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Bybit Card Elevates Travel Experience: Premium Lounge Access with a Chance of First-Class Flights

DUBAI, UAE, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is pleased to introduce new benefits for Bybit Card holders to upgrade their jetsetting lifestyle. Starting now, Bybit Card users can now access premium airport lounges worldwide through an exclusive partnership, elevating the travel experience for the crypto community.

The Bybit Card is also throwing in the chance to fly first class in a limited-time event. From now until Apr. 4, 2025, eligible users may sign up and spend $10 or more to qualify in the race for sky-high privileges. Prizes include first-class tickets valued at up to 10,000 USDT for 3 lucky winners, or 100 USDT for 10 more winners each month during the event.

Access Lounges Worldwide with the Bybit Card

This new benefit enables users to travel in style whether they are getting ready for a holiday, or finding comfort in transit. Access to over 250 global locations before take-off offers Bybit Card holders the freedom to escape the airport crowds and enjoy premium lounges at popular international destinations, including Singapore’s Changi Airport, the Dubai International Airport, Melbourne Airport, the Ezeiza International in Argentina, among other major aviation hubs.

All cardholders can easily redeem their reward points earned from regular spending for lounge access through the Rewards Mall, making premium travel experiences more accessible than ever.

The program also features special benefits for VIP users, who enjoy 50% off lounge access redemption rates. The rewards points are alternatives to auto-cashback, and users may toggle to points to unlock similar benefits.

“We are in the business of making lasting memories with the crypto community. The Bybit Card aims to provide unparalleled user experience and flexibility in how our customers choose to use their digital assets,” said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit. “The addition of global lounge access represents another step in our mission to bridge the gap between cryptocurrency and everyday experiences.”

Bybit Card Elevates Travel Experience: Premium Lounge Access with a Chance of First-Class Flights
Bybit Card Elevates Travel Experience: Premium Lounge Access with a Chance of First-Class Flights

A Card for the High Flyers

The launch of this premium travel benefit comes as part of Bybit’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the utility and prestige of crypto in all aspects of life. Cardholders can now experience the same level of luxury traditionally associated with premier banking cards, while maintaining the flexibility and innovation of crypto payments.

With the Bybit Card, over a million users get to seamlessly off-ramp mainstream tokens, access cashback perks, while earning competitive APR on eligible digital asset balances.

For more information about Bybit Card rewards and how to get premium lounge access, users may visit www.bybit.com/cards/rewards. The lucky draw for first-class tickets will be conducted once a month on livestream, and users may find out more about their eligibility and the terms and conditions here.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk / #TheBybitCard

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

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Safeguarding Your Assets: ATFX’s Commitment to Trust and Security

HONG KONG, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ATFX, a leading CFD broker, has always placed client fund protection at the core of its operations. Recognizing the rise in cyberattacks targeting brokers, ATFX has implemented advanced security measures, including facial recognition technology for account registration. This innovation ensures a seamless yet secure verification process, allowing clients to authenticate their identities quickly while preventing unauthorized access.

To further reinforce its security framework, ATFX consistently upgrades its cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent data breaches and unauthorized access. By integrating cutting-edge security solutions and adhering to the highest international regulatory standards, ATFX enhances protection while delivering a secure and efficient trading environment.

In 2024, ATFX strengthened its asset security by partnering with Zodia Custody, a leading institution-first digital asset custodian backed by Standard Chartered, SBI Holdings, Northern Trust and National Australia Bank. This collaboration enhances security through cold storage and multi-signature wallet mechanisms, creating an impenetrable defense against potential cyber threats. Additionally, both ATFX and Zodia Custody maintain the highest regulatory standards, ensuring compliance and transparency while optimizing transaction efficiency for smoother deposit and withdrawal operations.

As fintech continues to evolve, integrating advanced security measures into financial services is essential. ATFX remains at the forefront of innovation, safeguarding client assets while delivering a seamless trading experience. Through continuous technological advancements and industry-leading security practices, ATFX empowers traders with confidence in an ever-evolving financial landscape.

About ATFX
ATFX is a leading global fintech broker with a local presence in 23 locations and licenses from regulatory authorities including the UK’s FCA, Australian ASIC, Cypriot CySEC, UAE’s SCA, Hong Kong SFC and South African FSCA. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, innovative technology, and strict regulatory compliance, ATFX provides exceptional trading experiences to clients worldwide.

