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EarBalance Rebrands to Reflect Integrated Hearing and Balance Care, Introduces Singapore’s First FDA-Approved OTC Hearing Aid Solution, and Announces Major Community Hearing Initiative


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – EarBalance Pte. Ltd., a well-established audiology clinic in Singapore, has unveiled a series of significant developments that underscore its commitment to redefining hearing and balance care. Formerly known as Sound Balance, the clinic has officially rebranded to EarBalance to better reflect its expanded scope of services and its collaborative approach with Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists. Alongside this transformation, the clinic is preparing to launch Singapore’s first FDA- and Health Sciences Authority (HSA)-approved over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid solution, while also spearheading a major community hearing awareness initiative set to take place in June 2026.

Dr. Kenneth Chua, Senior Principal Audiologist, EarBalance Pte. Ltd.
Dr. Kenneth Chua, Senior Principal Audiologist, EarBalance Pte. Ltd.

These developments position EarBalance at the forefront of a shifting audiology landscape, one that increasingly prioritises accessibility, education, and holistic patient care.

A Strategic Rebrand to Reflect Broader Clinical Collaboration
The transition from Sound Balance to EarBalance Pte. Ltd. marks more than a change in name. It signals a strategic evolution in the clinic’s identity and clinical philosophy. While the former name emphasised audiology and sound perception, the new brand encompasses a more comprehensive understanding of ear health, thus integrating both hearing and balance functions.

“Our ears are not just for hearing. Very often, we think about our five senses, which include hearing. The sixth sense, which is our balance, is often forgotten,” said Dr Kenneth Chua, Senior Principal Audiologist at EarBalance Pte. Ltd. Dr Chua also noted that the rebrand reflects the clinic’s commitment to addressing both aspects of ear health through a collaborative, multidisciplinary model that includes close partnerships with ENT specialists.

EarBalance has established strategic collaborations with several ENT groups, including ASCENT ENT Group, enabling a more seamless patient journey from diagnosis to treatment. This integrated care model ensures that patients presenting with hearing loss, dizziness, or vertigo receive comprehensive evaluation and management under one coordinated framework.

Introducing Singapore’s First FDA- and HSA-Approved OTC Hearing Aid
In April 2026, EarBalance will launch the CERETONE OTC hearing aid, developed by a Canadian company in partnership with ENTRUST. This marks a significant milestone in Singapore’s hearing care sector, as it represents the first OTC hearing aid approved by both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA).

Designed for individuals with mild hearing loss, CERETONE offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative to traditional prescription hearing aids. The device allows users to manage their hearing needs more independently, making it particularly suitable for those who may not yet be ready to commit to medical-grade solutions.

“This hearing aid is ideal for those with mild hearing loss and who may not be ready for medical-grade prescription hearing aids. We plan to continue expanding the inventory of innovative technological solutions to help people ‘hear better and live better,’” noted Dr Chua.

The CERETONE device combines a user-friendly design with specialised sound processing technology, enabling wearers to adjust settings according to their listening environment. This innovation aligns with EarBalance’s broader mission to “help people hear better and live better” by expanding its portfolio of technological solutions.

Addressing Industry Misconceptions Through Education
EarBalance’s latest initiatives also reflect its stance on a persistent challenge within the hearing care industry: The perception of hearing aids as consumer commodities rather than medical interventions.

“The hearing industry has long been shaped by transactional relationships, where hearing aids are viewed as products to be sold,” added Dr Chua. “However, as healthcare professionals, our role is not to sell devices, but to guide patients in making informed decisions about their hearing health.”

This philosophy is particularly important in light of growing evidence linking untreated hearing loss to broader health risks. Studies have shown that up to 8 per cent of modifiable risk factors for dementia may be attributed to hearing loss. Early detection and intervention are therefore critical not only for communication but also for long-term cognitive health.

EarBalance places strong emphasis on patient education, ensuring that individuals understand the implications of hearing loss and the range of available interventions. By shifting the focus from sales to informed care, the clinic aims to foster trust and empower patients to take ownership of their hearing health.

Community Hearing Awareness Initiative to Launch in June 2026
In line with its commitment to public health, EarBalance will co-organise a large-scale community hearing awareness and education event in June 2026. The initiative is a collaboration between ASCENT ENT Group, EarBalance Audiology Clinic, and Thomson Medical Centre, with support from WS Audiology under the WSA (Wonderful Sound for All) foundation.

The event aims to address a critical gap in public awareness regarding hearing health, particularly the importance of early intervention. It will offer a comprehensive programme that includes hearing screenings, educational sessions, and professional consultations.

“Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, reduced communication ability, and even cognitive decline,” Dr. Chua explained. “Through this initiative, we hope to encourage individuals to take proactive steps in managing their hearing health.”

The programme is expected to screen approximately 100 participants, with an estimated 40 to 50 individuals identified as needing hearing amplification support. For those facing financial barriers, refurbished hearing aids will be provided through CSR contributions, ensuring that care is accessible to underserved segments of the community.

