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The IMF forecast regional expansion of 4.8 per cent in 2026, compared with 5 per cent last year, followed by a further slowdown to 4.4 per cent in 2027. Its latest estimate for this year nevertheless represents a substantial upgrade from the 4.4 per cent projected in April.

The revised outlook reflects sharply contrasting pressures across Asia. Demand for semiconductors, data centres and other technology equipment has strengthened exports and investment, while higher energy costs linked to the Middle East conflict have squeezed economies dependent on imported fuel.

The fund warned that a reversal in AI investment or technology share valuations could undermine growth disproportionately because Asian manufacturers occupy central positions in global electronics supply chains. Higher sovereign borrowing costs and prolonged disruption to energy supplies present additional threats.

Emerging and developing Asian economies are projected to grow 5.1 per cent this year, down from 5.6 per cent in 2025, before slowing to 4.9 per cent next year. Advanced regional economies are expected to expand 3.2 per cent in 2026, compared with 2.5 per cent last year, then moderate to 2 per cent in 2027.

The IMF upgraded forecasts for South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, where demand linked to AI infrastructure has lifted manufacturing and exports. China and India also received upward revisions, although countries facing higher inflation without equivalent technology gains have experienced weaker growth projections.

Krishna Srinivasan, director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, said at the fund’s annual meetings in Bangkok that technology exports had accelerated sharply during the first half of 2026. Demand for chips and investment in data centres were important contributors, alongside stronger trade within the region.

He said economies had responded to energy disruptions by diversifying fuel suppliers, reducing consumption, increasing alternative energy use and drawing down inventories. Governments had also introduced measures intended to contain inflation, protect incomes and prevent supply shortages.

Those adjustments have not eliminated the unequal effects of the energy shock. Bangladesh, Cambodia and Laos are among the fuel-importing economies with limited direct exposure to the AI investment boom and comparatively restricted financial resources to absorb further pressure.

The IMF urged monetary authorities to maintain price stability as expensive energy threatens to push inflation expectations higher. It cautioned that central banks could face difficult decisions if weaker growth coincides with persistent price pressures, particularly where currencies and capital flows respond to changes in global interest rates.

Fiscal policy should focus on vulnerable households and businesses rather than costly blanket subsidies, the fund indicated. Elevated public debt and higher bond yields reduce governments’ ability to sustain broad support programmes without increasing financial risks.

The regional assessment comes as investors reassess the durability of spending on AI infrastructure. Asian technology shares suffered steep losses on Thursday, with South Korea’s benchmark stock index falling nearly 8 per cent and Japan’s Nikkei dropping about 5 per cent amid concerns over US inflation and borrowing costs.

The fund also identified concentrated stock market valuations and increased investor leverage as potential sources of instability. A sharp repricing could affect financing conditions and confidence even in economies where orders for technology products remain comparatively strong.

Separately, the IMF expects China’s growth to slow from 5 per cent in 2025 to 4.5 per cent this year and 4 per cent in 2027. It has called for stronger domestic demand and fiscal measures to counter deflationary pressures, rather than continued reliance on external sales.

Beyond financial markets, the fund highlighted employment challenges associated with technological change. Srinivasan said its research found employer demand for jobs more exposed to AI had declined by 10 per cent, although that effect appeared to have stabilised as employers sought workers with relevant skills.

The IMF recommended addressing youth unemployment and skills mismatches, strengthening social protection and improving energy security through diversification and renewable supplies. It also supported deeper regional trade integration as governments seek to preserve access to markets despite tariff barriers.

The regional outlook additionally identified a severe El Niño episode as a potential disruption to agriculture, fisheries and hydropower generation, with possible consequences for food and electricity prices across vulnerable economies, particularly in countries heavily reliant on imported energy.

