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Netvigator wins Six Ookla® Speedtest® awards again

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Advertorial Desk
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Retains Fastest, Best Fixed Broadband and Top-Rated Network
Earns Hong Kong’s Most Consistent Fixed Network recognition for the first time

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – HKT’s (SEHK: 6823) Netvigator has once again secured six top honours from the renowned global independent connectivity intelligence leader, Ookla®‘s Speedtest®, including Fastest and Best Fixed Network in the newly released first-half 2026 report. For the first time, it was also recognised as Hong Kong’s Most Consistent Fixed Network*, further cementing its position as a leading broadband service provider in Hong Kong and across the East Asia region.

Netvigator wins Six Ookla® Speedtest® awards again

Following its sweep of six Ookla® Speedtest® awards in the second half of 2025, Netvigator has once again earned a series of fixed broadband accolades, demonstrating its high-speed, reliability, ultra-low-latency, and seamless network performance.

Ookla® Speedtest® awards for the first half of 2026:

  • Fastest Fixed Network in Hong Kong
  • Best Fixed Network in Hong Kong
  • Best Fixed Gaming Network in Hong Kong
  • Top-Rated Fixed Network in Hong Kong
  • Fastest Fixed Network in East Asia
  • Best Fixed Network in East Asia

Bruce Lam, CEO, Consumer, HKT, said, “Netvigator is committed to enhancing our network quality and user experience. Winning six awards again and being recognised as the Most Consistent Fixed Network in Hong Kong clearly reflects our dedication to providing reliable, low-latency connectivity for the public. Modern families expect more from their networks than just speed. Netvigator’s F5G‑A Super Broadband^, Hong Kong’s first and only fibre network compliant with the F5G-A standard@, delivers stable support for network-intensive AI applications, meeting the rapidly growing network demands of AI, empowering users to adopt and keep pace with evolving AI technologies, while also supporting bandwidth-intensive applications such as high-resolution streaming. This enables multiple family members to binge-watch, play online games, or work in the cloud at the same time. With a next-generation fibre network that meets international standards, Netvigator is setting a new benchmark for ultra-high bandwidth, ultra-low latency and highly reliable fixed network in Hong Kong, enabling Hong Kong to master the AI era. We will continue to elevate our service quality to deliver a faster, more stable, and smarter digital experiences for our customers.”

Ricky Kwong, Head of Fixed Network Engineering, HKT and CEO, Fiber Link Global, said, “With the rapid emergence of various AI applications, the demand for stable, high-speed and low-latency networks is growing at an unprecedented pace. HKT has been committed to enhancing network performance. In addition to our F5G-A standard-compliant fibre network@, which continues to expand, we are actively upgrading our network through technological innovation, including the use of AI for real-time traffic monitoring and resource optimisation, ensuring a more seamless, smooth, and reliable network experience for our customers.”

Ookla® Speedtest® has long been widely referenced across the telecommunications industry. The sample data is drawn from over ten million tests conducted globally by actual users in real-world network environments. The results evaluate operators’ performance in terms of network speed, stability and overall user experience across various usage scenarios, making it one of the world’s most widely adopted and trusted platforms for measuring internet speed.

*The recognition is based on Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data, measuring the percentage of users achieving minimum speeds of 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload compared with other providers in Hong Kong
^ Super Broadband refers to the Netvigator fibre broadband service plan that meets the ETSI F5G-A standard. As of 31 May 2026, HKT’s fixed broadband has met the ETSI F5G-A standard in the fibre networks of 57,000 designated buildings. 2500M Fibre-to-the-Home plans correspond to a maximum upstream and downstream bandwidth of 2500Mbps respectively. Actual speed experienced using the Service will be less than the network specifications and may be affected by your device, technology, network and software used, network configuration and coverage, usage levels, international bandwidth and other extraneous factors. 2500M Fibre-to-the Home plans depend on the support of the end device.
@ According to the public market information of major telecommunications service providers in Hong Kong as of 2 August, 2024, Netvigator is the first network in Hong Kong to meet the F5G-A standard in designated buildings. As of 20 July 2026, based on publicly available information, no other telecommunications service provider in Hong Kong has announced compliance with the ETSI F5G-A standard apart from HKT.

