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Sino Land is Well-Positioned to Capitalise on Opportunities Stable Interim Dividend at HK15 Cents per Share


Summary of 2024/2025 Interim Results

  • The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties for the six months ended 31 December 2024 (“Interim Period”) was HK$2,241 million (2023: HK$2,945 million).
  • Steady interim dividend at HK15 cents per share.
  • Attributable revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$2,448 million (2023: HK$6,635 million). Five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025.
  • The Group has a visible pipeline for property sales recognition. Approximately HK$11.3 billion of total attributable contracted sales are yet to be recognised, with approximately HK$9.1 billion expected for recognition in the second half of FY2024/2025.
  • Attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,748 million (2023: HK$1,777 million).
  • The Group’s hotel revenue, including attributable share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$794 million compared with HK$811 million in the same period last year. Gross operating profit was HK$261 million, an increase of 2.8% compared with HK$254 million in the same period last year.
  • As at 31st December, 2024, the Group had a land bank of approximately 19.4 million square feet of attributable floor area in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, sufficient to meet the Group’s development needs over the next few years. The Group will continue to be selective in replenishing its land bank to optimise its earnings potential.

Financial Highlights

For the six months ended 31 December: 2024 2023 Change

Revenue HK$3,854 million HK$4,923 million -21.7%
Underlying profit HK$2,241 million HK$2,945 million -23.9%
Profit attributable to shareholders HK$1,820 million HK$2,616 million -30.4%
Dividend per share
Interim HK15 cents HK15 cents

Results and Business Highlights

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Sino Land Company Limited (Stock Code: 83) today announced its interim results for the six months ended 31 December 2024 (the “Interim Period”). The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties for the Interim Period was HK$2,241 million (2023: HK$2,945 million). Underlying earnings per share was HK$0.26 (2023: HK$0.35).

After taking into account the revaluation loss (net of deferred taxation) on investment properties of HK$407 million (2023: revaluation loss of HK$142 million), which is a non-cash item, the Group reported a net profit attributable to shareholders of HK$1,820 million for the Interim Period (2023: HK$2,616 million). Earnings per share was HK$0.21 (2023: HK$0.31).

Interim dividend of HK$15 cents per share

The Board of Directors has declared an interim dividend of HK15 cents per share. (2023: HK15 cents per share). The steady interim dividend underscores the Group’s solid financial position. As at 31 December 2024, the Group had net cash of HK$45,880 million.

Property Sales – Five new projects scheduled for launch in 2025

Total revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including property sales of associates and joint ventures, attributable to the Group was HK$2,448 million (2023: HK$6,635 million).

Photo (7)

The Group has five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025. These include ONE CENTRAL PLACE in Central, Yau Tong Ventilation Building Property Development, Grand Mayfair III in Yuen Long, and LOHAS Park Package Thirteen Property Development in Tseung Kwan O which have obtained pre-sale consents. In addition, the Group expects to obtain pre-sale consent for Wing Kwong Street/Sung On Street Development Project in To Kwa Wan in calendar year 2025. The timing for launching these projects for sale will depend on when the pre-sale consent is received and the prevailing market conditions. Subsequent to the Interim Period, certain units of La Montagne in Wong Chuk Hang were launched for sale in January 2025.

As at 31 December 2024, the Group had a land bank of approximately 19.4 million square feet of attributable floor area in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, which is sufficient to meet the Group’s development needs over the next few years.

Diversified and balanced investment properties portfolio showed long-term resilience

For the Interim Period, the Group’s attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,748 million (2023: HK$1,777 million), representing a decrease of 1.6% year-on-year. This decline was primarily due to emerging challenges in the retail sector. Given the dynamic nature of the current operating environment, the Group is continuously refining and optimising our tenant mix, while also organising ongoing marketing and promotional activities in our shopping malls to boost foot traffic.

