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J.S. Held Expert Teams’ Work Across Six Continents Recognized as Industry Leading

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JERICHO, N.Y., July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global consulting firm J.S. Held celebrates numerous recognitions of our company and industry experts in this mid-year update. Across J.S. Held, a curated collection of technical, scientific, and financial expert teams with an unrivaled understanding of both tangible and intangible assets has been recognized by leading industry publications for expertise in 19 categories, including:

  • Arbitration Expert Witnesses
  • Asset-based Finance (ABF) Leaders & Legends
  • Asset Recovery
  • Enterprise Risk Management Consulting
  • Forensics & Complex Investigations, Compliance
  • Forensics & Complex Investigations, Litigation Support
  • Forensic & Litigation Consulting
  • Construction
  • Construction & Engineering, Litigation Support
  • Crisis & Risk Management, ESG
  • Crisis & Risk Management, Investigative Due Diligence
  • Crisis & Risk Management, Political Risk
  • Data – Data Experts
  • Intellectual Property Expert Witnesses
  • Investigations
  • Litigation Support, Asset Tracing & Recovery
  • Litigation Support, Business Intelligence & Investigations
  • Litigation Support, Forensic Accounting
  • Transport Experts, Thought Leaders

J.S. Held Experts are Trusted Advisors to Clients Across Six Continents

At J.S. Held, more than 1,500 professionals serve organizations spanning six continents, including 84% of the Global 200 Law Firms, 75% of the Forbes Top 20 Insurance Companies (90% of the NAIC Top 50 Property & Casualty Insurers), and 71% of the Fortune 100 Companies.

J.S. Held Applies Scientific, Financial, and Technical Rigor Across Client Engagements

J.S. Held’s expertise is built upon five decades of experience in the most rigorous venues – state, federal, and international courts and tribunals– spanning more than 150 different industry segments. The depth and breadth of the firm’s work in the insurance market provides a strong foundation in risk assessment, data analysis, global awareness, regulatory compliance, technological adaptability, and risk mitigation. Collectively, these skills better equip J.S. Held experts to assess business risk across diverse markets, geographies, geopolitical landscapes, compliance frameworks, and digital advancements. “In a world where uncertainty is the only constant, there is a need for something solid you can hold onto,” observes J.S. Held Chief Executive Officer Lee Sprier. “Our name is our promise,” he adds. “Our role as a trusted advisor is emblematic of this promise, even in the face of the most daunting risks, clients have the expertise and guidance to act with confidence.”

J.S. Held Expertise Recognized by Global News Outlets, Ratings Agencies, and Research Firms

The company and expert recognition by notable organizations such as Asset-based Finance (ABF) Journal, Chambers and Partners, Consultancy UK, IAM, Leader’s League, Lexology Index, and Verdantix serves as a further testament to J.S. Held’s agile, collaborative, creative, and client-centric team providing solution-forward advisory and consulting to clients across the globe, no matter the scope or complexity of a project.

Learn more about J.S. Held’s areas of expertise visit:  https://www.jsheld.com/areas-of-expertise. 

About J.S. Held

J.S. Held is a global consulting firm that combines technical, scientific, financial, and strategic expertise to advise clients seeking to realize value and mitigate risk. Our professionals serve as trusted advisors to organizations facing high stakes matters demanding urgent attention, staunch integrity, proven experience, clear-cut analysis, and an understanding of both tangible and intangible assets. The firm provides a comprehensive suite of services, products, and data that enable clients to navigate complex, contentious, and often catastrophic situations.

J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries are not certified public accounting firm(s) and do not provide audit, attest, or any other public accounting services. J.S. Held, its affiliates and subsidiaries, are not law firms and do not provide legal advice.  Securities offered through PM Securities, LLC, d/b/a Phoenix IB or Ocean Tomo Investments, a part of J.S. Held, member FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved.

Media Contact

Kristi L Stathis, J.S. Held, +1 786 833 4864, Kristi.Stathis@jsheld.com, JSHeld.com

EPIC 2025 Outdid Itself with Record-High 1,200 Applications

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Doubled from last year with 87% entering the Hong Kong startup competition from overseas


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2025 – EPIC 2025, organised by Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), has reached new heights with the 9th edition saw an influx of global applications hitting close to 1,200, entering from more than 70 economies, setting a record for the I&T arena gaining global recognition, and regional representation for the development of I&T ecosystems.

