BEIJING and MILAN, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Amid a cooling global art market, a new suite of data-driven tools offers investors a rare edge. The Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (CKGSB) and SDA Bocconi School of Management have jointly launched the MM Art Indices, a pioneering set of indices tracking global art market performance and provide institutional-grade analysis.

Building on the success of CKGSB’s MM Chinese Art Indices (launched in 2023), the new MM Art Indices present MM Continental Art Price Indices, the first-ever comparative, long-term art price benchmarks constructed according to artists’ birthplaces, spanning Asia-Africa-Oceania, Europe, and the Americas.

According to the MM Art Indices, based on auction records (since 1873) from Sotheby’s, Christie’s, and Phillips across major global cities, Asia-Africa-Oceania recorded the strongest long-term growth, with a CAGR of 7.7%, despite a 6.4% decline in Spring 2025. The Americas rebounded sharply by 31.7%, while Europe increased by 22.4%, nearly recovering pandemic-era losses, though its long-term growth remains more modest at 2.3% CAGR. “These regional patterns reflect deeper economic shifts,” said Mei Jianping, CKGSB Professor of Finance. “Europe’s market is mature and stable, while the Americas show postwar expansion and volatility. Asia’s growth, driven by China and India, is rapid but uneven.” The Chinese art market rebounded by 9% in Spring 2025, despite a 48.2% drop from its 2020 peak.

By combining the Sotheby’s Mei & Moses Index (1928–2000) with the MM Art Indices (2000–2024), researchers found that 10-year rolling returns on art turned negative in 2023-2024–the worst in 70 years. “We’re seeing a rare alignment of market conditions that suggest art may be undervalued on a historical basis,” said Mei. “For long-term collectors, this could represent a strategic entry point into the market.”

CKGSB and SDA Bocconi have signed an MOU to co-develop new tools, including European country-level indices and sentiment metrics, under the newly launched Art Market and Finance Monitor at SDA Bocconi. “The MM Art Indices bring much-needed transparency to a market that has traditionally lacked standardized benchmarks,” said Brunella Bruno, Professor of Finance at SDA Bocconi. “By applying rigorous financial methodologies, we’re helping bridge the gap between cultural value and market performance,” added Andrea Rurale, Director of Intensive Program in Art Markets and Finance at SDA BOCCONI.

To read the full report, click here.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A regional effort to improve cervical cancer care for patients has launched in Malaysia. Involving 6 countries in Southeast Asia, Project ACTIVE 2.0 aims to enhance cervical cancer treatment and support patient recovery across Southeast Asia. The three-year initiative will focus on strengthening healthcare systems through clinical training, infrastructure upgrades, and digital innovations, with the goal of expanding access to high-quality, targeted cervical cancer care for patients and their families.

Cervical cancer remains a significant health challenge in Southeast Asia, with over 69,000 new cases and 38,000 deaths reported in 2022, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While modern radiation treatment has significantly improved outcomes, gaps in access to advanced treatment and trained experts persist. ACTIVE 2.0 addresses these gaps through expanded medical training, upgraded infrastructure, and patient-centered innovations in cancer care.

“ACTIVE 2.0 is an important step toward improving access to advanced cancer care across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia,” said Paul Lee, Project Director  of ACTIVE 2.0. “Through this project, Malaysia will boost the number of clinicians trained in advanced cervical cancer treatment, strengthen the local hospital capabilities, and better support patients through their recovery journey. The aim is bringing hope to everybody dealing with cervical cancer.”

ACTIVE 2.0 will collaborate with the top oncology treatment centers in peninsula Malaysia as well as east Malaysia, to establish a network of four Centers of Excellence (CoE) for cervical cancer treatment. These centers will receive from the project advanced radiotherapy training equipment as well as infrastructure to support the long-term recovery of their patients.

“Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern in Malaysia, particularly for women in underserved communities,” said Dr. Ros Suzanna Ahmad Bustamam, Head of Department of Radiotherapy & Oncology, Hospital Kuala Lumpur. “While radiotherapy is already part of cancer care in the country, ACTIVE 2.0 allows us to further strengthen local expertise in very advanced cancer treatment, and contribute to Malaysia’s development.  Through this collaboration, we aim to enhance treatment quality and support broader access to advanced cancer care in Malaysia.”

