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The Government of Odisha and the Singapore-headquartered Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) partner to develop an Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub in Bhubaneswar

Applications Open for National University of Singapore – Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech for Odisha-based Students.  

BHUBANESWAR, India, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Government of Odisha, in partnership with the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), announced the upcoming official launch of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar, scheduled for 21 August 2025.  

For the first time, applications are open for National University of Singapore - Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech for Odisha-based Students.
For the first time, applications are open for National University of Singapore – Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech for Odisha-based Students.

This marks the first time Odisha is launching a FinTech capability initiative of this scale and global integration. The I-GFTCH launch positions Bhubaneswar at the forefront of India’s evolving financial technology ecosystem and aligns with its national development objectives. 

The Government of Odisha is undertaking a comprehensive, globally integrated four-pronged strategy to establish the state as a leader in Financial Technology innovation and capability.  

  1. Global Learning: Odisha has partnered with NUS-AIDF and GFTN to launch a future-proof FinTech and InsurTech professional certification programme. This five-month hybrid course – combining online modules, two weeks of on-campus sessions in Bhubaneswar, hands-on projects, and internship placements – is designed to be inclusive and employment-oriented. The initiative aims to empower over 7,000 students from all districts across Odisha with pragmatic expertise spanning technology, regulatory frameworks, and business operations in Financial Technology and InsurTech sectors. The initiative will be supported by the Skill Development Institute and the Union Education Ministry.  
  2. Global Mindshare: In the first quarter of 2026, Bhubaneswar will host the Black Swan Summit (BSS) India, a forward-looking global forum accelerating the adoption of frontier technologies. BSS convenes leading technologists, policymakers, investors, and innovators to explore paradigm shifts in tokenisation, AI, quantum computing, semiconductor breakthroughs, and digital infrastructure. Launched this year in Perth, Western Australia, the Summit now anchors the Black Swan Network, GFTN’s flagship multi-location, global platform for collective foresight and international collaboration. Beyond the Black Swan Network, GFTN also convenes a suite of high-impact forums, including Point Zero Forum (Zurich), GFTN Forum Japan (Tokyo), the Inclusion FinTech Forum (Rwanda) and the world’s largest FinTech gathering – the Singapore FinTech Festival. These forums span Asia, Europe, and Africa offering Odisha’s students, professionals and startups a direct gateway into global job pipelines, cross-border venture opportunities, and future-ready digital economy networks. 
  3. Global Innovation: Odisha will establish a Centre of Excellence to drive digital transformation and advance pioneering solutions. The Hub will accelerate innovation through a full stack of support for startups – offering incubation, mentorship, masterclasses, bootcamps, market readiness programs, and venture development – drawing on GFTN’s international expertise to nurture a robust, future-ready Financial Technology ecosystem. 
  4. Financial Technology Global Capability Hub: Odisha is also developing a strategic offshore or nearshore hub for global and national GFTN’s partner financial institutions, leveraging the I-GFTCH Global Learning talent pool. These centres will transcend traditional cost-efficient models to serve as dynamic nodes for business growth and agility, enabling collaboration among startups, corporates and innovators via shared workspaces and integrated resources. 

This multi-pronged approach underscores Odisha’s commitment to building an internationally competitive, innovation-led and inclusive Financial Technology landscape. 

The I-GFTCH initiative, under the leadership of the Honourable Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi and supported by the Department of Electronics & IT and the Department of Higher Education, will begin with the roll-out of its first pillar – Global Learning – in September 2025.  

The NUS-AIDF Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech (CFI) programme under the Global Learning pillar is supported by the Skill Development Institute, Bhubaneswar as a designated Centre of Excellence with a view toward future national accreditation, in consultation with the Indian Union Ministry of Education. 

“By combining local potential with world-class institutions like NUS-AIDF, we are investing in the youth of Odisha to thrive in the $1.8 trillion global digital economy,” said Shri Dr Mukesh Mahaling, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics & IT, Government of Odisha.  

“This partnership places Odisha on the global map of digital skilling,” said Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education, Government of Odisha. “We are committed to building a talent pipeline that can power India’s innovation economy, and this certification is a powerful step forward.” 

