SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 March 2025 – The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) unveiled its 2025/27 Council lineup at its 55th Annual General Meeting & Election on March 14.
Members of the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore Council 2025/27. Left to right: Serene Loo, Felicia Wee, Vanessa Wan, Cindy Lee, Koh Juat Muay, President Ross Gan (centre), Selvi R, Juliet Samraj, Jeanie Lee and Jini Pillai.
President: Ross Gan Vice-President: Vanessa Wan Honorary Treasurer: Cindy Lim Honorary Secretary: Jini Pillai Council member: Serene Loo Council member: Jeanie Lee Council member: Juliet Samaj Council member: Kelvin Koh Council member: Selvi R Council member: Felicia Wee Immediate Past President [2021-2025]: Koh Juat Muay
Communications and public affairs veteran Ross Gan is the new President of the IPRS for the 2025/27 term. Mr Gan is the Chief Communications Officer of Bitdeer Technologies Group, and has previously held senior leadership roles in Matrixport, Temasek and Huawei Technologies.
Says incoming IPRS President Ross Gan: “Each new Council stands on the shoulders of those who have come before. IPRS has benefitted from Juat’s stewardship mindset – working tirelessly alongside the Council to purposefully shape an IPRS that is future ready. To thrive as the centre of excellence for communication professionals, the operating realities of today’s industry practitioners must be adequately reflected in the value proposition of the IPRS. Having a good market fit will serve us well in our brave new world of disintermediation, fragmentation, fake news, online scams and generative AI.”
“From corporate boardrooms to philanthropic causes, the IPRS is standard bearer for the art and science of the communications discipline which is the undeniably lynchpin in navigating these secular trends to reinforce trust amongst stakeholders.”
Ross Gan will take over the baton from Immediate Past PresidentKoh Juat Muay. Says Ms Koh: “It has been an honour and privilege to serve as President of the IPRS for two terms. The last four years has been a fulfilling journey of giving back to the Institute and industry that I love. My deepest thanks to my fellow Council members, members of IPRS and the Secretariat team for their immense help and support. My best wishes to the excellent new Council 2025/27. The future is bright for PR and the IPRS.”
Hashtag: #IPRS
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About IPRS
IPRS, established in 1970 as a non-profit organisation, is the only accrediting body for Public Relations (PR) practitioners in Singapore. The Institute promotes excellence in the industry through knowledge exchange platforms and training programmes that are aligned with the many changes and developments in the practice of PR and Communications today.
IPRS has a growing membership consisting of professionals from diverse backgrounds in public relations, journalism, advertising, marketing, education and management – a factor that has contributed to the Institute’s strength and dynamism. There are ten Student Chapters with various tertiary institutions to create opportunities for communications students and IPRS members to share expertise and experiences.
The IPRS introduced the Biennial PRISM Awards (Public Relations In the Service of Mankind) in 1987 to recognise and reward excellence in PR and Communications in Singapore and regionally. The IPRS PRISM Summit was established in 2022 to further industry development and growth, and held biennially, alternating with the IPRS PRISM Awards. Together they present a community platform to lead and showcase the PR industry’s best in Singapore and the region.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – China Mobile International (“CMI”) hosted the AI+ Era Global Development Forum in Hong Kong on March 19. Distinguished guests included Li Huidi, Executive Vice President of China Mobile; Mu Chenhong, Deputy Director of the Information Center, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong SAR; Wong Chi Kwong, Tony, JP, the Commissioner for Digital Policy of the HKSAR Government; Norman Chan Tak-lam, GBS, JP, Founding Chairman of the Council of Institute of Web 3.0 Hong Kong and former chief executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority; and H.E. Chun Vat, Ministry of Post and Telecommunications of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Under the theme “AI-Powered Voyage: Navigating Global Horizons”, the Forum brought together over 800 leaders from government, industry, academia and the ecosystem to explore collaborative opportunities for leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) technology to promote the overseas expansion of Chinese enterprises.
Li Huidi, Executive Vice President of China Mobile, delivered the opening address.