Deutsche Investitions-und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (DEG)

DEG Impulse, a member of the KfW Bankengruppe (KfW banking group), finances investments of private companies in developing and transition countries. As one of Europe’s largest development finance institutions, it promotes private business structures to contribute to sustainable economic growth and improved living conditions.

For more information, visit www.deginvest.de

Elekta 

As a leader in precision radiation therapy, Elekta is committed to ensuring every patient has access to the best cancer care possible. We openly collaborate with customers to advance sustainable, outcome-driven and cost-efficient solutions to meet evolving patient needs, improve lives and bring hope to everyone dealing with cancer.

For more information, visit www.elekta.com 

The Federation of Asian Organizations for Radiation Oncology (FARO)

FARO is a non-profit and scientific organization which is intended to function as a federation of radiation oncology societies in Asia and aims to foster the role of radiation oncology to improve the basic level of radiotherapy for the benefit of the cancer patients in the Asian region.

For more information, visit www.faro.asia 

Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation (ASSIST)

ASSIST is an international non-government organization focused on capacity building. Its goal is to empower its target groups to make them resilient to the social, economic and environmental challenges.

For more information, visit www.assistasia.org 

SHENZHEN, China, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Baseus proudly announces that it is set to become one of the first brands to deliver Qi2.2-certified power banks to consumers, with three new models rolling out globally starting this August. As wireless charging technology enters a new era, Baseus leads the way—bringing the speed, safety, and precision of Qi2.2 to users through practical, stylish devices.

Qi2.2: Faster, Smarter, More Precise

Qi2.2, introduced by the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC), marks a major leap in wireless charging. The standard raises maximum wireless output from 15W to 25W—ideal for modern high-demand smartphones. ±0.5mm magnetic alignment precision improves charging efficiency by up to 40%, reducing misalignment-related energy loss. An upgraded foreign object detection (FOD) system enhances user safety, while backward compatibility ensures seamless support for Qi1.3, Qi2.0, and other mainstream devices. For more details on the Qi2.2 standard and its benefits, please visit the Qi2.2 guide on our blog.

Three Devices, One Seamless Qi2.2 Experience

Baseus introduces a trio of Qi2.2-certified charging solutions, each tailored to different user needs but united by next-gen speed and precision. The PicoGo AM61 Magnetic Power Bank features 25W magnetic wireless charging and a built-in 45W USB-C cable—an all-in-one solution for fast, flexible power. The PicoGo AM52 Ultra-Slim Magnetic Power Bank packs the same wireless performance into a slim, ergonomic aluminum-silicone body, perfect for everyday portability. The PicoGo AF21 Foldable 3-in-1 Wireless Charger features a foldable 3-in-1 design, delivering up to 35W total output—ideal for powering multiple devices at once. The new Qi2.2-certified power bank series will launch globally starting this August through Baseus’s official online store and leading e-commerce platforms such as Amazon.

Leading the Future of Charging Technology

Baseus’s  leadership in Qi2.2 reflects its ongoing mission to push the boundaries of charging innovation. As a pioneer in GaN fast-charging, Baseus has introduced some of the world’s most compact and powerful GaN chargers, developed in collaboration with industry leaders. The brand is also globally recognized as the No.1 name in retractable power accessories, with its patented cable technology delivering unmatched durability, flexibility, and ease of use—powering users across commuting, travel, and home environments.

With the arrival of Qi2.2-certified power banks, Baseus reaffirms its commitment to creating high-performance, user-first solutions that are both accessible and beautifully designed.

About Baseus

Founded in 2011, Baseus was born out of utmost care for users. The company embodies its slogan: Practical. Reliable. Base on User. This shows the pursuit of ultimate practicality to solve users’ problems with outstanding design and fashionable appearances that also reflect reliability, high quality, and cost-effectiveness. Baseus delivers a variety of products – including Portable Chargers, Desktop Chargers, Wall Chargers, Wireless Earbuds, and Docking Stations. Chosen by 300 million users and providing 6 billion services, Baseus delivers over 100 million practical and aesthetic products each year, continuously enhancing users’ sense of fulfillment. Join the Baseus family today to see a new world of technological innovation.

Media Contact:

Email: pr@baseus.com 
Baseus Official Website: https://www.baseus.com/

A voicebank of popular whisper-voiced nurse-type android is available for purchase from the official VOCALOID SHOP from July 16

HAMAMATSU, Japan, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yamaha Corporation announces the release of the “AI NurseRobot_TypeT” voicebank for VOCALOID(TM)6 on July 16 for purchase and download from the official VOCALOID SHOP (https://www.vocaloid.com/en/).

