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Future-oriented business model ensures successful fiscal year 2024, DEKRA continues on a path of growth and transformation

  • Revenue and EBIT increased again in 2024, despite a volatile environment
  • Number of core employees grew further
  • DEKRA is very well positioned in its 100th anniversary year as it successfully transforms from a traditional vehicle inspection provider into a leading independent expert for digital and software-defined mobility

STUTTGART, Germany, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DEKRA remained on track in 2024, again growing its business in a volatile economic and geopolitical environment. Global revenues increased by 4.7% to 4.29 billion euros, rising by 7% in the core business—excluding temporary work. EBIT improved by 4.2% to 266 million euros, while EBITDA rose by 5.4% to 480.1 million euros. Moreover, DEKRA’s core workforce grew by 800 employees to around 33,000. In total, some 48,000 experts work for the world’s leading non-listed testing, inspection, and certification organization.

“Thanks to our future-oriented business model, we were able to ensure robust revenue and earnings growth in another year of substantial economic tensions. The decision to focus on the key megatrends of Future Mobility, Sustainability, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence with our ‘Strategy 2025’ was essential to our economic success in 2024,” said DEKRA CEO Stan Zurkiewicz at the company’s Annual Press Conference at its headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.

“Our people are our greatest asset. That is why we are proud to have continued expanding DEKRA’s core employee base in turbulent times like these,” added DEKRA CFO and Human Resources director Wolfgang Linsenmaier. “This is strong testimony to the resilience of DEKRA’s business model and our clear-cut ambitions going forward.”

Read the full version here:   https://www.dekra.kr/en/dekra-continues-on-a-path-of-growth-and-transformation/

About DEKRA
For 100 years, DEKRA has been a trusted name in safety. Founded in 1925 with the original goal of improving road safety through vehicle inspections, DEKRA has grown to become the world’s largest independent, non-listed expert organization in the field of testing, inspection, and certification. Today, as a global partner, the company supports its customers with comprehensive services and solutions to drive safety and sustainability forward—fully aligned with DEKRA’s anniversary motto, “Securing the Future.” In 2024, DEKRA generated revenue of 4.3 billion euros. Around 48,000 employees are providing qualified and independent expert services in approximately 60 countries across five continents. DEKRA holds a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing it among the top 1% of the world’s most sustainable companies.

 

Rakuten Viber’s Dating Feature Available Now in Vietnam

Destiny is just the beginning—find your meaningful connection with Viber Dating

New Viber feature debuts globally with a safe dating experience for real people to make real connections

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In Vietnam’s fast-paced digital dating scene, swiping is easy—but finding something real proves far more difficult. Moreover, dating apps are no longer just about romance; they’ve become a gateway to meet new people and expand social circles. According to A Decision Lab survey, while 56% of single Vietnamese use dating apps, only 39% are actively seeking love. A surprising 48% prioritize friendship, and 34% even leverage these platforms for networking.

Viber Dating is here to turn matches into meaningful connections. As the first-ever dating feature built into a communications app, this new experience seamlessly integrates Viber’s trusted chat, call, and community functions to create a more natural dating experience. Unlike other dating platforms, Viber Dating ensures smooth, secure transitions from matching to private conversations, where all 1:1 chats, calls, and group calls are end-to-end encrypted by default, and messages are never stored on Viber’s servers once delivered. Whether you’re searching for The One, a serious relationship, or just a spark, Viber Dating makes authentic connections simple—one message at a time.

Find your destined connection
Find your destined connection

To protect users’ privacy, Viber Dating is accessible in a separate tab from your Chats, and follows stringent measures:

  • Profile verification: Only verified Viber users can create profiles. Every Viber Dating user is real and registered with their mobile number.
  • Hidden phone numbers: Your phone number remains completely hidden, ensuring that no personal contact information is ever shared during your dating experience unless you choose to share it.
  • Moderation techniques include machine and human moderators, for a positive experience for all.
  • Separate chats: Your dating profile is separate from your main Viber account, keeping your dating activity private from your primary connections.

Viber also understands that you may want to keep your dating life private. That’s why your dating profile will be strictly separate from your primary Viber account, and will only be visible to other Viber Dating users. Your main Viber connections will never know or be notified when you are signing up to and using the dating feature nor see your dating-related conversations and activities. Viber Dating is accessible in a separate tab from your Chats.

