LONG ISLAND, UNITED STATES – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – Garrett Taylor, Founder and Managing Partner of Coastline Wealth Management, has been recognized by InvestmentNews as one of the 2025 Excellence Awardees in the Advisor of the Year (Regional – Northeast) category. This honor highlights professionals who demonstrate leadership, business growth, and a lasting impact on the clients and teams they support.
Each year, the Advisor of the Year program identifies advisors from across the U.S. whose work reflects a strong mix of client service, practice development, and regional influence. Taylor was selected as part of a Northeast cohort that includes other high-performing advisors known for building strong, firm cultures and advancing planning strategies that meet the demands of today’s evolving investor landscape.
As founder and managing partner, Taylor has shaped the vision and structure of Coastline Wealth since its inception. He has played a central role in expanding the firm’s reach through thoughtful advisor recruitment and team integration. His approach emphasizes a balance of scale and support, making sure that as the firm grows, it continues to provide the personalized attention clients value.
In addition to leading firm strategy, Taylor remains active in broader industry conversations and regional philanthropic efforts. He has previously earned recognition from Forbes and Long Island Business News for his leadership and business contributions. His selection as a 2025 Excellent Awardee reflects that ongoing work and adds to a growing list of honors tied to both individual performance and firm-wide progress.
Hashtag: #CoastlineWealthManagement
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Coastline Wealth Management
Coastline Wealth Management, founded in 2012, is a Long Island, NY-based independent wealth management platform with $5 billion of assets under management/advisement. Coastline services over 7,000 client accounts primarily across the East Coast of the United States. The Company, whose core focus is servicing its client base, has grown by a series of acquisitions as it continues to build its industry-leading, technology-enabled platform. Coastline continues to be a leading consolidator in the wealth management industry and is actively pursuing additional wealth advisor acquisitions (~$50MM to $500MM in assets) as part of its core growth story. By focusing on maximizing the value of advisory practices, Coastline empowers advisors to create sustainable, long-term strategies for transitioning their businesses, ensuring both financial stability and continuity for their clients. Its expertise in navigating the complexities of succession planning enables advisors to secure their legacy while optimizing growth potential, ultimately fostering a seamless transition that benefits all stakeholders involved.
GUANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – The China International Exhibition for Metro Transit and CAMET Forum 2026 ( MetroTrans 2026) is scheduled to take place from November 9 to 11, 2026, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, China. A series of concurrent events, including the China Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable, will also be held during the exhibition.
MetroTrans is a leading professional exhibition in the urban rail transit sector, initiated by the China Association of Metros. Since its inception in 2015, the event has been successfully held nine times, attracting over 1,500 leading enterprises worldwide and more than 200,000 professional visitors. It has become a key platform for technology showcase and industry collaboration in the urban rail transit sector.
With the theme “Smart, Green, Integrate,Innovation: New Era of Urban Rail”, MetroTrans 2026 is co-organized by Guangzhou Metro Group and supported by numerous urban rail transit enterprises and institutions. The event integrates professional exhibitions, high-level forums, business matchmaking, international cooperation, public engagement, and cultural exchange. It is expected to gather more than 500 leading companies from across the global urban rail transit industry chain, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
The exhibition is projected to attract government representatives, decision-makers, buyers, experts, and technical professionals from over 70 countries and regions. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions on industry opportunities and challenges, share innovative practices, promote sustainable development, advance standards harmonization, and facilitate project implementation, thereby driving international cooperation and global market expansion in the rail transit sector.
MetroTrans 2026 will span 50,000 square meters and feature six major exhibition zones along with multiple themed showcases:
Six Exhibition Zones:
Operations & Maintenance and Existing Line Retrofitting Zone
Outdoor Rolling Stock Display, Rolling Stock Systems & Supply Chain Zone
Signaling, Communications & Intelligent Digitalization Zone
Infrastructure Zone
Diversified Operations Zone
Talent Development,
Science Education & Study Tours Zone
Thematic Showcases:
“Rail + Artificial Intelligence”
“Rail + Low-Altitude Economy”
International Cooperation and Overseas Projects (ASEAN Pavilion), among others
The exhibition will bring together top global exhibitors across design and construction, equipment manufacturing, operations management, maintenance, research and innovation, and education, serving as a premier launch platform for new technologies, products, and solutions.
