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Producer prices in the Republic of Korea rose for a fifth straight month in January, driven by firmer semiconductor prices and higher agricultural costs, according to central bank data that point to lingering pipeline inflation pressures in Asia’s fourth-largest economy.

Figures released by the Bank of Korea showed the producer price index increased on both a monthly and annual basis, extending a run of gains that began in early autumn. Officials attributed the latest rise largely to a rebound in memory chip prices and elevated food-related costs, reflecting supply constraints and weather-related disruptions.

Semiconductors, a cornerstone of the country’s export-led economy, played a decisive role. Prices for key memory products, including DRAM and NAND flash, strengthened as global demand for data centres and artificial intelligence applications continued to absorb inventories. After a prolonged downturn that weighed on manufacturing output through 2023, chipmakers have benefited from tighter supply and renewed investment in high-performance computing, pushing upstream prices higher.

Industry analysts say the upturn in chip prices has filtered through supply chains, lifting overall producer prices even as energy costs have remained comparatively stable. Manufacturing accounts for a substantial share of Korea’s producer basket, meaning swings in technology components can exert an outsized influence on headline figures.

Agricultural products also recorded notable gains. Unfavourable weather conditions and higher input costs contributed to increases in fruit, vegetable and livestock prices. Food-related producer costs are closely watched because they can pass through to consumer prices with a lag, particularly in a country where household spending on fresh produce forms a visible part of the inflation basket.

The latest data suggest cost pressures remain uneven across sectors. While energy prices have moderated from peaks seen after geopolitical disruptions in global oil and gas markets, certain industrial materials and processed foods have shown persistent firmness. Service-sector producer prices, including transport and logistics, have also edged higher, reflecting wage adjustments and operating expenses.

Economists note that sustained increases in producer prices can eventually feed into consumer inflation, although the transmission is neither automatic nor immediate. Consumer price growth has eased from multi-year highs reached in 2022, but remains sensitive to food and housing costs. The central bank has kept its benchmark interest rate at a restrictive level since early 2023 in a bid to anchor inflation expectations and support financial stability.

Policy deliberations in Seoul have balanced the need to contain price pressures against concerns over slowing domestic demand and household debt. Export performance has improved alongside the semiconductor recovery, yet construction activity and private consumption have shown mixed signals. A continued rise in producer prices may complicate the timing of any monetary easing, particularly if global commodity prices remain volatile.

The global context adds another layer of uncertainty. Demand for advanced chips linked to artificial intelligence has bolstered Korea’s trade outlook, but cyclical risks persist in other manufacturing segments, including petrochemicals and steel. At the same time, agricultural markets remain exposed to climate variability, which can amplify price swings and affect food security.

Market participants are closely monitoring whether the current producer price trend represents a stabilisation after last year’s weakness or the beginning of a more entrenched cost cycle. Some analysts argue that the semiconductor rebound is structural, underpinned by sustained capital expenditure in cloud infrastructure and next-generation devices. Others caution that technology demand can be volatile, and that inventory adjustments may re-emerge later in the year.

For policymakers, the composition of producer price growth is as important as the headline number. Increases concentrated in export-oriented sectors may bolster corporate earnings and investment, whereas broad-based gains across consumer-linked industries could signal renewed inflationary momentum. The central bank has indicated it will continue to assess data on prices, wages and growth before making any shift in its policy stance.

Businesses, meanwhile, face decisions on whether to absorb higher input costs or pass them on to customers. Large technology firms may have greater pricing power in global markets, but small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in food processing and retail supply chains, operate on thinner margins.

Debut at startup-centric zone 4YFN, Dual-presence at World Class Tech Exhibitions in Spain

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 February 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will lead a delegation of 21 Hong Kong tech companies and institutions to showcase at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026—the world’s premier connectivity event, and debut at 4 Years From Now (4YFN) 2026—a global stage for start-ups, taking place concurrently 2-5 March in Barcelona, Spain.

