• EBC-129 is the first made-in-Singapore antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) to enter clinical development. It selectively targets a tumour-specific N-glycosylated epitope on both CEACAM5 and CEACAM6. 
• The Fast Track Designation highlights the potential of EBC-129 to address critical unmet needs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
• Updated clinical data from the ongoing Phase 1 study of EBC-129 will be presented at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

SINGAPORE, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), Singapore’s national platform for drug discovery and development, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track Designation for EBC-129 for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). EBC-129 is a first-in-class antibody drug conjugate (ADC) targeting a novel, tumour-specific N256-glycosylated epitope on CEACAM5 and CEACAM6. It is currently undergoing Phase 1 clinical trials for the treatment of patients with solid tumours with high unmet medical need.

The Fast Track Designation facilitates the expedited development of EBC-129, enabling more frequent engagement with the FDA to discuss the clinical development plan. It also provides potential eligibility for Priority Review and Accelerated Approval, as well as rolling review of any future Biologic License Application (BLA).

“The FDA’s Fast Track Designation for EBC-129 underscores the promise of this novel ADC in addressing the critical need for expanded treatment options for PDAC patients and represents an important step in our efforts to accelerate its development. We view this as both a validation of our efforts and a responsibility to move decisively to advance EBC-129 as a new option to patients in need,” said Professor Damian O’Connell, Chief Executive Officer of EDDC.

Updated clinical data from the ongoing Phase 1 study of EBC-129 will be presented at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, taking place in Chicago from 30 May to 3 June 2025.

Presentation Details at ASCO 2025:

Title: Clinical activity of EBC-129, a first-in class, anti-N256-glycosylated CEACAM5 and CEACAM6 antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in a Phase 1 study

Rapid Oral Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic, and Hepatobiliary 

Date and Time: Monday, June 2, 2025, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM GMT-5

Abstract Number: 4018

Presenter: Assistant Professor Robert W. Lentz, MD, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine

About EBC-129 

EBC-129 is an ADC that targets a tumour-specific N256-glycosylation site conserved on CEACAM5 and CEACAM6. CEACAM5 and CEACAM6 are known to have functional importance in tumour formation, migration and metastasis. In the ongoing trial, the tumour-specific marker is found to be widely expressed in multiple solid tumour types, including gastric, oesophageal, pancreatic, lung, colorectal, and appendiceal cancers, based on an analytically validated immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. The payload used in EBC-129 is monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) which has been extensively tested and approved for clinical use in other marketed ADCs and has demonstrated synergy with PD-1 inhibitors. The ongoing Phase 1 trial of EBC-129 is assessing the safety and tolerability of EBC-129 as a single agent and in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumours. Enrolment for the PDAC cohort in the Phase 1 dose expansion study is now complete, while recruitment continues for the gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma (GEA) and IHC-positive cohorts.

For information about the trial, please visit  Clinicaltrial.gov, trial identifier NCT05701527. 

About the Experimental Drug Development Centre 

The Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC) is Singapore’s national platform for drug discovery and development, formed from the integration of the Experimental Therapeutics Centre (ETC), Drug Discovery and Development (D3), and Experimental Biotherapeutics Centre (EBC) in 2019. EDDC aims to develop therapeutics and diagnostics that save and improve the lives of patients in Singapore, Asia and around the world. Hosted by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), EDDC works collaboratively with public sector and industry partners to translate the great science arising from Singapore’s biomedical and clinical sciences R&D into innovative healthcare solutions. For more information about EDDC, please visit www.eddc.sg.   

NINGBO, China, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — JOYNEXT’s first CPD (Child Presence Detection) product based on UWB technology, is now being delivered to the market. This product will be installed in vehicle models of a renowned Japanese joint venture brand, offering users enhanced child safety in vehicles. Notably, it is among the first mass-produced products in China to meet the direct detection requirements for CPD specified by C-NCAP, based on UWB technology.

Rapid Realization of Mass-Production-Ready Products
UWB technology, known for its high precision, strong anti-interference capabilities, and high penetration, is increasingly being applied in the automotive industry as the technology matures. In collaboration with strategic partner UbiTraq Technology, Co., Ltd, JOYNEXT adopted the advanced UWB-CPD algorithm to achieve functions such as monitoring, warning, and active intervention for both the front and rear rows of the vehicle and has rapidly transition from product concept to mass production. This solution can directly detect living beings, ensuring accurate detection even when covered by a blanket or in footwell blind spots, while avoiding interference from other objects to prevent false detections. The integrated software-hardware solution enhances reliability while reducing product complexity and management costs.

