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Junshi Biosciences Presents Results from JS207 (PD-1/VEGF BsAb) Phase 2 Combo Studies and JS212 (EGFR/HER3 ADC) FIH Phase 1/2 Study at AACR 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:25:00 +0700

SHANGHAI, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Shanghai Junshi Biosciences Co., Ltd (Junshi Biosciences, HKEX: 1877; SSE: 688180), a leading innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel therapies, announced that early clinical results from four studies across its innovative pipeline were presented at the 2026 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, featuring: the recombinant humanized anti-EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) JS212, the anti-PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody JS207, and the anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody JS007.

Dr. Jianjun ZOU, General Manager and CEO of Junshi Biosciences, said, "At this year's AACR Annual Meeting, we reported not only two combination therapy datasets for our bispecific antibody, JS207, but also first-in-human results for the bispecific ADC, JS212. Their results demonstrated highly encouraging clinical profiles. As cornerstone assets under our Immuno-Oncology 2.0 (IO 2.0) strategy, these novel therapies have exceptional development potential. Their enhanced efficacy, activity against treatment-resistant populations, and broad-spectrum antitumor coverage position them as our next-generation flagship products. We are accelerating proof-of-concept clinical studies to identify optimal indications and deliver superior treatment options to patients."

#CT159: Preliminary results from a phase 2 study evaluating JS207 in combination with JS007 as first-line treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

The Phase 2 study (NCT06954467) aiming to evaluate the safety and efficacy of JS207 in combination with JS007 included a safety run-in period and a randomized expansion phase, which enrolled patients with unresectable or metastatic HCC who had not previously received any systemic anticancer therapy.

As of March 20, 2026, a total of 26 patients had received JS207 plus JS007, including 7 patients in the safety run-in period and 19 patients in the randomized expansion phase.

Among the 22 evaluable patients, the objective response rate (ORR) reached 45.5% while the disease control rate (DCR) was 86.4%.

JS207 plus JS007 was well-tolerated, with no dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) observed during the safety run-in period.

Preliminary findings from the study demonstrate that JS207 combined with JS007 exhibits encouraging synergistic efficacy and favorable tolerability as first-line treatment for advanced HCC. Patient enrollment continues to progress smoothly, potentially offering a novel therapeutic approach for advanced HCC patients.

#CT152: Preliminary results from a phase 2 study evaluating JS207 in combination with chemotherapy as first-line treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC)

This Phase 2 study (NCT06885385) evaluates the preliminary safety and efficacy of JS207 in combination with XELOX (capecitabine + oxaliplatin) as first-line therapy for mCRC. The study enrolled patients with mCRC who had not previously received systemic antitumor therapy for metastatic disease, or whose disease recurred/progressed at least 12 months after their last neoadjuvant/adjuvant therapy.

Patients received JS207 at 10 mg/kg combined with the XELOX regimen (oxaliplatin 130 mg/m? IV, d1 + capecitabine 1000 mg/m?, BID, d1-14) every 3 weeks until disease progression or intolerable toxicity.

As of January 13, 2026, 32 patients had been enrolled and received JS207 plus XELOX, including 9 in the safety run-in phase and 23 in the dose-expansion phase.

Among the 31 efficacy-evaluable patients, 22 achieved a partial response (PR) and 8 achieved stable disease (SD), resulting in an ORR of 71.0% and a DCR of 96.8%.

Due to the relatively short follow-up duration, median progression-free survival (PFS) and median duration of response (DoR) have not yet been reached, and the longest duration of response remained ongoing at 8 months.

JS207 was well-tolerated overall, with no DLTs observed during the safety run-in period.

The study demonstrates that JS207 combined with chemotherapy exhibits promising antitumor activity and a favorable safety profile as first-line treatment for mCRC. These findings suggest that dual-target immunotherapy (anti-PD-1/VEGF) plus chemotherapy holds significant potential in immunologically cold tumors, providing critical clinical evidence for immuno-combination therapy as first-line treatment of mCRC.

#1715: Preclinical evaluation of JS212

Preclinical studies of JS212 (EGFR/HER3 bsAb) demonstrate high binding affinity to tumor cells expressing EGFR and/or HER3, exhibiting superior broad-spectrum antitumor activity, favorable tolerability, and optimal pharmacokinetic profiles. In multiple cell-derived xenograft (CDX) models, JS212 showed enhanced antitumor efficacy compared to the benchmark agent. Notably, it demonstrated efficacy in osimertinib-resistant, patritumab deruxtecan-resistant, and BL-B01D1-resistant CDX models.

#CT128: Preliminary results from JS212's first-in-human (FIH) phase 1/2 study in advanced solid tumors

This FIH phase 1/2 study (NCT06888830) was designed to assess the safety, tolerability, PK, and preliminary efficacy of JS212 in patients with advanced solid tumors. It comprised dose escalation and expansion and clinical expansion. As of March 26, 2026, a total of 63 patients have been enrolled.

JS212 was administered every three weeks. The treatment was well-tolerated, and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was not reached.

Responses were observed at the 1.8 mg/kg cohort and above.

In the 4.2 mg/kg and 4.6 mg/kg dose cohorts, ORR reached 44.4% and 50.0% respectively, with a DCR of 100.0% in both groups. The median DoR has not yet been reached.

An ORR of 50.0% was observed in HER2-negative breast cancer and 38.9% in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

JS212 monotherapy exhibits encouraging efficacy across a range of dose levels (as low as 1.8 mg/kg) with favorable tolerability in advanced solid tumors, indicating promising development potential. Further exploration of JS212 in multiple indications and combination strategies are ongoing.

About JS207

JS207, a recombinant humanized anti-PD-1/VEGF bispecific antibody, was independently developed by Junshi Biosciences for the treatment of advanced malignant tumors. To date, JS207 has been approved for conducting phase 2/3 clinical study, and it has 11 ongoing phase 2 clinical studies, exploring its use in combination with chemotherapy, monoclonal antibodies, ADCs and other drugs in NSCLC, colorectal cancer, triple-negative breast cancer, liver cancer and other tumor types. Preclinical results of JS207 have been published in Frontiers in Immunology, while early-stage clinical data were first presented in a poster session at ESMO ASIA 2025.

JS207 can simultaneously bind to PD-1 and VEGFA with high affinity, effectively blocking the binding of PD-1 to PD-L1 and PD-L2 while also inhibiting the binding of VEGF to its receptor. JS207 has the efficacy of both immunotherapeutic drugs and anti-angiogenic drugs. Through the neutralization of VEGF, JS207 inhibits the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells, improves the tumor microenvironment, and increases the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the tumor microenvironment, thereby achieving better anti-neoplasm activity.

JS207's design is based on the high-affinity, clinically proven and differentiated anti-PD-1 drug, toripalimab as the backbone. The anti-PD-1 moiety of JS207 adopts a Fab structure to maintain binding affinity to PD-1, thereby attaining better enrichment in the tumor microenvironment. The anti-VEGF moiety has a binding affinity for human vascular endothelial growth factor that is comparable to that of bevacizumab. In non-clinical in vitro cytological tests, compared with the combination of an anti-PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibody and a VEGF monoclonal antibody, a bispecific antibody simultaneously targeting PD-1/PD-L1 and VEGF demonstrated significantly enhanced PD-1 antigen binding and internalization, as well as synergistic enhancement of the NFAT signaling pathway, thereby better activating immune cells in the tumor microenvironment.

About JS007

JS007 is a recombinant humanized anti-CTLA-4 monoclonal antibody developed independently by Junshi Biosciences that is mainly aimed at treating advanced cancer.

Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is an important receptor on the T cell surface that modulates immune response. Studies show that JS007 is able to specifically bind to CTLA-4 and effectively block the interaction between CTLA-4 and its ligand B7 (CD80 or CD86), thereby activating the T-lymphocyte and inhibiting tumor growth.

About JS212

JS212 is a recombinant humanized EGFR and HER3 bispecific ADC that is mainly used for the treatment of advanced malignant solid tumors. EGFR and HER3 are highly expressed in a variety of cancers, such as lung cancer, breast cancer and head and neck cancer etc. There is interaction in the signaling pathways between EGFR and HER3, and they jointly facilitate the proliferation, survival, migration and angiogenesis of tumor cells. In addition, HER3 is involved in the drug-resistance mechanisms of various anti-tumor drugs (including EGFR-targeted drugs, chemotherapy, etc.). Compared to single-target ADC drugs, JS212 can suppress tumors by binding to both EGFR and HER3, and may be effective on a wider range of tumors and overcome drug resistance.

According to preclinical studies, JS212's high affinity and specific binding to EGFR and HER3 resulted in a significant anti-tumor effect in various animal models. JS212 also maintained a favorable and acceptable safety profile.

To date, an open-label, dose-escalation and dose-expansion phase 1/2 clinical trial of JS212 is underway in Chinese Mainland. The study is designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of JS212 in patients with advanced solid tumors. In addition, the clinical trial application for JS212 as a multi-cohort combined drug was approved by the National Medical Products Administration of China (NMPA) in November 2025. The phase 2 clinical trial evaluating JS207 in combination with JS212 is underway. In December 2025, the investigational new drug (IND) application for JS212 for the treatment of advanced solid tumors was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

About Junshi Biosciences

Founded in December 2012, Junshi Biosciences (HKEX: 1877; SSE: 688180) is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of innovative therapeutics. With our outstanding capacity for innovative drug discovery, strong biotechnology R&D capability, and large-scale production capacity, we have successfully developed a drug candidate portfolio with global competitiveness and a well-structured research pipeline, which covers therapeutic areas including cancer, autoimmune, metabolic, and infectious diseases. Our innovative field spans cutting-edge therapeutic modalities, including mAbs, small molecule drugs, ADCs, bsAb/msAb, fusion protein, nucleic acid drugs and vaccines. Five of the company's products have received marketing authorizations in China and international markets, one of which is toripalimab, China's domestically developed anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody. Toripalimab has been approved in over 40 countries and regions including China, the US, and Europe.

With a mission of "providing patients with world-class, trustworthy, affordable, and innovative drugs," Junshi Biosciences is "In China, For Global." At present, the company boasts nearly 3,000 employees mainly in the United States (Maryland) and China (Shanghai, Suzhou, Beijing, Guangzhou). For more information, please visit: http://www.junshipharma.com.

Junshi Biosciences Contact Information

IR Team:

Junshi Biosciences

info@junshipharma.com

+ 86 021-6105 8800

PR Team:

Junshi Biosciences

Zhi Li

zhi_li@junshipharma.com

+ 86 021-6105 8800

Coventry Meraih Peringkat No. 1 dalam Laporan Peringkat Perusahaan Berdasarkan Penjualan Polis Asuransi Jiwa di Pasar Sekunder Tahun 2025

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:23:00 +0700

Coventry memimpin pasar sekunder dari segi jumlah polis, nilai pertanggungan, dan total pembayaran kepada pemegang polis sehingga memperkuat posisinya sebagai pembeli paling aktif dan konsisten di industri tersebut

FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coventry, pemimpin dan pencipta pasar sekunder untuk asuransi jiwa serta pelopor kelas aset beragun asuransi jiwa, hari ini mengumumkan bahwa pihaknya tetap menjadi penyedia penjualan polis asuransi jiwa di pasar sekunder terdepan di pasar sekunder dari segi total polis yang dibeli, total nilai pertanggungan, serta total jumlah yang dibayarkan kepada pemegang polis di antara para penyedia yang melaporkan data. Hasil ini tercermin dalam Laporan Peringkat Perusahaan Berdasarkan Penjualan Polis Asuransi Jiwa di Pasar Sekunder Tahun 2025 yang baru dirilis oleh Coventry, yang menyusun data pasar berdasarkan dokumen catatan publik dan pengungkapan dari para penyedia. Perusahaan-perusahaan Coventry telah mempertahankan posisi teratas selama tiga belas tahun berturut-turut.

Coventry, bersama dengan afiliasinya Life Equity, membeli lebih dari 1.400 polis asuransi jiwa dari para pemegang polis di pasar sekunder pada tahun 2025 saja, dengan nilai pertanggungan sekitar $1,6 miliar. Hal ini menjadikannya pembeli polis asuransi jiwa terbesar di pasar sekunder. Selain itu, perusahaan-perusahaan Coventry telah membayarkan lebih dari $240 juta kepada pemegang polis untuk polis mereka pada tahun 2025.

"Coventry terus menetapkan standar bagi pasar sekunder asuransi jiwa melalui skala, kepastian eksekusi, dan penempatan modal yang disiplin," ujar Reid Buerger, CEO Coventry. "Kepemimpinan tersebut didorong oleh kekuatan SDM Coventry, ketelitian prosesnya, interaksi berbasis konsultasi dengan para penasihat, serta investasi berkelanjutan dalam teknologi yang mendukung eksekusi yang konsisten dan hasil yang lebih optimal bagi pemegang polis dan penasihat."

Pendekatan ini didukung oleh model terintegrasi vertikal dan data eksklusif milik Coventry sehingga memungkinkan evaluasi lebih presisi, kriteria pembelian yang lebih luas, dan hasil yang lebih disesuaikan bagi pemegang polis.

Bagi pembaca yang tertarik untuk melihat Laporan Peringkat Perusahaan Berdasarkan Penjualan Polis Asuransi Jiwa di Pasar Sekunder Tahun 2025, silakan mengunjungi https://www.coventry.com/2025-League-Table.

