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Vinpearl secures USD 255 million from international investors, affirming long-term growth prospects

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Advertorial Desk
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HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Vinpearl Joint Stock Company announced the successful closing of a USD 255 million strategic investment from SeaTown Private Credit Fund III, a private credit fund managed by SeaTown Holdings International (SeaTown), and Oman Investment Authority (OIA), Vietnam Oman Investment (VOI). This investment reflects confidence from leading international financial institutions in Vinpearl’s position, growth potential, and long-term development strategy.

Vinpearl secures USD 255 million from international investors, affirming long-term growth prospects

The investment is made in the form of convertible dividend preference shares (CDPS) issued by Vinpearl. Jefferies acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Vinpearl on this transaction.

The transaction demonstrates strong confidence from leading global investors in the long-term growth potential of Vinpearl, as well as Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sector.

A representative of SeaTown commented: “Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sector continues to demonstrate long-term growth potential, driven by rising domestic demand and growing international arrivals. As an experienced, long-term investor in Vietnam, we are committed to supporting the market’s next phase of development, and view Vinpearl as a well-positioned partner in this dynamic sector.”

A representative of VOI commented: “As a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam, VOI has been an active investor in Vietnam for many years, with investments across a range of sectors and companies. We see Vietnam as one of the most dynamic economies in the region, with substantial long-term growth potential. Based on that conviction, we are broadening our investment focus into new high-growth areas, and Vinpearl is a flagship example of this strategy. As one of Vietnam’s leading hospitality and tourism platforms, Vinpearl is well-positioned to benefit from rising domestic consumption, growing international arrivals and continued sector expansion.”

A representative of Vinpearl shared: “We are pleased to welcome SeaTown, OIA and VOI as strategic partners of Vinpearl. This investment not only provides additional resources for our long-term development plans, but also represents recognition from international institutions of Vinpearl’s operational capabilities, strategic vision, and growth potential. With the support of reputable global investors, we will continue to enhance our products and services, and contribute positively to the development of Vietnam’s tourism industry and the wider region.”

Founded and headquartered in Singapore since 2009, SeaTown is a leading Asia-focused alternative investment firm with deep expertise across private and public markets. Owned by Seviora Holdings, Temasek’s asset management group, SeaTown is a trusted steward of capital, investing alongside its investors in conviction-driven strategies. As a partner, SeaTown strives to deliver compelling risk-adjusted returns by leveraging its extensive relationship network, decades of investing experience and astute global perspectives.

OIA is the sovereign wealth fund of the Sultanate of Oman, with a mandate to invest globally across diversified asset classes. In Vietnam, OIA invests through VOI, its dedicated investment platform and asset manager. VOI serves as a capital bridge between Oman, the wider GCC and Vietnam. Since its establishment, VOI has deployed significant capital across a range of sectors in Vietnam and continues to broaden its portfolio in high-growth areas.

Founded in 2003, Vinpearl is a leading Vietnamese brand in tourism, hospitality, entertainment and experiences. Over more than two decades of development, Vinpearl operates 60 facilities across 20 provinces and cities. Its ecosystem includes 5-star hotels and resorts with over 17,500 rooms; 16 VinWonders theme parks offering diverse attractions for all age groups; 6 world-class golf courses; and 3 international-standard convention and performing arts centers VinPalace. In addition, it operates 2 semi-wildlife conservation parks, an equestrian academy, and large-scale live entertainment shows in destinations such as Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, attracting millions of visitors annually.

With a comprehensive and continuously innovating service ecosystem, Vinpearl continues to reinforce its leadership position in the tourism and hospitality industry, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting Vietnam’s image on the global tourism map. The company is well-positioned to capture new growth opportunities and strengthen its competitiveness regionally and globally.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

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

VEC forges strategic partnerships with leading industry players to advance international exhibitions and events in Vietnam

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Advertorial Desk
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HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) has signed strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with leading partners in the exhibition, events, and trade promotion sectors, including Informa Markets, NC Network, Exporum, Vinexad, Chaoyu Expo, and the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA). These partnerships create new opportunities to develop and expand a series of international-scale exhibitions and events in Vietnam.