A New Chapter in Safe Travel with High Standards
JOYNEXT excels in smart manufacturing, backed by extensive experience and robust capabilities. With one-stop automated production, we ensure the reliability and stability of every product. Adhering to high standards and a global quality system, we implement rigorous automated testing and verification at every stage—from raw material procurement to final product delivery—to guarantee that each product meets market standards and customer requirements.

Complying with Global Regulatory Standards
The CPD product, based on UWB technology, is not only a technological breakthrough but also a response to global market regulatory requirements. It enables monitoring subtle bodily functions such as breathing and heartbeat effectively, complying with N-CAP certifications across major markets worldwide. Additionally, JOYNEXT actively participates in the development of CPD regulatory standards. Through close collaboration with industry experts, we are dedicated to advancing travel safety regulations and raising awareness of child passenger safety.

The mass production and delivery of our CPD product mark a significant milestone in our development of the field of body and safety technology. We will continue to innovate, delivering advanced products and solutions to more customers and contributing to a safer future for all travelers.

About JOYNEXT

JOYNEXT is the Automotive Connectivity BU of JOYSON ELECTRONICS. With over two decades of experience as a Tier-1 supplier to the world’s top automotive makers, we have established and maintained long-term partnerships with leading automotive brands, such as VOLKSWAGEN, BMW, Audi, and NIO. We continue to provide OEMs and users with personalized product solutions in the areas of intelligent cockpit, smart connectivity, autonomous driving, software solutions and software engineering services.

Based on considering both innovation and sustainable development, JOYNEXT actively worked with a number of ecological partners such as HUAWEI, Qualcomm, Horizon Robotics, Black Sesame Technologies, ORITEK, QNX, Elektrobit, Microsoft, Brose, and Autobrains to jointly promote the transformation of the intelligent automobile industry and continue to shape the mode of travel for generations.

LONDON, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The World Federation of Neurology (WFN) is pleased to announce Brain Health for All Ages as the theme for the 2025 World Brain Day (WBD 2025), taking place on Tuesday, July 22. This global campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of supporting brain health throughout every stage of life.

“Brain health isn’t a moment in time—it’s a lifelong commitment,” said Prof. Wolfgang Grisold, President of WFN. “World Brain Day 2025 is our call to action to protect neurological well-being from the earliest stages of development, through childhood, adulthood and into older age. It’s a commitment to care, equity, and access for all.”

Neurological disorders remain the leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and the second leading cause of death globally. Yet many of these conditions can be prevented, or better managed with early intervention, education, and equitable access to care. This year’s campaign emphasizes five key messages: awareness, education, prevention, access, and advocacy.

Brain health must be supported across the full human lifespan:

• Pre-Conception: A parent’s health and habits shape a child’s brain even before birth. Good nutrition, regular check-ups and lifestyle choices form a strong foundation for brain health.
• Pregnancy & Postnatal: A mother’s physical and emotional well-being is critical for healthy brain development in the womb. Prenatal and postnatal care, proper nutrition and stress management protect both mother and child.
• Early Childhood & Adolescence: Early life experiences influence learning, emotional growth and social development. Safe environments, immunizations, and positive parenting support long-term brain health.
• Adulthood: A balanced lifestyle habits—healthy eating, sleep, exercise, and stress control—reduce the risk of neurological disorders.
• Aging Adults: Staying socially engaged helps preserve independence and quality of life in later years, in addition to regular check-ups for early detection of conditions ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia.

“As we move into 2025, it’s more important than ever to make brain health a global priority,” said Prof. Tissa Wijeratne, Co-Chair of World Brain Day. “Everyone, no matter their age or where they live, deserves the chance to live with a healthy brain. This year, we’re focusing on fairness in care, supporting families, and making brain health something that truly matters to everyone.”

“The earlier we prioritize brain health, the greater our chance to reduce the burden of neurological disease,” said Dr. David Dodick, Emeritus Professor of Neurology at Mayo Clinic and World Brain Day Co-Chair. “This year’s theme reminds us that brain health is a journey—not a milestone. It begins before birth, refined in childhood, and preserved through adulthood and older age, influencing our potential, resilience, and quality of life at every age.”

World Brain Day is a global call to action for both individuals and institutions to share meaningful information and activities on brain health. July 22 is a day dedicated to protecting and promoting brain health across the entire lifespan. Visit wfneurology.org/worldbrainday for more information and access to campaign tools. 

Established by the WFN in 2014, World Brain Day continues to serve as a global platform for raising public awareness on key neurological health topics. Individuals, societies, and countries are encouraged to participate and amplify their voices on social media using hashtags such as #WorldBrainDay, #WBD2025, and #BrainHealthForAllAges.