Among the different sectors, residential showed the biggest improvement, with occupancy rate rising by 1.1 percentage points to 89.0 % (2023: 87.9%). The industrial sector also saw an increase of 0.2 percentage points to 89.7% (2023: 89.5%). Hong Kong remains well-positioned to capitalise on its status as an international hub and financial centre. The ongoing integration into national development initiatives such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Northern Metropolis proposed by the HKSAR Government, will further bolster Hong Kong’s role as a key hub connecting the country with the world. Additionally, the various talent schemes launched by the HKSAR Government, along with the recent pickup in financial market activities, are expected to bolster the Group’s rental income over time.

As at 31 December 2024, the Group has approximately 13.2 million square feet of attributable floor area of investment properties and hotels in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney.

Hotel Operations – Continuous improvement in profitability

In 2024, Hong Kong saw a steady improvement in tourism. Visitors from Mainland China made up 76% of total visitor arrivals, posting a year-on-year increase of 27% to 34.0 million. Long-haul markets also experienced more than a 50% growth. The Group’s overseas operations in Singapore and Sydney continued to deliver encouraging results, with continuous improvement in gross operating profit during the Interim Period. For the Interim Period, the Group’s hotel operating profit increased by 2.8% to HK$261 million, driven by sustained occupancy rates and stringent cost containment measures.

Looking ahead, the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park in the first quarter of 2025, the development of panda tourism, and the resumption of multiple-entry permits for Shenzhen residents are expected to support the growth of the tourism industry and inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s hospitality industry. Management continued to prioritise cost control while actively seeking new strategies to enhance the quality of our hotel services and improve efficiency.

With robust financials and sustainable strategies, the Group is well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities

The Group is making steady strides on its sustainability journey. In the Interim Period, Sino Land was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) while maintaining its position in the DJSI Asia Pacific Index for the third consecutive year. In addition, Sino Land has recently been selected as a constituent of the FTSE4Good Index Series and achieved an AA+ rating in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index Series for the second consecutive year. These recognitions reaffirm Sino Land’s commitment to promoting ESG and sustainability.

Our robust financials and sustainable business strategies underpin the Group’s commitment to creating long-term value for our shareholders:

  • Approximately HK$11.3 billion of total attributable contracted sales are yet to be recognised, with approximately HK$9.1 billion expected for recognition in the second half of FY2024/2025.
  • Five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025.
  • Diversified and growing investment property portfolio providing stable recurrent income.
  • Committed to sustainability and promoting positivity in the community.
  • Strong financial position to support future growth

Looking ahead to 2025, the Group will remain vigilant and adaptable amidst the rapidly evolving macroeconomic environment. Our leadership emphasises the importance of solid fundamentals, deep customer insights, sustainability and the commitment to excellence. We shall continue to enhance productivity and efficiency, along with careful financial management. With robust financials and sustainable business strategies, the Group is well equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities that arise,” said Mr. Robert Ng Chee Siong, Chairman of Sino Land.

Please download photos from here.
Hashtag: #SinoLand

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

Kenanga Group Posts All-Time-High RM1 Billion Revenue and RM155.5 million Operating Profit in FY2024

KEY HIGHLIGHTS
FY2024 VS FY2023

  • Revenue at RM1.0 billion, up by 22.3%

  • Operating Profit at RM155.5 million, up by 88.7%

  • Profit Before Tax (“PBT“) at RM117.2 million, up 33.1%

  • Net Profit at RM95.8 million, up by 31.6%

  • Net Income at RM799.6 million, up by 22.6%

  • Operating Expense at RM644.0 million, up by 13.0%

  • Return on Equity at 8.75%, up by 25.8%

  • Earnings Per Share at 13.18 sen, up by 31.3%

  • Net Equity Trading Investment Income at RM55.8 million, up by 30.8%

  • Overall Market Share at 9.6%, Retail Segment Market Share at 25.3%

  • Asset Under Administration (“AUA“) at RM23.5 billion, up by 8.5%

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga Group” or “The Group“), Malaysia’s leading independent investment bank, today delivered one of its strongest financial results to date for the financial year ended 31 December 2024 (“FY2024“). The Group posted an all-time high revenue of RM1.0 billion, up 22.3% year-on-year, while operating profit surged 88.7% to RM155.5 million, also its highest yet. PBT rose 33.1% to RM117.2 million, while net profit climbed 31.6% to RM95.8 million.

Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad
Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad
Kenanga Group’s strong results were driven by a significant revaluation gain on strategic investments through its Private Equity arm, alongside higher trading and investment income, net brokerage income, and management and performance fees. Increased contributions from associates further bolstered its bottom line, partially offset by credit loss expenses.

Reflecting this performance, the Board of Directors has declared an interim single-tier dividend of 8.00 sen per ordinary share for FY2024.
“2024 was another landmark year for Kenanga Group, delivering one of our strongest financial performances to date, despite market headwinds. This milestone underscores the resilience of our diversified business model and our disciplined approach in capitalising on growth opportunities across all our key business segments,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.
Kenanga Group’s Stockbroking division recorded RM363.6 million in revenue, a 17.9% increase from the previous year. PBT eased to RM15.4 million from RM16.1 million in FY2023, reflecting the impact of credit loss expense incurred during the year as opposed to a writeback in the previous year. Amid heightened market volatility and an evolving competitive landscape, the division successfully maintained its retail market share of 25.3%. The structured warrants business remained a key contributor, reinforcing the Group’s position as Malaysia’s leading issuer, with the highest market share in warrants trading volume.

Its Asset and Wealth Management division posted revenue of RM303.9 million, an increase of 14.9% year-on-year. The revenue was primarily driven from its institutional and retail segments. Despite higher overhead cost, which led to a PBT of RM47.0 million relative to RM58.7 million in 2023, the division’s AUA saw strong growth, closing at RM23.5 billion, an increase of RM1.8 billion year-on-year.

The Group’s Investment Banking division registered a jump in both revenue and PBT for FY2024, with a 10.0% increase in revenue to RM246.4 million, and an 8.4% increase in PBT to RM6.2 million. This was driven by higher investment income from treasury and fee income, buoyed by a vibrant bond market and capital market.

Kenanga Group’s Listed Derivatives business continued its growth streak, delivering yet another year of record performance. Revenue climbed 15.3% to RM27.6 million, while PBT surged 24.1% to RM7.8 million, its highest in over a decade. This sustained upward trajectory was fueled by higher trading commissions and interest income, supported by a surge in trading activity across the listed derivatives market.
“As we enter 2025, our focus remains on growing our core businesses while accelerating digital transformation. By strengthening recurring income streams, optimising cost efficiencies, and expanding product offerings, we are positioning Kenanga Group for sustainable, long-term growth,” added Datuk Chay.
“With a legacy that spans over five decades, we continue to leverage our vast experience from navigating market cycles, and create synergies across our ecosystem to drive innovation, expand market reach, and create greater value for our stakeholders,” concluded Datuk Chay.

Beyond financial performance, Kenanga Group remains committed to responsible and sustainable growth. In 2024, this commitment was reaffirmed with the Group’s continued inclusion on the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index, ranking among the Top 8% of Malaysian public-listed companies.

Hashtag: #Kenanga

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

About Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (197301002193 (15678-H))

Established for over 50 years, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“The Group“) is a leading financial group in Malaysia, offering a wide range of services, including equity broking, investment banking, treasury, Islamic banking, listed derivatives, investment management, wealth management, structured lending, and trade financing. The Group’s digital innovations include the launch of KDi GO, a wealth-centric app, along with game-changing products such as Rakuten Trade, Malaysia’s first fully digital stockbroking platform, and Kenanga Digital Investing, an A.I. robo-advisor.
Kenanga has garnered multiple awards, including top honours at the Bursa Excellence Awards 2023 and The Edge Malaysia Centurion Club 2023. The Group also secured the Top 20 Overall Excellence and the Niche Cap Excellence Award at the National Corporate Governance and Sustainability Awards 2024. As one of the highest- scoring constituents of the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index and a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact, Kenanga continues to drive collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in the financial industry.

