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Mastering Core Competencies for the AI Era: Unlocking New Opportunities Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway Joins Industry Partners, Principals and Students to Share Observations & Insights

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Facing the increasingly apparent impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education, productivity and workplace skill requirements, how should students respond to this new opportunity to lead the way in this new era of AI? Led by Hong Kong Baptist University and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) joins hands with various secondary schools, industry partners, and students and graduates to share observations and insights from the education sector, business community, and young generation on the future opportunities in the age of AI.

Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway joins industry partners, principals, and students to share observations and insights on how students can equip themselves to navigate the AI era.
Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway joins industry partners, principals, and students to share observations and insights on how students can equip themselves to navigate the AI era.

 

Mr. Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative - CLAP-TECH Centre
Mr. Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre

Mr. Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre

CLAP-TECH is committed to helping students develop self-directed learning abilities and both soft and hard skills by aligning their strengths and interests with practical experience. Through a tripartite collaboration among secondary schools, industry partners, and Hong Kong Baptist University, the programme enables them to explore diverse pathways.

In today’s fast-advancing technological landscape, students can use tools such as AI to efficiently understand knowledge, quickly integrate and refine ideas, and transform abstract concepts into tangible outcomes. However, conquering technology alone is not enough to meet future and workplace challenges. CLAP-TECH provides students with hands-on experience and nurtures essential soft skills, such as analytical thinking, critical thinking, and creativity, through learning and various out-of-classroom activities. This empowers them to harness technology effectively, adapt to the future workplace, and be well-prepared for career development and the challenges of an evolving society.

Mr. Kelvin Shiu, Deputy General Manager, Digital Media, HK & TW, Adobe, CLAP-TECH Industry Partner

Adobe is at the forefront of creative technology innovation. With the popularisation of AI, we are fundamentally reshaping the creative workflow.

Today, AI has significantly lowered the technical barrier to creation, making us realise that mere execution is no longer the core competency. What truly sets people apart is an excellent ability to conceptualise, including insight, creativity, and the ability to create unique visual experiences—this is the key to success.

Therefore, when facing the future, the next generation of creative talent in Hong Kong must not only master AI tools but also focus on cultivating a series of critically important soft skills. This includes deep insight, critical thinking, identifying market pain points, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively in a creative manner. The value of future talent lies in their ability to dance with technology, propose novel concepts, and build memorable experiences.

Ms. Mimi Poon, General Manager, IBM Hong Kong, CLAP-TECH Industry Partner

In the age of AI, the skills gap is a difficult challenge across all industries, requiring cooperation from all sectors of society.

For instance, IBM SkillsBuild is a free digital learning platform offering over a thousand online courses, including AI, for adults, high-school students, university students, and teachers to explore new technologies, cultivate essential future-proof skills, and earn digital certificates. IBM encourages students to engage with AI at an early stage, proactively utilise these complementary resources for self-study, explore their interests, and acquire the skills needed for the future job market.

We anticipate that alongside learning fundamental AI technical knowledge, students will also be provided with opportunities, such as internships and overseas exchange programmes, to hone crucial soft skills and enhance competencies such as, critical thinking, highly effective communication and collaboration, and the ability to solve complex problems. We hope students will not only use innovative technologies but also make ethical judgements and navigate social complexities, collectively driving society in the right direction.

Ms. Fung Shun-ning, Brenda, Principal of Buddhist Sum Heung Lam Memorial College

As AI technologies evolve rapidly, tools can become obsolete in a short space of time. Simply mastering how to use a particular tool is therefore insufficient.

To address this challenge, we adopt a “co-creation and collaborative learning” teaching approach, focusing on guiding students to grasp the underlying thought framework for AI applications. We teach them how to ask precise questions, verify AI-generated answers, and utilise AI to solve real-world problems and create value. Once students have mastered this logical mindset, they can apply their skills flexibly to any new technology.

At the same time, maintaining a lifelong learning attitude is fundamental to professional development. Only by cultivating the habit of continuous learning can students navigate this rapidly changing era with confidence and resilience.

Mr. William Wong, Principal of Man Kwan Pak Kau College

Amidst the accelerating development of AI technology, our school views AI as a crucial engine for advancing creative education. We actively introduce innovative equipment and curricula, encouraging students to proactively utilise AI for learning and creation, embracing the infinite possibilities this advanced tool brings.

However, the core of education in the AI era is absolutely not merely the simple application of tools, but the holistic enhancement of student qualities. Facing the situation where AI-generated information sometimes is unreliable, we place greater emphasis on cultivating students’ information discernment and critical thinking skills, guiding them to practice the academic attitude of multi-source verification. This is because true learning is never just unidirectional reception, it is gradually formed through prudent exploration and the construction of perspectives. And the cultivation of this ability will also make students more competitive in society.

