Home Blog Page 1348

CEO confidence in revenue outlook hits five-year low – as AI becomes a defining divide between leaders and laggards: PwC 2026 Global CEO Survey

By
Advertorial Desk
-
  • Only three-in-ten (30%) CEOs confident about revenue growth in 2026 as most struggle to turn AI investment into tangible returns
  • One-in-eight (12%) CEOs say AI has delivered both cost and revenue benefits, while companies that have scaled AI with strong foundations are pulling ahead
  • Rising concerns about tariffs and cyber risk add to pressure, as CEOs question whether they are transforming fast enough
  • The US remains the top destination for global investment, with interest in India doubling year-on-year

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CEO confidence in their company’s revenue prospects has fallen to its lowest level in five years, as business leaders grapple with uneven returns from artificial intelligence, rising geopolitical risk, and intensifying cyber threats.

According to PwC’s 29th Global CEO Survey, only three-in-ten (30%) CEOs say they are confident about revenue growth over the next 12 months—down from 38% in 2025 and 56% in 2022. The findings suggest that as CEOs navigate a complex operating environment shaped by rapid technological change, geopolitical uncertainty, and economic pressure, many companies have yet to translate investment into consistent financial gains.

The survey is based on responses from 4,454 CEOs across 95 countries and territories.

AI emerges as a defining fault line for growth and profitability

The biggest question on CEOs’ minds is whether they are transforming fast enough to keep pace with technological change, including AI. Forty-two percent cite this as their top concern—well ahead of worries about innovation capability or medium to long-term viability (both 29%).

Despite widespread experimentation, only one-in-eight (12%) CEOs say AI has delivered both cost and revenue benefits. Overall, 33% report gains in either cost or revenue, while 56% say they have seen no significant financial benefit to date.

The survey points to a growing divide between companies piloting AI and those deploying it at scale. CEOs reporting both cost and revenue gains are two to three times more likely to say they have embedded AI extensively across products and services, demand generation, and strategic decision-making.

Foundations matter as much as scale. CEOs whose organisations have established strong AI foundations—such as Responsible AI frameworks and technology environments that enable enterprise-wide integration—are three times more likely to report meaningful financial returns. Separate PwC analysis shows that companies applying AI widely to products, services, and customer experiences achieved nearly four percentage points higher profit margins than those that did not.

Mohamed Kande, PwC Global Chairman, said:

“2026 is shaping up as a decisive year for AI. A small group of companies are already turning AI into measurable financial returns, while many others are still struggling to move beyond pilots. That gap is starting to show up in confidence and competitiveness—and it will widen quickly for those that don’t act.”

Confidence falls as tariffs and cyber risks intensify

CEO confidence has softened further amid rising exposure to external risks. One-in-five CEOs globally (20%) say their organisation is highly or extremely exposed to the risk of significant financial loss from tariffs over the next 12 months, though exposure varies widely by region—from 6% across the Middle East to 28% in the Chinese Mainland and 35% in Mexico. Among US CEOs, 22% report high exposure.

Concern about cyber risk has risen sharply, with 31% of CEOs now citing it as a major threat—up from 24% last year and 21% two years ago. In response, 84% say they plan to strengthen enterprise-wide cybersecurity as part of their response to geopolitical risk.

Concerns about macroeconomic volatility (31%), technology disruption (24%), and geopolitics (23%) have also edged higher, while concern about inflation is marginally down (from 27% last year to 25%).

Reinvention becomes a strategic imperative

Despite the challenging outlook, CEOs increasingly see reinvention as essential to growth. More than four in ten (42%) say their company has begun competing in new sectors over the past five years. Among those planning major acquisitions, 44% expect to invest outside their current industry, with technology the most attractive adjacent sector.

A little over half of CEOs (51%) plan to make international investments in the year ahead. The United States remains the top destination, with 35% ranking it among their top three markets. The United Kingdom and Germany (both 13%) and the Chinese Mainland (11%) also feature prominently. Interest in India has nearly doubled year-on-year, with 13% of CEOs planning international investment placing it among their top three destinations.

Execution gaps remain. Only one in four CEOs say their organisation tolerates high risk in innovation projects, has disciplined processes to stop underperforming initiatives, or operates a defined innovation centre or corporate venturing function.

Time is also a constraint: CEOs report spending 47% of their time focused on issues with a horizon of less than one year, compared with just 16% on decisions looking more than five years ahead.

Mohamed Kande, PwC Global Chairman, added: 

“In periods of rapid change, the instinct to slow down is understandable—but it’s also risky. The value at stake across the global economy is increasing, and the window to capture it is narrowing. The companies that succeed will be those willing to make bold decisions and invest with conviction in the capabilities that matter most.”

