Advancing Core Product ICVAX® for HIV & Immunotherapy Pipeline for Cancers
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 November 2026 – Yicura BioMed (“Yicura“), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company based in the Hong Kong Science Park developing medicines for infectious diseases, cancers, and inflammatory diseases, is pleased to announce today the first closing of its Series B financing led by Gobi Partners, with participation from a number of strategic investors from Wuxi and institutional investors from Hong Kong. Their participation reflects shared confidence in Yicura’s clinical development path. Proceeds will be deployed to advance the core product ICVAX® for HIV and to accelerate the development of the immunotherapy pipeline for cancers across the vaccine and antibody programmes.
ICVAX® has completed a randomised, placebo-controlled NMPA-approved Phase I clinical trial in people living with HIV on antiretroviral therapy, with favourable safety and immunogenicity performance. The program is advancing to Phase II clinical trial for efficacy evaluation for a more durable immune control of HIV and the target path to functional cure.
“This funding round marks an important step in Yicura’s growth as we move ICVAX® from early clinical validation towards efficacy studies,” Dr. Xia JIN, Co-Founder and CEO of Yicura, said. “We are encouraged by the Phase I data of ICVAX® and the potential of our PD-1-enhanced DNA vaccine and anti-∆42PD1 antibody platforms to address serious unmet needs in infectious diseases, cancers and inflammation. We are grateful for Gobi Partners’ partnership and the investors’ confidence in our science, our team and our mission to develop immunotherapies that can meaningfully change the standard of care for patients.”
“Yicura is building a distinctive suite of immunotherapies from Hong Kong, with a clear clinical lead in ICVAX® and platform technologies that can extend well beyond a single indication to precision therapies for cancers.” Mr. Fred LI, Managing Director and Head of University Ventures of Gobi Partners, shared, “We are pleased to lead this Series B financing and to support Dr. JIN and the Yicura team as they advance the promising HIV therapeutic vaccine and continue to translate their brilliant technologies into medicines for patients in need.”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Yicura BioMed (formerly known as Immuno Cure)
Yicura BioMed (“Yicura”) is a clinical-stage biotechnology group based in the Hong Kong Science Park, focusing on research and development of immunotherapies for cancers, inflammations, and infectious diseases based on its patented PD-1-enhanced DNA vaccine and anti-Δ42PD1 antibody platforms.
Founded in 2002, Gobi Partners is a leading pan-Asian investment firm specialising in bespoke capital solutions for family offices, sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions and corporate investors. Headquartered in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, Gobi manages US$2 billion across 30+ investment vehicles, investing in early to growth-stage companies with the potential for generational and global impact.
The firm’s team of over 90 investment professionals operates from 18 locations, curating a diversified portfolio of more than 400 companies, with 76 exits achieved to date. Gobi is recognised for its long-term, values-aligned approach, building ecosystems at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and inclusion. From pioneering TaqwaTech for two billion Muslims, to advancing the circular economy, to promoting gender-diverse leadership, Gobi backs the trends that are reshaping societies.
Gobi’s edge lies in identifying structural and demographic shifts, forging partnerships with universities and institutions of higher education; bridging world-class research with private capital and bringing deep technology breakthroughs to commercialisation.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai CE-Ventures, the investment arm of UAE-based Crescent Enterprises, has joined a $60 million financing round for London biotechnology company Oyster Therapeutics, supporting its development of experimental treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. The investment, announced on 10 November, forms part of a Series A-2 fundraising led by specialist life sciences investor 4BIO Capital. Oyster, formerly Kesmalea Therapeutics, is developing medicines designed […]
Guided by the Central Passport, LANDMARK invites visitors to experience Central anew—from Louis Vuitton’s ‘Art of Travel’ grand train station installation to world-class dining and seasonal celebrations.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 November 2026 – LANDMARK welcomes global travellers and visitors to experience Destination CENTRAL, a district-wide initiative inviting guests to rediscover Hong Kong’s historic yet vibrant heart. The programme celebrates Central’s long-standing role as Hong Kong’s gateway for arrival, exchange and discovery. Inspired by the spirit of travel, Destination CENTRAL connects the district through the collectible Central Passport, pairing exclusive privileges with heritage activations in partnership with Hong Kong Tramways and Asia Miles. Highlighting the programme is Louis Vuitton, unveiling the latest chapter of its global series with a monumental installation at LANDMARK.
Louis Vuitton at LANDMARK
Following iconic presentations on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, 57th Street in New York and ‘The Louis’ in Shanghai, Louis Vuitton brings the latest chapter of its global series to LANDMARK with Louis Vuitton Central Station – the Landmark pop-up, a monumental façade, and the Le Voyage Louis Vuitton exhibition.
Inspired by one of the House’s most emblematic themes: the Art of Travel, the façade throughout the refurbishment is transformed into a spectacular grand train station, evoking the romance and golden age of travel. In celebration of the Monogram’s 130th anniversary, the architectural installation features the House’s signature motif and honours Hong Kong’s transport heritage, built entirely with reusable and recyclable materials in line with mindful creation.
Inside the basement of LANDMARK ATRIUM, the immersive open-gallery exhibition celebrates the House’s trunk-making heritage and savoir-faire through visual storytelling across icons of the past and present. Together, these experiences offer a captivating glimpse into the world of Louis Vuitton—setting the stage for the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Maison at LANDMARK.
Your Festive Passport to Central
Following the debut of the luggage-inspired Central Passport, LANDMARK welcomes the holiday season with a refreshed, postcard-themed Central Passport. Reimagined as a collectible keepsake, the guide weaves celebrations across LANDMARK and the wider district into an inspiring festive journey. Inside, visitors will discover curated dining recommendations, thoughtful gift picks from local insiders, and iconic citywide displays.
Available from collection points across the district, the Central Passport can be personalised with stamps from designated locations. Visitors who collect any three stamps can visit the Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter on 2/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM to enter a lucky draw and unlock a surprise gift. Lucky winners stand a chance to receive up to 66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to a round-trip business-class flight to Japan—alongside photobooth experiences, limited-edition keepsakes and dining vouchers. The Central Passport also includes exclusive dining privileges from more than 50 participating partners, including Lan Kwai Fong, The Murray, and Ocean Park.