Mr. Wong Kin-Ho, Principal of The Yuen Yuen Institute MFBM Nei Ming Chan Lui Chung Tak Memorial College

Undoubtedly, the most important issue in society today is the rapid development of AI, which is reshaping the skill requirements for talent across various industries. We are actively guiding students to effectively employ this new technology and keep pace with the new trends in teaching and learning.

We are actively integrating project-based learning and application challenges into our curriculum, guiding students to learn how to use AI as a tool to solve real-life problems or transform imaginative ideas into practical outcomes. This extensive hands-on operation not only enables students to master the application of technology but, more crucially, allows them to personally experience the potential and limitations of AI, thereby stimulating their strong interest in the technology field. Most importantly, through these processes of practical application and creation, students can accurately examine and discover their technical potential, logical thinking abilities, and personal aspirations, preparing them to make careful and personal plans for their future education and careers in this era of change.

Clinton Chan, Graduate of CLAP-TECH, currently a fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Information Management

Looking back at my childhood, I taught myself programming and electronics using online resources. This spirit of proactive learning and exploration has been invaluable, both during my CLAP-TECH studies and later at university. For me, being able to use AI for self-directed learning not only allows me to quickly explore various new knowledge areas but also enables me to rapidly find solutions when encountering problems, thereby improving efficiency and depth of understanding. With the assistance of AI, I can integrate information and even perform preliminary data analysis; this kind of practical experience is especially valuable while I am still in the learning stage.

Although AI has transformed the way we learn, we still need analytical skills to evaluate the accuracy of information and make effective use of relevant data. Only by using AI smartly can we truly enhance our learning outcomes. I believe that in the future workplace, we will apply AI flexibly to solve problems and improve decision-making efficiency. Learning how to prompt AI will greatly strengthen my competitiveness and open up more opportunities for professional growth.”

Sam Lau, Graduate of CLAP-TECH, currently a start-up entrepreneur running an AI-related start-up

AI is transforming learning and careers, bringing unprecedented opportunities for the new generation of talent. For me, ever since my first computer class in primary school, I have been deeply attracted by the logic and creativity of programming. During my time studying CLAP-TECH in secondary school, I progressively cultivated my problem-solving and self-directed learning abilities through self-learning programming. This not only improved my technical proficiency but also strengthened my autonomous exploration and innovative thinking. These experiences have made me more effective during my internships and entrepreneurial endeavours.

I believe that mastering AI technology is not just about acquiring a single skill; it simultaneously cultivates systematic thinking and the ability to innovatively solve problems. This helps us to understand complex issues faster, respond flexibly to challenges, and realise true value in the future workplace and innovation sector.

Horis Ma, Student in the Higher Diploma in Art Tech Design Programme under the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway

Studying the CLAP-TECH Art Tech Design programme gave me the opportunity to integrate creativity with technology and explore various possibilities for cross-disciplinary design. In the course, I learned to use AI and various design tools, which not only enhanced my technical abilities but also cultivated my skills in self-directed learning and problem-solving.

During last year’s drone bootcamp, through hands-on experience, we gained a deeper understanding of the current market demand for emerging technologies. This experience taught me that even after leaving school and entering the workforce, I would need to maintain curiosity and continuous self-learning to remain competitive in this rapidly changing technological era, especially the AI generation. This kind of experience has not only broadened my horizons, industry knowledge, and skills but has also strengthened my confidence in facing future career challenges.

Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway

Launched in 2020 and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) is Hong Kong’s first through-train Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) pathway in mainstream senior secondary and post-secondary education. CLAP-TECH is a tripartite partnership among Hong Kong Baptist University, industry partners, and secondary schools. It currently consists of two Applied Learning Courses (i.e. Tech Basics and Multimedia Storytelling) and Higher Diplomas in Data Science and Art Tech Design. The programme equips students with technical and soft skills for the future workforce by incorporating career and life development into the curriculum. Since its establishment, over 40 industry partners have been involved in the programme, guiding and inspiring over 1,400 students from 90 secondary schools, with over 4,300 instances of programme participation. For more details, please visit: https://www.claptech.hk/en/

DSC® Celebrates 80 Years of People, Performance, and the Planet

Employee Celebrations Continue to Celebrate Eight Decades of Dedication and Innovation

PORTLAND, Ore., Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DSC®, a global leader in high-performance foam innovation, proudly culminates its 80th anniversary celebrating its employees around the globe through the end of the year. The anniversary marks eight decades of the people behind DSC®, advancing high-performance materials rooted in sustainability and innovation. Since 1945, DSC® employees have remained committed to developing foams and footwear components that reduce environmental impact across design, sourcing, manufacturing, and delivery.

DSC employee celebrations celebrate eight decades of dedication and innovation.
DSC employee celebrations celebrate eight decades of dedication and innovation.

