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Premia launches first Saudi Arabia government Sukuk ETF in Asia for allocators looking for efficient tool to access investment grade sukuk or EM fixed income securities

HONG KONG, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In partnership with  BOCHK Asset Management Limited (BOCHKAM), Premia Partners, the leading homegrown ETF provider from Hong Kong, announces listing of Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF (the ETF) on 29 May 2025 on HKEx.

As Asia’s first investment grade government sukuk ETF, the physical replicated ETF is designed to provide investors with direct access to government sukuk denominated in Saudi Riyal or US Dollar issued by the Saudi Arabia government or government agencies, with total expense ratio (TER) of 0.35% p.a. only.

  • Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF (Tickers: 3478.HK (HKD distribution class)/ 9478.HK (USD distribution class)) tracks the iBoxx Tadawul Government & Agencies Sukuk Index.
  • Covering only Sukuk instruments issued by Saudi Arabian government or its agencies, with a stable A-rated sovereign issuer rating by major international agencies, the strategy reflects the robust oil reserves, low government debt level and vibrant economic development of Saudi Arabia under the Vision 2030 Strategic Plans.
  • The ETF offers stable income and attractive yield, as well as diversification benefits given its low correlations with other bonds and major asset classes.

“The launch of this ETF is a significant milestone and cumulation of a year-long preparation in our efforts to build an efficient tool for international allocators looking for diversification from investment grade emerging markets and shariah-compliant fixed income solutions,” said Rebecca Chua, Managing Partner of Premia Partners. “It is a particularly timely strategy in the current market environment, as allocators increasingly look to values from more diversified allocation and uncorrelated returns.’

Li Tong, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCHK and Chairman of BOCHKAM, said: “BOCHKAM is pleased to collaborate with Premia Partners to launch the Asia’s first Saudi Arabic Government Sukuk ETF. This fund combines the flexibility and transparency of an ETF with the features of Islamic finance, providing investors with convenient access to Saudi Arabia’s capital market. BOCHKAM will continue to foster collaboration with the Middle East and other markets by developing more globally-diversified asset allocation solutions, contributing our efforts to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a global asset management centre.”

Leveraging its capabilities in both Asia and Middle East, HSBC will provide a range of trustee, global custody and fund administration services for Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF in both Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia. Commenting on the launch, Faris AlGhannam, Chief Executive Officer and Board member, HSBC Saudi Arabia, said: “ETFs have become a key tool for asset managers tapping into the emerging Middle East-Asia investment corridor. This landmark transaction reflects the sustained demand among foreign investors for access to Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation and the Kingdom’s debt capital markets. As the leading international bank with the deepest asset servicing capabilities in both Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia, we are proud to have enabled Premia to launch the Premia BOCHK Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk ETF.”

Mr. Mohammed Al-Rumaih, CEO of the Saudi Exchange, said: “The issuance of this ETF on HKEX marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide global investors with access to the Saudi market and enhance portfolio diversification worldwide. This ETF, tracking the iBoxx Tadawul Government & Agencies Sukuk Index (SAR Unhedged) TRI, offers global investors a unique opportunity to access high-quality government-issued sukuk.”

“S&P Dow Jones Indices is delighted to license the iBoxx Tadawul Government & Agencies Sukuk Index to Premia Partners for this new ETF launch. The index provides market participants with a benchmark that focuses on shariah-compliant funding obtained by the Saudi Arabia government and its key organizations through sukuk issuances. As Saudi Arabia diversifies its economic base and fosters growth within the domestic debt market, the index is designed to encompass shariah-compliant sukuk issuances to support the kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiatives,” said Kangwei Yang, Director of Fixed Income Product Management at S&P Dow Jones Indices.

