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Cambodia Orders Halt to Fuel Imports From Thailand

Cambodia Orders Halt to Fuel Imports From Thailand
Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet gestures as he arrives to attend a joint congress between the Senate and the National Assembly in Phnom Penh on June 2, 2025. (Photo by TANG CHHIN Sothy / AFP)

AFP – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said on 22 June that the country would halt all fuel imports from its neighbor, Thailand, as tensions escalate over an ongoing border dispute.

Key Findings from the “Hong Kong Vitiligo Patients and Caregivers Survey” Released for “World Vitiligo Day”


Patients Demonstrate Significant Knowledge Gaps in Treatment Options, Leading to Lost Hope and Treatment Discontinuation

Over 70% of Vitiligo Patients Desire Skin Repigmentation; New Topical Therapy Introduced in Hong Kong Shows Encouraging Results

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 June 2025 – In observance of World Vitiligo Day (June 25), Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group has released findings from its latest “Hong Kong Vitiligo Patients and Caregivers Survey.” The study reveals critical gaps in treatment knowledge, with over 80% of respondents demonstrating limited understanding of available therapies and their efficacy. More than 70% of patients hoped therapy could partially or fully restore their original skin pigmentation, yet many reported disappointing outcomes with existing treatments, leading to loss of confidence and treatment discontinuation.

(From left) Mr. Chan (pseudonym), a patient with vitiligo; Dr. Chan Yung, a specialist in dermatology; and Ms. Amy Wong, a registered social worker from the Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group, urge individuals with vitiligo to seek professional medical consultation for personalized treatment plan promptly and to avoid unproven remedies
(From left) Mr. Chan (pseudonym), a patient with vitiligo; Dr. Chan Yung, a specialist in dermatology; and Ms. Amy Wong, a registered social worker from the Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group, urge individuals with vitiligo to seek professional medical consultation for personalized treatment plan promptly and to avoid unproven remedies

Dr. Chan Yung, a specialist in dermatology, noted that with advancing insights into vitiligo pathogenesis, novel therapy has recently been introduced in Hong Kong. Clinical studies confirm its repigmentation potential, encouraging patients to consult specialists for personalized treatment plans.

In Hong Kong, vitiligo affects approximately 1% of the population, with an estimated 70,000 individuals living with the condition. In May 2025, Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group successfully surveyed 61 patients or their primary caregivers to identify key challenges in disease management. Key findings as follows:

1. Critical Knowledge Deficits in Treatment Understanding

  • 80% lack understanding of treatment options
  • 78% unfamiliar with medication efficacy
  • 84% uncertain about which specialist to consult

2. Disparity Between Treatment Expectations and Outcomes

  • 74% of respondents expressed a desire for full or partial skin repigmentation, yet among the 48 treated patients, none achieved complete repigmentation, and only 8% reported partial improvement
  • 67% perceived treatments as completely ineffective

3. Treatment Discontinuation Due to Lost Confidence

  • 43% are not receiving any active treatment at present
  • Barriers included: high private healthcare costs and long public-sector wait times (95%), and perceived futility of therapy (75%)

Vitiligo is classified as segmental (SV) or non-segmental (NSV), with 90% of cases being NSV—a subtype with higher progression risk and greater therapeutic difficulty. Traditional options (e.g., topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy) often yield variable results, with limitations such as:

  • Corticosteroids: Risk of skin atrophy, telangiectasia; unsuitable for long-term use
  • Phototherapy: Requires 3–6 months (or longer) of 2–3 weekly sessions, with potential sunburn and skin cancer risks
  • Non-steroidal topicals: Often only slow progression rather than induce repigmentation


Over 70% of Vitiligo Patients Seek Skin Repigmentation – New Topical Treatment Introduced in Hong Kong Offers Hope

Dr. Chan Yung stated that targeted therapies like topical JAK inhibitors represent a breakthrough in vitiligo treatment. “Topical JAK inhibitors are non-steroidal medications with demonstrated efficacy and safety profiles, making them a viable long-term treatment option for patients,” he explained.

While the exact etiology of vitiligo remains unclear, current evidence suggests autoimmune-mediated attack on melanocytes plays a key pathogenic role, resulting in depigmented lesions. Non-steroidal Topical JAK inhibitors work by modulating the aberrant immune signaling responsible for melanocyte attack, enabling gradual repigmentation of affected areas.

