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Beeline’s AI Sales Agent ‘Bob 2.0’ Delivers 6X More Leads than Human Chat – Revolutionizing Mortgage Sales at Near Zero Cost

Bob 2.0: The Next Evolution in AI-Powered Mortgage Sales

Providence, Rhode Island – Newsfile Corp. – March 18, 2025 – Beeline Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLNE), a leader in AI-driven mortgage technology, has launched Bob 2.0, the next evolution of its AI-powered sales agent, driving a 6X increase in qualified leads over human agents while running 24/7 at minimal cost.

“Bob changes the game for scaling front-end mortgage operations,” said Nick Liuzza, CEO of Beeline. “With Bob we’re able to engage more prospects, generate more leads, and streamline sales, all while keeping our Loan Guides focused on closing deals.”

Bob is among the 1st ever AI Mortgage sales bots and was released by Beeline in June 2023.

AI That Delivers Real Results

Bob 2.0 doesn’t just respond to inquiries—it actively drives conversations toward a sales outcome.

  • Engages 3X more website visitors than standard chat solutions
  • Delivers 6X more leads from conversations—double the industry standard
  • Generates 8X more mortgage applications
  • Operates 24/7, handling lead generation tasks at a scale no human team could match

Bob’s Adaptive AI—A Smarter Sales Agent

What sets Bob apart is its ability to respond, adapt, and sell like a human—but without fatigue, missed opportunities, or salary and other overhead. Bob can:

  • Guide users through personalized sales journeys based on proven strategies
  • Maintain focus in conversations, handling interruptions with precision
  • Retain and apply user-provided details, ensuring seamless interactions
  • Recognize buyer motivations, responding in a way that builds trust and engagement
  • Support Spanish-language interactions, automatically adapting based on user preferences


Beyond Chat: Bob Is Expanding Into SMS, Voice & Live Appointments

Bob’s evolution is far from over. Over the next 90 days, Beeline will integrate Bob with:

  • Calendly-powered appointment booking and live handovers to Loan Guides
  • AI-driven SMS and voice channels to qualify leads and assist customers throughout the loan application process
  • Real-time loan approvals—turning mortgage origination into a 24/7 operation


Future Expansion: AI-Powered Underwriting & Market Growth

Bob’s success has spurred the launch of MagicBlocks, an AI startup seed-funded by Beeline, to bring its AI-powered sales technology to a broader market.

Looking ahead, Bob is expected to begin underwriting by Q3 2025, adding a new level of efficiency and further streamlining Beeline’s mortgage process.

“As the mortgage market normalizes, AI gives us the ability to scale operations dynamically without added costs,” said Liuzza. “Bob is just the beginning of how AI will redefine mortgage lending.”

About Beeline

Beeline is a forward-thinking mortgage origination and technology company transforming home loans into a short, transparent and easy path for millions of Americans. Using AI and proprietary tech, Beeline offers near-instant pre-approvals in as little as seven minutes—allowing borrowers to see loan options and lock their rate in one session.

For more information, visit www.makeabeeline.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 including expected changes to Bob in the next 90 days and its impact upon the mortgage lending and underwriting business. Forward-looking statements are prefaced by words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “plan,” “could,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “intend,” “seem,” “potential,” “appear,” “continue,” “future,” believe,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” and similar words. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. We caution you, therefore, against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements for a variety of reasons, including, without limitation, the fact that MagicBlocks (an investment of Beeline) is developing Bob in partnership with Beeline, and risks relation to any new software including delays and bugs. Further information on our risk factors is contained in filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission by Beeline Financial, Inc., including the final Prospectus filed on January 14, 2025 and a Prospectus Supplement filed March 10, 2025. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this presentation speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

For media inquiries, please contact:

ir@makeabeeline.com

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

TBS Energi Utama Completes Acquisition of Sembcorp Environment Pte. Ltd., Moving Closer to Full Transformation into a Sustainability-focused Business

