what they work on, and how decisions are made—Work IQ enables Copilot and AI agents to operate with relevance and accuracy. At the same time, Agent 365 provides a centralized control plane to govern agents, while integrated security and governance ensure AI can scale responsibly across the enterprise.

Frontier Success in Action across Hong Kong

Across industries, Hong Kong organizations are already demonstrating what Frontier Success looks like in practice.

AIA –AdvancingAgentic AI Across Its Enterprise: AIA is applying Microsoft’s AI platform to deploy a holistic, agentic AI strategy across its operations. This includes agentic AI supporting product training, lead management and knowledge access, automated claims processing and customer self-service. In addition, a citizen developer program using Copilot Studio to increase productivity. Together, these capabilities enable AIA to reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and scale operational efficiency while meeting the requirements of a highly regulated industry.

AS Watson Group – Driving Scaled AI‑Powered Personalization Across O+O Retail Channels: AS Watson Group has adopted a wide range of AI tools in its Retail HK businesses, including Microsoft Copilot and its AI capabilities across its O+O (Offline plus Online) platform to enhance productivity and decision‑making. Key use cases include AI‑driven product discovery, AI skin analysis, and in‑store personalization to enhance customer engagement, alongside employee‑focused applications such as AI‑enabled store support and AI‑generated marketing content. By scaling generative AI across operations and customer insight analysis, the Group achieves efficiency, effectiveness and cross-team collaboration in its unique O+O business model.

These examples reflect a broader shift across Hong Kong’s business community: organizations are no longer asking whether AI works, but how it should sit inside the operating model to drive meaningful outcomes.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Frontier Success Through Continuous, Enterprise‑Grade Trust

Microsoft has been part of Hong Kong’s technology and business community for 35 years, supporting enterprises as the city evolves into a hub for innovation and global impact.

“Over the past 35 years, we have had the privilege of supporting Hong Kong through multiple waves of digital transformation. Today, as this momentum carries Hong Kong into the frontier era of AI, where organizations are not just adopting new technologies, but rethinking operating models across the enterprise,” said Leo Liu, General Manager of Microsoft Hong Kong and Macau. “As this frontier journey accelerates, Microsoft is committed to empowering local customers and partners to get ahead in the age of AI while maintaining strong data governance and enterprise‑grade privacy—ensuring human judgment remains firmly in control and enabling Hong Kong to define what Frontier Success looks like on the global stage.”

As AI adoption accelerates, Microsoft emphasized that Frontier Success is not a single milestone, but a continuous transformation—one that requires clarity of purpose, strong governance, and real-world execution. Through its platform, partners, and ecosystem, Microsoft aims to support Hong Kong organizations as they move from experimentation to sustained, responsible AI driven growth.

Hashtag: #Microsoft #AI #FrontierSuccess

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

About Microsoft

Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

Hardware Built for Local Conditions

The company isn’t just showing off standard gear; they’ve brought systems specifically designed to handle the challenges of the local energy landscape.

• PowerX1 Hybrid Inverters: Intelligent energy management, seamlessly switching between solar, battery, and grid for stable, uninterrupted power. Supports multi-source integration and rapid power transition.
• Powerinfi All-in-one ESS: ISO 13849 PL-d and IEC 62443 certified for functional safety and cybersecurity. Features a multi-layer battery safety system within a compact design.
• Advanced Solar & System Protection: Incorporates N-type HOT3.0 solar cell technology for enhanced low-light performance. The system boasts an IP66 rating for superior dust and water resistance.

A New Partnership with MIA Group

The big news from the show floor is the new Annual Channel Distribution Strategic Partnership with MIA Group. MIA Group is already a household name in Pakistan for HVAC and energy, and this deal means they’ll be the main bridge for Midea Hiconics’ tech to reach the local market.

“We’re excited to get to work with MIA Group,” a Midea Hiconics spokesperson said. “They have the reach and the local knowledge we need. By putting our hardware in their hands, we’re making it much easier for people here to switch to reliable, clean energy without the usual headaches.”

