Home Blog Page 701

OceanX Announces A Shared Voyage: Joint U.S.-China Student Ocean Exploration and Education Program


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – OceanX today announced A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026, a joint U.S-Chinese goodwill mission that will bring together 10 American and 10 Chinese early-career ocean scientists, students, and instructors in pursuit of their shared goal to better understand the ocean and each other. OceanX is the ocean exploration, science, and education initiative founded by Ray and Mark Dalio. This initiative will be the first voyage of OceanX’s flagship research and media vessel, OceanXplorer, to China, starting in Hong Kong on March 29 and concluding in Shanghai on April 8, 2026.

The mission is an extension of the 42-year relationship Ray Dalio has had with China and its people, and it is delivered in collaboration with the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA), the Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO), and the China-U.S. Exchange Foundation (CUSEF). The mission’s goals are to promote high quality people-to-people exchanges between nations, advance ocean literacy and scientific understanding, and equip participants with the skills to communicate the importance of our shared ocean to broader audiences.

Expanding Access to Ocean Science and Education

The China 2026 program represents a milestone in OceanX’s global engagement efforts, creating new opportunities for students and researchers to access hands-on learning at sea. Participants from the United States and China will take part in a structured program designed to build practical knowledge, develop interpersonal connections, and strengthen individual capabilities in ocean science, operations, and communication.

“At this time of great conflict in the world, I believe more than ever in the power of people-to-people exchanges to create mutual understanding” said Ray Dalio, Founder of OceanX. “Understanding the ocean is a shared interest for both the U.S. and China—and for the scientists and students who are on this joint mission. It is a thrill to see them working together.”

Hands-On Learning Across Science, Operations, and Media

The program delivers a structured curriculum that combines lectures, workshops, and applied learning experiences across three focus areas:

  • Marine Exploration: Ocean data collection methods, ecosystem observation, and introductions to oceanographic research tools
  • Operations: Life aboard a research vessel, including equipment demonstrations such as ROV operations, water sampling, and microscopy
  • Media & Communication: Science communication and media production training to support clearer public understanding of ocean issues

Participants will develop individual and small-group projects as part of the program, focused on applying knowledge gained throughout the voyage. They will also forge new connections and build mutual understanding with their peers.

“Understanding the ocean requires both scientific insight and the ability to communicate it clearly,” said Vincent Pieribone, Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer of OceanX. “This program is designed to give participants exposure to the tools, technologies, and storytelling approaches that are shaping how ocean science is conducted and shared.”

Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Leaders

By combining advanced marine technology, scientific research, and immersive storytelling, OceanX is working to broaden access to ocean discovery and inspire future generations to engage with ocean science.

“A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 represents an important opportunity to support ocean education and public awareness,” said Ms. Lyu Tin, director of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs, Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA).

“This initiative highlights the importance of continued investment in ocean science education and capacity building,” said Prof. Huang Wei, Chinese Chief Scientist for the mission and research at Second Institute of Oceanography (SIO).

A Shared Voyage: OceanX China 2026 supports OceanX’s mission to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential through science and education, while advancing ocean literacy and long-term stewardship.
Hashtag: #OceanX

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

About OceanX

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to help transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit and follow OceanX on , , (formerly Twitter), , , and .

XPENG Announces Vehicle Delivery Results for March and First Quarter 2026

GUANGZHOU, China, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — XPeng Inc. (“XPENG” or the “Company,” NYSE: XPEV and HKEX: 9868), a leading global AI mobility technology company, today announced its vehicle delivery results for March and the first quarter of 2026.

In March 2026, XPENG delivered a total of 27,415 vehicles, representing an 80% increase over the prior month. In the first quarter of 2026, XPENG delivered 62,682 vehicles.

On March 25, 2026, XPENG introduced a three-year strategy for Latin America and officially entered the Mexican market, marking a major milestone in its global expansion. Under this strategy, the Company plans to launch both pure electric and range-extended electric models in 2027, laying the groundwork for broader market coverage and targeting a leading position in the region by 2028.