Notes to Editors

About PwC’s 2026 Global CEO Survey

We surveyed 4,454 CEOs in 95 countries and territories from 30 September to 10 November 2025. The global and regional figures in this report are weighted proportionally to country nominal GDP, so CEOs’ views are broadly representative across all major regions. The industry- and country-level figures are based on unweighted data from the full sample of 4,454 CEOs. To learn more about the findings, please visit: http://www.pwc.com/ceosurvey.

About PwC 

At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We’re a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 364,000 people in 136 countries and 137 territories. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting, we help clients build, accelerate, and sustain momentum. Find out more at www.pwc.com.  

goFLUENT Solidifies Global Leadership in Corporate Language Training and Language Assessment Solutions with the Acquisition of the Business Operations of Learnship Networks GmbH

By
Advertorial Desk
-

GENEVA, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — goFLUENT, a global leader in corporate language training and language assessment solutions, announced the acquisition of the business operations of Learnship Networks GmbH (“Learnship”).

This strategic acquisition reinforces goFLUENT’s position as a leading global provider of enterprise language training and language assessment, supporting multinational organizations with AI-powered training, standardized language assessment, and enterprise-grade digital learning solutions.

Market Consolidation in Corporate Language Training: Driven by Rapid AI Innovation

The acquisition comes as the corporate language training market undergoes consolidation, driven by rapid AI innovation and growing demand from global organizations for scalable, measurable, and integrated language solutions.

Christophe Ferrandou, CEO of goFLUENT, commented: “The timing is right. The corporate language training market needs to consolidate, especially as AI-driven innovations are transforming how organizations approach language training and language assessment at scale.”

This consolidation strengthens goFLUENT’s position as the global leader in corporate language training and assessment, recognized for AI-powered language learning, advanced assessment, and scalable enterprise solutions for global workforces.

Strategic Leadership: Expanding Enterprise Language Training and Language Assessment Solutions

Learnship Networks GmbH has established a strong market position in Germany and works with some of the largest German multinational companies, further reinforcing goFLUENT’s leadership in enterprise language training for global organizations. “This is a very strong strategic acquisition for goFLUENT,” said Ferrandou. “Learnship Networks GmbH has built a leading position in Germany and works with some of the most demanding global enterprises, which fits perfectly with goFLUENT’s focus on large, international organizations.”

Scaling Capacity: Enhancing Global Instruction with 500+ Qualified Language Trainers

The acquisition will strengthen goFLUENT’s instructional capabilities by expanding its global network of expert language trainers, scaling the delivery of corporate language training programs across regions, languages, and industries. “Language training remains deeply human,” added Ferrandou. “This acquisition allows us to integrate more than 500 highly qualified trainers into goFLUENT’s global organization.”

Seamless HR Tech Integrations with SAP, Workday, Cornerstone, and Leading Platforms

Learnship Networks GmbH customers will now be able to leverage goFLUENT’s strong integration capabilities with enterprise HR, Learning and Recruitment systems. goFLUENT provides connectors and seamless integrations with leading LMS, ATS, and HR platforms. including SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, Cornerstone, Skillsoft, Docebo, and SmartRecruiters.

These integrations allow organizations to streamline deployment, automate reporting, track language skills, manage learning data across existing enterprise systems, making it easier for HR, Learning & Development, and Talent Acquisition teams to implement and measure corporate language training and language assessment programs at scale.

“By joining goFLUENT, Learnship Networks GmbH customers will gain access to our enterprise-grade integrations and AI-powered learning tools, enabling HR and L&D teams to seamlessly manage language training and language assessment at scale across global organizations,” said Ferrandou.

Balancing AI Efficiency with Human Soft Skills: The Future of Strategic Business Communication

The rise of AI and automation is fundamentally reshaping the future of work, requiring a major skills upgrade across industries. While AI promises to automate up to 30% of current work hours by 2030 and take over tasks characterized by basic cognitive skills — including fundamental data processing and rudimentary communication — the ability to communicate effectively remains a distinctly human and increasingly valuable asset.

Aligned with the analysis in the McKinsey Global Institute report, A new future of work: The race to deploy AI and raise skills, goFLUENT recognizes that the demand for social and emotional skills will rise significantly. These are the skills that define effective communication in a global enterprise: the ability to build consensus, lead, negotiate, and show interpersonal empathy.

goFLUENT’s corporate language training and language assessment solutions are designed to develop these advanced, human-centric communication capabilities. By combining AI-powered learning for personalized efficiency with the irreplaceable value of human instruction (over 1.500 expert trainers post-acquisition), goFLUENT ensures that global employees acquire not just language proficiency, but the strategic communication skills necessary to thrive alongside AI and drive business performance in the next era of work.