Tentang Coventry

Coventry merupakan pemimpin dan pencipta pasar sekunder untuk asuransi jiwa serta pelopor kelas aset beragun asuransi jiwa. Perusahaan ini mengoperasikan platform terintegrasi yang mencakup empat kategori yang saling melengkapi, yaitu pasar sekunder asuransi jiwa, pembiayaan berbasis umur panjang, distribusi asuransi jiwa dan anuitas, serta teknologi asuransi. Melalui berbagai lini usahanya tersebut, Coventry memperluas pilihan finansial bagi pemegang polis, menyediakan solusi permodalan beragun polis asuransi jiwa dan aset lainnya yang terkait dengan risiko umur panjang, memperluas akses ke produk perlindungan dan pensiun, serta menerapkan teknologi untuk meningkatkan kualitas penetapan harga, manajemen risiko, dan efisiensi operasional di seluruh ekosistem asuransi jiwa.

Dengan berlandaskan komitmen jangka panjang terhadap hak konsumen dan integritas pasar, Coventry memanfaatkan posisinya sebagai pemimpin untuk meningkatkan standar industri, memperluas pilihan bagi konsumen, serta mengembangkan solusi investasi beragun asuransi jiwa berstandar institusional secara bertanggung jawab. Di sepanjang sejarahnya, Coventry telah mengakuisisi lebih dari 23.000 polis asuransi jiwa, menyelesaikan transaksi terkait risiko umur panjang dengan nilai lebih dari $50 miliar, menyalurkan lebih dari $6 miliar kepada pemegang polis, serta menerbitkan lebih dari $1 miliar dalam bentuk pinjaman yang terkait asuransi jiwa. Untuk mempelajari informasi selengkapnya tentang Coventry, kunjungi situs Coventry.com.

Kontak Media:

Jonny Shiver

Wakil Presiden, Pemasaran

jshiver@coventry.com

(215) 836-8300

WeRide's WRD 3.0 Makes History as the Only Four-Time Champion at China Urban Intelligent Driving Competition

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:15:00 +0700

WUHU, China, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At the Wuhu round of the Second China Urban Intelligent Driving Competition hosted by D1EV, a leading media platform in the electric and intelligent vehicle sector, the Chery Exeed Sterra ET - equipped with the one‑stage end‑to‑end ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) solution jointly developed by WeRide and Bosch - secured first place by over 10 points, with Horizon Robotics and XPeng taking second and third place.

With this victory, WeRide Driving (WeRide WRD 3.0) becomes the first and only solution in the competition's history to achieve four consecutive wins, reinforcing its technological leadership in complex urban driving environments.

From its first win in Taizhou to a sustained undefeated run, WeRide WRD 3.0's success reflects WeRide's long‑term technological accumulation and proven engineering execution.

Rapid technological iteration sits at the core of WRD 3.0. Leveraging its proprietary GENESIS general‑purpose simulation world model together with large‑scale L4 fully driverless real‑world road data, WeRide can systematically reproduce rare and challenging long‑tail scenarios at scale. Through continuous training, validation, and optimization, this approach creates a high‑efficiency closed loop that connects real‑world driving and simulation. As a result, WRD 3.0 delivers strong scenario generalization and a self‑optimizing learning capability that continuously improves performance as mileage accumulates.

Refined through extensive real‑world validation, WRD 3.0 achieves holistic perception and planning in dense, highly complex traffic environments, while maintaining stable, efficient, and safe driving behavior in unpredictable scenarios, including urban roads, street markets, and mixed pedestrian‑vehicle roads.

WRD 3.0 goes beyond algorithmic capability to deliver a mass-production-ready engineering system. Designed around safety, stability, and consistency, WeRide has implemented deep engineering optimizations across computing platform adaptation, system architecture design, and system redundancy. Through robust software‑hardware decoupling, WRD 3.0 delivers consistent production‑level functionality and user experience across diverse configurations, including pure‑vision or multi‑sensor fusion, HD‑map‑based or map‑free solutions, and different onboard computing power tiers.

WRD 3.0 is now in mass production across multiple vehicle models, including the Chery Exeed Sterra ES and ET, as well as the GAC Aion N60. The all‑new Chery Exeed EX7, also equipped with WRD 3.0, officially launched on April 19.

Looking ahead, WeRide will continue to serve users in China through pre‑installation of WRD 3.0 and ongoing OTA upgrades, supporting brands including GAC Aion, GAC Trumpchi, Hyptec, and Chery Exeed. In parallel, WeRide will steadily expand internationally with brands such as Tiggo, Lepas, Omoda, and JAECOO, bringing its proven intelligent driving solutions to a broader global market.

About WeRide

WeRide is a global leader and a first mover in the autonomous driving industry, as well as the first publicly traded Robotaxi company. Our autonomous vehicles have been tested or operated in over 40 cities across 12 countries. We are also the first and only technology company whose products have received autonomous driving permits in eight markets: China, the UAE, Singapore, France, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, and the US. Empowered by the smart, versatile, cost-effective, and highly adaptable WeRide One platform, WeRide provides autonomous driving products and services from L2 to L4, addressing transportation needs in the mobility, logistics, and sanitation industries. WeRide was named to Fortune's 2025 Change the World and 2025 Future 50 lists.

https://www.weride.ai

Media Contact

pr@weride.ai

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about WeRide's beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in WeRide's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and announcements on the website of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release. WeRide does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5afdefc7-5153-45a7-ae69-3caf4792dddf

China Unicom and Huawei Elevate Beijing E-Town Race-Day Experiences with 5G-A GigaUplink

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:12:00 +0700

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - China Unicom and Huawei capped off a series of successful 5G-A GigaUplink deployments by guaranteeing the premium connectivity at the Beijing E-Town Half-Marathon and Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon, where human and robot runners competed alongside through the E-Town in Daxing District. This marks the two companies' latest landmark showcase for sports events, combining 5G-A and AI to provide fast uplink with huge capacity and low latency for event organization and media services, digital engagement, and humanoid participation.

China Unicom Delivered a Masterclass in Connected Marathon Events

Marathon events typically feature high-density crowds with an extensive demand for uploads. China Unicom and Huawei turned to 5G-A 3CC on 3.5 GHz and 2.1 GHz for the event, ensuring an uplink fulfillment at 20 Mbps surpassing 99.6%, along with a peak speed of field-tested 677 Mbps. This impressive uplink performance provided consistent and reliable support for 4K/8K broadcasting and real-time collection and editing while also enabling fans to share and stream smoothly.

Such unrivalled experience is underpinned not only by high-quality networks but also flexible operations. China Unicom and Huawei used intelligent base stations to build 5G-A intelligent, elastic channels for the event. This facilitated differentiated scheduling for livestreaming, voice and video calling, and short videos to ensure smooth experiences for fans even at heavy-traffic moments.

5G-A GigaUplink Takes Embodied AI to New Heights

In a global first, the E-Town half-marathon features a pioneering format that sees human and robot runners compete simultaneously. The humanoid robots were divided into an autonomous navigation group and a remote-control group, running on the same course and evaluated using mixed timing methods. Each humanoid robot requires approximately 10 Mbps uplink for video uploads, environment sensing, gait control, and autonomous navigation. Dedicated uplink slices were reserved to ensure a positioning accuracy of up to sub-decimeter level and an average end-to-end latency of less than 30 ms throughout the racing course, which provided strong support for the video uploads, obstacle avoidance, cornering, and sprinting of humanoid robots. While offering technical upgrades to sports events, this promoted the adoption of humanoid robots on a large scale.

Qin Yang, Deputy General Manager of China Unicom in Beijing spoke proudly of the excellent connections his company provided for the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games as a global strategic partner and the 2026 Beijing E-Town Half-Marathon event as the exclusive official communications sponsor. "5G-A and AI are essential digital infrastructure, enabling us to bring embodied AI to sports. Given the new dynamics of AI development, we will double down on our priorities over connectivity, computing power, services, and security to sharpen our competitive edges as a preferred telecom partner for intelligent sports and a core enabler for intelligent industry transformation. Moving forward, we will accelerate our innovation-driven push to strengthen our digital infrastructure and drive the high-quality growth of embodied AI in China and beyond."

Samuel Chen, Vice President of Huawei's Wireless Network Business Marketing, said this humanoid robot half-marathon offers a good example of deepening integration between mobile technology and embodied intelligence. "Beyond redefining connectivity for sports, it has shown us what intelligent production and life will look like in future. We are always dedicated to building excellent 5G-A networks together with operators based on user-centered innovation to ensure GigaUplink, low latency, and high reliability for differentiated mobile AI services. This will enable us to continuously drive the high-quality growth of the digital economy."

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

Hashtags: #Huawei #ChinaUnicom

Rhenus Logistics Strengthens Asia-Latam Trade with Record Growth in 2025

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:06:00 +0700

*170,000 TEUs handled on the Asia-Latam trade lane, positioning Rhenus among the Top 3 logistics providers in the corridor

*No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, strengthening leadership in key markets

*Strategic procurement hub in Hong Kong dedicated to LATAM market to support long-term growth

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - In a global environment marked by the acceleration of international trade, Rhenus Logistics reaffirms its position as one of the leading logistics companies in Latin America by consolidating the strategic Asia?LATAM trade lane and recording unprecedented growth during the 2024?2025 period.

Rhenus handled over 170,000 TEUs in full container load (FCL) shipments along the Far East Asia - Latin America corridor, positioning itself among the Top 3 players on this strategic tradelane. This performance reflects sustained expansion and operational execution aligned with the increasingly demanding requirements of global trade.

The impact of growth along the Asia-LATAM corridor is evident in strong results at both regional and local levels. In particular, Rhenus achieved the No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, consolidating its leadership in these key markets.

Additionally, Rhenus significantly strengthened its performance in other countries in Latin America by leveraging its local presence and operational capabilities to efficiently meet the needs of international trade. This positioning reinforces Rhenus as a key player in the Far East?Latin America corridor, combining scale, local expertise, and a robust operational network to support its customers' growth across the region.

These results are especially relevant in a context where Asian companies are expected to continue increasing exports to Latin America. According to estimates from Americas Market Intelligence, trade volume between China and Latin America could reach US$700 billion by 2035, driving growing demand for logistics providers with increasingly robust, efficient capabilities aligned with Asian market standards.

Strategic Support from Asia

As part of its strategy to further strengthen this corridor, Rhenus operates a procurement center in Hong Kong, exclusively dedicated to serving the Latin American market. This presence in one of the company's main commercial hubs ensures efficient origin management, optimized coordination with Asian suppliers, and direct connectivity between regional operations and global markets.

The Hong Kong center acts as a strategic bridge between Asia and Latin America, providing greater supply chain visibility, agility, and control, while enhancing Rhenus' ability to respond to the increasing demands of global trade.

A Long-Term Strategic Commitment

The sustained growth we are achieving in Latin America confirms that the Asia-LATAM corridor is a strategic pillar for Rhenus in the region. These results reflect not only our local execution capabilities, but also a long-term vision focused on anticipating global market needs and actively supporting the development of local economies across the region," said Fadelly Duque, Head of Sales LATAM, Rhenus Logistics.

With a strategy focused on efficiency, operational reliability, and regional strengthening, Rhenus Logistics continues to position itself as a key logistics partner for trade between Asia and Latin America, supporting the evolution of supply chains and the growth of commercial exchange between both regions.

About Rhenus

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,300 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.

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

Hashtags: #Rhenus

YY Group Reports Unaudited Second Half and Full Year 2025 Earnings Results Highlighting Accelerating Revenue Growth, Expanding Margins and Positioning for Profitability in 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0700

Full year revenue grew 39.3% year over year to US$57.2 million, with second half revenue of US$31.5 million

Singapore, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- YY Group Reports Unaudited Second Half and Full Year 2025 Earnings Results Highlighting Accelerating Revenue Growth, Expanding Margins and Positioning for Profitability in 2026

Full year revenue grew 39.3% year over year to US$57.2 million, with second half revenue of US$31.5 million

Full year gross profit increased 50.2% year over year to US$7.9 million, with gross profit margin expanding to 13.8% from 12.8% in 2024

Company expects to achieve non-IFRS net profitability in fiscal year 2026; formal profitability guidance to follow

YY Group Holding Limited (NASDAQ: YYGH) ("YY Group" or the "Company"), a global leader in on-demand workforce solutions and integrated facilities management (IFM), today announced its unaudited financial results for the six months and the full year ended December 31, 2025. The Company delivered strong revenue and gross profit growth, reflecting the returns on a year of deliberate investment in geographic expansion, strategic acquisitions, and operational infrastructure, while taking decisive steps to optimize its cost structure heading into 2026. These results are subject to final review and will be confirmed when YY Group reports its Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Audited Financial Statements for the six months ended December 31, 2025 and fiscal year ended December 31, 2025.

Second Half and Full Year 2025 Financial Highlights:

Total revenues increased 44.2% to US$31.5 million for the second half of 2025 and 39.3% to US$57.2 million for full year 2025, compared with US$21.8 million and US$41.1 million, respectively, for the same periods of 2024. This rapid growth was driven by strong increases in revenue from both the Manpower and IFM segments, which respectively rose 29.4% and 40.7% year over year for the full year.

Gross profit increased 26.0% year over year to US$3.6 million for the second half of 2025 and 50.2% year over year to US$7.9 million for full year 2025, supported by greater business scale and disciplined execution. Overall gross profit margin reached 13.8% for full year 2025, improving from 12.8% in 2024, driven primarily by scale efficiencies and the integration of higher-margin acquired service lines in the IFM segment.

