NEW YORK, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AESTURA, Korea’s #1 dermatologist recommended dermocosmetic brand for sensitive skin^[1] breaks new ground in the U.S. skincare market with its exclusive launch at 400+ Sephora locations and on Sephora.com. This strategic partnership with Sephora answers the growing demand for advanced, science-backed solutions in the dermatologist skincare category.

AESTURA is more than just a skincare brand—it is the culmination of over 40 years of scientific research and dermatological expertise. AESTURA’s specialized sensitive skin solutions are trusted by dermatologists at Korea’s leading medical institutions. The brand has been ranked as the No. 1 cosmetic brand sold in skin clinics for 9 consecutive years^[2], and has widespread distribution, reaching 100% of tertiary general hospitals in South Korea.^[3] Through AESTURA’s Derma-Science Advisory Board in the US, the brand works closely and continuously with dermatologists to ensure that every formula is backed by the latest dermatological science.

AESTURA’s mission to deliver clinical-grade solutions that show real results aligns perfectly with Sephora’s commitment to innovation and quality in skincare.

“We are so pleased to partner with AESTURA and introduce their derm-backed formulas exclusively to our US clients as part of our growing Korean skincare assortment,” said Brooke Banwart, SVP Skincare Merchandising at Sephora. “Our clients value effective, results-driven skincare, and AESTURA delivers on this by offering cutting-edge solutions specifically designed for sensitive skin that support barrier health. We look forward to introducing AESTURA to our Sephora community and know that it will be a valuable addition to our assortment.”

At the heart of AESTURA’s breakthrough skincare is the patented technology behind the bestselling ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream, which features one million capsules packed with barrier-boosting ceramides in every bottle.^[4] These capsules stay on the skin for up to 18 hours^[5], delivering maximum hydration while strengthening, repairing, and protecting the moisture barrier which can be weakened in sensitive skin.

“Sensitive skin often struggles with compromised skin barrier, making it more susceptible to dryness and irritation,” says Dr. Richard D. Granstein, an academic dermatologist and Chair of AESTURA’s Derma-Science Advisory Board. Additionally, according to Dr. Y. Claire Chang, board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm and clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Hospital, “For those with sensitive skin, ceramides are crucial. It’s not just about any ceramides, though. Sensitive skin benefits most from specific ceramides that mimic those naturally found in the skin. AESTURA’s innovative capsule technology, used in the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream, encapsulates these barrier-boosting ceramides, allowing for deeper penetration to help rebuild and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Results reported from a clinical trial of the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream demonstrated significantly enhanced skin hydration and improved barrier function.”

The ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream has become a viral sensation in Korea, with one cream sold every 7 seconds^[6] due to its proven ability to strengthen, protect and hydrate the skin. The cream provides immediate and up to 120 hours of lasting hydration after one application.^[7]

Formulated for daily use, the rest of the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ collection provides a complete routine for sensitive skin. The collection includes the Foaming Cleanser, Hydro Essence, Hydro Cera-HA Serum, Face Lotion (a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner), Hydro Soothing Cream, and Cream Mist.

Each product in the collection is formulated to address specific skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and barrier damage while enhancing overall skin health. With the Mini Best Sellers Kit, exclusive to Sephora, consumers can discover ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ with trial sizes of the Cleanser, Serum, and Cream.

“We are thrilled to introduce AESTURA’s groundbreaking skincare solutions to the U.S. market,” said Brian Lee, General Manager at AESTURA. “Our products and formulas have been trusted by Korean dermatologists and consumers for decades, and now, with this launch at Sephora, we are bringing these clinically proven, innovative sensitive-skin solutions to a new audience.”

Starting February 2025, the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Collection will be available exclusively at select Sephora stores and on Sephora.com with prices ranging from $21.00 for the Mini ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream, ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Foaming Cleanser and ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream Mist to $34.00 for the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Hydro Cera-HA Serum. For more information on AESTURA and to discover the ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ collection, visit Sephora.com.

About AESTURA

AESTURA is the #1 Dermatologist Recommended Dermocosmetic Brand in Korea for Sensitive Skin. AESTURA combines over 40 years of dermatologist and scientific research to formulate specialized solutions for sensitive skin. From its pharmaceutical origins to continuous collaborations with dermatologists and research focused on sensitive skin, AESTURA leads in cutting-edge skincare and cosmetic science, addressing the unique causes and concerns of sensitive skin, while advancing innovation to improve overall skin health.