A First Class Stop for Dining and Views
Taking the travel theme into hospitality, LANDMARK presents THE CHATER, an exclusive dining concept, featuring an all-day menu curated by Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. Inspired by the elegance and anticipation of a grand station lounge, the new venue brings together Hong Kong and international flavours, with highlights including bubble tea and gourmet quick bites, alongside Pierre Hermé macarons and gelato. The experience extends to Platform 1889 on 3/F, a first-class railway carriage-inspired feature within THE CHATER’s terrace. Named for the year Sir Paul Chater co-founded Hongkong Land, Platform 1889 pays tribute to a defining moment in Central’s history while offering a prime view of Louis Vuitton’s train station façade and the Central skyline.
“As a key stakeholder deeply rooted in Central, Hongkong Land is delighted to bring Destination CENTRAL to life alongside our district partners, inviting the public to discover the extraordinary charm of Central anew,” said Olivia Luk, General Manager, Marketing, Hong Kong Central, Hongkong Land Limited. “Together with a rich programme of dining privileges and seasonal celebrations, we hope everyone—from daily office workers and local residents to visitors—can shape their own memorable story of Central.”
Terms and conditions apply. For full programme and promotional details, including specific Central Passport mechanisms, please visit https://destinationcentral.hk.
APPENDIX
Please visit the Destination CENTRAL website at https://destinationcentral.hk for the latest programme details, terms and conditions.
Central Passport Collection & Reward Details (From 19 November 2026)
Collection Points
Stamp Station Checkpoints
Over 20 Collection Points across Central, including:
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter (2/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM)
THE CHATER (2/F, LANDMARK CHATER)
Christmas at The Gloucester Hotel Holiday Shop (G/F LANDMARK ATRIUM)
LANDMARK Concierges
Mandarin Oriental The Landmark
Winter Wonderland Chalet (Statue Square Garden)
The Plaza LKF Lobby (21 D’Aguilar Street, Central)
Please refer to the website for the complete list of collection points.
Designated Checkpoints Across Central
Christmas at The Gloucester Hotel Holiday Shop (G/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM)
Louis Vuitton Central Station (Junction of Pedder Street & Des Voeux Road Central, LANDMARK ATRIUM)
LANDMARK PRINCE’S (Near Statue Square Exit)
LANDMARK PRINCE’S, 2/F (Near Bed & Bath)
LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, 1/F (Near Prada)
THE CHATER (2/F, LANDMARK CHATER)
The Plaza LKF Lobby (21 D’Aguilar Street, Central)
HSBC Main Building 3/F Lift Lobby (1 Queen’s Road, Central)
Other Destination CENTRAL Activities At A Glance
Experiences & Highlights
Dates
Locations
Inside LANDMARK
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter
28 September 2026 – 28 February 2027
2/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Destination CENTRAL Photo Booth
28 September 2026 – 28 February 2027
3/F Edinburgh Tower
THE CHATER
Now Open
2/F LANDMARK CHATER
Platform 1889
Now Open
3/F LANDMARK CHATER
Louis Vuitton At LANDMARK
Louis Vuitton Central Station
Now Open
G/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Le Voyage Louis Vuitton
Now Open
B/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Gifts
66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Business Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
26,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Economy Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
Coffee Gift Certificate (Crew Specialty Coffee / Central Table / Emmer Pizzeria)
Christmas at The Gloucester Hotel Stage Pass
Destination CENTRAL Photobooth Experience
Destination CENTRAL Mini Camera
THE CHATER Gift Certificate (Valued at HK$50)
Christmas Ornaments
*Based on Cathay Flight Awards – Standard Awards as of 1 September 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About LANDMARK
LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.
About Hongkong Land
Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
London-based defence technology company Uforce has secured a valuation of approximately $6 billion through a $700 million financing round backed by Britain’s National Wealth Fund, marking a significant expansion of government-supported investment in military drone technology. The financing represents the state-owned fund’s largest defence investment, strengthening its involvement in a sector receiving increased attention from the British government. Uforce, established by Ukrainian entrepreneurs and headquartered in London, […]
Leading 10 Park Companies to Expand Overseas and Deepen Collaboration with Singapore
HONG KONG SAR– Media OutReach Newswire – 11 November 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) has successfully concluded its inaugural participation at Singapore Urban Mobility Week 2026 (SUMW 2026), organised by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore from 4-6 November 2026. This mission also marked HKSTP’s first dedicated overseas pavilion focused on the theme of “Smart Mobility”.
HKSTP leads 10 park companies to participate in “Singapore Urban Mobility Week 2026” for the first time, establishing its inaugural overseas pavilion themed around “Smart Mobility” to empower Hong Kong tech ventures in expanding across Southeast Asia.
Leading a delegation of 10 outstanding park tech ventures, HKSTP showcased Hong Kong’s cutting-edge R&D capabilities in smart transit, autonomous driving, passenger experience, and intelligent transport solutions. The initiative actively unlocked international partnerships and commercial opportunities, reinforcing Hong Kong’s firm positioning as an international innovation and technology hub.
Through this delegation, HKSTP further solidified its strategic partnership with Singapore government authorities while expanding multifaceted collaborations with local commercial partners across land transport operators, urban rail networks, and major transport hubs.
Notably, Mr. Ng Lang, Chief Executive of the Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Singapore, visited the HKSTP Pavilion, acknowledging the immense potential of park ventures to integrate into Singapore’s smart mobility ecosystem. Additionally, HKSTP hosted the “HKSTP Global Mixer – Mobility & Logistics in Singapore” networking event, gathering over 100 representatives from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore, InvestHK, HKTDC, park ventures, and Singaporean industry leaders to foster multi-party dialogue and cross-border exchange.
Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP, said: ” HKSTP is committed to empowering tech ventures to scale globally. Debuting our first overseas smart mobility pavilion provides a targeted strategy that opens doors for park companies to connect directly with local authorities, industry leaders, academia, and investors. This initiative highlights Hong Kong’s unique role as a gateway for cross-border collaboration and a ‘super-connector’ and ‘super value-adder’. HKSTP will continue to expand its network across Southeast Asia and deepen long-term collaboration between Hong Kong and Singapore in smart city and transport technologies, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation and technology hub.”
HKSTP has been actively driving cross-regional collaborations in recent years to provide comprehensive support for park ventures expanding into Southeast Asia and international markets, delivering remarkable results. Moving forward, HKSTP will continue to leverage its strength as a “two-way gateway” to lead more outstanding tech ventures beyond Hong Kong, deepen global commercial and technical matchmaking, and empower them to achieve tangible business breakthroughs in overseas markets.
