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YAS ISLAND TO BE HOME OF SPHERE ABU DHABI, A NEW GLOBAL ICON FOR IMMERSIVE ENTERTAINMENT

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi will invest USD 1.7 billion in the construction phase of this landmark project on Yas Island

Construction expected to be completed by the end of 2029

With a capacity of up to 20,000, Sphere Abu Dhabi will host immersive experiences, concert residencies, sporting spectacles and brand events

Exosphere to celebrate Emirati culture through large-scale art and visual storytelling

ABU DHABI, UAE, May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) today announced that Yas Island has been selected as the location for Sphere Abu Dhabi, a landmark project with a construction phase cost of USD 1.7 billion. Poised to become a global icon, the venue will attract tourists from around the world, boost economic diversification, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s sense of place for residents and visitors alike.

Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi
Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi

 

Sphere Abu Dhabi, which will be the first Sphere venue outside the United States, will be built on a plot of land between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, with lush green surroundings and proximity to other Yas Island theme parks and attractions. Construction on the venue is expected to be completed by the end of 2029.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi has always built for the long term, and Sphere Abu Dhabi is a powerful demonstration of that commitment. In a region where the appetite for world-class experiences continues to grow, our USD 1.7 billion investment in its construction phase sends a clear signal: Abu Dhabi is open, ambitious, and unwavering in its direction. This project reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s international partnerships, built on shared ambition and mutual confidence in what this emirate represents as a global destination. Together, we are creating a venue that will draw our community, visitors, creators and investors to Yas Island and Abu Dhabi for decades to come. And at its heart, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be a platform for Emirati culture, Emirati talent and Emirati storytelling, shared with the world on the grandest stage ever built.”

James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment, said: “Sphere Abu Dhabi is the first step in realising our vision for a global network of venues. Abu Dhabi is a premier international capital city, and its ambition, infrastructure, and position as a cultural crossroads make it a natural home for Sphere. Sphere Abu Dhabi will establish Yas Island as a destination in the region for immersive experiences, and we look forward to working with DCT Abu Dhabi to see this venue come to life.”

Sphere Abu Dhabi will host three main categories of events, all powered by Sphere’s advanced experiential technologies: Sphere Experiences, proprietary immersive productions that feature multi-sensory storytelling; concert residencies; and marquee and brand events supported by flexible configurations to host everything from combat sports to conferences to product launches.

The entertainment offerings at Sphere Abu Dhabi will reflect Abu Dhabi’s status as a cultural crossroads. While still in development, plans include featuring fully immersive experiences that are the signature of Sphere in Las Vegas, in addition to the creation of Sphere Experiences that convey Emirati culture and heritage, and displaying Emirati artists’ work on the Exosphere, the spherical LED screen that forms the venue’s exterior. Concerts will feature local and other Arabic artists, as well as global stars.

Located a short drive from Zayed International Airport, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be a welcoming gateway to the emirate’s culture and entertainment offerings. With its proximity to Yas Island’s other hospitality and entertainment infrastructure, Sphere Abu Dhabi will reinforce Yas Island as a global events destination, not only for events at Sphere, but also by providing an exceptional backdrop, broadcast worldwide during the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The world’s first Sphere venue opened in Las Vegas in September 2023. Like the venue in Las Vegas, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be an experiential medium powered by advanced technologies that will transform the traditional venue model. The venue will also echo the scale of Sphere in Las Vegas, with a capacity of up to 20,000, depending on the configuration for a given event. Once open, Sphere Abu Dhabi’s ongoing operations will create thousands of jobs locally.

Another milestone in Abu Dhabi’s integrated destination development, Sphere Abu Dhabi will function as a global tourism magnet alongside other globally renowned projects such as Saadiyat Cultural District and the upcoming Disney theme park resort on Yas Island.

