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Global research explores how newer wealth, continued business ownership, and family stewardship influence philanthropic practices among Asia’s wealthiest families

• Roughly 94 percent of Asia‘s wealthiest families are first- or second-generation wealth holders
• Approximately 95 percent of Asia’s wealthiest families retain control of the businesses that generated their wealth

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2026 – As private wealth continues to expand globally and an estimated US$74 trillion is expected to transfer between generations over the next 20 to 25 years, understanding how wealthy families approach philanthropy is becoming increasingly important. New research from The Bridgespan Group, based on analysis of 186 of the wealthiest individuals and families across 20 economies spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, sheds light on how the world’s wealthiest families give, what they fund, how they organise their philanthropy, and how they seek to create change.

Supported by Bridgespan’s Funders Council comprising the Institute of Philanthropy, The Rockefeller Foundation, and the Gates Foundation, and with contributions from the Financial Services Development Council and Wealth Management Institute, High-Impact Family Philanthropy: What Makes Family Giving Distinctive marks the third year of the High-Impact Philanthropy series, building on previous research on institutional philanthropy and corporate giving.

“This research comes at a pivotal moment for family philanthropy, especially as private wealth continues to grow,” said Xueling Lee, co-author and partner at Bridgespan. “Our research helps fill a knowledge gap on how the world’s wealthiest families organise their philanthropy and pursue impact, and finds distinguishing characteristics in Asia.”

In Asia, where founders and second-generation leaders often remain closely involved in the businesses that generated their wealth, philanthropy is frequently connected to broader questions of stewardship, business ownership, succession, and community engagement. The research finds that these differences are shaped by factors including the relative newness of wealth, continued business ownership, and the close connection between family, business, and philanthropy. Bridgespan’s research on corporate giving highlights this dynamic: founder- or family-linked companies account for 11 of Asia’s 20 largest corporate funders, compared with four among the world’s 20 largest corporate funders.

“Beyond the scale of their giving, many families bring a long-term perspective, deep personal commitment, and relationships across sectors built over decades,” said Brian San, secretary-general of the Institute of Philanthropy. “These qualities are particularly relevant in Asia, where family-owned businesses remain a powerful force and philanthropy is often closely connected to family stewardship, business leadership, and community engagement. The report highlights how these characteristics can help families catalyse collaboration, support innovation, and contribute to meaningful impact over time.”

“This research confirms what we have seen firsthand: family philanthropy has driven some of today’s boldest solutions and most pioneering research. These funders are uniquely positioned to take risks and build coalitions that can solve big, complex problems at their root,” said Deepali Khanna, senior vice president and head of Asia (division) at The Rockefeller Foundation. “Some of the work we are proudest of, like the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet, started because family philanthropies were willing to commit early and jointly at a time when no single institution could have carried it alone.”

While the report finds that wealthy families around the world share many common philanthropic behaviours, it also identifies several characteristics that distinguish family philanthropy in Asia.

• Asia’s wealth is newer: Approximately 94 percent of wealth held by Asia’s wealthiest families sits with first- or second-generation wealth holders, compared with roughly 85 percent in high-income economies outside Asia. The relative newness of wealth influences how wealth is held, the degree of family involvement in operating businesses, the availability of liquid assets, and the form philanthropy takes.
• Asian families retain tighter control of their businesses: Approximately 95 percent of Asian families maintain control of the businesses that generated their wealth, compared with roughly 68 percent outside Asia. Where wealth remains closely tied to an operating business, philanthropic decisions often sit alongside broader considerations such as government relationships, succession planning, and reputation.
• Families fund remarkably similar issues across regions: Education, health, and support for marginalised and vulnerable populations are among the top issues supported by wealthy families. In Asia, families are more likely to support elderly care, religion, and sports, while families from other regions more frequently fund science and technology initiatives, including those related to artificial intelligence.
• Few families publicly report outcomes from their giving: More than 80 percent of families in Asia publicly report outputs from their giving, such as schools built or teachers trained, compared with just 45 percent of high-income families outside Asia. However, outcome reporting, such as learning gains or graduation rates, remains uncommon across all groups.

