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Vientiane Intensifies Illicit Billboard Removal Ahead of ASEAN Summits

Vientiane Intensifies Illicit Billboard Removal Ahead of ASEAN Summits
Authorities are removing the illicit sign (Photo credit: Kataiy Maknosa)

Amid a surge in unauthorized billboards, Vientiane authorities are intensifying efforts to remove these signs across the city as part of preparations for the upcoming ASEAN Summits.

Seminar Aims to Tackle Misinformation, Strengthens Journalistic Integrity

The speaker, Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Phosy Keomanivong (Photo: Vientiane Times)

On 8 August, the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism hosted a seminar as part of Lao Media Day to address the escalating issue of misinformation on social media. The event highlighted the key role of journalists in combating fake news and emphasized the need for accurate reporting in the digital age.

Verve Achieves Organic Revenue Growth of 26% and EBITDA Growth of 37% in Q2 2024 – Increasing Guidance 2024 to 400-420 million revenues and 125-135 million adj. EBITDA

Net Revenues increased by 27% to 96.6 (76.2) €m

  • 26% fx adjusted Organic Revenue Growth (Q2’23: 1%)
  • 33% increase in number of Software Clients to 851 (Q2’23: 642)
  • 24% increase in Ad Impressions to 224 billion (Q2’23: 181 billion)

Adjusted EBITDA increased by 37% to 29.1 (21.3) €m

  • Structurally improved EBITDA margin of 30% (Q2’23: 28%) due to growing operating leverage
  • Adjusted Net Debt Leverage Ratio reduced to 2.8x (June 2023: 3.2x)
  • Adj. Net result amounted to 8.8 (Q2’23: 4.0) €m, an increase of 122%
  • Earnings per Share of 0.04 (Q2’23: 0.01) €, an increase of 308%

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – EQS Newswire – 12 August 2024 (08:00 CEST) – Verve Group SE (“Verve” or the “Company”, ISIN: SE0018538068; ticker: VER, Inside Information) a fast-growing, profitable digital media company that provides AI-driven advertising-software solutions, publishes a financial update in advance to the publication of its Interim Report Q2 2024 on 29 August.

KEY FIGURES Q2 2024

In €m 2024 Q2 2023 Q2
Net Revenues 96.6 76.2
Y-o-Y Growth in Revenues 27% -2%
EBITDA 28.1 20.0
EBITDA Margin 29% 26%
Adj. EBITDA 29.1 21.3
Adj. EBITDA Margin 30% 28%
EBIT 19.6 12.8
EBIT Margin 20% 17%
Adj. EBIT 23.2 16.6
Adj. EBIT Margin 24% 22%
Net Result 6.3 1.5
Net Result Margin 6% 2%
Adj. Net Result 8.8 4.0
Adj. Net Result Margin 9% 5%


FINANCIAL GUIDANCE

In €m

FY2023 Initial Guidance 2024 Second Guidance 2024

(post Jun)

Third Guidance 2024
Revenue 322 350-370 380-400 400-420
Adj. EBITDA 95 100-110 115-125 125-135


QUOTE FROM THE CEO

“With 96.6 €m revenues achieved in the second quarter, we have delivered an organic revenue growth rate of 26%. Our ability to drive higher revenues on a structurally reduced fixed costs basis enabled us to achieve improved profitability, resulting in an adj. EBITDA of 29.1 €m and an adj. EBITDA margin of 30%. Our commitment to privacy first advertising solutions which results in better outcomes for our clients is the main driver of this success. This is evidenced by a strong increase in the number of large software clients, which increased by 33% to 851 while the number of ad impressions increased by 24% to 224 billion. Based on our expanded customer reach, as well as further customer onboardings driven by our ongoing investments into privacy first targeting solutions, we expect continued robust organic growth in the years to come. As a result, we raise our Guidance 2024 to 400-420 million revenues and 125-135 million adj. EBITDA. Our growth journey has just begun…” commented Remco Westermann, CEO of Verve.

The full Interim Report Q2 2024 will be published on the 29 August on Verve’s corporate website at https://investors.verve.com/investor-relations/financial-reports-and-presentations/ in the Investor Relations section.