VEC forges strategic partnerships with leading industry players to advance international exhibitions and events in Vietnam

Under the agreements, VEC and its partners will collaborate to develop, co-organize, and expand specialized exhibitions, trade fairs, conferences, and international events in Vietnam. The parties will also explore opportunities to create new exhibition brands and attract established global event series to be held regularly at VEC’s exhibition and event facilities.

The partnerships with Informa Markets, NC Network, Exporum, Chaoyu Expo, and Vinexad will provide VEC with access to a global network of leading exhibition organizers, enhancing its ability to attract large-scale B2B exhibitions, increase international trade visitor traffic, and maximize infrastructure utilization. The parties will also explore deeper collaboration models, including the joint development and ownership of high-growth exhibition brands in Vietnam, while supporting the international expansion of Vietnamese trade fairs, exhibitions, and event brands.

Through its collaboration with the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA), VEC aims to build strong relationships with the multinational business community in the exhibition industry, expand bilateral trade promotion opportunities, and attract high-level international business delegations to conduct business directly in Vietnam.

Centered around the theme “Strategic Partnerships – Setting Standards – Leading the Future,” the signing ceremony marks a significant milestone in VEC’s development and reinforces its strategic ambition to co-own and develop a new generation of internationally-recognized exhibition and conference brands. This ecosystem of strategic partners will not only strengthen VEC’s capabilities in hosting international events but also enable the organization to participate more deeply in the exhibition and events value chain, from infrastructure operations to the co-creation of high-value exhibition products. At the same time, VEC’s partners will gain greater opportunities to expand their business activities in Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing markets, while leveraging the advantages of VEC’s large-scale, state-of-the-art exhibition complex.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Pham Thi Hien, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Business Development and Marketing at Vietnam Exposition Center, said: “As part of our market development strategy, VEC sees its role as far more than simply providing venue space for events. We aspire to be a strategic partner, working closely with organizers, businesses, and industry associations to attract investment and elevate the scale and standing of specialized exhibitions. We believe today’s strategic partnerships will create new momentum for growth, proactively bringing more world-class exhibitions and high-quality business networking programs to Vietnam. Our ultimate goal is to help position Vietnam as a new destination and a strategic connectivity hub for the region.”

The signing ceremony comes at a pivotal time for Vietnam’s exhibition, events, and advertising industries, which face an urgent need to restructure, enhance competitiveness, and align with international standards. These efforts are expected to contribute to a new era for the country’s cultural industries and experience economy.

In the coming period, VEC will continue to establish strategic partnerships with leading domestic and international organizations, launching a series of landmark events that reinforce its role as a national hub for trade, culture, and large-scale events. These initiatives will contribute to positioning Vietnam as one of Asia’s premier destinations for exhibitions and events.

Hashtag: #VEC

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

About Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC)

Vietnam Exposition Center (VEC) is Southeast Asia’s largest exhibition complex, spanning more than 90 hectares. As a destination for national and international flagship events, VEC is committed to its mission of “Bring Vietnam to the World and Bring the World to Vietnam.” The organization aims to serve as a gateway where global excellence converges and Vietnamese identity reaches international audiences, while contributing to the development of key economic sectors and strengthening Vietnam’s position on the global stage. (Website: )

About Informa Markets

Informa Markets is one of the world’s leading organizers of B2B events and trade exhibitions. In Vietnam, the company has established a strong presence through a portfolio of events spanning many of the country’s key industries. Its flagship exhibitions include MTA Vietnam, the leading international exhibition for machine tools and precision engineering; Food & Hotel Vietnam (FHV), serving the hospitality and food service industries; Vietwater, focused on water supply and wastewater management; and ProPak Vietnam, dedicated to packaging and processing technologies. (Website: )

About NC Network

Founded in Japan, NC Network specializes in connecting industrial manufacturing enterprises through an extensive business network. In Vietnam, NC Network Vietnam serves as a trusted B2B bridge between manufacturers in Vietnam, Japan, and the broader ASEAN region. The company is best known for organizing FBC ASEAN (Factory Network Business Conference), a unique business matching platform that directly connects manufacturers, engineering companies, and component suppliers to identify sourcing and partnership opportunities across the industrial value chain. (Source: vn.emidas.com/en/nc-net)