Beyond examining how families give, the companion report How the World’s Wealthiest Families Give explores approaches that help families translate their resources and influence into meaningful and sustained impact:

1. Taking risks others cannot or will not: Families often have the autonomy to move from decision to deployment more readily than institutional or corporate funders. In Singapore, for example, the Lien Foundation made a decade-long push into early childhood development, a sector that few had championed when it began. Its sustained work alongside government and other stakeholders contributed to broader sector development over time.
2. Facilitating collective action: Families with trusted relationships across sectors can bring together stakeholders who might not otherwise gather, helping fragmented efforts to evolve into coordinated action. In 2024, the Jollibee Group Foundation, led by Tony and Grace Tan Caktiong, partnered with the Provincial Government of Basilan, the Zuellig Family Foundation, and the League of Corporate Foundations to expand its school feeding programme. Together, the partnership supports the delivery of nutritious meals to nearly 25,000 children in 250 schools.
3. Mobilising multiple types of capital: A family with authority across philanthropic and investment decisions may be able to move capital across different instruments with fewer external negotiations, board approvals, or fiduciary obligations to outside investors.

Download the full reports:

• https://www.bridgespan.org/insights/high-impact-family-philanthropy-what-makes-family-giving-distinctive
• https://www.bridgespan.org/insights/how-the-worlds-wealthiest-families-give

Hashtag: #TheBridgespanGroup #Bridgespan #CSR #ESG #Philanthropy #FamilyPhilanthropy #InstituteofPhilanthropy

https://www.bridgespan.org

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

About The Bridgespan Group

The Bridgespan Group (www.bridgespan.org) is a global nonprofit that collaborates with social change organisations, philanthropists, and impact investors to make the world more equitable and just. Bridgespan’s services include strategy consulting and advising, sourcing and diligence, and leadership team support. We take what we learn from this work and build on it with original research, identifying best practices and innovative ideas to share with the social sector. We work from locations in Boston, Delhi, Johannesburg, Mumbai, New York, San Francisco, Singapore, and Washington, DC.

GUANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 September 2026 – On September 7, Huawei officially unveiled the latest addition to its tri-fold lineup, the HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN. As the first smartphone to feature the LogicFolding Tau (τ) Chip, HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN marks the chip’s official entry into mass commercialization.

The phone debuts with a wing-like tri-fold design, continuously pushing the boundaries of ultimate aesthetics, craftsmanship, and innovation. It is the first device powered by the Kirin 9050 Pro chip and introduces several industry-first features and experiences, including the Xuanwu Ultra-Durable Tri-Fold Architecture, Smart Shield Privacy Screen, True-to-Color Camera 3.0, and the HarmonyOS 7 large-screen experience. As the pioneer of tri-fold phones, this new generation once again redefines the extraordinary.

The new HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN features a wing-like tri-fold design that opens from both sides, offering a more intuitive unfolding experience. The design philosophy draws on Chinese aesthetics, with a cloud pattern on the back panel created using Brocade Cloud craftsmanship. It is available in three colors: Purple, White, and Black. The camera ring inherits the iconic Star Diamond Glow design, crafted from Yttrium Crystal and fired at 1,800°C. Combining gemstone design and cutting techniques, it undergoes eight steps of fine polishing to form 33 star diamond facets, delivering a dazzling gemstone-like luster.

The device features the Xuanwu Ultra-Durable Tri-Fold Architecture, which re-engineers the hinge and screen technology for layered protection from the inside out. It is the first tri-fold phone to support IP58/59 dust and water resistance. The cover screen, made of Xuanwu Kunlun Glass, resists daily scratches and impacts with ease. It also features anti-glare technology, ensuring clear visibility even under direct sunlight. The main screen uses a multi-layer composite ultra-tough structure, including a large UTG glass layer, aerospace-grade ultra-thin high-strength steel, and a carbon fiber support layer, providing robust impact resistance. The Advanced Precision Hinge System 2.0 employs a 5 curved arm structure and a synchronized linkage mechanism for even force distribution and reliable pressure resistance.

Ultimate Performance: Kirin Chipset, a Leap in Power

The HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN is the first to feature the Kirin 9050 Pro chip, delivering a dual leap in performance and energy efficiency. Through deep collaboration between hardware, software, chips, and cloud, overall device performance is improved by 42% compared to the previous generation. The LinxiCore CPU, combined with the Ultra-smooth HUAWEI Ark Engine, enables faster loading of large files and superior performance when running multiple apps or multitasking. The Maleoon GPU features doubled computing units and cache, significantly enhancing rendering performance. In gaming scenarios, it supports 50 MRPS hardware-level real-time ray tracing, delivering a more immersive and realistic experience. The HUAWEI Da Vinci Architecture NPU brings a leap in on-device AI computing power, supporting large models of various sizes. For the first time in the industry, it natively supports the Pangu 30B-A2B MoE LLM, enabling smart experiences such as on-device AI album management with Celia.

