Home Blog Page 1167

SKF Q4 2025: Laying the foundation for long-term value creation

By
Advertorial Desk
-

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ —

Q4 2025

  • Net sales: MSEK 21,969 (24,725)
  • Organic growth: 0.0% (−3.1%), driven by organic sales growth within the Industrial business, offset by negative market demand for the Automotive business.
  • Adjusted operating profit: MSEK 2,588 (2,735). Strong positive cost development and solid price/mix contribution nearly offset lower volumes and significant currency headwinds.
  • Adjusted operating margin: 11.8% (11.1%) with Industrial at 15.6% (14.6%) and Automotive at 1.7% (2.6%).
  • Net cash flow from operating activities: MSEK 2,758 (3,283), including cash flow impact from items affecting comparability of approximately BSEK -1.

Financial overview, MSEK unless otherwise stated

Q4 2025

Q4 2024

2025

2024

Net sales

21,969

24,725

91,583

98,722

Organic growth, %

0.0

−3.1

−0.4

−5.4

Adjusted operating profit

2,588

2,735

11,673

12,183

Adjusted operating margin, %

11.8

11.1

12.7

12.3

Operating profit

1,563

2,331

7,755

10,339

Operating margin, %

7.1

9.4

8.5

10.5

Adjusted net profit

1,616

1,995

8,169

8,731

Net profit

591

1,591

4,249

6,887

Net cash flow from operating activities

2,758

3,283

8,392

10,792

Basic earnings per share

1.25

3.31

8.62

14.22

Adjusted earnings per share

3.50

4.20

17.23

18.27

Rickard Gustafson, President and CEO:

“In Q4 as well as for the full year 2025, I’m pleased to conclude a solid performance with an improved adjusted operating margin year-over-year, despite challenging markets. By executing on our strategy, we’re laying the foundation for long-term value creation.”

Continued resilient and improved margin

Throughout 2025, we navigated persistently soft market conditions and geopolitical uncertainty, including tariff-related impacts. At the same time, we remained on track with our Automotive separation process. For the full year, we delivered a resilient adjusted operating margin of 12.7%. Industrial business’ margin improved, while Automotive’s margin was relatively flat, year over-year, despite a weak market and adverse currency effects. Cash flow from operating activities was BSEK 8.4.

Looking at Q4, the soft market conditions remained with flat organic sales, year-over-year (y-o-y). The weaker growth compared to what we reported in Q3 y-o-y is mainly due to favorable timing of deliveries before year-end 2024 in our Industrial business in Americas and India. In addition, price/mix was solid. Organic sales in our Industrial business increased, where Aerospace and Magnetic bearings in Europe and tariff-related price increases in Americas contributed. In Asia, a solid organic growth in China was partly driven by a strong finish in Industrial distribution towards year-end, while the volume driven growth in India continued. 

Organic sales in our Automotive business continued to decrease with sequentially even more challenging market conditions, particularly in Europe and Americas. Negative growth in China was due to a strong Q4 last year, while electric vehicles continued to perform well. In a tough market environment, it’s encouraging that we continue to win several strategically important margin accretive contracts across our targeted segments which bode well for the future.

The improved Group margin y-o-y was mainly driven by a strong positive cost development where solid execution of our rightsizing activities contributed with approximately MSEK 190. The negative synergies related to the Automotive separation are expected to kick in from the beginning of 2026. In Q1, these negative synergies are assessed to be somewhat larger than the savings from the rightsizing activities, compared to a positive net contribution in Q4. In addition, the now finalized World Class manufacturing program impacted earnings positively. Lower material costs continued to contribute, partly from a different product mix within Automotive compared to last year. Tariff costs were once again largely compensated for. At current levels, our ambition is to do so also in Q1 although the geopolitical turmoil inevitably amplifies overall uncertainty. The margin was furthermore significantly affected by currency headwinds.

