SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 January 2026– Aon plc (NYSE: AON), a leading global professional services firm, today announced the appointment of Kulshaan Singh as enterprise client leader, Asia Pacific, effective immediately.
Based in Singapore, Singh will leverage his extensive experience across some of Asia’s most dynamic markets to deliver innovative approaches to Risk Capital and Human Capital for Aon’s enterprise and large multinational clients in Asia. Reporting to Craig Torgius, chief client officer and head of enterprise clients, Asia Pacific, Singh will focus on building strategic partnerships and unlocking new opportunities supporting clients to achieve their growth ambitions.
“Kulshaan brings a rare blend of strategic acumen with strong execution ability, global insight and local expertise to our Asia Pacific team,” said Torgius. “His ability to lead transformation, foster collaboration and deliver results across diverse industries will be invaluable in helping clients navigate an increasingly complex risk landscape.”
With over two decades of experience in consulting and executive leadership, Singh held prominent roles including managing director for talent solutions for southeast Asia at Aon, CEO Mercer Singapore and chief people officer at Charoen Pokphand Group. Most recently, as the global group chief people officer at Thai Union Group, he spearheaded large-scale transformation initiatives including organisation design, succession and leadership alignment.
Reflecting on his new role, Singh said, “I feel privileged and excited to be back at Aon and look forward to working closely with Aon’s global and local teams to deliver solutions that help clients navigate complexity and interconnected challenges.”
Read more about Aon’s capabilities in Asia Pacific here.
Hashtag: #Aon
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Aon
Aon plc (NYSE:AON) exists to shape decisions for the better — to protect and enrich the lives of people around the world. Through actionable analytic insight, globally integrated Risk Capital and Human Capital expertise and locally relevant solutions, our colleagues provide clients in over 120 countries with the clarity and confidence to make better risk and people decisions that help protect and grow their businesses.
Disclaimer The information contained in this document is solely for information purposes, for general guidance only and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although Aon endeavours to provide accurate and timely information and uses sources that it considers reliable, the firm does not warrant, represent or guarantee the accuracy, adequacy, completeness or fitness for any purpose of any content of this document and can accept no liability for any loss incurred in any way by any person who may rely on it. There can be no guarantee that the information contained in this document will remain accurate as on the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No individual or entity should make decisions or act based solely on the information contained herein without appropriate professional advice and targeted research.
MoU signing and Malaysia Book of Records recognition underscore sustained consumer trust for ELDON, at a time when Malaysians are paying closer attention to sleep, stress and lifestyle balance
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 January 2026 – Malaysian media personality Chan Fong and singer-actor Henley Hii have been appointed brand ambassadors for Malaysian health and wellness brand Eldon Healthcare, also known as ELDON, reflecting the brand’s mission to provide relatable, real-life health advocacy for modern Malaysians.
Eldon formalises brand ambassador partnership with Malaysian media personalities Chan Fong and Henley Hii
The appointment comes at a meaningful milestone for ELDON, a consumer health and wellness brand of thePharm-D Health Sciencegroup, following Malaysia Book of Records’ recognition for one of its flagship products, ELDON DX MAGELAX, as the most magnesium glycinate capsules sold in Malaysia.
Introduced to the Malaysian market in 2020,ELDON DX MAGELAXwas among the earliest magnesium glycinate supplements registered with the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA). At a time when awareness of magnesium was still limited, ELDON played an early role in familiarising consumers with magnesium glycinate, now widely recognised for its absorption profile and gentle tolerability, and and known for supporting muscle relaxation, migraines and sleep-related concerns such as insomnia. This Malaysia Book of Records recognition reflects not only strong sales performance, but also growing accessibility and consumer trust.
According to Wong Chin Cheang, Group Managing Director of Pharm-D Health Science, the appointment of the brand ambassadors, alongside the Malaysia Book of Records recognition for ELDON DX Magelax, reflects a broader milestone in the group’s long-term journey.
“ELDON’s growth reflects what we stand for as a group: building Malaysian health brands that are grounded in science, scaled responsibly, and trusted by the public over time,” he said. “Achievements like these are not only about the scale or numbers alone, but also consistency, credibility, and serving real needs in the community.”
Brand Ambassadors grounded in the real Malaysian health and lifestyle
Malaysian media personalities Chan Fong and Henley Hii are well-known Malaysian public figures with strong audience connections across lifestyle and entertainment circles. Grounded, busy and active in ways many Malaysians relate to, they were chosen for their strong alignment with ELDON’s brand philosophy, which inspires practical wellness habits, including prioritising better rest, sleep quality and a balanced lifestyle.
This partnership taps into post-COVID trends where three in four Malaysians prioritise holistic health, as national conversations continue to encourage prevention and healthier routines.
“This partnership feels personal because it is based on real routines,” said Chan Fong. “Whether you are working late, juggling responsibilities, or simply trying to keep up with life, your daily habits matter. I appreciate that ELDON’s approach is practical and grounded.”
Henley Hii added, “A lot of people think wellness has to look perfect, but most of us are just trying to be consistent. I am excited that this is a long-term partnership because real habits take time, and it is about showing up repeatedly.”
