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EP Shanghai Sets Sights on Global Expansion at Middle East Energy Dubai 2024

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – The 32nd Shanghai International Electric Power Equipment and Technology Exhibition (EP Shanghai 2024) and the Shanghai International Energy Storage Technology Application Expo (ES Shanghai 2024) are proud to announce their global expansion strategy by participating as a Media Partner in the prestigious Middle East Energy (MEE 2024) exhibition. This collaboration is a significant step in the event’s international promotion efforts, in line with the Chinese government’s “Bring In” and “Go Global” strategies.

Jointly organized by the China Electricity Council, State Grid Corporation of China, and Adsale Exhibition Services Limited, EP Shanghai is set to take place at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (Halls N1-N5 & W5) from December 5-7, 2024. Established in 1986, it is one of the most established and leading electric power & electrical expos in China. It aims to create an international one-stop platform for business and technological exchange in the electric power industry by bringing global industry experts together.

EP Shanghai is well-attended by renowned exhibitors from both domestic and international brands, including ABB, Schneider, Siemens, Eaton, CHINT, Acrel, Rocoi, Daqo Group, Tember, Huawei, TBEA, Phoenix Contact, State Grid Corp, China Electrical Equipment Group, Wasion Group, and more.

Concurrent Exhibitions to Maximize Synergy and Networking Opportunities

EP Shanghai 2024 will be held concurrently with the Energy Storage Technology Application Expo (ES Shanghai 2024), International Data Center & Cloud Computing Industry Expo (CDCE 2024), and International Intelligent Building & Green Technology Expo (IBG 2024). This powerful synergy is anticipated to draw in over 1,800 exhibitors and more than 50,000 visitors from over 70 countries/regions, fostering unparalleled cross-industry networking and business opportunities.

In recent years, China’s electric power equipment manufacturing technology has made significant advancements in research and development, as well as quality. China-made high-end transmission & distribution technology/equipment has successfully entered the international market, signifying the continuous enhancement of international recognition for China’s electric power equipment manufacturing technology. With the growing demand in the international market for green energy transformation, grid upgrades, and new energy integration, China’s electric power equipment exports are entering a golden period of development.

EP Shanghai is well-recognized by industrial professionals as the leading electric power & electrical expo in China, serving as a compass for new technologies and industry trends. The exhibition focuses on industry hot topics and taps into the global market. It features five major zones: New Energy & Energy Storage, Energy Digitalization, One-stop Power Transmission & Distribution, Intelligent Manufacturing, and Electric Power Automation. Over 30 concurrent events will be held, aiming to facilitate business & technological exchange and cooperation, expanding business boundaries, and exploring new opportunities.

International Buyers Program: Customized Support for Overseas Visitors

In the past year, EP Shanghai has witnessed a significant surge in the number of overseas visitors, drawing attendees from over 70 countries and regions, including Russia, Belarus, Mexico, Indonesia and Pakistan. The increase in international guests exceeded 4,000, accounting for 8.6% of the total number of attendees.

Responding to the increasing international interest, EP Shanghai 2024 has reinforced its commitment to providing a superior experience for international visitors. The EP MVP business matching program has been meticulously crafted to facilitate connections with a curated network of over ten thousand premier suppliers, backed by comprehensive year-round business matching services. This program aims to sustain ongoing engagement and to cultivate opportunities for partnerships well beyond the exhibition.

Moreover, the International Buyers Program has been introduced to create a hospitable and supportive setting for our international guests. This exclusive program provides complimentary accommodations, travel subsidies, on-site multilingual support, and personalized factory tours and business matching meetings, all designed to ensure that our international visitors have a smooth and fruitful experience.

Strategic Partnership with Middle East Energy Exhibition(MEE2024)

As the Media Partner at MEE 2024, EP Shanghai, scheduled to take place at the Dubai World Trade Center, UAE, from April 16th to 18th, heralds a significant leap in its journey towards international market expansion. This strategic partnership solidifies EP Shanghai’s dedication to amplifying its international presence and emphasizes its preparedness to assume a prominent role on the global stage.

