Thai authorities are in pursuit of two Japanese nationals believed to be members of a prominent yakuza gang in Japan. Their involvement in the murder and dismemberment of a fellow Japanese man in Nonthaburi province, Thailand, has prompted a joint effort between Thai and Laotian officials to secure their extradition after they fled to Laos.
Japanese Yakuza Members Wanted for Murder in Thailand, Flee to Laos

Rural Laos Struggles with Dwindling Water Resources Amidst Climate Change

BY JONATHAN MEADLEY AND CHONO LAPUEKOU
Amidst abundant water resources available in Laos, rural communities are grappling with a pressing challenge: access to clean water.
Once abundant and clean, the water sources in Vanghuea village, Vientiane Province, have become increasingly contaminated and scarce, posing significant threats to livelihoods and exacerbating existing inequalities. As climate change intensifies, the urgency of addressing water accessibility issues in rural Laos becomes increasingly evident.
“In the past, we could cultivate rice twice a year, and the river water was clean and drinkable after boiling. However, nowadays, we can only farm rice during the rainy season, and the water is no longer clean or safe to drink, even after boiling,” said Kaoxue Yang, a resident of Vanghuea village and a university student currently studying in Vientiane Capital.
Decline in Farming Opportunities
A few years ago, villages enjoyed two farming seasons annually (December and July). However, the situation has changed, and now they rely solely on the rainy season for cultivation. This reduction in farming opportunities has led to decreased income levels, intensifying food insecurity and prompting a surge in migration to urban areas or abroad. This condition has also heightened the risk of financial instability within these rural communities.

“This decrease in water has significantly impacted us [youth], particularly in terms of career opportunities. We often find ourselves uncertain about our future in the village as we have no idea what we can do there in the future,” said 19-year-old Lay Chu Yang. “Many of my friends have sought work abroad, in South Korea. I see that people are also moving to the city as the situation worsens in our [village] community.”
Lay Chu Yang is a second-year university student and is concerned that many of his fellow villagers aren’t aware of how serious the water shortage has become. He fears that the ongoing deforestation, slash-and-burn agriculture, and unregulated coal production might permanently affect the livelihood of rural communities.
“Together, climate change and the operation of the hydropower projects and other water infrastructure upstream and throughout the basin contribute to changing patterns of the hydrology of the Mekong River,” said Dararath Yem, Climate Change Adaptation Specialist at the Mekong River Commission (MRC) Secretariat. “Projected changes are potentially very significant and many people and communities are vulnerable to potentially wide-ranging impacts.”
Challenges in Rural Water Accessibility, Impacts of Climate Change and Development
Laos boasts abundant water resources, with the Mekong River coursing through its heartland with the basin area of the river covering 202,000 square kilometers in the country. For generations, the Mekong has sustained communities, providing essential resources for drinking, irrigation, fishing, and transportation. However, the effects of climate change are increasingly evident, with rising temperatures, erratic precipitation patterns, and the proliferation of hydropower dams threatening the delicate balance of ecosystems and livelihoods, according to the World Bank.
As shown by a 2021 Joint Monitoring Programme update, while 84 percent of people in Laos have basic water services at home, only 18 percent can access a safe water supply that meets their daily needs for water, sanitation, and hygiene.
The challenges faced by rural communities in accessing clean water are multifaceted. Ongoing deforestation and hydropower development exacerbate environmental degradation, while climate change intensifies droughts and floods, further disrupting water availability.
In addition to the issues posed by erratic weather patterns, the Mekong River faces threats from upstream development projects, including hydropower dams that disrupt the river’s flow and ecological balance. Laos has embarked on an ambitious plan to harness the Mekong’s hydropower potential in order to become the “battery of Southeast Asia,” with numerous dams either planned or already under construction. While these projects promise to generate much-needed revenue for the impoverished nation, they also raise concerns about their long-term impact on water quality, fisheries, and the livelihoods of downstream communities.

Kao Lao, an 80-year resident of Vanghua village, highlights the significant changes in the water situation since the construction of dams began in 2000. Water retention has become common, leading to rare flows into the village during the dry season. The river, once a vital source for drinking and washing, is now contaminated, forcing residents to purchase drinking water from a company.
“The water situation has changed significantly between the past and the present, particularly since the construction of the dam began in 2000,” she said. “During the dry season, the main river that villagers depend on gets blocked in some places. People living nearby can still use the water, but it’s dirty and stagnant. If some houses aren’t close to the river, they’ll use a large tractor to fetch water from different spots.”

Expanding on this perspective, Dararath, the Climate Change Adaptation Specialist at MRC, observed that the effects of climate change on drought conditions are influenced not solely by precipitation but also by shifts in local temperature, humidity, and other contributing factors.
“The impacts of drought in the Mekong River Basin can be severe, especially on food production and livelihoods that depend on agriculture and other natural resources. Low river flows can affect fish populations and result in larger areas of high salinity in the delta,” he said.
To address the issue, the MRC has been collaborating with regional leaders and sectors to establish strategic priorities and actions at the basin level, enhancing the commission’s role in addressing climate change risks and bolstering basin-wide resilience.