Items affecting comparability (IAC) were, as previously communicated, sequentially higher and amounted to BSEK 1 with roughly half related to the Automotive separation and the other half to our footprint optimization activities with the closure of Argentina manufacturing operations as the main one.

Cash flow from operations at BSEK 2.7 was solid, considering higher IAC, driven by a positive Net working capital development.

Creating two fit for purpose businesses

At our Capital Markets Day in November, we presented the strategic direction and new Industrial financial targets following the planned Automotive separation. As a focused, pure-play industrial company, we are well positioned to unlock additional long-term value through a more competitive offering and an enhanced ability to outgrow the market. The continued transformation of our manufacturing and supply chain footprint, resulting in increased investments as well as charges (IAC), are necessary for delivering on our long-term adjusted operating margin target of above 19% over a business cycle.

The strategy for the Automotive business focuses on accelerating growth in high-potential markets, supported by a lean, automotive-adapted value chain. Its long-term objective is to grow ahead of the automotive market while improving operating margin, where the business wins mentioned before build a solid platform for our future Automotive business.

The Automotive separation continues at high pace according to plan. We have identified an opportunity to faster reduce the contract manufacturing to Automotive, although from the same level at point of separation as previously communicated. This will strengthen the competitiveness of both businesses and decrease future investment needs for Automotive. As this will require an additional transfer of production lines to Automotive, we therefore plan to list the Automotive business at NASDAQ Stockholm during Q4 2026. This additional transfer will be managed within the already announced cost and capital expenditure for the Automotive separation. Listing is subject to the Board of Directors proposing a listing and shareholders’ approval.

Outlook

We expect market demand in Q1 to remain at similar levels as in Q4. Consequently, we expect organic sales to strengthen somewhat in Q1, year-over-year supported by more favourable comparables.

In recognition of the Group’s solid financial position, the Board has decided to propose to the Annual General Meeting a dividend of SEK 7.75 per share to be paid in two instalments.”

Outlook and guidance

Outlook

  • Q1 2026: We expect market demand to remain at similar levels as in Q4. Consequently, we expect organic sales to strengthen somewhat year-over-year, supported by more favourable comparables.

Guidance Q1 2026

  • Currency impact on the operating profit: around MSEK –800, year-over-year, based on exchange rates as per 31 December 2025.

Guidance FY 2026

  • Tax level excluding effects related to divested businesses and separation of the Automotive business: around 28%.
  • Additions to property, plant and equipment: around BSEK 5.
  • Items affecting comparability related to the Automotive separation and footprint optimization: BSEK –2.5 to –3. This is within the frame comunicated at CMD 2025.

A webcast will be held on 30 January 2026 at 09:00 (CET):
Sweden: +46 (0)8 5051 0031
UK/International: +44 (0)207 107 0613
https://www.skf.com/group/investors

Aktiebolaget SKF
(publ)

The financial information in this press release contains inside information that AB SKF is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication through the agency of the contact person set out below on 30 January 2026 at 07.30 CET.

For further information, please contact:
Press Relations: Carl Bjernstam, +46 31-337 2517; +46 722 201 893; carl.bjernstam@skf.com 
Investor Relations: Sophie Arnius, +46 31-337 8072; +46 705 908072; sophie.arnius@skf.com 

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/skf/r/skf-q4-2025–laying-the-foundation-for-long-term-value-creation,c4300090

The following files are available for download:

HKPC “2025 Winter InnoTalent Programme” Gathers Global I&T Talent to Strengthen Hong Kong’s Position as an International High‑Calibre Talent Hub

By
Advertorial Desk
-

HONG KONG, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) celebrated the successful conclusion of its “2025 Winter InnoTalent Programme” (Winter Internship Programme) with a graduation ceremony, recognising 30 young global talents for their outstanding performance during their six‑week internship. The Winter Internship Programme proved highly effective in nurturing top I&T talent and reinforced Hong Kong’s critical role in connecting the Chinese Mainland with global talent ecosystems.