DCT Abu Dhabi will work with entities including the Department of Municipalities and Transport and its Integrated Transport Centre, the Department of Energy, Taqa, Etihad Rail and Aldar to ensure all components of the master plan including road enhancements, site access and site-wide infrastructure are coordinated with surrounding assets on Yas Island.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture, creative and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae

About Sphere Entertainment Co:
Sphere Entertainment Co. is a leader in immersive experiences, technology and media. The Company includes Sphere, an experiential medium powered by advanced technologies. The first Sphere opened in Las Vegas, with plans also announced for Sphere venues in Abu Dhabi and National Harbor. In addition, the Company includes MSG Networks, which operates two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product, MSG+, delivering a wide range of live sports content and other programming. More information is available at sphereentertainmentco.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about the expected completion of construction for Sphere Abu Dhabi. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments or events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without limitation, unexpected costs, liabilities or delays in connection with the development and construction of Sphere Abu Dhabi and the factors described in Sphere Entertainment’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contained therein. Sphere Entertainment disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.

Video – https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2980336/DCT_Abu_Dhabi_Video.mp4

James L. Dolan - Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment Co, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)
James L. Dolan – Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment Co, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)

 

 

Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi

YAS ISLAND TO BE HOME OF SPHERE ABU DHABI, A NEW GLOBAL ICON FOR IMMERSIVE ENTERTAINMENT

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi will invest USD 1.7 billion in the construction phase of this landmark project on Yas Island

Construction expected to be completed by the end of 2029

With a capacity of up to 20,000, Sphere Abu Dhabi will host immersive experiences, concert residencies, sporting spectacles and brand events

Exosphere to celebrate Emirati culture through large-scale art and visual storytelling

ABU DHABI, UAE, May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) today announced that Yas Island has been selected as the location for Sphere Abu Dhabi, a landmark project with a construction phase cost of USD 1.7 billion. Poised to become a global icon, the venue will attract tourists from around the world, boost economic diversification, and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s sense of place for residents and visitors alike.

Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi
Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi

 

Sphere Abu Dhabi, which will be the first Sphere venue outside the United States, will be built on a plot of land between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, with lush green surroundings and proximity to other Yas Island theme parks and attractions. Construction on the venue is expected to be completed by the end of 2029.

HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Abu Dhabi has always built for the long term, and Sphere Abu Dhabi is a powerful demonstration of that commitment. In a region where the appetite for world-class experiences continues to grow, our USD 1.7 billion investment in its construction phase sends a clear signal: Abu Dhabi is open, ambitious, and unwavering in its direction. This project reflects the strength of Abu Dhabi’s international partnerships, built on shared ambition and mutual confidence in what this emirate represents as a global destination. Together, we are creating a venue that will draw our community, visitors, creators and investors to Yas Island and Abu Dhabi for decades to come. And at its heart, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be a platform for Emirati culture, Emirati talent and Emirati storytelling, shared with the world on the grandest stage ever built.”

James L. Dolan, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment, said: “Sphere Abu Dhabi is the first step in realising our vision for a global network of venues. Abu Dhabi is a premier international capital city, and its ambition, infrastructure, and position as a cultural crossroads make it a natural home for Sphere. Sphere Abu Dhabi will establish Yas Island as a destination in the region for immersive experiences, and we look forward to working with DCT Abu Dhabi to see this venue come to life.”

Sphere Abu Dhabi will host three main categories of events, all powered by Sphere’s advanced experiential technologies: Sphere Experiences, proprietary immersive productions that feature multi-sensory storytelling; concert residencies; and marquee and brand events supported by flexible configurations to host everything from combat sports to conferences to product launches.

The entertainment offerings at Sphere Abu Dhabi will reflect Abu Dhabi’s status as a cultural crossroads. While still in development, plans include featuring fully immersive experiences that are the signature of Sphere in Las Vegas, in addition to the creation of Sphere Experiences that convey Emirati culture and heritage, and displaying Emirati artists’ work on the Exosphere, the spherical LED screen that forms the venue’s exterior. Concerts will feature local and other Arabic artists, as well as global stars.

