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Parisian Luxury Debuts in Bangkok: Rabbit Holdings, under BTS Group, in cooperation with Ananda Unveil “THE RESIDENCES 38” Bangkok’s Ultra-Luxury Condominium with First-Ever Private Fine Dining Kitchen—Together with La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection

The French Art de Vivre comes to Sukhumvit 38, combining the ultra-luxury living of The Residences 38, the refined hospitality of La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, and exclusive private dining experiences.


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 September 2025 – Rabbit Holdings Public Company Limited, a subsidiary of BTS Group Holdings Public Company Limited, in cooperation with Ananda Development Public Company Limited, hosted an exclusive Open House event for their French-inspired ultra-luxury residential project, THE RESIDENCES 38, and La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, a serviced residence managed by The Ascott Limited. The event offered attendees an exclusive opportunity to experience the property’s blend of French elegance and Thai sophistication.

In the photo (from left to right): 1. Chef Takashi Sasaki, Kappo Takashi 2. Chef Wai Yin Man, Chef Man Private Kitchen 3. Miss Soraya Sathiengoset, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Rabbit Holdings 4. Mr. Kavin Kanjanapas, Chief Executive Officer, BTS Group Holdings 5. Mr. Chanond Ruangkritya, Chief Executive Officer, Ananda Development 6. Mr. Kanit Sangmookda, Country General Manager, Thailand & Laos, The Ascott Limited 7. Chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier
In the photo (from left to right):
1. Chef Takashi Sasaki, Kappo Takashi
2. Chef Wai Yin Man, Chef Man Private Kitchen
3. Miss Soraya Sathiengoset, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Rabbit Holdings
4. Mr. Kavin Kanjanapas, Chief Executive Officer, BTS Group Holdings
5. Mr. Chanond Ruangkritya, Chief Executive Officer, Ananda Development
6. Mr. Kanit Sangmookda, Country General Manager, Thailand & Laos, The Ascott Limited
7. Chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier

Distinctive guests were immersed in the project’s signature ‘French Art de Vivre’ philosophy, beginning with an elegant reception before touring show units on the 31st floor. The Residences 38 embodies the quintessential French approach to luxury through its collection of 56 exclusive one-to four-bedroom suites and penthouses. Each residence features corner positioning for abundant natural light and sweeping views, complemented by world-class appliances and premium finishes. Residents enjoy exceptional privacy with a dedicated lobby and private elevators, along with the convenience of pet allowed accommodations.

Designed by world-renowned architect Antonio Citterio of ACPV ARCHITECTS, whose portfolio includes The Bulgari Hotel in Milan, THE RESIDENCES 38 stands as an architectural masterpiece. PIA Interior brings its expertise in creating spaces that harmonise luxury with warmth, designed to complement residents’ sophisticated lifestyles, while SHMA‘s sustainable landscape architecture introduces green spaces that seamlessly connect with nature, enhancing wellbeing and creating a tranquil urban sanctuary.

La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, managed by The Ascott Limited, offers 115 bespoke serviced residences, ranging from studios to two-bedroom suites. Inspired by the brand’s concept, “A Story Behind Every Door,” and the French Art de Vivre, the property blends heritage with refined living through curated design, immersive experiences, and amenities such as a swimming pool, onsen, residents’ lounge, and fitness centre—all complemented by personalised hospitality services.

During the Open House, THE RESIDENCES 38 hosted a specially curated dining service, featuring signature creations from the two private dining destinations on the 11th floor: Chef Man Private Kitchen by Chef Wai Yin Man and Kappo Takashi by Chef Takashi Sasaki. These exclusive culinary sanctuaries, including collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs under Turtle 23 Company Limited are available just an elevator ride from residents’ homes, elevating THE RESIDENCES 38 into a destination for culinary aficionados.

Moreover, located on Sukhumvit 38, just steps from BTS Thong Lo, THE RESIDENCES 38, and La Clef Bangkok by The Crest Collection, place residents in the heart of Bangkok’s most vibrant cultural district. The neighborhood is renowned for its eclectic mix of premier lifestyle venues, world class healthcare, upscale restaurants, stylish cafes, and prestigious international schools, creating an ideal environment with unmatched convenience.