Responsible parties

This information constitutes inside information that Verve Group SE is obliged to make public in accordance with the (EU) Market Abuse Regulation 596/2014. The information in this press release has been made public through the agency of the responsible person set out below for publication at the time stated by Verve’s news distributor EQS Newswire at the publication of this press release. The responsible person below may be contacted for further information.

Hashtag: #Verve

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

About Verve

Verve (“Verve” or the “Company”, ISIN: SE0018538068; ticker: VER / M8G) is a fast-growing, profitable digital media company that provides AI-driven ad-software solutions. Verve matches global advertiser demand with publisher ad-supply, enhancing results through first-party data from its own content. Aligned with our mission, “Let’s make media better,” the company focuses on enabling better outcomes for brands, agencies, and publishers with responsible advertising solutions, with an emphasis on emerging media channels. Verve’s main operational presence is in North America and Europe, and it is registered as a Societas Europaea in Sweden (registration number 517100-0143). Its shares are listed on the Nasdaq First North Premier Growth Market in Stockholm and the Scale segment of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The company has two secured bonds listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange Open Market. Verve’s certified advisor on the Nasdaq First North Premier Growth Market is FNCA Sweden AB; contact info: .

www.investors.verve.com

Forward-looking statements

This release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the Company’s intentions, beliefs, or current expectations about and targets for the Company’s and the group’s future results of operations, financial condition, liquidity, performance, prospects, anticipated growth, strategies and opportunities and the markets in which the Company and the group operates. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “estimate”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “aim” or “might”, or, in each case, their negative, or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release, including the pro-forma financial figures addressed therein, are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements and pro-forma financial numbers are reasonable it can give no assurances that they will materialize or prove to be correct. Because these statements are based on assumptions or estimates and are subject to risks and uncertainties, the actual results or outcome could differ materially from those set out in the forward-looking statements as a result of many factors. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors could cause actual events to differ materially from the expectations expressed or implied in this release by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not guarantee that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements in this release (including the pro-forma financial figures) are free from errors and readers of this release should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this release. The information, opinions and forward-looking statements that are expressly or implicitly contained herein speak only as of its date and are subject to change without notice. Neither the Company nor anyone else undertake to review, update, confirm or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that arise in relation to the content of this release, unless it is so required by law or applicable stock exchange rules.

Trend Micro Strengthens AI Deployments for Enterprises and Governments with NVIDIA AI Enterprise

Safeguarding AI and business resilience with NVIDIA NIM


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2024 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) has launched multiple efforts to shape the future of AI implementation by enterprises and governments. The new solution, included in Trend Micro’s Vision One™ Sovereign Private Cloud — powered by NVIDIA NIM microservices, part of the NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform — will allow organizations to maximize the potential of the AI era while maintaining business resilience.

Eva Chen, Co-Founder and CEO at Trend: “We are not just adapting to an AI-driven world: we are creating it, helping to ensure that any team can securely innovate without elevating risk. New technology implemented appropriately should improve business resilience rather than impair it. Just as we did with the advent of cloud security, we are pioneering AI for security and security for AI.”

“Enterprises and governments are seeking ways to securely integrate AI into mission-critical systems while maintaining full control of proprietary data,” said Justin Boitano, Vice President of Enterprise Products at NVIDIA. “The NVIDIA AI Enterprise software platform provides the performance, reliability and security needed for advanced data protection and operational efficiency.”

Adopting new technology can pose challenges, and leaders in business and governments worldwide are especially concerned with reducing risk at all levels during the process. Trend recognizes the importance of deploying generative AI and is collaborating with NVIDIA to develop strategies to secure generative AI to enable long-term business transformations. Shortsighted integration strategies that over prioritize early outcomes can lead to elevated risks of misconfigurations, vulnerabilities or data breaches.

A leading technology provider supporting systems across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, spoke under anonymity: “Organizations around the world that are required to maintain the most stringent data sovereignty and privacy requirements often cannot use public cloud-based AI. Now get the best of both worlds. These offerings are setting a new standard for securing AI implementations, and we are excited to be a part of this journey.”

Trend is focused on understanding infrastructure changes, user behaviors and operational needs to safeguard data against both known and unknown risks at every stage of adoption in a new technological era.