Located a short drive from Zayed International Airport, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be a welcoming gateway to the emirate’s culture and entertainment offerings. With its proximity to Yas Island’s other hospitality and entertainment infrastructure, Sphere Abu Dhabi will reinforce Yas Island as a global events destination, not only for events at Sphere, but also by providing an exceptional backdrop, broadcast worldwide during the annual Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The world’s first Sphere venue opened in Las Vegas in September 2023. Like the venue in Las Vegas, Sphere Abu Dhabi will be an experiential medium powered by advanced technologies that will transform the traditional venue model. The venue will also echo the scale of Sphere in Las Vegas, with a capacity of up to 20,000, depending on the configuration for a given event. Once open, Sphere Abu Dhabi’s ongoing operations will create thousands of jobs locally.

Another milestone in Abu Dhabi’s integrated destination development, Sphere Abu Dhabi will function as a global tourism magnet alongside other globally renowned projects such as Saadiyat Cultural District and the upcoming Disney theme park resort on Yas Island.

DCT Abu Dhabi will work with entities including the Department of Municipalities and Transport and its Integrated Transport Centre, the Department of Energy, Taqa, Etihad Rail and Aldar to ensure all components of the master plan including road enhancements, site access and site-wide infrastructure are coordinated with surrounding assets on Yas Island.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture, creative and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae

About Sphere Entertainment Co:
Sphere Entertainment Co. is a leader in immersive experiences, technology and media. The Company includes Sphere, an experiential medium powered by advanced technologies. The first Sphere opened in Las Vegas, with plans also announced for Sphere venues in Abu Dhabi and National Harbor. In addition, the Company includes MSG Networks, which operates two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product, MSG+, delivering a wide range of live sports content and other programming. More information is available at sphereentertainmentco.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about the expected completion of construction for Sphere Abu Dhabi. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties, and that actual results, developments or events may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without limitation, unexpected costs, liabilities or delays in connection with the development and construction of Sphere Abu Dhabi and the factors described in Sphere Entertainment’s filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including the sections titled “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” contained therein. Sphere Entertainment disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein.

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/dct_abu_dhabi_photo_1.jpg
Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/dct_abu_dhabi_photo_2.jpg
Video – https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2980336/DCT_Abu_Dhabi_Video.mp4

James L. Dolan - Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment Co, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)
James L. Dolan – Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sphere Entertainment Co, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)

 

 

Yas Island to be home of Sphere Abu Dhabi

Frost & Sullivan Institute Highlights Global Impact Through Visionary Leadership Best Practices Recognition, 2026

SAN ANTONIO, May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Frost & Sullivan Institute (FSI) is proud to announce the latest cohort of honorees for its Visionary Leadership Best Practices Recognition, 2026. This prestigious accolade is reserved for those leaders who transcend traditional business metrics to prioritize humanity, sustainability, and global equity.

The Frost & Sullivan Institute Best Practices Recognition is more than an award; it is a validation of leaders who have successfully moved the needle on systemic issues. By aligning their personal and professional missions with FSI’s core pillars such as Education, Environment, Healthcare, Human Rights, Infrastructure, Security, and Economic Progress, these leaders are turning ambitious blueprints into tangible global realities.

“What distinguishes true visionary leadership is the ability to translate foresight into tangible, lasting impact. We are honoring individuals who don’t just solve the problems of today, but who are actively architecting a more resilient and equitable world for the next generation. Their work serves as a blueprint for what is possible when Innovation is paired with a profound sense of purpose,” said Aroop Zutshi, Director, Frost & Sullivan Institute.  

A key strength of the Visionary Leadership recognition lies in its structured and research-driven evaluation approach. Nominees are assessed across Impact, Innovation, and Implementation, ensuring a balanced view of both strategic intent and execution outcomes. This is complemented by expert panel reviews and benchmarking exercises, enabling FSI to identify leaders whose contributions are not only forward-thinking but also scalable and enduring.