For more information about the Open House event, please contact 02 096 0511 or visit https://www.theresidences38.com.

Hashtag: #TheResidences38

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

US, China Reach ‘Framework’ Deal on TikTok Ownership

By Meissa Gueye and Daniel Silva/AFP – The United States and China announced a “framework” deal on September to resolve their dispute over TikTok that calls for the Chinese-owned app to pass to US-controlled ownership.

In a social media post, US President Donald Trump said, without directly naming the social media giant, that a deal was reached with a “certain company that young people in our Country very much wanted to save. They will be very happy!”

Trump added on his Truth Social network that he would speak to Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday, 19 September.

A senior Chinese official said the two sides “reached a basic framework consensus on resolving issues related to TikTok through cooperation, reducing investment barriers and promoting relevant economic and trade cooperation.”

“China will firmly safeguard the national interests, the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises,” Xinhua quoted Vice Minister of Commerce Li Chenggang as saying.

The deal came after a second day of talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Madrid, which also includes discussions about the wider US-China trade dispute.

Bessent confirmed the framework deal, but declined to give further details, saying Trump and Xi will speak on Friday, 19 September, to “complete” the agreement.

TikTok, which boasts almost two billion global users, is owned by China-based internet company ByteDance.

A federal law requiring TikTok’s sale or ban on national security grounds was due to take effect the day before US President Donald Trump’s inauguration on 20 January.

But the Republican, whose 2024 election campaign relied heavily on social media and who has said he is fond of TikTok, put the ban on pause.

In mid-June Trump extended a deadline for the popular video-sharing app by another 90 days to find a non-Chinese buyer or be banned in the United States. That extension is due to expire on Wednesday, 17 September.

Questions unanswered

While Trump had long supported a ban or divestment, he reversed his position and vowed to defend the platform after coming to believe it helped him win young voters’ support in the November election.

Sarah Kreps of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute warned “national security questions remain unanswered,” noting the deal leaves data and algorithm safeguards unclear.

The talks in Madrid also cover Trump’s threat of steep tariffs on Chinese imports.

In his Truth Social post on Monday, Trump said the meeting in Europe “has gone VERY WELL!” and added: “The relationship remains a very strong one!!!”

Trade tensions escalated sharply earlier this year, with tit-for-tat tariffs reaching triple digits and snarling supply chains.

Both governments later agreed to lower their punitive tariffs, with the United States imposing 30 percent duties on imports of Chinese goods and China hitting US products with a 10 percent levy, but the temporary truce expires in November.

The US-China trade truce has been an uneasy one, with Washington accusing Beijing of violating their agreement and slow-walking export license approvals for rare earths, key materials for the automotive, electronics and defense industries.

Nvidia probe

China on Saturday launched two investigations into the US semiconductor sector.

Beijing opened an anti-dumping probe into some highly specialized chips originating from the United States, its commerce ministry said.

The ministry also said in a separate statement it will launch an investigation into whether the United States had discriminated against the Chinese chip sector.

And on Monday China said an investigation found US chip giant Nvidia had run afoul of the country’s antitrust rules, and vowed an additional probe.

The statement did not provide further details about Nvidia’s alleged legal violations or the further probe.

Top diplomats and defense chiefs from both nations held back-to-back phone calls last week, which analysts said could mark a step towards a meeting between Trump and Xi.


© Agence France-Presse

Akeso’s Ligufalimab (CD47 mAb) Receives FDA Orphan Drug Designation for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

HONG KONG, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso Inc. (9926.HK) today announced that its proprietary next-generation humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody targeting CD47, ligufalimab (AK117), has been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

The Orphan Drug Designation is a program established by the FDA to incentivize the development of therapies for rare diseases. Drugs with this designation benefit from comprehensive FDA guidance during development, tax incentives, and up to seven years of market exclusivity upon approval.

Akeso is actively advancing the international clinical development for ligufalimab, which is being evaluated in both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. In addition to its application in AML, patient enrollment has been completed in a randomized, double-blind, multicenter Phase II study assessing ligufalimab combined with azacitidine in higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (HR-MDS).

