TAIPEI, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Taiwan’s largest integrated asset management group, Cathay Financial Holdings (Cathay FHC) continues to expand its platform by leveraging more than six decades of investment expertise and over USD 325 billion in assets under management.

Cathay FHC leverages its group-wide resources across three core growth engines—Banking, Insurance, and Asset Management. Both Cathay United Bank and Cathay Life Insurance are among the first batch of institutions approved to conduct pilot operations in the Kaohsiung Zone of the Asian Asset Management Center. This underscores the group’s strong alignment with national policy priorities and its commitment to playing a key role in advancing Taiwan’s ambition to become a leading Asset Management Center in Asia.

Cathay FHC President Lee Chang-Ken noted that Taiwan’s aspiration to become an Asian asset management hub has accelerated following the FSC’s sweeping regulatory reforms last year. More than 50 rules have been amended and 38 new business activities authorized within the Kaohsiung Zone—advances that materially enhance Taiwan’s international competitiveness.

President Lee underscored Taiwan’s distinctive strengths. Unlike Hong Kong and Singapore, Taiwan is not only a center of capital allocation but also a generator of wealth, supported by a vibrant industrial base. Over the past three decades, Taiwan’s market capitalization has surged from USD 211 billion to USD 3 trillion, while annual cash dividends have risen from USD 13 billion to more than USD 65 billion—supporting the rise of the world’s 15th-largest millionaire population. To unlock further potential, Lee recommended adopting a risk-based supervisory approach that aligns leverage limits with each institution’s credit profile and risk discipline—rewarding prudent players, constraining risk-taking, and strengthening Taiwan’s appeal to long-term capital.

Guided by the principle of “rooted in Taiwan, reaching the world,” Cathay FHC’s asset management arm provides corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals, and institutional investors with a broad range of investment solutions across asset classes, encompassing both active and passive strategies. With risk management as a central pillar, Cathay FHC integrates group-wide resources spanning wealth management, insurance solutions, and capital market investments to build a comprehensive, cross-platform asset management platform.

Under this strategic blueprint, Cathay Securities Investment Trust (Cathay SITE) serves as the core of the group’s asset management arm, supported by the scale, capital strength, and distribution capabilities of Cathay Life Insurance and Cathay United Bank. This restructuring establishes a solid foundation for a platform with the scale, depth, and institutional capabilities required to compete effectively on a regional stage—and to realize Cathay FHC’s long-term ambition to become a sizable and influential asset manager in Asia.

Cathay SITE Chairman Alan Lee noted that Cathay SITE and Cathay Life Insurance have begun full-scale integration across systems, talent, investment processes, and governance to build a scalable regional asset management platform. The long-term ambition is clear: expand AUM from USD 75 billion today to USD 488 billion within a decade, positioning Cathay SITE as one of Asia’s leading asset managers.

Talent remains central to achieving this vision. Cathay FHC employs approximately 300 investment professionals across equities, fixed income, FX, and alternative assets—more than 100 of whom have over 11 years of experience. The group will deepen partnerships with global universities to attract interdisciplinary talent in data science, technology, and ESG, supported by cross-market mobility programs spanning Taiwan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

Alan Lee also announced that Cathay SITE will undertake a comprehensive upgrade of its investment research infrastructure. The firm plans to engage a top-tier global technology provider and draw on Cathay FHC’s digital and AI teams to embed advanced analytics, AI-powered forecasting, and decision-support tools into investment, research, and distribution workflows.

Cathay Life Insurance currently manages approximately USD 260 billion in assets, with USD 6.5 billion delegated to Cathay SITE and USD 65 billion to overseas managers. As Cathay Life Insurance increases the proportion of assets entrusted to Cathay SITE—excluding loans and real estate but covering at least 90–95% of other investable asset classes—Cathay SITE’s AUM is expected to expand significantly, with equities and funds transitioning first.

Cathay SITE has outlined four strategic priorities to guide its transformation: integrating the group’s investment research capabilities, building a comprehensive product shelf across active funds, passive funds, and ETFs, upgrading its investment research systems through a global technology partnership, and accelerating its expansion across Asia.

