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Comprehensive Support for International Students to Bolster Hong Kong’s Talent Attraction and Retention

ManpowerGroup Greater China and Beacon Group Partner with FGA Trust and Payment Asia to Launch “Talent in HK” Program


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2026 – ManpowerGroup Greater China Limited (Stock Code: 2180.HK), a leading global workforce solutions provider, and Beacon Group (parent company BExcellent Group Holdings Limited, listed on the Main Board of the HKEX, Stock Code: 1775.HK), a renowned Hong Kong educational institution, today announced the joint launch of the “Talent in HK” Youth and Family Life Service Security Program.

From left to right: Ms. Lancy Chui, Senior Vice President of ManpowerGroup Greater China; Ms. June Leung, Founder of Beacon Group; Ms. Helen Chen, Chief Strategy Officer of FGA Trust
From left to right: Ms. Lancy Chui, Senior Vice President of ManpowerGroup Greater China; Ms. June Leung, Founder of Beacon Group; Ms. Helen Chen, Chief Strategy Officer of FGA Trust

This forward-looking initiative is supported by Payment Asia, a leading payment platform in Hong Kong, providing streamlined payment channels. FGA Trust will serve as the third-party custodian. The program aims to establish an institutionalized, transparent, and collaborative ecosystem, providing end-to-end protection from education and academic support to life services and career consultancy, while injecting long-term momentum into Hong Kong’s strategy to attract and retain international talent.

As Hong Kong continues to attract top-tier students globally, many non-local students face challenges adapting to a new cultural environment upon arrival. Recently, there has been a rising trend in crimes targeting this demographic, including scams involving impersonation of government or academic institutions, as well as telecommunications and online fraud. These incidents pose substantial threats to talents’ personal and financial security, causing significant concern for their families.

In response to these social concerns and to reinforce the comprehensive security net for international students, ManpowerGroup, Beacon Group, and FGA Trust have initiated this program to provide stable, orderly support and ensure the long-term residency of talent in Hong Kong.

Holistic Talent Services: Strengthening Hong Kong’s Foundation as an International Hub

The “Talent in HK” program offers comprehensive life services for students and their families. Beacon Group will provide a long-term study plan spanning three to five years, including customized education, admissions services, profile enhancement, and application support. Simultaneously, ManpowerGroup will facilitate internships, visa arrangements, and long-term career development services.

Once a student receives an admission offer, parents can inject tuition and living expenses through Payment Asia’s official channels into a dedicated project account monitored by FGA Trust. This ensures financial security and the precise disbursement of funds. The entire process will be followed by an audit report, ensuring a smooth transition from campus to the workplace. The program’s website is expected to go live around mid-April this year, with official applications opening in May.

In an era of intensifying global competition for higher education and talent, Hong Kong remains a pivotal international financial and educational hub. Non-local students are not only a vital component of the education system but also a driving force for cross-cultural exchange and future professional talent. They are estimated to contribute over HK$10 billion in tuition fees annually, serving as a significant pillar of the local economy.

Multi-Party Collaboration: A New Paradigm for Talent Services

The core strength of the program lies in its innovative collaborative model, bringing together industry leaders:

  • ManpowerGroup Greater China (2180.HK): As the exclusive career development partner of the project, ManpowerGroup will leverage its extensive network and expertise to provide career planning, internship matching, and employment guidance, bridging the gap between graduation and professional life, and help students to have a smooth transition from academies to careers.
  • Beacon Group (parent company BExcellent Group Holdings Limited 1775.HK): As one of the initiators of the project with 37 years of experience in the education sector, Beacon Group will provide personalized academic consulting and profile enhancement, provide better guidance and adaptation for candidates to pursuit their study in Hong Kong. Its deep roots in the education sector help families navigate educational choices and avoid scams or unnecessary hurdles.
  • FGA Trust (TCSP license: TC008341): As the structural architect and asset trustee, FGA Trust will establish a specialized trust framework with individual sub-accounts for each student. This ensures funds for tuition, housing, and living expenses are managed with clear traceability, mitigating risks of fraud or improper spending.
  • Payment Asia: As the primary channel partner, Payment Asia provides secure and compliant collection channels, ensuring the seamless transfer of funds into the program’s dedicated accounts.

