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Vientiane Economy Hits 5.85 Percent Growth, Beating Expectations

Vientiane Capital (Photo: KPL)

Vientiane Capital’s economy grew by 5.85 percent, surpassing the National Assembly’s initial target of 0.30 percent, according to the city Mayor Atsaphangthong Siphandone. 

AIM Vaccine has obtained clinical approval for two heavyweight products, creating new growth points for performance

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – AIM Vaccine (06660.HK) has added good news to the research and development of its heavyweight single product. According to the announcement on December 19, the clinical trial approval for the Group’s suspension culture quadrivalent influenza vaccine (MDCK cells) with new technological route and second generation of highly-effective absorbed tetanus vaccine have been recently obtained from the National Medical Products Administration. AIM Vaccine was intensively applied for and won two more clinical trial approvals in this year, creating new growth driver for the company’s future performance.

According to the announcement, currently, all influenza vaccines available on the domestic market are produced using chicken embryo technology. There have not been cell-based influenza vaccines approved for marketing. Compared with the traditional chicken embryo influenza split vaccine, the influenza vaccine (MDCK cells) developed by the Group has been significantly improved in terms of production quality and safety.

The MDCK cells developed by AIM Vaccine has the characteristics of easy cultivation, fast proliferation and susceptibility to influenza virus, etc. By large-scale cultivation of influenza virus in MDCK cells, it can achieve higher production volume, more stable production quality and lower production cost. Furthermore, this product has robust capability to withstand virus mutations, and does not contain ovalbumin, significantly reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Compared with the influenza vaccines (MDCK cells) developed by other domestic manufacturers, AIM Vaccine adopts the suspension culture method for cell culture, which can be cultivated in bioreactors at scale with low contamination risks and is conducive to large-scale industrial production.

According to the announcement, based on the research and development of the second generation of highly-effective absorbed tetanus vaccine, AIM Vaccine is actively promoting the research and development of diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis – HIB combined vaccine (the “Tetravaccine”), pentavalent vaccine and other multidisease vaccine. Among them, the Tetravaccine is used to prevent invasive infections caused by pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus and Haemophilus Influenzae type b, and has the advantages of reducing the number of vaccinations for infants and young children, and enhancing the vaccination compliance of parents, infants and young children.

The two heavyweight vaccine products announced by AIM Vaccine successfully obtained clinical trial approval documents, and its research and development has entered a new stage. According to the data of China Insights Industry Consultancy Limited, China’s influenza vaccine market will reach approximately RMB20 billion and , the Chinese market size of the multidisease vaccine is expected to reach RMB10 billion in 2030. Therefore, the suspension culture quadrivalent influenza vaccine (MDCK cells) with new technological route and the Tetravaccine will further improve the company’s product pipeline after the market, help enrich the product pipeline, consolidate the industry position, and promote the continued rapid growth of performance.

AIM Vaccine has always focused on unmet clinical needs in key disease areas to advance vaccine development. This year is an intensive year for AIM Vaccine. Up to now, the company has obtained 17 clinical approvals and carried out 21 clinical trials, among which international cutting-edge technology products such as mRNA respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine (large age group) have also obtained clinical approvals. In addition, the 13-valent pneumonia conjugate vaccine has been accepted, and the serum-free iterative rabies vaccine has also submitted a pre-registration application for listing, and the upcoming blockbuster new product is expected to bring stable revenue growth.
Hashtag: #AIMVaccine

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

Ministry of Commerce partners with renowned chef Wolfgang Puck to elevate Thai SELECT’s global recognition


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), under the Ministry of Commerce, has launched a strategic initiative to promote Thai SELECT products and services in international markets. Joining hands with world-class influencers and media, the campaign aims to boost awareness of Thai cuisine, enhance its global appeal, and elevate confidence in the Thai SELECT logo as a hallmark of quality. These efforts are designed to increase export value and create sustainable economic impact for Thailand.

Thai SELECT

In a showcase, Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, alongside internationally acclaimed chef Wolfgang Puck, crafted signature Thai dishes such as crispy noodles and chicken massaman curry. This collaboration gained international exposure through media outlets, including the Los Angeles Times, ABC7’s Eyewitness News, and various social media platforms.