A Holistic Approach to Hearing Rehabilitation
Beyond screening and education, the June initiative will provide referral pathways for continued care, connecting participants with ENT specialists and audiologists for further evaluation and treatment. This integrated approach ensures that individuals identified with hearing loss receive not only a diagnosis but also actionable solutions.

The programme will also feature hearing health education sessions, designed to demystify common misconceptions and equip participants with practical knowledge about ear care. Topics will include the impact of hearing loss on overall well-being, the benefits of early intervention, and the range of available treatment options.

Media coverage and community engagement will play a key role in amplifying the initiative’s impact. WS Audiology, as a CSR partner, will be recognised through branding on programme materials, event displays, and media campaigns.

Sustainability Through Hearing Aid Upcycling
EarBalance is also exploring sustainable practices within the hearing care space, particularly through the upcycling of hearing aids. Recognising that some patients may discontinue use of their devices, the clinic is considering programmes to refurbish and redistribute these aids to individuals in need.

“This initiative addresses two important issues, which are reducing electronic waste and improving access to hearing care,” said Dr Chua. “There are many individuals who could benefit from hearing aids but are unable to afford them. At the same time, there are devices that go unused. Bridging this gap is both a social and environmental responsibility.”

The proposed upcycling programme aligns with EarBalance’s broader vision of responsible healthcare, where innovation is balanced with sustainability and community impact.

Expanding the Scope of Ear Health: Hearing and Balance
A defining feature of EarBalance’s clinical approach is its focus on both hearing and balance, which is an often-overlooked aspect of ear health. While hearing loss is widely recognised, balance disorders such as dizziness and vertigo are frequently misunderstood or underdiagnosed.

“Our ears are not just for hearing,” Dr Chua emphasised. “The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. When this system is disrupted, patients may experience dizziness, vertigo, or instability, which can significantly affect their quality of life.”

EarBalance provides specialised assessment and rehabilitation for balance disorders, offering patients a comprehensive solution that addresses both auditory and vestibular health. This dual focus sets the clinic apart in Singapore’s audiology landscape, where balance care is often treated as a separate discipline.

Looking Ahead: Building a Future of Integrated Care
As EarBalance continues to expand, it is exploring opportunities to further integrate hearing and balance services within clinical settings, including potential collaborations with Thomson Medical Centre. These efforts aim to create a seamless continuum of care for both adult and paediatric populations.

The clinic’s long-term vision includes the development of community-based programmes that extend beyond one-off initiatives, fostering sustained engagement and awareness around hearing health.

“Our goal is to build a healthcare ecosystem where hearing and balance care are accessible, integrated, and patient-centred,” said Dr Chua. “By combining clinical expertise, technological innovation, and community outreach, we hope to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Hashtag: #EarBalance

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

About EarBalance Pte. Ltd.

EarBalance Pte. Ltd. is a Singapore-based audiology clinic dedicated to providing comprehensive hearing and balance care. Through a collaborative approach with ENT specialists and a focus on patient education, the clinic offers a range of services, including hearing assessments, hearing aid solutions, and balance rehabilitation. EarBalance is committed to helping individuals hear better and live better through accessible, innovative, and holistic care.

For more information, please visit:

Nonstop in 11 Hours to the “City of Pandas”: Chengdu Launches Direct Flights to Brussels


CHENGDU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – Air China launched a direct passenger flight from Chengdu to Brussels, the capital of Belgium, with service starting March 26. This marks Chengdu’s 12th regular direct passenger route to Europe. The inaugural flight recorded a load factor of 95%, with the return leg reaching 85%, underscoring strong market demand.

Chengdu Tianfu International Airport
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport

According to Air China’s Southwest Branch, the Chengdu (Tianfu International Airport)-Brussels route offers three round trips per week on the Airbus A330-300, with flights scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Previously, Chengdu had already opened a dedicated all-cargo route to Brussels. The launch of the passenger service now establishes a dual-track system for both passenger and freight transport.

Before the route’s launch, travelers from Chengdu to Brussels typically required a transfer, with the whole journey taking more than 17 hours. The new direct service cuts travel time to under 11 hours, creating a faster and more convenient aerial corridor for economic and trade cooperation, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connectivity between China and Belgium.

This route also represents Chengdu’s first newly launched intercontinental passenger service of the year. To date, the city operates 19 intercontinental passenger routes, including 12 connecting major European cities such as Frankfurt, London, Paris, and Brussels, with nearly 40 weekly flights. Chengdu’s regular international and regional direct routes have now clocked up 85, markedly boosting its global connectivity.

The ever-expanding international flight network has further stimulated inbound tourism. In 2025, Chengdu received 2.38 million inbound tourists, a year-on-year increase of 44.3%, signaling a strong recovery of the inbound tourism market. During the recent 2026 Spring Festival, the city welcomed 77,000 inbound tourists, up 47.2% year on year, with a growing number of international travelers choosing Chengdu as their top destination for experiencing China.