Ruxolitinib cream, the first FDA-approved non-steroidal topical JAK inhibitor for localized treatment of non-segmental vitiligo in patients aged 12 years and above, has recently become available in Hong Kong. Clinical trials show:

  • Approximately 30% of patients achieved ≥75% improvement in Facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (F-VASI) after 24 weeks of treatment;
  • 50% of patients showed ≥50% improvement;
  • Extension to 52 weeks of treatment resulted in >50% of patients attaining ≥75% improvement7


Ms. Amy Wong,
a Registered Social Worker at Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group noted that many vitiligo patients and caregivers seeking assistance express confusion about treatment options and medication efficacy. “Many patients spend over a year just obtaining a definitive diagnosis,” she explained. “In their search for solutions, patients often invest substantial resources in various cosmetic packages and alternative therapies, only to experience significant discrepancies between desired and actual outcomes. This frequently leads to disillusionment, loss of hope for effective treatment, and even emotional distress.”

“However,” Ms. Wong emphasized, “with medical advancements, vitiligo is no longer considered untreatable. Repigmentation is now achievable, and we strongly encourage patients to seek professional medical consultation at the earliest opportunity.”

Conclusion and Recommendations

The survey reveals significant gaps in patients’ understanding of vitiligo treatments and their mechanisms, leaving many uncertain about where to begin treatment. Over 80% of respondents expressed desire for patient support in medication access and resource referrals. Accordingly, Dr. Chan Yung and Ms. Amy Wong, propose the following recommendations:

1. Public Education Seminars
Conduct lectures and workshops to help patients and caregivers understand that vitiligo requires long-term management, with visible results often taking extended periods to manifest. These initiatives should also educate participants about various treatment modalities, particularly newly available options like non-steroidal topical JAK inhibitors, enabling informed discussions with healthcare providers about appropriate treatment plans.

2. Medication Support and Resource Referral Services
Given that vitiligo necessitates prolonged treatment, and considering that many patients find private care cost-prohibitive while public service wait times are excessively long, we recommend establishing medication support and resource referral services to facilitate timely access to proper treatment. Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group is currently implementing a “Vitiligo Patient Support Program,” offering free psychological counseling, medication assistance, and resource referral services. Interested individuals may contact Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group for details.

Case Study

Mr. Chan (pseudonym), 58, first developed symptoms thirty years ago with a small depigmented spot on his neck that subsequently spread to his neck, waist, wrists, and thighs. At diagnosis, his physician prescribed topical corticosteroids but stated vitiligo was essentially “incurable.” Mr. Chan subsequently pursued numerous alternative treatments including UV light therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, electroacupuncture, topical shampoo applications, and cosmetic packages – exhausting savings and liquidating his stocks – all without achieving satisfactory repigmentation.

After years of unsuccessful treatment attempts, he discontinued treatment until being referred to the Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group. Through their seminars and “Vitiligo Patient Support Program”, he learned about modern treatment advances and, with medication assistance, has begun new therapy with renewed hope for repigmentation.

“My greatest wish is to wear crew-neck shirts again,” Mr. Chan shared. “Since developing vitiligo, I’ve only worn high-collared shirts to conceal neck patches and haven’t gone swimming in thirty years.” He looks forward to regaining sartorial freedom following successful repigmentation.
Hashtag: #Vitiligo #WorldVitiligoDay #TopicalJAKinhibitors #Non-steroidalTopicalJAKinhibitors #Ruxolitinibcream #SkinRepigmentation #Dr.ChanYung #Dermatology #Skincare#HongKongVitiligoSupportGroup

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

About Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group

Initiated by social enterprise Hong Kong Health Care Alliance, Hong Kong Vitiligo Support Group is a non-profit patient organization dedicated to individuals affected by vitiligo and their caregivers. Our mission is to enhance societal understanding of vitiligo through comprehensive disease education and support services, empowering patients to better understand and confront their condition while fostering public awareness. We strive to ensure no patient faces this journey alone.

Kinky Lizard Cafe Celebrates Major Milestone with the Opening of Its 10th Venue in Perth City


PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 June 2025 – Kinky Lizard Cafe, one of Perth’s leading independent café groups, is proud to announce the opening of its 10th location at 94 Barrack Street, Perth WA 6000. This significant milestone marks a new chapter for the family-run brand, which has grown steadily since its inception in 2019.

