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In record time: Octa broker on how speed inspires trust


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 April 2025 – In online trading, speed is king. Below, the experts at Octa, a regulated and trusted broker since 2011, break down the aspects of trading where speed matters most and offer an accessible way to accelerate trading progress.

Octa Broker

The modern world revolves around speed and solutions that solve problems faster than their predecessors. Speed advantage determines success in many industries and areas of life: information delivery, financial transactions, manufacturing, sports, and many more. This is especially true about all things digital, particularly online trading, where delays are considered a serious red flag by the modern consumer.

Why modern trading is all about speed

For modern traders, the broker’s ability to provide efficient order execution, fast withdrawals, and timely customer service are the key requirements for building trust. Without speed, a broker can hardly expect to establish long-term client relationships. Moreover, in the financial sector, speed comes in many forms.

The e-brokerage industry entirely depends on high-speed data feeds and information transfers executed with millisecond precision. Retail traders who operate from their desktops or mobile devices find navigating the markets proportionately easier if they are fast enough where and when it counts.

In online trading, especially in scalping or intraday trading with lesser timeframes, a breakout, reversal, or reaction to a news release can happen in seconds. Delayed order execution, a stuttering trading platform, or suspended reaction due to incomplete information can easily turn a low-risk, high-probability trade into a risky venture with an uncertain outcome.

Where in trading speed makes the most difference

Traders emphasise the importance of strategy, but it is the execution that often separates a positive outcome from a negative one. Choosing the right price movement direction is ineffective unless the action is taken on time. Fast execution results in less slippage, better prices, tighter spreads, and greater control over trading risks.

Another speed-related factor that determines a positive trading experience and is, therefore, highly valued by traders is withdrawal speed. Octa broker’s recent survey shows that the ability to withdraw their funds without hiccups is one of the main reasons traders choose one broker over another.

Octa broker uses its global reach to establish close cooperation with various payment providers and systems. This way, Octa offers some of the fastest withdrawals on the market while avoiding any hidden charges. All the broker’s fees are reflected in its terms and conditions and can be reviewed in advance.

CFDs: a perfect instrument for modern-day trading

Contracts for difference, or CFDs, are well-known for speed and flexibility. Instead of buying an asset or a futures contract with delivery obligations, CFDs involve trading price movement, and that makes the entire transaction faster and more direct.

CFDs enable traders to profit from upward and downward market movements without restrictions. There is no need to wait for a market surge or borrow from an exchange when going short, as is often the case with crypto trading. This flexibility is especially advantageous in fast-moving markets, where direction can reverse in seconds.

Another advantage of CFDs is tight spreads and direct market access, which ensures that the displayed prices are among the most competitive in the market. Trades are executed without interference, eliminating delays and improving the chances of getting filled at or near the intended price.

Last but not least, CFDs provide multiple leverage options, which, if used wisely, can significantly increase a trader’s potential, albeit at the cost of increased exposure. Leverage allows traders to capitalise on short bursts of volatility instead of waiting for a major directional move to turn a profit.

Modern trading is driven by speed, efficiency, and transparency. Brokers build trust by allowing traders to operate efficiently in a high-frequency environment and act on volatility without delay. By ensuring fast withdrawals and a transparent, clearly communicated fee structure, brokers facilitate a seamless trading journey for their clients, contributing to their success in a vibrant environment where speed reigns supreme.
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Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to engage in any investment activity. It does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation, or individual needs. Any action you take based on this content is at your sole discretion and risk. Octa and its affiliates accept no liability for any losses or consequences resulting from reliance on this material.

Trading involves risks and may not be suitable for all investors. Use your expertise wisely and evaluate all associated risks before making an investment decision. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Availability of products and services may vary by jurisdiction. Please ensure compliance with your local laws before accessing them.

Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international CFD 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 Southeast Asia, 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.

Sungrow Redefines Utility-Scale Solar Solutions with Launch of 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter

HEFEI, China, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sungrow, the global leading inverter and energy storage system provider, unveiled its groundbreaking 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter for utility-scale applications during the Global Renewable Energy Summit 2025, held April 7-9. The 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter features a more scalable block design (800kW to 9.6MW), stable operation without derating at temperatures up to 52 degrees Celsius, AI-driven fault detection, and pioneering grid-forming capabilities, meeting the high demands for superior performance, maximum availability, and enhanced reliability of the inverter.