About Exporum

Established in 2003, Exporum is one of South Korea’s leading professional exhibition planning and organizing companies. The company is widely recognized for its Cafe Show series, including Cafe Show Seoul and Cafe Show Vietnam, Asia’s largest industry platform bringing together the entire coffee value chain, from raw materials to brewing equipment. Exporum is also the organizer of Smart City Asia, a leading exhibition focused on smart city solutions and digital infrastructure. (Website: exporum.com)

About Vinexad

Established in 1975 and operating under Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, Vinexad is widely regarded as a pioneer of Vietnam’s exhibition industry. With more than five decades of experience, the company owns several nationally recognized event brands, most notably Vietnam Expo (Vietnam International Trade Fair). Held annually since 1991, Vietnam Expo is the country’s largest and most influential multi-sector trade promotion event. (Website: vinexad.com.vn)

About Chaoyu Expo

Guangdong Chaoyu Exhibition Co., Ltd. (Chaoyu Expo) is a major exhibition organizer based in Guangdong, China, specializing in international B2B events that connect China’s extensive consumer goods and electronics manufacturing supply chains directly with Southeast Asian markets. In Vietnam, Chaoyu Expo is known for organizing leading exhibitions such as IEAE (International Electronics & Smart Appliances Expo), IBTE (International Toys and Baby Products Expo), and IGHE (International Gifts & Homeware Expo). (Website: chaoyuexpo.com)

About the Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA)

The Vietnam Exhibition & Convention Association (VECA) is the representative organization for individuals and enterprises operating in Vietnam’s MICE, advertising, and events sectors. One of its core functions is to provide official endorsement for major events organized by its members, including large-scale exhibitions hosted by companies such as Vinexad and Informa Markets. VECA also leads national conferences and industry forums focused on market trends and event space development strategies, helping guide the long-term growth of Vietnam’s exhibition and events industry. (Website: )

Thai Rockstar Sek Loso Released on Parole

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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Thai rock star Sek Loso has been released on temporary parole after serving part of his sentence for gun, drug, and obstruction offences. 24 June 2026. (Phetchaburi Prison)

On 24 June, Thai rock musician Seksan “Sek” Sukpimay, known as Sek Loso, walked free from prison in Phetchaburi province after authorities granted him temporary parole. 

The 52-year-old founder and lead singer of Loso, one of Thailand’s most successful rock bands, has long drawn attention for his colorful personal life. 

Police arrested him in 2017 after he fired a gun into the air following a concert in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Thailand’s Supreme Court convicted him in May 2025 on charges of illegal gun possession, drug use and obstructing a police officer. The court sentenced him to two years, 12 months, and 20 days in prison.

A royal pardon later trimmed five months and 20 days from his sentence, leaving two years, six months and 30 days for him to serve. He must wear an electronic monitoring device and follow probation conditions until his term ends on 13 December 2027.

He is set to perform on 26 June at the “Sek Loso Rebirth” concert in Bangkok, marking his first major show since his release. Tickets are already sold out.

Japan Approves USD 2.3 Million Scholarship Grant for Lao Civil Servants

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
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Lao and Japanese officials attending a scholarship grant signing ceremony for Lao civil servants.
A picture of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Anouparb Vongnorkeo (right), and the Ambassador of Japan to Laos, Mr Koizumi Tsutomu (left) holding a MOU of approving USD 3.2 million scholarship grant for Lao civil servants. (Photo by Embassy of Japan in Laos)

Japan has approved JPY 378 million (USD 2.3 million) in scholarship funding to support postgraduate education for Lao government officials.

This is Japan’s latest investment in human resource development as the two countries expand cooperation under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The funding aims to strengthen Laos’ long-term human resource capacity by enabling Lao civil servants to pursue postgraduate studies at leading Japanese universities in fields critical to national development.

Deputy Minister Anouparb Vongnorkeo said the program will continue helping government personnel gain advanced academic training, professional expertise, and policy experience that can be applied within state institutions and national development planning.