In his speech, Li Huidi stated that the deep integration of artificial intelligence and the new generation of information technology has led to the new “AI+” era across various sectors. “AI+” brings five “news”: First, it creates new scenarios for an intelligent lifestyle, where the increasingly popular AI devices, from autonomous driving to smart home assistants, are making smart living more accessible. Second, it unlocks new paths for technological inclusivity, the innovation of open-source LLMs significantly reduces the costs of AI training, enhances reasoning capabilities, and broadens application scenarios. Third, it leads to a new pace in technological development, with “AI for Science” emerging as a mainstream paradigm for technological innovation, greatly improving research efficiency and productivity. Fourth, it reshapes new paradigms for industry transformation, with AI LLMs integrating “general capabilities + specific knowledge” deeply into industry production processes, dramatically boosting productivity. Fifth, it constructs a new form of social governance, where clusters of intelligent agents create a new model of “human-machine co-governance” through intelligent decision-making, raising the standard of modernization in social governance.
Li Huidi reaffirmed China Mobile’s commitment to positioning itself as “a world-class information service technology innovation company”. The company is advancing the “AI+” action plan and systematically building “AI+” infrastructure, accelerating “AI+” technology development and deepening the scenario application of “AI+” to provide support for the global socio-economic digital transformation. Mr. Li also proposed four “AI+” initiatives: First, to foster the industry integration by enhancing synergy across the “AI+” industry through the establishment of a comprehensive international intelligent system and fostering advancement across all sectors. Second, to focus on cooperation within the “AI+” ecosystem by working together to promote the prosperity of the “AI+” ecosystem and making “AI+” services accessible to every industry. Third, to promote global expansion of “AI+” technologies by establishing “AI+” super-nodes to position the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) as the leading hub for global AI innovation. Fourth, to foster international collaboration on “AI and ensure global access to the benefits of digital intelligence.
During the forum, CMI announced the launch of the “AI+ Global Solutions” and the “CMI AI Large Language Model (LLM) Integrated Server”. In additional, CMI and various ecosystem partners initiated the “AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance” to collaborate with leading industry experts and partners in exploring how AI can empower diverse industries during the digital transformation and reshape the future industry landscape.
China Mobile International held the launch ceremony of the AI+ Global Solutions and AI LLM Integrated Server.
CMI AI+ Global Solutions: Empowering Intelligent Transformation for Global Enterprises
Tailored to five major industries of technology, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, finance, and energy, the CMI AI+ Global Solutions framework is built on a five-layer product system that encompasses everything from fundamental connectivity to solutions to fully address all segments of digital transformation for enterprises. It integrates core capabilities, such as LLMs, IoT connectivity management, and multi-cloud management, to deliver standardized platform-based universal solutions. With this innovative approach, CMI is helping enterprises to achieve efficient and flexible intelligent transformation in the “AI+” era. It provides robust digital support for global expansion, equipping businesses with the tools necessary to compete successfully in the global market.
CMI AI LLM Integrated Server: New Benchmark for Cross-Border AI Infrastructure
The CMI AI LLM Integrated Server is an intelligent computing system designed for secure and private data processing within enterprises. With local deployment, it operates within company’s private environment, ensuring data security while optimizing computing efficiency and intelligent processing. The server leverages CMI’s strengths in resource integration, including computing power deployment, LLMs, and scenario-based industry applications, to seamlessly integrate hardware, software, and network, significantly reducing deployment and maintenance costs. The CMI AI LLM Integrated Server is debut in February, achieving a successful deployment in the Asia-Pacific financial services sector.
China Mobile International held the launch ceremony of the AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance.
AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance: Open and Collaborative AI Industry Ecosystem
During the Forum, CMI collaborated with various industry partners to launch the AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance. It aims to create an open, cooperative, and mutually beneficial “AI+” ecosystem by integrating top industry resources. The alliance will work with partners to offer full-stack capabilities, encompassing AI computing power, models, and applications, and to explore diverse scenarios to expedite AI deployment across industries such as technology, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, finance, and energy.
Recognizing the power of ecosystem-driven innovation, CMI launched the iSolutions Partner Ecosystem Alliance in early 2024. Known as the iStar Program, it is designed to broadly expand the “AI+” service sector, promote resource sharing, and support Chinese enterprises in their global expansion. As “AI+” technology evolves, the iStar Program is being continuously upgraded. The establishment of the AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance marks a significant milestone for the iStar Program, further consolidating industry resources, accelerating the overseas expansion of Chinese enterprises and their global presence.