By Satyaki Chakraborty Taking into account the continuing severe air pollution in Delhi and other parts of North India, China has offered India collaboration in clean technologies linked with the expansion of manufacturing base in the country. Global Times, the official organ of the Chinese Communist Party has analysed the nature of the air pollution […]
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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai First Abu Dhabi Bank has acquired 100 per cent of Bahrain-based Yasira Financial Services, extending its fund administration and trust services business to serve investment managers across public and private markets. The Abu Dhabi lender announced the acquisition on Monday, saying Yasira would be rebranded and incorporated into its Securities Services division. Financial terms were not disclosed, and the bank did not specify […]
Japan’s Nikkei share average climbed 2.33% on Monday, recovering part of a technology-driven slump that had pushed the benchmark into bear market territory and shaken confidence in artificial intelligence stocks.
The Nikkei 225 closed at 58,775.50, gaining 1,340.73 points, while the broader Topix advanced 2.97% to 3,818.16. The rebound followed Friday’s 6% plunge, which left the Nikkei more than 20% below its June record, the threshold commonly used to define a bear market.
Buying extended across the Tokyo market rather than remaining confined to semiconductor companies. Of the Nikkei’s 225 constituents, 208 rose and 17 fell, indicating widespread demand after several sessions of selling. The recovery nevertheless left the benchmark substantially below its level at the beginning of last week.
Investors took encouragement from Friday’s gains on Wall Street, where technology stocks recovered after sharp declines linked to concerns about potential changes in United States policy towards artificial intelligence. The Nasdaq Composite gained 1.09% and the S&P 500 rose 0.32%, providing a firmer backdrop for Asian trading.
Nvidia and Tesla had recovered in that American session after investors reassessed the implications of Democratic victories in the US midterm elections. Market participants have questioned whether tighter scrutiny of artificial intelligence could slow the construction of data centres and affect demand for the advanced chips and equipment supplying them.
Those concerns remain particularly significant for Tokyo’s equity market, where semiconductor equipment manufacturers, technology investors and industrial suppliers carry substantial weight in benchmark movements. The sell-off had spread beyond companies directly involved in artificial intelligence, reflecting broader reductions in exposure to riskier assets.
Takuma Ikemoto, a market analyst at Tokai Tokyo Intelligence Laboratory, cautioned that uncertainty surrounding American policy could limit further advances once the initial wave of buying subsided. His assessment highlighted the distinction between a recovery from heavily sold conditions and a sustained improvement in expectations for technology earnings.
Individual stock movements showed that the rally was uneven despite the strong headline index gains. Consulting services company Baycurrent climbed 8.8% to a record closing high, making it the Nikkei’s strongest percentage performer. Construction group Shimizu gained 7.7%, while industrial manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric advanced 7.3%.
SoftBank Group, a prominent investor in artificial intelligence ventures, remained under pressure during the session, illustrating continuing investor caution towards businesses closely associated with the sector’s expansion. Its weakness contrasted with gains elsewhere and suggested that buyers were distinguishing between companies rather than returning indiscriminately to all technology-related shares.
Banking stocks also attracted demand as Japanese government bond yields moved higher. Rising yields can support banks’ lending margins, although their effect depends on funding costs and broader credit conditions. Automakers, retailers and non-ferrous metal producers contributed to the market’s advance, giving the recovery a wider base than the previous technology-led fluctuations.
The Topix’s larger percentage gain reflected the strength of shares across a broader range of companies. On the Tokyo Stock Exchange’s Prime Market, 1,412 issues advanced, compared with 120 declines and 13 unchanged. Thirty-one of the exchange’s 33 industry groups finished higher, with food and shipping among the exceptions.
Developments in the Middle East also shaped investors’ assessment of market risk. US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that further American attacks on Iran were highly unlikely while diplomatic discussions continued, with Qatar involved in mediation. The comments offered some reassurance, although accounts of attacks on vessels near the Strait of Hormuz underscored the fragility of the situation.
Disruption to energy shipments through the waterway has complicated the outlook for Japan, which depends heavily on imported fuel. Changes in oil prices influence corporate costs, household spending and inflation expectations, making the security of Gulf shipping an important consideration for investors alongside movements in technology shares.
Monday’s closing figures also showed the distance still to be recovered after the previous week’s losses. The Nikkei had finished November 2 at 63,081.86, well above Monday’s level despite the sizeable daily increase. The gap illustrated how a sharp one-day advance can coexist with substantial losses over a longer trading period. Investors therefore remained sensitive to changes in overseas equity markets, policy expectations and corporate earnings forecasts.
The session’s strongest performers included businesses outside the artificial intelligence supply chain, while the weaker areas showed that the rebound was not uniform. Shipping and food shares lagged the broader market as investors repositioned portfolios following the previous week’s abrupt decline.
An Asia digital transformation programme for founders and SMEs, starting in Malaysia, with a full refund if the delivery date is missed
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 November 2026 – Fully customised business software and AI solutions, built by engineers and backed by a full refund if the agreed delivery date is missed. Starting in Malaysia and rolling out across Asia, made possible by more than 100 partners.
Nexawork AI Founders
Nexawork AI is an Asia focused technology company building the AI Business Operating System. It was co-founded by Allen Tan Chee Hoe, its Chief Executive Officer, and Sky Wee, its Chief Business Development Officer.
Today Allen Tan Chee Hoe announced the launch of Nexawork AI’s Asia digital transformation programme, which helps founders, project owners and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) build their first digital product. It offers custom software development, including AI solutions and AI agents, starting with a Starter Pack at RM19,900.00, with a full refund of the development fee if Nexawork AI misses the delivery date in the contract.
The programme starts in Malaysia, its first market in Southeast Asia, before extending across Asia. Applications are open now at nexawork.ai. Its pricing is made possible by more than 100 partners, who share the work and bring businesses to the programme.
Why Asia’s SMEs hold back on AI and digital transformation Asia runs on small businesses. Across 26 economies tracked by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), micro, small and medium enterprises make up 99.8% of all enterprises, employ 67.6% of the workforce and produce 38.7% of national output. Yet many still run on paper and spreadsheets, SME digitalisation lags, and AI is widening the gap. In South Korea, a 2024 Korea Federation of SMEs survey of 300 SMEs found only 5.3% using AI, and the obstacle cited most was the lack of AI services built for their needs.