Trend technology is certified to meet local compliance requirements in 175+ countries, making it a global leader in adapting to security regulations and protecting data sovereignty. Regardless of the customer environment—cloud, SaaS, on-premises, sovereign, private or AI data centers—Trend spans across Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud clouds and containers that can move around within different platforms.

GMI Cloud supports on-demand access to NVIDIA Tensor Core GPUs and is an AI technology partner with Trend Micro. Alex Yeh, CEO at GMI Cloud, said: “We have yet to see anyone introduce security capabilities at this level for AI technology. We value the ability to use the same AI security rules and platform to manage customers’ AI data tools across any environment.”

Trend’s integration with the NVIDIA AI platform — including NVIDIA AI Enterprise, which includes NVIDIA NIM microservices, the NVIDIA Morpheus cybersecurity framework and more — meets use cases in demand today by enterprises, governments and critical infrastructure organizations worldwide that are seeking reliable and effective technology partners to guide AI implementation and operations.

AI for Security

  • Trend Vision One Companion, an AI assistant leveraging NVIDIA NIM microservices and accelerated computing, provides proactive threat detection and response, and sensitive data protection even in air-gapped environments, while accelerating productivity and response to adversaries.
  • Customers of Trend Vision One platform, leveraging NVIDIA Morpheus, benefit from extended detection and response (XDR) models that can process and classify larger volumes of user data better than ever—for faster threat and anomaly detections. This can help to de-noise and build up fingerprints from typical user behaviors, allowing human analysts to concentrate on the most important events.

Security for AI

  • Even the most tightly controlled organizations, like governments and critical infrastructure groups, can use AI without compromising data sovereignty with Trend Vision One Sovereign and Private Cloud integration with NVIDIA NIM microservices.

Hashtag: #trendmicro #trendvisionone #visionone #cybersecurity #AIsecurity #SovereignPrivateCloud




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

Trend Micro

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro’s AI-powered cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, Trend’s platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 70 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world.

Blacore Digital Services Media Enters Malaysian Market, Leading New Media Innovation

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2024 – Blacore Digital Services Media, a global leader in new media services, announced its entry into the Malaysian market today, marking a milestone in its global strategy. This move expands Blacore’s presence in Southeast Asia and brings a fresh experience in short videos and live streaming to Malaysian users.

Since its founding in 2018, Blacore Digital Services Media has been committed to transforming the new media industry through innovative technology and high-quality content. The company has achieved success globally, particularly in short video production, live streaming services, and brand promotion. Entering the Malaysian market is expected to strengthen Blacore’s position in Southeast Asia.

“Malaysia is a vibrant market with a diverse cultural background and a highly active digital user base,” said a Blacore spokesperson. “We are excited to bring our innovative media solutions to Malaysia, offering users an unprecedented visual and auditory experience. Our goal is to collaborate with Malaysian creators and brands through localized content and services to drive growth in the new media industry.”

Blacore Digital Services Media will focus on several key areas for success in Malaysia:

Localized Content Production: The company plans to establish a content creation team in Malaysia, producing short videos and live streams aligned with local culture and user preferences. This ensures the company provides high-quality content with a local flavor, meeting the diverse needs of Malaysian users.

Collaboration with Local Platforms and Brands: Blacore will partner with Malaysian digital platforms and brands to co-create and promote brand content. These collaborations will help the company integrate more effectively into the market and increase brand recognition.

Technological Innovation and Data Analysis: The company will leverage big data analytics and artificial intelligence to optimize content recommendations and user experiences. Blacore will offer personalized content to Malaysian users, enhancing engagement and interaction.

Blacore Digital Services Media also plans to launch support programs for local creators and brands in Malaysia, including content creation training, marketing support, and financial assistance. These initiatives aim to help local creators improve content quality, expand their influence, and support Malaysian brands internationally.

Blacore’s expansion into the Malaysian market marks a crucial step in its global strategy. Blacore is committed to innovation and business expansion, offering new media services worldwide. Through its presence in Malaysia, Blacore aims to create a brighter future for new media and explore possibilities with local partners.

