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Policy Address by Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee: Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2024 – John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region today (October 16) announced his third Policy Address entitled “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together”, setting out a range of initiatives to create new impetus for economic development, improve people’s livelihood and enhance their quality of life.

Mr Lee said, “In this Policy Address, I will continue to follow through the ‘four proposals’ put forward by President Xi Jinping in his important speech delivered on July 1, 2022. I will also outline our vision and objectives for reforms and changes, as well as the related key measures and key performance indicators.

Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee’s third Policy Address is themed “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together”.
Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee’s third Policy Address is themed “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together”.

“Reform is a continuous process. Over the past two years, my team and I have focused on economic growth and on improving people’s livelihood through development, with the well-being of the people of Hong Kong close to our hearts. This Policy Address will deepen our reforms and explore new growth areas.”

Consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre

Hong Kong has established strengths as an international centre for finance, shipping and trade, which are closely intertwined and can be developed in a synergistic and complementary manner.

On the financial front, the Policy Address sets out the strategic development of Hong Kong as an international financial centre on all fronts. It strives to reinforce Hong Kong’s status as the world’s largest offshore Renminbi business hub, enhance the asset and securities markets, and develop Hong Kong into an international gold trading market through measures such as building world-class gold storage facilities and strengthening the trading mechanism and regulatory framework. This will in turn drive demand for related services such as collateral and loan businesses, opening up new growth areas of the financial sector.

On the shipping side, the existing Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board will be reconstituted into the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board. Additional funding will be provided to enhance its research capabilities, strengthen its Mainland and overseas promotional work and step up manpower training, encouraging more Mainland and overseas maritime service enterprises to establish presence in Hong Kong, promoting the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s maritime industry. The Government will advance the development of Hong Kong into a green maritime centre, while at the same time exploring the introduction of tax concessions and facilitate international commodity exchanges to set up accredited warehouses in Hong Kong, so as to establish a commodity trading ecosystem, especially for the storage and delivery of non-ferrous metal products, further promoting the development of Hong Kong’s maritime and trading services.

In respect of the trade sector, the Government will establish a high-value-added supply chain service centre. Through measures such as enriching a high value-added supply chain services mechanism and enhancing export credit services, as well as making good use of the new opportunities brought about by the Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Agreement on Trade in Services, the Government will seek to attract Mainland and overseas enterprises to set up their headquarters or corporate divisions in Hong Kong. The Government will continue to vigorously expand Hong Kong’s global economic and trade networks, with particular emphasis on strengthening Hong Kong’s economic and trade ties with and marketing efforts in emerging markets, so as to enable Hong Kong to exert a greater role in the country’s opening up to the world. Moreover, the Government will reduce the import duty on liquor, fostering trading of liquor and boosting development of high value-added industries.

The Policy Address injects greater vitality into the Hong Kong economy.
The Policy Address injects greater vitality into the Hong Kong economy.

Develop new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions

The core element of new quality productive forces is to achieve high quality economic development through technological empowerment. The Government is striving to expedite Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. On top of the additional investment put in over the past two years, a $10 billion I&T Industry-Oriented Fund will be set up to guide more market capital to invest in specified emerging and future industries of strategic importance, including life and health technology and artificial intelligence. The Government will also launch the I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme to attract professional start-up service providers to set up accelerator bases in Hong Kong, fostering the robust growth of start-ups.

The Policy Address also proposed the establishment of the Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy. Starting with projects on low-altitude applications, the working group will designate specific venues for such purposes, draw up regulations and design the institutional set-up, study and map out plans to develop the required infrastructure and networks, and promote interface with the Mainland, pushing forward development of the low-altitude economy.

At the same time, the Government is committed to promoting new energy development, such as green maritime fuel, sustainable aviation fuel and hydrogen energy. The Government will also expedite the reform of the approval mechanism for drugs and medical devices, establish the Real-World Study and Application Centre, and join hands with Shenzhen to establish the GBA Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform to enhance Hong Kong’s clinical trial capability and accelerate registration of new drugs, developing Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub.

Build Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talents

To boost synergy and effectiveness of policies, the Policy Address introduced the establishment of the Committee on Education, Technology and Talents to co-ordinate and drive the integrated development of education, technology and talents. In addition to reforming various aspects of the talent admission regime to build a quality talent pool for long-term development, the Government will endeavour to create the “Study in Hong Kong” brand to attract overseas students, launch a pilot scheme to support the market to flexibly increase the supply of self-financed and private student hostels, and map out the development plan of the Northern Metropolis University Town. These measures aim to expedite the development of Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education, bringing in more global high-calibre talents.