The Winter Internship Programme received an overwhelming response, attracting over 1,800 applications worldwide. The 30 selected interns came from the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, the United States, Australia and India, as well as several Belt and Road countries, including Indonesia, Korea, New Zealand, Russia and Pakistan. They hail from world-renowned institutions, such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Peking University, the University of Melbourne, the University of New South Wales and Fudan University, as well as leading Hong Kong universities including The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology.

Over 60% of the interns have majored in STEM‑related disciplines—including Artificial Intelligence, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science—while others possess backgrounds in economics, finance and management, reflecting Hong Kong’s need for interdisciplinary talent development and underscoring the city’s strong appeal to young I&T talent worldwide.

Aligning with the “15th Five-Year Plan” to Nurture I&T Talents with Global Vision
HKPC has proactively aligned with the national “15th Five-Year Plan”, which supports developing Hong Kong and Macao as an international hub for high‑calibre tech talent and promotes strategic Belt and Road cooperation. As a flagship HKPC talent initiative, the “InnoTalent Programme” seeks to inspire young people’s innovation spirit and unleash their potential. The programme also provides students from Belt and Road economies with valuable opportunities to gain in‑depth exposure to Hong Kong’s I&T industry. The goal is to encourage the pursuit of further careers in Hong Kong after graduation and strengthen collaboration and exchange in I&T and talent development between Hong Kong and partner economies.

Diverse Hands‑on Learning to Stay Ahead of I&T Developments
The six‑week internship closely aligns with Hong Kong’s I&T development priorities, focusing on technology application, business analysis and innovation management, while equipping interns with a comprehensive understanding of I&T knowledge and industry trends. Under the guidance of HKPC’s professional teams, interns actively participated across multiple divisions, applying innovative technologies to address real‑world business challenges and further deepening their understanding of Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem.

To broaden the understanding of interns across the I&T landscape in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA), HKPC arranged a series of field trips. These included a visit to the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, where interns observed how intelligent technologies are enhancing public service efficiency. They also visited the Hongrita Group’s smart factory in Zhongshan, where they learned how automation and smart manufacturing are leveraged to boost productivity. The visits deepened interns’ understanding of regional I&T collaboration and supply‑chain integration.

A key highlight of the Winter Internship Programme, the “Dare to Try” competition showcased the standout learning outcomes from the six‑week internship. The 30 interns were divided into five teams and, under the guidance of mentors, developed AI‑driven innovative concepts, which they presented to HKPC’s management at the graduation ceremony. Team Echolink was ultimately named as overall programme champion.

Mr. Mohamed D. BUTT, MH, Executive Director of HKPC, said: “HKPC has been actively supporting the development of Hong Kong as a hub for high‑calibre talent, as nurturing young people with a global vision is a vital driver of I&T development. Through hands‑on experience, the ‘InnoTalent Programme’ enables students to gain a more comprehensive understanding of Hong Kong’s and the Greater Bay Area’s I&T ecosystem, laying a solid foundation for their future careers in the sector. We believe that this year’s young talents gathered from around the world will elevate Hong Kong as an ideal platform in connecting the Chinese Mainland with the global innovation community, while creating greater value for I&T development.”

Multiple programme interns shared how the six‑week internship experience had deepened their understanding of Hong Kong’s I&T development. Hermione, an intern from Hong Kong currently studying at Peking University, said: “The Winter Internship Programme allowed me to see Hong Kong’s I&T landscape in action and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s role in connecting the Mainland Chinese with the international community. The professional guidance from HKPC mentors helped me learn how to translate research ideas into application‑ready outcomes, broaden my industry perspective, and lay an important foundation for my future career in the I&T sector.”

Applications are now open for the “2026 Summer InnoTalent Programme”. Local and overseas university students are welcome to apply and experience Hong Kong’s vibrant I&T ecosystem first‑hand. For more details and application information, please visit the programme website.

Photo Captions:
Please download the high-res photos here.