About goFLUENT: Global Leader in Corporate Language Training and CEFR-Aligned Assessments

goFLUENT is a global leader in corporate language training and language assessment solutions. The company delivers B2B, enterprise-grade programs that accelerate language proficiency through a blend of digital technology, expert content, AI-powered learning, and human instruction, accessible on any device.

Trusted by L&D, HR, and Talent Acquisition leaders at over 1,000 multinational corporations across 100+ countries, goFLUENT helps organizations build business communication skills, assess and benchmark talent, support internal mobility, and foster a global culture. Its solutions include corporate language training programs, standardized language assessments aligned with CEFR, adaptive learning pathways, and blended learning models, designed for enterprise recruiters and HR teams to evaluate and develop workforce language capabilities.

goFLUENT delivers training and language assessment in 49 key business languages operating in 20 countries, helping millions of professionals become more effective communicators in the languages of business.

Contact
goFLUENT
marketing@gofluent.com

Deeply rooted in the hydrogen energy sector and driving industry transformation, SHPT is set to deploy its new fuel cell systems in a hydrogen-powered UAV inspection project

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SHANGHAI, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As a high-tech enterprise in the fuel cell sector, Shanghai Hydrogen Propulsion Technology Co., Ltd. (abbreviated as “SHPT”) has upheld its corporate vision of “Hydrogen Powers the World, SHPT Leads the Future” since its establishment in 2018. The company is dedicated to the R&D and industrialization of hydrogen energy technologies, advancing the high-quality and sustainable development of hydrogen energy technology. Leveraging years of technical expertise and innovative breakthroughs, SHPT has built vertically integrated capabilities for independent R&D and large-scale production, covering Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEA), fuel cell stacks, fuel cell systems, as well as vehicle powertrain integration and customized development. It has emerged as one of the few high-tech enterprises in China to achieve end-to-end independent manufacturing across the entire industrial chain. With its technical strength and market position firmly secured in the industry’s top tier, vehicles equipped with SHPT systems are currently undergoing fuel cell vehicle demonstration operations in 32 cities across 18 Chinese provinces, including Shanghai, Beijing, Guangdong, Jiangsu, Inner Mongolia and Shaanxi.

Amidst the intense competition of the hydrogen energy industry, SHPT—as a top-tier player in the fuel cell sector—has not rested on its existing advantages in the automotive market, even while facing challenges of accelerated technological iteration and intensifying application segmentation. Instead, the company has adopted a two-pronged approach: on one hand, it continues to deeply cultivate core scenarios such as commercial and passenger vehicles to consolidate its market leadership; on the other hand, it is breaking the boundaries of application scenarios to extend its technological expertise into a wider range of non-automotive fields. This dual-drive strategy—combining steady operations with transformative innovation—opens up vast new possibilities for the commercialization of hydrogen technology across diverse sectors.

This visionary diversification strategy has quickly yielded results in global markets. Recently, SHPT’s independently developed new low-power closed-loop air-cooled fuel cell system was shipped from Shanghai to overseas customers. Set to be deployed in a 25kg-class hydrogen-powered UAV inspection project in Germany, this product marks a crucial step in SHPT’s strategic expansion from the automotive transportation sector to the low-altitude economy.

Currently, industrial UAVs are spearheading the development of the low-altitude economy with exponential growth. Critical applications—including power grid inspection, oil and gas station equipment inspection, water conservancy patrols and forest fire prevention—impose stringent requirements for equipment endurance, service life and environmental adaptability. Compared to traditional lithium battery solutions, fuel cells are injecting strong impetus into UAV technological innovation and scenario-based applications by virtue of their advantages in service life and endurance. Targeting the industrial UAV niche market that demands long endurance and extended service cycles, SHPT has launched its F-series fuel cell products, developing a comprehensive hydrogen-powered solution that injects new momentum into the high-quality development of the low-altitude economy.

As a strategic new product for SHPT’s expansion into the low-altitude economy , the F-series fuel cell products feature a system power range flexibly scalable from 1kW to 60kW. These products are perfectly compatible with various UAV models including multi-rotor and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) fixed-wing UAVs weighing between 10kg and 500kg and comprehensively cover the high-frequency operational demands of industrial UAVs in scenarios such as large-scale equipment inspection, logistics transportation, and emergency fire-fighting. The F-series products have achieved multiple breakthroughs in technical R&D, focused on overcoming key challenges in endurance, lightweight design, spatial arrangement, and low-temperature adaptability, which redefining industry technical standards for hydrogen-powered UAVs with superior performance.

