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Terra Quantum AG to go public in $3.25 billion SPAC deal

Strategic go-public transaction aims to accelerate growth in quantum technologies and expand global market reach

ST. GALLEN, Switzerland and INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. , April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Terra Quantum AG (“Terra Quantum”), a leading quantum technology company, and Mountain Lake Acquisition Corp. II (“MLAC II”) (Nasdaq: MLAA), a special purpose acquisition company, today announced that they have signed a non-binding letter of intent (“LOI”) to enter into a business combination that values Terra Quantum at $3.25 billion.

Terra_Quantum
Terra_Quantum

The proposed transaction reflects strong confidence in Terra Quantum’s differentiated quantum algorithms, software, quantum security, and hybrid quantum-classical solutions, as well as its commercial traction across multiple industries including defence, finance, pharmaceuticals, and logistics.

Upon completion of the transaction, the combined entity will be publicly listed, providing Terra Quantum with enhanced access to capital markets to support its next phase of growth, including product development, global expansion, and strategic acquisitions.

Strategic Rationale

The contemplated business combination is expected to enable Terra Quantum to:

  • Accelerate the commercialization of ready to deploy quantum technologies
  • Strengthen its balance sheet to support scaling operations globally
  • Expand partnerships with enterprise and government customers
  • Enhance visibility in the quantum computing sector

Management Commentary

“This milestone marks a significant step forward in Terra Quantum’s mission to deliver practical quantum solutions on a global scale today,” said Markus Pflitsch, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Terra Quantum AG. “Partnering with MLAC II would enable us to accelerate innovation, deepen customer engagement, and expand our global footprint.”

Paul Grinberg, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MLAC II, added: “We believe Terra Quantum is uniquely positioned at the forefront of the quantum revolution which also has a management team with distinguished backgrounds in both science and the commercialisation of technology. This proposed transaction aligns with our strategy to partner with high-growth, category-defining technology companies that can create significant value.”

Advisors

Cohen & Company Capital Markets, a division of Cohen & Company Securities, LLC, is serving as exclusive financial and capital markets advisor to Terra Quantum. Heussen Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH, together with Kellerhals Carrard, Winston & Strawn, LLP, and Niedermann Rechtsanwälte, are serving as legal counsel to Terra Quantum.

BTIG is serving as financial and capital markets advisor to MLAC II. Lowenstein Sandler LLP and Lenz & Staehelin are serving as legal counsel to MLAC II.

About Terra Quantum AG

Terra Quantum AG is a leading quantum technology company focused on developing cutting-edge quantum algorithms, software, and hybrid solutions designed to solve real-world problems. Headquartered in St. Gallen, the company partners with enterprises and institutions worldwide to unlock the power of quantum computing today.

About Mountain Lake Acquisition Corp. II

Mountain Lake Acquisition Corp. II (Nasdaq: MLAA) is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses focused on partnering with innovative, high-growth companies across technology sectors. MLAC II’s management team is led by Paul Grinberg, its Chairman & CEO, and Douglas Horlick, its Chief Financial Officer, Director, and President.

Media Contacts

Terra Quantum AG
Victoria Jodl
Global Head of Communications | Director
E-Mail: vj@terraquantum.swiss
Phone: +41 79 8131588

MLAC II
Douglas Horlick
Email: doug@mountainlakeacquisition.com

DISCLAIMERS

Additional Information and Where to Find It

If a definitive agreement is entered into in connection with the proposed business combination, MLAA or a newly formed holding company will prepare and file a registration statement on Form S-4 or Form F-4, including a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus (the “Proxy Statement”) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). MLAA urges investors and securityholders to read the proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC when they become available, as they will contain important information regarding the proposed business combination. The Proxy Statement will be distributed to holders of MLAA’s Class A Ordinary Shares in connection with MLAA’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by MLAA’s shareholders with respect to the proposed business combination and other matters as will described therein. All SEC filings will be available free of charge at www.sec.go, v, or by directing a request to: Mountain Lake Acquisition Corp. II, 930 Tahoe Blvd STE 802 PMB 45, Incline Village, NV 89451; phone number: +1 (775) 204-1489.