Hashtag: #BlacoreDigitalServicesMedia

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

Victoria Dockside in Hong Kong Draws Incredible Crowds with the Globally Acclaimed “100% Doraemon & Friends” Exhibition, Stimulating Hong Kong’s Economy and Retail Vitality

“Cultural Commerce” experience at K11 MUSEA fuels 10% surge in tourist spending


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2024 – Victoria Dockside, K11 Art and Cultural District in Hong Kong, shone brightly again as the global debut stage of a world-class mega event – the highly anticipated “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS” exhibition, presented by creative brand AllRightsReserved (ARR) in collaboration with Fujiko Pro. Sustaining the visitor arrivals surge in the first half of 2024 according to the Hong Kong Government, the pioneering cultural-retail landmark K11 MUSEA, located at the heart of Victoria Dockside, achieved a record-high single-day footfall of the year with nearly 40% surge through strings of curated cultural programming and luxury retail experience. Complemented by its “Wondrous Summer – 100 Reimagined Childhood Experiences” campaign, consumer membership rose to new heights, boosting food and beverage and retail sales up by nearly 30% and tourists’ sales increased by 10%. As international visitation continues trending upwards in Hong Kong, the resounding success of K11 MUSEA’s “Cultural Commerce” model is poised to play a pivotal role in stimulating Hong Kong’s economy and infusing new vitality into Hong Kong’s tourism and retail scene.

Following the global debut of the “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS” exhibition, footfall at K11 MUSEA surged nearly 40% compared to pre-exhibition levels, setting a new single-day record for the year.
Following the global debut of the “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS” exhibition, footfall at K11 MUSEA surged nearly 40% compared to pre-exhibition levels, setting a new single-day record for the year.

The long-awaited “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS” exhibition was a huge success. According to the organisers, all exhibition areas, the Avenue of Stars, including the retail and cultural areas, reached the milestone with over 5 million visitors, as of August 11. The exhibition was unveiled at Victoria Dockside, K11 Art and Cultural District, on 13 July and will run until 11 August (Ticketed exhibition open until 18 August). The monumental global debut features the world’s tallest Doraemon inflatable sculpture towering 12 metres alongside more than 30 life-sized Doraemon sculptures.

Additionally, K11 MUSEA embraced the anime character’s ‘anywhere door’ concept to invite visitors on a journey of whimsy and wonder with its “Wondrous Summer – 100 Reimagined Childhood Experiences” campaign, offering 100 reimagined art and culture experiences to celebrate childhood nostalgia, including the “100% DORAEMON & FRIENDS Café” – a limited-time, Hong Kong-exclusive Doraemon-themed café at Artisan Lounge by LUBUDS, which quickly became a sensation, with online reservations filling up rapidly and receiving an overwhelmingly positive response.

As the ultimate destination for luxury fashion connoisseurs and culture aficionados, K11 MUSEA has solidified the city’s status as an international fashion hub by introducing international luxury brand pop-up stores and captivating customers with unparalleled cultural experiences. Highlights include the Asia debut of Chloé’s “The Beginning” pop-up, the Hong Kong exclusive “Italian Garden” pop-up from Tod’s, and the exclusive Swatch MoonSwatch exhibition sphere. Additionally, benefitting from its unique and diverse tenant mix, K11 MUSEA offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to a wide range of visitors from families, cultural lovers and the younger generation, namely the “Journey with Minerals” exhibition and edutaining programs presented by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewellery Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels; the Petit Bazaar DIY Summer Crown Workshop; PURE’s Kids & Family Yoga classes; LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Hong Kong’s LEGO® creative workshop “Z-Blob Rescue Rush”; and an oversized onigiri-making workshop with Oniku Kappo Jikon. K11 MUSEA will continue to elevate the district and Hong Kong’s appeal to visitors around the word.

Hashtag: #K11

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

K11 Group

K11 Group is a global cultural brand founded in 2008 by renowned entrepreneur Dr Adrian Cheng. The company’s unique and original business model, “Cultural Commerce”, blends culture, art, and commerce to create an ecosystem that caters to all walks of life. Based in Hong Kong, the Group has established a significant presence in Greater China. Upholding its core values of Art, People, and Nature, the Group aims to democratise art, incubate cultural talents, advocate sustainable development, and create a global identity for Chinese millennials. In addition to its groundbreaking multi-development project in Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, K11 Art & Cultural District, the Group operates a wide range of businesses, including retail, workplace, hospitality, and luxury residence.