David Tse, Senior Director at Rakuten Viber APAC, shares that Viber Dating was developed after a series of focus groups with Viber users, which revealed that people want genuine connections with real people and high-quality matches, but were very concerned about keeping their identities private. “Viber’s mission as a super app is to create safe and trusted connections, and this extends to the dating world, providing users with much-needed peace of mind,” says Tse. “Given these measures, we hope we can further protect our users from fake profiles and love scams.”

As a very first step, simply create a profile with your dating preferences — it’s totally free. You are encouraged to add photos and share a quick bio about yourself, including your hobbies and interests. After creating your profile, Viber shows you potential matches based on your preferences, and you can swipe left or right if you are interested or not. If both of you are interested in each other, you will be matched, and this unlocks the opportunity to chat only within the Viber Dating platform—again, separate from your regular private and group chats. To enhance the dating experience, premium features like Who Liked Me are already available and these features will roll out globally and be joined by more in the coming months.

About Rakuten Viber

Rakuten Viber is one of the most trusted and downloaded apps in the world. We create meaningful connections, bringing people together safely, so they can enjoy precious moments with their families and friends, manage their business relations, or pursue their passions, in one place – we do it all! As a super app, we give our users services that cover every aspect of their day-to-day needs and make their lives easier.

Rakuten Viber is part of Rakuten Group, Inc., a global technology leader in e-commerce, fintech, digital content, and communications services.

Introduction of CO2Coin: Clima4Future Ltd. launches sustainable digital currency linked to the real economy

EGHAM, UK – EQS Newswire – 14 April 2025 – Clima4Future Ltd, a UK-based company specialising in environmental projects, announces the launch of CO2Coin. The digital currency combines the real-world binding of CO₂ through sustainable forestry with the possibilities of modern blockchain technology. Since its pilot phase, CO2Coin has seen a remarkable increase in price from €1 to around 270 USDT within a year. This development reflects the growing interest in digital assets with an ecological focus. At the same time, the CO2Coin community is constantly growing, with a large number of followers actively following the project.

Technological and ecological basis

The concept of CO2Coin (a cryptocurrency project) is based on a clear link between blockchain technology and physically measurable climate effects:

  1. CO₂ sequestration through forestry: Clima4Future Ltd. currently operates three managed areas in Germany with the fast-growing kiri tree, which absorbs large amounts of CO₂.
  2. Carbon crediting: CO₂ sequestration is represented in the form of tradable certificates that companies can use to offset.
  3. Wood utilisation: After a growth period of 6-10 years, the timber is commercially utilised, creating additional real value.
  4. International scaling: The concept is to be expanded worldwide to enable a global climate impact and sustainable resource utilisation.

The CO2Coin is globally structured and easily accessible through its connection to a stable reference currency (USDT, Tether). The project’s digital structure enables people worldwide to participate directly in a sustainable environmental model, regardless of their geographical location or currency system.

The CO2Coin not only offers technological security, but also the opportunity to make a contribution to global climate protection through active engagement.

The digital representation of this value added is carried out via the CO2Coin, which is listed on the international crypto exchange LBank, among others. Its availability on regulated platforms ensures accessibility and transparency without targeting short-term speculation.

Company profile
Clima4Future Ltd.
Suite A Bank House,
81 Judes Road,
TW20 0DF Egham, United Kingdom
www.clima-coins.com
Hashtag: #CO2Coin

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

Clima4Future Ltd.

Clima4Future Ltd. develops sustainable environmental projects with a focus on CO₂ sequestration through forestry and its integration into digital systems. The CO2Coin (a cryptocurrency token) is part of a long-term strategy to combine technology and climate protection.

Auto Shanghai 2025: Nullmax to Showcase MaxDrive – From Active Safety to End-to-End Autonomous Driving

SHANGHAI, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nullmax, an artificial intelligence company specializing in autonomous driving applications, announced its debut at the 2025 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (April 23-May 2). At Booth 8BA005 in Hall 8.2 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the company will showcase its full-range autonomous driving solutions and end-to-end technologies while hosting industry leaders for technical exchange and business networking opportunities.

Auto Shanghai 2025 Invitation
Auto Shanghai 2025 Invitation

As a key player in the industry, Nullmax is committed to advancing the mass adoption of autonomous driving through cutting-edge AI technology. At this year’s Auto Show, the company will highlight its MaxDrive Automated Driving Solution, which covers full-scenario functionalities—from basic ADAS to high-level urban NOA—catering to diverse vehicle models and market demands.

