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Complete Genomics unveils DNBSEQ-T1+ and DNBSEQ-E25 Flash at AGBT 2025 General Meeting

MARCO ISLAND, Fla., Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Complete Genomics, a leading innovator in genomic sequencing, today unveiled its latest high-performance sequencing solutions at the 2025 Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) General Meeting. The newly introduced DNBSEQ-T1+* and DNBSEQ-E25 Flash* are designed to deliver speed, flexibility, and efficiency, empowering researchers with faster, high-quality genomic data.

DNBSEQ-T1+: Mid-Throughput Sequencing with Industry-Leading Speed

The DNBSEQ-T1+ is a next-generation mid-throughput sequencer that completes a paired end 150 sequencing workflow in just 24 hours with Q40 accuracy. With three flow cell formats, two to four addressable lanes on each flow cell, along with dual independent flow cell operation, the DNBSEQ-T1+ provides increased data output with reduced turnaround time which enables increased lab efficiency and flexibility. With a throughput range of 25–1,200 Gb, a maximum capacity exceeding 1 Tb daily, DNBSEQ-T1+ allows laboratories to reduce the time to result that is important in a range of laboratory settings. The DNBSEQ-T1+ integrated auto-DNB making and loading capabilities enables a straightforward, user-friendly workflow. This design offers the flexibility to process multiple samples independently without requiring barcodes, leverage independent flow cell lanes and start the sequencing workflow in less than ten minutes with minimal hands-on time.

“The DNBSEQ-T1+ brings a new level of efficiency, output and cost to mid-throughput sequencing, offering output and pricing typical of previous higher output systems while providing laboratories the speed and flexibility needed for a wide range of genomic applications – such as Whole Genome Sequencing, Single Cell, Spatial, Oncology, Rare Disease and Metagenomics – all within a streamlined, user-friendly workflow,” said Rob Tarbox, VP of Product and Marketing at Complete Genomics.

The newly launched DNBSEQ-T1+ mid-throughput sequencer joins the established DNBSEQ-T7 high-throughput, DNBSEQ-G99 and DNBSEQ-E25 low-throughput platforms in achieving sub-24-hour sequencing run times for PE150 read lengths. The 24-hour sequencing framework across the sequencing portfolio enables laboratories to maximize their output while retaining flexibility and control across various laboratory settings.

In addition, the DNBSEQ-T1+ has optimized the internal design of the instrument, significantly reducing the number of reagents required for sequencing. Additionally, coupled with high-density flow cells, DNBSEQ-T1+ has reduced the cost per Gb. This allows laboratories, even small or mid-sized, to achieve the cost per Gb of a production-scale sequencer when using this benchtop sequencer. DNBSEQ-T1+ is currently available for pre-order globally.

DNBSEQ-E25 Flash: AI-Enhanced Sequencing in Under Two Hours

The DNBSEQ-E25 Flash is an upgraded instrument from its existing portable DNBSEQ-E25 sequencer. It redefines portable sequencing with AI-driven enhancements. Building on self-luminescence technology and a CMOS-based flow cell, this next-generation sequencer leverages AI-optimized protein engineering for enhanced signal intensity and precision.

An AI-powered base calling system deployed on an edge device powered by the NVIDIA Jetson platform accelerates sequencing to new speeds. A single-substrate injection eliminates the need for traditional dual-luciferase systems, reducing cycle times to just one minute and enabling SE50 sequencing in under two hours.

Complete Genomics at AGBT 2025

Complete Genomics will host a variety of activities at AGBT 2025 to celebrate its introduction of two new products, including live instrument demos, morning presentations in Suite Osprey 6, and a Bronze 4 workshop talk. Attendees can explore the power of DNBSEQ-T1+ and DNBSEQ-E25 Flash for applications including clinical WGS, WES, single-cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and infectious disease.

Leveraging NVIDIA Parabricks, rapid analysis benchmarking can be performed on data from DNBSEQ-T1+, DNBSEQ-T7, and DNBSEQ-G400 using GPU acceleration.

Jason Fenwick from NVIDIA will present on benchmarking Parabricks workflows on DNBSEQ platforms and discuss the utilization of NVIDIA’s RAPIDS libraries and the Rapids-singlecell library from scverse in STOmics spatial transcriptomics analysis.