Long-Term Vision: Supporting Urban Competitiveness

Studying abroad is the starting point for talent development in Hong Kong. Proactive financial arrangements reduce uncertainty during status transitions and life settlement, increasing the willingness of talent to remain in the city long-term. Data suggests that initiatives like the Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) continue to drive local consumption, with rents for small-to-medium residential units expected to rise by 5% this year.

Ms. Lancy Chui, Senior Vice President of ManpowerGroup Greater China, stated: “We understand the strong desire of non-local graduates to work in Hong Kong. By providing proactive career planning and internship arrangements, we can reduce uncertainty during their transition into the local workforce, helping them settle and contribute to Hong Kong’s market.”

Ms. June Leung, Founder of Beacon Group, noted: “Talent cultivation requires long-term education. We are delighted to initiate this program, integrating academic support with life security and career development to provide a comprehensive, forward-looking environment for talent growth.”

Ms. Helen Chen, Chief Strategy Officer of FGA Trust, added: “Protecting the financial security and well-being of international students is both a social responsibility and a key to consolidating Hong Kong’s status as an international education hub. This program ensures a seamless transition from study to employment, transforming international talent into a long-term driver for Hong Kong’s development.”

The launch of “Talent in HK” marks a significant step from fragmented support to a comprehensive ecosystem. Through institutional innovation and cross-sector collaboration, the program aims to provide a safe harbor for international students and their families, contributing to Hong Kong’s goal of becoming a global talent hub.
Hashtag: #FGA #Trust #Talent #Career

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

FGA Trust

FGA Trust (TCSP License No. TC008341) is a premier trust and fiduciary services provider headquartered in Hong Kong, offering comprehensive wealth solutions to an international clientele. We specialize in trustee services, all-asset custody, and strategic financial planning. This core expertise is uniquely enhanced by our integrated lifestyle management, delivering a truly holistic approach to wealth preservation and growth.

Understanding SkillsFuture Funding and the Real Cost of Upskilling


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2026 – Continuous learning plays an important role in helping working professionals remain relevant in a rapidly evolving economy. However, the perceived cost of professional training can sometimes discourage individuals from pursuing further development. SkillsFuture funding schemes are designed to address this concern by reducing the financial barrier to skills upgrading and lifelong learning.

Launched in 2015, SkillsFuture is a national movement that supports Singaporeans in developing skills throughout different stages of their careers. Through subsidies administered by SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG), individuals may receive government funding when enrolling in approved courses offered by recognised training providers and Continuing Education and Training centres. Eligible Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents may receive subsidies of up to 70 per cent of course fees. These subsidies are applied directly to the course fees, allowing learners to pay the nett amount after government funding has been deducted. This significantly lowers the overall cost of professional training.

Additional support is available for mid-career Singaporeans. Under the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Enhanced Subsidy (MCES), Singapore Citizens aged 40 and above may receive subsidies of up to 90 per cent of course fees for approved courses offered by recognised training providers and Continuing Education and Training centres. For illustration, a professional development course priced at S$3,000 before GST may cost approximately S$900 after a subsidy of up to 70 per cent is applied. Eligible Singapore Citizens aged 40 and above who qualify for the MCES could pay about S$300 for the same course after government funding.

Learners may further offset remaining fees through SkillsFuture Credit, which is available to Singapore Citizens aged 25 and above and can be used for eligible courses listed on the MySkillsFuture portal. Employer-sponsored training programmes may also benefit from workforce development schemes that further reduce training costs.

Institutions such as SIM Academy provide professional development programmes that support working professionals in upgrading their capabilities. SIM Academy offers a range of short courses aligned with industry needs, including programmes in leadership, AI, sustainability, project management, organisation design and soft skills. Several of these programmes are eligible for SkillsFuture funding and SkillsFuture Credit.

SkillsFuture funding schemes continue to support Singapore’s workforce transformation by making training more accessible. With government support and industry-aligned programmes offered by training providers such as SIM Academy, working professionals have greater opportunities to strengthen their capabilities and adapt to evolving job demands.