“As we reflect on 80 years, we’re incredibly proud of our teams that have gotten us here through the past eight decades,” said Mei-Fen Wei, Chief Operating Officer of DSC®. “DSC employees have sparked a revolution to create change and real progress in foam innovation — not only to create a solution for elite performance and comfort, but also to protect and support our planet. At DSC, our team is dedicated to our people, performance, and the planet.”

The company’s sustainability framework, Run the Relay, is driven by DSC’s zero-carbon, zero-waste mission — emphasizing that sustainability is continuous and collaborative across employees, supply chain partners, and manufacturing teams worldwide.

Supporting this mission, DSC’s team continues to expand its local-for-local manufacturing model, enabling DSC® to deliver premium products with agility, speed, and a reduced transportation footprint, all the while driving industry growth and innovation.

Product is delivered through DSC’s Green Box program, pioneered in 2017. Made from recycled PE material, the reusable Green Box is waterproof and uses Velcro closures instead of tape. Each box can be reused up to 17 times. For every 1,000 green boxes used each year, environmental savings are equivalent to 68 trees saved from deforestation, 1.4 tons of waste diverted from landfill, and 281 kg of carbon emissions avoided.

DREAMCELL® VELO, launched at The Materials Show, is DSC’s next-generation direct-poured PU insole technology that delivers explosive athletic performance, long-lasting rebound, and near-zero production waste during production. It supports elite speed and agility without compromising durability or sustainability.

In addition, DSC launched its new proprietary DURAPONTEX® L-TAC foam process, molding at just 120°C—far lower than traditional methods. The technology cuts energy use and carbon emissions in the thermal molding process by up to 50%, while protecting delicate textiles and expanding design flexibility. At scale, the process saves roughly 11,000 kWh per million insoles, the equivalent of powering 300 households for a month.

As DSC® moves into its next 80 years, it remains focused on its people, performance, and the planet, advancing materials that provide comfort and reduce environmental impact. DSC continues its commitment to Run the Relay and its goals of transparency and growth while providing a premium product that delivers.

For 80 years since its founding in 1945, Dahsheng Company (DSC®) has been a leader in foam innovation for the sports industries. Known for its premium comfort and performance foam DREAMCELL® and DURAPONTEX®, DSC® partners with top brands and footwear manufacturers worldwide. By advancing innovation and pushing the limits of foam manufacturing, DSC® is dedicated to creating eco-friendly and advanced foam solutions that set new standards in the industry.

Visit www.dahsheng.com to learn more about DSC® and its commitment to sustainability and eco-innovation.

Media Contact:
Erin Patterson
t: +1-323-422-0274
e: erin.patterson@writetheskycomms.com

ARKANCE to Launch BIMLOGIQ – A New AI-Powered Extension to Its AEC Tech Stack Offering

BRISBANE, Australia, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global AEC digital transformation leader ARKANCE today announced a partnership with BIMLOGIQ – a powerful new addition to its technology offerings, designed to transform BIM workflows for architecture, engineering and construction professionals.

BIMLOGIQ integrates cutting-edge AI capabilities directly into Autodesk Revit, enabling users to automate repetitive tasks—such as view creation, annotation, tagging, data updates, and modeling workflows—using simple natural-language prompts. By streamlining these processes and reducing manual effort, BIMLOGIQ empowers companies to significantly boost productivity, allowing teams to focus on higher-value work, accelerate project delivery, and improve overall operational efficiency.

The addition of the BIMLOGIQ Copilot and BIMLOGIQ Smart Annotation products has come as the ARKANCE continues to expand and diversify its already extensive AEC tech stack offering including Autodesk, Bluebeam, GoCanvas, Siemens, Adobe, Pinnacle and its own Be.Smart applications.

BIMLOGIQ Copilot - AI Driven Modelling Automation
BIMLOGIQ Copilot – AI Driven Modelling Automation

 

BIMLOGIQ Smart Annotations - Fast AI-Powered Documentation
BIMLOGIQ Smart Annotations – Fast AI-Powered Documentation

“We’re thrilled to bring BIMLOGIQ into the ARKANCE tech stack. This isn’t just another plug-in — it’s a pivotal enablement shift in terms of how teams interact with BIM and complements our existing and developing tech stack offering at ARKANCE. By removing manual overhead, we’re giving designers, engineers and BIM managers back their time — and the freedom to innovate,” said Grant Bryce, ANZ Managing Director at ARKANCE.

Partnering with a global AEC market leader and the largest global Autodesk Platinum partner, ARKANCE, is a significant strategic move forward for BIMLOGIQ. The move will extend our reach and deliver AI enablement in the BIM space across the market landscape in Australia and New Zealand,” said Amir Dezfouli , CEO of BIMLOGIQ.

BIMLOGIQ is now available for subscription through ARKANCE, with flexible licensing options and the ability to support both small teams and large enterprise deployments. Early adopters can request a demo or trial via the ARKANCE website.