About Premia Partners

Founded in 2016, Premia Partners is a leading ETF manager from Hong Kong, dedicated to building low-cost, efficient, best practice ETFs for Asia. As of May 29th 2025, Premia Partners manages 12 equity and fixed income ETFs designed as low-cost, efficient allocation tools for Asia. For more information on Premia or Premia ETFs covering China, Emerging ASEAN, Asia Metaverse/ Innovative Technology, Vietnam, Taiwan, China high yield bonds, China government bond, Asia USD investment grade bonds, US Treasury and Saudi Arabia Government Sukuk, please visit www.premia-partners.com

European poultry – a safe choice for informed consumers. New European Union campaign in South Korea

SEOUL , South  Korea, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — European poultry meat – a wide range of products, palatability, nutritional value, as well as versatile culinary use. The poultry, which meets strict EU requirements, is presented to South Korean consumers as part of the “European Poultry – From Our Farms to Your Table” information and promotional campaign co-financed by the European Union.

European Poultry - From Our Farms to Your Table
European Poultry – From Our Farms to Your Table

The goal of the three-year campaign in Korea is to show what sets European poultry apart from global production. The advantages are key: high quality, safety, and a sustainable production process – in line with strict European Union standards. These factors definitely affect the quality and taste of poultry dishes.

The message places great emphasis on animal welfare, environmental protection, and the importance of balanced and safe foods in the daily diet.

The campaign activities are aimed at importers, distributors, and retailers, as well as demanding consumers looking for safe, high-quality food.

The campaign includes an extensive presence at trade fairs and industry conferences, the organization of B2B meetings, cooperation with the media and influencers, branding activities in the press and online, as well as study visits to Europe for selected business partners from the region.

  • On June 9, 2025, an official campaign press event will be held in Seoul, with the participation of invited journalists, influencers, and experts.
  • On June 10-13, the campaign will be present at Seoul Food & Hotel, one of the most important industry events in South Korea.

More information about the campaign: eupoultry.eu

The project is being implemented by an industry organization from Poland: The National Poultry Council – Chamber of Commerce acting on behalf of the European poultry sector.

 

Mexico’s mobile industry joins forces to simplify the development of applications and digital services through GSMA Open Gateway

Altán Redes, América Móvil, AT&T Mexico, and Telefónica Mexico announced the local rollout of the initiative and its potential for new business and cross-industry partnerships.

MEXICO CITY, Mexico, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At GSMA M360 LATAM today, Altán Redes, América Móvil, AT&T Mexico, and Telefónica Mexico announced the launch of GSMA Open Gateway in the country. This global initiative led by the GSMA enables mobile operators to open their networks to drive innovation and collaboration across the digital ecosystem.

GSMA Open Gateway is a standard through which mobile operators provide developers access to a range of network functions used to create applications and services. By bringing together operators from around the world, the initiative facilitates the design of digital products that can function seamlessly across all devices, regardless of country or operator. This is achieved through unique access points, known as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), which serve as gateways to information about network capabilities.

These APIs available through the CAMARA repository, an open-source project by GSMA and the Linux Foundation, which developers can access to integrate them directly into their applications. GSMA Open Gateway simplifies and accelerates developer innovation while helping create a smoother and more secure experience.

The first phase of GSMA Open Gateway has focused on APIs aimed at digital security. In line with this trend, the three APIs presented in Mexico are:

  • SIM SWAP, allows the verification of SIM card replacements on a mobile line;
  • Device Location, provides information about the location of a device;
  • Number Verification, checks if a phone number is associated with a specific device.

By providing key real-time information, these APIs help detect and prevent fraud in payments and financial transactions. For example, they can identify suspicious changes to a customer’s mobile line just before a significant money transfer, offering greater security for the user.

Since its launch at MWC Barcelona 2023, over 73 mobile operator groups, representing 284 mobile networks and almost 80% of mobile connections globally, have joined the initiative, alongside 43 channel partners. In Latin America, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Peru have already introduced their first portfolio of APIs, with new markets set to join in 2025.