Established in East Perth with a vision to make mornings better through quality coffee, nourishing food, and welcoming spaces, Kinky Lizard has expanded across Perth’s metropolitan area, with venues in suburbs including Applecross, Mosman Park, Karrinyup, and more.

“Our growth has been organic and community-driven,” said Emilie Kaasik of Kinky Lizard Cafe. “Each new store is a reflection of our values—fresh, made-to-order food, locally roasted coffee, and a warm environment where customers feel at home. Reaching 10 stores is a proud moment for our entire team.”

New Location in the Heart of the City

Situated in a high-foot-traffic area between Hay Street and Murray Street malls, the new Barrack Street outlet brings Kinky Lizard’s signature experience to Perth’s CBD. Surrounded by heritage buildings, laneways, office blocks, and retail precincts, the store is ideally positioned to cater to professionals, tourists, students, and local residents.

The café features a modern fit-out that complements its historic surroundings, with indoor and outdoor seating, plug-in-friendly workstations, and a menu that includes both dine-in and quick takeaway options.

Commitment to Local Values and Quality

Kinky Lizard Cafe is renowned for its commitment to sourcing high-quality ingredients, crafting house-made recipes, and serving premium, locally roasted coffee.

Each venue offers a consistent yet locally attuned experience, with brunch classics like popcorn chicken eggs benedict, brekkie bruschetta, and fresh cold-pressed juices prepared daily. From breakfast in East Perth to weekend brunch in Applecross, the Kinky Lizard offering is carefully curated to meet the needs of its diverse customer base.

Looking Ahead

As interest in local, authentic hospitality experiences continues to grow in Western Australia, Kinky Lizard Cafe is poised for further expansion while remaining true to its community roots. The group is focused on delivering memorable customer experiences, investing in staff training, and building deeper connections within each neighborhood it serves.

“With the opening of our Barrack Street café, we reaffirm our commitment to being more than just a place to grab coffee,” the spokesperson added. “We’re a part of the local fabric, and we look forward to serving Perth for many more years to come.”

Visit Kinky Lizard Barrack Street

Address: 94 Barrack Street, Perth WA 6000
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM – 3:30 PM | Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Website: https://kinkylizard.com.au
Hashtag: #KinkyLizardCafe




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

About Kinky Lizard Cafe

Kinky Lizard Cafe is a proudly Perth-born, family-run cafe group with 10 locations across the city and surrounding suburbs. Known for its signature coffee blend, fresh made-to-order food, and house-made pastries, Kinky Lizard offers a warm, community-focused experience at every venue. With a commitment to quality, local suppliers, and genuine hospitality, the Kinky Lizard team continues to grow while staying true to its roots, welcoming every guest like family.

Learn more:

Bank of China (Hong Kong) x Television Broadcasts Limited (“TVB”) “Wealth Management Expo 2025” was successfully held

Driving Economic Momentum, Leading Trends with Mega Events


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 June 2025 – The “Wealth Management Expo 2025”, powered by Bank of China (Hong Kong) (“BOCHK”) and organised by TVB under the theme of “Driving Economic Momentum, Leading Trends with Mega Events” has been successfully held today. The Expo has brought together leading figures from the government, business and financial sectors to provide in-depth analysis and share valuable insights into market trends through examining the international landscape, RMB internationalisation, the mega-event economy, as well as personal and business financial management.

Officiating guests - Mr. Paul Chan, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government (Fourth Right), Miss Rosanna Law, JP, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism (Third Left) and Mr. Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK (Forth Left); together with other attending guests including Mr. Thomas Hui, JP, Executive Chairman of TVB (Third Right) and representatives from BOCHK.
Officiating guests – Mr. Paul Chan, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government (Fourth Right), Miss Rosanna Law, JP, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism (Third Left) and Mr. Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK (Forth Left); together with other attending guests including Mr. Thomas Hui, JP, Executive Chairman of TVB (Third Right) and representatives from BOCHK.

The Expo was officiated by Mr. Paul Chan, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, the Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government; Miss Rosanna Law, JP, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; and Mr. Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK. Miss Rosanna Law also shared at the summit forum on how mega events catalyse Hong Kong’s economy. Other attending guests included Mr. Thomas Hui, JP, Executive Chairman of TVB and representatives from BOCHK.

