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Halogen Capital Completes RM13.3 Million Funding Round, Led by Kenanga Investment Bank and 500 Global, to Drive Digital Asset Innovation in Malaysia

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Kenanga leads the funding round, with participation from global and regional investors.


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 December 2025 – Halogen Capital Sdn Bhd (“Halogen Capital“), Malaysia’s first and only licensed digital asset fund manager, today announced the successful completion of its RM13.3 million (USD3.2 million) funding round, with Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga“), Malaysia’s leading independent investment bank, as the lead investor, alongside 500 Global, a leading global venture capital firm, and other investors. Following this, with its 14.9% stake, Kenanga now holds the largest institutional shareholding in Halogen Capital.

From left to right: Lucas Ooi Ki Siong, Founder & Chief Business Officer of Halogen Capital; Ng Moon Ho, Founder & Chief Operating Officer of Halogen Capital; Liew Ooi Hann, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Halogen Capital; Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad, Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors Berhad (“KIB”), Ranjit Singh Gill, Director & Head of Product & Market Development of KIB; Datuk Kenny Yong Foo Ken, Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Private Equity Sdn Bhd
From left to right: Lucas Ooi Ki Siong, Founder & Chief Business Officer of Halogen Capital; Ng Moon Ho, Founder & Chief Operating Officer of Halogen Capital; Liew Ooi Hann, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Halogen Capital; Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad, Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors Berhad (“KIB”), Ranjit Singh Gill, Director & Head of Product & Market Development of KIB; Datuk Kenny Yong Foo Ken, Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Private Equity Sdn Bhd

The funding, made through Kenanga’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Kenanga Private Equity Sdn Bhd, will support Halogen Capital to advance its Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenisation strategy, including onshore unit trust funds, bonds, sukuk, private credit, and real estate, creating broader access to investment opportunities that have traditionally been available primarily to institutional and high-net-worth investors. Building on Halogen Capital’s expertise in asset tokenisation and digital asset fund management, and combined with Kenanga’s institutional strength, brand recognition, and regional partnerships, the initiative will provide innovative investment opportunities for investors in Malaysia and beyond.

“This funding round represents an important step in advancing Kenanga’s digital asset ecosystem,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad. “Our investment in Halogen Capital—alongside our other investments in digital-first businesses such as KDX, Helicap and Merchantrade—reflects our conviction that the future of finance will be defined by innovation, supported by strong governance and transparency. By leveraging blockchain and tokenisation, as well as strengthening our network of digital platforms, we aim to redefine how investors engage with capital markets, making them more efficient, accessible and globally competitive. Together, these initiatives are laying the foundation for products that anticipate the evolving needs of investors and businesses in a rapidly changing financial environment,” concluded Datuk Chay.

“The completion of this round marks an important milestone as we continue building Malaysia’s institutional digital asset investing landscape,” added Liew Ooi Hann, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Halogen Capital. “We are encouraged by the confidence shown by Kenanga, as well as our other notable investors, which include 500 Global, Digital Currency Group, The Hive Southeast Asia, Jelawang Capital, and Mythos Venture Partners. Their support reinforces the growing recognition of digital assets as an integral part of global capital markets. Institutional participation is rising steadily worldwide, with more than RM744 billion (USD181 billion) now held in corporate crypto treasuries. Malaysia is experiencing the same shift, and demand for regulated, professionally managed exposure has accelerated over the past three years. With the backing of leading investors, we are well-positioned to accelerate product innovation and expand access to institutional-grade digital asset investments,” said Liew.

Since launching in 2023 as the pioneer of the world’s first Shariah-compliant cryptocurrency funds, Halogen Capital has grown its assets under management (AUM) to around RM400 million as of November 2025. This includes the Halogen Shariah Bitcoin Fund, which has emerged as one of Malaysia’s top-performing funds since its inception, as reflected in the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) Lipper data. Today, Halogen Capital serves a fast-growing investor base numbering in the thousands, including high-net-worth individuals, family offices, corporates, and institutional investors, across eight wholesale funds and private mandates—supported by a network of more than 15 distributors including commercial banks and Federation of Investment Managers Malaysia (FIMM)-approved distributors.