  • The acquisition strengthens TBS’s integrated environmental solutions portfolio in Southeast Asia, in line with its TBS2030 carbon neutrality target.
  • TBS is getting closer to its vision of fully transitioning into a sustainability-focused and environmental solutions company.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Neswire – 18 March 2025 – SPT TBS Energi Utama Tbk. (“TBS”) has completed its 100% acquisition of Sembcorp Environment Pte. Ltd. (“SembEnviro”) through its subsidiary, SBT Investment 2 Pte. Ltd. (“SBT Investment”). This acquisition marks a significant milestone in TBS’s regional expansion in the waste management and environmental solutions sector, starting with Indonesia and Singapore.

Singapore is a pivotal market for TBS, and this acquisition marks an important milestone in TBS’ ongoing commitment to invest in and enhance Singapore’s environmental services sector. Through SembEnviro, the company plans to further expand its capabilities locally, ensuring alignment with the nation’s sustainability vision and maintaining high service standards for its customers and partners.

This strategic move builds upon TBS’s ongoing expansion efforts, following the 2023 acquisitions of Asia Medical Enviro Services Pte. Ltd. in Singapore and ARAH Environmental Group in Indonesia. The acquisition reinforces TBS’s commitment to achieving its TBS2030 sustainability targets. DBS Bank Ltd is the sole financial adviser to TBS in relation to the acquisition of SembEnviro.

Lim Hwee Hua, Director of SBT Investment, stated, “We are excited to welcome the SembEnviro team into the TBS family. Their expertise and experience will accelerate our transformation into a regional market leader dedicated to sustainable environmental solutions.”

With this acquisition, TBS further strengthens its sustainability ventures that consist of three key pillars – waste management, renewable energy and two-wheeler electric vehicles. TBS is committed to translating its vision into concrete action.
Hashtag: #TBS

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

About TBS

PT TBS Energi Utama Tbk (IDX: TOBA) is a publicly listed integrated energy company leading the transition in Indonesia’s energy sector through sustainable development. With a diverse business portfolio that includes waste management, renewable energy and electric vehicles, TBS is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability from low-carbon growth. Operating across multiple sites in Singapore and Indonesia, including Gorontalo, East Kalimantan, Batam, Lampung and Central Java, TBS employs over 2,000 people who are integral to its mission of sustainable growth and innovation. The company’s strategic focus Towards a Better Society 2030 (TBS2030) emphasizes its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, in alignment with Indonesia’s Net Zero Carbon 2060 goals. Through continuous innovation and a commitment to responsible growth, TBS aims to create a positive impact on communities and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

For more information about our green business journey, visit

Celebrating 16 Years of FBS: Empowering Traders Worldwide


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 FBS, a leading global broker, proudly marks its 16th anniversary, celebrating a journey of growth, trust, and innovation. Since its founding, FBS has expanded its presence to over 150 countries, built a thriving community of more than 27 million traders, and introduced cutting-edge trading solutions.

PublisherTMPYsxoiM.jpg

From a small startup to a globally recognized broker, FBS has continuously evolved to meet the needs of traders. The company offers a diverse range of financial instruments, including forex, pairs with metals, stocks, indices, and commodities, ensuring that both beginners and seasoned professionals have the tools they need to succeed.

Innovative tools built for traders

FBS remains at the forefront of innovation, introducing technologies designed to support traders:

  • FBS AI Assistant — An advanced tool that simplifies complex market data and provides automated insights and strategies in seconds.
  • Upgraded FBS App — A seamless, all-in-one platform that allows traders to monitor markets, manage accounts, and execute trades anytime, anywhere.