In 2008, AESTURA launched the ATOBARRIER Cream, exclusively sold in skin clinics and hospitals. The product quickly gained recognition for its effective, science-backed formulation, earning widespread recognition from dermatologists and fostering strong consumer loyalty. In response to the rapidly growing consumer demand for wider access to its products, AESTURA expanded its distribution into health and beauty stores and reintroduced its hero product, the ATOBARRIER Cream, under a new name, ATOBARRIER³⁶⁵ Cream, which quickly became a bestseller. Through our commitment to research, innovation and quality, AESTURA achieved rapid growth, solidifying its position as a leading dermocosmetic brand in South Korea.

AESTURA is dedicated to improving the skin concerns of customers with sensitive skin, while advancing innovation to improve overall skin’s health. For more information, visit: https://int.aestura.com/ and @aestura_us on social media.

About Sephora

Sephora is the world’s leading global prestige beauty retail brand. With 52,000 passionate employees operating in 34 markets, Sephora connects customers and beauty brands within the world’s most trusted and dynamic beauty community. We serve a highly engaged community of hundreds of millions of beauty followers across our global omnichannel network of more than 3,000 stores and iconic flagships, and our e-commerce and digital platforms, offering personalized and immersive seamless experiences across every touchpoint. With our curation of more than 300 brands and our own label, Sephora Collection, we offer the most unique and diverse range of prestige beauty products, tailored to our customers’ needs from fragrance to make-up, haircare, skincare and beyond, as we constantly reimagine the world of prestige beauty.

Since our inception in 1969 in Limoges, France, and as part of the LVMH Group since 1997, we have been disrupting the prestige beauty retail industry. Today, we continue to break with convention to drive our mission: champion a world of inspiration and inclusion where everyone can celebrate their beauty.

For more information, visit: https://www.sephora.com/about-us and @Sephora on social media. For media inquiries, please visit our Sephora Newsroom or email ExternalComms@sephora.com.

HANOI, Vietnam, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — By the end of 2024, Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SeABank, HOSE: SSB) reports 2024 business results with impressive highlights.

Efficient operations drive profit growth

Thanks to flexible business strategy, along with the adherence to sustainable development goals, SeABank’s PBT reached US$238.2 million, up 31% YoY, surpassing its target by 103%. Total assets reached US$12.85 billion, up 22% YoY; credit grew 20.42%, reaching US$8.26 billion for credit outstanding balance, with prioritized disbursement for green credit sectors and Vietnam’s growth drivers.

Total mobilization exceeded KPIs, grew 23% YoY and reached US$8.52 billion. Particularly, CASA grew 96% and reached US$1.29 billion, accounting for 19.4% of total mobilization. TOI accelerated by 32% YoY, reaching US$489.5 million. NPL is controlled at 1.89%, within SBV’s requirements.

By expanding international partnerships, in 2024, SeABank’s international mobilization increased by over US$250 million to reach US$850 million (not including trade finance). Of which, notable investments and cooperation are from IFC, AIIB, Norfund, etc. Besides, following the roadmap approved by AGM, SeABank successfully increased charter capital to US$1.12 billion, further improving its financial capacity.

SeABank also maintained stable growth by promoting digital technology and product diversification. Recorded growth of all performance indicators showed positive tendency, such as ROE at 14.75% and ROA at 1.63%, CIR decreased significantly to 33.28%.

In 2024, SeABank received approval from the SBV to transfer 100% of its capital in PTF to AEON Financial. Relevant procedures are scheduled to be completed in the Q1/2025.

Striving for sustainable development, driving growth in 2025

SeABank successfully upgraded its T24 core banking system to R22 – the latest version in Vietnam to deliver long-term benefits. By applying technology to enhance customer experience and operations, in 2024, SeABank recorded 52.6 million digital transactions, up 160% YoY; over 70% new accounts opened online via eKYC, bringing the number of online users to nearly 4 million.

SeABank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility remained strong, with over US$900,000 allocated to various initiatives, including housing repairs, disaster relief, scholarships for disadvantaged students, afforestation, etc.