Middle East Energy Dubai, a linchpin event with a 45-year legacy, is instrumental in connecting industry leaders and pioneers. EP Shanghai’s engagement promises to enrich the conversation between Eastern and Western markets, offering stakeholders an exceptional platform to explore the latest industry trends, technologies, and solutions.

Hashtag: #EPShanghai

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

About EP Shanghai

Established in 1986, EP Shanghai is the leading electric power expo in China, endorsed and supported by major industry associations. It serves as a hub for industry professionals to showcase and explore cutting-edge technologies and solutions in electric power equipment and technology.

For More Information:

To learn more about EP Shanghai 2024, please visit our website

EP Shanghai 2023 Post-show Report :

EP Shanghai 2023 Show Video & Photos:

The First Thai Super Star Solo Concert “BILLKIN TEMPO TOUR 2024” Held Successfully in Galaxy Arena

Macau’s newest and largest indoor arena becoming the hottest spot for international superstars, attracting music buffs from Thailand and across the globe with impressive lineup of performances


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – Thai actor and singer Billkin succeeded his first solo concert “BILLKIN TEMPO TOUR 2024” at Galaxy Arena, Macau’s newest and largest indoor venue. On the night of the show, the rising superstar treated fans to a captivating performance with over 20 of his hit songs, including “Daily Magic”, “Mr.Everything,” and “FIRE BOY”. With his flawless vocals echoing through the high quality surround sound system at Galaxy Arena, local and international fans were immersed in Billkin’s unique musical universe. The concert culminated in a rousing rendition of “Always Beautiful” marking a triumphant close to Billkin’s solo concert in Macau.

“BILLKIN TEMPO TOUR 2024 IN MACAU” took fans on a musical utopia adventure at Galaxy Arena, marking the great success of the Billkin’s first solo concert in Macau.

Billkin expressed his excitement about staging his first solo concert in Macau and performing at the city’s newest and largest venue. He felt honored and was happy to meet his fans from around Asia in Macau. It was a very special night for him to be with his fans from many countries around the world at the Galaxy Arena. Most of the shows were similar to his previous concerts, but the atmosphere in Macau was unique and different from other cities.

Local music lovers and fans who traveled from various corners of the globe converged in Macau to fully immerse themselves in the unique musical universe of Billkin.
Local music lovers and fans who traveled from various corners of the globe converged in Macau to fully immerse themselves in the unique musical universe of Billkin.
Local music lovers and fans who traveled from various corners of the globe converged in Macau to fully immerse themselves in the unique musical universe of Billkin.
Local music lovers and fans who traveled from various corners of the globe converged in Macau to fully immerse themselves in the unique musical universe of Billkin.

“I’d like to thank my fans for their constant support. It’s a very exciting experience for me to perform at this biggest and newest arena in Macau. The grandeur of the venue, the facilities, the stage, and the production team’s devotion have impressed me,” Billkin said. “I hope the concert made my international fans happy like me. I was delighted to hear them sing along in Thai. I felt their great love for me. It is not easy to remember lyrics that are not in your language. But my fans could do it and sang along impressively.”

Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort, covers 1.1 million square meters of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau.
Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort, covers 1.1 million square meters of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau.

As the landmark of art and entertainment in Macau, Galaxy Arena is the rising hot spot for entertainment buffs, dishing out nonstop thrills for globetrotting tourists. Since its grand opening last year, the venue has been rocking with sold-out concerts by international stars such as the world-renowned K-Pop superstar BLACKPINK, global megastar Jackson Wang and American rock band One Republic. The 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena is nestled with Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort, covers 1.1 million square meters of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau, including 8 award-winning world-class luxury hotels, 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck, over 120 dining options and award-winning luxury lifestyle shopping destination, Galaxy Promenade. It is a spectacular location for travelers from Thailand and around the world, offering the best of leisure memory with its “World Class, Asian Heart” service philosophy, serving guests to experience the true warmth and intuitive hospitality of Asia.