For further information on ATFX, please visit ATFX website https://www.atfx.com.

‘AI godfather’ sounds the alarm on growing risks in the AI race


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 February 2025 – The rise of powerful artificial intelligence (AI) like DeepSeek is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace, sparking enthusiasm and deep concerns about its potential risks. On that subject, “AI godfather” Yoshua Bengio – Laureate of the 2024 VinFuture Grand Prize – highlighted the urgent need for national and global efforts to regulate AI and ensure equitable benefits for all.

“AI Godfather" and 2024 VinFuture Grand Prize Laureate Yoshua Bengio (left) warns global superpowers about the risks AI poses to humanity.
“AI Godfather” and 2024 VinFuture Grand Prize Laureate Yoshua Bengio (left) warns global superpowers about the risks AI poses to humanity.

Double-edged sword

Since the beginning of 2025, the rise of DeepSeek has been described as a “black swan” moment creating a game-changing shift in an AI landscape almost overnight. It is a wake-up call showing that powerful AI can be achieved without exorbitant costs, challenging the prevailing “money equals progress” model.

Regarding this, Yoshua Bengio, often regarded as “one of the godfathers of modern AI,” warned that its breakthrough in AI affordability could pose serious risks.

If open-weight AI models, like DeepSeek, are distributed completely, terrorists may exploit them for disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, or even bioweapon development,” he stated in an interview with VinFuture Foundation. “This is a double-edged sword because while these systems become more available, cheaper, and more powerful, they also lower the barrier to misuse.”

Yoshua Bengio, a pioneer in neural networks and deep learning algorithms, has been recognized with numerous prestigious international awards, including the 2018 A.M. Turing Award, the 2024 VinFuture Grand Prize, and most recently, the 2025 Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering. He emphasized that AI is evolving toward greater autonomy, with systems capable of planning and acting in pursuit of a goal. “Today, AI already surpasses humans in certain domains. It can master hundreds of languages and pass PhD-level exams across multiple disciplines“, he explained.

Despite these current limitations in long-term planning abilities, major technology corporations have thrown billions of dollars into developing AI agents capable of autonomous decision-making over extended periods. While this promises efficiency gains, it raises concerns about large-scale job displacement.

Beyond economic shifts, a far more critical issue looms – the loss of human control over AI. In controlled experiments, some AI systems have even engaged in deceptive behavior to prevent being shut down – a troubling sign of self-preservation tendencies.

This is alarming because we don’t want machines that will compete with us,” he emphasized.

According to Bengio, while they are not yet intelligent enough to pose a major threat, this trajectory is concerning.

In a few years, they might be sufficiently smarter and we need to start paying attention before it is too late,” Bengio warned.

Coupled with technical risks, AI presents a profound threat to privacy and civil liberties. Recently, a comprehensive International AI Safety report, chaired by Yoshua Bengio and compiled by 96 experts from 30 countries and organizations (including the UN, EU, and OECD) to guide policymakers on AI safety, revealed the growing potential for AI misuse in malicious activities.

Bengio noted that AI’s ability to process vast amounts of data can empower individuals, corporations, or governments with unprecedented control. Given AI’s uncertain future, he shared that the way humans manage AIs in the future will be central to preventing this scenario. “We need to make sure that no single person, no single corporation, and no single government can have total power over super intelligent AI,” he emphasized.

Advances by the Chinese startup DeepSeek could further intensify the AI race among superpowers, raising a worrying development in a field dominated by the Silicon Valley and large Western tech companies in recent years.

The danger here is that in their race to outpace each other, safety issues might be overlooked. We can be all the victims of this race if we are not careful enough,” Bengio cautioned.

Moreover, the intensifying race is expected to drive profound environmental consequences, particularly in energy consumption. Major AI companies, pushed by the prospect of massive profits, are willing to absorb high energy costs. This surge in demand will inevitably drive-up energy prices across the board, including electricity, oil, and other resources, affecting not just tech firms but households and industries worldwide.

This is where unchecked market forces and national competition could lead to global losses. “That is why government intervention is crucial. Policymakers must negotiate agreements that cap energy consumption at sustainable levels. Otherwise, the forces of competition between companies will only accelerate AI expansion in ways that are not just unsustainable but potentially dangerous,” Bengio urged.

Bridging the AI divide

The godfather of AI has raised urgent calls to establish robust ethical frameworks and regulatory measures to ensure responsible development and deployment.