Media Contact:
Midea Hiconics Press Office
Website: https://www.hiconics-global.com/
Location: Solar Pakistan 2026, Booth A-3-8
Hashtag: #MideaHiconics

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

About Midea Hiconics

Midea Hiconics (SHE: 300048) has been around since 2003 and joined the Midea Group in 2020. They focus on green energy, home storage, and industrial tech, building smart tools that help people take control of their own power.

Check out https://www.hiconics-global.com/ for more info.

Under the agreement, Umoney will be integrated as a direct payment method within the Green SM app. The two parties will also implement an embedded integration model enabling Umoney users to seamlessly access Green SM’s mobility services directly within the Umoney platform.

For the first time in Laos, customers will experience a fully seamless ride-hailing journey with fares processed instantly via the Umoney e-wallet upon trip completion, replacing the previously common manual bank transfer method. Users simply link their Umoney wallet to the Green SM app for fast, convenient, and fully cashless transactions. Additionally, customers using partner banking applications can pay drivers through Umoney’s QR system, delivering a flexible, fast, and secure payment experience that enhances user convenience and broadens customer reach across both platforms.

As part of the collaboration, Green SM Laos will provide comprehensive mobility solutions for Umoney’s enterprise partners and individual customers, including Green SM Car electric ride-hailing, Green SM Limo, Green SM Airport transfer services, as well as corporate travel packages and flexible, customized mobility plans. Umoney, in turn, will collaborate with Green SM to develop digital financial and payment solutions tailored for drivers within the Green SM ecosystem, encompassing e-wallet services, direct income disbursement, operational expense payments, and cash flow management tools. This synergy is designed to optimize operational efficiency while enhancing the experience for businesses, drivers, and end-users alike.

Beyond mobility and payment solutions, both parties plan to expand their shared digital services ecosystem by integrating Umoney and Unitel’s telecommunications and digital utilities into the Green SM platform, including SIM card registration, mobile top-ups, data package purchases, and other digital services, thereby enhancing the value proposition for users across both platforms.

The two companies will also jointly roll out customer benefit programs targeting Umoney users in Laos, with a particular focus on airports, transaction points, and key high-traffic locations. Through integrated service offerings and incentives promoting electric mobility, Green SM and Umoney aim to foster environmentally responsible travel habits while delivering greater value to customers within their shared ecosystem.

Mr. Ha Chien Thang, Director of Star Fintech Sole Co., Ltd, shared:”Our partnership with Green SM marks a significant milestone in Umoney’s strategy to develop a comprehensive digital finance ecosystem in Laos. The integration of payment capabilities and digital services not only enhances user convenience but also contributes to the advancement of cashless payments and the broader digital transformation of the economy.”

Ms. Tran Hanh An, Director of Mobility Services Sales at Green SM Vietnam & Laos, stated: “The partnership between Umoney and Green SM reflects a shared commitment to connecting the essential infrastructures of modern urban life, from digital finance and telecommunications to a green mobility ecosystem. Through this collaboration, we aim to expand benefits for our customers and driver community while driving meaningful green transformation that is firmly grounded in everyday mobility and consumption needs.”

Furthermore, Green SM and Umoney will collaborate on multi-channel communications initiatives to strengthen brand awareness and expand their combined customer base. Planned activities include co-branded campaigns, promotional programs for new users, digital platform communications, and on-ground experiential activations in key markets.

The partnership between Green SM and Umoney marks a significant convergence of two leading ecosystems in green mobility and digital finance in Laos, united in their pursuit of integrated service solutions that meet the increasingly diverse demands of modern urban life. This collaboration also represents a pivotal step toward fostering innovation, elevating the user experience, and contributing to the sustainable growth of the digital economy in Laos.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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

“Retail today demands more than scale, it requires agility, digital precision and deep customer trust,” said Dr. Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson. “Being ranked among the world’s top 15 retailers is a timely affirmation that we are focusing on the right priorities: disciplined allocation of capital, an unwavering focus on customers, empowered by technology and executed with discipline.”

