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Audience Analytics Acquires IP Rights for Golden Bull Award as it Ramps Up Expansion Strategy

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 – Audience Analytics Limited is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement to purchase the IP rights for the prestigious Golden Bull Award. The acquisition complements the Company’s existing award programs IP portfolio that includes the notable HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia and SME100. With experience spanning 15 markets in Asia, Audience Analytics intends to leverage on cross-selling opportunities to expand the Golden Bull Award brand and gain greater control over its revenue.

Launched and first organised in 2003 by a Malaysian Chinese newspaper《南洋商報》 (Nanyang Siang Pau), the Golden Bull Award is one of Malaysia’s first and most representative annual business awards that honors top-performing businesses for their achievements. The Golden Bull Award comprises three different categories, namely Emerging SMEs, Outstanding SMEs, and the coveted Super Golden Bull Award, categorised according to the annual turnover of participating companies. Winners often capitalise on the award’s esteemed reputation and receive greater credibility and recognition for their work. In 2013, the award was subsequently acquired by a subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings Limited.

Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Business Media International Sdn. Bhd., Audience Analytics has entered into a partnership agreement in February 2016, with Sphere Exhibits Pte. Ltd. (“Sphere“), a subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings Limited, for the rights to use the trademarks pertaining to Golden Bull Award. Audience Analytics has since been the primary organiser of the Golden Bull Award, successfully holding the awards ceremony in Malaysia in 2017. Since then, Audience Analytics has expanded the Golden Bull Award to Singapore in 2018 and Taiwan in 2020.

To date, over 4,000 corporates across Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan have participated in the Golden Bull Award program since 2017.

Chairman and Managing Director of Audience Analytics, Datuk William Ng, commented “We are thrilled to acquire the full IP rights of the Golden Bull Award as it not only gives the Group greater control over its revenue but also the full ownership of an established and coveted business award for businesses in the region. With the acquisition, the Group plans to aggressively expand the Golden Bull Award to other markets, growing the brand further in Pan Asia.”

None of the directors or substantial shareholders of the Company and their respective associates has any interest, direct or indirect, in the acquisition of the IP rights (save for their interests arising from their shareholdings and/ or directorships in the Company).

The acquisition of the IP rights does not have any material impact on the earnings per share and net tangible assets per share of the Group for the financial year ending 31 December 2022.

#AudienceAnalytics

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

Amazon Singapore unveils incredible Prime Day 2022 deals for Prime members to shop on 12 & 13 July

Save more than S$500 this Prime Day by stacking promotions like a pro and combining multiple deals in one order – learn more here. T&Cs apply.

Prime Day starts at 12am SGT on 12 July, offering 48-hours of dream-worthy deals with brands including Acer, Bose, Fitbit, Philips, SharkNinja, LEGO, Tiger Beer, Calvin Klein and more.

Amazon will be hosting the first-ever Prime Day Pit Stop event in Singapore where members of the public can participate to win prizes including Amazon.sg Gift Cards, from 9-10 July at Suntec City and 12-13 July at Ocean Financial Centre.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 – (NASDAQ: AMZN) 48 hours of dream deals is almost here as Amazon Singapore unveils a preview of the thousands of promotions that will be available on Prime Day from 12am SGT on July 12 to July 13 at Amazon.sg/primeday. Prime members will have exclusive access to deals across popular categories including Household & Kitchen; PC & Electronics; Beauty; Health & Personal Care; Baby & Toys; Apparel; Beer, Wine & Spirits; and more. New local brands and small and medium-sized businesses such as PRISM+, GINLEE and Pristine will also be participating in Prime Day. Anyone can join Prime or start a free 30-day trial at amazon.sg/prime to shop Prime Day deals.

Amazon-Prime-Day-2022.jpg

Shop Deals from Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Globally, Prime Day provides small and medium businesses the opportunity to promote their products to more than 200 million Prime members around the world.

“PRISM+ is proud to announce our launch on Amazon Singapore, which has proven to be a great channel for local brands to reach out to its audiences,” said Jonathan Tan, Founder of PRISM+, a local electronics brand. “For years, Prime Day has been one of the major e-commerce events of the year as consumers look to enjoy great savings – and we are excited to be a part of this year’s edition, as we continue to make premium experiences accessible to the masses.”