In addition, CMI joined forces with industry experts in AI computing, LLMs, and robotics in a roundtable discussion that explored commercial AI applications, emerging challenges, and future transformation trends.
Looking ahead, CMI will remain dedicated to openness and collaboration, working alongside global partners to drive innovation and embrace opportunities and challenges in the “AI+” era. From the foundation of the three core initiatives announced – CMI AI+ Global Solutions, CMI AI LLM Integrated Server and AI+ Go Global Ecosystem Alliance – CMI is set to expedite AI technology deployment worldwide, empowering diverse industries and helping enterprises navigate the competitive global landscape. Hashtag: #ChinaMobileInternational
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About China Mobile International Limited
China Mobile International Limited (CMI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of China Mobile. In order to provide high quality services to meet the growing demand in the international market, China Mobile established CMI in December 2010, headquartered in Hong Kong, China. CMI has expanded its footprint to 39 countries and regions.
Leveraging strong support from China Mobile, CMI is a trusted partner that provides comprehensive international information services and solutions to enterprises, carriers, and mobile users. Please visit www.cmi.chinamobile.com for more information.
NANJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – From March 21 to 23, the 2025 Nanjing World Athletics Indoor Championships will take place in the city. As China’s first hosting of the World Indoor Athletics Championships, this event follows the 2015 Beijing World Athletics Championships as another top-tier global track and field competition in China.
Venue of the 2025 Nanjing World Athletics Indoor Championships – “Nanjing Cube”
Taking the “Nanjing Cube” indoor athletics stadium as its core platform, Nanjing is leveraging international events to drive urban development. Equipped with cutting-edge technologies like Hawk-Eye systems and motion capture facilities, the stadium can host all 26 indoor track and field events. Data shows that Nanjing’s sports industry has reached a total scale of 131 billion yuan, with an added value of 41 billion yuan accounting for 2.3% of GDP. The city has gathered over 200 sports enterprises, including 87 in its sports technology park covering emerging sectors like smart wearables and sports rehabilitation. The integration of sports and cultural tourism receives over 1 million annual visitors.
Nanjing has established a “15-minute fitness circle” with 95% community sports park coverage and 3.2 square meters of sports space per capita – among the highest nationally. Innovating with a “One Festival Six Seasons” sports consumption model, the city distributed tens of millions of yuan in subsidies in 2024 to foster emerging sports like aviation sports and rowing. Through smart sports park initiatives and embedded pitch renovations, it hosts over 3,000 mass fitness events annually, creating an active mass fitness culture.
Building on Youth Olympic legacy, Nanjing Youth Olympic Sports Park has welcomed over 800,000 visitors and engaged 600 million online viewers. Collaborating with 12 international sports organizations through regular forums, the city is hosting nearly 600 elite athletes from 123 countries/regions in 2025 to promote athletics and enhance global reputation. Through event organization, venue operations, and brand building, Nanjing is transforming from “event host” to “sports innovation hub.”
Transitioning from historical capital to modern sports metropolis, Nanjing integrates cultural heritage with urban development through sports. By staging international competitions, promoting mass fitness, and upgrading sports industries, it continues to strengthen its “Innovative City, Beautiful Ancient Capital” brand, providing a model for high-quality urban sports development in the new era.
Hashtag: #worldathleticsindoochampionship
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ proudly presents the inaugural solo concert of Andrea Bocelli in Macau. The globally celebrated “Voice of God” will take the stage at the Galaxy Arena, Macau’s largest indoor venue, on March 29 at 8 PM. This highly anticipated event has sparked a rush for tickets since their release, and today, the organizer was excited to offer a limited number of seats priced at MOP 320. Tickets are available through Galaxy Ticketing, Damai, Maoyan, uutix, Trip.com, Ctrip, MPay, and Macau Ticket, providing fans with a final opportunity to experience the brilliance of the “Voice of God.”
The most beloved tenor, Andrea Bocelli, who will perform his first concert in Macau at Galaxy Arena on March 29, 2025. The organizer was excited to offer a limited number of seats priced at MOP 320 today.