“The MRC, along with GIZ, a German development agency, has created a plan to integrate flood and drought management and early warning systems in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) using nature-based solutions. This project aims to improve climate observation and build capacity to respond to climate-related risks like floods and droughts, and to plan for climate change adaptation in the LMB region,” Dararath added.
Social Inequalities and Vulnerabilities
When climate-related events affect water access, minority, and marginalized groups are affected the most. This includes women and children, poor households, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities, exacerbating existing inequalities and widening the gap between different social groups.
This accurately depicts the situation in Vanghuea village, located in the uplands of Toulakhom district, Vientiane Province, Laos, which is primarily home to Hmong communities.
Cycles of the Mekong River which were once predictable, have become a predicament for communities relying on the mighty river. Shifts in drought and rain patterns make it difficult for rural communities to decide when to start their agricultural processes.
As the pressures on the Mekong mount, the need for action becomes increasingly urgent.
Efforts to address these challenges include government initiatives to improve water supply infrastructure and sanitation services, global initiatives for freshwater conservation, and community-based water management initiatives that empower local residents to monitor and conserve water resources.
Call for Urgent Action
With the pressures on the Mekong mount, Laos’ Ministry of Public Works and Transport set ambitious goals in 2023. Their aim is to provide clean and safe water to 85 percent of urban residents by 2025, with a further increase to 90 percent by 2030. This project is anticipated to enhance capacity in the water and sanitation sector at both central and local levels, as well as among water supply enterprises. It is also expected to improve regulations and institutions related to water supply and sanitation.
“It is a challenge to meet targets,” Deputy Minister of Public Works and Transport, Vilaykham Phosalath, said when addressing a project steering committee meeting under the Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project in August 2023.
Global initiatives such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework offer hope for freshwater conservation, while community-based approaches empower local communities to adapt to changing conditions.
Moreover, ongoing efforts aim to promote community-based water management initiatives that empower local residents to monitor and conserve water resources. Organizations like the MRC collaborate with governments and civil society groups regionally to formulate policies and practices ensuring fair water distribution while safeguarding the river’s ecological health.
“Sustainable development and water security for all basin countries could be enhanced by identifying and implementing opportunities not yet considered in national plans, including significant joint investment projects and projects of basin-wide significance, with a view to achieving a better overall outcome across sectors and between communities, including protection against major floods and droughts,” said Dararath.
Addressing reductions in crop yields due to projected increases in extreme heat during staple crop growing seasons, especially for poorer communities reliant on subsistence and rain-fed agriculture, necessitates significant adaptation efforts.
Looking at the future, as the region’s economy becomes more integrated, cooperation in water-related matters is needed from local communities to the national and regional levels to address this challenging issue. This involves enhancing resilience, adaptation, and mitigation efforts in response to climate change.
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This story was supported by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network.
PolyU’s Department of Health Technology and Informatics Announces Three New Master’s Degree Programs with Open Applications

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2024 – The Department of Health Technology and Informatics (HTI) is currently introducing three new master’s degree programmes: MSc in Medical Data Science (MSc MDS), Master of Medical Imaging (MMI), and Master of Medical Laboratory Science (MMLS). The first cohorts of students for these programmes will begin their study in September 2024.
HTI is a key component of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). HTI has approximately 40 academic and teaching/clinical staff, 25 administrative/support personnel, 150 research students and staff, 250 postgraduate students, and 700 undergraduate students. The department specialises in two major healthcare disciplines: Medical Laboratory Science and Radiography. As a leading academic department in these professional disciplines, HTI is strongly committed to providing quality teaching and conducting impactful research. It offers academic programmes ranging from bachelor’s to PhD degrees.
HTI provides two Bachelor of Science (BSc) programmes: BSc (Hons) in Medical Laboratory Science and BSc (Hons) in Radiography. These popular programmes consistently rank within the top 5 at PolyU based on student entry qualifications. Graduates from these programmes can directly register with the respective regulatory boards of the Government and begin working in their professions immediately after graduation. HTI and its predecessors have been educating and training students in these two healthcare professions for over 45 years.
Established in 2005, HTI offers two Master of Science (MSc) programmes for graduates from its BSc programmes and other related BSc programmes: MSc in Medical Laboratory Science (MSc MLS) and MSc in Medical Imaging and Radiation Science (MSc MIRS). In 2020, HTI expanded its MSc offerings with the launch of the MSc programme in Medical Physics (MSc MP), which prepares graduates for roles as Medical Physicists in hospitals and related healthcare industries.
Medical Data Science (MDS), a new strategic area in HTI, is a multidisciplinary field that merges medicine, data science and computer science to analyse and interpret large volumes of medical data. With the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, genomics, and biomedical fields, there is a high demand for professionals with a strong background in medical data analytics.
The MMI and MMLS programmes aim to educate and train non-healthcare BSc holders through two-year full-time studies, enabling them to register with the respective regulatory boards as Diagnostic Radiographers and Medical Laboratory Technologists, respectively. Registered professionals are in high demand in these two professions.