Support and shop deals from small businesses at amazon.sg/smallbusinesses that include the following and more:

  • Save up to 30% off selected Snailax products, including Portable Shiatsu Massager, Body Massage Chair Pad, and more
  • Save up to 30% off selected Epitex products, including Silkysoft bedlinen collection, and more
  • Save up to 30% off selected MANSCAPED products, including The Lawn Mower™ 3.0, 4.0 and more
  • Save up to 30% off selected Pristine Aroma products, including reed diffusers in various scents, and more
  • Save up to 30% off selected Renpho products, including Massage Pillow with Heat, and more
  • Save up to 30% off selected items from UGREEN, including Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cables, and more
  • Buy 2 items and get 20% off selected items from GINLEE, including Lya dress, Rin tank top, and more

Prime Day Category Deals Preview

Featuring incredible discounts and savings, Prime members can shop jaw-dropping deals on top-tier brands and products from SharkNinja, Acer, Bose, Razer, La Roche-Posay, Philips, LEGO, Hasbro Gaming, Calvin Klein, Tiger Beer, and more. Offers will be launched at different times throughout the 48-hour shopping event. Terms and conditions apply to all promotions.

A preview of Prime Day deals on July 12 and 13 that Prime members can expect include:

  • PC & Electronics
    • Get S$80 off min. spend S$800, S$200 off S$1500 on selected Acer products, including the Nitro, Swift, Aspire, Predator range, and more. Get a free gaming chair, earbuds or mouse with purchase of selected products.
    • Save up to 40% off selected Fitbit products, including Sense Advanced Watch (SG Edition), Luxe Fitness Tracker, Charge 5 Advanced Fitness Tracker, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected SanDisk and Western Digital products, including internal and external solid-state drives, and more
    • Save up to 28% off selected Lenovo products, including Thinkpad and Ideapad laptops, ThinkVision monitors, and more. Receive a free backpack and mouse with purchase of selected products.
    • Save up to 30% off selected AMD Ryzen products, including 32-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler, and more
    • Save up to 30% off selected Bose products, including QuietComfort 45 Headphones, Sport Earbuds, Smart Soundbar 700, and more
    • Save up to 20% off selected Sony products, including WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones, WF-C500 Truly Wireless Headphones, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected Razer products, including Naga X Wired MMO Gaming Mouse, Anzu Smart Glasses, Kraken Ultimate Gaming Headset, and more

  • Household, Kitchen & Pets
    • Get S$8 off S$60 on selected products from Magiclean, Merries, Laurier, and more
    • Get S$15 off S$60 on selected products from Dove, Magnum, Persil, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected SharkNinja products, including Ninja Pro Blender, Shark WANDVAC System, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected Roborock products, including S7 Robot Vacuum and Mop, and more
    • Save up to 30% off Nespresso products, including VertuoPlus, Vertuo Next, and more
    • Up to 25% off selected Wellness & Oxbow pet products, including Wellness CORE Ocean Dry Dog Food, Garden Select Adult Rabbit Food, and more
    • Save up to 20% off KitchenAid products, including stand mixers, and more

  • Beauty, Health & Personal Care
    • Save up to 60% off selected Sukin products, including Botanical Body Wash, Natural Balance Shampoo and Conditioner, and more
    • Save up to 50% off selected Bioderma products, including Sensibio and Sebium Gel Moussant, Sebium Moisturiser, and more
    • Save up to 50% off selected Oral-B products, including Cross Action PRO 500, Vitality Precision Clean, and more
    • Save up to 45% off selected Hask products, including Coconut Oil 5-In-1 Leave-In Spray, Biotin 5 In 1 Leave-In Conditioner, Argan Oil Repairing Hair Vial, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected Revlon products, including ColorStay Foundation, PhotoReady Prime Plus Primer, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected La Roche-Posay products, including Effaclar Foaming Purifying Gel, Effaclar Duo +, Anthelios Invisible Fluid SPF50+, and more
    • Save up to 30% off selected SKII products, including Skin Power Airy Milky Lotion, Men Facial Treatment Essence, Facial Treatment Clear Lotion, and more
    • Save up to 30% off selected Nature Made products, Nature’s Bounty, SmartyPants vitamins including Acidophilus Probiotic, Vitamin D3, Vitamin B12, and more
    • Save up to 20% off selected Braun products, including Series 3 Electric Shaver, Satin Hair Senso Care Hair Dryer, and more
    • Save up to 20% off selected Philips products, including Airflower Thermoprotect Hair Dryer, Multigroomer 7000, and more