To find out more visit www.arkance.world 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Vasili Loizou-van Hoff
Director of Marketing & Operations
ARKANCE ANZ
+61476 392 963
Vasili.loizou-vanhoff@arkance.world 

About ARKANCE 

ARKANCE is a global partner in business and digital transformation for the architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing industries. We help organizations enhance efficiency and improve how they design, build, and manufacture through solutions grounded in deep industry expertise, platform specialization, and trusted partnerships.

With over 1,200 professionals across 50+ offices in 19 countries and annual revenues exceeding €550 million, we combine global scale with local insight to support complex project delivery. ARKANCE is a subsidiary of the Monnoyeur Group, a global company with more than a century of experience driving industrial transformation.

Learn more at www.arkance.world 

About BIMLOGIQ

BIMLOGIQ is an Australian technology company delivering AI-powered automation tools for the AEC industry. Integrated directly with Autodesk Revit, BIMLOGIQ streamlines documentation, annotation, data management and modelling workflows through natural-language commands — eliminating repetitive tasks and improving accuracy and consistency across projects. By combining deep BIM expertise with advanced AI, BIMLOGIQ helps architecture, engineering and construction teams work faster, reduce manual effort and focus on higher-value design and project outcomes.

Learn more at www.bimlogiq.com 

Understanding Credit Exemptions at SIM: A Guide for Polytechnic and SIM GE Diploma Graduates


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 December 2025 – For Polytechnic and SIM GE diploma graduates aspiring to pursue a degree, one common consideration is the time required to complete their studies. SIM Global Education (SIM GE) offers credit exemptions and advanced standing options that may shorten the duration of selected programmes, subject to prior qualifications and programme-specific requirements.

Understanding Credit Exemptions

Credit exemptions enable students to receive recognition for modules previously completed during prior studies. This eliminates the need to repeat similar content, allowing eligible students to focus on new areas of learning. This practice, widely adopted in higher education, ensures students build upon existing knowledge while meeting the academic standards of their chosen degree programme.

Eligibility and Assessment

Credit exemptions at SIM GE are not granted automatically. Each application undergoes a rigorous evaluation to maintain academic integrity. The assessment considers several factors, including the relevance of previous qualifications to the chosen degree, the level and content of prior modules compared to the programme requirements, and the accreditation and recognition of the awarding institution. Through these measures, SIM GE ensures flexibility for students with diverse educational backgrounds while upholding academic excellence.

Types of Exemptions Available

SIM offers several pathways for credit exemptions, depending on prior qualifications and programme requirements. Holders of relevant Polytechnic or equivalent diplomas may receive exemptions that can reduce the overall study duration by up to one year, subject to programme-specific criteria and GPA requirements. Students who have completed SIM GE diplomas or other recognized qualifications may be eligible for advanced standing when enrolling in selected partner university programmes offered through SIM Global Education. For applicants with qualifications outside standard frameworks, exemptions are assessed individually on a case-by-case basis to ensure alignment with academic standards and programme requirements.

Key Information for Applicants

Credit exemptions are designed to acknowledge prior learning while ensuring that all students meet the academic standards of their chosen programme. They are not guaranteed and vary based on factors such as the relevance of previous qualifications, programme requirements, and institutional recognition. Applicants are encouraged to review the specific exemption policies for their intended programme and seek guidance from SIM Counsellors to understand their options.

References:

  1. SIM GE University Partners – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

SYGNUM APAC HNWI REPORT 2025: 60% of Surveyed Asian HNWIs Ready to Increase Crypto Allocations based on Strong 2-5 Year Outlook

  • 87% of respondents already hold digital assets in their investment portfolios, with nearly half allocating more than 10% to digital assets

  • 57% of HNWIs – and 61% of UHNWIs – have a bullish or very bullish long-term crypto market outlook, a view supported by the accelerating crypto and TradFi industry integration

  • 80% want ETFs beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum, with Solana (52%) showing the next highest demand. 70% would allocate or increase allocations if staking yield were included

  • 66% say their private bank or wealth manager needs to demonstrate high custody and security standards to enable them to invest confidently in digital assets

SINGAPORE, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sygnum Singapore today releases its APAC HNWI Report 2025, revealing through a survey that Asian private wealth has moved decisively into digital assets—and now expects traditional wealth managers to catch up. The survey of over 270 HNWIs and professional investors across 10 APAC markets comes as nearly half of respondents’ crypto allocations go past the 10% mark, with median HNWI holdings in the 10–20% range.

From speculation to wealth preservation

The report shows a maturation in how Asian private wealth approaches digital assets. An overwhelming 90% of surveyed HNWIs view digital assets as important for long-term wealth preservation and legacy planning—not purely speculation. Portfolio diversification now drives 56% of investment decisions, overtaking short-term trading and megatrend exposure.

Their disciplined approach is evident; HNWIs showed stronger interest in actively managed exposure, outsourced mandates and even yield strategies. The emphasis is on integration with existing wealth structures, not isolated positions.