Looking ahead to the future, K11 Group is expected to attain a footprint of 38 projects with an approximate GFA of 3 million square meters in 12 cities across Greater China upon completion, and it continues setting new standards in “Cultural Commerce”.

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery Opens its Doors, Setting a New Standard in Surgical Excellence

Aiming to provide more tailored and clinically effective solutions, Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery’s dedicated approach ensures the highest level of care and patient satisfaction.


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2024 – Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery announces the grand opening of its state-of-the-art clinic, poised to revolutionize the landscape of vascular and general surgery. Led by esteemed specialist surgeon Dr. Tay Jia Sheng, Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery is dedicated to pioneering innovation and excellence while delivering personalized care, fostering trust, and ensuring comfort throughout each patient’s journey.

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery: Leading the Way in Surgical Excellence
Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery: Leading the Way in Surgical Excellence

Pioneering Excellence in Surgical Care

At Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery, the vision is to deliver unparalleled, personalized care that achieves the best possible outcomes for every patient. Merging innovative vascular and endovascular techniques with extensive surgical expertise, the mission is to provide a unified, patient-centered approach to address vascular and surgical conditions. Dr. Tay Jia Sheng’s commitment to compassion, innovation, and collaboration assures the highest standard of care.

Driven by Dedication, Inspired by Community

The founding of Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery was driven by a desire to enhance the level of personalized care available to patients requiring general surgery and vascular surgery. Dr. Tay’s dedication stems from a recognition of the challenges in traditional healthcare settings, where bureaucratic hurdles often hinder personalized care. Inspired by his father, a well-established general practitioner known for his unwavering dedication to his community, Dr. Tay aims to extend quality care to as many patients as possible.

Advancing Healthcare with Precision and Compassion

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery is dedicated to addressing critical gaps in the healthcare landscape by focusing on delivering exceptional clinical outcomes. Implementing cutting-edge medical practices and technologies in general and vascular surgery, the clinic ensures evidence-based treatments tailored to individual patient needs. By prioritizing high standards, Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery aims not only to treat immediate health issues but also to foster long-term well-being, reducing complications and recurrent treatments.

Excellence in Care, Innovation in Practice

What sets Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery apart is its combination of quality surgical care, cutting-edge technology, and a strategic network that enhances service offerings. Lead specialist Dr. Tay ensures holistic surgical care supported by the latest medical technology, including a high-resolution ultrasound console machine and a fully-equipped minor procedure room. The clinic’s strategic links with private sector healthcare facilities ensure a seamless continuum of care for patients.

Comprehensive Surgical Expertise

At Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery, a comprehensive range of surgical services is offered to address a diverse array of medical needs with precision and compassion. The dedicated team of specialists is committed to delivering exceptional care across various areas of expertise, ensuring optimal outcomes for every patient.

General Surgery & Endoscopy

The general surgery and endoscopy services at Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery encompass a wide spectrum of procedures aimed at diagnosing and treating various conditions affecting the abdomen, gastrointestinal tract, and other vital organs. From the removal of skin lumps and bumps to the management of acute appendicitis and hernias, the skilled surgeons at the clinic provide expert care with a focus on patient comfort and safety. Additionally, comprehensive gastroscopy and colonoscopy services are offered for the diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal disorders.

Venous Disease Management

Patients suffering from venous diseases, such as varicose veins, venous ulcers, and deep vein thrombosis, can rely on the specialized expertise of Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery for effective diagnosis and treatment. The clinic’s comprehensive approach encompasses the management of spider and reticular veins, as well as advanced interventions for complex venous disorders, including pelvic congestion syndrome and venous malformations.

Aortic and Arterial Care

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery is equipped to address aortic and arterial diseases with precision and advanced techniques. From the diagnosis and management of abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysms to the treatment of arterial diseases such as peripheral arterial disease and carotid arterial disease, the team provides comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Additionally, specialized services are offered for the management of erectile dysfunction related to arterial insufficiency.

Dialysis Access Expertise

For patients requiring dialysis access, Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery offers a range of specialized services to ensure optimal vascular access and long-term dialysis success. The clinic’s expert surgeons perform arteriovenous fistula and graft creation procedures, as well as minimally invasive laparoscopic and open techniques for peritoneal dialysis access. Comprehensive salvage procedures for dysfunctional dialysis access, including endovascular, hybrid, and open interventions, are also provided.