EPIC 2025 received 1,200 applications from 70+ economies.
EPIC 2025 received 1,200 applications from 70+ economies.

With the application period open from March to June, the response to participating in one of Asia’s largest innovation arenas has been taken by storm. Where global startups with solutions in Digital Health Tech, FinTech, and Green Tech will be seen at 60-second pitches to get through to an unprecedented US$100M targeted investment funding and US$240,000 cash prizes, backed by 20 global financial and corporate partners that manage collectively of an AUM close to US$100B and operate across Asia, Europe and North America.

Monetary payoff aside, business matching and investment opportunities, as well as an extensive experience will be made available throughout EPIC Week––putting innovative solutions on display for potential investors and corporate decision makers with Tech Spotlight, and pulling a glimpse into the vast opportunities of the cities with Greater Bay Area Exploration guided tour––the series of highlights entailing complimentary flight and accommodation sponsored (*T&C applies) to contestants overseas, are set to enable mid- to late-stage startups to grow from indigenous names to international labels.

“First time ever that we’re met with over a thousand applications, it’s a feat right off the bat––we’re expecting to see more aspiring tech gurus and their auspicious ideas rise to this year’s shifts,” said Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP.

Currently in the works, multiple regional pitching sessions will be held July to August, for the best and brightest in US, Europe, APAC and Hong Kong, to show and tell a story of their visions, where only the top 100 will be making it to the next round into the finals, taking place in November at Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Hong Kong’s former international airport furbished to be a runway for an expedition in tech.

Please visit https://epic.hkstp.org for more details.Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

HKSTP

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 15,000 research professionals and over 2,300 technology companies from 25 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at .

1 in 4 Risky Transactions May Be Missed — MetaComp Study Finds Limited KYT Tools Insufficient for Blockchain Compliance

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New research on stablecoin flows from MetaComp urges institutions to adopt multi-layered KYT methodology to address critical gaps in AML/CFT compliance.

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As stablecoins are poised to take centre stage in cross-border payments, a new study by MetaComp Pte Ltd (MetaComp), a Major Payment Institution licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), evaluates the effectiveness of leading on-chain Know-Your-Transactions (KYT) tools in detecting Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) risks across major blockchains . The findings highlight critical vulnerabilities in how crypto transactions are screened for financial crime risk.

The study analysed 7,000 live and randomly selected transactions on Ethereum and Tron using four leading KYT providers, Chainalysis, Elliptic, Merkle Science, and Beosin. By comparing the results across single-tool, dual-tool, three-tool, and four-tool screening configurations. Findings revealed that up to 25% of high-risk transactions were not flagged when relying on only one or two KYT tools, exposing critical gaps in transaction monitoring and underscoring the risks of insufficient tooling in regulated digital asset environments.

Screening Practices Under Scrutiny
The study focused on real-world transactions involving USDT and USDC, the two most widely used stablecoins in global payment flows, across Ethereum and Tron blockchains. MetaComp’s analysis compared the effectiveness of using one to four KYT tools per transaction and found that a three-tool approach significantly improves risk detection while maintaining processing speed suitable for real-time environments. This offers a scalable and practical model for institutional compliance.

“For institutions operating in a regulated environment, especially those dealing with stablecoin flows, it is no longer sufficient to rely on a single tool for transaction screening,” said Tin Pei Ling, Co-President of MetaComp. “This research provides evidence that layering multiple KYT tools can significantly reduce blind spots and strengthen the integrity of on-chain payment ecosystems. We hope these findings will help elevate industry standards for on-chain risk monitoring and support the development of a more trusted digital finance environment.”

Key Findings: Accuracy Improves with Layered Screening
The study found that relying on a single KYT tool can result in up to 25% of high-risk transactions being missed, meaning 1 in 4 potentially suspicious transactions may go undetected due to limited screening coverage. These high-risk transactions often involved exposure to sanctioned wallet addresses, stolen funds, darknet-linked activity, coin mixers, and fraud-related schemes, all of which typically trigger reporting or escalation requirements.