Cost and risk add to the hesitation. In Malaysia, 2026 industry estimates put even a basic first version of mobile software at RM30,000 to RM60,000, and most SME projects at RM60,000 or more. For a first time founder, that is a large bet on one vendor. Owners are avoiding risk, not technology.
“Transformation fails on the first invoice, not on the technology,” said Allen Tan Chee Hoe, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nexawork AI. “We are not trying to reprice the market. We want to give many SMEs the confidence to take their first step into digitisation, together with more than 100 partners, so a founder anywhere in Asia can build a first digital product without betting the year on it. And we are not here to replace anyone’s workforce. Our AI brings productivity to business owners and their teams, so that adoption actually happens.”
A full refund if the delivery date is missed If Nexawork AI misses the delivery date in the contract, the business receives a full refund of the development fee. The clock starts when the business provides complete information and access, and the scope is fixed in writing before work begins.
Custom software development and AI solutions built around the business Every system is shaped around the individual business. Professional engineers write, review and test every build, and the owner needs no technical knowledge. Projects can include a native mobile platform for ordering, payment through the business’s own provider, delivery tracking and referrals, an admin console, connections to existing software, and AI built for the business, from AI solutions on its own data to AI agents that answer enquiries or follow up on orders.
RM19,900.00 is the Starter Pack, the entry point to the programme: a focused first system built around one core workflow, such as taking orders or bookings, with an admin console for the owner. Builds with more features, AI, payments or integrations are scoped and priced above the Starter Pack.
Why the programme price is possible: more than 100 partners The programme is designed to grow the market, not to undercut it. The price is not set to compete with the market: most SMEs would not commission development at RM100,000 or more, so the programme reaches businesses that would otherwise not digitise at all, rather than taking work from established developers. The Starter Pack can start at RM19,900.00 because more than 100 partners share the work and bring businesses to the programme, so less of each project’s price goes on sales and marketing.
Nexawork AI’s team shapes each founder’s first product before any code is written. Lavie System Solutions brings almost two decades of development experience, so proven building blocks are not reinvented for every project. Healing Mind Group, led by Lee Hong Rui, a trainer accredited by HRD Corp, Malaysia’s Human Resource Development Corporation, joins as Business Process and SME Transformation Partner to map workflows and prepare teams. Dova Space looks after the people side of change, Eco Bee Biotech and Eco Bee Shop introduce the programme to their network, and Jayv Chang Yoon Voon, marketing partner for Southeast Asia, reaches businesses through partner and community channels.
How the programme works Each custom software development project starts with a written scope, after which the price and the delivery date go into the contract. The build runs in about twelve sprints over about three months. Every project includes three months of free maintenance; hosting, domain and infrastructure are paid by the business to its own providers, from about US$100 a month. Every system is built to connect directly to the Nexawork AI platform, which is expected to launch by the second quarter of 2027.
The founders behind Nexawork AI Allen Tan Chee Hoe is a serial founder and product architect with 15 years of experience in technology and product development. According to internal operating records, he previously built a startup to more than 4 million users and 60,000 business owners, and his teams have supported more than 180 projects globally for companies that together raised more than US$200 million. Sky Wee, who leads global business development and partnerships, is a Singapore based serial entrepreneur and venture investor.
The Nexawork AI Partner App Nexawork AI will also launch the Nexawork AI Partner App, expected in the first quarter of 2027, so referral partners can refer businesses to the platform and handle enquiries and introductions in one place. Partners can register their interest at nexawork.ai.
Larger digital transformation projects Alongside the programme, Nexawork AI is helping established companies digitise through larger projects, each scoped and priced on its own and separate from the RM19,900.00 Starter Pack. They include Vorahome, a home services platform founded by Alan Foong, Vincent Wong and Ivan Hiew Chin Woon; and Big Ben Dining Group, a food, entertainment and technology dining concept founded by Bengemen Tan Boon Yong.
How to apply To claim the programme, a business needs an official Programme Code from the Nexawork AI sales team. Founders, project owners and businesses can apply at nexawork.ai or approach any Nexawork AI Sales Manager across Southeast Asia. A salesperson will contact them to confirm the fit and issue the code, which opens the scoping session; the sales team verifies each business through its code and uses it to track every approved project. The programme is open while it lasts, until Nexawork AI announces its close, and codes, like places, are limited each month. Hashtag: #NexaworkAI #WorkLessWinMore #DigitalTransformation #CustomSoftware #AIforBusiness #AIAgents #SMEMalaysia #SMEDigitalisation #SoftwareDevelopment
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Nexawork AI
Nexawork AI is building the AI Business Operating System for solo entrepreneurs, small teams and established businesses in Asia: one platform to run your work and your business. Money and legal commitments always wait for a human. The platform is in beta with design partners and is expected to launch by the second quarter of 2027. Nexawork AI was co-founded by Allen Tan Chee Hoe, its Chief Executive Officer, and Sky Wee, its Chief Business Development Officer. Work Less. Win More. AI Does the Rest. nexawork.ai
About Eco Bee Biotech and Eco Bee Shop
Eco Bee Biotech and Eco Bee Shop is a Malaysian bee biotechnology, conservation and wellness enterprise founded by Cathie Tan in 2002. It develops Kelulut (stingless bee) honey, propolis and other wellness products, and in 2026 was recognised by ASIA Records and ASEAN Records for its alcohol free halal Kelulut propolis extract. Bee conservation is at the heart of its mission, including its planned Eco Bee Nature Exchange, guided by its philosophy: Save Bees, Empowering People, Pure Quality. beeshop.com.my
About Lavie System Solutions
Lavie System Solutions, led by Lai Yu Long, is a Johor based development company founded in 2008 that builds custom software, enterprise and point of sale systems and online stores. lvss.com.my
About Healing Mind Group
Healing Mind Group is a training provider led by Lee Hong Rui, who brings experience in finance and corporate management, a background in process transformation and trainer accreditation with HRD Corp. It helps SMEs map their business workflows, identify operational gaps and prepare their teams to adopt systems that improve productivity.