  • Toys, Books & Baby
    • Save S$10 with S$50 min spend across selected products Barbie, Fisher-price and more brands, including UNO (Wild), Hot Wheels Speedway Hauler, Barbie Fashionistas Ultimate Closet, and more
    • Save up to 50% off selected Times books, including Press Here by Hervé Tullet, Indestructibles: Baby, Let’s Eat! by Stephan Lomp, and more
    • Save up to 40% off selected LEGO products, including Classic Medium Kids Creative Kit, Harry Potter Hogwarts Wizard’s Chess Set & Board Game, Creator Expert Flower Bouquet, and more
    • Save up to 35% off selected Marvel products, including Wolverine Collectible Action Figure, Mech Strike Iron Man Strikeshot Gauntlet, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected Melissa & Doug products, including Let’s Play House – Pretend Play Set, Super Smile Dentist Play Set, Wood Food Groups, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected products from Hasbro Gaming, Play-Doh, Playskool Heroes, including Monopoly, Battleship, Bullseye Ball, and more

  • Apparel
    • Save up to 30% off selected TSLA products, including sportswear clothing and gear, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected Calvin Klein products, including Men’s Skinny Fit Jeans, Men’s Jersey, Men’s Cotton Multipack T-shirts, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected Nautica products, including Men’s Polo, Men’s Performance Pique Polo, and more

  • Beer, Wine & Spirits
    • Save up to 25% off selected Penfolds products, including Koonunga Hill Shiraz, Max’s Shiraz, Max’s Chardonnay, and more
    • Save up to 25% off selected 19 Crimes products, including Red Blend Wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and more
    • Save up to 19% off selected Tiger Beer products, including 24-can cartons across Tiger Lager, Tiger Radler, Tiger Crystal, and more

  • Cross Category Deals:
    • Buy 3 get Extra 30% off on selected products under Baby, Beauty, Health and Personal Care
    • Buy 2 get 30% off, Buy 3 get 40% off selected products under Books and Toys
    • Save up to 25% off, Buy 3 get extra 10% off selected products under Groceries and Beverages
    • Buy 3 for 2 on selected Electronics and PC products
    • Buy 2 get 15% off on selected Headphones and PC products
    • Buy 2 get 1 free on selected Home and Kitchen products


Shop for Someone in Need

Amazon makes it easier for customers to give back through the Amazon x Shop for Good Wishlist. Customers can support local non-profit organizations (NPOs) and their causes by purchasing items off their Amazon wishlist – a depository of items they need the most. Shoppers keen to do good can donate through the wishlist.

Carol Muck, Head of Community Partnerships at SHINE Children and Youth Services, said: “SHINE uses numerous tools to engage with our children and youth. Items such as board games, sporting goods and video games are commonly used during our drop-in sessions to support their social and emotional development. We appreciate how Amazon rallies its consumers to support local charities like ours by creating a pathway for them to donate the items the beneficiaries need the most. Through the generosity of local donors, we are able to engage with our children better while wastage is minimized. It is a win-win for the community and the environment.”

More Ways to Have Fun this Prime Day

  • Prime Day Pit Stop: In celebration of Prime Day, Amazon will be recreating the classic ‘carnival’ experience at the first-ever Prime Day Pit Stop in Singapore. Members of the public are invited to attend in-person and play classic games to win exciting prizes, including Amazon.sg Gift Cards. Customers can find the Amazon truck at the entrance of Suntec City along Nicoll Highway, next to Esplanade MRT Exit A, on 9 and 10 July from 10am to 8pm, and at the main entrance of Ocean Financial Centre on 12 and 13 July from 10am to 7pm.
  • Power through Prime Day with local favourite coffee stall chain Ya Kun Kaya Toast: From now to 13 July, get a S$5 Amazon.sg voucher with a purchase of a value set meal across Ya Kun Kaya Toast outlets in Singapore, excluding outlets at Changi Airport Terminal 1 and 3, and Takashimaya. Whilst stocks last. T&Cs apply.
  • Amazon Vouchers: Discover more ways to save with Amazon Vouchers. Find discounts on everyday essentials, as well as gifts, electronics, beauty, toys, and more. Simply clip the voucher and the discount will be applied at checkout. Visit Amazon.sg/vouchers for information.
  • Amazon.sg Gift Cards: Available during this Prime Day, Amazon.sg Gift Cards offer an easy, simple, and convenient gifting experience, providing access to an extensive selection of products on Amazon.sg at Amazon.sg/giftcard.
    • Exclusive Payment Promotions, only for Prime members:
      • Get S$8 bonus with min. purchase of S$60 eGift Cards.
      • Get 10% off on Riot Games Gift Cards.
      • Get 1% unlimited cashback on all purchases made with PayNow.
  • Bank promotions to enjoy greater savings when shopping at Amazon.sg and Amazon Fresh.
    • Amazon.sg
      • Get a S$10 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$180 or more on your DBS/POSB card on Amazon.sg.
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your Citi credit card on Amazon.sg.
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your HSBC credit card on Amazon Fresh store or Watsons store on Amazon.sg.
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your UOB card on Amazon.sg.
    • Amazon Fresh
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your HSBC credit card on Amazon Fresh store or Watsons store on Amazon.sg.
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your Citi credit card on Amazon Fresh store or Watsons store on Amazon.sg
      • Get a S$8 Amazon.sg Gift Card when you spend S$120 or more on your HSBC credit card on Amazon Fresh store or Watsons store on Amazon.sg.
  • New to Amazon.sg? Enjoy these perks:
    • First order on Amazon.sg? Get S$10 off S$50 with code “NEWBIE”.
    • First order on Amazon Fresh? Get S$20 off S$70 with the code FRESH20. Prime members only.
    • Get S$15 off S$50 on your first app purchase with code PRIMEDAY15.