Currently, there is essentially no regulatory framework almost anywhere in the countries where these systems are being developed. I think the governments have a responsibility to at least require a kind of reporting to them,” he said.

Responsibility is another key aspect. In many countries, legal principles hold companies accountable for products that cause harm. However, when it comes to software, liability remains a grey area, according to Bengio. “Clarifying liability laws would be a simple but effective step. If companies knew they could face lawsuits for negligence, they would have stronger incentives to manage risks properly,” he asserted.

He also emphasized that it would require a concerted effort from individuals and institutions who recognize the existential risks, like catastrophic malicious use. Elsewhere, concerns over job security and future employment opportunities loom. “The timeline for this shift is uncertain, but we could see radical transformations within five to ten years,” Bengio predicted.

While some jobs will inevitably be replaced by automation, Bengio emphasized that not all professions are equally at risk. “Expanding digital and AI education is essential, but it will not be a universal solution. Not everyone can become an AI engineer,” he noted. Instead, roles that require emotional intelligence and human interaction, including healthcare professionals, therapists, and managers, are more likely to endure. Rather than individual adaptation, Bengio poses a larger question: Can AI deployment be deliberately shaped to minimize disruption?

Again, this is something that has to be done globally, which is very challenging. We should do it in a way that does not create radical disruptions in the social fabric,” he concluded.

Beyond national regulations, Bengio stressed the need for global coordination. He highlighted eventually, humans should aim for global agreements and treaties, similar to how we handle other scientific and technological risks. As AI rapidly reshapes industries, new divides in wealth, job displacement, or political power could deepen unless proactive measures are taken. Bengio warned that AI is currently concentrated in the hands of a few corporations and nations.

He took Vietnam, a country with a strong industrial sector, as an example. If widespread automation shifts production to AI-powered facilities in wealthier nations like the US, it could lead to significant job losses and economic hardship in countries dependent on manufacturing exports.

Therefore, Bengio suggested establishing global negotiations – a form of exchange in which countries developing advanced AI might ask other countries to refrain from creating potentially dangerous AI. In return, the wealth generated by these AI systems, like new technologies and medical advancements, should be shared globally.

Of course, we are very far from this, but we need to start those discussions at a global level,” he emphasized.

The first step toward bridging the AI divide is fostering collaboration between emerging economies and technologically advanced nations. Bengio highlighted the importance of initiatives like the VinFuture Prize, which draws global attention to scientific advancements in regions outside the traditional tech powerhouses.

A big prize like the VinFuture Prize can make leading scientists far more aware of what is happening in Vietnam and other developing countries,” he explained.

Countries such as Vietnam, India, and Brazil already possess strong talent pools and growing expertise in AI. By forming strategic partnerships with resource-rich nations like Canada and European countries, they can develop competitive AI projects on a global scale. Such collaborations, if carefully structured, could ensure a more equitable distribution of technological power, according to Bengio.

Moreover, Bengio stressed the importance of bridging the gap between academia and industry. “By recognizing and supporting breakthrough innovations, VinFuture Prize encourages deeper collaboration between scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers, as well as fosters global dialogue on responsible AI,” he said.

The VinFuture Foundation, established on International Human Solidarity Day on December 20th, 2020, is a non-profit organization co-founded by billionaire Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong and his wife, Mrs. Pham Thu Huong. The Foundation’s core activity is awarding the annual VinFuture Prize, which recognizes transformative scientific and technological innovations capable of making significant positive changes in the lives of millions of people worldwide.

The nomination period for the 2025 VinFuture Prize will close at 2:00 PM on April 17, 2025 (Vietnam time, GMT+7).

The VinFuture Prize consists of four prestigious awards presented each year. The most esteemed is the VinFuture Grand Prize, valued at US$3 million, making it one of the largest annual prizes globally. Additionally, there are three Special Prizes, each valued at US$500,000, specifically dedicated to honoring women innovators, innovators from developing countries, and innovators with outstanding achievements in emerging fields.

https://vinfutureprize.org/vinfuture-prize-nomination/

Hashtag: #VinFuture

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

iQIYI showcases strategic response to TV drama industry trends: short-form content and technological innovation drive growth

BEIJING, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, participated in the first China TV Drama Production Industry Conference and the 10th China International TV Drama Program Trade Fair in Shenzhen in last week. iQIYI Founder and CEO Yu GONG delivered a keynote speech at the conference, emphasizing the company’s “viewer-centric approach” in response to evolving consumption patterns. “Success in our industry goes beyond content length, cast influence, production budgets, or the latest AI and virtual production technologies,” Gong stated. “The most crucial aspect is respecting the creative process, valuing content creators, understanding audience preferences, managing resources efficiently, and leveraging innovation to deliver premium content. Ultimately, putting viewers at the center of everything we do is what matters most.”