Since its launch, the JDS program has awarded scholarships to more than 500 Lao government officials for master’s and doctoral studies in Japan. Areas of study include public administration, economics, international relations, agriculture, environmental management, and other development-related fields.

Many graduates have returned to serve in ministries and public institutions across Laos, contributing to policymaking, public administration, and socio-economic development.

According to state media, the latest funding underscores Japan’s role as one of Laos’ key development partners, particularly in education and human resource development, as the country works to strengthen institutional capacity and support long-term economic growth.

Beyond scholarships, Japan has supported school construction, teacher training centers, educational equipment, and learning improvement programs in several provinces, including remote communities. Japanese assistance has also extended to infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, disaster response, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance.

Officials from both countries said the upgraded Laos-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will further deepen bilateral cooperation. Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting Laos’ sustainable development and strengthening ties between the two countries.

Expanding Laos-Japan Economic Cooperation

The scholarship funding comes as Laos and Japan continue to broaden economic and development cooperation through a series of high-level engagements.

On 10 June, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo, where the two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in human resource development, energy security, and economic resilience under the Laos-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The following day, speaking at the Laos-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo, Sonexay encouraged Japanese companies to expand investment in renewable energy, clean agriculture, logistics, infrastructure, and innovation-driven industries.

According to the Lao News Agency, Japanese investment in Laos has exceeded USD 157 million across 93 projects since 1989. An additional USD 185 million from 61 Japanese companies operating in the country’s Special Economic Zones.

Matrix Robotics Debuts at Dalian Summer Davos as Sole Humanoid Robotics Service Provider, with MATRIX-3 Serving Global Attendees as an AI Barista

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Advertorial Desk
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DALIAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – The World Economic Forum’s 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, also known as Summer Davos, opened on June 23 at the Dalian International Conference Center. Held under the theme “Innovating at Scale,” the forum brought together more than 1,700 leaders from government, business and technology across over 90 countries to discuss how innovation can be translated into real-world applications and industrial transformation. Matrix Robotics, a China-based company specializing in Physical AI and embodied intelligence, participated in the forum as its sole humanoid robotics service provider. The company’s integrated technology stack combines its independently developed WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, a general-purpose full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands. Its third-generation humanoid platform, MATRIX-3, was deployed in the venue’s first-floor dining area, where it served attendees as an AI barista throughout the forum. Leveraging the model’s general-purpose capabilities, cross-scenario adaptability and long-horizon task generalization, Matrix Robotics demonstrated the system’s readiness for real-world commercial service applications to attendees from around the world.

WAVE Powers a Live Service Demonstration at a Leading Global Forum

This year’s Summer Davos focused on “Innovating at Scale,” with artificial intelligence and the application of emerging technologies in the real economy among the forum’s key topics. A key question for the industry is how embodied intelligence can move beyond laboratory demonstrations and achieve commercial deployment at scale.

Moving beyond conventional static hardware displays, Matrix Robotics created a live demonstration area in the venue’s first-floor dining zone. The service solution is built around the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and a general-purpose full-body motion control system. Combining cross-scenario generalization, stable execution of long-horizon tasks and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, the system provided live coffee service to international attendees and demonstrated its ability to operate in a real-world service environment.

The WAVE model handles perception, reasoning and high-level motion planning, while the full-body motion control system coordinates the robot’s physical movements. Long-term testing across multiple scenarios has demonstrated stable performance, enabling the system to support frequent and continuous service at the venue. MATRIX-3 serves as the physical platform through which the intelligent system performs real-world tasks.

Generalization Enables Autonomous Coffee Service, While Dexterous Hands Demonstrate Precise Manipulation

In the dedicated demonstration area, the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model coordinates the workflow together with the full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, enabling MATRIX-3 to perform a standardized coffee-service process. Using the model’s multimodal visual perception, the robot independently identifies and picks up an empty coffee cup, calculates the force required to press the coffee machine’s controls, lifts the hot beverage after brewing, plans a route to the guest and delivers the finished drink steadily.