As noted by The Times in its feature on 12 of the Best Places to Visit in China: “Home of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, this city has become a popular stop on many China tours. Foodies will relish their visit—it’s one of the original UNESCO cities of gastronomy, so you’ll find the best of Sichuan cuisine here. Highlights include spicy hotpot, mapo tofu, and the myriad street foods you’ll find outside Chengdu’s many temples. It’s also the departure point for tours to the national parks of Jiuzhai Valley and Huanglong, and the autonomous regions around Sichuan.”

To enhance the travel experience of international passengers, Chengdu has introduced a package of measures covering tax refunds upon payment, language services, smart navigation, and promotional incentives, all aimed at improving convenience and adding to the appeal of inbound tourism. Policies such as instant tax refunds, direct payments via overseas e-wallets, and over 600 tax refund stores have largely facilitated travel for international tourists.

In 2025, Chengdu had more than 6,000 taxi drivers trained in English, and the scenic area Xiling Snow Mountain rolled out an international booking platform supporting real-time translation in 24 languages and transactions in 29 currencies, with multilingual AI translation screens installed across major tourist attractions and transportation hubs in Chengdu.

Meanwhile, Jinli Street—once named by CNN as one of the world’s most beautiful streets—officially introduced the “Open Chengdu” cultural tourism base on February 6. The base features a professional English-language service team, more than 300 bilingual signs, and over 10 bilingual self-service ticketing machines supporting multiple ID types. Across more than 50 locations in Jinli, from museum gift shops to street vendors, international credit cards such as VISA are widely accepted.

In addition, Chengdu Eastern New Area, where Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is located, offers international transit passengers subsidies of up to 400 yuan per person, including 200 for hotel stays, 100 for consumption vouchers, and 100 for railway tickets.
Hashtag: #ChengduInformationOffice

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

Hailstorm Leaves Over 5,400 Households Reeling in Vientiane

A sudden hailstorm struck Sikhottabong and Naxaythong districts of Vientiane Capital on 22 March, leaving over 5,490 households affected. (Photo: Lao People's Army Radio)

A sudden and powerful hailstorm swept through two districts of Vientiane Capital on the afternoon of 22 March, leaving more than 5,400 families without shelter, power, and essential supplies.

The storm struck at around 4 PM, bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and large hail that tore through Sikhottabong and Naxaythong districts with little warning. 

By the time the storm passed, 5,490 houses across 17 villages had been damaged, nine people were injured, and critical infrastructure,  from schools and temples to a local health center and a military compound, lay in ruins, state media reported.

The worst of the destruction fell on Sikhottabong, where 10 villages and 5,012 homes bore the brunt. Viengkham village alone recorded 1,593 damaged houses and eight of the nine reported injuries, followed by Chansawang with 1,200 households affected. In villages such as Phonsomboun and Tadthong, hundreds of structures were completely destroyed, leaving dozens of families with nothing. 

Naxaythong district, while less severely hit, still saw 478 homes damaged across seven villages. 

Beyond crumbling walls, 53 vehicles were damaged and five schools were left unusable.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare immediately deployed emergency relief worth over LAK 1.4 billion (roughly USD 65,000), including rice, drinking water, kitchen sets, hygiene kits, mats, and blankets, with aid distributed through a three-tier system based on the severity of each household’s losses.

On the infrastructure front, engineers from the state electricity enterprise worked around the clock from the night of the storm, establishing a field coordination and completing full grid restoration across all 10 affected villages in Sikhottabong by 25 March, just three days after the disaster struck.

March and April in Laos mark the transition from dry season to early wet season, a period known for sudden, violent thunderstorms despite sitting outside the peak typhoon months.

XTransfer’s CSO Joins Roundtable Discussion in Rwanda

Aims to Empower African Foreign Trade SMEs


KIGALI, RWANDA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – XTransfer, world’s leading B2B cross-border financial platform, was honoured to have its Chief Strategy Officer, Neil Ni, participate in the Remittances Roundtable: Policy and Partnerships Shaping the Next Generation of Cross-Border Flows at the Inclusive FinTech Forum 2026 in Rwanda, underscoring the company’s commitment to advancing faster, cheaper, and more transparent cross-border flows across Africa, especially for SMEs engaged in international trade.

XTransfer’s CSO, Neil Ni, speaks at the Remittances Roundtable at the Inclusive FinTech Forum 2026 in Rwanda.
XTransfer’s CSO, Neil Ni, speaks at the Remittances Roundtable at the Inclusive FinTech Forum 2026 in Rwanda.