Hashtag: #HKT

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

About HKT

HKT is a technology, media, and telecommunications leader with more than 150 years of history in Hong Kong. As the city’s true 5G provider, HKT connects businesses and people locally and globally. Our end-to-end enterprise solutions make us a market-leading digital transformation partner of choice for businesses, whereas our comprehensive connectivity and smart living offerings enrich people’s lives and cater for their diverse needs for work, entertainment, education, well-being, and even a sustainable low-carbon lifestyle. Together with our digital ventures which support digital economy development and help connect Hong Kong to the world as an international financial centre, HKT endeavours to contribute to smart city development and help our community tech forward.

For more information, please visit .

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Issued by HKT Limited.
HKT Limited is a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands with limited liability.

Yung’s Bistro Unveils Its New Presence at K11 MUSEA

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Advertorial Desk
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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Yung’s Bistro, the contemporary dining concept under Yung Kee Restaurant, today announced the official opening of its relocated venue at Shop 704, K11 MUSEA. Unveiled with a refreshed look, the brand first debuted at this arts and architecture landmark in 2019, consistently driving a dynamic dialogue between tradition and innovation. Moving from its original location at Shop 701, this relocation deepens that vision, integrating classic Cantonese cuisine and contemporary art into a newly redesigned space.

A Dialogue in Colour and Craft

The new Yung’s Bistro showcases 3,380 square feet of inviting space, its interiors glowing in vermilion — the traditional Chinese hue first introduced at the Taikoo Place branch. A gentle touch of green also runs through the design, adding nature, heritage and a dash of style that bridges Yung’s Bistro with the iconic Yung Kee flagship.

At the entrance, handcrafted brick walls with a tactile 3D finish nod to the materials and texture of Yung Kee’s Central flagship, warmly connecting past and present with a fresh, youthful twist. Inside stands a large hand-painted mural sharing the same artistic roots as the Taikoo Place branch. Inspired by the legendary ‘Winding Stream Party,’ the artwork captures Black Mane Geese relaxing with tea in the wild, adding a touch of playful heritage to the room.

The new venue’s visual centerpiece is a pair of wall installations by local artist Sim Chan, titled ‘Who Says I’m Silly’. Blending the existing white landscape relief with detailed 3D-printed miniatures, the classic Orchid Pavilion Preface is reimagined into a fantastical Yung Kee world packed with Hong Kong humor.

Here, being ‘Silly’ simply means staying optimistic and creative. Looking closely, diners will spot whimsical miniatures like Wang Xizhi chilling with geese, a goose-shaped Star Ferry, teapot cable cars, selfie-taking scholars, and lively water sports along the lakeshore. It truly is ‘an elegant landscape from afar, an intriguing world up close.’

Two Zones Crafted for Every Occasion

The space unfolds across two tailored zones designed for different gatherings:

  • Orchid Pavilion Space: Taking cues from the legendary “Winding Stream Party,” curved glass and rich vermilion accents set an easygoing, carefree vibe. Whimsical goose murals and 3D wall art add a touch of playfulness, while sunlit olive-green velvet booths line the windows -creating a cozy corner for afternoon tea or casual bites.

  • The Banquet Space: Centered around a deep green marble wall, this sophisticated zone blends warmth with privacy. It features a private room with Victoria Harbour views and two semi-open spaces separated by sliding screens, providing a versatile, stylish backdrop for business dinners and celebrations of up to 50 guests.


A Culinary Symphony Reimagined

Yung’s Bistro upholds its philosophy of “Taste of Art, Made with Heart” through four key pillars: modern interpretations of classics, nostalgic favourites, childhood-inspired creations, and refined home-style dishes.