Industry recognition

FBS’s dedication to excellence has been recognized with over 100 industry awards, including:

  • Outstanding Mobile Trading App Global 2024
  • Most Trusted Forex Broker 2024
  • Best Partner Programme Asia 2024
  • Best Forex Trading Education 2024
  • Best Value Forex Broker 2025
  • Best Forex Trading Support 2025
  • Best Global Affiliate Programs 2025

These accolades highlight FBS’s commitment to providing secure, transparent, and rewarding trading experiences.

Making an impact beyond trading

Corporate social responsibility is a core part of FBS’s mission. Over the past year, the company has supported educational initiatives, disaster relief efforts, and humanitarian projects worldwide.

  • Education support — Partnered with organizations in South Africa, Indonesia, and Malaysia to provide essential learning tools for underprivileged students.
  • Humanitarian aid — Supported over 8500 refugee children in Thailand and delivered emergency assistance to flood-affected communities.
  • Seasonal giving — Provided meals and essential supplies to families in need during Ramadan and Christmas.

Celebrating with traders – the FBS Birthday Quest

To celebrate 16 years of success, FBS invites traders to join the FBS Birthday Quest — an exciting promo running until March 30, 2025. Participants can complete trading tasks, earn rewards, and win exclusive prizes, including cutting-edge gadgets, luxury experiences, and even a dream car.

As part of the celebration, FBS has also produced a special anniversary video showcasing the company’s journey, achievements, and impact.

Join the adventure and be part of the FBS success story!

Disclaimer: Before you start trading, you should completely understand the risks involved with the trading instruments based on stocks, metals, etc., and be aware of your level of experience.

AI-generated analysis is not financial advice. Always conduct your own research before trading.
Hashtag: #FBS #trading #Forex #16 #promo





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

About FBS

FBS is a global brand that unites several independent brokerage companies under the licenses of FSC (Belize), CySEC (Cyprus), and ASIC (Australia). With 16 years of experience and over 100 international awards, FBS is steadily developing as one of the market’s most trusted brokers. Today, FBS serves over 27 000 000 traders and more than 700 000 partners around the globe.

SPOTLIGHT: A Season of Performing Arts Returns to Bring Outstanding Multidisciplinary Productions from Hong Kong, Macau, Japan and Beyond to a New Stage


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Now in its fifth year, Tai Kwun’s SPOTLIGHT: A Season of Performing Arts presents a new lineup of vibrant interdisciplinary collaborations exploring not just the far edges of various art forms but also the cracks that fall in-between. With works from previous seasons commissioned especially for Tai Kwun’s distinctive venues and outdoor spaces having now advanced well beyond Hong Kong onto the international stage, SPOTLIGHT once again returns to provide a new stage for performing arts for both local and international creators to contemplate subjects that are deeply personal yet universally significant.

Tai Kwun SPOTLIGHT 2025 for outreach

This year’s eclectic offerings, a mix of returning guests and artists new to Tai Kwun, opens with Fragile! Human Inside, a synthesis of sound, moving images, installation and performance art by multimedia artist GayBird contrasting the historic durability of an architectural exterior with the resilient potential of its human inhabitants. An unlikely pairing of rap and contemporary dance sparks a pioneering performance style in ARIKA, where the physical vocabulary of dancer SHIMAJI Yasutake confronts and converses with the improvisatory verbal contortions of rapper TAMAKI ROY in their first Asian appearance outside Japan. Three young choreographers from Hong Kong and Guangzhou (Keung Hoi-ling, Paula Wong and Fu Binjing) showcase their innermost thoughts through their distinctive grasp of personal and public space in the triple-bill Infinite Extension, while the artists of Vividly explore the centuries-old connection and intertwined destinies of Hong Kong and Macau in Fugue of Two Shores, the final instalment of an immersive theatrical trilogy that first took root at Tai Kwun in 2021.