In terms of core performance, each single-module F-series system boasts a rated power of 6kW and incorporates an innovative closed-loop air-cooled design, which quadruples the service life compared with traditional open-loop air-cooled alternatives. In terms of environmental adaptability, it enables UAVs to start up normally and operate stably within a wide temperature range of -20℃ to 40℃, completely eliminating operational limitations caused by extreme weather conditions. Another key highlight is the enhanced refueling efficiency: hydrogen refueling for UAVs takes only 3–5 minutes, effectively addressing the pain points of prolonged downtime and low operational efficiency in industrial UAV operations.

Lightweight design is a core competency of the F-series products. SHPT has adopted titanium alloy bipolar plates in stack R&D, reducing weight by over 30% compared with graphite-based plates. The stack’s mass power density is expected to exceed 1400 W/kg, an industry-leading level that creates more possibilities for boosting UAV endurance and enabling flexible hydrogen storage system configurations.

At present, SHPT has jointly developed a 25kg-class hydrogen-powered UAV with partners, which will be deployed in scenarios such as photovoltaic equipment inspection in Inner Mongolia. Boasting an endurance of over 1 hour—more than three times that of lithium battery solutions—and a 3-minute refueling turnaround time, this UAV is capable of multiple functions including logistics, patrols and aerial photography.

Building on its full industrial chain technical advantages, SHPT is accelerating the in-depth expansion of application scenarios with a broader perspective. It is focusing on the technological transformation and value extension of complex operational scenarios, such as large-scale infrastructure and industrial equipment inspection, long-distance heavy-haul logistics, comprehensive emergency rescue and forestry security. Meanwhile, the company is actively exploring diversified applications in two-wheelers, construction machinery, hydrogen power generation, shipping and aviation.

Through the deep integration of technological breakthroughs and commercial scenario innovation, SHPT is continuously expanding its business footprint while consolidating the foundation for sustainable development, demonstrating the strategic resolve of a leading enterprise in the hydrogen energy industry. Looking ahead, SHPT will strengthen international cooperation, actively integrate into the global hydrogen energy supply chain, and prioritize layout in key regions including Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, North America and South America. Leveraging localized market resources and advantages, SHPT aims to share China’s fuel cell industry chain with global partners, jointly building cross-regional technical collaboration models, business models and a hydrogen energy ecosystem.

Uni-China Group Launches “Hong Kong Farmland” Brand Program

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Empowering Local Agriculture and Fisheries with Expertise and Technology
Heralding a New Era of Sustainable Development

HONG KONG, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Uni-China Group (hereafter “the Group”) officially announced the launch of its flagship innovative initiative, the “Hong Kong Farmland” Brand Program. This demonstrates the Group’s full commitment to the future development of Hong Kong’s agriculture and fisheries industries and aligns with the National 15th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development, which emphasizes advancing agricultural and rural modernization, as well as the HKSAR Government’s Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, optimizing supply chains, and implementing brand management, Uni-China Group is dedicated to advancing the modernization and sustainable development of the local agriculture and fisheries industries, revitalizing native resources and providing citizens with high-quality, healthy, value-for-money, low-carbon, and environmentally friendly locally produced agricultural and fisheries products, thus opening a new chapter for the agriculture and fisheries industries.

Revolutionizing Traditional Operations and Building a Sustainable Industrial Chain

The “Hong Kong Farmland” Program upholds the principle of balancing development with conservation. It actively employs modern technologies to boost local production capacity, with the goal of establishing a comprehensive industrial value chain, from production and sales to logistics and brand development, thereby significantly enhancing the market competitiveness of local agricultural and fisheries products.

The program aims to establish “Made in Hong Kong” agricultural and fisheries products as symbols of superior quality and trustworthiness. This will inject strong momentum into the local economy while creating a new industry model that delivers both economic benefits and social value.

As a major step toward realizing the Blueprint, Uni-China Group has secured the HKSAR Government’s deep-sea aquaculture project in the Mirs Bay (South) New Fish Culture Zone and has been officially granted an Approval In Principle Letter for Marine Fish Culture License by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. Centered on advanced deep-sea aquaculture technology, the project will cultivate high-quality fish species in pristine waters.

With the official launch of the new “Hong Kong Farmland” brand, Uni-China Group is dedicated to providing Hong Kong citizens with premium, healthy, low-carbon, and environmentally friendly local agricultural and fisheries products. The brand seeks to create a clear, easily recognizable identity, enabling consumers to readily identify and trust high-quality local products while accessing fresh, superior-value items through convenient channels. At the same time, it harnesses market forces to revive Hong Kong’s long-declining agriculture and fisheries industries, driving sustainable industry development.