Leveraging its platform-based technical architecture, Nullmax’s solution can be flexibly and rapidly adapted to mainstream autonomous driving chips and varying sensor configurations worldwide, empowering automakers to efficiently achieve differentiated mass production.

Nullmax cordially invites industry partners, media, and visitors to visit Booth 8BA005 in Hall 8.2 to explore the latest advancements in autonomous driving technology and potential collaboration opportunities.

About Nullmax

Nullmax, an AI technology company founded in Silicon Valley in 2016 with an R&D center in Shanghai, specializes in AD/ADAS solutions for all scenarios, driving the intelligent transformation of transportation.

ISCA Launches “Changing Perspectives” Branding Video Campaign to Promote Accountancy Profession Amidst Transformation in Wider Business Ecosystem


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 April 2025 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is pleased to announce the launch of “Changing Perspectives”, a branding video campaign designed to promote the accountancy profession amidst an ever-evolving business ecosystem. The video is launched in conjunction with SG60, celebrating the contributions of the accountancy profession to Singapore’s economy over the past 60 years.

Produced together with branding agency ABrandADay, “Changing Perspectives” showcases the many roles that accountants can play in shaping the future of the business landscape. The objective of the video campaign is to promote accountancy as a profession and study of choice, and also dispel any prevailing myths of the accountancy profession. The branding video is also part of broader efforts by ISCA in partnership with the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee (AWRC) to address the manpower challenges of the accountancy sector and recommend strategies to ensure a robust pool of accountancy talents to meet industry needs.

In celebration of 60 years of Singapore’s independence, the video features notable figures from the accounting sector, who represent past and present generations of accountants who have contributed to the success of Singapore’s economy today. A few industry profiles who are featured in the video include Mr Willie Cheng, former Managing Partner of Accenture and former independent director of UOB Bank and Far East Hospitality Asset Management, and Mr Kon Yin Tong, Managing Partner of Foo Kon Tan LLP and Chairman of Sport Singapore.

The video was launched earlier today an exclusive screening event, by Mr Chaly Mah, Co-Chair of the AWRC, Chairman of the National Environmental Agency, Surbana Jurong and Netlink NBN Trust. The event was attended by over 160 guests, comprising representatives from the Government, Institutes of Higher Learning, corporates, students, and more.

“Accountancy is more than crunching numbers — it is a meaningful profession that shapes business strategy, drives sustainability, and builds trust in markets,” said Mr Chaly Mah. “This video is part of our broader efforts to reshape perceptions and highlight the diverse and impactful roles accountants play in today’s evolving business landscape. We hope it will inspire the next generation to see accountancy as a fulfilling and forward-looking career path.”

Ms Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office and Second Minister for Finance and National Development, said: “As Singapore continues to grow as a global business hub, the accountancy profession remains a cornerstone of trust, transparency, and transformation. This initiative by ISCA not only highlights the evolving role of accountants, but also underscores the importance of attracting and developing talent for the future. I commend ISCA for its efforts to elevate the profession and promote it as a meaningful and dynamic career choice.”

ISCA President Mr Teo Ser Luck said: “The video we launched today is important — it highlights what it means to be an accountant in today’s world: adaptable, forward-thinking, and playing a key role in shaping businesses and society. At ISCA, we are dedicated to advancing the profession and demonstrating that accountancy offers purpose, versatility, and limitless growth opportunities. We hope this initiative inspires curiosity, especially among young professionals exploring their career paths.”

You may view the video here.
Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #Accounting #DifferenceMakers #SG60

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

Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 39,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.

ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.

ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.

For more information, visit .

Chromatin Bioscience Signs Collaboration Agreement with Astellas

EDINBURGH, Scotland, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chromatin Bioscience, a leader in the design of synthetic promoters and gene control systems, is pleased to announce a collaboration agreement with Astellas Pharma, a global life sciences company.

Under the agreement, Chromatin Bioscience will use its proprietary chromatinLENS platform to design cell-selective synthetic promoters aligned with Astellas’ target profile. The designed promoters are expected to enable highly precise and durable gene expression in specific cell types.

“We’re excited to begin this collaboration with Astellas,” said Michael Roberts, CEO and Founder of Chromatin Bioscience. “We believe the ability to precisely control targeted gene expression is becoming increasingly critical across diverse applications in biotechnology. This collaboration reflects the growing interest in synthetic promoter technology as a key enabler in the development of precision-targeted biological systems.”