ELDON: a Malaysian consumer health brand shaped by purpose and scale
Fully homegrown in Malaysia, Eldon Healthcare is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pharm-D Health Science, an integrated Malaysian pharmaceutical and consumer health group of companies committed to advancing evidence-based health solutions across different life stages. ELDON represents the group’s consumer health pillar, which focuses on translating scientific expertise into accessible, everyday health and wellness solutions.
For ELDON, the focus has always been on building credibility steadily through quality formulation, transparent sourcing, and wide accessibility through pharmacies, clinics, and healthcare partners across Malaysia and Singapore.
“ELDON was never built to chase hype,” said Kenn Siaw, Chief Executive Officer of Eldon Healthcare. “Our responsibility is to create sustainable health solutions that people can rely on. The Malaysia Book of Records recognition is meaningful to ELDON because it reflects a strong trust from consumers, pharmacists, and healthcare partners.”
He added that the appointment of Chan Fong and Henley Hii represents the next phase of the brand’s journey: “They represent the realities of modern Malaysian life, demanding schedules, family responsibilities, and the need to stay healthy without overcomplicating things. That’s exactly who ELDON exists for.”
Looking ahead
With its growing footprint and renewed focus on public engagement, ELDON aims to continue supporting Malaysians who see health not as a luxury but as an essential foundation for everyday living.
Together, the appointment of brand ambassadors and Malaysia Book of Records recognition mark not just a celebration but a stronger commitment from both the company and the brand to continue delivering consistent, trustworthy health solutions.
This milestone adds to Pharm-D Health Science’s growing track record of national recognitions, as its probiotic brand Lang Bragman, was recently also being recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the Largest Range of Homegrown Probiotic Products in Malaysia. Hashtag: #EldonHealthcare #Eldon #EldonMagelax #MalaysiaBookofRecord #MostMagnesiumGlycinateCapsulesSoldInMalaysia #MagnesiumGlycinate #Migrane #Insomia #magnesium #albion #BetterRest #BetterSleepQuality #glycinate #activelifestyle #Ambassador #ChanFong #HenleyHii #PharmDHealthScience
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ELDON
ELDON is a Pharm-D Health Science consumer health and wellness brand offering a wide range of science-based health solutions across nutritional supplements, functional food, skincare, personal care, and medical-adjacent products.
With partnerships and distribution spanning 2,000+ retail pharmacies and 100+ clinics across Malaysia and Singapore including digital health platform Pharm-Dx, ELDON is committed to quality, relevance, and accessible care for everyday health and wellness needs.
Founded in 2001, Pharm-D Health Science (PDHS) is an integrated Malaysian pharmaceutical and consumer health group of companies specialising in pharmaceuticals and consumer health products. Its portfolio includes trusted, high-quality brands such as ELDON, VALENS, CMD, Lang Bragman, Reflux-G, Retane, and more.
Guided by its mission to make health and wellbeing accessible through science, the Group operates across research, development, manufacturing, and commercialisation to deliver science-based health solutions spanning across rare diseases, pharmaceuticals, medical nutrition, nutraceuticals, skincare and microbiome research.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 January 2026 – Today, KGI has released its 2026 Global Market Outlook, covering markets in the US, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Singapore.
(From left) James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory; James Wey, Head of International Wealth Management at KGI; Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI
After a turbulent year of trade disruptions and policy uncertainty under President Trump, investors face new questions. China has unveiled its 15th Five-Year Plan, as policymakers aim to support domestic growth amid global challenges. The market outlook for 2026 is shaped by interest rate decisions, economic resilience, and shifting international dynamics.
Under this backdrop, we propose the “LEAD” strategy for 2026:
Liquidity Shift
Earnings Focused
Adding Credit
Diversified Assets
Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI, says: “Looking ahead to 2026, investors can adopt a LEAD strategy: L stands for Liquidity Shift, benefiting from a weakening US dollar and interest rate cuts, with funds expected to flow to non-US dollar and Asian currencies; E stands for Earnings Focused, focusing on earnings growth to support valuations and allocating to US, European, and Japanese stocks; A stands for Adding Credit, locking in the credit of leading companies and increasing holdings of A-rated investment grade bonds; and D stands for Diversified Assets, responding to the upward trend in both stocks and bonds by including alternative assets to optimize asset allocation.”
Macro & US Markets The US economy will experience a more pronounced downturn in 4Q25, which will extend into 1H26, and this will have a negative impact on consumption, slowing investment activity. Nevertheless, AI-driven productivity gains should provide some support, with US GDP growth in 2026 forecast at 2.2%. The eurozone will see moderate growth, with Germany benefiting significantly from fiscal expansion and economic improvement. Japan’s economy will strengthen on domestic demand, aided by additional fiscal stimulus. China has demonstrated resilience under trade protectionism in 2025. With inflation risks easing and labor market risks rising, the US Fed cut the interest rates in September 2025, with a total reduction of 75 bps in 2025, followed by an additional 50-75 bps in 2026.