Bronze 4 Workshop: Advancing Genomics Discoveries with DNBSEQ-T1+

Location: Calusa Ballroom 1-7

Date: Feb. 25 | 3:20 – 3:35 p.m.
Speaker: Piotr Mieczkowski, Ph.D., Professor, UNC Chapel Hill

For the full AGBT 2025 schedule, visit www.completegenomics.com/agbt2025

About Complete Genomics

Complete Genomics has been a leader in high-throughput, cost-effective sequencing technology since 2005. With more than 9,400 publications, its innovative sequencing solutions continue to advance genomic research worldwide.

* For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

Seeing Machines names Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America as a referral partner to drive accelerated sales of Guardian Generation 3 in The Americas

CANBERRA, Australia, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Seeing Machines Limited (AIM: SEE), the advanced computer vision technology company that designs AI-powered operator monitoring systems to improve transport safety, announces that Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc. (“MEAA”) has signed a Referral Agreement (“Agreement”) with the Company that will allow Seeing Machines to leverage MEAA’s significant Aftermarket distribution network and customer base across The Americas. Following Mitsubishi Electric Mobility Corporations’s (“MELMB”) recent strategic investment into Seeing Machines, this Agreement will help to accelerate sales of the Company’s Guardian Generation 3 AI-powered driver monitoring solution, the latest generation of driver safety technology recently launched globally.

Seeing Machines and MEAA sign Referral Agreement
Seeing Machines and MEAA sign Referral Agreement

MEAA, a US affilitate company of MELMB, is a recognised leader in the  manufacture, marketing and sales of electrical and electronic equipment targeting a range of industries including transport. With an enviable customer base and expertise across the commercial vehicles segment, MEAA is extremely well positioned to support Seeing Machines as it penetrates the large  telematics and connected vehicle market in The Americas with its industry leading driver safety solution, Guardian Generation 3.

The Referral Agreement will facilitate the joint pursuit of business where MEAA has existing commercial relationships across its transport and logistics segment in the region. With access to operators covering over 1,000,000 individual vehicles, the opportunity is significant and MEAA has already seen strong initial interest in the potential of Guardian Generation 3 to enhance safety across these fleets.

In the immediate term, Seeing Machines will leverage its US based sales force to support MEAA’s efforts across The Americas and, as opportunities progress,  will be provided qualified leads that they will finalise directly. Leveraging MEAA’s deep relationships across the segment, this highly complementary collaboration aims to signfiicantly reduce the traditionally long sales lead times associated with the sale of a highly technical product such as Guardian.

Masahiro Kaji, President & CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc., commented: “MEAA has supplied our solutions to commercial vehicles across The Americas for over 20 years. We are excited to leverage our large customer base to accelerate installations of Guardian Generation 3 and we believe ultimately protect more drivers from the risks associated with distraction and drowsiness. I am delighted to see MEAA play such an integral role in the collaboration between Seeing Machines and Mitsubishi Electric Mobility Corporation and on a personal note, I am proud to be working on this project with my team. We are very motiviated to succeed and make a meaningful impact on our communities as we beleive the more Guardian units we sell, the safer our roads will be for everyone.”

Paul McGlone, CEO of Seeing Machines, added: “Further to the recent collaboration with Mitsubishi Electric Mobility Corporation, we have commenced work to rapidly develop and expand our respective businesses. While there is a strong focus on Automotive in Japan, the Aftermarket opportunity that we are pursuing together with Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc., is immediate, material and strategic for our business. The Americas present an incredibly large and important market for driver safety technology and having intimate customer insights and existing relationships to leverage will be critical to the successful positioning and acceptance of our class-leading Guardian solution.”  