Ligufalimab is also the first CD47 monoclonal antibody to enter registrational Phase III trials in solid tumors. Two Phase III studies are currently ongoing: one evaluating the combination of ligufalimab and ivonescimab as first-line treatment for PD-L1-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), and another study assessing this combination as first-line therapy for pancreatic cancer.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a heterogeneous hematologic malignancy characterized by the clonal proliferation of myeloid blasts in the bone marrow, peripheral blood, and extramedullary tissues. It is the most common type of acute leukemia in adults. Treatment strategies for AML, as outlined in the NCCN Guidelines®, are primarily based on whether patients are eligible for intensive induction chemotherapy. For those ineligible for such chemotherapy, treatment options remain limited.

The FDA has currently approved venetoclax in combination with azacitidine, decitabine, or low-dose cytarabine for newly diagnosed AML patients aged 75 years or older, or for those with comorbidities that preclude intensive chemotherapy. However, more than half of these patients relapse within 6–9 months, with a median overall survival of approximately one year, highlighting a significant unmet clinical need.

Ligufalimab is a humanized IgG4 monoclonal antibody that binds specifically to CD47 expressed on tumor cells, blocking its interaction with the SIRPα receptor. This disrupts the “don’t eat me” signal, thereby enhancing macrophage-mediated phagocytosis of tumor cells and inhibiting tumor growth. Ligufalimab’s unique design prevents red blood cell agglutination and demonstrates significantly improved safety and efficacy compared to other CD47-targeting agents.

Preclinical studies have shown that ligufalimab, when combined with azacitidine or venetoclax, synergistically enhances the expression of “eat me” signals (such as calreticulin), leading to more efficient activation of phagocytic immune responses. This combination may thus offer a promising treatment option for AML patients ineligible for standard induction chemotherapy.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that ligufalimab combined with azacitidine shows a favorable safety profile and promising efficacy in first-line AML treatment. Even at high doses (up to 45 mg/kg, administered biweekly), ligufalimab was well tolerated, with no significant safety differences observed across patient groups. The complete remission (CR) rate at the target dose reached 50%, and the composite complete remission (cCR) rate was 55%.

Building on these encouraging results, Akeso has launched a Phase II study to further investigate the safety and efficacy of ligufalimab in combination with venetoclax and azacitidine for first-line AML patients ineligible for intensive chemotherapy.

Forward-Looking Statement of Akeso, Inc.

This announcement by Akeso, Inc. (9926.HK, “Akeso”) contains “forward-looking statements”. These statements reflect the current beliefs and expectations of Akeso’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These statements are not intended to form the basis of any investment decision or any decision to purchase securities of Akeso. There can be no assurance that the drug candidate(s) indicated in this announcement or Akeso’s other pipeline candidates will obtain the required regulatory approvals or achieve commercial success. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and health care legislation in P.R.China, the United States and internationally; global trends toward health care cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; Akeso’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of the Akeso’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.

Akeso does not undertake any obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof, except as required by law.

About Akeso

Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 24 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 15 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs. Additionally, 7 new drugs are commercially available. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin.

JA Solar Recognized as Tier 1 PV Module Supplier by S&P Global Commodity Insights

BEIJING, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — JA Solar, a trusted partner in global green energy, was named a 2025 Tier 1 PV module supplier by S&P Global Commodity Insights, reaffirming its leadership in market presence, financial resilience, technological innovation, and sustainability.

JA Solar Recognized as Tier 1 PV Module Supplier by S&P Global Commodity Insights
JA Solar Recognized as Tier 1 PV Module Supplier by S&P Global Commodity Insights

The Tier 1 classification, introduced this year by S&P Global Commodity Insights, is one of the most authoritative recognitions in the clean energy sector. Updated annually, the designation is based on a detailed methodology that evaluates companies across six dimensions: market influence, market share, company scale, global manufacturing footprint, financial performance, and sustainability. To qualify, manufacturers must exceed rigorous thresholds in at least four categories, ensuring that only the most credible and bankable partners are included.