Participants in the Solicitation

MLAC II and Terra Quantum  and each of their directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed transaction under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of MLAC II and a description of their interests in MLAC II and the proposed transaction is contained in MLAC II’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with the SEC on March 20, 2026 (the “Annual Report”).

Information about MLAC II’s directors and executive officer’s interests in the proposed transaction, as well as information about Terra Quantum’s directors and executive officers and a description of their interests in Terra Quantum and the proposed transaction will be set forth in the Proxy Statement relating to the proposed transaction when it is filed with the SEC. When available, the above referenced documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to the proposed business combination between MLAC II and Terra Quantum, including statements regarding the benefits of the proposed business combination, the anticipated timing of the proposed business combination, the products being developed by Terra Quantum and the markets in which Terra Quantum intends to operate, business strategies, debt levels, industry environment, potential growth opportunities and the effects of regulations. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “forecast,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “positions,” “enables” and similar expressions (including the negative versions of such words or expressions). 

Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document, including but not limited to: (i) the risk that the proposed business combination may not be completed in a timely manner or at all, which may adversely affect the price of MLAC II’s securities; (ii) the risk that the proposed business combination may not be completed by MLAC II’s business combination deadline and the potential failure to obtain an extension of the business combination deadline; (iii) the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed business combination, including the approval of the proposed business combination by the shareholders of MLAC II or Terra Quantum, and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; (iv) the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed business combination on Terra Quantum’s business relationships, performance and business generally; (v) risks that the proposed business combination disrupts current plans of Terra Quantum; (vi) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against MLAC II, Terra Quantum or related to the agreement and plan of merger or the proposed business combination; (vii) the ability to maintain the listing of MLAC II’s securities on NASDAQ; (viii) the price of MLAC II’s securities, including volatility resulting from changes in the competitive and highly regulated industries in which Terra Quantum plans to operate, variations in performance across competitors, changes in laws and regulations affecting Terra Quantum’s business and changes in the combined capital structure; (ix) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts and other expectations after the completion of the proposed business combination, and identify and realize additional opportunities; and (xi) the impact global economic and political conditions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in MLAC II’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents filed from time to time with the SEC. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and MLAC II and Terra Quantum assume no obligation and, except as required by law, do not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Neither MLAC II nor Terra Quantum gives any assurance that either MLAC II or Terra Quantum will achieve its expectations.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release is not a proxy statement or solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the potential transaction and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the securities of Terra Quantum, MLAC II or the combined company, nor shall there be any sale of any such securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended.

Cautionary Note Regarding the Proposed Transaction

Completion of the proposed transaction is subject to the negotiation of a definitive agreement and the satisfaction of conditions contained therein. The parties will announce additional details regarding the proposed business combination if and when a definitive agreement is executed. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that a definitive agreement will be entered into or that the proposed transaction will be consummated or, if a transaction is consummated, as to its terms, structure or timing. Any transaction would be subject to the completion of satisfactory due diligence, negotiation of definitive agreements, board and shareholder approvals, regulatory approvals, and other customary conditions.

 

Businesses face sustained pressure in 2026 as global insolvencies rise 3%, Atradius forecasts

AMSTERDAM, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Atradius forecasts a further rise in insolvencies in 2026, as adverse conditions continue to weigh on companies, affecting operating margins across multiple sectors. The latest Atradius Insolvency Outlook shows that worldwide insolvencies are expected to increase by 3% in 2026.

According to Atradius Senior Economist Theo Smid, “Our insolvency forecast has deteriorated due to the persistence of adverse economic conditions, including Covid‑related tax debts, rising input costs and ongoing trade tensions. The crisis in the Middle East, together with the associated increase in energy prices, adds to existing pressures. The impact on businesses will depend largely on the length of the conflict.”

Atradius’ baseline scenario assumes that the current closure of the Strait of Hormuz will begin to normalise from May, with only limited damage to Gulf infrastructure. If the disruption lasts longer, the insolvency projections would need to be revised.

Looking further ahead, the outlook improves in 2027, when insolvencies are projected to decline by 6% as inflation recedes, energy markets normalise and central banks regain room to reduce rates.