“It’s remarkable to see how swiftly the leadership of Odisha has executed the Financial Technology partnership with Singapore – from an MoU signed during the 17 – 18 January 2025 State Visit of His Excellency Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of Singapore – into tangible, forward-looking action,” said Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN and former Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore.  

“Odisha’s bold vision to become a global FinTech innovation hub is coming to life through world-class certification programmes and a cutting-edge Capability Hub – unlocking global opportunities for local talent and building a future-ready digital economy,” said Mr. Mohanty. 

About GFTN 

The Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) is a Singapore-headquartered organisation that leverages technology and innovation to create more efficient, resilient, and inclusive financial systems through global collaboration. GFTN hosts a worldwide network of forums (including its flagship event, the Singapore FinTech Festival); advises governments and companies on policies and the development of digital ecosystems and innovation within the financial sector; offers digital infrastructure solutions; and plans to invest in financial technology startups through its upcoming venture fund, with a focus on inclusion and sustainability. GFTN is a not-for-profit organisation established by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in 2024. 

About NUS-AIDF 

NUS-AIDF is jointly founded by the MAS, Singapore’s central bank, and the National Research Foundation (NRF), Singapore. AIDF aspires to be a thought leader, a FinTech knowledge hub, and an experimental site for developing digital financial technologies as well as for nurturing current and future FinTech researchers and practitioners in Asia. AIDF conducts the Master of Science in Digital Financial Technology and the PhD in Digital Financial Technology programmes, aimed at training the next generation of FinTech professionals. National University of Singapore (NUS) is ranked #8 globally and #1 in Asia (QS Rankings 2025).  

About the Black Swan Summit 

The Black Swan Summit is a global, forward-looking forum that accelerates the discovery of frontier technologies, fostering disruption, adoption, and capability development at the crossroads of global innovation hubs. It seeks to build global minds for a disruptive and inclusive future. Launched this year in Perth, Western Australia, the Black Swan Network is GFTN’s flagship multi-location global platform for collective foresight and international collaboration. 

Annex: Details of Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech 

Certificate from the National University of Singapore– Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) – Sponsored by the Government of Odisha in partnership with GFTN. 

Certificate in FinTech and InsurTech covers topics on: 

  • Fundamentals of FinTech and Insurtech
  • Al & Blockchain application
  • InsurTech innovations
  • Real-world case studies

Who Can Apply: 

  • Final year undergraduate and postgraduate students seeking to build a career in the financial sector 

Course Format: 

  • Virtual selection test – English comprehension
  • Hybrid (55% online + 45% in-person) over 5 months
  • Live project with industry partners and potential employers
  • 2 weeks in person classes in Bhubaneswar*

*Accommodation & food will be provided 

Course Benefits: 

  • Priority job opportunities
    • Access to placement fairs
    • Referrals to banking and insurance companies for internship placements.
  • Global Visibility – GFTN Knowledge Circle™
    • Exclusive, free access to hundreds of articles and reports from GFTN
    • Complimentary access to GFTN Forums worldwide**

**Terms & conditions apply 

“Song of the Earth | Artistic Documentary for a Better China 2025” Exhibition Series Launches with Global Dialogue on Ecological Civilization

BEIJING, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The “Song of the Earth | Artistic Documentary for a Better China 2025” exhibition series officially opened at Beijing International Club on July 28-29, marking the 20th anniversary of China’s ecological development concept while counting down to the Beautiful China initiative’s tenth anniversary.

The opening ceremony on July 29, themed “Collaborative Action”, launched the Art Practice Index Report for a Better China. Gao Shiming, Vice President of China Federation of Literary and Art Circles, emphasized how cultural and artistic practices have evolved into proactive engines for social transformation, moving beyond their traditional decorative role.

The preceding day witnessed an international dialogue with ambassadors from over twenty countries including Grenada, Slovakia and Samoa. This high-level forum saw the launch of the Better China International Dialogue, a joint effort by China Academy of Art and Beijing International Club to amplify China’s ecological stories globally. The initiative represents a significant contribution to both the cultural exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. 

At the opening ceremony, representatives from across the nation shared innovative approaches and experiences in ecological conservation and sustainable urban-rural development. Diplomatic envoys from multiple countries engaged with these case studies through diverse lenses—urban regeneration, social intervention, rural revitalization, and international dialogue——while contributing their own nations’ expertise in cultural preservation and urban transformation. This dynamic exchange created a vibrant confluence of practical wisdom across cultural boundaries.

