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Thunes: a CNBC and Statista World’s Top FinTech Company

SINGAPORE, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thunes, the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world, has been named a World’s Top FinTech Company by CNBC and Statista. 

This recognition underscores the trust Thunes has earned within the industry, and highlights the company’s growth, innovation, and impact in reshaping cross-border payments.

Each year, CNBC and research firm Statista identify the most standout FinTech companies worldwide through a rigorous evaluation of key performance indicators. The list spans pioneering start-ups, established technology giants, and fast-growing scale-ups such as Thunes, which are driving innovation and rapid transformation across the financial sector.

This year’s list comes as the financial services landscape is being rapidly reinvented by mobile wallets, artificial intelligence, and digital assets that are changing how individuals and businesses send and receive money. Thunes’, with its Direct Global Network which enables real-time cross-border payments to Members in over 130 countries and 80 currencies, is playing an anchor role at the heart of this evolution.

Thunes is on a mission to bring the next billion end users in emerging markets into the global economy by making diverse payment systems interoperable and more accessible. For Thunes’ Members, today’s recognition from CNBC and Statista reaffirms that they are working with a trusted, world-class provider committed to revolutionising cross-border payments. Joining the Thunes Direct Global Network means faster speed to market, seamless integration, and the confidence that comes with partnering with a company at the forefront of compliance, reliability, and innovation. 

The recognition follows a series of major Thunes milestones, including the close of its $150 million Series D funding round, the largest in its history at a substantial valuation increase, and the company’s expansion into the United States after securing money transmission licences across all 50 states.

Floris de Kort, CEO of Thunes, said: “For Thunes to be recognised as one of the world’s top FinTech companies by CNBC and Statista is a powerful endorsement of our ambition to revolutionise how money moves across borders. I am extremely proud of our team, who make recognition like this possible, and grateful for the ongoing trust of our valued Members.”

De Kort added: “Through cutting-edge technology, industry-leading compliance standards, and an unwavering focus on delivering a seamless customer experience, Thunes is making traditional, emerging and digital financial systems truly interoperable. With the vast size of the cross border payments market, valued at $194 trillion, we are determined to expand our Direct Global Network that empowers everyone, from global enterprises to individuals in remote communities, to participate in the global economy.”

About Thunes:

Thunes is the Smart Superhighway to move money around the world. Thunes’ proprietary Direct Global Network allows Members to make payments in real-time in over 130 countries and more than 80 currencies. Thunes’ Network connects directly to over 7 billion mobile wallets and bank accounts worldwide, as well as 15 billion cards via more than 320 different payment methods, such as GCash, M-Pesa, Airtel, MTN, Orange, JazzCash, Easypaisa, AliPay, WeChat Pay and many more. Thunes’ Direct Global Network differentiates itself through its worldwide reach, in-house SmartX Treasury System and Fortress Compliance Platform, ensuring Members of the Network receive unrivaled speed, control, visibility, protection, and cost efficiencies when making real-time payments, globally. Members of Thunes’ Direct Global Network include gig economy giants like Uber and Deliveroo, super-apps like Grab and WeChat, MTOs, fintechs, PSPs and banks. Headquartered in Singapore, Thunes has offices in 14 locations, including Atlanta, Barcelona, Beijing, Dubai, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, London, Manila, Nairobi, Paris, Riyadh, San Francisco and Shanghai. For more information, visit: https://www.thunes.com.

Ramble Shandong | A Journey into Confucian Wisdom at Nishan

QUFU, China, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report from Qilu Evening News•Qilu Yidian

On April 19th, 11 international students from Jining University visited Nishan Sacred Land in Qufu, Shandong Province, the birthplace of Confucius. This cultural theme park is designed for experiencing Confucian culture and serves as a base for international cultural exchange. During their visit, the students explored the fusion of traditional culture and modern civilization, witnessing how ancient wisdom harmonizes with cutting-edge technology. Through interactive exhibits and philosophical explorations, they discovered the significance of Confucian ideals in today’s world.

 

Ramble Shandong-A Journey into Confucian Wisdom at Nishan

 

Hong Leong Bank Launches Next-Generation Branches Designed for Enhanced Customer Experience and Interpersonal Connection

The Bank’s innovative restructuring of its branch network has also led to winning the Best Branch Transformation Initiative in Asia Pacific award by The Asian Banker

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As part of Hong Leong Bank’s (“HLB” or “the Bank”) bankwide transformation plan, the Bank has unveiled the latest chapter in its ambitious branch transformation initiative with the unveiling of its next-generation branches.