Galaxy Arena, the landmark of art and entertainment in Macau, has been dedicated to delivering endless charm and fun to travelers from all over the world. Since its grand opening last year, it has drawn a string of international performances, including the world-renowned K-Pop superstar BLACKPINK, global megastar Jackson Wang and American rock band One Republic.
Galaxy Arena, the landmark of art and entertainment in Macau, has been dedicated to delivering endless charm and fun to travelers from all over the world. Since its grand opening last year, it has drawn a string of international performances, including the world-renowned K-Pop superstar BLACKPINK, global megastar Jackson Wang and American rock band One Republic.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular

Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau and Broadway Hotel. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit , and .

Citibank Introduces Market-First “Emergency e-Banking Service Lock”

Fortifying Account Security with Option to Disable Access to Transaction Services Via Citi Mobile® App


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – Citibank announced today the imminent launch of the “Emergency e-Banking Service Lock” (“the feature”), which echoes with the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s call for banks to adopt additional security measures. It is a market-first solution that further strengthens account security by allowing customers the option to temporarily disable access to transaction services via Citi Mobile® App when they suspect their account is being compromised and restore the services all digitally. The feature can be activated instantly through “Emergency Centre” on the pre-login page of Citi Mobile® App. A notification email and SMS message will be sent once the customer has confirmed the activation.

To ensure customers’ account security, Citibank will put in place the following service restrictions once the feature has been activated:

  • Disabled access to Citibank Online
  • Read-only mode for Citi Mobile® App, with only transaction details accessible

(*Note: Card transactions, ATM services and pre-authorized/pre-scheduled payments or transactions will not be affected.)

Customers who have lost their card or suspect their card has been compromised could notify us in “Report Card Lost” directly through “Emergency Centre” in Citi Mobile® App.

Customers may restore access to Citibank Online and e-banking services anytime by deactivating “Emergency e-Banking Service Lock” using the same device after all necessary measures, such as reporting lost credit cards and verifying transaction details, have been taken to protect their account. As a safety precaution, customers will need to reset the password during the deactivation process.

Sarah O, Head of Digital Growth at Citibank Hong Kong, said, “We understand our customers’ need for convenient and secure digital channels that can meet their banking needs. At Citi, we have more than 88% of our customers being digitally active and also take the security of its customers seriously. We spare no efforts in elevating customers’ digital banking experience with innovative services and solutions. For this, we are delighted to be the first bank in Hong Kong to launch this security feature. We will continue to prioritize customer protection and strive to ensure a safe and secure banking experience for our customers.”

Upgraded Security Features for Online/Mobile Banking
Citibank has a range of security measures in place for its online and mobile banking platforms to ensure a safe and secure online experience:

  • For Citi Mobile® App, a pop-up warning message will appear when there are attempts to take screen captures of the account interface, reminding customers not to share the screenshots to the unknown third party. Screen capturing functions have been disabled for all Android device users.
  • In order to prevent password and data leak, the screen capture, recording and mirroring functions are disabled when passwords are being entered on Citi Mobile® App.
  • The remote detector on Citi Mobile® App is equipped to detect third-party applications trying to compromise the customer’s account.

Citibank is also deeply committed to public education and the empowerment of the community with financial knowledge and awareness. In addition to engaging the general public with a series of informative and educational messages every month, this year we continued to support Hong Kong Money Month, an annual city-wide campaign led by the Investor and Financial Education Council that promotes financial literacy through a range of financial education initiatives.

Hashtag: #Citibank

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

About Citi

Citi is a pre-eminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in nearly 160 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Additional information may be found at | Twitter: | LinkedIn: | YouTube: | Facebook:

Hong Kong developer LOFTER Group achieved remarkable sales results after the government axed all property cooling measures


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – LOFTER Group (the Developer) has achieved remarkable sales results in its latest real estate development, Elize PARK. The Developer has witnessed an overwhelming response from buyers, with over 50% of the units being sold within a span of just one month after the Hong Kong government’s announcement to lift all cooling measures in stamp duty. Among the transactions made, the unit rate ranged from HK$22,125 to HK$29,025 per square feet, which outperformed other developments with similar offerings at the same time. The encouraging sales results came after the favourable government policy on stamp duty coupled with the Developer’s market positioning and sales strategy.

