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Hong Kong Baptist University and Elsevier Report Charts Global Growth of Chinese Medicine Research, Calls for Standardised Frameworks for Broader Integration


ISTANBUL, TURKEY – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 June 2025 – The report “Evolving Legacy: Decoding the Scientific Trajectory of Chinese Medicine” released today by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and Elsevier, reveals the growing impact of Chinese Medicine research on global healthcare and modern health challenges. In this context, “Chinese Medicine research” encompasses not only clinical practice, but also basic and translational science, AI-driven systems medicine, and the network pharmacology of herbal formulas. This first bibliometric analysis of Chinese Medicine research from 2014 to 2023 highlights the field’s rapid growth, interdisciplinarity, and societal impact on Digital Health and Systems Medicine.

HKBU and Elsevier launched a new report "Evolving Legacy: Decoding the Scientific Trajectory of Chinese Medicine", highlighting the growing global impact of Chinese Medicine research in diversified healthcare solutions.
HKBU and Elsevier launched a new report “Evolving Legacy: Decoding the Scientific Trajectory of Chinese Medicine”, highlighting the growing global impact of Chinese Medicine research in diversified healthcare solutions.

Key findings from the report include:

  • Rapid expansion: Chinese Medicine research grew at a 10.6% compound annual growth rate — more than double the global research average — nearly tripling output between 2014 and 2023.
  • High scholarly impact: 14.2% of Chinese Medicine papers ranked among the world’s top 10% most-cited (global norm: 10%), with a field-weighted citation impact (FWCI) of 1.12.
  • Interdisciplinary breadth: Medicine dominates (61.9% of output), followed by Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology (33.1%) and Pharmacology (28.1%). Citing publications span diverse major domains — from Engineering to Materials Science.
  • Global collaboration hubs: Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR exceed 80% cross-regional collaboration, above the 18% world average, and achieving FWCI >1.6 in cross-regional collaborative publications.
  • Emerging research foci: Top-published trending topics include “Herbaceous Agent | Chinese Medicine | Network Pharmacology” and COVID-19 applications, reflecting integration of omics, AI and systems methods.
  • Societal resonance: 11.1% of research outputs were mentioned on social media and 2.9% cited in policy documents, reflecting growing public and policymaker interest.

Bridging a global integration gap

Chinese Medicine’s mainstream integration lacks a global, transparent, evidence-based framework. To elevate its scientific profile, key strategies include developing internationally accepted clinical guidelines through expert consensus, enhancing trial reporting standards to improve research quality, and fostering interdisciplinary, cross-regional collaboration to drive innovation and systemic impact.

“‘Evolving Legacy’ demonstrates how Chinese Medicine research has matured into a global, evidence-informed field,” said Professor Lyu Aiping, Vice-President (Research & Development), HKBU, and a leading expert in Chinese Medicine. “We envision a future where data science and AI illuminate what Chinese Medicine research has long intimated, providing deeper insights into health classifications and compound interventions. The next frontier is using Chinese Medicine research to uncover insights possibly overlooked in Digital Health and Systems Medicine, strengthening their scientific foundation and impact.”

“This report offers unprecedented insights into Chinese Medicine’s evolving scientific landscape,” added Basak Candemir, Business Development Director, Analytical and Data Services, Elsevier. “It illuminates the growing global impact of Chinese Medicine research and its role in diversified healthcare solutions, making a vital step towards bridging traditional knowledge with modern validation for the benefit of global health.”

The report was developed using Elsevier’s bibliometric tools, Scopus and SciVal, based on a comprehensive dataset and case studies compiled in collaboration with HKBU Chinese Medicine research experts. The report can be accessed on https://cm-evaluation.scm.hkbu.edu.hk/.

Hashtag: #HKBU

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

World Crocodile Day: Ancient Reptiles Edge Back from Extinction in Laos

A Siamese Crocodile in the Xe Champhone Wetlands, Champhone District, Savannakhet Province, Laos. (photo: Wildlife Conservation Society Laos)

The Siamese crocodile, once declared extinct in the wild, has quietly held on in the hidden wetlands of Southeast Asia. 

Today, roughly 1,000 of these rare reptiles remain, survivors of 500,000 years of evolution.