HLB’s next-generation branches were officially launched by Tan Kong Khoon, President and CEO of Hong Leong Financial Group [center], alongside Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director & CEO of HLB [2nd from right]; Andrew Jong, HLB’s Managing Director of Personal Financial Services [2nd from left]; Yow Kuan Tuck, HLB’s Managing Director of Business & Corporate Banking [left]; and Jeffrey Yap, HLB’s Managing Director of Regional Wealth Management [right]
HLB’s next-generation branches were officially launched by Tan Kong Khoon, President and CEO of Hong Leong Financial Group [center], alongside Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director & CEO of HLB [2nd from right]; Andrew Jong, HLB’s Managing Director of Personal Financial Services [2nd from left]; Yow Kuan Tuck, HLB’s Managing Director of Business & Corporate Banking [left]; and Jeffrey Yap, HLB’s Managing Director of Regional Wealth Management [right]

These include reimagined flagship branches in Old Klang Road, Cheras, and Kota Damansara, alongside a renewed branch in Cheng, Melaka. This comprehensive branch transformation builds on the success of the iconic Light Street branch in Penang launched exactly one year ago and the innovative Meet @ HLB concept introduced in Eco Majestic, Semenyih early this year.

In a resounding testament to its innovative branch banking approach, HLB has also been awarded the Best Branch Transformation Initiative in Asia Pacific 2025 award by The Asian Banker. This prestigious recognition underscores the Bank’s leadership in redefining the physical banking experience and its unwavering commitment to customer-centricity.

Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director and CEO of HLB, commented on the Bank’s strategic imperative to transcend branch banking model, as HLB works towards becoming the Best Run Bank in Malaysia.

“As a Digital Bank Plus Much More, we’re reimagining our physical branches as a “one-stop centre”. Here, you can address all your financial needs, from setting up your children’s first savings account to comprehensive legacy planning and supporting your business growth with SME loans and green financing. We’re also collaborating with other Hong Leong Financial Group companies to offer an extended range of products and services, including comprehensive insurance services and advisory centers, ensuring all your banking needs can be met under one roof. This creates a truly hybrid banking model, where our physical presence amplifies our digital capabilities by serving as centers for complex financial advisory, in-person portfolio management, and relationship building.”

To achieve this excellence in efficiency and customer experience, HLB’s reimagined branches are meticulously designed to foster an inviting, warm, and friendly atmosphere, where comfortable interiors encourage meaningful conversations about customers’ financial futures.

“This is where human connection truly matters most,” Lam added. “Crucial interactions, such as wealth advisory, insurance planning, and in-depth discussions about business growth, require a high degree of trust, empathy, and tailored advice. These new spaces are crafted to facilitate those private, conducive environments, because trust cannot be transacted; it must be built through genuine human interaction.”

Each branch within HLB’s comprehensive network is tailored to its local demographic, ensuring customers receive the most seamless, relevant, and accessible banking experience possible. The reimagined flagship branches now include a dedicated Priority Banking Center, which offers a private and inviting environment for customers.

Similarly, for the Bank’s business and corporate clients, these branches serve as vital community hubs, facilitating essential in-person discussions for business owners seeking financing, navigating uncertainties, or bespoke advisory services, reinforcing the invaluable human connection and dedicated partnership that empowers their growth.

The four branches launched by HLB are just the first in a series of renewed branches that will be rolled out in the near future, as the Bank looks to further enhance its branch banking network and provide a seamless banking experience for its customers.

For more information on the diversified services provided at HLB’s branches, please visit https://www.hlb.com.my/en/personal-banking/help-support/branch-locator.html

About Hong Leong Bank Berhad

Please visit www.hlb.com.my

Berlin Heals Announces Publication of Two-Year Clinical Outcomes of Cardiac Microcurrent Therapy in ESC Heart Failure

Study shows sustained improvements in heart failure symptoms and function following long-term C-MIC therapy

ZUG, Switzerland, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Berlin Heals, a pioneer in bioelectric medicine for the treatment of heart failure, is pleased to announce the publication of a new peer-reviewed study titled “Two-year outcomes of a cardiac microcurrent device in chronic heart failure: A first-in-human pilot study” in the ESC Heart Failure journal.