The list of visionary leaders for 2026 includes:

Jeff Speck

Joanna Bryson

Katarzyna Szymielewicz

Korvi Rakshand

Kotchakorn Voraakhom

Kristine McDivitt Tompkins

Leidy Cuestas Buitrago

Mariana Costa

Marianne Díaz Hernández

Marion Guillou

Martín Schaefer

Maurits Groen

Mehnaz Tabassum

Methawee Thatsanasateankit

Mikko Hyppönen

Miriam Reyes Oliva and Amélie Jézabel Mariage

Mr. Gary Bencheghib, Ms. Kelly Bencheghib, and Mr. Sam Bencheghib

Mr. Ved Krishna and Mr. KK Jhunjhunwala

Nicolás García Mayor

Nighat Dad

Nouran Farouk

Nzambi Matee

Ola Doudin

Olafur Eliasson

Omar Itani

Patrick Ouriaghli

Pete Ceglinski and Andrew Turto

Petra Wadström

Prof. Dr. Kazuhiko Takeuchi

Ralf Toenjes

Reshma Saujani

Ruth Álvarez‑DeGolia

Safeena Husain

Sairee Chahal

Sanga Moses

Satish Viswanathan

Sebastián Salinas

Selima Ahmad

Sheila Davis

Silvana Veinberg

Sonya Passi

Stephen Ritz

Tara Chklovski

Thorkil Sonne

Vera Cordeiro

Vera Cordeiro

Vincent Zimmer and Markus Kreßler, Christoph Staudt.

Walter Velásquez Godoy

Yetunde Ayo Oyalowo

Zita Cobb

About Frost & Sullivan Institute

The Frost & Sullivan Institute (FSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to utilizing business practices to address global priorities. The genesis of the institute goes back to the vision of either creating or becoming part of a solution that addresses threats to humanity. The Institute has identified strategic imperatives for transformation and believes that we can truly accelerate innovation to zero. To learn more about FSI, visit www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Media Contact:

Samyuktha P Nair
Email: Samyuktha.Nair@frost.com

Related Links
www.frost.com
www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

Turn Your Savings into a Front-Row Experience: HL Bank Singapore Offers Exclusive Passes to AsiaTop Music Festival 2026

The premier music festival will play host to 16 K-pop, regional and Malaysian stars including, in performance order: Day 1 – NexT1DE, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Win Metawin, NMIXX, WINNER, DAESUNG, KUN. Day 2 – Uriah See, Firdhaus, Butterbear, 82MAJOR, STAYC, CRAVITY, TWS, CxM


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Your next major K-pop experience is just a savings goal away as HL Bank Singapore (“HLB Singapore”) bridges the gap between financial wellness and the front row. In an exclusive collaboration designed for the ultimate music enthusiast, the bank is offering fans the chance to secure a pair of sought-after AsiaTop Music Festival 2026 tickets, valued at up to RM1,098 (approx. S$355), simply by growing their wealth.

HL Bank Singapore is giving music fans the chance to redeem exclusive passes to the AsiaTop Music Festival 2026, featuring top Asian acts, through its iSavings Reward Campaign.
HL Bank Singapore is giving music fans the chance to redeem exclusive passes to the AsiaTop Music Festival 2026, featuring top Asian acts, through its iSavings Reward Campaign.

This unique initiative stems from the regional synergy between Hong Leong Bank (“HLB”) and Tencent Music Entertainment Group (JOOX and QQ Music). By aligning with Visit Malaysia Year and Visit Selangor Year 2026, HLB is transforming the traditional banking experience into a gateway for premium entertainment. Scheduled for 30 and 31 May 2026 at the iconic Sepang International Circuit, the festival promises a high-octane weekend featuring an elite lineup of Asian superstars, including the largest K-pop showcase in the ASEAN region.

Securing a spot at the heart of the action has been streamlined through the iSavings Reward Campaign, running from 9 May 2026 to 18 May 2026. To participate, fans first decide on their preferred festival experience, selecting either a pair of Standard Passes with a S$5,000 deposit or the high-energy, nearer-to-the-stars Rockzone Passes with a S$8,282 deposit for their chosen day.