Regarding US stocks, AI-driven productivity gains and cost reductions should sustain solid profitability, with S&P 500 earnings projected to grow by 13.55% year-on-year (YoY) in 2026. However, higher risk premiums may cap valuation upside, leading us to project a year-end target of 7,650 points. Market performance will reflect risk-driven declines in 1Q26, stabilize and recover in 2Q26, and rally significantly around the midterm elections in 4Q26. By sector, among AI-related themes we favor technology, semiconductors, utilities (on higher power demand), machinery for advanced manufacturing, and industrial REITs. Non-AI beneficiaries include aerospace and defense (on higher military spending), pharmaceuticals (on tariff benefits), and capital market segments (supported by active investment banking). As for fixed income, US economic weakness and Fed rate cuts will drive Treasury yields lower, with 10-year yields expected to fall to 3.5-3.7% by 2Q26. We recommend allocating to US Treasuries or high-rated investment-grade corporate bonds in 1H26, then rotating into high-yield bonds in 2H26 as policy rates and economic conditions reach a bottom.
James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory, says:“AI is triggering a new productivity revolution, supporting economic growth and strengthening corporate earnings. While the US economy is expected to slow, a recession remains unlikely, and the short-term impact of tariff policies should gradually fade by the first quarter of 2026. Although the Fed may shift from cutting rates at every meeting to cutting at alternating meetings, the overall environment remains a rate-cutting cycle. In a non-recession backdrop, lower interest rates should continue to support equity market performance.”
Mainland China and Hong Kong Markets In terms of the macroeconomy, with the conclusion of trade agreements among many countries, risks have subsided. However, due to external drag, China’s GDP growth is expected to slow slightly to 4.6% in 2026. In 2026, investors should focus on four key areas for Hong Kong and mainland China markets: (1) In the consumption sector, domestic demand continued to be the core growth driver, contributing more than half of GDP. As the “trade-in” effect diminishes, the central government is expected to implement the “15th Five-Year Plan” and economic conference plans, launching a new round of subsidies covering culture, entertainment, and sports to continuously boost consumer spending. (2) In the financial market, risk appetite has increased. Given the narrowing spread between bond yields and fixed deposit rates, large amounts of savings are flowing into the capital market seeking returns. The fundamentals of the banking and insurance industries have bottomed out, and the credit structure is accelerating its shift from real estate to supporting the real economy. (3) Regarding the issue of “anti-involution,” the PPI remains weak, and capacity reduction has become a focus. Compared to 2015, this round involves more downstream private enterprises and needs to consider employment, presenting greater challenges. While industry consolidation is expected to be lengthy, the impact is controllable and beneficial for long-term healthy development. (4) Regarding new quality productive forces, this will replace real estate and infrastructure as the main investment focus. Digital infrastructure supports AI and embodied intelligence, and humanoid robots are expected to see commercialization in 2026, “iPhone moment.” Leading companies with core technological autonomy in innovative drugs will enjoy higher valuation premiums.
Overall, we are optimistic on Hang Seng Index. We expect the Federal Reserve’s interest rate cuts to drive fund inflows to the Hong Kong and mainland stock markets. Based on an upward revision of the forward PE ratio to 13.5x and 8% earnings growth, we set a target of 30,000 points for the Hang Seng Index by the end of 2026, representing a potential upside of approximately 14%. As confidence recovers, the investment style is expected to shift from defensive to growth stocks. Recommended 12 stocks: XPeng Motors (9868), UBTECH (9880), Tencent Holdings (700), Alibaba (9988), China Hongqiao (1378), AIA Group (1299), Ping An Insurance (2318), China Merchants Bank (3968), Akeso Biopharma (9926), Pop Mart (9992), Tencent Music (1698), and Sino Land (83).
Cusson Leung, Chief Investment Officer at KGI, says: “2026 marks a crucial turning point for the Chinese economy. While the market anticipates GDP growth to slow to 4.6%, “new quality productive forces,” resembling humanoid robots, is taking over as a new growth engine. The most critical signal in the market is the “awakening” of idle cash—massive savings are flowing from low-interest fixed deposits to the capital market seeking returns. With risk appetite returning and policy support intensifying, now is the time to shift investment strategies from “defensive” to “growth.” Driven by both valuation repair and earnings growth, we are optimistic that the Hang Seng Index will reach 30,000 points, and the allocation value of Hong Kong and mainland China stocks has reappeared.”
Taiwan Market Compared to the dot-com era bull run, which lasted almost five years, the current AI frenzy has been around for about three years, suggesting that the uptrend is still in its middle phase and could extend through 2026.
AI plays are trading at high PEs, such valuations are backed by strong fundamentals. In fact, the PEG ratio of Taiwan’s AI supply chain has yet to surpass 1x. We estimate that aggregate earnings of AI plays will grow by 21% YoY in 2026, following impressive upticks of 35% in 2024 and 43% in 2025. AI stocks now account for more than 60% of TAIEX earnings, and with the ongoing AI arms race, overall TAIEX earnings growth is projected to accelerate from 14% in 2025F to 20% in 2026.