Promote integrated development of culture, sports and tourism and foster economic diversification

Promoting integrated development of culture, sports and tourism is the objective of this term of Government in setting up the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. The Government will reinforce the development of the West Kowloon Cultural District to take a leading role in establishing an industry chain for the arts and culture and creative industries of Hong Kong. The Government will also strive to develop the Kai Tak Sports Park into a sports and mega event landmark, building an international sports mega event hub. The Government will publish the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0, putting emphasis on promoting areas including culture, sports, ecology and mega events, with a view to revitalising Hong Kong’s tourism industry. A Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots will be set up to strengthen cross-departmental co-ordination, and to identify and develop tourist hotspots of high popularity and with strong appeal in various districts.

Hong Kong is facing economic restructuring. To assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to cope with the prevailing challenges, the Government will put in place a range of support initiatives. Key measures include: relaunching the principal moratorium to offer SMEs flexibility in managing cash flows; injecting $1 billion into the BUD Fund (Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales) to facilitate upgrading of enterprises; expanding the scope of the Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme to cover the industries of tourism and personal services; and launching the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0. In addition, a Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy will be set up to implement measures in five areas, namely consumption, industry, quality assurance, financial and security arrangements, and productivity, meeting the growing needs of the elderly and help the industry to seize business opportunities.

Take forward the Northern Metropolis as growth engine and deepen GBA collaboration

To take forward the development of the Northern Metropolis, it was announced in the Policy Address to explore the establishment of a pilot industrial park in the Northern Metropolis by granting it to a company established and led by the Government. The company will, in accordance with the Government’s industrial policies, be responsible for formulating the park’s development and operation strategies. To expedite the development, the Government will adopt, on a pilot basis, a large-scale land-disposal approach, for collective development by successful bidders. In addition, the Steering Committee on the Hong Kong Shenzhen I&T Park in the Loop, chaired by the Chief Executive, will formulate the overall strategy, planning and layout for the development of the Hong Kong Park. The Development Outline for the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone will be published later this year.

Improve people’s livelihood in pursuit of happiness

This year, the Policy Address outlined a number of new measures on different livelihood areas, including land creation and housing construction and healthcare, making Hong Kong a better place to live and enjoy life.

On housing, a system on the renting of subdivided units (SDUs) in residential buildings will be devised, through legislation, to tackle the long-standing problem of SDUs at its roots in an orderly manner. The Government will also enhance the housing ladder to allow more people to realise their aspiration for home ownership.

Regarding healthcare, as noted in the Policy Address, the Government will deepen the reform of the healthcare system, strengthen public and primary healthcare services and promote the development of primary healthcare on all fronts, and boost healthy fertility. The Government also supports the plan, by local universities, to establish a third medical school. The Government will set aside sites in Ngau Tam Mei to build a new campus and an integrated medical teaching and research hospital.

To improve people’s livelihood, the Government will continue to take forward and enhance various measures for targeted poverty alleviation and focusing on different needs of the underprivileged. Meanwhile, the Government will regularise the funding provision for Care Teams and increase funding in the next term of service to strengthen support for their work. The Policy Address also proposed to reform the roles of the Employees Retraining Board to devise skills-based training programmes and strategies for the entire workforce, and lift the restriction on educational attainment of trainees.

Mr Lee concluded, “This Policy Address deepens the reforms that I have introduced since I became Chief Executive. It presents enhanced measures to boost the economy and improve people’s livelihood. It seeks to address the prevailing needs of our people, while mapping our vision and long-term goals for building a brighter future for Hong Kong. I am confident that Hong Kong will continue to go from strength to strength and attain new heights. Through our united efforts to reform and innovate, our economy will go even stronger and our people will lead a better life, making Hong Kong a shining city.”