Cathay FHC is stepping up its international push. In September 2025, its asset-management unit partnered with Japan’s Daiwa Asset Management to list the first Taiwan-Japan cross-border linked ETF on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, expanding its offshore product lineup and giving investors a lower-friction route to Japanese real estate. The group has since moved into the active-ETF space, securing approval to launch an actively managed Taiwan-equities ETF.

Cathay United Bank is also expanding its global offerings, introducing exclusive distribution through early 2026 for asset-backed income solutions from a leading international manager in the Kaohsiung Zone of the Asian Asset Management Center, and partnering with a U.S. middle-market credit specialist to provide institutional-grade private-credit investments amid tighter global regulation.

Cathay FHC recently hosted the second Cathay Asset Management Summit, convening global experts to examine critical megatrends reshaping the investment landscape—from AI-driven innovation to Taiwan equities, global fixed income, private credit, and alternative assets. The summit attracted more than 12,000 registrants, setting a new record.

Looking ahead, Cathay FHC will continue to deliver forward-looking allocation strategies, strengthen its partnerships with investors, and reinforce Taiwan’s emergence as a leading Asian Asset Management Center through concrete initiatives and disciplined execution.

BANGKOK, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Artificial intelligence (AI) does not create new risks for organizations but significantly magnifies existing weaknesses in governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC), according to Dr. Pongpisit Wuttidittachotti, Thailand Cybersecurity & Privacy Officer at Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd.

Speaking at a panel discussion titled “AI Doesn’t Create New Problems, It Amplifies Old Ones” at Cybersec Asia 2026, Dr. Pongpisit said growing concerns around AI misuse often distract organizations from the real issue: a lack of foundational governance.

“The problem is not AI,” he said. “AI simply exposes what organizations have failed to manage ranging from unclear policies, weak controls, to unmanaged risks”.

Dr. Pongpisit stressed that organizations must define clear internal rules before deploying AI, including which tools are permitted, what data can be used, and whether public or private AI platforms are appropriate.

Without these guardrails, AI can dramatically accelerate cyber risks, particularly in environments still reliant on legacy systems.

“If obsolete systems are connected to the internet, AI can identify vulnerabilities far faster than before,” he noted. “Without governance, organizations cannot assess whether the risks they are taking are acceptable.”

From Policy to Enforcement

Effective AI governance requires translating policies into enforceable technical controls, especially in cloud environments.

“Policy cannot remain on paper. It must be implemented through technology—policy as code—supported by clear processes,” he said.

Dr. Pongpisit emphasized that sustainable AI adoption depends on the combined strength of people, process and technology, rather than reliance on any single factor.

From Huawei’s perspective as a global technology provider, AI is treated strictly as a tool—one that must be designed responsibly from the outset. Huawei applies security and privacy by design and by default throughout the responsible AI lifecycle, from data sourcing and processing to deployment and ongoing operations, in accordance with global standards and best practices such as ISO/IEC 42001. Its systems are transparent, enabling clients to monitor and verify practices through Huawei’s Global Cyber Security and Privacy Protection Transparency Center.

“Every component from data input to output must be assessed for cybersecurity and privacy risk,” he explained. “Risk cannot be eliminated, but it can be reduced to an acceptable level through proper controls.”

He also highlighted emerging concerns around copyright, open-source components, and cross-border data flows, warning that unmanaged AI use could undermine digital sovereignty.

Dr. Pongpisit concluded that AI adoption is unavoidable but irresponsible adoption is not.

“AI is like any other transformative technology. Organizations cannot avoid it,” he said. “But they must embed security and privacy from the beginning —not as an afterthought.”

About Huawei 

Founded in 1987, Huawei is a leading global provider of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices. We have more than 207,000 employees, and we operate in more than 170 countries and regions, serving more than three billion people around the world.

Our mission is to bring digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world. To this end, we will drive ubiquitous connectivity and promote equal access to networks; bring Cloud and artificial intelligence to all four corners of the earth to provide superior computing power where you need it, when you need it; build digital platforms to help all industries and organizations become more agile, efficient, and dynamic; redefine user experience with AI, making it more personalized for people in all aspects of their life, whether they’re at home, in the office, or on the go. 