Although the AI frenzy should keep the bull market intact, volatility will rise in tandem due to: (1) substantial cumulative gains, and the fact that valuations are approaching historic highs; (2) policy and political uncertainty surrounding the US midterm elections; and (3) potential changes in the US Fed’s rate-cut pace. We expect the TAIEX to repeat a “smile-curve” pattern, featuring continued strength in 1Q26, followed by healthy corrections in 2Q-3Q26 before closing the year with a renewed upswing.
We think investors need to pay attention to two major themes. The first is a broad-based product spec upgrade trend across the AI supply chain, which will drive the industry into a new growth phase, with beneficiaries including foundries, GPU and ASIC designers, advanced packaging (such as CoWoS), and ODMs, as well as testing interfaces, memory, thermal solutions, CCL, ABF substrates, PCBs, switches, and power component suppliers amid strong AI computing demand and ongoing GPU platform upgrades. The second is diversification and defensive asset allocation. Innovations in consumer electronics, such as foldable iPhones and smart wearables, will provide growth opportunities, while companies with resilient domestic demand and stable high dividend yields offer a balanced strategy combining growth and income. Overall, investors should strike a balance between growth and resilience against volatility in their portfolios, in the face of market fluctuations.
James Chu, Chairman at KGI Securities Investment Advisory, says:“The solid earnings growth driven by AI and still reasonable valuations form a strong foundation for the ongoing bull market in Taiwanese equities. With AI adoption accelerating across enterprises and consumers, demand for computing power is rising rapidly. Yet supply remains constrained by chip and power bottlenecks, meaning hardware suppliers are likely to face continued shortages through 2026. Taiwan’s AI supply chain is set to remain a key beneficiary, particularly those tied to next-generation specification upgrades.”
Singapore Market In 9M25, the overall performance of Singapore’s economy was better than expected as the global trade tensions eased after the US pivoted on its reciprocal tariffs and reached deals with its major trading partners. The manufacturing, wholesale trade and finance & insurance sectors remained the growth pillars of the Singapore economy, and each sector delivered decent growth. In particular, manufacturing’s growth has been robust, driven by the electronics, transport engineering and biomedical manufacturing clusters. The full year outlook is upbeat, as the growth momentum shall continue till the end of the year.
Looking ahead, the global economic outlook for 2026 suggests slower GDP growth for most of Singapore’s key trading partners, including China and the Eurozone, largely due to the impact of US tariffs, which will temper demand for Southeast Asian exports, though US growth is expected to remain resilient from AI investment. Consequently, Singapore’s outward-oriented sectors, particularly manufacturing and trade-related services, are projected to expand at a slower pace than in 2025, although the electronics and related sectors will benefit from AI demand, while some precision engineering and biomedical output may moderate domestically, the construction sector is set to grow, but consumer-facing sectors are likely to remain subdued. However, the relatively low interest rates and continuous government support shall buffer the impact of the slowdown, and the capital market will still benefit from the upward re-rating catalysts.
Chen Guangzhi, Head of Research at KGI Singapore, says: “Thanks to trade de-escalation and the AI wave, Singapore experienced significant economic expansion in 2025. Proactive government initiatives turbo-charged the equity bull run, and this strong momentum is expected to deliver an optimistic economic outlook for 2026.” Hashtag: #KGI #MarketOutlook
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
KGI
KGI* has been a leading financial institution in Asia since 1997. Our scope of business encompasses wealth management, brokerage, fixed income, and asset management. We are committed to offering a comprehensive range of financial products and services to corporate, institutional, and individual clients throughout Asia. Backed by KGI Financial Group, we have a robust footprint in Asia, covering Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand^.
*KGI refers to KGI Asia Limited and its affiliates. ^an investee enterprise of KGI Securities, not a subsidiary.
DISCLAIMER
All the information contained in this document is not intended for use by persons or entities located in or residing in jurisdictions which restrict the distribution of this document by KGI Asia Limited (“KGI”), or any other affiliates of KGI. Such information shall not constitute investment advice, or an offer to sell, or an invitation, solicitation or recommendation to subscribe for or invest in any securities, insurance or other investment products or services nor a distribution of information for any such purpose in any jurisdiction. In particular, the information herein is not for distribution and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States of America, or to or for the benefit of United States persons (being residents of the United States of America or partnerships or corporations organised under the laws of the United States of America or any state, territory or possession thereof). All the information contained in this document is for general information and reference purpose only without taking into account of any particular investor’s objectives, financial situation or needs and may not be redistributed, reproduced or published (in whole or in part) by any means or for any purpose without the prior written consent of KGI. Such information is not intended to provide any legal, financial, tax or other professional advice and should not be relied upon in that regard.
All investments involve risks. The prices of securities fluctuate, sometimes dramatically. The price of a security may move up or down, and may become valueless. It is as likely that losses will be incurred rather than profit made as a result of buying and selling securities.