Mr. Stephen Chan, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK, said in his opening speech, “As a leading commercial bank rooted in Hong Kong for over a century, BOCHK fully leverages its regional advantages and integrated offerings to continuously enhance operational capabilities while delivering high-quality services. Apart from actively promoting green finance and inclusive financial development, BOCHK drives continuous innovation in fintech, accelerating its digital transformation. The Bank is committed to supporting Hong Kong in reinforcing its position as a global offshore RMB business hub, while deepening cross-boundary financial business within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.”

Opening Forum: Experts Shared Insights on Outlook for RMB Internationalisation
The opening forum of the Expo, “Dissecting Economic Pulse and Exploring Opportunities in RMB Internationalisation,” featured Dr. Jianguang Shen, Vice President of JD.com; Dr. Rocky Tung, Director and Head of Policy Research for the Financial Services Development Council; Mr. Dong Tao, President of Spring Capital (Hong Kong) Limited and a renowned economist; and Mr. Jack Yang, RMB Business Executive Director of BOCHK, who engaged in an in-depth discussion on the various opportunities in the internationalisation of the RMB, including how enterprises can leverage the advantages of RMB settlement to reduce cross-border transaction costs, as well as the attractiveness of RMB-denominated assets and emerging investment opportunities in the international capital markets.

Summit Forum: Unleashed the Powerful Driving Force of the MegaEvent Economy
The Hong Kong SAR Government has been actively promoting the “Mega-event economy” in recent years, aiming to generate more business opportunities and attract more tourists through sports competitions, art exhibitions, large-scale international events and conferences. The speakers of the summit forum themed “Mega Events as Economic Catalysts: Synergy of Sports, Arts, Culture and Tourism” are Miss Rosanna Law, JP, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr. Wilfred Ng, GBS, MH, JP, Chairman of the Major Sports Events Committee; and Prof. Douglas So, BBS, JP, Chairman of the Board of M Plus Collections Limited, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation. They conducted an in-depth analysis of the diverse opportunities created by mega events. The three speakers explored how mega events drive economic growth from multiple perspectives, and shared insights on recent preparations for organising sports mega events and their economic contributions, while emphasising the importance of participation and support from all sectors.

Five Thematic Workshops and Immersive Digital Experience Zone: Enriching Information and Experience
The Expo also held five thematic workshops, where several experts dissected the latest trends in the global economy and markets. Regarding global economic development, two fund workshops “Global Outlook of Asset Appreciation Potential in International Markets” and “From Asia to the World: Multi-Asset Allocation Strategies for Enhanced Returns” along with the cross-border workshop “Strategic Overview on Equity Markets and Economic Insights” emphasised the importance of focusing on Asia and global markets, empowering investors to grasp opportunities across different regions and industries to formulate prudent wealth growth strategies. The legacy planning workshop “Securing Wealth Legacy, Prosperity Across Three Generations” concentrated on planning wealth for the next generation, grounded in love and sheltered by insurance. In addition, the stock market workshop “Decoding the Stock Market: Sector Analysis and Trading Tactics” explored market trends, the AI boom and analysed the prospects of technology stocks.

To enrich participants’ experience, the venue also featured an immersive digital experience zone. Utilising an LED spherical display and a surrounded screen, the zone showcased three main themes in a one-stop format: anti-fraud, AI data applications and ESG. Participants can learn about BOCHK’s digital empowerment.

The “Wealth Management Expo 2025” concluded successfully with fruitful outcomes. Through a full day of engaging forums, workshops, digital experience zone and sponsored booths, BOCHK hopes that industry professionals, investors and the public gained insights into changes in the international environment and market opportunities, with a focus on the RMB internationalisation and the diverse opportunities brought by the Mega-event economy, while mastering the path to wealth growth and legacy.