Designed as a “constellation” of four interconnected sections, the exhibition forms a panoramic tapestry that mirrors the complexity and systemic nature of eco-civilization. It highlights the dynamic interplay between individuals, communities, local initiatives, and national strategies—bridging present actions with future visions. The exhibition’s international editions in Seoul, London and Fiji further testify to its global relevance.

As Yu Xuhong, president of CAA profoundly stated, more than a retrospective, “Song of the Earth” is a living, evolving platform for social engagement and public discourse. By weaving together artistic practice and societal action, the 2025 edition aspires to create a broader narrative space, uniting diverse changemakers in collective pursuit of Beautiful China’s next chapter.

Smilegate Launches MMORPG “LORDNINE: Infinite Class” Across Asia

  • Officially launched on July 31 in Asian regions; supports PC∙mobile cross-platform play
  • Sets a new standard for MMORPGs with extensive gameplay freedom, such as class customization and diverse weapon mastery
  • “NEXT MARKET” — a global market offering enhanced transaction stability and convenience

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global game developer and publisher Smilegate announced the official launch of its new MMORPG, “LORDNINE: Infinite Class” (developed by NX3GAMES), in Asian regions.

Smilegate Launches MMORPG “LORDNINE Infinite Class” Across Asia
Smilegate Launches MMORPG “LORDNINE Infinite Class” Across Asia

The official service regions include the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, marking the full-scale global expansion following last year’s successful launch in Korea and Taiwan region.

LORDNINE features its unique “Infinite Class” system, which allows users to create their own character by freely combining over 60 classes and 52 abilities. Users can define their own combat style and progression path, enjoying extensive gameplay freedom and deep strategic elements.

LORDNINE’s mobile version can be accessed by downloading the game through the App Store or Google Play, and the PC version through the STOVE platform. The game supports full cross-platform gameplay between mobile and PC, delivering a seamless and consistent gameplay across all devices.

Jae Young Han, Director of Smilegate Megaport, stated, “LORDNINE is more than just a fun game — it’s an MMORPG driven by player-led growth and economy.” He also said, “Based on the proven gameplay and success in Korea and Taiwan region, we will strive to provide high-quality gameplay experience to even more players around the world.”

  • Over 4 million Users in Korea & Taiwan region… Ranked #1 on the Markets & Winner of Global Awards

Since its launch in Korea and Taiwan region in July last year, LORDNINE has made a significant impact, surpassing 4 million cumulative users. In particular, it drew strong attention in Korea, ranking #1 in RPG revenue on both the App Store and Google Play. It was also recognized for its quality and popularity, being named ‘Best Immersive MMORPG’ at the SensorTower APAC Awards 2024, hosted by the global mobile data analytics firm SensorTower.

  • Integrated with the Global Marketplace ‘Next Market’… Realizing a Borderless In-Game Economy

Smilegate has partnered with LINE’s C2C trading platform, Next Market, to integrate a global marketplace system in LORDNINE. The system enables users all around the world to freely exchange items and engage in economic activities regardless of server or region. Notably, the Next Market-based global exchange system is a rare feature in current MMORPGs and is expected to enhance the security and convenience of exchange between players across borders.

  • Thai Actor ‘Peach Pachara’ Appointed as Official Model

Alongside the launch, Smilegate has appointed the popular Thai actor, Peach Pachara(Pachara Chirathivat), as the official model for LORDNINE. Peach has drawn attention by transforming into a character from the world of LORDNINE in a live-action campaign. User anticipation rose as he participated in a wide range of launch activities, such as outdoor advertisements, video content, and in-game events.

More information about the event and the game can be found on the official LORDNINE website (https://l9asia.onstove.com/) and YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@LORDNINE_GLOBAL).

 

Vientiane’s Running Boom: More Than Just Exercise, It’s a Movement

Saturday morning runs with Vientiane City Run Club at Namphu Park. (Photo credit: Vientiane City Run Club)

In recent years, Vientiane has seen a quiet but steady rise in running culture. Once considered a niche activity, running is now gaining traction across the capital, thanks to city races, charity events, and grassroots groups that are making the sport more visible, and more social.