Leveraging Halogen Capital’s expertise and growing investor base, alongside Kenanga’s investment, the initiative will offer broader, differentiated product offerings—including new digital asset investment products, safer access to crypto yield generation, and tokenised securities backed by onshore Malaysian assets. These initiatives are complemented by the Securities Commission Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to tokenise securities and develop regulatory guidance for blockchain-based investments and distributed ledger technology, ensuring that the development of digital asset solutions remains secure, compliant, and aligned with regulatory standards.

Hashtag: #Kenanga

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

Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (197301002193 (15678-H))

Established for over 50 years, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“The Group“) is a leading financial group in Malaysia, offering a wide range of services, including equity broking, investment banking, treasury, Islamic banking, listed derivatives, investment management, wealth management, structured lending, and trade financing. The Group’s digital innovations include the launch of KDi GO, a wealth-centric app, along with game- changing products such as Rakuten Trade, Malaysia’s first fully digital stockbroking platform, and Kenanga Digital Investing, an A.I. robo-advisor.

The Group has garnered multiple awards, including top honours at the Bursa Excellence Awards 2024 and The Edge Malaysia Centurion Club 2023. The Group also secured the Top 20 Overall Excellence and the Niche Cap Excellence Award at the National Corporate Governance and Sustainability Awards 2024. As one of the highest- scoring constituents of the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index and a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact, Kenanga continues to drive collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in the financial industry.

Xinhua Silk Road: Conference held in E. China biz hub to highlight burgeoning regional M&As

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BEIJING, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — When gaining speed in building a global merger and acquisition (M&A) highland, east China’s business hub Shanghai recently witnessed a grand gathering of M&A industry players.

The 2025 Mergers and Acquisitions Finance Conference, which came right at the first anniversary for the release of Shanghai’s 3-year action plan to support M&A of listed firms, shed light on improvements in both quality and quantity of local M&As.

As the China M&A Composite Index (2025) debuted during the conference showed, Shanghai and other areas in the Yangtze River Delta contributed approximately 45 percent of M&A deals across China from October 2024 to September 2025.

By value, such M&A transactions accounted for about 60 percent of the comparable national aggregate, making the delta where Shanghai and Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui provinces sit one of the core growth drivers for M&A market.

Under such circumstance, an M&A alliance was launched during the conference by Shanghai Pudong Development Bank (SPD Bank), China Pacific Insurance (Group) Co., Ltd., and Guotai Haitong Securities to seize greater chances in M&A market.

During the event, the alliance announced an action plan, vowing to facilitate M&A deals of over 1.2 trillion yuan nationwide and 400-plus billion yuan in Shanghai from 2025 to 2027 with the number of its clients exceeding 1200.

SPD Bank, also a co-host of the conference, is one of the pacesetters in M&A financing in China. Year to date, its M&A lending has exceeded 100 billion yuan and with outstanding M&A loans at 240-plus billion yuan, the Chinese lender is striving to be the first choice for companies seeking M&A financing.

Organized by Xinhua News Agency Shanghai Bureau and China Economic Information Service Shanghai Headquarters, the conference was dedicated to further enlivening the M&A financing market to better build the Shanghai international financial center.

Via pooling data from capital markets and equity exchanges as well, the above-mentioned China M&A Composite Index that tells latest sector developments from related activity, size, efficiency, environment and effectiveness, is seeking to craft a new M&A market barometer in China.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/348759.html

Everest Medicines Announces 2030 Strategy and Increase in Shareholdings by Directors and Substantial Shareholder

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SHANGHAI, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Everest Medicines (HKEX 1952.HK, “Everest”, or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative therapeutics, today announced the launch of its 2030 Strategy, outlining a comprehensive five-year roadmap to drive sustainable growth. Under this strategy, the Company aims to further deepen its product pipeline, maximize the value of its commercial platform, and advance the globalization of its research and development (“R&D”) and commercialization capabilities.

In parallel, the Company also announced that certain Directors and a substantial shareholder have increased their shareholdings in the Company. On December 12, 2025, Mr. Wei Fu, Non-executive Director, Honorary Chairman of the Board and a substantial shareholder of the Company; Mr. Yifang Wu, Executive Director and Chairman of the Board; Mr. Rogers Yongqing Luo, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer; and Mr. Ian Ying Woo, Executive Director, President and Chief Financial Officer, collectively acquired 846,659 ordinary shares of the Company through open-market transactions, for a total consideration exceeding HK$38 million, representing an average price of approximately HK$45.01 per Share. In addition, the Company has been informed that CBC Group, a substantial shareholder of the Company, has further undertaken that it plans to increase its shareholding by not more than 1% in aggregate in the following three to six months, subject to the market conditions and compliance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements.