“As we celebrate our 185^th anniversary this year, this recognition is especially meaningful. Since 1841, AS Watson has evolved through generations of change – economic cycles, technological revolutions and shifting consumer expectations. Our presence across Asia and Europe has strengthened our ability to combine the speed and digital dynamism of Asia with the operational excellence and retail heritage of Europe.”

“In an increasingly digital retail world, we believe our true differentiation lies in combining advanced data, AI and seamless O+O (Offline plus Online) integrated capabilities with something far more enduring – the human touch. That combination of digital precision and human service drives stronger conversion, deeper loyalty and long-term trust. It is this balance that has sustained us for 185 years, and will continue to define our leadership in the years ahead.”

Scaling AI and Personalisation at Global Reach

AS Watson has accelerated investments in AI-powered personalisation, advanced analytics and digital ecosystems across its brands. By integrating loyalty data, online platforms and in-store engagement, the Group continues to enhance customer relevance while improving operational efficiency.

This data-driven approach enables:
– A strengthened focus on customer needs
– More precise assortment and pricing strategies
– Enhanced loyalty engagement
– Faster supply chain responsiveness

Resilient Growth in a Volatile Environment

Amid ongoing supply chain volatility, cost pressures and shifting consumer behaviour, AS Watson has demonstrated resilience through diversified geographic exposure, strong local market execution and disciplined cost management.

The Group’s scale, combined with agile regional operations, positions it to respond swiftly to market dynamics while sustaining long-term growth.

Hashtag: #ASWatson

https://www.aswatson.com/our-company/o-and-o-strategy/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/aswatson/
https://www.facebook.com/ASWGroupofficial/
https://www.instagram.com/aswatsongroup_corp/

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

About AS Watson Group

Established in 1841, AS Watson Group is one of the world’s longest-standing and most recognised retail companies with roots in Asia. Today, the company operates over 17,000 stores across 12 retail brands in 31 markets, employing 130,000 people globally. This makes AS Watson Group the largest international health and beauty retailer in the world.

In the fiscal year 2025, AS Watson Group reported revenue of over US$26 billion. The company’s technology-enabled O+O (Offline plus Online) platforms serve over 6 billion shoppers annually, seamlessly integrating physical and digital retail experiences.

AS Watson Group supported over 180 charitable and non-profit organisations every year, dedicating over 40,000 hours of volunteer work to serve over 370,000 people in need in our operating markets.

AS Watson Group is also a member of the world-renowned multinational conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings Limited, which has four core businesses ‐ ports and related services, retail, infrastructure and telecommunications in over 50 countries.

Please visit www.aswatson.com/our-company/o-and-o-strategy/ for more information.

Recognized for Strategic Excellence in Delivering AI-Ready, Secure, and Integrated Digital Infrastructure

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 April 2026 – DYXnet, a wholly-owned subsidiary of VNET Group (Nasdaq: VNET) and a leading enterprise network and ICT service provider in Greater China, has been honored the BRONZE STEVIE^® Award for Innovation in Technology Management, Planning & Implementation at the 13th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie^® Awards.

Gaining this prestigious recognition not only affirms DYXnet’s dedication to delivering professional, high-quality ICT services but also underscores its ongoing commitment to advancing with the fast-evolving technological landscape—particularly in the AI era—empowering enterprises to achieve seamless digital transformation through innovative, integrated solutions.

The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards are the only business awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace in all 29 markets of the Asia-Pacific region. The Stevie Awards are widely considered to be the world’s premier business awards, conferring recognition for achievement in programs such as The International Business Awards^® for 24 years.

This accolade celebrates DYXnet’s proven expertise in guiding enterprises through the complexities of the AI era. By combining thoughtful strategic planning with precise, end-to-end execution, DYXnet has created a powerful, unified infrastructure that seamlessly brings together high-performance AI computing, flexible cloud resources, reliable network connectivity, and comprehensive cybersecurity protections.