One of the figures inspiring this shift is Lodkeo Inthakoumman, one of Laos’ top female runners from Champasack Province in the south. She has gained recognition for her strong performances in national and regional long-distance events, helping to raise the profile of running in Laos.

Lao runner Lodkeo Inthakoumman claimed victory in the half marathon at the 2025 Pattaya Marathon in Chonburi Province, Thailand. 2-3 July 2025. (Photo credit: Pattaya Marathon)

Benefits Behind the Movement

Running is more than just a growing trend, it offers a wealth of physical and mental benefits. Dr. Channita Langsy, a Hematology specialist in Vientiane capital, explained why running is a powerful form of exercise.

“Running is one of the most popular activities because it strengthens the body’s endurance, especially the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, which in turn improves sleep quality,” she said.

“Mentally, even a run of 5 to 10 kilometers triggers the release of endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, substances that boost mood and reduce stress.”

Vientiane City Run Club takes to the streets for a citywide run. (Photo credit: Vientiane City Run Club)

Over time, Dr. Channita added, running helps lower the risk of metabolic diseases like insulin resistance, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It also increases bone mass, helping to prevent osteoporosis and fractures.

“We’re seeing more young people join running clubs. This is a very positive development. Rather than gathering for harmful activities, they come together to run and exercise, creating a source of positive energy and community,” she noted.

Where People Run in Vientiane

While interest in running is growing, many runners in Vientiane note the city still lacks dedicated infrastructure. Joggers often share space with cyclists, walkers, and even motorbikes, especially along the riverside promenade.

Vientiane’s flat streets and mix of city and green spaces make it a good place to go for a run. In the early mornings and around sunset, joggers often head to the Mekong promenade to catch the views while getting their steps in.

Chao Anouvong Park, Vientiane Capital, Laos. (Photo credit: laoslife.info)

Not far from there, Chao Anouvong Park is a favorite for short loops. 

The paths wind through neat gardens, with the statue of King Anouvong keeping watch nearby. 

The park is well-lit and close to main roads, making it a convenient spot for people looking to run before or after work.

Thatluang Park is another go-to spot, right in the middle of the city. It draws all kinds of runners, from first-timers to regulars training for longer distances.

Some runners are also exploring quieter areas outside the usual routes. 

The Thatluang Lake area, part of a slowly developing zone on the city’s edge, is becoming more popular for its peaceful trails and open space. On weekends, it’s common to see families and friends out walking or jogging together there.

Thatluang Lake Special Economic Zone is a favorite place for runners, attracting daily visitors in the mornings, evenings, and weekends, where friends, families, and groups gather to run and relax. (Photo credit: Thongsavanh Souvannasane)

At the National University of Laos in Dongdok, Xaythany District, students and locals make use of the open campus and running track. It’s a safe and easy place to get in a few laps, especially for those training more seriously.

As for Chao Anouvong Stadium, once a key spot for city athletes, it’s currently closed for renovations but expected to reopen in the near future.

The Rise of Community-Driven Running

Beyond solo routines, running in Vientiane is evolving into a more social experience. Several groups have formed in recent years, creating new avenues for runners to meet, connect, and stay motivated.

Among them is the Vientiane City Run Club, founded in  late January 2025 by three friends, Deuanphachanh Sisongkhame (Lar), Bounmy Thepkaysone (Maggie), and Oynilanh Phommachanh (Oy), who found themselves frequently running together on weekends.

Bounmy Thepkaysone (left), Deuanphachanh Sisongkhame (middle), and Oynilanh Phommachanh (right), Co-founders of the Vientiane City Run Club. (Photo credit: Vientiane City Run Club)

“In Laos, this kind of activity is still new,” the co-founders said. “Vientiane can feel quiet in terms of active and social gatherings, so we created a club that blends running and community, often finishing with a cup of coffee afterward.”

The club began with just six runners and now regularly attracts 10 to 20 participants each Saturday. 

The founders say their goal is to “encourage people to get out of their comfort zones, start their day with movement, and talk to strangers who could become new friends.” 