In contrast, a three-tool screening model lowered the false clean rate to below 0.10%, while maintaining screening speeds under two seconds per transaction. This makes it a practical and scalable for production environments requiring near-instant results.

The study also identified five systemic weaknesses across the industry that contribute to screening inconsistencies: fragmented risk coverage across different tools, inconsistent risk categorisation, a lack of standardised outputs, operational complexity in reconciling results, and processing latency introduced by multi-tool setups.

The research further observed that Ethereum-based transactions showed lower AML/CFT risk signals than Tron in the sampled dataset. Specifically, 6.95% of Tron transactions were flagged as severe risk compared to 0.70% on Ethereum, with more than 20% of Tron transactions assessed at medium-high risk or worse.

While the study did not evaluate blockchain protocols themselves, the findings underscore the need for differentiated compliance strategies based on network-specific transaction behaviour.

“We’re not comparing blockchain technologies, but rather the nature of the transactional risk flowing through them,” added Tin Pei Ling. “Each KYT provider sees different parts of the risk landscape. For institutions, relying on a single perspective is no longer viable – reconciling multiple signals is critical to maintaining regulatory trust. Our goal is to close the gaps with defensible infrastructure.”

Stablecoins in Focus for Institutional Risk Management
USDT and USDC were selected for this study given their prominence in institutional use cases such as remittance, settlement, and merchant payments.

MetaComp recommends that a minimum of three on-chain KYT tools be simultaneously implemented for each transaction to strike an optimal balance between AML/CFT effectiveness, cost, and processing efficiency. Analysis shows that using only one or two tools can result in up to 25% of high-risk transactions being incorrectly cleared — exposing critical compliance gaps. While three tools provide effective baseline coverage, MetaComp has adopted a four-tool setup across its CAMP and StableX platforms, raising the standard to deliver enhanced risk detection and stronger regulatory alignment.

Methodology and Scope
The analysis was conducted using 7,000 real and randomly selected transactions involving USDT and USDC across the Ethereum and Tron blockchains. The sample transactions were drawn from live blockchain data on June 26 and 27, 2025, with all MetaComp internal activity intentionally excluded to preserve research independence.

Screening was conducted using four KYT tools – Chainalysis, Elliptic, Merkle Science, and Beosin – selected for their data coverage, typology specialisation, regional intelligence, and integration capabilities.

To address the limitations of fragmented vendor data, MetaComp applied a proprietary screening methodology comprising:

1.  Standardised risk category mapping
2.  Unified risk parameter configuration aligned with regulatory expectations
3.  A multi-tool screening workflow that includes initial screening, direct exposure assessment, transaction-level exposure analysis and wallet-level risk profiling

While the dataset represents a point-in-time snapshot, the findings offer directional insight into how different KYT screening configurations perform under real-world conditions. The decision to limit the sample to two stablecoins and two blockchains reflects MetaComp’s focus on real-world cross-border flows and the screening costs associated with running multi-tool setups. The research also provides a foundation for broader industry dialogue around how digital asset firms can meet rising regulatory expectations while maintaining operational speed, clarity, and cost efficiency.

MetaComp acknowledges the time-bound scope of the analysis and encourages further study to support broader generalisations.

-END-

About MetaComp 

MetaComp is a leading licensed cross-border FX and digital assets infrastructure provider headquartered in Singapore and licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) under the Payment Services Act 2019. Operating on a P2B2C (platform-to-business/partners-to-clients) model, MetaComp empowers institutions, payment service providers, fintechs, and global enterprises to navigate the evolving cross-border payments and the digital asset economy with confidence. 

With a strong emphasis on compliance, security, and institutional-grade infrastructure, MetaComp delivers an end-to-end suite of digital finance solutions — including OTC and exchange trading, fiat payment rails, regulated digital asset custody, and prime brokerage services. MetaComp is a subsidiary of Alpha Ladder Finance Pte. Ltd., a MAS-licensed Capital Markets Services (CMS) licensee and Recognised Market Operator (RMO).  

Through its proprietary Client Asset Management Platform (CAMP), MetaComp provides a secure, integrated environment that bridges traditional finance with digital assets. 