As the first tenor to perform at Galaxy Arena, Andrea Bocelli returns to Asia after a nine-year hiatus, marking a truly “once-in-a-lifetime” moment for fans. With over 90 million albums sold worldwide, this legendary tenor will showcase his unique voice and emotional interpretations of timeless classics. Adding to the magic, his son Matteo Bocelli will join him on stage for a special duet, promising to ignite an artistic spark in this premier venue, which accommodates 16,000 guests.
The additional seats are located in the grandstand sections on the 3rd floor, priced at MOP 320.
Galaxy Arena, the top performance venue in the Greater Bay Area, is perfectly suited to Andrea Bocelli’s extraordinary voice, featuring state-of-the-art sound equipment. The venue’s unobstructed design will capture every subtle nuance of the tenor’s performance, from soft whispers to powerful high notes, creating a truly immersive audio-visual experience for the audience. This transcendent musical event will celebrate the eternal beauty of Macau as a “World Center of Tourism and Leisure.”
Over his remarkable 30-year career, Andrea Bocelli has achieved significant international success, including his collaboration with global stars and his performance for numerous presidents and prime ministers.
Galaxy Macau™ Presents: ANDREA BOCELLI Live in Concert
Date:
March 29, 2025
Time:
20:00
Venue:
Galaxy Arena
Organizer:
NGE ARTS & CULTURE COMPANY LIMITED
Galaxy Arena, the top performance venue in the Greater Bay Area, creating a truly immersive audio-visual experience for the audience.
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT
Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.
As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.
Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.
Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavors & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavors at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.
Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Medical Taiwan 2025, organized by TAITRA, will take place from June 5 to 7 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center (TaiNEX 2). As Asia’s premier exhibition for the medical and healthcare industries, this event will focus on the theme of “Innovating Wellness” and will showcase cutting-edge solutions in medical technology and healthcare.
Taiwan, a global leader in medical innovation, offers an exceptional platform to explore a wide range of high-quality products. The exhibition will span multiple sectors, including Hospital Equipment, Medical Components, Veterinary Supplies, Community & Home Care, Assistive Devices, Wellness, AI & Smart Medical, Telemedicine, Digital Health, and M-Novator (Startups). Taiwan’s expertise in integrating AI, IoT, and big data into healthcare solutions ensures that the products on display meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers, offering global competitiveness and innovation.
Medical Taiwan 2025 will highlight Taiwan’s advances in AI-driven healthcare, particularly within the AI & Smart Medical and M-Novator zones. These zones will feature AI-powered diagnostic tools, integrated hospital systems, and home healthcare solutions, addressing challenges such as aging populations, healthcare shortages, and rising medical costs.
Discover the future of healthcare powered by cutting-edge AI technologies. Experience innovative solutions in AI medical imaging, telemedicine, smart surgery, and hospital management through immersive simulations in two key areas: the Smart Medical Pavilion and the Telemedicine & Smart Medical Devices Pavilion. Step into a new era of healthcare, where AI and smart medical solutions shape the way we care for patients.
A new Veterinary Supplies & Equipment area will showcase pet diagnostic tools, medical consumables, regenerative materials, and comprehensive health solutions, highlighting Taiwan’s innovations in veterinary care.
Additionally, Medical Taiwan 2025 will serve as a key platform for fostering global connections. The event will offer one-on-one procurement meetings and networking sessions, facilitating partnerships and market expansion by connecting visitors with Taiwan’s leading manufacturers and innovators.
Medical Taiwan 2025 offers the ideal platform to discover new products, secure procurement opportunities, and stay ahead of industry trends. From June 5 to 7 at TaiNEX 2, this exhibition will be at the forefront of healthcare innovation. Register now to secure your spot to visit! ( https://www.medicaltaiwan.com.tw/en/register-pro-visitor/index.html )Hashtag: #TAITRA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Neswire – 20 March 2025 – Hong Kong has maintained its World No.3 ranking in the latest Global Financial Centres Index (GFCI) after New York (No.1) and London (No.2). Hong Kong’s overall rating increased by 11 points to 760, remaining top in the Asia-Pacific region.
The biannual GFCI, published today (March 20) by the Z/Yen from the United Kingdom and the China Development Institute from Shenzhen, also rated Hong Kong No.4 globally for fintech offerings, a leap of five places compared to the previous report.