Moses Chan Attended the Brand Launch Event and Shared Business Insights with Natalie Tong
BOCHK announced the extended collaboration with Private Wealth brand ambassador Moses Chan, appointing him as the premium family wealth management brand FamilyMAX & BOCHK Cross-Border GO star brand ambassador and BOC Life’s Star Product & Services Ambassador. Having founded a coffee brand years ago, Moses Chan’s “entrepreneur” identity has become as well-known as his acting career. Today, Moses Chan and Natalie Tong, popular Japanese bakery brand co-founder, Best Actress and Business Banking brand ambassador, appeared at the “Dialogue with the Best Actor and Actress” to share how to balance multiple roles as actors and owners of catering business. They also discussed how to utilise financial knowledge and leverage professional teams and fintech services to enhance personal and business wealth management efficiency.

Hashtag: #WealthManagementExpo2025

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

Toxic Thailand Rivers Pinned on Myanmar Mines

This aerial photo taken on 25 May 2025 shows a map (with Thailand on left, Myanmar in centre, and Laos on right) at a Golden Triangle viewpoint in northern Thailand's Chiang Rai province. A sprawling new mine is gouged into the lush rolling hills of northeast Myanmar, where civil war has weakened the government's already feeble writ, and pollution levels are rising downstream in Thailand. (photo credit: MANAN VATSYAYANA / AFP)

By Chayanit Itthipongmaetee and Sally Jensen/AFP – A sprawling new mine is gouged into the lush rolling hills of northeast Myanmar, where civil war has weakened the government’s already feeble writ, and pollution levels are rising downstream in Thailand.

The complex is one of around a dozen extraction operations that have sprung up in Shan state since around 2022, in territory controlled by the United Wa State Army (UWSA), one of conflict-wracked Myanmar’s largest and best-equipped ethnic armed groups.

A few kilometres away across the border, locals and officials in Thailand believe toxic waste is washing downstream from the mines into the Kok River, which flows through the kingdom’s far north on its way to join the mighty Mekong.

Thai authorities say they have detected abnormally high arsenic levels in their waterways, which could pose a risk to aquatic life and people further up the food chain.

The price fisherman Sawat Kaewdam gets for his catch has fallen by almost half, he said, because locals fear contamination.

“They say, ‘There’s arsenic. I don’t want to eat that fish,’” he told AFP.

Tests in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai by a government pollution agency found levels of the toxic element as high as 49 micrograms per litre (mcg/l) of river water, nearly five times international drinking water standards.

Experts say that while the effects on human health would not be visible immediately, the fish-heavy local diet risks a cumulative impact over several years.

“We already know where the contamination is coming from,” said fisherman Sawat.

“They should go fix it at the source.”

Five-fold rise

Pianporn Deetes, campaign director of the International Rivers NGO, blames the arsenic levels on Shan state’s unlicensed mines, which operate outside any regulation or control by the central government.

It is Thailand’s “largest-ever case of transboundary pollution”, she added.

The mines are believed to be run by Chinese companies with close links to the UWSA, whose members themselves have longstanding ties to China, speak Mandarin and use China’s yuan currency.

It is unclear whether the mines are digging for gold, rare earths or a variety of minerals, and it is also difficult to gauge the size of an industry operating in a secretive grey zone.

But videos on Chinese social media suggest much of what is produced in Myanmar ends up being sold to Chinese buyers.

In a report last week citing Chinese customs data, think tank ISP-Myanmar said the country was the source of around two-thirds of China’s rare earth imports by value.

The Asian giant had imported five times as much rare earths from Myanmar in the four years since the 2021 military coup than in the equivalent preceding period, it added.

Many modern mines use a system of tailing ponds to reuse leftover waste and water and stop it being released into rivers, said Tanapon Phenrat of Naresuan University’s civil engineering department.

But “in Myanmar, they reportedly discharge it directly into natural waterways”, he added, increasing the risk of contamination spreading into the food chain.

“What we need is for mines to treat their waste properly and stop discharging toxic substances into shared waterways.”

AFP was unable to reach UWSA officials for comment.

Chinese companies

From its Myanmar headwaters, the 285-kilometre Kok River is a vital resource for thousands of people as it wends through Chiang Rai province on its way to feed the Mekong.

In Chiang Rai City, a tranquil place popular with tourists, environmentalists dressed as wart-afflicted fish dance in protest.

The Thai government has proposed building a dam to prevent contaminated water from entering the country, but campaigners say physical barriers alone cannot stop pollution

Bangkok acknowledges that Myanmar’s junta may be unable to stop Chinese companies operating mines in militia-controlled areas.