• The MoU was signed at the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026 at Hong Kong Science Park
• The two parties will collaborate on ICT infrastructure, AI, general computing, operating systems and cyber resilience

HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited (“ZTE Hong Kong”) and The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (“LSCM”) today officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Hong Kong Science Park during the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of both parties. Ir Prof Alan Lam, Chairman of the Board of Directors of LSCM, and Mr. Mei Zhonghua, Senior Vice President of ZTE, jointly witnessed the signing; Mr. Simon Wong, Chief Executive Officer of LSCM, and Ms. Wang Huan, Managing Director of ZTE Hong Kong Representative Office, signed the MoU on behalf of both parties..

In accordance with the principles of complementary strengths, equality and mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, both parties reached a consensus on cooperation focusing on Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development, enhancing e-government information services, and promoting the local application of secure and reliable diversified technologies in Hong Kong. They also agreed to jointly cultivate a digital and intelligent industry ecosystem suited to Hong Kong’s actual needs.

The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM) was established in 2006 with funding from the Innovation and Technology Fund of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Since its establishment, LSCM has been committed to researching and developing various technologies that promote the development of industries related to logistics and supply chains, and to assisting industries across Hong Kong and mainland China in adopting relevant technologies.

ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited was incorporated in Hong Kong in 2000 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ZTE Corporation. ZTE Hong Kong has been deeply rooted in the Hong Kong market for many years, serving local operators over the long term. It has a strong localized service team and delivery capability, enabling it to respond quickly to customer needs, as well as full-stack locally developed products and IT application innovation solutions, which have been widely implemented. With a deep understanding of the Hong Kong market and rich project experience, ZTE Hong Kong has achieved breakthroughs and established a presence in key industries such as the public sector and finance, providing safe and reliable ICT solutions to customers across various industries. In the future, ZTE Hong Kong will continue to leverage its localized service advantages to support the digital transformation of industries in Hong Kong.

Under the MoU, cooperation between the two parties covers areas including ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, general computing, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Both parties will also actively promote technology and talent exchange, fully leverage their respective R&D strengths, comprehensively carry out joint innovation in areas such as general computing and artificial intelligence, and jointly develop and incubate a digital and intelligent ecosystem suited to Hong Kong. Focusing on the C86 next-generation computing platform, the two parties will carry out in-depth cooperation in areas such as locally developed computing infrastructure development and the digital transformation of government and enterprises, jointly promoting the high-quality development of industries in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

The signing of this MoU marks the official launch of the strategic cooperation between the two parties in promoting Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development and the application of secure and reliable technologies. Both parties will take this opportunity to deepen cooperation and complement each other’s strengths, jointly contributing to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development and enhancements in trusted public-sector digital capabilities.

Hashtag: #ZTE

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Hashtag: #MOTC

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Three-year partnership celebrates excellence, ambition and Botswana’s remarkable development story through natural diamonds.

LONDON, UK/ GABORONE, BOTSWANA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – De Beers Group and the Government of the Republic of Botswana today announced the extension of De Beers’ partnership with Olympic champion and Botswana sporting icon Letsile Tebogo. Originally launched in January 2025, when Tebogo was appointed a De Beers Global Ambassador, the partnership has now been expanded into a three-year programme of work between De Beers and the Government of Botswana as part of their wider collaboration to support natural diamond demand and promote Botswana’s unique contribution to the diamond industry. The extended partnership will help shine a light on the progress Botswana has achieved through diamonds as the nation celebrates its ‘diamond’ anniversary of 60 years since independence.

Building on the success of the initial partnership, the relationship will be anchored in a global storytelling platform themed “The Road to LA28”, following Tebogo’s journey as he prepares for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. The collaboration will spotlight the transformative role that natural diamonds play in creating opportunities, supporting communities and driving long-term prosperity in Botswana.

Letsile Tebogo said: “My success story is connected to Botswana’s diamond heritage. The resources that built our schools and sports facilities helped create opportunities for young athletes like me. This partnership goes beyond sport – it is about showcasing how natural resources can drive positive change and create pathways for the next generation.”

In 2024, Tebogo made history when he won Olympic gold in the men’s 200 metres in a time of 19.46 seconds, becoming the first African athlete to win the event and the first Motswana to claim an Olympic gold medal. His achievement captivated audiences worldwide and cemented his status as one of the most exciting talents in global sport.