References:

  1. SkillsFuture Singapore. Funding for Individuals – https://www.ssg.gov.sg/funding-and-levy/funding-for-individuals/
  2. SkillsFuture Singapore. About SkillsFuture – https://www.skillsfuture.gov.sg/aboutskillsfuture
  3. SkillsFuture Course Fee Funding and Subsidies – https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/career-resources/career-resources/education-career-personal-development/SkillsFuture_Funding.html
  4. MySkillsFuture. SkillsFuture Credit – https://www.myskillsfuture.gov.sg/content/portal/en/header/credit.html
  5. SIM Academy. SkillsFuture Courses Offered by SIM Academy – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/skillsfuture-courses

Hashtag: #SIMAcademy #SIMA

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

About SIM Academy

SIM Academy provides leading-edge professional development and enterprise solutions. SIM Academy offers over 300 executive and business programmes that help almost 10,000 professionals annually on average hone their competencies to drive business value and achieve peak personal and enterprise performance.

Our programmes encompass a comprehensive range of lifelong learning opportunities designed to empower professionals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to become effective change-makers and leaders in today’s volatile and uncertain business landscape.

For more information on SIM Academy, visit

Getac Announces CommandCore: Remote Drone Control Solution for Professionals Operating in Challenging Environments

CommandCore offers extensive customisation options for optimal operational efficiency, directly supporting Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) in a wide range of use cases spanning land, sea and air.

News in brief:

  • CommandCore is a new remote drone control station aimed at professionals in the defence, public safety and utilities industries
  • Customers can choose from an extensive range of Getac devices, accessories and payloads to suit their unique needs and use cases.
  • CommandCore is designed to integrate smoothly within diverse drone ecosystems and support interoperability with third-party technologies.

TAIPEI, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Getac Technology Corporation (Getac), a leading provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions and a manufacturer with advanced in-house capabilities, announced the launch of its brand new CommandCore rugged drone control solution.

Getac Announces CommandCore Remote Drone Control Solution for Professionals Operating in Challenging Environments
Getac Announces CommandCore Remote Drone Control Solution for Professionals Operating in Challenging Environments

CommandCore lets customers combine Getac’s proven rugged hardware with industry-specific accessories, payloads and software based on their individual needs and use case. The result is a comprehensive UAV/USV/UGV control solution that is fully adaptable and can be tailored to suit a wide range of challenging environments and operational scenarios, such as those found in the defence, public safety and utilities industries.

At the heart of CommandCore is Getac’s Ground Control Station (GCS), which serves as a centralised, mission-ready hub, designed for real-time data processing, seamless drone control in extreme conditions, and overall management of operational parameters. Customers can choose between a number of different Getac devices depending on their GCS needs, including the ZX80 fully rugged Android tablet, UX10 fully rugged Windows tablet, S510 rugged Windows laptop, B360 fully rugged Windows laptop, and X600 fully rugged Windows workstation.

The form factor of the GCS can also be customised for maximum flexibility. Options include a fully integrated design with built-in drone controls and an accessory-type design that lets users separate the Getac device from externally housed drone controls as needed. Additional form factors include an office dock design, and a comprehensive suitcase design with dual display for use as part of mobile command and control activity.

Rugged reliability meets modular architecture
CommandCore has been engineered from the ground up to withstand harsh, unpredictable, and mission-critical operational environments without compromising on performance. Its proven rugged design ensures reliability in the field, while its scalable and configurable system architecture enables seamless customisation, expansion, and adaptation to evolving operational requirements across a range of industries.

For the defence sector, this modularity is underpinned by Getac’s sophisticated engineering depth and system-level design skills. Rather than offering a fixed configuration, Getac reserves maximum flexibility within the CommandCore architecture to customise the solution for specific mission requirements and unique end-user needs. By leveraging Getac’s advanced in-house manufacturing capabilities, Getac offers tailored configurations to support the complex demands of multi-domain operations.

An open ecosystem supporting smooth integration
CommandCore integrates smoothly with diverse drone ecosystems, supporting interoperability with third-party technologies and long-term collaborative system evolution. Getac’s GCS is available in both Android and Windows options, while the stable, high performance computing platform supports real-time, mission-critical operations in demanding situations and environments.