The innovative heat dissipation architecture distributes heat sources across three frames, working with ultra-large vapor chambers and highly thermally conductive graphene materials to efficiently conduct heat across axes. Intelligent collaboration of multiple communication systems and 32 distributed antennas ensures faster 5A connectivity. It supports Tiantong satellite communication and Beidou satellite messaging, ensuring connectivity anywhere in the world. The Mobile Security Processor, combined with an independent security chip, enables post-quantum cryptography algorithm detection and has passed EAL5+ CCRC security certification, providing dual protection for personal data and assets.

Ultimate Technology: A Masterpiece of Innovation for Peace of Mind

The industry’s first foldable Smart Shield Privacy Screen is now available, marking the first time hardware-level privacy protection is achieved on a foldable device. It features an independent dual-pixel design, ensuring consistent screen resolution before and after activating Privacy mode, maintaining a clear front-facing view. With intelligent sensing capabilities, it provides smart reminders when entering airports or train stations. It also supports elegant activation of Privacy mode through methods such as double-tapping the cover screen or the Smart controls button.

The HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN is equipped with ECG analysis software and has obtained the NMPA Class II Medical Device Registration Certificate. Users can initiate an ECG measurement by holding the unfolded large screen with both hands. Celia intelligently interprets and analyzes the report, providing thoughtful care.

Ultimate Photography: True-to-Color Camera 3.0, Capturing Every Moment

The HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN undergoes a comprehensive upgrade from optical hardware to computing power. It is the first to feature the True-to-Color Camera 3.0, which effectively filters out infrared light interference, improving color reproduction by 95% compared to the previous generation. It also features an ultra-HDR main camera, ultra-wide aperture periscope telephoto camera, and Ultra-wide angle camera, delivering true-to-life colors, realistic portraits, and clear night shots, with excellent performance at both close and long distances. Video recording supports an ultra-high dynamic range of 18 EV, ensuring outstanding image quality in every frame.

XMAGE SmartCapture has been upgraded to intelligently recognize people, scenery, and food scenes, and supports AIGC real-time previews for clear composition and lighting recommendations. Its unique tri-fold form enables Desk-calendar mode shooting, making it easy to capture warm moments, whether for selfies or group photos.

Ultimate Experience: A Superior Large-Screen Experience

HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN is powered by the new HarmonyOS 7, redefining the large-screen interaction experience. The Live-Multitask capability supports three windows displayed in parallel, with adjustable window sizes and independent volume control. This large-screen experience covers core scenarios such as financial management, social entertainment, smart office, shopping comparison, and travel guides. Furthermore, it has been deeply adapted to leading industry apps, continuously driving innovation in the tri-fold large-screen ecosystem.

HUAWEI Mate XT 2 | ULTIMATE DESIGN starts at RMB 19,999 and will be available for purchase along with a stylus set, with official sales beginning at 10:08 on September 12^th.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas outlined an investment-led blueprint anchored by an upgraded Joint Public Private Committee (JPCC), private-sector syndication, and World Bank alignment ahead of the 2026 Annual Meetings and 2028 ASEAN Chairmanship.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 September 2026 – Thailand is ready to cross into “new horizons” — achieving high-income status and driving a more resilient ASEAN, declared Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas as he delivered the closing address at the Bangkok Business Summit 2026 today,

Detailing the strategic “why, how, and design” of the national transition, Dr. Ekniti stated that entering new horizons is an unavoidable global imperative. While ASEAN is uniquely positioned to capture emerging opportunities, the region must guard against severe geopolitical, technological, and climate risks with proactive, unified action.

“The goals must be clear, and we are completely on the same page: Thailand must achieve high-income status,” said Dr. Ekniti.

“The recipe provided by the World Bank aligns directly with what our business leaders have outlined. An investment-led growth policy, private-sector-centred endeavours, and persistent implementation are what the government and business community are now executing together. Think of the seven new growth engines as our forwards on the pitch. The government acts as both coach and midfielder — spearheading investment, driving trade, empowering SMEs, unlocking regulatory friction, and cultivating human capital. Meanwhile, fiscal and financial stability serves as our steadfast defensive backline.”

Dr. Ekniti affirmed that the Joint Public and Private Committee (JPPC) will no longer function as a purely advisory body, but will operate as an executive economic steering council mandated to enact structural reforms and track execution against the World Bank’s recommendations.

“We will not be the same old Thailand. We will be driving the global agenda. Thailand will enter new horizons, empower people, and build resilience,” Dr. Ekniti emphasised. “In the next two years, Thailand will assume the Chairmanship of ASEAN. We will establish a long-term, multi-year agenda for a stronger, more resilient ASEAN. If this new model of public-private partnership carries on, we will decisively reinvent Thailand.”

Key leaders representing the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB) delivered strategic sector priorities to anchor the transition.