About Seeing Machines (AIM: SEE), a global company founded in 2000 and headquartered in Australia, is an industry leader in vision-based monitoring technology that enable machines to see, understand and assist people. Seeing Machines’ technology portfolio of AI algorithms, embedded processing and optics, power products that need to deliver reliable real-time understanding of vehicle operators. The technology spans the critical measurement of where a driver is looking, through to classification of their cognitive state as it applies to accident risk. Reliable “driver state” measurement is the end-goal of Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) technology. Seeing Machines develops DMS technology to drive safety for Automotive, Commercial Fleet, Off-road and Aviation. The company has offices in Australia, USA, Europe and Asia, and supplies technology solutions and services to industry leaders in each market vertical. www.seeingmachines.com

ZTE again makes prestigious CDP A List for leading climate action, reinforcing global climate leadership

SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, has once again been recognized with the prestigious CDP A score for leading climate action in CDP’s 2024 disclosures. The company achieved A score across multiple categories, including Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, emissions reduction initiatives, low-carbon products, environmental policies, and the disclosure of risks and opportunities. This accomplishment underscores ZTE’s unwavering commitment to environmental transparency, sustainable practices, and its core competitiveness in green development.

ZTE again makes prestigious CDP A List for leading climate action, reinforcing global climate leadership
ZTE again makes prestigious CDP A List for leading climate action, reinforcing global climate leadership

CDP is a global non-profit that runs the world’s environmental disclosure system for companies, cities, states and regions. CDP holds the largest environmental database in the world, and CDP scores are widely used to drive investment and procurement decisions. In 2024, over 24,800 companies, representing two thirds of global market capitalization reported through CDP on climate change, forests and water security. Companies featured on the climate A List are recognized as key players in mitigating climate change through formulating robust strategy and taking bold actions.

As a Driver of Digital Economy, ZTE leverages core digital technologies such as 5G, big data, cloud computing, and AI to pave a green digital pathway and contribute to the global economic transition towards decarbonization.

ZTE again makes prestigious CDP A List for leading climate action, reinforcing global climate leadership
ZTE again makes prestigious CDP A List for leading climate action, reinforcing global climate leadership

For Green Operation, ZTE has developed green smart campuses to achieve low-carbon development through eco-friendly office practices, research and development, and green manufacturing. In 2024, the company implemented several energy-saving and emission-reduction initiatives, resulting in an absolute electricity savings of 45 million kWh and an 13.4% year-over-year reduction in Scope 1 & 2 carbon emissions. Additionally, ZTE’s photovoltaic systems generated 30 million kWh of electricity annually. Its self-developed ”Carbon Visibility App” covers 83% of major carbon emission categories and data.

For Green Supply Chain, ZTE, utilizing the SMART Model, provides systematic carbon reduction guidance across five dimensions: Strategy, Management, Accounting, Reduction, and Transmission. In 2024, the company guided 100 suppliers in completing organizational-level carbon audits and assisted 10 suppliers in setting carbon reduction targets and measures. Furthermore, ZTE collaborated with over 160 environmental service providers worldwide to establish a global green recycling network.

For Green Digital Infrastructure, ZTE’s end-to-end green solutions have been deployed across more than 30 networks worldwide, covering over 1.5 million sites and 250,000 data center cabinets, helping global operators save over 10 billion kWh of electricity annually. In 2024, the company’s system products achieved an 8.39% reduction in physical intensity during the use and maintenance phase, while terminal products recorded a 5.02% year-over-year decrease in absolute emissions across their full lifecycle. As of 2024, ZTE has conducted carbon footprint assessments for 154 products, encompassing all product categories.

For Green Empowerment, ZTE leverages its ”Digital Nebula” architecture and precision green cloud-network solutions to drive sustainable transformation. Collaborating with over 2,000 industry partners, the company has implemented innovative 5G+ green practices across 15 key sectors, including steel, electronics manufacturing, transportation, and energy. These efforts have led to the creation of more than 100 innovative application scenarios, accelerating digital transformation, energy efficiency, and emission reduction across industries.

With its continued leadership in green development, ZTE’s near-and long-term targets under the SBTi net-zero criteria were officially in April 2024. This makes ZTE the first large-scale ICT tech company in China to receive dual approvals from SBTi while also securing a place on the CDP A List for climate leadership for two consecutive years.

Notably, ZTE has been awarded the EcoVadis Gold Medal for excellence in sustainability, ranking among the top 4% of companies globally and the top 2% within the manufacture of communication equipment industry. Furthermore, ZTE has been included in the FTSE4Good Index Series for the ninth consecutive year, and selected as a constituent of the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index Series for the 13th year. The company has won two accolades at the 6th BDO ESG Awards 2024: the “Theme Award” and the “Outstanding ESG Performance of H-Share Companies”.