The aim is simple: make running more approachable, especially for beginners who may feel intimidated by gyms or competitive race culture. There’s no set distance, no stopwatch ticking. Just shared movement.

Participants of the club say the experience has changed how they engage with the city. 

“We often miss the beauty of familiar places because we pass them by in cars. But running through the city makes you see them differently, it’s not tiring, it’s fun,” said Sengtavanh Keovichit, a local runner.

Other groups like Run It Girl and Team We Run have occasionally joined forces with Vientiane City Run Club, creating joint runs that have drawn over 40 participants at a time. 

More than 40 participants, including members from Vientiane City Run Club, Run It Girl, and Team We Run, along with many members of the public, came together to join the run. The event brought together runners of different ages and backgrounds. (Photo credit: Run It Girl)

WSPN Launches Global Payment 1.0: Comprehensive API Solution for Institutional Crypto-to-Fiat Infrastructure

TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Worldwide Stablecoin Payment Network (WSPN) today announced the launch of Global Payment 1.0, a comprehensive API-driven payment infrastructure designed specifically for institutional clients. This innovative solution provides seamless connectivity between major stablecoins and fiat currencies, enabling businesses to integrate complete crypto payment capabilities into their existing systems.

Global Payment 1.0 offers institutional clients a unified platform for USDT/USDC/WUSD to fiat conversions, providing both on-ramp and off-ramp services through a single, robust API interface. The solution eliminates the complexity traditionally associated with crypto-fiat transitions, offering businesses a streamlined pathway to digital asset integration.

Complete End-to-End Integration

The platform covers the entire operational workflow through API connectivity, from initial client onboarding to transaction execution. Institutional clients can seamlessly manage registration processes, Know Your Business (KYB) procedures, compliance verification, on-ramp services, off-ramp functionality, and token swapping—all through standardized API calls.

“Global Payment 1.0 represents a significant leap forward in institutional crypto infrastructure,” said Raymond Yuan, Founder and CEO of WSPN. “By providing comprehensive API access to our payment ecosystem, we’re enabling businesses to offer their customers seamless crypto-to-fiat services without the technical complexity of building these capabilities in-house.”

Key Features

  • Unified API Interface: Single integration point for all payment operations
  • Multi-Stablecoin Support: Native support for USDT, USDC, and WUSD
  • Complete KYB Integration: Automated compliance and verification processes
  • Enterprise-Grade Reliability: Built for institutional-level stability and performance

The solution is designed with simplicity and efficiency at its core, ensuring smooth user experiences while maintaining the robust security and compliance standards required by institutional clients. The API architecture allows for rapid deployment and easy maintenance, reducing time-to-market for businesses seeking to integrate crypto payment capabilities.

Global Payment 1.0 reinforces WSPN’s commitment to building scalable financial infrastructure that bridges traditional finance and digital assets. By providing institutional-grade tools and seamless integration capabilities, WSPN is positioning itself as a key enabler of mainstream crypto adoption.

About WSPN

WSPN is a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, committed to building a more secure, efficient, and transparent payment solution for the global economy. Their flagship product, WUSD stablecoin, is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar and aims to optimize secure digital payments for Web3 users. WSPN’s Stablecoin 2.0 approach prioritizes user-centricity, community governance, and accessibility, paving the way for widespread stablecoin adoption.

Learn more: www.wspn.ioX | LinkedIn

Where the Industry Connects: Bangkok’s Building Construction Technology Expo Announces Robust Lineup of Conferences and Workshops

BANGKOK, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Asia’s leading Building Construction Technology Expo (BCT Expo) returns to Bangkok with a line-up of dynamic conferences, workshops and industry networking opportunities, taking place from 3rd to 5th September at IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The Southeast Asia construction market was valued at around US$538 billion in 2024, with forecasts pointing to 6% to 6.2% annual Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) through 2028. For Thailand, the construction industry is a significant driver of growth, contributing substantially to the country’s economy.

It is against this market backdrop that BCT Expo 2025 is organized to serve as Southeast Asia’s premier “Construction & Mining Meeting Place”. This event is set to welcome over 150 exhibiting brands and 4,000 industry professionals across the entire spectrum of the building, construction and mining sector for 3 days of business exchanges, partnerships and opportunities.