JA Solar demonstrated strong performance across all assessment areas, including shipment scale, global diversification, financial health, and market influence. Its sustainability record, as measured by S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment, ranked well above the industry average, highlighting its commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and professional governance. These strengths underscore JA Solar’s ability to deliver long-term value to developers, investors, and stakeholders worldwide.

This recognition builds on JA Solar’s consistent track record of innovation and growth. By June 2025, the company’s cumulative global module shipments had reached nearly 300 GW, reflecting deep customer trust throughout the world. Its latest Bycium+ (n-type) cell technology achieved a mass-production conversion efficiency of up to 27%, placing it among the highest in the industry and reinforcing its competitive edge. JA Solar’s global footprint now includes 16 overseas subsidiaries and coverage across 178 countries and regions, enabling responsive service and reliable delivery for projects of all scales.

“This recognition by S&P Global Commodity Insights reflects JA Solar’s unwavering commitment to product quality, operational excellence, and sustainable development,” said Aiqing Yang, Executive President of JA Solar. “As the world accelerates toward a clean energy future, we are dedicated to delivering high-performance PV solutions that create lasting value for our global customers.”

Founded in 2005, JA Solar is the trusted global brand in renewable energy. Through continuous innovation, expansive global operations, and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, the company plays a vital role in advancing the global energy transition and building a low-carbon future.

UPS ACCELERATES INTRA-ASIA TRADE WITH CAPACITY AND SPEED ENHANCEMENTS TO ITS AIR NETWORK

  • 5 weekly flights from ShenzhenSydney boost capacity on high-growth trade lane
  • Transit time from Asia and Europe to Australia is now one day faster
  • Next-day delivery and doubled capacity from Vietnam to Mainland China and Hong Kong SAR

SINGAPORE, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — UPS (NYSE: UPS) today announced strategic enhancements to its intra-Asia air network to help businesses across Asia Pacific reach new markets with greater speed and reliability. These upgrades come as intra-Asia trade continues to grow, fueled by strong regional demand and high-growth sectors such as healthcare, technology, industrial manufacturing and automotive.

UPS now operates five weekly Boeing 767s from Shenzhen-Sydney to boost capacity on high-growth trade lane
UPS now operates five weekly Boeing 767s from Shenzhen-Sydney to boost capacity on high-growth trade lane

“We continue to see strong momentum across Asia Pacific with intra-Asia trade staying resilient, even as businesses navigate an evolving global trade landscape,” said Wilfredo Ramos, president, UPS Asia Pacific. “UPS is helping its customers strengthen their supply chains through greater flexibility, faster delivery, and deeper regional connectivity. Our network is designed to give our customers the agility, reliability and assurance they need to grow confidently in a dynamic region.”

More Frequent Flights Between Asia and Australia

Central to the enhancements is the expansion of UPS’s direct flight between its intra-Asia hub in Shenzhen, China, and Australia’s Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Now operating five times a week, this route offers over four times more capacity via UPS’s browntail network, improving delivery frequency from major Asian markets to Australia.  

Delivery time from China Mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam to Australia is one day faster, now two business days, with next-business-day delivery available for Friday pickups. In addition, exports to major Asia markets and imports from Europe will now arrive one day earlier.

These enhancements help Australian businesses to expand and reach new markets with speed and confidence. They also provide faster access to critical goods such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices and specialized components for machinery and automobiles.

Upgraded Hanoi–Shenzhen Route to Support Demand

UPS has also enhanced its Hanoi–Shenzhen route by deploying larger Boeing 747 freighters, doubling weekly cargo capacity to 570 tons. The upgrade supports growing demand from Vietnam to China Mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand.

UPS customers in Vietnam can now benefit from next-business-day deliveries to China Mainland and Hong Kong SAR.

Continued Investment Across Asia Pacific

These enhancements follow other recent UPS investments in Asia Pacific. In Malaysia and Japan, UPS enhanced delivery capabilities through a new facility in Senai, Johor and expanded services from the Kyushu region to help businesses reach international markets.