The Company recorded operating losses of US$12.9 million for the second half of 2025 and US$20.6 million for full year 2025, compared with operating losses of US$5.0 million and US$4.1 million, respectively, for the same periods of 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to full-year share-based compensation expenses of US$6.6 million and impairment charges on goodwill and intangible assets of US$9.6 million, the latter relating principally to the Company's strategic decision to exit underperforming global subsidiaries as part of its ongoing cost optimization and portfolio rationalization efforts.

"Fiscal year 2025 was a year of purposeful investment in which we prioritized building the geographic reach, operational scale, and client relationships needed to support our next phase of growth," said Mike Fu, CEO of YY Group. "Full year revenue of US$57.2 million, representing year-over-year growth of 39.3%, reflects strong execution across both our manpower and IFM verticals, with meaningful contributions from acquisitions completed during the year and a growing client portfolio across Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Malaysia. Our manpower segment's repeatable market entry playbook is now generating compounding returns as each geography scales, while strategic acquisitions and organic client wins drove a surge in IFM revenue and more than doubled our IFM customer base. We have also invested meaningfully in AI capabilities and look forward to sharing more on this strategic initiative in the coming weeks. We are moving into 2026 with strong pipeline visibility, the operational foundation to deliver on our FY2026 revenue guidance of US$103 million to US$110 million, and a clear path to non-IFRS profitability, marking a pivotal transition from investment to earnings generation."

Second Half and Full Year 2025 Operational Highlights:

	Six Months Ended December 31,					Full Year Ended December 31,
	2025			2024		2025		2024
Manpower Services
YY Circle App downloads*	317,563			54,663		903,952		519,228
YY Circle App monthly active users	40,459			34,952		40,688		35,152
Job fulfillment rate	95	%		94	%	95	%	96	%
Number of Employers*	102			95		305		214

IFM Services
Number of customers*	84		24			274		132
Average revenue per customer*	?		?			119,887		176,823
The IFM customer base more than doubled in 2025 through both organic growth and acquisitions completed during the year, diversifying the average revenue per customer downward as newly acquired clients carry individually smaller contract values. The Company views this as a positive development that reduces client concentration risk and creates cross-selling opportunities across its bundled service offerings. *For the six months ended December 31, app downloads, number of employers, and number of IFM customers reflect new additions during the period. For the full year, these figures represent cumulative totals as of December 31. Average revenue per IFM customer is presented on a full-year basis only, as the six-month metric is not directly comparable due to differences in the calculation base.

Jason Phua, Chief Financial Officer of YY Group, added, "Strong full-year revenue and gross profit growth alongside a gross margin expansion to 13.8% from 12.8% in the prior year demonstrate the increasing quality and scale of our business. The IFRS net loss of US$21.6 million was driven primarily by US$6.6 million in non-cash share-based compensation and US$9.6 million in goodwill and intangible asset impairments and does not reflect the underlying trajectory of our operations. On a non-IFRS basis, which we believe more accurately represents our operational performance, our net loss of US$7.8 million reflects the front-loaded cost of entering multiple new markets simultaneously while building the infrastructure to support an expected 80-90% revenue increase in 2026. We have already taken concrete steps to improve our cost profile and strengthen our capital position: reducing debt costs, streamlining our headquarters operations, and winding down non-core global subsidiaries, leaving the Company well-capitalized to fund its current growth plans. With our revenue base scaling toward the US$103 million to US$110 million guidance range and a substantially leaner cost structure, we expect to deliver non-IFRS profitability in fiscal year 2026."

FY2026 Guidance

On March 12, 2026, the Company issued its first formal revenue guidance. The Company currently expects FY2026 revenue of US$103 million to US$110 million, supported by strong demand visibility across its key markets, the full-year contribution of businesses acquired in 2025, sustained client retention across both the manpower and IFM segments, and continued prioritization of capital deployment toward the Company's core operations. The Company further expects to achieve non-IFRS net profitability for fiscal year 2026, driven by the combination of accelerating revenue growth and cost optimization measures implemented in late 2025 and early 2026, including debt restructuring, headquarters optimization, and a strategic rationalization of its global subsidiary portfolio. The above forecast is based on current market conditions and reflects the Company's current preliminary views and expectations on market and operational conditions and the regulatory and operating environment, as well as customers' and institutional partners' demands, all of which are subject to change. US Dollar ranges are based on a USD/SGD exchange rate of 1.28 as of March 10, 2026. Additional details on the Company's FY2026 revenue guidance and underlying assumptions can be found in its press release dated March 12, 2026.

Management Message

In lieu of a conference call, the Company's management has prepared a brief video discussing the financial and operational results for the period. The video is available on the Company's official YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rOW2dECz1I for investors and stakeholders to view at their convenience.

Second Half 2025 Financial Results

Revenues were US$31.5 million for the second half of 2025, compared with US$21.8 million for the same period of 2024. The increase was primarily driven by accelerated growth across both Manpower and IFM Services.

Revenues from Manpower Services were US$13.4 million, an increase of 35.7% compared with US$9.9 million for the same period of 2024, driven by the successful scale-up of on-demand workforce solutions and continued global expansion. This segment's gross profit margin was 11.7%, compared with 14.8% for the same period of 2024, reflecting competitive pricing to drive client acquisition and volume growth. Absolute gross profit increased year over year.
Revenues from IFM Services were US$18.4 million, an increase of 53.7% compared with US$12.0 million for the same period of 2024, primarily attributable to continued contract procurement and business acquisitions. This segment's gross profit margin was 13.7%, compared with 11.9% for the same period of 2024, due to increasing scale efficiencies and the integration of higher-margin acquired service lines.
Revenues from Others were negative US$0.3 million, reflecting a one-time adjustment related to the timing of revenue recognition for YY Smart Tech.

Cost of revenues was US$27.9 million, compared with US$19.0 million for the same period of 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to the related revenue increase, as well as higher labor costs across both Manpower and IFM Services.

Gross profit was US$3.6 million, compared with US$2.9 million for the same period of 2024. Gross profit margin was 11.5%, compared with 13.2% for the same period of 2024. The modest decrease was primarily driven by the decrease in Manpower Services' gross margin.

Total operating expenses were US$16.9 million, representing an increase of 101.1% from US$8.4 million for the same period of 2024. The increase was primarily due to the issuance of share-based compensation related to the Company's share incentive plans and impairment losses on goodwill and intangible assets associated with the Company's strategic rationalization of its global subsidiary portfolio.

Selling and marketing expenses were US$1.2 million, representing a 102.8% increase from US$0.6 million for the same period of 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to share-based compensation attributable to sales and marketing.

General and administrative expenses were US$12.6 million, representing a 61.4% increase from US$7.8 million for the same period of 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to share-based compensation expenses.

Loss from operations was US$12.9 million, compared with a loss of US$5.0 million for the same period of 2024.

Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders was US$13.2 million, compared with a net loss of US$5.4 million for the same period of 2024.

Non-IFRS net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders was US$7.0 million, compared with a non-IFRS net loss of US$0.3 million for the same period of 2024.

Basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share¹ were both US$11.44. For reference, prior to giving effect to the 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026, basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share were both US$0.23.

Non-IFRS basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share¹ was US$6.10. For reference, prior to giving effect to the 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026, non-IFRS basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share were both US$0.12.

Full Year 2025 Financial Results

Revenues for full year 2025 were US$57.2 million, compared with US$41.1 million for full year 2024. The increase was primarily driven by accelerated growth across both Manpower and IFM Services, organic client wins, and contributions from acquired businesses.

Revenues from Manpower Services were US$23.0 million, an increase of 29.4% compared with US$17.8 million in 2024, driven by the successful scale-up of on-demand workforce solutions and continued global expansion. This segment's gross profit margin was 13.8%, compared with 15.5% in 2024, reflecting competitive pricing to drive client acquisition and volume growth. Absolute gross profit increased year over year.
Revenues from IFM Services were US$32.9 million, an increase of 40.7% compared with US$23.3 million in 2024, primarily attributable to continued contract procurement and business acquisitions. This segment's gross profit margin was 13.2%, compared with 10.8% in 2024, due to increasing scale efficiencies and the integration of higher-margin acquired service lines.
Revenues from Others were US$1.4 million. This segment's gross profit margin was 27.5% for 2025.

Cost of revenues for the full year was US$49.3 million, compared with US$35.8 million for full year 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to the related revenue increase, as well as higher labor costs across both Manpower and IFM Services.

Gross profit for the full year was US$7.9 million, compared with US$5.3 million for full year 2024. Gross profit margin was 13.8%, compared with 12.8% in the prior year, primarily driven by ongoing technology advancements and growing scale benefits.

Total operating expenses for the full year were US$29.7 million, compared with US$11.1 million for full year 2024. The increase was primarily due to non-cash share-based compensation related to the Company's share incentive plans and impairment losses on goodwill and intangible assets associated with the Company's strategic rationalization of its global subsidiary portfolio.

Selling and marketing expenses for the full year were US$2.7 million, compared with US$0.7 million for full year 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to share-based compensation attributable to sales and marketing.

General and administrative expenses for the full year were US$19.7 million, compared with US$10.4 million for full year 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to share-based compensation expenses.

Loss from operations was US$20.6 million, compared with a loss of US$4.1 million for full year 2024.

Net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year was US$21.4 million, compared with a net loss of US$4.8 million for full year 2024.

Non-IFRS net loss attributable to ordinary shareholders for the full year was US$7.6 million, compared with a non-IFRS net profit of US$0.3 million for full year 2024.

Full year basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share² were both US$21.98. For reference, prior to giving effect to the 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026, basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share were both US$0.44.

Non-IFRS full year basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share² were both US$7.83. For reference, prior to giving effect to the 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026, non-IFRS basic and diluted net loss per ordinary share were both US$0.16.

About YY Group Holding Limited

YY Group Holding Limited (Nasdaq: YYGH) is a Singapore-headquartered, technology-enabled platform providing flexible, scalable workforce solutions and integrated facility management (IFM) services across Asia and beyond. The Group operates through two core verticals: on-demand staffing and IFM, delivering agile, reliable support to industries such as hospitality, logistics, retail, and healthcare.

Leveraging proprietary digital platforms and IoT-driven systems, YY Group enables clients to meet fluctuating labor demands and maintain high-performance environments. In addition to its core operations in Singapore and Malaysia, the Group maintains a growing presence in Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania and the Middle East.

Listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market, YY Group is committed to service excellence, operational innovation, and long-term value creation for clients and shareholders.

For more information on the Company, please visit https://yygroupholding.com/.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

The Company uses non-IFRS measures such as non-IFRS net loss/profit in evaluating its operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes. The Company believes that non-IFRS financial measures help identify underlying trends in the Company's business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of certain expenses that the Company includes in its results for the period. The Company believes that non-IFRS financial measures provide useful information about its results of operations, enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects, and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by its management in its financial and operational decision-making.

Non-IFRS financial measures have limitations as analytical tools and should not be considered in isolation or construed as an alternative to IFRS financial measures or any other measure of performance or as an indicator of its operating performance. Investors are encouraged to review non-IFRS financial measures and the reconciliation to their most directly comparable IFRS measures. Non-IFRS financial measures presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to the Company's data. The Company encourages investors and others to review its financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

For more information on the Company's non-IFRS financial measures, please see the section titled "Unaudited reconciliations of IFRS and non-IFRS financial measures."

Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the YY Group Holding Limited's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, and a number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. These factors include, but are not limited to, (i) growth of the hospitality and manpower markets in Hong Kong and the broader Southeast Asian region, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, (ii) capital and credit market volatility, (iii) local and global economic conditions, (iv) our anticipated growth strategies, (v) governmental approvals and regulations, and (vi) our future business development, results of operations and financial condition. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "target," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to" or other similar expressions. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and YY Group Holding Limited undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

Investor Contact
Jason Zhi Yong Phua, Chief Financial Officer
YY Group
enquiries@yygroupholding.com

Unaudited and Unreviewed Reconciliation of IFRS and Non-IFRS Financial Measures

	2025		2025

			Non-IFRS reconciliation
	$		$
Revenue	57,245,167		57,245,167
Cost of revenue	(49,347,666	)	(49,347,666	)
Gross profit	7,897,501		7,897,501

Other income	1,169,718		1,169,718
Selling and marketing expenses	(2,731,035	)	(579,170	)
General and administrative expenses	(19,679,803	)	(15,234,268	)
Impairment loss on intangible asset	(4,063,000	)	-
Impairment loss on goodwill	(5,551,429	)	-
Other expenses	(57,201	)	(57,201	)
Change in fair value of investment property	38,296		-
Change in fair value of warrant liability	2,383,178		-
Operating (loss)/profit	(20,593,775	)	(6,803,420	)

Finance cost	(1,028,787	)	(1,028,787	)
(Loss)/Profit before tax	(21,622,562	)	(7,832,207	)
Income tax expenses	38,764		38,764
(Loss)/Profit for the period	(21,583,798	)	(7,793,443	)

Profit attributable to:
Non-controlling interests	(164,656	)	(164,656	)
Owners of the Company	(21,419,142	)	(7,628,787	)

Adding back:
Share-based compensation			(6,597,400	)
Impairment loss on intangible asset			(4,063,000	)
Impairment loss on goodwill			(5,551,429	)
Change in fair value of investment property			38,296
Change in fair value of warrant liability			2,383,178
			(21,419,142	)

¹ Per-share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Company's 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026 and are based on the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding of 1,151,339 during the second half of 2025, as adjusted for the reverse stock split.