This integrated “AI+ Cloud-Network-Cybersecurity” approach empowers businesses to deploy and scale AI initiatives with confidence—whether through rapid private AI environments, intelligent operations automation (AIOps), or tailored enterprise AI applications that enhance decision-making, streamline processes, and boost overall efficiency. It effectively addresses critical demands such as surging computational requirements, secure hybrid environments, regulatory compliance, optimized resource use, and seamless multi-cloud connectivity, all while maintaining robust data protection.

These capabilities have already delivered tangible value across industries: improving production efficiency and security modernization in manufacturing, accelerating R&D cycles in emerging technology sectors, and strengthening operational resilience through compliant, high-performance infrastructure.

As a trusted enterprise network service provider in Hong Kong and Greater China, DYXnet places strong emphasis on the transformative power of AI. The company is committed to empowering enterprises with greater agility, resilience, and innovation through its one-stop “AI + Cloud + Network + Cybersecurity” solutions, and was amongst the first ICT service providers in the regions to obtain the prestigious ISO/IEC 42001 certification for AI management systems last year. The company continues to turn strategic vision into tangible outcomes, enabling enterprises to achieve secure, intelligent, and sustainable growth in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Hashtag: #DYXnet #第一線 #AI #雲網安

https://www.linkedin.com/company/90470

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

About DYXnet

DYXnet, established in 1999 in Hong Kong, became a wholly-owned subsidiary of VNET Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: VNET) in 2014. It is a leading ICT service provider in Hong Kong and the Asia Pacific region, delivering innovative technologies and solutions to enterprises of all sizes and helping them fully embrace digital transformation. DYXnet offers a comprehensive portfolio of services, including enterprise networks (MPLS and SD-WAN), cloud solutions, data center services, cybersecurity, and AI solutions, empowering businesses to realize their full potential.

Being a pioneer in the ICT sector, DYXnet operates over 200 PoPs worldwide, covering more than 700 cities and serving over 30,000 client sites. DYXnet was among the first ICT service providers in the region to obtain prestigious ISO certifications, including ISO/ IEC 42001, ISO/IEC 27001, ISO/IEC 20000, and ISO 9001. Additionally, DYXnet is one of the inaugural official members of the China Cross-border Data Telecommunications Industry Alliance and has played a crucial role as one of the initial drafting units for SD-WAN service standards.

The survey shows that 68 per cent of Hong Kong SMEs recorded growth in 2025, up from 65 per cent in 2024 and marking the highest result on record. This positive momentum is expected to continue this year, with 71 per cent of SMEs expecting their businesses to grow and 76 per cent anticipating growth in the local economy — both at record highs. Customer loyalty and a strong workforce were identified as key drivers behind SMEs’ solid performance last year.

Mr Cliff Ip, Councillor of CPA Australia’s Greater China Divisional Council, said Hong Kong’s improving business environment played a critical role in supporting SME growth. “Hong Kong’s business confidence and economic growth strengthened last year, supported by robust capital markets, a recovery in tourism and consumption, and signs of stabilisation in the property market,” said Mr Ip. “Against this stable and supportive backdrop, small businesses not only benefited from increased business activity, but were also able to expand in a healthy and sustainable manner.”

Looking ahead, Mr Ip noted that while global geopolitical tensions and external uncertainties pose rising challenges, Hong Kong’s underlying strengths remain a key advantage for SMEs. “Rising geopolitical risks are likely to create headwinds for many sectors such as trade and logistics through higher fuel costs and supply chain disruptions. However, I remain confident about Hong Kong’s overall business outlook this year,” he said. “As many regions become more unpredictable or less secure, Hong Kong’s stable and consistent business environment, together with supportive policy settings including the city’s low and simple tax regime stand out as important advantages in attracting international companies and investors.”

Mr Ip added that these developments also present new opportunities for local SMEs, particularly as increased international interest creates scope to build partnerships, expand networks and tap into new markets. “This environment also creates favourable conditions for younger entrepreneurs to explore emerging markets and pursue new business opportunities,” he said.

Improved business performance has strengthened the solvency of many local SMEs. The share of businesses reporting difficulty paying debts fell sharply from 22 per cent in 2024 to just 3 per cent in 2025, while only 4 per cent expect to face difficulties this year, down markedly from 26 per cent previously. As a result, Hong Kong small businesses are now the least likely among the surveyed businesses to report solvency concerns.