The Board believes that a voluntary share purchase through on-market acquisitions of Shares by the Directors and the undertaking given by CBC Group signify strong confidence in the future prospects and long-term development of the Company.

2030 Strategy Overview

The Company’s 2030 strategy sets out a dual-engine approach to deliver predictable near-term growth and value creation through commercialization of existing assets, business development partnerships, and in-house R&D milestones, while driving long-term growth and value creation through in-house R&D and discovery, as well as global commercial expansion. Everest Medicines will continue to strengthen its leadership in core therapeutic areas, advance the development and commercialization of innovative therapies, and build a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company with sustainable growth.

Everest Medicines focuses on renal, autoimmune, critical care, cardiovascular, and ophthalmic disease area, advancing its pipeline through a combination of in-licensed innovative assets and in-house R&D. By 2030, the Company aims to build a high-value commercial product portfolio while selectively expanding into additional valuable therapeutic areas with blockbuster potential.

The Company has established a portfolio of three commercial products and continues to develop a fully integrated commercial platform covering the entire product lifecycle. By 2030, Everest Medicines targets annual revenue exceeding RMB 15 billion, including approximately RMB 9 billion from its existing pipeline and RMB 6 billion from newly in-licensed assets, while also exploring potential out-licensing opportunities. Revenue is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 50% from 2025 to 2030 and to remain above 15% thereafter. Over the same period, the number of commercial products is expected to exceed 20, including NEFECON®, Velsipity®, XERAVA®, cefepime–taniborbactam, and Lerodalcibep.

To support its international growth, Everest Medicines is advancing a global strategy focused on strengthening regulatory and clinical development capabilities, while progressively building commercial infrastructure across Europe, the United States, and emerging markets. By 2030, the Company aims to drive growth through a combination of overseas out-licensing and direct commercialization, accelerating its global expansion.

Through this strategy, Everest Medicines aims to strengthen its position in core therapeutic areas and innovative drug R&D, while building a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company with sustainable growth.

As a major shareholder of NovaBridge Biosciences, holding approximately 16% of its issued share capital, the Company will collaborate with NovaBridge Biosciences to identify high-quality assets and enhance global R&D and commercialization capabilities through complementary strengths and resources.

“The 2030 Strategy reflects Everest Medicines’ clear vision for commercialization, R&D, and global expansion, and reinforces the Company’s ability to deliver sustainable value. Since its founding in 2017, the Company has built a strong foundation through in-licensing innovative assets, completing its IPO, and executing a dual-engine strategy focused on high-potential therapeutic areas and strong commercialization and R&D capabilities,” said Mr. Wei Fu, Honorary Chairman of the Board of Everest Medicines and CEO of CBC Group. “CBC Group will continue to leverage its global resources and ecosystem to support the Company’s growth, spanning pipeline advancement, platform building, and organizational expansion. The recent share purchases by the Directors and CBC Group’s announced intention to increase its shareholding further demonstrate strong confidence in Everest Medicines’ long-term prospects.”

“The 2030 Strategy marks a key milestone for Everest Medicines, guiding growth through BD partnerships and in-house R&D to build a larger commercial portfolio and pursue new high-potential blockbuster opportunities. Leveraging its BD capabilities and the CBC ecosystem, the Company plans to add three-to-five late-stage, high-value assets annually, aiming for peak sales within three years of reimbursement, with more than 20 new assets expected to contribute around RMB 6 billion by 2030 and RMB 30 billion by 2035. Our strong balance sheet and cash flow from commercial activities will support the implementation of our strategic initiatives.” said Mr. Yifang Wu, Chairman of the Board of Everest Medicines. “We will also continue to advance our in-house R&D platforms and, through our collaboration with Hasten, strengthen the late-stage pipeline and market reach.”

“Everest has established a scalable commercialization platform integrating medical, access, marketing, and sales capabilities,” said Mr. Rogers Yongqing Luo, Chief Executive Officer of Everest Medicines. “As a chronic disease therapy, NEFECON® generated over RMB 1 billion in sales during the first three quarters of its first full year following commercial launch, validating our commercial effectiveness. Building on this success, we will extend our commercial model and expertise from renal and anti-infective therapies to additional therapeutic areas, while advancing our in vivo mRNA CAR-T and mRNA tumor vaccine platforms, addressing unmet medical needs in China and globally.”