The WAVE model incorporates physical force-control reasoning, allowing the system to adjust the dexterous hands’ grip strength in real time and reduce the risk of cups slipping or hot beverages spilling. The continuous, multi-step workflow—from picking up a cup to delivering a hot beverage—demonstrated the WAVE model’s multitask processing and generalization across different movements, highlighting the role of the underlying AI system in complex physical interactions.

WAVE Supports Replicable Solutions for Commercial Service Applications

As the forum’s sole humanoid robotics service provider, Matrix Robotics used live coffee service to demonstrate its approach to a key industry challenge: many humanoid robots emphasize hardware demonstrations, while limitations in model generalization make rapid deployment across multiple scenarios difficult.

Matrix Robotics has focused on deploying robotic systems in standardized, repetitive service environments, with its core technology centered on the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and general-purpose full-body motion control system. With multitask adaptability and cross-scenario transfer capabilities, the system demonstrates its potential for deployment at international forums, exhibition venues, retail stores, cultural and tourism spaces and other service environments, offering a replicable solution for the digital transformation of the global service industry.

International Attendees Experience China-Developed AI Technology Firsthand

Throughout the forum, entrepreneurs, technology professionals and Chinese and international media visited the dining-area demonstration to experience the autonomous coffee service powered by the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model and performed by MATRIX-3’s dexterous hands. Attendees received coffee prepared by the robot and observed the system’s stable and fluid operation firsthand.

A senior executive of Matrix Robotics said that Summer Davos provides a leading global platform for showcasing China’s AI innovation. The live coffee-service demonstration provides a direct example of the company’s commercialization strategy centered on the WAVE model. Matrix Robotics independently develops the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, the general-purpose full-body motion control system and high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands. The company continues to improve multitask generalization, safe human-robot interaction and extended continuous operation, with the goal of moving Physical AI from concept demonstrations toward commercial deployment at scale.

Expanding Applications and Accelerating Embodied AI Deployment at Scale

As the global embodied AI industry enters a period of rapid development, general-purpose AI model capabilities and commercialization across different scenarios are becoming key areas of competition. The forum’s theme, “Innovating at Scale,” closely aligns with Matrix Robotics’ long-term development strategy centered on the WAVE model.

Combining the WAVE model’s general-purpose and long-horizon task capabilities with high-degree-of-freedom dexterous hands, the integrated system can support applications beyond coffee service, including exhibition reception, material handling and precision object manipulation, creating broad potential for deployment across industries.

By participating in Summer Davos in Dalian, Matrix Robotics demonstrated the real-world operating capabilities of its independently developed intelligent system and created a platform for international industry exchange and cooperation. Going forward, Matrix Robotics will continue to advance the WAVE Embodied AI Foundation Model, the general-purpose full-body motion control system and general Physical AI algorithms, while expanding applications across retail, cultural tourism, exhibitions and industrial support. With foundation-model technology at the core of its strategy, the company will work with global industry partners to accelerate the large-scale deployment of embodied AI and bring China-developed Physical AI technology to a broader global audience.

Hashtag: #MatrixRobotics

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

The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation Acquire Profisol Industrial Automation

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Advertorial Desk
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MELBOURNE, Australia, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation have acquired Profisol Industrial Automation, strengthening the group’s industrial automation and operational technology capabilities and expanding support for customers across Australia.

The acquisition brings together complementary expertise in automation, control systems, monitoring, and critical infrastructure. By combining Profisol’s specialist knowledge with the engineering resources of The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation, customers will benefit from broader technical expertise and increased project delivery capacity.

For more than 20 years, Profisol has delivered automation, monitoring, and alarming solutions for process, infrastructure, and utility systems. The company has established a strong reputation for practical engineering, reliable project delivery, and long-term customer partnerships across critical industries.

“Profisol has built an outstanding reputation for delivering high-quality automation solutions and exceptional customer service,” said Michael Dowling, Director of Technology at The Oberix Group.

“Their technical expertise, industry knowledge, and strong customer relationships make them a natural fit for our group. This acquisition strengthens our ability to deliver automation and operational technology solutions across Australia while giving customers access to a broader range of specialist skills.”