With their broad snouts, olive-green armor, and ancient bloodlines, Siamese crocodiles are living fossils, and one of the world’s most endangered species. 

Growing up to three meters long, they live in freshwater rivers, swamps, and floodplains, relying on seasonal rhythms and healthy wetlands to survive.

On World Crocodile Day, 17 June, Laos is celebrating a major win in the fight to protect one of its oldest wild residents.

Recent Wins

On 9 May, ten individuals of Siamese crocodiles were released into the Xe Champhone wetlands in Champhone district, Savannakhet Province. 

Local Communities released 10 Critically Endangered Siamese Crocodiles into the Xe Champhone Wetlands in Laos’ Savannakhet province. 09 May 2025. (photo credit: Wildlife Conservation Society)

Led by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Laos, the operation marked the final step of the “Ecosystem Conservation through Integrated Landscape Management in Laos” (ECILL) project.

“The [ECILL] project may be over, but our work isn’t,” said Robert van Zalinge, Senior Technical Advisor Savannakhet Landscape at WCS Laos. “We remain committed to supporting local communities and the government in protecting Xe Champhone’s biodiversity.”

The release is part of ongoing efforts to revive the Siamese crocodile population.

This species has been listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) since 1996. 

Their survival now represents one of conservation’s most pressing challenges, with every remaining individual considered “precious beyond measure,” according to WCS.

Recent surveys have documented Siamese crocodiles in four southern provinces with the largest and most viable populations surviving in Savannakhet and Attapeu provinces.

The Xe Champhone Wetlands Complex is one of the two Ramsar sites of Lao PDR. It is home to abundant aquatic biodiversity that supports the livelihoods of more than 30 communities. (photo credit: Sounantha Boutxakittilath/Wildlife Conservation Society)

A Glimmer of Hope

Baby Siamese Crocodiles are raised for about 32 months until they exceed one meter in length, at which point they are released back into the wetlands. (photo credit: Wildlife Conservation Society)

Signs of recovery are emerging. 

Nesting occurs towards the beginning of the wet season, with females constructing a mound nest on floating vegetation mats or in dense thickets on the banks of lakes. Unlike most reptiles, they’re devoted parents, one of the few species known to care for their young. 

Still, breeding has been limited, with fewer than 1,000 individuals left in the wild.

Thanks to targeted conservation efforts, there’s been a clear uptick in nesting. Annual nest counts have increased from just 1–2 before the program began to 6–8 in recent years. 

This points to a slowly stabilizing local population of around 200–250 crocodiles.

The conservation team collected Siamese crocodile eggs at the Xe Champhone Wetlands. (photo credit: Wildlife Conservation Society Laos)

The conservation process is careful and hands-on. Eggs are collected and incubated at natural temperatures for about two months. 

Once hatched, the young crocodiles are raised for nearly three years, until they grow over a meter long, the minimum size considered safe for release into the wild.

But conserving such a species isn’t just about science, it’s about people. 

Zalinge credited the conservation success in Xe Champhone to the community participation.

“Communities work with us on threat detection, monitoring of biodiversity, and the management of fisheries, land use and water,” Zalinge said. 

Xe Champhone Wetlands and Crocodile Information Center. Tansoum village, Champhone District, Savannakhet Province. (photo credit: Wildlife Conservation Society Laos)

Live and Thrive in the South

Beyond their endangered status, Siamese crocodiles play an irreplaceable ecological role. As apex predators, they help keep ecosystems balanced by controlling populations of prey species, including those that may carry diseases, van Zalinge said. 

“Siamese crocodiles keep natural ecosystems healthy. By controlling populations of prey species, they reduce impact on plants and other animals,” he added. “They can also reduce the risk of serious disease outbreaks by rapidly removing sick animals from the population.”

Trouble in Paradise

Despite being a relatively safe haven, the Xe Champhone Wetlands face mounting environmental pressure .

Zalinge identified wetland drainage since 2019 as the most pressing threat to the crocodile’s survival. 

However, he noted modest progress in slowing down habitat degradation saying, “The amount of wetland lost each year has reduced since 2023.”

Although the species is no longer hunted for commercial purposes, its habitat is rapidly shrinking due to dry-season rice farming, infrastructure development, overfishing, vegetation loss, and irrigation.