Among the modern interpretations, the Deep-fried Cod with Diced Salted Fish, Crispy Garlic and Chili in Special Sauce (HK$380) reimagines a traditional dish by combining typhoon shelter-style cod with salted fish’s umami notes, finished with yuzu juice. Nostalgic favourites include the Steamed Egg White, Mini Crab Roe with Rice (HK$150) is a classic dish that is laboriously made by hand-picking the crab roe from around ten mini crabs prized for their strong umami flavour and delicate texture. The Steamed Beef Patties and Stir-fried Sliced Beef with Premium Aged Tangerine Peel (HK$300) presents beef prepared two ways, elevated by the 25-year-old tangerine peel sourced exclusively from Xinhui.

Childhood-inspired creations feature the Roasted Whole Goose Leg with Charcoal Stove (HK$350), served tableside with a charcoal brazier to preserve its chargrilled aroma, depicting the tradition of gifting goose legs during festivals. It is followed by the White Rabbit Candies Custard (HK$58), which reimagines a beloved childhood sweet as a dessert course. Among the refined home-style dishes, the Homestyle Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables in Soy Sauce (HK$320) features Hong Kong-reared Berkshire pork prepared with traditional methods that highlight the meat’s succulence and the preserved vegetable’s natural sweetness.

Beyond the four core pillars, the team has also expanded the drinks and dining menu to cater to K11 MUSEA’s diverse clientele. A new cold-brew tea series has been introduced for summer, slow-brewed at low temperatures for a cleaner, smooth taste. Weekly rotating lunch sets have also been added for business diners seeking a quick yet polished midday option. Dim sum remains available throughout the day, featuring an enhanced weekend selection for the ultimate yum cha experience.

First-Time Collaboration with Tim Ho Wan

To celebrate the reopening, Yung Kee has collaborated with Tim Ho Wan for the first time, bringing a mini version of the limited-edition Tim Ho Wan x Yung Kee “Baked Roasted Goose Bun” to Yung’s Bistro at K11 MUSEA. Yung Kee’s roast goose is carefully deboned and combined with a secret sauce developed jointly by both brands, then encased in Tim Ho Wan’s celebrated golden, flaky baked bun.

The mini version is available exclusively at Yung’s Bistro’s K11 MUSEA branch in July, customers will receive a complimentary serving of 2 mini Baked Roasted Goose Buns upon spending a net amount of HK$500 or more in-store, and 4 pieces for those spending over HK$1,000, and so on.

Returning to K11 MUSEA, Yung’s Bistro honours its Tsim Sha Tsui heritage—welcoming familiar faces and new guests to experience an authentic, reimagined taste of Hong Kong.

Address: Shop 704, 7/F, K11 MUSEA, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday 11:30am–10:30pm | Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 11:00am–10:30pm
Reservations & Enquiries: +852 2321 3800

For high-resolution images, please go to: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1fB5aUwyQBzni3O2gar_Y1e5Q1bHb79r5?usp=sharing

Hashtag: #鏞鏞藝嚐館 #YungsBistro

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

Yung’s Bistro

Yung’s Bistro is the first contemporary brand under the renowned Yung Kee Restaurant, launched at K11 MUSEA in 2019. Guided by the philosophy “Taste of Art, Made with Heart,” the brand builds on classic Cantonese flavours and Hong Kong’s food culture while giving them a more contemporary edge.

Trade, Energy, Tourism Drive Laos-Vietnam Economic Ties Past USD 1.3 Billion

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
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A picture of Dansavan International Border Gate in Xepon District, Savannakhet Province, Laos which sheared border with Huong Hoa District, Quang Tri Province, Vietnam. (Photo by The Department of Immigration of Laos)

Trade between Laos and Vietnam reached USD 1.305 billion during the first six months of 2026, as growing cross-border trade, tourism and infrastructure projects continued to strengthen economic ties between the two neighbouring countries.

According to the Lao Department of Foreign Trade, Laos’ main exports to Vietnam during the period were gold, potassium chloride, and electrical machinery and parts. Its biggest imports from Vietnam included diesel fuel, vehicles, chemical products and precious objects.

The figures come as officials from Laos and Vietnam met in Luang Prabang for the 6th Meeting of the Laos-Vietnam Border Joint Technical Committee, where they reviewed cooperation along the two countries’ shared border.