A Supplement offering more backgrounds and details of various policy measures has been compiled with this year’s Policy Address. For related information and key initiatives of the Policy Address, please visit www.policyaddress.gov.hk.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #policyaddress





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

Doubleview Announces First Drill Results of This Season


Highlights:
62.0m of 1.12% Cu, 0.79 g/t Au, and 23.9 g/t Sc (1.81 % CuEq*, not incl. Sc)
in 154.0m of 0.66% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, and 24 g/t Sc (1.07% CuEq*, not incl. Sc)

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 16, 2024) – Doubleview (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (FSE: 1D4) (the “Company or “Doubleview”) is pleased to announce the first set of drill hole assay results from its 2024 drilling campaign at its 100% owned Hat polymetallic porphyry in northwestern British Columbia.

Highlights and significant downhole intervals include the following:

Drill hole H072:

  • 686.0m of 0.23% Cu, 0.16 g/t Au, 64 g/t Co, 0.33 g/t Ag and 25.7 g/t Sc (0.38% CuEq*)
  • including 154.0m of 0.66% Cu, 0.46 g/t Au, 112 g/t Co, 0.96 g/t Ag and 24 g/t Sc (1.07% CuEq*)
  • including 62.0m of 1.12% Cu, 0.79 g/t Au, 173 g/t Co, 1.62 g/t Ag and 23.9 g/t Sc (1.81 % CuEq*)
  • including 2.0m of 5% Cu, 2.96 g/t Au, 511 g/t Co, 5.03 g/t Ag and 7 g/t Sc (7.48% CuEq*)


Drill hole H073:

  • 109m of 0.29% Cu, 0.21 g/t Au, 83 g/t Co, 0.47 g/t Ag and 29.6 g/t Sc (0.5% CuEq*).


Drill hole H074:

  • 128 m of 0.18%Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 82 g/t Co, 0.29 g/t Ag and 29 g/t Sc (0.33% CuEq*)

(Note 1: CuEq currently does not include the Scandium)


H073, depth: 420m, strong chalcopyrite mineralization.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_001full.jpg

The recent drill holes were strategically directed towards untested central areas of the Lisle Zone, which are integral to the block model developed by our consulting team for the Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE). All three drill holes are situated within the mineral resource pit, as detailed in Doubleview’s news release dated July 25, 2024. These drill results not only validate the existing block model but also provide additional data that enhances our confidence in its accuracy. In preparation for the upcoming enhanced resource estimate for the Hat deposit, our primary objective of demonstrating continuity, increasing the density of data, and further improving the quality of the geological models, has been successfully achieved. The three cross sections included in this release illustrate the intersected mineralization within the Hat polymetallic mineral deposit, highlighting the mineralized blocks for each drill hole.


Figure 1: Drill hole H072

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_002full.jpg

Figure 2: Drill hole H073

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_003full.jpg

Figure 3: Drill hole H074

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_004full.jpg

Farshad Shirvani, President and CEO, comments that, “The objectives of the 2024 drilling program are to enhance the data intensity where it is warranted, identify additional near surface copper and gold mineralization, and increase the tonnage and volume of the Hat deposit. These drill holes provide important geological information and data that bridge the area between drill holes H034 and H031, H012 and H071 while verifying the block model. We are pleased to see the years of work on the Hat project come to fruition, particularly to see the continuation of long intervals of strong copper mineralization.”

Table 1 lists significant assay intercepts of drill holes H072 to H074

DDH From (m) To (m) Length (m)** Cu (%) Au (g/t) Co (g/t) Ag (g/t) Sc (g/t) CuEq (%) not incl Sc*
H072 62.0 686.0 624.0 0.23 0.16 64 0.33 25.7 0.38
incl. 80.0 586.6 506.6 0.27 0.19 71 0.38 25.8 0.45
incl. 161.7 543.0 381.3 0.34 0.25 81 0.47 26.1 0.57
incl. 382.0 536.0 154.0 0.66 0.46 112 0.96 24.0 1.07
incl. 382.0 384.0 2.0 5.00 2.96 511 5.03 7.0 7.48
incl. 411.0 536.0 125.0 0.70 0.50 117 1.06 23.9 1.14
incl. 440.0 502.0 62.0 1.12 0.79 173 1.62 23.9 1.81
incl. 452.0 463.0 11.0 2.36 1.95 345 3.17 17.0 3.99
H073 159.0 424.0 265.0 0.16 0.15 76 0.29 26.3 0.32
incl. 282.0 424.0 142.0 0.25 0.18 82 0.41 29.4 0.43
incl. 315.0 424.0 109.0 0.29 0.21 83 0.47 29.6 0.50
incl. 378.0 424.0 46.0 0.42 0.31 89 0.69 27.5 0.70
H074 95.8 409.0 313.3 0.12 0.12 88 0.25 26.4 0.26
incl. 148.0 195.0 47.0 0.09 0.12 106 0.17 22.7 0.24
incl. 281.0 409.0 128.0 0.18 0.14 82 0.29 29.0 0.33