And Chonthicha Jangrew of Thailand’s parliamentary foreign affairs committee met senior Beijing officials last month, urging them to supervise Chinese mining firms “in order to stop the impact on people downstream”, she said.

The Chinese embassy in Bangkok posted on Facebook last week that it had instructed Chinese companies “to comply with the laws of the host country and to conduct their business in a legal and orderly fashion at all times.”

The Myanmar junta did not respond to questions from AFP.

“The water isn’t beyond saving yet,” said Tanapon of Naresuan University.

“But this is a clear signal,” he added. “We need to act now.”


© Agence France-Presse

Octa’s oil outlook: Middle East tensions threaten global supply


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 June 2025 – Crude oil, which is arguably the world’s most important commodity, is on everybody’s mind right now. The flared up conflict in the Middle East is increasing risks of a major oil supply shock, potentially pushing the price of ‘black gold’ into the stratosphere and completely derailing the global economy. In this article, Octa, a global retail broker, shares its expert opinion on the unfolding situation and outlines possible scenarios for the global oil market.

Octa Broker

As it often happens, the market started to price in the possibility of a new conflict in the Middle East well in advance. On 11 June, oil prices rose more than 4% after reports surfaced that the U.S. was preparing to evacuate its Iraqi embassy due to heightened security concerns in the region. Two days later, Israel and Iran exchanged airstrikes, pushing both Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the world’s two major oil benchmarks, to five-month highs as investors anticipated potential supply disruptions from an open conflict. To this day, the conflict continues without resolution and oil prices remain elevated even as there are some telltale signs that the parties may be willing to negotiate.

‘This burgeoning unrest introduces an unprecedented degree of volatility, significantly amplifying the specter of a catastrophic oil supply shock’, argues Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa broker, adding that the conflict between Israel and Iran ‘carries ominous potential to propel crude prices to unprecedented levels, thereby unleashing a cascade of detrimental effects that could, in the most dire of scenarios, cause a major global economic crisis’.

Indeed, the Middle East in general and Iran in particular play a pivotal role in global energy markets. A substantial portion of the world’s crude oil and liquified natural gas (LNG) is produced and exported in this region. Iran itself, despite the existing sanctions on exports, remains an important supplier of oil—notably, for China. Furthermore, a vast number of ships carrying crude oil and LNG transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow yet vital chokepoint that Iran has repeatedly threatened to close. Should Iran act on this threat and block the strait, the repercussions would be quite severe, likely pushing global crude oil prices well above $100 per barrel, or even higher, due to the significant disruption of supply.

Technically, if we look at a broader, long-term picture, WTI crude oil seems to be moving sideways with a minor bearish tilt. On a daily chart (see below), the price still has not escaped from the bearish parallel channel. However, due to the latest geopolitical news, the price has managed to rise above the 200-day moving average (MA) and seems poised to break above the critically important 77.60-78.00 area.

‘Breaching the $80 handle should not be difficult if the current situation deteriorates sharply’, says Kar Yong Ang. ‘Continuing destruction of oil infrastructure in Iran, potential U.S. involvement in the war, countries’ unwillingness to negotiate and, above all else, Iran’s attempts to block the Strait of Hormuz, all of this will have a bullish impact on prices’. Indeed, a break above 80 level, would open the way towards 83.40, 85.20, 87.30, and 90.00 area.

Alternatively, in case the hostilities moderate somewhat, other countries—particularly the U.S.—refrain from directly participating in the conflict, and both Israel and Iran express willingness to negotiate, bearish sentiment will immediately kick in. ‘I think WTI oil may lose as much as 5 dollars per barrel in the blink of an eye should we see some progress in nuclear negotiations between Europeans and Iranians, which are due to commence in Geneva this Friday’, concludes Kar Yong Ang. In this scenario, a break below 71.50 level would allow bears to target 67.80, 64.80 and 61.70.

Overall, WTI crude price is now stuck in a broad range between $70 and $80. The move above and below these two levels will essentially indicate if the situation in the region is getting worse or is getting better. The chart below shows potential bullish and bearish targets, marked in green and red, respectively.