Regional outlook

In Europe, Atradius expects the highest rise in Switzerland, Italy and Portugal, while Ireland, Denmark, Norway and the Netherlands are set for decreases. Across the eurozone, companies continue to operate under substantial pressure in 2026. Higher energy prices, driven by disruptions in gas markets linked to the conflict in the Middle East, are feeding through to broader inflation and weighing on margins.

North America remains divided. In the United States, insolvencies are forecast to rise by 8% in 2026. The economic climate remains challenging for companies, with high trade tariffs and increased policy uncertainty continuing to weigh on the operating environment. In contrast, Canada is expected to see a decline in insolvencies as filings continue to normalise following the sharp rise in 2024.

In Asia‑Pacific, most monitored markets are set for decreases as insolvencies begin to retreat from historically high levels. New Zealand and Hong Kong show the strongest downward adjustments, while Australia, Japan and South Korea are likely to normalise more slowly.

For more detailed forecasts by country and region, access the full Atradius Insolvency Outlook.

Atradius

More information at https://group.atradius.com.

Press contact
Pavel Gómez del Castillo
pavel.gomezdelcastillo@atradius.com

 

OncoC4 announces first participant’s dosing in Phase 1/2 clinical trial of ONC-841 for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

ROCKVILLE, Md., April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — OncoC4 Inc., a late clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced first participant’s dosing following the clearance of the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for a Phase 1/2 clinical trial of ONC-841, the company’s investigational Alzheimer’s disease therapy by the National Medical Product Administration (NMPA). The clinical trial registration number is CTR20260866.

ONC-841 is the world’s first and only clinical stage anti-SIGLEC 10 antibody. The drug was initially developed, and is in a Phase 2 trial, for patients with solid tumors. New preclinical research by OncoC4 has revealed ONC-841’s novel activity in normalizing microglia’s function in clearance of pathogenic protein aggregates in the brain (1, 2). Benefitting from safety data from the oncology study, the new Phase 1/2 AD clinical trial received accelerated clearance to test the safety and clinical activity of the product for AD treatment.

The first study participant was successfully dosed at Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University in China. The Principal Investigators for the clinical study are Professor Yi Tang and Professor Cuibai Wei at the Xuanwu Hospital.

“Extending our clinical study from cancer to AD showcases OncoC4’s research engine and Xuanwu Hospital’s infrastructure as the world’s eminent AD research center. We are extremely grateful to our colleagues at Xuanwu for the collaboration, ” said Dr. Yang Liu, CEO and Chief Scientific Officer. 

“We are extremely excited to collaborate with OncoC4 to explore the potential of targeting SIGLEC 10, the novel checkpoints of AD pathogenesis, to bring clinical benefit for patients with this devastating illness”, added Professor Yi Tang, Executive Vice President and Principal investigator. 

About OncoC4

Based in Rockville, Maryland, OncoC4 is a privately held, late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that is actively engaged in the discovery and development of novel biologicals for the treatment of cancer and immunological diseases. OncoC4’s pipeline features assets with first-in-class and best-in-class potential targeting both novel and well validated targets across oncology and immunological diseases. Among them, AI-081 is a fully owned bispecific antibody candidate targeting PD-1 and VEGF. ONC-841 is a first-in-class anti-SIGLEC 10 antibody currently in a Phase 2 trial for oncology indications and a Phase 1 trial for neurodegenerative diseases. OncoC4 has a strategic collaboration with BioNTech to co-develop gotistobart (BNT316/ONC-392), a tumor microenvironment-selective Treg depletion candidate targeting CTLA-4, in multiple solid tumor indications, including an ongoing pivotal clinical trial in squamous non-small cell lung cancer.

More information: www.oncoc4.com

CONTACTS

Media Relations
Pan Pan
media@oncoc4.com

Investor Relations
Ryan Cui
ir@oncoc4.com

  1. Wang P, et al. Therapeutic activities of anti-human SIGLEC 10 mAb in multiple transgenic mouse AD models. Alzheimer’s Dement. 2025, 21 (Suppl. 5): e101818.
  2. Wang P, et al. Mice carrying unmutated human SIGLEC 10 gene cluster transgene develop both amyloid plaques and Tau neurofilament tangles: a model for late onset Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s Dement. 2025, 21 (Suppl. 5): e101773.