Looking ahead, ZTE remains committed to advancing its green initiatives, joining hands with global partners to build a sustainable and low-carbon industrial ecosystem, and shaping digital innovation for a sustainable future.

MEDIA INQURIES:
ZTE.press.release@zte.com.cn 

XCMG Starts 2025 in Full Speed: Delivers Cutting-Edge Machinery to Global Customers

XUZHOU, China, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — XCMG Machinery (“XCMG”, SHE:000425), a global leader in construction and mining machinery, has kicked off 2025 with a series of high-profile product deliveries to customers worldwide. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and international growth, XCMG has shipped hundreds of state-of-the-art machines, including mining equipment, aerial work platforms, new energy loaders, high-end commercial vehicles, and concrete machinery, to key markets across the globe.

XCMG Starts 2025 in Full Speed: Delivers Cutting-Edge Machinery to Global Customers.
XCMG Starts 2025 in Full Speed: Delivers Cutting-Edge Machinery to Global Customers.

Expanding the Mining Market with Smart, Green Solutions

XCMG shipped a batch of its high-end open-pit mining equipment, valued at 318 million RMB. The shipment includes 90-ton, 135-ton, and 400-ton mining excavators, as well as 130-ton mining trucks, destined for major mining sites such as Fortescue in Australia, the Simandou iron ore project in Africa, and several sites in South America.

Additionally, XCMG delivered its first batch of underground mining machinery for 2025 lately, including advanced models such as XUD135, XUL305A and XUL307. With breakthroughs in remote control and autonomous driving technologies, XCMG’s underground mining equipment has been exported to over 10 countries in South America, Central America, and Southeast Asia, with sales exceeding 1,000 units.

Leading the Charge in New Energy Wheel Loaders

The world’s largest pure electric wheel loader, the XC9108-EV, and the popular XC968-EV, are en route to a mining site in Southeast Asia. The XC9108-EV features a fully self-developed control system for enhanced efficiency, while equipped with dual-series motor drive, reducing energy consumption by 70% and increasing efficiency by over 20%. A 700 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery supports ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% capacity in under one hour, ensuring uninterrupted high-intensity operations.

Aerial Work Platforms: Powering Global Construction Projects

XCMG’s aerial work platforms are set to support construction projects worldwide with hundreds of units delivered to North America and Europe. The flagship XGS40K telescopic boom lift has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional working height, reach, and load capacity, which is ideal for the construction, bridge maintenance, shipyard, petrochemical facilities and leasing industries.

High-End Commercial Vehicles: Redefining Performance and Sustainability

At XCMG’s high-end intelligent commercial vehicle production base, 300 heavy-duty trucks are ready for export to premium overseas markets. This shipment includes a variety of dump trucks and tractors, powered by both traditional fuel and pure electric systems. Designed to meet local emission standards and withstand complex working conditions, these vehicles are renowned for their high performance, reliability, and safety.

Concrete Equipment: Building the Future in the Middle East

XCMG has also shipped a batch of complete sets of concrete machinery, including pump trucks and mixers, to various countries in the Middle East. These machines will play a pivotal role in local municipal infrastructure projects, contributing to the region’s development.

The concrete pump trucks feature intelligent, automated operations and third-generation intelligent boom technology, improving response speed by 30% and enhancing construction efficiency. The mixers utilize advanced drum technology, ensuring superior safety and mixing performance.

WiMi Hologram Cloud Inc. to Hold Extraordinary General Meeting on March 25, 2025

BEIJING, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WiMi Hologram Cloud Inc. (Nasdaq: WIMI) (“WiMi” or the “Company”), a leading AR services provider in China, today announced that it will (i) terminate the Deposit Agreement dated March 20, 2020, among the Company, JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. (the “Depositary”), and the holders of American depositary shares (the “ADSs”) from time to time, effective April 2, 2025, and (ii) hold its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (the “EGM”) at Room#1508, 4th Building, Zhubang 2000 Business Center, No. 97, Balizhuang Xili, Chaoyang District, Beijing on March 25, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. Beijing Time. The Company’s board of directors has fixed February 24, 2025, as the record date (the “Record Date”) for determining the shareholders entitled to receive notice of the extraordinary general meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof. Holders of the Company’s Class A ordinary shares (the “Class A ordinary shares”) and Class B ordinary shares (the “Class B ordinary shares”), par value US$0.0001 per share (collective, the “ordinary shares”) of record at the close of business on the Record Date are entitled to attend and vote at the EGM. Holders of American Depositary Shares (the “ADSs”) who wish to exercise their voting rights for the underlying Class B ordinary shares must act through JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., the depositary of the Company’s ADS program.