NYMEX light sweet crude oil (WTI) daily chart
Source: TradingView, Octa analysis and calculations
Source: TradingView, Octa analysis and calculations

___

Disclaimer: This press release does not contain or constitute investment advice or recommendations and does not consider your investment objectives, financial situation, or needs. Any actions taken based on this content are at your sole discretion and risk—Octa does not accept any liability for any resulting losses or consequences.
Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.
The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including improving educational infrastructure and funding short-notice relief projects to support local communities.

In Southeast Asia, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

Galaxy Macau Celebrates an Array of Award Wins Ranking it Macau’s Most-Awarded Luxury Resort

Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 and Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025 Recognise Galaxy Macau with Top Honours


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 June 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ (“Galaxy Macau”) the World-class Luxury Resort, celebrates a glittering array of award wins in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, and the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025.

Galaxy Hotel secured the No. 1 ranking within the “Best Hotels in Macau” category.
Galaxy Hotel secured the No. 1 ranking within the “Best Hotels in Macau” category.
Galaxy Macau has received multiple accolades at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. With Galaxy Macau garnering a total of 20 awards at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025 in a standout show of industry recognition.
Galaxy Macau has received multiple accolades at the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. With Galaxy Macau garnering a total of 20 awards at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025 in a standout show of industry recognition.

Galaxy Macau and four of its distinguished hotels, including Galaxy Hotel™; Banyan Tree Macau; Andaz Macau and Raffles at Galaxy Macau, have been recognized across five award categories in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, as a testament to exceptional hospitality, unparalleled design, and unforgettable guest experiences.

The editors, expert contributors and readers at Travel + Leisure, were generous in their praise, bestowing a suite of top honours. With Galaxy Hotel crowned the “Best Hotel in Macau”, reaffirming its dedication to best-in-class excellence, Banyan Tree Spa Macau secured the top spot for the “Hotel Spas in Macau” category for the third consecutive year. With Ms. Joanne Chan of Banyan Tree Macau, ranked best-in-class in the “Hotel General Managers of the Year” category for her standout dedication to guest experience.

Banyan Tree Spa Macau took home the winner’s title in the “Best Hotel Spas in Macau” category for the third year running.
Banyan Tree Spa Macau took home the winner’s title in the “Best Hotel Spas in Macau” category for the third year running.
Andaz Macau triumphed among the “Best Hotels in Macau”, setting a new benchmark for luxury and service excellence.
Andaz Macau triumphed among the “Best Hotels in Macau”, setting a new benchmark for luxury and service excellence.

The Grand Resort Deck at Galaxy Macau, home to the world’s longest Skytop Aquatic Adventure River Ride and the world’s largest Skytop Wave Pool, led the way for “Best Hotel Pools” in Macau, reinforcing its leading positioning as the ultimate resort experience in Macau. The stunning pools at Banyan Tree Macau and Raffles at Galaxy Macau also ranked within the top ten on the esteemed list.

The Grand Resort Deck at Galaxy Macau won out, clinching the top spot within the “Best Hotel Pools” in the city category.
The Grand Resort Deck at Galaxy Macau won out, clinching the top spot within the “Best Hotel Pools” in the city category.
Banyan Tree Macau also proudly secured its place in the winners’ list among the “Best Hotels in Macau”.
Banyan Tree Macau also proudly secured its place in the winners’ list among the “Best Hotels in Macau”.

Not to be outdone, Andaz Macau shone brightly as one of the “Best Hotels in Macau” for the second year in a row; with Banyan Tree Macau securing a place on the winner’s list for “Best Hotels in Macau.”

Galaxy Macau continued its winning streak, topping four of the five categories in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 in a testament to exceptional hospitality, design, and guest experience; ranking as the successive “Best Integrated Resort in Asia Pacific.”

These prestigious awards underscore Galaxy Macau’s dedication to offering unparalleled luxury and world-class experiences to travelers seeking unforgettable guest experiences that are recognised as second to none.

“We are truly honored to receive these awards from the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 and Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025,” said Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer (Macau) at Galaxy Entertainment Group. To receive such a raft of accolades is a firm nod to the quality and considered level of impactful hospitality we strive for. The editors, expert contributors and readers at Travel + Leisure were generous in their praise, bestowing on Galaxy Macau a suite of top honors. The expert industry judges at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025 recognised the best-in-class excellence of our restaurants, bars, hotels and teams at Galaxy Macau, as well as StarWorld, with a long list of awards. Our commitment to delivering exceptional luxury service continues apace, as we strive to support the Macau SAR Government’s goal of positioning Macau as Asia’s leading global tourism and leisure destination.”