Yu GONG, Founder and CEO of iQIYI
Yu GONG, Founder and CEO of iQIYI

Strategic Expansion of Mini-Drama Ecosystem

As the content and entertainment industry continues to transform, iQIYI shared content strategies that include serialized long-form dramas, premium short-form content, and industrialized mini-dramas, along with its technological innovations aimed at enhancing production capabilities.

During a keynote speech on emerging content formats, iQIYI Senior Vice President Haitao YANG outlined the company’s strategic initiatives in response to growing market demand for concise storytelling. Highlighting the expansion of its mini and short dramas ecosystem, Yang detailed two key programs – the “Thousand Mini-Dramas Initiative” and “Hundred Short-Dramas Initiative,” which are being implemented across two distinct content theaters.

The “Mini-Drama Theater” focuses on mobile-optimized vertical content of 1-3 minutes per episode, covering genres from romance to suspense while the “Short-Drama Theater” features horizontal format content of 5-20 minutes per episode, emphasizing premium period dramas and urban storylines.

Leveraging iQIYI’s established expertise in long-form video content production, the company has achieved breakthroughs in this segment, with its mini-drama portfolio now surpassing 10,000 titles and capturing 95% of the leading mini-drama content providers in the market. The company reached a significant milestone in December 2024 when the platform’s first mini-drama generated over RMB 1 million (US$0.14 million) in revenue-sharing income.

iQIYI has also revamped its Apps to improve users’ viewing experience recently. While iQIYI’s main app continues to focus on long-form video with membership-based revenue models, iQIYI Lite app has been strategically repositioned to primarily feature free mini-dramas supported by advertising. Recent data indicates the format’s growing popularity, with mini-drama viewing time on the main app now rivaling that of animation, kids’ content, and variety shows. On iQIYI Lite app, mini-dramas have secured the second position in viewership, surpassed only by traditional long-form dramas.

Virtual Production Technology Elevates Content Production

At the conference, iQIYI Vice President Liang ZHU highlighted the company’s cutting-edge advancements in virtual production technology, which have been actively implemented across its robust portfolio of long-form dramas, where iQIYI has secured the highest viewership market share in both Q4 and throughout the full year of 2024, according to data from Enlightent.

For example, the original drama “My Journey to You” achieved a remarkable 30% increase in production efficiency through virtual filming techniques, while “Fangs of Fortune” pioneered large-scale water surface reflection in virtual filming in China. With virtual production elements comprising 16% of its total production, “Fangs of Fortune” stands as one of the most technically sophisticated and extensive virtual productions in China to date.

Zhu explained how these innovations are becoming a mainstream trend in the industry, with leading content platforms and IP owners achieving significant improvements in both efficiency and quality through virtual production and reusable digital assets.

To stay at the forefront, iQIYI has made substantial infrastructure investments, including the recent completion of a 2,500-square-meter flagship virtual studio that meets world-class standards of excellence. Additionally, its self-developed IQ Stage virtual production platform integrates over 20 patented technologies, enabling sophisticated real-and-virtual integration effects that deliver exceptional visual experiences to global audiences.

A*STAR And MojiaBio To Develop Next-gen Sustainable Biomanufacturing Platform In Singapore

SINGAPORE, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This initiative aims to produce eco-friendly bio-based molecules from low-cost, eco-friendly sources. Key benefits include:

Cost-parity with conventional methods: Unlike existing bio-based molecules production, this initiative aims to achieve cost-parity with conventional processes by utilising low-cost renewable sources like methanol.

Wide-ranging industry applications: The sustainable bio-based molecules produced can be used for wide-ranging industrial applications in textiles, automotive, personal care, and coatings industries.

Boosting Singapore’s green economy: This effort strengthens Singapore’s leadership in the global bioeconomy, which can lead to high-value job creation in sustainable biomanufacturing.

SINGAPORE – MojiaBio, a leading innovator in green chemistry and sustainable biomanufacturing, will be developing an SGD 44.8 million state-of-the-art Sustainable Biomanufacturing Technology Platform (SBTP) with the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). By integrating advanced synthetic biology and bioprocessing innovations, the SBTP aims to position Singapore as a global leader in sustainable biomanufacturing, accelerating the transition to a circular bioeconomy and net-zero future.