Read the full press release here 

 

ARKANCE is now the largest global reseller of Eagle Point’s Learning Management Systems in the AEC and manufacturing sectors

ARKANCE and Eagle Point Software extend partnership to EMEA

DUBUQUE, Iowa and PARIS, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ARKANCE, a global leader in digital transformation solutions for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) and manufacturing industries, and Eagle Point Software are extending their partnership to the EMEA region. Building on years of collaboration across the United States and Asia-Pacific, the strengthened global alliance now also delivers next-generation e-learning and digital training solutions to customers across Europe.

Eagle Point Software
Eagle Point Software

As AEC firms work to close skills gaps and keep pace with digital transformation, attracting and enabling the next generation of talent is essential. Studies show that 65% of Gen Z say they prefer online learning over in-person classrooms, making on-demand, cloud-based learning more attractive to new professionals. This makes on-demand, cloud-based learning not just attractive, but urgent.1

With the extension of the partnership to EMEA, ARKANCE will become the largest global reselling partner for Pinnacle Series, Eagle Point’s premier Learning Management System (LMS) and Pinnacle Lite, the solution provider’s eLearning software. Eagle Point will also enhance its global footprint and deliver the industry-standard for learning tools in AEC and manufacturing across the world.

With personalized learning journeys, skills assessments, and comprehensive training libraries professionals can master leading tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, and more. It supports both individual learning and organization-wide knowledge sharing.

Greg Arranz, CEO at ARKANCE says: “Our goal is to help our customers build smarter with digital solutions. To meet the continuous learning needs of a new generation of engineers and designers, Pinnacle is the perfect partner. Together, we can help teams level up capabilities on the latest innovations from world-class technology providers. They can then advance to deeper learning with ARKANCE specific content and consulting from our experts. Pinnacle Series also provides capabilities for customization and development of a comprehensive learning plan for customers who need to offer training on their own processes or tools.”

In the EMEA region, ARKANCE will build on its historic strength in instructor-led, local language training to provide a hybrid model that combines the flexibility of on-demand learning with the depth of personalized consultation and face-to-face instruction.

“This partnership represents a significant milestone for Eagle Point Software’s global expansion, allowing us to help hundreds of thousands more people,” said Steve Biver, Chief Operating Officer at Eagle Point Software. “Pinnacle Series is more than software training – it’s about rethinking how organizations onboard, upskill, and support teams. ARKANCE’s deep expertise in the AEC and Manufacturing industries makes them a great partner to scale the value of Pinnacle Series worldwide.”

About Eagle Point Software

Since 1983, Eagle Point Software has focused on increasing productivity for AEC and manufacturing professionals. The company’s flagship solution, Pinnacle Series, offers a powerful eLearning platform that drives user adoption of software like Autodesk, Microsoft, and Bluebeam. With over 500,000 users worldwide, Pinnacle Series supports firms in achieving higher performance through continuous learning.

About ARKANCE

ARKANCE, a subsidiary of the French B2B services leader Monnoyeur Group, is a global partner in the digital transformation of the construction and manufacturing sectors. Founded in 2018, ARKANCE operates in over 20 countries, delivering expert professional services, innovative solutions, and advanced training. Our teams combine proprietary Be.Smart software with technologies from a network of world-class partners to help customers bridge the gap between design and operations. With 1,300+ professionals, we empower businesses to build resilience, increase profitability, and improve project outcomes.

For more information on ARKANCE visit our website.

1 https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/public-sector/our-insights/what-do-higher-education-students-want-from-online-learning

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/eagle_point_software_logo_1.jpg
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/eagle_point_software__arkance_logo.jpg

Cereals Canada Launches its 2025 Growing Season Progress Report

Global buyers use the interactive report to stay informed.

WINNIPEG, MB, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With Canada’s 2025 spring wheat crop underway, Cereals Canada has resumed regular updates to its interactive Growing Season Progress Report. The report will continue to be updated until harvest is complete across all three Prairie provinces.