Payong Srivanich, Chairman of the JSCCIB and the Thai Bankers’ Association, underscored that reinventing the economy requires modernising legacy industries while creating space for future engines.

“From three core challenges – structural, competitiveness, and public-sector efficiency – came the White Paper outlining the seven industries of the future,” stated Mr. Payong. “This time, the government has presented a credible policy framework based on collaborative public-private partnership. Thailand must address fundamental security—whether in food, energy, or low-carbon growth. We are declaring to the world that we are done with planning and on the same page. Now we are geared up for execution.”

Dr. Poj Aramwattananont, Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand, stressed that amid geopolitical friction, geoeconomics, and regional conflict, growth must be anchored in ASEAN’s 600-plus million people which serve as both supply and demand networks.

Adapting to international trading rules is inseparable from Thailand’s targeted accession to the OECD by 2028. The accession process acts as the structural catalyst to modernise domestic legislation, corporate governance, transparency, and fair market competition to premier global standards—lowering compliance costs and solidifying investor confidence.

Pimjai Leeissaranukul, Chairwoman of the Federation of Thai Industries, insisted that Thailand must build its own brand; it can no longer afford to be just the world’s OEM. She called for a decisive departure from labor-cost competition toward high productivity, automation, AI, and green sustainability. She advocated expanding target sectors—such as next-generation electric vehicles, smart electronics, automation, and wellness—while enforcing enhanced public procurement.

Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, Vice President for East Asia and Pacific at the World Bank, observed that the eyes of the financial world will be on Bangkok next month as it hosts the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings, providing Thailand with a premier global stage to show that it is advancing on a credible pathway to attain high-income status by 2037.

“The World Bank has presented a series of structural reforms that Thailand can pursue to reach high-income status, creating more and better-paying jobs for young Thais in the future,” Mr. Jaramillo stated. “The plan deliberately puts the private sector at the center, because experience has taught us that the private sector is the primary engine of employment. This reform agenda is multifaceted, requiring coordinated national effort, and, more importantly, relentless persistence in implementation.”

The Bangkok Business Summit 2026 concluded with a clear consensus: today’s closing discussions mark the formal launch of sustained, institutionalised execution across the public sector, private enterprise, and multilateral institutions to ensure Thailand stands as a resilient economic anchor for the wider ASEAN region.

Hashtag: #JSCCIB

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

Hong Kong Stock Connect Inclusion Set to Unlock Mainland Capital and Enhance Trading Liquidity

Hang Seng Indexes announced on August 21, 2026, that HQVT has been officially included in the Hang Seng Composite Index. The index change will be implemented after the market close on September 4, 2026, and will take effect on September 7, 2026. Upon this effective date, both the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges are expected to simultaneously add HQVT to the list of eligible stocks under the Stock Connect programs (Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect). This will formally enable mainland Chinese investors to trade the stock through their Stock Connect accounts from September 7 onward.

The Stock Connect channel is expected to significantly broaden HQVT’s investor base by providing access to mainland China’s substantial retail and institutional capital pools. The influx of mainland investors via Stock Connect is poised to materially enhance trading liquidity.

Recent Financial Developments Of The Company

The financial results reflect a structural shift toward high-value software intelligence, with consolidated interim operating revenue reaching RMB 410.5 million, representing a strong year-over-year increase of 84.5%. The primary growth engine was multispectral AI foundation model services, which surged 382.5% year-over-year to RMB 320.0 million, elevating the segment’s revenue contribution. Excluding non-recurring listing expenses, adjusted net profit reached RMB 27.6 million, up 21.9% compared to the prior-year period, while net cash used in operating activities narrowed by 50.2% year-over-year to RMB 34.2 million, and cash and cash equivalents amounted to RMB 595.6 million as at 30 June 2026, keeping the financial position sound. To support long-term product differentiation, HQVT expanded its R&D expenditure by 125.3% year-over-year, maintaining an R&D headcount ratio of 43.1% and amassing a portfolio of 158 registered patents (including 101 invention patents) and 46 software copyrights.

Proprietary Multispectral Sensing Across Mission-Critical Infrastructure

HQVT’s technological foundation centers on its proprietary “Super Eye” perceptual platform, an integrated vision architecture that extends detection capabilities beyond visible light 380 nm – 780 nm into the ultraviolet 10 nm – 380 nm and thermal infrared 780 nm – 1 mm bands. Processing sensory inputs via the proprietary “Zhiyuan Origin Large Model”—which has completed dual filings with the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) and recently secured Shenzhen’s official model service provider qualification—the system detects micro-arcing, dielectric degradation, and localized thermal spikes long before physical combustion occurs. This capability is deployed through a three-tier collaborative defense matrix combining Tier-1 rack-level internal monitoring, Tier-2 room-level spatial sensing, and Tier-3 autonomous robotic patrol scanning.