Mr Ip said, “The solvency of many SMEs has notably improved, driven by stronger cash flow from improved business growth, a robust capital market and a recovering property market over the past year. This healthier cashflow has both supported easier access to external finance and reduced the need for such finance.”

Hong Kong SMEs have also strengthened their capability to invest in technology that delivers rapid improvements in profitability. In 2025, 64 per cent of SMEs reported that their technology investment in that year helped improve profitability, up from 59 per cent in 2024. Two in five Hong Kong SMEs invested in artificial intelligence (AI) last year, making it the leading technology investment among local SMEs, followed by customer relationship management (CRM) software.

At the same time, cyber protection has improved, with the share of Hong Kong businesses reporting losses from cyber incidents falling sharply from 72 per cent in 2024 to 43 per cent in 2025. However, as digitalisation accelerates, cyber risks remain elevated, with nearly three in five SMEs expecting to face cyber threats this year, above the survey average 42 per cent.

Mr Davy Leung, Deputy Chairperson of CPA Australia’s SME and Entrepreneurship Committee of Greater China, said the growing maturity and availability of AI tools is helping SMEs enhance productivity, reduce operating costs and improve customer experience.

“However, rising digital fraud, wider AI adoption and SMEs’ increasing reliance on digital banking have prompted the Hong Kong Government to significantly strengthen banking security and cybersecurity resilience over the past year. This includes the rollout of low-cost and practical initiatives such as the Cybersec One Programme and the continued implementation of the ‘9+5’ SME support measures. The decline of cyberattack-related losses reported in the survey in part reflects the effectiveness of these measures.

“As cybersecurity threats and digital fraud risks continue to escalate, SMEs should make better use of these available resources, including free website risk assessments and vulnerability identification services, to strengthen their defence capabilities and safeguard business operations.”

Mr Leung also suggested that the Government consider revamping the Technology Voucher Programme to support broader digitalisation efforts, including the adoption of both AI and non-AI technologies. He added that enhanced training support would help SMEs identify and implement modern tools to drive innovation, improve efficiency and strengthen long-term competitiveness.

Rising costs remain a key challenge for Hong Kong SMEs in 2025, with 29 per cent reporting it having a negative impact on their business. However, this was the second‑lowest level among all surveyed markets, underscoring Hong Kong’s relatively low inflationary environment last year. Notably, the share of SMEs citing staff costs as a negative factor rose from 35 per cent to 42 per cent, making it the most significant cost pressure for Hong Kong businesses in 2025. This increase may help explain why the proportion of SMEs hiring additional staff declined from 42 per cent to 38 per cent last year.

Mr Leung said, “Increasing costs remain a significant barrier for many SMEs across Asia‑Pacific region, but Hong Kong’s relatively low inflation has helped cushion the impact on local small businesses,” Mr Leung said.

Mr Leung added that while headcount growth has moderated, overall staff costs have continued to rise as businesses invest in higher‑value talent. “Greater digitalisation and automation have helped ease labour constraints in Hong Kong. When SMEs do add staff, they are increasingly recruiting employees with digital and AI capabilities, or creating new roles to support business transformation. These positions typically command higher salaries, which has contributed to higher overall staff costs despite slower hiring growth.”

The annual survey collected the views of 4,166 small businesses across 11 Asia-Pacific markets, including Singapore, the Chinese Mainland, and Australia, with 305 respondents from Hong Kong.
Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is Australia’s leading professional accounting body and one of the largest in the world. We have more than 176,000 members in over 100 countries and regions. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. A CPA is a Certified Practising Accountant. More at cpaaustralia.com.au

Innovative insurance solutions to address the growing demand for wealth appreciation and management services

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – Banco Well Link, S.A. (“Well Link Bank”) and FWD Macau (“FWD”) today announced a bancassurance partnership in Macau, marked by an official launch ceremony. The collaboration enables Well Link Bank to offer a broader range of insurance products and services to customers in Macau, including high‑net‑worth individuals, further strengthening the Bank’s wealth proposition. Leveraging Well Link Bank’s strong client base and extensive branch network in Macau, together with FWD’s customer-led and tech-enabled approach, the partnership will deliver cutting-edge insurance solutions and more convenient experiences for Macau residents and visitors, supporting customers in achieving their wealth appreciation and legacy planning goals.