About Dova Space
Dova Space, led by Debbie Hew Sio Yee and Hew Khai Rin, is a holistic health and wellness centre offering personalised, data driven care. It brings Traditional Chinese Medicine, modern medical expertise, natural healing and advanced medical devices under one roof, with a strong focus on sleep health: sleep care consultations, sleep quality and autonomic nervous system assessments, home use medical devices and long term sleep management programmes. Better Sleep. Better Health. Better Living. dova.space
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Dubai Future District Fund (DFDF) and Buimerc Corporation Ltd have signed a non-binding cooperation statement aimed at strengthening Dubai’s venture capital ecosystem and expanding investment and innovation links between the UAE and India. The agreement, announced on 2 November, was signed at the Consulate General of India in Dubai in the presence of Deepak Mittal, India’s ambassador to the UAE, and E. Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, consul general […]
A wholly owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has launched a $7.5 billion syndicated loan facility to finance existing and future investments in private markets, with international banks invited to provide commitments ahead of a planned December signing. The secured subscription line facility carries an initial one-year tenor and includes options to extend it twice, for one year each. The financing is intended to support […]
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Cyberport Community Cumulative Funding Surpasses HK$74.5 Billion, Welcoming 19 Listed Companies and 2 Unicorns over the Past Year
Cyberport Investors Network (CIN) Celebrates 9th Anniversary, Facilitating Over HK$6 Billion in Cumulative Funding
Cyberport Signs MoUs with Gobi Partners and Thailand’s National Innovation Agency to Unlock Global Growth Corridors
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2026 – The annual flagship event Cyberport Venture & Capital Forum 2026 (CVCF) officially opened today at Hong Kong Cyberport. The two-day forum, themed “Scaling in a Changing World: Winning the Next Competitive Cycle”, brings together over 80 influential global venture capitalists, entrepreneurs and industry leaders to explore new frontiers in global venture trends, capital rerouting, Enterprise and Agentic AI, One-Person Companies (OPCs), digital assets, frontier technologies, and tokenisation economy, aiming to spotlight Hong Kong’s unique position as a strategic gateway connecting the Chinese Mainland, ASEAN, the Middle East, Central Asia and global innovation and funding networks. The forum also showcases the latest fundraising achievements of Cyberport start-ups.
The forum was inaugurated by Lillian Cheong, Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry and Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, and other distinguished guests at the opening ceremony, marking the official start of this global forum.
Lillian Cheong, Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, said “Turning AI potential into sustainable growth requires more than technology. It also requires investment, business expertise and access to markets. This is where today’s forum can make a difference – bringing innovators and investors together to explore emerging technologies, support promising ventures and open doors to new opportunities. The HKSAR Government will continue to strengthen the support that helps promising ventures grow as well its investment to mobilise more private capital, consolidating Hong Kong’s position as an international innovation and technology centre, and as a premier hub for AI.”
Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, said: “In a shifting global capital landscape, Hong Kong’s role as a ‘super-connector’ and ‘super value-adder’ between the Chinese Mainland and the world is more valuable than ever. The cross-border dialogue and partnerships forged here will create fresh opportunities for innovation, investment and collaboration.”
Cyberport Start-ups Show Robust Fundraising as AI and the Agentic Economy Take Centre Stage
Cyberport’s start-ups have demonstrated robust fundraising performance over the past year. Cyberport gathers over 2,400 companies, Cyberport start-ups have raised over HK$74.5 billion in funding. During the year, Cyberport proudly welcomed 19 listed companies and 2 unicorns to its community. Recent high-value fundraising rounds include Finloop, Qupital and Premialab, leverage AI, blockchain and digital assets — reflecting sustained market confidence in these emerging technologies and underscoring Cyberport’s success in fostering their development.
CIN Celebrates 9th Anniversary, Connecting Global Capital with High-Potential Start-ups
As Hong Kong’s digital tech hub, AI accelerator and key incubator, Cyberport actively connects global investors with start-ups through diverse funding channels.
The CIN 9th Anniversary Celebration commemorated a successful nine-year milestone while ushering in a new chapter of leadership, as the chairmanship passed from Hendrick Sin to John Ng. To honour this pivotal handover, Hendrick Sin, Hon. Duncan Chiu, and Cindy Chow were officially designated as Honorary Chairs of CIN in recognition of their distinguished contributions to the ecosystem.
Hendrick Sin, Honorary Chair of CIN; Co-Founder of CMGE Technology Group Limited; Chairman of China Prosperity Capital, stated in his video speech, “CIN has facilitated over HK$6 billion in investments across more than 130 projects since its inception, reflecting strong investor confidence in Cyberport companies. Looking ahead, we will strengthen the quality and depth of our deal flow, enhance structured capital partnerships to broaden access to funding at different growth stages, and deepen our relationships with CVCs, PE firms, family offices and LPs, further diversifying CIN’s investor network. Through these efforts, CIN will continue to connect promising companies with the right capital, expertise and networks needed to scale and succeed.
John Ng, Chairman of CIN, added in his speech, “I’m honoured to be appointed Chairman of CIN. The network has grown to nearly 250 investment firms, an achievement that reflects the tremendous efforts of Hendrick and the CIN team over the past years. Drawing on my background in corporate venture capital and family offices, one of my priorities will be to expand CIN’s network within these communities and take CIN into its next chapter.”
Another key financing channel, CMF, has invested in 30 start-up projects as of September 2026, with total investment including co-investments exceeding HK$2.7 billion and a co-investment ratio of over 1:9.3. Further augmenting ecosystem liquidity, Cyberport, BOCHK Asset Management and BOC Group Investment formed a strategic partnership in May 2026, as well as with Taiping Financial Holdings in Aug 2026 on venture capital funds to back promising Hong Kong I&T start-ups.
Strategic Partnerships to Unlock Global Growth Corridors
At the Forum, Cyberport signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), with Gobi Partners and with Thailand’s National Innovation Agency (NIA), to solidify global corridors for cross-border expansion.
Cyberport and Gobi Partners signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen collaboration in nurturing innovation and technology enterprises, facilitating market expansion and investment opportunities, and strengthening the innovation ecosystems of Hong Kong, Asia and the Middle East.
Building on a longstanding partnership, Gobi has invested in more than 24 Cyberport companies, including CMF co-investments. Witnessed by Lillian Cheong, Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, and Chibo Tang, Managing Partner, GBA Team of Gobi Partners, the MoU was signed by Dr Rocky Cheng, CEO of Cyberport, and Fred Li, Managing Director, GBA Team of Gobi Partners.