This technological framework achieved significant commercial milestones across key industrial verticals during the first half of 2026. In the Internet Data Center (IDC) space, where high-velocity forced-air cooling systems often dilute smoke and hinder traditional detectors, HQVT secured large-scale AI foundation model deployment contracts from a prominent Shanghai state-owned enterprise and a Shenzhen-listed enterprise. Concurrently, in electrical power systems and new energy infrastructure, the company entered into a strategic collaboration agreement with Deep Robotics to integrate multispectral AI modules into quadruped robotic inspection platforms, enabling contact-free, online fault diagnostics across high-voltage substations, cable interlayers, and distributed battery energy storage installations.

Edge AI Breakthrough and Scalable Global SaaS Expansion

A major technical milestone during the interim period was the successful migration of HQVT’s foundation model architecture from centralized server clusters to compact Edge AI terminals powered by the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin platform. By removing the necessity for expensive on-premise compute servers and eliminating cloud-network latency, this on-device implementation drastically lowers initial capital expenditures while ensuring instantaneous safety responses. This edge breakthrough transforms HQVT’s commercial delivery model, facilitating product standardization and expanding the company’s addressable client base beyond large state-owned enterprises into the broader commercial market and small and medium-sized enterprises.

Soochow Securities, in its inaugural coverage report on HQVT dated July 31, 2026, assigns a “Buy” rating with a target price of HK$58.57 per share—implying approximately 113% upside from the Sept 04 closing price of HK$27.42. The broker’s valuation is anchored on 2027E revenue of RMB 1.31 billion at a 32x P/S multiple, citing the stock’s scarcity value as the only Hong Kong Main Board-listed multispectral physical AI pure-play, the industry’s 40%+ CAGR, and anticipated margin recovery as hardware costs are amortized across repeat projects. The report notes that the Edge AI breakthrough serves as the single largest near-term catalyst, with commercialization orders representing the critical verification point for investors.

Looking ahead, HQVT is directing its IPO capital toward expanding production capacity, advancing edge-model iterations, and executing an international go-to-market strategy. To penetrate overseas markets, the company has partnered with Singapore-based LINKWISE to accelerate deployments across Southeast Asian data centers and is actively preparing channel rollouts in the Middle East and Europe. By pairing standardized edge perception hardware with cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) subscription tiers for analytics and diagnostic reporting, HQVT is positioning itself to build recurring, high-margin international revenue streams within the global physical AI safety sector. The interim results approval by the board on August 28, 2026, and the September 7 Stock Connect effective date represent the two immediate catalysts for investor attention.

Hashtag: #ShenzhenHQVTTechnology

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

@hkfashionfest @hongkongfashioncouncil

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 September 2026 – The “Hong Kong Fashion Fest Gala 2026”, one of the eight flagship programmes of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, was held on 3 September 2026. Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and organised by the Hong Kong Fashion Council, this year’s Gala was held under the theme, “Rhythm of the Heart”, the same theme of the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest. The Gala brought together fashion, art and culture in a cross-disciplinary celebration. The opening ceremony was officiated by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, JP and the Hon Sunny Tan, BBS, Legislative Council Member (Textiles and Garment) and Chairman of the Hong Kong Fashion Council. marking the official opening ceremony of this much-anticipated annual event on Hong Kong’s fashion calendar.

Speaking at the Gala, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, JP, saying: “Building on Hong Kong’s unique kinetic pulse and East-meets-West synergy, and with the Government’s steadfast backing through the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, our creative ecosystem is thriving. Within this dynamic landscape, fashion design stands as an indisputable driving force. The Hong Kong Fashion Fest continues to champion fashion as a profound art form and a canvas for self-expression — one that weaves together vision, culture, and history.”

Meanwhile, Hon Sunny Tan, BBS, Legislative Council Member (Textiles and Garment) and Chairman of the Hong Kong Fashion Council, extended his gratitude to the participating organisers and industry partners for their steadfast support, saying: “The third Hong Kong Fashion Fest reflects the collective commitment of the Government, CCIDA and industry to advancing Hong Kong’s fashion development. With creative talent, international connectivity and strengths across trade, tourism, finance, and textile and apparel, Hong Kong has every ingredient to grow as an international fashion hub for Asia.”