Chronic Wound Management

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery provides comprehensive care for patients suffering from chronic wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers, arterial wounds, and mixed arteriovenous wounds. The clinic’s multidisciplinary approach incorporates advanced wound care techniques, including negative pressure wound therapy, dermal substitutes, and innovative wound reconstruction options such as AccelHeal and ActiGraft. The goal is to promote wound healing and improve patient outcomes through personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.
Hashtag: #SpectrumVascular&GeneralSurgery #SpectrumSurgery



Wechat: Spectrum_Surgery

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

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery

Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery’s grand opening marks a milestone in the healthcare landscape, offering a paradigm shift in personalized care, innovation, and excellence in vascular and general surgery. With a commitment to patient-centered care, innovative practices, and a vision for future growth, Spectrum Vascular & General Surgery is poised to redefine healthcare excellence in Singapore and beyond.

Ascott unveils brand refresh of The Unlimited Collection as brand portfolio triples riding on growth in experiential travel

  • The Unlimited Collection focuses on cultural charms to meet travellers’ aspirations for authentic and immersive local cultural experiences
  • From debuting in Singapore with three properties, The Unlimited Collection now comprises 11 properties across Asia, Europe and the Middle East
  • First resort property under The Unlimited Collection begins operations in Vietnam

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2024 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the lodging business unit wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), has more than tripled its portfolio under The Unlimited Collection to 11 properties across Asia, Europe and the Middle East over the past year. As travellers seek meaningful engagement with a destination’s culture, people, food and environment, Ascott is launching a brand refresh of The Unlimited Collection to accentuate its focus on cultural charms. This will reinforce the global positioning of The Unlimited Collection as a curated selection of independent upscale hotels in vibrant neighbourhoods that feature exquisite designs and fulfil travellers’ aspirations for authentic and immersive local cultural experiences.

The Unlimited Collection debuted in 2020 with three properties in Singapore[1] – Ann Siang House by The Unlimited Collection, KēSa House by The Unlimited Collection and Wanderlust by The Unlimited Collection – all of which are located within conserved buildings in cultural districts but each with its own design and character. With unique experiences delivered in the most charming of locations, KēSa House and Wanderlust by The Unlimited Collection were recently ranked as the Best Boutique Hotel and Best Hotel for Couples in Singapore respectively by Forbes. Tapping the popularity of experiential travel, Ascott added eight new properties to The Unlimited Collection in the past year. The Unlimited Collection now comprises more than 900 units, both operating and in the pipeline, spanning eight cities globally.

Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “Our collection brands form a key pillar of Ascott’s growth plans as they enable us to partner with independent owners who wish to preserve the unique identities of their properties while leveraging Ascott’s expertise in hospitality management, supported by our global distribution system and loyalty network. In recent years, we have witnessed increasing interest in Ascott’s collection brands as they offer owners flexibility, ease of conversion and quick time-to-market while preserving the distinctive nature of each property. As a result, we have made good headway with the heritage-focused The Crest Collection brand in the luxury hotel segment, amassing 13 properties in Europe and Asia with over 1,600 units to date. The Unlimited Collection, that focuses on accentuating the unique cultural charms of each property, is our next global collection brand success with eight properties added in the past year. We see potential in further scaling The Unlimited Collection through offering customised support to owners who seek to capitalise on growing guest demand for authentic local experiences.”

Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Travellers nowadays are willing to invest more in experiences that are true to local culture. For Ascott, it means building up a brand rooted in the power of discovery and the magic of authentic experiences. As more travellers aspire to embrace the local way of life, The Unlimited Collection rises to the occasion with curated experiential stays that appeal to this emerging breed of travellers who seeks an immersive sense of place. Designed to offer an authentic experience from each destination, every property in The Unlimited Collection is a local landmark featuring exquisite designs that leads guests to intriguing personal discoveries and engaging cultural appreciation. With its refreshed brand focus on the charm of culture, we are confident The Unlimited Collection will foster a deeper connection between our guests and the destinations they visit, making every stay memorable and unique.”

