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Body of Man Abducted from Laos Found in Chiang Mai

Body of Man Abducted from Laos Found in Chiang Mai
Thai medical officers carry the body of the deceased victim (photo credit: North Now)

Thai police have discovered the body of a 24-year-old Chinese man, identified only as Yang, who was murdered in Chiang Mai Province on 14 July, shortly after travelling from Laos to Thailand. Authorities suspect the killing was the result of a failed ransom kidnapping orchestrated by fellow Chinese nationals.

AXA and China Biotech Services Sign Memorandum of Understanding

Joint effort to explore innovative cancer treatment solutions and broaden options for customers

HONG KONG, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AXA China Region Insurance Company (Bermuda) Limited, together with AXA International Reinsurance (Shanghai) Company Limited (“AXA”), is pleased to announce the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Biotech Services Holdings Limited (“China Biotech Services”). The collaboration aims to explore innovative cancer treatment technologies, including Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (“BNCT”) and related services, with the goal of providing customers with a broader range of diversified treatment options.

BNCT is a targeted radiotherapy that involves administering a boron-containing drug as a targeting agent. After the tumour absorbs the boron-containing drug, it is then irradiated with a neutron beam, triggering a nuclear reaction in the boron atoms. This reaction causes the boron atoms to undergo nuclear fission, releasing high-energy particles that selectively destroy tumour cells while sparing the surrounding healthy cells. BNCT offers greater precise than traditional radiotherapy, effectively targeting cancer cells without damaging nearby normal cells. It is particularly suitable for treating malignant tumours resistant to traditional radiotherapy or those that have recurred, such as malignant gliomas (brain tumours) and recurrent head and neck cancers. Additionally, BNCT shows potential efficacy for melanoma, liver cancer, and malignant pleural mesothelioma. In 2020, BNCT was approved in Japan as a clinical treatment covered by the national health insurance system and has since been incorporated into the public healthcare system.[1] Currently, BNCT is conducting a Phase I clinical trial in Japan for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma, exploring treatments for earlier-stage patients and covering more types of cancer.[2]

Notably, head and neck cancer encompasses a range of common malignancies, including nasopharyngeal, oral, oropharyngeal, laryngeal, and hypopharyngeal cancers. According to the Hong Kong Cancer Registry, there has been a steady rise in new cases of head and neck cancers over the past decade. In 2022, there were 1,464 new cases involving the lip, oral cavity, pharynx, and nasopharynx, with approximately two-thirds of patients being male. The highest incidence was recorded among individuals aged 45 to 65, indicating a pronounced gender and age-related prevalence.[3]

Janet Lee, Chief Life and Health Insurance Officer, AXA Hong Kong and Macau, said, “AXA remains deeply committed to a customer-first philosophy, offering comprehensive and high-quality medical protection tailored to individual needs. We continuously track healthcare trends and integrate cutting-edge medical solutions into our insurance plans to ensure our services remain relevant and impactful. We are delighted to collaborate with China Biotech Services to jointly explore innovative medical technologies and pharmaceuticals, further enhancing our insurance offerings and deliver exceptional health protection and a wide range of care options to customers in need. This collaboration underscores AXA’s dedication to providing excellent health protection and diversified medical solutions.”

About AXA Hong Kong and Macau

AXA Hong Kong and Macau is a member of the AXA Group, a leading global insurer with presence in 50 markets and serving 95 million customers worldwide. Our purpose is to act for human progress by protecting what matters.

As one of the most diversified insurers in Hong Kong, we offer integrated solutions across Life, Health and General Insurance. We are the largest General Insurance provider and a major Health and Employee Benefits provider. Our aim is to not only be the insurer to provide comprehensive protection to our customers, but also a holistic partner to the individuals, businesses and community we serve. At the core of our service commitment is continuous product & service innovation and customer experience enrichment, which is achieved through actively listening to our customers’ needs and leveraging and investing in technology and digital transformation.