UPS continues to invest in its smart global network and logistics solutions to help customers of all sizes optimize their global supply chains for success.

For full details of delivery times within UPS’s global network, refer to the UPS time and cost calculator.

About UPS

UPS (NYSE: UPS) is one of the world’s largest companies, with 2024 revenue of $91.1 billion, and provides a broad range of integrated logistics solutions for customers in more than 200 countries and territories. Focused on its purpose statement, “Moving our world forward by delivering what matters,” the company’s approximately 490,000 employees embrace a strategy that is simply stated and powerfully executed: Customer First. People Led. Innovation Driven. UPS is committed to reducing its impact on the environment and supporting the communities we serve around the world. More information can be found at www.ups.comabout.ups.com and www.investors.ups.com.

 

Ribbon Launches New AI Platform: Acumen™ for Autonomous Networking

AI-powered platform elevates network operations

TOKYO, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ribbon Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: RBBN), a global leader in real-time communications technology and IP optical networking solutions, today announced the launch of Acumen, a powerful new AIOps and automation platform designed to help service providers and enterprises navigate the complexities of today’s challenging operational environment and accelerate their transition to autonomous networks. Ribbon is dedicated to helping service providers, enterprises and critical infrastructure operators worldwide modernize and secure their networks and services.

“Optimum shares Ribbon’s vision for building AIOps solutions that can dramatically transform the way networks are managed and maintained,” said Luciano Ramos, Chief Technology and Product Officer at Optimum. “By being among the first providers to integrate the Acumen platform into our operations, we’re not only enhancing network reliability and performance today, but also setting the foundation for a new standard of predictive, AI-driven innovation for us. We believe this will consistently deliver stronger connections and exceptional experiences by leveraging responsible AI to build self-healing, future-ready networks.”

“Network operators are under constant pressure to reduce costs while boosting agility, and automation and AIOps are essential to meeting those demands,” said Sam Bucci, COO and EVP at Ribbon. “Acumen empowers operators with end-to-end observability, AI-driven insights, and customizable automation throughout the network lifecycle. Our DevOps teams harness Acumen’s ready-made apps, low-code/no-code innovation engine, and AI capabilities to accelerate transformation and drive efficiency.”

Acumen empowers organizations to solve real-life operational and strategic challenges, reducing operational costs and enhancing the customer experience. It includes out-of-the-box applications built on Ribbon’s Analytics and Muse, platforms for troubleshooting, KPI dashboards, data enrichment, and more.

Acumen Builder enables the creation of custom apps tailored to the needs of telecom and critical infrastructure. It introduces a low-code/no-code workflow builder that easily instantiates AI agents into any business process. It includes an AI services layer allowing for flexible integration of models, data stores, and related services.

“Acumen’s AIOps and automation are a compelling extension to Ribbon’s portfolio,” said Roy Chua, Founder and Industry Analyst at AvidThink. “Acumen draws on the company’s experience in delivering proven solutions across Layers 0/1 to 7, leveraging cloud-native software architecture and sophisticated analytics. With their track record across Tier 1 providers and other mission-critical networks, Ribbon is well-positioned to distinguish itself in a new generation of AI-powered platforms.”

With its support for both Ribbon and third-party components, Acumen provides a unified view of network performance, enabling proactive, data-driven decision-making. Its automation solutions, spanning deployment, AI Ops and security, enable enhanced operational resilience across the entire network, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of autonomous networks.

About Ribbon
Ribbon Communications (Nasdaq: RBBN) delivers secure cloud communications and IP and optical networking solutions to service providers, enterprises and critical infrastructure sectors globally. We engage deeply with our customers, helping them modernize their networks for improved competitive positioning and business outcomes in today’s smart, always-on and data-hungry world. Our end-to-end portfolio of communications software and IP Optical networking solutions delivers superior value and innovation by leveraging cloud-native architectures, automation and analytics tools, and leading-edge security. We maintain a keen focus on our commitments to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) matters, offering an annual Sustainability Report to our stakeholders. To learn more about Ribbon, please visit rbbn.com

Important Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The information in this release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events that involve risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this release, including those regarding the expected benefits from use of Ribbon Communication’s products, are forward-looking statements. The actual results of Ribbon Communications may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. For further information regarding risks and uncertainties associated with Ribbon Communications’ business, please refer to the “Risk Factors” section of Ribbon Communications’ most recent annual or quarterly report filed with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements represent Ribbon Communications’ views only as of the date on which such statement is made and should not be relied upon as representing Ribbon Communications’ views as of any subsequent date. While Ribbon Communications may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point, Ribbon Communications specifically disclaims any obligation to do so.