Building on the momentum from MWC 2025—the Delegation will be featuring solutions beyond the Connectivity category, covering focus areas across Devices and Systems, Digital Transformation and support from Ecosystem Partners. The Pavilion duet ought to give a more comprehensive picture of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology (I&T) capabilities in engaging global telecom leaders, enterprise decision-makers, industry partners, and investors, bridging cutting-edge research and development (R&D) into real-world applications and propelling Hong Kong’s I&T sector onto the international stage.

Derek Chim, Head of Startup Ecosystem and Development, HKSTP said, “MWC is a global bellwether for communications technology and tech companies at any stage, to connect with the industry and investors, to have a solid ground that validate solutions, catalyse pilot projects, accelerate commercialisation, and scale internationally.”

Iris Wong, Director, Merchandise Trade and Innovation / Director, External Relations, HKTDC, said, “The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion is an ideal platform for Hong Kong tech enterprises to present their latest R&D achievements at major international tech gatherings, support their journey to explore overseas markets, while highlighting Hong Kong’s strengths as an international innovation and technology hub.”

A series of dialogues and exchanges, spanning from networking reception and themed talks to pitching sessions, will take place throughout the events at the Pavilion to facilitate partnerships and investment opportunities for innovative solutions that are market-ready with high potential for market expansion, in particular, Asmote and Cresento under “Connectivity” make stellar examples of the notion:

• 5G & 6G for Communication, Sensing, and AI computing – Shannon & Turing, (Asmote), located at MWC, specialises in mmWave technology for Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology—drone communications and control—rising to the occasion as the city advances its low-altitude economy initiatives, while winning favors for its efficiency in managing industrial scenarios such as smart ports and dark factories. The company previously secured the world’s first 26GHz mmWave 5G commercial communications project, demonstrating its leadership in industrial-grade applications.

• Smart Performance Insights for Sport – Cresento, located at 4YFN, focused on developing an AI-powered shin guard to deliver real-time insights—performance analytics, team leaderboards, and more—with a design that incorporates into gears that athletes already wear and creates minimal friction for, in particular, football players to adapt, will be moving from prototypes to pilot collaborations with European football clubs, academies and sport tech platforms and distributors.

HKSTP continues to join hands with HKTDC to support Hong Kong tech enterprises to “go global” by jointly organising the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion to build bridges linking tech companies with the world. This expedites the industry’s progress in internationalisation to meet the growing demand for I&T globally. This will attract talents, facilitate forward-looking investments and explore opportunities globally, realising the mission of entrepreneurs to reach out to the world and further consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international I&T hub.

Mobile World Congress Barcelona (MWC) & 4 Years From Now (4YFN)
Date: 2-5 March 2026
Venue: Fira Gran Via, Av. Joan Carles I, 64, 08908 L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain

Hong Kong Tech Pavilion:
MWC – Booth 6E44 at Hall 6
4YFN – Booth 8.1B31 at Hall 8.1

Please visit https://bit.ly/MWC2026HKTech for more information on Hong Kong Tech Pavilion and the exhibitors.

Appendix: Full list of 21 tech entities showcasing at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion during MWC and 4YFN 2026 (in alphabetical order)

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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HKSTP

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org

Battery swapping allows drivers to exchange a depleted battery for a fully charged one in a matter of minutes at automated stations. Proponents argue that the process reduces waiting times, eases pressure on charging grids and addresses consumer concerns over driving range. The single-day tally reflects the rapid build-out of swapping infrastructure, particularly in urban clusters where electric vehicle adoption has surged.

Nio, one of the most prominent advocates of the model, has invested heavily in automated swap stations capable of completing a battery exchange in roughly three to five minutes. The company has deployed thousands of such stations nationwide, positioning the service as a core part of its premium brand offering. CATL, the world’s largest electric vehicle battery manufacturer, has also entered the segment, unveiling standardised battery packs and modular swap solutions aimed at broader industry adoption.