Mr. Mohamed D. BUTT, MH, Executive Director of HKPC (center, first row), along with HKPC Council members and management, attended the graduation ceremony of the “2025 Winter InnoTalent Programme,” celebrating the programme’s successful completion with interns from top universities around the world.
Mr. Mohamed D. BUTT, MH, Executive Director of HKPC (center, first row), along with HKPC Council members and management, attended the graduation ceremony of the “2025 Winter InnoTalent Programme,” celebrating the programme’s successful completion with interns from top universities around the world.

About the Hong Kong Productivity Council
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries. 

HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.

To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.

HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical , assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.

Virtus Medical Group and Hong Kong Healthcare Foundation jointly present the inaugural ‘Hong Kong Nordic Walkathon 2026’, fully supported by China Construction Bank (Asia)

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Public registration for the event is now open.

A transformative city-wide health initiative bringing the proven benefits of

Nordic Walking to 5,000 participants at Tamar Park

HONG KONG, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Virtus Medical Group (“Virtus”) and the Hong Kong Healthcare Foundation jointly announced today that they will co-host the inaugural ‘Hong Kong Nordic Walkathon 2026’, fully supported by China Construction Bank (Asia) (“CCB (Asia)”). This landmark health event is scheduled to take place on 1 March 2026, Sunday, at Tamar Park, Admiralty, marking the first large-scale Nordic walking event ever held in Hong Kong.

This pioneering initiative aims to introduce the extensive, evidence-based health benefits of Nordic Walking to the Hong Kong community. The event will feature three distinct categories designed for participants of all ages and fitness levels, with a total capacity of 5,000 walkers. Public registration for the event is now open. Please register via the official Virtus Integrated Passions (VIP) website. As the presenting partner, CCB (Asia) will offer an exclusive 15% registration discount for CCB (Asia) Credit Card or CCB Long Credit Card holders.

Participants can choose from three distances to ensure maximum inclusivity: a 300m Family Walk, a 1km Community Walk, and a 5km Challenge Walk—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Central waterfront. A carefully planned staggered start strategy will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Samuel POON, CEO of Virtus Medical Group, stated “We are thrilled to bring the Hong Kong Nordic Walkathon to life as a cornerstone of our ‘Virtus Integrated Passions’ platform. This is far more than a one-day event — it marks the beginning of a sustainable health movement. Nordic Walking is a scientifically proven, full-body exercise accessible to everyone. Our goal is to empower thousands of individuals to take proactive steps towards better physical and mental well-being. Through pre-event workshops across all 18 districts and ongoing community programmes, we are building a foundation for lasting health transformation.”

Ms. Annie Chen, CCB (Asia)’s Deputy Chief Executive, said “Upholding our ‘customer-centric’ philosophy, CCB (Asia) is dedicated to provide professional and comprehensive banking and wealth management services, while placing equal importance on the physical and mental well-being of our customers. Nordic walking is an activity suitable for all ages that enhances cardio function, muscle strength, and coordination. Moreover, participating as a team fosters social interaction and mental wellness. CCB (Asia) is proud to fully support ‘Hong Kong Nordic Walkathon 2026,’ introducing this beneficial emerging sport to the community and contributing to the vibrant diversity of major sporting events in Hong Kong.”

Dr. HO Kai Leung, Chairman of the Hong Kong Healthcare Foundation, said “Preventive health is the cornerstone of a thriving society. The Hong Kong Nordic Walkathon exemplifies how multi-stakeholder collaboration between healthcare providers, corporate partners, and community organisations can drive meaningful public health outcomes. Our role is to ensure sponsorship funds are strategically allocated to create a world-class, safe, and impactful event. We believe this walkathon will inspire people of all ages to embrace more active lifestyles.”

Nordic Walking, developed by the International Nordic Walking Federation (INWA) is an evidence-based activity that uses specially designed poles to engage up to 90% of the body’s muscles. Compared to regular walking, it increases calorie expenditure by over 20% while delivering significant benefits for cardiovascular health, posture, and mental wellness.

