This spirit of progress is exemplified in education, where Rex Wallen Tan of Southville International School and Colleges was recognized as one of Asia’s Most Admirable Young Leaders. By pioneering the Virtual Online Learning & Teaching (VOLT) program, Tan ensured uninterrupted education for thousands of students, transforming national learning standards and sharpening the country’s global competitiveness in English proficiency.

Technological advancement and environmental stewardship emerge as key themes. POWER 4 ALL, Inc., named the Innovative Tech Company of the Year, has revolutionized water and renewable energy access through Asia’s first Direct Potable Water Re-Use Facility and the Philippines’ first Modular Packaged Water Treatment Plant. Likewise, First Oceanic Property Management, Inc. (FOPM) secured its spot as one of Asia’s Leading SMEs by blending property management with fintech and advanced digital solutions, enhancing efficiency and global reach.

In the financial sector, Home Credit Philippines claimed the Industry Champions of the Year accolade by nurturing financial inclusion and sustainability. Asialink Finance Corporation’s success as Asia’s Best Performing Company demonstrates how bridging gaps in access to credit can empower underserved communities and propel economic resilience.

Globe Telecom, Inc. added to the Philippines’ laurels as both a Top Workplace in Asia and an Industry Champion of the Year, underscoring its commitment to employee well-being, digital inclusion, and climate responsibility. Foundever® Philippines Corporation, honored for both Asia’s Most Inspiring Executives and Top Community Centric Companies, embodies the power of people-first leadership, inclusivity, and renewable energy initiatives.

Together, these visionary leaders and enterprises illustrate the Philippines’ unwavering drive to advance society through education, technology, financial empowerment, inclusive workplaces, and sustainable innovation. Their collective achievements at the ACES Awards 2024 are not only a testament to national excellence, but also a beacon guiding Asia toward a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainably vibrant future.

Hashtag: #ACESAwards2024 #RegionalRecognition #leadershipexcellence #Sustainability #SustainableCompanies #responsibleleaders #outstandingentrepreneurs #philippines

https://www.acesawards.com/

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About ACES Awards

The ACES Awards, organized by MORS Group, recognize and celebrate the region’s most exemplary leaders, companies, and initiatives. By spotlighting transformative approaches to leadership and corporate excellence, the awards inspire continued innovation, promote sustainable practices, and encourage inclusive growth throughout Asia’s diverse and dynamic business ecosystem.

Premium Products of Siam Signature:

• Doi Kham: A sustainable brand initiated by Thai royalty, renowned for its exceptional quality.
• Thai Aree: Offers ready-made sauces and meal kits, making it easy for anyone to prepare iconic Thai dishes at home.
• Raimaijon: The pioneers in producing pasteurized sugarcane juice in Thailand.
• Vena: Provides a variety of Halal-certified snacks, catering to diverse tastes.

The launch event on 14 December was graced by distinguished figures such as His Excellency Mr. Darm Boontham, Ambassador of Thailand to Saudi Arabia, and senior executives from Tamimi Markets, emphasizing the launch’s role in fostering Thai-Saudi cultural and economic exchanges.

His Excellency Mr. Darm Boontham remarked, “This event is a testament to the growing friendship and cooperation between Thailand and Saudi Arabia. Thai cuisine has long been one of our most beloved cultural exports, known for its rich, balanced flavors, authenticity, and heritage. The launch of Siam Signature serves as a bridge to bring the richness of Thai flavors and heritage to Saudi consumers, thanks to SCG International—a cornerstone of the SCG Group that exemplifies Thailand’s capacity for innovation, quality, and excellence.”

Mr. Ayham Nasser, National Head of Customer Experience at Tamimi Markets added, “We are proud to partner with SCG International to bring Siam Signature to Saudi Arabia. This launch reflects our vision of delivering the best flavors from around the world to our customers.”

Mr. Abhijit Datta, Managing Director of SCG International, emphasized, “Siam Signature embodies the rich traditions of Thai cuisine and represents SCG International’s unwavering dedication to delivering premium products to global markets. We are honored to collaborate with the Thai Embassy and Tamimi Markets, bringing these high-quality offerings to meet the growing demand for premium and authentic international food products in this vibrant and dynamic market.”

SCG International is committed to becoming a trusted partner, driving innovation and tailoring solutions in key sectors such as Construction Technology, Building Materials, Industrial Supply, Paper & Packaging, and Food & Beverage.