About XPENG

XPENG is a leading Chinese Smart EV company that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets Smart EVs that appeal to the large and growing base of technology-savvy middle-class consumers. Its mission is to become a smart technology company trusted and loved by users worldwide. In order to optimize its customers’ mobility experience, XPENG develops in-house its full-stack advanced driver-assistance system technology and in-car intelligent operating system, as well as core vehicle systems including powertrain and the electrical/electronic architecture. XPENG is headquartered in Guangzhou, China, with main offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Silicon Valley and San Diego. The Company’s Smart EVs are mainly manufactured at its plants in Zhaoqing and Guangzhou, Guangdong province. For more information, please visit https://www.xpeng.com/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about XPENG’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: XPENG’s goal and strategies; XPENG’s expansion plans; XPENG’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; the trends in, and size of, China’s EV market; XPENG’s expectations regarding demand for, and market acceptance of, its products and services; XPENG’s expectations regarding its relationships with customers, suppliers, third-party service providers, strategic partners and other stakeholders; general economic and business conditions; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in XPENG’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and XPENG does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

Contacts:

For Investor Enquiries:

IR Department
XPeng Inc.
Email: ir@xiaopeng.com

Jenny Cai
Piacente Financial Communications
Tel: +1 212 481 2050 / +86 10 6508 0677
Email: xpeng@tpg-ir.com

For Media Enquiries:

PR Department
XPeng Inc.
Email: pr@xiaopeng.com

The 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 Torch Relay: 74 Torchbearers Light Up Sanya’s Coast

SANYA, China, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On 30 March 2026, the torch relay for the 6th Asian Beach Games Sanya 2026 (hereinafter referred to as the Games or Sanya 2026) was held in Sanya. The relay, themed “Passing on Friendship, Meeting in Sanya”, featured three core segments: the flame lighting ceremony, the torch relay starting ceremony, and the flame return ceremony. A total of 74 torchbearers ran in relay along approximately 10.5 kilometres of Sanya Bay, building excitement for the upcoming Games.

In the morning, the flame lighting ceremony took place at Sanya’s southern cauldron, originally built for the 11th Asian Games. After the starting ceremony, the first torchbearer, CHANG Yani, the Paris Olympic Games women’s synchronised 3-metre springboard diving champion, set off. “With the vast sea right beside me, the feeling is truly special,” she said.

The relay route innovatively combined beach, road, and maritime segments, passing by multiple venues of Sanya 2026 and showcasing the city’s unique coastal scenery. The torch was relayed by several Olympic champions, including SHI Zhiyong (weightlifting), LIU Shiwen (women’s table tennis team), JIANG Ranxin (shooting), and QI Guangpu (freestyle skiing aerials).

Along the route, spectators also enjoyed water and cultural performances, including jet-ski stunts, flyboarding, Li brocade fashion shows, bamboo pole dances, Qiong opera, and Yazhou folk songs. At the Sanya International Yachting Center, a robotics lion dance and drumming performance integrated technology with traditional elements.

CAO Shoubin, Operations Director of the Sanya 2026 Torch Relay Team, stated that the event adhered to the principles of “green, shared, open, and integrity”, allowing the world to witness Sanya’s natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant energy.

Sanya 2026 will be held from 22 to 30 April 2026. As Asia’s highest-level beach sports event, it is also the first major international multi-sport event hosted in Hainan after the Free Trade Port’s operational opening. This edition of the Games will feature 14 sports, 15 disciplines, and 62 events, awarding 62 gold medals.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTPWNnP_aAY

Lao Brewery Company Supports Hailstorm-Affected Communities in Vientiane

A picture of Water and other supplies were delivered to people in need. (Photo by Lao Brewery Company)

Lao Brewery Company has provided emergency assistance to communities in Sikhottabong and Naxaithong districts following severe hailstorms that caused damage to homes and property on March 22.

On March 26, a company delegation, together with representatives from its affiliated organisations, delivered 5,000 packs of drinking water and beverages to support affected families. The donation, valued at more than LAK 230 million (USD 10,500), was handed over through local authorities in Sikhottabong district.