Hong Kong developer LOFTER Group achieved remarkable sales results after the government axed all property cooling measures
Hong Kong developer LOFTER Group achieved remarkable sales results after the government axed all property cooling measures

Elize PARK, boutique residential development in core urban area, is positioned to be an affordable luxury

Elize PARK, LOFTER Group’s latest boutique residential development in core urban area of Mong Kok East, is situated in the very heart of Kowloon, enjoying a prime location with convenient access to both Prince Edward and Mong Kok East MTR Station, both are just around 2 minutes’ walking distance away. The superb connectivity ensures easy transportation and seamless connectivity to the rest of the city.

“We are thrilled with the exceptional sales results of Elize PARK. The affordability, combined with the exceptional quality and features of the development, has played a significant role in attracting buyers from diverse backgrounds.” said Carol Chow, founder and chairperson of LOFTER Group. “The overwhelming demand and positive feedback we received from buyers further validate our commitment to create exceptional living spaces that exceed market norms. We are dedicated to deliver world-class living experience that combines luxury, comfort, and convenience.”

Adding to its allure, Elize PARK benefits from its proximity to an upcoming 1,520,000 square feet commercial landmark architecture. This locality promises to bring a vibrant mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options, further enhancing the appeal of the area. Together with the existing retail malls surrounding Elize PARK, residents will enjoy a wealth of shopping and leisure options right at their doorstep.

The project sales and marketing plan and strategy

Elize PARK was first launched to the market in late-January 2024, when the residential market was less active, and Elize PARK being one of the first developments launched in 2024 successfully caught attention from the media, property agents and potential purchasers. After the relaxation of the cooling measures in stamp duty at the Budget Speech by the Hong Kong government in February 2024, Elize PARK, being a core location residential project, was greatly benefited. 12 units over total 52 units were sold in just 4 days’ time with sales proceeds of over HK$80Million. The development then attracted bulk purchasers and there were one purchaser buying 2 whole floors in the development and another purchasing one whole floor in the mid-floor zone. These sales record successfully attracted attention in the market and the Developer then adopted a strategy to look for higher price rather than focusing on quantity and the latest transacted unit was at HK$29,025 per square feet. Within a month after all property market cooling measures are axed by the Hong Kong government, over 50% of Elize PARK units were sold with sales proceeds of over HK$200million. The sales results distinctly outperformed the other competitors in the market.

LOFTER Group has adopted a flexible sales strategy with all residential units being sold by tender, which is not the most common in Hong Kong. Elize PARK, was initially launched with a price list with an average unit price of HK$26,688 per square feet featuring 30 units. When compared to other new developments in the same district, though with different specifications, Elize PARK was recognized as being priced 25%-30% higher. This strategy successfully positioned Elize PARK as a high-end product with high-priced launch. The Developer later adopted a new sales strategy to be sold through a tender bidding process instead of sticking with the price list released. For developers, benefits of tender include the potential to secure the highest bid and retain the option not to sell if the desired price is not reached, potentially maximizing profits. Developers also maintain control over the timing and pace of the sale. For buyers, tender is time-efficient, eliminating the need to queue and wait for registration or unit selection. It also allows buyers to focus on units they are interested in, reducing the likelihood of impulsive decisions.

“Elize PARK stands out among new developments due to its shorter presale period and limited offering of only 52 units total, making it a rare project. The tender process offers more flexibility and better aligns with the product’s targe market and buyers’ needs, attracted a wide range of clients eventually, including local and Chinese investors and end-users, bulk-purchase buyers and even a renowned local artist.” said Alvin Leung, Director of LOFTER Group.

LOFTER Group built a solid track record in the past few years

LOFTER Group, currently managing 8 redevelopment projects spanning across residential, retail, office and industrial asset classes with a project-under-management valued over HK$12,000million, covering a wide investor base from high-net-worth individuals, to family offices, to local fund houses, and to institutional real estate funds. LOFTER Group’s latest acquisition in core Tsim Sha Tsui, was partnered with two international funds, BentallGreenOak and Schroders Capital to redevelop the site into a Grade-A landmark commercial tower in the heart of Hong Kong.

LOFTER teams displayed a strong capability in strata-titled acquisition, construction project management, sales and marketing in the Hong Kong property market. LOFTER Group is one of the fastest emerging players in the Hong Kong real estate market. With its solid track records in the past years, the Developer is set to expand further targeting to take up more landmark projects in Hong Kong.