According to state media, officials said regular coordination between border authorities has helped keep the border stable while supporting trade, investment and local economic development.

During the first half of the year, border forces from both countries carried out 60 joint patrols involving 1,716 personnel. Officials also inspected border markers damaged by natural disasters, discussed improvements to boundary management and construction near the border, and agreed to hold a seminar for village leaders in Savannakhet Province later this September to strengthen cooperation between border communities.

Energy Cooperation Expands

Energy is also becoming a bigger part of the Laos-Vietnam relationship.

In the first quarter of 2026, Laos exported a record 2.92 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity to Vietnam, nearly 120 percent more than during the same period last year as Vietnam’s demand for imported power continued to grow.

The two countries are also expanding future energy cooperation. By the end of 2025, Vietnam had approved electricity imports from 47 Lao power projects with a combined capacity of more than 8,260 megawatts (MW). Projects with a total installed capacity of 2,379 MW were already exporting electricity to Vietnam, up from around 1,700 MW a year earlier.

In May, Laos also signed a concession agreement for the 80 MW Xekaman 4 Hydropower Project in Sekong Province, with all of the electricity generated set to be exported to Vietnam. More hydropower and renewable energy projects are expected to come online in the coming years, further strengthening cross-border electricity trade.

Tourism and Infrastructure

Cooperation between Laos and Vietnam is also growing through tourism and transport.

Vietnam remained Laos’ third-largest source of international visitors during the first half of 2026, with 586,190 arrivals, accounting for 22.6 percent of all foreign tourists entering the country.

The two neighbours are also investing in closer transport links. In May, Vietnam began construction of the Vinh–Thanh Thuy Expressway, a 60-kilometre highway connecting Nghe An Province to the Lao border.

The road will form part of the planned Vientiane-Hanoi Expressway, a cross-border corridor expected to make travel, trade and freight transport between Laos and Vietnam faster and more efficient once completed.

Fractal posts 20% revenue growth and 92% net income growth in Q1 FY27

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Advertorial Desk
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  • Adjusted EBITDA Grows at 35% YoY
  • Gross Margin up 29 bps1 to 46%; Adjusted EBITDA Margin up 189 bps to 17%

NEW YORK, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fractal Analytics Ltd (BSE: 544700) (NSE: FRACTAL) announced its consolidated financial results for Q1 FY27, ending June 30, 2026.

In Q1 FY27, the Company reported consolidated operating revenue of INR 9,125 m, a growth of 20% year on year (YoY). Revenue growth was led by the company’s Healthcare and Life Sciences (HLS) industry, which clocked 69% growth YoY. Strong sustained growth in HLS over the last several quarters has resulted in it becoming the second largest industry in the portfolio. Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) also performed very well, growing 36% YoY in Q1. Fractal’s largest industry, Consumer Packaged Goods and Retail (CPGR), continued to gather momentum, growing 19% YoY. On the other hand, TMT declined 22% YoY.

Fractal’s focus on deepening customer relationships continues to yield good outcomes. Its clients collectively increased their spending with the company, as reflected in the Net Revenue Retention2 of 117% in Q1. Further, its Net Promoter Score (NPS) during the period stood at 77.

The company reported improved profit margins at all levels. Gross Margin in Q1 was at 46%, while Adjusted EBITDA Margin expanded by 189 bps YoY to 17%. Net Income grew 92% YoY to INR 723 m.

Commenting on the performance, Srikanth Velamakanni, Group CEO and Executive Vice-Chairman, said:

“Enterprises are putting real transformation budgets behind AI now and we’re seeing it directly in the size of the deals coming to us. TMT was the drag on our headline growth this quarter. Excluding TMT, our business grew 35% year on year, which is a better read on the underlying demand we’re seeing.

As data sovereignty becomes a bigger priority for governments and enterprises, and as open-weight models keep improving, clients need a partner who can work across models and infrastructure. We have invested heavily in our people, our research, and our own intellectual property to be that partner.”