“Since our opening in 2018, Tai Kwun has not merely championed artists in interesting projects, but continues to nurture those artistic talents over time,” says Timothy Calnin, Director of Tai Kwun Arts. “Vividly’s immersive Fugue of Two Shores brings to a close a collaboration we started back in 2021, when the company first explored Tai Kwun’s unique history and environment through the geological layers of granite underlying Victoria Prison. Their final chapter’s shift from rock to water, befitting the journey of Hong Kong and Macau from two fishing ports to thriving modern cites, is a testament to how working with the same artists over time can yield entirely different perspectives.”

Linda Yip, Head of Performing Arts, adds, “Apart from our wide range of venues and performance spaces—from the outdoor Laundry Steps to the supremely flexible JC Cube, which gives a veteran artist like GayBird a unique canvas to incorporate elements of virtual games in a live spatial design—Tai Kwun offers an artistic platform arguably more valuable than the physical spaces themselves. This is a zone where conventional barriers of generation, geography and genre no longer apply, where local artists like the young choreographers of Infinite Extension or overseas artists like SHIMAJI Yasutake and TAMAKI ROY of ARIKA can join together to break borders and create cross-disciplinary synergy.”

Spanning six weeks, SPOTLIGHT: A Season of Performing Arts invites lovers of music, dance, theatre and visual art from across Hong Kong and beyond to sample the diverse range of local talents and international artists gathered here to find creative inspiration and sustenance in Tai Kwun’s incomparable heritage spaces.

[Installation x Moving Images x Sound] Fragile! Human Inside | 04-06,08–10.04.2025

Packed within dozens of cardboard boxes forming an installation on the Laundry Steps (visually echoing the bricks of Tai Kwun’s historic structures) are the materials of a full multisensory experience, with soundscape and video projections curated by award-winning media artist GayBird. The cartons of Fragile! Human Inside represent not just the stability of bricks but also the fluidity of building blocks reassembling the human form. Within the JC Cube, physical boundaries between performer and audience as well as the tangible and virtual world blur into a dreamlike experience where sight and sound combine in an expansive exploration of fragility and stability.

Multisensory Experience

Artistic and Music Director, Installation and Programme Design, Live Performance: GayBird

Date & Time: 4–6, 8–10 Apr 2025, 7:30PM–8:40PM
Venue: JC Cube & Laundry Steps, Tai Kwun
Ticket: HK$280
In Cantonese with Chinese and English surtitles

There will be post-performance talks and Unboxing Backstage sessions, details to be announced, please stay tuned to the Tai Kwun website.

[Contemporary Dance x Rap] ARIKA | 04–05.04.2025

The vocabulary of dance meets the motion of rhyme in this breathtaking display of multidisciplinary improvisation. Subtitled “A Pursuit of Dance, Music and Words,” ARIKA (“Whereabouts”) features SHIMAJI Yasutake, a veteran dancer of the renowned Forsythe Company trained in ballet, hip-hop dance and martial arts, joining forces with rapper TAMAKI ROY, an award-winning master of spinning atmosphere through rapped and sung texts, in a collaboration shaking those respective genres to their core, where fluid dancing unfolds with musical grace and hip-hop rhymes propel with palpable physical force. Making their Hong Kong debut after appearances in Japan and France, SHIMAJI and TAMAKI ponder the nature of their respective fields to their very roots. If all music is simply a song and dance, which comes first?

Contemporary Dance x Rap

Direction, Choreography and Performance: SHIMAJI Yasutake
Direction, Composition and Performance: TAMAKI ROY

Date & Time: 45 Apr 2025, 6PM7PM
Venue: F Hall Studio, Tai Kwun
Ticket: HK$280
In Japanese without surtitles

[Contemporary Dance x Exploration] Infinite Extension | 11–13.04.2025

Tai Kwun’s F Hall Studio will be draped in a triptych of distinct kinetic visions of body-space interaction Infinite Extension. Keung Hoi-ling’s I Saw a Ping-Pong. I Crushed It. It Was an Egg. redefines the relationship between individuals and their surroundings, traversing between analysis and the stream of consciousness connecting thoughts throughout the body. Paula Wong’s Come closer, go deeper! explores the female experience through physical posture, inviting the audience to feel the resulting pain, pleasure, tension and ease as bodily shifts draw public attention. The imaginative realm of Fu Binjing’s Neverland questions traditional notions of “beauty,” “standardisation” and “meaning” by using artificial materials and waste to connect the body with the external world.