Since then, Tebogo has continued to establish himself among the world’s elite sprinters. Named World Athletics Men’s Athlete of the Year in 2024, he has remained a leading force on the international circuit, delivering standout performances across global competitions and inspiring a new generation of athletes throughout Africa.

The partnership reflects the powerful connection between Tebogo’s personal journey and Botswana’s development story. Over more than five decades, Botswana’s diamond resources have helped support investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and sport, creating opportunities for generations of Batswana and helping cultivate talents such as Tebogo. Like a natural diamond formed under pressure and transformed into something exceptional, Tebogo’s rise from Botswana to Olympic glory embodies resilience, determination and the fulfilment of potential.

The Road to LA28

As the face of the campaign, Tebogo will feature in content and storytelling initiatives that explore the dedication, sacrifice and support systems behind elite performance. Building on the Talent Unearthed platform, the campaign will connect sporting excellence with Botswana’s broader story of opportunity, progress and possibility.

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said: Anything worth having takes time, effort and pressure, whether that’s winning Olympic gold, the growth of a nation or the formation of a natural diamond. We are proud to extend our partnership with Letsile Tebogo, showcasing how Botswana nurtures its human talent just as carefully as it develops its precious natural resources. As Botswana’s approaches its 60th ‘diamond’ anniversary of independence, its people and its diamonds have never shone more brightly.

Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy, said: “As we celebrate Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee, we have an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable national journey. From independence to today, natural diamonds have helped transform our country and create opportunities for generations of Batswana. Letsile’s rise to Olympic champion is a powerful example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. Through this partnership, the Government of Botswana, De Beers Group and Letsile Tebogo will share Botswana’s story with global audiences while highlighting the enduring value and positive impact of natural diamonds.”

Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #LetsileTebogo #ADiamondisForever #BuildingForever #NaturalDiamonds #Diamonds #創守永恒 #天然鑽石 #鑽石

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About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About The Republic of Botswana

Botswana is a peaceful and stable country in the heart of Southern Africa, renowned for its diamonds, spectacular wildlife, rich culture and breath-taking landscapes. In 2026, Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence – its Diamond Jubilee, marking six decades of nation-building, resilience and progress. Since independence in 1966, the country has made significant strides in economic and social development, with diamond revenues contributing to education, healthcare, infrastructure and improved livelihoods. Beyond diamonds, Botswana is a world-class tourism destination, home to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Makgadikgadi Pans, offering unforgettable wildlife and safari experiences. The country is also celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality and strong traditions, including the internationally recognised Tswana way of life. As Botswana looks to the future, it is embracing economic diversification, investment, innovation, renewable energy and sustainable tourism, creating new opportunities for both local and international partners. Sixty years on, Botswana stands proud as a nation of peace, natural beauty, valuable resources and opportunity—building on its remarkable past while confidently shaping a prosperous future.

Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How to attend as Guest-of-Honour at the 12 November summit, which will bring together leaders from across public relations, journalism, business and technology

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 — The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) has announced the keynote speakers for the Media OutReach Newswire PRISM Summit 2026, taking place on 12 November at METT Singapore. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, and National Development, will attend as Guest-of-Honour.

Held under the theme “From Message to Mandate”, the Summit will examine how communications professionals can move beyond message delivery to influence organisational decisions, safeguard reputation and build stakeholder trust in an environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, fragmented media and heightened scrutiny.

The programme brings together perspectives from newsrooms, corporate leadership, technology and the communications industry to address a central question: how can communications leaders maintain credibility and demonstrate their strategic value when the information landscape is changing faster than ever?

Notable keynote speakers include Rosianna Silalahi, President Director of KompasTV, whose session, “Holding the Line: What Newsrooms Need from Communicators”, will draw on the Indonesian broadcaster’s experience navigating demonstrations, external pressure and the growing challenges of verifying information. Her contribution will examine the responsibilities journalists and communicators share in protecting information integrity, maintaining editorial independence, and establishing accountability for AI-generated content.