About the World Federation of Neurology

With support from its 124 national neurological Member Societies, the World Federation of Neurology fosters quality neurology and brain health worldwide by promoting neurological education and training, with an emphasis on under-resourced areas of the world. As a non-state actor in official relations, WFN supports the World Health Organization (WHO) efforts to give everyone an equal chance to live a healthy life. With Member Societies around the globe, WFN unites the world’s neurologists to ensure quality neurology and advocate for people to have better brain health. Learn more about the World Federation of Neurology at wfneurology.org.

Media Contact:
Ashley Logan, Yakkety Yak
ashley@yakketyyak.com  

http://wfneurology.org/worldbrainday

MANILA, Philippines, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Filipino small businesses continue to stand out as among the most dynamic in the Asia Pacific region, with 77 per cent reporting growth in 2024 and 89 per cent expecting to expand this year.

These key findings, from the latest Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey conducted by one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies, CPA Australia. This bullish performance is largely attributed to a customer-focused mindset.

However, challenges such as constrained access to finance and slower technology adoption compared with other markets in the region are holding some businesses back.

Last year saw the highest number of growing Filipino small businesses since 2019. Reflecting this improved sentiment, 41 per cent of respondents increased their workforce in 2024, and 57 per cent plan to hire more employees in 2025.

Customer loyalty and satisfaction remain key drivers of small business success in the Philippines. Nearly half (46 per cent) of Filipino respondents cited customer loyalty as their top growth factor, while 37 per cent selected improved customer satisfaction.

Mr Rufus Pinto, a CPA Australia-qualified accountant who works in the Philippine finance industry, said: “Small businesses in the Philippines are thriving due to their exceptional customer-centric approach, which helps them to retain loyal clients and attract new ones.

“Overall, the economy maintained steady growth last year, driven by strong domestic consumption, which created many opportunities for small businesses.”

Mr Pinto said the youthful profile of Filipino small business owners was a key advantage. “Our young population is a key driver of the dynamic economy,” he said. “The Philippines has one of the youngest small business owner profiles in the region and their strong entrepreneurialism is driving growth in the sector.”

Reflecting confidence in the business outlook, 28 per cent of Filipino respondents expect strong revenue growth from overseas markets in 2025, a three-year high that surpasses many regional counterparts.

“With a young, English-speaking workforce and a strong work ethic, the Philippines remains a top destination for outsourced services from international companies, especially for voice-based services and customer support roles. Small businesses should continue to leverage these strengths to attract more overseas clients,” he said.

Despite the promising outlook and employment trends, Filipino small businesses continue to lag their regional counterparts in digital adoption. In 2024, 62 per cent of respondents reported earning more than 10 per cent of their revenue from online sales, below the surveyed average of 67 per cent.

Though 74 per cent received more than one-tenth of their revenue from digital payment technologies such as Dragonpay and GCash, close to the regional average (75 per cent), only 13 per cent sought advice from IT consultants last year, well below the Asia-Pacific average of 28 per cent.

“With a large talent pool and a focus on people-to-people connection, Filipino small businesses tend to prioritise personal connections over digitalisation and automation,” said Mr Pinto. “Challenges such as limited internet access in rural areas, a large unbanked population and reliance on cash and remittances also hinder digitalisation.”

However, the benefits of tech investment are clear. Among Filipino small businesses who invested in technology in 2024, 69 per cent reported improved profitability, well above the Asia-Pacific average of 56 per cent. This placed the Philippines second among all surveyed markets.

Rising costs remain the top challenge, with 40 per cent of respondents citing it as a key barrier. Access to finance is also a hurdle. While 65 per cent sought external finance in 2024, only 22 per cent found it easy to obtain, the lowest result in the region. This trend is expected to persist.

“Banks remain the primary source of funding, however only 22 per cent of respondents named them as their main lender,” Mr Pinto said.

“When applying for bank finance, it usually requires documents to demonstrate how the funds will be used and the credibility of the borrowers. Filipino small businesses should set ambitious long-term goals and craft well-prepared business plans towards achieving them. These are persuasive and solid documents for securing bank loans.

“Consulting professionals, including accountants who hold the internationally recognised CPA designation, can help improve financial records and address technical issues such as taxation.”     

CPA Australia’s Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey collected views from 4,236 small businesses in 11 Asia-Pacific markets in November and December 2024, including 310 from the Philippines. This is CPA Australia’s 16^th annual survey of small business issues and sentiment since 2009.

About CPA Australia

Founded in 1886, CPA Australia is one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies representing more than 175,000 members working in over 100 countries and regions around the world including more than 20,000 members in Southeast Asia. CPA Australia advances its members’ interests through education and knowledge exchange, the development of professional networks, thought leadership and the promotion of value of CPA Australia members to employers, government, regulators and the public. The CPA Australia designation denotes strategic business leadership and is recognised and valued throughout the world. More information available on www.cpaaustralia.com.au

TL;DR: OSL Wealth Partnership with Ethena, giving institutional clients dollar-pegged stability, auto-compounding on-chain yield, and daily liquidity.