Phemex TradFi Crude Oil Trading Surges 300% as Ceasefire Volatility Sparks Record Demand

APIA, Samoa, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Phemex, a user-first crypto exchange, reported that crude oil perpetual futures volume on its TradFi platform surged over 300% week-over-week, as the US-Iran ceasefire announcement triggered the largest single-day oil price swing since the 1991 Gulf War.

Phemex TradFi Crude Oil Trading Surges 300% as Ceasefire Volatility Sparks Record Demand
Phemex TradFi Crude Oil Trading Surges 300% as Ceasefire Volatility Sparks Record Demand

Phemex TradFi offers WTI (XTI) and Brent crude oil (XBR) perpetual futures settled in USDT, available 24/7 with no expiry dates, enabling traders to react to geopolitical events regardless of traditional market hours. Weekly crude oil trading volume on Phemex TradFi exceeded $300 million, with the asset’s share of total TradFi volume quadrupling from approximately 3% to 12% during the crisis week. On April 7, daily crude oil volume hit an all-time high of $85 million — a 4.6x spike — as WTI plunged over 15% within hours of the ceasefire news. More than 8,000 unique traders participated in oil contracts over the past week, with single-day active users surpassing 2,000 for the first time.

“Crude oil has gone from a niche offering to one of our fastest-growing asset classes virtually overnight,” said Federico Variola, CEO of Phemex. “When WTI dropped $12 after hours on the ceasefire announcement, traditional commodity exchanges were closed. Our traders didn’t have to wait, they were already positioned and capturing the move in real time.”

As cross-asset volatility becomes increasingly driven by real-time geopolitical developments, the demand for continuous market access is expected to grow. Phemex TradFi’s recent surge in crude oil trading highlights a broader shift toward always-on trading infrastructure, where traditional assets are accessed through crypto-native systems. Phemex will continue expanding its TradFi offering, enabling traders to respond to global events with greater speed, flexibility, and precision across asset classes.

About Phemex

Founded in 2019, Phemex is a user-first crypto exchange trusted by over 10 million traders worldwide. The platform offers spot and derivatives trading, copy trading, and wealth management products designed to prioritize user experience, transparency, and innovation. With a forward-thinking approach and a commitment to user empowerment, Phemex delivers reliable tools, inclusive access, and evolving opportunities for traders at every level to grow and succeed.

For more information, please visit: https://phemex.com/

Lao Brewery Company Launches EUR 50M Capacity Expansion, Signalling Long-Term Confidence in Laos

Lao Brewery Company launches EUR 50 million expansion to boost production capacity and efficiency in Laos. Vientiane Capital, Laos. 9 April 2026.

On 9 April, Lao Brewery Company (LBC) launched its Long-Term Development Phase 1 (LDP1) project in Vientiane, a pivotal step in the company’s broader strategy to modernize its operations and reinforce Laos’ position as a stable destination for long-term foreign investment.

At the heart of LDP1 is a high-speed integrated production line capable of producing up to 45,000 bottles per hour, handling both cans and PET bottles within a single, efficient system. 

Beyond raw output, the expansion encompasses plant modernisation, infrastructure upgrades, and future-ready water systems, all designed to improve labour productivity and strengthen long-term control over production costs. 

As Henrik Juel Andersen, Managing Director of LBC, put it, “LDP1 represents more than expansion. It reflects our long-term commitment to Laos, to invest in capability, improve efficiency, and continue contributing meaningfully to the country’s development.”

Yet the expansion goes beyond production capacity. 

The project integrates technologies that cut water, electricity, and heat consumption per unit, lowering carbon emissions through more efficient, localised production. LBC has also adopted the GS1 barcode system, a globally standardised barcode identifying products and assets across the supply chain, boosting traceability and export readiness.