On or about February 24, 2025, the Depositary of the Company’s American depositary receipts (the “ADRs”), will distribute to all holders and beneficial owners of the Company’s ADRs a notification regarding the termination of ADR facility for the Company’s ADSs pursuant to the Deposit Agreement. The effective date of the termination of the Deposit Agreement will be April 2, 2025 (the “Effective Date”). On the Effective Date, holders of ADSs will have their ADSs automatically cancelled and would be entitled to receive the corresponding underlying Deposited Securities (the “Mandatory Exchange”) at a rate of two (2) Class B ordinary shares for each ADS cancelled, subject to further adjustment in accordance with the share consolidation (defined below) described below.

Subject to shareholder approval at the EGM and concurrent to the Mandatory Exchange, a consolidation of the Company’s Shares at a ratio of one (1) consolidated ordinary share for every twenty (20) existing ordinary share (the “share consolidation”).  If the share consolidation is approved, on the Effective Date, former ADS holders should expect to receive one (1) consolidated Class B ordinary share for every ten (10) ADS previously held.  If the share consolidation is not approved or delayed, on the Effective Date, former ADS holders should expect to receive two (2) existing Class B ordinary shares for every one (1) ADS previously held.

At the EGM, shareholders will be asked for vote on the following proposals:

(i)    With effect from 5 P.M. on April 2, 2025, Eastern time, (a) every twenty (20) Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each in the Company’s issued and unissued share capital be and are hereby consolidated into one (1) Class A ordinary share (each a “consolidated Class A share”) of a par value of US$0.002, and such consolidated Class A shares shall have the same rights and subject to the same restrictions as the Class A ordinary shares as set out in the Company’s currently effective Second Amended and Restated Memorandum and Articles of Association (the “M&A”), (b) every twenty (20) Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each in the Company’s issued and unissued share capital be and are hereby consolidated into one (1) Class B ordinary share (each a “consolidated Class B share”) of a par value of US$0.002, and such consolidated Class B shares shall have the same rights and subject to the same restrictions as the Class B ordinary shares as set out in the Company’s M&A, and (c) every twenty (20) undesignated shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each in the Company’s unissued share capital be and are hereby consolidated into one (1) share of a par value of US$0.002 (collectively, the “share consolidation”), such that immediately following the share consolidation, the authorized share capital of the Company shall be changed

FROM 

US$50,000 divided into 500,000,000 shares comprising (i) 25,000,000 Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each; (ii) 275,000,000 Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each; and (iii) 200,000,000 shares of a par value of US$0.0001 each of such class or classes (however designated) as the board of directors may determine;

TO

US$50,000 divided into 25,000,000 shares comprising (i) 1,250,000 Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; (ii) 13,750,000 Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; and (iii) 10,000,000 shares of a par value of US$0.002 each of such class or classes (however designated) as the board of directors may determine, and no fractional shares be issued in connection with the share consolidation and the Company’s transfer agent would aggregate all fractional shares and sell them as soon as practicable after the effective time of the share consolidation at the then-prevailing prices on the open market, on behalf of those shareholders who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional share as a result of the share consolidation.

(ii)    Immediately following the share consolidation, the authorized share capital of the Company be increased

FROM US$50,000 divided into 25,000,000 shares comprising (i) 1,250,000 Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; (ii) 13,750,000 Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; and (iii) 10,000,000 shares with a par value of US$0.002 each of such class or classes (however designated) as the board of directors may determine.

TO US$1,500,000 divided into 750,000,000 shares comprising (i) 37,500,000 Class A ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; (ii) 412,500,000 Class B ordinary shares of a par value of US$0.002 each; and (iii) 300,000,000 shares with a par value of US$0.002 each of such class or classes (however designated) as the board of directors may determine.

(the “share capital increase”.)