Visit Amazon.sg/primeday for the latest Prime Day news and visit Amazon.sg/smallbusinesses to start shopping from small business sellers.

Every Day Made Better with Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime was designed to make your life better every single day. Over 200 million paid members around the world enjoy the many benefits of Prime, including the best of shopping and entertainment. Prime was built on the foundation of unlimited fast, free shipping. Prime members in Singapore enjoy access to tens of thousands of items available on Amazon Fresh with free two-hour delivery on orders over S$60, as well as free one-day delivery on domestic Prime eligible items on . Members also enjoy access to millions of products on Amazon International Store on Amazon.sg with free international delivery on eligible orders over S$40. Prime is S$2.99 per month. Start a 30-day free trial of Prime at . In Singapore, Prime membership also includes unlimited access to award-winning movies and TV episodes with Prime Video, unlimited access to video game benefits with Prime Gaming, access to epic deals on Prime Day, and more.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, and Kindle are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit .

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#AmazonSingapore

Thailand Sees Two Million Foreign Tourists Since 1 January

Indian tourists in Pattaya, Thailand.
Indian tourists in Pattaya, Thailand (Photo: Bangkok Post)

Indians and Malaysians are leading a tourist influx to Thailand after the country eased entrance restrictions, with total arrivals surpassing two million since the beginning of the year.

Marketing application of BOGUTAI® (teriparatide injection) has been officially accepted by the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)

HONG KONG SAR – EQS Newswire – 29 June 2022 – A fully integrated biopharmaceutical company – Uni-Bio Science Group Limited (the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; Stock code: 00690.HK) is pleased to announce that t the marketing application submitted by the Group’s self-developed BOGUTAI® (teriparatide injection) has been accepted by the China National Medical Products Administration (“NMPA”) on 28 June 2022, with the acceptance number “CXSS2200062国”. If BOGUTAI® is approved for marketing, it will provide patients with better drug choices, which is a major milestone for the company in the field of orthopedic diseases.

BOGUTAI® (teriparatide injection) is the Group’s fifth marketed product following GENETIME® , GENESOFT® , PINUP® , BOKANGTAI®, and it is also the first domestic manufactured PTH Liquid in China to use a disposable injection pen. Developed in collaboration with Swiss self-care giant Ypsomed, this product has an extremely thin injection needle and high dose accuracy, which can greatly reduce the pain of injections for patients. The Group strongly believe BOGUTAI® will be a future blockbuster for the Group by virtue of the product’s strong cost advantage, better therapeutic effect and convenient administration method.

Teriparatide injection adopts biological expression technology, and is a recombinant human parathyroid hormone analog (PTH1-34), which has the same sequence as the 34-amino acid N-terminal amino acid (biologically active region) of human parathyroid hormone of 84 amino acids. For the treatment of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with a high risk of fractures, it is the only osteogenesis-promoting anti-osteoporosis drug approved for marketing at home and abroad, which can effectively improve bone microstructure, increase bone strength, promote bone healing, and significantly reduce the risk of vertebral and nonvertebral fractures in postmenopausal women.