As Galaxy Macau continues to set new benchmarks in hospitality, these accolades reaffirm its position as Asia’s leading luxury resort for discerning travellers seeking the finest, best-in-class accommodation, dining, and entertainment; all in one unparalleled destination.

For more information, visit [Galaxy Macau’s official website] (https://www.galaxymacau.com/awards/)
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

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The VinFast VF 6 Passes the Wife Test with Room to Spare


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 June 2025 – Women usually play an important role in family car-buying decisions, and the VinFast VF 6, recently launched in the Philippines, meets the key priorities of many women buyers.

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The old stereotype paints a familiar picture: men kick tires, debate horsepower, and make the final call on family cars. Reality tells a different story. According to CDK Global, women influence 85% of all car purchases.

This insight means that women play an important, sometimes deciding, role in buying a car. It’s essential for automakers to understand what women actually look for in a vehicle.

The way women make decisions

The numbers reveal how women approach car buying. Women spend more time researching their options. On average, they take 75 days to make a decision, compared to 63 days for men. This suggests that they usually do more thorough research to build knowledge prior to the purchase.

Their priorities are also different from men’s when shopping for cars. An iSeeCars.com survey of over 500,000 car inquiries showed that women focus on price, affordability, and practical features, while performance specs and brand prestige rank lower. The cars men wanted cost three times more on average than what satisfied women buyers.

This kind of thinking reflects the many roles women juggle every day: caregivers, professionals, and budget managers, often all at once. A MasterCard study across 16 Asian countries found women managing household finances in half the markets surveyed. In Indonesia and the Philippines, over 56% of women control domestic spending decisions.

A more recent survey by Women’s World Car of the Year gave a further breakdown. Safety ranks as the single most important feature women seek. Practicality, performance, and space tie for second place. But safety isn’t just about crash ratings.

Women want backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, and multiple airbags. They value high seating positions for better visibility. Storage pockets, cupholders, and intuitive technology matter for daily convenience. Many also weigh emissions and fuel efficiency, choosing greener options when the situation allows.

VinFast VF 6 ticks all the boxes

The VinFast VF 6, a compact SUV recently launched in the Philippines, happens to tick all the boxes that matter most to women car buyers. It’s a fully electric SUV in the popular B-segment, combining safety, practicality, and smart technology in a package built for real-world use.

In the Philippines, the VF 6 is available in two trims: Eco and Plus, with MSRPs of 1,419,000 PHP and 1,610,000 PHP respectively.

The “Natural Opposites” design, created with Torino Design, balances function and form. But looks aren’t the selling point. It’s the way the VF 6 fits into everyday life.

With a 2,730 mm wheelbase, the VF 6 remains compact enough for narrow city streets while offering interior space comparable to many larger gas-powered cars in the C-segment. Its 423-liter cargo capacity fits around 10 standard carry-on suitcases. Folding down the rear seats makes room for larger items such as bicycles or camping gear.

Inside, the VF 6 features a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and an 8-way power driver’s seat. Voice commands operate smoothly. Utility modes cater to daily needs, including Pet Mode, which keeps the cabin cool for animals when the driver steps away. The 360-degree camera view also makes parking in tight spots easier.

For safety, the VF 6 includes up to 8 airbags and offers up to 19 advanced driver assistance features in the Plus version. These include blind spot detection, rear parking assist, and 360-degree camera views, making driving easier for newer drivers.

The VF 6’s practicality extends to finances. Owners get free charging at V-GREEN operated stations until May 1st, 2027, which eliminates fuel costs entirely. The 7-year warranty and 90% buyback guarantee provide long-term security.

Range anxiety disappears with up to 480 kilometers per charge, handling both daily commutes and weekend trips without compromise.

“Women hold up half the sky”, so it’s only natural that they should shape what families drive on the road. And the VF 6 happens to align perfectly with this shift toward practical buyers.

In this era, automakers can’t rely on dated assumptions. They need to meet people where they are, starting with the ones making the decisions. The VF 6 offers practical features, safety, and financial sense. That’s what many buyers want, and that’s how trust is earned.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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