About Everest Medicines

Everest Medicines is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, manufacturing and commercializing transformative pharmaceutical products and vaccines that address critical unmet medical needs for patients in Asian markets. The management team of Everest Medicines has deep expertise and an extensive track record from both leading global pharmaceutical companies and local Chinese pharmaceutical companies in high-quality discovery, clinical development, regulatory affairs, CMC, business development and operations. Everest Medicines has built a portfolio of potentially global first-in-class or best-in-class molecules in the company’s core therapeutic areas of renal, autoimmune, critical care, cardiovascular, and ophthalmic diseases. For more information, please visit its website at www.everestmedicines.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may make statements that constitute forward-looking statements, including descriptions regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers with respect to the business operations and financial condition of the Company, which can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, or other factors, some of which are beyond the control of the Company and are unforeseeable. Therefore, the actual results may differ from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and assumptions, such as future changes and developments in our business, competitive environment, political, economic, legal and social conditions. The Company or any of its affiliates, directors, officers, advisors or representatives has no obligation and does not undertake to revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

Thai Specialty Oils Leader Targets Vietnam’s Booming Tire and Rubber Manufacturing Sector with High-Performance Process Oil Solutions

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HANOI, Vietnam, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Vietnam’s rubber and plastic products sector surges with 24.9% annual growth in 2024 and tire production exceeding 30 million units annually—90% destined for export markets—P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited, Thailand’s leading specialty oils manufacturer with over 30 years of expertise, is expanding into Vietnam’s dynamic manufacturing landscape with specialized process oil solutions. The market entry capitalizes on Vietnam’s emergence as the world’s second-largest footwear exporter with USD 22.9 billion in exports and the tire industry projected to reach 52 million units by 2033, and the country’s USD 188 million industrial rubber market growing at 4.02% CAGR through 2028—creating unprecedented demand for high-performance process oils.

Mr. Sakesan Krongphanich, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited
Mr. Sakesan Krongphanich, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited

Capitalizing on Vietnam’s Rubber Manufacturing Leadership
Mr. Sakesan Krongphanich, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited, emphasized Vietnam’s strategic importance. “Vietnam has emerged as a dominant force in Southeast Asia’s rubber manufacturing sector. The convergence of world-class tire production, leading footwear manufacturing, and expanding industrial applications creates exceptional opportunities for specialized process oil solutions,” said Mr. Sakesan.

Three Strategic Market Segments
Tire Manufacturing: Vietnam’s tire manufacturers produce over 30 million units annually, with exports forecast to reach 52 million units by 2033. Major facilities require consistent supplies of aromatic, naphthenic, and TDAE process oils.

Industrial Rubber: Vietnam’s market serves automotive components, construction materials, and electronics manufacturing with growing demand for specialized process oils.

Footwear Industry: With 2,200 footwear companies producing USD 22.9 billion exports in 2024, Vietnam serves global brands. Process oils provide flexibility, durability, and surface finish quality demanded internationally.

Comprehensive Product Portfolio
PSP Specialties offers solutions tailored to Vietnamese manufacturing: Aromatic Process Oils deliver compatibility with natural rubber for tire manufacturing. Naphthenic Process Oils provide Low-PAHs content meeting EU directives. TDAE represents non-carcinogenic alternatives aligning with Vietnam’s Extended Producer Responsibility regulations implemented April 2024.

Competitive Advantages
PSP Specialties brings 44 million liters of annual rubber process oil capacity with 45% market share in Thailand, leading global and local tire manufacturers. Strategic facilities in Thailand and Myanmar enable efficient logistics. The company plans to introduce bio-based process oils by mid-2026.

Supporting Sustainable Manufacturing
“Vietnamese manufacturers increasingly face sustainability and environmental requirements from European buyers,” Mr. Sakesan emphasized. “Our Low-PAHs, non-carcinogenic process oils meet European Union standards while maintaining superior performance.”

“PSP Specialties is committed to becoming a trusted partner for Vietnam’s rubber manufacturing industry,” Mr. Sakesan concluded. “We provide technical consultation that enables manufacturers to optimize production efficiency and meet international standards.” 