To further connect the industry, BCT Expo is bringing together a robust line-up of free-to-attend conferences and workshop with over 39 keynote and panel discussion sessions, featuring over 45 speakers and industry gurus, who will gather to share and discuss the latest trends, know-hows, innovation and issues shaping the future of the Southeast Asian building and construction industry and markets.

These forum sessions will touch on a range of insightful topics in sectors such as mining, tall buildings and vertical cities, construction AI and robotics, construction safety, smart financing, green construction, smart facility management, heavy equipment and technology trends, pre-cast technology, piling, and concrete, just to name a few.

It is known that Thailand construction is one of the most dangerous sectors, but BCT Expo is committed to raising safety standards by equipping engineers and contractors with practical knowledge and certifications to build a safer future.

BCT Expo aims to uplift the construction safety standards of Thailand, through a series of certification workshops and skill development courses on fire and safety, and work environment hazard assessments. These courses, to be conducted by the Chonburi’s Safety Officers Club will be attended by safety officers, engineers, and contractors

At the same time, the Thai Lifting Engineering, Crane and Heavy Equipment Association will provide certified practical workshops, with professional development units (PDUs) points for participants, on safety knowledge and practices on crane and heavy construction machinery operations.

BCT Expo 2025 will also see the conduct of a whole range of interactive industry activities across its exhibition show floor that will include:

  • Engineering Consultation Zone: One-on-one expert consultations on technical and engineering issues.
  • AI & Robotics Construction Knowledge Zone: Offering insights into transformative technologies that redefine the construction industry.
  • Technology Presentation Stage: Live presentations of the latest innovations, solutions, and applications by leading exhibiting companies.
  • International Construction Technology Showroom: A dedicated showcase of groundbreaking technologies, solutions, and innovations from around the globe.
  • Construction Safety Knowledge Zone: An area for construction safety workshops and best practices for safety across construction sites.
  • Business Matching Program: Pre-arranged meetings connecting exhibitors with targeted key decision-makers for meaningful business exchanges.

BCT Expo 2025 will provide attendees with plenty of business exchanges, in-depth and insightful understanding on the dynamics of the growing building and construction market in Thailand and Southeast Asia. In addition, the event will offer plenty of opportunities networking opportunities for attendees to renew and seek new networks.

Join us in the “Construction & Mining Meeting Place” this coming September!

Register now at https://eventpassinsight.co/el/to/BCT04 to secure your complimentary pass and make the most of your visit.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

Download the high-resolution images at this link:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1E3YH4mayr4s3siMWKDOYvrE-lnhsMePv?usp=sharing   

About the organizer

IMPACT Exhibition Management Co. Ltd. 

IMPACT Exhibition Management Co., Ltd. is the leading exhibition organizer in Thailand. We organize and manage professional trade and public exhibitions, conferences, meetings and training, working in hand with international trade associations, organizers, and corporations across a broad spectrum of industries.

A NEW CHAPTER FOR OCEANCO: NEW SHAREHOLDER GABE NEWELL

ALBLASSERDAM, Netherlands, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Oceanco, one of the world’s leading custom yacht builders, is entering a new chapter with Gabe Newell – founder of Valve, tech pioneer, and longtime supporter.

Over the past 15 years, under the stewardship of the Barwani family, Oceanco has delivered some of the most iconic yachts — including Kaos, Bravo Eugenia, Black Pearl and Koru. With this foundation in place, it’s time for Oceanco’s next ownership. The Barwani family will remain active in the yachting world through their continued ownership of Turquoise Yachts, the leading Turkish custom yacht builder.

Gabe Newell is not entering this world as a financier or a strategist, but as a hands-on visionary who respects the sea, the craft, and above all, the people who make it possible. He wants Oceanco to continue on what it already does best: placing people first. This is not about buying a yacht company. It’s about plugging into a team and exploring what kind of future they can create when nothing holds them back.

Human-first. Ocean-minded. Future-focused.

Welcome to Oceanco’s next journey.