The study presents the long-term follow-up of patients enrolled in the initial pilot trial of the Cardiac Microcurrent Implantable Device (C-MIC), designed to restore myocardial function in patients with chronic heart failure. This publication marks the first report of sustained clinical benefit following the discontinuation of active therapy—two years after initial device implantation.

Study Summary
The two-year follow-up evaluated the safety, durability, and efficacy of C-MIC therapy in seven patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA Class III, mean LVEF 31.7%). Patients who had completed the initial six-month pilot trial were reassessed for mortality, hospitalization rates, device-related adverse events, and functional status.

Key findings include:

  • No device-related adverse events were reported over the two-year period.
  • LVEF improvements of +11.6% at 6 months were sustained at +12.6% two years after deactivation of the device.
  • 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) improved by over 200 meters at 6 months and remained nearly +191 meters above baseline at two years.
  • Improvements in NYHA functional class and SF-36 quality-of-life scores were maintained.
  • Only one patient required C-MIC reactivation.

“These findings offer important clinical insights into the long-term potential of C-MIC therapy,” said Prof. Dragana Kosevic, the study’s first author and Co-Principal Investigator. “What’s most encouraging is that the improvements in cardiac function and patient well-being were sustained even after the device was deactivated, suggesting a disease-modifying effect.”

John Brumfield, CEO of Berlin Heals, added: “The publication of this study reinforces our confidence in microcurrent therapy as a transformative treatment for heart failure. These two-year results validate both the safety and long-lasting impact of C-MIC and set the stage for larger clinical trials.”

Berlin Heals is currently expanding its clinical development program, with the multicenter C-MIC III trial now underway in several European countries.

To access the full publication in ESC Heart Failure, please visit http://doi.org/10.1002/ehf2.15369.

Media Contact:
John Brumfield
media@berlinheals.de

Disclaimer:
The C-MIC device is investigational and not approved for commercial use in any jurisdiction. Its safety and effectiveness are still under evaluation.

 

Klook and Hoshino Resorts Are Making It Easier To Explore Japan’s Hidden Gems

  • Klook and Hoshino Resorts are reshaping how the world explores Japan—making it easier than ever for travelers to tap into regional travel.
  • With new Stay+ bundles that combine Hoshino Resorts’ KAI ryokans and Klook’s transport strength, the partnership tackles overtourism while unlocking seamless access to Japan’s lesser-known destinations.

SINGAPORE, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Klook, a leading platform for experiences and travel services in Asia Pacific, has teamed up with Japan’s renowned hospitality brand Hoshino Resorts to make regional Japan more accessible than ever. The collaboration aims to connect travelers with authentic local experiences beyond the usual tourist hotspots—think beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka—helping to ease overcrowding while driving fresh demand to Japan’s up-and-coming destinations.

From left to right: Wilfred Fan (Chief Commercial Officer, Klook), Yoshiharu Hoshino (CEO of Hoshino Resorts), Wataru Masuda (General Manager, Klook Japan)
From left to right: Wilfred Fan (Chief Commercial Officer, Klook), Yoshiharu Hoshino (CEO of Hoshino Resorts), Wataru Masuda (General Manager, Klook Japan)

 

Hoshino Resorts' signature KAI ryokans and transportation pass bundles are now available on Klook (KAI Poroto pictured).
Hoshino Resorts’ signature KAI ryokans and transportation pass bundles are now available on Klook (KAI Poroto pictured).

“Overtourism is a global issue, and Japan feels it strongly,” said Wilfred Fan, Chief Commercial Officer of Klook. “Alongside Hoshino Resorts, we’re committed to promoting sustainable tourism through regional travel, and take this step toward securing the long-term future of Japan’s tourism ecosystem.”

Rising Demand for Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

According to Klook’s latest Travel Pulse survey, 63% of Asia Pacific travelers want to avoid crowded destinations and seek out less-traveled places. And in Japan, Klook data reveals surging interest in emerging cities such as Kunigami, Nagakute, and Usu that are witnessing a rapid rise in demand.

What’s fueling this shift?

  • Opening of JUNGLIA, a new theme park that is putting Northern Okinawa’s Kunigami on the map
  • Nagakute continues to shine, from the continued demand around Ghibli Park.
  • Usu, tucked away in Hokkaido, is drawing nature lovers with its volcano treks, scenic trails, and open-air onsen escapes.