Looking ahead to 2025, SeABank aims to build on its solid foundation by targeting a 10% increase in total assets, 15% growth in credit, 16% rise in capital mobilization, and 10% increase in PBT, with an expected ROE of 13.8%. These goals align with SeABank’s vision of sustainable growth and strengthen its position as a leading retail bank.

SHANGHAI, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For the seventh consecutive year, Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the “Company” or “Yum China“, NYSE: YUMC and HKEX: 9987) has been named as a “2025 China Top Employer” by the Top Employers Institute. Yum China placed second overall among 156 companies in China ranked — up from fourth last year — and was once again ranked first for the restaurant industry.

This continued recognition underscores Yum China’s steadfast dedication to upholding its “People First” philosophy through fostering a supportive workplace and empowering its employees.

The Company is committed to embracing new technologies to develop innovative solutions that help to support employees while promoting sustainable business growth. As a pioneer in digital transformation, Yum China leverages AI to optimize demand forecasting, inventory management, crew scheduling, and production to empower frontline managers. In 2024, the Company launched its “Comprehensive Talent Development” program providing technology-enhanced all-around learning and development support for employees at all career stages from entry-level to management. The Company also continues to deepen the application of AI-Generated Content (AIGC) in its employee services. For example, Yum China’s AIGC-enabled “MyService” provides 24/7 intelligent support for employees’ HR-related questions, enhancing productivity and employee experience.

To attract the next generation of talent, Yum China has continued to make its recruitment process more engaging and interactive. In 2024, the Company introduced a metaverse space for its management trainee recruitment program, providing an exciting new way for applicants to learn about the Company’s culture and history. Additionally, the Company’s “gamified” online and offline interviews have received high praise from student applicants, further strengthening its appeal among Gen Z candidates.

Employee well-being remains a cornerstone of Yum China’s “People First” philosophy. In 2025, the Company plans to further expand its “YUMC Care” benefits program, including increased medical coverage for over 10,000 frontline restaurant managers, and broaden its mutual aid fund to provide financial assistance to team leaders in need. These initiatives reflect Yum China’s commitment to ensuring the safety, health, and well-being of its employees.

The Company also remains dedicated to recognizing the contributions of its restaurant general managers (RGMs), in line with its “RGM No.1” principle. In December, the Company welcomed more than 11,000 RGMs to its annual RGM Convention in Hong Kong.

Looking ahead, Yum China remains continuously focused on improving employee engagement and well-being. Through incorporating feedback from initiatives such as employee surveys and events like the RGM Convention, the Company continues to refine its programs to meet the evolving needs of its dynamic workforce.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including under “2024 Outlook.” We intend all forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and by the use of forward-looking words such as “expect,” “expectation,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “may,” “could,” “intend,” “belief,” “plan,” “estimate,” “target,” “predict,” “project,” “likely,” “will,” “continue,” “should,” “forecast,” “outlook,” “commit” or similar terminology. These statements are based on current estimates and assumptions made by us in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that we believe are appropriate and reasonable under the circumstances, but there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding the future strategies, growth, business plans, and dividend and share repurchase plans. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance and are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict and could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by those statements. We cannot assure you that any of our expectations, estimates or assumptions will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are only made as of the date of this press release, and we disclaim any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law. Numerous factors could cause our actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Our plan of capital returns to shareholders is based on current expectations, which may change based on market conditions, capital needs or otherwise. In addition, other risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently believe to be immaterial could affect the accuracy of any such forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. You should consult our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (including the information set forth under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q) for additional detail about factors that could affect our financial and other results.

About Yum China Holdings, Inc.

Yum China is the largest restaurant company in China with a mission to make every life taste beautiful. The Company has approximately 400,000 employees and operates over 15,000 restaurants under six brands across around 2,200 cities in China. KFC and Pizza Hut are the leading brands in the quick-service and casual dining restaurant spaces in China, respectively. In addition, Yum China has partnered with Lavazza to develop the Lavazza coffee concept in China. Little Sheep and Huang Ji Huang specialize in Chinese cuisine. Taco Bell offers innovative Mexican-inspired food. Yum China has a world-class, digitalized supply chain, which includes an extensive network of logistics centers nationwide and an in-house supply chain management system. Its strong digital capabilities and loyalty program enable the Company to reach customers faster and serve them better. Yum China is a Fortune 500 company with the vision to be the world’s most innovative pioneer in the restaurant industry. For more information, please visit http://ir.yumchina.com.