As of mid-2025, 68 crocodiles were released into Xe Champhone, with another 163 being cared for by local conservation teams. Since the program began, a total of 238 crocodiles have returned to the wetlands.

InvestHK concludes fruitful Canada visit to deepen economic and business ties


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 June 2025 – Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng today (June 14) concluded his visit to Canada, deepening economic and business ties with Canadian investors and enterprises.

Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng today (June 14) concluded his visit to Canada. Photo shows Mr Ng (left); Partner at DS Avocats and Honorary Secretary of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, Ms Cindy Ho (centre), and the Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion at InvestHK's Toronto Office, Mr Christopher Chen (right).
Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) Mr Charles Ng today (June 14) concluded his visit to Canada. Photo shows Mr Ng (left); Partner at DS Avocats and Honorary Secretary of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, Ms Cindy Ho (centre), and the Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion at InvestHK’s Toronto Office, Mr Christopher Chen (right).

During his visit June 8 to 14 to Waterloo, Toronto, and Montreal, Mr Ng met with investors, family offices, start-ups, academia, and business leaders, emphasising Hong Kong’s role as a global financial hub and gateway to Mainland China and international markets. He hosted roundtables highlighting Hong Kong’s strengths in wealth management and cross-border investments and discussed how Canadian enterprises can leverage Hong Kong for global expansion. He toured innovation labs and facilities at universities and discussed Asian expansion plans with Canadian founders. The meetings connected researchers and ecosystem builders across life sciences, medtech, cleantech, AI, and more.

During his visit to Canada on June 11, Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong Mr Charles Ng hosted a seminar to promote business opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area through Hong Kong, and the upcoming Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025. The event attracted over 100 people.
During his visit to Canada on June 11, Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong Mr Charles Ng hosted a seminar to promote business opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area through Hong Kong, and the upcoming Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025. The event attracted over 100 people.

Mr Ng also highlighted the upcoming Hong Kong FinTech Week x StartmeupHK Festival 2025, inviting Canadian investors and entrepreneurs to visit Hong Kong from November 3 to 7 and explore Asia’s dynamic markets. The event offers unparalleled access to industry leaders, cutting-edge fintech trends, and high-growth opportunities for positioning companies at the forefront of innovation.

Mr Ng said, “The visit was highly fruitful, underscoring the strong economic relationship and vibrant investment exchanges between Hong Kong and Canada. It highlighted Hong Kong’s distinctive role as a ‘super connector’ linking global markets, offering Canadian businesses valuable pathways for expansion into Asia. This engagement not only reinforced ties between the two markets but also unlocked exciting collaborative opportunities.”

Participants at the events expressed keen interest in Hong Kong’s business environment and connectivity. Investor Relations Officer, Velocity Incubator, University of Waterloo, Mr Andrew Martinko, said, “We learned from Invest Hong Kong about their strong commitment to driving tech innovation through action. They presented a dynamic and expanding start-up ecosystem, clearly focused on welcoming talented Canadian founders and connecting them with high-potential Asian markets and diverse funding opportunities, all within close geographic reach.”

Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of XSIM AI Canada Inc, Ms Shan Tao, said “Participating in the StartmeUpHK Festival was a pivotal moment for XSIM AI Canada Inc. The support and insights from InvestHK and the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association helped us uncover the unique opportunities within Hong Kong’s ecosystem. It ultimately led to a conditional offer from the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation’s Soft Landing Programme, and the establishment of our business there. Hong Kong is where our vision for practical, scalable, purpose-driven industrial AI found both strategic alignment and real momentum – advancing economic value and environmental impact.”

Partner at DS Avocats and Honorary Secretary of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, Ms Cindy Ho, facilitated high-level connections during the trip and shared her insights. She said, “Canada and Hong Kong share a robust and time-tested business relationship, driving trade, investment, and innovation. With Hong Kong serving as a vital hub for Canadian businesses expanding into Asia, and Canadian expertise fuelling innovation in Hong Kong, this dynamic exchange is unlocking new opportunities and reinforcing bilateral trade and investment in the global economy. As a legal professional working closely with international businesses, I have seen firsthand how Canada and Hong Kong businesses can benefit namely through the Hong Kong-Canada Income Tax Agreement. Together, we are building a future of shared prosperity and ambition, backed by strong trade and investment agreements and a long-term commitment to sustainable growth.”