The landmark government-business collaboration in advancing the upgrade and transformation of the agriculture and fisheries industries was witnessed and jointly officiated by Mr. Tse Chin-wan, BBS, JP, Secretary for Environment and Ecology of the Hong Kong SAR Government; Mr. Lai Kin-ming, JP, Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation; Mr. Tommy Cheung Yu-yan, GBM, GBS, JP, Executive Council Member; Mr. Shiu Ka-fai, BBS, JP, Legislative Council Member; Mr. Chan Pok-chi, MH, JP, Legislative Council Member; Mr. Au Yeong Chi, Executive Chairman of the Association of Hong Kong Agricultural Development and Construction; Mr. Cheung Siu-keung, Chairman of Hong Kong Fishermen Consortium; Mr. Jackie Ling, Chairman of Uni-China Group; and Mr. James Ling, MH, Vice Chairman of Uni-China Group.

Government and Business Join Forces to Drive Transformation and Upgrade

Through the “Hong Kong Farmland” Program, Uni-China Group is committed to achieving the sustainable development goals for Hong Kong’s agriculture and fisheries industries, while enhancing the self-sufficiency rate of local products. This not only ensures citizens enjoy fresh, safe local produce and helps position Hong Kong as a hub for high-quality food supply, but it also creates employment and innovation opportunities for the younger generation, supporting Hong Kong’s economic diversification.

Mr. Jackie Ling, Chairman of Uni-China Group, stated, “Rooted in Hong Kong for 25 years, Uni-China Group has remained dedicated to fresh food retail and industry revitalization. The launch of the “Hong Kong Farmland” Brand Program represents a major step in giving back to society and promoting local agriculture and fisheries. The Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan clearly emphasizes advancing agricultural and rural modernization, transforming agriculture into a modern large-scale industry. Uni-China Group will fully align with the development strategies of the Nation and the HKSAR Government by introducing expertise and advanced technologies, and leveraging our robust retail network to build a complete value chain from production and cold-chain logistics to retail and brand development, delivering premium local agricultural and fisheries products to Hong Kong citizens. Moving forward, we will continue to collaborate closely with the Government and industry partners to promote sustainable development in Hong Kong’s agriculture and fisheries industries, creating broader prospects for all stakeholders.”

Vast Market Potential Awaits Exploration

According to 2024 data from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department , local capture fisheries production reached approximately 92,000 tonnes (valued at HK$2.4 billion), while marine fish culture production stood at only 626 tonnes (valued at HK$66 million). Combined local output accounted for about 20% of Hong Kong’s total seafood consumption. Yet demand remains exceptionally high, with annual imports averaging over 350,000 tonnes, highlighting enormous untapped potential in the local market.

The “Hong Kong Farmland” Program is poised to fill this gap, aiming to significantly increase local production value and inject billions of dollars into the sector, boosting new economic vitality.

Source: www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/factsheets/docs/agriculture.pdf

Table1: Production and Value of Local Fisheries Products from Culture and Capture 

 

 

Category

2022

2024

Production

(Tonnes)

Value

(HK$)

Production

(Tonnes)

Value

(HK$)

Culture

Pond Fish

2,073

–

1,349

37 million

Marine Fish

587

–

626

66 million

Oyster

104

–

114

16 million

Total

2,764

130 million

2,089

119 million

Capture

Marine Fish

71,724

–

86,466

1,940 million

Shellfish

5,476

–

5,787

464 million

Total

77,200

2,170 million

92,253

2,404 million

Total

79,964

2,300 million

94,342

2,523 million

Table2: Annual Consumption of Fisheries Produces and
Local Share on Consumption of Fisheries Produces

 

 

 

Category

2022

2024

Annual Consumption of Fisheries Produces

(Tonnes)

Local Share on Consumption of Fisheries Produces by Category

Annual Consumption of Fisheries Produces

(Tonnes)

Local Share on Consumption of Fisheries Produces by Category

Pond Fish

45,053

4.6 %

34,384

3.9 %

Marine Fish

106,248

26.8 %

88,030

35.2 %

Shellfish

85,984

5.2 %

87,133

5.3 %

Total

237,287

15 %

209,547

18 %

Uni-China Group looks forward to the “Hong Kong Farmland” Program becoming a model for the transformation of Hong Kong’s agriculture and fisheries sector, bringing more fresh and safe local choices, and contributing to the sustainable growth of Hong Kong’s economy.

Mr. Tse Chin-wan, BBS, JP, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology(1st from right) and Mr. Jackie Ling, Chairman of Uni-China Group(1st from left), witnessed Mr. Lai Kin-ming, Mickey, JP, the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation(2nd from right) presenting the Notices of Approval-in-principle for Marine Fish Culture Licence to Mr. James Ling, MH, the Vice Chairman of Uni-China Group(2nd from left).
Mr. Tse Chin-wan, BBS, JP, the Secretary for Environment and Ecology(1st from right) and Mr. Jackie Ling, Chairman of Uni-China Group(1st from left), witnessed Mr. Lai Kin-ming, Mickey, JP, the Director of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation(2nd from right) presenting the Notices of Approval-in-principle for Marine Fish Culture Licence to Mr. James Ling, MH, the Vice Chairman of Uni-China Group(2nd from left).