Setting a new benchmark in remote drone control solutions
CommandCore facilitates seamless drone operations in extreme terrain and/or high-pressure situations, like those regularly encountered in the defence, public safety and utilities industries:

  • Defence: Supports intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activity from both mobile and semi-fixed command posts, informing mission planning and execution strategies in real-time across land, sea and air. Given its robust capabilities, CommandCore is uniquely positioned to support the complex requirements of Army aviation and integrated air defense systems, providing operators with the reliable control and data visualization necessary for critical tactical operations.  
  • Public safety: Drone reconnaissance now plays an integral role in disaster response operations ranging from fires and floods to emergency search and rescue. CommandCore lets first responders gather critical information quickly and efficiently, either from a nearby mobile command vehicle or directly from the scene using a handheld GCS.   
  • Utilities: Enables utilities professionals to remotely inspect large-scale infrastructure and assets such as powerlines, substations, pipelines, and railways using waypoint guidance from a centralised operations centre. Beyond large-scale monitoring, CommandCore delivers the reliable remote control needed to rapidly assess hard-to-reach rural areas, minimising the need for crews to physically navigate high-voltage or dangerous terrain.

“As the use of drones becomes increasingly widespread throughout numerous industries around the world, demand for comprehensive remote control solutions is also growing significantly,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “CommandCore answers this demand, providing professionals who work in challenging environments every day with a highly customisable rugged control solution they can rely on to get the job done when it matters most.”

To learn more about CommandCore or to submit an inquiry, please visit www.getac.com

About Getac
Getac Technology Corporation is a global leader in AI-capable rugged mobile technology and intelligent video solutions, including laptops, tablets, software, body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, digital evidence management and enterprise video analytics solutions. Getac’s solutions and services are designed to enable extraordinary experiences for frontline workers in challenging environments. Today, Getac serves customers in over 100 countries spanning defence, public safety, ambulance, fire & rescue, utilities, automotive, natural resources, manufacturing, transport, and logistics. Getac was recently recognized as one of Newsweek’s “World’s Most Trustworthy Companies” for 2024. For more information, visit: https://www.getac.com. Participate in the Getac Industry blog or follow the company on LinkedIn and YouTube. 

Getac and Getac logo are trademarks of Getac Holdings Corporation or its affiliates. Other brands or trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2026 Getac Technology Corporation.

ADA AI Pte Ltd Launches Autonomous Virtual Guarding Technology (AVGT), Proven to Cut Guarding Costs by Up to 50%

SINGAPORE, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ADA AI Pte Ltd today announced the launch of its Autonomous Virtual Guarding Technology (AVGT) — a breakthrough AI-powered solution that is already helping organizations reduce guarding costs by up to 50% while delivering superior, consistent security outcomes.

Developed in Singapore and deployed across real-world environments, AVGT transforms traditional security operations by replacing manual patrols with fully autonomous, AI-driven guard tours. The solution leverages existing CCTV infrastructure to automate inspection, anomaly detection, and reporting — addressing critical industry challenges including rising labour costs, manpower shortages, and inconsistent patrol performance.

Security is no longer about manpower it is about measurable outcomes. AVGT enables organizations to immediately reduce cost, eliminate operational inefficiencies, and gain full visibility across their security operations without increasing headcount.

Up to 50% Cost Reduction — Immediate ROI

Traditional guarding models require continuous manpower, often exceeding $100,000 annually per site without guaranteeing performance.

AVGT delivers a fundamentally different model:

  • Up to 50% reduction in guarding costs
  • Elimination of repetitive manual patrols
  • Significant reduction in labour dependency
  • Rapid ROI with minimal upfront investment

Organizations can shift from high recurring manpower expenses to a predictable, technology-driven cost structure — unlocking immediate savings and long-term scalability.

24/7 Autonomous Operations — No Fatigue, No Gaps

Unlike human patrols, AVGT operates continuously with zero fatigue and zero inconsistency:

  • Every patrol is executed, every time
  • No missed checkpoints or incomplete reports
  • Standardized inspections across all locations
  • Simultaneous multi-site monitoring

The result is consistent, audit-ready security performance at scale.

Faster Detection. Faster Decisions. Better Outcomes.

AVGT enhances operational response by delivering:

  • Real-time anomaly detection
  • Instant alerts with visual evidence
  • Structured, time-stamped patrol reports
  • Reduced detection-to-response time from minutes to seconds

Each patrol is automatically documented and verified, enabling organizations to meet compliance requirements while improving incident response efficiency.

Built for Immediate Deployment — No Hardware Replacement Required

AVGT runs on existing CCTV infrastructure, allowing organizations to:

  • Deploy quickly without major CAPEX
  • Maximize existing surveillance investments
  • Scale across multiple sites without operational complexity

This makes AVGT one of the fastest ways for enterprises to modernize security while achieving measurable cost savings.