Unlike other existing bio-based molecules in the market, the SBTP aims to pioneer the production of a range of high-value bio-based molecules that are cost-competitive and serve the needs of various industries. This is made possible due to the innovative use of cost-effective sources like methanol and ethylene glycol, which enables the platform to produce scalable, sustainable alternatives to conventional chemical processes. This includes the production of 1,3-propanediol (PDO), a key ingredient for a broad array of industries such as skincare products, coatings and biodegradable plastics.

Building Singapore’s Capabilities in Green Biomanufacturing

The global market for green chemicals is projected to reach USD 200 billion (around SGD 270 billion) by 2030, driven by increasing demand for sustainable alternatives to their fossil-based counterparts. This collaboration will help Singapore build up our synthetic biology capabilities, which will help position us to capture a share of this growing market and contribute to the development of new economic opportunities in the green economy.

At the heart of the SBTP is MojiaBio’s proprietary Cn+Bio™ pathway and OrthBio® bioconversion process, designed to convert low-cost, renewable sources into bio-based molecules. This will be developed in close collaboration with A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (A*STAR SIFBI)—which will provide expertise on enzyme engineering—to ensure a faster, more reliable, and higher-yield conversion.

“The SBTP will not only produce bio-based molecules but also support downstream application research to synthesise high-value sustainable products for different industries,” said Dr Ramon Gonzalez, MojiaBio CSO. “Through our partnership with A*STAR, we will be able to accelerate the commercialisation of green PDO to meet the growing demands and needs of the market.”

The SBTP leverages advanced synthetic biology and integrates the National University of Singapore (NUS)’ computational modelling expertise to engineer enzymes and microbial strains, optimising them as biocatalysts. Unlike conventional fermentation methods, the platform operates independently of its host cell metabolism, which significantly enhances energy efficiency, scalability, and sustainability while reducing production costs.

Professor Tan Sze Wee, Assistant Chief Executive from A*STAR Biomedical Research Council said, “The SBTP marks a significant step forward in sustainable biomanufacturing for Singapore, demonstrating how synthetic biology can unlock cost-effective productions of scalable value-added ingredient alternatives. By leveraging synthetic biology and enzyme engineering capabilities at A*STAR SIFBI and A*STAR Institute of Sustainability for Chemicals, Energy and Environment (A*STAR ISCE2) and forming strategic private-public partnerships, we are laying the foundation for further advancements in sustainable biomanufacturing across multiple industries. This collaboration will not only accelerate Singapore’s bioeconomy growth but also underscore our commitment to advancing in value-added ingredient innovation and green technologies.”

Lim Wey-Len, Executive Vice President, Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) said: “Singapore has been developing our capabilities in industrial biotechnology as part of a push for sustainable manufacturing. The SBTP demonstrates how leading companies can partner Singapore’s research ecosystem to innovate and commercialise novel products that improve the quality of life, while meeting sustainability commitments. We welcome more like-minded companies to create solutions through Singapore that can further grow Asia’s bioeconomy sector.”

Advancing Green Economy: Building a Sustainable Future Together

The SBTP aligns with the Singapore Green Plan 2030 targets and global sustainability goals, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting a circular economy. Compared to conventional methods, bio-based molecules produced through this platform offer significant environmental benefits over conventional processes, including:

Reduced energy use: Renewable sources (e.g. methanol and ethylene glycol) require less energy to process.

Lower carbon footprint: Bio-based production typically emits significantly less carbon dioxide than conventional chemical processes by around 60%.

Fewer pollutants: Bio-based methods produce fewer harmful emissions, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulphur oxides (SOx).

“This collaboration exemplifies our vision to create impactful, sustainable solutions for the future,” said Dr Gonzalez. “MojiaBio is also making strides to establish our operational headquarters and a dedicated research laboratory in Singapore to accelerate commercialisation of other green chemicals to contribute to Singapore’s bioeconomy and the global transition toward sustainability.”