For details, please visit https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hti/study/programmes/taught-postgraduate-programmes_list/
Hashtag: #理工大學 #TheHongKongPolytechnicUniversity #polyu #醫療科技及資訊學系 #DepartmentofHealthTechnologyandInformatics #HTI #MasterProgramme #碩士學位課程
https://www.polyu.edu.hk/hti/study/programmes/taught-postgraduate-programmes_list/
https://www.facebook.com/polyuhti/
https://www.instagram.com/polyu.hti/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Pianoland announces its second outlet at Westgate, Singapore
Bringing Quality Music to the Heartlands with Grand Opening at Westgate, Singapore
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2024 – Pianoland, a destination for piano players, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its second outlet in Singapore, located at Westgate. Owned and operated by the esteemed C. Melchers Group Pianoland is poised to revolutionize the music retail landscape by making affordable & quality pianos more accessible to the vibrant heartlands of Singapore.

The decision to launch their outlet in Westgate stems from their understanding of the importance of music in Singapore’s ever-growing society, the role it plays in building a sense of community and the importance of nurturing homegrown talents. With Jurong emerging as a key focus area highlighted by the government, for its cultural and economic potential, Pianoland has recognized the opportunity for them to contribute towards the local economy and music scene in the West.
At Pianoland’s new outlet in Westgate, guests are welcomed into an inviting space, meticulously designed to provide an immersive and welcoming experience. Guests can effortlessly envision the perfect piano within their homes by providing photos and a floor plan to the staff, who can then assist to flash the images on LED screens which are strategically placed to showcase the piano placement. This tailored experience is particularly beneficial for guests living in homes of all sizes be it private estates, HDBs and condominiums as it allows one to easily explore various options and find the perfect match for their style and space, transforming this piano-buying experience into a more personalized journey. Pianoland also has life-sized piano templates that can be brought home by guests, allowing them to further refine their plans at home.

With a strong belief that every individual be it a beginner or a professional, deserves access to exceptional musical experiences, Pianoland offers carefully curated selections of acoustic and digital pianos, reflecting their dedication to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and affordability. From the timeless elegance of the Steinway-family of Boston & Essex range of grands and uprights to the state-of-the-art Dexibell digital pianos hand-crafted in Italy, each instrument embodies the pinnacle of musical excellence.
To mark their soft opening of Pianoland at Westgate from 26th April to 17th May, Pianoland invites all music enthusiasts and afficionados to enjoy their “Double Happiness Promotion” which features an exclusive 5% discount on selected pianos. To add on, purchasers are able to earn Kris+ miles with every purchase. Unlike most promotions, this pre-opening special offers uncapped miles, providing limitless opportunities to earn rewards while indulging in your passion for music
“Our vision at Pianoland is to create a musical sanctuary where everyone feels at home, where music resonates with the soul. It’s more than just selling pianos; it’s about nurturing dreams and fostering a vibrant musical community in this heartland. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, we’re here to support you on your journey,” says Celine Goh, General Manager for Pianoland. “We see Pianoland as a hub for creativity, where both local artists and newcomers can thrive and inspire. Because we believe in the transformative power of music, it’s our mission to share that magic with everyone we encounter.”
For more information on Pianoland’s Double Happiness Promotion, please visit their website here.
Pianoland adopts a franchise business model; To inquire more on how to become a franchisee, please contact info@pianoland.sg
Hashtag: #Pianoland #PianolandSingapore #Piano #Music #Westgate #capitaland #West
https://www.pianoland.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/pianolandsg/
https://www.instagram.com/pianolandsg/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
AIA Singapore unveils wealth strategy and ambitious plans to be the top insurer in the wealth segment
The increase in regional and domestic wealth primes AIA Singapore’s wealth strategy with the launch of AIA Wealth Centre to provide bespoke experiences for customers in Singapore.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2024 – AIA Singapore launched AIA Wealth Centre, dedicated to serving regional and domestic affluent and high-net-worth (HNW) individuals and families. This marks an exciting milestone in the illustrious history and legacy of AIA Singapore, furthering the unique AIA “Wealthbeing” proposition to provide holistic wealth solutions that seamlessly blend wealth creation and well-being to empower clients to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives. The official launch saw Ms. Gillian Tan, Assistant Managing Director of the Development and International Group and Chief Sustainability Officer of Monetary Authority of Singapore, gracing the occasion as the Guest-of-Honour.

AIA Singapore’s wealth strategy is a strategic response to the projected surge in Asia’s affluent population, which is expected to grow 61 percent to reach 28.2 million individuals by 2026, compared to 17.5 million in 2021[1]. Singapore is also expected to see its share of this growth, with the number of HNW individuals increasing by 12 percent to 592,000.
Alongside the rising affluent population, Asia is experiencing significant growth in family offices. Between 2020 and 2022, the number of family offices in Singapore alone almost trebled from 400 to 1100[2]. This trend mirrors the growing need of wealthy individuals and families seeking a more holistic approach towards wealth management and an increased focus on legacy and well-being.
AIA Wealth Centre, located at Six Battery Road, is a one-stop wealth centre dedicated to offering holistic wealth management services for affluent and HNW customers that is accessible only by invitation. Beyond traditional wealth preservation and accumulation consultation, customers have access to a specialised panel of experts on areas such as legal, tax and trusts. This multi-disciplinary approach ensures that clients achieve their personal financial goals and well-being aspirations within a holistic framework. It is a strategic investment by AIA Singapore to demonstrate the insurer’s commitment in providing tailored solutions and unparalleled experiences to clients, within an exclusive space. This commitment to exclusivity reflects AIA Singapore’s deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of its affluent and HNW clients.