About Uni-China Group

Uni-China Group has been rooted in Hong Kong for 25 years, consistently building its foundation on the local business landscape and playing a pivotal role in the operations and management across various sectors. From a single commercial entity, the Group has evolved into a diversified enterprise, steadfastly upholding the principle of achieving excellence through perseverance. The Group’s operations span a wide range of industries, including asset appreciation, retail, food trading, food and beverages, as well as digital businesses. Currently, it manages approximately 1,000 sales points in Hong Kong, holding leadership positions across multiple sectors while playing a key role in promoting traditional culture and driving future development. Uni-China Group employs around 5,000 staff, with the entire team dedicated, professional, and committed to pursuing excellence in every aspect. The Group will continue to advance sustainable development in its business scope and community services, fulfilling its corporate social responsibility and maintaining its leading position in the industry.

Advantech Achieves AS9100 Certification, Bolstering Trust in High-Stakes Applications

By
Advertorial Desk
-

TAIPEI, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Advantech, a leading provider of embedded IoT computing solutions, is pleased to announce that the Taiwan manufacturing center has received AS9100 quality management system certification. Based on globally recognized quality management system – ISO 9001, AS9100 strengthens manufacturing qualities including full document traceability, strict risk assessment, and controlled change management, tailored to aerospace, space and defense applications which were long-product lifecycle under high-risk operation. With this certification, Advantech ensures high quality with efficient development workflow, enhanced auditable standard and consistent excellence for aerospace and mission critical markets.

Advantech Achieves AS9100 Certification, Bolstering Trust in High-Stakes Applications
Advantech Achieves AS9100 Certification, Bolstering Trust in High-Stakes Applications

Beyond ISO 9001: Certified to a Low-Tolerance, Aerospace-Grade Quality Standard

Compared with ISO 9001, which focuses on general risk management, AS9100 provides full traceability across design and manufacturing, with all changes documented and approved to ensure near-zero errors. It enforces end-to-end record-keeping, enabling rapid isolation of affected lots and fast recalls. The certification also applies FMEA and FTA risk management, shifting defect prevention upstream to design and manufacturing, and requires strict configuration and change control to ensure all adjustments remain fully traceable.

The standard brings three key benefits: higher efficiency through quick issue identification, lower error rates through early risk mitigation, and, as AS9100 is a globally recognized standard, it accelerates our adoption in international aerospace supply chains. With aerospace-grade quality management, Advantech is well positioned to support defense, outdoor drone, and ruggedized applications, offering high efficiency, greater availability, and predictable lifecycles.

Elevates Rugged Innovation with Expanding AS9100 Portfolio

Advantech has implemented AS9100 standards across its production lines in Taiwan, covering design transfer, locked manufacturing process parameters, lot traceability, and release controls. As a certified demonstration product, the COM Express Compact Type 6 SOM-6884 A2 was produced under AS9100 certification, delivering aerospace-grade quality with clear documentation and traceability. To meet diverse requirements, additional product lines will follow under AS9100, including the COM-HPC Mini SOM-M250 and COM Express Compact Type 6 SOM-6886, along with other certified products, fulfilling the stringent demands of aerospace, defense, and other high-reliability markets.

Why Advantech: The Winning Mix of Compliance, Expertise, and Delivery

AS9100 plays a key role in aerospace applications. Advantech combines deep domain experience, comprehensive design-in services with a global support footprint, and flexible manufacturing with strong supply assurance, turning compliance into real system value and schedule certainty. We help customers achieve higher reliability and lower total lifecycle costs in harsh environments, making Advantech the partner of choice for AS9100-certified products and programs.

About Embedded Core Services 

Advantech Embedded Core Services offers design-in services. Their streamlined solutions broadly integrate embedded boards, peripheral modules, and software. This dedicated focus on embedded design-in services fulfills electronic engineering demands at the design-in phase, shortening the design and integration cycle and minimizing uncertainty and risk. https://www.advantech.com/EmbCore

About Advantech

Advantech’s corporate vision is to enable an intelligent planet. The company is a global leader in the fields of IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms. To embrace the trends of IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence, Advantech promotes IoT hardware and software solutions with the Edge Intelligence WISE-PaaS core to assist business partners and clients in connecting their industrial chains. Advantech is also working with business partners to co-create business ecosystems that accelerate the goal of industrial intelligence. (www.advantech.com)