Once a tier is selected, customers can register by depositing the qualifying funds into an iSavings account via FAST or Links transfer. To validate their entry, customers must include the specific Comment Code, such as PALLIR1 for Day 1 Rockzone, within the funds transfer description. The qualifying balance must be maintained within the account for a six-month (182 days) earmarked period.

With only 88 pairs of tickets available for this exclusive campaign, the stakes are high. Allocation is limited to 22 pairs per day for each ticket category and will be awarded strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans are encouraged to act quickly to ensure their savings work as hard as they do while securing a premier seat at the musical event of the year.

For full terms & conditions, and further details, please visit: www.hlbank.com.sg/AsiaTop2026

Hashtag: #HLBankSingapore

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

HL Bank Singapore

HL Bank Singapore is the Singapore branch of Hong Leong Bank Berhad, a leading digital-centric Malaysia-based financial services institution with a rooted heritage in the country spanning over 120 years. Operating under a Full Bank Licence in Singapore, HL Bank offers a comprehensive range of financial services to our business, retail and high networth customers through our 4 core business segments – Business & Corporate Banking, Personal Financial Services, Private Wealth Management and Global Markets.

Oi Wah Announces Positive Profit Alert Expects FY2026 Net Profit to Surge by Up to 50%


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 14 May 2026 – Oi Wah Pawnshop Credit Holdings Limited (“Oi Wah” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; HKEx stock code: 1319.HK) announced that based on the preliminary assessment by the Board with reference to the unaudited consolidated management accounts of the Group for the year ended 28 February 2026 (the “Year”), it is expected to record an increase in the profit attributable to Shareholders for the Year in the range of 30% to 50% as compared to the profit of approximately HK$55.9 million for the year ended 28 February 2025. The expected increase in profit was mainly due to the substantial decrease in the charge for impairment losses on loan receivables during the Year.

The Company is still in the process of finalising the annual results of the Group for the Year. The information contained in this announcement is only based on the Board’s preliminary assessment and review of the unaudited consolidated management accounts of the Group for the Year and information currently available to the Company, which have not been reviewed or audited by the auditors of the Company nor the audit committee of the Company, and may therefore be subject to change. The Group’s preliminary results for the Year are expected to be announced on 27 May 2026 and may be different from the information as stated in this announcement. Shareholders of the Company and potential investors should exercise caution when dealing in the shares of the Company.

Hashtag: #OiWah

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

About Oi Wah Pawnshop Credit Holdings Limited

Oi Wah is a financing service provider in Hong Kong, mainly providing short-term secured financing, including pawn loans and mortgage loans. The Group established its first pawnshop in 1975 and currently owns 10 pawnshops and one premium service center in various locations in Hong Kong. Oi Wah diversified into mortgage loan business in 2009. The Group is the first local pawn shop which successfully listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited on 12 March 2013.

PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 launched to drive innovative ventures through cross-border network of Mainland Translational Research Institutes

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) held the Launch Ceremony of the PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 (PolyU IFC 2026), a flagship innovation and entrepreneurship competition, yesterday (13 May). With eight competition regions spanning Hong Kong and strategic Chinese Mainland cities, PolyU IFC 2026 invites local and global innovators and entrepreneurs to participate, converting their ideas into impactful ventures that address real-world challenges in these regions. The Launch Ceremony featured an insightful fireside chat and a sharing session with last year’s participants, drawing the keen participation of industry experts, scholars and startup representatives.