Hong Kong continues to be No. 1 in the Asia-Pacific region in the latest Global Financial Centres Index.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government welcomed the report, saying the positive assessment fully recognises Hong Kong’s leading status and strengths as an international financial centre.
Among the various areas of competitiveness of the GFCI, Hong Kong rose to second place for “human capital”, “infrastructure” and “financial sector development” and third in the “business environment” and “reputational and general”.
“The ratings reflect that our continued efforts to enhance the diversity and the competitiveness of Hong Kong as an international financial centre have fully received international recognition,” said the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, Mr Paul Chan. “I have full confidence that as long as we adhere to fundamental principles while breaking new ground, stay bold in reform, flexible in our responses and strive to seize the opportunities presented by the new era and new landscape, Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre will surely reach new heights.”
Among financial industry sectors, the latest GFCI ranked Hong Kong first in “investment management”, “insurance” and “finance”, and third globally in “banking”.
This reflects positively on the various government initiatives, including those announced in the 2025-26 Budget, to promote development of the financial market and create more new growth areas.
Some recent strategies include enhancing the timeframe for listing application process and listing requirements for specialist technology companies, which have injected new impetus into the Hong Kong market and improved its liquidity.
To deepen the financial mutual access between the Mainland and Hong Kong, a number of measures have been implemented to enrich and support offshore Renminbi (RMB) business, such as enhancing the settlement arrangements of Bond Connect and launching offshore RMB bond repurchase business using Northbound Bond Connect bonds as collateral.
The Government has also implemented measures to promote development of asset and wealth management business over the past year, including enhancements to the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect Scheme in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Exchange-traded Fund Connect, and the Mainland-Hong Kong Mutual Recognition of Funds arrangement.
Also looking ahead, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, John Lee, in his 2024 Policy Address, proposed developing Hong Kong into becoming a gold trading centre. The Working Group on Promoting Gold Market Development will formulate a plan this year, covering measures to enhance storage facilities, optimise trading and regulatory mechanisms, expand exchange products, and conduct market promotion.
In terms of promoting fintech, the Government’s multi-pronged approach includes enhancing relevant infrastructure; building a more active fintech ecosystem; nurturing fintech talent; as well as strengthening co-operation with the Mainland and overseas. The Government will soon promulgate a second policy statement on the development of virtual assets to explore the integration of traditional finance and virtual assets.
In October 2024, the Government issued a policy statement, setting out its stance and approach towards the responsible application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the financial market. In addition, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and Hong Kong Cyberport have launched a new Generative AI Sandbox to foster innovation in the banking industry.
The HKMA has also launched a stablecoin issuer sandbox to allow institutions with plans to issue stablecoins in Hong Kong to conduct testing on their operational plans.
The Government will continue to leverage our distinctive strengths to accelerate the cultivation of new quality productive forces and create more new growth areas, so as to sustain the high-quality development of Hong Kong’s financial market.
Full-Year Dividend Rises to HK171 Cents, Inclusive of Special Dividend of HK56 Cents Distributed under Excess Cash Return Program
Highlights:
Shipment volumes increased by 8.2%
Operating profit increased by 15.7% to US$184.5 million
Operating profit margin increased to 11.9%, from 10.7% last year
Net profit increased by 21.2% to US$170.1 million
Solid net cash position of US$417.6 million, representing an increase of 45.3% compared to US$287.4 million as at 31 December 2023
Recommended payment of final dividend of HK50 cents per share and an additional special dividend of HK56 cents per share under our Excess Cash Return Program. Total dividend for full-year 2024 is HK171 cents
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Stella International Holdings Limited (“Stella” or the “Group”; SEHK: 1836), a leading developer and manufacturer of quality footwear and leather goods products, today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024.
Three-Year Plan (2023-2025) Delivering Strong Returns and Significant Value
In 2024, for the second consecutive year, we surpassed the dual targets of our Three-Year Plan – achieving a 10% operating margin and delivering low-teens annualized growth in profit after tax.
Revenue and shipment volumes increased by 3.5% and 8.2% respectively to US$1,545.1 million and 53 million pairs, driven by our Sports and Fashion categories. The average selling price (“ASP”) of our footwear products decreased year-on-year, due to a higher proportion of Sports products, which have a lower ASP, as well as raw material price deflation.