For more information, please visit

Emeren Group to Participate at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference

NORWALK, Conn., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Emeren Group Ltd (“Emeren” or the “Company”) (www.emeren.com) (NYSE: SOL), a leading global solar project developer, owner, and operator, today announced that management will participate in one-on-one or small group meetings with institutional investors at the 37th Annual Roth conference to be held March 16th – 18th in Dana Point, CA.

For more information or to request a meeting, please contact a Roth sales representative. To submit a registration request, visit https://ibn.fm/Roth2025Registration.

About Emeren Group Ltd

Emeren Group Ltd (NYSE: SOL), a renewable energy leader, showcases a comprehensive portfolio of solar projects and Independent Power Producer (IPP) assets, complemented by a significant global Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity. Specializing in the entire solar project lifecycle — from development through construction to financing — we excel by leveraging local talent in each market, ensuring our sustainable energy solutions are at the forefront of efficiency and impact. Our commitment to enhancing solar power and energy storage underlines our dedication to innovation, excellence, and environmental responsibility. For more information, go to www.emeren.com.

 

Fosun Pharma Received NMPA Approval for Wan Ti Le (Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets)

Bringing New Hope to Chinese Dialysis Patients with Hyperphosphatemia

SHANGHAI, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd. (Fosun Pharma; stock code: 600196.SH, 02196.HK) announced that its holding subsidiary, Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development Co., Ltd. (“Fosun Pharma Industrial”), has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration (“NMPA”) for the New Drug Application (“NDA”) for Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets (Chinese trade name: Wan Ti Le, the “New Drug”), an innovative phosphate absorption inhibitor with a novel mechanism, with the indication being for the control of serum phosphorus levels in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who have an inadequate response or are intolerant to phosphorus binders.

As the world’s first and currently only approved phosphate absorption inhibitor, Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets has been officially approved in China, ushering in a new era of multi-mechanism synergistic phosphate control and offering new hope for patients with hyperphosphatemia on hemodialysis in China.

“The approval of tenapanor for the treatment of adult dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease in China market brings new hope for dialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia in China,” said Xingli Wang, Executive President, CEO of Global R&D Center of Fosun Pharma, “Fosun Pharma is committed to addressing unmet clinical needs by focusing on innovative R&D in core therapeutic areas such as oncology, immunology, and chronic diseases. We look forward to our continued collaboration with Ardelyx as we advance the development and commercialization of more innovative therapies, bringing greater benefits to patients.

“The approval of tenapanor for hyperphosphatemia in China marks another important milestone in Ardelyx’s commitment to bringing our novel therapies to patients with unmet medical needs globally,” said Mike Raab, president and chief executive officer of Ardelyx. “I thank our partners at Fosun Pharma for their continued efforts to support this approval. Fosun Pharma is a leading healthcare company in China with a strong focus and track record of successfully marketing cardiorenal medicines in China and shares our commitment to improving the lives of patients. We look forward to further collaboration as Fosun Pharma brings this treatment to patients.”

Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets is a First-in-class oral intestinal sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor licensed by Fosun Pharma Industrial from Ardelyx, Inc. In October 2023, Tenapanor was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce serum phosphorus in adults with CKD on dialysis as add-on therapy in patients who have an inadequate response to phosphate binders or who are intolerant of any dose of phosphate binder therapy. Tenapanor is also approved for the treatment of Irritable Bowel syndrome with Constipation in the U.S. and Hong Kong SAR.