Mr. Datta concluded, “Siam Signature marks the beginning of a transformative journey to create lasting growth and success in Saudi Arabia.”
Hashtag: #SCG

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Landmark Motorsport Conference to Debut in Macau, Uniting Delegates from 147 Countries

MACAO SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – The Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) have announced, after a global bidding exercise, the 2025 Extraordinary General Assemblies and Conference will take place in Macau from June 10 – 13, 2025, at the state-of-the-art Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC). Hosted in partnership with the Automobile General Association Macao-China (AAMC) and Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), this prestigious conference will welcome over 500 senior FIA delegates from 147 countries to chart the future of global motorsport and mobility.

It will be the first time the event has been hosted within this diverse and vibrant region, a fitting location given Macau’s reputation as the host of the legendary Macau Grand Prix, which for many years has been a focal point in global motorsport and serving as a key stage for top drivers, including many future stars of Formula 1 to showcase their skills. Through a longstanding partnership with the FIA, the recent “Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th Anniversary of the Macau SAR – 71st Macau Grand Prix” featured two highly anticipated FIA World Cup races that drew top international competitors, further cementing Macau’s reputation as a premier hub for global motorsport.

FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said: “Macau is an exciting, multicultural region, the perfect setting for the FIA to unite our Member Clubs from across the world. My thanks to the AAMC and Galaxy Entertainment Group for hosting us and I look forward to a successful conference and extraordinary general assembly.”

As the Greater China region emerges as a leader in electric vehicle adoption and remains the world’s largest automotive market, the 2025 FIA Conference carries profound strategic importance. The event will underscore Macau’s pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility and motorsport, not only within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area but also on the global stage.

Francis Lui, Chairman of GEG, stated: “We believe Galaxy Macau and the Galaxy International Convention Centre is the perfect venue for the FIA Conference. Macau’s unique geographical location in the heart of Asia, global accessibility, international cultural heritage, deep appreciation of motorsport, combined with our world class and award-winning hotels, will ensure a warm and memorable welcome for delegates from around the world.”

“As a major sponsor of The Macau Grand Prix plus numerous sports events over many years, GEG has been instrumental in fostering Macau’s sports development and aligning with the Macau SAR Government’s vision to be a ‘City of Sports’. The GICC, which has become a standout venue since its 2023 debut, has already played a pivotal role in elevating Macau’s sporting, cultural, entertainment and MICE industries. Through initiatives that deepen cross-sector integration of ‘Tourism + Sports’ we will continue to drive Macau’s evolution as a premier MICE destination in future”, Lui continued.

CHONG Coc Veng, Chairman of the AAMC, commented: “We are glad that the 2025 FIA Conference will be held in Macau. Macau is a unique destination that preserves a multi-cultural heritage alongside gastronomy, cultural and motorsport events, including the prestigious motorsport event of the year – The Macau Grand Prix, with the FIA World Cups. June is the perfect time to visit Macau and savour its distinctive flavours of different cuisines and to experience the world heritage sites with the blend of Chinese and Portuguese culture. Welcome to Macau! See you in 2025!”

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau and Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey.

Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theatres are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit www.galaxymacau.com, www.broadwaymacau.com.mo and www.galaxyicc.com.

• Increasingly challenging market environment for the direct-to-market segments
• Strong growth in the Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology segment
• Outlook requires reinforcement of resilience measures

Overall, ZEISS can look back on a very successful fiscal year 2023/24. The Group’s revenue rose to 10.894 billion euros (prior year: 10.108 billion euros, up 8%). Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) totaled 1.444 billion euros (prior year: 1.686 billion euros) with an EBIT margin of 13%. All four segments of the ZEISS Group contributed to this growth. The challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and the current weaker global economic situation have, however, intensified and impacted the segments to varying degrees.

“Overall, we ended fiscal year 2023/24 with a good result and revenue growth. At the same time, it was not possible for all areas to escape the impact of current developments on the global markets,” said Dr. Karl Lamprecht, President and CEO of ZEISS. “Our success is based on our enormous innovative strength. To make sure it stays that way, we have spent a record 15% of revenue on research and development – and thus more than ever before – and also invested in the targeted expansion of personnel and infrastructure.”

Segment development

Hashtag: #ZEISS

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Emerging AI trends in trading for 2025
Machine learning continues to redefine the trading landscape by enhancing the speed and precision of market analysis. The 2024 IMF Global Financial Stability Report, Chapter 3, highlights that advancements in artificial intelligence are poised to improve market efficiency. To be more precise, AI-driven tools are expected to enable faster portfolio rebalancing and more efficient processing of large trades in asset classes like equities and bonds. However, the IMF also notes the potential risks associated with these technologies, such as heightened volatility during market stress.