Notes:
– Metal equivalents should not be relied upon for future evaluations.
– Drill hole intercepts included in this news release are core lengths that may or may not be true widths of mineralization. It is not possible to determine true widths.
– Parameters used to calculate Copper Equivalent:
Au price (US$/oz): 1900; Ag price (US$/oz): 24; Cu price (US$/lb): 4; Co price (US$/lb): 22.
Au recovery: 89.0%; Ag recovery: 68.0%; Cu recovery: 84.0%; Co recovery: 78.0%.

* Copper Equivalent Calculation
CuEq in % = ([Ag grade in ppm] *24*0.68/31.1035 + [Au grade in ppm] *1900*.89/31.1035 + 0.0001* [Co grade in ppm] *22*0.78*22.0462 + 0.0001* [Cu grade in ppm] *4*0.84*22.0462)/(4*22.0462*0.84). Scandium is not part of the copper equivalent calculation.

** Downhole core lengths, true widths are unknown

Table 2 illustrates the location and direction of the reported drill holes:

DDH ID UTM-East UTM-North Elevation (m) Max-Depth (m) Azimuth (°) Dip (°)
H072 347,866 6,453,952 956.5 761 212 75
H073 347,866 6,453,952 956.5 771 225 85
H074 347,866 6,453,952 956.5 609 262 85

H073, depth 563.8m: Chalcopyrite mineralization (+ spotty Pyrite) in Epidote vein

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_005full.jpg

H074, depth 412m: Chalcopyrite mineralization

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8003/226781_625f86a28402e955_006full.jpg

Quality Assurance and Quality Control:

Core samples were prepared at the North Vancouver facility of ALS Canada Ltd. using their PREP-31, PGM-ICP24, ME-MS61, and ME-ICP06 packages. Each core sample is dried, then crushed to 70% passing a 2mm screen. All material is processed in an automatic Riffle splitter to yield a 250g homogenized, representative sample. This sub-sample is then pulverized to 85% passing a 75-micron screen. All samples are analyzed for Au, Pt, Pd by 50g fire-assay fusion/ICP-ES finish, using PGM-ICP24 package. A separate 0.25g pulp split is analyzed by Four Acid digestion/ICP-MS finish, reporting 48 elements. Over limit elements are analyzed by Ore Grade Four Acid digestion/ICP-ES finish using ME-OG62 assay package. All of Doubleview’s core samples are analyzed or assayed at independent ISO 17025 and ISO 9001- certified laboratories.

Doubleview maintains a website at www.doubleview.ca.

Qualified Persons:

Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview’s Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.

About Doubleview Gold Corp
A mineral resource exploration and development company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GER: A1W038), and (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview focuses on identifying, acquiring, and financing precious and base metal exploration projects across North America, with a strong emphasis on British Columbia. The company enhances shareholder value through the acquisition and exploration of high-quality gold, copper, cobalt, scandium, and silver projects-collectively critical minerals-utilizing cutting-edge exploration techniques.

Doubleview’s success is deeply rooted in the unwavering support of its long-term shareholders, supporters, and institutional investors. Their ongoing commitment has been instrumental in advancing the company’s strategic initiatives. Doubleview looks forward to further collaborative growth and development and continues to welcome active participation from its valued stakeholders as the company expands its portfolio and strengthens its position in the critical minerals sector.

About the Hat Polymetallic Deposit
The Hat Deposit, located in northwestern British Columbia, is a polymetallic porphyry project with major resources of copper, gold, cobalt, and the potential for scandium. As one of the region’s significant sources of critical minerals, the Hat deposit has undergone targeted exploration and development. The 0.2% CuEq cut-off resource estimate, as of the recently completed Mineral Resource Estimate and the Company’s July 25, 2024 news release, is summarized below:

Open Pit Model Hat

Resource Category

Tonnage

Average Grade Metal Content
CuEq Cu Co Au Ag CuEq Cu Co Au Ag
Mt % % % g/t g/t million
lb
million
lb
million
lb
thousand oz thousand oz
In Pit Indicated 150 0.408 0.221 0.008 0.19 0.42 1,353 733 28 929 2,045
Inferred 477 0.344 0.185 0.009 0.15 0.49 3,619 1,945 91 2,328 7,575

Scandium potential for the Hat Deposit is estimated to be 300 to 500 million tonnes at an average grade of 40 ppm (0.004%) Sc2O3.