The Launch Ceremony of the PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 was officiated by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President (centre); Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) (5th from left); Prof. Zijian Zheng, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) (5th from right); Ms Amylia Chan, Interim Director of the Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office (4th from left); Prof. Changyuan Yu, Director of PolyU-Jinjiang Technology and Innovation Research Institute (4th from right); Prof. Yi-Qing Ni, Director of PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from left); Prof. Wu Chen, Director of Hefei Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from right); Prof. George Q. Huang, Director of PolyU-Wuxi Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from left); Prof. Mingguang He, Director of PolyU-Wuhan Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from right); Prof. Tommy Minchen Wei, Director of PolyU-Qianhai Disruptive Technology and Innovation Research Centre (1st from left); and Prof. Chi-wai Do, Associate Director of PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute (1st from right).
The Launch Ceremony of the PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 was officiated by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, PolyU President (centre); Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) (5th from left); Prof. Zijian Zheng, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) (5th from right); Ms Amylia Chan, Interim Director of the Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office (4th from left); Prof. Changyuan Yu, Director of PolyU-Jinjiang Technology and Innovation Research Institute (4th from right); Prof. Yi-Qing Ni, Director of PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from left); Prof. Wu Chen, Director of Hefei Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from right); Prof. George Q. Huang, Director of PolyU-Wuxi Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from left); Prof. Mingguang He, Director of PolyU-Wuhan Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from right); Prof. Tommy Minchen Wei, Director of PolyU-Qianhai Disruptive Technology and Innovation Research Centre (1st from left); and Prof. Chi-wai Do, Associate Director of PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute (1st from right).

In his opening remarks, Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President, stated, “PolyU IFC reflects our deep commitment to driving innovation and nurturing top-quality talent for societal benefits. This year’s Challenge has been strategically aligned with the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan and focuses on the ‘Artificial Intelligence (AI)+’ initiative. Leveraging the robust network of PolyU Mainland Translational Research Institutes (MTRIs), it connects local and global innovators to regional industrial clusters, offering market opportunities across key industry domains spanning life sciences, advanced manufacturing, fintech, smart cities and aerospace.” He encouraged global talents to seize this invaluable opportunity to contribute to the social development of the competition regions while achieving personal growth.

PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 (PolyU IFC 2026)

Building on the success of the inaugural PolyU IFC last year, the competition returns with eight competition regions, spanning Shenzhen Qianhai, Jinjiang, Nanjing, Wuhan, Hong Kong, Hefei, Hangzhou and Wuxi. It aims to empower innovative talent to dream and deliver, supporting them in creating opportunities for the future of innovation while leveraging the cross-border network of PolyU MTRIs. All those who believe in the unlimited potential of AI+ and pursue technology-driven social impact are encouraged to turn their dreams into reality on the PolyU IFC 2026 stage.

Participants will earn the chance to win a wealth of rewards and opportunities, including up to HK$120,000 (Hong Kong Region) or RMB100,000 (each Chinese Mainland region) for regional champion teams, who can then compete for greater honours and awards at the Grand Final. In addition to monetary prizes, participants will also have the opportunity to connect with Chinese Mainland markets via the University’s MTRI network, join local and overseas entrepreneurial visits, secure commercialisation support from the PolyVentures startup ecosystem, access PolyU’s established network of investors and corporate leaders, receive mentorship from industry experts and obtain tuition sponsorship for the PolyU Master of Technology Entrepreneurship programme. Moreover, all participants will be entitled to join the “KT&E Skills Acceleration Hub” training series to enhance their innovation and entrepreneurship skillsets.

With AI+ at its core and the vision to bring positive impact to local industries and societal wellbeing, PolyU IFC 2026 strategically focuses on five industry domains: Life Sciences and Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing and Microelectronics, Digital Economy and FinTech, Smart City and Green Living, as well as Aerospace and Aviation Technology. The focus domains of each competition region are outlined as follows:

Competition Regions Industry Domains
Life Sciences and Healthcare Advanced Manufacturing and Microelectronics Digital Economy and FinTech Smart City and Green Living Aerospace and Aviation Technology
Qianhai X
X

X
X
Jinjiang X
X

X

Nanjing X
X

X
X
Wuhan X
X



Hong Kong X
X
X
X
X
Hefei X


X
X
Hangzhou X
X
X
X

Wuxi X
X

X
X

PolyU is in discussion with government authorities, enterprises and institutions across Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland to secure their participation as sponsors, strategic partners and supporting organisations of the Challenge, offering them enhanced brand visibility, cross‑border market exposure and access to top innovative talents. By building a robust cross-border innovation platform, PolyU and its partners will jointly drive innovation and create long-term value for society by leveraging synergistic collaboration.