The initiative also featured the Sa Wad Dee Thai SELECT Festival, to present delectable dishes from seven leading Thai restaurants. The event also served as a platform for awarding Thai SELECT certificates to 14 qualified Thai food establishments. With participation from over 200 local media representatives and influencers, the festival generated over 535 media posts, significantly increasing the visibility of Thai cuisine among American consumers while strengthening ties with local Thai restaurants.

The Thai SELECT logo will be a gateway for Thai restaurants and products to gain global recognition for exceptional food and service quality. Currently, 1,664 Thai SELECT-certified restaurants operate internationally out of 18,852 Thai restaurants worldwide. The United States leads with 445 Thai food establishments.

Next year, Thai SELECT plans to collaborate with global influencers who have over 10 million followers altogether to promote Thai cuisine as a cultural soft power, aligning with the Thai government policies. The ambition is to elevate the Thai SELECT certification to Michelin-star-level prestige by increasing the number of certified restaurants and products and refining selection criteria to uphold the highest standards of quality and authenticity.

This collaborative effort represents a significant milestone in promoting Thai cuisine on the world stage, creating new opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs in the food industry. By establishing Thai SELECT as a trusted symbol of Thai culinary excellence, the initiative is expected to boost economic value for Thai businesses while strengthening the Thai identities and brands.

Hashtag: #ThaiSELECT

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

Nearly 1,900 New HIV Cases Reported in Laos for 2024

Nearly 1,900 New HIV Cases Reported in Laos for 2024
Nearly 1,900 New HIV Cases Reported in Laos for 2024

The Lao Ministry of Health has reported 1,896 new HIV cases from January to November 2024 raising the cumulative total to 22,584 cases since 1990.

This concerning trend was a key focus during the National AIDS Committee meeting held on 17 December in Vientiane.

Minister of Health Bounfeng Phoummalaysith highlighted the alarming data, particularly among the 15–24 age group, which accounted for 81 percent of new infections in 2023. The country’s HIV infection rate has risen to 0.42 percent in 2024, compared to 0.39 percent in 2023.

During the meeting, the discussion also reviewed efforts to achieve the United Nations’ 95-95-95 targets by 2025. These global benchmarks aim for 95 percent of people with HIV to know their status, 95 percent of those diagnosed to begin treatment, and 95 percent of those treated to achieve suppressed viral loads.

Currently, Laos operates 196 testing facilities and a growing network of treatment centers across its 18 provinces, providing care for the 12,803 individuals receiving antiretroviral therapy.

Efforts to combat the epidemic include strengthening services, increasing public awareness, and expanding preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups, as the country works toward ending HIV transmission by 2030.

 

Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway Reveals Latest Talent Survey Results in Information and Communications Technology and Creative Media Industries

Employers in the ICT and Creative Media Industries Place Greater Emphasis on Soft Skills; Growing Recognition for Higher Diploma Graduates’ Competencies


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – Led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) has conducted its second annual survey, exploring the talent demands of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Creative Media industries. The survey delved into aspects including starting salaries, hiring process duration, in-demand positions and overall talent supply. It aims to provide insights into employer expectations regarding the skills of fresh graduates with higher diplomas or university degrees, while providing valuable reference for students and industries.

Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative - CLAP-TECH Centre, (left) and Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited (right), an industry partner of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative - CLAP-TECH Pathway, discussed CLAP-TECH’s survey findings and their implications.
Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, (left) and Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited (right), an industry partner of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway, discussed CLAP-TECH’s survey findings and their implications.

This year’s survey results indicate a growing recognition among employers in both industries of the capabilities of higher diploma graduates. In the age of artificial intelligence, employers are placing greater emphasis on soft skills and acknowledging the role of Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) in cultivating talent with market-relevant expertise.

Starting salaries for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates remain between HKD 17,000 and HKD 23,000
Employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates improves compared to last year

According to the survey, approximately 60% of employers believed that higher diploma graduates possess soft and hard skills comparable to, or even stronger than, those of university degree graduates. Employers’ recognition of the soft and hard skills of higher diploma graduates has increased by 8.8 and 17.1 percentage points respectively, compared to last year.