For further details, please refer to the Company’s July 25, 2024 news release.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive Officer

For further information please contact:
Doubleview Gold Corp
Vancouver, BC Farshad Shirvani
President & CEO

Institutional Investor Line: (604) 607-5470
T: (604) 678-9587
E: corporate@doubleview.ca

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute “forward-looking information.” In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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

Johnson Electric and Aegis Sortation Announce Distribution Partnership

Aegis Sortation becomes exclusive technology distributor for Johnson Electric in the North American market


VANDALIA, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2024 – Johnson Electric, a global leader in electric motors, actuators, motion subsystems and related electro-mechanical components, today announced an exclusive distribution agreement in partnership with Aegis Sortation. Under the agreement, Aegis will become the technology distributor for Johnson Electric TrueDrive™ and VersaSort™ products in North America.

The decision to formulate the strategic partnership builds upon Aegis’ brand recognition in the material handing industry and Johnson Electric’s 65 years of expertise in motion system solutions.

“As e-commerce sales continue to grow in the United States, we’re thrilled to embark on this partnership with Aegis Sortation, which is trusted for its proven solutions in the material handling industry,” said Stephen Pennington, vice president, IPG Americas, for Johnson Electric. “Their leadership in the freight and parcel and warehouse and distribution industries is second to none. We’ve worked together for over a decade and are happy to build upon our combined expertise to bring even more value to our collective customers with this agreement.”

Aegis Sortation will be exclusively distributing two Johnson Electric products: TrueDrive, an innovative motorized drive roller conveyor system, as well as VersaSort, a compact steerable wheel table that allows divert functions to operate up to twice as fast in small- to larger-sized sortation systems.

Although not part of the distribution agreement, Aegis will also leverage Solligence™, a fast rotary actuator designed for divert motion in sliding shoe sorters. The rotary’s artificial intelligence monitors motion profiles and adjusts for wear, maintaining consistent speed and preventing performance degradation over time.

“We’re committed to delivering transformative innovation with solutions that address the growing challenges in the material handling industry, especially around labor shortages and operational efficiency,” said Tony Young, CEO of Aegis Sortation. “By leveraging Johnson Electric’s cutting-edge solutions, we’re creating sortation modules that solve our customers’ variable package mix challenges, like irregular parcels, which are typically processed manually. This new technology also allows our customers to double their throughput while simultaneously reducing costs through improved asset utilization.”

Customers can view these products on the Aegis Sortation website https://www.aegissortation.com/truedrive-versasort

To learn more about Johnson Electric’s warehouse automation solutions, visit https://www.johnsonelectric.com/en/solutions/segments/warehouse-automation

Hashtag: #JohnsonElectric #AegisSortation

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

About Johnson Electric

The Johnson Electric Group is a global leader in electric motors, actuators, motion subsystems and related electro-mechanical components. It serves a broad range of industries including Automotive, Smart Metering, Medical Devices, Business Equipment, Home Automation, Ventilation, White Goods, Power Tools, Lawn & Garden Equipment, and Warehouse Automation. The Group is headquartered in Hong Kong and employs more than 30,000 individuals in over 20 countries worldwide. Johnson Electric Holdings Limited is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 179). For more information, visit .

About Aegis Sortation

Aegis Sortation is a pioneering force in technology and innovation, providing leading-edge solutions tailored for the material handling industry. Specializing in sortation, we cater to a variety of sectors including warehouse and distribution, freight and parcel, e-commerce, postal services and beyond. Learn more at .

VT Markets Q4 Gold Outlook: Anticipate a “Gold Frenzy”

Q3 Gold Performance Overview


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2024 – In the third quarter of 2024, gold prices demonstrated remarkable volatility, perhaps reflective of the market environment it currently exists in. The precious metal initially extended its choppy performance from May and June before surging in July. Benefiting from favourable market conditions, gold first reached several new highs, climbing from $2,000 to $2,685 per ounce—a gain of over 30%. However, the rally was followed by a correction, leaving traders uncertain about its future trajectory. Despite this pullback, the VT Markets Research Desk suggests that gold’s bull run is far from over, anticipating even stronger momentum as we head into the fourth quarter.