This year marks Well Link Bank’s 30th anniversary and FWD Macau’s 26th, underscoring both companies’ longstanding commitment to excellence in wealth management. Through consistently delivering professional, high-quality products and services, the two companies continue to create value for customers and steer market development.

Huang Ruisheng, Executive Director and CEO, Well Link Bank, said: “Well Link Bank is committed to providing diversified and forward-looking wealth management solutions in Macau. Establishing this bancassurance partnership with FWD Macau is a significant milestone in our wealth management roadmap. We firmly believe that through close collaboration that leverages the Bank’s strong local customer network and FWD’s strengths in product innovation and technology, we can deliver more personalised and effective insurance solutions with higher growth potential. Looking ahead, Well Link Bank will continue to harness innovation and professional expertise to contribute to Macau’s diversified economic growth and the prosperity of its financial market.”

Ken Lau, Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD, said: “FWD Macau is delighted to establish this bancassurance partnership with Well Link Bank in Macau. By combining the professional edge and corporate strength of both companies, we are committed to changing the way people feel about insurance in the Macau market. We look forward to working closely with Well Link Bank to help customers achieve their wealth appreciation and legacy planning goals through FWD’s prudent, customer-led insurance solutions, thereby creating long-term value. This partnership not only enhances our product distribution capabilities but also represents an important step in expanding our footprint in Macau and with Macau visitors.”

Hashtag: #WellLinkBank #FWD

https://www.wlbank.com.mo/

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

About Well Link Bank

Banco Well Link, S.A. (hereinafter referred to as WLB) is a fully licensed commercial bank registered in Macao. Upholding the “bridge” spirit, WLB is committed to serve as a bridge to success for clients, serves enterprises and individuals, promotes the country’s development and contributes to our mutual benefit society.

WLB unceasingly strengthens its technology leadership, enhancing the capability to offer comprehensive services to customers through optimization of financial technology, making full use of its advantages of featured finance and professional services, and mapping a financial ecology. WLB, acting as an inclusive finance practitioner, devotes itself to small and medium customers and personal consumption operations.

WLB’s products and services include: Savings Deposit & Time Deposit, Transfer, Credit Card & Debit Card, Personal Loan; Services by channels: ATM, STM, Mobile Banking and Online Account Opening; Personal Banking services: Well Link Securities Service, Insurance Agency, Payroll Service and Tax Rebate.

For more information about Well Link Bank, please visit the Bank’s website at https://www.wlbank.com.mo/.

About FWD Macau

FWD Macau is part of the FWD Group (1828.HK), a pan-Asian life and health insurance business that serves more than 38 million customers across 10 markets, including BRI Life in Indonesia. FWD Macau provides a suite of life and medical insurance products.

FWD’s customer-led and tech-enabled approach aims to deliver innovative propositions, easy-to-understand products and a simpler insurance experience. Established in 2013, the company operates in some of the fastest-growing insurance markets in the world with a vision of changing the way people feel about insurance. FWD Group is listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code 1828.

For more information about FWD Macau, please visit www.fwd.com.mo.

Allianz Trade and DBS Hong Kong brief businesses on evolving geopolitical trade risks and the critical need for granular liquidity visibility.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – One year after the US Liberation Day, tariffs continue to disrupt global trade and supply chains while many economies and corporates still struggle to find their footing. The broke out of the Middle East conflict has compounded on the effect by driving lower global GDP growth (+2.6% in 2026), higher global inflation (4.3% in 2026) and stronger fiscal pressure. Amid such highly uncertain times, Allianz Trade in Hong Kong partnered with DBS for an exclusive session where industry experts and thought leaders dissected into today’s shifting geopolitical landscape and heightened credit risks, and offered their views on trade opportunities in an increasingly fragmented world.