Experiential Contemporary Dance Theatre

Choreography and Performance: Keung Hoi-ling, Paula Wong, Fu Binjing

Date & Time: 11 Apr 2025, 7:30PM9PM
1213 Apr 2025, 2:30PM4PM
Venue: F Hall Studio, Tai Kwun
Ticket: HK$280
In Cantonese with no surtitles

Post-performance Talk

Date & Time: 11 Apr 2025, 9PM-9:30PM
12-13 Apr 2025, 4PM–4:30PM
Venue: F Hall Studio, Tai Kwun

[History x Environmental Theatre] Fugue of Two Shores | 25.04–17.05.2025

The collaborative arts group Vividly conclude their trilogy of immersive theatrical surveys of Hong Kong, which began with The Inner Études (2021) exploring the rocks near Victoria Prison and continued with The Sublime Progressions (2023) investigating themes of migration and diaspora, focusing their final chapter on the longtime relationship between Hong Kong and Macau. Fugue of Two Shores begins by contrasting their histories and comparing their intertwined destinies from sleepy port cities to vibrant urban centres. Interpreting historical texts through multidimensional realms of lighting, soundscape, projection and live performance, Fugue of Two Shores highlights Macau’s influence on Hong Kong and the contrasts in local people carving their own contemporary identity after having been long defined by others.

History x Environmental Theatre

Curated and Produced by: Vividly
Concept, Co-Director and Multimedia Director: Jay Lei
Concept, Research, Co-Director and Playwright: Jay Lee
Dramaturg: Kok Heng Leun
Performers: Chan Wing-shuen, Chan Tze Sum Cecilia, HuiJim, Hanks Li
Voice Narrator and Acting Coach: Sam Choy

Date & Time: 25–26 & 28 Apr; 1–3, 5, 8–10 & 15–17 May 2025, 8PM–9:30PM

27 Apr; 4 & 11 May 2025, 7PM–8:30PM
Venue: F Hall Studio & Prison Yard, Tai Kwun
Ticket: HK$280
In Cantonese with no surtitles

Artist Talk
Date & Time: 1 May 2025, 6PM–7PM
Venue: Laundry Steps, Tai Kwun
Ticket: Free admission

Ticketing
Tickets available at art-mate.net now.

SPOTLIGHT: A Season of Performing Arts 2025
4 Apr–17 May 2025
Site-wide, Tai Kwun
www.taikwun.hk

For more programme details: https://www.taikwun.hk/zh/programme/detail/spotlight-a-season-of-performing-arts-2025/1569

Hashtag: #TaiKwunSPOTLIGHT2025

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

Rakuten Kobo Launches Unlimited eBook and Audiobook Subscription in Singapore

Kobo Plus gives avid readers unlimited access to Kobo’s library of over 2 million eBooks and 300,000 audiobooks at an affordable monthly fee


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Leading digital reading retailer and publisher Rakuten Kobo today launched Kobo Plus in Singapore – the all-you-can-read subscription offering book lovers unlimited access to over 2 million eBooks and over 300,000 audiobooks starting from an affordable monthly fee of just SGD 9.99.

From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.
From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.

Avid readers and book lovers across Singapore – including more than 300,000 existing Kobo members – can now access Kobo Plus via the Kobo Books App for iOS or Android and directly on Kobo eReaders to begin discovering new authors and genres.

The global eBook market is valued at USD 18.02 billion this year and is projected to grow to USD 22.76 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.78%. The driving force of growth is expected to come from Asia, and the launch of Kobo Plus in Singapore strategically aligns with the region’s increasing demand for digital reading. This expansion positions Kobo to tap into emerging opportunities across Asia, catering to a new generation of readers who prioritize affordability, accessibility, and convenience.