Stay+ Bundles: Seamless Travel Made Simple

Interest in exploring Japan’s emerging cities is on the rise, yet many international visitors still face practical barriers: limited transport coverage, language gaps, and a lack of reliable booking information. At the heart of the partnership are co-designed Stay+ bundles that pair stays at Hoshino Resorts’ signature KAI ryokans with transportation passes like the JR Pass. Think tranquil onsens, authentic kaiseki cuisine, and hyper-local touches, paired with effortless rail travel, all easily bookable on Klook with instant confirmation and multilingual support.

Mapped to 21 KAI properties located in places like Poroto in Hokkaido, Tsugaru in Tohoku, or Okuhida in the Japanese Alps, these bundles give travelers an easy step into Japan’s lesser-known culture, flavours, and traditions.

“We’re honored to partner with Hoshino Resorts. Their unique accommodation and brand appeal, combined with Klook’s strength in transportation, platform access, and regional marketing capabilities, will help raise awareness of Japan’s lesser-known destinations,” said Wataru Masuda, General Manager of Klook Japan. “This will encourage more travelers to explore regional areas and experience Japan’s diverse natural and cultural offerings. Looking ahead, we plan to expand with more hotel brands from Hoshino Resorts and leverage AI tools to help travelers plan and book local travel experiences directly on the platform.”

Expanding and Encouraging Deeper Travel

The rollout kicks off in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and Korea, with more markets to come. It’s the first step in a bigger vision: reimagining how the world discovers Japan, one local gem at a time.

Yoshiharu Hoshino, CEO of Hoshino Resorts added, “With growing pressure on urban tourism, guiding travelers deeper into regional areas and achieving tourism dispersion has become a long-standing priority. By partnering with Klook to integrate accommodation and transportation, we believe we can effectively address the challenge of limited local transportation and attract more travelers to explore various regions of Japan, improving both the visibility and accessibility of local tourism.”

About Klook

Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions and tours to local transport and experiential stays, in over 3,400 destinations globally. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.

For media enquiries, please contact:
press@klook.com

Ancient Buddha Statues Unearthed During Temple Renovation in Champasack

The ancient Buddha images (Photo: ວັດກາງເມືອງ ຈຳປາສັກ)

On 14 July, workers and local villagers unearthed a total of 70 ancient Buddha statues during restoration work at Muang Kang temple in Champasack district, Champasack Province, on 14 July.

Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide

JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia has officially launched Event by Indonesia, a digital platform designed as a centralized hub for information on various events across the country.

Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide
Ministry of Tourism Launches Event by Indonesia, Making It Easier for People to Access Event Information Nationwide

The official accounts Event by Indonesia provides comprehensive and engaging information across seven Wonderful Event pillars: Music, Creative, Culinary, Sports & Wellness, Arts & Culture, Carnival, and MICE (Meeting, Incentive, Convention, and Exhibition) that is available on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Event by Indonesia provides detailed information on a wide range of event scales, including international, national, regional events, MICE, and 110 events under Karisma Event Nusantara (KEN) program.

As one of Indonesia’s tourism platforms, Event by Indonesia aims to simplify public access to up-to-date information on upcoming events, ticketing and accommodation, event line-ups and schedules, and to enhance overall event engagement through real-time updates.

“The presence of Event by Indonesia is expected to simplify access to information for both local and international audiences, allowing them to enjoy a diverse and exciting events Indonesia has to offer,” said Vinsensius Jemadu, Deputy for Tourism Products and Event Organizers at the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia, during the official launch at the Sapta Pesona Building on Monday, July 7, 2025.

“This platform is also part of our ongoing efforts to promote Indonesia as a top destination with high-quality events that support the tourism sector.”

Through the official Event by Indonesia accounts, people can also find curated tourism references including natural, cultural, and culinary destinations near events location, making it a practical guide for planning travel experiences in Indonesia.

Online-to-offline (O2O) activations will be held at selected events supported by Event by Indonesia as a promotional initiative to build engagement with people and communities. These activations will encourage attendees to share their event experiences via Instagram Stories for a chance to win exclusive prizes.