LBC operates as part of the Carlsberg Group, with Carlsberg holding a stake in the company as one of its Asian operations. João Abecasis, Executive Vice President for Carlsberg Asia, noted that “Laos is an important part of our growth strategy in Asia,” adding that through LBC, Carlsberg is investing in long-term capability and strengthening its presence in the region while supporting sustainable growth.

As one of the largest Danish investments in Laos, LDP1 is underpinned by a 10-year business plan with infrastructure designed to support production well beyond 2030. 

Santiphab Phomvihane, Lao Minister of Finance, captured the broader significance of the moment, saying the investment “marks a significant milestone in the strategic growth and expansion of Lao Brewery Company.” 

“It serves as a clear signal to the global community that Laos remains a stable, transparent, and highly attractive destination for sustainable long-term investment,” Santiphab added.

The expansion also reaffirms LBC’s continued partnership with PepsiCo, cementing the company’s role as both a regional manufacturing leader and a meaningful contributor to the Lao economy through employment, tax revenues, and value chain development.

Exito Media Concepts Announces the 34th Edition of the BFSI IT Summit Indonesia 2026

Tech it to the Next Level: Shaping the Future of Indonesia’s BFSI

16th April 2026  |  JW Marriott Mega Kuningan, Jakarta  |  09:00 AM – 05:00 PM

JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Exito Media Concepts, a globally recognized leader in B2B technology events, is proud to announce the 34th Edition of the BFSI IT Summit Indonesia 2026, the country’s foremost gathering of banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) technology leaders. The summit will take place on 16th April 2026 at the JW Marriott Mega Kuningan, Jakarta, bringing together over 150+ CIOs, CTOs, and digital transformation leaders to chart the future of financial services technology in Indonesia.

Indonesia’s BFSI sector is at an inflection point. As fintech innovation accelerates, digital banking platforms proliferate, and artificial intelligence reshapes risk and customer engagement, financial institutions across the country are racing to modernize their technology foundations. The BFSI IT Summit Indonesia serves as the premier strategic platform where technology leaders convene to exchange insights, explore real-world solutions, and collectively drive the digital transformation agenda forward.

“Indonesia’s financial institutions are not just adapting to digital transformation — they are defining it. This summit is where that vision takes shape.”

Indonesia’s BFSI Sector at the Forefront of Digital Innovation

Indonesia’s BFSI sector continues to be a cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth, underpinned by a rapidly expanding digital economy and ambitious financial inclusion initiatives. The rise of fintech companies and digital-first banking models has fundamentally intensified competition, compelling traditional financial institutions to reimagine their operating models and double down on innovation.

Customer expectations for seamless mobile-first experiences and real-time financial services are driving unprecedented investment in modern technology infrastructure. Simultaneously, organizations must navigate a complex regulatory landscape governed by OJK and Bank Indonesia, all while integrating legacy systems with next-generation digital platforms, a challenge that remains central to the sector’s transformation journey.

In Focus: Driving Digital Transformation in Indonesia’s Banking Sector

A leading Indonesian financial institution recently executed a landmark digital transformation, transitioning from legacy core banking infrastructure to a scalable, cloud-enabled architecture. Deploying a hybrid cloud strategy alongside advanced AI and data analytics capabilities, the institution unlocked deeper customer insights and delivered more personalized financial offerings.

Automation technologies were rolled out across core processes, dramatically reducing manual intervention and accelerating transaction speed and accuracy. A reinforced cybersecurity framework ensured regulatory compliance, while a focused workforce upskilling programme embedded a culture of digital agility. The outcome: measurably improved customer satisfaction, stronger operational resilience, and a sharpened competitive edge in Indonesia’s fast-evolving BFSI market.

Event Overview

The 34th Edition of the BFSI IT Summit Indonesia 2026 forms part of a globally recognized summit series hosted across the world’s leading financial hubs. This edition will convene over 150+ CIOs, CTOs, Heads of IT, Digital Transformation Leaders, and senior technology decision-makers from across Indonesia’s banking, financial services, and insurance ecosystem.

Through expert-led keynotes, high-impact panel discussions, and real-world case studies, the summit will explore the innovative strategies, emerging technologies, and proven best practices that enable financial institutions to enhance customer experiences, strengthen operational resilience, and drive sustainable digital growth.