“Digital assets are now firmly embedded within APAC’s private wealth ecosystem. Singapore’s MAS framework and Hong Kong’s advancing digital asset regulations have established the infrastructure needed for traditional wealth managers to offer crypto services—the question is no longer whether private banks can serve this demand, but when they will move to meet it. Despite near-term macro uncertainty, we continue to see accelerating adoption driven by strategic portfolio diversification, intergenerational wealth planning, and demand for institutional-grade products. APAC is rapidly becoming one of the world’s fastest growing and most important digital asset gateways, and we expect this momentum to strengthen further into 2026.” says Gerald Goh, Sygnum Co-Founder and APAC CEO.

Strong appetite for ETFs and yield-enhanced products

Beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum, 80% of APAC HNWI investors want access to additional digital asset ETFs. Solana has the next highest demand at 52%, followed by strong interest in multi-asset index products (48%) and XRP (41%). 70% say they would allocate or increase allocations if staking yield were included in ETF products—underscoring APAC’s preference for yield-enhanced, regulated investment vehicles that can integrate seamlessly with traditional portfolios.

Cautious near-term outlook, strong long-term conviction

While 60% plan to increase allocations, many investors are timing entries cautiously following recent market corrections. Regulatory uncertainty, custody and security concerns, as well as differing regional licensing frameworks, remain key barriers to increased participation. Nonetheless, long-term conviction remains strong, supported by rising on-chain activity, a growing ETF ecosystem, and clearer regulatory pathways.

“HNWIs in Singapore and the wider APAC region are embracing digital assets as a genuine wealth creation and preservation opportunity. Their disciplined, intergenerational approach to investing, combined with a higher risk appetite, is driving substantial allocations to digital assets—particularly within Singapore’s well-regulated MAS framework that provides the institutional-grade safeguards these investors expect,” says Lucas Schweiger, report author and Sygnum Crypto Asset Ecosystem Research Lead.

About the report

Sygnum’s APAC HNWI Report 2025 surveyed more than 270 high-net-worth and professional investors (95% were independent market participants) across 10 Asia-Pacific markets including Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, South Korea and Thailand. Over half the respondents have more than a decade of investment experience, with 20% active for more than 20 years. The findings reveal a rapidly maturing private wealth segment that is integrating digital assets as a core component of long-term wealth and portfolio strategy.

*Sygnum’s APAC HNWI Report 2025 reflects the views of the surveyed participants and should not be considered a universal representation of the whole market, nor interpreted as investment advice or expectations of performance.

About Sygnum

Sygnum is a global digital asset banking group, founded on Swiss and Singapore heritage. We empower professional and institutional investors, banks, corporates and DLT foundations to invest in digital assets with complete trust. Our team enables this through our institutional-grade security, expert personal service and portfolio of regulated digital asset banking, asset management, tokenization and B2B services. 

In Switzerland, Sygnum holds a banking license and has CMS and Major Payment Institution licences in Singapore. The group is also regulated in the established global financial hubs of Abu Dhabi and Luxembourg and is registered in Liechtenstein.

We believe that the future has heritage. Our crypto-native team of banking, investment and digital asset technology professionals are building a trusted gateway between the traditional and digital asset economies that we call Future Finance. To learn more about how Sygnum’s mission and values are shaping this digital asset ecosystem, please visit sygnum.com/sg and follow us on LinkedIn and X.

© 2025 Sygnum –all rights reserved. The information in this publication pertaining to Sygnum Pte. Ltd. (“Sygnum”) is for general information purposes only, as per date of publication, and should not be considered exhaustive. This publication does not consider the financial situation of any natural or legal person, nor does it provide any tax, legal or investment advice. This publication does not constitute any advice or recommendation, an offer or invitation by or on behalf of Sygnum to purchase or sell any assets. No elements of precontractual or contractual relationship are intended. While the information is believed to be from accurate and reliable sources, Sygnum makes no representation or warranties, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy of the information. Sygnum expressly disclaims any and all liability that may be based on such information, omissions, or errors thereof. Any statements contained in this publication attributed to a third party represent Sygnum’s interpretation of the data, information and/or opinions provided by that third party either publicly or through a subscription service, and such use and interpretation have not been reviewed by the third party. Sygnum reserves the right to amend or replace the information, in part or entirely, at any time, and without any obligation to notify the recipient of such amendment / replacement or to provide the recipient with access to the information. Simultaneously, there is no obligation of Sygnum to inform recipients of information, if before provided information later becomes outdated, inaccurate or obsolete, unless otherwise provided by applicable law. The information provided is not intended for use by or distributed to any individual or legal entity in any jurisdiction or country where such distribution, publication or use would be contrary to the law or regulatory provisions or in which Sygnum does not hold the necessary registration, approval authorization or license. Except as otherwise provided by Sygnum, it is not allowed to modify, copy, distribute or reproduce, display, license, or otherwise use any content for commercial purposes. You can find out more about how Sygnum processes your personal data in our privacy notice here.