IMAGES

A selection of images are available for download here

CONTACT
Paris Baloumis, Group Marketing Director
Paris.Baloumis@oceanco.mc/+31 78 69 95 399
www.builtbyoceanco.com

Energenesis Biomedical Announces Positive Phase I Results for ENERGI-F705PD, a Potential Disease-Modifying Treatment for Parkinson’s Disease

  • The Phase I trial of ENERGI-F705PD tablet was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of the investigational drug in 24 healthy subjects.
  • The results confirmed the favorable safety and tolerability profile of ENERGI-F705PD and successfully validated its sustained-release oral formulation.
  • Energenesis plans to advance ENERGI-F705PD into a Phase II trial.

TAIPEI, Aug. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Energenesis Biomedical Co., Ltd. (TWSE: 6657), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on cellular energy restoration therapeutics, today announced the successful completion of its Phase I clinical trial for ENERGI-F705PD, an oral investigational drug candidate for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The Phase I study demonstrated favorable safety and tolerability in healthy volunteers, marking a significant milestone in the development of ENERGI-F705PD and reaffirming its potential as a disease-modifying therapy that targets intracellular alpha-synuclein aggregation. Energenesis Biomedical plans to submit a Phase II clinical trial application in 2025 to further evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of ENERGI-F705PD in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

“Current treatments for Parkinson’s disease primarily target symptoms, while ENERGI-F705PD represents a novel therapeutic strategy with disease-modifying potential,” said Dr. Han-Min Chen, CEO & Founder of Energenesis Biomedical. “ENERGI-F705PD targets Parkinson’s disease by restoring cellular energy ATP levels, preventing cellular alpha-synuclein aggregation, and decreasing ROS levels for neuroprotection. This multi-pronged approach may significantly slow disease progression. The encouraging results from our Phase I trial bring us one step closer to delivering a meaningful treatment option for PD patients worldwide.”

About ENERGI-F705PD

ENERGI-F705PD is a novel small-molecule drug delivered in an oral sustained-release formulation. It is designed to enhance cellular ATP and antioxidant production by engaging the purine salvage, glycolysis, and pentose phosphate pathways. This multi-pronged mechanism of action directly addresses key pathological hallmarks of Parkinson’s disease:

  • Reduce and Prevent Alpha-synuclein Aggregation: Elevated ATP acts as a hydrotrope, helping prevent the intracellular aggregation of misfolded alpha-synuclein, a central pathogenic hallmark of PD.
  • Increase Reducing Power (antioxidant): ENERGI-F705PD upregulates the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), leading to increased NADPH production and enhanced cellular antioxidant defense.
  • Increase Tyrosine Hydroxylase Expression/activity: By optimizing cellular energy metabolism and engaging the purine salvage pathway, ENERGI-F705PD also enhances the expression and activity of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the key enzyme in dopamine synthesis, thereby helping restore neurotransmitter levels in the brains of PD patients.

The Promise of Alpha-Synuclein Targeting in Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease, affecting over 10 million people globally, currently has no cure, with existing treatments only managing symptoms. The accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein is a key hallmark of the disease, making it a highly promising target for new disease-modifying therapies that aim to fundamentally change its progression. This critical area is seeing significant research and development, including both small molecules and antibody-based investigational treatments. ENERGI-F705PD, as an oral small-molecule drug, offers key advantages over antibody therapies, including better blood-brain barrier penetration, convenient oral administration, direct intracellular targeting, and potentially more accessible manufacturing.

About Energenesis Biomedical

Energenesis Biomedical Co., Ltd. (TWSE: 6657) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative therapeutics that restore cellular energy and activate intrinsic repair mechanisms. By combining proprietary small-molecule innovation with AI-driven drug repurposing, Energenesis Biomedical aims to accelerate the development of treatments for unmet medical needs across various therapeutic areas, including neurodegenerative diseases, chronic wounds, and rare disorders.

The company’s leading candidates include:

  • ENERGI-F705PD: Tablet for Parkinson’s disease (Preparing for Phase II)
  • ENERGI-F703DFU: Gel for Diabetic foot ulcers (Phase III)
  • ENERGI-F701: Tonic for Alopecia (Phase II completed)
  • ENERGI-F703EB: Cream for Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), granted FDA Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease designation, and EMA orphan designation (Preparing for Phase II)

For more information, please visit www.energenesis-biomedical.com/en

Contact: Business Development Team

Email: partnership@energenesis-biomedical.com