Furthermore, Event by Indonesia embraces the concepts of sustainability and festivity, blending the vibrancy and grandeur of events with a commitment to environmental care. Through these two approaches, the platform aims to promote not only festive celebrations, but also create positive social and economic impacts while preserving the local environment.

Event by Indonesia stands as an innovative solution for bringing event information closer to the public in an accessible way, while supporting The Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia commitment to develop sustainable tourism in Indonesia.

For more information about Event by Indonesia and other tourism-related events, visit www.indonesia.travel or follow the official Instagram account of Event by Indonesia.

Sustainability in Event Activation: The Blue Zone at UNFCCC COP29

HONG KONG, July 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pico delivered the largest temporary infrastructure around a permanent facility in the history of UNFCCC COP and the first COP event certified under ISO20121 for sustainability, demonstrating its unmatched expertise in sustainable construction and large-scale event management.


Pico’s Activation at COP29

The Brief

Held from 11-22 November in Baku, Azerbaijan, the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) was the second largest in this globally significant event’s history. With Pico working as main official contractor of the event’s ‘Blue Zone’, it also represented a milestone in sustainable event management and an impressive demonstration of how large-scale event activations can align with sustainability goals.

Insight

Led by Pico’s multinational team of more than 1,200 professionals and workers, the project transformed the 215,000 sq. m. Baku Stadium into the COP29 ‘Blue Zone’. Themed ‘Make Waves’, it contained vital conferencing and negotiation facilities, country/corporate pavilions, and an offsite information centre within central Baku. The ‘Blue Zone’ was the biggest design-and-build temporary infrastructure around a permanent facility in the history of UNFCCC COP. 

Key project challenges included balancing the zone’s massive infrastructural needs with health, safety and environmental standards – and completing its full planning and execution within six months. The team responded with an intensive mobilisation programme for the workforce, production sites and key supply chain partners designed to overcome the logistical challenges.

Solution

The Pico team took an innovative approach to the Blue Zone by implementing realistic sustainability goals for design and construction that would allow for ISO20121 event certification at the outset. The event’s information centre and country/ corporate pavilions also not only demonstrated effective environmental stewardship, but also exceeded the Conference’s needs by increasing Azerbaijan’s long-term capacity to host environmentally responsible international gatherings.

Over a six-month period, the team leveraged expertise in design, management, master site planning, branding, wayfinding and signage design, and substantially reduce carbon footprint and increase potentials with venue facility optimisation capabilities. Among other project elements, Pico was responsible for site groundwork, steelwork, temporary infrastructure and AV-CCTV conduit works. The team executed a comprehensive interior fit-out including detailed design, VVIP joinery, flooring, furniture, landscaping and decor. Executed tasks also included the construction of toilet and kitchen infrastructure, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), and art exhibition curation.

Information centre & country pavilions

A further significant feature was the COP29 information centre, designed and built as a permanent structure to serve future events right in the heart of Baku. Pico also designed and built pavilions for Azerbaijan, Singapore, FINS and the Zero Waste Pavilion.

Sustainable leadership

A solar glass-powered entrance arch introduced design features for renewable energy generation and was a significant development in integrating cutting-edge technology and functional design for sustainable event spaces without compromising aesthetic appeal or operational efficiency.

As the event’s sole ISO 20121 sustainable certification auditee amongst the host country’s appointed contractors, Pico stood out for its in-depth knowledge, experience and leadership with environmental stewardship in the events industry. The project integrated sustainable construction methods with local supply chain initiatives, developed permanent infrastructure and in turn transferred valuable skills and knowledge as legacy for Azerbaijan’s events industry.

Result

COP 29 attracted over 70,000 visitors.

Testimonials

‘The Pico team’s expertise, dedication and professionalism played a pivotal role in the smooth execution of this globally significant event. The high standards of quality and attention to detail the team demonstrated throughout the project were truly impressive. From planning and construction to final delivery, your commitment to excellence helped create a world-class venue that met the needs of all participants and stakeholders.’ 

– Narmin Jarchalova, CEO, COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company

‘As we approach the end of another year in the UNFCCC climate change process, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for your cooperation and support during the preparation of COP 29 and throughout the conference. This conference has been challenging because of the huge number of participants and the limited preparation time. I would like to extend to you my appreciation for the support of the Pico team for their extraordinary efficiency, flexibility and friendly manner.’ 

– Wasim Mir, Director, Conference Affairs Division, United Nations Climate Change Secretariat