Sungrow 1+X Modular Inverter
Sungrow 1+X Modular Inverter

Small Module, Mega Impact
The 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter provides increased modularity compared to the previous version. With each unit having a power rating of 800kW, the inverter provides flexible scalability from 800kW to 9.6MW (single unit to 12 units in parallel). This results in great flexibility which covers various scenarios.

The product’s split modular design isolates critical components (IGBTs, capacitors) in the upper inverter module for quick field replacement. Operation and Maintenance (O&M) time is slashed to one hour per module swap—the easy O&M enables field engineers to perform quick replacements.

With the AI-powered diagnostics function, the 1+X Modular Inverter provides real-time fault identification, eliminating manual troubleshooting and delays, accelerating repairs, and minimizing reliance on manpower.

Enhanced Durability in Harsh Conditions
Engineered to be robust in harsh conditions such as scorching heat in the Middle East, the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter integrates high-power-density semiconductors, a high-efficiency heat exchanger as well as a dual-cycle thermal management system to ensure optimized heat dissipation, maintaining stable operation without derating when the temperature reaches up to 52 degrees Celsius.

Its IP66 protection construction provides resilience to extreme conditions. The sealed module, with internal components fully protected and using advanced heat dissipation techniques as well as self-cleaning air duct functions, will guarantee the high reliability of the inverter.

Holistic AI-Driven DC-Side Safety Management System: Eliminating Fire Risks
Addressing the industry’s top challenge—most PV system faults originate in DC circuits. The DC faults may result in short-circuit, arcing, or even fire. The 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter is providing a holistic AI-driven DC-side safety management system to solve the issue:

  • Dual DC Arc Protection System
    When an arc fault is detected, the combiner box reliably disconnects the faulty circuit within 40 milliseconds, blocking fire risks at the source. Simultaneously, via inverter cluster control technology, other combiner boxes in the same block are synchronously shut down in tandem to prevent any fault contribution.
  • Terminal Overheating Protection System
    A high-precision temperature sensor network is deployed to monitor inverter terminal temperatures in real-time. Upon detecting abnormal temperatures, the corresponding circuit is immediately disconnected, eliminating fire risks caused by poor electrical contact.

Pioneering Grid-Forming Technology
In addition to installing energy storage systems, the grid-forming capability of the PV system is also critical to the stable operation of projects. Equipped with Sungrow’s solar grid-forming technology, the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter can reliably operate in diverse grid conditions. When facing grid fluctuations, the inverter enables equivalent inertia support within five milliseconds, rapidly stabilizing grid frequency. It withstands transient overvoltage up to 1.8 times the rated voltage which meets the highest industry benchmark and automatically adapts to both strong and weak grids, ensuring stable system operation under all grid conditions.

Grid-forming can be used to provide power during plant construction and commissioning by forming a microgrid within or across several inverter blocks. This eliminates the need for diesel generators, accelerates the lead time of grid connection, and maximizes power generation for the lifecycle of the project. This technology was already applied in landmark projects including the Middle East and North America. For example, a 1GW project in the Middle East with this technology achieved grid connection 30 days ahead of schedule, generating 2.9 million USD in additional revenue, significantly reducing the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE).

Energy storage is now essential in renewable power plants. Sungrow 1+X Modular Inverter 2.0 is compatible with both DC- and AC-coupled solar-plus-storage solutions, further increasing renewable energy utilization. The DC-coupled solution with this new product is more efficient and cost-effective, enabling an initial investment reduction of over 10% and system conversion efficiency enhanced by 5% compared to traditional AC-coupled solutions. The solution enables 100% grid-forming capability based on AC capacity, making it a solar-plus-storage generator.

Furthermore, the 1+X 2.0 Modular Inverter enables a significant CAPEX and OPEX slash by allowing compliance with more PV modules per string design, MPLC advanced communication technology, larger block designs, intelligent Medium Voltage disconnection, and more flexible O&M. Due to these functions, a 1GW solar plant can have cost savings of approximately 7.41 million USD.