During the session, Neil joined a roundtable featuring Bernard Rwisumbura Nsengiyumva of the National Bank of Rwanda, Dr Francis Lwanga of Zambia Electronic Clearing House Limited, Owureku Asare of the Bank of Ghana, Mike Truter of Swift, and other distinguished guests, moderated by Luca Antonio Ricci of the International Monetary Fund. The panellists explored what will practically move remittances and cross-border flows forward in 2026–2027, including interoperability, corridor liquidity and FX constraints, and proportionate compliance.

One theme that resonated strongly is that policy is starting to catch up with market needs. A timely example is the new cross-border payment access initiative by the central banks of Kenya and Rwanda (announced 11 March 2026), which introduces mutual recognition and a “fast-track” pathway for licensed payment providers operating between the two countries. Neil noted that reducing duplicative licensing steps, aligning core compliance expectations, and improving supervisory coordination can shorten expansion timelines, lower administrative costs, and ultimately support more reliable and affordable cross-border payments.

“As we look to the next phase of growth, what matters is not only innovation in rails, but alignment in rules and execution,” Neil said. “Interoperability, proportionate compliance, and corridor liquidity are levers that can make cross-border flows meaningfully faster, cheaper, and more transparent without compromising trust.”

Drawing on XTransfer’s experience supporting SMEs in global trade, Neil shared that a practical roadmap includes building on interoperable infrastructure, implementing robust and scalable compliance, and partnering with regulators and local ecosystems to strengthen transparency and unlock corridor liquidity. He added that this is a key reason XTransfer is building X-Net, the industry’s first Unified Global B2B Trade Settlement Network and Risk Control Platform, to connect ecosystem partners and support safer, more standardised information flows for cross-border trade and payments.

Hashtag: #XTransfer #Crossborder #Payment #SMEs #Africa





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

About XTransfer

XTransfer, world’s leading B2B Cross-Border Trade Payment Platform, is dedicated to providing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with secure, compliant, fast, convenient and low-cost foreign trade payment and fund collection solutions, significantly reducing the cost of global expansion and enhancing global competitiveness. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Shanghai and has branches in Hong Kong SAR, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, the UAE, and Nigeria. XTransfer has obtained local payment licenses in the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, and Australia. To date, XTransfer serves over 800,000 enterprise clients worldwide.

By cooperating with well-known multinational banks and financial institutions, XTransfer has built a unified global multi-currency clearing network and a data-based, automated, internet-based and intelligent anti-money laundering risk control infrastructure centred on SMEs. XTransfer uses technology as a bridge to link large financial institutions and SMEs around the world, allowing SMEs to enjoy the same level of cross-border financial services as large multinational corporations.

XTransfer completed its Series D financing in September 2021 and achieved unicorn status. The company has a diverse composition of international investors, including D1 Capital Partners LP, Telstra Ventures, China Merchants Venture, eWTP Capital, Yunqi Capital, Gaorong Capital, 01VC, MindWorks and Lavender Hill Capital Partners.

For more information, please visit:

Ayako Rokkaku Unveils ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ at LANDMARK: A Monumental Artistic Odyssey in Central

A Grand Scale Hong Kong Solo Debut Transforms the Atrium into a Tactile Art Experience


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 March 2026 – Today, LANDMARK proudly launches a new experience in its Art LANDMARK initiative with the unveiling of ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’, an ambitious installation by globally acclaimed artist Ayako Rokkaku — marking her most monumental and immersive art installation to date, in collaboration with GALLERY TARGET. From now until 17 April, LANDMARK Atrium is transformed into a vivid, tactile art experience — an unmissable fixture on Hong Kong’s cultural calendar – inviting visitors on a journey where imagination takes tangible form.

THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA - 1

‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ marks Ayako Rokkaku’s highly anticipated Hong Kong solo debut and her largest installation worldwide within a commercial space — a reflection of LANDMARK’s commitment to bringing world-class artistic experiences to Central. Celebrated for her energetic, finger-painted works that have garnered immense popularity and praise across Asia, Rokkaku is one of the most sought-after voices in contemporary art, her canvases brimming with vibrant narratives and childlike wonder.

THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA - 2

Step Inside ‘THE ISLANDONIGASHIMA’: An Interactive Dreamscape

Inspired by the mythical ‘Onigashima’ from Japanese folklore, Ayako Rokkaku thoughtfully selected this theme upon recognising the shared island geography of both Hong Kong and Japan. The artist’s vision further integrates Momotaro’s legendary ‘half-human, half-oni’ persona, which subtly symbolises the delicate boundary between dreams and reality. This fantastical quality inspired Rokkaku to infuse the art installation with a blend of childlike wonder and mystery, thereby blurring the lines between the artist and the audience.

Crafted with soft forms and inviting fabrics, ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ is designed not just to be observed, but to be experienced. Rising to an impressive 6 metres, the sculpture creates a sprawling organic topography within the Atrium, which has been curated with a museum-like approach to invite interaction. Visitors are encouraged to touch, feel, and even repose upon its rich textures, transforming passive viewing into active engagement, allowing them to create their own journey without a prescribed path. Imagine stepping into a colossal, living artwork of soft forms where every interaction becomes a part of its story. Within the Atrium, the artwork encompasses a captivating tunnel housing 12 wooden sculptures for intimate viewing and beautifully surrounded by 11 additional paintings.

THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA - 3

Ayako Rokkaku presented a special performance to mark the opening of ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ by painting live at the installation. Witnessing her uninhibited gestures, layering vibrant pigments directly with her hands, offered a rare glimpse into the spontaneous creation of her iconic figures and landscapes. The session underscores her philosophy of direct artistic expression and the intimate connection between artist and creation. Later in the day, a cocktail party was hosted to celebrate the opening of the installation and featured dignitaries from around the region, including renowned Thai actor and singer Bright.

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As a self-taught artist whose distinctive style emerged in 2006, Rokkaku blends manga influences with abstract and emotive colour fields that are often born spontaneously, without preparatory sketches, reflecting a raw and unmediated artistic impulse. Her signature motif — stylised wide-eyed girls surrounded by vibrant, multicoloured landscapes — has garnered global recognition, including the prestigious Illustration Prize at Takashi Murakami’s Geisai art fair. This collaboration is a further expression of LANDMARK’s ambition to bring the world’s most celebrated creative talents to Central, creating cultural experiences found nowhere else in Hong Kong.

Redefining Luxury Through Art: An Immersive Cultural Landmark

“Ayako Rokkaku’s ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ represents everything we believe a great experience should be — immersive, surprising, and something that stays with you,” said Mr. Alexander Li, Director and Head of Retail, Hong Kong & Macau, Hongkong Land Limited. “That she chose LANDMARK for this reflects our simple goal: to deliver experiences that are best-in-class and uniquely Central. That is the spirit of our ongoing Tomorrow’s CENTRAL transformation, and it is what ‘Experience is Central’ means to us.”

THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA - 5

Exclusive Engagement and Collectibles: Extending the Artistic Journey

Beyond the Atrium, BELOWGROUND hosts a dedicated pop-up where visitors can acquire a piece of Rokkaku’s distinctive universe. This curated space features a collection of 9 original artworks and exclusive limited editions, including 1 print in an edition of 50 and 1 bronze sculpture in an edition of 3, alongside a range of bespoke merchandise. Visitors can choose from a range of limited-edition tote bags, apparel, books, scarves, and a unique lamp collaboration with AllRightsReserved. This offers visitors the opportunity to take a souvenir home from ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA’ and deepen their connection with Ayako Rokkaku’s unique artistic world.

For a holistic experience, visitors who begin their journey at BELOWGROUND are invited to explore the main installation in the Atrium for a different, interactive angle of ‘THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA‘.Adding to the immersive experience, MTR will launch a special digital Octopus card featuring the exhibition’s key visual, allowing the public to carry a piece of this art journey with them. Ayako Rokkaku will host an exclusive book signing event on March 24th at 6 PM. This special occasion offers visitors a unique opportunity to meet the renowned artist in person and acquire her latest publication, ‘Close To Your Treasure,’ directly on-site, complete with a personalized autograph. Further opportunities to engage with the artist through potential talks or panels will be announced shortly.

THE ISLAND – ONIGASHIMA - 6

Hashtag: #LANDMARKHK

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

About LANDMARK

LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.

About BELOWGROUND

BELOWGROUND is a hybrid cultural and retail destination that serves as a bridge to ‘connect’ luxury retail with contemporary culture. By bringing together forward-looking brands, retailers, and creative collaborators, BELOWGROUND aims to shape a future in which no boundaries exist between luxury, fashion, culture and art. With the intention of being a thriving cultural ecosystem.

About Hongkong Land

Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

Verne, Pony.ai, and Uber Partner to Launch Europe’s First Commercial Robotaxi Service

  • The partnership will soon begin in Zagreb, before expanding to additional cities in Europe and beyond

ZAGREB, Croatia, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Verne, Pony AI Inc. (“Pony.ai”) (NASDAQ: PONY; HKEX: 2026), a global leader in the large-scale commercialization of autonomous driving technology, and Uber Technologies, Inc., today announced a strategic partnership to launch the first commercial robotaxi service in Europe, beginning in Zagreb soon, with initial deployment work already underway, including public-road validation.

The three companies plan to collaborate on the deployment of a commercial robotaxi service, combining Pony.ai’s autonomous driving system, Uber’s global mobility platform, and Verne’s service ecosystem and operational framework. Under this model, Pony.ai will provide its autonomous driving solution; Verne will act as fleet owner and service operator; and Uber will integrate the service into its global ride-hailing network, complementing Verne’s own customer-facing platform. Together, the companies aim to build a scalable path toward commercial robotaxi services in Zagreb and, over time, potentially into additional European cities and other markets, with plans to scale to a fleet of thousands of robotaxis over the next few years.