China is the country with the largest number of osteoporosis in the world. According to the data of the seventh census in 2021, there are currently 264.02 million people aged 60 and above in my country, accounting for 18.70%. Epidemiological surveys show that the prevalence of osteoporosis among people over 50 years old in China is 20.7% for women and 14.4% for men; the prevalence of osteoporosis among people over 60 years old is significantly higher, and women are particularly prominent, as high as 51.6%. Hence, there are currently about 90 million osteoporosis patients in China, and the osteoporosis market size is about 15 billion to 20 billion yuan. The current market share of teriparatide is only about 1% of the PRC osteoporosis market, which is significantly lower than that of foreign countries. The main reason is that it is expensive and not covered by medical insurance. However, in the long run, with the aging of Chinese’s population, the gradual improvement of the coverage of the medical insurance system and the improvement of residents’ purchasing power, the market size of teriparatide will accelerate significant. Moreover, BOGUTAI’s product positioning of being more cost-effective and safe fits the needs of target demographic better, ensuring faster growth compared to other teriparatide competitors.

About Uni-Bio Science Group

Uni-Bio Science Group Limited is principally engaged in the research and development, manufacture and distribution of biopharmaceutical products. The research and development center is fully equipped with a complete system for the development of genetically-engineered products with a pilot plant test base which is in line with NMPA requirements. The Group has two GMP manufacturing bases in Beijing and Shenzhen. The Group also has a highly efficient commercialization platform and marketing network. The Group focuses on the development of novel treatments and innovative drugs addressing the therapeutic areas of endocrine as diabetes and osteoporosis, ophthalmology and dermatology. Please visit the official website of Uni-Bio Science Group for more information:

#UniBioScienceGroup

Singapore Island Cruise Launches National Day 2022 Promotion

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 – Singapore Island Cruise is pleased to announce that they will be launching a special promotion in commemoration of National Day this year. The promotion will run from 1st July 2022 all the way to 31st August 2022.

To celebrate the country’s 57th birthday, Singapore Island Cruise is running a National Day promotion this year, offering a 20% discount off all ferry tickets to the Southern Islands. To enjoy this special promotion, customers can purchase tickets directly from Singapore Island Cruise’s website and enter the exclusive promo code “SG20”. Ferry tickets purchased from other platforms are not eligible for the discount.

With a fleet of 14 air-conditioned vessels, the company prides itself in delivering the most reliable and efficient services for anyone looking for a chartered ferry in Singapore. Besides scheduled ferry trips, one may also hire a private ferry for charter to and from the Southern Islands. This service allows individuals the freedom to decide on their itinerary, arrival, and departure times.

As the country’s first, original and longest-serving ferry operator from Marina South Pier, Singapore Island Cruise has been providing scheduled ferry transport services to Kusu Island and St. John’s Island daily since its establishment in 2007. For those looking for a ferry to Lazarus Island, board a ferry to St. John’s Island and cross over the causeway to Lazarus Island.

With the launch of their new National Day 2022 promotion, Singapore Island Cruise strives to continue to provide the most memorable experiences for all their passengers with their professional ferry services.

For more information or to book your tickets, please visit https://islandcruise.com.sg/.

#SingaporeIslandCruise

Coface Asia Corporate Payment Survey 2022: Asian companies face rising credit risks despite shorter payment delays

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 Coface’s 2022 Asia Corporate Payment Survey, conducted between November 2021 and February 2022, provides insights into the evolution of payment behaviour and credit management practices of about 2,800 companies across the Asia Pacific region during another pandemic year. Respondents came from nine markets (Australia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Taiwan) and 13 sectors located in the Asia-Pacific region.

No deterioration of payment delays despite the impact of COVID except in China

Improved economic conditions in 2021 contributed to a notable fall in the duration of payment delays across Asia-Pacific, dropping from 68 days on average in 2020 to 54 days in 2021, the lowest level in 5 years. The share of respondents experiencing overdue payment remained stable at 64% vs. 65% in the previous year. Among the nine economies covered, payment delays shortened the most in Malaysia and Singapore. By contrast, China was the only country that recorded a rise in payment delays, and also was the country with the longest average payment delay.

However, the survey highlighted some concerns. The share of respondents that mentioned an increase in the amount of overdue went up to 35% in 2021, against 31% in the preceding year. Furthermore, more companies reported ultra-long payment delays (ULPDs) of more than 10% of annual turnover, with this increase driven largely by China where the already high share of 27% in 2020 grew to 40% in 2021. The proportion of ULPDs slightly rose in Australia and India, while it stabilized or declined in the other six economies, with a significant drop in Hong Kong. The large majority of ULPDs are never paid, and therefore, cash-flow risks tend to increase when these ULPDs account for over 2% of a company’s annual turnover.