The Kobo Plus eBook and audiobook collection features a breadth of stories, including the latest bestsellers, beloved literary classics, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, sweeping romances, thought-provoking nonfiction, and more.

“eBooks have never been more popular in Singapore, driven by changing reading habits, increased smartphone usage, and a shift towards digital content,” said Michael Tamblyn, President & CEO, Rakuten Kobo. “With Kobo Plus, we’re making reading more accessible and flexible than ever, giving book lovers the freedom to explore a vast and diverse catalogue without limits. Whether it’s discovering new authors, diving into different genres, or reading across multiple devices, Kobo Plus is designed to fit seamlessly into the way Singaporeans read today—and how they’ll read tomorrow.”

The Kobo Plus catalogue is ever-growing, with more titles being added to the collection each month. The service has three budget-friendly subscription plan offers:

  • Kobo Plus Read: Unlimited eBooks for SGD 9.99 per month
  • Kobo Plus Listen: Unlimited audiobooks for SGD 9.99 per month
  • Kobo Plus Read and Listen: Unlimited eBooks and audiobooks for SGD 12.99 per month

With unlimited reading for one low monthly fee, the Kobo Plus subscription is the perfect choice for avid readers who go through multiple books a month, as well as those who like to sample a few chapters before committing. With a Kobo eReader or the free Kobo reading app, there’s never been a better time to explore new authors and series.

Kobo’s portfolio of eReaders – which includes Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Elipsa 2E, and Kobo Sage – with their innovative features such as waterproofing and ComfortLight PRO for blue light reduction, along with stylus compatibility and page-turn buttons in the higher-end models, further enhance the Kobo Plus reading experience for modern booklovers on the go.
Hashtag: #RakutenKobo



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

About Rakuten Kobo Inc.

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world’s digital bookseller created by and for book lovers. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten Group, Inc. and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo’s millions of worldwide users can read anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With a mission to make reading lives better for all, Rakuten Kobo connects readers to stories using thoughtful and personalized curation of eBooks and audiobooks, and the best dedicated eReaders and apps for reading. With the singular focus of making reading lives the best they can be, Kobo’s open platform allows people to fit reading into more moments in their busy lives.

Rakuten Kobo Launches Unlimited eBook and Audiobook Subscription in Malaysia

Kobo Plus gives avid readers unlimited access to Kobo’s library of over 2 million eBooks and 300,000 audiobooks at an affordable monthly fee


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Leading digital reading retailer and publisher Rakuten Kobo today launched Kobo Plus in Malaysia – the all-you-can-read subscription offering book lovers unlimited access to over 2 million eBooks and over 300,000 audiobooks starting from an affordable monthly fee of just MYR 27.00.

From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.
From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.

Avid readers and book lovers across Malaysia – including more than 200,000 existing Kobo members – can now access Kobo Plus via the Kobo Books App for iOS or Android and directly on Kobo eReaders to begin discovering new authors and genres.

The global eBook market is valued at USD 18.02 billion this year and is projected to grow to USD 22.76 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.78%. The driving force of growth is expected to come from Asia, and the launch of Kobo Plus in Malaysia strategically aligns with the region’s increasing demand for digital reading. This expansion positions Kobo to tap into emerging opportunities across Asia, catering to a new generation of readers who prioritize affordability, accessibility, and convenience.

The Kobo Plus eBook and audiobook collection features a breadth of stories, including the latest bestsellers, beloved literary classics, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, sweeping romances, thought-provoking nonfiction, and more.