Bond investment is NOT equivalent to a time deposit. It is NOT protected under the Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme. Bondholders are exposed to a variety of risks, including but not limited to: (i) Credit risk – The issuer is responsible for payment of interest and repayment of principal of bonds. If the issuer defaults, the holder of bonds may not be able to receive interest and get back the principal. It should also be noted that credit ratings assigned by credit rating agencies do not guarantee the creditworthiness of the issuer; (ii) Liquidity risk – some bonds may not have active secondary markets and it would be difficult or impossible for investors to sell the bond before its maturity; (iii) Interest rate risk – When the interest rate rises, the price of a fixed rate bond will normally drop, and vice versa. If you want to sell your bond before it matures, you may get less than your purchase price. Do not invest in bond unless you fully understand and are willing to assume the risks associated with it. Please seek independent advice if you are unsure.
You are advised to exercise caution and undertake your own independent review, and you should seek independent professional advice before making any investment decision. You should carefully consider whether investment is suitable in light of your own risk tolerance, financial situation, investment experience, investment objectives, investment horizon and investment knowledge.
No representation or warranty is given, whether express or implied, on the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of information provided herein. In all cases, anyone proposing to rely on or use the information contained herein should independently verify and check the accuracy, completeness, reliability and suitability of the information. Simulations, past and projected performance may not necessarily be indicative of future results.
Information including the figures stated herein may not necessarily have been independently verified, and such information should not be relied upon in making investment decisions. None of KGI, its affiliates or their respective directors, officers, employees and representatives will be liable for any loss or damage of any kind (whether direct, indirect or consequential losses or other economic loss of any kind) suffered or incurred by any person or entity due to any omission, error, inaccuracy, incompleteness or otherwise, or any reliance on such information. Furthermore, none of KGI, its affiliates or their respective directors, officers, employees and representatives shall be liable for the content of information provided by or quoted from third parties.
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Dubai’s financial regulator will bar privacy-enhancing cryptoassets from operating inside its main international finance hub from January 12, 2026, sharpening the emirate’s stance on anti-money laundering and sanctions compliance while tightening how stablecoins can be issued and used. The decision by the Dubai Financial Services Authority applies within the Dubai International Financial Centre and prohibits regulated firms from trading, holding, promoting or facilitating privacy tokens and transaction-obfuscation […]
Towering crocodilians that could rival buses in length once patrolled vast river systems cutting through what is now the Sahara, reshaping scientific understanding of prehistoric ecosystems and predator–prey dynamics during the early Cretaceous Period. Fossil evidence shows these reptiles were not merely oversized versions of today’s crocodiles but apex predators capable of taking on large dinosaurs in a landscape unrecognisable from the modern desert. The most striking […]
Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are set to join a United States–led initiative aimed at securing global artificial intelligence and semiconductor supply chains, signalling a widening of Washington’s technology diplomacy into the Gulf and underlining the strategic importance of advanced computing hardware to future economic and security policy. The planned inclusion of the two Gulf states was outlined by Jacob Helberg, the US undersecretary of state […]
Instagram moved to contain concerns over account security after confirming it had corrected a password reset flaw that cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes described as a breach, signalling a swift response as scrutiny of social media safety intensifies. The platform, owned by Meta Platforms, said the issue affecting its password recovery process had been fixed after being flagged by researchers at Malwarebytes, who warned that the vulnerability could have […]
Asset manager VanEck has outlined a long-range capital market assumptions model that positions bitcoin as a potential multi-million-dollar asset by 2050, citing structural adoption as a settlement currency and reserve asset as key drivers of value. Under the firm’s base-case scenario, which assumes a compound annual growth rate of around 15 per cent through to mid-century, one bitcoin could be worth approximately $2.9 million, a dramatic elevation […]
Government authorities are moving to compel smartphone manufacturers to submit portions of their operating system source code for mandatory security audits, escalating a standoff with global technology companies that warn such a requirement could undermine intellectual property protections and user privacy. The proposal, under discussion within policy circles in New Delhi, reflects mounting concern about cyber intrusions, supply-chain vulnerabilities and the growing role of mobile devices in payments, governance and national security.
Officials familiar with the matter say the plan would require vendors selling smartphones in the country to make critical software components available for inspection by government-approved laboratories. The focus would be on core operating system layers, firmware and security modules rather than consumer-facing applications. Proponents argue that access to code is essential to verify whether hidden vulnerabilities, backdoors or insecure update mechanisms could be exploited by hostile actors.
The push has brought the government into direct tension with companies such as Apple and Samsung, whose devices dominate the premium and mass-market segments. Executives and industry representatives have privately conveyed resistance, arguing that exposing proprietary code, even to auditors bound by confidentiality, creates unacceptable risks of leaks and reverse engineering. They also contend that global platforms already undergo extensive third-party security testing and comply with international standards.
At the heart of the debate is whether national security imperatives justify a departure from prevailing global norms. Countries including China and Russia operate regimes that allow state scrutiny of technology products, though often under opaque processes that foreign firms say are difficult to reconcile with commercial safeguards. Western regulators have largely relied on certification frameworks, vulnerability disclosure programmes and cooperation with vendors rather than direct access to source code. India’s approach, if formalised, would place it closer to the former camp, potentially setting a precedent for other large emerging markets.
Government officials counter that smartphones have become gateways to sensitive data far beyond personal communications. Devices are routinely used for digital identity verification, financial transactions and access to public services. Any systemic weakness could have cascading effects. They also point to a rise in sophisticated cyber operations attributed by security researchers to state-linked groups, arguing that reliance on vendor assurances is no longer sufficient.