As part of this collaboration, the companies have already begun on-road testing in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, using Pony.ai’s Gen-7 autonomous driving system, deployed on the Arcfox Alpha T5 Robotaxi. With preparations for fare-charging services underway, Zagreb is emerging as the first market for commercial robotaxi service in Europe.

Verne will lead the process of ensuring market readiness and obtaining European regulatory approval for these launches, while coordinating the deployment of Pony.ai’s robotaxis across both Verne and Uber’s networks. This approach ensures consistent performance, safety, and experience, and establishes a scalable framework for expansion into additional markets. As part of the partnership, Uber intends to invest in Verne and support future expansion as a strategic partner.

“Partnering with Uber and Verne represents an important milestone as we continue to expand autonomous mobility globally,” said Dr. James Peng, Founder and CEO of Pony.ai. “In China, our Gen-7 has achieved meaningful commercial scale, including unit economics breakeven in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, demonstrating the readiness of our technology and business model. By leveraging this experience, we are well-positioned to accelerate commercialization internationally, combining our technology with Uber’s global platform and Verne’s role in enabling multi-market deployment, to build a scalable and sustainable autonomous mobility ecosystem.”

“Europe needs autonomous mobility that can move from testing to a real service,” said Marko Pejkovic, CEO of Verne. “At Verne, we are bringing together the technology, platform, and operational capabilities required to make this a reality, starting in Zagreb before expanding to new markets.”

“Through a strong ecosystem of partnerships, autonomous mobility can both scale globally and more effectively,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber. “By bringing together Pony.ai’s proven autonomous driving technology, Verne’s operational and market expertise, and Uber’s global platform, we’re taking an important step toward making autonomous ride-hailing available to more riders in more places.”

About Pony AI Inc.

Pony AI Inc. is a global leader in achieving large-scale commercialization of autonomous mobility. Leveraging its vehicle-agnostic Virtual Driver technology, a full-stack autonomous driving technology that seamlessly integrates Pony.ai’s proprietary software, hardware, and services, Pony.ai is developing a commercially viable and sustainable business model that enables the mass production and deployment of vehicles across transportation use cases. Founded in 2016, Pony.ai has expanded its presence across China, Europe, East Asia, the Middle East and other regions, ensuring widespread accessibility to its advanced technology.

About Verne

We are named after Jules Verne, who imagined journeys enabled by technologies long before they existed. Verne is building the operational layer for autonomous mobility in Europe and beyond. Since 2019, we’ve worked on deploying autonomous ride hailing in complex urban environments through operations, integration, and regulatory enablement, making it part of everyday life. At the core, we design how it works and how it feels, keeping the human in mind.

About Uber Technologies, Inc.

Uber’s mission is to create opportunity through movement. We started in 2010 to solve a simple problem: how do you get access to a ride at the touch of a button? More than 72 billion trips later, we’re building products to get people closer to where they want to be. By changing how people, food, and things move through cities, Uber is a platform that opens up the world to new possibilities.

Fosun International’s MSCI ESG Rating Upgraded to AAA, Reaching a Record High

HONG KONG, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The world’s leading index company MSCI recently released its latest annual Environmental, Social and Governance (“ESG”) ratings. The results, announced in March 2026, are based on MSCI’s latest rating model (version 5.0). Thanks to its outstanding performance across all ESG aspects, Fosun International Limited (HKEX stock code: 00656, hereinafter referred to as “Fosun International”, “Fosun”, or the “Group”) saw its rating rise from AA to AAA. This marks Fosun International’s first time achieving the highest MSCI ESG rating since first earning an AA rating in 2021, following five years of sustained efforts, demonstrating Fosun’s achievements and global leadership in sustainability.

The MSCI ESG ratings are an ESG assessment framework widely used by global investment institutions, and its rating results have become a key reference for evaluating a company’s sustainability performance and long-term investment value. Fosun International’s rating upgrade to AAA demonstrates that its overall management across environmental, social, and governance aspects has reached a leading level among global peers, particularly in maintaining a competitive edge in key areas such as responsible investment, business ethics, and clean technology opportunities.

Five years of sustained efforts: a leap from AA to AAA

Looking back at Fosun’s journey in MSCI ESG ratings, each step reflects Fosun’s steadfast commitment and continuous improvement in sustainability. In 2021, Fosun International’s MSCI ESG rating was upgraded from A to AA, making it the only conglomerate in Greater China to receive an AA rating at that time. Since then, the Group has maintained its AA rating, steadily consolidating its leading position.

This rating upgrade from AA to AAA not only represents MSCI’s strong recognition of Fosun International’s ESG efforts over the past five years, but also marks the Group’s leap from “good” to “excellent” in sustainability. This achievement reflects Fosun International’s sustained efforts to deeply integrate ESG principles into its corporate strategy and daily operations, and to establish a top-down ESG governance structure and management system across the Group.