View the report: https://cerealscanada.ca/growing-season-progress/

“The Growing Season Progress Report includes information about Western Canadian wheat, including environmental factors that could impact crop quality or development,” says Leif Carlson, director of market intelligence and trade policy. “We encourage global customers of Canadian wheat, as well as Canadians and members of the value chain, to visit the report for timely updates on the 2025 Prairie wheat crop as it develops.”

Cereals Canada works with provincial departments of agriculture in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba throughout the growing season to gather information on seeding, crop conditions and quality, and harvest progress for spring wheat. The information is compiled and presented in an interactive, user-friendly format with maps, provincial highlights, and links to crop reports. Historical data for the past five years is also available for comparison purposes.  

“With most wheat acres located in the Prairies, the report provides global buyers with a glimpse into how the Canadian wheat crop is progressing, from seeding to harvest,” says Carlson. “Global customers want to be kept informed about how the Canadian wheat crop is progressing over the growing season. We make it easy for them to quickly get all their information in one place.”

Watch Matilda van Aggelen, market and trade specialist, introduce the 2025 Growing Season Progress Report: https://youtu.be/Qz0T0smubnE?si=ORrzoH4miH0zrR2f

About Cereals Canada
Cereals Canada is the national, not-for-profit, industry association representing the Canadian cereal grains value chain. We value relationships and work with government and stakeholders to provide timely, expert technical information and deliver best-in-class customer experience. We are dedicated to supporting the Canadian cereals value chain including farmers, exporters, developers, processors, and our customers around the world with a focus on trade, science, and sustainability. cerealscanada.ca

For further information, please contact: Ellen Pruden, Vice President of Communications and Value Chain Relations, E: epruden@cerealscanada.ca, C: 204-479-0166

Xthings Launches Major Upgrade to SECU365 Smart Workplace Management Platform, Available Now For Free to the First 50 Qualified SMB Users

AI-powered Solution Redefines Cost-Effective Security for Small Businesses

FREMONT, Calif., May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Xthings, a global leader in IoT innovation, today announced a groundbreaking upgrade to its SECU365 Smart WorkSpace Management Platform. Designed specifically for U.S. small businesses with under 200 employees, this AI-powered platform integrates physical security, personnel efficiency and visitor management into a single cost-effective solution. The company is now accepting applications for its first 50 qualified SMB seed users, preferably in the San Francisco Bay Area. Selected candidates will receive a complimentary hardware kit and six months of free platform access.

The upgraded SECU365 platform leverages proprietary AI engines to deliver:

  • Real-Time Threat Detection: On-device AI analyzes video streams for human presence/vehicle movement, triggering instant snapshots of suspicious events.
  • Generative AI Verification: Critical alerts are enhanced with contextual analysis via cloud AI, reducing false alarms compared to conventional systems. Verified emergencies automatically escalate to integrated security partners for human confirmation and police dispatch.

The solution delivers significant savings and operational efficiencies for Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) through:

  • Lower Entry Costs: Reduces initial investment by 60% by eliminating professional setup fees through straightforward DIY (Do-It-Yourself) installation.
  • No IT or Frontdesk Overhead: Operates as a cloud-native platform, removing the need for server investments and associated IT management.
  • Streamlined Operations: Features a unified management console that combines access control (door and camera integrations), staff productivity tracking and visitor logs into one easy-to-use interface.

“Where traditional security systems can bankrupt SMBs with complexity, SECU365 turns AI into a force multiplier,” said Patrick Serrato, Xthings’ Director of Ecosystem Business Development and Product Strategy “Our users will pioneer a new era – where a 10-person startup can afford enterprise-grade protection that actually improves their bottom line.”

Seed Program Details

The Seed Program offers the first 50 qualified SMBs, preferably in the San Francisco Bay Area, a free hardware kit and six months of free platform access (a combined value of $3,800), priority hardware installation slots, and direct product team consultation. Applicants must apply on our registration page by July 15, 2025 to be considered. 