Sector-wise, the increase in companies experiencing ULPDs of more than 10% was particularly marked in the metals sector, for which it increased by 14 pp to nearly 23%, the largest registered among the 13 sectors. Other sector such as construction, ICT, transport and textile also face significant cash flow risks, with more than 30% of companies that experienced ULPDs reporting that such delays represented more than 2% of annual turnover.

Economic Expectations: Sustained optimism but high concern on rising material prices

Overall, optimism remains intact, with 71% of respondents expecting economic growth to improve in 2022. This optimism was, however, unequal across the region. Singapore is more optimistic compared to the Asia average, with 83% (+17 pp) anticipating higher growth. Companies in Japan and Thailand, where the recovery was relatively subdued in 2021 and therefore with a greater scope for a stronger recovery in 2022, showed more confidence as well, both rising by 14 pp to 75% and 80%, respectively. By contrast, this share was only 44% in Malaysia, showing a significant decline (-29 pp) as compared to last year amid rising political uncertainty, with the possibility of a snap general election in 2022.

Rising raw material prices are increasingly mentioned by respondents when asked about the effect of COVID-19 on their sales performance and cash flow. Over half (54%) of the companies mentioned rising raw material prices as a key factor, up considerably from 31% in 2020. Raw material prices rose sharply in 2021, especially in crude oil, and were lifted significantly higher following the conflict in Ukraine. This intensified cost pressures for companies worldwide, including in Asia-Pacific, which heightened the risk of developing cash-flow problems.

Asian businesses margins increasingly under pressure

Nowadays, businesses are dealing with a complex environment characterized by supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and surging inflation. Supply constraints persisted in 2021, partly due to fresh COVID-19 outbreaks and new lockdowns. Nonetheless, the world gradually reopened and private demand rebounded. This widened the gap between demand and supply of many products and raw materials, leading to significant increase in prices. Global supply chain pressures slightly abated at the start of 2022, but were reignited by the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Given both countries’ predominant role in global commodity markets, the conflict has led to a further surge in raw material prices, pushing inflation higher and, in turn, wages as well. Consequently, it weighed on business profitability by increasing production costs.

After enjoying subdued inflationary pressures through 2021, Asian countries are now recording rapidly rising inflation, especially in food and energy items. In some Asian economies, consumer price index (CPI) growth rate has exceeded central bank’s target. This was the case in Thailand, where CPI posted an annual increase higher than the upper value of the central bank’s target band of 3% for the fifth consecutive month in May. Inflation target were also breached in Australia, India, and the Philippines. After having experienced deflation during 10 months over 2020/2021, Japanese inflation went above the Bank of Japan’s target with 2.5% in April. Facing this surge in living costs, some countries decided to increase wages in order to help consumers to deal with the situation. In Japan, South Korea and Singapore, data revealed that average wage growth has accelerated since 2021. In Southeast Asia, Malaysia introduced a large minimum wage hike of 35% in May 2022. A rise in minimum wage is also set to be implemented in the Philippines in June and in Vietnam the following month.

‘Improved economic conditions in 2021 contributed to a notable fall in the duration of payment delays across Asia-Pacific. However, companies in the region faces rising credit risks, with more companies reported an increase in the amount of overdue. They were also more experiencing ultra-long payment delays of more than 10% of annual turnover, notably in China and, to a much lesser extent, in Australia and India.’, said Bernard Aw, Coface’s Asia-Pacific Economist.

Find here the Coface Asia Corporate Payment Survey 2022 produced by Coface.

COFACE: FOR TRADE

With over 75 years of experience and the most extensive international network, Coface is a leader in trade credit insurance and adjacent specialty services, including Factoring, Single Risk insurance, Bonding, and Information Services. Coface’s experts work to the beat of the global economy, helping ~50,000 clients in 100 countries build successful, growing, and dynamic businesses. With Coface’s insight and advice, these companies can make informed decisions. The Group’ solutions strengthen their ability to sell by providing them with reliable information on their commercial partners and protecting them against non-payment risks, both domestically and for export. In 2021, Coface employed ~4,538 people and registered a turnover of €1.57 billion.