Neural networks, particularly large language models (LLMs), have shown immense potential for sentiment analysis in trading. Since their introduction in 2017, the share of AI-related patent applications in algorithmic trading has surged from 19% to over 50% annually. The tools are already deployed to process market sentiment from news and social media in near real-time, offering traders insights into geopolitical developments and economic forecasts.

Algorithmic trading has grown substantially, with AI-driven systems enabling faster execution and reduced operational errors. High-frequency trading powered by AI has seen significant adoption, particularly in liquid asset classes such as equities and derivatives. While detailed statistics on future adoption rates remain speculative, the World Trade Organization’s focus on the digital transformation of markets underscores the increasing reliance on automation to enhance trading efficiency and liquidity.

Opportunities for traders in 2025
AI’s capacity to process sizable quantities of historical and real-time facts allows investors to benefit from predictive insights that had been formerly inconceivable. Advancements in AI-powered predictive analytics are changing how we forecast international markets by making predictions more accurate and providing clear, actionable insights. These tools are transforming financial markets, helping investors spot trends and respond to changes with greater confidence.

Emotions can often get in the way of smart trading decisions, especially when markets are highly volatile. AI helps solve this problem by relying purely on data and predictive models for decision-making. According to the IMF’s Global Financial Stability Report, AI-driven tools are already helping retail traders manage risks more effectively and avoid impulsive trades that could lead to losses.

As AI tool costs decrease, features like real-time portfolio optimisation and automated trading strategies are becoming accessible to individual traders. Previously available only to large financial institutions, these advanced tools are levelling the playing field, enabling retail investors to trade with more confidence and accuracy.

Risks and challenges in AI integration
AI-driven business strategies come with inherent risks. The IMF warns that over-reliance on algorithmic models could increase market volatility during a global crisis. For example, AI-driven exchanges exhibited herd-like behaviour during the March 2020 market turmoil. This resulted in significant price volatility and required a robust regulatory mechanism to manage the risks involved.

The integrity of AI systems faces increasing security challenges. Research shows that the effectiveness of AI models depends on data quality and security. Recent statistics reveal an alarming trend: cyber threats targeting AI are increasing by 47%. The industry requires robust security measures to protect the algorithms against data manipulation and unauthorised access.

While AI offers tremendous value, its complexity poses a challenge for low-tech businesses. The complexity of advanced AI systems makes it crucial to have accessible training resources and intuitive interfaces. These tools help traders, especially newcomers, understand and use AI effectively, paving the way for broader adoption across trading communities.

Preparing for AI-driven transformation
Thriving in an AI-pushed trading environment requires specific training. Otherwise, traders risk facing sophisticated systems they can’t properly handle or misusing AI-based tools, consequently missing out on their benefits. To prepare for future AI tools, traders should try the available software now. The safest option is to test AI deployment when trading on a demo account. This option is available on trading platforms provided by global brokers like Octa. For example, Octa broker currently uses AI to facilitate graph analysis and boost pattern identification when conducting technical analysis. Following the increased AI adoption trend, the company will likely keep embedding more AI-based tools on the platform.

AI is set to further redefine trading in 2025. From enhanced predictive analytics to democratising organisational productivity tools, the technology enables traders to make smarter, faster decisions. However, sustainable usage should remain at the core. One should be aware of risks such as over-reliance on algorithms and data security. To mitigate these risks, a reasonable strategy would be to combine AI-based analytics with human market monitoring and decision-making. AI should be perceived as a convenient tool rather than a magic pill for making accurate trading decisions.
Hashtag: #Octa

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Octa

Octa is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

Jollibee Group’s flagship brand solidifies position as one of the top restaurant chains in Vietnam

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2024 – The Jollibee Group, one of the largest and fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world, marks a significant milestone with the grand opening of its 200th Jollibee store in Vietnam. This achievement underscores the company’s success in market penetration and reinforces its commitment to international growth.

Jollibee Vietnam’s 200^th store was inaugurated on December 12, 2024, at 704 Hau Giang Street, Ward 12, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City, with crowds eagerly awaiting their Jollibee favorites.

“This incredible 200-store milestone in Vietnam, our largest international market, signifies the acceleration of Jollibee’s global expansion, bringing us closer to our vision of becoming one of the Top 5 restaurant companies in the world,” said Ernesto Tanmantiong, Jollibee Group Global Chief Executive Officer. “What’s significant to us is how Jollibee was able to be a part of the Vietnamese people’s lives and was provided the opportunity to bring them many joyful moments.”