Date:  16th April 2026
Time:  09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
Venue:  JW Marriott Mega Kuningan, Jakarta
Attendees:  150+ CIOs, CTOs, Heads of IT, Digital Transformation Leaders
Website:  https://bfsiitsummit.com/indonesia/

Summit Agenda: Key Technology Priorities for 2026

Expert-led sessions, immersive panel discussions, and live case studies will address the most pressing challenges and opportunities across Indonesia’s BFSI technology landscape, including:

  • Cloud & Hybrid Infrastructure: Building a scalable digital core while navigating regulatory frameworks and data residency requirements.
  • AI/ML for Risk & Growth: Leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance decision-making, risk management, and revenue growth.
  • Unified Data Platforms: Enabling seamless data integration to drive efficiency, insights, and innovation across financial services.
  • Open Banking & API Economy: Moving from regulatory compliance to value creation through API-driven ecosystems.
  • Inclusion Tech: Expanding financial access through mobile-first and data-driven solutions to support nationwide financial inclusion.
  • Cybersecurity and Data Protection: Strengthening security frameworks to safeguard sensitive financial data and ensure full regulatory compliance.
  • Core Banking Modernization: Transitioning from legacy systems to agile, cloud-enabled platforms.
  • Automation & Intelligent Process Management: Improving operational efficiency through automation and AI-driven workflows.

PR Newswire is the Official Press Release Distribution Partner of the 34th Edition of the BFSI IT Summit Indonesia 2026.

About Exito Media Concepts

Exito stands for “success”, a principle that defines every experience we design. With over 15 years of global expertise, Exito is a leading B2B events and media organization delivering over 240 conferences annually across technology, digital transformation, cybersecurity, healthcare, and emerging enterprise sectors. Through meticulously curated agendas, world-class speaker communities, and market-driven insights, Exito creates platforms that foster strategic collaboration, accelerate innovation adoption, and deliver measurable business outcomes worldwide.

Media Contact
Prakruthi Nayaka
Media and PR Executive, Exito Media Concepts
Email: prakruthi.nayaka@exito-e.com
Website: https://bfsiitsummit.com/indonesia/

Hong Kong Anti-graft Watchdog: Clean Governance and Ethical Business is Key to Hong Kong’s Sustainable Business Development

HONG KONG, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hong Kong has long been recognised as a clean, transparent, and attractive investment hub, a reputation built on the collective commitment to integrity shared by the business community, the Government, and civil society. This strong ethical foundation has helped Hong Kong consistently become one of the most competitive and corruption-free economies worldwide.

 

Integrity Leadership Seminar for Chambers of Commerce

All the years the Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), in collaboration with the Chambers of Commerce in Hong Kong, spares no efforts in maintaining the clean governance and ethical business in the city, to ensure its fair, clean and sustainable business development.

In late March this year, the ICAC’s Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption and Hong Kong Business Ethics Development Centre (HKBEDC) successfully hosted the Integrity Leadership Seminar for Chambers of Commerce, brought together around 50 business leaders from 14 chambers of commerce in Hong Kong, to conduct meaningful exchanges in experience and insights on Hong Kong’s anti-corruption regime, corporate governance practices, and practical strategies for fostering ethical and sustainable business development.

Director of Community Relations of the ICAC Diman Mak Wai-keung said it was a great success of “PPP” – public private partnership in upholding integrity in the business sector, reflecting the strong commitment of the Hong Kong’s business community to uphold integrity and reinforce the city’s standing as a model of clean governance and ethical business. “Integrity culture is a distinctive strength of Hong Kong. HKBEDC has worked alongside the private sector in building stronger, more resilient organisations capable of competing and winning in the global economy. The ICAC would continue to deepen the partnership in the years ahead to safeguard the continued success of Hong Kong as a trusted international business hub,” Mr Mak said.

Representative of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce Mr Edwin Morris also shared the essential role of business leaders and chambers of commerce in sustaining a clean business environment.