Establishing a long-term mechanism: fully linking ESG with performance

Fosun has remained true to its original aspirations of “Self-improvement, Teamwork, Performance, and Contribution to Society” and views sustainability as the core driver of its corporate development. The Group has established a top-down and long-term mechanism for ESG improvement and has included ESG management performance as an evaluation factor in the Executive Directors’ performance assessment, with the evaluation scope further extended to the CEOs of the Group and the personnel in charge of each business group.

On the governance front, Fosun International has established an ESG Board Committee under the Board of Directors (the “Board”), chaired by an Independent Non-Executive Director, to assist the Board in guiding and overseeing ESG initiatives. At the management level, the Group has established an ESG Executive Committee to provide decision support for the implementation of ESG strategies. At the implementation level, the Group has set up an ESG Management Committee and an ESG Working Group to ensure the effective operation of ESG risk management and internal control system.

Honoring green commitments and leading climate action

Facing global climate change challenges, Fosun International actively responds to the national “dual carbon” goals. In 2021, the Group made a commitment to society – “strive to peak carbon emissions by 2028 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050”. The Group has established a Carbon Neutrality Committee and Working Group to drive the implementation and enforcement of carbon-neutral management across the Group. For three consecutive years, Fosun has also published its Climate Information Disclosures Report, aligning with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations and International Financial Reporting Standards S2 Climate-related Disclosures Requirements (“IFRS S2”) to enhance the transparency of its climate actions.

Innovation-driven: empowering society with technology

Fosun International adheres to an innovation–driven strategy, driving its businesses to achieve innovative breakthroughs that broadly benefit patients worldwide. Henlius’ independently developed HANSIZHUANG (serplulimab, European trade name: Hetronifly®), the world’s first anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody approved for first-line treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), has been approved in Europe and multiple emerging markets for first-line treatment of extensive-stage SCLC (ES-SCLC), as well as in Indonesia and Thailand for squamous non-small cell lung cancer (sqNSCLC). It has also been included in public reimbursement systems in seven European Union (EU) countries, including Germany, Italy, and Spain. As of 2025, HANSIZHUANG has been approved in over 40 countries and regions worldwide, with continued progress in lung and gastrointestinal cancers, including the potential to set multiple new cancer treatment standards. Fosun Pharma has supplied over 440 million doses of its independently developed artesunate for injection, cumulatively treating over 88 million patients with severe malaria globally, continuously contributing the “China Solution” to the fight against malaria in Africa.

Upholding its original aspiration of “Contribution to Society” and actively giving back to society

As part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility, Fosun Foundation was established in 2012 and has been creating social value in areas such as global emergency relief, rural revitalization, health, education, culture and art, and youth development. Since its launch at the end of 2017, the Rural Doctors Program has covered 78 key rural revitalization counties in 16 provinces across China, supporting 25,000 rural doctors and benefiting 3 million grassroots families in central and western China. In 2024, the program was selected as one of the “20 Cases of Private Sector’s Sustainable Development in China for 20 Years” by the United Nations Global Compact (UN Global Compact).

Continued recognition from international authoritative rating agencies

In addition to its MSCI ESG rating, Fosun International’s sustainability performance has been widely recognized by multiple international authoritative institutions. To date, Fosun International has achieved an S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) score of 73, maintaining a leading position among global peers; has been included in S&P Global’s Sustainability Yearbook 2026; has maintained an HSI ESG rating of AA- and has been included in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index for six consecutive years; has retained a leading FTSE Russell ESG score of 4.2 and has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for the fifth consecutive time, achieving a full score of 5.0 in several areas, including Environmental Supply Chain, Anti-Corruption, Risk Management, Social Supply Chain, and Corporate Governance.

Looking ahead, Fosun International will continue to strengthen its industry focus, deepen its innovation and globalization strategies, and advance ESG initiatives with higher standards and stronger execution, remaining steadfast in its mission of “creating happier lives for families worldwide” and creating long-term value for its customers.

DURABOOK Launches Z14I-HG: The World’s first AI-ready Fully Rugged Mobile Workstation Delivering AI Performance up to 682 TOPS

Powerful new 14-inch mobile graphics workstation with 16GB GDDR6 memory build for advanced AI, simulation, and data processing in extreme environments.

TAIPEI, March 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Durabook, the global rugged mobile solutions brand owned by Twinhead International Corporation, today announced the launch of its new Z14I-HG fully rugged mobile workstation. Powered by Intel® Core™ Ultra processors with integrated AI Boost NPU and NVIDIA® RTX™ Ada Generation GPUs, the Z14I-HG delivers up to 682 TOPS of AI performance and workstation-class graphics acceleration directly at the edge. This enables demanding workloads such as real-time 3D rendering, AI inference, computer vision, digital twin simulation, and advanced data analytics to be performed on-site without reliance on cloud infrastructure.