The concurrent CAMET Forum will be comprehensively upgraded, adopting a “1 Main Forum + 2 sessions of the Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable + N Thematic Sessions” structure:
Main Forum: Integrating the existing main and international forums, featuring domestic and international speakers, corporate executives, and senior experts to discuss industry development with a pragmatic approach and global perspective.
Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable: Gathering key leaders of China’s Metro Operators to focus on critical topics such as high-quality development and low-capacity system construction and operation, fostering industry consensus.
Thematic Sessions: Covering key topics including intelligent and green integration, multi-network integration, “Rail + Low-Altitude Economy,” upgrading of existing lines, smart urban rail and AI applications, sustainable operations, international cooperation and standards alignment, and safety and emergency management.
MetroTrans 2026 has officially launched its exhibitor recruitment and sincerely invites global enterprises, research institutions, and service providers across the rail transit industry chain to join the event in Guangzhou, foster international cooperation, and share development opportunities.
Overview of China’s Urban Rail Transit Market
Operational Scale: In 2025, China added 907.12 km of new urban rail transit operating mileage. By the end of 2025, 58 cities in mainland China (excluding Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) had operational systems, with 382 lines totaling 13,067.89 km. A total of 30 cities had networks exceeding 100 km, including Shanghai (1,041.97 km) and Beijing (982.29 km).
Fully Automated Systems: By 2025, 25 cities had launched 69 fully automated urban rail transit lines, totaling 1,983.84 km.
Station Scale: A total of 7,105 stations had been put into operation, including 1,084 interchange stations (counted once per network). Additionally, 580 depots and parking facilities had been commissioned.
Passenger Volume: In 2025, urban rail transit systems handled 33.383 billion passenger trips, with a total passenger turnover of 271.925 billion passenger-kilometers.
Construction Scale: In 2025, 40 cities had 4,875.45 km of urban rail transit lines under construction, with approved investment totaling RMB 3.9235 trillion. Annual completed investment reached RMB 411.416 billion.
GUANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – The China International Exhibition for Metro Transit and CAMET Forum 2026 ( MetroTrans 2026) is scheduled to take place from November 9 to 11, 2026, at the China Import and Export Fair Complex in Guangzhou, China. A series of concurrent events, including the China Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable, will also be held during the exhibition.
MetroTrans is a leading professional exhibition in the urban rail transit sector, initiated by the China Association of Metros. Since its inception in 2015, the event has been successfully held nine times, attracting over 1,500 leading enterprises worldwide and more than 200,000 professional visitors. It has become a key platform for technology showcase and industry collaboration in the urban rail transit sector.
With the theme “Smart, Green, Integrate,Innovation: New Era of Urban Rail”, MetroTrans 2026 is co-organized by Guangzhou Metro Group and supported by numerous urban rail transit enterprises and institutions. The event integrates professional exhibitions, high-level forums, business matchmaking, international cooperation, public engagement, and cultural exchange. It is expected to gather more than 500 leading companies from across the global urban rail transit industry chain, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions.
The exhibition is projected to attract government representatives, decision-makers, buyers, experts, and technical professionals from over 70 countries and regions. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions on industry opportunities and challenges, share innovative practices, promote sustainable development, advance standards harmonization, and facilitate project implementation, thereby driving international cooperation and global market expansion in the rail transit sector.
MetroTrans 2026 will span 50,000 square meters and feature six major exhibition zones along with multiple themed showcases:
Six Exhibition Zones:
Operations & Maintenance and Existing Line Retrofitting Zone
Outdoor Rolling Stock Display, Rolling Stock Systems & Supply Chain Zone
Signaling, Communications & Intelligent Digitalization Zone
Infrastructure Zone
Diversified Operations Zone
Talent Development,
Science Education & Study Tours Zone
Thematic Showcases:
“Rail + Artificial Intelligence”
“Rail + Low-Altitude Economy”
International Cooperation and Overseas Projects (ASEAN Pavilion), among others
The exhibition will bring together top global exhibitors across design and construction, equipment manufacturing, operations management, maintenance, research and innovation, and education, serving as a premier launch platform for new technologies, products, and solutions.
The concurrent CAMET Forum will be comprehensively upgraded, adopting a “1 Main Forum + 2 sessions of the Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable + N Thematic Sessions” structure:
Main Forum: Integrating the existing main and international forums, featuring domestic and international speakers, corporate executives, and senior experts to discuss industry development with a pragmatic approach and global perspective.