About P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited
P.S.P. Specialties Public Company Limited (PSP), listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, is a leading specialty oils manufacturer with over 30 years of experience and more than 300 specialized formulations serving industrial applications worldwide. For more information: https://specialtyoils.psp.co.th

Global Brands Reinforce Confidence in Asia’s Luxury Yachting Market as J.P. Morgan Private Bank Returns to Singapore Yachting Festival 2026

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SINGAPORE, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Singapore Yachting Festival (SYF) will return from 23 to 26 April 2026 at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove with its largest edition yet. Organised by ONE15 Events Management, the expanded showcase will feature more yachts, global launches, and deeper industry engagement, reaffirming Singapore’s position as a leading hub for Asia’s growing yachting market.

In a strong endorsement of this momentum, J.P. Morgan Private Bank has renewed its role as Official Bank Partner for SYF 2026. “J.P. Morgan Private Bank is delighted to renew our partnership with the Singapore Yachting Festival as Official Bank Partner for the second year. This collaboration reflects our longstanding sailing heritage and our commitment to excellence, innovation, and creating meaningful experiences that align with our clients’ passions. We look forward to celebrating the spirit of yachting with the vibrant community in Singapore and across the region,” said Harshika Patel, Chief Executive Officer, J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Asia.

Damen Yachting has also reaffirmed its support as a major sponsor of the Superyacht Lounge for a second year, following strong visibility and positive outcomes at SYF 2025. Their continued backing reinforces SYF’s value as a strategic platform and highlights rising demand for superyachts across Asia.

To build anticipation, SYF will launch a regional outreach campaign featuring activation events in Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore. These engagements aim to connect with luxury consumers, high net worth guests, and industry stakeholders while strengthening SYF’s profile as a must-attend event.

SYF 2026 will introduce exclusive VIP luncheons and cocktail receptions aboard superyachts, offering buyers private networking opportunities and curated culinary experiences by private chefs.

Exhibitors confirmed include Azimut Yachts, Boat Lagoon Yachting, DCH Marine, Ferretti Group, Leopard Catamarans and Simpson Marine. Attendance is expected to exceed 13,000 visitors from Singapore, Asia, and global markets, reinforcing Singapore’s role as a pivotal hub for yacht builders, distributors, and discerning buyers.

Ahead of the Festival, the Southeast Asia Yachting Conference will take place on 21–22 April at ONE°15 Marina, featuring sessions on market outlook, charter trends, superyacht activity, AI-driven innovation, decarbonisation, and regional case studies.

The prestigious Yacht Style Awards returns on 22 April, bringing together 350 VIPs, yacht owners, and industry leaders to celebrate excellence in yacht design, innovation, and ownership experiences.

Media Kit: here.

Hero Esports Transforms Beijing’s National Stadium into Record-Breaking Mobile Esports Tournament

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  • 62,196 fans attended the 10th annual King Pro League (“KPL”) Grand Finals, the largest attendance at a single esports event
  • Hosted by Tencent and organized by Hero Esports, the Honor of Kings tournament drew crowds from both China and overseas including, but not limited to, Thailand and Australia
  • China is home to an esports user base of over 495 million[1]

SHANGHAI, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the year draws to a close, Hero Esports celebrates the record-breaking success of the KPL 2025 Grand Finals, hosted by Tencent and organized by Hero Esports. 62,196 fans attended the 10th annual KPL Grand Finals at Beijing’s National Stadium, known as the Bird’s Nest, to set a Guinness World Record for the ‘largest attendance at a single esports event’.


One Video Takes You Back To The KPL 2025 Grand Finals!

Honor of Kings is both China’s most popular mobile game and the world’s most-played mobile multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game.

With tickets selling out in just 12 seconds, the Grand Finals drew a diverse audience. Less than 15% of attendees were local to Beijing, with over 85% traveling from across China and countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Australia.

The event provided a significant boost to local businesses, with restaurant sales in nearby commercial areas surging 177% year-on-year and hotel bookings rising 143% during the event.

Since the launch of the KPL in 2016, both the league and mobile esports have experienced unprecedentedly fast growth. However, for Hero Esports, investing in mobile gaming and Honor of Kings was a calculated bet from the start.

“About ten years ago, when we founded Hero Esports, we built our vision around two assumptions about the future,” said Danny Tang, CEO and co-founder of Hero Esports, during an interview at the KPL Grand Finals.