The support focused on ensuring access to safe drinking water and addressing immediate needs in impacted areas. Assistance was distributed through district administrations, the Lao Red Cross, and military units, as well as directly to village authorities across affected communities.

Several villages in Sikhottabong district received larger allocations, while additional support was provided to multiple villages in Naxaithong district. The distribution was carried out in coordination with local officials to reach households most affected by the storm.

The initiative forms part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support communities during emergencies, with a focus on immediate relief and recovery support in coordination with relevant authorities.

 

LITFINCON Announces European Debut: Global Litigation Finance Conference Series Comes to Amsterdam

Two-Day Summit at Rosewood Amsterdam, October 7–8, 2026, to Convene the World’s Leading Litigation Funders, Law Firms, General Counsels, and Institutional Investors

AMSTERDAM, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LITFINCON, the global litigation finance conference series created by Silstone Capital, today announced the launch of LITFINCON Europe, a two-day summit bringing the world’s most influential litigation finance community together in Amsterdam on October 7–8, 2026. The event will be held at Rosewood Amsterdam, one of the city’s most distinguished luxury hotels, marking LITFINCON’s formal entry into the European market. The Rosewood Amsterdam provides a fitting backdrop for the conference as the historic building once served as Amsterdam’s Palace of Justice – the city’s main courthouse. LITFINCON Europe will reestablish this venue as a vibrant hub for legal dialogue and networking.

Rosewood Hotel, Amsterdam
Rosewood Hotel, Amsterdam

LITFINCON Europe follows the series’ debut events in Houston and the upcoming inaugural Asia edition at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on June 4, 2026. The European edition expands LITFINCON into the world’s most dynamic litigation finance regulatory environment, as the UK, EU, and individual member states grapple with transformative questions about disclosure requirements, funder returns, and the future of third-party funding across the continent.

 “The regulatory environment is evolving rapidly across the UK and EU, capital is flowing into the space at an unprecedented rate, and the demand for high-quality, senior dialogue has never been higher,” said Robert Le, Co-Founder of Siltstone Capital.

Conference Program
Across eleven panels over two days, LITFINCON Europe moves from the macro to the granular — opening with a global market overview before examining the regulatory divergence reshaping how funders, law firms, general counsels, and institutional investors operate across the UK, EU, and US. The program addresses the structural mechanics of European deal-making, including the distinct dynamics of loser-pays cost regimes, ATE insurance integration, and portfolio financing, alongside deep dives into collective redress, international arbitration, and cross-border enforcement.

The second day turns to the investment and innovation questions defining the industry’s next chapter: how institutional allocators — pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and family offices — are assessing European litigation finance funds; the convergence of ATE insurance and third-party funding; the Unified Patent Court’s emergence as a major new venue for funded IP disputes; and the competitive implications of AI adoption under GDPR and EU AI Act constraints. The conference closes with an unscripted, 75-minute Candid Conversations session — no slides, no prepared remarks — where industry veterans reflect honestly on what Europe gets right, wrong, and differently from the rest of the world.

Venue: Rosewood Amsterdam
Rosewood Amsterdam occupies a series of five interconnected 19th-century palace buildings along the Herengracht, one of Amsterdam’s most storied canal rings. Its location in the heart of Amsterdam’s historic center positions it as one of Europe’s premier settings for high-level conferences and private events.

“LITFINCON has built its reputation on bringing the right people into the right room. The Rosewood hotel in Amsterdam reflects the standard we set for every event in this series — an environment where senior professionals can have honest, substantive conversations away from the noise,” said Jim Batson, CIO – Legal Finance, Siltstone Capital.

Sponsorship and Participation
Sponsorship packages, speaking opportunities, and registration for LITFINCON Europe 2026 are now available.

For sponsorship, speaking, and registration for LITFINCON Europe, contact: info@litfincon.com or visit www.litfinconeurope.com.