Metro Operators Leadership Roundtable: Gathering key leaders of China’s Metro Operators to focus on critical topics such as high-quality development and low-capacity system construction and operation, fostering industry consensus.
Thematic Sessions: Covering key topics including intelligent and green integration, multi-network integration, “Rail + Low-Altitude Economy,” upgrading of existing lines, smart urban rail and AI applications, sustainable operations, international cooperation and standards alignment, and safety and emergency management.
MetroTrans 2026 has officially launched its exhibitor recruitment and sincerely invites global enterprises, research institutions, and service providers across the rail transit industry chain to join the event in Guangzhou, foster international cooperation, and share development opportunities.
Overview of China’s Urban Rail Transit Market
Operational Scale: In 2025, China added 907.12 km of new urban rail transit operating mileage. By the end of 2025, 58 cities in mainland China (excluding Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) had operational systems, with 382 lines totaling 13,067.89 km. A total of 30 cities had networks exceeding 100 km, including Shanghai (1,041.97 km) and Beijing (982.29 km).
Fully Automated Systems: By 2025, 25 cities had launched 69 fully automated urban rail transit lines, totaling 1,983.84 km.
Station Scale: A total of 7,105 stations had been put into operation, including 1,084 interchange stations (counted once per network). Additionally, 580 depots and parking facilities had been commissioned.
Passenger Volume: In 2025, urban rail transit systems handled 33.383 billion passenger trips, with a total passenger turnover of 271.925 billion passenger-kilometers.
Construction Scale: In 2025, 40 cities had 4,875.45 km of urban rail transit lines under construction, with approved investment totaling RMB 3.9235 trillion. Annual completed investment reached RMB 411.416 billion.
Step Into the World of Runway with Cinematic Installations, Stylish Experiences and Exclusive Shopping Rewards
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – This spring-summer, Pacific Place takes centre stage as Hong Kong’s defining fashion headline, unveiling a signature collaboration with the globally celebrated film “The Devil Wears Prada 2”.
Pacific Place – Be Devilishly Fashionable
From now to 17 May 2026, Pacific Place transforms into a cinematic fashion stage inspired by the world of the movie. Visitors are invited to embark on an immersive editorial journey where the glamour, pace and wit of high fashion unfold.
Dominating the atrium is the hero installation: a pair of mega-sized red heels, soaring nearly two metres high. Bold and sculptural, they capture the drama and allure of the film while creating a perfect “cover shot” moment. Surrounding it, a series of enticing checkpoints brings the Runway universe to life, each designed to echo the rhythm of the sophisticated fashion world and invite guests to step into the spotlight.
Where Fashion Meets Film — A World of Cinematic Style
A series of captivating checkpoints unfolds the world of “The Devil Wears Prada 2”, immersing visitors in its cinematic fashion narrative at every turn:
The Signature Heels
A towering pair of red heels, rising nearly two metres high, steals the show in the atrium. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of a gala night, their sculptural drama invites shoppers to walk the red carpet and step into the spotlight, creating an unforgettable photo moment that embodies the film’s flair and allure.
An Haute Welcome (Runway Reception)
Enter the sleek reception of Runway Magazine, where the pace is swift, the standards are exacting, and every arrival feels like the start of a story. As part of the experience, shoppers can play receptionist and pick up the phone to hear signature lines from the movie – bringing the drama and wit of “The Devil Wears Prada 2” to life.
The Power Desk (Miranda’s Office)
Step into the impeccably styled office of fashion’s most formidable editor, where every detail reflects precision, power and polished elegance. Here, visitors can witness the making of each Runway Magazine issue, from curated mood boards to iconic film stills, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative engine at the heart of the office.
The Runway Lift Photo Booth
Inspired by the film’s iconic elevator scenes, where Miranda and Andy meet once again, the lift photo booth invites visitors to recreate their own stylish entrance.
Strike a pose, channel your inner fashion icon, and see yourself on the cover of Runway Magazine. To join the fun, simply sign up as an above member and make a same-day electronic purchase of HK$300 or more. Visitors can take home both a digital and a printed version of their cover, creating a stylish keepsake that captures the drama and allure of the film.
Runway Reads
A bustling fashion newsstand captures the energy of the media world, offering a glimpse into the stories, headlines and culture that shape the industry.
The New York Moment
A photogenic corner modelled on NYC’s iconic subway brings the city’s energy and the film’s glamour together. Pose beneath an eye-catching quote from “The Devil Wears Prada 2” and capture your own cinematic moment in style.