Release Dates

Over v iew

Developed by Yamaha in 2003, VOCALOID singing voice synthesis technology and software creates vocals for songs using lyrics and melodies as input. Synthesizing different vocals is as simple as switching between voicebanks, which are generated from actual human voices. Released in October 2022, VOCALOID6 features the VOCALOID:AI synthesis engine, which uses artificial intelligence to synthesize more natural, richly expressive singing voices. VOCALOID songs created using VOCALOID technology have sparked a new generation of music, boasting countless fans and listeners around the world.

The newly released voicebank, “AI NurseRobot_TypeT”, is a VOCALOID6-exclusive voicebank that lets users enjoy singing voice synthesis using the voice of “NurseRobot_TypeT,” a nurse-type android character designed by artist Matsuokayu (SuteinuA). This character is known for her distinctive whisper voice, which has already been featured in many creations and has gained considerable popularity. This product also faithfully reproduces that whisper voice. Moreover, with the upcoming update to “VOCALOID Editor Ver6.7” on July 16, the range of the “Air” parameter, which controls the breath intensity of the voice, will be expanded. This enhancement allows for even more expressive synthesis of a “whisper-like singing voice” that makes the most of the character’s unique voice.

The voicebank also supports VOCALOID6 features, such as VOCALO CHANGER, which uses the creator’s vocal data to replicate their own singing style as-is, and Multilingual, which makes it possible to sing lyrics in a mixture of fluent Japanese, English, and Chinese with a single voicebank. It is also compatible with the “VX-β”, which works closely with music production software (Digital Audio Workstation: DAW) to allow for more seamless integration of synthesized singing voices, allowing creators to explore a wider range of musical expression.

VOCALOID6 Voicebank “AI NurseRobot_TypeT” Demosong

Goodbye Apoptosis (Composition/Music:32ki)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJM7xGnUO3A 

About the Character “NurseRobot_TypeT”

“NurseRobot_TypeT is one of the characters from “Kuranari Private Hospital” created by a doctor, she is a nurse-type android known for her soft, whispery girl’s voice, a trait that has made her very popular. Now, she makes her debut for VOCALOID6 with a brand-new, specially illustrated outfit.

About Matsuo k ayu  (SuteinuA)

A freelance illustrator active mainly on social media. They plan, create, and manage the original voice synthesis character project “Kuranari Private Hospital” continuing their creative work centered around this world. Their illustrations often feature an atmosphere where subtle darkness and warmth coexist. In addition to illustrations and synthesized voices, they frequently work on Live2D character art.

Related Websites

Official Website NurseRobot_TypeT(in Japanese/Chinese)：https://www.krnr.top/vocaloid

YouTube Official Channel：https://www.youtube.com/@SuteinuA

About Yamaha Corporation
Founded in 1887, the Yamaha Group has established itself as a global leader in manufacturing musical instruments and audio products while continuing to engage in various business activities to grow services related to sound and music. Yamaha operates over 60 subsidiaries worldwide, dedicated to serving millions of customers across six continents, focusing on delivering excellence in quality and innovation, prioritizing our sustainability efforts and contributing to people’s “well-being.” To learn more, visit https://www.yamaha.com/en/.

The content of the press release is accurate as of the date of publication, but please note that it may be subject to change following publication.

Product names, company names, etc. in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of this company and other companies.

The partnership will unlock exclusive privileges for UOB customers at outstanding properties worldwide that are featured in the MICHELIN Guide

SINGAPORE, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — UOB is proud to announce that it is the Global Principal Partner of The MICHELIN Guide Hotels, the first time a Singapore company has partnered the distinguished ratings authority on an international scale. The Bank’s customers will soon be able to enjoy exclusive curated experiences and access to the best hotels around the world.

The partnership reinforces the Bank’s leadership position in delivering exclusive lifestyle privileges, across dining, entertainment and travel, putting Singapore and ASEAN forward as discerning purveyors of unique and exceptional experiences, aligned with The MICHELIN Guide Hotel Selection’s emphasis on excellence, quality, consistency, character, value and contribution to local culture.

