31 C
Vientiane
Sunday, August 10, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 400

FinVolution’s BRAVOSHOPS to Boost 1,500 SMEs across Asia, Debuts at UN Global Compact BRI Action Platform Summit

JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FinVolution Group (NYSE: FINV), a leading fintech company, has launched its “BRAVOSHOPS” pilot initiative to support small and micro businesses across pan-Asian countries. The Company introduced the initiative at a summit held in Indonesia on May 25, co-organized by the Government of Indonesia and the UNGC BRI Action Platform.

The summit brought together global stakeholders to advance sustainable development across key sectors, including SME empowerment, green innovation, education, and energy transition. During the summit, members of the UN Global Compact unveiled nine flagship pilot initiatives, with FinVolution presenting its BRAVOSHOPS initiative as part of this global effort.

Notably, FinVolution’s BRAVOSHOPS initiative seeks to empower community-rooted small businesses that demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility and cultural heritage. The initiative builds on FinVolution’s experience supporting over 70 small shops in China since 2023. Through a combination of physical upgrades, public engagement, and targeted financial support, the program enhances the visibility, functionality, and impact of participating stores.

As part of its regional expansion, BRAVOSHOPS aims to empower at least 1,500 small businesses across China, Indonesia, the Philippines, and other Asian countries between 2025 and 2030. The initiative reflects FinVolution’s long-term commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable livelihoods.

Building Change from the Ground Up

As FinVolution actively expands the BRAVOSHOPS initiative, two newly supported businesses in Indonesia exemplify the model’s impact.

In Cianjur, West Java, young agricultural entrepreneur Agus Surya founded a tool shop after graduating from university. His store provides essential farming equipment to rural communities and serves as a hub for agricultural education.

“Running an agribusiness is about more than profit and loss — it’s about making a meaningful impact,” Agus said. Responding to his needs, BRAVOSHOPS helped modernize his storefront and display units, giving his shop a fresh, professional look. Agus hopes his revitalized store will serve as a stronger support system for local farmers.

Also, among the early beneficiaries of BRAVOSHOPS in Indonesia is Ms. Vonny Waty, a seasoned chef from Manado, Sulawesi, who has over 15 years of culinary experience. Currently based in Jakarta, she runs a small food stall serving traditional dishes to nearby office workers. However, Vonny had long struggled with limited resources. She faced challenges expanding her business due to a lack of refrigeration and storage, which limited her ability to preserve ingredients and diversify her menu.

Through the BRAVOSHOPS initiative, FinVolution provided essential equipment — including a refrigerator, storage cabinets, and a large-capacity rice cooker — enabling Vonny to improve food safety, stabilize her operations, and expand her offerings. As a result, her income has grown, and she has become a role model for other aspiring women entrepreneurs in her community, demonstrating the transformative power of targeted, practical support.

Scaling Impact Across Borders

FinVolution’s BRAVOSHOPS initiative was first launched in late 2023 in China as a public-interest initiative designed to support small businesses deeply rooted in their local communities. The program focused on identifying microenterprises that not only provided goods or services but also played a meaningful role in fostering social cohesion and local well-being.

Early beneficiaries included a neighborhood barbershop offering monthly free haircuts to elderly residents, a rural reading space organizing volunteer-led literacy sessions for children, and a cafe that created employment opportunities for individuals with hearing impairments. By the end of 2024, BRAVOSHOPS had made a measurable impact, directly benefiting more than 15,000 people across a range of underserved groups, including seniors, children, and marginalized individuals.

The initiative proved that even small-scale interventions — when guided by a deep understanding of community needs — can yield meaningful and lasting social value. This success laid the foundation for the program’s expansion beyond China, demonstrating its potential as a replicable model for empowering local economies and advancing inclusive development.

FinVolution’s decision to expand BRAVOSHOPS to Southeast Asia further underscores the initiatives’ broader relevance and affirms the Company’s leadership in creating value through localized, socially responsible solutions.

Leading the Way in Sustainable Financial Innovation

Since joining the UN Global Compact in 2022, FinVolution has aligned its business strategies with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), strengthening its ESG practices across its operations. The Company’s ESG effort has earned international recognition, with Morningstar Sustainalytics rating the firm as a “Low Risk” performer — ranking it among the top 15% of diversified financial firms worldwide. FinVolution also achieved scores above the industry average in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment.