Bela Farbas Snr, Director at Profisol Industrial Automation, said the acquisition creates opportunities for customers and employees.

“We are proud of the business we have built over two decades and the relationships we have established with our customers. Joining The Oberix Group and Leading Edge Automation provides additional resources and opportunities while allowing us to deliver the service and technical excellence our customers expect.”

Profisol will continue operating with its existing team, maintaining the trusted relationships and service standards customers rely on.

Together, the businesses provide automation and control solutions across process control systems, SCADA and monitoring platforms, alarming systems, industrial communications, operational technology, and ongoing support services.

The acquisition reflects The Oberix Group’s ongoing investment in specialist engineering and technology businesses that support Australian industry and critical infrastructure.

About The Oberix Group

The Oberix Group is an Australian technology and engineering services organisation delivering solutions across industrial automation, operational technology, digital transformation, smart buildings, and critical infrastructure sectors.

About Leading Edge Automation

Leading Edge Automation delivers automation and control system solutions that help organisations improve operational efficiency, reliability, and performance.

About Profisol Industrial Automation

Profisol Industrial Automation specialises in automation, monitoring, and alarming solutions for process, infrastructure, and utility systems.

 

Cynosure Lutronic Spotlighted Structural Skin Tightening Innovation at IMCAS Asia 2026 in Bangkok

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, June 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global medical aesthetics leader Cynosure Lutronic presented its latest non-invasive innovations at IMCAS Asia 2026 in Bangkok (19–21 June), featuring XERF™, a structural skin tightening treatment that focuses on comfort, safety, flexibility and no downtime. XERF reflects a shift in how skin ageing is addressed, moving beyond surface-level improvements to support firmness and skin quality from within.

Hauke Harms, President of International, Cynosure Lutronic at IMCAS Asia 2026
Hauke Harms, President of International, Cynosure Lutronic at IMCAS Asia 2026

The Shift Shaping Modern Aesthetics

Consumers are moving away from dramatic, overdone outcomes towards earlier, more preventive approaches focused on natural-looking results, long-term skin health and preservation.

Driving this is a broader cultural shift. Mintel’s 2026 Global Beauty and Personal Care Predictions identify a growing consumer exhaustion with AI-driven perfection, with consumers increasingly craving authenticity and human expression over polished, data-driven conformity. Similarly, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) reports that non-invasive treatments now account for 80% of all procedures among its members, with patients prioritising subtle, natural-looking results.

XERF is designed to align with these evolving expectations, delivering structural skin tightening from within while offering the comfort, convenience and results modern patients seek.

Close-up of Cynosure Lutronic XERF brochure at IMCAS Asia 2026
Close-up of Cynosure Lutronic XERF brochure at IMCAS Asia 2026

A Structural Approach to Skin Tightening

XERF is the world’s first monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device that combines two frequencies (6.78 MHz & 2MHz) to deliver targeted thermal energy to the skin at three depths. This multi-layer approach allows XERF to act across the skin’s shallow, middle and deeper layers, helping to remodel the structure of tissue and restore firmness, where meaningful change begins.

This multi-layer approach enables XERF to deliver visible lifting and tightening, improvement in facial and neck laxity, a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while supporting comprehensive improvement in skin firmness and quality.

Cynosure Lutronic's XERF technology on display at IMCAS Asia 2026
Cynosure Lutronic’s XERF technology on display at IMCAS Asia 2026

Working at a structural level, XERF delivers both immediate and progressive results. Patients typically experience a noticeable tightening sensation right after treatment and continued improvement as collagen remodelling occurs over time, enhancing skin appearance in the weeks that follow.

Designed for Comfort and Everyday Life

XERF has been engineered to make advanced aesthetic treatments more accessible and convenient. The treatment feels warm and comfortable due to Integrated Cryogen Delivery (ICD) that cools the skin’s surface during each pulse, and Wave Fit™ pulse technology, which balances energy delivery to maximise comfort.

Each session takes approximately 45 minutes, requires no needles or numbing, and allows patients to resume daily activities immediately, providing patients with a treatment rooted in comfort and convenience that fits modern lifestyles.