² Per-share amounts have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Company's 50-for-1 reverse stock split effective March 23, 2026 and are based on the weighted-average number of ordinary shares outstanding of 974,686 during FY2025, as adjusted for the reverse stock split.

Boehringer Ingelheim expands investment in computational innovation with new AI Accelerator in UK's Knowledge Quarter

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:53:00 +0700

*Boehringer is expanding its global Computational Innovation footprint with a new center dedicated to AI and machine learning (ML) in the UK

*Establishing a presence in King's Cross, London, places Boehringer at the heart of AI and life sciences innovation, providing access to world-class talent across academia, technology, and research ecosystems

*Ambition to advance AI for pharmaceutical research and development to further disease understanding in areas of high unmet medical need

*Anticipated ?150M investment over 10 years as part of Boehringer's commitments in AI across R&D, with the first 50 AI experts in place by end of 2027

Ingelheim, Germany, and London, UK - Boehringer Ingelheim today announced the expansion of its global Computational Innovation footprint with the launch of a new center for AI and machine learning in King's Cross, London, UK, part of the Knowledge Quarter ecosystem. As the company continues to innovate and expand its AI capabilities in pharmaceutical R&D, this significant investment recognizes the UK's commitment to AI and the life sciences sector.

With this latest investment, Computational Innovation now has locations in Austria, Germany, UK and USA specializing in AI, machine learning, human genetics, and computational biology. The addition of London to the company's global footprint and clear focus on AI will further understanding of the biology that drives patient outcomes, identify biological mechanisms with a higher probability of success, and enable the organization to move faster, make smarter decisions, and deliver innovative therapies to patients with unmet medical needs. The importance of this investment will be recognized at an event today attended by Government Ministers and representatives from academic and professional institutions, as well as technology and AI companies from within London's Knowledge Quarter.

UK Science Minister, Lord Patrick Vallance, said:

"AI is unlocking opportunities to advance discovery in life sciences like never before and Boehringer's decision to open its new hub in King's Cross will ensure they can both access and contribute to a flourishing base for innovation in London.

This hugely welcome investment by a global life sciences company will power our efforts to tackle diseases while opening up new highly skilled jobs that boost our economy."

Paola Casarosa, Global Head, Innovation Unit and Member of the Board of Managing Directors, Boehringer Ingelheim, said:

"The UK has a strong legacy in AI, and the government's continued commitment to advancing data-driven innovation in life sciences and healthcare makes it an ideal location. Establishing a presence in London allows us to leverage the UK's rich data resources and infrastructure, while connecting with world‑class talent across academia, biotechnology and AI ecosystems to enable innovation for patient benefit.

Our vision for the future is guided by our commitment to put patients first, delivering new medicines where unmet medical needs remain high."

Boehringer Ingelheim

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,300 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com (Global) or https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/uk (UK).

Intended Audiences Notice

This press release is issued from our Corporate Headquarters in Ingelheim, Germany and is intended to provide information about our global business. Please be aware that information relating to the approval status and labels of approved products may vary from country to country, and a country-specific press release on this topic may have been issued in the countries where we do business.

Attachment

Lord Patrick Vallance and Steve Bates OBE with Boehringer representatives

Bodor Laser Ranked No. 1 in Global Sales Volume for Seven Consecutive Years, Demonstrating Brand Strength Through Sustained Leadership

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:50:00 +0700

SHENZHEN, China, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bodor Laser has ranked No. 1 globally in sales of laser cutting machines (1,000W and above) for the seventh consecutive year, according to data released by Qianzhan Industry Research Institute in March 2026. In 2025, the company again exceeded 10,000 units in annual sales, remaining the only manufacturer to achieve this milestone for seven consecutive years.

The recognition was announced at ITES 2026 in Shenzhen, where Bodor Laser also highlighted developments in manufacturing, product innovation, and global expansion.

Seven Years at No. 1: Global Leadership Reaffirmed

At the event, Bodor Laser reported that its DreamSpace super factory delivered more than 10,000 machines over the past year, while its South China headquarters in Shenzhen entered operation, strengthening its dual-base structure. The company noted that this milestone marks a new starting point as it advances toward higher standards in quality, innovation, and brand strength.

Chen Like, founder of Qianzhan Industry Research Institute, stated that the achievement reflects Bodor Laser's capabilities across the innovation chain, including manufacturing, R&D, industrial design, and intelligent operations.

Strategy and Innovation as Core Drivers

Bodor Laser's leadership is supported by a focused strategy and long-term investment in technology. Over the past five years, the company has invested tens of millions of U.S. dollars in R&D, built in-house capabilities across core components, and developed a substantial patent portfolio. Its products have received multiple international design awards, including Red Dot and iF Design Awards.

Product Portfolio and Intelligent Manufacturing

In 2025, Bodor Laser expanded its portfolio across high-speed, high-precision systems and intelligent production lines. Its solutions have improved efficiency and precision in applications such as automotive parts and sheet metal processing, while integrated automation systems enable continuous production.

Global Expansion and Operations

Bodor Laser continues to strengthen its global presence with manufacturing bases in China and Thailand and more than 10 overseas subsidiaries and service centers. The company now operates in over 180 countries and regions with more than 3,500 employees worldwide.

"A seventh consecutive No. 1 ranking is not the end, but a new starting point," said Zhan Zhihao, SVP at Bodor Laser. "We will continue to drive innovation and support global manufacturing.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/914d0715-229f-408c-bd1b-fc6347965594

Contact:

www.bodor.com

Jack Thompson

info@bodor.com

JETOUR to Unveil "Travel+" Strategy at Auto China 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:46:00 +0700

BEIJING, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As 2026 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition approaches, JETOUR International will officially unveil its "Travel+" strategy, further outlining its development roadmap across brand, product, ecosystem and cultural initiatives. For the first time, JETOUR International will showcase its dual brands-JETOUR and SOUEAST together, highlighting a cohesive brand matrix and strategic synergy.

JETOUR has consistently adhered to the "Travel+" strategy, deeply integrating travel-industry mindset with automotive engineering expertise." The brand is dedicated to crafting "the most travel-savvy vehicles, meeting users' full-scenario needs in both travel and daily life. Increasingly, the concept of "Travel⁺" has evolved from product attributes to lifestyle and emotional resonance-where travel connects people, cultures, and emotions. Guided by this strategy, JETOUR International continues to develop its product lineup and ecosystem, covering various aspects, such as user communities, cultural co-creation, ESG initiatives, and regional partnerships.

In terms of product portfolio, JETOUR International has established two major brands, JETOUR and SOUEAST, catering to diverse scenarios from urban mobility to professional off-road, forming a clear and complementary product matrix. At this auto show, JETOUR T1 i-DM, T2 i-DM, G700, SOUEAST S08 DM, and several future concept cars will be exhibited.

As for user community development, JETOUR has established more than 300 JETOUR CLUBs worldwide. The customization business for T1, T2, and G700 is available in over 30 countries and regions. In 2025, JETOUR organized more than 500 club activities globally, fostering travel and off-road culture.

In sports and cultural fields, JETOUR keeps expanding the boundaries of "Travel+" by integrating culture with its brand identity. Since 2020, JETOUR has sponsored football events across Africa, South America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, and has served as a key partner in professional events such as Malaysia's National Marathon and UAE's LIWA International Festival.

During Auto China 2026, JETOUR will also collaborate with the Brand Ambassador, World-famous EDM Producer Alan Walker, for a cross-industry co-creation, exploring the fusion of electronic music culture and off-road spirit, witnessed by global media and influencers, which will mark a new chapter in the brand's global strategic evolution.

In the aspect of public welfare, JETOUR has embedded ESG into its brand DNA, extending "Travel⁺" to sustainable development and shared social value. In Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan, and Angola, JETOUR carries out initiatives like orphan care and school donations. In Africa, JETOUR has partnered with the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), to protect cheetahs in the Horn of Africa-infusing the off-road spirit with the commitment to nature conservation.

Guided by the "Travel+" strategy, JETOUR has transformed its brand philosophy into a tangible mobility lifestyle and user connection. JETOUR's globalization has entered a phase of rapid development. To date, JETOUR has sold over 2.27 million vehicles globally, covering 100 countries and regions, and has won the support of more than 50 million fans worldwide.

JETOUR international - jetourinternational.pr@gmail.com

JETOUR AUTO

Jinhua Road, Jiujiang District

Wuhu, Anhui, 241000

China

Tina Liu

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e071798a-0e2b-4023-a9a2-5d559b0e280c

Leveraging CICPE Yacht Sub-Venue, Sanya Accelerates Development as Asia-Pacific Yachting Capital

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:44:00 +0700

HAIKOU, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - On April 15, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue of the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) officially kicked off. The event has brought together brands from leading global yacht-producing countries, such as France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. Over 90 yacht manufacturers and supporting companies have participated in the event, with 200 yachts of various types being showcased at the exhibition.

As a core featured exhibition area of the CICPE, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue covers a total exhibition area of over 160,000 square meters, including a sprawling 148,800-square-meter on-water section. The exhibition is divided into six specialized sections, covering green vessel innovation, China debuts of international brands, and intelligent water sports equipment, among others. While top-tier global luxury yacht brands remain a major draw, the industry's most compelling highlights this year lie elsewhere: the rapid rise of domestic yacht manufacturing, the commercial deployment of green new energy technologies, and the growing integration of yachting into everyday lifestyle.

International luxury yacht brands made a strong showing at the event, with renowned names like France's Lagoon, Italy's Azimut, the United Kingdom's Sunseeker, Canada's Bombardier, Germany's Bavaria, and the United States' Sea Ray unveiling their latest models. Five superyachts, each exceeding 80 feet in length, docked at the marina, becoming a highlight of the event.

China's sustained release of high-end leisure consumption potential has made it a core growth driver for the global yachting industry. At the exhibition, 24 products made their China debut, including the United Kingdom's Princess S72, as well as yachts from international brands like Germany's Bavaria and Poland's Delphia. Notably, a purchase intent for the Princess S72 was reached immediately following its debut.

Meanwhile, Chinese yacht manufacturers are stepping up their game, with nine yachts making their global debuts. These new models span a diverse range of categories, including small- and medium-sized luxury yachts, electric leisure vessels, and fishing vessels. Featuring designs tailored to Chinese consumer preferences and competitively priced, they have drawn significant attention on the show floor.

Green and low-carbon development stands as a central theme of this year's exhibition. A dedicated new energy yacht zone showcases eco-friendly vessels, including pure electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered yachts. Among these, electric yachts powered by lithium batteries achieve zero-emission navigation. Their noise levels and operating costs are significantly lower than those of traditional fuel-powered yachts, perfectly aligning with the global shift toward low-carbon consumption.

Furthermore, the exhibition strives to shatter the long-held stereotype of yachts as an exclusive, high-end niche. To that end, it has created immersive consumption scenarios that integrate yachting with gourmet food, lure fishing, and camping. Services such as yacht license consultations and second-hand yacht trading are also being offered, all aimed at making water-based leisure more accessible to the public.

Sanya, the host city of the exhibition and known as the "City of a Thousand Yachts," is actively building itself into the "Asia-Pacific Yachting Capital." The city has already completed five yacht marinas, and last year hit a record high of 225,600 yacht departures. Concurrently, the Sanya Central Business District (CBD) has attracted 124 companies along the yacht industry chain, covering full-chain services such as design and R&D, manufacturing and maintenance, berth operations, and high-end supporting facilities.

Leveraging its exceptional marine resources and the policy backing of the Hainan Free Trade Port, Sanya is accelerating the construction of an ecosystem that integrates yacht display and trading, consumption experiences, and industrial agglomeration. This, in turn, provides a vital platform for global yacht brands to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

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

Hashtags: #CICPE

The Famous CFC Makes Vietnam Debut with Chelsea Legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:40:00 +0700

The two-day programme brought over 300 Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members together for immersive fan experiences, including the Night with the Blues event at Hanoi's newest integrated events and hospitality destination

LONDON/HANOI/SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the Official Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club, has concluded its fourth edition of The Famous CFC, Chelsea's international fan engagement programme. The Hanoi showcase marked the programme's Vietnam debut and featured Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner. Held across Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, Oakwood Residence Hanoi and Somerset West Point Hanoi on 17 and 18 April 2026, the two-day programme brought together more than 300 fans and Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members for a curated series of fan engagements, including a fireside chat, an exclusive member meet-and-greet, and the newly introduced Night with the Blues event.

The Hanoi edition marked two notable milestones. For Hasselbaink, it was his first official club visit to Vietnam, a moment long anticipated by the country's Blues community. For Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, it signalled the official debut of its international convention centre: a purpose-built event destination anchored by the Ho Tay Ballroom - the largest pillarless ballroom in Hanoi - one of 13 meeting venues. The convention centre is part of the 1,165-room integrated property scheduled to open fully later this year.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said: "Spending the weekend with so many Chelsea fans in Hanoi was an amazing experience. You could really feel the passion for the club, and Ascott created an environment that brought fans closer to the Chelsea spirit. Moments like these help strengthen the connection between the club and its supporters."

John Rogers, Head of Partnerships at Chelsea Football Club, said: "Hanoi showed exactly what The Famous CFC, presented by Ascott, is all about. Our passionate fans brought great energy to the event and made it an unforgettable experience. The turnout and engagement from Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members further proves the incredible connection we share with our established fanbase across Southeast Asia. We're proud of what we've built through our partnership with Ascott, and excited to take it even further in the seasons ahead."

Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: "Every edition of The Famous CFC is designed to introduce new experiences, and Hanoi was no exception. Southeast Asia is home to more than 30% of Ascott's global portfolio, with Vietnam among our most active markets for new openings. This edition brought together two firsts - Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's inaugural official club visit to Vietnam, and the official debut of Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi's international convention centre - creating a distinctive experience for Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members alike."

"The Famous CFC reflects how Ascott's partnership with Chelsea translated into real value for our members and guests. Ascott Star Rewards is built on our 'Stay Rewarded' promise, and through this partnership, we continue to extend that promise beyond stays into curated experiences ? from close interactions with club legends to early access to key properties across our portfolio," she added.

Highlights from The Famous CFC Hanoi

The two-day programme kickstarted on Friday, 17 April, when Hasselbaink joined a coaching session for young beneficiaries of the Centre for Supporting Community Development Initiatives (SCDI), a Hanoi-based non-profit organisation supporting the social inclusion of vulnerable communities. During the session, Hasselbaink shared football tips and encouraged the participants, drawing on personal lessons from his journey as a professional player. The activity reflected The Famous CFC's focus on engaging local fan communities and aligned with Ascott's ongoing commitment to community engagement through its sustainability programme, Ascott CARES.

Following the community initiative, Hasselbaink visited Oakwood Residence Hanoi to experience the brand's signature warmth and comfort food philosophy before participating in an intimate fireside chat at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi. There, he recounted some of his fondest memories as one of Chelsea's most celebrated forwards, including defining goals, team culture and lessons that have remained with him beyond his playing years. The session brought together a Chelsea legend with Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, a world-class venue designed to host landmark international events.

On the second day on Saturday, 18 April, Hasselbaink took time to explore the city before joining Ascott Star Rewards members for an exclusive meet-and-greet at Somerset West Point Hanoi. In keeping with Somerset's emphasis on shared experiences, the session provided members with the opportunity to engage directly with the Chelsea legend through a Q&A segment and photography opportunities.

The programme culminated with Night with the Blues at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi's Ho Tay Ballroom, which was transformed for the occasion into a football-themed event space that brought the energy of London's Stamford Bridge right to the heart of Hanoi. For the more than 300 fans, some of whom had travelled in from across the region, the electrifying matchday atmosphere arrived well before kick-off. The event combined Ascott's signature hospitality, fan activations and extended engagement with Hasselbaink, building to a crescendo as Chelsea prepared to face Manchester United later that evening.

Said Supachok Pornsri, a Chelsea fan and ASR member who travelled from Bangkok, Thailand to attend The Famous CFC in Hanoi: "Meeting Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in person was a dream come true. As a devoted Chelsea fan, getting up close with a club legend is something I will not forget. Having attended past editions of The Famous CFC in Bangkok and Jakarta, this Hanoi edition once again showed how seamlessly Ascott brings together world-class hospitality with fans' passion for Chelsea. That is what makes being an ASR member truly worthwhile. I hope ASR continues to offer experiences like this, and Ascott will definitely be my first choice for future travels."

For the latest updates on exclusive offers from Ascott's partnership with Chelsea, including the upcoming editions of The Famous CFC, please visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.

About Ascott Star Rewards (ASR)

Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) offers members a range of exclusive privileges designed to elevate every aspect of their travel experience. From priority welcome services and access to airport lounges, to enhanced stay benefits such as car rental privileges, bonus ASR points, airline miles and travel vouchers, ASR ensures a seamless, start-to-finish experience. Beyond exceptional stays, ASR members also enjoy access to Ascott Privilege Signatures, which unlocks invitations to prestigious global events, including Premier League football matches, renowned tennis tournaments, and elite gastronomy and lifestyle experiences. To become an ASR member, sign up today at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/sign-up.

The Ascott Limited

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott's presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit www.discoverasr.com/the-ascott-limited. Alternatively, connect with Ascott on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, commercial management and lodging management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group's development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

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

Photos: A football legend at a legendary venue: The Famous CFC Hanoi concluded on 18 April 2026 with over 350 Chelsea fans and ASR members gathering at the Ho Tay Ballroom at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi for A Night with the Blues. Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink headlined an evening of fan games, chants and a dinner prepared by the hotel's culinary team, making it a night that brought the spirit of Chelsea Football Club alive in the heart of Hanoi. Pictured in image: Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (centre) with Ms Tan Bee Leng (left), Ascott's Chief Commercial Officer, and dinner attendees.

Hashtags: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #ChelseaFC #Football #Vietnam #CSR

Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners commences construction on 1,500 MWh BESS project in Chile

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:38:00 +0700

Project Patache will be Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners' second large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) in Chile, reinforcing CIP's commitment to delivering critical new energy infrastructure across Latin America

IQUIQUE, Chile, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), through its Growth Markets Fund II (GMF II) has issued Final Notice to Proceed (FNTP) for the 300 MW / 1,500 MWh Patache project. The issuance of FNTP authorises the start of construction activities under the main supply and construction contracts and represents a key milestone in the execution of the project.

Commenting on the milestone, Peter Halm?, Head of Latin America and Managing Director at Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners said: "Reaching Final Notice to Proceed for Patache is an important step for the project and for GMF II. It reflects the strength of the underlying fundamentals, the close collaboration with our contractors and partners and our continued confidence in Chile as a key market for energy storage and grid infrastructure. We are proud to move into the construction phase and to contribute to the delivery of a more resilient and efficient power system."

Patache is strategically located in an area with world class solar resource, adjacent to existing transmission infrastructure and energy intensive industrial clusters. With a storage capacity of 1,500 MWh, the project will shift excess solar power generated during the day to supply electricity during periods of higher demand. The shifting and balancing services provided by Patache will reduce reliance on thermal generation during peak hours, lower CO2 emissions, and enable further integration of large-scale solar energy into the Chilean power system. Additionally, the project has qualified for an internationally recognised carbon offset programme, underscoring its contribution to Chile's long-term decarbonisation objectives.

The investment was made alongside a group of co-investors holding a minority stake in the project.

The Patache project builds on the learnings from CIP's Arena BESS project, a 220 MW / 1,100 MWh BESS project located in the Antofagasta region of northern Chile which has successfully completed construction and is delivering electricity to the grid.

Ole Kjems S?rensen, Partner at Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, said: "Projects like Patache and Arena BESS are great examples of the Growth Markets funds' commitment and long-term strategy to invest in high-growth, middle-income markets such as Chile. By developing robust energy infrastructure, we aim to create value for our investors while supporting a cost-effective transition to more sustainable energy systems."

Notes to Editors

About Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners

Founded in 2012, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners P/S (CIP) is a global fund manager and leading investor in energy infrastructure. CIP builds value that matters by developing and constructing critical infrastructure projects that shape the future of energy.

Through its funds, CIP invests in power generation (solar and wind), energy storage, transmission and distribution, advanced bioenergy, low-carbon fuels and carbon capture.

With 15 funds currently under management, CIP is trusted by over 200 of the world's largest and most sophisticated institutions, having raised EUR ~37 billion to date. CIP has projects in more than 30 countries, with presence on the ground through a network of +2,300 professionals.

For more information, visit www.cip.com.

Media Contact

E mail media@cip.com

Yachting: Yacht Club de Monaco Expands SEA Index Network with Marseille Fos Partnership

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:34:00 +0700

MONACO, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Port de Marseille Fos is stepping up its environmental transition in the maritime sector through a new partnership with the Superyacht Eco Association (SEA Index), a move that positions the French hub among the most active Mediterranean ports in promoting lower-impact superyacht traffic.

The agreement, formalised at the Yacht Club de Monaco, brings Marseille into a network that already includes 23 ports across the Mediterranean, alongside destinations in the Seychelles and the Caribbean. The SEA Index, established in 2020 by the Yacht Club de Monaco and Credit Suisse (UBS Group), continues to expand its international footprint as a reference system for measuring and promoting environmental performance in yachting.

"This partnership with the SEA Index strengthens our commitment to more responsible yachting. By joining this international network, we are equipping ourselves with concrete tools to encourage the reception of lower-impact vessels and to affirm our role as a leading Mediterranean port in the ecological transition," said Christophe Castaner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Port de Marseille Fos.

The signing ceremony gathered high-level institutional figures, including His Excellency Christophe Mirmand, Minister of State, Principality of Monaco, Bernard d'Alessandri, Secretary General of the Yacht Club de Monaco and President of the SEA Index, and Christophe Castaner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Port de Marseille Fos, alongside leading port and sector representatives.

"We are delighted to welcome the Port de Marseille Fos into the SEA Index community. By adopting a multi-criteria measurement tool-covering both CO₂ and air quality-it positions itself as a true pioneer. By joining forces with leading ports such as Marseille, we can collectively drive the adoption of ambitious and meaningful environmental standards. Only through this shared effort will we transform the yachting industry into a more responsible, measurable, and transparent model," said Bernard d'Alessandri, President, SEA Index, Secretary General, Yacht Club de Monaco.

At the heart of the partnership is the deployment of a structured framework designed to quantify and reduce the environmental footprint of superyachts. The initiative will provide owners with clearer insight into vessel emissions, while encouraging the presence of yachts with lower environmental impact in line with European and regional objectives.

A key development underpinning this approach is the recent enhancement of the SEA Index methodology. In addition to its CO₂ assessment tool, certified by Lloyd's Register, a new air quality certification has been introduced in collaboration with AtmoSud. This system evaluates emissions of nitrogen oxides and fine particulate matter based on installed engine and generator power, delivering a more comprehensive environmental assessment of large yachts.

By combining carbon metrics with air quality indicators, the Port de Marseille Fos gains access to a dual evaluation model capable of guiding both policy and operational choices. The agreement also provides for the promotion of the SEA Index among port users and the introduction of targeted incentives aimed at attracting more environmentally responsible vessels.

As one of France's principal ports and a major Mediterranean hub, Marseille is pursuing an ambitious ecological transition strategy. The partnership strengthens its positioning as a benchmark destination for responsible superyachts, while anticipating future European regulatory requirements and enhancing its competitiveness.

The Port de Marseille Fos will join the SEA Index as an institutional member, increasing its visibility within a global network of marinas, ports and shipyards committed to sustainability. At the same time, it will promote the initiative among local stakeholders, contributing to the development of a coordinated approach to greener yachting practices.

A shared roadmap will define measurable objectives and operational actions to reduce emissions linked to superyacht activity in the Marseille area. This will be based on a comprehensive assessment integrating CO₂, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, with the aim of achieving concrete reductions in the environmental impact of visiting vessels.

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/236f8136-37b0-4fbe-91bf-06e631851ac6

Ascott Records Strongest-ever Southeast Asia Signings in 2025, Powering Multi-typology Growth

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:28:00 +0700

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), recorded a landmark year of signings in Southeast Asia in 2025, adding more than 7,300 units across the region. This represents a 55% increase over the 4,700 units signed in 2024 and marks Ascott's strongest signing performance in Southeast Asia to date.

The momentum placed Ascott among the top three hospitality companies in Southeast Asia by new signings in 2025, according to Horwath HTL. Building on this performance, Ascott has an established regional portfolio comprising over 200 operational properties and a pipeline of about 150 properties across Southeast Asia, spanning multiple typologies and markets. With more than 25 new properties expected to open within the next 12 months, the pipeline reflects strong owner confidence in Ascott's brands and its proven ability to convert signings into operational properties at scale.

Ascott's expansion is underpinned by Southeast Asia's structurally resilient tourism fundamentals. Following the region's near-complete post-pandemic recovery in 2025, travel momentum is increasingly driven by intra-ASEAN demand, rising visitor spending and improving regional connectivity[1]. At the same time, the region's hospitality market remains highly fragmented, with independent and unbranded properties accounting for most hotel supply. As more owners look to established international operators for brand strength, distribution reach and revenue capabilities, Southeast Asia continues to present a strong pipeline for Ascott's growth across signings and conversions.

Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: "Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in the world and Ascott is well positioned to capture the opportunity. With over four decades in our home base, we have established deep market expertise and a trusted brand presence, positioning us for our next phase of growth. Our expansion is intentional and owner‑led, anchored by long‑term partnerships with owners who value our flex‑hybrid model and its ability to deliver resilient outcomes. Supported by our multi‑typology brand strategy, we have moved beyond our serviced residence heritage to unlock opportunities across a broader range of lodging types. The depth of owner interest and track record across Southeast Asia gives us confidence in both our pipeline and our ability to execute this expansion."

Ms Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Ascott, said: "The upcoming wave of openings reinforces Southeast Asia's role as both a core growth engine and a showcase for Ascott's multi-typology brand strategy. As we scale across cities and resort destinations, disciplined execution remains our focus ? from efficient conversions to reliable delivery on the ground. The strength of our local teams has been instrumental in translating strategy into outcomes, turning pipeline into reality with the speed and precision our owners and guests expect. We are particularly excited about our upcoming resort openings across the region, which will meaningfully expand our leisure offerings and open up new destinations for Ascott Star Rewards members to explore and enjoy their rewards."

Growing into New Cities and Markets

Ascott's development pipeline will extend its footprint into around 20 new cities across Southeast Asia, taking the company beyond established gateway markets and deeper into emerging leisure and business destinations. New cities entering the Ascott portfolio include Phu Quoc and Nha Trang in Vietnam; Phuket and Hat Yai in Thailand; Labuan Bajo and Medan in Indonesia; Davao and Bi?an in the Philippines; and Johor Bahru and Langkawi in Malaysia.