This growing acknowledgment is evident in graduates’ starting salaries. In the Creative Media industry, most higher diploma graduates (77.2%) and university degree fresh graduates (66.8%) receive a starting salary of HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000. Notably, the proportion of higher diploma graduates with starting salaries between HKD 20,000 and HKD 23,000 has risen by 9.7 percentage points compared to last year. In the ICT industry, the majority of higher diploma graduates (68%) fit within the HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000 starting salary range, mirroring last year’s findings (64.7%), while over half (56.4%) of university degree fresh graduates are in the same salary bracket this year.

Regarding hiring process duration and salary increments, employers in the ICT and Creative Media sectors reported an average time of nearly three months to fill suitable vacancies, with 8.8% of ICT employers indicating that some positions may take more than six months to fill. Some 70% of responding employers expect salary increments for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates in 2025 to be between 2% and 5.9%, aligning with market expectations.

Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “We are pleased to see a significant annual increase in employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates’ soft and hard skills. Starting salaries for higher diploma graduates have also increased this year, particularly in the Creative Media sector. This reflects a growing market demand for quality graduate talent and demonstrates that higher diploma graduates with the right skills and qualifications are becoming increasingly competitive in the job market.”

Academic achievements are a lesser priority, with soft skills gaining greater competitiveness in the age of AI

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education and the workplace, the survey revealed that over half (54.6%) of the surveyed employers have fully or partially integrated advanced technologies like AI and generative AI into their daily operations, while over one-third (37.4%) are considering such integration. However, as businesses increasingly adopt these technologies, employers prioritise soft skills such as “curiosity and lifelong learning”, “analytical thinking”, and “resilience, flexibility, and agility”. These skills are deemed more important than the knowledge and skills of AI and big data, which ranks fifth in importance in the next five to ten years.

During job interviews, employers have shifted their focus from candidates’ internships or practical experience to demonstrating soft skills such as communication (81.7%), problem-solving abilities (81.5%) and leadership potential (57.1%). Remarkably, the proportion of employers in the ICT and creative media sectors who value leadership potential surged, nearly doubling and increasing by over 1.7 times respectively compared to the previous year. More than 24.2% of employers in the ICT industry and 17.2% in the Creative Media industry believe that current candidates lack these skills, while academic performance and credentials are considered a lesser priority.

Employers in the Creative Media industry indicate that in the next five to ten years, talent will need to acquire “creative thinking” and “technological literacy” along with skills related to “artificial intelligence and big data”. Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited, an industry partner of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway, stated: “In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, employers are increasingly in need of team members who possess a balanced blend of soft and hard skills. While proficiency in industry-specific skills is crucial, we also value employees who exhibit a strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in our daily workflow, it is imperative that our workforce applies their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and judgement to ensure the responsible implementation of AI technologies. The qualities of resilience, flexibility and agility will render employees indispensable in today’s dynamic work environment.”

Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “To ensure that the CLAP-TECH curriculum aligns with industry needs, we engaged with industry partners early on to gain insights into emerging career trends and the essential role of both soft and hard skills. Through a tripartite partnership among HKBU, industry partners and secondary schools, we are dedicated to nurturing talents equipped with the skills necessary for the future workforce. The findings of this survey validate our vision: industry participation is key for talent development, and the significance of soft skills must not be overlooked in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.”

Over 90% of employers agree that vocational education produces more graduates with in-demand skills

The HKSAR Government rebranded vocational education and training in Hong Kong as Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) in 2016, establishing a diverse range of teaching models and pathways for further education. The survey shows that over 90% of respondents believe VPET helps enhance the soft and hard skills, work attitudes and daily competencies of higher diploma graduates, thereby enriching the talent pool. Some 30% of the respondents stated that VPET can “significantly improve” practical skills.

Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “Our survey results indicate a greater awareness among respondents regarding initiatives such as Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS), Industrial Attachment, and Career and Life Planning Grant. However, there remains a general lack of understanding regarding VPET. This highlights the need for the government to enhance VPET and its promotion to both employers and the public, emphasising its critical role in talent development and skills enhancement. This commitment will empower every talented young individual to chart their career paths, fully leverage their strengths and meet the future demands for various professional skills.”

Funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) commissioned a market research company to conduct its second annual online survey in October this year, interviewing a total of 500 local employers who had been involved in the recruitment process in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and/ or Creative Media industries in the past 12 months. Over 60% of the respondents frequently hire employees (every few months or multiple times per month) and have final decision-making authority or influence in the recruitment process.

Hashtag: #claptechpathway

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

Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway

Launched in 2020 and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) is Hong Kong’s first through-train Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) pathway in mainstream senior secondary and post-secondary education. CLAP-TECH is a tripartite partnership among Hong Kong Baptist University, industry partners, and secondary schools. It currently consists of two Applied Learning Courses (i.e. Tech Basics and Multimedia Storytelling) and Higher Diplomas in Data Science and Art Tech Design. The programme equips students with technical and soft skills for the future workforce by incorporating career and life development in the curriculum. Since its establishment, over 40 industry partners have been involved in the programme, guiding and inspiring over 1,000 students from 100 secondary schools. For more details, please visit: https://www.claptech.hk/en/

BRICS Fashion Summit: What Southeast Asia Can Learn from BRICS Countries’ Emerging Fashion Ecosystem

BRICS Fashion Summit. Moscow. October 2024. (Photo supplied)

The BRICS Fashion Summit, held last October in Moscow, brought together leading figures from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss the future of the global fashion industry. The summit focused on several key issues: sustainability, innovation in textile technology, and the rise of locally inspired designs that cater to global tastes. For Southeast Asia, and particularly Laos, this summit provided a timely opportunity to reflect on the region’s growing role in global fashion markets and the lessons that can be drawn from the BRICS countries.

In recent years, the BRICS nations have emerged as major players in the fashion industry, each bringing their various cultural backgrounds and innovation to the global stage. Their growing influence is being driven by a combination of factors, including the rise of sustainable practices, digital fashion, and the development of locally inspired design movements. Southeast Asia, with its expanding fashion industry, is well-positioned to benefit from the insights offered at the BRICS Fashion Summit. 

Embracing Cultural Diversity in Fashion

At the BRICS Fashion Summit, one of the most striking themes was the celebration of cultural diversity. Designers and fashion influencers from the five BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with over 50 other countries, shared their traditions and design languages, all while embracing the latest global trends.

For Laos, with its rich history of textile production—particularly its traditionally handwoven fabrics like silk and cotton—the summit’s focus on cultural diversity stressed the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship while also evolving with modern fashion trends. 

Laos, known for its intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations, especially by ethnic groups like the Hmong and Khmu, has a treasure trove of traditional patterns that could shine on the world stage. By reimagining these designs in a contemporary fashion context, Lao textiles could find a place in international collections, showcasing their uniqueness while still connecting to the modern fashion landscape. 

Sustainable Fashion and Eco-Friendly Innovation

Sustainability was another central topic at the BRICS Fashion Summit, with discussions focusing on eco-friendly materials, ethical production, and reducing fashion’s environmental impact. China and India, as major textile manufacturing hubs, have increasingly moved toward integrating sustainable practices in their fashion industries, while Brazil and South Africa have been pioneers in promoting sustainable materials such as organic cotton and recycled fabrics.

For Laos, sustainability is particularly relevant given the country’s growing interest in eco-tourism and natural resource conservation. Lao fashion brands, many of which already emphasize handwoven textiles, have the opportunity to capitalize on the global trend of sustainability by promoting their natural fibers and low-impact production methods. The use of local, organic materials could be a strong selling point for Lao designers who wish to tap into the rising demand for eco-conscious fashion.

Furthermore, the digital transformation of the fashion industry was discussed extensively at the summit. Digital platforms allow brands to reach a global audience without the need for large-scale physical infrastructure. This could be an excellent opportunity for emerging Lao fashion designers to enter international markets, as they can promote their designs through e-commerce platforms, social media, and digital fashion shows. By embracing digital tools, Laos can increase its fashion presence globally, especially among younger, tech-savvy consumers.