About SECU365

SECU365, an SMB solution by Xthings, is a workplace management kit that offers SMB owners turnkey access control, surveillance, time attendance and visitor management. It facilitates seamless oversight of personnel, assets and visitors through a real-time dashboard.

SECU365 is now accepting applications for its first 50 qualified SMB seed users, preferably in the San Francisco Bay Area.
SECU365 is now accepting applications for its first 50 qualified SMB seed users, preferably in the San Francisco Bay Area.

 

AirHelp Launches First Unlimited, Free Flight-Tracking App for Passengers

  • Offers real-time flight tracking, disruption alerts, and built-in options for extra protection
  • Passengers are automatically notified when they are eligible for compensation
  • Travelers can easily protect and insure their future trips
  • Turns complex air passenger rights into clear, actionable steps

WASHINGTON, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AirHelp, the leading travel tech company supporting passengers with flight disruptions, today announces the launch of its new AirHelp Flight and Claim Tracker. As the first unlimited, free flight-tracking app on the market, the platform serves as an essential travel companion for passengers navigating an increasingly disrupted travel landscape this summer and beyond.

Unlimited Flight Tracking & Real-Time Compensation Alerts
Flight disruptions are on the rise, as more than 236 million passengers across the U.S. were affected by delays and cancelations in 2024. AirHelp’s new app is designed to put passengers back in control, transforming their travel experience from one of uncertainty to confidence. With unlimited real-time flight tracking, instant compensation alerts, and built-in options for extra protection and insurance, the app keeps passengers informed, protected, and a step ahead of disruptions.

Navigating air passenger rights can be overwhelming, and most passengers are unaware of when they are eligible for compensation or how to claim it. AirHelp’s app changes that, turning any smartphone into a personal passenger rights assistant. It alerts users the moment they qualify for compensation and guides them through the process. With a free eligibility check for flights from the past three years, the app ensures passengers can easily claim what they are rightfully owed.

Features for Effortless Travel
The AirHelp Flight and Claim Tracker is packed with several smart features to make travel easier and more connected for passengers. It includes live updates on gate changes, flight delays or cancellations and baggage belt numbers. The app syncs seamlessly with calendars and Gmail to import both past and upcoming flights, making it easier to stay organized.

Travelers can enjoy added peace of mind with extra protection, comfort, and dedicated assistance throughout their journey. Passengers can simply add AirHelp+ protection via the app to cover flight delays, cancellations, or baggage issues, ensuring they are not only supported during disruptions but are compensated quickly without hassle. AirHelp+ administers these insurance payouts within hours, which is on top of the compensation passengers can also claim for.

Speaking on the new app, Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO at AirHelp said: “Flight disruptions are an increasing concern for passengers, especially as we approach the summer season. Our mission has always been to advocate for passengers, and with this new app, we are taking that commitment to the next level. Passengers now have access to an all-in-one tool that keeps them informed in real-time, helps them navigate flight disruptions or lost luggage, and ensures they can easily claim for compensation they are rightfully owed. As the industry continues to face uncertainty, our app is available to support passengers and streamline their travel experience.” 

Find out more about the AirHelp Flight and Claim Tracker and download it here.

Petition to save passenger rights
The EU is trying to cut passenger rights so drastically that 85% of delay claims would no longer qualify for compensation. It will mean longer delays, less compensation, and ZERO accountability.
Read more and sign the petition.

About AirHelp

AirHelp is a travel tech company tackling flight disruptions. Since 2013, it has won compensation for over 2.7 million passengers with a flight delay or cancellation. 10 million passengers have protected their flights with AirHelp+ Protection, and countless millions more benefit from the expert information freely available on airhelp.com. AirHelp has also just released its new app, which offers real-time flight tracking, disruption alerts, and options for extra protection, download it here!

AirHelp is dedicated to investing in a greener future – it has pledged to plant 1 tree for every 100 flight disruptions and so far, it has planted 108,324 trees. As air passenger rights advocates, AirHelp cares about people, and caring about people also means caring about the planet.