Cover‑Worthy Rewards Await
From 21 April to 17 May, Pacific Place turns shopping into a fashion‑forward celebration. Treat yourself to exclusive vouchers and movie privileges that elevate your style journey. Spend with any BOC Credit Card or BoC Pay+ to unlock an extra tier of stylish rewards, because every purchase deserves its own cover‑worthy moment.
Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending
General Rewards*
BOC Credit Card / BoC Pay+ Extra Rewards#
HK$5,000 – HK$29,999
Two MOViE MOViE Pacific Place Ticket Exchange Coupons (valued at HK$260)
HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$30,000 – HK$59,999
Two MOViE MOViE Pacific Place Ticket Exchange Coupons (valued at HK$260) + HK$600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$800 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$60,000 – HK$99,999
Two MOViE MOViE Pacific Place Ticket Exchange Coupons (valued at HK$260) + HK$1,500 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$1,100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$100,000 or above
Two MOViE MOViE Pacific Place Ticket Exchange Coupons (valued at HK$260) + HK$3,000 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$1,600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
*General shoppers and eligible BOC Credit Card customers (collectively, the “Shoppers”) are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem General Rewards and BOC Credit Card / BoC Pay+ Extra Rewards. Each Shopper is entitled to a maximum of ONE redemption of Rewards per day. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.
#BOC Credit Card / BoC Pay+ Extra Rewards is only applicable to (a). physical cards of BOC Credit Cards and BOC Co-branded Cards issued in Hong Kong bearing the BOC logo, or transactions made by Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay or Huawei Pay with these physical cards (if applicable) (“Eligible Mobile Payments”) but excluding BOC Credit Cards issued in the mainland and Macau, USD Credit Cards, Private Label Cards and Intown Cards (“Eligible Credit Cards”). (b). payments settled through the BoC Pay+ application (“BoC Pay+”) by selecting an Eligible Credit Card as payment method (“Eligible BoC Pay+”).
For Shoppers redeeming the BOC Credit Card / BoC Pay+ Extra Rewards, they must settle the relevant transaction with Eligible Credit Cards / Eligible Mobile Payments / Eligible BoC Pay+ in full. All transactions made via AlipayHK, WeChat Pay HK, AlipayCN, WeChat Pay CN, UnionPay App and other designated payment means / e-Wallets as decided by BOC Credit Card (International) Limited will not be accepted for BOC Credit Card / BoC Pay+ Extra Rewards redemption. BOC Credit Card customers must settle their payment by Eligible Credit Cards when using the Shopping e-Vouchers from the Extra Rewards.
Other terms and conditions apply. BoC Pay+ SVF License Number: SVFB072 Reminder: To borrow or not to borrow? Borrow only if you can repay!
Dates: Now – 17 May 2026 Time: 11am – 10pm Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near Joyce)
Get ready to step into the world of “The Devil Wears Prada 2” — to see, to be seen, and to become part of a fashion story unfolding in real time.
Focus on the “Four Evolutionary Capabilities” of Private Enterprises as European Delegation Joins Efforts to Foster a China-Europe Cooperation Bridge
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – “Momentum Unleashed, Time is Now · GE Jun 2026 Grain Rain Speech” was recently staged in Hangzhou. GE Jun, the Chairman and CEO of TOJOY Shared Smart Enterprise Services, joined more than 2,000 private entrepreneurs, a visiting European political and business delegation, and leading scholars and experts in a far-reaching dialogue on how private enterprises may endure, adapt and evolve in a new era.
Pictured: GE Jun, the Chairman and CEO of TOJOY, shares his perspective on the evolution of private enterprise with an audience of more than 2,000 entrepreneurs at the 2026 Grain Rain Speech.
This year marks the third consecutive edition of GE Jun’s annual Grain Rain Speech. From “Leap Ahead Again” in Shenzhen in 2024, to “With Belief, The Road Opens Up” in Chengdu in 2025, and this year’s “Momentum Unleashed, Time is Now” in Hangzhou, the series has maintained a clear thematic continuity. Across the three editions, it has attracted more than 6,000 entrepreneurs to attend in person and reached tens of millions online, and has become a signature public intellectual platform amid the transformation wave facing private enterprises.