The relationship between media credibility and organisational reputation will also feature in the keynote by Glenda Gloria, Co-Founder and Executive Editor of Rappler, who will deliver “Keepers of the Record”, reflecting on journalism’s role in an era of disinformation and declining trust, and what the changing media landscape means for communications professionals.

Beyond the newsroom, the Summit will consider how communications can deliver greater strategic value to organisations. Terence Lyons, Founder and CEO of TSC.ai, will examine how stakeholder intelligence can help organisations anticipate emerging issues and understand influence, while Wendy Wang, Founder of getUGC.io, will explore the evolving relationship between creators, communities and brand trust.

Another focus will be the growing influence of artificial intelligence on how organisations are discovered and understood. Shaad Hamid, General Manager, Singapore at GrowthOps Asia, will examine the relationship between earned media and AI visibility, while Emma Dale, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Prospect Resourcing, will consider the human judgement, trust and leadership that remain essential as AI becomes more embedded in communications work.

Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire, will deliver the Title Sponsor Keynote, “The Golden Age of PR: Why an AI-Enabled Global Newswire Matters More Than Ever”, exploring the role of earned media and newswire distribution in building brand trust and visibility in an AI-driven environment.

The programme will culminate in the unveiling of findings from the inaugural Singapore State of PR and Communications Survey, jointly conducted by Media OutReach Newswire and IPRS. The research will offer insights into how communications practitioners view changing PR dynamics, the evolving media landscape, AI visibility, and their use of AI tools in daily workflows.

Other speakers include Liu Xiaowei, Co-Founder of Retension; Nicholas Leong, Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific at DHL; Raju Chellam, Editor-in-Chief of the AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge; Emily Poon, CEO of the Singapore Institute of Directors; Shefali Srinivas, Head of Business Communications, APAC at Meta; Esther An, Chief Sustainability Officer at City Developments Limited; and Brian Fletcher, Director, Public Policy APJ at CrowdStrike.

PRISM Summit 2026 is supported by Title Sponsor Media OutReach Newswire, Coffee & Silver Sponsor Notified, Silver Sponsors Isentia and Truescope, Official PR Agency Pinpoint and Venue Partner METT Singapore.

Supporting Partners include Edge Digital, the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), World Communication Forum Association (WCFA), Davos Communications Summit & Awards, Asia Pacific PR Network (APRN), Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) and Singapore Press Club (SPC). Media Partners include Humas Indonesia and PR Indonesia.

Full speaker line-up
The PRISM Summit 2026 speaker line-up comprises:

• Anita Kapoor – Host
• Ross Gan — President, IPRS; Chief Communications Officer, Bitdeer Technologies
• Jennifer Kok — Founder & CEO, Media OutReach Newswire
• Raju Chellam — Editor-in-Chief, AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge
• Illka Gobius — Founder & Managing Director, Pinpoint PR
• Kathy O’Brien — Managing Director, Red Shoe Communications
• Lee Nugent — Head of Communications, Asia-Pacific & Japan, Everpure
• Emily Poon — CEO, Singapore Institute of Directors
• Liu Xiaowei — Co-Founder, Retension
• Terence Lyons — Founder & CEO, TSC.ai
• Brian Fletcher — Director, Public Policy APJ, CrowdStrike
• Naeema Ismail — Founder, The Reset Practice
• Shefali Srinivas — Head of Business Communications, APAC, Meta
• Glenda Gloria — Co-Founder & Executive Editor, Rappler
• Rosianna Silalahi — Editor-in-Chief, KompasTV
• Glenn van Zutphen — Founder & CEO, VanMedia Group
• Wendy Wang — Founder, getUGC.io
• Prashant Saxena — VP of Revenue & Insights, Southeast Asia, iSentia
• Collin Tio — Associate Director, KOBE
• Angel Turner — Senior Manager, Brand Marketing, World Scout Bureau
• Shaad Hamid — General Manager, Singapore, GrowthOps Asia
• Cheryl Heng — Associate Editor, Citywire Asia
• Voal Voal Wong — Managing Partner, IN.FOM
• Melissa Ang — Strategic Account Director, Notified
• Pamela Phua — Managing Partner, Southeast Asia, Media OutReach Newswire
• Kelvin Koh — Managing Director, Truescope Singapore
• Nicholas Leong — Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific, DHL
• Emma Dale — Co-Founder & Managing Director, Prospect Resourcing
• Esther An — Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited
• Cindy Lim — PRISM Summit 2026 Chair; Head of Audience & Communications, Singapore Symphony Group