For many years, the rate of achieving target serum phosphate levels in hemodialysis patients in China has been lower than the international standards[1]. Despite existing pharmacotherapy, a significant proportion of patients fail to meet the target phosphate levels. Data indicate that by the end of 2023, there were more than one million patients on maintenance hemodialysis in China, with an annual growth rate of approximately 10%. Among these patients, 76% have hyperphosphatemia, and the rate of achieving target phosphate levels is only 39%[2] (according to China’s hemodialysis quality control standards: serum phosphate 1.13–1.78 mmol/L). If the target range for serum phosphate is set at 0.87–1.45 mmol/L, as stipulated by the Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), the achievement rate decreases to 26.7%[3]. Given the current situation where the blood phosphorus levels of dialysis patients are poorly controlled, the National Health Commission of China listed “improving phosphate control rates in hemodialysis patients” as a key quality control improvement target for 2024.

Tenapanor is a local inhibitor that targets the NA(+)/H(+) exchanger-3 (NHE3), a reverse transporter expressed on the apical surface of the epithelium in the small intestine and colon. By inhibiting NHE3, the drug tightens intercellular junctions, thereby reducing the permeability of the paracellular pathway to phosphate, which is the primary route for intestinal phosphate absorption. This action leads to a decrease in phosphate absorption and, consequently, a reduction in serum phosphorus levels[4].

Owing to its novel mechanism of action, tenapanor can be used in combination with phosphate binders to further significantly reduce serum phosphate levels and improve the rate of achieving target levels. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study[5], 164 hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia were enrolled. After 8 weeks of treatment with tenapanor in combination with phosphate binders, serum phosphate levels decreased by an additional 0.57 mmol/L compared to phosphate binders alone. In another multicenter, randomized, open-label study[6], 303 hemodialysis patients who were not achieving target phosphate levels with phosphate binders were switched to a tenapanor-based regimen (tenapanor 30 mg BID, with phosphate binders added or adjusted if necessary). After 10 weeks of treatment, the rate of achieving target phosphate levels increased by 34.4% to 38.2%.

A tenapanor can lower levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH)[7] and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)[8], thereby aiding in the comprehensive achievement of key therapeutic targets in the management of chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD).

[1] Adv Ther.2020 Jun;37(6):2748-2762.

[2] Data from the Chinese National Renal Data System (CNRDS 2023)

[3] Ya Zhan, et al. Sci Rep. 2022 Oct 6;12(1):16694.

[4] Yee J, et al. Am J Nephrol. 2021;52(7):522-530.

[5] Kosaku Nitta, et al. Kidney Int Rep. 2023 Aug 13;8(11):2243-2253.

[6] Sprague SM, et al. Kidney360. 2024 May 1;5(5):732-742.

[7] Block GA, et al. Kidney360. 2021 Aug 27;2(10):1600-1610.

[8] Pablo E Pergola, et al. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2021 Jun 1;32(6):1465-1473.

 

DIGITIMES Asia: Huawei Ascend 910C reportedly hits 40% yield, turns profitable; aims for 60% industry standard

TAIPEI, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to the news report from the technology-focused media DIGITIMES Asia, Huawei’s Ascend 910C AI chip has reportedly reached a 40% manufacturing yield, marking the first time the Ascend production line has turned profitable. The company aims to improve the yield to 60%, bringing it closer to industry standards.

Credit: DIGITIMES
Credit: DIGITIMES

Yield improvement and profitability milestone

The Financial Times, citing industry sources, reports that Huawei’s Ascend 910C, manufactured using the SMIC 7nm (N+2) process, has improved its yield rate to nearly 40%, making the Ascend production line profitable for the first time.

Production targets for 2025

Huawei plans to produce 100,000 Ascend 910C chips and 300,000 Ascend 910B chips in 2025—up from zero and 200,000 units in 2024, respectively. The company now accounts for over 75% of China’s total AI chip production, highlighting its growing presence in the domestic semiconductor market.

Yield gains and sector benchmark

In September 2024, reports from ReutersYahoo Finance, and TrendForce revealed that Ascend 910C’s yield was only 20%, while the older Ascend 910B reached 50%. Since then, Huawei has doubled the 910C’s yield, aiming for 60% to match industry norms.