The record comes as authorities continue to encourage innovation in electric mobility as part of wider decarbonisation efforts. China remains the world’s largest market for electric vehicles, accounting for more than half of global sales. According to industry data, new energy vehicles — which include battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models — have steadily expanded their share of total car sales, supported by policy incentives, local government backing and a dense manufacturing ecosystem.

Supporters of battery swapping argue that the model can complement fast-charging networks rather than replace them. While high-powered chargers have improved, recharging times can still extend beyond 20 minutes depending on capacity and grid availability. Swapping offers a predictable and shorter turnaround, which fleet operators such as ride-hailing and logistics companies view as critical to maintaining vehicle utilisation rates.

Industry analysts note that standardisation has historically been a barrier to wider adoption. Different vehicle platforms often require unique battery configurations, complicating interoperability. CATL has sought to address this by promoting unified battery specifications that could be shared across brands. If widely adopted, such standardisation could lower infrastructure costs and accelerate rollout beyond premium segments.

Nio has expanded partnerships with other manufacturers to open its swapping network to additional vehicle models. The company has also integrated digital systems to allow drivers to locate stations, reserve slots and monitor battery health. Executives argue that separating vehicle ownership from battery ownership — through subscription-style battery leasing — reduces upfront purchase prices and mitigates concerns over long-term battery degradation.

However, sceptics question whether the economics can be sustained at scale. Building and maintaining automated swap stations requires substantial capital expenditure. Each site houses multiple battery packs, robotic handling systems and grid connections capable of recharging stored units. Critics argue that fast-charging networks, which rely on increasingly powerful chargers, may offer a more straightforward path to expansion without the need for physical battery inventories.

Grid management is another factor shaping the debate. Swapping stations can recharge batteries during off-peak hours and potentially provide energy storage services to the grid. By smoothing demand, operators may reduce strain during peak periods. Analysts suggest that such integration could become more valuable as renewable energy capacity grows and grid balancing becomes more complex.

Beyond domestic deployment, Chinese firms have signalled ambitions to export swapping technology. Pilot projects have been announced in parts of Europe and Asia, though regulatory frameworks and consumer preferences vary widely. In markets where home charging is common and long-distance travel patterns differ, adoption may face distinct challenges. Even so, global interest in reducing charging bottlenecks has prompted automakers and policymakers to monitor developments closely.

Competition within China’s electric vehicle market remains intense. Dozens of manufacturers are vying for market share amid price competition and rapid technological upgrades. Infrastructure innovation has become a key differentiator. Companies capable of offering integrated ecosystems — spanning vehicle, battery, software and energy services — are viewed as better positioned to secure customer loyalty in a crowded field.

The 146,000-swap benchmark illustrates how quickly usage volumes can scale once infrastructure density reaches critical mass. Urban corridors linking major economic centres have seen particularly high utilisation rates, with drivers opting for swaps during peak commuting hours. Fleet operators report that predictable turnaround times improve route planning and asset productivity.

By Nantoo Banerjee The global AI impact summit 2026 in Delhi, last week, couldn’t have come at a more appropriate time when the world continues to be somewhat skeptical about adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI), its limitations and potential consequences. Thanks to the pioneering effort by firms such as Nvidia, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta and […]

The article India Should Adopt ‘Trustworthy’ AI Tools To Stay Safe And Transparent appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

This year’s edition sees six coffee shops from the region secure placements in the Top 100 List

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2026 – The second edition of THE WORLD’S 100 BEST COFFEE SHOPS 2026 with DaVinci Gourmet announced its global ranking at CoffeeFest Madrid 2026 on 16 February 2026. This year marks a breakthrough moment for the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates secured two placements in the global Top 100, reinforcing its position as a fast-growing specialty coffee hub. In addition, Qatar and Oman achieved their first-ever entries in the global ranking, and Turkey’s Meet Lab Coffee returned to the list, underscoring the region’s growing presence on the world coffee stage.

The list confirms the emergence of new global capitals of quality coffee, as well as the consolidation of an increasingly diverse and innovative international coffee community that includes The United States, which leads the ranking with nine selected coffee shops, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East.