Focusing on Three Major Currents and Advancing Four Evolutionary Capabilities
GE Jun, formerly Global Vice President at Intel, Apple and NVIDIA, brings extensive global management experience. In a three-hour address, he structured his remarks around four major chapters — “Great Rivers and Mighty Currents,” “Big Waters, Big Fish,” “The Evolution of Fish,” and “Deep Bonds Between Fish and Water” — offering a systematic reading of the three great currents confronting private enterprises in 2026: technology, globalization and policy.
He pointed out that enterprises in 2026 are confronting three key realities: competition is shifting from “manufacturing capability” to “scenario-solving capability”; overseas expansion is moving from “product exports” to “capability exports”; and policy is evolving from a “traffic light” into a “navigation system.” Only by cultivating four evolutionary capabilities — antifragility, multi-generational continuity under the “new three generations,” ecosystem positioning, and two-way engagement — can enterprises truly navigate economic cycles.
European Delegation Attends Event in China as TOJOY Builds a Bridge for China-Europe Collaboration
During the speech, GE Jun said that true globalization is about “two-way engagement” — not only Chinese enterprises going abroad, but also international partners coming into China, with both sides enabling one another and pursuing shared prosperity.
Of particular interest, Ralf, founder of the European thought exchange platform Big Improvement Day, led a 30-member European political and business delegation to China specifically to attend the event. Big Improvement Day is understood to enjoy wide influence in global economic thought circles and is often described as a “mini-Davos.” During the event, TOJOY and the delegation jointly organised the 2026 Sino-European Entrepreneurs Cooperation Forum (SEEC) and Global Innovation and Development Conference, providing a long-term cooperation platform for entrepreneurs from China and Europe.
As a concrete implementation of the “two-way engagement” concept, TOJOY announced the launch of the “Global Shared Office.” Backed by the Group’s entrepreneur resource-sharing platform with more than 6 million registered users, the initiative will create overseas footholds for small and medium-sized enterprises expanding internationally and support the high-quality global expansion of private enterprises.
New Book “A Distant Drum” Released at the Event, Highlighting the Global Evolution Path of Private Enterprises
At the event, GE Jun officially released his new book, A Distant Drum: Evolution of China’s Private Enterprises in a Global Context. The book systematically sets out the evolutionary logic and practical pathways of Chinese private enterprises within a global framework, bringing together the intellectual essence of GE Jun’s more than three decades of global perspective and deep practical engagement with the private economy. “All those who stand apart do so because they have heard the drumbeat from afar.” With these words, GE Jun offered his message to entrepreneurs on the journey ahead.
GE Jun said: “Over the past 30 years, China’s economy has been defined by ‘big waters, big fish.’ Over the next 30 years, it will surely be marked by ‘deep bonds between fish and water.’ I am willing to be a resolute builder of bridges, gathering millions of ‘I’s into a shared ‘we.'”
Hashtag: #TOJOY #天九 #戈峻
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Laos welcomed 1.36 million tourists in the first three months of the year, marking an eight percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to official data.
January saw the highest number of visitors, while February recorded the lowest monthly total during the period.
Data from the Tourism Development Department shows that Thailand remained the largest source market, accounting for nearly 31 percent of total arrivals, marking a slight increase compared to the same period last year. China and Vietnam ranked second and third, respectively.
Tourism statistics dashboard for Laos Q1 2026.
South Korea placed fourth, while the United States rounded out the top five, with arrivals rising 38.8 percent year-on-year.
Beyond regional markets, arrivals from Europe surged 52 percent, while tourism from Africa and the Middle East increased by 45 percent.
Tourism statistics dashboard for Laos Q1 2026 by region.
In terms of growth rate, the United Arab Emirates recorded the highest increase, rising 215 percent compared to the same period last year. Brazil and Greece followed, each posting growth of around 152 percent.
The first-quarter results build on a strong 2025 for Lao tourism.
Laos welcomed nearly 4.6 million tourists last year, which surpassed the government’s annual target of 4.3 million visitors.
With momentum building, the Lao government has set an ambitious target of welcoming between 5 and 6 million international visitors in 2026, a significant step up from last year’s total.
Chinese tourists are expected to make up approximately 2 million of those arrivals, driven in part by the 65th anniversary of Lao-China diplomatic relations and growing interest in travel via the Laos-China Railway.
Looking further ahead, Laos has outlined a five-year plan for 2026 to 2030 targeting 43 million total visitors, with a combined revenue goal of at least USD 13 billion.