1 Basis points = 1/100th of 1%
2 Net Revenue Retention in our Fractal.ai segment measures how effectively we retain and expand revenue from our existing clients over a defined period and is calculated by comparing the current period’s revenue from the clients who existed at the start of the period, with their revenue in the previous period – including the effects of upsells, cross-sells and contractions

About Fractal 

Fractal Analytics Ltd (BSE: 544700) (NSE: FRACTAL) is a globally recognized pure-play enterprise AI company trusted by Fortune 500®-sized enterprises to power decision-making through AI services, solutions, and products, anchored by Cogentiq, its flagship agentic AI platform. With over 6,000 professionals across North America, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific, Fractal partners with business leaders to drive competitive differentiation for their organizations by embedding AI into critical decisions across business functions and industry verticals.

Fractal invests more than 6% of its revenue in AI R&D, supporting foundational AI research, product development, and IP creation that address both immediate client needs and long-term technological advancement. Fractal’s track record includes developing proprietary models and products such as Cogentiq Health – Vaidya.ai and Cogentiq Data Science – PiEvolve, as well as incubating and spinning out Qure.ai, a global healthcare AI leader focused on the rapid identification and management of tuberculosis, lung cancer, and stroke (or critical health conditions). Fractal’s suite of businesses consists of Asper.ai (a Revenue Growth Management product for CPG companies) and Analytics Vidhya (an Ed-tech platform).

For more information, go to www.fractal.ai.

 

ASUS Accelerates Enterprise AI at Scale with 6th-Gen AMD EPYC Server CPUs

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Advertorial Desk
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 ASUS leverages 6th-gen AMD EPYC Server CPUs to deliver scalable, efficient compute for enterprise AI, cloud, virtualization and business-critical workloads

SAN FRANCISCO, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ASUS today announced its groundbreaking new server lineup powered by the AMD EPYC™ 9006 processors, engineered to deliver unmatched performance for the most demanding intensive enterprise workloads. This advanced portfolio introduces two highly optimized series with efficiency-optimized AMD EPYC SP8 server CPU, the flagship dual-socket ASUS RS700A/720A for extreme compute density and the single-socket ASUS RS500A/520A for superior space efficiency and deployment flexibility.

ASUS leverages 6th-gen AMD EPYC Server CPUs to deliver scalable, efficient compute for enterprise AI, cloud, virtualization and business-critical workloads
ASUS leverages 6th-gen AMD EPYC Server CPUs to deliver scalable, efficient compute for enterprise AI, cloud, virtualization and business-critical workloads

Both series integrate full PCIe® 6.0, leading memory support, and high-density E3.S storage, all underpinned by proprietary ASUS innovations for superior thermal management and operational efficiency to meet and exceed the rigorous demands of enterprise AI, virtualization, storage and cloud environments.

“The new ASUS server series, powered by 6th-gen AMD EPYC server CPUs, is engineered to power every enterprise workload with flexible, scalable infrastructure,” Paul Ju, Senior Vice President of ASUS, commented, “This launch marks a significant milestone for ASUS and our clients. The new series empowers businesses with a resilient foundation to achieve unprecedented computing efficiency and accelerating AI innovation with inference.”

ASUS expands 6th-gen AMD EPYC server portfolio with dual optimized series

ASUS has introduced a new server lineup segmented into two distinct series, each precisely engineered to meet diverse enterprise demands.

The flagship RS700A/720A series (dual-socket) delivers extreme compute density, making it ideal for AI inferencing, and complex simulations. It offers exceptional bandwidth with PCIe 6.0, memory leadership via 32 DIMM slots supporting ultrafast MRDIMM, and high-density storage with up to 32 E3.S bays in a compact 2U form factor.

Complementing this is the RS500A/520A series (single-socket), a highly efficient and space-optimized solution with depth under 800mm, perfect for mainstream enterprise workloads and rack-constrained environments. Featuring full PCIe 6.0 capabilities, E3.S storage support, and modular scalability through shared components with the RS700A and RS720A series, it provides uncompromised performance in a streamlined, deployment-friendly design.