“The 1+X 2.0 represents a paradigm shift for the utility-scale solar market,” said Lee Zhang, Vice President at Sungrow. “From deserts to mountains, it empowers our customers to push boundaries while delivering outstanding returns on investment. We’re proud to drive the energy transition forward with solutions that marry innovation with sustainability,” Zhang added.

About Sungrow

Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy technology, has pioneered sustainable power solutions for over 28 years. As of December 2024, Sungrow has installed 740 GW of power electronic converters worldwide. The Company is recognized as the world’s No. 1 on PV inverter shipments (S&P Global Commodity Insights) and the world’s most bankable energy storage company (BloombergNEF). Its innovations power clean energy projects in over 180 countries, supported by a network of 520 service outlets guaranteeing excellent customer experience. At Sungrow, we’re committed to bridging to a sustainable future through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled service. For more information, please visit: www.sungrowpower.com.

Rack Centre’s LGS2 12MW Data Centre, gamechanger to revolutionise Nigeria’s Digital Landscape


LAGOS, NIGERIA – EQS Newswire – 15 April 2025 – The newly commissioned LGS2 12MW IT Load Data Centre built by Rack Centre-West Africa’s leading Tier III carrier and cloud neutral data centre, has been described as the best-in-class and a game changer that would revolutionise Nigeria’s digital landscape.

The Chairman, Rack Centre, Maher Jarmakani, disclosed this during the official commissioning of the data centre held at the company’s head office in Lagos on Thursday, April 10, 2025.

Jarmakani noted that the commissioning of the new facility reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation, reliability and security, stating that its goal of providing premium data infrastructure such as the 12MW IT load LGS2 was geared towards ensuring uninterrupted, energy-efficient, world-class services and providing scalable solutions for enterprises, cloud providers, and financial institutions.

He disclosed that the company would continue to lead and play a critical role in powering Nigeria’s digital future.

“It is important to note that Rack Centre is the only data center located on Lagos Mainland, and with its proximity to critical government apparatus, this facility provides the required connectivity that makes Alausa’s day-to-day communication and cloud services efficient and reliable. Rack Centre’s infrastructure ensures that every byte of data moves swiftly and securely, and our role as a digital switch platform will only grow—connecting people, businesses and ideas to build a truly advanced society,” he said.

In his keynote address, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube stated that the unveiling of the new 12MW LGS2 IT Load data centre, marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards a truly digital economy.

While commending the management of Rack Centre for constructing a data centre infrastructure with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, he noted that investment in such advanced technology would certainly attract investors from across the globe particularly those who see Lagos as a hub of innovation and digital transformation.

He further described the company as a trailblazer in the tech and data infrastructure space adding that this new facility represents a leap in the shared ambition to make Lagos a smart, globally competitive digital hub.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Chief Executive Officer, Rack Centre, Lars Johannisson expressed profound appreciation to the Lagos State Government for creating an enabling environment and providing the necessary support to deliver this landmark project.

Johannisson explained that the facility offers best-in-class services that meet the highest international standards, offering scalable solutions to hyperscalers, enterprises, and cloud service providers.

He described the newly commissioned facility as a significant milestone that symbolises a new chapter in Nigeria’s digital transformation, shaped by technological advancement, sustainable digitisation and AI.

While acknowledging the company’s transformative journey over the last 12 years, he disclosed that the company had risen from a pioneering entrepreneurial venture into a cornerstone of West Africa’s digital ecosystem, thereby underlining its role in securing and enabling Nigeria’s digital economy.

He further noted that with the facility now being utilised, the data centre capacity of the company would increase by eight-fold as this would consolidate its leadership as the digital infrastructure hub in sub-Saharan Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rack Centre.

Download Image 1 – https://apo-opa.co/4cwwLP2 (L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Rack Centre, Lars Johannisson; Chief Operating Officer, Rack Centre, Ezekiel Egboye; Deputy Chief of Staff to the Lagos State Governor, Sam Egube; Chairman, Jagal Group, Maher Jarmakani and Sales Director, Rack Centre, Folu Aderibigbe during the official commissioning of 12MW LGS2 IT Load Data centre facility in Lagos)

Download Image 2 – https://apo-opa.co/4j7AbKC

Download Image 3 – https://apo-opa.co/4cwrC9Z

Download Image 4 – https://apo-opa.co/4lzRlT

Hashtag: #RackCentre

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

About Rack Centre:

Rack Centre is the leading Tier III Carrier and cloud-neutral data centre in the West African region. Established in 2012, the company focuses solely on providing best-in-class data centre colocation services and interconnection between carriers and customers. Knowing this gives customers a technically superior, physically more secure, and lower-cost environment for their information systems.