Additions to The Unlimited Collection

Asia
Following the launch of The Unlimited Collection in Singapore, the brand took root in Vietnam in December 2023 with the opening of the 100-unit Anmira Resort & Spa Hoi An by The Unlimited Collection, located between the vibrant Hoi An Old Town and the pristine shores of Cua Dai and An Bang Beach. The opening marked the first resort under The Unlimited Collection.

Poised for further expansion into Malaysia and Indonesia, the brand will also see the addition of more than 200 units across three properties by end 2025. These properties are Macalister Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection, Amatonn Hotel & Residence by The Unlimited Collection and Costaluna Batam by The Unlimited Collection.

Europe
Expanding into Europe, The Unlimited Collection will welcome its first two properties in the United Kingdom, namely Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection before the end of 2024 and The Grand Hotel Leicester by The Unlimited Collection by 2Q 2025. These two conversion properties are signed in partnership with S Hotels and Resorts PCL (SET: SHR), the hospitality arm of leading international development company Singha Estate PCL (SET: S). In addition, Temple Bar Hotel Dublin, a 136-room hotel in Ireland owned by CapitaLand Ascott Trust, will be rebranded under The Unlimited Collection by end 2024. These three properties in Europe comprise more than 400 units.

Middle East
Over in the Middle East, the 90-unit The Unlimited Collection Hotel Marrakech paves the way for Ascott’s entry into the enthralling city of Marrakech in Morocco come 2026.

Please refer to Annex for more information on these eight properties that have been added to The Unlimited Collection since 2023.

The Unlimited Collection Brand Refresh

The Unlimited Collection brand refresh is a continuation of Ascott’s Brand360 strategy, a groupwide initiative to strengthen its brand portfolio through sharpened brand stories and the introduction of signature experiences and programmes unique to each brand. According to the 2023 Global Travel Trends Report by American Express, 85% of respondents expressed an interest in discovering hidden gems and are keen to visit a place where they can truly experience the local culture. The refreshed brand’s focus on cultural charms distinguishes The Unlimited Collection as a portfolio of storied hotels featuring exquisite designs in exciting locations.

Focused on delivering unscripted, unchartered, unconventional and unforgettable experiences, The Unlimited Collection accentuates the bohemian charm of cultural enclaves, bringing guests on an adventure in lively neighbourhoods filled with colourful sights, sounds, tastes and personalities. Guests will be treated to a kaleidoscope of festivals, art, music, craft, food and language steeped in local culture that fascinates even the most discerning of wanderlusts.

Embodying the brand essence, Ann Siang House by The Unlimited Collection in Singapore is a restored heritage building nestled on the outskirts of the historic Telok Ayer sub-district of Chinatown, where a multitude of world-class bars and trendy eateries sit at its doorstep. Whether it is the bustle of the city or the stories of the old streets in the culturally rich precinct, guests of Ann Siang House can indulge in a genuine experience that encompasses the exquisite cultural essence of Singapore.

In another example, Temple Bar Hotel Dublin by The Unlimited Collection will enhance its reputation as a cultural icon celebrating the best of local Irish music after completing its rebranding exercise. Located along Fleet Street, a vibrant neighbourhood steeped in music, art, culture and history, the hotel is home to Buskers Bar, a lively contemporary bar and renowned landmark, and Buskers on the Ball, an award-winning sports bar. Hotel guests can stroll along the cobbled streets of the Temple Bar district to explore various markets, galleries and boutiques during the day, and immerse in the buzzy atmosphere filled with live music gigs from popular Irish pubs when night falls.

Presenting The Unlimited Collection’s Brand Signatures

With a strong design intent inspired by each neighbourhood’s culture, The Unlimited Collection elevates the authentic to the extraordinary with its approach on Unique Design. Melding tradition with modernity, KēSa House by The Unlimited Collection for example is a standout flexible stay property located across 10 contiguous shophouses along Keong Saik Road in Singapore’s Chinatown. In the hipster enclave of Jalan Besar located close by, Wanderlust by The Unlimited Collection is housed in a heritage 1920s Art Deco style building, with interiors that merge old world charm with modern day comforts. Over in Vietnam, Anmira Resort & Spa Hoi An by The Unlimited Collection melds Hoi An’s historic tradition into alluring designs, with each room featuring a distinctive Indochina architectural style.