For more information, please visit Huawei online at www.huawei.com or follow us on: 
http://www.linkedin.com/company/Huawei 
http://www.twitter.com/Huawei 
http://www.facebook.com/Huawei 
http://www.youtube.com/Huawei 

SINGAPORE, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ascentium, a leading global business services platform headquartered in Singapore, has acquired Clara, the largest licensed corporate service provider (CSP) in the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). This acquisition significantly expands Ascentium’s footprint in the Middle East via Clara’s established presence in ADGM and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Clara is a critical partner for businesses looking to operate within the UAE’s premier common law financial centres. Clara supports a diverse client base from startups and SMEs to law firms, venture capitalists, investors, accelerators and government-related entities. It is recognised for its regulatory expertise, and reliable delivery across incorporation, governance and ongoing compliance, all backed by its state-of-the-art software application.

The acquisition supports Ascentium’s plans to expand into key strategic jurisdictions by partnering with established, regulated, values-aligned businesses with strong client propositions. By joining Ascentium, Clara gains access to a global platform, enhanced service capabilities and investment capacity, empowering clients to scale internationally while continuing to uphold the highest regulatory standards in ADGM and DIFC.

Lennard Yong, Founding Management and Group CEO of Ascentium, commented: “ADGM is an important addition to Ascentium’s global platform, and Clara is the market leader. Their regulatory standing, trusted client relationships and leading technological operating system make them an ideal addition to Ascentium as we continue to expand across the Middle East.”

Kathryn Burke, Managing Director of Clara, said: “Ascentium has built a platform where people lead and technology enables. By joining Ascentium and aligning with this shared value, we can combine human insight with the power of innovation to help clients navigate increasingly complex, cross-border regulatory environments with confidence, while giving Clara the scale and reach to take our expertise to the next level.”

– END –

About Ascentium

Ascentium is a leading global business services platform dedicated to helping businesses and individuals scale greater heights. Headquartered in Singapore, we drive extraordinary growth through expert people, purpose-led technology, and an unwavering commitment to service excellence.

With over 2,500 professionals across 45 cities in 23 markets globally, we deliver integrated solutions in corporate services, finance and accounting, fund administration, human resources, and fiduciary and trust services. Serving more than 60,000 client entities across diverse industries, Ascentium combines specialised expertise with innovative, technology-enabled solutions to help clients navigate complexity and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth.

For more information, visit: ascentium.com

About Clara

Clara is a trusted company operating system that offers a digital platform tailored for clients and their advisors to efficiently incorporate and manage their ADGM and DIFC entities. Clara manages approximately 2,000 ADGM and DIFC companies and has been a leader in driving global awareness of the importance of the UAE’s two financial free zones.

For more information, visit: clara.co

An unparalleled island escape blending Nobu’s timeless style with the natural beauty of the Maldives

NEW YORK, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nobu Hospitality, is pleased to announce the debut of Nobu Hotel, Residences, and Restaurant Maldives located in the province of Laamu Atoll on the private island of Munyafushi. Developed in partnership with Sarat International, this landmark project marks Nobu’s first venture into the Maldives.

Drone rendering of Nobu Hotel, Residences, and Restaurant Maldives

Sarat International is pleased to announce its successful partnership with Sarat Investments. Led by Managing Director, Ali Ahsan, Sarat International further strengthens its strategic presence in the Maldives with the appointment of Engr. Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Alkhudair as Chief Advisor of Sarat International. 

Set amid the turquoise waters and pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, the resort will feature 26 one- and two-bedroom beach villas and 30 one- and two-bedroom overwater villas.Each space will reflect Nobu’s signature style—clean lines, natural textures, and a calming color palette of privacy and sophistication.

Defining the uniqueness of this development is the ultra-limited offering of just 10 Nobu Island Estate Residences, each positioned on its own private island. This rare collection affords one of the most coveted opportunities in the Maldives—private island ownership enriched by seamless access to Nobu’s world-renowned hospitality, dining, and resort amenities. 

Each Nobu Island Estate Residence will deliver the ultimate expression of the Nobu lifestyle: luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms, spacious pavilion-style living and dining areas ideal for entertaining, and private beachfronts with direct ocean access, and even its own private yacht – perfect for exploring the surrounding waters – all framed by stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Owners will enjoy unmatched privacy while being only moments away—by boat—from the hotel’s restaurants, spa, fitness facilities, and curated experiences.