In addition, rising favourite by international brands, Jeffrey Ngai and the popular stylish film actress Louise Wong attended the occasion in glamorous style. They were joined on the red carpet by leading fashion influencers and celebrities from Hong Kong and around the world, including Ameera Khan, Fil Xiaobai, Hanan Besovic, Irene Kim, Susanna Lau and Elva Ni. The star-studded presence added glamour and energy to the gala, highlighting Hong Kong’s extraordinary position and appeal as an international fashion hub.

Hong Kong Ballet × Robert Wun:

A Groundbreaking Cross-Disciplinary Stage Experience

One of the key highlights of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest Gala 2026 was “Glam Rock”, a specially presented three-act ballet performance by Hong Kong Ballet. Taking an innovative and bold approach to ballet, the production reinterpreted the art form by seamlessly blending classical and contemporary dance. The performance was accompanied by iconic rock anthems from Queen, Depeche Mode, and the legendary Hong Kong band Beyond. The powerful rhythms and dynamic physicality of the dancers delivered an exhilarating and refreshingly unconventional experience for the audience.

The dancers performed in bespoke costumes designed by internationally acclaimed Hong Kong designer Robert Wun. Renowned for his cinematic and sculptural silhouettes and refined narrative-driven aesthetics, Wun’s designs became another visual highlight of the evening. Through “Glam Rock”, world-class choreography, avant-garde fashion and rock music converged into a wholesome and unique artistic expression, offering guests a profound stage experience that combined visual spectacle with cultural references. The production vividly embodied the urban rhythm and creative pulse at the heart of this year’s theme, “Rhythm of the Heart.”

“Top 10 Asian Designers to Watch” Fashion Show and Award Presentation:

Showcasing the Next Generation of Asian Fashion Talent

Another major highlight of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest Gala 2026 was the “Top 10 Asian Designers to Watch Fashion” Fashion Show & Awards Presentation Ceremony,” which showcased the exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive creative visions of ten outstanding designers from different parts of Asia. With a multitude of design languages and cultural sentiment, the showcase presented the dynamic multi-cultural fashion spectacle and forward-thinking approaches to fashion and aesthetics.

Sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), Fashion Asia Hong Kong’s “10 Asian Designers to Watch” programme is presented by the Hong Kong Design Centre. The programme is dedicated to discovering and promoting the next generation of Asian design talent, and to provide emerging designers with greater visibility, professional exchange and industry opportunities.

Hashtag: #HongKongFashionFest #香港时装荟 #CSTB #文化体育及旅游局 #CCIDA #文创产业发展处

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

About Hong Kong Fashion Fest

Announced by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive in the 2023 Policy Address, “Hong Kong Fashion Fest” will be organised to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub in Asia. Through consolidating various fashion design events and introducing innovative elements and affiliate activities annually, the Hong Kong Fashion Fest promotes Hong Kong’s fashion and textile design brands and boosts Hong Kong’s position as a prime destination for hosting mega cultural and creative events. Under the theme “Rhythm of the Heart”, the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest is being held from 1 to 14 September 2026 at various landmarks in Hong Kong. The event will bring together eight flagship programmes organised by six industry organisations and, for the first time, will be combined with CENTRESTAGE – the annual fashion extravaganza organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council – to generate stronger synergies. The event will attract fashion design industry players from all over the world to come to Hong Kong; foster collaboration, innovation and business opportunities; establish platform for local and international fashion designers and brands and connect with different sectors in the fashion design industry of Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and overseas, thereby consolidating Hong Kong’s position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.

Website: www.hongkongfashionfest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongfashionfest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hkfashionfest
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hkfashionfest

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) since 2009, was established in June 2024. CCIDA is a dedicated office under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative sectors with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate development of the arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. CCIDA’s strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary collaboration, promoting industrialisation of the arts, culture and creative sectors under the industry-oriented principle, and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and our positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.

Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

About Hong Kong Fashion Council
Established in 2024, Hong Kong Fashion Council is a not-for-profit representative body dedicated to uniting all fashion initiatives in Hong Kong to support the growth of the fashion industry. HKFC envisions Hong Kong as Asia’s leading international fashion hub, leveraging the city’s unique geographical and multicultural context to drive creativity, innovation, collaboration, and sustainability in fashion. Committed to supporting stakeholders throughout the entire fashion ecosystem, HKFC is building a collaborative network between the East and the West to showcase Asia’s vibrant fashion identity.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongfashioncouncil
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/hongkongfashioncouncil
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hongkongfashioncouncil/

The campus at Koregaon Park Annexe is being designed around artificial intelligence and Internet of Things systems that will monitor environmental conditions, occupancy and infrastructure and adjust building operations in real time. Bajaj Finserv describes the project as its first “sentient” corporate campus.