The company’s initiative is also underpinned by its strong commitment to Singapore’s vision of becoming a premier global financial centre. This strategic focus aims to attract wealth across the region and contribute to Singapore’s economic prosperity, while bolstering Singapore’s position as a trusted, vibrant, and well-regulated financial centre for discerning investors.
Wong Sze Keed, Chief Executive Officer, AIA Singapore, said, “The launch of AIA Wealth Centre and AIA International Wealth, demonstrates our commitment to our wealth strategy as we reaffirm our strategic focus to be the pre-eminent insurer to address the needs of the growing affluent and HNW client segment in Singapore as well as across the region. What differentiates us is, we are backed by more than 100 years of legacy and leadership focusing across 18 pan-Asian markets, where we have the benefit of collective knowledge and expertise of the AIA Group. Our deep understanding of the Asian wealth market is enhanced by AIA Investments’ strong capabilities and opportunities to invest globally through the world’s finest fund managers.
As Asia’s wealth landscape flourishes, we are fortuitously located in Singapore with its remarkably advanced infrastructure and regulatory framework, and at the forefront of providing affluent and HNW individuals and families with bespoke solutions to ensure wealth generation and inter-generational wealth transfer.”
AIA International Wealth, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AIA Singapore leverages on the strengths of Singapore as a trusted financial hub, focused on helping the affluent and HNW customers to grow and manage their wealth. This is delivered through a specially curated suite of insurance solutions, tapping onto AIA’s longstanding heritage in wealth management and insurance expertise to better cater to customers’ specific financial needs.
Elevated experience at AIA Wealth Centre
Established in 1931, AIA Singapore has been part of the Singapore transformation story, evolving to a first world nation and thriving across generations. AIA Wealth Centre symbolises AIA’s commitment in helping our affluent and HNW customers create legacy that transcends across generations through its “Wealthbeing” philosophy. The centre’s experience embodies AIA’s “Wealthbeing” theme and pays tribute to the strength and resilience of Singapore, as it grew to be a premier wealth and health hub today.
Commemorating the grand opening and as part of AIA Singapore’s environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitment to create a more sustainable society for our customers and community, the company commissioned local artist, Natalia Tan, where sustainability is at the core of her practice to create an art installation, made with various types of recycled and sustainable materials. To showcase that success is a collaborative process, invited guests at the launch event contributed to the creation of the tapestry artwork through an engaging and interactive experience guided by Natalia. The co-created art installation, completed during the launch, will also be permanently featured as part of AIA Wealth Centre’s art collection, amongst many others from esteemed Singaporean artists such as Lim Tze Peng, Low Puay Hua and Vincent Chua. These art pieces embody the “Wealthbeing” theme, effectively showcasing AIA Singapore’s commitment to support the holistic well-being and wealth goals of their clients.
For more information on AIA Wealthbeing and AIA Wealth Centre, please visit: aia.com.sg/wealthbeing.
Hashtag: #AIAIW #AIA #AIASG #WealthManagement #Wealthbeing #HealthierLongerBetterLives
https://www.aia.com.sg/en/index
https://www.linkedin.com/company/aia-singapore?originalSubdomain=sg
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
AIA
AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR[1], Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR[2], and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$286 billion as of 31 December 2023.
AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 42 million individual policies and over 18 million participating members of group insurance schemes.
AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.
AIA Wealth Centre
The newly opened AIA Wealth Centre is accessible only by invitation, will offer tailored solutions and unparalleled experiences to regional and domestic affluent and HNW clients.
Overseeing Singapore’s iconic landmarks including the Singapore River, National Gallery Singapore and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay reflecting the dynamic spirit of Singapore, AIA Wealth Centre is a one-stop centre dedicated to providing holistic wealth management services. Beyond insurance consultation, experts from various disciplines join hands to provide clients with professional advisory on trust, legacy, tax and legal matters.
It is designed as an exclusive, refined space which facilitates private and collaborative discussions between our clients and their financial consultants or wealth management consultants as well as a versatile multifunctional area for exclusive lifestyle events. Meeting rooms are uniquely named after our “Wealthbeing” philosophy such as Heritage, Harmony, Altitude, Legacy and others. AIA Wealth Centre incorporates calming design elements and a sophisticated palette of colours to create a relaxing atmosphere, bolstered with curated artworks that speak to AIA’s “Wealthbeing” philosophy.
Stepping into AIA Wealth Centre, guests are greeted by the subtle fragrance of a tea ambient scent. As you take a deeper breath, the lingering hints of citrus notes, mint and thyme leaves unfold, evoking a sense of calmness, warmth, and harmony.
Within the meticulously curated environment, one’s attention is drawn to an art corridor celebrating works by local artists such as Koeh Sia Yong, Low Puay Hua, Choo Ai Loon, Simon Wee, and more. More artworks including specially commissioned calligraphy by renowned Singaporean calligrapher, Nai Swee Leng, a master of Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy and Lim Tze Peng, who captured the essence of prosperity and well-being in his calligraphy piece that symbolically aligned the harmony of the landscape with the prosperity and health of individuals and communities are featured in the meeting rooms, each a sanctuary of collaboration, exuding modern elegance while promoting a sense of purpose and focus. All artworks in the AIA Wealth Centre signifies “Wealthbeing” through its representation of prosperity, legacy and longevity.