1 “Green Chemicals Market – Global Industry Assessment and Forecast.” Vantage Market Research, 4 July 2023, www.vantagemarketresearch.com/industry-report/green-chemicals-market-1347

About the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore’s lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. As a Science and Technology Organisation, A*STAR bridges the gap between academia and industry. Our research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore, and enhances lives by improving societal outcomes in healthcare, urban living, and sustainability. A*STAR plays a key role in nurturing scientific talent and leaders for the wider research community and industry. A*STAR’s R&D activities span biomedical sciences to physical sciences and engineering, with research entities primarily located in Biopolis and Fusionopolis.

About A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (A*STAR SIFBI)

A*STAR Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation (A*STAR SIFBI)’s vision is to be an innovation engine for health and well-being, focusing on the Asian phenotype. Our two strategic pillars are: 1) Developing sustainable, value-added ingredients for food and consumer care; and 2) Optimizing health and wellbeing within the Asian phenotype. We prioritize consumer acceptance, considering taste, texture, and nutrition, alongside sustainable and safe food production. Understanding sensory preferences and the Asian phenotype allows us to tailor food designs to meet consumer needs and improve population health and wellness. We directly impact food resilience, population health, economic growth, and talent development. We envision Singapore as a leading hub for Asian food and nutrition research, fostering industry partnerships and regional collaboration to advance this critical field. This is achieved through public-private partnerships locally and globally. Learn more about SIFBI.

About MojiaBio

MojiaBio is a pioneering leader in industrial biomanufacturing, revolutionizing the production of commodities, materials, and chemicals through sustainable and green processes. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and demand-driven innovation, MojiaBio is committed to creating transformative solutions that shape the future of multiple industries. For more information on MojiaBio.

LotusFlare Partners with MTN for Strategic Digital Initiatives in South Africa

JOHANNESBURG and SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LotusFlare, a provider of a cloud-native digital commerce and monetization platform for communications service providers (CSPs), today announced its partnership with MTN South Africa, part of Africa’s largest mobile network operator, to support strategic initiatives in the South African market.

 

By leveraging LotusFlare’s Cloud platform and its extensive experience in digital commerce and monetization, MTN aims to improve agility to meet its customers’ evolving needs.

With this initiative, MTN aims to set a new standard for innovation and enhanced customer experience. This partnership marks a significant milestone in MTN’s strategy for the South African telecommunications landscape.

“We are thrilled to partner with MTN South Africa, a true leader in the African telecommunications market, and support them on this transformative journey,” said Sam Gadodia, CEO of LotusFlare. “We believe our Cloud platform will enable MTN to achieve its vision of delivering a truly exceptional experience to its customers.”

“Partnering with LotusFlare marks a significant milestone in our ongoing dedication to providing a world-class experience for our customers across South Africa. This collaboration will enable us to transform and elevate our services, further strengthening our position as a leading telecommunications provider in the country,” says Divyesh Joshi, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at MTN SA.

About LotusFlare

LotusFlare’s mission is to design, build and continuously advance a digital commerce and monetization platform that simplifies technology and customer experience to deliver valuable outcomes to enterprises. LotusFlare serves T-Mobile US, Deutsche Telecom, Globe Telecom, Liberty Latin America, Singtel, Globe Telecom, A1 Group, and other leading CSPs. Learn more at lotusflare.com

LotusFlare Contact

Magdalena Arnautovic
Marketing Communications and Content Manager
Email Address: magdalena.marjanovic@lotusflare.com
LotusFlare News: https://lotusflare.com/news/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lotusflare
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lotus_flare

MTN Contact

Mthokozisi Ndlovu
Senior Manager: External Communication
Email Adress: mthokozisi.ndlovu@mtn.com

 

Tencent Music Entertainment Group Announces Board Changes

SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tencent Music Entertainment Group (“TME”, or the “Company”) (NYSE: TME and HKEX: 1698), the leading online music and audio entertainment platform in China, today announced the retirement of Mr. Matthew Yun Ming Cheng from his position as a director on the Board of Directors (the “Board”), effective February 28, 2025. Concurrently, the Board approved the appointment of Mr. Wai Yip Tsang, as a director on the Board, effective February 28, 2025.

“Matthew has been a valuable member of TME’s Board during his tenure since 2022. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank him for his dedication, which helped us drive growth and innovation while promoting the prosperity of China’s music industry,” commented Mr. Cussion Pang, Executive Chairman of TME. “I would also like to welcome Wai Yip to the Board. His deep financial background, extensive experience and business insights will be a tremendous asset to TME.”