We embrace our responsibility to be a driving force against climate change and a force for good to create shared value for our community. We are proud to be the first to address the importance of mental health through different products and services and thought leading iconic research. Our overall Sustainability Strategy, with emphasis on climate strategy and biodiversity commitment, is developed based on TCFD recommendations. We are committed to integrating environmental, social and governance factors across our business and strive to contribute to a sustainable future through 3 distinct roles – as an investor, an insurer and an exemplary company.

About China Biotech Services Holdings Limited

China Biotech Services Holdings Limited is a leading company listed on the Hong Kong GEM. It was included in the MSCI Hong Kong Micro Cap Index in May 2018.

The company is dedicated to establishing a cutting-edge biotechnology platform integrating cancer diagnosis and treatment. Building upon its existing third-party testing business and expanding through strategic collaborations and mergers & acquisitions, CBSH focuses on two core domains: precision diagnostics and precision therapeutics. It maintains a dedicated focus on pioneering technological fields including Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) and CAR-T cell therapy.

THIS PRESS RELEASE IS AVAILABLE ON AXA’S WEBSITE: AXA.COM.HK  

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain statements contained herein may be forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans or objectives. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements because, by their nature, they are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and can be affected by other factors that could cause AXA’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to Part 4 – “Risk factors and risk management” of AXA’s Universal Registration Document for the year ended December 31, 2019, for a description of certain important factors, risks and uncertainties that may affect AXA’s business, and/or results of operations. AXA undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise, except as part of applicable regulatory or legal obligations.

Ready Media Group Targets Owner-Occupier Surge with New Listing Tools

MELBOURNE, Australia, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ready Media Group (RMG) has launched new property listing tools on its CommercialReady portal to capitalise on the growing owner-occupier market – a move backed by leading commercial real estate agents. 

The Occupier Plus and Occupier MAX packages zero in on serious buyers with smart, location-driven campaigns. Occupier Plus targets local leads; Occupier MAX reaches a national audience. Both are powered by CommercialReady’s supercharged social media lead-generation system, using a proprietary combination of first-party data and precise geographic and demographic filters.

Chris Gallichio, Head of Digital at Ready Media Group, said the company is doubling down on innovation to keep pace with evolving buyer behaviour.

“We’ve spent the last decade building platforms that reflect how agents operate and how buyers search,” Gallichio said. “These packages apply that experience to what agents need most: qualified leads that convert and tools that make their job easier.”

Agents say Occupier Plus and Occupier MAX get results.

Coastal Commercial Director Jared Johnson said the response had been “phenomenal”. “It’s connected us with the right buyers from day one and driven immediate momentum,” he said.

Dylan Kilner, Director at Stonebridge Property Group, said tapping into rising owner-occupier demand gave them a competitive edge. “The Occupier Plus and Occupier MAX have helped us and our vendors stand out in this competitive space, ensuring they connect directly with the growing pool of motivated owner-occupiers,” he said.

Key features of the packages include:

  • Targeted social campaigns: Reach buyers by location, industry, job title, business needs and behaviour.
  • National listing exposure: Live listings on the CommercialReady portal with real-time visibility.
  • Integrated data rooms: Manage documents, track buyers and streamline due diligence with InstaDocs.
  • Precision email marketing: connect with active investors and occupiers.

For more information, visit https://www.readymediagroup.com.au

About Ready Media Group

Ready Media Group is one of Australia’s leading commercial property media, technology, and data companies. Through its property portals, DevelopmentReady and CommercialReady, RMG connects developers, investors, agents, and advertisers with high-quality opportunities nationwide. With a decade-long track record, best-in-class service, and a commitment to innovation, RMG continues to redefine the commercial real estate marketing space.

The Westin Singapore Presents “Mind Over Miles” Fireside Chat to Celebrate Third Year with Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon

A fireside chat with Natalie Dau and Gregory Pink, part of the “One Race, Many Journeys” campaign

SINGAPORE, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In celebration of our third year as the Official Elite Hotel of the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon, The Westin Singapore proudly presents “One Race, Many Journeys: Mind Over Miles” — an inspiring evening of conversation, movement, and community with ultramarathoner, author, and motivational speaker, Natalie Dau, and Singapore-based personal trainer, Gregory Pink. This event is part of our “One Race, Many Journeys” campaign.