Tailored to Individual Skin Needs

Recognising that every patient’s skin is different, XERF features adjustable depth settings and intensity levels that can be tailored to each individual’s skin profile. This customisability allows doctors to address both early and more visible signs of ageing, to customise treatments based on skin thickness and treatment goals, and deliver personalised outcomes across different facial areas.

“IMCAS Asia is an important platform for us to connect with leading practitioners across the region and share the latest developments in aesthetic technology,” said Hauke Albert Harms, President of International at Cynosure Lutronic. “With XERF, we are seeing a clear shift toward treatments that go beyond surface-level improvements, supporting skin structure and quality from within. Patients today are looking for solutions that deliver visible results while fitting seamlessly into their daily lives, and this is where innovation is heading.”

About Cynosure Lutronic

Cynosure Lutronic is a global leader in medical aesthetic and energy-based device technology, delivering clinically proven solutions for aesthetic practitioners and patients across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

The XERF™ RF system is intended as a non-invasive dermatological aesthetic treatment device with indications for wrinkles and rhytids. Product availability, approved indications, and regulatory clearances may vary by country or region. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if XERF™ is right for them. Cynosure Lutronic does not diagnose or treat medical conditions, prescribe treatment protocols, or provide medical advice.

Website: bluetotem.co

High-res images and brand assets are available for download here.
(All photos should be credited to: Cynosure Lutronic)

Allianz: $125 billion in vessel and cargo value awaits passage from the Persian Gulf

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Advertorial Desk
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  • Safety and Shipping Review 2026: Vessel and cargo value in region shows importance of maritime chokepoints. Managing geopolitical disruptions is now a top priority for shipowners and cargo operators.
  • Geopolitical tensions challenge shipping’s ongoing long-term safety improvements. Incidents fell 16% to fewer than 3,000 globally in 2025, while fire remains a major loss driver with over 200 incidents, the second highest total in a decade.
  • More complex and volatile risk landscape enforces need for greater operational resilience versus cost efficiency.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Given that 90% of international trade is transported across oceans, maritime safety and stable shipping trading routes are critical. According to Allianz Commercial’s latest Safety and Shipping Review, incidents like the closure and reported mining of the Strait of Hormuz are the latest in a series of recent disruptions to have impacted shipping. They signal a transition toward a “new maritime order” defined by escalating security risks along strategic shipping corridors, the disruption of established trade routes, persistent uncertainty, higher risk premiums, and a greater strategic emphasis on resilience over pure cost efficiency.

In addition to geopolitical uncertainty, traditional risks for the shipping industry remain a major concern, although the numbers of total vessel losses and incidents have continued to decline in recent years. Machinery damage or failure and fires are among the main loss drivers in this regard, leading to significant economic and insured losses.

“Our analysis shows the shipping industry has made significant improvements in maritime safety in recent years. However, it has also undergone a fundamental transformation, from decades of relative stability, defined by steady trade flows and largely predictable operating conditions to becoming increasingly complex and volatile. The Middle East conflict and Strait of Hormuz closure is just the latest in a series of severe interruptions to hit shipowners and cargo operators. Resilience, geopolitics, and efficiency must be balanced in an increasingly unpredictable world, where the cost of uncertainty is reshaping the shipping industry,” explains Thomas Lillelund, CEO of Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitical uncertainty becomes top risk for shipping industry
The conflict in the Middle East paralyzed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil trade route. Allianz Research data shows that around 1,150 cargo-carrying vessels (over 100GT*) with an estimated vessel and cargo value of approximately $125 billion, a volume of 29 million GT, and as many as 20,000 seafarers are in the Persian Gulf waiting to resume operations following recent diplomatic breakthroughs. This underscores the structural importance of maritime chokepoints and how critical they are for shipping and international trade, while also highlighting the severe disruptions to vessel operations and mental strain that has been placed on those seafarers who have endured months on board facing the threat of attack.