Mr. Tsang currently serves as the Financial Controller of Tencent Holdings Limited (HKEX: 0700). Prior to joining Tencent in 2014, Mr. Tsang began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and subsequently held senior financial positions, including chief financial officer or group financial controller at several companies listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange, and served as a director of a company listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange. Mr. Tsang is a fellow member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, as well as a member of CPA Australia. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honors) in Accountancy. Mr. Tsang possesses extensive experience in audit, accounting, investor relations, and corporate finance, including initial public offerings, restructuring, and mergers and acquisitions activities.

About Tencent Music Entertainment

Tencent Music Entertainment Group (NYSE: TME and HKEX: 1698) is the leading online music and audio entertainment platform in China, operating the country’s highly popular and innovative music apps: QQ Music, Kugou Music, Kuwo Music and WeSing. TME’s mission is to create endless possibilities with music and technology. TME’s platform comprises online music, online audio, online karaoke, music-centric live streaming and online concert services, enabling music fans to discover, listen, sing, watch, perform and socialize around music. For more information, please visit ir.tencentmusic.com.

Investor Relations Contact
Tencent Music Entertainment Group
ir@tencentmusic.com  
+86 (755) 8601-3388 ext. 818415

CEA Drives Thailand’s Creative Industry Forward: Expanding Thai Music and Content into Asian and European Markets


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 February 2025 – The Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, has revealed that Thailand’s music and content industries continue to experience sustained growth, aligning with the global expansion of the sector. To ensure that Thai artists and content creators can achieve lasting success on the international stage, CEA is set to launch two major flagship projects in 2025, building on their remarkable achievements of 2024. The ‘Music Exchange’ project aims to propel Thai artists onto global festival stages while attracting international event organizers and promoters to Thailand, creating invaluable opportunities for local musicians and businesses. Meanwhile, the ‘Content Lab’ initiative serves as a platform for Thai content creators to connect with investors both domestically and internationally, paving the way for commercial production. Additionally, it will focus on upskilling professionals in film, series, and animation, ensuring their expertise meets global standards and aligns with key target markets. These initiatives are expected to drive employment opportunities and contribute significantly to Thailand’s economic growth, further strengthening the country’s position in the international creative industry.

CEA Drives Thailand’s Creative Industry Forward: Expanding Thai Music and Content into Asian and European Markets
CEA Drives Thailand’s Creative Industry Forward: Expanding Thai Music and Content into Asian and European Markets

Dr. Chakrit Pichyangkul, Executive Director of the Creative Economy Agency, stated, “The creative content and media industries—encompassing music, film, series, and animation—continue to thrive globally, particularly in the digital streaming era, which have made access to entertainment more seamless than ever. Additionally, the full-scale revival of concerts, music festivals, and cinemas in the post-COVID era has further accelerated this growth. For Thailand, these industries are expanding in line with global trends. Currently, the music business in Thailand is valued at 3-5 billion baht, while the film, series, and animation industries are worth approximately 18 billion baht. This sector has been attracting growing interest from both audiences and investors, domestically and internationally. A testament to this momentum is the recent success of Thai films and series, which have not only generated impressive revenues but have also secured screenings at international film festivals. A standout achievement is the critically acclaimed film How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, known locally as Lahn Mah, which was recently selected as one of 15 films shortlisted to determine the five final nominees for the Best International Feature Film category at the Academy Awards 2024. This recognition reinforces the immense potential of Thai creators in these industries and their ability to compete on the world stage.”

A crucial factor in propelling Thailand’s music and content industries towards global success lies in financial investment and sustained government support. This backing enables artists and content creators to produce high-quality work and consistently showcase their talent on the international stage. Countries that prioritize the development of their creative industries, such as South Korea, Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom, have established dedicated agencies to support music businesses, screenwriters, and content creators. These agencies not only drive employment and attract foreign investment but also contribute significantly to measurable economic growth. Inspired by these successful models and recognizing the immense potential of Thailand’s music and content industries, the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, has implemented the ‘Flagship Industries Project’ strategy within the Creative Content & Music sector. This initiative focuses on film, series, animation, and music, serving as a key economic driver that will generate substantial revenue for Thailand while solidifying the nation’s presence in the global creative economy.

CEA continues to propel Thailand’s music industry forward and strengthen the Thai Music Wave through the Music Exchange project, which is built on two core activities:

● PUSH – Supporting Thai artists in securing performance slots at international music festivals, helping them expand their fan base and introduce their music to global markets. Notable participating artists include 4EVE, Alec Orachi, WIM, and Polycat.