Natalie Dau and Gregory Pink
Natalie Dau and Gregory Pink

Taking place on Thursday, 7 August 2025, at our ballroom foyer on Level 3, the evening will be headlined by Natalie Dau and Gregory Pink, a renowned wellness coach and corporate performance strategist. Together, they will explore how runners can build mental resilience, conquer fear and anxiety, and find strength through adversity.

The event will feature an intimate fireside chat, followed by a Q&A and photo session, and a 2.4KM fun run around scenic Marina Bay. Led by Eddie, the Run Concierge of The Westin Singapore, the run will be preceded by a guided stretching session to warm up both body and mind.

Meet Natalie Dau
Natalie Dau is a global keynote speaker, Guinness World Record Holder, co-author of “Run Like a Woman” and an ASICS-sponsored athlete and ambassador. She is also spokesperson for brands including Garmin, Arla, and AG1 by Athletic Greens.

A well-known ultramarathoner and personality in the regional fitness industry and having taken part in numerous ultramarathons and running events, she recently completed her second Project 1000, a 1,000km solo run comprising two marathons a day for 12 days in the Philippines. Last year, her feat from Thailand to Singapore earned her the Singapore record for the “Fastest 1,000km Thailand-Singapore Ultramarathon”.

She also recently started Project 1000 Run Club, Singapore’s first early-morning run club, founded on the idea of running with purpose and being 100% inclusive, welcoming all ages, abilities, and whether you choose to run or even walk.

Meet Gregory Pink
Gregory Pink is a Singapore-based personal trainer known for his expertise in strength and conditioning, and his thoughtful, heart-led approach to fitness. He is dedicated to helping others become their strongest and healthiest versions by empowering them both physically and mentally. Beyond the gym, he is a proud husband and father of three, drawing strength and purpose from his family and the values they share.

In 2024, Gregory’s life took a dramatic turn after a traumatic accident that led to the amputation of his lower left leg. Through months of rehabilitation and reflection, Gregory rebuilt not just his body but also his perspective and purpose, turning a moment of defeat into a powerful journey of resilience, recovery, and personal transformation. From this August onwards, he will continue to train his clients while championing inclusivity in sport and adaptive wellness.

In this session, Gregory will open up about his powerful journey alongside ultramarathoner Natalie Dau, offering reflections on the strength and his story, a living example we can find in adversity, redefine strength on one’s own terms, and the power of choosing to rise.

Event Detail
Location: Foyer, Level 3, The Westin Singapore
Date: Thursday, 7 August 2025
Time: 6:30PM – 8:15PM (Registration from 6PM)
Ticket: free admission
Ticket includes light refreshments and a goodie bag. Comfortable active wear and running shoes are recommended.
Register here to secure your spot

Program

6PM

Arrival and Registration

6:30PM – 6:35PM

Welcome Speech by James Walkden, General Manager, The Westin Singapore

6:35PM – 7PM

Fireside Chat – Building Mental Strength for the Long Run

7PM – 7:15PM

Q&A and Photo Opportunity

7:15PM – 8PM

Stretching and 2.4KM Fun Run around Marina Bay with Eddie Chang, the Run Concierge of The Westin Singapore

This event is proudly supported by Curated Culture, Arla, and AG1.

Whether you are a seasoned runner or just beginning your journey, join us to discover how strong the mind can be when the body is pushed to its limits. Because no matter your pace or path — it is one race, with many journeys.

About The Westin Singapore
As Singapore’s first integrated hotel located within an office building, The Westin Singapore occupies levels 32 to 46 of Asia Square Tower 2 commercial development in Marina Bay, the heart of Singapore’s bustling financial district. The hotel offers 305 guestrooms and suites, four distinct dining venues, an outdoor infinity pool with a stunning view over Singapore’s south coast, the Heavenly Spa by Westin™, WestinWORKOUT® fitness studio equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym and TRX fitness equipment and 1,350 square meters of versatile event spaces, all designed with guests’ well-being in mind.