Collaborating with Global Markets and Expanding Trade

The BRICS Fashion Summit also touched upon the importance of trade partnerships, particularly in fostering collaboration between emerging markets. As BRICS countries grow their fashion ecosystems, they are increasingly looking to collaborate with smaller markets that have niche expertise. This creates an opportunity for Southeast Asia, to build trade relationships with the BRICS nations and beyond.

Laos, in particular, could benefit from partnerships with BRICS countries in areas such as textile manufacturing, design innovation, and marketing. By establishing connections with Indian and Brazilian manufacturers, for instance, Lao fashion brands could access more efficient production methods or expand their distribution networks. Additionally, Lao designers can seek inspiration from BRICS countries’ design practices and incorporate them into their own collections.

The digital tools and e-commerce platforms that have revolutionized the fashion industry also create more opportunities for smaller markets like Laos to showcase their products. At the summit, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of digital platforms for emerging markets to create visibility and access to global consumers. Laos, with its growing number of young designers and entrepreneurs, can leverage these tools to introduce Lao craftsmanship to international audiences.

The BRICS Fashion Summit offered insights into how emerging markets are shaping the future of the fashion industry. For Southeast Asia, and particularly Laos, the event provided an opportunity to reflect on the region’s potential to carve out a more prominent role in the global fashion landscape. By embracing cultural diversity, promoting sustainability, and exploring trade and collaboration with BRICS nations, Laos can elevate its fashion industry and ensure that its rich textile traditions are preserved while adapting to modern trends.

Development Bank of the Philippines Celebrates Consecutive and Dual Honors at Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) 2024


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – DBP has once again been recognized as a trailblazer in sustainability with the conferment of two prestigious accolades at the ACES Awards 2024: the Outstanding Leaders in Asia Award and the Green Initiative Award. These honors recognize DBP’s enduring commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible economic growth, and social inclusion—principles that have guided the institution since its founding in 1947.

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shines at the ACES Awards 2024! Receiving the prestigious Green Initiative Award on Day 1, DBP was represented by Michael de Jesus, President and CEO (right center), and Carolyn Olfindo, SVP/Head of the Branch Banking Sector (left center). The award was presented by Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards (far left), and Luis Bueno Nieto, Advisor to the ACES Council (far right). Adding to the celebration, Michael de Jesus was honoured on Day 2 with the Outstanding Leaders in Award, in recognition of his exemplary leadership that continues to drive DBP towards sustainable and impactful growth. DBP leading the way in green initiatives and inspiring leadership!
The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shines at the ACES Awards 2024! Receiving the prestigious Green Initiative Award on Day 1, DBP was represented by Michael de Jesus, President and CEO (right center), and Carolyn Olfindo, SVP/Head of the Branch Banking Sector (left center). The award was presented by Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards (far left), and Luis Bueno Nieto, Advisor to the ACES Council (far right). Adding to the celebration, Michael de Jesus was honoured on Day 2 with the Outstanding Leaders in Award, in recognition of his exemplary leadership that continues to drive DBP towards sustainable and impactful growth. DBP leading the way in green initiatives and inspiring leadership!

Under the leadership of PCEO Michael O. de Jesus, who brings more than 37 years of domestic and international financial experience, DBP solidified its position as a catalyst for sustainable development. With a strong ethical framework, the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and good governance has been instrumental in driving national progress.

As a flagship environmental undertaking and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the DBP Forest Program was launched in 2005. Over 6.6 million trees have been planted across 48 project sites spanning 6,000 hectares in collaboration with local communities, universities, and non-governmental organizations—achieving 85% of the 2030 target. This initiative enhances biodiversity, improves local livelihoods, and contributes to the Philippines’ climate action goals through carbon sequestration.