(iii)    any one or more of Directors of the Company be and is/are hereby authorized to do all such acts and things and execute all such documents, which are ancillary to the share consolidation and share capital increase and of administrative nature, on behalf of the Company, including under seal where applicable, as he/they consider necessary, desirable or expedient to give effect to the foregoing arrangements for the share consolidation and share capital increase; the Company’s registered office provider be instructed to make all necessary filings with the Companies Registry in the Cayman Islands in connection with the share consolidation and share capital increase; and the Company’s share registrar be instructed to update the register of members of the Company and that upon the surrender to the Company of the existing share certificates (if any) that they be cancelled and that any Director be instructed to prepare, sign, seal and deliver on behalf of the Company new share certificates accordingly.

Shareholders and ADS holders may obtain a copy of the Company’s annual report, free of charge, from the Company’s website at http://ir.wimiar.com/ and from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, or by contacting WiMi Hologram Cloud Inc., Room#1508, 4th Building, Zhubang 2000 Business Center, No. 97, Balizhuang Xili, Chaoyang District , telephone: +86-10-5338-4913, email: Pr@wimiar.com 

About WIMI Hologram Cloud Inc.

WiMi Hologram Cloud, Inc.(NASDAQ:WIMI), whose commercial operations began in 2015, operates an integrated holographic AR application platform in China and has built a comprehensive and diversified holographic AR content library among all holographic AR solution providers in China. Its extensive portfolio includes 4,654 AR holographic contents. The company has also achieved a speed of image processing that is 80 percent faster than the industry average. While most peer companies may identify and capture 40 to 50 blocks of image data within a specific space unit, WiMi collects 500 to 550 data blocks.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the 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 the Company’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F and current report on Form 6-K and other documents filed with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable laws.

For more information, please visit http://ir.wimiar.com/

 

ISCA Forms Partnership with Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) to Establish Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification Programme in China


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 February 2025 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) in Suzhou, China, to establish pathways for students in China to pursue the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ). The newly-formed partnership marks the first collaboration with a university in China for ISCA, since the launch of its first ever Representative Office in Nanjing in November 2024.

ISCA Forms Partnership with Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) to Establish Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification Programme in China

ISCA’s Partnership to Nurture Accountancy Talent in China

Under the partnership, eligible undergraduate accounting students from International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) at XJTLU will enjoy exemptions for selected subjects under the Foundation Programme (FP) of the SCAQ. Upon completion of the FP, students will be conferred the Professional Business Accountant (PBA) title, which is the first step in their journey towards becoming a Chartered Accountant of Singapore. The exemptions provide XJTLU accounting students with an accelerated pathway towards a career in professional accountancy, and helps to further foster interest in accountancy as a study of choice in China. In addition, ISCA will award 20 scholarships amongst the top 5% of students annually, which will cover the fees of the FP.

The collaboration between ISCA and XJTLU will be the first stage of a deeper and longer-term partnership between both institutions. Accounting students from IBSS will be connected with companies in China such as Tencent, DBS China, PwC China and the Singapore Nanjing Eco Hi-tech Island (SNECO), who have been recognised as an Accredited Training Organisations (ATO) of ISCA. The network of ATOs in China is expected to grow over the next few years.

Professor Jorg Bley, Dean of IBSS, said: “We are immensely proud that our BA Accounting programme has become the first in China to receive accreditation from ISCA. This milestone not only underscores the global recognition of our programme’s academic rigor and quality but also reflects our commitment to nurturing future-ready accounting professionals who meet international standards. At IBSS, we strive to bridge East and West by providing our students with world-class education and opportunities to excel in a competitive global landscape. The cooperation with ISCA is a testament to our dedication to innovation, excellence, and the continuous pursuit of delivering value to our students and the broader business community.”

The MOU was signed earlier today by Mr Tan Wei Luo, Divisional Director for Qualification, Market & Growth at ISCA, and Professor Jorg Bley, Dean of IBSS at XJTLU’s Suzhou Industrial Park campus. The signing ceremony was attended by leaders from Suzhou Industrial Park, representatives from ISCA and XJTLU, invited guests from the accounting and business sectors in China and Singapore, as well as the inaugural batch of 20 student scholarship recipients from IBSS at XJTLU.