MetaComp’s latest innovation, StableX, is a next-generation cross-border FX and liquidity routing infrastructure designed to simplify and accelerate global fund flows. Powered by stablecoins and USD, StableX intelligently optimises multi-currency conversions and settlements, enabling faster, more cost-effective, and highly competitive cross-border transactions. As the FX layer within CAMP, StableX combines the programmability of digital assets with the reliability of regulated infrastructure, delivering a scalable, compliant and seamless ecosystem for the future of global finance. 

To learn more about MetaComp and its regulated infrastructure and solutions, visit www.mce.sg or www.linkedin.com/company/metacompsg/.

Volvo Cars reports Q2 2025 results, turnaround plan is fully on track

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GOTHENBURG, Sweden, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 

  • Q2 revenue was SEK 93.5 bn (SEK 101.5 bn in Q2 2024)
  • Q2 EBIT included items affecting comparability of SEK 12.9 bn, consisting of an impairment of SEK 11.4 bn and restructuring charge of SEK 1.4 bn
  • Q2 EBIT was SEK -10.0 bn (SEK 8.0 bn in Q2 2024)
  • Q2 EBIT excluding items affecting comparability was SEK 2.9 bn
  • Q2 EBIT margin was -10.6 per cent (7.9 per cent in Q2 2024)
  • Q2 EBIT margin excluding items affecting comparability was 3.1 per cent
  • Q2 basic earnings per share was SEK -2.53 (SEK 1.79 in Q2 2024)
  • Q2 electrified car sales share at 44 per cent (48 per cent in Q2 2024), of which fully electric share at 21 per cent (26 per cent in Q2 2024)

Volvo Cars today reports a group operating profit (EBIT) of SEK -10.0 billion for the second quarter of 2025. The result reflects a continued challenging environment for the automotive industry, but the SEK 18 billion cost and cash turnaround plan is fully on track and the company is confident about more positive effects from the programme.

The result is impacted by the previously announced one-off non-cash impairment charge of SEK 11.4 billion, as Volvo Cars is adjusting the financial assumptions for the EX90 and ES90 platform because of market circumstances, the impact of import tariffs on ES90 and EX90 profitability and previous delays for the EX90. Additionally, the result is impacted by the one-time restructuring cost of SEK 1.4 billion, linked to the previously announced reduction of 3,000 headcounts. Excluding the items affecting comparability, Volvo Cars reported an operating profit of SEK 2.9 billion and an operating profit margin of 3.1 per cent.

In terms of retail sales, the company sold 181,600 cars in the second quarter, a drop of 12 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. For the first six months, sales are down 9 per cent compared to the first half of 2024. Revenues came in at SEK 93.5 billion and the group EBIT of SEK -10.0 billion translated into an operating profit margin of -10.6 per cent. More details about its second-quarter performance can be found in Volvo Cars’ full financial report. 

“The market continued to be challenging in Q2 as well,” said Håkan Samuelsson, President and CEO of Volvo Cars. “Demand remains under pressure from the macroeconomic environment, tariff-related uncertainties and tougher competition. However, our turnaround actions are starting to show results. In a Q2 market with headwinds we made a clear improvement of free cash flow versus Q1 and our EBIT margin excluding items affecting comparability was slightly higher.”

Good progress on profitability, electrification and regionalisation

Earlier this year the company launched a SEK 18 billion cost and cash turnaround plan. This is starting to have an impact with the full effects coming in 2026. The plan supports the company’s strategic direction which rests on three pillars: profitability, electrification and regionalisation.

Looking at profitability first, the turnaround plan is on track. The reduction of 3,000 positions globally is going into execution, and approximately 1,100 people have already left Volvo Cars. Together with spending cuts this will lower its indirect cost base and establish a leaner and more efficient organisation.

In terms of direct cost reductions, the company has started to execute on several actions to reduce material costs. One element is to utilise more synergies within the Geely group by collaborating on procurement. Another synergy area is to develop new car models together especially for the China market. Volvo Cars has also effectively implemented cash actions including a reduction of working capital and a reduced investment pace.