VT Markets see multiple factors supporting gold’s safe-haven appeal in the coming months. One of the primary drivers is the shift in global monetary policy, with major central banks embarking on rate cuts. As real interest rates decline, the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold increases.

Furthermore, geopolitical instability in the Middle East is intensifying. What began as proxy conflicts escalated into direct confrontations when Iran launched 180 ballistic missiles at densely populated areas in Israel this October. This escalation has heightened the visibility of this conflict and has in turn boosted gold’s attractiveness as a safe-haven asset.

Political uncertainty in the U.S. will also play a role in gold’s trajectory. The presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris is tight, with both candidates maintaining solid voter bases. With the outcome too close to predict, markets are becoming risk-averse, driving substantial capital into gold as a hedge against potential turmoil.

Emerging markets are also contributing to the upward pressure on gold. Although China paused its gold purchases in the second quarter, it has showed no signs of selling reserves in the following months. Meanwhile, countries like Turkey, India, and Poland continue to increase their gold holdings. A 2024 central bank survey reveals that 29% of institutions plan to expand their reserves within the next 12 months—the highest level in six years—citing gold’s ability to mitigate default risks, hedge against inflation, prevent recessions, and provide liquidity.

From a technical perspective, gold’s previous resistance levels failed to hold, transforming them into critical support zones. Our Reserach Desk identifies the $2,550 per ounce level as a pivotal point for potential pullbacks. Should prices revisit this level, traders might find buying opportunities for mid-term bullish positions. Given the convergence of supportive factors, the likelihood of prices dropping below this range in Q4 is minimal.

The fourth quarter presents a perfect storm for gold’s performance. Declining interest rates, geopolitical risks, election-related uncertainties, and increased central bank gold purchases all point toward continued bullish momentum. We expect that gold’s upward trend will resume, offering attractive opportunities for traders to capitalise on this volatile environment. Traders are advised to stay vigilant and monitor key technical levels as the market evolves.

Hashtag: #VTMarkets #CFDs #CFDsbrokers #Forextrading #Preciousmetals #XAUUSD #Trading



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

Scoot Airlines Expands Flights to Laos Starting December

Scoot Airlines Expands Flights to Laos Starting December
Scoot Airlines Expands Flights to Laos Starting December (photo credit: Vientiane Times)

Singapore’s Scoot Airlines will increase its flights to Laos from three to four per week beginning in December.

Population Change in Asia is Set to Transform Thailand’s Real Estate Sector in Coming Years, says Proud Real Estate

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2024 – Thailand’s real estate sector, estimated to be worth US 2 trillion, is on the brink of significant transformation, driven by three emerging megatrends: multigenerational living, semi-retirement, and hospitality-residence hybridization. These trends, identified by Proud Real Estate Plc, a leader in the SET-listed property market, are set to redefine the landscape in response to a shifting demographic and the growing popularity of second-home tourism.

Proudputh Liptapanlop
Proudputh Liptapanlop

Ms. Proudputh Liptapanlop, Director of Proud Real Estate Plc, emphasized the significant impact of demographic shifts on the real estate sector. Thailand is experiencing slow population growth and a rising proportion of elderly citizens, with the over-60 population doubling from 10% in 2005 to 20% in 2023. According to the UN World Population report, Thailand is currently classified as an aged society and is projected to become a “super-aged society” by 2029, with 20% of the population over 65. These demographic changes, coupled with economic challenges such as the ‘middle-income trap,’ have weakened the purchasing power of key market segments like millennials and Gen Z. As a result, the property development sector faces new challenges in adapting to these evolving market conditions.
Despite these hurdles, the real estate sector remains a crucial driver of the Thai economy, contributing approximately 10% to the GDP. Ms. Proudputh remains optimistic, seeing these challenges as opportunities to innovate and adapt. She envisions these megatrends as turning points that could lead to a revitalized market, positioning the sector for a rebound that leverages crises into transformative prospects.
Multigenerational Living
Proud Real Estate has identified a significant shift in home-buying dynamics, with multigenerational households emerging as a key trend. This new pattern sees family members across generations acting as co-decision makers in property purchases, with older generations maintaining substantial purchasing influence. According to UNFPA data, 34% of Thai households are currently multigenerational, a figure expected to increase in tandem with the growing elderly population. This trend aligns with broader Asian patterns, where 43% of households feature intergenerational living arrangements. The influence of close family ties extends beyond housing decisions, impacting choices in travel and leisure activities as well, a phenomenon corroborated by Booking.com’s market insights. This shift towards multigenerational living is reshaping the real estate landscape, prompting developers to reconsider traditional housing models and adapt to evolving family structures.
“Multigenerational living is on the rise in upscale segment,” she reveals.
To seize a new growth opportunity, the flexibility principle is put at the heart of home design that allows for functional expansion in the future to meet the needs of family members across generations. It starts with a basic layout and construction that fully support every stage of human life cycle.
Under one roof, demands vary. Gen Xers will need a home remodeling to enhance mobility with fewer obstruction and wider doorways when they experience physical health challenges. When it comes to location, millennials and Gen Zers prioritize proximity to work as they are career oriented. While Gen Alpha concerns the neighborhood safety where a high-quality school is situated.
Semi-retirement lifestyle