Hashtag: #LOFTERGroup

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

LOFTER Group

Founded in 2012, LOFTER GROUP is a property developer based in Hong Kong. It is principally engaged in developing exceptional and high-quality residential, commercial, retail, and industrial properties. Leverage on its extensive experience, the Group is actively exploring a variety of opportunities for developing urban renewal projects across core districts of Hong Kong, with key focus on Grade A Commercial and Luxury Residential Projects. The Group vows to accommodate the needs of a diverse market and dynamic social policies, while maintaining a good balance between profitability, responsibility and sustainability.

EdCity Supports Hong Kong Reading for All Day with the Introduction of Free eBook Week to Promote Reading


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – Opening a book can unleash infinite possibilities. Hong Kong Education City (EdCity) is committed to promoting a reading culture, immersing students in the fantastical world of books. To celebrate 23 April, World Book Day, as well as Hong Kong Reading for All Day, EdCity has introduced a ‘Free eBook Week’ aimed at cultivating a city-wide atmosphere of reading and creating a rich literary ambiance across the community.

Mr Ken Ngai Yuen Keung, Executive Director of EdCity, said, ‘Every book possesses the “magic” to inspire children’s imagination, leading them to explore unknown realms. EdCity believes that reading can be transformed into a driving force propelling children forward, opening up a world of infinite possibilities. We warmly invite all students, educators, and parents to participate in and promote ‘Free eBook Week’ as a key to cultivating reading habits and sowing the seeds of lifelong learning for children.

We understand that Hong Kong students have tight schedules and may not be able to read for 1 to 2 hours every day. Parents can encourage children to utilise their spare time for reading, such as during breaks, travel times, or before bedtime, to experience the joy of reading together and create quality parent-child moments. The e-books available during ‘Free eBook Week’ can accommodate different daily routines, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the world of books anytime, anywhere, and enjoy the pleasure of reading.’

Launching ‘Free eBook Week’ – Access to Premium Reading Bundles Unlocked

EdCity has been dedicated to promoting a reading culture and, in line with the prevalence of e-learning, has created a relaxed and enjoyable digital reading environment. The multifunctional EdBookShelf allows students to browse over a thousand free e-books on various themes with just one click, encompassing humanities, history and geography, Chinese classics, modern literary works, popular science, life encyclopedias, and English books with real-voice narration. Featuring built-in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English pronunciation functions and offering both Chinese and English interfaces, readers can immerse themselves in a personalised electronic library anytime, anywhere.

To foster a ‘Read and Share’ culture, EdCity will launch ‘Free eBook Week’ from 23 April to 29 April. This seven-day initiative aims to assist schools in promoting extensive reading and broadening the reading horizons of children and adolescents. During ‘Free eBook Week,’ EdCity will grant access to several premium reading bundles from the ‘eRead Scheme’ to both primary and secondary school students, with substantial support from over 40 local and overseas publishers (refer to the appendix for the list). In alignment with ‘Free eBook Week,’ fees for over 3,000 eBooks will be waived, supporting ‘World Book Day’ and Hong Kong Reading for All Day’ in a united effort to encourage a culture of reading. Click here to learn more about EdCity’s ‘Free eBook Week’.

In addition, EdCity has specially invited the renowned picture book author Benny Lau to host the ‘EdCity World Book Day Event Series (2): Picture Books × Shared Reading—Creative Teaching’ on April 27 (Saturday) from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Benny Lau will not only read picture books with the children but also allow parents to learn shared reading techniques and guide children in listening to stories and learning to share. Furthermore, he will encourage the children to engage in simple creative activities through games and questions. The event is designed for preschool children and their parents to enjoy together in a family-friendly format. Interested families are encouraged to click here and register on the EdCity website.
Hashtag: #EdCity

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

About Hong Kong Education City

Hong Kong Education City (EdCity) provides a one-stop professional education portal (EdCity.hk) with information, resources, interactive communities and online services. With the vision of ‘Actualising Future Ready Education’, EdCity continuously develops and introduces new services since its establishment, and endeavours to promote and provide all-round support to all schools in Hong Kong to adopt eLearning and innovative education.