Meanwhile, Cyberport and Thailand’s National Innovation Agency (NIA) signed an MoU to promote cross-border innovation collaboration, startup development and knowledge exchange in AI, smart city and other digital technologies. It will cover soft-landing and market expansion, business matching, innovation programmes and community engagement, joint events, and proof-of-concept and pilot opportunities. The MoU was witnessed by Lillian Cheong, Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Simon Chan, Chairman of Cyberport, and Preechaya Panyakrua, Innovation Counsellor of NIA, and signed by Dr Rocky Cheng, CEO of Cyberport, and Dr Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of NIA.
Decoding the New Playbook for Scaling in the Age of AI
This year’s CVCF programme is organised around three umbrella themes: Mega Trends & AI Frontiers, Regional Market Focus & Global Corridors, and Market Focus & Strategic Capital Dynamics.
Opening the main stage, Mahesh Krishnaswamy, Founder and CEO of Taara, delivered the keynote “The Innovation Playbook: Capitalizing on Moonshots and Faster Cycles in the Age of AI”, sharing how Taara evolved from a radical moonshot into a real-world high-speed optical communications solution — a timely lens on compressed innovation cycles and how breakthrough technology scales.
The forum also brought together venture capital leaders from Gobi Partners, Alumni Ventures, Rasmal Ventures, Primavera Capital, Draper Dragon, Pegasus Tech Ventures, Plug & Play and more to examine AI-driven capital shifts, high-growth corridors across the Middle East, ASEAN and the Greater Bay Area, and how public-private and corporate strategic capital can accelerate tech scale-ups.
Beyond the thought leadership sessions, the event further reinforced Cyberport’s role in connecting capital, innovation and global market opportunities. It also provided a dynamic platform for business matching and startup empowerment. This year’s Founder Pitch attracted strong interest from local and international venture capital firms, enabling startups from early-stage innovators to high-growth scale-ups to present their cutting-edge solutions to investors and ecosystem partners.
Throughout the first day, the event floor featured tailored Investor Matching sessions, dynamic Innovator Showcases featuring elite, high-potential startups across key tech sectors from local and global partner networks, and dedicated Startup Clinics offering practical strategic guidance. Coupled with engaging networking exchanges, Day one concluded on a positive note, reinforcing Cyberport’s ongoing role in connecting capital, innovation, and global market opportunities.
Day two will feature the CVCF’s spotlight event “Agentic Economy Summit”, themed “Intelligent Frontiers, Tokenised Horizons”, featuring a keynote address by Joseph Chan, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, and will explore how agentic AI is reshaping business and how digital assets are redefining the way value moves. The summit will examine digital identity, institutional tokenisation, HKD stablecoins, programmable payments and machine-to-machine commerce, alongside the rise of OPCs. Day two also features hands-on startup workshops designed to equip founders with practical playbooks for pitch mastery and market scaling.
For more information on Cyberport Venture & Capital Forum 2026 and the speaker line-up, please visit http://cvcf.cyberport.hk/.
Hashtag: #Cyberport
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hong Kong Cyberport
Wholly owned by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, Cyberport is Hong Kong’s digital tech hub and AI accelerator, with a vision to empower industry digitalisation and intelligent transformation, to promote digital economy and AI development, and to foster Hong Kong to be an international AI, innovation and technology (I&T) hub. Cyberport gathers over 2,400 companies, including 30 listed companies and 10 unicorns. 40% of onsite companies’ founders come from 28 countries and regions, while Cyberport companies have expanded to over 36 global markets.
Cyberport, with Hong Kong’s largest AI Supercomputing Centre and AI Lab as the engine, has been building the AI ecosystem with industry-leading AI companies and over 500 AI and data science start-ups. Through development of tech clusters, namely AI, data science, blockchain and cybersecurity, Cyberport empowers industries across smart city and government, banking and finance, digital entertainment, culture and tourism, healthcare, education and training, property management, construction, transportation and logistics, green environment and more, while hosting Hong Kong’s largest FinTech community. Commissioned by the HKSAR Government, Cyberport has implemented proof-of-concept and sandbox schemes, subsidisation for digital tech adoption, industry tech training and start-up incubation, to drive technology R&D, translation and commercialisation, thus propelling digital transformation and intelligent upgrade across industry and society.
Also as “State-level Scientific and Technological Enterprise Incubator” and Hong Kong’s key incubator, Cyberport supports entrepreneurs with funding and office space, extensive networks of enterprises, investors, technology corporations and professional services for business growth and expansion to Chinese Mainland and overseas markets, all-round facilitation for landing in Hong Kong, talent attraction and cultivation, ready as a launchpad to take start-ups in any stages of development to the next level.
New research from KPMG China and GS1 Hong Kong highlights three key priorities for retailers: building trust in AI, delivering market-specific strategies for the growing silver economy, and strengthening brand confidence across Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2026 – Consumer confidence in artificial intelligence is rising across Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), but new research from KPMG China and GS1 Hong Kong shows that retailers will need markedly different strategies to convert that confidence into growth. While consumers in other GBA cities show greater openness to personalised experiences and Chinese Mainland brands, Hong Kong consumers place more emphasis on value for money.
The Growth Reimagined: Building Consumer Trust in the AI Era report identifies three themes which have emerged as a roadmap for future growth:
Trusted AI builds consumer confidence: AI can enhance personalisation and speed up service delivery, but privacy, accuracy, transparency and a human touch will determine consumer adoption.
Silver shoppers diverge by market: To capture the growing silver economy, brands must prioritise price in Hong Kong, and brand reputation and engaging experiences in other GBA cities.
The low-cost-only label no longer fits Chinese Mainland brands: Their advances in quality and innovation are forcing competitors to rethink where future brand advantage will come from.
AI trust is rising but a transparency gap persists, creating new opportunities for growth
Trust in AI has risen significantly since last year’s survey. In Hong Kong, 48% of consumers now trust AI at least somewhat, up from 28%, while trust in other GBA cities has increased from 59% to 76%. Yet growing trust has not translated into the same willingness to share personal data: just 10% of Hong Kong consumers who trust AI are comfortable doing so, compared with 32% in other GBA cities.
The difference in AI trust between Hong Kong and other GBA cities is particularly pronounced among silver shoppers, defined in the report as consumers aged above 55. Just 38% of Hong Kong silver shoppers trust AI, compared with 76% in other GBA cities, underscoring the challenge retailers face in building AI confidence among older Hong Kong consumers.