As a key player in driving the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy, with target of 35% renewable energy in the power mix by 2030, DBP actively channels resources to climate financing and renewable energy projects. Through its pioneering Solar Merchant Power Plant (SMPP) financing program, the bank supports developers supplying clean electricity to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. Likewise, DBP’s Assistance for Economic and Social Development (ASENSO) for Local Government Units (LGUs) financing program ensures funding for essential infrastructure and socio-economic development projects, including clean energy solutions to uplift living standards nationwide.

DBP’s holistic approach extends beyond financing to education, exemplified by its Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (RISE) CSR program, which provides scholarships to underprivileged students. This emphasis on human capital development underscores the bank’s conviction that education is integral to lasting social and economic progress.

The recent induction of DBP into the Corporate Governance Scorecard Hall of Fame further validates its adherence to high ethical standards, transparency, and good governance. Bolstered by the Senate’s approval of a new charter increasing its authorized capital, DBP stands well-positioned to broaden its development impact, fostering responsible growth, and resilience for future generations.

Hashtag: #ACESAwards2024 #SustainabilityAward #LeadershipAward #Sustainability #leadership #regionalrecognition #DBP #Philippines #leadershipexcellence #outstandingleadersinasia #greeninitiativeaward

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

About the Development Bank of the Philippines:

DBP is a government financial institution dedicated to fostering national progress through strategic financing and technical support for priority sectors, including infrastructure, the environment, social services, and MSMEs. With a solid foundation and a renewed mandate, DBP is poised to continue its mission of fostering sustainable development and empowering communities across the Philippines.

Management change at X-CAGO: Ingo Kästner takes over the reins


BERLIN/ROERMOND, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 19 December 2024 – On 1 January, Ingo Kästner, Managing Director of PMG Presse-Monitor, will also take over the management of X-CAGO. The Dutch company is a leading international specialist for data and content conversion in the international publishing industry. The previous Managing Director and founder, Koos Hussem, will be taking his well-deserved retirement at the turn of the year, but will continue to be available to the company with his expertise.

2024-12-19-Ingo-Kaestner-X-CAGO
Ingo Kästner has headed PMG Presse-Monitor since 2019. He played a leading role in initiating the acquisition of X-CAGO in 2021. Since then, he has been responsible for the Dutch company’s business together with Koos Hussem.

Olivera Kipcic, Chairwoman of the PMG shareholders’ meeting and shareholder representative of Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, emphasises:

‘Ingo Kästner is an accomplished manager and expert in digital content marketing. In recent years, he has created new opportunities to successfully market high-quality content digitally. Under his leadership, PMG and X-CAGO have become a strong strategic unit. His takeover of the management is the next logical step in continuing this success story.’

Ingo Kästner bids Koos Hussem farewell with the following words: ‘I would like to thank Koos warmly for the trusting collaboration over the last few years. With his commitment and vision, he has made X-CAGO one of the most sought-after providers of content management and data conversion since it was founded in 2000. It is an honour for me to continue on this successful path.

Together with his first-class team, we will continue to expand X-CAGO’s role as a technical pioneer and offer content producers worldwide perfect solutions for successful digital marketing.’

About PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG and X-CAGO B.V.
With the largest daily updated press database in the German-speaking world, PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG is a leading provider of digital media monitoring, press review creation and media analysis.

PMG markets the content and rights of around 900 newspaper and magazine publishers. Of over 4,000 print and online sources, around 3,000 are available digitally in the PMG press database. The company supplies over 5,000 customers from companies, associations, public institutions, media monitoring services and PR agencies from its base in Berlin.

Founded in 2001, PMG is a joint venture of German newspaper and magazine publishers with the shareholders Axel Springer, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Gruner + Jahr, Handelsblatt Media Group, Hubert Burda Media, Spiegel-Verlag, Süddeutsche Zeitung as well as the Bundesverband Digitalpublisher und Zeitungsverleger and the Medienverband der freien Presse.

In 2021, PMG is taking a major step towards becoming a central data hub for content publishers with the acquisition of Dutch data converter X-CAGO B.V. The company is internationally successful in converting and standardising a wide variety of content formats. ArchiveExpress, X-CAGO’s digital archive solution, is used by publishers worldwide as a distribution platform for their content.

Hashtag: #PMG

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