Sustained Inflation in Laos Forces Shift in Employment Patterns, Hits Low-Income Families Hardest: World Bank Reveals

Inflation Limits Lao Families’ Recovery From COVID-19, World Bank Report Finds
Mothers and their children, Laos. ( Photo: World Bank )

Laos is grappling with significant shifts in its job market and socio-economic landscape as a result of prolonged inflation, as per the latest findings from the World Bank household survey.

Conducted between January and February 2024 as part of the World Bank’s Rapid Monitoring Phone Surveys, the eighth round of data collection revealed substantial changes in employment dynamics. A rising number of individuals in Laos have sought employment in sectors less affected by inflation, such as agriculture and manufacturing. Conversely, jobs in service industries, vulnerable to currency depreciation and high inflation, have witnessed a decline in demand.

Statistics from the survey show the magnitude of this shift. The proportion of self-employed workers surged to 45 percent in January 2024, an increase from the 29 percent recorded just a year earlier. Moreover, while wages experienced growth in the latter half of 2023, they failed to match the pace of inflation. Consequently, more individuals turned to self-employment and family business activities to buffer against the eroding purchasing power.

While overall household income showed a 25 percent growth rate by December 2023, barely exceeding the inflation rate of 24 percent, this trend did not shield a significant portion of households from declining purchasing power. Over 40 percent of households experienced income levels trailing behind the inflation rate, exacerbating financial strains, particularly among low-income families.

Alex Kremer, Country Manager for the World Bank in Laos, commented on the ramifications of this trend, stating, “While some groups are able to cope with long-running inflation, poorer families are falling further behind. Low-income households report more children dropping out of school and more difficulty finding enough food to eat. This means inequality will increase and progress in development could reverse.” 

Indeed, the survey revealed that financial constraints were a leading cause of school dropout, with 5 percent of students reported to have left school. Agricultural activities emerged as a resilient sector, with farming households reporting steady growth and higher returns compared to other industries. Notably, approximately half of farming families now grow crops for sale, with cassava cultivation particularly prevalent among low-income farmers.

Amidst the challenges posed by sustained inflation, households have resorted to various coping mechanisms. Strategies include increased food production for personal consumption, adopting cheaper food alternatives, and engaging in additional employment or borrowing from financial institutions. However, access to public services has been hindered by bureaucratic hurdles and logistical difficulties, further exacerbating the plight of vulnerable communities.

The Bank of Thailand reaffirms its adherence to integrity and principles to build confidence – good governance in Thailand


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 April 2024 – In a detailed discussion with the Integrity Team of the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Thailand in recent days, Mrs. Roong Mallikamas, deputy governor of corporate development at the Bank of Thailand shows her vision to create confidence for all sectors while adhering to good governance principle as a neutral agency for the Kingdom of Thailand.

“The Bank of Thailand as the central bank of Thailand has a main task to manage the overall economic and financial system of the country to operate smoothly and to support the country’s economy to grow with stability and sustainability. From the foundation, it has been adopted into three elements to create reliability for the present’s tasks: having principles, adhering to the principle of rightness, and foreseeing the benefits of the country as key, creating transparency in the decision-making process, and creating an environment that allows the organization’s officials to have morality and good governance,” she explained.

The deputy governor elaborated that adhering to principles and considering the benefits of the country as the key has always been a tone from the top. At present, within the organization, all employees will be thought of as not taking advantage of anyone whether from the internal or external persons.

We don’t work to please anyone or to seek popularity. The BoT must explain our ideas and opinions to the public clearly. We will not do anything that cannot be explained to society. Anything we do or think, we have to be able to explain why we act or think this way,” she noted.

Besides having straightforward working principles, the BoT’s task must also go through a process called “Thinking around, and be able to explain” so that alternatives can be sought and weighed appropriately, comprehensively, and able to answer the public’s queries.

The Bank of Thailand also vows to create transparency in the decision-making process and make it auditable.