Chromatin Bioscience’s chromatinLENS platform enables the identification of gene regulatory elements from the dark genome and the rational design of synthetic promoters tailored to specific applications. The platform can be applied across a range of sectors—including therapeutics, agritech, industrial biotechnology, and bioprocessing. The collaboration with Astellas further validates the potential of the chromatinLENS platform and represents the latest milestone in a series of collaborations that are shaping Chromatin’s continued growth and impact.

For more information about Chromatin Bio’s recent collaborations, visit https://www.chromatinbio.com/news

Notes to Editors

About Chromatin Bioscience
Chromatin Bioscience is a biotechnology company focused on the design and development of synthetic promoters for targeted gene control systems. Its proprietary platform enables precise, cell-type-selective, and durable gene expression, which is key to advancing the next generation of therapeutics, bioproduction systems and agritech innovations. Chromatin’s synthetic promoters have been integral to a growing number of client programs. For more information, visit www.chromatinbio.com.

 

ZWSOFT Showcased Latest CAD/CAE/CAM Innovations at Hannover Messe 2025

GUANGZHOU, China, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZWSOFT, a trusted provider of all-in-one CAx solutions, marked a significant presence at Hannover Messe 2025, the world’s most important industrial trade fair, showcasing its latest integrated CAD/CAE/CAM solutions and connecting with industry professionals from around the world.

ZWSOFT at Hannover Messe 2025
ZWSOFT at Hannover Messe 2025

Integrated CAx Solutions Empowering Sustainable Innovation

At this year’s event, ZWSOFT showcased the latest innovations in its CAD/CAE/CAM solutions, demonstrating how they facilitate digital transformation and empower sustainable innovation across various industries.

Leveraging core technologies such as the Overdrive geometric kernel, ZGS constraint engine, and IPX data conversion engine, ZWSOFT has developed an all-in-one product matrix. Integrated solutions like “ZWCAD+ZW3D” and “ZW3D CAD+CAM” help businesses bridge data gaps, reduce manual work, and ensure high precision. This integrated approach enables a parallel development process that streamlines design to manufacturing.

ZWSOFT also highlighted its advanced CAE capabilities with showcase of particle dynamics simulation software, ZWSim DEM, and Computational Fluid Dynamics software, PHOENICS. These technologies provide real-time simulation and validation, covering from equipment design to process optimization. By enabling engineers to refine designs and identify potential risks early, these tools help businesses reduce costs and improve equipment lifespan.

“ZWSOFT’s integrated CAx solutions, by combining design, simulation, and manufacturing, help enterprises break down data silos and achieve seamless collaboration throughout the entire process. This significantly enhances R&D efficiency and shortens time to market, empowering sustainable innovation,” noted Qideng Hu, Chief Technology Officer of ZW3D.

Industry-Proven Solutions Driving Business Success

In addition to live demonstrations of its CAx solutions, ZWSOFT hosted a series of expert-led presentations, spotlighting case studies that highlight the application of its solutions across consumer electronics, machinery, and power industries. One notable presentation on WELLTEC, a leader in the injection molding industry, demonstrated how ZW3D’s all-in-one solution significantly streamlined their design and machining processes, enhancing production efficiency and advancing their digital transformation journey.

Another key presentation featured XJ Electric, a global leader in the power industry, showcasing how ZWSOFT’s solutions optimize electrical cabinet design. Utilizing ZW3D’s IPX engine, XJ Electric revitalizes historical data assets, facilitating technological inheritance and innovation with one-click data import.

These presentations not only demonstrated ZWSOFT’s robust CAx solutions in supporting diverse sectors but also solidified its reputation as a trusted partner for industry professionals looking to improve efficiency and embrace digital advancements.

Strengthening Connections with Global Industry Professionals

At this prominent global industrial platform, the ZWSOFT team connected with partners, customers, and industry professionals worldwide, fostering inspiring conversations that went beyond the exhibition. “Our collaboration with ZWSOFT at Hannover Messe has proven invaluable. Their preparation and innovative solutions are truly amazing,” said a member from Encee GmbH, ZWSOFT’s German partner.

These connections with industry leaders provided ZWSOFT with valuable insights into emerging trends and industry needs. As Hannover Messe 2025 concluded, ZWSOFT reaffirmed its dedication to empowering sustainable innovation with its all-in-one CAx solutions, contributing to a more sustainable industrial future.