“eBooks have never been more popular in Malaysia, driven by changing reading habits, increased smartphone usage, and a shift towards digital content,” said Michael Tamblyn, President & CEO, Rakuten Kobo. “With Kobo Plus, we’re making reading more accessible and flexible than ever, giving book lovers the freedom to explore a vast and diverse catalogue without limits. Whether it’s discovering new authors, diving into different genres, or reading across multiple devices, Kobo Plus is designed to fit seamlessly into the way Malaysians read today—and how they’ll read tomorrow.”

The Kobo Plus catalogue is ever-growing, with more titles being added to the collection each month. The service has three budget-friendly subscription plan offers:

  • Kobo Plus Read: Unlimited eBooks for MYR 27.00 per month
  • Kobo Plus Listen: Unlimited audiobooks for MYR 27.00 per month
  • Kobo Plus Read and Listen: Unlimited eBooks and audiobooks for MYR 35.00 per month

With unlimited reading for one low monthly fee, the Kobo Plus subscription is the perfect choice for avid readers who go through multiple books a month, as well as those who like to sample a few chapters before committing. With a Kobo eReader or the free Kobo reading app, there’s never been a better time to explore new authors and series.

Kobo’s portfolio of eReaders – which includes Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Elipsa 2E, and Kobo Sage – with their innovative features such as waterproofing and ComfortLight PRO for blue light reduction, along with stylus compatibility and page-turn buttons in the higher-end models, further enhance the Kobo Plus reading experience for modern booklovers on the go.
Hashtag: #RakutenKobo

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

About Rakuten Kobo Inc.

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world’s digital bookseller created by and for book lovers. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten Group, Inc. and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo’s millions of worldwide users can read anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With a mission to make reading lives better for all, Rakuten Kobo connects readers to stories using thoughtful and personalized curation of eBooks and audiobooks, and the best dedicated eReaders and apps for reading. With the singular focus of making reading lives the best they can be, Kobo’s open platform allows people to fit reading into more moments in their busy lives.

Lao National Assembly Debates Major Constitutional Reforms: What’s at Stake

The Ongoing Fifth Ordinary Session of the Ninth National Assembly Legislature in Laos. (2023)

The Lao National Assembly is currently debating the 2025 Draft Constitution of Laos, which proposes a number of major changes to the country’s legal and political structure for the first time in a decade.

The draft will be discussed from 17 to 20 March, and is part of a broader effort to modernize and improve the country’s governance.

The revision process began in June 2024, with a work plan announced for the amendment of the 2015 Constitution. 

The proposed draft has been made publicly available on the Ministry of Justice’s online platform since January 2025, and citizens have been invited to give feedback as part of the consultation process.

Shift in Local Governance

One of the most significant proposals in the draft is a complete overhaul of local governance. 

Under the current 2015 Constitution, local administration is structured around individual executive roles, such as Governors at the provincial level, Mayors at the district level, and Village Chiefs at the village level. 

The new changes would abolish these positions and introduce Governing Committees instead. If approved, these committees will operate at the provincial, district, and village levels, with a President at the head of each committee. 

The shift from individual leaders to collective governing bodies is intended to decentralize decision-making and distribute power more evenly within local governance. In addition to this change, the draft introduces a new administrative level called “Tasaeng,” which will be situated between districts and villages.

Laos Aims for Sustainable, Independent Growth

The draft also signals a major shift in Laos’ economic and environmental policies. Article 13 of the draft introduces the concept of an “independent economy,” emphasizing the importance of stable, self-sustaining growth. 

This reflects Laos’ desire to reduce reliance on external factors and strengthen its own economic development through an environmentally friendly approach.

This focus on green growth aims to attract more sustainable investments and improve Laos’ engagement with international markets while ensuring environmental responsibility.

The 2025 draft constitution also highlights innovation, science, and technology as key drivers of Laos’ economic growth. 

It expands on the 2015 constitution by supporting “intellectual inventions” and aligns with recent reforms, like the updated Law on Investment Promotion, which focuses on high-tech industries. 

More details will be shared by the National Assembly in the coming weeks.