“We are honored that millions of Vietnam citizens have embraced Jollibee, and truly love the food from Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti to Chili Chicken, which was specially made for the Vietnamese. We share this milestone with the Jollibee Vietnam team who rose above many obstacles to fulfill our mission of providing delicious food to bring the joy of eating across the Vietnamese communities,” Tanmantiong added.

“The success we’ve achieved in Vietnam is what we continue to strive for in markets across Asia and the rest of the world where we operate,” said Dennis Flores, Jollibee President for Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Australia (EMEAA). “In Vietnam, almost 100% of the customers are Vietnamese. This is a testament to how Jollibee can appeal to diverse markets and cross borders. By staying true to our commitment to deliver great-tasting food with consistent quality and warm friendly service, while listening closely to each market’s preferences and constantly innovating, we are poised to further accelerate our growth momentum.”

Jollibee’s Two-Decade Success Story in Vietnam

Jollibee Vietnam’s journey did not happen overnight. Beginning modestly in 2005 with its first branch in Coop Mart Xa Lo Hanoi, the brand has grown to become a beloved dining destination for Vietnamese customers.

“It is the continuous support of the Vietnamese people, and their fondness for Jollibee’s signature offerings like Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti that has fueled this remarkable growth and inspired us to strive towards becoming the quick-service restaurant (QSR) with the widest network in Vietnam,” said Lam Hong Nguyen, Jollibee Vietnam Managing Director.

Jollibee’s success in Vietnam is largely attributed to its menu of exceptional-tasting products loved by locals. Signature dishes like Chickenjoy, perfectly crispy fried chicken, and sweet-style Spaghetti, a unique and beloved offering, have become iconic favorites. The spicy and flavorful Chili Chicken, developed specifically for Vietnamese customers, further complements the diverse menu and caters to the distinct local palate—an approach that has also won over local customers in other markets such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Spicy Chickenjoy offering; and in the United Kingdom (UK) and Spain with Chicken Sandwich.

To support growing customer demand, Jollibee established its own ISO 22000-certified commissary in Vietnam to produce its fast-moving products. It is the first and only QSR in Vietnam to support its operation through a self-managed commissary, with the capacity to support 400 stores locally.

Ensuring Success in Asia and Across the World

Jollibee Group’s sustained growth in Vietnam is a testament to its strategic approach, operational excellence, and deep understanding of local preferences.

For almost 20 years, its flagship brand, Jollibee, has delighted Vietnamese customers with its unique and joyful dining experience. The company also continues to grow its presence in the country with its homegrown coffee brand, Highlands Coffee.

Highlands Coffee has grown exponentially since Jollibee Group acquired a 50% stake in 2012, expanding from 56 stores to a network of 763 in Vietnam and 815 globally. Today, the company holds a controlling 60% share of the business. Highlands Coffee is the market leader for Vietnamese coffee, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community building. Its strategic growth has solidified its presence, especially in key urban areas, resonating strongly with both locals and visitors.

Looking ahead, Jollibee Group is well positioned for continued expansion in Asia and across the world. It recently entered the South Korean market with its acquisition of Compose Coffee. It has also entered into an agreement to acquire full ownership and control of Hong Kong-based dim sum restaurant Tim Ho Wan from Titan Dining LP (Titan Fund). Jollibee Group has also entered a joint venture with Singapore-based Food Collective Pte. Ltd. (FCPL) to expand the Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters chains in the Philippines.

The Jollibee Group now has a portfolio of 19 brands with over 9,500 stores across 32 countries worldwide.

Hashtag: #JollibeeGroup

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About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), also known as the Jollibee Group, is one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies, with a mission to deliver great-tasting food, bringing the joy of eating through its 19 brands with over 9,500 stores across 32 countries.

The Jollibee Group’s portfolio includes eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger), four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in China), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and has recently invested in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology.

Through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL), the Jollibee Group holds a 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP. It recently disclosed that it signed an agreement to transfer of ownership and management of the Tim Ho Wan business to the Jollibee Group, subject to certain closing conditions. This transfer will be finalized after these closing conditions have been fulfilled, and Tim Ho Wan becomes 100% owned by JPWL. It also established a joint venture company that holds the franchise rights to operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. The Company also holds a 90% stake in Titan Dining Partners II Ltd for growing Asia-Pacific food service brands.

The Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices across food safety, employee welfare, community support, good governance, and environmental responsibility, among others. These focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Jollibee Group has been recognized as the Philippines’ Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal, named one of Asia’s Fab 50 Companies, and listed among Forbes’ World’s Best Employers and Top Female-Friendly Companies. The Company is also a three-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recipient and featured in TIME’s World’s Best Companies and Fortune’s Southeast Asia 500 List.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com