During the Launch Ceremony fireside chat, Mr Albert WONG, former CEO of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue with Prof. YANG Hongxia, Associate Dean (Global Engagement) of the PolyU Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences; Executive Director of the PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence; and Chair Professor of Generative Artificial Intelligence. The speakers explored a range of topics that included the innovation ecosystem, tomorrow’s ventures and talents, AI democratisation, and translational research, from both industry and academic perspectives. This exchange marked the start of the competition, inspiring everyone with an aspiration for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Local and global applications are now open for all IFC 2026 competition regions, with the official application deadline set for 14 June. Regional finals will run from August to November, while regional top teams will compete at the Grand Final in January next year. For details of the Challenge, please visit the official website.

Hashtag: #PolyU

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

Veritickets pioneers international live event ticketing on Tmall Global ahead of 618 shopping festival

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Veritickets, a global event ticketing platform, has become the first brand to sell overseas concert and sports tickets on Tmall Global, China’s largest cross-border e-commerce platform, following its recent debut on the site.

Screenshot of Veritickets’ storefront on Tmall Global.
Screenshot of Veritickets’ storefront on Tmall Global.

The move established a new category for international live entertainment ticketing within China’s import e-commerce market, with Tmall Global positioning Veritickets as a specialist overseas brand addressing an underserved market.

Ahead of Tmall Global’s annual 618 shopping festival, Veritickets will offer tickets to all 104 FIFA World Cup matches, alongside global tour tickets for leading Chinese-language artists including Jay Chou, Stefanie Sun, and Mayday. The platform will also feature K-pop tours across Asia, enabling fans to secure seats for performances by groups such as EXO, BTS, and i-dle.

The move comes as outbound demand for live entertainment continues to rise among Chinese consumers, driven by a packed calendar of international sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League and Premier League, as well as a broader recovery in concerts across the Asia-Pacific region.

Veritickets aims to address longstanding difficulties in cross-border ticket purchasing. Consumers buying overseas event tickets have typically faced challenges ranging from language barriers and complex payment processes to uncertainty over ticket authenticity and availability. The platform was designed to resolve these issues for international buyers.

The platform commits to issuing confirmed, in-stock tickets in as fast as 12 hours and provides multilingual interfaces and multi-currency payment options. It also offers a “100% verified tickets” guarantee backed by a consumer-protection policy that provides a full refund, plus additional compensation of up to the ticket price, if tickets are not delivered.

Tickets are available through the Veritickets website or mobile app. The platform accepts major international credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard and JCB, and is also an officially certified partner of Alipay, China’s leading digital payments and services platform.

To enhance transparency and reduce search friction, Veritickets aggregates official and vetted ticket inventory into a single interface, allowing users to compare offerings with real-time availability and pricing. An all-in pricing model is used to limit hidden charges and last-minute price adjustments.

Event recommendations are tailored using a preference-based engine, while dedicated customer support and real-time transaction verification form part of the platform’s service and supervision standards.

Initially focused on Hong Kong, Macau and Southeast Asia, Veritickets plans to strengthen its footprint across the Asia-Pacific region, with phased expansion into additional international markets.

The platform is currently recruiting internationally qualified ticketing agents, requiring valid operating licenses, strong credit records and proven professional service capabilities. All agents must comply with stringent requirements, including real‑time ticket updates, instant transaction validation and round-the-clock customer support, ensuring a consistent and reliable experience for buyers worldwide.

Hashtag: #Veritickets

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

L Catterton, LVMH’s Investment Arm, Forms Strategic Partnership with Saint Bella Group to Fast Track Global Brand Growth


SHANGHAI, CHINA – EQS Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Saint Bella Group recently announced that its investment in and entered a strategic partnership with L Catterton, the leading consumer-focused private equity firm affiliated with LVMH. Managing roughly $40 billion in equity capital and with investments in over 300 renowned consumer brands worldwide, L Catterton will collaborate with Saint Bella on technology innovation, international expansion, and the development of a premium brand ecosystem. This deep cooperation aims to power Saint Bella’s evolution into a global multi brand household care group.