Establishing ISCA’s Presence in China

As part of broader plans to expand ISCA’s presence in China, ISCA will also be launching ISCA Professional Services (PS) Centres in 10 cities around the world by June. These PS centres will serve as a conduit to promote regionalisation and availability of professional services such as sustainability, legal, and other corporate services, to meet the needs of Singaporean businesses in China and vice versa.

The ISCA PS Centre is poised to amplify the demand for professional services and accounting expertise. Hence, our partnership with XJTLU marks a pivotal first step in our strategy designed to nurture and grow a robust pipeline of accounting professionals. This collaboration is essential in addressing the growing needs of the business ecosystem in China.” said Ms Claire Qian, ISCA Chapter Chairperson for Shanghai.

“The cooperation between ISCA and XJTLU will deepen the cooperation and exchanges between China and Singapore in the field of accounting and other professional services,” said Mr Qian Fudan, Director (Performance and Asset Management Division) at the Financial Audit Bureau in Suzhou Industrial Park. “This will ensure the growth of more accounting talent with professional capabilities and global experience to support the vision and goal of building a world-class high-tech park with innovation and excellence.”

Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #DifferenceMakers #西交利物浦大学

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

About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 39,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 9 countries.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.

ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.

ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.

For more information, visit .

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong marks its 20th anniversary with a year of extraordinary experiences and unique events

HONG KONG, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Consistently hailed as one of the world’s finest hotels, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong celebrates twenty years in 2025 with a remarkable array of experiences that underscore its reputation for unmatched excellence in one of Asia’s most thrilling destinations.

ARGO, Asia's 50 Best Bars #9
ARGO, Asia’s 50 Best Bars #9

From stellar cuisine to sublime wellness, world-class bar programmes to a glittering wedding showcase, the hotel’s anniversary year is set to dazzle local and international guests alike with its unique events and activations.

Unforgettable ARGO Nights

A distinctly creative and contemporary cocktail bar, ARGO has won consistent acclaim for its stellar drinks programme and groundbreaking approach to fine drinking. Its ‘Friends of ARGO’ series of pop-ups has become a must-attend in Hong Kong for innovative mixology lovers, but three events in February, May, October are set to shake things up in even more exciting ways.

ARGO MegaFriends now extends the pop-up to a collaboration with no fewer than three guest bars at once. In February, that means Zest from Seoul (#2 in Asia’s 50 Best Bars), Vesper from Bangkok (#13) and Penrose from Kuala Lumpur (#8) will join ARGO’s Beverage Manager Federico Balzarini and his team for a night of cutting-edge cocktails and the finest hospitality.

Star-studded Nights at Lung King Heen and Caprice

On May 23-24, legendary Chinese Executive Chef Chan Yan Tak of Lung King Heen, the world-renowned Cantonese gem, will join hands with Chef Charles Zhang from Jin Jing Ge at Four Seasons Hotel Suzhou. This four-hands event in Suzhou promises to showcase an exquisite interplay of Cantonese and Jiangnan cuisines, celebrating the essence of both culinary traditions.

Later in the year, from September 18–20, Caprice will host an event featuring a lineup of stellar guest chefs from a prestigious global portfolio of restaurants. Each evening, they will join Caprice’s Executive Chef Guillaume Galliot to craft a unique tasting menu. Guests are invited to experience an exquisite blend of diverse culinary traditions and flavours like never before.

The ‘Ultimate Tables’ Package

Guests looking to visit or re-visit the Four Seasons Hong Kong also have the perfect opportunity thanks to Ultimate Tables, an exhilarating new package combining the city’s finest dining with cultural immersion and the hotel’s famed accommodation.

For a minimum two-night stay, the package includes welcome drinks and snacks at the multi award-winning bar ARGO, dinner at Caprice and a dim sum lunch at Lung King Heen, two restaurants which together hold five Michelin stars.

Another feature is access to the hotel’s 45th floor Executive Club which offers spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and complimentary treats throughout the day. Accommodation options for the package include an Executive Harbour View Room with rates starting from *HKD 19,000++ or a Superior Harbour View Suite starting from *HKD 25,500++.

Sublime Wellness

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is equally acclaimed for its wellness offerings and the 20th anniversary will let guests float in tranquillity with Full Moon Floating Sound Baths, as well as new facilities later in the year including Infrared Beds to flush out toxins and a Cold Plunge Pool to restore balance to the nervous system and improve cognitive function. This sensory escape is designed to deepen mindfulness and enhance serenity.