Hashtag: #InvestHK

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

Discover Naomi Neo’s Secret to Safer and Smarter Parenting with the imoo Watch Phone X10


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 June 2025 – Smartphones have become an everyday essential for adults. So, it’s natural for children to want one. Many parents see smartphones as useful tools for staying in touch with their children when they’re away from home, but smartphones can easily be lost, and they leave children vulnerable to the dangers of social media and too much screen time.

Naomi video calling her son, Kyzo, with the imoo Watch Phone X10.
Naomi video calling her son, Kyzo, with the imoo Watch Phone X10.

The solution is a watch phone designed specifically for children. It allows parents to keep track of their child’s whereabouts and stay in touch when their children are at school or out playing with friends. It also limits children’s exposure to social media and online strangers. Plus, when it’s securely fastened to a child’s wrist, it’s hard for them to lose it. In fact, they’ll enjoy showing off their cool super-hero-like gadget to all their friends. Especially one packed with features, like the imoo Watch Phone X10.

The imoo Watch Phone X10 — Every family’s excellent summer holiday companion

imoo, a global pioneer in the children’s watch phone segment, has just launched its next-generation premium flagship — the imoo Watch Phone X10 — in Singapore. Parenting influencer Naomi Neo is one of the first to give this “modern parenting essential” to her children – son Kyzo and daughter Zyla, now six and two respectively. Parents like Naomi Neo are finding lots to like about the imoo Watch Phone X10, and children will too.

Keep in touch with video calls

When children get out of school while parents are still at work, parents can place a video call to their imoo Watch Phone X10. When the child flips up the watch face, parents can remotely switch from seeing their face to seeing their surroundings and real-time location – to make sure they’ve reached their tuition class, or made it safely home, giving parents complete peace of mind.

Get ready for the pool with IP68 water resistance

Kids love splashing around in the pool during summer, and the imoo Watch Phone X10 is an excellent companion. It’s designed to dive right in, with IP68 swim-suitable water resistance. For those who like swimming for sport, it can track swim distance, calories burned, and time spent exercising. It has 10 built-in sports modes in total – and a fun and engaging “Active Challenge” system that lets children earn activity badges, making fitness a joyful habit.

Keep calm with high-precision location tracking + behaviour status

Letting children go out alone often makes parents anxious. Even if they’re together, a hectic tourist spot where it’s easy to lose a child in a crowd, can be a parent’s worst nightmare. The imoo Watch Phone X10 helps brings parents peace of mind. Whether the child is at the local botanical garden, park, or library with friends — or if they get separated in a crowd — the imoo Watch Phone X10 offers real-time, All-Day High-Precision Location Tracking that is accurate down to the street and floor level. It lets parents know whether they’re running around or just hanging about in one place, giving parents reassurance from afar. It also works around the world, ensuring parents can keep track of their child while on holiday. The imoo Watch Phone X10 can store up to 14 days of a child’s whereabouts – so parents can see the path they take to school, and where they stop along the way. With imoo quietly safeguarding each small step that children take toward independence, parents can truly “let go without worry.”

Make children feel like a superhero with the Flip Dual Cameras

For children, the imoo Watch Phone X10 is more than just a communication device—it’s a cool piece of high-tech gear. They’ll look like a movie superhero on a mission when they use the X10’s unique Flip Dual Cameras. Switching between its front and rear cameras is as easy as flipping the screen, sparking their sense of adventure, transporting them into an exciting universe made just for childhood.

The imoo Watch Phone X10 also gives children storytelling superpowers. The 5MP + 8MP high-definition dual cameras, paired with various shooting modes like fun animated effects, live photos, and standard photography, lets children snap anything from colourful bugs in the park, to party smiles and warm moments with family and friends.

The imoo Watch Phone X10 is perfect for children's daily needs.