Thailand’s aging society is reshaping retirement patterns and labor market dynamics. A 2024 Fidelity Investments study reveals that 66% of Gen-Z and Millennials favor phased retirement, with 57% planning part-time work during retirement. This trend is fostering a “semi-retirement lifestyle,” where individuals reduce work hours while maintaining income to pursue personal interests. Globally, semi-retirement is gaining traction, driven by financial needs, the desire to stay active, and personal passions. This shift highlights a growing demand for residential properties that can accommodate both work and leisure, as well as integrated medical care facilities.

Hospitality-Residence Hybridization

Although the outlook for housing demand is sluggish, land prices especially in central business district (CBD) of Bangkok will keep skyrocketing. With such price determination, international demands will play a major role in supporting the real estate market in the medium term.
Thanks to the influx of international demands seen in Bangkok and Phuket, the use of property and length of stay has been shifted from a primary residence for full-time occupants to a secondary occupancy for semi-vacationing. As a result, mixed-use development will continue to dominate Thailand’s real estate development, offering products and services that meet the needs of all customer groups beyond residential purposes. Branded residence is leading the way along with retail and office spaces like urban and market developments in Dubai.
Synergizing Hospitality Legacy into Real Estate
Proud Real Estate has redefined luxury living with its latest projects, VEHHA Hua Hin and ROMM Convent, by synergizing hospitality elements into residential offerings, based on the findings on the 3 latest trends.
VEHHA Hua Hin provides an experience akin to a high-end hotel stay, featuring unrestricted ocean views from every unit, thanks to its single-loaded corridor layout. Residents enjoy a-la-carte room services and a range of exclusive hotel services from the Holiday Inn at special rates. Additionally, residents receive complimentary access to Vana Nava Water Park for three years, enhancing the resort-like atmosphere.
ROMM Convent, located in the heart of Bangkok, is a luxury wellness residence designed to offer a “home-like feeling” with spacious living areas integrated with holistic health and wellness facilities. These include a fit lab café, a sensory garden, a wellness lounge, and a library. Unique features like meditation pods on the sky retreat offer residents a serene escape. Moreover, ROMM Convent partners with one of Asia’s most prestigious hospital networks, BDMS, providing medical care right at the doorstep through the multi-specialty BNH hospital. Residents benefit from the VVIP program and receive a 20% discount on services, addressing the increasing demand for health and wellness in the post-COVID-19 era.

Hashtag: #Proudrealestate #Condominium #Bangkok #Sathon #Silom #HuaHin #CondoHighRise #Condosathon #CondoHuaHin #Thailand #PropertyInvestment #Propertyinthailand