#Coface

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

Warner Bros. Discovery partners with Shell in ‘Dare to Ride’

Warner Bros. Discovery partners with Shell for the premiere of adrenaline-filled local show ‘Dare to Ride’ featuring Asia’s most iconic bike routes

  • Six celebrity bikers overcome unique obstacles as they bike across Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and India
  • New local series in partnership with Shell (6×30) premieres across Southeast Asia and India between June 25 to July 30, 2022

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 – Warner Bros. Discovery has partnered with Shell for a brand-new, adrenaline-filled show, “Dare to Ride”, which premiered on Discovery Southeast Asia (SEA) and India on June 25, 2022, at 9PM (SEA/PH), 8PM (BKK/JKT), 8PM (IND).

“Dare to Ride” showcases some of Asia’s most accomplished riders as they attempt to conquer the region’s most iconic routes with just their bikes, their wits, and their technical knowhow. The show is narrated by Steve Crombie, a world-renowned professional adventure motorcyclist who has already conquered many extreme terrains and roads in Asia and around the globe.

Lynn Ng, VP Head of Factual & Lifestyle SEA and Head of Content Operations APAC, Warner Bros. Discovery, said: “Warner Bros. Discovery remains committed to championing local storytelling and homegrown talent and we are pleased to partner with Shell on a new series that showcases the beauty of Asia through a fresh perspective. Featuring the stunning sceneries of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and India, Dare to Ride puts audiences in the front seat as renowned riders strive to overcome physical, geographical, and cultural obstacles. Combining adventure and emotion with unique histories, cultures and landscapes, this is much more than a journey across Asia’s most challenging roads, it is also a journey of the soul.”

Elaine Chen, GM Consumer Road Sector, Shell Global Marketing, said: “At Shell, collaboration is one of our key attributes, and we’re very happy to collaborate with one of the biggest broadcast partners in the world, Warner Bros. Discovery, to showcase the courage of our passionate bikers to outride anything in Dare to Ride series. Most importantly, as part of our strategy to humanise the brand, we’d love our audience to experience the joy of new adventures along with their passion for riding because with Shell Advance, however, and wherever you ride, we are always here for you.”

MediaCom APAC plays a major role being the enabling factor behind the collaboration.

Zeljana Unkovich, Regional Strategy Director, MediaCom APAC, said: “We are delighted to have been able to bring together two of our key partners to create something beyond the boundaries of traditional media. This collaboration celebrates their shared pioneering spirit and invites audiences on the adventure at the same time.”

The first episode (premiered on June 25) takes audiences to Indonesia, where video journalist Arsal Bahtiar accepts the challenge of riding a scooter on an arduous journey to the top of Mount Bromo, an active volcano in East Java. The nail-biting episode unveils whether the motorbike, designed for city streets, can handle rocky roads, steep mountain trails, and a vast sandy desert.

Episode 2 (premiere on July 2) follows Pro Skateboarder Pa’din Musa across Malaysia as he tackles everything the jungle can throw at him with an underbone motorcycle, also known as “kapcai” in Malaysia, designed for everyday use on the roads. Pa’din puts the iconic vehicle through an ultimate off-road test as he takes it over rocky rivers, muddy trails, wet grass and slippery slopes.

Episode 3 (premiere on July 9) sees Filipino radio and TV personality Samir Gogna (Sam YG) takes on the ride of his life with a journey from Manila to Dicasalarin Cove, one of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines. Riding a touring motorcycle through the scorching sun and pouring rain, the adrenaline junkie is pushed beyond his limits, fighting dehydration, exhaustion, and curveball challenges thrown at him along the way.

Episode 4 (premiere on July 16) brings audiences to Vietnam with Photojournalist Tran Tuan Viet, who will challenge his knowledge of Hanoi as he attempts to be a motorcycle tour guide for the day. Armed with only a vintage motorcycle and his wits, Viet takes three tourists on a trip filled with food, history and culture.

Episode 5 (premiere on July 23) takes viewers to Thailand, where actor and adventurer Ray MacDonald learns what it’s like to be a true hero of the streets, spending a day in the shoes, or wheels, of a Chiang Mai motorcycle delivery rider. As delivery riders depend upon their rating, even a single missed order can lose them time, money and business. As such, Ray must be on high alert as he weaves through the mayhem of motor vehicles in Thailand to stand any chance of a 5-star review.

The final episode (premiere on July 20) sees bike-lover Fakira Tiwari tackle an epic 200km journey across India, travelling from the old to the new, from the mountainous terrain of Nashik to Mumbai’s Gateway of India, before sunset. Along the way, he must deliver a gift of books to a remote village school. He will face punishing village trails with long stretches of silence and isolation before hitting the chaotic and intimidating expressways of Mumbai.