Performance comparison with Nvidia

According to ICSmart and Tom’s Hardware, Huawei’s Ascend 910C delivers 60% of the inference performance of Nvidia’s H100 GPU. While it still trails Nvidia’s next-generation Blackwell AI chips, its advancement signals China’s push to reduce reliance on Nvidia’s hardware.

Shift to domestic foundry amid US sanctions

Due to US trade restrictions, TSMC halted production of Huawei’s AI chips in 2020. Huawei has since shifted manufacturing to SMIC, ensuring continued chip production despite sanctions.

Analysts view Huawei’s progress with the Ascend 910C as a key milestone in China’s push for semiconductor self-sufficiency, reducing its dependence on Western chipmakers.

Asia Photonics Expo 2025: The Gateway to Photonics Innovations and Cross-Industry Collaborations

SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2nd edition of Asia Photonics Expo (APE) 2025 officially opens today at Sands Expo and Convention Centre. Running from 26 to 28 February, APE 2025 brings together global industry leaders and innovators to network, collaborate, and drive business opportunities. As Asia’s premier platform for the photonics sector, the event showcases the latest advancements in optical communications, optics, lasers, sensing, quantum technology, and displays.

APE 2025 Kick Off
APE 2025 Kick Off

A Global Stage for Photonics Innovation

Under the theme “Gateway to the Photonics Market in Asia“, APE 2025 is set to welcome over 5,000 industry professionals and showcase 344 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, including national and regional pavilions from Singapore, Europe, Germany, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, and China. Spanning 15,000 square meters, the exhibition features dedicated technology zones for Quantum, Intelligent Sensors, and Vacuum Coating, spotlighting cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of photonics.

As a key industry hub, APE 2025 brings together manufacturers, R&D pioneers, and buyers to discover breakthrough technologies, foster strategic partnerships, and strengthen global supply chain connections across industries such as semiconductors, automotive, MedTech, automation, and consumer electronics.

Mr. Sukumar Verma, Managing Director at Informa Markets in Singapore, said: “Following a successful launch in 2024, the second edition of APE is uniquely placed to build a B2B marketplace for the optics, lasers, infrared, machine vision, industrial imaging, sensing, and measurement sectors. It will bring to market exhibitors from new geographies, as well as a range of new partnerships that will bring buyers from different industry verticals. We are thankful for the continued support from our local and international partners.”

Prof. Tjin Swee Chuan, Chairman of the LUX Photonics Consortium, emphasised Singapore’s pivotal role in photonics development: “LUX Photonics Consortium has contributed to cultivating a thriving photonics ecosystem in Singapore, growing from 12 founding industry members to the current vibrant community of over 150 industry and research partners from NTU, NUS, SUTD, and A*STAR. Through LUX’s collaboration with Informa in the Asia Photonics Expo 2025, we aspire to further enhance this academia-industry collaborations to drive photonics innovation, positioning Singapore as a leading hub in the international photonics landscape.”

Additionally, the opening ceremony featured a keynote by Mr. Carlos Lee, Director General of the European Photonics Industry Consortium, who shared insights into Europe’s photonics market and opportunities for cross-regional collaboration and said: “APE plays a meaningful role in helping European companies establish valuable contacts to understand the photonics industry in Asia.”

An Exhibition and beyond

Backed by strong local and regional industry partners and associations including the Lux Photonics Consortium, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association, Machinery & Engineering Industries Federation and more – APE 2025 will deliver a dynamic three-day conference line-up, featuring thought-provoking discussions on key topics shaping the future of photonics. The event will also host regional delegations from Malaysia and Thailand, reinforcing its position as the leading platform for business in the photonics sector.

Perry Shum, President of the IEEE Photonics Society, emphasised APE’s role as a catalyst for collaboration and progress: “Asia Photonics Expo is more than a showcase of cutting-edge research and technology; it is a vibrant platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. This event fosters the exchange of ideas, the forging of partnerships – shaping of the future of photonics.”