BEIJING, April 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On April 16, 2026, JXQ AI Forum 2026, hosted by Beijing Electronic Digital & Intelligence (BEDI), concluded in Beijing. Under the theme “Empowering Today, Inspiring Tomorrow,” the forum explored practical pathways to drive industry development within the context of the opening stage of the 15th Five-Year Plan period and China’s national AI strategy. During the event, BEDI launched Spark•AI Cloud 2.0, released the “China Urban Artificial Intelligence Index Report”, introduced the “AI China Tour” initiative, and announced the establishment of the Collaborative Industry Alliance for AI Innovation Districts. Together, these initiatives outline new paradigms for industry-city integration in the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period.
The forum’s agenda featured 14 thematic sessions across four key areas: “AI Infrastructure“, “New Economy”, “Industrial Development”, and “Emerging Trends”, covering more than 100 topics, including computing infrastructure, trusted data, smart cities, industrial applications, talent ecosystems, and investment and financing. It brought together representatives from government, industry, academia, research, and application sectors, including academicians from the CAE and the SAEng, as well as experts and scholars from institutions such as the MIIT, the SASAC, the National Health Commission, Tsinghua University, and the CAS. Officials from the Beijing municipal government and Chaoyang District authorities, along with government representatives from multiple regions, also participated. International guests from Kazakhstan, Indonesia, Thailand, and the United Kingdom were in attendance. The three-day forum attracted over 2,200 attendees and over 7.2 million online views.
“China Urban Artificial Intelligence Index Report” Unveiled, Establishing a New Benchmark for Industry-City Development
As AI applications continue to expand across economic and social sectors, China’s urban AI development has shifted from a phase led by top-tier cities to a new cycle characterized by both tiered expansion and structural transformation. Given the significant differences among cities in terms of resource endowments, industrial foundations, and governance capabilities, there is an urgent need to establish a scientific evaluation system for targeted guidance.
Against this backdrop, “China Urban Artificial Intelligence Index Report” was officially released at the forum. The report was jointly developed by the Institute for Contemporary China Studies, Tsinghua University (ICCS), Shanghai Securities News, Outlook Think Tank, and the BEDI Research Institute, with contributions from expert teams including the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) and the CICC Global Institute.
The report introduces an urban AI evaluation system covering four key dimensions: industrial development, technological innovation, public services, and governance environment. It also systematically identifies, for the first time, a three-tier structure of urban AI development in China, categorizing cities into three distinct tiers: Leading Cities, Dynamic Cities, and High-Potential Cities. Furthermore, the report draws on practical experience from benchmark cities, providing clear and actionable development approaches tailored to different city types. It is designed to support local governments in refining industrial development strategies, help enterprises seize market opportunities, and contribute to national efforts to improve regional coordination.
Spark•AI Cloud Upgraded to 2.0, Forming a New Foundation for China‘s Urban Development
Based on the regional differences and collaboration needs highlighted in the report, BEDI emphasizes that the key to AI development lies not in isolated technological breakthroughs, but in building scalable infrastructure and enabling coordinated industrial ecosystems. Xie Dong, Chief Technology Officer of BEDI, commented: “The transition to large-scale AI adoption is defined by lower barriers to use. Enterprises will be able to deploy and apply AI at lower costs and in simpler ways, so that data can be continuously transformed into real productivity.”
In line with this vision, BEDI unveiled Spark•AI Cloud 2.0, its next-generation AI production system, marking the evolution from a computing platform to an integrated AI production environment. At its core, Spark•AI Cloud 2.0 is powered by Qianjin•AIOS and Xintian•AgentOS. It brings together computing, models, and application capabilities into a unified architecture, streamlining the entire process from data and compute to model development and application deployment, and delivering standardized capabilities tailored to real-world business scenarios. The platform is designed to address three common challenges in AI adoption: complex deployment, high costs, and limited scalability. By overcoming these barriers, it enables organizations to move beyond pilot projects and scale AI into real-world production.
At the application level, BEDI proposes a development path of “One Foundation, Two Breakthroughs”: on one hand, it supports industries such as manufacturing, cultural tourism, and consumer sectors in developing new growth models; on the other hand, it enhances governance and service capabilities in public services such as healthcare, government, and education. Through continued local engagement and scenario-driven implementation, BEDI is advancing the transition of AI application from isolated pilot projects into scalable solutions, accelerating the development of new quality productive forces.