Margin Expansion Driven by Enhanced Customer Mix and Optimisation of Capacity Allocation
Our operating margin for the full-year expanded to 11.9% (before changes in fair value of financial instruments), compared to 10.7% in 2023. We accomplished this by executing our strategic initiatives focused on attracting and growing with our new customers, which allowed us to expand and diversify our customer portfolio and optimise the reallocation of our production capacity. The margin expansion was also attributable to enhanced operating leverage and efficiency improvement.
Due to the factors outlined above, the Group’s net profit increased by 21.2% to US$170.1 million. Excluding a net fair value change from its investment in Lanvin Group, the Group recorded an adjusted net profit of US$171.2 million (2023: US$147.6 million). Our adjusted net profit margin was 11.1% (2023: 9.9%).
Working Capital Optimisation Delivers Significant ROIC Improvement
In 2024, we delivered a Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) of 21.6%, more than a double of the 10% ROIC achieved in 2019. This success was driven by our strong working capital optimisation and efficiency, as well as our disciplined approach to capital expenditure and investments focused on maximising returns.
Solid Net Cash Position
We maintained our strong focus on managing our working capital usage and cash flow. As of 31 December 2024, our net cash position was US$417.6 million, an increase of 45.3% compared to a net cash position of US$287.4 million as at 31 December 2023. About US$100 million of the cash is reserved for completing our upcoming new sports footwear factory in Indonesia, and US$180 million is reserved for our Excess Cash Return Program for shareholders announced in August 2024. Therefore, the Group’s net gearing ratio was -37.4% as at 31 December 2024, compared to -26.9% as at 31 December 2023.
Final Dividend in Line With Normal Payout Ratio, With Additional Special Dividend of HK56 Cents Under Excess Cash Return Program
After considering the Group’s free cash flow situation, strong cash level, and pre-funded capital expenditure projects, the Board has resolved to recommend payment of a final dividend of HK50 cents per ordinary share. Combined with the interim dividend of HK65 cents per ordinary share, this maintains the Company’s normal payout ratio of approximately 71% set against our adjusted net profit.
We are also delighted to announce a special dividend of HK56 cents per ordinary share. This special dividend fulfils our promise to return US$60 million annually to our shareholders from 2024 to 2026, as we announced in our Excess Cash Return Program in August 2024, in addition to our normal payout ratio of about 70%.
As a result, the full-year dividend for the year ended 31 December 2024 is HK171 cents per ordinary share.
HSCI Inclusion and Stock Connect Unlock New Avenues for Global Investor Access and Liquidity
2024 marked several milestones that enhanced our market position and investor appeal. We became a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index (HSCI), a testament to our growing stature in the market. Additionally, we qualified for the Shanghai-Hong Kong and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programs, unlocking direct access for our mainland Chinese shareholders and broadening liquidity opportunities.
Outlook: Prioritising Maintaining High Product Quality Levels Through Controlled Expansion
We will likely face some macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical uncertainties in 2025. Some of these will be partially offset as we ramp up shipments to out-performing customers in the high-end Fashion segment and begin shipments to new customers in the Sports segment, which should support a modest increase in overall shipment volumes in 2025. We will continue to optimise our production allocation between our Luxury and high-end Fashion categories and our non-Sports manufacturing facilities will continue to operate at close to full utilisation.
Our primary focus in 2025 will be maintaining high product quality levels as we gradually ramp up our new facilities in Solo, Indonesia, and Bangladesh. This controlled expansion aligns with our long-term strategy of ensuring quality growth, while increasing our capacity for higher-margin product orders. While we anticipate a moderation in the pace of our profit growth, we are confident about once again meeting our targets of a 10% operating margin and low-teens CAGR in profit after tax as set out under our Three-Year Plan.
Mr. Chi Lo-Jen, Chief Executive Officer of the Group, said, “Despite softening consumer sentiment, we are expanding production capacity to meet solid demand from our diversified customer base. While increased U.S. trade tariffs on China may present challenges to the market, most of our customers are leveraging our diversified production base to produce in multiple countries and adopting ‘China-for-China’ production strategies, which will help mitigate potential material impacts on our business.”
Mr. Lawrence Chen, Chairman of the Group, said, “Having largely achieved the objectives outlined in the Three-Year Plan, including enhancing our category mix, improving working capital, and strengthening cost efficiency, our primary objective in 2025 is to ensure quality growth. We remain fully committed to delivering value for our shareholders and all other stakeholders.”