Looking ahead, FinVolution aims to scale its inclusive finance efforts by partnering with more organizations, and harnessing its technological and platform strengths to help create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable economic environment across Asia and beyond.

Chairman Chen Zhi Named Cambodia’s Entrepreneur of the Year, Prince Holding Group Recognized for Scholarship Program


PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 May 2025 – Prince Holding Group’s Chairman Neak Oknha Chen Zhi has been named Entrepreneur of the Year in Cambodia 2025 by the World Business Outlook Awards. Additionally, the Group’s Chen Zhi Scholarship has received the Best Overall CSR Excellence in Cambodia 2025 award.

Chairman Neak Oknha Chen Zhi, honored as
Chairman Neak Oknha Chen Zhi, honored as “Entrepreneur of the Year in Cambodia 2025” for the third consecutive year, exemplifies dedicated leadership and a steadfast commitment to sustainable business practices and community welfare.

This marks the third consecutive year that Chairman Chen Zhi and Prince Group have earned recognition from this global awards platform, underscoring their commitment to responsible leadership and sustainable investment in Cambodia’s development.

Under Chairman Chen Zhi‘s leadership, Prince Group has grown into one of Cambodia’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with significant investments that have contributed to the Kingdom’s economic and social development.

Since its inception, the Chen Zhi Scholarship has provided full university education, mentorship and professional development opportunities to 400 Cambodian students through partnerships with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport and the country’s leading academic institutions.

Gabriel Tan, Chief Communications Officer of Prince Holding Group, said: “Chairman Chen Zhi’s strategic vision and business leadership have transformed Prince Group into one of Cambodia’s leading conglomerates while establishing a foundation where commercial success and community development advance together. These recognitions inspire us to strengthen our efforts to create lasting positive change in Cambodia.”

Prince Holding Group continues to pursue its strategic vision of fostering inclusive growth through investments and partnerships in real estate development, financial services and consumer services sectors.

The World Business Outlook Awards are held annually to recognize organizations and individuals making significant contributions to economic growth, innovation and sustainable development. Winners are selected following thorough evaluation of performance, impact and alignment with global best practices.

Hashtag: #ChenZhi #PrinceHoldingGroup #PrinceGroup #ChenZhiScholarship

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

Bangkok Gears Up for Pride Parade at Bangkok Pride Festival 2025

Bangkok Gears Up for Pride Parade at Bangkok Pride Festival 2025
People take pictures in front of a Pride Month display in front of Siam Paragon shopping mall in Bangkok on June 21, 2023. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / AFP)

Bangkok is set to host the three-day Bangkok Pride Festival 2025 from 30 May to 1 June, transforming Rama I Road into what organizers describe as a “rainbow boulevard of equality and celebration.” 

Kalkine Pty Ltd: Empowering Australian Investors with Insightful Research

SYDNEY, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kalkine Pty Ltd, an independent equity research and financial services firm, is known for its expert-driven investment research and actionable insights designed to navigate complex capital markets. With a strong commitment to high-quality analysis, the firm has earned a reputation as a trusted name in Australia’s research advisory landscape.

A Leader in Equity Research and Financial Intelligence

Founded with a mission to democratise access to financial intelligence, Kalkine provides a comprehensive suite of services tailored to support informed investment decisions. The firm’s offerings include in-depth stock analysis, macroeconomic coverage, and sector-specific outlooks, catering to the evolving needs of modern investors.

Kalkine’s research approach blends data science and financial expertise, delivering insights across ASX-listed equities, mutual funds, ETFs, and global economic trends. Operating on a subscription-based model, it offers timely recommendations and general market advice.

Key services include:

  • Equity Research Reports: Detailed analysis of ASX-listed companies covering financials, risks, and strategic outlook.
  • Thematic Reports: Focused insights on emerging themes such as green energy, artificial intelligence, and battery technology.
  • Global Market Insights: Updates on international macroeconomic trends, interest rates, and geopolitical shifts.
  • Stock Screeners & Model Portfolios: Curated tools to help investors align with mid- to long-term strategies.