Registration is open, with special rates available to IPRS members and partners.

For more information and registration, visit the Summit website.

Hashtag: #PRISM2026 #IPRS #FromMessageToMandate #PublicRelations #StrategicCommunications

https://iprs.glueup.com/event/media-outreach-newswire-prism-summit-2026-185060/
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About the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore

The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore represents public relations and communications practitioners in Singapore and promotes professional standards, continuing development and the advancement of the profession.

Major announcements and launches

• €250 million Women’s Health Initiative in Bangladesh: The Government of Bangladesh and the European Investment Bank outlined plans to improve women’s health and strengthen district hospitals and critical care services.
• US$100 million commitment to prevent stillbirths: The Gates Foundation and Wellcome Leap announced a joint commitment to Uzima: A Stillbirth Prevention Program, aiming to halve stillbirth rates within a decade in selected countries.
• Lancet Commission on 21st Century Global Threats to Health: The Commission identified two potential threats to human existence: malicious use of artificial intelligence and nuclear conflict.
• Wellcome Global Monitor 2026: Wellcome presented global findings showing that trust in science has declined compared with pre-COVID-19 levels.
• Gallup’s State of the World’s Emotional Health 2026 Report: Gallup and the World Health Summit presented findings on emotional health and well-being, revealing a complex relationship between social media use and well-being that varies by age, time spent online, and geographic location.
• €10 million German contribution to maternal and child health: Germany pledged €10 million to the Global Financing Facility’s Sustainable Commodities Access Program to improve access to family planning and maternal, newborn, and child health products.

The World Health Summit is the leading platform for global health. It brings together stakeholders from politics, science, the private sector, and civil society to set the agenda for a healthier future.

Hashtag: #WorldHealthSummit

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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2026 – Siam Paragon reaffirms its position as a global fashion destination, advancing a strong and sustainable fashion ecosystem through the success of “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2026” (BIFW2026). Held from 8–11 October 2026, this major regional fashion event extended beyond presenting collections on the runway to serve as a strategic platform, connecting creativity, Thai designers, fashion brands, business partners and consumers within an integrated ecosystem. By enhancing brand visibility, strengthening brand image and supporting the purposeful growth of Thai fashion, BIFW2026 demonstrated its vital role in shaping Bangkok’s fashion identity and advancing the city’s position as a fashion capital of Asia. Under the theme “TH-nomenal Extraordinary – Lead the Culture, Wear the Future”, the event presented 10 fashion shows by 10 leading Thai brands, achieving full-capacity attendance at every show and generating strong buzz across all social media platforms.

The success of BIFW2026 was made possible through the collaboration between Siam Paragon and leading partners from the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to strengthening Thailand’s fashion industry. Partners included the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Kasikornbank Public Company Limited, Merz Aesthetics Thailand Co., Ltd., Madame Fin Co., Ltd., XPENG Thailand, Millennium Auto Group, Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, THANN, KIKI Beauty Space, Grey Goose, and M.A.C Cosmetics Thailand. Together, they elevated the fashion experience on the iconic Grand Runway at Parc Paragon, M Floor, Siam Paragon.

Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Managing Director of Siam Paragon Shopping Center, said: “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2026 reflects the creative strength and the increasingly distinctive, diverse capabilities of Thai fashion. Under the theme ‘TH-nomenal Extraordinary – Lead the Culture, Wear the Future’, we aim to push fashion beyond a mere expression of clothing beauty. We see it as a powerful force that connects culture, heritage, craftsmanship and the vision of a new generation.