Expanding Partnerships with Major Industry Players

ITASCA, Ill., Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lakeside Holding Limited (“Lakeside” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: LSH), a U.S.-based cross-border supply chain solution provider with a unique focus on the Asia-Pacific market is pleased to announce that its wholly owned subsidiary, Hupan Pharmaceutical (Hubei) Co., Ltd. (“Hupan Pharmaceutical”), has entered into two distribution agreements with Hubei Kelun Pharmaceutical Trading Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Sichuan Kelun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a publicly traded company on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (002422.SZ), principally engaged in the research and development, manufacture and distribution of pharmaceutical products.

Under the agreements, Hupan Pharmaceutical will distribute basic large-volume parenteral solutions, along with related medical products and equipment, to healthcare institutions across China. The agreements, effective from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, further expand Hupan Pharmaceutical’s portfolio of medical distribution clients.

These contracts with Kelun Pharmaceutical represent another milestone for Lakeside, following its recent agreement with Sichuan Huiyu Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Huiyu Pharmaceutical”), a leader in oncology and immune-related therapies. This continued momentum highlights Hupan Pharmaceutical’s ability to forge relationships with major pharmaceutical players, further strengthening its position in the pharmaceutical distribution sector.

Lan Su, Chief Operating Officer of Lakeside commented, “These agreements with Kelun Pharmaceutical build on the success of our other recent agreements. We appreciate earning the trust of leading pharmaceutical companies to deliver critical medical products efficiently, ensuring they reach the patients who need them most.”

About Lakeside Holding Limited

Lakeside Holding Limited is a U.S.-based cross-border supply chain solution provider with a unique focus on the Asia-Pacific market. Through two specialized subsidiaries—American Bear Logistics and Hupan Pharmaceutical (Hubei) Co., Ltd.—Lakeside delivers tailored logistics solutions spanning general and specialized sectors.

American Bear Logistics, with strategic hubs in Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York, offers customized cross-border ocean and airfreight solutions, connecting Asia-based logistics service companies and e-commerce platforms with the U.S. market.

Lakeside recently acquired Hupan Pharmaceutical (Hubei) Co., Ltd., expanding its service scope and enhancing its pharmaceutical logistics and distribution capabilities within China. This strategic move underscores Lakeside’s commitment to advancing integrated cross-border logistics solutions.

For more information, please visit https://lakeside-holding.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect our current expectations and views of future events. Known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those listed under “Risk Factors,” may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. You can identify some of these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements involve various risks and uncertainties. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

Investor Relations Contact:

Matthew Abenante, IRC
President
Strategic Investor Relations, LLC
Tel: 347-947-2093
Email: matthew@strategic-ir.com

SHANGHAI, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hesai Technology (Nasdaq: HSAI), the global leader in automotive lidar technology, today announced that it has secured design wins for multiple Chery Automobile models. The models are expected to enter mass production in the second half of 2025 and will be equipped with the newest generation of Hesai’s ultra-compact high-performance ATX lidar.

Chery’s vehicle line-up includes passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and urban mobility vehicles. Chery recently reported a 38 percent jump in global car sales year-over-year, with 2.6 million vehicles sold in 2024, and a forecast of more than 3 million deliveries this year. As the leading exporter of Chinese-brand passenger vehicles, Chery announced its total exports in 2024 exceeded 1.14 million vehicles, a 21.4% increase year-on-year.

As of December 2024, Hesai has earned more than 100 design wins across 21 automotive OEMs including Chery, Great Wall Motors, and Changan.

The ATX offers powerful performance in a compact form, empowering advanced assisted driving functions. Since its release in April 2024, Hesai’s ATX has been selected for mass production vehicles by numerous leading automakers including top new energy vehicle companies and leading European and American OEMs’ joint ventures in China.

In 2025, Hesai’s planned annual production capacity is expected to exceed 2 million units, supported by the company’s mass production capabilities and research and development innovation.

Recognized for Outstanding Security Excellence, Strengthening Customer Trust and Global Competitiveness

SEOUL, South Korea, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — RSUPPORT Co., Ltd., a leading provider of remote solutions, announced today that its Global R&D Center has achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, the international standard for information security management systems (ISMS).

ISO/IEC 27001:2022, jointly established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), is the globally recognized standard for information security management. This certification is awarded to organizations that successfully implement and maintain a rigorous ISMS, passing stringent evaluations across multiple security domains.