UOB’s partnership with The MICHELIN Guide Hotels builds on the Bank’s existing collaboration with MICHELIN on the dining front, where it is the official Bank partner for The MICHELIN Guide restaurants in Malaysia and Thailand. The Bank is also a partner of renowned wine critic Robert Parker Wine Advocate^[1] in a world-first collaboration, offering customers in Singapore and Thailand exclusive access to highly-rated wines, curated wine-and-dine experiences and wine appreciation workshops.

With The MICHELIN Guide Hotels partnership, the Bank will now curate distinctive travel experiences for customers, centered around a “trilogy” of synergistic MICHELIN Guide experiences – encompassing wine appreciation, fine dining and luxury travel. Customers will get to enjoy a stay in a MICHELIN Key hotel, dine in MICHELIN-starred restaurants and visit exclusive wineries featured by Robert Parker Wine Advocate, some of which are not ordinarily open to the public.

“We are proud to be the inaugural partner of the MICHELIN Guide Hotels, as it will soon honour the most outstanding hotels around the world by unveiling its first-ever Global MICHELIN Key selection. This partnership is timely given the rise of the middle-class and affluent in the ASEAN region, who seek extraordinary escapades when they travel. As the Bank with the most comprehensive presence in the region, we are best positioned to serve the lifestyle desires of this aspiring consumer base,” said Jacquelyn Tan, Head, Group Personal Financial Services, UOB.

“Through our partnership with the world’s leading authority for dining and hospitality, we hope to raise the profile of Singapore and the region to the world while unlocking a world of privileges for our customers at the most exciting gastronomic and hotel destinations globally.”

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide stated, “As we take a new step forward in showcasing the crème de la crème of the MICHELIN Guide Hotels through our first-ever Global 2025 MICHELIN Key Selection, we are proud to team up with UOB. United by the same ambition to celebrate hospitality excellence and elevate travel experiences, this partnership will allow us to shine an even brighter light on properties carefully and independently selected by The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors, and to further inspire discerning travellers.”

A recent report^[2] highlighted ASEAN as an emerging travel powerhouse last year, driven by travellers from Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand who outspent their peers from Asian giants mainland China and Japan. A Singapore traveller’s average annual travel spend in 2024 was US$10,619, almost double that of markets such as China (US$5,014) and Japan (US$4,529), while Malaysia and Thai counterparts also inched ahead, with spend at US$5,939 and US$5,548 respectively. UOB Mastercard holders across the region also clocked similar trends, with the travel-related^[3] spend from January 2025 to May 2025, registering the fastest growth at almost 20 per cent year-on-year, followed by dining and shopping. Similarly, Singapore cardholders ranked top in terms of travel-related spend for the period, followed by their Malaysia peers. For UOB VISA cardholders, cross-border card-present^[4] spend for its affluent-segment cards^[5] registered double-digit year-on-year growth in the 12 months ending May 2025, outpacing the rest of the cards in the Bank’s stable.

As the Principal Partner of The MICHELIN Guide Hotels, UOB customers from the affluent and emerging affluent segments across the region will get a one-year Plus membership from The MICHELIN Guide, which offers exclusive privileges such as free room upgrades, dining and spa credits, and airport transfers at over 1,000 hotels featured in The MICHELIN Guide, including MICHELIN Key hotels.

As Principal Partner, UOB will also present one of four brand-new Special Awards spotlighting excellence in specific areas of hospitality at the Global MICHELIN Key Selection’s launch ceremony in October 2025 in Paris, France.

About UOB

UOB is a leading bank in Asia. Operating through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, UOB has a global network of more than 470 branches and offices in 19 markets in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. Today, UOB is rated among the world’s top banks: Aa1 by Moody’s Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings.

For nine decades, UOB has adopted a customer-centric approach to create long-term value by staying relevant through its enterprising spirit and doing right by its customers. UOB is focused on building the future of ASEAN – for the people and businesses within, and connecting with, ASEAN.

The Bank connects businesses to opportunities in the region with its unparalleled regional footprint and leverages data and insights to innovate and create personalised banking experiences and solutions catering to each customer’s unique needs and evolving preferences. UOB is also committed to help businesses forge a sustainable future, by fostering social inclusiveness, creating positive environmental impact and pursuing economic progress. UOB believes in being a responsible financial services provider and is steadfast in its support of art, social development of children and education, doing right by its communities and stakeholders.