The proposal is understood to be steered by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, which has expanded its remit in cybersecurity and digital governance. Policy discussions have examined models ranging from escrow-based code access, where source material is held by a trusted intermediary, to controlled on-site inspections without code being copied. Each option presents trade-offs between assurance and exposure.
Industry bodies warn that mandatory disclosure could chill investment and complicate product launches. Smartphone operating systems are developed on global codebases, updated frequently and protected by layers of licensing agreements with component suppliers. Altering that structure for a single market risks fragmenting development and delaying security patches. There are also concerns about reciprocity: once one jurisdiction demands code access, others may follow, multiplying compliance burdens.
Privacy advocates occupy an ambivalent position. Some support deeper scrutiny to ensure devices do not surreptitiously collect or transmit data. Others caution that state access to low-level software could itself become a vector for abuse if oversight is weak. They stress the need for transparent audit criteria, independent supervision and clear limits on how findings are used.
The commercial stakes are significant. India is one of the world’s largest smartphone markets by volume and a critical manufacturing hub under production-linked incentive schemes. Companies have invested heavily in assembly plants and local supply chains, betting on policy stability. A protracted dispute over code access could influence decisions on future capacity and research investment, even if an outright exit is unlikely.
Walmart plans to scale its drone delivery programme with Alphabet-owned Wing, aiming to serve about 40 million people across the United States by 2027 as it pushes automated logistics deeper into everyday retail. The expansion is designed to shorten delivery times for small items to under 30 minutes and sharpen competition with Amazon in fast fulfilment. The retailer intends to add drone operations to roughly 150 additional […]
A widening gap between alarmist rhetoric and practical policymaking around artificial intelligence is threatening investment and innovation, according to Jensen Huang, who has urged governments, industry and the public to move beyond what he describes as “AI doomerism”. Speaking amid accelerating deployment of large-scale models across industries, the chief executive of Nvidia said exaggerated fears were distorting debate and already discouraging capital flows into technologies with […]
A large cache of personal information linked to 17.5 million Instagram accounts is being traded on dark web marketplaces, triggering renewed scrutiny of data protection practices at one of the world’s most widely used social media platforms. Cybersecurity researchers say the dataset, advertised by criminal brokers, contains usernames, email addresses, phone numbers and partial location details, information that could be exploited for identity theft, fraud and targeted […]
A newly identified vulnerability affecting Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence system has heightened concerns about the exposure of Gmail users to sophisticated phishing and account compromise, sharpening the debate around how large language models interpret and act on hidden instructions embedded in everyday digital content. Security researchers and policy analysts say the issue stems from indirect prompt injection, a technique that allows malicious instructions to be concealed inside […]
Astronomers have identified an unusual cosmic object that appears to be a galaxy in name only, composed almost entirely of dark matter and lacking the stars that typically define such systems. Nicknamed Cloud-9, the structure was detected through observations by the Hubble Space Telescope and is being described by researchers as a “failed galaxy” that never ignited stellar formation. Cloud-9 stands out because it contains a substantial […]
False social media posts masquerading as official council announcements have highlighted how generative artificial intelligence can be weaponised to mislead voters, placing new strain on public trust as political campaigning intensifies across the United Kingdom. The fabricated messages, which mimicked the tone, branding and urgency of genuine local authority notices, circulated widely before being taken down, prompting concern among regulators, councils and election specialists. Several of the […]
Boltz has raised $28 million in fresh funding while entering a strategic partnership with Pfizer that underscores the accelerating push by major drugmakers to embed artificial intelligence deeper into biomolecular research. The deal combines Pfizer’s extensive scientific datasets and therapeutic development expertise with Boltz’s open-source foundation models designed to analyse and generate biological data, aiming to shorten discovery timelines and improve the odds of clinical success. The […]
Nvidia chief Jensen Huang has dismissed concerns over California’s proposed billionaire tax, signalling that the potential personal cost would not alter his commitment to building the company’s artificial-intelligence business in the state where it was founded. Speaking in public remarks this week, Huang said he was “perfectly fine” with the idea of paying higher taxes, framing the debate as secondary to access to talent and the long-term […]
Donald Trump has said he will not grant a presidential pardon to Sam Bankman-Fried, the former chief executive of the collapsed cryptocurrency exchange FTX, making clear that the disgraced entrepreneur will continue to serve his prison sentence if Trump returns to the White House. Speaking in an interview, Trump dismissed speculation that he might intervene on behalf of Bankman-Fried, who was sentenced to 25 years in federal […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Lenovo has lifted the curtain on a self-charging keyboard and mouse concept that draws power entirely from indoor light, a move that signals how peripheral design is being rethought as offices push for lower energy use and reduced electronic waste. Unveiled at CES 2026, the concept pair dispenses with disposable batteries and charging cables, relying instead on ambient illumination common to workplaces and […]
Investment to expand robotics research and development, strengthen production readiness, and advance Primech Holdings’ facilities management operations
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2026 – Primech Holdings Ltd. (Nasdaq: PMEC), a technology-driven facilities services and robotics company, today announced a $4.0 million strategic investment from WELLE Environmental Group Co., Ltd. (SZSE: 300190), reinforcing Primech’s acceleration into autonomous robotics, AI-powered cleaning systems, and scaled global facilities operations.