Driving Speed to Market through Conversions and Brownfields

About 30% of the development pipeline in Southeast Asia will be delivered through conversions, reflecting Ascott's capability to reposition existing assets under its brands and accelerate market entry. Among the notable examples are three Bayview-branded properties in Penang and Langkawi owned by Oriental Holdings, which will be rebranded as Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang, Oakwood Georgetown Penang and FOX Hotel Langkawi by 2028. Conversion projects expected to open within approximately one year of signing include Citadines Mitra Bandung, Oakwood Pandanaran Semarang and Fox Hotel Nagoya Batam.

Alongside new-build developments, conversions enable Ascott to meet demand in markets where opportunities exist but greenfield supply pipelines are constrained. This dual-track approach strengthens Ascott's ability to scale efficiently across diverse markets and property types.

Expanding Across Multiple Lodging Types

The development pipeline across Southeast Asia reflects the full breadth of Ascott's multi‑typology brand strategy, anchored by its serviced residence heritage and extending across hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences. It spans brands including Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection. This range of brands and formats positions Southeast Asia as a showcase for Ascott's ability to address demand across different markets, guest segments and destination types.

Resort properties represent one of the most significant areas of growth within this pipeline. Upcoming resort openings across Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand will complement Ascott's established urban portfolio and strengthen its balance across business and leisure travel segments.

Highlights of Upcoming Openings

More than 25 properties from Ascott's pipeline are expected to open within the next 12 months. These near‑term openings follow the launches of Somerset Valero Makati in the Philippines and Oakwood Cameron Highlands in Malaysia earlier this year, and form part of a broader rollout across Southeast Asia.

Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi

Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi is poised to become Ascott's largest full‑service MICE hotel and a landmark events and hospitality destination in Vietnam's capital. Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi's upscale Tay Ho District, the property features an international convention centre that is already operational, offering 13 flexible event spaces including Hanoi's largest pillarless hotel grand ballroom with capacity for up to 2,000 guests. When fully open in 2027, the property will also offer 1,165 hotel rooms and serviced apartments as well as premium wellness facilities including a spa, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and yoga rooms, alongside 10 dining concepts and a sky bar overlooking the lake. Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi combines long-stay living, hotel accommodation and world-class MICE facilities under one roof, firmly establishing Ascott's credentials in Vietnam's fast-growing meetings and events market.

Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection

Set to complete its full opening on 24 April 2026, Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection will mark the debut of a landmark wellness resort on Vietnam's northern coast. Located at the confluence of the Ma River and Sam Son Beach in Thanh Hoa Province, the property brings together 68 boutique hotel rooms and 20 private pool villas already in operation since mid-2025, with the newly opening 190-room Sky Vista tower completing the full resort experience. Sky Vista is anchored by an authentic Korean jjimjilbang, four-season pool, plant-based dining and a full spa, drawing on Sam Son's coastal heritage and Vietnamese-Korean wellness traditions to deliver a deeply local and distinctive stay.

HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh

Slated to open progressively from 4Q 2026, HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh marks the debut of the HARRIS brand in Vietnam and signals the start of a wave of Ascott resort openings along the country's coastline. The 693-unit all-in-one resort is located along Long Beach in Cam Ranh, one of Vietnam's fastest-growing leisure and aviation hubs. It is designed for families and leisure travellers, featuring specialty dining, a beach club, recreational facilities and dedicated meeting spaces.

Together, Lasong and HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh mark the beginning of Ascott's significant resort push across Southeast Asia through 2028. In Vietnam, this will be followed by Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc in 2027 and Somerset Nha Trang in 2028.

Beyond Vietnam, the resort pipeline extends across multiple markets. Scheduled to open in 2027 are Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort in Thailand, lyf Resort Labuan Bajo and Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and Residences Bali in Indonesia, as well as Balai Dajao by Preference in Siargao, the Philippines. In 2028, this will be followed by Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang in Malaysia, Citadines Mactan Cebu Resort in the Philippines and Oakwood Premier Berawa Beach Bali in Indonesia, expanding the range of leisure destinations available to Ascott Star Rewards members across the region.

1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection

Opening in 2026 to coincide with its centenary, the 78-room 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection breathes new life into one of George Town's most storied properties. Located on Burma Road within Penang's UNESCO World Heritage-listed enclave, the hotel has been sensitively restored to preserve its original Anglo-Malay architectural character while delivering a full-service experience ? including a swimming pool, gym, spa and wellness centre, hair salon, bar and bistro, restaurant, and flexible event spaces comprising a function hall and meeting room. The property exemplifies The Unlimited Collection's philosophy of celebrating the cultural soul of a destination, offering guests an immersive gateway to Penang's rich heritage and living culture. The reopening has already captured international attention, with The New York Times and Bloomberg highlighting the hotel in their respective features on Penang as a must‑visit destination for 2026.

lyf Chinatown Singapore

Slated to open in July 2026, lyf Chinatown Singapore exemplifies the lyf brand's experience-led approach to social living, set against one of Singapore's most historically significant precincts. The property is housed within a newly developed building linked to four pre-war conservation shophouses on Pagoda Street, within the Jamae Chulia Heritage site. Social spaces ? including a coworking lounge, social kitchen, rooftop swimming pool and outdoor courtyard - are designed to foster community and connection among the next-generation of travellers, digital nomads and creatives. The property will also programme cultural experiences rooted in the local neighbourhood, reinforcing the lyf brand's philosophy of integrating authentic local culture into the social living experience.

Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore

Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore forms part of CanningHill Piers, a landmark integrated development on River Valley Road. The 192-unit serviced residence occupies a prime riverfront address in the heart of the Clarke Quay day-to-night lifestyle precinct, with direct connectivity to Fort Canning MRT station and dual frontages facing the Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill. Rooted in biophilic design and thoughtful comfort, the property is conceived as a nature-inspired sanctuary where families can come together, with spaces crafted for connection, ease and everyday living - making it one of the most distinctive Somerset addresses in the region.

Ascott Ortigas Manila

Expected to open in 2026, Ascott Ortigas Manila marks the debut of the flagship Ascott brand in the Ortigas Central Business District, one of Metro Manila's most dynamic commercial hubs. A conversion of the well-established Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila, the 229-unit property closed in January 2026 for a comprehensive renovation of its rooms, public spaces and food and beverage offerings. Located directly across from the Asian Development Bank headquarters, it is ideally positioned to serve corporate, long-stay and leisure travellers, and will offer dining, a spa, fitness centre and event spaces upon reopening.

[1] Source: ASEAN Tourism Outlook 2025, ASEAN Secretariat and ERIA, October 2025.

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

Hashtags: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #Growth #SEA

Tencent Invests in Kaspi.kz Alongside Co-Founder & CEO Mikheil Lomtadze and Long-Term U.S. Institutional Investors

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:25:00 +0700

ALMATY, Kazakhstan, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kaspi.kz (Nasdaq: KSPI) today announced that Tencent, Kaspi.kz Co-Founder and CEO Mikheil Lomtadze, key members of the senior management team, and long-term institutional investors have completed the purchase of 6.0 million American Depositary Shares (ADSs) from Baring Fintech Venture Funds (the "Funds").

Mikheil Lomtadze, CEO and Co-Founder of Kaspi.kz, commented:

"Tencent pioneered the super app ecosystem business model, and we have long admired its ability to combine innovation at scale with disciplined execution. We are delighted to welcome Tencent as one of Kaspi.kz's largest shareholders.

My own investment, together with those of key members of our senior management team, reflects our strong belief in Kaspi.kz's Super App business model, long-term strategy and future growth opportunities.

We are also pleased to welcome Spice Expeditions, a globally focused fintech investment firm, and the U.S. university endowments of Washington University and WISIMCO / University of Wisconsin Foundation, as long-term shareholders.

The combination of strategic, management and highly respected institutional capital comes at an exciting time for Kaspi.kz as we build on our market leadership in Kazakhstan and expand into T?rkiye."

Morgan Stanley acted as exclusive financial advisor to the Funds on the transaction.

About Kaspi.kz

Kaspi.kz's mission is to improve people's lives by developing innovative mobile products and services.

Kaspi.kz operates a unique two-sided Super App model, serving more than 25 million consumers and 900 thousand merchants across Kazakhstan and T?rkiye. In Kazakhstan, our Super App seamlessly integrates payments, e-commerce, e-grocery, fintech, travel, classifieds and government services. This comprehensive offering is deeply relevant to users' daily lives, driving exceptional engagement with 77 monthly transactions per active consumer. In T?rkiye, Kaspi.kz owns an 86% stake in Hepsiburada, one of the country's leading e-commerce platforms.

Kaspi.kz has been listed on Nasdaq since January 2024.

For further information David Ferguson, david.ferguson@kaspi.kz +44 7427 751 275

Schneider Electric and Deloitte collaborate to drive AI-enabled digital transformation across industrial operations

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:22:00 +0700

HANNOVER, Germany, April 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, and Deloitte, a leading professional services organization, today announced a collaboration to help customers and clients - from manufacturers and industrial operators to data center and infrastructure leaders - modernize end-to-end processes across all of their business operations and unlock new opportunities.

Today's organizations are facing unprecedented pressure to scale enterprise-wide operations efficiently while maintaining cost control, yet many continue to rely on outdated practices that limit their ability to adapt, innovate, and compete in fast-moving markets. This is especially acute in asset-intensive industries, where the convergence of AI, IT/OT conversion integration, and digital platforms is reshaping what's possible. Facing these challenges and capitalizing on opportunities requires more than technology alone: enterprises need clear strategies, proven methodologies, and trusted ecosystems to drive lasting operational excellence.

To help organizations achieve enterprise-wide transformation to compete in the digital era, Schneider Electric and Deloitte are teaming up to bring together Deloitte's IndustryAdvantage experience, Ascend services delivery platform, strategy, people, process and technology transformation and Schneider Electric's domain expertise and purpose-built, AI-enabled OT and software technology.

Together, the two organizations will help clients:

Modernize industrial operations with tested IT/OT integration and end-to-end digital transformation

Break free from siloed, legacy systems and better leverage open, software-defined automation platforms

Integrate AI and advanced analytics to accelerate time to value and increase business impact

Build adaptive, future-ready operations that drive efficiency and resilience

Drive change throughout the organization to encourage adoption and modernization

"Organizations know they need to transform, but many lack a roadmap that unites business strategy with the right digital and OT foundation," said Gwenaelle Huet, Executive Vice President, Industrial Automation at Schneider Electric. "By combining our technology leadership with Deloitte's experience in driving operational excellence and enterprise-wide change, we are giving customers the tools they need to move forward with speed and confidence."

Ajai Vasudevan, Global Smart Operations Leader, Deloitte, said: "True digital transformation is about far more than deploying new tools; it demands a reinvention of how an organization competes and grows. Deloitte brings the reach and rigor to lead that change end-to-end, across every layer of the enterprise. Paired with Schneider Electric's OT expertise and AI-enabled industrial technology, this collaboration offers clients new ways to transform and provides the operational precision needed to make it real."

This collaboration marks a major step toward enabling organizations to innovate faster, operate more sustainably, and scale smarter - not years from now, but today.

At their respective booths at Hannover Messe 2026, Schneider Electric (Hall 13, Stand C34) and Deloitte (Hall 15, Stand E75) will demonstrate solutions advancing the next generation of manufacturing.

Press contact: media.relations@se.com

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies.

www.se.com

Discover the newest perspectives on energy technology on Schneider Electric Insights.

As used in this document, "Deloitte" means Deloitte Consulting LLP, a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of our legal structure. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d185555-b771-4931-ba37-33a6fc1f5d24

As Digital Lending Grows in Singapore, Lending Bee Strengthens Cybersecurity and Data Protection Standards

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:20:00 +0700

Pitch Notes:

*Lending Bee Pte. Ltd., a licensed money lender in Singapore, is making a notable push on cybersecurity and data protection at a time when borrower trust in digital financial services is under increasing scrutiny.

*The company has implemented a multi-layered security overhaul - including enhanced IT infrastructure, stricter access controls, and structured vendor governance - and is now pursuing Singapore's Cyber Essentials certification. It has also put in place a comprehensive Data Protection Policy aligned with the PDPA.

*This comes alongside its recognition by the Singapore FinTech Association with the SFA FinTech Certificate under the Credit Assessment and Lending category - a signal that regulated, non-bank lenders are closing the digital and governance gap with mainstream financial institutions.

*The angle: as digital lending scales and data breach risks rise, what does responsible innovation look like for licensed moneylenders operating outside the traditional banking system? Lending Bee? offers a concrete, on-the-record case study.

*This story may be relevant for fintech, business, and financial services desks covering Singapore's digital lending landscape, cybersecurity in financial services, or the modernisation of the regulated moneylending sector.

*A spokesperson is available for interview. Please contact Liu Xiao at sarah.liu@lendingbee.com.sg.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - As digital lending continues to grow in Singapore, borrowers are placing greater emphasis on both convenience and the security of their personal information.

Lending Bee? has responded to these evolving expectations by strengthening its digital capabilities alongside its cybersecurity and data protection standards. As a licensed money lender in Singapore, the company continues to invest in technology and governance to deliver a safer and more reliable borrowing experience.

Recognised by the Singapore FinTech Association (SFA) with the SFA FinTech Certificate under the Credit Assessment and Lending category, Lending Bee has established itself as a digitally progressive player within the regulated lending space. The recognition reflects its role in advancing the digitalisation of traditional moneylending processes within a regulated framework.