DURABOOK Z14I-HG: AI-Ready Fully Rugged Workstation up to 682 TOPS
DURABOOK Z14I-HG: AI-Ready Fully Rugged Workstation up to 682 TOPS

The Z14I-HG is built to operate in environments where conventional laptops cannot function reliably. Combining rugged durability with workstation-level graphics and AI computing, the Z14I-HG is designed for defence operations, industrial automation, field engineering, AI-powered inspection, geospatial analysis, and mobile command applications.

AI-ready, Fully Mobile 
Using NVIDIA® Ada Lovelace architecture with 4th-generation Tensor Cores together with Intel Core Ultra processors and Intel AI Boost NPU, the Z14I-HG delivers up to 682 TOPS of AI performance. This hybrid AI architecture allows organisations to deploy applications such as computer vision and object recognition, predictive maintenance analytics, sensor fusion and AI-driven automation. Running AI locally improves response time, data security, and operational reliability, particularly in environments with limited or no connectivity. Bringing together AI acceleration, advanced graphics, and rugged durability in a single mobile platform, the Z14I-HG combines true edge AI with visualisation capability. This allows organisations to run AI analytics, computer vision, and 3D visualisation directly in the field, reducing latency and improving operational efficiency.

RTX Ada Power with Advanced Visual Computing 
The Z14I-HG integrates NVIDIA® RTX™ 3500 Ada or optional RTX™ 5000 Ada GPUs, delivering up to 9,728 CUDA cores and 16GB GDDR6 (Graphics Double Data Rate 6) memory with ECC (Error-Correcting Code). This provides more than three times the graphics performance of currently available rugged GPU solutions, supporting advanced workloads, including real-time 3D rendering, digital twin modelling, GIS and geospatial visualisation and complex engineering simulations. With memory bandwidth up to 576 GB/s, the system can process large datasets and detailed models directly in the field. The Z14I-HG provides industry-leading display connectivity for rugged systems, supporting up to four NVIDIA-driven HDMI 2.1 outputs for 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz, an HDMI 2.1, VGA, and dual Thunderbolt™ 4 ports. Unlike competing rugged systems where GPUs only accelerate compute workloads, the Z14I-HG enables full GPU-driven display output, supporting complex multi-screen visualisation setups.

Rugged Design, Mission-Certified Reliability
Unlike traditional workstations, the Z14I-HG is designed for extreme conditions and mobile deployments. It is certified to MIL-STD-810H for shock, vibration and temperature resistance and MIL-STD-461G for electromagnetic compatibility in high-interference environments. In addition, the device boasts IP66 protection against dust and powerful water jets and can operate in temperatures ranging from sub-freezing -29°C (-20°F) to extreme heat of 63°C (145°F), making it suitable for defence deployments, industrial sites, maritime environments, and outdoor infrastructure operations. The Z14I-HG also features a 14-inch FHD DynaVue® display with 1200-nit brightness, designed for visibility in bright outdoor environments. Key features include: a high-contrast, sunlight-readable screen, 10-point capacitive multi-touch and four input modes: Glove, Stylus, Water, and Finger. These ensure effective operation in harsh weather conditions and field environments.

Secure and Flexible Storage Architecture
The system includes dual removable quick-release NVMe PCIe SSD drives, allowing users to swap storage drives within seconds without tools. Benefits include enhanced data security, rapid storage replacement in the field and operational continuity for mission-critical environments. The Z14I-HG also includes a modular media bay that can support an optical disk drive, a second battery and a third storage drive. This design enables organisations to customise the system for different operational requirements. Advanced security support, such as TPM 2.0 as standard, Intel® vPro™ and Windows 11 Secured-core PC, as well as a 5.0 MP IR camera for Windows Hello and optional fingerprint scanner also help meet the needs of customers today in an ever-evolving mobile work environment.

“By launching the Z14I-HG rugged mobile workstation, we are showcasing our commitment to providing our customers with the cutting-edge tech they need to stay connected and in control,” said Twinhead CEO Fred Kao. “With its powerful computing performance, AI capabilities and versatility, the Z14I-HG is perfect for professionals working across defence and tactical command operations, geospatial and mapping applications, AI-powered surveillance, utilities and energy, automations and smart manufacturing and engineering and maintenance.”

Availability
The new Z14I-HG is available for purchase now. For full specs and more information, please visit:
https://www.durabook.com/en/products/z14i-hg-rugged-workstation/

To find out more about becoming a reseller, please visit https://www.durabook.com/en/partners/ or contact sales@durabook.com.

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About DURABOOK
Durabook is the core brand of Twinhead International Corporation in Taiwan, a world-renowned manufacturer of rugged mobile solutions for 40 years. All Durabook devices are designed, manufactured and tested to the highest standards to ensure maximum quality and reliability. Committed to engineering and service excellence, Durabook products have been widely adopted by government and enterprise customers including oil and gas, utilities, field service, military, and public safety for more than two decades.