RSUPPORT’s Global R&D Center achieved certification after meeting the high standards set for 123 criteria, including information security management frameworks and access controls. This prestigious certification demonstrates RSUPPORT’s unwavering commitment to robust information security practices, providing customers and stakeholders with confidence in its development and management processes.

With this certification, RSUPPORT enhances its global competitiveness and reinforces trust among its customers by ensuring robust security measures across its flagship solutions, including RemoteView and RemoteCall. The Global R&D Center plays a critical role in the development, quality assurance, and management of RSUPPORT’s core products.

“We are proud to have received ISO/IEC 27001 certification, which reaffirms our commitment to adhering to the highest standards of information security in the remote solutions industry,” said Hyung-su Seo, CEO of RSUPPORT. He also added, “We will remain dedicated to delivering highly reliable products and services to businesses across a wide range of industries worldwide.”

RSUPPORT provides a comprehensive suite of remote solutions to over 10,000 enterprises and institutions across 24 countries, including RemoteView, a remote access and control solution; RemoteCall, a remote support solution; and RemoteVS, a remote sales solution. Its clients span a variety of industries, including manufacturing, finance, ICT, public services, and education. The company is also expanding its product portfolio with innovative solutions, including an AI-powered meeting transcription service and a Metaverse-based communication platform, to meet the evolving needs of global businesses.

About RSUPPORT Co., Ltd

Founded in 2001, RSUPPORT Co., Ltd has been a pioneer and a leader in the global remote solutions industry. RSUPPORT develops and delivers rapid and reliable remote services for consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, and enterprises worldwide. With its advanced remote technologies and accumulated know-how, RSUPPORT provides a comprehensive lineup of remote solutions, including RemoteMeeting for video conferencing, RemoteView for remote access and control, and RemoteCall for remote troubleshooting and support.

RSUPPORT serves over 10,000 customers worldwide in various industries, such as PC and mobile device manufacturers, telecommunications companies, and financial companies. As a result, RSUPPORT has firmly established its market position and manages sales partners in many countries worldwide.

LISHUI, China, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tantech Holdings Ltd (NASDAQ: TANH) (“Tantech” or the “Company”) today announced that on January 16, 2025, its subsidiary, Gohomeway Group Inc., completed the registration of the “GOHOMEWAY” trademark in the United States. The registration, filed under application number 98967272, marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth.

The “GOHOMEWAY” trademark spans a wide range of categories, including wood flooring, engineered wood flooring, and other construction materials (Class 19); furniture, cabinetry, and home storage solutions (Class 20); as well as e-commerce, advertising, and business consulting services (Class 35).

The trademark’s registration provides legal protection and rights for the Gohomeway brand as Gohomeway expands its operations across the U.S. With the registration in place, Gohomeway is well-positioned to streamline its operational network development and establish a comprehensive and scalable chain system.

Yan Wangfeng, CEO of Tantech stated, “The trademark registration not only strengthens our brand’s legal standing but also enhances our ability to develop the Gohomeway operational network and amplify our market presence. With the trademark in place, we are better equipped to drive sustainable growth as a new participant in a competitve industry.”

About Tantech Holdings Ltd

TANH is a professional high-tech enterprise focused on the production, research and development, and sales of home furnishing and building materials. With a well-established domestic and international sales and distribution network, the company has been active in the home furnishing and building materials industry since 2002, beginning with the manufacture of bamboo charcoal products for home use. In 2022, TANH further strengthened its presence in the North American market by establishing a wholly-owned subsidiary in the United States to enhance the R&D and sales of home furnishing and building materials.

The Company is fully ISO 90000 and ISO 14000 certified and has received a number of national, provincial and local honors, awards and certifications for its products and scientific research efforts. The Company’s subsidiary, First International Commercial Factoring (Shenzhen) Co., LTD, is engaged in commercial factoring for businesses in and related to its supply chain. For more information, please visit: https://tanhtech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning the sales, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, product and service demand and acceptance, changes in technology, economic conditions, the impact of competition and pricing, government regulations, and other risks contained in reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All such forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, and whether made by or on behalf of the Company, are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. In addition, the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

For more information, please contact:

Tantech Holdings Ltd
Investor Relations
Tel: +86 (578) 226-2305
ir@tantech.cn