“AI China Tour” Initiative Launched, Driving Nationwide Adoption of the Industry-City Integration Paradigms
To accelerate the nationwide implementation of the new industry-city integration paradigms, the “AI China Tour” initiative was officially launched at the forum. Jointly initiated by Shanghai Securities News and BEDI, the initiative will bring together a high-level group of experts from industry, academia, and research institutions. Guided by the principle of “engaging key decision-makers to shape the future of industry”, it leverages the research findings and data insights from “China Urban Artificial Intelligence Index Report”. Focusing on tailored empowerment approaches for different regions and industries, the team will engage with local governments through consultations on AI industrial planning, and implement a series of targeted measures to support the upgrading of AI industries across more cities.
Collaborative Industry Alliance for AI Innovation Districts Established, Fostering New Highlands for AI Development
As part of Beijing’s broader efforts to build itself into a global AI innovation leader, the city has announced the first four AI Innovation Districts this year, including the Guangzhi Space in Chaoyang District. Positioned around the integration of optical computing and intelligent technologies, Guangzhi Space focuses on next-generation computing infrastructure and advanced AI applications. It aims to establish a comprehensive AI innovation service ecosystem, promote the integration of AI into real-world scenarios, and foster new business models and industry formats.
During the forum, Chaoyang District officially launched the global call for contributors to the planning guidelines for AI Innovation Districts, as well as the global solicitation of the district’s logo and digital mascot. The district also announced the establishment of the Collaborative Industry Alliance for AI Innovation Districts and initiated three major projects, including quantum-classical computing integration. Going forward, BEDI will play an active role in the alliance and be deeply involved in the development of AI Innovation Districts, providing end-to-end support from technological innovation to industrial deployment, and supporting Beijing in building a leading hub for AI industry development.
At the outset of the 15th Five-Year Plan period, the JXQ AI Forum will continue to serve as a high-level platform that brings together government, industry, academia, and research stakeholders. By promoting the precise and practical application of AI across diverse local contexts, the forum aims to enable every city to identify its own pathway for growth and unlock new momentum for high-quality development.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2026 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the lodging business unit wholly owned by CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is celebrating the seventh anniversary of its loyalty programme, Ascott Star Rewards (ASR), with enhancements that expand how members earn and redeem rewards. Connecting stays, flights, tours and curated experiences on a single platform, ASR has evolved from a hotel loyalty programme into a fully integrated travel rewards ecosystem. Having surpassed eight million members, and with a series of enhancements designed to deliver greater value at every touchpoint of the travel journey, ASR is well-placed to reach its target of 15 million members by 2028.
Ascott Star Rewards invites members to celebrate its 7th anniversary — offering a complimentary free night with a minimum of six qualifying nights across participating ASR properties from April to May 2026.
Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Seven years ago, Ascott Star Rewards set out to reward our guests for their stays. Today, we are rewarding them for how they travel – from the moment they book a flight to the experiences they seek at their destination. Whether they are looking to earn more airline miles, unlock exclusive experience packages, or enjoy complimentary preview stays and free breakfasts, the latest ASR programme enhancements across flights, experiences and events are designed to deepen our relationship with ASR members, giving every one of them more reasons to Stay Rewarded with ASR. In 2025, ASR member revenue rose 23% year-on-year, with members accounting for over 90% of our online direct bookings and more than 60% returning for repeat stays. The trust that our members place in ASR as their travel companion is what drives our ambition to do more.” ASR Extends Its Rewards to Flights and Airline Miles Flights are where many journeys begin, and ASR’s rewards now extend there too. In a first for ASR, members can now convert their loyalty points directly into airline miles, making ASR one of the few hotel loyalty programmes globally to offer both earn and convert capabilities from its airline partnerships. In partnership with KrisFlyer, the lifestyle rewards programme of the Singapore Airlines Group, ASR members can now convert their ASR points to KrisFlyer miles at a rate of 20 ASR points to one KrisFlyer mile. A minimum of 5,000 ASR points is required, with conversions of up to 50,000 ASR points per calendar year per membership account. This is in addition to the existing benefit of earning 500 KrisFlyer miles on qualifying direct bookings on DiscoverASR.com and the ASR app.