“First, we believed that esports would become the future of sports, and we wanted to help build that future. Second, we believed mobile esports would be the engine driving that transformation. From day one, Honor of Kings stood out to us as the title that could take mobile esports to the next level.”

Bringing mobile esports to a world-class stadium like the Bird’s Nest, with its 204,000 square meters of floor area and 258,000 square meters of total construction space, was no small feat. Unlike traditional sporting events, esports competitions demand more from venues: larger and higher-resolution screens, cutting-edge presentation methods, and immersive experiences for fans.

To celebrate nine years with the KPL and Honor of Kings’ tenth anniversary, Hero Esports delivered a landmark opening ceremony that fused cultural artistry with cutting-edge innovation. Inspired by traditional Chinese embroidery, the show transformed an embroidered dragon into a stunning 3D illusion and concluded with a full augmented reality (“AR”) spectacle inside the Bird’s Nest.

Using ten movable mechanical screens, real-time tracking and synchronized effects across 6,000 stage lights and 180,000 lighting parameters, Hero Esports set a new benchmark for live esports production.

The KPL Grand Finals 2025 has become one of the most talked-about esports events of the year, drawing massive attention both onsite and online. The spectacle captivated millions, with key moments from the opening ceremony and the championship match spreading rapidly across social platforms. Several clips went viral—most notably the AR dragon sequence, which alone amassed over millions of likes on Instagram—demonstrating the global reach and cultural resonance of the event.

Providing an outlook on the future of the global esports industry, Danny Tang said: “This is just the first decade of esports’ 100-year journey. The KPL 2025 Grand Finals is both a milestone and a new beginning. We are incredibly excited for what comes next.”

About Hero Esports

Founded in 2016, Hero Esports is the biggest esports company in Asia, producing more than 7,000 matches every year that captivate an online fan base of over 800 million. Headquartered in Shanghai and employing more than 1,100 employees, Hero Esports boasts a global presence encompassing 12 office locations and eight top-tier esports arenas. Hero Esports offers a comprehensive suite of esports services, including tournament organization, marketing solutions, community development, and more.

[1] 2025 China Esports Industry Report, released by the China Audio-Video and Digital Publishing Association


CEO Vlog Ep.3 | 9 Years of KPL, 1 Unforgettable Night at the Bird‘s Nest

Philips Evnia Joins Forces with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Bring Gamers the Perfect Fusion of Speed and Visual Brilliance

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 December 2025 – Premium gaming monitor brand Philips Evnia today announced its collaboration with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, unveiling the new Evnia 27M2N5501UK. The partnership merges ultra-fast refresh performance, stunning visuals, and advanced Nature-Eyecare Circular Polarization Technology with TUV certificates to deliver an immersive gaming experience that balances speed and comfort.

Philips Evnia Joins Forces with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Bring Gamers the Perfect Fusion of Speed and Visual Brilliance - Evnia 27M2N5501UK
Philips Evnia Joins Forces with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Bring Gamers the Perfect Fusion of Speed and Visual Brilliance – Evnia 27M2N5501UK

Unleash Lightning-Fast Visuals and Master Every Move
Powered by Fast IPS technology, the 27M2N5501UK delivers a blazing 320Hz refresh rate and 0.3ms Smart MBR response time for ultra-smooth gameplay. In Sonic Racing: Cross Worlds’ adrenaline-fueled races, every drift, turn, and acceleration is rendered with crisp precision. With Low Input Lag, players can react faster and claim the winning edge in every match.

Nature-Eyecare Circular Polarization for Lasting Comfort
The Nature-Eyecare Circular Polarization Technology with TUV certificates simulates natural light to effectively filter harmful blue light while maintaining color accuracy and brightness. It reduces visual fatigue and discomfort, allowing gamers to stay focused and comfortable during long play sessions.

The monitor also features SoftBlue, LowBlue Mode and Flicker-Free technology for additional eye protection during extended gameplay.

Brilliant Visuals that Bring Every Race to Life
With DisplayHDR 400 certification and support for 1.07 billion colors, covering 94% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB, the 27M2N5501UK delivers a visual feast of lifelike contrast and depth. Every glowing racetrack, dazzling boost, and light burst in Sonic’s universe comes vividly to life on the screen.