The company’s investment volume will ease off as planned as Volvo Cars has made almost all major investments related to its new product architecture. This will deliver significant future cost reductions and performance improvements thanks to mega-casting, cell-to-body battery technology and more efficient, in-house developed e-motors.

The first car on this new architecture is the all-new, born-electric Volvo EX60, a car for the company’s important best-selling segment. It will deliver improved performance and lower product costs necessary for Volvo Cars’ continued transformation towards full electrification. 

Most analysts expect demand for fully electric cars to continue growing and to outgrow traditional combustion engine cars by 2030. Consequently, most of the company’s development efforts remain firmly focused on electrification.

Meanwhile, Volvo Cars will also refresh its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) cars to offer an attractive bridge solution for customers and areas where charging infrastructure still is weak. The company will soon launch its first extended-range PHEV, the all-new XC70, and start production during the third quarter. It is an answer to a growing demand for such powertrains and it will first be offered in China where Volvo Cars sees big opportunities for this car.

The XC70 is a good example of regionalisation, the third pillar. With globalisation in retreat, Volvo Cars is adapting to a more regionalised world. The company is empowering its three key regions to be more adaptive to regional requirements and customer preferences to be able to accelerate profitable growth.

Volvo Cars is implementing a new governance model for its China operations, with a clear regional performance, operational and decision-making responsibility. In the Americas, a dedicated governance model will also be introduced. 

To increase the utilisation of its Charleston plant and to reduce the effects of import tariffs, Volvo Cars will introduce local assembly of the best-selling XC60 SUV in the US. In Europe, the company recently announced plans to build the new Polestar 7 in the new Kosice plant under construction in Slovakia. It will be the second car to be built in Kosice, following a yet-to-be-announced next-generation Volvo model.

Looking ahead

While 2025 will remain challenging, the company’s SEK 18 billion turnaround plan is fully on track. Volvo Cars has seen a positive effect already in the second quarter and is confident about further positive effects from the programme.

Commercially the company will keep a sharp focus on driving sales, including ramping up sales of the EX30 and the born-electric cars in the 90 Series. The EX30 is now made in the Ghent factory which reduces the impact of tariffs and the EX90 is ready to meet the requirements of demanding premium customers after significant upgrades of its software.

The ES90 all-electric sedan is ready for the market this autumn and the XC70 will take Volvo Cars into a new growing segment for long-range PHEV cars. Development of the EX60 is fully on track and will strengthen the company’s all-electric lineup next year as it enters the largest and most popular fully electric segment. This will strengthen its position and underpin its growth potential in the EV market. 

When market sentiment picks up, Volvo Cars expects to be well positioned for profitable growth, with a future-proof product line-up as well as a leaner and more efficient organisation.

Note to editors

Håkan Samuelsson and chief financial officer Fredrik Hansson will host a livestream on Volvo Cars’ Q2 2025 results for media, investors and analysts at 08:00 CET today. The presentation will be held in English and followed by a Q&A session.
 Link for livestream

It will be possible to ask questions during the Q&A session following the main presentation. To participate, you can either use the chat function online to type your question or you can call in. To call in, participants need to register via the link below and will then receive the dial-in details and individual PIN.
 Link to register

This disclosure contains information that Volvo Car AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (EU nr 596/2014) and the Swedish Securities Markets Act (2007:528). The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person, on 17-07-2025 07:00 CET.

For further information please contact:

Volvo Cars Media Relations
+46 31-59 65 25
media@volvocars.com

Volvo Cars Investor Relations
+46 31-793 94 00
investors@volvocars.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/volvo-car-ab–publ-/r/volvo-cars-reports-q2-2025-results–turnaround-plan-is-fully-on-track,c4207878

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Carlsberg Asia Rallies Fans Across the Region with Liverpool FC

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The Reds return to Asia, with Hong Kong leading a region-wide celebration of football and beer moments

HONG KONG, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Liverpool FC returns to Asia for their 2025 Pre-Season Tour, Carlsberg Asia is activating a region-wide campaign to celebrate one of football’s most iconic partnerships. With Hong Kong as the lead market, the campaign brings together fans, customers, and partners in a shared moment of passion, purpose, and celebration – all rooted in the enduring legacy between Carlsberg and Liverpool FC.