APE 2025 is set to offer unparalleled opportunities for industry professionals, researchers, and business leaders to collaborate and explore breakthrough technologies, connect with global experts, and forge partnerships. Registration is complimentary, and the event remains open till 28 February 2025 in Singapore.

For exhibitor listing – https://exhibitors.informamarkets-info.com/event/2025APE/en-US
For conference programme – https://www.asiaphotonicsexpo.com/hyylb 

Infosys Launches Open-Source Responsible AI Toolkit to Enhance Trust and Transparency in AI

The initiative furthers Infosys’ commitment to creating an inclusive AI ecosystem, ensuring safety, security, privacy, and fairness

BENGALURU, India, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Infosys (NSE: INFY), (BSE: INFY), (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced the launch of its open-source Responsible AI Toolkit, a key component of the Infosys Topaz Responsible AI Suite, designed to help enterprises innovate responsibly while addressing the challenges and risks associated with ethical AI adoption.

The Infosys Responsible AI Toolkit builds on the Infosys AI3S framework (Scan, Shield, and Steer), equipping enterprises with advanced defensive technical guardrails, including specialized AI models and shielding algorithms, to detect and mitigate issues such as privacy breaches, security attacks, sensitive information leakages, biased output, harmful content, copyright infringement, hallucinations, malicious use, deepfakes and more. It also enhances model transparency by providing insights into the rationale behind AI-generated output, without compromising on performance or user-experience. The open-source toolkit offers flexibility and ease of implementation. It is fully customizable, compatible with diverse models and agentic AI systems, and integrates seamlessly across cloud and on-premise environments. Organizations can access the toolkit here.

Balakrishna D. R. (Bali), Executive Vice President, Global Services Head, AI and Industry Verticals, Infosys, said, “As AI becomes central to driving enterprise growth, its ethical adoption is no longer optional. The Infosys Responsible AI Toolkit ensures that businesses remain resilient and trustworthy while navigating the AI revolution. By making the toolkit open source, we are fostering a collaborative ecosystem that addresses the complex challenges of AI bias, opacity, and security. It’s a testament to our commitment to making AI safe, reliable, and ethical for all.”

Joshua Bamford, Head of Science, Technology and Innovation, British High Commission, said, “Infosys’ commitment to becoming an AI-first business and establishing the Responsible AI Office reflects bold innovation and ethical leadership. By going open source, Infosys is empowering enterprises, startups and SMEs to leverage AI for groundbreaking advancements. Their Responsible AI Toolkit is a benchmark for technological excellence and when paired with a commitment to responsible practices and global sustainability can be an inspiring model for companies worldwide.”

Sunil Abraham, Public Policy Director – Data Economy and Emerging Tech, Meta, said, “We congratulate Infosys on launching an openly available Responsible AI Toolkit, which will contribute to advancing safe and responsible AI through open innovation. Open-source code and open datasets is essential to empower a broad spectrum of AI innovators, builders, and adopters with the information and tools needed to harness the advancements in ways that prioritize safety, diversity, economic opportunity and benefits to all.”

Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, said, “I am very happy to learn that Infosys has decided to open source their Responsible AI Toolkit. This will go a long way in making tools available for enhancing Security, Privacy, Safety, Explainability and Fairness in AI based solutions and also help in mitigating bias in AI algorithms and models.  This is critical for developing safe, trusted and responsible AI solutions. I am sure, startups and AI developers will greatly benefit from this Responsible AI Toolkit.”

Infosys reaffirmed its commitment to ethical AI last year, with the launch of the Responsible AI Office, and dedicated offerings. It is one of the first companies to receive the ISO 42001:2023 certification on AI management systems and become part of the global dialogue on Responsible AI through membership in industry bodies and government initiatives such as NIST AI Safety Institute Consortium, WEF AIGA and C2PA, AI Alliance, UK FCDO, Stanford HAI, to name a few.