The Carrier and Cloud neutrality advantage allows customers to manage traffic to get better value, lower latency, and higher resilience. It also creates an open market for partnerships between customers, networks, cloud and content providers, the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria, AF-CIX, a fast-growing IXP and managed service providers.

Rack Centre’s clientele includes 70+ telecommunication carriers, Internet Service Providers (ISPs), global Tier 1 networks, and pan Africa international carriers, including direct interconnections to all undersea cables serving the South Atlantic Coast of Africa, including Equiano and in the foreseeable future 2Africa and every country on the Atlantic coast of Africa.

For more information, visit

New Calculator Models Launch as Casio Celebrates 60th Anniversary

TOKYO, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today the release of the MS-20UC-J commemorative calculator models featuring traditional Japanese patterns and Comfy JT-200T to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Casio calculators.

MS-20UC-J/Comfy JT-200T
MS-20UC-J/Comfy JT-200T

This year marks 60 years since the birth of the first Casio electronic desktop calculator, the 001, in 1965. This pioneering model was the world’s first calculator equipped with a seven-digit constant storage dial and memory function, generating significant demand from business users.

The new MS-20UC-J series is based on the user-friendly MS-20UC model, which is ideal for everyday use, with each design showcasing traditional Japanese patterns that have been cherished in Japan since ancient times:

  • MS-20UC-JRD (Asanoha Red)
  • MS-20UC-JBU (Seigaiha Blue)
  • MS-20UC-JWE (Takekago White)

These three patterns have been familiar in Japan for centuries and are all considered signs of good luck.

At the same time, Casio is introducing the design calculator Comfy JT-200T, which features a simpler design with a strategically placed solar panel for excellent operability and is made with eco-friendly materials that resist visible scratches, supporting long-term use.

The Comfy JT-200T was developed by carefully re-examining and reorganizing the essential elements required in a calculator as the 60th anniversary of Casio calculators approached. It features the following characteristics to support long-term use and will be sold on an ongoing basis, not as a limited anniversary edition:

Casio calculators are currently available in over 100 countries, with total shipments over time now surpassing 1.8 billion units. Since June 2023, Casio has switched to paper packaging, reducing plastic usage by approximately 81% and fostering recycling around the world.

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of first Casio electronic desktop calculator, the 001, a special website has been launched with the theme, “Count on Casio calculators, now and forever.” Throughout the year, Casio will not only continue to release new products but also develop initiatives that provide customers with opportunities to experience them.

These products are not available in some countries.

 

60th Anniversary
60th Anniversary

RLWRLD Raises $15M to Build ‘GPT for Robots,’ Backed by Asia’s Industrial Giants

As Silicon Valley builds AI for the internet, RLWRLD trains AI to act in the real world—with support from LG, SK, KDDI, ANA, and more

SEOUL, South Korea and TOKYO, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — RLWRLD, a Physical AI startup building robotics foundation models, today announced a $15 million seed round backed by a powerful alliance of industrial leaders from Korea and Japan.

Team RLWRLD
Team RLWRLD

The round includes investments from LG Electronics, SK Telecom, KDDI, ANA Holdings, Mitsui Chemicals, and Shimadzu Corporation, as well as leading AI-focused VCs from Japan and Korea, including Hashed, Mirae Asset, and Global Brain—marking one of the most significant cross-border bets on the future of real-world AI.

RLWRLD is led by Jung-hee Ryu, whose previous company, Olaworks, was acquired by Intel in its first-ever acquisition of a Korean startup. The founding team includes KAIST Chair Professor Jinwoo Shin, Kurly’s ex-CTO, a Kakao engineering lead, and a former BCG partner, forming a world-class squad to tackle what may be the next trillion-dollar opportunity in AI: machines that can move, think, and adapt in the physical world.