Come June 2026, ASR will welcome Cathay Pacific, ranked No. 2 in World’s Best Full-Service Airlines by Airlineratings.com, expanding its airline partner network which currently comprises KrisFlyer, ANA and AirAsia. Through this new partnership, ASR members will earn 500 Asia Miles on qualifying direct bookings, while Cathay Silver, Gold and Diamond members will be eligible for an ASR tier match. ASR members currently enjoy double-earning on qualifying stays, accumulating both ASR points and airline miles from a single booking – a benefit not commonly found among hotel loyalty programmes globally.
From June 2026, members can also put their ASR points towards flight credits, with vouchers worth S$50, S$100 or S$200 redeemable across more than 640 airlines through DiscoverASR.com in partnership with Trip.com.
Unlocking Elevated Experiences Beyond the Stay Beyond flights, ASR is broadening the programme to encompass destination experiences. Members can now book Tours and Experiences through DiscoverASR.com and accumulate ASR points in the process. From May 2026, points can go towards redeeming curated sporting and lifestyle events, Chelsea Football Club matchday experiences, selected ASR Local Signatures events, and tours and attraction tickets.
Recognising Loyalty with More Ways to Stay Rewarded Every stay with Ascott earns members closer to a free night. ASR members can convert the points accumulated from their stays into complimentary nights across participating properties in 30 countries. For Platinum-tier members, complimentary breakfast is available when they book Ascott properties in Europe and, coming soon, China and Japan.
In addition, Ascott has introduced exclusive preview stays for Platinum-tier and Gold-tier ASR members at newly opened properties, offering privileged and complimentary access during the first month of opening. Piloted at Oakwood Cameron Highlands, which opened in March 2026, the programme is set to encompass a pipeline of upcoming Ascott property openings globally, including lyf Chinatown Singapore and Citadines Elizabeth Street Hobart.
Located in the heart of Tanah Rata, the 383-unit Oakwood Cameron Highlands was one of a medley of newly-opened properties that offered Platinum and Gold-tier ASR members exclusive preview stays in its opening month.
Mr Moustafa Elmalawany, an ASR Platinum-tier member who was among the first guests to experience Oakwood Cameron Highlands, said: “As an ASR member there are already plenty of perks, and being part of the Elite Preview Stay made me feel truly recognised. The arrival experience was smooth and the personalised attention throughout my stay made it very pleasant. Overall, the stay was a fantastic experience. I’m looking forward to coming back here.”
ASR members can also look forward to locally curated in-room welcome gifts, tailored by membership tier, ranging from artisan confectioneries in Europe to seasonal tropical produce in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Across participating properties in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Singapore and Vietnam, all ASR members enjoy 20% dining discounts on buffet and à la carte menus.
ASR Extends Its Rewards to Event Planners As Ascott’s MICE business expands, ASR is extending its rewards to the organisers and corporate bookers behind its growing events business. The refreshed ASR Meeting Planner programme awards two ASR points for every dollar spent on rooms and events, unlocking privileges including membership upgrades, discounts, vouchers and bonus points.
Unlike conventional hotel venues, Ascott’s apartment-style accommodation and flexible event spaces support everything from short corporate offsites to long-stay project teams, product launches and celebrations. For groups seeking a more distinctive dining experience, Ascott partners with curated caterers and specialty chefs to design bespoke menus and immersive formats – from live cooking stations to hyper-local tasting journeys – at properties across its global portfolio.
ASR 7th Anniversary Campaign: Fast Track to Free Nights To mark its seventh anniversary, ASR is rewarding members with a “Fast Track to Free Nights” campaign. Members who complete a minimum of six qualifying nights across participating ASR properties from April to May 2026, combining multiple bookings where needed, will earn a free night. Each member can earn a maximum of two free nights. The campaign is available across all participating ASR properties worldwide and is valid for bookings made via DiscoverASR.com and the ASR app. Terms and conditions apply.
About Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) offers members a range of exclusive privileges designed to elevate every aspect of their travel experience. From priority welcome services and access to airport lounges, to enhanced stay benefits such as car rental privileges, bonus ASR points, airline miles and travel vouchers, ASR ensures a seamless, start-to-finish experience. Beyond exceptional stays, ASR members also enjoy access to Ascott Privilege Signatures, which unlocks invitations to prestigious global events, including Premier League football matches, renowned tennis tournaments, and elite gastronomy and lifestyle experiences. To become an ASR member, sign up today at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/sign-up. Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #loyalty #AscottStarRewards #Anniversary
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Ascott Limited
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.
Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.
As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.
Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.
CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.
CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.
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