Local Expertise, Global Perspective

Headquartered in Sydney, Kalkine provides localised insights backed by global research capabilities. Analysts monitor international developments to evaluate their impact on Australian markets. Their work includes earnings forecasts, dividend yield analysis, sector-specific research, and ESG-aligned evaluations.

Driven by Innovation and Transparency

Kalkine’s research is built on transparency and analytical rigor. With the rise of self-directed investing, Kalkine has responded by offering simplified tools that decode complex market data. Its proprietary methodology integrates quantitative metrics, qualitative analysis, and technical indicators to deliver relevant and timely insights.

“Our goal is to empower every client to make informed investment decisions,” said a Kalkine spokesperson. “Markets are complex, but the right research makes them navigable.”

Client-Centric Approach and Future Focus

Kalkine’s customer engagement is anchored in transparency and responsiveness. From onboarding to research support, the firm ensures clarity and prompt service. Its strong client satisfaction reflects a commitment to excellence.

Looking ahead, Kalkine is investing in AI-powered analytics and interactive platforms to broaden its impact in the evolving financial landscape.

Laos, Malaysia Open New Rail-Sea Trade Corridor

Laos, Malaysia Open New Rail-Sea Trade Corridor
Laos, Malaysia Open New Rail-Sea Trade Corridor

Laos and Malaysia have launched a new trade corridor to improve regional logistics and strengthen economic ties, providing a direct route from Laos to global markets.

Abbisko Therapeutics Receives CDE Approval of Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Irpagratinib (ABSK011) in the Treatment of HCC

SHANGHAI, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Abbisko Therapeutics (HKEX Code: 02256) announced that its self-developed, highly selective small molecule FGFR4 inhibitor, irpagratinib (ABSK011), has received approval of Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of the China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for the treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). Irpagratinib is the first therapeutic agent to leverage molecularly defined biomarkers for precision-targeted treatment in patients with HCC.

During clinical trials, innovative drugs or modified new drugs intended to prevent or treat life-threatening diseases or conditions that severely impact quality of life—where no effective prevention or treatment exists, or where substantial evidence shows significant clinical advantages over existing therapies—may be eligible to apply for the CDE’s Breakthrough Therapy Designation program[1]. The approval of irpagratinib for Breakthrough Therapy Designation is based on its promising Phase I clinical trial data.

Patients with advanced or unresectable HCC currently lack effective treatment options following treatment with ICI- and mTKI-based therapies. Those with FGF19 overexpression often face significantly worse prognosis, and thus new treatment options are urgently needed. The Breakthrough Therapy Designation granted to irpagratinib will expedite its subsequent application and approval process with the CDE, bringing renewed hope and transformative possibilities to patients. 

Recently, Abbisko launched a pivotal registrational clinical study of irpagratinib for the treatment of HCC patients with FGF19 overexpression at Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, and Nanjing Tianyinshan Hospital.

About Irpagratinib (ABSK-011)

Irpagratinib is a highly-selective FGFR4 small molecule inhibitor designed to target overexpression of the FGF19 signaling pathway. Several epidemiological studies indicate that approximately 30% of HCC patients worldwide exhibit FGF19 overexpression. Development of targeted therapies against FGFR4 represent an innovative and novel approach to the treatment of HCC.

To date, no FGFR4 inhibitor has been granted regulatory approval globally. According to Frost & Sullivan, irpagratinib is expected to become the first breakthrough treatment for the treatment of HCC patients with FGF19 overexpression.

In addition to monotherapy, Abbisko Therapeutics is exploring irpagratinib in combination with atezolizumab, an anti-PD-L1 antibody manufactured by F. Hoffmann-La Roche and Roche (China), in a Phase II study. At the previous 2024 ESMO GI Congress, Abbisko presented clinical data demonstrating 220mg irpagratinib BID in combination with atezolizumab achieved a 50% objective response rate (ORR) in FGF19+ HCC patients who had previously received immune checkpoint inhibition therapy.