HONG KONG, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OSL Wealth, under OSL Group, announces a new yield-generating product that seamlessly channels the performance of Ethena Labs’ Staked USDe (sUSDe) to OSL’s professional and institutional clients.

Clients simply trade through OSL’s OTC desk—using USD or USDT—and receive an instrument that (i) auto-compounds historically low-to-mid-teen net APY into its price, (ii) maintains constant 1:1 redemption into USDe for dollar stability, (iii) offers business-day subscriptions and redemptions with no lock-ups or performance fees, and (iv) is safeguarded around the clock in OSL’s segregated, insured custody.

sUSDe is the reward-bearing version of Ethena’s synthetic stablecoin, USDe. By pairing ETH collateral with short perpetual-futures hedges, the underlying protocol harvests funding-rate income and staking rewards, compounding them into the token’s value while preserving a 1:1 dollar peg. OSL Wealth now wraps that mechanism inside its own regulated offering, so clients can benefit from sUSDe’s yield without managing staking wallets, on-chain hedges, or complex custody flows.

Tony Luk, Head of OSL Wealth stated, “Our clients want dollar stability that earns a real return, delivered through an institution they already trust. By integrating sUSDe under OSL’s compliance, custody, and security framework, we’ve turned a technically demanding DeFi strategy into a turnkey income product.”

“OSL has set the bar for regulated digital asset services in Asia,” noted Steven Shi, Head of Institutional Growth, Ethena Labs. “Their adoption of sUSDe brings our yield-bearing stablecoin to an audience that demands both transparency and institutional-grade safeguards.”

About OSL Hong Kong

As a subsidiary of the publicly listed OSL Group (HKEX: 863.HK), OSL Digital Securities is Hong Kong’s first and most established SFC-licensed and insured digital asset platform. Operating since 2018, the platform provides institutional-grade digital asset services to corporations, financial institutions, professional and retail investors.

OSL Hong Kong delivers services across five core domains: OTC brokerage, Omnibus broker solutions, custody, wealth management, and retail services. The OTC brokerage services provide 24/7 high-liquidity crypto trading with fiat on/off-ramp services. Custody solutions feature client-asset segregated wallet management backed by US$1 billion insurance coverage. The wealth management suite offers crypto investments to traditional investors, including tokenised treasuries, RWAs, structured crypto products, and quant investment strategies. Retail services bring institution-grade security and crypto access to professional and retail investors.

As a pioneer in bridging traditional finance and the digital asset economy, OSL Group adheres to its core concept: Open, Secure, and Licensed, empowering the next generation of global financial infrastructure. In addition to Hong Kong, OSL Group expands operations under full regulatory compliance in Japan, Australia, Europe and beyond.

For more information, visit osl.com.

About Ethena Labs 

Ethena is the protocol behind USDe, the third-largest and fastest growing USD-denominated crypto asset in history. Ethena has $6.2 billion in TVL today, alongside integrations with some of the largest centralized exchanges and major DeFi applications. Ethena Labs, a contributor to the protocol, is backed by Fidelity, Franklin Templeton, Dragonfly, Binance Labs, Bybit and OKX among others.

SINGAPORE, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —

• Citi hosts the Citi Singapore Macro and Pan Asia Investor Conference from 28 to 30 May
• The conference brings together distinguished political and economic experts for a series of multi-dimensional discussions focused on the latest geopolitical developments, economic outlook and topical investment themes impacting the financial industry.
• Over the next three days, Citi is expecting over 1,500 delegates including clients, investors, corporates, family offices, and private bankers to attend the conference, which includes over 20 panels and presentations and almost 7,000 meetings between corporates and experts.
• Key speakers include: Robert Lighthizer, Chair of the Center for American Trade at AFPI and Former United States Trade Representative and Senior Advisor to Citi’s clients on global trade, Loretta Mester, Former President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, and Dr Lawrence Summers, Former United States Secretary of the Treasury.
• Sue Lee, Head of Markets for Asia South at Citi, said, “We are entering a new era of trade policy and globalization, marking a deep structural shift in how markets move and how businesses operate. Citi’s leading Markets franchise with a wide global footprint uniquely positions us to support our clients as they navigate this new environment.”

Citi’s Markets business serves corporates, institutional investors, and governments from trading floors in almost 80 countries. The strength of our underwriting, sales and trading and distribution capabilities span asset classes (Commodities, Equities, Rates, Spread Products and FX), providing us with an unmatched ability to meet the needs of our clients.