Building on a global partnership that spans over three decades, the campaign spans seven Carlsberg Asia markets including Cambodia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, and Vietnam. Across the region, Carlsberg is delivering engaging experiences and exclusive promotions through on-trade and off-trade channels and launching the limited-edition Miracle Can inspired by the club’s legendary 2005 comeback in Istanbul.

Arindam Varanasi, Commercial Vice President, Carlsberg Asia, said: “Our long-standing global partnership with Liverpool FC gives us a powerful platform to connect with consumers across Asia. This campaign is about more than just visibility, it is about creating differentiated value for our customers, distributors, and retail partners while giving fans the chance to be part of something special. By bringing this moment to life in a way that resonates across markets, we are accelerating growth in Asia by strengthening our commercial impact and deepening the emotional connection consumers have with our brands.”

 

In Hong Kong, the celebration will reach its peak as Liverpool FC takes on AC Milan on 26 July, a rematch of the unforgettable UEFA Champions League Final in 2005. From 22 to 26 July, the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui will be transformed into a “Walk of Fame” honouring Liverpool FC’s history and culture. The experience will feature visual tributes to the club’s 20 league titles, creative nods to the Shankly Gates, and Carlsberg x Liverpool FC installations that bring together the brand’s hop leaf and the Liver Bird.

A Carlsberg-branded sailboat will also cruise through Victoria Harbour, offering fans a floating tribute and a striking backdrop to this summer’s football fever. On 25 July, the celebration continues in Lan Kwai Fong, where Carlsberg will host a Reds-themed street party filled with music, atmosphere, and ice-cold Carlsberg beer.

Jeff Chong, Director, International Premium Brands, Carlsberg Asia, added: “This is a proud moment for all of us at Carlsberg Asia. While each market engages at different levels, we are united in our passion for football and our commitment to bringing fans closer to the game, especially as lucky winners have the chance to travel to Hong Kong for the match or enjoy an unforgettable experience in Liverpool. It is exciting to see how this global partnership continues to inspire local experiences and connect people through something they truly love.”

As The Reds return to Asia, Carlsberg invites fans across the region to raise a glass, relive the legacy, and enjoy this football season the Carlsberg way together.

About Carlsberg Asia  

Established in 1847 by brewer J.C. Jacobsen, the Carlsberg Group is one of the leading brewery groups in the world, with an attractive portfolio of beer and other beverage brands. With over 37.000 employees, and with a presence in more than 125 markets, the Group has a purpose of brewing for a better today and tomorrow Doing business responsibly and sustainably supports that purpose – and drives the efforts to deliver value for shareholders and society. 

Carlsberg Asia is a dynamic and diverse region comprising of 8 operating markets: Cambodia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Vietnam. Altogether we have 34 breweries and some 12,000 employees spreading across the Asian markets. The Asia Regional Office is based in Hong Kong. 

Ecolab launches revolutionary ReadyDose™ Cleaning Program designed to help restaurants and cafés thrive in Southeast Asia

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ecolab has launched an innovative cleaning solution, Ecolab ReadyDose™, designed for food service establishments of all sizes and complexity, representing a significant advancement in cleaning technology and efficiency. Ecolab launched ReadyDose at SIGEP and Restaurant Asia exhibition at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The event features the foodservice boutique B2B business platform, featuring the most relevant service providers and suppliers.

From Left to Right: Melvin Tan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Sia Huat, and Greg Lukasik, Ecolab SVP & CEO for Southeast Asia, celebrate the launch of Ecolab ReadyDose™, at the SIGEP and Restaurant Asia Exhibition in Singapore.
From Left to Right: Melvin Tan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Sia Huat, and Greg Lukasik, Ecolab SVP & CEO for Southeast Asia, celebrate the launch of Ecolab ReadyDose™, at the SIGEP and Restaurant Asia Exhibition in Singapore.

Foodservice success hinges on maintaining impeccable cleanliness, directly impacting guest satisfaction and brand protection. Ecolab’s ReadyDose program revolutionizes the cleaning process by offering a tablet-based system that simplifies routines and delivers professional-grade cleanliness. Traditional cleaning methods can be time-consuming and complicated, diverting staff from other essential tasks.