For sponsorship, speaking, and registration for LITFINCON Asia, contact: info@litfincon.com or visit www.litfinconasia.com

About LITFINCON
LITFINCON is the premier global conference series dedicated to the continued evolution of litigation finance as an institutional asset class.  Convening the world’s leading funders, law firms, institutional investors, general counsels, and legal minds, LITFINCON serves as the platform for substantive dialogue, capital formation, and strategic connectivity across the global legal finance ecosystem. Created by Siltstone Capital, LITFINCON originated in Houston and has rapidly scaled into a multi-city global series spanning the United States, Asia, and Europe. LITFINCON Asia will take place on June 4, 2026 at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and LITFINCON Europe will take place on October 7–8, 2026 at Rosewood Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Media Contact
Jacob Varghese
LITFINCON
info@litfincon.com
www.litfinconeurope.com
www.litfinconasia.com

NSSK Closes Series IV Funds at JPY 250 Billion Hardcap, More Than 2x Oversubscribed

Fund substantially allocated within four months of launch; Thrive Alternatives served as exclusive advisor

SINGAPORE, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK), a leading Japan-focused private equity firm, today announced the final close of NSSK Series IV Funds with aggregate commitments totaling JPY 250 billion (approximately USD 1.7 billion) at the hard cap.

The NSSK Series IV Funds were more than 2x oversubscribed, drawing strong demand from a broad global and Japanese investor base spanning sovereign wealth funds, public and private pension funds, financial institutions, endowments, foundations, family offices, and asset managers.

The fundraise was substantially allocated within four months of launch, underscoring the conviction of the global investor community in NSSK’s differentiated approach to value creation in the Japanese mid-market. Thrive Alternatives acted as the exclusive advisor to NSSK in connection with the NSSK Series IV fundraise.

The funds will continue NSSK’s control-oriented buyout strategy in the Japanese middle market, targeting businesses with strong cash flow, leading niche market positions, and resilience across economic cycles. The firm emphasizes proprietary sourcing, particularly in under-penetrated regional markets and business succession situations in both private and public companies, leveraging its local network to access opportunities with limited competition. Value creation is driven through NSSK’s proprietary NVP® framework, combining organic growth initiatives with an increasing focus on buy-and-build strategies to build scale and drive efficiencies.

The response from investors to NSSK Series IV Funds has been exceptional and reflects the strength of the platform we have built over the past decade and the herculean market leading performance of our management and employee partners. Japan’s private equity market continues to offer a compelling and opportunity set, and we are well positioned to deliver differentiated returns for our limited partners. We are grateful for the trust our investors have placed in us and look forward to putting this capital to work.

— Jun Tsusaka, CEO and CIO, Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK)

“The oversubscription and speed of the NSSK Series IV Funds close are a testament to what NSSK has built. Investors recognized both the quality of the team and the structural tailwinds in the Japanese private equity market. It was a privilege for Thrive to support NSSK on this milestone raise, and we look forward to continuing our partnership.”

— Robin Tyrangiel, Co-Founder, Thrive Alternatives

The close of the Series IV funds positions NSSK among the largest independent private equity franchises focused on the Japanese market. The firm will continue to target investments in companies where its operational expertise and network can drive measurable value creation.

About NSSK

Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK) is a Tokyo-based private equity firm established in 2014, focused exclusively on the Japanese mid-market. NSSK pursues control-oriented investments across business succession, carve-outs, management buyouts, and special situations, targeting market-leading niche businesses with strong cash flow and resilience. The firm partners closely with management teams to drive transformation from good to great through its proprietary, systematic value creation framework NVP®, combining operational improvement with selective buy-and-build strategies. NSSK has been named Private Equity Firm of the Year in Japan by Private Equity International five times, and Mid-Market Firm of the Year in Asia in 2023. The firm manages capital on behalf of both global and Japanese investors including sovereign wealth funds, public and private pension funds, financial institutions, endowments, foundations, family offices, and asset managers.

About Thrive Alternatives

Thrive Alternatives is a global, tech-enabled private markets advisory firm that partners with leading alternative investment managers to raise institutional capital. Headquartered in Singapore with presence in all major Asian markets, Europe and the U.S., Thrive Alternatives provides strategic fundraising advice, investor access, and transaction support across private equity, private credit and real assets. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep industry networks, and cross-border expertise, Thrive Alternatives helps clients navigate the complexities of global private capital markets and access institutional investors worldwide.