The event represents a comprehensive collaboration, with the Newly Emerged Sports Association implementing district activities, the Nordic Walking Association of Hong Kong, China providing technical advisory support, and R2Gather managing event logistics.

Event Details:

  • Date: 1 March 2026, Sunday
  • Location: Tamar Park, Admiralty, Hong Kong
  • Categories & Capacity:
    • 300m Family Walk
    • 1km Community Walk
    • 5km Challenge Walk
  • Registration Period:  Public registration is now open and will close on 22 February 2026.
  • Official Website: https://www.virtusintegratedpassion.com/

About Virtus Medical Group:

Virtus Medical Group is a leading healthcare provider dedicated to delivering innovative, evidence-based solutions that enhance physical and mental well-being across the Asia-Pacific region. Its “Virtus Integrated Passions” platform focuses on preventive health through accessible lifestyle interventions and community connectivity.

About Hong Kong Healthcare Foundation:

The Hong Kong Healthcare Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting public health and wellness. Through strategic partnerships and resource allocation, the Foundation supports and organises initiatives that encourage preventive health measures and foster community well-being.

About China Construction Bank (Asia):

China Construction Bank (Asia) Corporation Limited (“CCB (Asia)”) is the comprehensive and integrated commercial banking platform of China Construction Bank Corporation (“CCB”) in Hong Kong. As the flagship of CCB Group’s overseas business, CCB (Asia) holds a variety of licenses and provides a wide array of banking services including retail banking services, commercial banking services, corporate banking services and treasury business etc., along with its industry-leading advantages in RMB services, FinTech, cross-border services and green finance. Through the extensive network and diversified service channels of CCB Group in Mainland China and Hong Kong, CCB (Asia) provides comprehensive, one-stop and integrated finance solutions to individuals, corporate and institutional clients. Adheres to “market-oriented, customer-centric” business philosophy, with its integrated operational platform as the basis, FinTech as the core drive and innovation as the leading force, CCB (Asia) is committed to providing efficient, safe and novel smart banking services to the general public.

Dreame Unveils Embodied AI Laundry Robot and L9 AI Washer & Dryer Set in Silicon Valley

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The article is from Shuzhi Society:

Dreame Robot Laundry today unveiled its latest innovations at a global launch event in Silicon Valley of its L9 AI Washer & Dryer Set and the groundbreaking Embodied AI Laundry Robot. Developed through long-term research into real household habits, this solution moves laundry from chores to seamless, intelligent care.

Embodied AI Laundry Robot: Moving Beyond Automation

“We’re not just automating tasks — we’re building true autonomy,” said David Ye, Spokesperson for Dreame Laundry. The newly unveiled laundry robot is powered by Dreame’s self-developed multimodal AI system, combining visual recognition, spatial perception, and tactile feedback.

The robot can independently complete the full laundry workflow — handling everything from sorting to loading with human-like care. Its bionic arm, trained through reinforcement learning, adapts to different fabrics and shapes, while real-time mapping and obstacle avoidance allow it to operate smoothly in dynamic home environments. By learning user habits, the system shifts laundry from a passive task to a proactive service.

Designed for real homes, the robot completes the full laundry cycle independently and learns preferences over time for personalized support. It can work seamlessly with the L9 set, closing the loop on end-to-end autonomous laundry.

Dreame Unveils Embodied AI Laundry Robot and L9 AI Washer & Dryer Set in Silicon Valley
Dreame Unveils Embodied AI Laundry Robot and L9 AI Washer & Dryer Set in Silicon Valley

L9 AI Washer & Dryer Set: A New Standard for Smart Laundry

Also unveiled was the L9 AI Dual Inverter Washer & Dryer Set, designed as a fully integrated smart laundry system rather than a standalone appliance.