ASUS elevates the AMD EPYC platform with cutting-edge proprietary innovations

ASUS has significantly advanced the AMD EPYC 9006 platform with a series of proprietary engineering breakthroughs focused on superior reliability, thermal management, and operational efficiency.

The DC-MHS modular architecture features a zone-partitioned chassis that separates I/O, HPM, fan, and storage modules to accelerate development, reduce capital costs, and enable rapid serviceability. The patented ASUS DIMM.2 Innovation repositions M.2 storage to the cooler DIMM region, eliminating thermal throttling without extra heatsinks and unlocking greater scalability. Thermal Radar 3.0 with PID Control delivers precise real-time fan regulation via advanced algorithms, reducing energy use and maintaining peak performance under heavy enterprise-level workload.

Completing the suite is the optimized tool-less operational-velocity design, which boosts maintenance efficiency, maximizing uptime and lowering TCO and sustaining peak performance even under volatile, high-load AI/HPC workloads.

AVAILABILITY & PRICING

ASUS RS700A/720A series and RS500A/520A series servers will be available soon. Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.

Visa and Lianlian Advance Trusted B2B Agentic Commerce Through LoopXPay’s First Live B2B Agentic Transaction

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Advertorial Desk
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  • First live B2B agentic transaction in Greater China highlights how AI-enabled commerce can help SMBs streamline purchasing and payments, supported by Visa’s Agentic Directory for trusted AI agent interactions

SINGAPORE, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, and Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. (“Lianlian”), an AI-native global financial infrastructure provider, today announced the first live B2B agentic transaction completed using LoopXPay, Lianlian’s AI agent. 

Small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) often lack dedicated procurement teams and spend valuable time sourcing, purchasing and making payments themselves. In the transaction, the LoopXPay agent was used to source a product sample from a supplier and complete the purchase in a single workflow. The agent identified the purchasing requirement, recommended suitable suppliers, compared options, placed the order and securely executed the payment within a single workflow, while operating within pre-defined spending controls and approval parameters.

The milestone highlights how AI-powered commerce experiences can help SMBs simplify purchasing and payment activities while maintaining appropriate controls and oversight. By enabling AI agents to operate within pre-defined spending parameters and approval controls, businesses can reduce manual effort while retaining visibility into commercial decision-making.

As AI agents become more involved in purchasing and payment activities, businesses will require confidence that transactions are being executed by verified participants, within approved parameters and with appropriate oversight. Capabilities aligned with Visa’s Trusted Agent Protocol can help provide the identity, transparency and controls needed to support these interactions.

Darren Parslow, Global Head, Visa Commercial Solutions, Visa (left), and Zhang Zhengyu, Founder, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Lianlian DigiTech (right)
Darren Parslow, Global Head, Visa Commercial Solutions, Visa (left), and Zhang Zhengyu, Founder, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Lianlian DigiTech (right)

As part of the collaboration, LoopXPay has been registered in Visa’s Agentic Directory, enabling participating businesses and merchants to identify verified AI agents within the ecosystem. Supporting the implementation of Visa’s Trusted Agent Protocol, the Agentic Directory helps provide greater transparency into agent-driven interactions and confidence that participating agents have met Visa’s requirements.

“AI-powered commerce experiences can help businesses simplify purchasing and payments while maintaining the controls and oversight they require,” said Darren Parslow, Global Head, Visa Commercial Solutions, Visa. “For SMBs, that means less complexity in managing day-to-day commercial activities and more time focused on growth. As businesses increasingly look to embed intelligence into purchasing and payment experiences, trust will become a critical enabler of adoption. Through our collaboration with Lianlian, we are helping advance the trusted foundations that businesses will need to participate in this next era of commerce with confidence.”

Building on this milestone, Visa and Lianlian are exploring how AI agents can support a broader range of commercial activities, including procurement, digital advertising optimisation and B2B platform payments, helping advance trusted commerce through greater efficiency, transparency and control.