Second Futu Global Paper Trading Competition Successfully Concludes: Hong Kong Participant Crowned Champion with Over 7500% Return

Offline Awards Ceremony Unites Winners in Hong Kong—Showcasing Local Investor Enthusiasm and Futu’s Commitment to Empowering Retail Investors

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Second Futu Global Paper Trading Competition, hosted by Futu Group, recently concluded successfully. This year’s competition attracted over 350,000 investors from eight major regions worldwide. In a stunning display of investment acumen, a participant from Hong Kong market claimed the championship title with an extraordinary total return rate of 7,528.1%—setting a standout benchmark for the competition. Securing second place was a Singaporean participant with a remarkable 4,957.8% return, while another Hong Kong investor rounded out the top three with a 4,907.6% return. All three demonstrated exceptional strategic foresight and market judgment, underscoring the caliber of talent in the global retail investment community.

On December 6, 12 winning participants from the Hong Kong region were invited to an exclusive offline awards ceremony held at Futu’s physical store in Causeway Bay. Joined by Futu’s leadership team, staff, and their friends and family, the winners celebrated their achievements in a warm, vibrant atmosphere—sharing personal investment insights, success stories, and lessons learned with fellow enthusiasts. As a cornerstone of Futu’s strategy to integrate online and offline investor community, this ceremony not only foster face-to-face connections among investors but also marked a milestone in building an active, engaged local investor community.

Global Champion Zachary Zhong and Global 2nd Runner-up Ambrose pose with their Golden Bull trophies at the award ceremony held at the Futu Store in Hong Kong
Global Champion Zachary Zhong and Global 2nd Runner-up Ambrose pose with their Golden Bull trophies at the award ceremony held at the Futu Store in Hong Kong

A concurrent survey conducted during the competition—garnering nearly 1,700 valid responses—uncovered compelling industry insights into Hong Kong’s investment landscape:

  • 32% of Hong Kong participants boast over 10 years of investment experience, the highest among all experience brackets, while more than 60% have 3+ years of investing under their belt. This validates the mature investment habits of Futu’s platform users and the community’s strong culture of long-term investing.
  • 80% of Hong Kong respondents affirmed that the paper trading competition effectively enhanced their investment skills, reflecting strong recognition of Futu’s brand credibility, operational excellence, and product offerings.
  • Over 80% of participants expressed interest in learning about and trading US stock options, highlighting Hong Kong investors’ growing demand for diversified investment products and professional educational resources.

Beyond the top three honors, the competition also recognized participants for their active engagement in community interactions. Key highlights include:

  • More than 6,000 participants earned stock cash coupons from a total prize pool of US$200,000 by completing interactive tasks, participating in community discussions, and attending free online courses, marking Futu’s commitment to rewarding learning and engagement.
  • In a landmark recognition, Futu selected 8 outstanding participants (combining exceptional competition performance and impactful community contributions) to be featured on the iconic Nasdaq Tower Screen in New York’s Times Square on December 18. This global showcase will put Futu’s platform users in the international spotlight, highlighting their investment prowess to audiences worldwide.

Brandon Tepper, Senior Vice President of Global Data Business at Nasdaq, commented: “We are proud to support the Second Futu Global Paper Trading Competition with Nasdaq TotalView® depth of market data—bringing institutional-grade market insights to retail investors around the world. Nasdaq values our strategic partnership with Futu, and we congratulate all the winners on their impressive achievements. We encourage more investors to join future paper trading competitions to experience how high-quality data drives smarter investment decisions.”

Daniel Tse, Managing Director of Futu Securities, added: “The overwhelming participation and extraordinary results of this year’s competition are truly inspiring. At Futu, we are committed to transforming the investment experience through technology—building a comprehensive ecosystem that includes paper trading, free online courses, and the Futubull community. The offline awards ceremony is a key step in bridging our online community with offline experiences, and we aim to continuously refine and expand the Global Paper Trading Competition to help more people establish a scientific, sustainable investment system.”

About Futu Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited

Futu Securities International (Hong Kong) Limited (“Futu”)is a licensed company recognized by the Securities and Futures Commission. Futu has sustained high growth momentum since its establishment in 2012, securing its market leadership in Hong Kong by the number of clients, with its trading volume from retail business ranked Top 3 in the market, achieving its vision of becoming a globally influential financial services platform. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Futu is dedicated to leveraging technology to drive innovation, providing a cutting-edge, fintech-powered platform for seamless trading, investment, and wealth management. Through its proprietary platform, Futubull, users have access to real-time market data, insights, community interaction, and investor education. On March 8, 2019, Futu Holdings Limited (Nasdaq: FUTU) was officially listed on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange, committed to becoming a globally influential financial services platform. For further information about Futu, please visit the company’s official website at https://www.futuhk.com/en.