Middle East coffee shops that made the Top 100 Ranking:

• Benchmark Coffee, UAE

• Harvest Coffee, Qatar

• Meet Lab Coffee, Turkey

• Azura – The Coffee Company, Oman

• Cypher Urban Roastery, UAE

• Flat White Specialty Coffee, Qatar

Hashtag: #TheWorlds100BestCoffeeShop #DaVinciGourmet

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

The partnership is designed to provide greater confidence throughout the EV ownership journey—ensuring that premium electric vehicles are supported by reliable charging solutions, responsive roadside assistance, and integrated digital services. By combining VinFast’s expanding EV presence in the UAE with PlusX Electric’s on-demand charging capabilities and infrastructure expertise, the two parties will work together to deliver a seamless, convenience-led, and assurance-driven experience for VinFast drivers.

Under the MoU, VinFast and PlusX Electric will collaborate across a structured set of initiatives focused on charging availability, ownership support, and infrastructure enablement across key use cases, including home, workplace, fleet, and on-road assistance.

Specifically, the two parties aim to deploy Portable EV Charging Pods to meet customers’ flexible charging needs during vehicle usage, while enabling access to On-Demand Mobile Charging services designed to assist in time-sensitive situations. The partnership will also explore EV Roadside Assistance (RSA) – Emergency Charging services, helping reduce range anxiety and vehicle downtime while strengthening customer assurance through clearly defined service workflows and operational readiness.

In addition, PlusX Electric may become a preferred partner for the supply, installation, and aftersales support of Home & Office Chargers for VinFast customers in the UAE, in alignment with applicable UAE compliance requirements. For commercial and fleet segments, the two parties will explore scalable solutions such as DC Fast Charger Leasing and dedicated mobile charging support, ensuring operational continuity and efficiency for B2B and fleet customers.

As part of the collaboration, VinFast and PlusX Electric will further explore digital integration initiatives to streamline how customers access charging services, manage bookings, and receive service updates through partner platforms. The two parties will also assess potential integration of EV insurance offerings via the PlusX App and explore co-branding opportunities, including VinFast branding on PlusX Power Pods, with the objective of delivering a cohesive and fully integrated EV ecosystem experience.

Ms. Do Hoai Linh, CEO of VinFast Middle East, shared: “VinFast is committed to building a long-term and comprehensive EV ecosystem in the UAE—one that gives customers confidence not only in the quality and performance of our electric vehicles, but also in the reliability and accessibility of the supporting infrastructure. Through this MoU with PlusX Electric, we are strengthening the support layer around EV adoption by expanding access to flexible charging solutions, emergency assistance services, and integrated digital touchpoints. By working with a DEWA-approved partner that understands local regulatory requirements and operational realities, we aim to make EV ownership simpler, more dependable, and better aligned with the expectations of customers in the Middle East.”

Chintan Sareen – Founder and CEO of PlusX Electric added: “EV adoption accelerates when customers trust that charging and support are always within reach. Our collaboration with VinFast reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the EV ownership ecosystem in the UAE through dependable infrastructure, responsive roadside services, and customer-centric digital solutions. As a DEWA-approved provider, PlusX Electric brings localized expertise in charger supply and installation, mobile charging operations, and fleet enablement. Together with VinFast, we look forward to delivering practical, scalable solutions that enhance service reliability, reduce range anxiety, and support the continued growth of sustainable mobility in the region.”

Across the Middle East, VinFast continues to expand its presence through strategic partnerships, strengthened aftersales capabilities, and the development of EV-supporting infrastructure. The collaboration with PlusX Electric underscores VinFast’s long-term commitment to supporting customers throughout their ownership journey and contributing to the UAE’s transition toward sustainable and future-ready mobility solutions.

Hashtag: #Vinfast

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About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC — one of Vietnam’s largest private conglomerates — is a pure electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer with a mission to make EVs more accessible to all. Its current product lineup includes a range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric buses.

VinFast is entering its next phase of global growth by rapidly expanding its distribution and dealership network, strengthening manufacturing capabilities, and focusing on key markets in North America, Europe, and Asia.