Commemorating the grand opening and as part of AIA Singapore’s ESG commitment to create a more sustainable society for our customers and community, the company commissioned local artist, Natalia Tan, where sustainability is at the core of her practice to create an art installation, made with various types of recycled and sustainable materials. To showcase that success is a collaborative process, invited guests at the launch event contributed to the creation of the tapestry artwork through an engaging and interactive experience guided by Natalia. The co-created art installation, completed during the launch, will also be permanently featured as part of AIA Wealth Centre’s art collection. It embodies the “Wealthbeing” theme, effectively showcasing AIA Singapore’s commitment to support the holistic well-being and wealth goals of their clients.
Adding a touch of exceptionality, bespoke cookies handcrafted with the finest ingredients by Singaporean artist and dessert chef Janice Wong exclusively for the AIA Wealth Centre, will be served. Guests will also be invited to enjoy uniquely concocted “Prosperity” and “Wellness” kombucha drinks, brewed with a blend of fruits and floral, by Kiki’s Reserve.
Money20/20’s TwentyFold Fintech Intelligence Platform Makes Asian Debut at Money20/20 Asia

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2024 – TwentyFold, the fintech intelligence platform from Money20/20 is expanding its global reach with a launch at Money20/20 Asia in Bangkok. Following a successful Early Access launch exclusively for Money20/20 USA customers, TwentyFold is now available to the Asian fintech and investment community. This platform offers comprehensive data and insights to drive smarter dealmaking and partnerships.
TwentyFold is a Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) platform designed to help fintech professionals make informed investment and partnership decisions. It offers the widest and deepest source of fintech startup information globally, currently boasting over 65,000 fintechs, enabling users to:
- Discover promising startups through our laser-sharp Fintech Taxonomy. Refine searches by business model, funding stage, current investors, and other key criteria.
- Identify partnership opportunities: Explore partnership data to find the perfect match for strategic alliances.
- Streamline due diligence: Access detailed company profiles, including founders, funding history, technology stack, and more.
“The Asian fintech landscape is vast and rapidly evolving. TwentyFold empowers investors and fintechs to navigate this market effectively, unlocking impactful opportunities,” said Jurgen van Leeuwen, TwentyFold’s Vice President of digital intelligence.
Powered by Money20/20’s proprietary fintech taxonomy and augmented by AI, TwentyFold ensures exceptional data provenance & accuracy, depth, and ease of use. Its intuitive search functionality and AI conversation feature ‘Fin’ deliver a seamless user experience.
Twentyfold currently includes over 65,000 fintechs and over 22,000 fintech investors globally, and thousands of fintechs and investors are added weekly. Almost 15,000 Asian fintech startups and close to 5,500 investors based in Asia are listed in Twentyfold, meeting the needs of the expansive startup investment market in Asia.
“Investors seeking to capitalise on Asia’s fintech growth need sophisticated tools to gain a strategic advantage. TwentyFold delivers refined data analysis and market intelligence to support robust decision-making,” said William Mellis, Chief Strategy Officer at Ascential Futures, Money20/20’s parent company.
Hashtag: #Money2020
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Twentyfold
TwentyFold is a fintech intelligence subscription platform that empowers investors and fintech companies to make informed decisions and build strategic partnerships. With its unparalleled data, intuitive search functionality, and AI-powered insights, TwentyFold is rapidly becoming an indispensable tool in the fintech industry. For more information, please visit https://www.twentyfold.com.
About Money 20/20
Launched by industry insiders in 2012, Money20/20 has rapidly become the heartbeat of the global fintech ecosystem. Over the last decade, the most innovative, fast-moving ideas and companies have driven their growth on our platform. Mastercard, Airwallex, J.P. Morgan, SHIELD, GCash, Stripe, Google, Marqeta, VISA, Adyen, Checkout.com and more make transformational deals and raise their global profile with us. Money20/20 attracts leaders from the world’s greatest VC firms, banks, regulators and media platforms: convening to cut industry-shaping deals, build world-changing partnerships and unlock future-defining opportunities. in Bangkok (23-25 April 2024), Amsterdam (4-6 June 2024) and Las Vegas (27-30 October 2024). Money20/20 also recently launched Twentyfold, a Digital Intelligence product containing the deepest and widest repository of fintech startup data in the world. Money20/20 is where the world’s fintech leaders convene to grow their businesses. Money20/20 is part of Ascential plc. Follow Money20/20 on
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Enjoy Wealth Appreciation and Inheritance with Hong Kong Life’s Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan
Up to 4.46% p.a. Projected Total Return Rate upon Policy Maturity
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2024 – Along with the continuous economic growth, customers would like to allocate their assets more effectively with various wealth management tools, to achieve wealth appreciation and prepare a better protection to themselves and their families. Hong Kong Life launches Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan as a much steady wealth management option for customers which allows them to achieve their medium-to-long term financial goals and pass their wealth to their beloved ones.
Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan provides 20 years of savings and life protection with only 2-year premium payment. The Plan also offers Premium Prepayment Arrangement, Change of Life Insured, Contingent Life Insured and Contingent Policyowner Arrangement for Policy Continuum and flexible death settlement options as well as simple application procedure with no medical examination required.