Throughout the four days of BIFW2026, we witnessed Thai designers express their identities through distinctive designs, skillfully reinterpreting their cultural roots through a contemporary lens. Our greatest source of pride in BIFW2026 goes beyond attendance figures or the response it generated. It lies in seeing the entire Thai fashion ecosystem grow, encompassing pioneering designers, emerging talents, entrepreneurs, Thai artisanal craftsmanship, brands, and business partners, all working together to create new value for the industry.

BIFW is therefore more than an annual fashion event. It is a platform of opportunity that connects creativity with the real economy, serves as a key catalyst for bringing Thailand’s soft power to international audiences through fashion, and creates meaningful experiences and inspiration for people.”

BIFW2026 brought fashion narratives to life through 10 shows by 10 Thai brands, each with its own distinctive creative perspective and design language. Its success lay not only in gathering leading designers, but also in providing a platform where different generations of Thai design talent could grow together across every dimension. Iconic brands such as FLYNOW, NAGARA, and 27FRIDAY expressed their enduring identities and design DNA through contemporary perspectives that retained a powerful presence on the runway.

Meanwhile, established brands that have grown and evolved alongside the platform—ISSUE, POEM, PAINKILLER Atelier, and VVON SUGUNNASIL—each presented a clearly defined design language. Their collections demonstrated the ability to preserve a distinctive identity while extending their creativity in response to an ever-evolving fashion landscape. Adding another compelling perspective was 37°C Thirty-seven degrees Celsius, a brand featuring a legendary designer who delivered a bold interpretation of fashion’s next chapter. This diversity made BIFW2026 more than a showcase of collections: it became a space where the experience, design philosophies, and visions of Thai brands came together with depth and dimension.

Another significant achievement of BIFW2026 was its role in providing promising brands with a platform to fully establish their presence, particularly CHATO and MERGE, whose collections combined contemporary perspectives with distinctive design signatures. MERGE reinterpreted denim and craftsmanship through silhouettes reflecting contemporary lifestyles, while CHATO translated floral inspiration into garment construction and folding techniques rooted in Thai heritage.

The participation of both brands highlighted BIFW2026’s role in enabling designers to expand the scope of their creative presentations, build wider awareness, and further develop their brands along their individual growth journeys, while bringing fresh dimensions to Thailand’s fashion landscape.

Throughout the event, BIFW2026 attracted attention both offline and online, trending across all social media platforms. This response reflected fashion’s power to connect brands, designers, fashion industry figures, and consumers. The event’s success further reaffirmed Siam Paragon’s ability to deliver world-class experiences while serving as a platform that supports Thai designers’ growth, connects partner networks and broadens the reach of Thai fashion.

Siam Paragon remains committed to developing Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week into more than a fashion platform, positioning it as a driving force for the future of Thai fashion. By bringing together iconic designers, established brands that continue to evolve, and emerging brands ready to redefine the industry, Siam Paragon continues to advance Bangkok’s position as one of Asia’s key fashion destinations.

For the latest updates, follow Facebook: Siam Paragon or visit www.siamparagon.co.th⁠

Hashtag: #SiamParagonBIFW2026 #BIFW2026 #SiamParagon

https://www.siamparagon.co.th
https://www.facebook.com/SiamParagon

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By Nitya Chakraborty An analytical article recently published in The Wall Street Journal on the latest trends in Chinese economy has led to an intensive discussions among the think tank and the Communist Party leadership in China. Finally the official position is that China is happy to remain as a developing country as a part […]

The article China Refuses To Be Labelled As A Developed Country, It Is Happy As A Developing Nation appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Following a dramatic confinement trial with Joe Wicks MBE, psychiatrist warns that trying to forcibly suppress stress may fuel physical burnout

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2026 – For millions of busy Hong Kong professionals, daily stress and anxiety are often internalised as personal weaknesses or frustrating obstacles to career performance. Following World Mental Health Day, Bupa Group’s new global health experiment video series, Health or Hype, challenges this perspective by exploring a counter-intuitive question: What if anxiety is not our enemy, but a biological signal meant to protect us?