2025 also represents a landmark year for those getting married and the hotel’s Wedding Showcase in February allows for the finest planning for the happiest of days. The showcase allows for inspections of the Grand Ballroom and meetings with up to 30 of the city’s esteemed vendors.

Regional Vice President and General Manager Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, Christian Poda relayed his thoughts on the hotel’s landmark anniversary:

“We are thrilled to be celebrating 20 years of Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, but this is still a young hotel! We have been groundbreaking and bold since the day we opened and continue to innovate every single day, never resting in our efforts to redefine luxury hospitality. For all of us, that means fostering a true sense of belonging, ensuring that every single guest feels valued and special through thoughtful, human-centred service.”

*Price is subject to 10% service charge and 3% hotel tax.

Three-Michelin-Starred French Restaurant Caprice
Three-Michelin-Starred French Restaurant Caprice

Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong by the Harbour
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong by the Harbour

In-Room Breakfast at a Harbour View Room
In-Room Breakfast at a Harbour View Room

The World's First Three-Michelin-Starred Cantonese Restaurant
The World’s First Three-Michelin-Starred Cantonese Restaurant

Fractal Achieves AWS Premier Tier Services Partner Status

NEW YORK, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fractal (www.fractal.ai), a global provider of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics solutions to Fortune® 500 companies, announced today that it has achieved the AWS Premier Tier Services Partner status within the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Partner Network (APN). This recognition is awarded to only a select few partners and recognizes Fractal’s expertise and commitment to delivering cloud solutions and services to its global clients. 

Achieving the Premier Tier status differentiates Fractal as an AWS Partner which has demonstrated expertise and success in helping customers design, architect, build, migrate, and manage their workloads on AWS. AWS Premier Tier Services Partners are the experienced partners, recognized in their respective geographical, vertical, or horizontal markets.

Fractal delivers innovative solutions across various AWS technologies such as Cloud Strategy, Migration and Modernization, Advanced Data, Analytics, Product Innovation, and Cloud Engineering services. With a global presence and expertise in cloud technologies and business strategy, Fractal has garnered notable achievements, including 200+ AWS Certifications, the launch of 50+ Customers on AWS, the attainment of 6 AWS Competencies, AWS Service validations, and the participation in multiple Partner Programs.

“This recognition from AWS highlights our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in cloud technologies, inspiring us to push boundaries and deliver greater value to our clients,” said Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-Founder, Group Chief Executive and Executive Vice-Chairman of Fractal. 

To earn the Premier Tier, companies must complete a rigorous approval process through accreditations and certifications, demonstrate a long-term investment in their relationship with AWS, and have extensive expertise in deploying customer solutions on AWS. AWS Premier Tier Services Partners also have a strong team of AWS-trained and certified technical consultants and possess deep expertise in project management and professional services. 

Fractal continues to build on its existing AWS competencies in data and analytics, Generative AI, DevOps, retail, financial services and consumer goods further establishing its credentials as one of the leading AI-powered solution providers to drive success for businesses worldwide. 

About Fractal 

Fractal is a globally recognized AI company with the vision to power every human decision in the enterprise. Fractal is a trusted partner to some of the most admired Fortune 500® companies. 

Fractal’s businesses include Asper.ai (enabling interconnected decisions for revenue growth), Flyfish (GenAI platform for search & product discovery) and Analytics Vidhya (one of the world’s largest data science community). Fractal incubated Qure.ai, a leading player in healthcare AI for efficient identification and care of Tuberculosis, lung cancer and stroke. 

Fractal currently has 5000+ employees across 18 global locations, including the United States, Canada, UK, Netherlands, Ukraine, India, Singapore, South Africa, UAE and Australia. Fractal has been recognized as ‘Great Workplace’ and ‘India’s Best Workplaces for Women’ in the top 100 (large) category by The Great Place to Work® Institute; featured as a leader in Data Engineering services 2024 & Data Science Services 2024 by Information Services Group, Leader in AI and Analytics Services Specialists Peak Matrix Assessment 2024 by Everest Group, Leader in Customer Analytics Service Providers Wave™ 2023 by Forrester Research, Inc.