The partnership signals top tier international capital’s strong endorsement of Saint Bella’s business model and growth prospects, and represents a landmark strategic move in the household care sector.

Complete Digital Transformation of the Premium Services Market

According to its official website, L Catterton was jointly founded by leading consumer private equity firm Catterton, world leading luxury group LVMH, and Bernard Arnault’s family holding company Groupe Arnault. It integrates Catterton’s existing private equity business in North and Latin America with LVMH and Groupe Arnault’s private equity and real estate operations in Europe and Asia, creating the world’s largest diversified private equity firm focused on the consumer sector.

Under the strategic cooperation agreement with Saint Bella, L Catterton will provide cutting edge technology innovation support and deep insights into high net worth consumer behavior to help continuously iterate Saint Bella’s service experience and optimize its membership system.

Backed by the core resources of the LVMH Group—a global leader in luxury that owns more than 70 renowned luxury brands—L Catterton can leverage LVMH’s digital transformation practices and strategies to help Saint Bella further upgrade and iterate its services and innovation.

Top international capital enters the field, unlocking the potential of a multi brand global group

Since opening its first overseas store in 2023, Saint Bella Group has continued to expand internationally. It recently announced top tier hotel signings in five major global cities—New York, London, Paris, Bangkok and Sydney—marking the initial formation of its global operating footprint.

For Saint Bella Group, L Catterton provides access to a global range of luxury and premium consumer-brand resources. Through this partnership, Saint Bella will leverage L Catterton as a bridge to actively explore cooperation with L Catterton’s portfolio companies and industry network—seeking luxury and high end consumer partners for joint product development, integrated membership benefits, and scenario based service experiences—to jointly build a cross sector ecosystem for premium maternal & infant and lifestyle offerings.

The core strategic objective of the collaboration is to build the Group into “the Anta of maternal & infant and family care.” To realize this vision, the two parties will rely on L Catterton’s top tier global consumer network to systematically identify, evaluate, and target high growth potential new retail maternal & infant brands and cutting edge care product companies worldwide. Through a dual pathway of co investment incubation and strategic acquisitions, they will form deep capital partnerships with international brands that have unique brand value and product competitiveness—leveraging L Catterton’s global operating experience and consumer industry ecosystem to jointly expand into global markets—and selectively introduce leading international care product and retail brands to continuously enrich Saint Bella’s retail footprint and brand matrix. This strategy aims, via ongoing outward looking M&A and integration, to build a multi category brand ecosystem covering maternal & infant care, health foods, smart hardware, and more, ultimately accelerating Saint Bella’s evolution from a single service operator into a multi brand, group level global family health management platform.

Backed by L Catterton’s long standing talent network and market strategy expertise in the global consumer sector, Saint Bella is expected to gain critical support for local operations in overseas markets, brand localization, and the recruitment of high quality brands and talent. As the partnership deepens and progresses, this two way resource linkage will help Saint Bella precisely meet international market consumer demands and promote its Eastern origin professional care system onto the world stage in a more mature form.

Viewed holistically, this strategic cooperation brings not only international capital endorsement but also systematic access to world class consumer resources. From technology upgrades to ecosystem synergies, Saint Bella is completing a strategic leap from organic growth to external expansion. Against the long term trends of pro natal policies and rising family health consumption, the sector leader—having already delivered strong performance—now presents an increasingly clear global brand strategy for the future.

Hashtag: #SAINTBELLA

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About Saint Bella Group

Since its establishment in 2017, Saint Bella Group has been deeply engaged in the family care field, adhering to international standards for standardized services. It has now grown into Asia’s and China’s largest postpartum care and rehabilitation group. With an extreme pursuit of quality and forward-looking industry layout, the group has built a service network of 140 high-end postpartum care centers across 41 cities worldwide. Its business covers postpartum care, postpartum rehabilitation, in-home family services, and new retail of women’s health foods, forming comprehensive, full-cycle coverage of family health needs and redefining the quality standards of modern family care.