Smart Gaming Features for Precision and Control
Built for competitive play, the monitor includes Smart Crosshair, Stark ShadowBoost, and Smart Sniper for enhanced accuracy and visibility. Through the Evnia Precision Center software, gamers can easily customize settings to match their personal play style.

Brand Quote
“At Philips Evnia, we strive to give gamers the best of both worlds — exceptional visual performance and a naturally comfortable viewing experience. Our collaboration with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds showcases how speed and comfort can truly go hand in hand.”

Product Highlights

Features Details
Panel 27吋 QHD Fast IPS
Refresh rate 320Hz + 0.3ms Smart MBR
Eye-care technology Nature-Eyecare Circular Polarization with TUV certificates, SoftBlue，LowBlue Mode, Flicker-Free
Color 94% DCI-P3 / 100% sRGB / DisplayHDR 400
Game mode Smart Crosshair, Stark ShadowBoost, Smart Sniper
Software Evnia Precision Center

Hashtag: #PhilipsGaming #EVNIA #gaming #gamingmonitor #27M2N5501UK #sonicracingcrossworlds


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

About Philips Evnia

Philips Evnia is a premium gaming monitor brand from Philips, redefining the gaming experience with a blend of innovation, aesthetics, and comfort — empowering gamers to play longer, see clearer, and feel better.

About Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a brand-new title crafted by an elite crew of SEGA racing game developers. Zoom across land, sea, and air in high-octane, unpredictable races where courses change with each lap!

The game offers the series’ biggest roster to date, featuring 23 characters from the Sonic series and DLC racers from beyond the Sonic universe—including Hatsune Miku, Joker (Persona 5 Royal), and Ichiban Kasuga (Like a Dragon) will be hitting the track alongside characters from Minecraft, SpongeBob SquarePants, and PAC-MAN as DLC racers.

Gadgets add strategic depth to the way you race, letting you personalize your vehicle with over 70 different effects. Mix up combinations to devise your own unique playstyles and shortcuts!

Race against players from around the world—and also across gaming platforms, thanks to crossplay support. There’s a variety of online features to enjoy, including World Match—a race between up to 12 players, team-oriented Festival events, and Time Trial.

Moutai Returns to its Origin of World Fame, 110 Years from its Debut on Panama Expo

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SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On December 7th and 8th, visitors lined up to see the wonder of a Moutai themed event at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Moutai, the renowned Chinese baijiu brand, made its debut outside China on Panama Expo in the city 110 years ago. By celebrating the 110-year-anniversary, Moutai restated its commitment to indulging spirit lovers around the globe and demonstrated the brand philosophy sitting on aging. The grand event offered an immersive and engaging experience to know about the Chinese baijiu, past and present.


I. Returning to the Origin: Coordinates of a Liquor and a City in Time

The bond between Moutai and San Francisco dates a long while back.

In 1915, the Panama-Pacific International Exposition was held in San Francisco. This world’s fair, the largest in the first half of the 20th century, lasted nearly 10 months, becoming a collective memory for San Franciscans and an early celebration of globalization, as well as the starting point for Moutai’s global expansion. Moutai,  stored in the earthenware jars, traveled across the ocean and made its international debut here, winning a Gold Medal. This has long been written into the shared  history of the brand and the City of San Francisco.

A century later, in 2015, San Francisco’s then-mayor Edwin Lee designated November 12 as “San Francisco Moutai Day,” recognizing the brand’s role in fostering cultural exchange between China and the United States and strengthening local economic ties. The milestone made Moutai the first eastern brand to be honored with an official commemorative day in a major Western city – marking its evolution from a diplomatic spirit to a global cultural emblem.

By 2025, Moutai had grown into a global spirits powerhouse with a market value approaching 282 billion U.S. dollars, and had become one of China’s most recognizable cultural ambassadors.

These three milestones clearly outline Moutai’s wake to become a world-class player.  Moutai’s global journey began with that 1915 Medal won in San Francisco. For a long time since 1949, Moutai had served as a cultural envoy in China’s diplomatic events, extending China’s warm hospitality to guests like President Nixon and those at the Geneva Conference. With the climbing of Moutai’s production capacity, the famous baijiu has been gaining popular appreciation, and breaking its diplomats exclusive status. Today, Moutai is purposefully cultivating its world market while standing fast in its core production region and embracing ESG value, and a global community of “Moutai Aficionados” is gradually coming into being.