“Silicon Valley is building brains for the internet. We’re building brains for machines.”

— Jung-hee Ryu, Founder & CEO, RLWRLD

From Text to Touch: The Rise of Physical AI

While generative AI leaders race to master text, code, and images, RLWRLD is developing foundation models that learn from real-world sensors, robotics systems, and industrial workflows. These models enable robots to reason and act autonomously in dynamic physical environments—factories, warehouses, logistics hubs, and beyond.

RLWRLD’s platform is built on three strategic pillars:

  • Embodied model architecture optimized for real-world intelligence
  • Industrial-scale data pipelines from East Asia’s manufacturing ecosystem
  • Plug-and-play infrastructure that integrates seamlessly with existing robotics systems

“We’re not just writing papers—we’re training models that solve real-world problems on real production floors.”

Jinwoo Shin, Chief Scientist, RLWRLD & KAIST Chair Professor

Building a Real-World AI Ecosystem

The $15M funding will accelerate RLWRLD’s next phase:

  • Expanding proprietary data pipelines across industrial partner sites
  • Advancing its robotics foundation model stack
  • Deepening integration with robotics and sensor companies in Asia and North America

The company is also building a multi-stakeholder innovation ecosystem through collaborations with KAIST, Seoul National University, and POSTECH, and with robotics manufacturers like WIRobotics, Rainbow Robotics, Wonik Robotics, Robotis and more.

“RLWRLD combines deep AI research with industrial execution at scale. That’s what makes this a rare, high-conviction investment.”

— Simon Seojoon Kim, CEO, Hashed

About RLWRLD

RLWRLD is a Physical AI company developing robotics foundation models trained on real-world data from East Asia’s top manufacturing ecosystems. Founded by serial entrepreneur Jung-hee Ryu, the company brings together world-class AI, robotics, and industrial expertise to power the next generation of embodied intelligence.

Learn more at rlwrld.ai.

Media Contact:

Leehyoung Yang, Team Cookie, leehyoung@teamcookie.kr 

Empowering FMCG Brand Growth Through Retailer Engagement

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For small and local Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) brands, gaining access to rural and urban retail markets remains a major challenge. Challenges such as limited distribution, high marketing costs, and tough shelf competition often restrict these brands to their immediate communities.

Ninja Mart’s Kongsi Rezeki, Kongxi Huat! campaign helped partner brands reach 8,500+ small retailers nationwide, boosting sales by 37%.
Ninja Mart’s Kongsi Rezeki, Kongxi Huat! campaign helped partner brands reach 8,500+ small retailers nationwide, boosting sales by 37%.

Through Ninja Mart’s Kongsi Rezeki, Kongxi Huat! Campaign, which ran from January to March 2025, Ninja Mart – Ninja Van Malaysia’s distribution arm – collaborated with Indofood, Julie’s, Yupi, Cricket, Yokefood, and MIWA to help the brands reach over 8,500 independent retailers, expanding their market presence beyond major hypermarkets and into smaller grocery stores and convenience outlets across Malaysia. On average, the brands saw a 37% increase in sales during the campaign.

“At Ninja Mart, we recognise that FMCG brands, especially smaller and local players, breaking into the retail market isn’t just about distribution, but about building relationships and visibility. Through this initiative, we helped  brands expand into new retail spaces and empowered  them with data-driven insights, direct retailer engagement, and targeted marketing strategies. By bridging the gap between brands and independent retailers, we’re creating a more connected retail ecosystem in Malaysia,” said Matthew Sequerah Lee, Head of Ninja Mart Malaysia.

With a focus on direct brand-to-retailer engagement, the campaign delivered a measurable impact for participating brands:

  • Spend & Win Campaign Ninja Mart, in collaboration with brand partners, rewarded retailers with 100 exclusive prizes.
  • Retail Point of Sale Materials (POSM) & Goodie Bag Distribution – Tailored POSM and sampling initiatives drove product trials, boosting conversions and retailer confidence.
  • Brand Focus Weeks – Dedicated promotional periods with promotions and custom POSM materials in key retail stores enhanced brand visibility and sales.
  • Urban Brand Tour – On-ground engagement connected brands with retailers, offering firsthand sales insights and strengthening relationships.
  • Data-Driven Brand Collaboration – Monthly performance reports provided brands with insights on sales, market coverage, and retailer feedback for strategic growth.