The 7th “Design Licensing and Business (DLAB) Support Scheme” Grandly Launched 39 Selected Local Design Companies Driving Hong Kong Design Brands to Expand Licensing Opportunities

By
Advertorial Desk
-

HONG KONG, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Organized by the Innovative Entrepreneur Association (“IEA”) and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (“CCIDA”), the Design Licensing and Business (DLAB) Support Scheme held its 7th edition’s Kick-Off Ceremony today at the United Centre in Admiralty, announcing the 39 selected local design companies for the 7th DLAB Support Scheme. These companies span a wide range of creative sectors and represent the new generation of Hong Kong’s design talent. Through the scheme, they will receive training, professional consultancy, and business matching opportunities to further expand their brand licensing potential.

Group picture of the selected 39 local design companies and guests for the seventh DLAB.
Group picture of the selected 39 local design companies and guests for the seventh DLAB.

The organiser is honoured to have Miss. Yvonne IP Man Yee, Assistant Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries, as the Guest of Honour and to give a speech. She was joined by Mr. Zacharias CHENG, President of IEA, Ms. Cherrie CHONG, former President of IEA, Mr Cyril CHEUNG, Vice President of IEA and Ellen MOK, General Secretary of IEA, to officiate at the launch ceremony. Guests and representatives from the 39 selected companies gathered for a group photo, marking a vibrant and celebratory moment. The event also featured a keynote sharing by Mr. Samuel CHOY, General Manager of Bliss Concept Ltd, who explored the latest trends in design licensing. In addition, the alumni of previous DLAB cohorts shared their success stories, offering valuable inspiration and practical insights to this year’s participants.

Since the 1st edition, DLAB has successfully supported over 300 local design companies, driving the development of Hong Kong’s design licensing industry. The scheme provides professional training in marketing, brand building, and business operations, along with professional consultancy and business matching services, helping enterprises seize licensing opportunities and expand into the Chinese Mainland and international markets.

For its 7th edition this year, the scheme offers two application categories:

  • Category 1: Companies established for no more than 6 years (between November 6, 2019, and November 5, 2025), primarily engaged in design or licensing, with IP launched for no more than 6 years. Applicants must have full ownership of the IP rights of the creative content, such as original character designs, pattern designs, illustrations, etc.
  • Category 2: Companies established for 6 to 12 years (between November 6, 2013 and November 5, 2025), with IP launched for no more than 6 years. Applicants must have full ownership of the IP rights of the creative content, such as original character designs, pattern designs, illustrations, etc.

Selected companies will have their participation in the late-January 2026 Greater Bay Area Study Mission fully subsidised, strengthening ties with Mainland enterprises and exploring the market potential. In addition, they will also enjoy a preferential booth at a special rate of HK$4,000 for first-time DLAB participants and HK$6,000 for returning companies – to showcase at the DLAB Hong Kong Pavilion of the Hong Kong International Licensing Show 2026, held from April 27 to 29, 2026. They will present their creative achievements alongside over 600 international and local IPs, further enhancing Hong Kong design’s global visibility.

Mr. Zacharias CHENG, President of IEA, stated at the launch ceremony, “DLAB has now reached its seventh edition, witnessing the continuous growth of Hong Kong’s design industry. This year, for the first time, we are proud to announce the 39 selected companies, representing a new generation of creative power. Through training, exchange opportunities, and exhibition platforms, we hope these brands will go further, connect seamlessly with international markets, and showcase Hong Kong’s spirit of originality to a

broader global stage”.

For more details of the 7th DLAB, please visit www.dlabhk.com.

About Innovative Entrepreneur Association (IEA)

Innovative Entrepreneur Association is a non-profit making organisation, with the aim to foster the spirit of “Innovative Entrepreneurship” in Hong Kong, the Mainland and all over the world. With the cooperation with the government and other organisations, IEA helps the start-up companies acquire more experience and strategies in order to enhance their competitiveness. IEA always strives to promote Hong Kong as world-leading “Creative and Entrepreneurial Capital”.

Website: http://www.iea.org.hk.

DLAB Logo

There are four letters in the logo of DLAB, “D” stands for Design, “L” stands of Licensing, “A” is And while “B” is the short form of “Business”.

About Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA)

The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) since 2009, was established in June 2024. CCIDA is a dedicated office under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative sectors with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate development of the arts, culture and creative sectors as industries. CCIDA’s strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and multi-disciplinary collaboration, promoting industrialisation of the arts, culture and creative sectors under the industry-oriented principle, and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and our positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. Website: https://www.ccidahk.gov.hk. 