At the seminar, experienced ICAC officers from the operation, corruption prevention and public education fields guided participants on identifying corruption risks, leveraging ICAC’s advisory services, and strengthening corporate compliance culture through case studies. They also engaged in discussion and exchanged views with participants, knowing more about the actual needs of practitioners in different sectors and the corruption problems encountered, so as to provide more tailor-made anti-corruption assistance to maintain the high level of integrity in running business.

“The ICAC will continue to work alongside the business sector to uphold Hong Kong’s clean and fair business environment, further solidifying its international reputation as a city of integrity for investment,” Mr Mak concluded.

Kelun-Biotech Approved by HKEX to Remove “B” Marker from Stock Code, Representing a New Stage of Development

CHENGDU, China, April 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“Kelun-Biotech” or the “Company”, 6990.HK) today announced that following an application to The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”) pursuant to Rule 18A.12 of the Rules Governing the Listing of Securities on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Listing Rules”), the Stock Exchange has approved the dis-application of Rules 18A.09 to 18A.11 of the Listing Rules to the Company. As the Company has satisfied the relevant requirements under the Listing Rules, it has been approved by the Stock Exchange to remove the “B” marker from its stock code, effective from April 14, 2026. The removal of the “B” marker signifies that Kelun-Biotech has met higher standards in key operating metrics, representing a new stage of development for the Company.

The essence of this “new stage of development” is reflected across three major dimensions: accelerated R&D and product launch, achievement of global collaboration milestones, and iteration of innovative assets.

  • Accelerated product approvals and significant time-to-market efficiency: Within three years since its listing, Kelun-Biotech has already secured approvals for 4 products across 8 indications, among which 3 products with 5 indications have been included in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL), accomplishing a fully integrated platform spanning from R&D to commercialization. Leveraging this end-to-end drug development platform, the Company will further advance its pipeline to address unmet medical needs in oncology and other major disease areas.
  • Steady progress in global partnerships with anticipated milestones: The Company continues to expand its global footprint through collaborations with world leading partners, including MSD and Crescent Biopharma, steadily advancing the global development of relevant assets. Notably, MSD has evaluated 17 global Phase III clinical trials for sacituzumab tirumotecan (sac-TMT, 佳泰莱®), and multiple studies are approaching the data readout stage and further achieving more important milestones.
  • Successive innovation from best-in-class (BIC) to first-in-class (FIC): Leveraging its leading technology platforms in ADC and novel conjugation drugs, biologics, and small molecules, the Company has built a differentiated innovative pipeline. So far, sac-TMT has demonstrated strong competitiveness worldwide as a representative BIC potential asset. Moreover, the Company is advancing a portfolio of potential FIC candidates integrating new targets, new mechanisms, and new technologies, continuously expanding the boundaries of original innovation and further strengthening its long-term sustainable development.

Dr. Michael Ge, CEO of Kelun-Biotech, said: “We are pleased that our company has met the relevant requirements under the HKEX Listing Rules and has successfully removed the ‘B’ marker from its stock code. This milestone reflects our strong capabilities in biopharmaceutical innovation and value realization. Supported by a solid financial position, we will continue to enrich our innovative and synergistic pipeline, accelerate product development, benefit a broader patient population and create long-term value for shareholders.”

About Kelun-Biotech

Kelun-Biotech (6990.HK) is a holding subsidiary of Kelun Pharmaceutical, which focuses on the R&D, manufacturing, commercialization and global collaboration of innovative biological drugs and small molecule drugs. Kelun-Biotech focuses on major disease areas such as solid tumors, autoimmune, and metabolic diseases, and in establishing a globalized drug development and industrialization platform to address the unmet medical needs in China and the rest of world. Kelun-Biotech is committed to becoming a leading global enterprise in the field of innovative drugs. At present, Kelun-Biotech has more than 30 ongoing key innovative drug projects, of which 4 projects with 8 indications have been approved for marketing, 1 project is in the NDA stage and more than 10 projects are in the clinical stage. Kelun-Biotech has established one of the world’s leading proprietary ADC and novel DC platforms, OptiDC™, and has 2 ADC projects with 5 indications approved for marketing, and multiple ADC and novel DC assets in clinical or preclinical research stage. For more information, please visit https://en.kelun-biotech.com/