The Shift from Cost Centre to Value Driver

As labour shortages intensify and wages continue to rise across Asia, organizations are rapidly moving away from manpower-heavy security models.

AVGT enables a clear transition:

  • From labour-intensive operations to AI-driven automation
  • From reactive patrols to proactive detection
  • From unpredictable cost to measurable ROI

This is not just a smarter patrol. It is guarding without guards.

About ADA AI Pte Ltd

ADA is a Singapore-based AI technology company specializing in intelligent surveillance, security automation, and operational intelligence. Its solutions transform traditional CCTV systems into autonomous, data-driven security platforms that deliver measurable business outcomes.

Pan Pacific Hotels Group Elevates the Business Events Experience with “Every Meeting Matters” Campaign

Repositioning of MICE follows group-wide AEI of meetings and events spaces to be the trusted partner for meaningful, high performing meetings and events

SINGAPORE, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Pan Pacific Hotels Group (PPHG) continues its global drive for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) with the launch of Every Meeting Matters campaign, underscoring its commitment to supporting the evolution of business events in the post-pandemic era.

Newly renovated William Pickering Ballroom at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore
Newly renovated William Pickering Ballroom at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering, Singapore

As global business travel continues its robust recovery, the MICE industry is experiencing unprecedented transformation and growth. The global MICE industry market reached a value of approximately USD 783.70 billion in 2023, according to data by Research and Markets[1]. The market is projected to further grow at a CAGR of 6.7% to reach a value of USD 1,407.45 billion by 2032.

The evolution of meetings is also being shaped by a generational shift in the workforce, which is having a direct impact on the attendee profile at business events. Industry research shows that Millennials and Gen Zs now account for more than 40% of conference participants, with the average age of attendees declining in recent years[2]. This new generation of professionals is driving demand for meetings that are more technology-enabled, wellness-focused and environmentally responsible.

“Business events have evolved significantly in recent years, with organisations seeking experiences that inspire collaboration, creativity and meaningful connections. Anticipating this post pandemic shift, we have strengthened our MICE capabilities across our portfolio, from investing in upgraded event spaces to enhancing service delivery and technology. With the launch of Every Meeting Matters, we reaffirm our commitment to being a trusted partner for impactful meetings and events that deliver value for organisers and delegates alike,” said Mr. Choe Peng Sum, Chief Executive Officer of PPHG.

Asia-Pacific: A Region on the Rise

The momentum is equally strong in Asia-Pacific region. Grand View Research estimates the region’s MICE market will grow at a CAGR of 10%, reaching approximately USD 355 billion by 2030[3]. The growth is being driven by infrastructure development, regional business integration, and rising demand for corporate travel experiences. The demand is coming from key markets such as Singapore, India, China and Australia.

PPHG has a strong presence in these markets and is uniquely positioned to serve the evolving needs of MICE travellers with its regional network of properties, delivering high-quality venues in prime city-centre locations with easy access, natural-light ballrooms and versatile configurations suited for a range of event formats.

Redefining the MICE Experience: Wellness, Sustainability and Tech

Across the region, corporates and organisers are seeking more than functional meeting rooms. Today’s MICE travellers demand experiences that are wellness-oriented, technologically advanced and environmentally responsible.

As hybrid and tech-enabled events become the norm, many PPHG properties are equipped with high-speed connectivity, state-of-the-art audiovisual infrastructure and innovative meeting tools that enable seamless collaboration across in-person and virtual audiences. This includes built-in AV systems, immersive LED walls and on-site technical support to deliver seamless events.

A leading trend is the integration of wellness into meetings and conferences. Delegates now expect nutritious menus, movement breaks and event spaces with natural daylight to promote health and engagement. PPHG is responding by embedding signature wellness experiences across its Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION and PARKROYAL properties.

Across the meetings and events industry, organisers are placing greater emphasis on venues that support sustainability, wellbeing and meaningful delegate experiences. Corporate Request for Proposals (RFP) increasingly prioritise partners that can demonstrate responsible sourcing, reduced environmental impact and wellness-focused event design. In response, PPHG has strengthened its meetings offering across its brands, from sustainability-led experiences at PARKROYAL COLLECTION properties, to locally inspired meetings at PARKROYAL hotels, to elevated service and culinary experiences at Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts. Initiatives such as reducing single-use items, sourcing ingredients and event materials locally, offering bottled water alternatives, and incorporating wellness breaks and eco-themed activities into event programmes are helping organisers deliver meetings that are both impactful and environmentally responsible.