From now until 29 June 2024, customers may enjoy up to 13% first year premium discount and up to 5% Premium Prepayment Discount upon successful application of Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan. The Projected Total Return Rate can reach up to 4.46% p.a.1 upon Policy Maturity. Customers may also be entitled to a complimentary health service.
Mr. Jonathan Ko, Chief Marketing Officer of Hong Kong Life, said, “Hong Kong Life understands most customers emphasize on having secure wealth appreciation and inheritance in their life plans, especially for high-net-worth individuals. They expect making good use of relatively steady wealth management tools can offer them higher potential returns, and even can serve as a plan for future inheritance to pass on their fruitful capitals to next generation. We specially provide premium discount on Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan, bringing up to 4.46% p.a.1 Projected Total Return Rate upon Policy Maturity, to allow customers to achieve wealth appreciation goals of medium-to-long term and wealth inheritance flexibly with a life insurance plan.”
Learn more about Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan – Client Promotion Incentive:
https://www.hklife.com.hk/en/promotions/index-id-34.html
Learn more about Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan:
https://www.hklife.com.hk/en/products/personal-insurance/savings-plan/wealth-up-(premier)-savings-insurance-plan/index.html
Terms and Conditions apply. For enquiries, please visit the branches of our Appointed Licensed Insurance Agency, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, or contact our Customer Service Hotline at (852) 2290 2882.
Features of Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan:
- Short Premium Payment Term2 with 20-Year Life Protection
The Premium Payment Term2 of the Plan is 2 years2 only with 20 years life protection for the Life Insured.
- Premium Prepayment Arrangement3 to Build Your Wealth with Ease
You can prepay the premium for the second year at the time of application and enjoy the premium prepayment discount on the second year premium3, so that you can build your wealth with ease.
- Additional Return to Build Your Wealth
The Plan not only provides Guaranteed Cash Value, Terminal Dividend (non-guaranteed)4 may also be payable at or after the end of 5th Policy Year when the Policy is fully surrendered by the Policyowner, upon the death of the Life Insured (provided that there is no named and surviving Contingent Life Insured who will become the new Life Insured)or upon Policy Maturity, whichever is earlier.
When the Policy is partially surrendered by the Policyowner, Terminal Dividend (non-guaranteed)4 may be payable at or after the end of 5th Policy Year. The payable amount is equal to the Terminal Dividend (non-guaranteed)4 attributable to the reduced portion of Principal Amount5. Terminal Dividend (non-guaranteed)4 will not accumulate in the Policy.
- Flexible Change of Life Insured6
While the Plan is in force and the Life Insured is alive, the Policyowner may change the Life Insured for unlimited times starting from the 1st Policy Anniversary as follows6. This provides you the flexibility in your financial arrangement.
Change of one Life Insured6
The Guaranteed Cash Value will remain unchanged and continue to accumulate in the Policy till the Plan matures.
Change to two Life Insureds6
The Principal Amount5 of the Policy will be converted into two new policies of the same Basic Plan in accordance to the portion as specified by the Policyowner. The Guaranteed Cash Value will be proportionally converted into the two new policies in accordance to the same portion as specified and continue to accumulate in the Policy till the Plan matures.
- Contingent Life Insured7 and Contingent Policyowner8 Arrangement for Policy Continuum
During the lifetime of the Life Insured and while the Plan is in force, the Policyowner may designate a Contingent Life Insured7. In the event of the death of the Life Insured on or after the 1st Policy Anniversary, the Contingent Life Insured will become the new Life Insured. This sustains the Policy and avoids the possibility of Policy termination due to the unexpected death of the Life Insured.
Moreover, to safeguard the wealth management planning, during the lifetime of the Life Insured and while the Plan is in force, Policyowner may designate a Contingent Policyowner8 so that the ownership of the Policy will be transferred to the Contingent Policyowner in the event of death of the Policyowner.
- Life Protection for Peace of Mind
When the Life Insured dies, the Total Death Benefit will be paid to the Beneficiary (provided that there is no named and surviving Contingent Life Insured who will become the new Life Insured) as below:
Policy Year | Total Death Benefit | |
1-5 | 101% of Total Premiums Paid9 less Indebtedness (if any). | |
6-20 | Applicable to the Life Insured with issue age 70 or below: 105% of Total Premiums Paid9 OR 100% of Guaranteed Cash Value as at the date of death of the Life Insured (whichever is greater) Applicable to the Life Insured with issue age above 70: |
plus Terminal Dividend (non-guaranteed)4(if any), less Indebtedness (if any). |
- Flexible Death Settlement Options10
The Plan provides flexible Death Benefit Settlement Options10. Instead of receiving the Death Benefit in a lump sum payment, Policyowner can designate one of the following settlement options while the Plan is in force and the Life Insured is alive to settle the Death Benefit to the Beneficiary.
1. Installment Payments (Fixed Amount)
Death Benefit will be paid in fixed amount at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually).
2. Installment Payments (Fixed Period)
Death Benefit will be paid in installments (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually) for an agreed fixed payment period.
3. Partial Installment Payments (Fixed Amount)
A designated percentage of Death Benefit will be paid in a lump sum. The unpaid balance of Death Benefit will be paid in fixed amount at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually).