The video series features British fitness coach and best-selling author Joe Wicks MBE taking part in a confinement challenge designed to trigger feelings of stress and anxiety. To demonstrate some of the ways acute anxiety can affect human physiology in real-time, Wicks took part in a monitored challenge inside a purpose-built, pitch-black wooden box. As the door was fastened shut, Wick experienced an immediate physical respond—his heart rate surged, his breathing turned rapid and shallow, and he described a knot and cramping sensation in his stomach.

Psychotherapist Owen O’Kane, who supported Wicks during the challenge, explained that these involuntary physical reactions are primal survival mechanisms. In modern high-pressure environments, however, individuals routinely fall into the trap of trying to suppress, numb, or mentally fight these uncomfortable sensations. O’Kane highlights that attempting to eradicate anxiety may paradoxically reinforce the brain’s perception of threat; instead, learning to acknowledge anxiety without judgment allows the mind to regain emotional equilibrium. In the episode, breathwork specialist Liza Al Sady guides Wicks and international rugby legend Ruby Tui through targeted nasal diaphragmatic breathing, demonstrating how extending exhalations directly stimulates the vagus nerve to calm the nervous system.

To help Hong Kong’s busy professionals find a realistic balance and navigate intense corporate pressure, Dr. Oliver Chan, Specialist in Psychiatry, shares his medical perspective on the brain’s stress response, “Many professionals in Hong Kong view anxiety as a personal failing, trying to force themselves to ‘stop worrying’ through sheer willpower. But from a brain-science perspective, during intense panic or acute anxiety, the brain’s threat-response system can temporarily overpower logical reasoning. Think of anxiety as your body’s internal smoke alarm. When you face enormous stress or overwhelming workloads, this alarm goes off, flooding your body with stress hormones that could impair the functioning of brain regions involved in attention, planning and rational decision-making. Your heart races, your breathing gets shallow, and your body enters survival mode.

The biggest mistake people make is trying to argue with the alarm. If you try to fight, ignore, or feel ashamed of the anxiety, your brain assumes the danger is escalating, making the alarm ring even louder and eventually leading to prolonged psychological distress and fatigue. Instead, we must learn to shut off the alarm physically before we can calm down mentally. Simple breathing techniques, specifically making your out-breath significantly longer than your in-breath, act as a physical brake pedal. It may help shift the body towards a calmer physiological state and reduce the intensity of the stress response. Treating anxiety not as an enemy, but as an internal alert system we can actively manage, is essential for long-term health in a high-pressure city like Hong Kong.”

Your 60-Second Desktop Reset: Calming the Nervous System
Instead of trying to fight or suppress the physical feelings of stress, try this simple, clinically backed reset to soothe your nervous system during your workday:

• Unclench and Ground: Place both feet flat on the floor, drop your shoulders away from your ears, and consciously unclamp your jaw.
• Nasal Diaphragmatic Breath: Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 3, allowing your abdomen to expand rather than your chest.
• Extended Exhale: Slowly exhale through your nose for a count of 5 or 6. Making the exhale visibly longer than the inhale increases parasympathetic activity and may naturally modulate your heart rate

Caring for mental wellbeing is not about eliminating stress entirely. By recognising anxiety as a natural signal and learning simple tools to reset our nervous system, every Hong Kong professional can cultivate sustainable resilience.

Watch the full episode and see Joe Wicks take part in the confinement challenge on YouTube: What if anxiety isn’t the enemy? Joe Wicks finds out – Health or Hype Episode 5: Anxiety – YouTube

Hashtag: #BupaHongKong #HealthorHype #HealthInsurance #HealthTips #StressManagement #WorkplaceHealth #EmployeeWellbeing #BurnoutPrevention

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Bupa – A health insurance specialist

Established in 1947, Bupa’s purpose is helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world. We are an international healthcare company serving over 68 million customers worldwide. With no shareholders, we reinvest profits into providing more and better healthcare for the benefit of current and future customers. Bupa has businesses around the world, principally in Australia, the UK, Spain, Poland, Chile, Hong Kong SAR, India, Türkiye, Brazil, Mexico and New Zealand. We also have associate businesses in Saudi Arabia.