To bridge this gap, retailers in Hong Kong need to demonstrate clear value before asking consumers to share more data, while providing transparency and control over how their data is used. Consumer confidence should extend across the entire retail journey: from payment and product authenticity to returns and customer support. AI should help consumers find what they need more easily, while maintaining accuracy, fairness and access to human support.
Anna Lin, Chief Executive, GS1 Hong Kong, says: “AI is increasingly shaping how consumers discover and evaluate products, and it tends to recommend those backed by data it can readily interpret and trust. Businesses with trusted, standardised product data that is structured for machines to understand and use and traceable to an identifiable source will be best positioned to earn consumer confidence and influence future purchasing decisions.”
The silver economy is not a single consumer market
Across all age groups, value remains a priority for 73% of Hong Kong consumers, compared with 45% in other GBA cities.
When asked to describe their shopping style, 57% of silver shoppers in Hong Kong identify primarily as value shoppers, compared with only 23% in other GBA cities, where brand reputation, at 37%, and shopping experience, at 27%, emerge as their leading considerations.
The findings suggest that age alone is not enough to define the silver shoppers. Retailers looking to capture the opportunities created by the region’s ageing population will need to understand how expectations differ by market, and develop propositions that reflect those differences.
Alice Yip, Partner, Head of Consumer & Retail, Hong Kong SAR, KPMG China, says: “Growth in the silver economy depends on recognising that shoppers’ priorities differ across markets. Hong Kong’s silver shoppers prioritise competitive prices, while those in other GBA cities place greater emphasis on brand reputation and shopping experiences. Capturing this opportunity involves understanding what matters locally and tailoring the retail offer accordingly, rather than treating the silver economy as one uniform market.”
Chinese Mainland speed raises the stakes for Hong Kong and global brands
Chinese Mainland brands are emerging as a stronger force in innovation and speed. In other GBA cities, that progress is already reflected in consumer perceptions: 64% choose them for value for money, 58% for safety and reliability and 50% for brand reputation.
In Hong Kong, however, they are still seen primarily through the lens of value. While 81% of consumers choose Chinese Mainland brands for value for money, fewer cite safety and reliability (39%), higher quality (33%) or brand reputation (31%). Their next opportunity is to turn Chinese Mainland speed and improving quality into stronger brand confidence.
Hong Kong brands retain a clear advantage in trust. Consumers in Hong Kong (74%) and other GBA cities (61%) cite safety and reliability as the leading reason for choosing Hong Kong brands. Among Hong Kong consumers, preference for Hong Kong brands is particularly strong in airlines (78%) and food and beverages (71%).
But trust cannot be taken for granted. As Chinese Mainland brands strengthen their safety and reliability credentials, Hong Kong brands will need to combine their reputation for reliability with greater innovation, sharper value and faster execution.
Anson Bailey, Head of Consumer & Retail, Asia Pacific, KPMG China, says: “Any brand that still sees Chinese Mainland competitors as a low-cost threat is looking in the rear-view mirror. Chinese Mainland speed is now producing better products, sharper design and faster innovation at a scale few markets can match. The real shift is that Chinese Mainland brands are learning to build brand equity at the same pace as they have built scale through value and speed. This is increasingly influencing who can win – not only in the GBA, but in consumer markets worldwide.”
Hashtag: #KPMG #GS1HongKong
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About KPMG
KPMG in China has offices located in 31 cities with over 14,000 partners and staff, in Beijing, Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Dongguan, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Nanjing, Nantong, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Wuhan, Wuxi, Xiamen, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. It started operations in Hong Kong in 1945. In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in the Chinese Mainland. In 2012, KPMG became the first among the “Big Four” in the Chinese Mainland to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership.
KPMG is a global organisation of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organisation or to one or more member firms collectively.
KPMG firms operate in 138 countries and territories with more than 276,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.
About GS1 Hong Kong
GS1 Hong Kong is the local chapter of GS1®, a global, not-for-profit data standards organisation represented in over 120 countries. Through globally recognised standards such as GTIN (barcodes), we enable businesses to identify, capture and share trusted data across physical and digital supply chains, helping them accelerate digital transformation, access global markets, strengthen supply chain resilience and efficiency, and advance transparency, safety and sustainability.
Building on global data standards, GS1 Hong Kong provides solutions including ezTRADE for B2B data exchange, ezTRACK for supply chain traceability, and 1QR, powered by GS1 Digital Link, connecting 2D barcodes to rich product information such as certifications and sustainability data.
The trusted data infrastructure also supports emerging business needs, from trade finance to Scope 3 emissions reporting and ESG compliance. In an AI-driven economy, we provide the foundation for high-quality data that is accurate, visible, linkable, searchable, shareable and traceable.
GS1 Hong Kong supports close to 8,000 corporate members across 20 sectors, including retail and consumer goods, food and beverage, healthcare, apparel and footwear, logistics and ICT.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi’s XRG has agreed to acquire Shell’s 16.67 per cent interest in Australia’s North West Shelf liquefied natural gas project for $1.45 billion, marking its first investment in the country’s LNG industry. The agreement, announced on Tuesday, covers Shell Australia’s non-operated holding in the Woodside Energy-managed development in Western Australia. The base purchase price is subject to customary adjustments, with an additional […]
The seed round scales mamun’s capital infrastructure for trade finance along the Greater Bay Area – Oman – UAE corridor — anchored in Muscat, Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong SAR.
MUSCAT, ABU DHABI/HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2026 – mamun, the Sharia-compliant platform building capital infrastructure for trade finance, has raised a US$3 million seed round led by Phaze Ventures through its Oman Fund, with participation from Jasoor Ventures.
mamun co-founders, left to right: Ahmed Al-Issaei (Co-Founder & CTO), Saleh Al Tamami (Co-Founder & CEO), Mohammed Al Tamami (Co-Founder & CCO)
An exporter in Muscat ships today and gets paid in 60 to 90 days. Banks rarely bridge that gap, as they usually rely on a long financial track record that many small exporters find hard to provide. The Asian Development Bank puts the global trade finance gap at US$2.5 trillion, and 41% of SME trade finance applications are turned down.
mamun’s AI-native underwriting assesses the company behind the trade, alongside the shipment itself: the contract, the buyer, the trade documents and the trading history between them. Its origination engine finds and screens that trade as it forms. Then investors on the platform finance the gap.