How Brands Benefitted from Retail Expansion Strategy

Indofood faced challenges with product availability and brand awareness in Malaysia. Its early focus on Modern Trade (supermarkets and large chains) limited its reach into General Trade (independent shops and mini-marts), especially in rural areas with strong growth potential. Ninja Mart addressed this by refining Indofood’s distribution strategy, from effectively bridging the gap in availability and accessibility.

Ninja Mart has transformed our approach to General Trade by bringing the structure and efficiency of modern trade into a fragmented market. Their data-driven strategies, extensive retail network, and tailored campaigns have significantly expanded our reach and boosted sales. We trust Ninja Mart as one of the key partners in driving Indofood’s growth in Malaysia,” said Steven Lim, Key Account Manager from Indofood (M) Food Industries Sdn Bhd.

Yupi faced challenges with network distribution and market penetration, particularly within the General Trade segment, which includes grocery outlets across rural and semi-urban areas. Though demand was growing, gaps in coverage and logistical challenges restricted national expansion.

Ninja Mart has transformed Yupi’s presence across Malaysia. With their robust distribution network and deep expertise in on-the-ground sales, they’ve ensured that Yupi products are not only available but flourishing in both urban and rural markets. Their data-driven approach, flawless execution, and strong collaboration with Delfi has enabled us to reach more retailers and consumers than ever before. Thanks to this partnership, Yupi is now more accessible to Malaysians nationwide,” mentioned by an Executive Office representative, Delfi Marketing Sdn Bhd.

For smaller FMCG brands, growth goes beyond delivery but relationships, visibility, and insights. By combining logistics expertise, retailer engagement, and data-driven strategies, Ninja Mart is helping brands scale in ways that traditional distribution models often overlook.

Hi & Fi Asia-China 2025: Charting New Frontiers in Health and Food Innovation

Categories: Food Ingredients, Health & Nutrition, Trade

SHANGHAI, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Asia’s premier platform for health ingredients and food innovation, Hi & Fi Asia-China, is set to return with its most ambitious edition yet. From 24-26 June 2025 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) Shanghai.

The event will unite company leaders, disruptors, and innovators across the F&B, nutraceutical, and pet nutrition industries, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore cutting-edge trends and forge transformative partnerships.

A Gateway to Asia & China’s Thriving Markets

With over 500+ exhibitors from 80+ countries—including giants like Givaudan, Bloomage Biotechnology, Angel Enzyme, Cabio, BGG, Amicogen, KD Nutra, Golden Omega, showcasing Healthy Ingredients, Food & Beverage Ingredients, Natural Organic Ingredients, Animal & Plant Extracts, Functional Food, Food additives, Flavors, Spices Condiments, Probiotics, Novel Food Ingredients, etc.

How to Grow Your Business at Hi & Fi Asia-China?

3 industrial co-located shows bring numerous networking opportunities: to co-locate with Healthplex Expo / Natural & Nutraceutical Products China 2024 (HNC), Propack China & Starch expo – 200,000㎡, 2,500+ exhibitors, 120,000+ visitors, connect across food, beverage & nutraceuticals.

Import & Export Desk to solve market access problems: on-site experts to resolve trading and certification queries in real time.

Pre-event matchmaking service: arrange early enrollment for registered buyers to connect suppliers before the show.

Newly Launched Pavilions Ensure Higher Efficiency of Your Visit

Natural Food & Spices Pavilion: Embark on a global spice journey—from India’s bold, aromatic curries to the Mediterranean’s fragrant rosemary. These diverse flavors fuel culinary creativity, elevating food innovation to new heights.

Healthy Condiments Pavilion: The epicenter of wellness trends, featuring low-sodium soy sauce, organic sauces, and more. Connect seamlessly with suppliers and buyers to create the next market sensation.

Novel Food Ingredients Pavilion: Discover cutting-edge ingredients like algae protein and plant-based alternatives, empowering businesses to develop standout products and gain a competitive edge.