Bupa has been a health insurance specialist in Hong Kong since 1976, offering one-stop solutions across domestic and international health insurance, and healthcare services. Our comprehensive medical insurance schemes are tailored to meet individual needs, and we provide health solutions for companies of all sizes. We also have a team of registered nurses, health management professionals, and doctors who provide various expert healthcare support.

Our healthcare provision arm, Quality HealthCare Medical Services (QHMS), became part of Bupa in October 2013. QHMS offers Western Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Diagnostics & Imaging, Physiotherapy, Mental Health and Wellness services via a network of over 1,650 provider service points in Hong Kong.

For more information, visit www.bupa.com.hk/en/.

Yanliang Miao, Chief Economist and Senior Managing Director of CICC, shared his insights on China’s economic transformation and the evolving international monetary order in his opening remarks and keynote speech. He noted that understanding China requires a global rebalancing perspective, considering both the dynamism of emerging industries and the implications of the transition from old to new growth engines for jobs, incomes and demand. Alongside its green and digital transitions, China is also working toward a growth model supported by higher household incomes and services-led consumption. Turning to the international monetary order, he observed that shifts in the global economy, trade networks and financial technology are driving the evolution toward a more diversified international monetary system. Economic and trade strength do not automatically translate into international currency status: institutional credibility and the depth and breadth of financial markets remain central to understanding this evolution and the internationalization of the renminbi.

Huimin Wu, Executive Dean of CICC Global Institute and Deputy Head of Research Department at CICC, noted that, as discussed in The New Pattern of Dual Circulation, a book jointly published this year by CICC Global Institute and CICC Research Department, China’s economy is entering a new stage of development. Its trade and outward investment are undergoing a paradigm shift, while emerging industries are becoming increasingly important drivers of growth in the global economy. These changes are both part of the broader process of global economic rebalancing and deeply shaped by it, giving rise to a new pattern of interaction between China and the global economy.

The forum brought together experts and industry representatives from institutions including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance (SAIF) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National University of Singapore, ICBC Standard Bank, Wood Mackenzie, and NSQ Capital. Discussions focused on the transformations of China’s trade and outward investment and their global implications, as well as the prospects for emerging industries such as innovative pharmaceuticals, green energy, and artificial intelligence.

This marked the first time the CGI Quarterly Macro Forum was held in Southeast Asia. Taking place during the week of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings, amid international discussions on global economic opportunities and challenges, the event brought Chinese perspectives to the global conversation and offered Chinese insights into key issues concerning China’s economy that are of broad international interest.

As an important part of CGI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international exchanges, present China’s perspective, and foster a deeper understanding of China’s economic transformation process, the event was an innovative exploration. Looking ahead, CGI will continue to deepen its international engagement and work toward building an international dialogue platform focused on China’s economy, contributing to greater mutual trust and consensus, and playing a positive role in this cause.

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About CICC

China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 601995.SH, 3908.HK) was founded in 1995. Our experience in professional services includes leading several prominent transactions, reflecting our close involvement in China’s economic reform and development. Our vision is to become a first-class investment bank with international competitiveness. Our extensive network and cross-border business practices have enabled us to offer high-quality, value-added financial services to a diversified client base. This includes a full-service and balanced business model that offers investment banking, equities, FICC (Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities), asset management, private equity and wealth management services, all of which draw on our comprehensive research and technology capability. Headquartered in Beijing, the Group has over 200 securities business offices in China, and established subsidiaries or branches in places including Hong Kong SAR, New York, London, Singapore, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City and Dubai. As an investment bank with Chinese roots and an international reach, we are committed to providing first-rate financial services to both our Chinese and global clients to help them achieve their goals.