Investor Contact
+1 (978) 614-8050
ir@rbbn.com       

Media Contact
Catherine Berthier
+1 (646) 741-1974
cberthier@rbbn.com

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ribbon_logo-1.jpg 

Lazada’s 9.9 Mega Brands Sale 2025 Delivers Record Growth with LazMall Driving Brand-Led Momentum Across Southeast Asia

  • Sales of top 100 Southeast Asian sellers grew by over 49 times compared to last 9.9
  • LazMall saw double-digit YoY growth of nearly 30% in average order value (AOV) as consumers go for more high quality brand products
  • AI-powered Lazzie chatbot also saw a 53% increase in engagements, 34% increase in in-depth AI conversations and 36% uplift in orders compared to 6.6

SINGAPORE, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lazada, Southeast Asia’s leading eCommerce platform, kicked off the year-end shopping season with 9.9 Mega Sale (D9) which achieved strong growth across Southeast Asia, underscoring the platform’s brand-led strategy and consumers’ growing appetite for authentic, quality purchases.

This year’s D9 saw LazMall, Southeast Asia’s biggest virtual mall connecting shoppers to over 32,000 leading international and local brands, exhibited strong performance across the region. “As more consumers in Southeast Asia prioritize authenticity, brand trust, and premium experiences, LazMall continues to drive the heartbeat of Lazada’s mega campaigns,” said Ronald Fu, Campaign Lead at Lazada Group.

Rise in Online Consumption

With Southeast Asia’s growing middle class and digital-savvy population, Lazada recorded a double-digit YoY growth of nearly 30% in average order value (AOV) compared to last D9. The top 100 sellers across the region saw phenomenal growth of more than 49 times YoY, demonstrating that Lazada remains as the go-to platform for high-quality and authentic brands.

“High-value customers purchasing brand products expect more than just a smooth transaction—they demand authenticity, assurance, and meaningful engagement. With brand-driven sales still under 30% of Southeast Asia’s eCommerce, the growth opportunity is clear: platforms that empower brands to build genuine connections and deliver engaging experiences will be the ones to capture these high-value customers and drive sustainable growth,” said Li Jianggan, Founder and CEO of Momentum Works.

AI Lazzie: Deepening AI-Powered Shopping Engagement

Since the launch of AI Lazzie, Lazada’s AI-powered personal shopping assistant, last October, Lazada has been harnessing AI to fuel its performance and engagements during mega sale seasons. During the recent 6.6 sale, Lazada saw a 32% increase in proactive interactions with AI Lazzie which contributed to a 43% increase in order volume as compared to the previous mega sale campaign.

This D9, AI Lazzie, played a central role in driving engagement and conversions this D9. Through the LazzieChat Challenge:

  • 53% increase in engagements as compared to 6.6 (D6) sale event.
  • Thailand and Malaysia shoppers also engaged in self-initiated conversations with AI Lazzie, with 34% increase compared to D6.
  • AI Lazzie directly contributed shoppers’ purchases, with 36% uplift in orders compared to D6 2025.

This significant uplift demonstrates how AI can drive more effective conversions by transforming previously transactional processes into richer, two-way interactions that keep shoppers engaged.

“Lazada is shaping the future of digital commerce in Southeast Asia through strategic investments in cutting-edge technology and a high-quality brand ecosystem. By pioneering the application of AI across the region, we are transforming how consumers discover products and how brands sell more efficiently,” said Iris Wei, President of Lazada Group.