What has changed after the Tom Yum Kung economic crisis is that the BoT will use decision-making in a collective format to prevent group thinking. There are checks and balances in the decision-making power of various committees, whether it be the BoT Board, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), the Financial Institutions Policy Committee (FIPC), or the Payment Systems Committee (PSC). Each of which has a higher proportion of external committees than the BoT’s officials, ensuring that the ideas of BoT officials cannot dominate policy decisions. The decision-making is transparent because there is a data storage and communication system so that it can always be traced back. For example, at the MPC meeting, minutes of the meeting are disclosed to the public. After every meeting, questions were answered, clarifying doubts in many forums.

Last but not least is creating an environment that allows executives and employees to perform their duties according to moral principles, have good governance, and support people in the organization to be good and moral people. One thing that will help reduce the chance for corruption is providing appropriate remunerations and welfare so that there won’t be a loophole or at least reduce the chance that a person may exercise their power to benefit themselves or others.

“We must not discourage good people or not make our people feel that being a good person is difficult,” Mrs. Mallikamas added that apart from the BoT’s regulations that meet the standards of the bureaucracy, another area that the BoT is very concentrated on is awareness regarding Conflict of Interest.

The BoT set clear rules regarding the prohibition of investing in assets related to matters under supervision. Although some committees are not directly involved in policy decision-making, the BoT has notified the conditions for the committee to avoid having an involvement since the public doesn’t know who is or isn’t involved, which may have a scandal after that. Thus, we ask for refraining. Unless there is a truly necessary incident, there are rules to support what must be done in order to ensure that those are based on the principles of transparency and good governance.

Although the BoT has never had any scandals regarding corruption, the BoT has established measures to promote transparency and prevent corruption. For BoT employees to use as a guideline for performing their duties. (Information from the BoT website https://www.bot.or.th/th/about-us/good-governance/transparency/measure.html)

The measures are included: 1. Measures for disseminating information to the public 2. Measures for stakeholders. 3. Measures to promote transparency in procurement. 4. Measures and guidelines for handling corruption complaints. 5. Measures to prevent bribery. 6. Measures to prevent conflicts between personal interests and public interests, and 7. Measures to inspect the use of discretion.

“Regarding the honesty and integrity that the BoT has always adhered with, an organization must help reduce the risk of employees falling into precarious circumstances while creating pride in that honesty and integrity to maintain reliability in the performance of the central bank’s duties,” the deputy governor of the Thai Central Bank concluded.

*This exclusive interview translation is funded by the National Anti-Corruption Fund (NACF).

Hashtag: #IntegrityWay #AntiCorruption #ZeroCorruption #NACC #NACF

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

National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Thailand

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is a constitutional independent organization and supervised by nine commissioners selected from various professions. It is authorised to undertake work on the prevention and suppression of malfeasance, particularly in government agencies, on assets investigations, as well as on the monitoring of ethics and virtues of political position holders.

It has the authority to file charges in court as well as support and build up awareness of the penalties for committing corruption. The NACC is supervised by the NACC Board and has the Office of the NACC as its administrative agency.

Since 1997, Thai Courts have ruled against and punished politicians, former ministers, high-ranking government officials as well as executives of the private sector in the thousands of cases submitted by the NACC.

ROSEN, GLOBAL INVESTOR COUNSEL, Encourages bluebird bio Inc. Investors to Inquire About Securities Class Action Investigation – BLUE

New York, New York – Newsfile Corp. – April 7, 2024 – WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces an investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of bluebird bio Inc. (NASDAQ: BLUE) resulting from allegations that bluebird may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public.

SO WHAT: If you purchased bluebird securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=23843 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On March 26, 2024, before the market opened, bluebird filed an 8-K with the SEC in which it announced, “[o]n March 24, 2024, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Audit Committee”) of the Company, based on the recommendation of management and after consultation with EY, concluded that the Company’s previously-issued audited consolidated financial statements for each fiscal year beginning January 1, 2019 and its previously-issued unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for each of the first three quarters in such years, as well as the associated earnings releases and investor presentations or other communications describing such financial statements, were materially misstated and, accordingly, should no longer be relied upon.”

On this news, bluebird’s stock fell $0.16 per share, or 11.76%, to close at $1.20 per share on March 26, 2024.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
case@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com

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