Let kids socialize safely with the “Bump and Add Friends” feature

Kids love making new friends. Although parents encourage their children to be social butterflies, there is always a worry about stranger danger. The innovative “Bump and Add Friends” feature on the imoo Watch Phone X10 helps bring parents peace of mind. Two children must physically bump their watch phones together in person to become friends. Every connection is visible, verifiable, and secure. It also requires parental approval, helping to ensure no unknown contacts sneak through. Kids are free to make friends while parents can stay in control from afar.

The imoo Watch Phone X10 also keeps a child’s social circle rooted in real-life encounters — on the playground, in the park, or at enrichment classes. It’s operating system completely blocks access to social media, filters harmful content, and intercepts unknown numbers. It complies with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) standards and protects data for every interaction. The technology sets protective boundaries, but never blocks warmth. This helps ensure every friend is sincere and safe.

Don’t worry – the imoo Watch Phone X10 is also tough enough for everyday kid chaos

Parents know there’s no such thing as “handle with care” when it comes to children’s toys and gear, and imoo knows this too. So, it designed the imoo Watch Phone X10 specifically for energetic kids. Its rugged build is shock-resistant and highly durable and has gone through rigorous real-world testing. One parent even shared that it still worked perfectly after their child accidentally tossed it into the washing machine. The imoo Watch Phone X10 can also withstand messy situations like fingerpainting in art class or making mud pies. Its dirt-resistant surface is easy to clean – just a simple wipe and it’s good as new.

Meet the imoo Watch Phone X10 near you
For busy parents like Naomi Neo, the imoo Watch Phone X10 is a great partner for keeping track and keeping in touch with energetic children, wherever they are, bringing added peace of mind. Singaporean families can get a hands-on experience of the imoo Watch Phone X10 this July, where imoo will be hosting several offline parent-child events with fun, interactive activities that will showcase the X10’s innovative features.

imoo will continually update the latest event information on the homepage of the official website. Stay tuned!

imoo also welcomes you to visit the offline stores or order your favorite watch phone directly from the official online store.

Offline Stores:

Store Name Opening Hours Address Phone
BRAS BASAH COMPLEX Sun-Thur: 11.00-7.00
Fri, Sat & PH: 11.00-9.00
231 Bain Street #05-01,
Bras Basah Complex, S(180231)
65577301
CAUSEWAY POINT Mon-Fri:11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH:11.00-9.30
No.1 Woodlands Square #03-29/30 Causeway Point, S(738099) 67671250
NORTHPOINT
SHOPPING CENTRE
Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
930 Yishun Ave 2 #03-12 Northpoint Shopping Centre, S(769098) 68522100
TOA PAYOH HDB HUB Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
530 Toa Payoh Lorong 6 #02-01, S(310530) 63581700
TAMPINES MALL Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.00
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.00
4 Tampines Central 5, #03-17 Tampines Mall, S(529510) 67887091
JURONG POINT Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
1 Jurong West Central 2 #B1-41 Jurong Point Shopping Centre, S(648886) 67935280
NEX MALL Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
23 Serangoon Central #04-59/60
NEX Mall, S(556083)
65146718
THE CLEMENTI MALL Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.00
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.00
3155 Commonwealth Avenue West #05-01 to 05
Clementi Mall, S(129588)
65146710
WESTGATE Mon -Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
3 Gateway Drive #04-26/27, S(608532) 63754837
COMPASS ONE Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.30
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.30
Sengkang Square #03-11, S(545078) 65146997
TIONG BAHRU PLAZA Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.00
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.00
302 TIONG BAHRU ROAD #02-115A, S(168732) /
VIVO CITY Mon-Fri: 11.00-9.00
Sat/Sun & PH: 11.00-9.00
1 Harbourfront Walk,
#B1-16/17, S(098585)
/
Service Centre Mon-Fri: 10.00-17.30 59 UBI AVENUE 1, #07-15,
BIZLINK CENTRE, S(408938)
88592870

Hashtag: #imoo

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

About imoo

imoo is a global brand focused on creating high-quality, trendsetting smart products for children, with a mission to leverage technology to transform the lifestyle of children worldwide. The company has devoted more than a decade to technology R&D, precision manufacturing, supply chain management, quality control, big data analysis and consumer research. Today, more than 50 million children around the world use imoo Watch Phones. imoo complies with international standards and has obtained ISO 22810 certification with a quality management system that includes over 150 quality checks. Its watch phones have also been designed, tested, and certified according to EU GDPR regulations. The imoo APP is a Trusted Privacy certified App.