Through its proprietary digital solutions and mobile-enabled services, Lending Bee has streamlined personal loan application processes, allowing customers to receive outcomes more quickly and with greater transparency. This approach reflects the company's focus on improving accessibility while maintaining responsible lending practices.

At the same time, Lending Bee has strengthened its cybersecurity framework to ensure that customer information remains protected in an increasingly digital environment. The company has upgraded its IT infrastructure with enhanced security architecture, improved system isolation, and reinforced monitoring capabilities to better detect and mitigate potential risks.

Access control measures have also been further strengthened, alongside enhancements to user access management processes such as regular reviews and improved authentication practices, to reinforce accountability across the organisation.

To align with national cybersecurity standards, Lending Bee has initiated its roadmap towards obtaining Singapore's Cyber Essentials certification, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high standards of data protection and system security.

Beyond internal systems, the company has enhanced its vendor governance and compliance processes, including periodic assessments and independent evaluations, to ensure that third-party partners meet stringent data protection requirements.

Lending Bee has also implemented a comprehensive Data Protection Policy in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), covering the secure collection, storage, and handling of customer information, as well as clear protocols for data governance and accountability.

"Digital innovation should never come at the expense of trust," said Liu Xiao, Managing Director at Lending Bee Pte. Ltd. "As we continue to modernise the borrowing experience, we are equally committed to strengthening cybersecurity, data protection, and responsible lending standards for our customers."

By combining digital innovation with strong governance and security practices, Lending Bee aims to provide borrowers in Singapore with a safer, more reliable, and more transparent lending experience. More information is available at https://www.lendingbee.com.sg/.

About Lending Bee Pte. Ltd.

Lending Bee Pte. Ltd. is a licensed money lender in Singapore regulated by the Ministry of Law, providing personal loans, expatriate loan solutions, and short-term financial assistance to individuals across Singapore. Recognised by the Singapore FinTech Association with the SFA FinTech Certificate under the Credit Assessment and Lending category, Lending Bee combines proprietary digital lending technology with rigorous cybersecurity and data protection standards to deliver a transparent and trustworthy borrowing experience.

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

Hashtags: #LendingBee #DigitalLending #FinTech #Cybersecurity #DataProtection

CCUS Hub Study identifies five Asia-Pacific hub sites and welcomes new consortium partners

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:10:00 +0700

Singapore, April 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

*The CCUS Hub Study is investigating the technical and commercial feasibility of common infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region as an emissions reduction option for hard-to-abate industries (primarily steelmaking).

*First milestone complete with Phase 1 of the Study assessing more than 3,000 potential hub locations and narrowing the list to five key hubs in India (two hubs), Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia.

*The five key hubs highlight the opportunities and commercial feasibility for large-scale CCUS adoption and provide the scope of analysis for Phase 2.

*In Phase 2, the identified hubs will be further defined and optimised, with a focus on commercial model development and more rigorous regulatory gap assessment.

*The purpose of the Study is to deliver tailored analysis that supports industry understanding of CCUS. The Study also aims to increase public understanding of CCUS in Asia.

*The Study welcomes three new industry partners: Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Ltd. ("K" LINE), Kobe Steel LTD, and Low Emission Technology Australia (LETA).??

An industry Consortium developing a first-of-its-kind Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Hub Study for Asia has identified five hubs as potential storage options after assessing over 3,000 site locations.

The Study focuses on the capture, transport, and long-term storage of carbon dioxide emissions (CO₂) from hard-to-abate sectors, including steel, cement and chemicals.

The Consortium, comprised of leading steelmakers ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, JSW Steel, Hyundai Steel Company, and other value chain players, BHP, Chevron, and Mitsui & Co., Ltd., commits to strong industry collaboration in advancing CCUS pathways. It welcomes three new partners, which will deepen the Study's input across the value chain and expand the scale of the opportunity geographically:??

"K" LINE joins as the strategic expert in shipping technology for carbon dioxide.??

Kobe Steel LTD. brings deep technical steelmaking experience and abatement commitments.??

LETA provides industry-leading expertise on global lower-emissions technologies.

The industry Consortium commenced a prefeasibility study in August 2025 to evaluate the development opportunity of CCUS hubs across Asia.

Through a high-level options study, Phase 1 of the project assessed more than 3,000 potential storage sites across the Asia-Pacific. This process narrowed the field to five hubs located in India (two hubs), Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia ? each selected for their potential performance across the full CCUS value chain, including capture, aggregation, transport, export to storage, utilisation approaches including technology and commercial readiness and market evaluation, and the policy and commercial conditions needed for deployment.

The five hubs were chosen on the basis of them providing a diverse set of characteristics, helping the Study examine important trade‑offs, shape the CCUS development pathway, and pinpoint the practical steps required for feasibility. The selected hubs represent regional and international locations and include both onshore and offshore storage.

The findings to date demonstrate that regardless of which hub is selected, strong policy support, targeted incentives, and clear regulatory frameworks are critical to making CCUS commercially viable.

Phase 2 of the Study will undertake detailed engineering and commercial analysis of the five shortlisted hubs. This includes maturing engineering definition and developing potential implementation roadmaps to address key opportunities and challenges. The work will culminate in conceptual development plans outlining the business case, value chain design, CO₂ forecasts, and potential pathways to abatement realisation for each hub.

By leveraging shared infrastructure and economies of scale, the Study seeks potential applications for captured CO₂ in industrial processes, or transport captured CO₂ via pipeline or shipping to storage sites.

The purpose of the Study is to deliver tailored analysis that supports industry understanding of CCUS. The Study also aims to increase public understanding of CCUS in Asia.

The CCUS Hub Study is being delivered by Hatch as Project Management Officer in collaboration with Pace CCS, McDaniel, and Global CCS Institute.?

The Consortium continues to welcome new partners and emphasises that CCUS remains a critical pathway for industries wanting to achieve net zero emissions.

Quotes from the Consortium parties

"K" LINE: Michitomo Iwashita, Senior Managing Corporate Officer

"We believe that CCUS will play a vital role in realizing a carbon neutral society in the future. In particular, for hard to abate sectors such as the steel industry, CCUS represents an indispensable solution for achieving decarbonization.

"Through our participation in this consortium, we will deepen collaboration with industry partners and actively contribute, from the perspective of maritime transportation, to the establishment of a sustainable CO₂ value chain."

LETA:? Mark McCallum, CEO

"This is exactly the kind of serious, cross-industry and international collaboration that demonstrates how industries critical to the world's economies including mining, steel, cement and power generation, can all work together to address the challenges of decarbonisation.

"The consortium has identified a number of decarbonisation opportunities across the region, as well as the technologies and policies that will be needed to unlock investment and action."

Kobe Steel LTD:? Yoichiro Yamazaki, Executive Officer for the Technology Strategy & Planning Department and companywide technical development

"Decarbonising hard-to-abate industries will require scalable solutions, collaboration and enabling policy and regulatory frameworks. The Study has reached an important milestone and provides a strong foundation for further technical definition going forward.

"We joined the Consortium to bring steelmaking expertise and to play an active role in advancing practical approaches to CCUS deployment that support emissions reduction and the long-term sustainability of the industry. We look forward to continuing to work with partners to help develop actionable routes toward real-world implementation."??

ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India: Dr. Arvind Bodhankar, Chief Sustainability Officer

"The study has delivered critical and encouraging insights, highlighting the strength and success of the Consortium's collaborative approach.

"As we transition to Phase 2, I am confident the work will progress effectively, providing greater clarity through detailed engineering, commercial analysis, and strengthening pathways toward large-scale deployment.

"As outlined in ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India's Climate Action Report 2024, Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) is one of the key levers to achieve the net zero goal for our company.

"We have consistently supported credible, collaborative initiatives that accelerate large-scale CO₂ emissions reduction.

"We strongly advocate sustainable steelmaking as both a competitive imperative and a responsibility to the communities around us, particularly for the generations to come."

BHP: Dr Ben Ellis, Vice President Marketing Sustainability

"BHP is committed to supporting our steelmaking customers to decarbonise as demand for high quality steel continues to grow to expand energy networks, build infrastructure and support a growing population.

"With more than 1 billion tonnes of production a year in Asia coming from blast furnace capacity that is relatively early in its production life, it's important for industry to progress technologies to lower the emissions intensity of existing steelmaking assets while new commercial pathways to decarbonise steelmaking are developed over time.

?"Innovative solutions-like the potential of CCUS-are an essential part of decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as steelmaking. This study will play an important role in leveraging shared knowledge and resources across the industry with many of the world's leading steelmakers mentioning carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) in their decarbonisation plans."

Chevron Australia New Energies (CANE): David Fallon, Australia's Lower Carbon Execution General Manager

"Chevron Australia looks forward to the outcomes of the CCUS Hub study. We believe in the critical role carbon capture and storage (CCS) can play in a lower carbon world.

"We continue to leverage our expertise and global reach to advance CCS technologies and scale lower carbon solutions across the value chain including in the hard-to-abate sector."

Hyundai Steel Company: Yonghee Kim, Vice President, Process R&D Sub-Division

"As we conclude Phase 1 of the project, we have not only identified five highly promising CCUS hubs, but also laid a strong foundation for large-scale CO₂ reduction through close collaboration among the Consortium members.

"The participation of new Consortium members is expected to further enrich perspectives and strengthen cross-industry cooperation.

"Hyundai Steel remains committed to leading the development of CCUS and other low-carbon technologies, contributing to enhanced sustainability across the industry."

JSW Steel: Prabodha Acharya, Chief Sustainability Officer

"The completion of Phase 1 of the CCUS Hub Study marks an important milestone in building the foundations for largescale industrial decarbonisation in India and the Asia -Pacific region.

"As one of India's leading steel producers, JSW Steel is taking a leadership role in advancing CCUS as a critical enabler for hard-to-abate sectors, alongside renewable energy, efficiency, and process innovation.

"This Phase 1 work reflects JSW's commitment to convening industry partners, technology providers, and policymakers to develop shared infrastructure and credible, investable pathways that can accelerate India's net zero transition while strengthening industrial competitiveness."

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.: Hideaki Konishi, Managing Officer, Mineral & Metal Resources BU COO

"Mitsui welcomes the new member companies joining the CCUS Hub Study Consortium and looks forward to further strengthening cross‑industry collaboration in Phase 2, which will involve detailed analysis of five shortlisted hubs.

"Identifying promising hub candidates across the Asia-Pacific region through this Study represents an important step toward establishing viable pathways for large-scale CO₂ reduction.

"By bringing together diverse expertise across industries, Mitsui will work with the Consortium partners to support the deployment of the CCUS hub in Asia and accelerate progress toward achieving net zero emissions by 2050."

Hatch: Jan Kwak, Managing Director, Climate Change Technologies

"Hatch is fiercely committed to the pursuit of a better world through positive change and continues to deliver world-class project delivery, professional services and engineering solutions for the metals, energy and infrastructure industries.?

"Working with the CCUS Consortium, we realise a shared vision ? one where we create unprecedented outcomes for our environment, businesses, and communities as we tackle some of the hardest-to-abate industries.?

"We're proud to support the Consortium and clients around the world to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and meet their carbon neutral commitments.

"This study represents real, tangible progress and proves CCUS is the best technology for advancing carbon abatement efforts."

#ENDS? ?

About the Consortium Members

"K" LINE: Founded in 1919, is one of the world's leading shipping companies, operating a diversified fleet across a wide range of maritime transportation sectors. Building on its extensive experience in liquefied gas carriers, including LPG carriers since 1974 and LNG carriers since 1983, "K" LINE has expanded into LCO₂ transportation business.

Especially, we are accumulating hands-on experience and operational know-how in LCO₂ transportation through participation in multiple CCS-related projects such as "Northern Lights" in Norway and some government-supported projects in Japan.

Based on these experiences, "K" LINE is well positioned to contribute to the safe and reliable LCO₂ transportation in the CCUS value chain.

In particular, we aim to support the decarbonisation of hard-to-abate sectors, including the steel industry, through a range of practical initiatives, such as operating LNG-fuelled bulk carriers, transporting direct reduced iron (DRI), and also providing LCO₂ transportation solutions.

The "K" LINE Group is actively promoting a range of initiatives aimed at supporting its own decarbonisation efforts and those of society in accordance with its long-term environmental guidelines, "K" LINE Environmental Vision 2050 - Blue Seas for the Future.

LETA:? Low Emission Technology Australia (LETA) is a not-for-profit investment fund that accelerates the development and deployment of technology solutions to reduce and remove greenhouse gas emissions from hard-to-abate industrial sectors including steel, cement, chemicals, and power generation.

Since 2006, LETA members have contributed more than $400 million to low emissions projects, unlocking a total investment of $1.1 billion. LETA brings together industry, government, and research to drive practical, scalable pathways to net zero for industries that cannot simply electrify.

Kobe Steel, Ltd. (KOBELCO): Is a Japan-based diversified manufacturer with three core business areas: materials, machinery and electric power. Founded in 1905, KOBELCO's Materials business includes steelmaking and related products that support a wide range of industries.

KOBELCO is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and is advancing initiatives that combine technology development with practical process transition.

As part of its decarbonisation efforts, KOBELCO is exploring pathways including hydrogen and carbon capture and storage (CCS).

Recognising that progress depends not only on technology but also on enabling conditions, KOBELCO works with stakeholders across the value chain?including suppliers, customers, governments and industry bodies?to help build GX supply chains and the market and policy frameworks needed for sustainable decarbonisation.