#1 source for flight compensation worldwide
With innovative artificial intelligence and a dedicated team of over 400 AirHelpers, AirHelp makes it easy for any traveler in the EU, UK and beyond to receive up to €600 for flight delays and cancellations. For more information about AirHelp, visit: https://www.airhelp.com/en-gb/.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact:

Tomasz Pawliszyn
CEO
AirHelp Inc.
tomasz.pawliszyn@airhelp.com

PT SMI and AFD Renew Strategic Partnership for a Low Carbon Future in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (“PT SMI”) and Agence Française de Développement (“AFD”) continue their partnership to strengthen cooperation in promoting sustainable development, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and green financing in Indonesia. This cooperation is outlined in the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed by the President Director of PT SMI, Reynaldi Hermansjah, and the CEO of AFD, Rémy Rioux, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Fairmont Hotel, Jakarta. The signing of the MoU was also witnessed directly by the European Union Ambassador to Indonesia.
and Brunei Darussalam, Denis Chaibi.

PT SMI and AFD renew the Memorandum of Understanding continue their partnership to strengthen cooperation in promoting sustainable development, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and green financing in Indonesia.
PT SMI and AFD renew the Memorandum of Understanding continue their partnership to strengthen cooperation in promoting sustainable development, mitigating the impacts of climate change, and green financing in Indonesia.

This is the third MoU signed between PT SMI and AFD. The purpose of this latest MoU is to further promote cooperation between the two institutions, beyond the scope of the financing agreement. Some points of cooperation outlined in the MoU are: (a) Financing to support national development transformation; (b) Knowledge sharing and capacity building in areas such as climate change, biodiversity, healthcare, and solid waste management; (c) Publications and bilateral cooperation that highlight the partnership between the two countries.

The MoU represents a strategic bilateral relationship between Indonesia and France in supporting inclusive low-carbon development. PT SMI consistently fulfills its role by engaging in synergy and active collaboration to support the achievement of the SDGs through the SDG Indonesia One (SIO) platform. “PT SMI is very pleased to continue collaborating with AFD, as both institutions share a common vision and goal in the effort to provide clean energy. This agreement is important to strengthen the legitimacy and reputation of PT SMI as a key player in the climate field. We have a variety of innovative platforms and tools to mobilize collaboration in financing environmentally friendly projects, such as SDG Indonesia One and the ETM Country Platform. Thus, we can become the right partner for anyone who wants to contribute and provide benefits in addressing the impacts of climate change,” said the President Director of PT SMI, Reynaldi Hermansjah.

PT SMI and AFD have been collaborating on financing infrastructure projects that contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation since 2015, particularly through the provision of a USD 100 million loan. In 2018, a partnership agreement was signed and an additional credit of USD 150 million was provided under the SIO PT SMI framework. Several projects developed as a result of the collaboration between PT SMI and AFD include the Pekanbaru Drinking Water Supply System in Pekanbaru, Riau, the Madong Mini-Hydro Power Plant in North Toraja, South Sulawesi, and the Ijen Geothermal Power Plant in Banyuwangi, East Java.

– End –

About PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (“PT SMI”)

PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur (Persero) (“PT SMI”), established on February 26, 2009, is a State-Owned Enterprise under the coordination of the Ministry of Finance, in the form of a Non-Bank Financial Institution (LKBB). PT SMI plays a role and has a mandate as an agent of sustainable development. PT SMI has 3 business pillars, namely Commercial Financing, Public Financing, and Advisory Service and Project Development.

PT SMI has various functions and unique products/features to support the acceleration of infrastructure development, which not only serves as infrastructure financing but also as an enabler through the implementation of the Government and Business Entity Cooperation (KPBU) scheme involving various financial institutions, both private and multilateral. PT SMI actively supports the implementation of Public Private Partnership (PPP) and encourages the acceleration of infrastructure development in the regions through regional loan products.