 

Nine New Spider Species Found in Laos Caves

Picture 44-46 are the spiders' habits and sizes compare to human, and their behaviour of carrying eggs to increase survival chances. Picture 188, 189, and 191 are habitus of live spiders from Vangvieng region, male (188) and females (189 and 191) from Tham Phoukham. (Photo by Zootaxa from Magnolia Press)

Scientists have discovered nine new spider species in limestone caves across Laos, highlighting the country’s caves as important but fragile ecosystems.

The research was carried out by scientists from the Senckenberg Research Institute in Germany and the National University of Laos, and published in the journal Zootaxa. The study identified species across three genera and two families, and recorded the Ochyroceratidae family in Laos for the first time.

Many of the spiders were found in caves in Vientiane, Khammouane, and Champasak provinces, with seven species located in the Vang Vieng karst area, a key hotspot for cave biodiversity.

One of the newly discovered species, Speocera inthy, was named after Lao businessman Inthy Deuansavanh, in recognition of his contributions to eco-tourism and environmental conservation. He is the founder of Inthira Group and Green Discovery Laos, as well as projects such as The Rock Viewpoint at Phou Pha Marn and La ForĂªt. 

Researchers said the naming acknowledges efforts to promote and protect natural sites, including cave and karst landscapes where these species are found.

These spiders are specially adapted to life in total darkness, where food is scarce. One species, Sinoderces phoukham, has no eyes, the first eyeless species ever recorded in its family, showing long-term evolution in cave environments.

Most of the spiders are extremely small, measuring about one millimeter. Researchers observed some females carrying eggs and even hatchlings in their mouths, a behavior that helps increase survival in low-nutrient conditions.

The spiders build very delicate webs and cannot survive outside caves, meaning they are limited to very small, specific habitats. Some species may exist in only a single cave.

Scientists warn that these ecosystems are under growing pressure from tourism and limestone quarrying, particularly in Vang Vieng. They stress the need for conservation, as many species remain undiscovered and could be lost before they are even documented.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China


SANYA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – On March 30, the torch relay of the 6th Asian Beach Games took place in Sanya, China. A total of 74 torchbearers ran a roughly 10.5-kilometer relay along Sanya Bay, igniting enthusiasm as they passed golden beaches, city streets, and the sea.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China
Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China

With the theme “Passing Friendship, Meeting in Sanya, the relay route creatively integrates three settings: beach, road and sea. This design fully showcased Sanya’s unique coastal scenery and highlighted the distinctive charm of an island-based sports event.

Chang Yani, champion of the women’s synchronized 3m springboard at the Paris Olympic Games, was the first torchbearer. “Facing the vast ocean and running with the torch on the beach—this feeling is really special,” Chang said. Liu Shiwen, gold medalist in the women’s table tennis team at the Tokyo Olympic Games, completed about 2.5 kilometers of the relay by boat, gliding over the waves and showcasing the beauty of Sanya from the sea.

Along the route, four themed cultural performances energized the relay. Dynamic water sports demonstrations included jet ski stunts, flyboarding, freestyle kayaking, and wake surfing. Hainan’s local culture was presented through Li brocade fashion shows, bamboo pole dances, Qiong opera, and Yazhou folk songs. A performance combining robotic lion dances and drumming further showcased the innovative vitality of the Asian Beach Games.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China
Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China

“The Sanya Asian Beach Games is the first international multi-sport event held since the full implementation of independent customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port. It will serve as a grand sports gathering for Asian youth to compete and foster friendship, and a cultural gala where Asian civilizations exchange, learn from, and shine alongside one another,” said Song Luzeng, vice president of the Olympic Council of Asia.

The 6th Asian Beach Games will take place in Sanya, China from April 22 to 30. A total of 1,790 athletes from 45 National Olympic Committees, including those of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, have registered to compete. The Games will feature 14 sports, including beach volleyball, beach handball, and teqball, with 62 gold medals up for grabs.
Hashtag: #AsianBeachGames #AsianBeachGames2026 #Sanya #Hainan #TorchRelay

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