4. Partial Installment Payments (Fixed Period)
A designated percentage of Death Benefit will be paid in a lump sum. The unpaid balance of Death Benefit to be paid in installments (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually) for an agreed fixed payment period.
5. Partial Installment Payments until the Designated Age of the Beneficiary
Death Benefit will be paid in fixed amount at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually) before the Designated Age of the Beneficiary. The unpaid balance of Death Benefit (if any) will be paid in a lump sum at the Designated Age of the Beneficiary.
6. Increasing Installment Payments
Death Benefit will be paid by increasing installments (monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually). Death Benefit will be paid in a specified amount for the first installment. The subsequent installments will be increased by 3% each year starting from the second year until Death Benefit is fully settled.
- Fixed Premium for Your Better Planning
The premium will remain unchanged throughout the Premium Payment Term2, allowing you to have a better plan for your future.
- Simple Application
Application procedure is simple and no medical examination is required.
Remarks:
- Upon successful application of Wealth Up (Premier) Savings Insurance Plan, customers may enjoy up to 13% first year premium discount. In addition, up to 5% Premium Prepayment Discount will be offered to customers if the second year premium is paid in advance together with the first year premium at the time of application. For the USD Policy, the projected total return rate is 4.46% p.a. (non-guaranteed) upon Policy Maturity, if no Policy Loan, no withdrawal or partial surrender and all premiums have been paid when due during the benefit term, with the 13% first year premium discount and the 5% Premium Prepayment Discount. Client incentive is subject to the terms and conditions, please refer to : https://www.hklife.com.hk/en/promotions/index-id-34.html for details.
- The Policy will be terminated if the Policyowner cannot settle the premium payment before the end of the Grace Period during the Premium Payment Term, subject to the Non-forfeiture Option and other relevant provisions of the Policy. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the policy document issued by Hong Kong Life. If the Policy is terminated before the Policy Maturity, the Total Surrender Value (if applicable) received by the Policyowner may be less than the Total Premiums Paid.
- When paying the first year premium, the second year annual premium may be deposited in advance into the Premium Deposit Account at the same time in order to be eligible for 4% (applicable to HKD / RMB Policy) or 5% (applicable to USD Policy) discount on the second year premium. If the premium is pre-paid in HKD for USD Policy, the pre-paid amount will be converted to USD based on the exchange rate as at the date of prepayment and deposited into the Premium Deposit Account for paying the second year premium. If the premium is pre-paid in HKD for RMB Policy, the pre-paid amount will be converted to RMB based on the exchange rate as at the date of prepayment and deposited into the Premium Deposit Account for paying the second year premium. The amount in the Premium Deposit Account will be debited automatically to pay the premium on the premium due date of the 2nd Policy Year. No interest will be credited and no partial or full withdrawal is allowed for the amount in the Premium Deposit Account.
- Terminal Dividend is not guaranteed and may be changed from time to time. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. The actual amount payable may be higher or lower than those illustrated in the Insurance Proposal. Hong Kong Life reserves the right to change them from time to time.
- Principal Amount is used to calculate Initial Premium, any subsequent premium, benefits and policy values (if any) of the respective Basic Plan and any Supplementary Benefit. Any subsequent change of the Principal Amount will result in corresponding change in premium, benefits and policy values (if any) of the respective Basic Plan and any Supplementary Benefit. The Principal Amount does not represent the amount of death benefit of the respective Basic Plan and any Supplementary Benefit.
- Change of Life Insured is subject to the terms and conditions, and the then administrative rules as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. If change of one Life Insured option is elected, the Principal Amount, Guaranteed Cash Value, Terminal Dividend (if any), Policy Date, Maturity Date, premium, Premium Payment Term, Total Premiums Paid and Indebtedness (if any) will remain unchanged on the date of endorsement. If change to two Life Insureds option is elected, the Principal Amount, Guaranteed Cash Value, Terminal Dividend (if any), premium, Total Premiums Paid and Indebtedness (if any) will be proportionally converted into the two new policies in accordance to the same portion as specified by the Policyowner. The Principal Amount of the new policies is subject to the minimum amount as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. The Policy Date, Maturity Date and Premium Payment Term of two new policies will be the same as the original Policy. The Policy Year will remain unchanged after the change of Life Insured. The Death Benefit by Policy Year will continue to apply (applicable to the policy(ies) which the Initial Life Insured with issue age 70 or below). At the time Hong Kong Life receives the written request, the proposed New Life Insured’s age(s) must not be over 70 (applicable to the policy(ies) which the Initial Life Insured with issue age 70 or below) / 80 (applicable to the policy(ies) which the Initial Life Insured with issue age above 70) and must not be older than the Initial Life Insured. Also, evidence of insurability including the insurable interest for the proposed New Life Insured(s) shall be submitted. In addition, all New Life Insured(s) and the Previous Life Insured must be alive on the date of endorsement or the Issue Date of the new policies (where applicable). All Supplementary Benefit(s) (if any) for the Previous Life Insured will be terminated automatically on the date of endorsement or the Issue Date of the new policies (where applicable) and no unearned premium shall be refunded. The relevant Supplementary Benefit(s) can be applied in respect of the New Life Insured(s) in the original Policy or new policies (where applicable) subject to the underwriting rules and requirements as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the policy document issued by Hong Kong Life.