Sharing insight during the event, Greg Lukasik, Ecolab SVP & CEO for Southeast Asia, said, “It’s exciting to launch our innovative solutions in one of the largest events for the food and retail beverage industry in Asia. ReadyDose is not just about simplifying the cleaning routine for food service operations; in today’s industry, ReadyDose has the fastest dilution, non-phosphate, making it environmentally friendly. It also supports sustainability goals by reducing packaging waste and conserving resources. Ecolab is proud to lead the way in sustainable cleaning solutions and looks forward to seeing the positive impact ReadyDose will have on our customers and the industry.”

Melvin Tan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Sia Huat, an Ecolab strategic partner for ReadyDose™ distribution in Singapore, said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Ecolab in bringing the ReadyDose™ cleaning program to food service establishments across Singapore. This partnership underscores our commitment to providing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and sustainability within the industry.” Sia Huat is Southeast Asia’s leading distributor for foodservice products, tableware, kitchenware and equipment.

One of the product lines of ReadyDose™ is the Specialty Beverage Cleaner, which removes buildup and stains on tea and coffee equipment and effectively works with the CaféMatic coffee machine from Boncafé International. Boncafé International is a leading gourmet coffee manufacturer and supplier in Asia.

The tablets come in a variety of applications that cover customers’ everyday cleaning needs, from the back of the house to the front of the house, and every spot in between.

Here are the full product lines:

  • ReadyDose Multi-Purpose Cleaner works on multiple surfaces, including glass and tile.
  • ReadyDose Presoak breaks down tough grime on flatware for a consistent clean with every wash cycle.
  • ReadyDose Delimer eliminates lime scale and hard water deposits on dish machines, steam tables, stainless steel, tile and porcelain.
  • ReadyDose Specialty Beverage Cleaner removes buildup and stains on tea and coffee equipment.
  • ReadyDose Pot & Pan Detergent cuts through food residue while being gentle on hands.
  • ReadyDose Neutral Floor Cleaner is an all-purpose daily cleaner for floors, including vinyl and tile.

To learn more, visit ReadyDose webpage

About Ecolab

A trusted partner for millions of customers, Ecolab (NYSE:ECL) is a global sustainability leader offering water, hygiene and infection prevention solutions and services that protect people and the resources vital to life. Building on more than a century of innovation, Ecolab has annual sales of $16 billion, employs approximately 48,000 associates and operates in more than 170 countries around the world. The company delivers comprehensive science-based solutions, data-driven insights and world-class service to advance food safety, maintain clean and safe environments, and optimize water and energy use. Ecolab’s innovative solutions improve operational efficiencies and sustainability for customers in the food, healthcare, high tech, life sciences, hospitality and industrial markets. www.ecolab.com

Follow us on LinkedIn @Ecolab, Instagram @Ecolab_Inc and Facebook @Ecolab.

NPCI International Expands UPI-PayNow Linkage to Drive Cross-Border Remittances

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13 Indian banks added to the UPI-PayNow linkage, taking the overall count of participating banks to 19

MUMBAI, India, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) the international arm of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has further enhanced the UPI-PayNow real-time payment linkage by adding 13 more banks on the platform, extending its reach and simplifying cross-border remittances between India and Singapore. With this development, which will go live on July 17, 2025, users in both countries can remit funds to a wider base, making the service more accessible and convenient.

The expanded network for remittances to India now includes 19 banks—Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, Federal Bank, HDFC Bank, IDFC FIRST Bank, IndusInd Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Punjab National Bank, South Indian Bank, and UCO Bank alongside Axis Bank, DBS Bank India, ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, and State Bank of India.

Recipients in India can receive remittances from Singapore in their accounts held with any of these 19 banks through their preferred UPI enabled apps such as BHIM, Google Pay and PhonePe, as well as bank apps. Outward remittances from India to Singapore are available through Canara Bank, HDFC Bank and Karur Vysya Bank along with ICICI Bank, Indian Bank, Indian Overseas Bank and State Bank of India. In Singapore, customers of DBS SG and Liquid Group can avail this service.