It brings together four proprietary systems designed to support complete fabric care. MousseBloom Foam Wash creates dense foam that penetrates fabric fibers to improve oil removal while helping minimize residue and wear. Drying is handled by a Dual Inverter Heat Pump, which delivers efficient airflow with lower noise and reduced energy consumption. After a cycle ends, FreshLoop Plasma Air Circulation can gently tumble garments for up to 12 hours to help prevent odors and wrinkles. For delicate and premium clothing, PressFree Steam Care smooths garments in about 25 minutes, enabling a ready-to-wear result.

Shaping the Future of Intelligent Homes

Launching in Silicon Valley underscores Dreame Laundryrobot’s ambition to lead the next phase of smart home evolution. The debut signals a shift from isolated smart appliances to embodied intelligence—systems capable of perception, reasoning, and autonomous execution.

With its AI-powered robot and integrated laundry ecosystem, Dreame Laundryrobot is redefining what intelligent home care can be, paving the way for a more seamless, autonomous, and human-centric future.

World Gym Corporation Presents at 2026 ICR Conference

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Company Management Explores Public Listing in the U.S. and Highlights Launch of New Biomarker Tech Integration  

TAIPEI, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — World Gym Corporation (2762.TW) (“World Gym ” or the “Company”), the owner of the iconic World Gym brand with over 280 locations worldwide, recently presented at the 28th Annual ICR Conference, one of the largest growth company investment conferences of the year with over 3,000 attendees. During the conference, the company held many investor and banker meetings to raise awareness of the business and explore a potential capital markets listing in the United States.

The Company’s presentation highlighted key competitive advantages that position World Gym for continued growth in the dynamic fitness industry. Topics included World Gym’s leading position in personal training at c. 50% of revenues, industry-leading member retention rates exceeding 70%, strong cash generation supporting a 7.7% dividend payout, and the upcoming launch of an innovative integrated digital platform featuring a cutting-edge longevity program.

This pioneering longevity initiative incorporates blood and DNA assessments, seamlessly integrating results into a personalized platform that delivers tailored health and fitness recommendations—representing a leading-edge advancement in the fitness sector.

During the presentation, President of World Gym Corporation, John Caraccio said, “We are pleased to say we have some of the highest retention rates and continue to launch innovative programs that further increase customer loyalty. Our growth strategy is two-fold, opening new locations both domestically and globally, and increasing same-store sales growth. With the launch of our Longevity Program, for a recurring fee, members can have their blood and DNA tests analyzed to develop and track personalized health, fitness, and nutrition plans. This is just one of the ways that demonstrates how World Gym continues to lead and commit to results-driven fitness and member success.”

World Gym was interviewed by Exec Edge at the ICR Conference, discussing the brand story and its prospects for investors and the future.

“People should invest in World Gym because it is a juggernaut,” Mark Harms, Executive Committee Member and early investor, shared during the interview. “We invested in World Gym in 2017 when it was a private company to help it become a public company. We helped it list in Taiwan two years ago and are now evaluating a stock market listing in the United States.  Last year, the company generated the equivalent of US$ 60 million in EBITDA, with expectations of growth to US$ 80+ million in 2026.”

Caraccio added, “As the market leader in Taiwan, there are so many exciting things on the horizon for our Asia growth this year as we look to duplicate our success – including in Thailand and more – and our global franchises across the world.”

Presentation materials from the conference are available for download on the presentations page of the Company’s investor relations website at https://investor.worldgymtaiwan.com/en/shareholders-li-conference

About World Gym Corporation

World Gym Corporation is Taiwan’s largest fitness chain, operating over 140 locations. In 2024, it acquired World Gym International, securing the iconic World Gym brand and global operating rights, establishing itself as a global fitness leader. With a franchise network spanning 10 countries and over 280 locations, it serves 900,000 members. The company continues to empower individuals worldwide to achieve their fitness goals and live healthier lives through state-of-the-art facilities, innovative programs, and technology-driven solutions.