The investment highlights growing market confidence in Primech Holdings’ long-term growth strategy and its expanding role at the intersection of autonomous robotics and technology-enabled facilities services. Leveraging the deep operational expertise of its facilities services subsidiary, Primech A&P Pte. Ltd., alongside its robotics subsidiary, Primech AI Pte. Ltd., the capital will support accelerated robotics development, enhanced production capabilities, and the continued commercialization of Hytron, Primech’s flagship autonomous restroom cleaning robot.
“This investment validates the momentum we are building across autonomous robotics and intelligent facilities operations,” said Ken Ho, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Primech Holdings. “Partnering with WELLE strengthens our ability to scale faster, deploy more broadly, and execute on the growing demand for AI-powered automation in real-world environments. We are entering 2026 with a clear strategy, strong execution capabilities, and the capital to accelerate growth across international markets.”
Proceeds from the investment are expected to be deployed to expand robotics research, development, and production capacity, strengthen operational and manufacturing readiness, and support broader deployment of Hytron across commercial environments. The investment will also bolster working capital to support the continued expansion of Primech Holdings’ core facilities management business.
The transaction further deepens the strategic alignment between Primech Holdings and WELLE, building on their previously announced cooperation initiatives in robotics and intelligent operations. By combining Primech’s autonomous robotics platform and facilities expertise with WELLE’s environmental technology footprint and operational scale, the collaboration is positioned to accelerate intelligent automation and sustainable infrastructure solutions across industrial and commercial markets.
Additional details regarding the investment are included in Primech Holdings’ Form 6-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on January 6, 2026.
Hashtag: #Primech
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About WELLE Environmental Group Co., Ltd.
WELLE Environmental Group Co., Ltd. (300190.SZ) is a technologically advanced enterprise specializing in energy conservation and environmental protection. With strong core technical capabilities and continuous innovation, WELLE operates across environmental governance and bioenergy sectors, including food waste and kitchen waste resource utilization, high-concentration wastewater treatment, biogas and biomethane development, and biofuel production. With extensive project experience and diversified application scenarios, WELLE is committed to promoting energy efficiency, carbon reduction, and circular resource utilization.
About Primech AI
Primech AI is a leading robotics company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation in technology. With a team of passionate individuals and a commitment to collaboration, Primech AI is poised to revolutionize the robotics industry with groundbreaking solutions that make a meaningful impact on society. For more information, visit www.primech.ai. About Primech Holdings Limited Headquartered in Singapore, Primech Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: PMEC) is a leading provider of comprehensive technology-driven facilities services, predominantly serving both public and private sectors throughout Singapore. Primech Holdings offers an extensive range of services tailored to meet the complex demands of its diverse clientele. Services include advanced general facility maintenance services, specialized cleaning solutions such as marble polishing and facade cleaning, meticulous stewarding services, and targeted cleaning services for offices and homes. Known for its commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology, Primech Holdings integrates eco-friendly practices and smart technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and client satisfaction. This strategic approach positions Primech Holdings as a leader in the industry and a proactive contributor to advancing industry standards and practices in Singapore and beyond. For more information, visit www.primechholdings.com.
Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements, including, for example, statements about completing the acquisition, anticipated revenues, growth, and expansion. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are also based on assumptions regarding the Company’s present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure that such expectations will be correct. The Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.
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HCMC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2026 – For years, ESG occupied an ambiguous position in the global discourse. It was widely acknowledged, frequently discussed, yet often postponed, something to be integrated gradually, when conditions allowed. Today, that ambiguity has vanished. ESG has become a hard requirement for cities, assets, and investments that aim to survive in a rapidly changing world.
According to research by Knight Frank, demand for sustainable real estate is being led decisively by younger generations. A significant majority of respondents in its Next Generation Survey indicated they are willing to pay up to 20 percent more for environmentally friendly products. More importantly, this preference is already translating into action: 63 percent of Millennials have invested in sustainable portfolios, compared with just 35 percent of Baby Boomers.
At the very top of the wealth pyramid, ultra-high-net-worth individuals are setting explicit targets to reduce their personal carbon emissions. Real estate, among the most carbon-intensive and capital-heavy asset classes, is therefore under direct pressure to evolve. At the same time, institutional investors are placing growing emphasis on social outcomes, from workplace wellbeing to broader community health. Assets that fail to meet these expectations increasingly face liquidity risk.
In this context, ESG is now widely understood as a form of future-proofing. Like a massive ship altering course in open waters, the global real estate industry may take time to visibly change direction. But once the new trajectory is set, those that fail to adapt will inevitably be left behind.
The Limits of Retrofitted Sustainability
Yet most cities were never designed for this moment. Built for speed, density, and economic efficiency, they now struggle to reconcile legacy structures with contemporary ESG demands. The prevailing response has been retrofitting, adding green technologies, improving energy efficiency, or introducing pockets of open space where possible.