Strengthening Prosecution Powers, Accountability

In addition to changes in governance and economic policy, the draft also proposes several judicial reforms. 

One of the most notable changes is the strengthening of the People’s Prosecution Office, which would be granted greater authority to initiate prosecutions. This marks a key change from the office’s previous role, which was focused more on oversight and legal supervision. 

The draft constitution also gives the National Assembly more power in appointing key legal officials, including the Head of the Supreme People’s Prosecution Office. 

This move to consolidate power within the legislature is part of a bigger effort to improve accountability in Laos’ legal system and strengthen the central government’s role in overseeing the country’s judicial institutions.

Recognizing the Lao Diaspora

Another significant change proposed in the draft is the formal recognition of the Lao diaspora. Article 47 of the draft constitution explicitly acknowledges Lao people living abroad as an inseparable part of the national community. 

By recognizing the Lao diaspora, the draft seeks to strengthen ties with Lao communities living abroad, including those who may have left the country during historical migration waves or who have acquired foreign citizenship. 

While this recognition does not automatically grant legal rights to the diaspora, it remains a symbolic shift that could lead to future policies aimed at fostering engagement between Laos and its overseas citizens.

What’s Next 

The National Assembly will continue to review the draft and may make revisions before it is finalized. 

If approved, these changes will impact Laos’ political, economic, and social landscape for years to come.

While many updates just reinforce current policies, others—like the shift to governing committees and a bigger focus on sustainability—are steps towards innovation

The proposed changes also show Laos’ aim to engage more with the global community, especially through environmental efforts and recognizing its people living abroad. 

The real impact will depend on how these changes are put into practice. Time will tell if this leads to transformation or just slightly tweaks to the current system.

KIT Global Strengthens AI-Driven Video Marketing and Influencer Strategies in 2025, Responding to Vietnam’s Growing Digital Market Demand


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – As Vietnam’s digital economy continues to expand rapidly, brands are increasingly shifting their marketing efforts toward AI-driven video content and influencer collaborations to stay competitive. In response to this growing demand, KIT Global, a digital marketing solutions provider based in Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, equips Vietnam businesses with the latest digital marketing tools powered with in-house AI to maximize brand performance.

“In Vietnam’s fast-evolving market where digital adoption is accelerating, brands need more than just conventional marketing. They need data-driven, AI-powered strategies that deliver real impact to the business,” said Risa Kusumaningrum, Country Manager for Indonesia and Vietnam at KIT Global. “With 91% of global internet traffic coming from video streaming by 2025, integrating AI, video marketing, and influencer collaboration enable brands to execute campaigns that are both creative and results-driven to ensure they stay ahead in a competitive digital landscape.”

Vietnam’s digital marketing landscape is shifting away from traditional advertising, with brands prioritizing social media, influencer-driven campaigns, and AI-powered automation. Digital platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have now become primary channels for brand engagement. With the surge of internet usage and digital growth, it is estimated that 53% of the population has shopped online using social networking platforms, such as Facebook and Zalo, or e-commerce platforms, such as Lazada, Shopee, and Tiki. This transition has pushed brands to invest more in short-form video content, interactive live streaming, and AI-powered ad targeting to achieve measurable ROI and maximize audience reach.

The country’s growing reliance on influencers is another key trend shaping its marketing landscape. Similar to what happens globally, brands in Vietnam are moving away from mega-influencers and celebrities, instead prioritizing nano- and micro-influencers who offer more authentic engagement and stronger consumer trust. Industries such as beauty, automotive, and consumer goods are leveraging these influencers to drive visibility and conversions, capitalizing on their niche audiences and higher credibility.

“Our expansion in Vietnam comes at a pivotal moment as the country’s digital economy accelerates and brands seek more sophisticated marketing solutions to stay ahead. We aim to provide localized expertise while seamlessly integrating global best practices as businesses prepare for major seasonal campaigns,” closed Risa.
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KIT Global

Website: http://kit.global