Fadnavis unveiled a commemorative plaque at the September 4 ceremony, which was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, Pune Mayor Manjusha Nagpure, Bajaj Finserv Chairman and Managing Director Sanjiv Bajaj and other officials.

The company said the project would consolidate its diversified financial services businesses at a common address for the first time, bringing together operations spanning lending, deposits, payments, insurance and investments. The complex is also planned to include what Bajaj Finserv says will be Pune’s tallest steel tower.

Fadnavis said Bajaj Finserv had built a significant position in the state’s fintech ecosystem by using technology to widen access to loans, insurance and other financial services. He said the new campus would strengthen Pune’s role as a financial-technology centre and described the project as a major addition to Maharashtra’s business infrastructure.

The development is intended to use AI and IoT systems across energy management, water consumption, air quality, crowd density, movement and safety. Sensors and analytics are expected to help the campus respond to changes in weather and occupancy, while predictive maintenance systems will monitor critical infrastructure. Automation and robotics are also planned for some campus operations.

Bajaj Finserv said sustainability, environmental design and employee wellbeing would be the three main design pillars. The buildings are being planned to global LEED and Indian Green Building Council standards, with renewable energy intended to power the campus.

The company has set a target of recycling 80 per cent of water used at the site, alongside rainwater harvesting and zero-waste measures. Those features form part of Bajaj Finserv’s stated goal of achieving carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by the 2031-32 financial year.

Sanjiv Bajaj said the project was intended to combine environmental responsibility with the group’s financial inclusion goals. He said the campus would use eco-efficient and biophilic design, AI-driven systems and renewable energy while placing employee health and wellbeing at the centre of the workplace plan.

Green zones are expected to include Ayurvedic gardens, Miyawaki forests and replanted native forests, with species from Maharashtra selected to support biodiversity. The design will seek to increase natural daylight and ventilation and reduce cooling requirements, according to the company.

Indoor environmental monitoring is planned at floor and cluster level, covering air quality and temperature. Employees are also expected to use an integrated Bajaj One application for services such as navigation, parking and facility bookings.

The project includes plans for a medical centre with telemedicine and emergency-response facilities as well as dedicated wellness support. Bajaj Finserv said these services would be integrated with the wider digital infrastructure of the campus.

The company also plans to incorporate art, craft and heritage traditions from across the country into the development, including lesser-known and lost art forms. Elements of Bajaj Finserv’s corporate social responsibility programmes and work produced by programme beneficiaries are expected to feature within the campus design.

Fadnavis used the ceremony to highlight the Bajaj group’s long association with Maharashtra and its role in the state’s industrial development. He also referred to the legacy of Jamnalal Bajaj, the industrialist and freedom movement figure associated with the group’s early history.

Bajaj Finserv already has several corporate and group offices in Pune. The new site is intended to serve as the company’s principal corporate office and create a single large workplace for businesses that are now spread across different locations.

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is partnering with EnergyNet to deliver the first Nigeria NOW

ABUJA, Nigeria – EQS Newswire – 3 September 2026 – The Nigeria NOW! takes place on 19 and 20 November at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, under the patronage of the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake. Between 500 and 600 delegates are expected across energy, infrastructure and mining.

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is partnering with EnergyNet to deliver the first Nigeria NOW!, and has committed to remain involved through the preparatory period rather than at the event alone. The Ministry hosted the Abuja launch, secured the patronage of the Honourable Minister, and convened three further federal ministries as deliberate participants.

Speaking at the launch through Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, Director-General of the Mining Cadastre Office, Dr Alake set out why four ministries participate rather than one. Infrastructure, licensing, financing, technology, security and market access fall across several mandates, and no single ministry can answer an investor’s questions on all of them.

Why Nigeria

Nigeria now issues no mining licence without a plan for a local processing plant. The rule has been applied consistently and the investment following it includes a $1.3 billion partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation covering an alumina refinery, geological mapping and exploration support, a $600 million lithium processing plant near the Kaduna-Niger border, and a $200 million lithium refinery outside Abuja.

The first working demonstration is already running. A lithium plant at Endo in Nasarawa State, commissioned on 2 July, processes 6,000 tonnes of ore a day on around $250 million of investment. Sector revenue reached over 38 billion naira in 2024 against 6 billion the previous year. A memorandum signed with Türkiye in May covers exploration, technology transfer, digitalisation and training, and the Solid Minerals Development Fund began awarding exploration grants in July under its new EMERGE endowment.