“Today’s meeting planners are looking for more than functional venues. They want spaces that inspire creativity, technology that enables seamless collaboration, and experiences that support wellbeing and sustainability. Our MICE strategy is centred on delivering experiences that combine all these aspects in a seamless manner. Whether it’s wellness-inspired breaks, advanced hybrid meeting capabilities or locally sourced culinary experiences, we aim to help organisers create meetings that are both productive and memorable,” said Celine Du, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at PPHG.

Strategic Investments to Drive Excellence

To support the evolving business events landscape, PPHG has invested in Asset Enhancement Initiatives (AEI) across key Asia-Pacific markets. Notable projects include a full revitalisation of Pan Pacific Perth’s 2,500-square-meter convention floor, the city’s largest—offering state-of-the-art infrastructure and flexible layouts for immersive experiences.

Additionally, many of the group’s hotels are in prime city-centre locations, with excellent transport access, making them an even more attractive as MICE venues.

“We see significant long-term growth in the business events sector, particularly in Asia-Pacific. Our continued investments in meeting and event spaces reflect our confidence in the resilience and future growth of the global MICE industry. By enhancing our venues and evolving our offerings across our brands, we are focused on creating environments where organisations can bring people together, exchange ideas and drive meaningful outcomes,” Choe added.

Visit panpacific.com/meetings for more information.
View more hi-res images of some of our MICE spaces here 

Sources:

  1. Research and Markets: MICE Industry Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034
  2. Freeman Trends Report Q1 2023
  3. Grand View Research: Asia Pacific MICE Market (2024 -2030)

About Pan Pacific Hotels Group

Pan Pacific Hotels Group is a global hospitality company that owns and manages over 50 hotels, resorts, and serviced suites comprising three brands – “Pan Pacific”, PARKROYAL COLLECTION, and PARKROYAL in more than 30 cities across Asia Pacific, North America, Africa and Europe. Headquartered in Singapore, it is a member of Singapore-listed UOL Group Limited.

Pan Pacific Hotels and Resorts delivers sincere and graceful service to every guest with a passion for excellence.

PARKROYAL COLLECTION Hotels & Resorts is driven by our passion for life and sustainability. 

PARKROYAL Hotels & Resorts is distinguished by its passion for people and places, immersing every guest into local and authentic cultures.

Visit www.panpacific.com.

Pan Pacific DISCOVERY

Pan Pacific DISCOVERY is a loyalty programme designed to enhance every guest experience. Members can savour the benefits of DISCOVERY Dollars (D$), a user-friendly digital rewards currency, granting exclusive discounts on room rates, dining experiences, and more. With each tier progression, members elevate their status to unlock enhanced privileges and the opportunity to earn and spend D$ on premium hotel amenities and experiences, including Pan Pacific Hotels Group-owned dining outlets worldwide. Pan Pacific DISCOVERY is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotels with 40 brands and over 800 hotels around the world. To become a member, visit panpacific.com. 

Trip.com teams up with Checkout.com to simplify payments for global travelers

  • Checkout.com brings local acquiring and digital payments expertise to help Trip.com offer faster, more reliable transactions for travelers around the world.
  • The partnership supports Trip.com’s global expansion, unlocking growth in key markets like Saudi Arabia, Japan, the UK, and North America.
  • Together, the companies are building a more intuitive travel booking experience, supporting the tourism industry as it scales in an increasingly digital economy.

LONDON, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Checkout.com, a leading global digital payment platform, today announced a strategic partnership with international travel service provider Trip.com. The collaboration supports Trip.com‘s global expansion by enabling high performing payments and an effortless booking experience for its customers around the world as they plan their next adventure online.

Trip.com is a global travel platform offering hotel reservations, flights, trains, car rentals, attractions and more. Part of Trip.com Group, it operates in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions. With a mission to pursue the perfect trip for a better world, Trip.com Group is focused on enhancing travel experiences through innovation and localized service. The partnership with Checkout.com directly supports that goal by streamlining the payment journey across global markets. By leveraging Checkout.com’s flexible infrastructure and localized acquiring capabilities, Trip.com can deliver high performing, smooth transactions, enabling travelers around the world to book with greater ease.