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. Over 300,000 of our people work to amplify human potential and create the next opportunity for people, businesses and communities. We enable clients in more than 56 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer clients, as they navigate their digital transformation powered by cloud and AI. We enable them with an AI-first core, empower the business with agile digital at scale and drive continuous improvement with always-on learning through the transfer of digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. We are deeply committed to being a well-governed, environmentally sustainable organization where diverse talent thrives in an inclusive workplace.

Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NSE, BSE, NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, or our future financial or operating performance, are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the ‘safe harbor’ under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding the execution of our business strategy, increased competition for talent, our ability to attract and retain personnel, increase in wages, investments to reskill our employees, our ability to effectively implement a hybrid work model, economic uncertainties and geo-political situations, technological disruptions and innovations such as Generative AI, the complex and evolving regulatory landscape including immigration regulation changes, our ESG vision, our capital allocation policy and expectations concerning our market position, future operations, margins, profitability, liquidity, capital resources, our corporate actions including acquisitions, and cybersecurity matters. Important factors that may cause actual results or outcomes to differ from those implied by the forward-looking statements are discussed in more detail in our US Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law.

Colt DCS expands hyperscale data centre footprint with Inzai 4 launch in Tokyo, Japan

The hyperscale facility marks the operator’s fourth site in Inzai, enhancing Colt DCS’ capacity to support the nation’s growing digital economy

TOKYO, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS), a leading global provider of hyperscale and large enterprise data centre solutions, has announced the launch of its new hyperscale data centre, Inzai 4, in Tokyo, Japan. This expansion is the second site developed under the joint venture between Fidelity Investments and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. This latest site reinforces Colt DCS’ commitment to meeting the growing demand for data centre capacity and public cloud services in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region.

Colt DCS expands hyperscale data centre footprint with Inzai 4 launch in Tokyo, Japan
Colt DCS expands hyperscale data centre footprint with Inzai 4 launch in Tokyo, Japan

The first phase of the development is complete, with 4.8MW now operational. Once fully built, the site will deliver 20MW, increasing Colt DCS’ total capacity in Inzai to 70MW. Inzai 4 is fully pre-let, highlighting the strong demand for Colt DCS’ solutions. With a global presence and flexible solutions, Colt DCS remains a top data centre partner for its customers.

The site was developed following Colt DCS’ Global Reference Design (GRD) guidelines. This means incorporating various low embodied carbon principles such as; reducing water waste during the cooling process, installing cooling chillers with low Global Warming Potential (GWP), and building the site structure with minimal steel and concrete usage. 

Colt DCS was the first provider to launch a hyperscale data centre in the Inzai area in 2011 and has continued to invest in the region, with plans already underway for its Inzai 5 facility. The area’s stable bedrock, dense fibre connectivity, efficient rail links, proximity to Tokyo, and supportive local government make it a prime location for data centre expansion.

Niclas Sanfridsson, CEO at Colt DCS, said: “The continued growth in digital services has created strong demand for hyperscale data centres in Japan. Inzai 4 is a testament to our commitment to meeting this demand and supporting the digital economy in the Asia-Pacific region. We are proud to contribute to the growth of the local community and remain a trusted partner for our customers worldwide.”

About Colt DCS 

Colt DCS designs, builds, and operates data centres in Europe, India and Japan. We provide sustainable data centre solutions to hyperscale and large enterprise customers across 16 state-of-the-art-carrier neutral data centres spanning 8 cities.

Our hyperscale and colocation solutions give our customers freedom to plan effectively for the growth of their business, knowing that their data centre strategy is ready for the demands of tomorrow. We have over 25 years of experience in the industry, delivering on our vision of being the most trusted and customer centric data centre operator in the market.

We put environmental awareness at the heart of everything we do. That’s why we’re taking the ownership to reduce our environmental impact globally and make sustainability a key strategic driver. As part of our sustainability journey, Colt DCS has set comprehensive near-and long-term Science Based Targets to cut our emissions in line with the SBTi’s latest Net Zero Standard.