Adverdize Reports Growing Demand for Digital Transformation Among Singapore SMEs

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – Digital transformation has become an increasingly common priority among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs in Singapore), according to observations shared by Adverdize following a series of interviews with local businesses across retail, services, and professional sectors.

Based on discussions conducted with business owners and operators, digital marketing agency Adverdize notes that many SMEs are reassessing manual workflows and paper-based processes as they scale operations or manage higher transaction volumes. These changes are often driven by efficiency concerns, operational visibility, and sustainability considerations rather than marketing-led initiatives.

One recurring theme identified during the interviews is the growing preference for paperless and digitised workflows, particularly in areas involving order handling, documentation, and delivery coordination. Businesses reported that manual processes become increasingly difficult to manage during peak operational periods, such as festive seasons.

Among the businesses interviewed was Joaquim Florist, which highlighted the operational pressures that arise during high-volume gifting periods like Chinese New Year. During such periods, items including floral arrangements and Chinese New Year (CNY) hampers are often required to be delivered within specific timeframes, making process visibility and documentation more critical.

According to Adverdize, these insights reflect a broader shift among SMEs toward practical digitalisation focused on reducing friction in day-to-day operations rather than adopting technology for its own sake. Interviewed businesses indicated that incremental changes, such as digitising documentation and tracking processes, are often prioritised over large-scale system overhauls.

Industry observers note that this trend is likely to continue as SMEs balance growth with resource constraints. Digital transformation efforts are increasingly framed as operational necessities rather than discretionary upgrades, particularly for businesses managing time-sensitive workflows or seasonal demand fluctuations.Hashtag: #adverdize

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

About Adverdize

Adverdize is a leading award-winning digital marketing agency in Singapore focused on driving real, measurable growth for businesses. Adverdize offers flexible, à la carte services including SEO, SEM, social media advertising, social media management, and web development—so clients only pay for what they actually need. With a strong emphasis on performance, transparency, and long-term results, Adverdize partners closely with brands to turn digital strategies into sustainable revenue.

F88 posts strong fourth-quarter profit, exceeds 2025 target by 35 per cent

By
Advertorial Desk
-

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – Alternative finance provider F88 continued its strong growth momentum in the fourth quarter of 2025, reporting higher profits, expanding lending operations and surpassing its full-year business targets, reinforcing its position in Việt Nam’s non-traditional financial services market.

F88 continued to expand across three main channels: its nationwide transaction office network, partnerships and digital services via the My F88 application. — Photo courtesy of F88
F88 continued to expand across three main channels: its nationwide transaction office network, partnerships and digital services via the My F88 application. — Photo courtesy of F88

The company announced pre-tax profit of VNĐ304 billion (US$12 million) for the final quarter, up 47 per cent year-on-year. For the whole year, pre-tax profit reached VNĐ907 billion, more than doubling 2024’s figure and exceeding the annual plan by 35 per cent.

These results highlight F88’s rapid expansion in serving mass-market customers who remain underserved by traditional banking institutions.

As of December 31, outstanding customer loans totalled VNĐ7.2 trillion, up 57 per cent from the beginning of the year, reflecting rising demand and the company’s growing operational capacity.

Disbursements in the fourth quarter alone reached nearly VNĐ5 trillion, up 40 per cent year-on-year and marking the highest quarterly level since the firm’s establishment. Total disbursements for 2025 rose 37 per cent to VNĐ16.5 trillion.

Revenue growth also accelerated. Fourth-quarter revenue climbed 53 per cent to nearly VNĐ1.21 trillion. Lending activities remained the main driver, contributing VNĐ1.05 trillion, or 86.4 per cent of total revenue, up 51 per cent. Insurance services generated VNĐ149 billion, surging 62 per cent and accounting for 12.2 per cent.

This diversified income structure has helped the company reduce reliance on a single revenue stream, while improving overall resilience.