Marine insurance cover has been available throughout the conflict, albeit at increased hull and cargo premiums. However, the real issue for shipowners has been more about the risk to the crew and the vessel when transiting a conflict zone, rather than pure insurance considerations. Even if the US and Iran agreement holds and the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, solid assurances of safe passage will be required, involving the international community, particularly if traffic is to return to its pre-war levels, up to as many as 140 vessels a day.

“We are seeing growing uncertainty around shipping routes. Any type of event – a conflict, pandemic or a grounded vessel blocking a key port or shipping canal – can potentially cause a major disruption to shipping and supply chains. The events in the Middle East have been more impactful than many would have expected. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous precedent and raises questions around the long-term future of this and other critical chokepoints. What is becoming clear is that we have to pay a price for uncertainty, shifting from ‘just-in-time’ to ‘just-in-case’ supply chains, and prioritizing resilience over cost efficiency,” says Captain Rahul Khanna, Global Head of Marine Risk Consulting at Allianz Commercial.

Total loss and incident numbers decline despite industry headwinds
The review’s latest analysis shows that there have been more than 900 total losses reported over the past decade (vessels over 100GT). Between 2016 and the end of 2020, there were 555, an average of 111 per year. This number declined to 350 between 2021 and the end of 2025, an average of 70 (37% down on the previous five-year period), reflecting the positive effect of an increased focus on safety measures over time – 43 total losses have been reported in 2025, with more than 30 of these vessels over 500GT. The South China, Indochina, Indonesia, and the Philippines region is the main loss hotspot globally over the past year, and the past decade (255). A huge volume of imports and exports flow through the region, resulting in high levels of shipping traffic, which is reflected in the number of incidents.

Around the world, the number of shipping incidents declined over the past year by around 16% (2,818 in 2025 compared to 3,353 in 2024). The East Mediterranean and Black Sea region saw the highest number (622), followed by the British Isles (619), which is also the location of the most incidents over the past decade. Machinery damage or failure was the major cause of shipping incidents globally, accounting for over half (1,505), followed by vessel collision (260). Fires on large vessels, including container ships and car carriers, remain a worry. There were more than 200 incidents on large vessels reported during 2025, down from 2024, but still the second highest total over the past decade, with at least nine total losses reported.

The increasing size of vessels is also driving a trend for a rise in general average claims, where the shipowner and cargo interests share losses or expenditure to save the whole venture in an emergency. Such claims are typically complex and large. Contributions to cover losses can be as high as 50% of the cargo value, which if a vessel is carrying a few thousand electric cars, for example, could easily be over US$100mn.

“Insurance markets react quickly to crises, but the real challenge for companies is understanding how risks are interconnected. That’s why resilience and risk management are becoming just as important as insurance coverage. The shipping industry is facing turbulent times, not only from geopolitical instability, but also from traditional hull and machinery risks, where we see claims costs continue to rise, as well as from decarbonization and fleet renewal challenges. Our role as an insurer is to support our clients as both a risk carrier and a resilience partner to mitigate risks before they become a damaging loss event,” says Justus Heinrich, Global Product Leader Marine Hull at Allianz Commercial.

Geopolitics and high demand drive trend for older vessels
The average age of the global fleet increased to 23 years in 2025, up from around 20 years old just before the Covid-19 pandemic, as shipowners retain vessels for longer due to the volatile geopolitical climate. Conflict in the Middle East has seen tankers and container ships stranded and rerouted around the Cape of Good Hope, for example, resulting in longer transit times and a squeeze on existing fleet capacity.

Older vessels pose significant safety risks at sea, with vessels over 20 years old accounting for over half of all safety incidents, analysis shows. As ships age, the likelihood of incidents increases due to structural, mechanical, and technological obsolescence, creating risks for crew, cargo, and the environment.

“Shipowners are under pressure to scrap older vessels and replace them with new, more efficient, safer and compliant ships. However, the recent pushback against net zero targets and full order books at the major Asian shipyards are other factors which could ensure the average age of vessels is likely to remain elevated in the near term,” says Captain Nitin Chopra, Senior Marine Risk Consultant, Allianz Commercial.

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About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, , and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and risk transfer solutions, outstanding and services as well as seamless handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2025, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around €17.3 billion in gross premium globally.

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