Slated to open by the end of 2024, Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection reimagines the heritage of the hotel for wanderlusts and connoisseurs, featuring a ‘Library Lobby’ decked out in books and framed artefacts waxing lyrical about the best small batch scotch whisky and iconic works from generations of Scottish writers. The Grand Hotel Leicester by The Unlimited Collection welcomes guests to experience the opulence of the Grade II listed Victorian building that has played host to several historic events.

Another brand signature is The U Shop, a retail concept unique to The Unlimited Collection properties, offering an array of property merchandise created in collaboration with local artists and crafters. Showcasing one-of-a-kind local trinkets and charms, The U Shop ensures that guests can take home a cherished local memento that authentically embodies each destination’s cultural tapestry.

The Unlimited Collection is a realm for adventure-seekers looking to freely embrace their true self. Fusing rich character, extraordinary designs and new perspectives of experiencing each destination, guests can dot their travel journeys with unique stories. A melting pot of intriguing spirits and stories, The U Bar at The Unlimited Collection properties invite guests to experience a fusion of classic and creativity, while sharing passions with fellow wanderlusts.

Associates of The Unlimited Collection, known affectionately as Gen-U, live the bohemian charm of the locale and help guests create their own distinctive experiences that are anything but ordinary. Embodying the core of creativity and authenticity, Gen-Us are trendsetters who are always in the know of the latest happenings in town. They are unconventional and always there to delight guests with thoughtfully unique surprises, and are culturists who are passionate about bringing remarkable and undiscovered experiences to everyone.

A brand film titled ‘Be a Gen-U: A Generation for Unlimited Experiences‘, will roll out on various digital and social channels as part of the brand refresh of The Unlimited Collection. The film illustrates how a Gen-U embarks on an unscripted adventure, exploring charming destinations and immersing herself in cultural experiences to discover what propels her to travel. It highlights The Unlimited Collection’s refreshed brand story and signatures through a kaleidoscope of festivals, art, music, craft, food and languages steeped in local culture. A global marketing campaign will kick off on 12 August 2024.

Browse the full portfolio of The Unlimited Collection online at discoverasr.com.


[1] Ascott’s strategic acquisition of Oakwood Worldwide in 2H 2022 comprised properties branded under Oakwood, three properties under The Unlimited Collection, as well as unbranded properties; referred collectively as the “Oakwood portfolio”.

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About The Ascott Limited

Since pioneering Asia Pacific’s first international-class serviced residence with the opening of The Ascott Singapore in 1984, Ascott has grown to be a trusted hospitality company with over 950 properties globally. Headquartered in Singapore, Ascott’s presence extends across more than 230 cities in over 40 countries in Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the USA.

Ascott’s diversified accommodation offerings span serviced residences, coliving properties, hotels and independent senior living apartments, as well as student accommodation and rental housing. Its award-winning hospitality brands include , , , , , , , , , , , , and . Through Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), Ascott’s loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and offers at participating properties.

A wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott is a leading vertically-integrated lodging operator. Harnessing its extensive network of third-party owners and in-market expertise, Ascott grows fee-related earnings through its hospitality management and investment management capabilities.

Ascott also expands its funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.

This year, Ascott marks 40 years in hospitality service with the launch of Ascott Unlimited, a full year campaign that will offer Unlimited Opportunities, Unlimited Choices, Unlimited Freedom, and Unlimited Good. Navigating a future of unlimited possibilities against a backdrop of global change and evolving perspectives of travel, Ascott Unlimited marks Ascott’s ambitions to break new ground, and springboard to its next chapter of growth as a global hospitality company. Find out more about Ascott Unlimited at .

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit . Alternatively, connect with us on , , and .

About CapitaLand Investment Limited (www.capitalandinvest.com)

Headquartered and listed in Singapore, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 March 2024, CLI had S$134 billion of assets under management as well as S$100 billion of funds under management (FUM) held via six listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts, and more than 30 private vehicles across Asia Pacific, Europe and USA. Its diversified real estate asset classes cover retail, office, lodging, business parks, industrial, logistics, self-storage and data centres.

CLI aims to scale its FUM and fee-related earnings through fund management, lodging management and commercial management, and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand’s development arm.

As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.