The UPI-PayNow service was launched as a joint initiative between the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). It facilitates real-time cross-border fund transfers between individuals, where Indian users can receive funds via UPI ID and send funds to users in Singapore via their mobile number or Virtual Payment Address (VPAs). As the world’s first cloud-based, real-time cross-border payment system, the initiative is a pioneering step in global payment connectivity.

This development is particularly beneficial for the Indian diaspora in Singapore, including migrant workers and students, bringing the ease of digital payments to everyday remittances. UPI is already accepted via QR codes at select merchant outlets in Singapore, further extending its utility.

Ritesh Shukla, MD & CEO, NPCI International said, “The expansion of the UPI-PayNow linkage marks a step forward in strengthening cross-border payment infrastructure. By enabling access to more banks in India, we are deepening the reach of real-time remittances and supporting greater financial connectivity between the two countries. This brings added convenience to users through a seamless and trusted platform.“

UPI-PayNow integration enables real-time cross-border remittance transactions, with funds reaching the recipient’s bank account within seconds. The service leverages strong security protocols to ensure safe and reliable transfers. It is ideal for small and frequent remittances, providing users with a convenient and cost-effective way to send and receive money anytime.

For more details about NPCI International, click here

For Queries: corporate.communications@npci.org.in  

GC Biopharma Receives Marketing Authorization for BARYCELA in Vietnam

By
Advertorial Desk
-

YONGIN, South Korea, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GC Biopharma (006280.KS), a South Korean pharmaceutical company, announced that its varicella vaccine BARYCELA has received marketing authorization from the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV).

Following domestic approval in 2020 and WHO Pre-Qualification (PQ) in 2023, GC Biopharma has been accelerating individual country registrations as part of its dual-track strategy—pursuing both global procurement channels and direct market entry initiatives.

To obtain approval in Vietnam, GC Biopharma conducted local clinical trials to establish the product’s safety and immunogenicity. This achievement highlights the company’s ability to meet the increasingly stringent regulatory standards set by DAV. As a vaccine administered primarily to children, quality certification holds particular importance in the varicella segment.

GC Biopharma plans to establish stable annual revenue in Vietnam by leveraging its local affiliate to engage directly in sales activities, in consideration of the country’s private market-oriented vaccine distribution system.

From 2018 to 2021, Vietnam’s private vaccine market recorded a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32%, reaching approximately USD 300 million in 2021. Varicella vaccines accounted for nearly 10% of the private market[1], with demand for private vaccinations continuing to grow steadily.

“This marketing authorization represents more than a product export—it is the result of a localization strategy and a significant step toward expansion in Southeast Asia,” said Jae Woo Lee, Head of Development Department at GC Biopharma. “We will continue to strengthen our position as a trusted vaccine brand by delivering clinical and quality standards that meet global expectations.”

BARYCELA is a live attenuated varicella vaccine developed by GC Biopharma using its proprietary MAV/06 virus strain. The vaccine is characterized by high viral titer and manufacturing yield. Notably, BARYCELA is the world’s first varicella vaccine produced without antibiotics, utilizing a fully aseptic manufacturing process.

About GC Biopharma

GC Biopharma (formerly known as Green Cross Corporation) is a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Yong-in, South Korea. The company has over half a century of experience in the development and manufacturing of plasma derivatives and vaccines, and is expanding its global presence with successful US market entry of Alyglo® (intravenous immunoglobulin G) in 2024. In line with its mission to meet the demands of future healthcare, GC Biopharma continues to drive innovation by leveraging its core R&D capabilities in engineering of proteins, mRNAs, and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) drug delivery platform to develop therapeutics for the field of rare disease as well as I&I (Immunology & Inflammation). To learn more about the company, visit https://www.gcbiopharma.com/eng/

This press release may contain biopharmaceuticals in forward-looking statements, which express the current beliefs and expectations of GC Biopharma’s management. Such statements do not represent any guarantee by GC Biopharma or its management of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors. GC Biopharma undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule.

GC Biopharma Contacts (Media)

Sohee Kim
shkim20@gccorp.com

Yelin Jun
yelin@gccorp.com

Yoonjae Na
yjy6520@gccorp.com

[1] Life-course immunization in Vietnam (2024), KPMG

 

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