● PULL – Inviting international music festival organizers and business stakeholders to witness live performances by Thai artists while facilitating business matching sessions to foster networking and commercial opportunities.

This project is driven by the strategic development plan for Thailand’s creative music industry, with a focus on increasing economic value and propelling the industry onto the global stage. Beyond international exposure, CEA is committed to elevating the creative capabilities of Thai musicians, ensuring they remain competitive in the global arena (Strategy: Building Global Standard).

Additionally, the initiative emphasizes music intellectual property protection (Strategy: Promoting Music IP) and aims to strengthen the music business ecosystem (Strategy: Strengthening Music Business Ecosystem), fostering diversity and long-term industry sustainability. Over the past year, Music Exchange has successfully showcased Thai artists in key markets such as Japan, China, and South Korea, forging connections with major global businesses. Throughout 2024, the project has supported over 70 performances by Thai artists, attracting 78 music festival organizers and industry professionals from Asia-Pacific, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States. These efforts have facilitated more than 300 business opportunities, boosting international visibility for Thai artists and reaching a global audience with 35 million views.

In its mission to strengthen Thailand’s film, series, and animation industries, CEA has spearheaded the Content Lab initiative, designed to nurture and elevate Thai content creators from emerging talents to industry professionals. Through incubation programs, the initiative provides structured training courses tailored to both fundamental and advanced skills, ensuring that participants gain expertise relevant to the evolving demands of the content industry. Additionally, selected projects receive funding to develop their ideas into pilot projects, which can then be pitched to film studios and potential investors. A key highlight of the initiative is the launch of Thailand’s first-ever ‘Content Project Market’—a dedicated marketplace where participants from incubation Programs, as well as independent content creators, can showcase their projects to investors, paving the way for commercial production. In 2024 alone, Content Lab successfully upskilled over 288 participants, empowering them with essential content creation expertise. Moreover, one of the projects that received funding for pilot project development from Content Lab 2023, the film ‘Happy Monday(s)’ or Sawasdee Wan Jan(s) [สวัสดีวันจันทร์(ส)], has successfully transitioned into full-scale production. Produced by Neramitnung Film, the film was released in theaters on 20 February 2024.

Through these strategic initiatives, CEA continues to drive the Thai content industry forward, ensuring its creators are equipped with the tools, opportunities, and global exposure needed to thrive in international markets. Recognizing the immense potential and global growth opportunities for Thailand’s content and creative media industries, CEA is committed to continuing its support for both the Music Exchange and Content Lab initiatives in the coming year. For 2025, the Music Exchange project, led by the Subcommittee on Music Industry Development and CEA, will further drive Thailand’s soft power strategy in the music sector by promoting Thai artists on the international stage. The initiative aims to support over 100 artists and bands, enabling them to perform at world-renowned music festivals while also facilitating business-matching opportunities and global networking. The project will focus on connecting Thai record labels with international festival organizers in key markets across Asia and Europe, further strengthening the Thai Music Wave as a recognized global phenomenon. Meanwhile, the Content Lab program will refine its incubation curriculum to align with the evolving media consumption habits of modern audiences. The program aims to train and develop at least 170 mid-career professionals, equipping them with the skills needed to compete on the global stage. This effort is not only about nurturing talent but also about laying the foundation for a sustainable content industry ecosystem, ensuring that Thai creators can continuously innovate, produce, and generate long-term revenue. These initiatives are pivotal in preparing Thai artists and content creators for international competition, while also reinforcing a thriving creative ecosystem that fosters sustainable industry growth,” Dr. Chakrit concluded.

The Content Lab 2025 initiative is now entering its third consecutive year, continuing its mission to develop film and series projects by participants in Thailand’s film and series industries. Some of its incubation programs are already set to open for applications, providing opportunities for aspiring and mid-career creators to enhance their skills and take their developing projects to the next level. Meanwhile, this year marks the second year of the Music Exchange project, which is in its final stages of preparation, with details expected to be announced soon. Those interested in participating or following updates on these projects can stay informed via the CEA’s website: www.cea.or.th and the CEA’s official Facebook page.

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About the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization)

The Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, is a specialized body tasked with promoting creativity as a key driving force behind the creative economy. The agency focuses on fostering growth across various creative industries, while also encouraging the production sector to apply creative thinking to enhance the value of products and services. This approach aims to elevate the competitive potential of businesses and the country on the global stage.