For more information about ZWSOFT and its solutions, please visit www.zwsoft.com

About ZWSOFT

Since 1998, ZWSOFT’s all-in-one CAx (CAD/CAE/CAM) solutions have helped professionals bridge the gap between concept and creation. By uniting design, simulation, and manufacturing in one integrated platform, we empower architects, engineers, and designers to streamline complex projects at a fair price. This approach accelerates development cycles and minimizes costs without compromising quality.

Over 1.4 million users in 90+ countries—including 149 Fortune 500 corporations—trust ZWSOFT’s 25+ years of expertise to drive innovation. Whether it’s pioneering product design in manufacturing or delivering advanced solutions in the AEC sector, we remain dedicated to turning ambitious ideas into reality and empowering sustainable innovation worldwide.

 

Appreciating Ramadhan Dedication: Hong Leong Islamic Bank Distributes 1,000 Food Packets to foodpanda Riders

The Bank also sponsored buka puasa meals for over 300 foodpanda riders in Melaka, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, and Perak


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Neswire – 14 April 2025 – In conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan, Hong Leong Islamic Bank (“HLISB” or the “Bank”) distributed 1,000 buka puasa meals to foodpanda e-hailing delivery riders in its ‘Senyum-Senyum Ramadhan‘ initiative, bringing the festive spirit and putting smiles on the faces of foodpanda riders as they continue to deliver food to Malaysians throughout the month of Ramadhan.

The teams from HLB and HLISB gathered at the Bank’s PJ City headquarters with foodpanda to distribute 1000 buka puasa meals to foodpanda riders.
The teams from HLB and HLISB gathered at the Bank’s PJ City headquarters with foodpanda to distribute 1000 buka puasa meals to foodpanda riders.

Through its partnership with foodpanda, the Bank has also sponsored buka puasa meals for over 300 foodpanda riders and their families in Melaka, Terengganu, Negeri Sembilan, and Perak, spreading warmth, positivity, and appreciation in the community.

Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi, Chief Executive Officer of HLISB commented on the impactful event, “Ramadhan is a time for gratitude and appreciation, and for many Muslims, it represents an opportunity to give back to the community. This year, we wanted to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of our e-hailing delivery riders, who in many ways are the unsung heroes of our country, especially during festive seasons. During Ramadhan, they brave the heavy traffic and face high volumes of orders, with a majority of them fasting themselves. At HLISB, we wanted to find a way to appreciate their sacrifices, give back to this community, and bring a smile to these riders, which led to us forging our partnership with foodpanda.”

The Bank’s partnership with foodpanda to sponsor and distribute buka puasa meals to delivery riders is aligned with its Raya theme of “Amal”, where it encourages Malaysians to engage in good deeds which will lead to positive outcomes and multiplied rewards. This concept of “Amal” extends beyond doing good, and also includes inculcating healthy financial habits. The Bank highlights that robust financial habits such as consistent savings, regular investing, and smart protection strategies can set Malaysians up for a brighter financial future.

Zalman Zainal, Hong Leong Bank’s (“HLB”) Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, who also heads the Bank’s CSR department, commented, “We at HLB and HLISB have always been committed to engaging in community investment initiatives, where we not only give back to the community but also actively work to uplift and empower them towards a brighter future. With the spirit of “Amal”, we want to continue putting our words to action and engage in more community-centric initiatives such as this one with foodpanda, bringing the Raya spirit and recognizing the hardships of these unsung heroes. We believe that good habits, generosity, and kindness are important values to instill, which are the reasons for our smiles as we reap the rewards of a brighter future ahead.”

HLB and HLISB have a proud tradition of community service during festive seasons, with the Bank organizing Employee Donation Drives where employees donate meal kits and essential goods to welfare homes across the country. Since its inception in 2019, the Bank’s employees have donated more than RM100,000 worth of food, goods, and household items to welfare homes. Employees also regularly engage in spring cleaning initiatives at welfare homes, ensuring that these underserved communities receive the help and support they need.

In conjunction with the Raya season and to highlight its “Amal” theme, the Bank recently unveiled its Raya campaign with brand ambassador Alif Satar, which features a Raya song and music video titled ‘Senyum-Senyum Raya’, presented by Alif Satar & The Locos. Besides bringing about a positive Raya spirit, the song also emphasises on the importance of good deeds that can multiply and be the reason for your smile this Raya season.

Senyum-Senyum Raya is available to stream on Spotify and Apple Music, and the music video can be seen on HLB’s YouTube Channel. You may watch the music video here: https://youtu.be/3Tm4O0uNxxA?si=GY1xPTeEFz1R_st7

Hashtag: #HLISB

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