 

LG TO SHOWCASE NEXT-GENERATION MOBILITY TECHNOLOGY POWERED BY GENERATIVE AI AT CES 2026

Integrating Advanced AI Models with High-Performance Computing Powered by Snapdragon Cockpit Elite Platform, LG Sets New Standards for the AI-Defined Vehicle Era

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LG Electronics (LG), a global leader in mobility technologies, is set to unveil its new AI Cabin Platform at CES 2026 in Las Vegas (January 6-9). Designed to run on automotive high-performance computing (HPC) systems, this innovative in-vehicle solution leverages generative artificial intelligence (AI) and is powered by Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.’s Snapdragon® Cockpit™ Elite.

LG to showcase next-generation mobility technology powered by generative AI at CES 2026
LG to showcase next-generation mobility technology powered by generative AI at CES 2026

LG will showcase the AI Cabin Platform for the first time at its private showcase during the upcoming CES, where guests can experience a digital cockpit featuring the AI Cabin Platform and preview the AI-defined vehicle (AIDV) – a new mobility paradigm beyond the software-defined vehicle (SDV).

The AI Cabin Platform applies generative AI models – such as vision language models (VLMs), large language models (LLMs) and image generation models – to LG’s in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system, opening the door to a new era of intelligent, context-aware driving experiences.

Leveraging the high-performance compute capabilities provided by Snapdragon Cockpit Elite, all AI calculations are processed on-device and within the vehicle, eliminating the need to communicate with external servers. This enables real-time, more stable operation while enhancing privacy and data security by removing cloud-related vulnerabilities.

The AI Cabin Platform analyzes the driving environment and the driver’s condition using data from internal and external vehicle cameras, enabling real-time personalized assistance. For example, if a nearby vehicle begins merging and the system detects that the driver has not yet noticed it, the platform can proactively issue a tailored alert: “A car is merging ahead. Please keep your eyes on the road and drive safely.”

Additionally, the platform supports generation of customized infotainment user interfaces that adapt to external conditions. If the driver is listening to music on a snowy evening, the system can generate a matching background for the music playback screen – such as snow falling between streetlights or a festively-decorated village – and offer context-aware suggestions like: “It’s a beautiful snowy night. Shall I recommend some winter-themed songs?”

Earlier this year at CES 2025, LG and Qualcomm Technologies highlighted their ongoing collaboration by unveiling the HPC platform – a high-performance computing solution that integrates IVI and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) into a single control unit. Based on Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon Ride™ Flex System-on-Chip (SoC), the platform consolidates various vehicle functions into one controller, earning praise for achieving both cost efficiency and superior performance.

“Based on our proven technology and global trust, we will continue expanding partnerships with innovators like Qualcomm Technologies to drive future mobility beyond the SDV to the AIDV,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of the LG Vehicle Solution Company. “With the AI Cabin Platform, we are creating mobility that not only understands drivers, but responds proactively to their needs and preferences, making every journey uniquely personal.”

About LG Electronics Vehicle Solution Company

The LG Vehicle Solution Company (VS) is bringing LG’s unique human-centered innovations to the automotive industry. As a trusted and innovative partner, the company provides intelligent solutions including head units, displays, connectivity, ADAS vision systems, and software solutions for software-defined vehicles. Committed to “Driving Better Future Mobility,” the company has diversified its portfolio to further strengthen its capabilities, including automotive lighting systems, e-powertrain, and cybersecurity. For more information, visit www.LG.com/global/mobility. To stay updated with the latest news, subscribe to the LG mobility newsletter, LG Loop at www.LG.com/global/mobility/newsletter and follow the LG VS Company LinkedIn channel at www.linkedin.com/company/lgvehiclesolution.

                                  

Hakka Medicine: From Millennia of Heritage to Modern Industrialization – A Health Path Connecting the World

HONG KONG, Dec. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hakka medicine is the result of deep integration between traditional Central Plains Chinese medicine and the natural environment of southern China, carrying profound historical heritage and unique clinical value. The  Seventh World Hakka Entrepreneurs Convention was held in Meizhou, Guangdong from November 23 to 25With the theme of “Gather Global Hakka Entrepreneurs • Facilitate High-Quality Development”, the conference upheld the principles of “openness, innovation, cooperation, and mutual benefit,” and explored new opportunities for the development of Hakka culture and industrial development. At this grand, globally watched event, Guangdong Jiaying Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. showcased its star products, including “Double-ingredient Throat Wind Relief Powder” (Double-ingredient Throat Wind Relief Powder), “Gujing Shenrong Wan” (Solid Essence Ginseng and Antler Pill), and “Longnao Gao” (Borneol Ointment), presenting the unique charm of Hakka medicine to the world.