Alongside expansion, F88 maintained a focus on risk management and portfolio quality. The on-time repayment rate remained stable at around 84 per cent. Net write-offs in the fourth-quarter stood at 3.1 per cent of average outstanding loans, slightly higher than previous quarters due mainly to prolonged storms and flooding through November, which temporarily affected borrowers’ repayment ability in impacted regions.

Operating efficiency improved, with the cost-to-income ratio declining to 45.3 per cent from 48.7 per cent a year earlier.

The combination of stronger scale, tighter risk controls and cost optimisation underpinned the company’s record annual performance.

Customer growth was another key driver. Nearly 76,700 new borrowers were added during the quarter, up 26 per cent year-on-year. New contracts almost doubled to 269,000. The proportion of repeat customers increased significantly, with returning borrowers accounting for 67 per cent of contracts, compared to 58 per cent in the first quarter, indicating rising customer trust and satisfaction.

F88 continued to expand across three main channels: its nationwide transaction office network, partnerships and digital services via the My F88 application. The blend of technology and physical outlets has enabled the company to scale while maintaining control over operations.

By the end of the year, the firm operated 950 transaction stores nationwide, up 82 from the start of the year and exceeding its 2025 target.

Strategic partnerships also strengthened distribution. Cooperation with e-wallet provider MoMo now allows more than 30 million users to directly access F88’s secured lending services through the MoMo app. Meanwhile, collaboration with Military Bank (MB) has enabled F88 to operate a agent banking model at all transaction points, processing over 100,000 transactions for MB customers during the year.

F88 Chairman Phùng Anh Tuấn said the results reflected the company’s consistent strategy of balancing expansion with financial discipline.

“Our fourth-quarter and full-year performance demonstrates our commitment to sustainable growth, customer-centric services and prudent risk management,” Tuấn said.

“In 2026, we will continue selective expansion, improve portfolio quality, develop complementary financial services and deepen strategic partnerships to reinforce our leadership in Việt Nam’s alternative finance sector.”

Beyond its business performance, F88 also gained recognition for corporate governance and workplace standards. The company was named a Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and ranked among the top 100 best places to work nationwide by Anphabe and the Việt Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Hashtag: #F88

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

Temu Joins Japan Product Safety Pledge

By
Advertorial Desk
-

TOKYO, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Temu has signed the Japan Product Safety Pledge, a voluntary initiative led by the Consumer Affairs Agency of Japan to strengthen product safety standards in online marketplaces.

Launched in June 2023 in coordination with other government ministries and agencies, the pledge sets expectations that go beyond existing legal requirements. Online marketplaces that sign the pledge agree to additional measures to prevent third-party sellers from listing unsafe products.

The pledge includes 12 commitments. These include providing sellers with education on product safety requirements, maintaining systems to prevent recalled or unsafe products from being relisted, and working with regulators to take action against sellers who repeatedly list unsafe products.

“Signing this pledge reinforces our focus on protecting consumers and ensuring safe, high-quality products are widely accessible,” a Temu spokesperson said. “We look forward to supporting efforts to build a safer online shopping environment.”

The Japan Product Safety Pledge forms part of Temu’s broader efforts to strengthen product safety globally. In May 2024, the company entered into a Product Safety Agreement with the Korea Fair Trade Commission. In Canada, Temu signed the Canadian Product Safety Pledge, a voluntary initiative led by Health Canada to enhance product safety in online marketplaces. Temu also works with third-party testing and certification agencies to verify that products listed by sellers meet regulatory requirements.

Since entering the Japanese market in July 2023, Temu has expanded its presence by responding to consumer demand for wider product choice, accessibility, and dependable quality. In May 2025, the company opened its Local Seller Program to businesses of all sizes across Japan, enabling a growing number of Japanese sellers to join the platform and reach customers through e-commerce.

About Temu
Temu is a global e-commerce platform connecting consumers with millions of manufacturers, brands and business partners. Operating in more than 90 markets worldwide, Temu is committed to providing affordable, high-quality products that enable customers to live better lives.

1...1,1661,1671,168...6,487Page 1,167 of 6,487