Hashtag: #StellaInternational
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Stella International Holdings Limited
Stella International (SEHK: 1836) is a leading developer and manufacturer of quality footwear and leather goods. A trusted partner to many of the world’s most sought-after brands, it offers a unique proposition of unparalleled craftsmanship, production flexibility, and strong speed-to-market and commercialization capability, supported by a broad, diverse and proven manufacturing base across China and Southeast Asia.
Stella International was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2007. It is a constituent of the Hang Seng Composite Index and the MSCI Hong Kong Small Cap Index, and eligible to be traded on the Shanghai-Hong Kong Stock Connect and Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect.
Over 10,000 racers are expected to take part in the two-day event happening on 28 and 29 June
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 –AIA Singapore, a leading health insurance provider, today announced its partnership as the Official Title Partner for the highly anticipated AIA HYROX Open Asian Championships 2025 in Singapore. This collaboration underscores AIA Singapore and HYROX Singapore’s shared dedication towards fostering a culture of holistic wellness and active living for Singaporeans by providing access to healthier experiences. The two-day event is set to take place on 28 and 29 June at the Singapore National Stadium, where participants will push their limits in a thrilling test of strength, endurance, and determination.
Continuing the success of HYROX Singapore’s debut in October 2023 which has attracted over 16,000 participants, the AIA HYROX Open Asian Championships 2025 promises an even more exhilarating experience. Beyond the usual singles, doubles, and relay races, this year’s rendition will see top athletes in Asia compete against each other in the Mixed Relay Open Asian Championship Invitationals. Furthermore, this year’s championships will see the introduction of corporate relays, allowing teams comprising of employees to band together and compete, fostering teamwork and employee well-being through friendly competition.
“The upcoming Singapore race is set to be bigger and more exciting than ever before. We knew that securing the right title partner would be key to elevating the event, and with HYROX and AIA, we’ve found the perfect match. Both organisations share a common commitment to promoting health and wellness, making this partnership a natural fit as we work together to inspire individuals to lead healthier lives.” Shared Gary Wan, APAC, Managing Director of HYROX APAC.
A first in the world for HYROX championships, AIA Singapore will be supporting both participants and spectators with complimentary personal accident coverage[1] upon ticket purchase. This will last the entire month of the event from 1 June to 30 June. Furthering AIA’s commitment to empowering people to live healthier, longer, better lives, AIA Vitality members can also enjoy a $25 discount off their race tickets.
“AIA Singapore is thrilled to spearhead the drive for active living as the official title sponsor of AIA HYROX Open Asia Championships 2025. This dynamic partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to holistic well-being and builds on the momentum of our AIA One Billion movement –mission to empower a billion people to live healthier, longer, better lives by 2030,” stated Ms. Wong Sze Keed, Chief Executive Officer, AIA Singapore.
“HYROX offers an exceptional platform for us to connect with our customers, community, staff, and insurance representatives. We hope to inspire everyone to embrace a more active lifestyle, regardless of fitness level. Thanks to HYROX’s expanded categories, this exhilarating event is now truly accessible to all,” Ms. Wong added.
“We are proud to champion active lifestyles and make HYROX accessible to everyone. This partnership allows us to tangibly demonstrate our dedication to the well-being of Singapore,” she concluded.
Beyond AIA Singapore’s benefits, Grab, a Premium Partner for the AIA HYROX Open Asian Championships, is also offering participants discounts of up to 10% on HYROX tickets when they checkout with GrabPay or PayLater by Grab. To find out more visit: https://hyroxsingapore.com/event/hyrox-singapore
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About HYROX
HYROX started in Germany in 2017 with 650 competitors and has since expanded to more than 31 countries and regions with over 335,000 participants in 2024 alone. The 2025 season will feature more than 93 events across Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, Poland, Spain, Denmark, Italy, Germany, England, United States, Ireland, Sweden, and many others.
About AIA
AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR[1], Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR[2], and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$305 billion as of 31 December 2024.
AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also
provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 43 million individual policies and 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.
AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.
[1] Hong Kong SAR refers to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
[2] Macau SAR refers to the Macau Special Administrative Region.