At the heart of the experience will be a Nobu restaurant set on its own private island, complete with bar and lounge, serving Chef Nobu’s iconic Japanese Peruvian cuisine. Additional amenities include a full-service spa, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, a diving center, tennis courts, event spaces, and a stunning main swimming pool for relaxed leisure and gatherings. Architecture and interiors will draw inspiration from Nobu’s Japanese heritage, expressed through angular forms, dynamic flow, and a harmonious integration with the island’s lush landscapes and ocean vistas.

Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality, said:
“The Maldives is a highly sought-after tourist destination that has long been on our radar for a unique resort concept.Before we embarked on this journey, we envisioned something truly special.As part of the new generation of Maldives hotels, we aim to set a new standard of rarity.Our priority is to create a superior island experience rather than follow a formulaic approach – one where design, world-class dining, and the natural environment harmoniously coexist.”

Ali Ahsan, Managing Director, Sarat International, said:
“We are proud to partner with Nobu Hospitality to introduce a project that redefines luxury living in the Maldives, and equally proud to be partnering with Sarat Investments on this landmark development. From the outset, our shared vision has been to create a destination that feels both rare and deeply connected to its natural surroundings. The Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Island Estate Residences represent a truly unparalleled opportunity—private islands that combine thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship, and world-class hospitality. We look forward to bringing this extraordinary retreat to life and welcoming discerning owners and guests.”

MELBOURNE, Australia, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Fox ESS, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, is thrilled to announce Fox ESS customers in parts of Australia can now seamlessly connect their home energy storage systems to Origin’s virtual power plant (VPP), known as Origin Loop VPP.

Origin Loop VPP uses smart automation to connect and manage a vast network of home energy devices – like home batteries. By joining Origin Loop VPP, customers with a Fox ESS battery can help support the grid while earning credits towards their energy bills.

Fox ESS has recently launched the CQ6 High Voltage Battery. Featuring a higher energy density and a modular design, the battery empowers homeowners to maximise their potential benefits under local rebate schemes.

This partnership builds on Fox ESS’s ongoing expansion in Australia, as highlighted by Sunwiz, a leading solar energy consultancy, which named Fox ESS the Top Growth Leader for 2025. The company has strengthened its service network and broadened compatibility with leading VPP platforms to deliver greater value to households embracing clean energy.

Through this new integration, Fox ESS end-users can now access Origin’s suite of home battery plans:

• Origin Battery Lite: Offers up to $400 value in the first year, paying customers $1/kWh to export energy when the grid needs it (up to 200kWh annually). Available with any Origin electricity plan.
• Origin Battery Maximiser: Electricity plan that provides uncapped exports and earnings, with a peak FiT of 22c/kWh. Charging and exporting is automated through the VPP to help customers earn more.
• Origin Battery Starter: Electricity plan designed for customers who prefer manual control (no VPP), offering a peak FiT of 18c/kWh and uncapped solar and battery exports.

Chris Zondanos, General Manager of Electrify & New Connections at Origin, stated, “We’re delighted to be working with the team at Fox ESS. Their batteries have quickly become a popular choice in the Australian market, and this integration reflects our commitment to provide more options for our customers to get the best value.”

Brooks Richard, Managing Director of APAC & Middle East at Fox ESS, remarked, “Origin VPP represents a transformative step in the Australian energy landscape, combining versatility with a strong focus on customer needs. Its integration of weather intelligence, market insights, and real-time energy optimisation aligns perfectly with Fox ESS’s high-performance storage systems. Together, we are not only enabling Australian households to maximise the value of their solar and battery investments but also fostering a more resilient and sustainable energy future.”

For more information about Fox ESS, please visit: https://au.fox-ess.com/

For more details about Origin’s home battery plans, please refer to: https://www.originenergy.com.au/solar/battery-plans/

About Fox ESS

Fox ESS is a global leader in renewable energy technology, offering advanced inverters, energy storage systems, and smart energy solutions. With a rapidly expanding service network across Australia and a commitment to innovation, Fox ESS enables households and businesses to maximise the benefits of clean energy adoption.