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

About Proud Real Estate Plc

Founded in 2019, Proud Real Estate Plc is a visionary property development arm of the esteemed Proud Group in Thailand. With a heritage spanning over six decades in construction, hospitality, and retail, the company leverages deep industry expertise from iconic ventures such as The InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, BluPort Hua Hin Resort Mall, and Vana Nava Water Park. Proud Real Estate is dedicated to revolutionizing the real estate landscape by melding luxurious hospitality with residential living, encapsulated in its ethos of ‘More Than Just Living’.
Proud Real Estate’s pioneering approach is showcased in its flagship project, the InterContinental Residences Hua Hin, launched in 2019. This development epitomizes the company’s commitment to offering residences that provide not just homes, but lifestyles enriched with hotel-like services and a sense of asset ownership. Building on this success, subsequent projects like VEHHA Hua Hin and ROMM Convent in Bangkok continue to push boundaries, offering residents unparalleled wellness facilities, stylish designs, and sustainable living options that respect local culture and the environment.
As Proud Real Estate propels forward, it remains focused on crafting bespoke living spaces that cater to the discerning tastes of modern homeowners and investors. Each project is a testament to the company’s dedication to quality, innovation, and creating living environments that offer more than just a place to live—they offer a way to truly live well.

For more on Proud Real Estate Plc’s redefined ‘living’ unique portfolio of projects, visit

Sahm Capital Introduces Index Option Trading to Empower Saudi Investors


RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2024 – Sahm Capital proudly announces the launch of index option trading, a pivotal addition to its suite of services catering to the discerning Saudi investors. This highly anticipated feature enables clients to mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations, focusing initially on the renowned S&P 500 and Mini Standard & Poor’s 500 indexes.

Hadeel Bedeeri, the General Manager of Sahm Capital, emphasized the firm’s commitment customer-centric solutions, stating, “At Sahm Capital, we are dedicated to meeting the dynamic needs of our clients. The introduction of index option trading is a direct response to their demands, elevating the Sahm App user experience and facilitating more effective portfolio management.”

To commemorate this milestone, Sahm Capital is extending a special limited-time offer of a $100 commission-free trading quota for clients. Additionally, new users registering on the Sahm App will benefit from a lifetime 70% discount on commission fees for Saudi market transactions, capped at 3 SAR per trade. For complete details, please visit: https://www.sahmcapital.com/activitiesr/quick/us-index-options?lang=en-US&activityId=825.

Sahm Capital, recognized as the first fintech-driven financial company fully licensed by the Capital Market Authority (CMA), remains at the forefront of innovation through its proprietary Sahm App. This unwavering commitment to technology and client satisfaction has propelled Sahm Capital to become the fastest-growing financial company in Saudi Exchange members. Furthermore, as the exclusive sponsor of the Saudi Tadawul Group’s “Invest Wisely Program,” Sahm Capital actively promotes financial literacy throughout the Kingdom. The Sahm App has solidified its position as one of the top three free finance applications in Saudi Arabia, a testament to its widespread adoption and utility.

Disclaimer:

Please note that trading in financial markets, including index options trading, involves high risks and may lead to financial losses that could exceed the invested capital. The information provided above is not intended in any way as advice or a recommendation to sell or buy any financial instruments, bonds, or other financial investments, including the buying and selling of index options. We recommend consulting a professional financial advisor before making any investment decisions and ensuring that these investments are suitable for your experience, financial situation, and investment goals.

Sahm Capital does not bear any responsibility for any losses or damages that may occur as a result of making investment decisions based on this offer or the information provided.

Hashtag: #sahm




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

About Sahm Capital

Sahm Capital, registered in Riyadh, holds full regulatory licenses from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to provide Dealing, Advising, Custody, Arranging, and Managing Investments and Operating Funds Activities in the Securities Business services (license no. 22251-25). As the first fintech-driven financial company to achieve full CMA licensing, Sahm Capital has established itself as the fastest-growing member of the Saudi Exchange, leveraging proprietary technology and innovative financial solutions to deliver seamless, one-stop financial services. For more information, visit: www.sahmcapital.com.

About Sahm App

Developed by Sahm Capital, the Sahm App is a proprietary platform specifically designed for investors in Saudi Arabia. It enables users to trade seamlessly across both the Saudi and U.S. markets, all at their fingertips. With its user-friendly interface and a diverse range of investment options, the Sahm App has quickly become one of the top three free finance apps in the Kingdom.

ASEAN-UK Creative Economy Program Launched to Boost Regional Ties

ASEAN-UK Creative Economy Program Launched to Boost Regional Ties
ACE Music Festival Delegation visiting the British Council office in London for a productive discussion with the UK’s Association of Independent Festivals. (photo supplied)

The United Kingdom’s Mission to ASEAN and the British Council have officially launched the ASEAN-UK Advancing Creative Economy (ACE) program, an initiative aimed at strengthening the creative economies across the region.