BHP: Is a global resources company. With more than 90,000 employees and contractors, we work in more than 90 locations worldwide and our products are sold globally.?

We're focused on the resources the world needs to grow and decarbonise. Population growth, urbanisation and improving living standards are global trends that underpin strong demand for the commodities we produce. Demand for essential commodities is expected to increase as the world seeks to decarbonise. Our project pipeline and focus on continuous improvement in existing operations leave us well positioned across our four key commodity pillars of copper, potash, iron ore and steelmaking coal in the decades ahead.??

We are partnering with customers and others to try to accelerate decarbonisation in steelmaking. BHP's 2030 goals include supporting industry to develop steel production technology capable of 30 per cent lower GHG emissions intensity relative to conventional blast furnace steelmaking, with widespread adoption expected post-2030. ?

ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India): Is a joint venture between ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel, two of the world's leading steel manufacturing organisations. A leading integrated flat carbon steel producer in India, the company has a crude steel capacity of 9 million tonnes per annum with state-of-the-art downstream facilities.

It produces a fully diversified range of flat steel products, including value-added steel, and has a pellet capacity of 20 million tonnes. The company is also setting up an 8.2 million tonnes per annum integrated steel plant in Andhra Pradesh. With the objective to make steel production climate-neutral, ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India has strategic plans to transition its business to cleaner technology and is looking to strengthen its sustainability roadmap through clean energy sources viz., renewable power, natural gas, carbon capture utilization and/or storage and green hydrogen. ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India is the only integrated steel company in India to receive the Green Steel Certificate from the Union Ministry of Steel.

Hyundai Steel Company: Established in 1953 as Korea's first steel manufacturer, is a member of Hyundai Motor Group and a recognised leader in high-performance steel materials. Hyundai Steel has paved the way for sustainable growth by launching its blast furnace business in the 2010s as a new growth engine, in addition to its existing electric arc furnace-based operations.

Hyundai Steel has served as a prime mover in Korea's steel industry and is now actively undertaking the establishment of an overseas production base to secure a foundation for future growth. Hyundai Steel aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, emphasising sustainable practices and innovative carbon-neutral technologies to meet government-mandated carbon reduction requirements and become a low-carbon steelmaker.??

JSW Steel: Is the flagship company of the US$23 billion JSW Group, a diversified Indian conglomerate with interests spanning energy, infrastructure, cement, paints, realty, mobility, defence, sports, and venture capital.

Over three decades, JSW Steel has evolved into India's leading integrated steel producer with a consolidated crude steel capacity of 35.7 MTPA (including 1.5 MTPA in the US), set to grow to 43.4 MTPA in three years.

Its Vijayanagar plant in Karnataka is India's largest single-location steel facility at 17.5 MTPA. JSW Steel is recognised for sustainability and operational excellence, earning accolades like the Steel Sustainability Champion (2019?2026), Deming Prize for TQM, and top rankings in CDP disclosures and global sustainability indices. It ranks 1st globally in S&P Global CSA Score 2025 and 8th in World-Class Steelmaker Rankings by WSD.

Committed to climate goals, JSW Steel targets a 42% CO₂ reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050, aiming to power steel-making entirely with renewables by 2030. It's also certified as a Great Place to Work and recognised among India's best employers in health and wellness.??

Chevron Australia New Energies (CANE): Is a subsidiary of Chevron, one of the world's leading integrated energy companies and through its Australian subsidiaries, has been present in Australia for more than 70 years.

With the ingenuity and commitment of thousands of workers, Chevron in Australia operates the Gorgon and Wheatstone natural gas facilities and is a significant investor in exploration, operates one of the world's largest integrated CCS projects at Gorgon, and delivers quality fuels and lubricants primarily via its Caltex network of service stations across Australia.

Globally, Chevron aims to grow its oil and gas business, lower the carbon intensity of its operations, and grow new businesses in renewable fuels, carbon capture and offsets, hydrogen, power generation for data centers, and emerging technologies, through various subsidiaries including CANE.??

Mitsui & Co., Ltd.: Is a global trading and investment company with a presence in more than 60 countries and a diverse business portfolio covering a wide range of industries.

Mitsui & Co., Ltd. identifies, develops, and grows its businesses in partnership with a global network of trusted partners including world leading companies, combining its geographic and cross-industry strengths to create long-term sustainable value for its stakeholders.

Mitsui & Co., Ltd. has set "Global Energy Transition" as one of Key Strategic Initiatives in the Medium-term Management Plan 2026.??

Hatch: Is a global engineering, project delivery, and professional services firm. We work with clients around the globe to design and build solutions with them.

With seven decades of business and technical experience in the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, we know and understand industry challenges and respond with solutions that are smarter, more efficient, and innovative.

We draw upon our 11,000 staff with experience in over 150 countries to challenge the status quo and create positive change for our clients, our employees, and the communities we serve.

Attachments

CCUS Consortium Members

Lindsay Janca

Hatch Ltd

+1 905 403 4199

lindsay.janca@hatch.com

Michael Cox

BHP

+65 8964 3561?

michael.cox1@bhp.com

Monash IVF Singapore Spotlights Male Factor Infertility for National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:31:00 +0700

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 April 2026 - In conjunction with National Infertility Awareness Week (19-25 April 2026), Monash IVF Singapore, alongside partners like Fertility Support Singapore, is shifting the spotlight to a long-overlooked narrative: male factor infertility.

While fertility discussions often centre on women, statistics show that male factors contribute to approximately 50% of all infertility cases. Male factor infertility can arise from a range of factors, including low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, or underlying medical issues. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and environmental exposures may also affect sperm quality over time.

Despite its prevalence, male factor infertility is often less discussed in Singapore, which can lead to delays in assessment and treatment. Early evaluation, including semen analysis and medical consultation, can help identify potential concerns and guide appropriate next steps for couples.

To support greater awareness, Monash IVF is launching a series of digital educational content aimed at de-stigmatising male reproductive health and providing actionable insights for men to take charge of their fertility. These resources will cover common causes of male infertility, when to seek medical advice, and the types of assessments and treatment options available. By making this information more accessible, the clinic aims to encourage earlier evaluation and more open conversations about male factor infertility, both within relationships and in the wider community.

As Singapore's demographic landscape evolves, Monash IVF Singapore is contributing to broader discussions on reproductive health. With the national Total Fertility Rate (TFR) reaching a record low of 0.87 in 2025, the need for comprehensive and patient-centred fertility care continues to grow.

Understanding Modern Fertility Challenges: Beyond Biological Factors

The decline in fertility is not merely a biological hurdle but a reflection of the intense pressures that Singaporeans face today. The "workplace rat race", high-stress environments, and environmental factors have contributed to a trend of delayed parenthood. Many individuals are choosing to start families later due to career progression, financial considerations, and evolving life priorities. At the same time, age remains a key factor, as both egg and sperm quality may decline over time.

As such, these same pressures do not just delay parenthood; they also make it more difficult for individuals to pursue fertility treatments in Singapore. Managing appointments, coping with the physical and emotional demands of treatment, and balancing work responsibilities can become an added strain for many.

"Fertility is often treated as a private struggle, but it is a societal challenge," says June Jonet, Marketing and Business Development Head of Monash IVF Singapore. "We are calling for greater understanding and support within the workplace. Employees undergoing fertility treatments or preservation need an environment that recognises the physical and emotional toll of this journey, rather than one that penalises them for it."

Monash IVF's Approach to Assisted Reproductive Care

Monash IVF Singapore's clinical and laboratory team is led by Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui, supported by a team of senior embryologists and Fertility Specialists, including Dr Kelly Loi, Dr Suresh Nair, and Dr Yap Lip Kee.

The clinic applies a range of established assisted reproductive techniques to enhance success rates, tailored to individual clinical needs. These include:

Piezo-ICSI: A fertilisation method that uses a blunt needle with high-speed vibration to gently penetrate eggs and assist sperm injection. It may be considered in cases involving fragile oocytes or advanced maternal age.

IMSI: A technique that uses high-magnification imaging to support sperm selection, enabling embryologists to identify and avoid sperm with morphological abnormalities, such as vacuoles.

PICSI: A method of biological sperm selection using hyaluronic acid to help identify mature sperm with a lower likelihood of DNA damage.

Embryoscope+: A time-lapse imaging system that continuously monitors embryo development without disrupting stable culture conditions, supporting the selection of embryos with strong developmental potential for transfer.

The Power of Planning: Fertility Preservation

Alongside treatment, Monash IVF Singapore highlights the importance of proactive planning. As more women and couples choose to delay parenthood, elective egg freezing (a form of fertility preservation) has become a vital tool. At the same time, early assessment of male factor infertility, including semen analysis, can identify potential concerns and help couples prepare more confidently.

"Even with the range of treatments available today, timing still matters," says Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui. "Early consultation allows patients to better understand their options and make informed decisions."

With infertility affecting approximately 1 in 6 individuals, it is now recognised as a relatively common medical condition rather than a rare exception. This is why at Monash IVF Singapore, fertility care is not only about addressing challenges as they arise but also about supporting early planning for both men and women. With options such as elective egg freezing, male fertility assessment, and fertility health checks, the clinic aims to help Singaporeans better understand their reproductive health and make informed decisions at different stages of their journey.

For more information about Monash IVF Singapore and what they do, visit their website.

Hashtag: #MonashIVF #malefertility #mensfertility #reproductivehealth #fertilityawareness #menswellness

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

HKTB Taps Hong Kong Sevens' 50th Anniversary to Promote Hong Kong as the "Events Capital of Asia"

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:19:00 +0700

HONG KONG, April 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. By bundling a series of mega events under the promotional platform "Hong Kong Mega 8", the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is showcasing to global audiences Hong Kong's diverse and vibrant appeal as the "Events Capital of Asia" to attract visitors to the city. As a long-time supporter of this world-class sporting event, HKTB is introducing China-made robots previously featured on CCTV's Spring Festival Gala to perform and cheer at the opening ceremony, offering audiences worldwide a fresh experience that brings together sports, innovative technology and culture.

HKTB is introducing China-made robots previously featured on CCTV's Spring Festival Gala to perform and cheer at the opening ceremony

Dr Peter Lam, HKTB Chairman, said, "This year marks a significant milestone for the Hong Kong Sevens as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. Over the past half-century, the Hong Kong Sevens has witnessed the development of rugby in Hong Kong, while also becoming a major annual international sporting event that draws worldwide attention, successfully attracting visitors from around the world to be part of it. With the strong support of China Media Group, HKTB has arranged for China-made robots previously featured in CCTV's Spring Festival Gala to appear as special guest performers, adding a new highlight to the event. While enjoying world-class rugby, audiences can also experience the global-leading capabilities of China's robotics, as well as Hong Kong's distinctive charm as the 'Events Capital of Asia', where sports, innovative technology and culture come together."

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law said: "I am very grateful to Hong Kong China Rugby and the Hong Kong Tourism Board for their efforts in adding so many exciting elements to this year's 50th anniversary of the Hong Kong Sevens. The robots' performance was truly fun and full of energy. I hope local and visiting fans will come together this weekend to join the Hong Kong Sevens party."

Blending tradition with innovative elements, the opening performance of the 50th edition was packed with highlights. Following a dragon dance, 10 robots teamed up seamlessly with a cheerleading squad, kicking off the event with dynamic choreography and precise coordination, hyping up the crowd in the stadium.

Immediately following the innovative cheerleading performance, lasers danced across the Main Stadium pitch, displaying the participating nations over the years, the names of legendary Sevens players, and the effect of twin dragons soaring over Hong Kong, celebrating 50 years of golden development for the Hong Kong Sevens. The closing ceremony on Sunday will feature a spectacular pyrotechnic display launched from the stadium roof, bringing the three-day tournament to a dazzling finale.

Robots produced by Chinese Mainland company Unitree Robotics perform as special guests at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Sevens.Robots produced by Chinese Mainland company Unitree Robotics perform as special guests at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Sevens.

HKTB also brought the robots to the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui and the East Coast Boardwalk in North Point to film promotional footage showcasing Hong Kong.

For overseas promotion, HKTB partnered with the Hong Kong China Rugby (HKCR) to invite a number of international key opinion leaders (KOLs) to visit Hong Kong and experience the mega-event appeal of the Hong Kong Sevens. Among them were three athletes who appeared in Netflix Korea's Physical: 100 - Noh Sung-yul, a South Korean fitness YouTuber with over 10 million followers; artist Justin John Harvey; and well-known actor Lee Jae-yoon. In addition to appearing at Kai Tak Sports Park and the Hong Kong Sevens Fan Village to experience the event's vibrant atmosphere, the trio explored various Hong Kong landmarks and checked out a series of distinctive experiences combining fitness challenges with local food culture, filming promotional content for HKTB and expanding the international exposure of both the Hong Kong Sevens and Hong Kong tourism. At the same time, HKTB invited partners from the local travel trade, the MICE (meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions) and cruise sectors, and overseas travel agency representatives and media, to attend the event to witness this annual international sporting highlight and experience Hong Kong's charm as the "Events Capital of Asia".

Members of the media can download the photos and videos from the following link:

https://assetlibrary.hktb.com/assetbank-hktb/action/browseItems?categoryId=2402&categoryTypeId=2　

For media inquiries, please contact:

Mr Cameron Tong Tel: 2807 6367 Email: cameron.tong@hktb.com

Mr Chokie Cheng Tel: 2807 6342 Email: chokie.cheng@hktb.com