The partnership marks a turning point in Trip.com’s global payment strategy. Through Checkout.com, Trip.com is implementing digital card payment services in key markets such as the UK, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, with plans to expand this offering into new regions including North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. By deploying Checkout.com’s localized acquiring solutions, Trip.com aims to significantly improve payment acceptance rates and reduce operational costs, while providing global travelers with more convenient payment options.

Looking ahead, both parties will explore the integration of diverse local payment methods beyond online card payments, including e-wallets and bank transfers, to meet the varied needs of consumers across different markets and accelerate Trip.com’s global growth. Having adopted Standalone 3DS for authentication to enhance payment performance and security, Trip.com will also explore Vault for secure card storage, Identity Verification (IDV), and issuing solutions. These technologies will help streamline payment flows and offer greater flexibility as Trip.com scales globally.

Wang Zhe, Vice President of Trip.com Group, said: “As a global travel platform, providing a fast and reliable payment experience is essential to meeting the expectations of our users and supporting our international growth. Checkout.com’s global acquiring capabilities and modular technology give us the flexibility to tailor our payment strategy by market – improving success rates, reducing costs, and ultimately delivering a better experience for our customers. This partnership strengthens our ability to innovate at speed and scale as we connect travelers with the world around them.”

Brian Sze, President of Checkout.com Asia Pacific, said: “As one of the fastest-growing travel platforms globally, Trip.com is at the forefront of digital travel, and we’re proud to support its global expansion with the payment infrastructure needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. Our collaboration goes beyond processing transactions – it’s about co-creating a payment strategy that drives performance, reduces friction, and supports the growth of the tourism industry through digital innovation.“

Press contact
pr@checkout.com 

About Checkout.com

Checkout.com processes payments for thousands of companies that shape the digital economy. Our global digital payments network supports over 145 currencies and delivers high-performance payment solutions across the world, processing billions of transactions annually. In 2025, Checkout.com processed more than $300bn in ecommerce payments volume.

We help enterprise merchants boost acceptance rates, combat fraud, and turn payments into a major revenue driver. Headquartered in London and with 19 offices worldwide, Checkout.com is trusted by leading brands such as Spotify, HelloFresh, eBay, Uber, Pinterest, Vinted, Klarna, Financial Times, and Sony.

Checkout.com. Where the world checks out.

About Trip.com

Trip.com is an international one-stop travel service provider, available in 24 languages across 39 countries and regions in 35 local currencies. Offering an extensive hotel and flight network of more than 1.5 million hotels and flights from over 640 airlines, along with over 300,000 attraction and tour products, Trip.com covers 3,400 airports in 220 countries and regions. Trip.com’s world-class 24/7 multilingual customer service helps to ‘create the best travel experience’ for its millions of customers worldwide. To book your next trip, visit Trip.com.

Hanwha Power Systems and PSM unite as Hanwha Power, a global compressor and gas turbine business

The combined company will accelerate its expansion into global energy markets, including power plants and data centers.

SEOUL, South Korea, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hanwha Impact’s subsidiaries, Hanwha Power Systems and PSM (Power Systems Mfg., LLC), a U.S.-based gas turbine service company, announced that they will integrate their brands and change the company name to ‘Hanwha Power’. The unified brand will seek to proactively address the rapidly evolving demands of the global power generation market.

The creation of Hanwha Power brings together two of the industry’s strongest providers of engineered solutions for the gas turbine power plant market. Through this integration, the company will position itself as a comprehensive energy infrastructure provider, covering main equipment, auxiliary systems, and services. This integration serves as a turning point, propelling the companies beyond their individual, equipment-focused business structures and evolving them into solution providers with integrated response capabilities.

The company envisions enabling customers to use a single partner to optimize across the entire lifecycle and to quickly respond to a changing energy environment, where a stable power supply has become a critical challenge. As demand for capacity has increased sharply due to factors such as electrification and data center installations, Hanwha Power is addressing the growing need by providing power generation solutions. Hanwha Power will support the role of high-efficiency gas turbines and precision fuel supply systems in today’s energy mix.