The return of the Moutai delegation, led by Group Vice General Manager Zhang Guichao, to its world fame origin in San Francisco is a latest move to stronghold the brand’s global aspirations and a kind gesture to the northern American market.

II. Discovering Shared Memories: Activating Brand Resonance Through Historical Depth

The two-day cultural exhibition, “San Francisco: In Search of Our Shared Memories，A Chinese Brand’s Perspective on 1915,” was led by a replica of a 1915 Exposition commemorative postcard and unfolded through four chapters: “Shared Memory of 1915,” “A World Progressing in 1915,” “Moutai at the 1915 Expo,” and “Setting Sail for 2025.” This structure systematically brought this century-spanning memory back to life, creating a vivid and interactive dialogue space.


Guests enjoyed Moutai cocktails at the bar in the prologue hall, in a relaxed atmosphere filled with jazz music and began their exploration. American “Moutai Aficionados” enthusiastically viewed and discussed with their peers. The transcending from a commercial activity to a cultural event illustrates the wide recognition and trust Moutai has gained over the past century.

A unique art installation named Jinshan recreated the historical moment of the opening of the Panama Canal in moving projection, taking viewers back to that era of industrial wonders. The screen paneled wall, which recorded 31 participating countries and 18 million visitors in Panama Expo, also drew in crowds.

From the photos of the Chishui River wharf, by which Moutai was made, in the early 20th century, to the first employee roster of Moutai, the handwritten factory history, and finally that precious Expo medal, these tangible exhibits enabled the American public not only to “see the story”, but also to “touch history”, and to feel the Chinese national brand’s holding fast on craftsmanship and ecological values.

The brilliance of the exhibition lay in skillfully integrating Moutai’s brand history into the urban memory of San Francisco and the civilizational history of World Expos, providing a panoramic perspective for the century-old story. This method of showcasing “shared memory” effectively bridged cultural barriers, transforming Moutai from a historical award winner into an active storyteller and witness to history.

According to cultural scholars in San Francisco, this exhibition filled in a gap in the local memory of the Expo by providing an Eastern perspective. Moutai used material objects and vivid narratives to prove that cultural heritage and compelling brand stories could break cultural boundaries.” For Moutai, the grand narrative of the exhibition itself was a direct expression of “Moutai embracing the world and growing in sync with global civilizations, and its vision.” It made faded old photographs, authentic historical documents, precious archival materials, and warm urban memories interplay and shine, ultimately converging into a “cultural memory event” that the public could perceive, participate in, and inherit.


III. Toasting at “Moutai Night”: Crafting Shared Value Through Aroma

On the evening of December 7, Kweichow Moutai hosted a Moutai Night to commemorate the 110 Years Journey to the World, honoring the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Expo Gold Medal and the 2015 Establishment of the ‘San Francisco Moutai Day’.

Guests of distinguished political and business backgrounds from the United States, along with Chinese diplomats to the US, Moutai’s American distributors and aficionados attended the celebration.

Moutai Group Chairman Chen Hua welcomed guests via video at the gala. “San Francisco is where our global story began,” said Chen. “From here, Moutai’s reputation spread and grew, evolving into the world’s leading spirits brand and a truly global icon of Chinese craftsmanship.” Chen noted that Moutai is made using one of the oldest and most intricate fermentation methods in the world, with every drop reflecting generations of Chinese skill and tradition. He also warmly invited guests to visit Guizhou to experience the unique terroir behind Moutai.

Representatives from the Chinese Consulate and San Francisco City Government congratulated Moutai on its dual-anniversary and recognized its positive role in promoting understanding, friendship and cooperation between China and the U.S.

During the banquet, guests enjoyed baijiu and fine cuisine along with meticulously arranged stage shows, including a short film named 1915 to 2025: Kweichow Moutai: A 110 Years Journey to the World. The Chinese and Western cultural elements in shows made an attempt to formulate shared value and raised heated talks among guests.

Through its series of events in the United States, Moutai demonstrates its commitment to actively integrating into the local market and takes the initiative to act as a friendly envoy promoting cultural exchange between the two countries.

From now on, when people recall the glory of San Francisco in 1915, the aroma of Moutai will become an indispensable footnote in those memories. As a world-renowned brand refined through millennia-old craftsmanship, Kweichow Moutai’s journey with the world continues to intertwine with global cultural progress – together distilling the next century-long chapter.

 

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