Corruption in Lao Banking Sector Causes LAK 1.6 Billion in Losses in 2024, Bank of Laos Says

Bank of Laos. This image is used only for representational purpose. (photo: Fintech News Singapore)

Widespread corruption in Laos’ banking sector led to nearly LAK 1.6 billion (around USD 74,000) in financial losses in 2024, according to the Bank of Laos (BOL). Only LAK 137.43 million (about USD 6,300) has been recovered so far.

The central bank reported 21 corruption cases across the banking system last year. Six were new cases, two within the Bank of Laos itself, three at Nayoby Bank, and one at Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public (BCEL). 

The other 15 cases were linked to earlier investigations, involving ten at the Agricultural Promotion Bank (APB) and five at Nayoby Bank.

While only a small portion of losses from 2024 cases has been recovered, ongoing investigations from previous years led to the recovery of an additional LAK 4.74 billion (about USD 218,700).

Authorities took disciplinary action against 167 individuals, including 114 staff from APB, 37 from BCEL, 11 from BOL, and five from Nayoby Bank. Three officials, two from BCEL and one from Nayoby Bank, were suspended pending further investigation.

These findings highlight ongoing corruption challenges within Laos’ banking sector, part of a broader national issue.

One of the most serious corruption cases in 2024 involved former employees of the Lao Post Office, who embezzled over LAK 58 billion (around USD 2.7 million). Investigations are still ongoing, with state-owned enterprises, including the national power utility, Electricité du Laos, under continued scrutiny.

The case highlights ongoing governance issues in Laos. In Transparency International’s 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, the country ranked 114th out of 180, with a score of 33 out of 100. Any score below 50 indicates a serious corruption problem.

Lao Government Launches Legal Pathway for Jobs in Korea’s Fishery Sector

Lao and Korea attendees was discussing about sending Lao workers to work in fisheries sector in Korea. (Photo: Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare)

Laos is set to deploy workers to South Korea’s fisheries sector for the first time under the E-10-2 visa program, a move aimed at curbing illegal migration, expanding legal employment pathways, and deepening bilateral labor cooperation, according to Bounsuan Xaiyasin, Head of the Overseas Employment Division, on 12 June.

Salmon Raises $88 Million To Grow Its Business In The Philippines, Sets Up A $150 Million Nordic Bond Framework Agreement For Scaling Up


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 June 2025 – Salmon Group Ltd (“Salmon”), a leading emerging markets financial services firm, operating a financing company and BSP-regulated bank in the Philippines, announces the completion of a $88MM fundraise to double down on its commitment to bring cutting-edge financial services and simplify access to credit across Southeast Asia.

The funding transaction consists of the $60MM drawdown under a 3-year $150MM Nordic bond framework agreement and $28MM of new equity raised from blue-chip US institutional investors, Antler Elevate as well as existing shareholders of Salmon. The list of existing investors of Salmon includes International Finance Corporation, the sovereign wealth fund of Abu Dhabi ADQ/Lunate, Northstar, Back in Black Capital and prominent Filipino investors.

The equity round was led by Spice Expeditions, LP (“Spice”), a venture capital firm focused on global financial services. Spice was founded by Nick Huber, who was a partner at Ribbit Capital prior to launching the firm in 2024. The bond transaction marks the first-ever Nordic bond issuance by a technology firm out of Southeast Asia. At $88MM of combined funding the transaction is one of the largest recent investments in the Philippines financial technology industry, propelling Salmon to the top ranks of challenger banks in the Philippines.