Dare to Ride highlights Southeast Asia’s position as one of the world’s best places to motorcycle, as the show entertains and informs audiences of the region’s natural beauty, culture, and history. The show marks Warner Bros. Discovery’s first-ever partnership with Shell and reflects Warner Bros. Discovery’s reputation for quality entertainment and commitment to bringing more locally relevant content to audiences.

Dare to Ride is produced by HJ Production in association with Trifecta Collective Sdn Bhd. The executive producer is Henry Ambarita.

Notes to editors
Celebrity bikers guests:
Indonesia: Arsal Bahtiar
Malaysia: Pa’din Musa
Philippines: Samir Gogna
Vietnam: Trần Tuấn Việt
Thailand: Ray Macdonald
India: Fakira Riders

Images/Art: here
Promo: here

About Warner Bros. Discovery

Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ: WBD) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates and distributes the world’s most differentiated and complete portfolio of content and brands across television, film and streaming. Available in more than 220 countries and territories and 50 languages, Warner Bros. Discovery inspires, informs and entertains audiences worldwide through its iconic brands and products including: Discovery Channel, discovery+, CNN, DC, Eurosport, HBO, HBO Max, HGTV, Food Network, OWN, Investigation Discovery, TLC, Magnolia Network, TNT, TBS, truTV, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Bros. Television, WB Games, New Line Cinema, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies, Discovery en Español, Hogar de HGTV and others. For more information, please visit .

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Pattern sees considerable growth during China’s 618 Shopping Festival

GMV rose 290% year-on-year, attributed to more high-profile brands being onboard

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 29 June 2022 – The 618 Shopping Festival is the second-largest online shopping event in China, and it recently took place from 31 May to 18 June. The event outperformed itself this year as record sales took place, which is a testament to the strength of China’s economy. Pattern is delighted to announce the trading results for brands we represent in China from 618.

During the shopping event, Pattern’s total GMV in China increased by 290% compared to last year’s results. The growth is attributed to our brand partners’ line-ups strengthening in the market, as the newly onboarded brands contributed over 50% of Pattern’s total GMV during the 618 festival.

Brands that have been trading with Pattern in China for over a year saw significant increases in sales, with an average 85% year-on-year uplift in sales over the period. The highest performing brand achieved a growth of 14-fold.

Despite COVID control measures in some major Chinese cities during the period, the country still saw steady growth in its online retail sector. For example, JD.com reported a total transaction volume of RMB 379.3 billion (approximately USD 57 billion) for its 618 campaign this year, beating its own record again with a 10.3% YoY growth. This result echoes our latest polling research in the China market, which found 67% of Chinese shoppers saying they will spend more online in 2022.

Pattern China General Manager Sharon Gai commented: “We are proud to see the strong result we delivered at the 618 festival this year, which shows the synergy between our business model and the brands we represent in China.”

She added: “With our local team’s knowledge of China’s unique ecommerce ecosystem, we help the Western brands we represent to prepare for the shopping festivals, maximising their profile through a mixture of on-platform advertising and off-platform demand-generation and brand awareness campaigns.”

The 618 Shopping Festival closely follows the size and extent of Double 11, which is the biggest 24-hour online shopping festival in the world, originating in China. Initiated by JD.com, the 618 festival now has all key Chinese ecommerce players’ participation, including Alibaba, PDD and Douyin (TikTok), all of which launch large-scale promotional activities and discounts throughout the event. According to a research study, the GMV of major ecommerce platforms in China during the 618 festival this year reached RMB 695.9 billion (approximately USD 104 billion).

If you would like more information on how we partner with brands to represent them on online marketplaces in China and around the world, please contact us at hk@pattern.com.

About Pattern Inc

Pattern is the ecommerce accelerator of choice for hundreds of consumer brands – acting as their Trade Partner or Master Distributor in key markets. It is in the top 5% of authorised Tmall Trade Partners, is one of the largest Amazon sellers in the world, and supports brands to sell on marketplaces such as JD.com, Lazada, Shopee, Coupang, eBay and others.

Pattern takes care of every aspect of a brand’s marketplace presence and provides full visibility of key success metrics. Unlike other Trade Partners in the region, Pattern operates a stock-buy model to equally share risk and reward while working closely with brands to build demand for their products and accelerate their Tmall presence.

In addition, Pattern’s consulting team supports brands with their strategic ecommerce challenges, including whether they should sell online in China and which other APAC markets they should expand to online.

For more information, visit

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