For more information, please visit thewestinsingapore.com.

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in well-being for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 240 hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program featuring the latest in recovery and strength training from Hyperice and Bala, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,100 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 142 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Media Contact:

Margareth Sugiarto

Assistant Director, Marketing Communications

The Westin Singapore

65.6922.6864

Margareth.Sugiarto@westin.com  

Teo Shi Min

Marketing Communications Manager

The Westin Singapore

65.6922.6861

Shimin.Teo@westin.com  

 

Euroclear to deliver post-trade infrastructure connecting all 27 EU markets in all financial asset classes

BRUSSELS, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Euroclear today unveils a comprehensive plan to establish a true single market for post-trade services across asset classes. This initiative, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of European market infrastructure, will support the Savings and Investments Union’s (SIU) ambitions and ensure Europe remains the ‘go-to place’ for investors and issuers globally.

Euroclear’s ambitious project will bring a number of significant benefits, including providing seamless connectivity across the single market, encouraging healthy market competition, promoting financial stability, and fostering innovation and accelerated technology adoption. To do so, Euroclear builds on the know-how, scale and global connectivity of its unique model: combining the leading international Central Securities Depository (Euroclear Bank) with its six local CSDs in Europe. This open-model positions Euroclear as Europe’s gateway to the world – enabling it to connect global markets, drive innovation and unlock further efficiency. 

Euroclear commits to provide a single point of access to all 27 Member States across all financial asset classes – equities, fixed income and all types of funds, by:

  • Offering both central bank money and commercial bank money access to all EU CSDs by accelerating the full connection of Euroclear Bank to the European Central Bank’s Target2-Securities (T2S) platform.
  • Delivering more efficient and integrated services through enhanced synergies between Euroclear’s local CSDs as well as with Euroclear Bank.

This action plan will see Euroclear continue to invest in infrastructure and services that contribute to a more efficient single market: 

  • Providing a pan-European infrastructure for issuers seeking access to a broad investor ecosystem, deep liquidity and cost-effective issuer services.
  • Enhancing post-trade infrastructure to channel retail and institutional investment towards equities, mutual and alternative fund products.
  • Building on our leading collateral management solutions to enhance liquidity and stability in global financial markets.
  • Working with central banks and market participants on the development of next-generation digital infrastructure.

To implement this action plan, Euroclear’s focus will be to complete Euroclear Bank’s commercial bank money access to all 27 EU Member States by 2026. In parallel, we will accelerate Euroclear Bank’s connection to T2S to offer Central Bank Money access thereafter.

Valérie Urbain, Euroclear’s CEO, commented: “The key to more liquid and effective capital markets in Europe is through driving market openness, interconnectivity and maximising choice for users. Only under these conditions can European markets truly thrive and remain competitive at a global level. Today, we are committed to making Euroclear the single-entry point for all asset classes including funds, fixed income and equities across the 27 Member States.”

Euroclear has been actively contributing to the financing of the European economy and integration of European markets over decades. Today, as the largest CSD group in Europe, Euroclear holds over 50% of all securities issued in the EU and represents over 60% of EU settlement turnover.

To support these efforts, Euroclear has outlined several policy priorities and recommendations [https://www.euroclear.com/content/dam/euroclear/news%20&%20insights/Format/PDFs/2025/Euroclear-Policy-Paper_SIU_July-2025.pdf] for European policymakers and market participants. These include enabling FMI group integration and regulatory simplification, strengthening open access and competition, fostering legal and regulatory convergence, optimizing settlement and asset servicing, scaling digital assets and DLT infrastructures, and enhancing supervisory consistency.