Event Photos: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1S2jERf8jv-FJRhcWxeJf1HIOP6JMTFCo?usp=drive_link

Guide Outdoor to Showcase ApexVision at SHOT Show 2026: An Ultra-Clarity Era Unfolds in Las Vegas

By
Advertorial Desk
-

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fresh from its highly acclaimed debut at CES 2026, Guide outdoor will showcase ApexVision at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas (January 20–23) at Booth #40516. As a premier event for the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industry, SHOT Show brings together professionals to explore technologies shaping the year ahead. ApexVision marks a major step forward in ultra-clarity thermal imaging, and its tailored hunting optics are set to attract serious hunters and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the show.

Guide Outdoor to Showcase ApexVision at #40516
Guide Outdoor to Showcase ApexVision at #40516

ApexVision marks a significant advancement in thermal imaging performance through the deep integration of hardware and software. It combines the advanced ApexCore S1 infrared detector, the high-performance Nexus 1.0 processing platform, and the AI-powered Hyper-light 2.0 algorithm, together deliver exceptional image detail, superior contrast and edge enhancement, noise suppression, and lag-free visuals — even at high magnification or on fast-moving targets.

At SHOT Show 2026, ApexVision will be demonstrated across a lineup of thermal optics at Guide Outdoor booth:

  • The TU1260MS multi-spectral scope, powered by the latest ApexVision technology, delivers ultra-clarity and precision. It provides smooth, ghost-free motion, high-fidelity imaging, and razor-sharp detail even at long distance. The TU1260MS utilizes a 1280×1024 thermal sensor and a 1920×1080 low-light CMOS sensor, NETD≤15mK, 60mm objective lens, and 1500m laser rangefinder. The TU1260MS, a tailored hunting companion, enables megapixel-level clarity and precise shooting for both day and night hunting.
  • Other popular ApexVision-powered optics will also be on display for hands-on demonstrations, including thermal and night vision devices, thermal imaging scopes, clip-ons, as well as monoculars and binoculars.

“ApexVision is not just an upgrade, it marks the arrive of the Ultra-Clarity Era in thermal imaging.” Said Hank Huang, CEO of Guide outdoor, “The innovation represents years of our dedication to delivering decisive, actionable thermal intelligence, empowering serious hunters to see more clearly, react faster, and operate with greater confidence. We invite everyone at SHOT Show to stop by and see the difference firsthand.”

Attendees are encouraged to visit Guide outdoor Booth #40516, Venetian level 1, for hands-on testing and live previews of ApexVision-powered hunting optics.

Guide outdoor is keen to explore global partnership and collaboration opportunities. Learn more at www.guideoutdoor.com or contact enquiry@guideoutdoor.com.

Sakai Clinic 62 Founder & Medical Director Mari Sakai Holds Dialogue with Peter Nobel, Chairman of the Nobel Sustainability Trust, Declaring Global Leadership as a Pioneer of Medical Sustainability

By
Advertorial Desk
-

TOKYO, Jan. 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sakai Clinic 62 (Location: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; Founder & Medical Director: Mari Sakai) announces that Dr. Mari Sakai held a dialogue with Mr. Peter Nobel, Chairman of the Nobel Sustainability Trust (NST), to discuss the international promotion of sustainability within the medical field.

Peter Nobel and Mari Sakai
Peter Nobel and Mari Sakai

The Nobel Sustainability Trust (NST) is an international foundation established by members of the Nobel family, dedicated to advancing sustainability by bridging scientific research and real-world implementation. During this dialogue, insights from regenerative medicine—including telomere injections and infusions developed by Dr. Sakai—were exchanged alongside NST’s global sustainability philosophy. The discussion revealed strong alignment between both parties and highlighted significant potential for future collaboration.

Dr. Sakai has long advocated that realizing the sustainability of both the human mind and body through regenerative medicine is a critical mission of modern healthcare. Through this dialogue, she further reinforced the importance of communicating the concept of medical sustainability to the international community.

Following the discussion, Dr. Sakai commented:

“This dialogue reaffirmed my strong sense of mission to present the value of medical sustainability to the world and to advance initiatives that safeguard the health and well-being of future generations. As Sakai Clinic 62, we are committed to acting as a pioneer in medical sustainability and will continue to promote these efforts in collaboration with domestic and international networks.”

Sakai Clinic 62 will continue to integrate a global perspective into its initiatives, striving to advance medical sustainability and contribute to the extension of healthy life expectancy and the sustainability of society through regenerative medicine.

Contact Information
8F TOP HILLS GARDEN Dogenzaka,
2-11-6 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Tel: +81-3-6455-1813
Email: info@sakai-clinic62.jp 
Website: https://www.sakai-clinic62.jp/

1...1,3471,3481,349...6,568Page 1,348 of 6,568