The hard part is the border. A cross-border transaction spans two regulators, two banking systems and two legal regimes, with settlement that has to land in another jurisdiction on time, and the collateral is in motion, travelling with the goods along the route.
That complexity is why most of the region’s financing platforms have stayed domestic, and it is mamun’s moat. The platform was built across the corridor: an FSA-regulated home and origination base in Muscat; Abu Dhabi for Gulf capital and UAE flows; and Hong Kong SAR, the financing gateway of the Belt and Road Initiative, for the Greater Bay Area and the Gulf–Asia trade routes.
Roughly 40% of the platform’s trade finance settlements already clear through Hong Kong-based financial institutions and businesses.
mamun’s licence sits within the FSA’s crowdfunding framework, which allows the platform to bring in investors from inside and outside the Sultanate, and to finance companies inside and outside the Sultanate, subject to the platform’s eligibility criteria and the laws applicable in each investor’s country.
The corridor is growing. Oman’s non-oil exports ran about 10% higher year-on-year through the first seven months of 2026 and re-exports 13.6% higher, with the UAE its largest non-oil trading partner. New corridors bring new counterparties: businesses trading together for the first time, with no shared history for a lender to underwrite against.
The round brings together capital from Oman and the UAE: Phaze Ventures invests through its Oman Fund, dedicated to homegrown, AI-enabled Omani businesses, and Jasoor Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm backing technology founders across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey.
The US$3 million will scale that AI-native origination and underwriting, growing the volume of trade the platform can originate, assess and finance along the Greater Bay Area – Oman – UAE corridor. It is where the industry is heading: 84% of banks in the Asian Development Bank’s January 2026 survey already apply AI to trade finance risk. mamun was built that way from origination onward.
“The businesses moving goods between the Gulf and Asia are growing faster than the financing behind them. We built mamun in Muscat, under Omani regulation, to serve trade along the corridor between the Gulf and Asia. This round scales that engine — and the corridor it serves.” — Saleh Al Tamami · Co-Founder & CEO, mamun
“Our thesis is backing the homegrown companies that turn Oman’s diversification agenda into regional infrastructure. mamun is exactly that — structured across the corridor, and built by a team that has executed quietly and precisely. It is a natural commitment from the Oman Fund.” — Abdullah Al Shaksy · Co-Founder & CEO, Phaze Ventures
mamun was founded by Saleh Al Tamami, Co-Founder & CEO, Mohammed Al Tamami, Co-Founder & Chief Commercial Officer, and Ahmed Al-Issaei, Co-Founder & CTO, and was named a Rising Star on the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Middle East 2025, ranking 26th.
This announcement is for information only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to invest. mamun is not licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (SFC).
Hashtag: #mamun
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ABOUT mamun
mamun builds capital infrastructure for trade finance. The platform is Sharia-compliant, licensed and regulated by the Financial Services Authority of Oman (FSA Licence CMI051). This licence covers the Omani entity only. The group also has entities in Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong SAR. It connects businesses and investors to finance cross-border trade — exports, imports and the working capital that moves goods between markets.
ABOUT PHAZE VENTURES
Founded in 2018, Phaze Ventures is Oman’s oldest private venture capital firm. Headquartered in Oman, with a presence in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, it backs early-stage AI and deeptech companies globally and homegrown technology businesses through the Oman Fund.
ABOUT JASOOR VENTURES
Jasoor Ventures, meaning “courageous” in Arabic, is an ADGM-based venture capital firm, investing across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2026 – Ondine Capital today announced the successful first close of its third USD-denominated VC fund. Ondine Capital Fund III has secured commitments from top-tier institutional and strategic limited partners, including several leading semiconductor enterprises in Taiwan.
Ondine Capital’s newly appointed partner: Brian Yen
Building on the firm’s deep-rooted expertise in semiconductors and deep technology, Ondine Capital Fund III will invest across the full AI value chain—spanning AI foundation models, next-generation semiconductors, AI infrastructure, AI-native software, and physical AI applications.
Ondine Capital Fund III’s early portfolio highlights include:
Recursive Superintelligence: Founded by former Salesforce Chief Scientist Richard Socher and built by veteran researchers from OpenAI, Google, and Meta, the startup focuses on recursive self-improving AI systems. It recently raised $650 million at a $4 billion pre-money valuation led by Google Ventures, with participation from Nvidia and AMD.
Bot Auto: Founded by Xiaodi Hou (former co-founder and CTO of TuSimple), this Houston-based physical AI startup specializes in autonomous freight transportation. Bot Auto recently partnered with Ryan Transportation to launch driverless freight operations along the Houston-Dallas corridor.
Salience Labs: Founded by Vaysh Kewada and Johannes Feldmann, the company develops silicon-photonics optical switching technology for AI data centers. Partnering with Tower Semiconductor, Salience Labs recently closed a $125 million financing round led by Bullhound Capital, with strategic backing from AMD Ventures and Intel Capital.
Partner Appointment to Boost Global Ecosystem
Coinciding with the first close, Ondine Capital announced the appointment of Brian Yen as Partner, reinforcing the firm’s global sourcing and founder network.
Prior to joining Ondine Capital, Brian Yen served as Principal and Head of the Taipei Office at Headline Asia, where he cultivated an extensive network across Japan, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia. His investment track record spans consumer technologies, agentic services, and physical AI, with notable investments including respond.io, forest inc., Braid, and iMotorbike. At Ondine Capital, Brian Yen will focus on backing early-stage founders building intelligent software and physical AI platforms.
“The convergence of AI and semiconductors is unleashing unprecedented opportunities across global tech,” said Brian Yen. “As these technologies mature, we anticipate monumental value creation throughout the entire stack. Through Fund III, we look forward to empowering visionary founders who are shaping the future of computing and industry applications.”
Ondine Capital continues to actively deploy capital and evaluate global investment opportunities in breakthrough, category-defining companies across the AI and semiconductor landscape.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Ondine Capital
Ondine Capital is a premier venture capital firm focused on frontier technologies, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, enterprise software, clean energy, and emerging technology platforms. The firm backs visionary founders from inception, providing strategic support and access to a robust global network of industrial partners, investors, and entrepreneurs.
By Dr Arun Mitra Global civil society organisations have appealed to the US Congress to take immediate steps to prevent the use of nuclear weapons against Iran. The appeal, initiated by the Back from the Brink Coalition, the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW), recipient of the 1985 Nobel Peace Prize, and […]