Contact: Jorgen Muylaert, jorgen.muylaert@euroclear.com, +32 479 77 14 80

NX Group Receives Intel’s 2025 EPIC Supplier Award

– Only Logistics Provider Selected from All of Intel’s Global Supply Chains –

TOKYO, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The NX Group has received the 2025 EPIC Supplier Award from Intel Corporation (“Intel”), the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturer. The award recognizes outstanding companies in Intel’s supply chains for their global efforts in continually improving quality and for their strong performance over the past year, and the NX Group was the only forwarder to win the award.

Logo: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dqm0cxpYamnvMUra1AGXMuGlX932Z353/view?usp=drive_link 

Award ceremony participants*: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1o2UwoLMNq0vdcNMAPJaal-79nbtFNrDn/view?usp=drive_link 

*First from left: Frank Sanders, Corporate Vice President, Intel Corporation

Second from left: Yoshiyuki Kanamori, Executive Officer, Nippon Express Co., Ltd.

Third from left: Satoshi Horikiri, President, NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, INC.

Fourth from left: Angel Martin, Senior Director of Supply Chain Strategic Solutions, Intel Corporation

Trophy:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P1bjn42xyLTlBnaoiHJJFiHyhxnj8MZ1/view?usp=drive_link 

The EPIC Supplier Award, Intel’s highest award for suppliers, is presented to companies that embody the four values of Excellence, Partnership, Inclusion, and Continuous Improvement. Of the thousands of Intel suppliers around the world, only a few hundred qualify to participate in the EPIC Supplier Program. From them, 37 top performers were honored for their world-class achievements. The NX Group was recognized for “Excellence in Quality” and was the only logistics provider to receive the award.

The award ceremony was held on Monday, June 23 (local time) in Santa Clara, California, and was attended by Satoshi Horikiri, President and Representative Director of NIPPON EXPRESS HOLDINGS, who accepted the trophy from Intel. Frank Sanders, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of Global Supply Chain Operations at Intel, expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership and remarked that “the NX Group’s recent growth is a reflection of its high service quality.”

The NX Group will continue strengthening its partnership with Intel and contributing to the further development of the semiconductor industry and the realization of sustainable societies through the provision of high-quality logistics services.

About the NX Group:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mbvBL6C8THZNrR5LREgGeafNkEdaAmV-/view?usp=drive_link 

NX Group official website: https://www.nipponexpress.com/ 

NX Group’s official LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nippon-express-group/ 

Banyan Group Maintains Strategic Momentum with Global Milestones in Lead-up to 100th Hotel Grand Opening

Mid-year update underscores strategic expansion across Asia, Africa and Europe, with milestone anniversaries in China and the Maldives reflecting legacy and purpose

SINGAPORE, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58), an independent global hospitality company, enters the second half of 2025 with strategic momentum across its diversified portfolio of hotels, branded residences, and purpose-led experiences. This November, Banyan Group will mark a significant moment in its journey with the Grand Opening of Mandai Rainforest Resort—its 100th hotel and a symbolic homecoming in Singapore—through a weeklong celebration and charity festival.

Banyan Group’s Upcoming Debut in Safari Hospitality: Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape
Banyan Group’s Upcoming Debut in Safari Hospitality: Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape

The first half of the year saw the Group mark a series of milestones—from new market entries and openings to key anniversaries that reflect its growing presence and ongoing commitment to purpose-led hospitality.

“The first half of 2025 reflects not only the growth of our footprint, but also our belief that hospitality should offer more than just a place to stay,” said Eddy See, President and CEO of Banyan Group. “It’s about something authentic shaped by thoughtful design, cultural depth, and genuine care. As we grow, we remain committed to using travel as a force for positive change and to deepening meaning, not just expanding presence.”

Expanding into Sub-Saharan Africa: A Debut in Safari Hospitality  

Looking ahead, Banyan Group is set to deepen its presence in Africa with the upcoming launch of its first safari resort, Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape, located in the heart of one of East Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas. Opening in late 2025, this eco-luxury retreat offers rare access to Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets, renowned for its raw natural beauty and extraordinary biodiversity. The park is home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations, the highest density of lions, endangered wild dogs, and over 570 bird species.