Learn more about VinFast: https://me.vinfast.com/en

About PlusX Electric

PlusX Electric is a DEWA-approved EV charging and electric mobility solutions company in the UAE, offering end-to-end charging services including charger supply and installation, mobile charging solutions, EV roadside assistance, and fleet charging partnerships. PlusX Electric is committed to making EV charging more accessible, reliable, and convenient for both individual and commercial customers across the UAE.

Air India has scrapped all its flights to and from New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport for both Monday, 23 February and Tuesday, 24 February, citing a powerful winter storm bearing down on the US East Coast that has forced widespread travel disruption and grounding of services. The airline said heavy snow, strong winds and hazardous conditions forecast across New York, New Jersey and adjoining states would significantly disrupt airport operations, prompting a precautionary halt to services to prioritise passenger and crew safety.

The cancellations form part of a wider aviation standstill triggered by one of the most intense nor’easter systems to sweep the Northeast this season. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings stretching from Delaware through to Massachusetts, including the New York metropolitan area, where forecasters expect between 30 cm and 61 cm of snow, strong gusts and white-out conditions that threaten to make travel perilous. Municipal authorities have imposed travel bans on non-essential movement and activated emergency measures to cope with the storm’s impact.

Air India’s travel advisory advised travellers booked on affected services to contact the carrier’s support teams for rebooking and assistance, underscoring the airline’s efforts to manage disruption for customers despite the operational freeze. Dedicated ground teams have been deployed at airports to help passengers with alternative arrangements and support. The move mirrors actions by other international carriers, with Emirates and Etihad also cancelling flights to US destinations as the storm hobbles aviation corridors between the Middle East and the United States.

The storm system, dubbed a blizzard by weather authorities, has shut down road travel across much of the Northeast. New York City’s mayor has ordered a citywide ban on non-essential travel during peak weather, while neighbouring New Jersey and several states along the Eastern Seaboard have declared states of emergency, mobilising snow-clearing crews and National Guard units. Public transit services, including buses and commuter rail, face severe curtailments as snowfall rates surge.

Across the region, airports have reported thousands of flight cancellations and delays as shuddered operations ripple outward from the hardest-hit hubs. Alongside Air India’s transatlantic cancellations, major carriers have pulled back services at John F. Kennedy, LaGuardia and Boston Logan International Airports, where airlines have warned passengers to expect prolonged disruption as crews and infrastructure teams work to clear runways and de-ice aircraft.

The National Weather Service’s warnings reflect the storm’s scale. Blizzard alerts encompassing New York City mark the first of their kind in several years for the area, with forecasters noting that coastal flooding, damaging winds and snow loads that can down power lines are all present within the storm’s profile. Some jurisdictions are anticipating snow accumulations that could eclipse seasonal norms, heightening concerns over transportation and emergency response capabilities as attention turns to post-storm recovery.

The pattern of disruption emerging from this event follows a string of significant winter weather episodes across North America in recent weeks, including powerful storms earlier in the winter season that had already stressed transport networks and emergency services. This latest system’s timing and intensity compound logistical challenges for travellers and carriers alike, with airlines adjusting timetables, offering refunds and reshaping schedules as conditions evolve.

The tokenized investment model enables Esperanza Securities to issue investment tokens (also known as security tokens) through an investment fund it manages, allowing eligible investors to participate with a significantly lower entry barrier and trade the tokens in secondary markets.

Against the emerging tokenized real-world-asset (RWA) trend worldwide, Esperanza Securities is among the first platforms with a systematic focus on the live entertainment industry. Following the granting of the permission by the SFC, two upcoming tokenized entertainment investments will include the Chris Wong 40^th Anniversary Concert which will take place in Hong Kong on 6 to 7 March 2026 and a Korean boy band concert which will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 11 April 2026.