Wei added, “With brand-driven sales still accounting for less than 30% of eCommerce GMV in Southeast Asia, we see a tremendous opportunity ahead. By accelerating brand-led growth and tapping into the US$131 billion market potential that GenAI is expected to unlock by 2030, Lazada is laying the foundation for sustainable growth in the region’s digital economy.”

Popular Categories Driving D9 Momentum

Several categories experienced explosive growth during this year’s campaign:

  • Bag accessories surged 50% YoY, boosted by rising fandoms such as POP MART (PH +82%; MY +247%; SG +83%).
  • Instant cameras & film sales skyrocketed 221% YoY, led by Thailand (+253%) and the Philippines (+259%).
  • 3D printers grew 504% YoY, with Singapore leading at +766%.
  • Gaming handheld consoles exploded with 888% YoY growth, driven by Thailand (+1,084%) and the Philippines (+7,177%).
  • Men’s clothing rose 594% YoY, fuelled by demand in Thailand (+2,010%) and the Philippines (+670%).
  • Idol merchandise achieved 6,930% YoY growth, with significant contributions from Thailand (+9,860%) and Vietnam (+43,198%).
  • Women’s fall/winter clothing saw an 82% YoY lift, indicating strong demand from outbound travellers, with Malaysia leading at +1,054%.

About Lazada Group

Lazada Group is Southeast Asia’s pioneer eCommerce platform. For the last 13 years, Lazada has been accelerating progress in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam through commerce and technology. Today, a thriving local ecosystem links about 160 million active users to more than one million actively-selling sellers every month, who are transacting safely and securely via trusted payments channels and Lazada Wallet, receiving parcels through a homegrown logistics network that has become the largest in the region. 

 

TradingKey Launches World’s First Stock Scoring, Disrupting $270B Retail Investor Market with Wall Street-Level Analysis

SINGAPORE, Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — While retail investors spend just six minutes researching stocks before buying, according to The Wall Street Journal, and often rely on social media buzz and emotional impulses, a new TradingKey investment tool delivers the same Wall Street-caliber analysis that professional investors use, condensed into a 30-second comprehensive evaluation based on 34 sophisticated indicators.

Retail investors now get professional-grade insights. TradingKey’s new Stock Score tool simplifies 34 complex signals into one clear, daily-updated power score.
Retail investors now get professional-grade insights. TradingKey’s new Stock Score tool simplifies 34 complex signals into one clear, daily-updated power score.

Retail investors poured $270 billion into stocks in the first half of this year, driving a 26% market climb since April, according to Barclays — largely fueled by dip-buying after President Trump’s tariff announcements. However, groundbreaking research by Wurgler, based on 8 million rows of browser data, exposes a critical flaw: most investors focus on single-day price charts while holding positions for weeks, ignoring fundamental analysis that could protect their investments amid volatility when searching for the best stocks to buy now.

Unlike traditional investment tools that offer only four to five basic indicators, TradingKey’s Stock Scoring System processes 34 sophisticated signals covering technical analysis, fundamental metrics and institutional investing patterns — making it the world’s only comprehensive stock scoring platform that delivers the same data points professional analysts use to evaluate stocks and make million-dollar decisions.

“We wanted to put the same level of stock analysis that professionals use in the hands of underserved retail investors,” said Yeap Ming Feng, CEO of TradingKey. “Retail investors struggle to make better investment decisions because they lack access to quality data, affordable tools, and the time to research the stocks they invest in. We built this tool to cut through the noise, counter emotional biases like FOMO, and help investors move beyond making uninformed decisions shaped by trending tickers and headlines.”

Available for free to retail investors on the TradingKey platform starting Sept. 15, 2025, the Stock Scoring System updates daily to reflect real-time market conditions. The tool will continue to evolve each month, adding new indicators to match shifting market trends, investor behavior and emerging signals.

About TradingKey

TradingKey is a leading global platform for financial markets dedicated to simplifying individuals’ investment journeys worldwide. The platform provides real-time news, expert analysis, advanced tools such as streaming charts and exclusive educational content to enhance financial strategies and outcomes.

TradingKey’s mission is to democratize access to reliable, intelligent and multilingual investing resources, empowering users to navigate complex markets with confidence and precision.