Sugar free Pavilion: Explore ingredients like Stevia, Glycosides, Erythritol, Xylitol, Maltitol, Sorbitol

Marine Resources Pavilion: Showcasing Marine Oil (Fish Oil, Krill Oil, Algal Oil), Omega-3 (ALA, EPA, DHA), Omega-6 (Linoleic Acid), Omega-9 (Oleic Acid), Fish Collagen Peptide and Oyster Peptide, etc. 

Innovative Engagement Formats Forecast

Fi Innovation Awards: As the top important event of Hi & Fi Asia-China, which aims to recognize the best innovation breakthroughs in Health, Technology and Sustainability in the food and beverage industry through third-party fair, authoritative and professional judging.

Themed Innovation Tours: Explore aging-population solutions (Silver Economy), beauty-from-within nutraceuticals (Nutricosmetic), and award-winning stands of Food Innovation Awards.

New Product Zone: In partnership with Innova Market Insights, brings together and showcases the world’s cutting-edge new and trendy food trends and health products and snacks.

Registration is now open! Secure your visitor pass at https://b8h.cn/Gqv1W1 and join the innovation movement at Hi & Fi Asia-China!

Media Contact:
Sini
Email:Sini.bai@informa.com 
Tel:8602133392212

FUNKO ANNOUNCES FIRST LICENSED STORE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA IN THE PHILIPPINES

Expanding its global footprint, Funko brings an immersive retail experience to one of its fastest-growing fan communities

MANILA, Philippines, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Funko, Inc. (NASDAQ: FNKO), the global pop culture lifestyle brand, today announced the planned opening of the first Southeast Asian Funko-licensed store by local retailer, Funtastik Enterprises Corp, in the Philippines, scheduled for June 2025. This expansion marks another milestone in Funko’s international growth strategy, reinforcing its commitment to meeting fans where they are and bringing the brand experience to its passionate communities.

Funko to open its First Southeast Asian standalone store in Manila's SM Mall of Asia
Funko to open its First Southeast Asian standalone store in Manila’s SM Mall of Asia

Driven by thriving comic conventions, strong community engagement, and a booming e-commerce ecosystem, the Philippines is one of the most active markets for pop culture in Southeast Asia. Filipino fan communities rank among the world’s most engaged audiences for Funko, making this a strategic move to bolster local engagement and attract new fans. Funko has partnered with Funtastik based on its market expertise and focus on customer service. 

“As a global brand, Funko is committed to expanding our presence in the most engaged and fastest-growing fan communities,” said Cynthia Williams, CEO of Funko, Inc. “The Philippines is one of our strongest-performing markets in Asia, and this licensed store represents our investment in its passionate fanbase. We’ve seen remarkable success with similar stores in the Middle East, and we’re excited to bring that momentum here. By deepening our retail footprint and enhancing direct-to-consumer experiences, we hope to inspire connection, self-expression, and fun for our fans—wherever they are in the world.”

Located in SM Mall of Asia, the retail space will offer exclusive product drops and interactive zones, celebrating beloved entertainment, sports, and music franchises, as well as the growing world of anime. Fans can expect an array of collectibles, including the iconic Funko Pop! line, Bitty Pop! and Loungefly.

With this launch, Funko accelerates its global reach through best-in-class retail and licensing partnerships, shaping the next era of fan culture across Asia.

About Funko

Funko is a global pop culture company at the forefront of the growing Kidult economy and evolving fan behavior. With a diverse portfolio of owned and licensed brands – including Funko, Loungefly, and Mondo – Funko delivers industry-defining products that span vinyl figures, micro-collectibles, fashion accessories, apparel, plush, action toys, high-end art, music and digital collectibles, and more. Through these products, which include Pop! Yourself, Bitty Pop!, and Digital Pop!™ among others, Funko inspires fans to express their passions, build community, and have fun. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Washington state, Funko has offices, retail locations, operations, and licensed partnerships in major consumer geographies across the globe. Learn more at Funko.com, Loungefly.com, and follow us on TikTok, X, and Instagram.  

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including statements regarding Funko’s retail presence and partnerships. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the important factors discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in our quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any such forward-looking statements represent management’s estimates as of the date of this press release. While we may elect to update such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we disclaim any obligation to do so, even if subsequent events cause our views to change. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release.