Crafted with local materials and inspired by traditional Maasai architecture, Ubuyu will launch with a limited collection of six artisan villas in its first phase. Each villa is designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding savannah with private pools and expansive views. Guided by dedicated Escape Hosts, guests will embark on immersive wildlife encounters, cultural exchanges, and riverside rituals. As Banyan Group’s debut in safari hospitality, Ubuyu represents a bold step into new frontiers and reinforces the Group’s commitment to meaningful, regenerative travel experiences.

20 Years in China: Deepening Presence and Impact

2025 commemorates Banyan Group’s 20th year in China, where it first brought its ethos of nature, culture, and community to the highlands of Shangri-La, restoring traditional Tibetan farmhouses to open Banyan Tree Ringha as its first hotel in the country. Today, the Group operates 33 hotels across five brands in the market.

This year’s new openings include Banyan Tree Zhuhai Phoenix Bay, Angsana Zhoushan, Dhawa Beihai Weizhou Island, Homm Wenzhou Nanxijiang, and Homm Hengqin. New signings in Guangzhou, Xiamen, and Wenling further anchor the Group’s presence across both tier-one cities and emerging destinations.

The Group continues to expand its community impact through the Banyan Environmental and Community Fund, launched in partnership with the China Environmental Protection Foundation. A new clean water project in Lijiang will launch this year to mark the 20th anniversary, complementing ongoing initiatives in coral reef restoration, marine protection, and education.

30 Years in the Maldives: Recognition from the Government of Maldives

The Group will mark three decades in the Maldives with the anniversary of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, a pioneer in sustainable eco-luxury since its opening in 1995. In July, the Group was honoured by the Government of the Maldives for its contributions to environmental stewardship and bilateral relations. The award was presented by His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, President of the Maldives, at the Maldives–Singapore Business Forum.

Strategic Openings Across Southeast Asia

Banyan Group continues to diversify its footprint across the region. The first Garrya property in Vietnam, Garrya Mu Cang Chai opened in the terraced hills of the north, blending bamboo-led architecture with cultural immersion. In the Philippines, the upcoming opening of Homm Mandaue Cebu later this year will extend the Homm brand’s presence in a fast-growing urban market.

Expanding Retail Reach Through Banyan Tree Gallery

Banyan Tree Gallery, the Group’s artisan-led retail concept, continues to grow its international presence. Its curated selection of sustainable crafts and wellbeing products is now available onboard China Airlines, adding to existing inflight retail partnerships with Emirates, EVA Air and Starlux airlines.

Residential Growth in Europe and Asia

In Europe, the sales launch of Banyan Tree Padilla Madrid Residences marks the Group’s first residential development on the continent. Located in Madrid’s prestigious Salamanca district, the residences reinterpret a 1948 architectural landmark by Gutiérrez Soto into one to four bedrooms residences, with interiors by Caramba Estudio, each with generous terraces and access to private amenities including a Turkish bath, indoor pool, and landscaped courtyards.

In Southeast Asia, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Oceanus launched in Laguna Phuket, offering 16 exclusive beachfront homes with access to a private club, BDMS wellness services, golf membership, Thailand Elite visa and family privileges including an onsite preschool and international school access. To meet rising demand, Banyan Group has also established dedicated sales teams in the UAE and Saudi Arabia to serve growing Middle East interest in Phuket’s real estate market.

Global Recognition and Accolades

In the past six months, Banyan Group has garnered over 100 industry accolades, including more than 20 honours across categories in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. Its flagship brand, Banyan Tree, was voted the #2 Best Hotel Brand by readers, while Dhawa Ihuru was recognised among the Best House Reefs in the Maldives. The Group also celebrated eight Forbes Travel Guide Star Award winners. Additionally, Banyan Group Residences was named Thailand’s Most Awarded Developer for the second consecutive year, with 15 wins at the Asia-Pacific Property Awards 2025–26.