Additionally, building on their existing LNG gas turbine capabilities, they will consolidate expertise in low-carbon power generation, using fuels such as hydrogen and ammonia, to align with the global trend toward decarbonization. Leveraging their unique combustor technology, they aim to lead the development of a sustainable energy ecosystem by providing solutions to retrofit installed gas turbines into eco-friendly facilities that complement renewable energy sources.

Hanwha Power’s CEO Rafi Balta stated, “At a time when the importance of energy equipment has reached its peak, ‘Hanwha Power’ will consolidate global capabilities based on rotating machinery technology to strengthen the entire power industry value chain,” adding, “We will enhance local responsiveness and service quality to improve the reliability and efficiency of power plants, and leap forward as a global energy solution company leading the decarbonization era.”

Hanwha Power plans to organically integrate and operate its global bases in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, aiming to optimize operations across technology development, engineering, sales, and services.

 

Hope Medicine Announces First Patient Dosed in the Phase III Clinical Trial for Endometriosis

SHANGHAI, March 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hope Medicine Inc., a science-driven, clinical-stage innovative biopharmaceutical company, announced that the first patient has been dosed in the Phase III clinical trial of HMI-115, its first-in-class monoclonal antibody with global rights, for the treatment of endometriosis. The dosing took place at the leading study site in China, Peking Union Medical College Hospital. This Phase III trial is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study designed to confirm the safety and efficacy of HMI-115 in treating moderate-to-severe pain associated with endometriosis, with a treatment period of 24 weeks. HMI-115 is currently the first and only non-hormonal therapy globally to have entered Phase III clinical development.

Previously, HMI-115 was granted Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe pain associated with endometriosis. Additionally, HMI-115 was granted the Breakthrough Therapy Designation (BTD) by the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). These recognitions from global regulatory authorities were primarily based on the results from a previously completed global multicenter Phase II clinical trial for HMI-115 in endometriosis, which demonstrated that HMI-115 achieved statistically significant improvement in moderate-to-severe pain associated with endometriosis, with no significant impact on key female hormones and no menopausal side effects. These findings have been published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health. Furthermore, Hope Medicine was nominated as “Best Startup” for the prestigious Prix Galien Award.

Regarding this significant clinical milestone, Professor Xiao Ruiping, Founder of Hope Medicine, stated:
“The initiation of the Phase III clinical trial for HMI-115 in endometriosis, marks a milestone achievement in our clinical development. Peking Union Medical College Hospital, as the leading site, is at the forefront of this Phase III study. Hope Medicine remains unwavering in its original commitment to bringing truly differentiated first-in-class medicines to patients worldwide.”

Mr. Chen Xi, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Medicine, also commented:
“The launch of the Phase III trial signifies that the global development of HMI-115 for endometriosis has entered its final stage. Women’s health is a key focus area for Hope Medicine, and we will drive this trial with the best speed and quality to bring this innovative treatment to patients as soon as possible.”

About Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common gynecological disease characterized by the implantation of endometrial cells outside the uterine cavity, typically presenting as a chronic inflammatory response. The endometrium is the mucosal tissue lining the uterine cavity, which undergoes hormone-dependent changes during the menstrual cycle. Endometriosis is common in women of reproductive age, with symptoms including lower abdominal and pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, painful intercourse, and infertility. Comprehensive literature reports indicate that approximately 10% of women of reproductive age globally are affected by endometriosis, about 190 million women worldwide; 20%-50% of women with infertility have endometriosis, and 71%-87% of women with chronic pelvic pain have endometriosis. Endometriosis is one of the leading causes of dysmenorrhea, infertility, and chronic pelvic pain. The disease often leads to decreased quality of life, affecting patients’ sexual health, psychological well-being, and social behavior. Globally, the disease represents a potential market size of approximately US$200 billion (according to McKinsey report), with significant unmet medical needs.

About Hope Medicine

Hope Medicine Inc. is a science-driven clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company with research laboratories and offices in Beijing, Shanghai, and Nanjing, China. HopeMed is established on the in-depth expertise in translational medicine and decades of research of Professor Rui-Ping Xiao’s laboratory at the Institute of Molecular Medicine of Peking University. Based on excellent scientific research and to improve the quality of life, HopeMed is committed to the research, development, and commercialization of first-in-class medicines for common and major diseases that threaten human health.

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