“The Middle East conflict has added a new layer of shocks to an already fragile environment shaped by tariffs, weakening demand and declining consumer confidence. The good news is that firms have taken operational steps to adapt since the trade war began, with the most common strategies including inventory building, market diversification, sourcing from new suppliers and rerouting through third markets. Asia Pacific has emerged as the clear structural beneficiary of supply chain realignment. Hong Kong, as a major trading and financing hub in the region, continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating trade and investment flows. Together with DBS, we are here to offer our combined intelligence and support to help companies achieve customer and market diversification, better risk selection, and providing them with confidence to trade and grow safely,” states Hassan Omaish, CEO for Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan at Allianz Trade.

Jolynn Wong, Managing Director and Head of Global Transaction Services, DBS Hong Kong, says, “We are witnessing a lengthening of cash collection cycles across sectors impacted by trade route and inventory disruptions, leading to a growing proportion of receivables held at extended tenors. In this climate of heightened volatility, the role of trade finance extends beyond mere credit extension; it must now assure corporates of timely critical cash flow realisation and enable strategic suppliers to maintain production amidst disruptions. Leveraging DBS Hong Kong’s robust capital and liquidity, we provide clients with the necessary extended tenors and contingent liquidity to navigate prolonged inventory and shipping cycles, thereby fortifying their resilience. By integrating guarantees, letters of credit, credit insurance, and treasury hedging into a unified architecture through our digital platforms, we empower clients to transform volatile receivables into reliable cash flows and turn disruptions into investable growth opportunities.”

Notes to editors:
To gauge how global exporters fared through tariffs and the Middle East conflict, Allianz Trade recently published its flagship Global Survey, where 6,000 exporters across 13 countries were polled on their export performances over the past year, as well as outlook and coping strategies for the short- to medium-term. The Survey revealed that 75% of exporters expect positive export growth in 2026, which was much more optimistic than the 2025 tariff shock where expectations dropped by -40pp.

“For now, the impact of the Middle East conflict seems moderate, but such level of optimism remains fragile and could quickly fade if the conflict drags on. Allianz Trade’s Global Survey revealed that geopolitical and political risks are the leading threat globally for corporates (65%), while supply-related issues, such as bankruptcy of suppliers and shortage of inputs, came at second place (57%). The Middle East conflict has also tightened trade finance conditions. Not only payment cycles are lengthening, 43% of companies expect payment terms to deteriorate further. Pharmaceuticals, construction and computers/telecom are the most exposed sectors, while larger companies face disproportionately longer payment cycles,” says Ana Boata, Head of Economic Research at Allianz Trade.

Hashtag: #allianztrade #dbshongkong

https://www.allianz-trade.com/en_HK.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianz-trade-apac/

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

About Allianz Trade

Allianz Trade is the global leader in trade credit insurance and a recognized specialist in the areas of surety, collections, structured trade credit and political risk. Our proprietary intelligence network is based on instant access to data of 289 million corporates. We give companies the confidence to trade by securing their payments. We compensate your company in the event of a bad debt, but more importantly, we help you avoid bad debt in the first place. Whenever we provide trade credit insurance or other finance solutions, our priority is predictive protection. But, when the unexpected arrives, our AA credit rating means we have the resources, backed by Allianz to provide compensation to maintain your business. Headquartered in Paris, Allianz Trade is present in over 40 countries with 5,900 employees. In 2025, our consolidated turnover was EUR4 billion and insured global business transactions represented EUR1,400 billion in exposure. For more information, please visit allianz-trade.com.

About DBS

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named World’s Best Bank by Global Finance, World’s Best Bank by Euromoney and Global Bank of the Year by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named World’s Best Digital Bank by Euromoney and the world’s Most Innovative in Digital Banking by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the Safest Bank in Asia award by Global Finance for 17 consecutive years from 2009 to 2025.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets.

DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need. It provides essential needs to the underprivileged, and fosters inclusion by equipping the underserved with financial and digital literacy skills. It also nurtures innovative social enterprises that create positive impact.

With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.