For high-resolution images, please download here

ABOUT BANYAN GROUP

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans over 90 hotels and resorts, more than 140 spas and galleries, and 20 plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship brand Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme withBanyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

 

 

WePlay x Bugcat Capoo Collaboration Soars with Major App Store & Google Play Features in Taiwan

TAIPEI, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WePlay, the online social gaming platform beloved by young players, has successfully launched a cross-over collaboration with Taiwan’s renowned IP, Bugcat Capoo. This partnership has garnered significant featured placements on both the App Store and Google Play platforms in Taiwan, showcasing WePlay’s outstanding strength and leadership in the casual social gaming sector.

Image provided by WePlay
Image provided by WePlay

Igniting Taiwan’s Trend Scene: Deepening the Collaboration’s Reach

Since launch, the WePlay x Bugcat Capoo collaboration has rapidly captivated young users in Taiwan. Thanks to its unique gameplay and the adorable Bugcat Capoo character, it has sparked a new wave of online social interaction. As a platform highly favored by young users, WePlay combines “fun and immersive” features with “low-barrier and diverse” social gameplay to help users easily and naturally make new friends in-game, perfectly meeting users’ dual demands for gaming and socializing.

Dual Platform Endorsements Reaffirm WePlay’s Influence

Beyond its compelling content, the collaboration garnered strong support and recommendations from both Apple’s App Store and Google Play, reaffirming WePlay’s powerful appeal and outstanding performance in Taiwan:

  • App Store Today Homepage Feature: In mid-July, under the theme “WePlay x Bugcat Capoo: A Naughty Game of ‘Hide & Seek‘ with Capoo,” WePlay was featured on the Today homepage spotlight.
  • App Store Banner Selection: During the event, WePlay also received 7 days of App Store banner recommendations, ensuring continuous exposure and reaching tens of millions of users across Taiwan.
  • App Store Today Featured Activity: From mid-July to early August, the WePlay collaboration was selected for an App Store Today feature activity, allowing players to immerse themselves in Bugcat Capoo’s explosively cute and intriguing world.
  • Google Play Banner + Icon Special Recommendation: From early to mid-July, WePlay was prominently featured on Google Play with banner and icon placements, significantly boosting visibility and downloads.

Fusing Localization with Social Innovation to Achieve “Effortless Connection” for Millions of Players

The success of this collaboration exemplifies WePlay’s deep engagement in core markets and its innovative approach. As a social gaming leader with over 800 million downloads and millions of average monthly active users, WePlay is dedicated to creating “low-barrier, highly immersive, and strongly social” entertainment experiences. Leveraging Bugcat Capoo, a top-tier IP steeped in local culture, the platform fosters a relaxed, natural ice-breaking atmosphere. Its diverse social gameplay and low barrier to use make WePlay the go-to choice for young people to unwind after work and meet new friends. Embodying “Play after work, a good partner for stress relief,” WePlay enables young users in Taiwan to connect with like-minded new friends through fun games, perfectly meeting the new generation’s core demands for “gaming + socializing.”

Continuously Cultivating Social Gaming, Leading New Industry Trends

As a comprehensive platform integrating multiple games and entertainment functions, WePlay continues to focus deeply on the casual gaming and social sectors, striving to create high-quality, diverse board game experiences. WePlay has consistently ranked high on both the App Store and Google Play Free charts in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan markets. The success of the Bugcat Capoo collaboration and strong platform recommendations will undoubtedly solidify WePlay’s leadership in the casual social space.

About WePlay

WePlay is a new-generation global social entertainment platform developed by WeJoy, a Singapore-headquartered company. The platform integrates various functions such as games and entertainment. With the mission of “Bring joy and friends to young people around the world” and the vision of “Bring people together through games, lead the trend of global online social entertainment,” WePlay is committed to co-creating a new era of gaming and social interaction full of possibilities and innovation with players. Moving forward, WePlay will continue to expand collaborations with top global IPs, fostering cultural exchange through brand partnerships and building a social ecosystem that better meets young people’s needs.