About Abbisko Therapeutics

Founded in April 2016, Abbisko Therapeutics Co., Ltd. (HKEX: 02256.HK), is an oncology-focused biopharmaceutical company based in Shanghai that is dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative medicines to treat unmet medical needs in China and globally. The Company was established by a group of seasoned drug hunters with rich research & development and managerial expertise from top multinational pharmaceutical companies. Since its founding, Abbisko Therapeutics has built an extensive pipeline of innovative programs focused on precision oncology and immuno-oncology.

Please visit www.abbisko.com for more information.

References: 
1.     NMPA突破性治疗药物审评工作程序. https://www.samr.gov.cn/zw/zfxxgk/fdzdgknr/fgs/art/2023/art_3275cb2a929d4c34ac8c0421b2a9c257.html 

Hong Leong Bank Enhances HLB Private Bank and Regional Wealth Management with Strategic Alliance with Lombard Odier

Integrating A Strategic Alliance with Swiss Private Bank Lombard Odier, Key Talent Acquisitions, Development Programs, and AI Tools, the Bank is Poised to Accelerate its Regional Wealth Management Proposition

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Leong Bank (“HLB” or “the Bank”) announces its strategic alliance with Lombard Odier, a leading global wealth and asset manager with over 225 years of experience, to enhance its HLB Private Bank and Regional Wealth Management proposition. This strategic alliance unites the combined generations of prudent stewardship and innovative financial thinking from Lombard Odier and HLB, a Malaysian financial institution with a 120-year heritage built on trust and a deep understanding of clients’ aspirations.

Inking the strategic alliance at HLB’s HQ in Kuala Lumpur between Kevin Lam, HLB’s Group Managing Director & CEO with Vincent Magnenat, Asia Group Regional Head and Global Head of Strategic Alliances, Lombard Odier, witnessed by (Left) HLB’s Malkit Singh Maan, Chief Financial Officer and Jeffrey Yap, Managing Director & Head of Regional Wealth Management, and (Right) Lombard Odier’s Vanessa Raymundo, Managing Director, Head of Asia Private Banking Strategic Alliances and Hubert Keller, Senior Managing Partner
Inking the strategic alliance at HLB’s HQ in Kuala Lumpur between Kevin Lam, HLB’s Group Managing Director & CEO with Vincent Magnenat, Asia Group Regional Head and Global Head of Strategic Alliances, Lombard Odier, witnessed by (Left) HLB’s Malkit Singh Maan, Chief Financial Officer and Jeffrey Yap, Managing Director & Head of Regional Wealth Management, and (Right) Lombard Odier’s Vanessa Raymundo, Managing Director, Head of Asia Private Banking Strategic Alliances and Hubert Keller, Senior Managing Partner

This collaboration forms a cornerstone of HLB’s accelerated strategy to become the best-run bank in Malaysia, underscoring its vision for responsible and forward-thinking wealth management. Under this strong strategic alliance, HLB Private Bank and Regional Wealth Management will offer clients a sophisticated and personalized experience, combining Lombard Odier’s long-term global perspectives from its Chief Investment Office with the Bank’s local market insights. This synergy provides a comprehensive understanding of investment opportunities and tailored strategies for sustained, generational growth. Beyond investment expertise, HLB clients are able to access to comprehensive wealth architecture and bespoke advisory services focused on their individual goals, ensuring tailored solutions for wealth preservation and transfer, including succession planning and sustainable investments.

“We believe this is a transformative era for wealth management, driven by unprecedented wealth creation and a surge in entrepreneurship and this demands a departure from traditional approaches. Our ambition to be the best-run bank is intertwined with our commitment to empower clients to build wealth that transcends generations. Our strategic alliance with Lombard Odier, an institution that shares our profound long-term perspective, allows us to elevate our wealth offerings here. Together, we are charting a course for enduring wealth, providing our discerning clients in Malaysia and the region with access to world-class expertise grounded in a shared commitment to responsibility and innovation, ensuring their legacies flourish for generations to come,” affirms Kevin Lam, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of HLB.

Alongside this strategic alliance, HLB is also focused on key internal advancements, implementing a comprehensive strategy that includes expanding its wealth management team and recruiting top-tier talent, developing the Wealth Academy for enhanced training, integrating AI to empower Relationship Managers, and continuously pursuing partnerships that enhance value for clients and the business.