Zhang Zhengyu, Founder, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Lianlian DigiTech, said, “AI is reshaping the entire commercial value chain, where a growing number of business activities will be autonomously executed by AI agents, with payments serving as the critical infrastructure connecting them to global commerce. Leveraging its experience in global cross-border payments, compliance, as well as payment network, LianLian is actively building AI-native financial infrastructure, delivering an integrated suite of capabilities for the Agent Economy, spanning identity verification, transaction authorisation, intelligent payment, and global fund settlement. Through this collaboration with Visa, we aim to combine Lianlian’s AI-native capabilities with Visa’s trusted global network and commercial payment expertise to help businesses transact more securely, intelligently and efficiently in an increasingly agent-driven commerce environment.”

About Visa

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, sellers, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

About Lianlian

Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. (“Lianlian DigiTech” or “Lianlian”) was founded in 2009 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2024 (stock code: 2598.HK). As China’s leading global provider of digital and intelligent payment services, Lianlian adheres to its mission of “Connecting the world, empowering global commerce” and pursues an “AI-Native + Globalization” strategy. The Company is committed to building a trusted global intelligent financial infrastructure, enabling seamless connectivity between Chinese enterprises and global businesses.  As of now, Lianlian has established a global licensing portfolio comprising 68 payment licenses and related qualifications, and holds a VATP license issued by the Hong Kong SFC. It supports services in more than 200 countries and regions and enables transaction settlement in over 140 currencies, connecting over 180 global e-commerce platforms and serving a cumulative total of over 13.3 million customers. Learn more at www.lianlian.com.

Banyan Group Residences Unveils Exclusive Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna at Laguna Phuket

By
Advertorial Desk
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A limited collection of eight beachfront townhomes offers a rare opportunity to own directly on Bang Tao Beach.


PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Banyan Group Residences has unveiled Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna, a collection of just eight beachfront townhomes within Laguna Phuket. Positioned directly on Bang Tao Beach, the development offers a rare opportunity to own a branded residence on one of Phuket’s most sought-after stretches of coastline.

BTBR Varuna Aerial

Inspired by a “Coastal Biophilia” design philosophy, the architecture connects each residence closely to its beachfront setting. Curved building lines echo wave motion, while slatted timber cladding and trellis screening reference sand and shifting coastal light. Floor-to-ceiling glazing along ocean-facing elevations frames sweeping Andaman Sea views, and each residence’s private rooftop infinity pool and terrace are oriented west to capture the sunset.

Each four-bedroom, four-level townhome draws on Southern Thailand’s traditional architecture, with layered thresholds and vertical timber lines. The principal living and dining spaces occupy the upper level behind full-height glazing which opens out fully to allow breathtaking seaviews.

A private lift connects all floors, and each unit includes a ground-floor garden terrace. The master suite occupies its own floor, with a walk-in closet, reading room and ensuite bathroom opening to a private courtyard, finished throughout with premium appliances.

Bang Tao Beach: An Absolute Beachfront Address

Varuna sits directly on Bang Tao Beach on one of the few remaining absolute beachfront sites within Laguna Phuket.

Laguna Phuket spans over 1,000 acres of parkland, lagoons and five kilometres of coastline. Residents have access to the Laguna Golf Phuket 18-hole course, several spas, extensive dining and the new RAVA Beach Club, with Phuket International Airport nearby.

Ownership Benefits

Ownership unlocks membership of The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s owner programme offering discounts across its properties worldwide, plus complimentary RAVA Beach Club membership with priority facility access, dining discounts and marine sports.

Additional benefits include Laguna Golf membership, 24-hour concierge and professional property management. Through the Laguna Advantage programme, owners also receive one year’s complimentary property management and insurance, one year’s free enrolment at Laguna Phuket’s onsite preschool, discounted fees at selected international schools, and access to medical and wellness benefits.

Banyan Living: A Rental Management Solution

Owners are automatically enrolled in Banyan Living, Banyan Group’s rental management platform, which supports property care, guest servicing and rental distribution while giving owners flexibility in how they use their residence.

With its limited collection of eight townhomes, direct beachfront setting and access to Laguna Phuket’s amenities, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna marks a distinctive addition to Phuket’s luxury residential landscape.

Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket

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

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences.

Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities. The property division offers a range of residences, apartments, and villas, perfect for those seeking permanent homes or investment opportunities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of Banyan Group, a global leader in luxury hospitality and sustainable development. With over 35 years of experience, Banyan Group Residences has redefined tropical living with iconic residential developments across Thailand and beyond. Its projects seamlessly blend contemporary design, cultural heritage, and a commitment to sustainability, setting a global benchmark for luxury living.

Ownership privileges, memberships and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions, availability, programme rules and change from time to time. Rental participation is optional and no rental return is guaranteed.

Seven Lao Artists Are Taking Life Advice From Cats

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
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Artwork from Like a Cat’s Tiny Life exhibition by seven Lao artists in Vientiane
A picture of 2 Lao artists, Phoud (left) and Fanta (right) with their cat illustrations. (Photo supplied)

Cats spend much of their day sleeping, stretching in the sun, at times hunting, or just watching the world go by. For a group of Lao artists, those habits have become the inspiration for art.

Life feels busier than ever, and Laos is no exception. Seven artists in Laos have turned to cats to explore what many people seem to be searching for today: a little more freedom, self-acceptance and joy in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

A picture of Tamper Cafe where the exhibition is held.

Their exhibition, Like a Cat’s Tiny Life, running until 31 July at The Tamper Coffee & Studio in Vientiane, brings together paintings, illustrations and photography that ask a simple question: what can people learn from slowing down?

Why Cats?

“All seven of us wanted to create a small space filled with warmth through stories about cats. We wanted people to experience life through the artists’ small perspectives on cats,” artist Fanta Keomanila told The Laotian Times.

For him, cats represent independence.

He described them as animals that follow their own way, sleeping and resting when they choose and finding happiness in simple moments such as watching birds or lying in the warm sun, rather than conforming to outside expectations.

Fanta believes those qualities have become especially meaningful as people face lots of pressure in their daily lives. He also believes that cats are often misunderstood.

A picture of one of Fanta’s illustrations

“They don’t teach us to become lazy or irresponsible,” he said. “They teach us to relax in a busy world, love ourselves more, care about the things that truly matter, and live at a pace that feels comfortable like cats.”

“Sometimes happiness or inspiration might already be around us, just like a small cat,” he said. “For me, cats are the inspiration for my canvas,” he said. “I experiment with watercolor, oil painting, acrylic, and digital painting. They make the work feel approachable, but in that simplicity, there’s always a story that I hope people can connect with.”

 

Ultimately, Fanta hopes visitors walk away feeling a little calmer than when they arrived.

Meaning in Imperfection

Meanwhile, Phoudthasone “Phoud” Souksompheng explores the same idea from a different angle.

A picture of some of Phoud’s cat figures and doodles

Best known for his doodle illustrations, he said both doodle art and cats always remind him that not everything in life has to be polished or carefully planned.

For him, that’s a lot like life.

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Another set of doodles for Phoud

“We often spend so much time trying to control everything,” he said. “But many things in life simply cannot be controlled. Sometimes we succeed. Sometimes we don’t. Both are part of life.”

He said people often get caught between thinking about what has already happened and worrying about what’s coming next.

“Doodle lines represent the life we create in the present,” he said. “If we keep thinking about the past, we become afraid to draw the next line. If we worry too much about the future, our hands begin to shake.”

Cats became part of that story because they express emotions in simple ways.

“Cats become the bridge between imagination and everyday life,” he said. “Through their expressions, movements, and quiet personality, they can communicate emotions that are sometimes difficult to explain with words.”

Like Fanta, Phoud hopes people leave with something that stays with them after they walk out.

Despite their different styles, the artists kept coming back to the same idea. In a world where everyone seems to be constantly rushing somewhere, maybe there’s something to learn from a furry friend that’s perfectly happy taking a nap in the sun.

While all artists present a different visual style, they share one common message: in a society where people are constantly rushing, perhaps there is value in slowing down, appreciating ordinary moments, and seeing the world, if only briefly, through the quiet eyes of a cat.

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