These measures are necessary, but they reveal a fundamental limitation. ESG, when layered onto an outdated urban model, can only go so far. There is a ceiling to how sustainable a city can become if its foundations were never meant to support that vision.
This raises a more radical question: What if ESG were not an upgrade, but the starting point? What if a city were conceived entirely around environmental balance, social wellbeing, and long-term governance from its very first blueprint?
An answer to that question is emerging, not from Europe or North America, but from Vietnam.
Vinhomes Green Paradise and the Idea of “ESG++ from the Ground Up”
On the southern edge of Ho Chi Minh City, where land meets sea, Vingroup is developing what many observers consider one of the world’s rare examples of a truly next-generation urban model, Vinhomes Green Paradise.
This is not a conventional large-scale real estate project with sustainability features added along the way. It is a city built entirely on the logic of ESG, what some experts have begun to describe as “ESG++ from the ground up”.
The location itself tells the first chapter of that story. Vinhomes Green Paradise is framed by the East Sea and a vast mangrove ecosystem recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve. Spanning more than 75,000 hectares, the Can Gio mangrove forest is one of Southeast Asia’s most important natural assets, functioning as a carbon sink, a biodiversity haven, and a natural coastal defense system.
Rather than pushing against this environment, the project is shaped by it.
Covering 2,870 hectares, Vinhomes Green Paradise maintains a construction density of just 16 percent. The overwhelming majority of land is dedicated to green space and water. A 121-kilometer coastline defines the city’s interface with the sea, while at its heart lies an 800-hectare natural seawater lagoon, an ecological and civic centerpiece rarely seen even among the world’s most ambitious coastal cities.
Here, nature is not an amenity. It is infrastructure.
A Global Contender for the Cities of the Future
Because of this foundational approach, Vinhomes Green Paradise is increasingly viewed as a strong Asian contender, often described as a “hidden gem”, in global initiatives recognizing future-ready urban developments.
Environmental integration alone, however, does not define the project. Its aspiration extends equally to technology, governance, and human experience.
Designed as a fully integrated smart city, Vinhomes Green Paradise applies IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence across urban management, operations, and environmental monitoring. The objective is not technological spectacle, but a city that operates intelligently, efficiently, and transparently, one that adapts in real time to how people live, move, and interact.
If the environment forms the foundation and technology provides the nervous system, people are unmistakably at the center of Vinhomes Green Paradise.
The project’s social infrastructure is planned as a cohesive ecosystem rather than a collection of isolated amenities. Healthcare is anchored by Vinmec, in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic, bringing international clinical standards into everyday urban life. Education is delivered through Vinschool alongside Brighton College, ensuring continuity from early education to globally benchmarked schooling.
The city’s vision extends across generations. Purpose-built senior living, cultural venues, and public spaces are seamlessly integrated. A seven-hectare waterfront theater establishes a cultural anchor, while sports and recreation are elevated through two championship 18-hole golf courses designed by firms founded by Tiger Woods and Robert Trent Jones. Large-scale entertainment and lifestyle destinations further contribute to a city that is not only sustainable, but vibrant.
According to Arnaud Ginolin, Managing Director of Boston Consulting Group in Vietnam, Vinhomes Green Paradise brings together all the elements required to establish a new global benchmark, one that balances sustainability with dynamism and ESG principles with holistic human experience.
Vietnam’s Statement to the World
In the first nine months of 2025, Vietnam recorded more than 58,000 successful real estate transactions, doubling year on year. In Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, primary residential prices have reached historic highs, compressing opportunities and pushing investors toward new frontiers.
Can Gio has emerged as one of those frontiers. Once viewed as a geographic dead end, the district is now being repositioned as Ho Chi Minh City’s strategic gateway to the sea. Search interest has surged, and capital flows from northern Vietnam are increasingly directed southward.
Infrastructure is the catalyst behind this transformation. Planned high-speed rail will connect central Ho Chi Minh City to Can Gio in just minutes. The long-awaited Can Gio Bridge is set to remove persistent bottlenecks. New interregional road links, port developments, and proximity to Long Thanh International Airport are integrating the area into regional and global trade networks.
What was once peripheral is becoming strategic.
In an era when many of the world’s great cities are struggling to reinvent themselves, Vietnam is offering a different answer: Build differently from the start. Use ESG not as a corrective tool, but as a foundation.
Vinhomes Green Paradise is therefore a statement, about where the next ideas in urban living may come from, and how sustainability, human wellbeing, and long-term value can be aligned rather than traded off.
While the ESG conversation has long been dominated by Western capitals, one of its most ambitious realizations is taking shape in Southeast Asia, guided by willingness to rethink the fundamentals of urban life.
Survey covers 15 countries and includes first nationwide polling inside Syria The Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies has released findings from the 2024 to 2025 Arab Opinion Index following a presentation at its headquarters in Doha. The survey, now in its ninth edition, examines political, economic and social views across 15 Arab countries. Fieldwork took place between October 2024 and August 2025 and included interviews […]
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