- Designation of Contingent Life Insured is subject to the terms and conditions, and the then administrative rules as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. Only one Contingent Life Insured can be designated at a time. At the time Hong Kong Life receives the written request, the Proposed Contingent Life Insured’s age must not be over 70 (applicable to the policy which the Initial Life Insured with issue age 70 or below) / 80 (applicable to the policy which the Initial Life Insured with issue age above 70) and must not be older than the Initial Life Insured. Also, evidence of insurability including the insurable interest for the Proposed Contingent Life Insured must be submitted. Upon the death of the Life Insured on or after the 1st Policy Anniversary while the Policy is in force, the actual change of Life Insured to the Contingent Life Insured shall be approved and becomes effective subject to Hong Kong Life’s receipt of satisfactory proof of the Life Insured’s death and any documents as requested, the relevant conditions and limitation, and the prevailing administrative rules and requirements of Hong Kong Life. All Supplementary Benefit(s) (if any) for the Life Insured will be terminated automatically upon the date of death of the Life Insured and no unearned premium shall be refunded. The relevant Supplementary Benefit(s) can be applied for by the Contingent Life Insured, subject to the underwriting rules and requirements as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to relevant form and the policy document issued by Hong Kong Life.
- Designation of Contingent Policyowner is subject to the terms and conditions, and the then administrative rules as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. Only one Contingent Policyowner can be designated at a time, and evidence of insurability including the insurable interest for the Proposed Contingent Policyowner must be submitted. Upon the death of the Policyowner while the Policy is inforce, the actual transfer of ownership of this Policy to the Contingent Policyowner shall be approved and becomes effective subject to Hong Kong Life’s receipt of satisfactory proof of the Policyowner’s death and any documents as requested, the relevant conditions and limitation, and the prevailing administrative rules and requirements of Hong Kong Life. All Supplementary Benefit(s) (if any) for the Policyowner will be terminated automatically upon the date of death of the Policyowner and no unearned premium shall be refunded. The relevant Supplementary Benefit(s) can be applied for by the Contingent Policyowner, subject to the underwriting rules and requirements as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to relevant form and the policy document issued by Hong Kong Life.
- Total Premiums Paid means the total amount of due and payable premiums from the Policy Date up to the date of termination of the Plan, paid to the Plan and received by Hong Kong Life. Any payment in excess of such amount of due and payable premiums will not be included in the Total Premiums Paid. In case of Partial Surrender, the Total Premiums Paid under the Policy shall be adjusted and reduced proportionally as specified in the Partial Surrender provisions. The Total Premiums Paid does not include the amount in the Premium Deposit Account. In the event of the death of Life Insured, the amount in the Premium Deposit Account (if any) will be paid to the Beneficiary. If Policyowner requests to surrender, the amount in the Premium Deposit Account (if any) will be returned to the Policyowner.
- Death Benefit Settlement Options are only applicable in the event of the death of the Life Insured after the Premium Payment Term and all premiums due have been paid, and subject to the terms and conditions, and the then administrative rules as determined by Hong Kong Life from time to time. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the policy document issued by Hong Kong Life.
Hashtag: #HKLife #致富易優越 #儲蓄壽險 #中長線儲蓄 #資產增值 #財富傳承
https://www.hklife.com.hk
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hklifeinsurance
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hong Kong Life
Established in 2001, Hong Kong Life Insurance Limited (“Hong Kong Life”) was founded by five local financial institutions including Asia Insurance Company Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, CMB Wing Lung Bank Limited, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, which laid their foundations and have been serving people in Hong Kong for more than 50 years in average. Through our extensive network of around 130 distribution points comprising Chong Hing Bank, CMB Wing Lung Bank, OCBC Bank and Shanghai Commercial Bank, we provide a comprehensive range of insurance products and services to customers.
Qmiax Obtains Canadian MSB License, Initiating a New Era of Compliance in Trading
Compliance is crucial for cryptocurrency exchanges, as it is key to their survival and growth. Compliant exchanges can provide users with a secure, transparent trading environment, effectively mitigating financial risks. Therefore, obtaining certification from authoritative financial regulatory agencies becomes a vital cornerstone for the sustainable development of exchanges.
As a dynamic cryptocurrency exchange, the acquisition of Qmiax of the MSB license from FINTRAC demonstrates its high commitment to compliance and security. Behind this achievement is the relentless efforts of Qmiax and innovation in ensuring trading compliance and security. The platform has established rigorous internal monitoring systems, implemented advanced Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures for customer identity verification, and introduced advanced technologies and algorithms in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CFT) measures to monitor and analyze trading activities, identify, and prevent suspicious activities. Additionally, the platform collaborates with leading global security technology companies to further enhance data security and protect user assets.
Improvements in compliance will enable the platform to attract more users and investors seeking a secure and reliable trading platform. In the current increasingly mature cryptocurrency market, users have higher demands for security and compliance from exchanges. Faced with evolving regulatory environments and rapid technological advancements, Qmiax needs to continuously adjust and optimize its compliance strategies to meet various challenges that may arise in the future.
In the future, Qmiax will continue to uphold the principles of compliance, security, and innovation to provide users with higher quality services and drive the development of the cryptocurrency trading industry.
https://www.qmiax.co
Hashtag: #Qmiax
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.