Commenting on the transaction, Pavel Fedorov, Co-founder of Salmon, noted that “Salmon is on a mission to revolutionise banking in Southeast Asia. For too long the legacy banks in the region provided sub-standard product, service and customer experience, and the Philippines is the case in point of this. At Salmon, we believe in the quality of our technology and proprietary AI solutions to bring customers better products, of which the most empowering is access to credit. Even though Salmon is only two and a half years old, today we have one of the highest-rated financial service applications in the Philippines (rated 4.8/4.7 in App Store/Google Play), are present both online and at 3,000+ locations across the country and offer four consumer credit products that unlock access to better lives for millions. The 8.88% deposit rate offered by our BSP-regulated bank is the highest in the Philippines as we pass cost efficiencies of our tech-centric model and limited branch infrastructure directly to bank depositors. With successful closing of this transaction and with the strength of Salmon’s one-of-a-kind team, we will be taking Salmon to leadership positions in the financial services industry across Southeast Asia. We are grateful to new and existing investors for their trust and support of our vision.”
Hashtag: #Salmon


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

About Salmon

Salmon Group Ltd. operates a BSP-regulated bank (the Rural Bank of Sta. Rosa Laguna), and SEC-licensed lending companies in the Philippines. The company is on a mission to build the best credit-led technology-centric bank in Southeast Asia with the Philippines representing its first market of operation.

Founded in July 2022 by banking and technology veterans Pavel Fedorov, George Chesakov and Raffy Montemayor, Salmon uses AI-enabled technology and a proprietary credit engine to offer consumer credit (Salmon Credit, Salmon Installment, and Salmon Cash Loans), providing differentiated simplicity, quality of service and convenience to its customers. Salmon’s mobile application is rated 4.8/4.7 in App Store/Google Play – one of the highest ratings for a financial services app in the Philippines; 92% of Salmon customers recommend its services to their friends and family. In 2024, Salmon’s BSP-regulated bank on the back of the strength of its consumer loan portfolio launched a Salmon time savings deposit, which at 8.88% offers one of the most appealing deposit rates across the Philippines.

For more information visit: https://salmon.ph

Amazon Singapore’s Prime Day Returns in July with First-Ever Week-Long Event from 8 to 14 July


Prime members can access thousands of deals across popular categories with a refreshed shopping experience on Amazon.sg.

Shop some of Amazon’s top discounts, including deals from top local and international selection, some of the lowest prices of the year to date on popular brands such as FOREO, Sennheiser and UGREEN, and Amazon exclusive deals from Sukin, Renpho, Dettol and 100PLUS.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 June 2025 – (NASDAQ: AMZN) – Amazon Singapore today announced that Prime Day 2025 will run for seven days, from 8 to 14 July, marking the longest Prime Day event in Singapore to date. This extended duration gives Prime members more time to access deals across popular categories including Home & Kitchen, Health and Personal Care, Beauty and lots more. Prime members can look forward to some of the lowest prices of the year on quality products from top local, international, and small business brands such as FOREO, Sennheiser and UGREEN, and Amazon exclusive deals from Sukin, Renpho and Dettol on Amazon.sg/PrimeDay.

Amazon Prime Day

This Prime Day, get deals on your daily needs from Amazon.sg’s Everyday Essentials store, a dedicated storefront offering more than 100,000 frequently shopped items – including groceries, baby care, and personal care products – catering to rising demand for fast, convenient, online access to daily necessities. The store is designed to become a convenient shopping destination for Singapore households, with local and international selections and flexible delivery options to meet both routine and urgent needs. Visit Amazon.sg/essentials for more.

We’re pleased to bring Prime Day back to Singapore with our longest event yet filled with incredible savings and exciting deals,” said Peter Li, Director, China & Singapore, International Stores at Amazon. “This year, we’re focused on delivering even greater value through trusted selection, competitive pricing, and fast, reliable delivery. From everyday essentials to top brands, Prime members can expect a seamless and rewarding shopping experience that reflects our long-term commitment to serving the evolving needs of Singapore customers.

Exclusive Deals for Prime members*
Prime Day deals are available exclusively to Prime members. Members can sign up for personalised deal alerts in advance based on their recent activity by visiting the Amazon.sg app. Once Prime Day begins, they’ll receive push notifications when deals go live. Not a Prime member? In Singapore, Prime membership includes benefits such as up to 10% off over a million eligible items on Amazon.sg, unlimited access to movies and TV shows on Prime Video, in-game content with Prime Gaming, and access to Prime Day savings. To top it off, Prime members enjoy access to free one-day delivery on eligible domestic items, free international delivery with no minimum spending on eligible items, free delivery on selected delivery windows for orders of S$60 and above on Amazon Fresh, free 2-hour scheduled delivery for orders of S$60 and above on Watsons and Little Farms on Amazon.sg.