Jeffrey Yap, Managing Director and Regional Head of Wealth Management, HLB emphasizes, “This strategic alliance with Lombard Odier is a key part of the Bank’s ongoing transformation and initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the market. With Asia-Pacific’s remarkable wealth growth, including a doubling of private assets and a surge in new HNWIs which will see a significant rise in intergenerational wealth transfer, the need to provide sophisticated guidance has never been greater. This collaboration allows us to offer bespoke wealth solutions that are not only designed for today’s complexities but are also thoughtfully constructed to secure the financial well-being of generations to come – building legacies, not just portfolios.”

To further enhance the value for HLB clients, the strategic alliance with Lombard Odier plays a pivotal role in delivering sophisticated investment solutions through Hong Leong Asset Management Bhd (HLAM), a key entity of the Hong Leong Financial Group. This collaboration strategically leverages Lombard Odier’s expertise as a target fund manager, thereby broadening and enriching the Group’s wealth management offerings. 

Vincent Magnenat, Asia Group Regional Head and Global Head of Strategic Alliances, Lombard Odier, remarks, “We believe in working with the right partners who share our vision of the future of wealth and asset management – those who complement each other’s DNA, and who bring a proven track record in the wealth management space with a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability. In HLB, we see a strong alignment on all fronts, and our Strategic Alliance is a powerful testament to our shared values. We are delighted to welcome HLB into our Ecosystem of Strategic Alliances.” 

For more information, visit: www.hlb.com.my/private

About Hong Leong Bank Berhad

Please visit  www.hlb.com.my

EZVIZ smashes visual limits by firstly introducing Multi-Lens to the world, inaugurating a new era of smart camera protection: from combos to all-in-one solutions

HOOFDDORP, Netherlands, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EZVIZ, a global leader in smart home technology, sets the new benchmark in visual technology and smart protection by introducing the revolutionary Multi-Lens Camera Series, a two-pronged lineup grounded on lens fusion and intelligent imaging. While the Co-Action Series unlocks next-level flexibility, the Mixed Vision Series overcomes visual challenges by blending diverse perspectives and focal lengths. Centered on “1 = All,” the series transforms traditional multi-cameras into feature-rich solutions with enhanced simplicity, efficiency, and reliability.

The EZVIZ Multi-Lens series is the first to synergize multi-lens systems with advanced technologies, unleashing the power and productivity of smart cameras.
The EZVIZ Multi-Lens series is the first to synergize multi-lens systems with advanced technologies, unleashing the power and productivity of smart cameras.

“The Multi-Lens Camera family reflects our core belief that one smart device should be able to do the work of many,” said John Wu, Product Manager at EZVIZ. “Noticing unresolved issues like limited coverage, low flexibility, and compromise, we took steps further and designed the next-generation cameras to meet users’ needs anytime, anywhere. Backed by our most advanced visual technologies, the Multi-Lens Series turns pain points into benefits, redefining what smart cameras can do.”

The Mixed-Vision Series: from single view to boundless visuals

Rooted in EZVIZ’s leading image processing, the Mixed-Vision Series breaks through the restrictions of poor lighting, limited sightline, and large coverage areas. Integrating 4K lenses and self-developed ColorFULL technology, the H80x Dual cracks overexposure, dark corners, distorted colors, and motion blur easily with dual-lens image processing, ensuring true-to-life clarity even in the darkness. When it comes to spacious areas, the H80f Multi matches up with high-end photography, making it a breeze to deliver far-reaching views with clarity and precision with its three 2K+ lenses empowered by lag-free 12x Mixed Zooming technology.

The Co-Action Series: from passive defense to proactive protection

Following the success of the dual-lens H9c, EZVIZ further expands the offerings with an award-winning new series. For utmost flexibility, it applies three motors that allow two lenses to operate independently or work together to actively collect as much detail as possible while automatically responding to different situations so that no potential risk can be missed. The leap-forward upgrade is its adaptable options, ranging from plug-in cameras, battery-operated models to 4G-enabled cameras, meeting the evolving needs. Whatever the scenario is, the Co-Action Series, including the H90 Dual, HB90 Dual Kit and CB90x Dual 4G Kit, is designed to provide seamless, reliable protection in an unmatched way.