At present, companies such as Jiaying Pharmaceutical in Guangdong, China, are actively advancing the industrialization of Hakka medicine through industry-academia-research collaboration, dosage-form improvement, and supply-chain integration. Meanwhile, Hakka medicine is also striving to re-enter overseas markets, aiming to build internationally influential health brands.

Millennia of Heritage: The Historical Depth and Unique Value of Hakka medicine 

Hakka medicine originated from the southward migration of Han people from the Central Plains and gradually developed a distinctive theoretical system through the integration of indigenous southern medical knowledge. Throughout Chinese history, Hakka medicine witnessed the emergence of many representative figures and classic formulations. During the Jiaqing period of the Qing Dynasty, Lu Zengxiong, a senior Hakka physician from Yongding, Fujian, developed Wanying Tea by integrating folk prescriptions from traveling physicians in Jiangxi. In 2008, Wanying Tea was listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage; in 2012, it obtained National Geographical Indication Product Protection, becoming an iconic representative of Hakka medicine in Fujian.

Aw Boon Haw became known as the “King of Tiger Balm” and the “Newspaper King.” In 1910, he successfully developed five portable proprietary medicines, including Tiger Balm and Eight Diagrams Pill. With a low-profit, high-volume strategy, Haw Par Tiger Balm quickly became popular across Southeast Asia. Through newspaper promotion and public welfare projects, Hu enhanced brand credibility and successfully brought Haw Par medicine to the international market, becoming one of the pioneers of Hakka medicine’s global expansion.

Technology Empowerment: The Pathway to Industrialization 

The core of industrializing Hakka medicine lies in transforming traditional formulations into modern pharmaceutical products, with technological improvement and innovation being especially critical.

Take Jiaying Pharmaceutical’s Double-ingredient Throat Wind Relief Powder as an example. Originating from a verified Qing Dynasty prescription, this product has a history of more than 170 years. Containing ingredients such as pearl and artificial bezoar, it provides heat-clearing and detoxifying effects. During industrialization, the company optimized the extraction process and converted the powder into a spray formulation, significantly improving user experience.

In research and development, domestic Hakka medicine companies actively collaborate with universities and research institutions

Industrial Chain Integration: Comprehensive Industrial Layout 

The industrialization of Hakka medicine relies on full-chain integration and coordinated development. As the “World Hakka Capital,” Meizhou has already taken significant steps in this process.

In the planting stage, Meizhou has leveraged its selenium-rich soil and abundant traditional Chinese medicinal resources, comprising more than 1,800 medicinal herb species, including 282 nationally and provincially designated key varieties, accounting for 61% of all surveyed species, to establish multiple industrialized cultivation bases for Chinese medicinal materials.

In the research and development stage, Meizhou has built a relatively comprehensive scientific research platform system, with seven provincial-level traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) engineering technology research centers, nine municipal-level engineering technology research centers, three national master TCM heritage studios, and three innovation and entrepreneurship team projects related to traditional Chinese medicine introduced under Guangdong Province’s “Sailing Program.”

In the production stage, Hakka medicine enterprises have actively enhanced quality control through GMP certification and have developed digital factories that integrate automation, informatization, and intelligent manufacturing in traditional Chinese medicine production.

In the sales stage, Meizhou Jiaying Pharmaceutical’s Double-ingredient Throat Wind Relief Powder has been vigorously expanding its presence in offline pharmacies, now covering more than 300,000 retail terminals across China and capturing one-half of the national terminal market share.

In terms of cultural promotion, Hakka medicine is actively exploring an integrated “medicine + tourism” model.

Cultural Globalization: International Experience and Strategies 

A century later, Hakka medicine companies, represented by Jiaying Pharmaceutical, are actively expanding into international markets by establishing the wholly owned subsidiary Jiaying International to strengthen commercial channels. In February 2025, the first batch of Double-ingredient Throat Wind Relief Powder was successfully exported to Hong Kong, marking a crucial step in the overseas expansion of this patented TCM. In the second half of 2024, under customs supervision, a batch of Chinese medicinal materials, including chrysanthemum, rhizoma anemarrhenae, and lalang grass rhizome, totaling three varieties and weighing 100 kilograms, was successfully exported by a local Meizhou enterprise, marking the first export of Meizhou’s Chinese medicinal materials.

The industrialization of Hakka medicine not only represents the inheritance and innovation of TCM but also embodies the continuation and promotion of the Hakka cultural spirit. Today, Hakka medicine enterprises are advancing industrialization through technological upgrades, dosage-form innovation, and supply-chain integration, while also developing a “product + culture” dual marketing model to actively enter Southeast Asian and Western markets. Hakka medicine continues to demonstrate renewed vitality throughout its historical evolution.

In its future development, Hakka medicine is poised to become an important bridge for cooperation in the health sector between China and the rest of the world, contributing more “Chinese wisdom” to global health. Hakka medicine is embarking on a uniquely distinctive path toward industrial development, giving full play to the value of traditional wisdom in modern society.