Anyone can join Prime or start a 30-day free trial at Amazon.sg/prime.

  • Sneak Peek of deals on Prime Day: Add these items to cart for Prime Day. Shoppers can expect great savings and discounts from a wide range of quality products from top local, international brands and small businesses. Top highlights include:

    o Save up to 50% off on selected products from FOREO
    o Save up to 50% off on selected products from Sukin
    o Save up to 50% off on selected products from Dettol
    o Save up to 44% off on selected products from UGREEN
    o Save up to 40% off on selected products from Renpho
    o Save up to 40% off on selected products from SMEG, with additional buy 2 Get 5% off
    o Up to $800 off Roborock Vacuum Cleaners
    o $60 off Nintendo Switch 2 console
    o Buy 4 get 20% off Ice Mountain Sparkling on Amazon Fresh
    o Buy 4 get 20% off all 100PLUS on Amazon Fresh

*Terms and conditions apply to all promotions listed above.

As part of its efforts to make shopping simpler and more relevant to individual customers, Amazon Singapore has redesigned its homepage. Now on mobile browsers and the Amazon Shopping app for iOS and Android, the refreshed layout features a more personalised and streamlined shopping experience. Customers can enjoy easier navigation, relevant product recommendations, and quicker access to frequently repurchased items – helping them save time and find deals that matter most during Prime Day.

Additional Prime Day Perks:

  • Amazon Fresh:
    o First-time customers get 50% off their first order with a minimum spend of S$40. Use code PD50NEW. Valid from 8 to 14 July. T&Cs apply.
    o Prime repeat customers get S$15 off S$140. Use code PD15OFF. Valid from 8 to 14 July. T&Cs apply.

  • Amazon.sg Gift Cards: Amazon.sg Gift Cards offer an easy, simple, and convenient gifting experience, providing access to an extensive selection of products on Amazon.sg at Amazon.sg/giftcard. Purchase S$180 or more worth of Amazon.sg Gift Cards to receive additional S$15 credit from 24 June till 14 July. T&Cs apply.

Make the Most of Your Shopping during Prime Day

  • Join Prime: New customers can start a 30-day free trial and enjoy these benefits for S$4.99 a month or S$49.90 per year. Sign up at Amazon.sg/prime.
  • Enjoy convenient Delivery and Return options: Prime members can enjoy fast and free shipping on millions of eligible items across domestic selection as well as Amazon International Store. Need to return an item from US, Japan or Germany? Easy – customers can now experience hassle-free and faster returns, including pick-up from your address or via a drop-off center. More information here.

Shop for Good this Prime Day
This Prime Day, Amazon invites customers to make a meaningful impact while they shop through the Amazon x Shop for Good Wishlist. In addition to enjoying great deals, customers can support local non-profit organisations and their causes by purchasing items they need most from their Amazon wishlists. As Singapore marks its 60th year, this initiative aims to support local communities and encourage giving back.

Shop Prime Day Deals Around the World
Prime Day will kick off on July 8 in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Colombia, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the U.S., and the UK. Prime members in Brazil, Egypt, India, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates can shop Prime Day deals later this summer.

Every Day Made Better with Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime was designed to make your life better every single day. Over 200 million paid members around the world enjoy the many benefits of Prime, including the best of shopping and entertainment. In Singapore, Prime membership offers a range of benefits including a discount of up to 10% on over a million eligible products on Amazon.sg, unlimited access to award-winning movies and TV episodes with Prime Video, unlimited access to video game benefits with Prime Gaming, Prime Day, and more. Prime was built on the foundation of unlimited fast, free shipping. Prime members enjoy access to free one-day delivery on eligible domestic items, free international delivery with no minimum spending on eligible items, free delivery on selected delivery windows for orders of S$60 and above on Amazon Fresh, free 2-hour scheduled delivery for orders of S$60 and above on Watsons and Little Farms on Amazon.sg, as well as early access to deals and exclusive deals. Prime is S$4.99 per month, and S$49.90 per year. Start a 30-day free trial of Prime at Amazon.sg/prime

Hashtag: #AmazonSingapore #PrimeDaySG

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

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, and Kindle are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit .

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