Nigeria’s power sector is moving on the same principle of decentralised decision-making. Two years into the Electricity Act 2023, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission has transferred regulatory oversight to sixteen subnational commissions, giving states authority over their own electricity markets for the first time. The Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority has put domestic capital behind distributed renewable energy, and industrial self-supply has reached 200MW, with a steel plant among the projects breaking ground against it.

Dr Alake’s own formulation is that the days of exporting raw minerals from pit to port are over.

What the Expo covers

Nigeria NOW! brings government, investors, project developers, financial institutions and development partners together around three sectors, energy, infrastructure and mining, with a focus on projects, capital and partnerships rather than announcements alone. The programme runs across two days at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in Abuja.

“This is the first Nigeria NOW! held in Nigeria, and the Ministry’s commitment to stay involved through the preparatory period is what makes it different from a conference that arrives and leaves,” said Abdoulaye Sylla, Portfolio Manager and Head of Corporate Development at EnergyNet. “We expect between 500 and 600 delegates, and the Ministry has asked that the Expo be judged on what is delivered after it closes.”

Partners

Nextier joins the Expo as Official Advisory Partner, providing strategic advisory and media support across the programme.

The Nigerian Indigenous Women in Mining and Natural Resources Organisation (NIWIMNRO) joins as Women in Mining Partner. The network was recognised at the Abuja launch with EnergyNet’s Leadership Award and a $25,000 grant, following a year in which it took its work with women artisanal miners from three states to all six of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, adding protective equipment, mobile medical visits and cooperative registration to the training programme it began with.

Women in Mining joins as Women in Mining in Nigeria Partner; The Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources joins as Lagos State Sponsor; The Electricity Hub joins as Official Podcast Partner.

YES! Nigeria

The Youth Energy Summit runs alongside Nigeria NOW! on 20 November at the same venue, bringing young professionals and entrepreneurs into the same building as the investors and ministries. The Youth Sustainable Development Network joins as a partner for the Nigerian edition, alongside the University of Abuja’s Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and Students as YES! Supporting Partner.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EnergyNet Ltd.

Download Image (1): https://apo-opa.co/4gIB9gr (Four Nigerian ministries convene global investors in Abuja for the maiden Nigeria NOW! Launch (1))

Download Image (2): https://apo-opa.co/4x1g0o5 (Four Nigerian ministries convene global investors in Abuja for the maiden Nigeria NOW! Launch (2))

Download Image (3): https://apo-opa.co/4gV7u42 (Four Nigerian ministries convene global investors in Abuja for the maiden Nigeria NOW! launch (3))

Media and partnership enquiries:
Poliana Sperandio
Director
Marketing Strategy & Performance
EnergyNet
Poliana@EnergyNet.co.uk
+44 (0) 207 384 8191

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

About EnergyNet

EnergyNet produces investment forums and digital dialogues across energy, mining and infrastructure in Africa, bringing governments, investors, developers and utilities together around investment, policy dialogue and project delivery. Best known for the Africa Energy Forum, EnergyNet has worked in Nigeria for fifteen years. EnergyNet owns and operates the Energy News Network, its independent editorial platform, and is part of Clarion Events.

The expansion of the CPMZ pipeline will add capacity to transport two billion more litres of fuel annually, strengthening supplies to Zimbabwe and wider regional markets

NHAMATANDA, MOZAMBIQUE – African Media Agency – 3 September 2026 – The President of Mozambique, H.E. Daniel Chapo and the President of Zimbabwe, H.E. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, today broke ground on a major expansion of the Beira-Harare fuel corridor that will increase pipeline capacity by 67% and strengthen energy security across Southern Africa.

The CPMZ project will increase the CPMZ pipeline’s annual transport capacity from 3 million to 5 million cubic metres by the end of 2027, supporting growing fuel demand in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and wider regional markets.

The expansion will add capacity to transport approximately two billion additional litres of fuel annually into Southern Africa’s interior, strengthening a critical supply route connecting the Port of Beira with Zimbabwe and supporting access to diesel, petrol and jet fuel across regional markets, including Zambia, Malawi, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The project represents a significant investment in regional energy resilience and Mozambique-Zimbabwe cooperation, while construction and commissioning will take place without interrupting daily pipeline operations or fuel supplies to markets served by the corridor.

H.E. Daniel Chapo, President of the Republic of Mozambique, said:

“The expansion of the CPMZ pipeline is an important investment in Mozambique’s infrastructure and in the energy security of our region. By strengthening the connection between the Port of Beira and the Southern African hinterland, we are reinforcing Mozambique’s role as a strategic gateway for regional trade while deepening our cooperation with Zimbabwe. This is the kind of infrastructure investment that strengthens regional connectivity, supports economic activity and creates greater resilience for the future.”

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Hashtag: #CPMZ

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