Innovation beyond technology: a focus on product structure

Entertainment industry assets have long benefited from a clear business model and income structure, which include box office receipts, sponsorships and merchandise revenue. Through tokenization, Esperanza Securities offers a new path for asset owners such as concert organizers to access capital without altering their operational models, while enabling investors to directly participate in opportunities linked to real economic activities.

The application of the tokenized investment model spans beyond the live entertainment industry. In fact, opportunities with clear business models and easily valuated underlying assets possess immense potential for tokenization. For instance, cultural and experiential projects with clear community monetization models and assets with stable and predictable cash flows, such as commercial properties, can all benefit from tokenization.

Bridging global investors to Asian assets through a 24×7 platform

Through the proprietary platform, espetopia.com (“Platform“), Esperanza Securities enables eligible investors to back real economy linked Asian projects, anytime and anywhere, without geographical limitations.

Eligible investors from all over the world can access all investment-related information, trade investment tokens and redeem utilities and experiences associated with the underlying assets through the Platform. This infrastructure enhances the visibility of Asian opportunities in global markets and effectively pools global capital to fund real economic developments, across verticals from cultural intellectual properties to the broader experience economies.

Looking ahead: charting a digital financing path for high-quality real assets

Looking forward, Esperanza Securities will continue to advance its asset-backed tokenized investment model under a prudent and compliant framework. The Company aims to progressively build a sustainable digital investment ecosystem centered on real assets with clear economic foundations.

As market acceptance of RWA digitization continues to grow, the Company sees promising potential for asset-backed tokenization to become an integral financing option alongside traditional public listings and private placements.

Hashtag: #EsperanzaFintech

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About Esperanza Fintech (Securities) Limited

Esperanza Securities is a licensed corporation under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap 571 of the law of Hong Kong) with permission to carry out Type 4 (advising on securities) and Type 9 (asset management) regulated activities. On 13 February 2026, Esperanza Securities received a “no further comment” letter from the SFC in relation to its proposal to tokenize managed funds, effectively granting formal permission for Esperanza Securities to conduct tokenized investment businesses.

About Esperanza Fintech Group

Esperanza Fintech Group is a fintech group headquartered in Hong Kong. The group’s licensed businesses include (i) gold trading and tokenized gold services operated by Esperanza Fintech (Commodities) Limited, a DPMS (dealers in precious metals and stones) Category A Registrant (No. A-B-25-03-08913) with the Hong Kong Customs with permitted businesses including the issuance, redemption and trading of gold backed instruments on www.espetopia.com; (ii) client asset custodian service operated by Esperanza Fintech (Nominees) Limited, a licensed Trust or Company Service Provider in Hong Kong (Licence No. TC010260), regulated by the Hong Kong Companies Registry; and (iii) tokenized investment services operated by Esperanza Securities, an SFC-regulated asset manager with permission to carry out tokenized investment businesses.

ideal for sharing during family gatherings and as gifts when visiting loved ones during communal Iftar gatherings and during the Hari Raya season.

• Handcrafted Beverages: Guests can enjoy our 100% Premium Arabica coffee, including the legendary Maple Cinnamon Latte and the Montreal Latte, as well as our signature Frappe Iced Beverages (Iced Capps®) and a variety of espresso-based lattes and non- caffeinated refreshing drinks, all prepared under strict Halal-certified protocols.
• Savory Selection: The menu also features a range of made-to-order sandwiches, bagels and bakes, offering a variety of fresh and flavourful choices for any time of day.

The journey to MUIS Halal certification involved a comprehensive and rigorous audit of the entire Tim Hortons® operational ecosystem. This included a meticulous review of the supply chain, ingredient sourcing, and kitchen preparation processes. This achievement ensures that the high-quality standards Tim Hortons® is known for globally, are harmonized with the stringent religious and food safety requirements of MUIS.

As Tim Hortons® continues to expand its footprint across Singapore, where it currently operates 17 stores, this certification is a pillar for all future outlets. The brand looks forward to opening more doors across the island, ensuring that the “Tims” experience remains accessible to all Singaporeans.

Hashtag: #TimHortons

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About Tim Hortons®