29 C
Vientiane
Friday, May 2, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 1199

Nobuyoshi Araki’s “Paradise” Presented by Forward Fashion’s Artelli A Hong Kong and Macau Collaborative Tribute to Four Decades of Iconic Photography

Starting from April 27th, at K11 MUSEA


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2024 – Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited (“Forward Fashion Group” or the “Group”; Hong Kong stock code: 2528), a creative integrated group with three synergistic business segments – fashion, art, and lifestyle, is pleased to announce that Artelli, the Group’s pioneering multi-dimensional art space presents “Paradise” by renowned Japanese photography master Nobuyoshi Araki as the co-organizer and curator. The grand opening took place on 26 April at K11 MUSEA CEMENT. In celebration of Nobuyoshi Araki’s upcoming 84th birthday in May this year, the dual-city collaboration will present over 200 classic works, paying tribute to him in various ways.

Caption

“Before withering comes the most beautiful.” – Nobuyoshi Araki

Hong Kong POP-UP showcasing over 100 classic masterpieces at K11 MUSEA, Limited-Edition merchandise sparks collecting frenzy

“Paradise” Hong Kong POP-UP is another remarkable art project curated by Artelli, the pioneering multi-dimensional art space of Forward Fashion. Following the highly anticipated “BE@RBRICK WORLD WIDE TOUR 3 – Hong Kong”, this POP-UP takes place at CEMENT, the modular creative- and community-driven space of K11 MUSEA, under the New World Development Company Limited, presenting a grand visual feast for art enthusiasts.

Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Limited
Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Limited

Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Limited, said, ” The Group has long been committed to exploring the innovative fusion of art and commerce. Through our esteemed art brand, Artelli, we serve as a global platform for artistic exchange, bringing outstanding works from artists worldwide to the public. We are delighted to announce our collaboration with the renowned Japanese photographer, Nobuyoshi Araki, featuring his iconic works that epitomize his unique vision and avant-garde breakthroughs in the contemporary photography scene. Collaborating with multiple cultural and creative units, this project is a tribute to Araki’s unparalleled contributions to the art world. Moving forward, Artelli will continue to expand its reach and act as a bridge, curating original and distinctive content for international artists, offering art enthusiasts a truly unique and diverse artistic experience. ”

The Hong Kong POP-UP
The Hong Kong POP-UP

The Hong Kong POP-UP^ will be held from 27 April (Saturday) to 15 May (Wednesday), featuring highlights such as Nobuyoshi Araki’s various works from the 1990s to the latest 2023 focusing on “Flowers” and “Women”. Additionally, the POP-UP will showcase nearly a hundred instant photography works, which serve as an important medium of photography for Nobuyoshi Araki beyond film. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the unique imagery captured by Araki’s lens on these one-of-a-kind instant film prints. Furthermore, the event will also showcase the iconic Carousel projector, which made its debut in the 1980s, displaying slide photographs by Nobuyoshi Araki.

^Open to the public 18 years and older only. Personal identification required for entry.

Highly collectible artist-signed instant photography works in deluxe editions will be available for purchase in both Hong Kong and Macau
Highly collectible artist-signed instant photography works in deluxe editions will be available for purchase in both Hong Kong and Macau


Macau Exhibition will be located at Artelli, “Darkroom” to offer glimpse into Araki’s photographic desires

The “Paradise” Exhibition in Macau will be held from April 30 (Tuesday) to May 28 (Tuesday) at Artelli, the pioneering multi-dimensional art space, featuring a selection of Nobuyoshi Araki’s photographic works from the 1990s to recent years, with a focus on his floral-themed works, spanning various series including “Women”, “Private Photography”, and selected works from “Erotos”, offering a glimpse into the sincere emotions of the master photographer. A special “Darkroom^” area will be set up to give visitors a glimpse into Araki’s photographic desires.

^Open to the public 18 years and older only. Personal identification required for entry.

FUJIFILM Experience Zone
FUJIFILM Experience Zone

Exclusive Collaboration: FUJIFILM Experience Zone with the new launched instax mini 99

Additionally, the event in Hong Kong and Macau will feature a FUJIFILM Experience Zone, showcasing Nobuyoshi Araki’s works through the FP-Z8000/FP-Z6000 projector, providing a unique perspective on the master’s emotive photography. The event will also introduce the latest model of the instax mini camera, the instax mini 99, which has been updated for the first time in 11 years to the highest specifications available on the market. Visitors will have the opportunity to be the first to experience and purchase, offering photography enthusiasts an engaging and interactive exhibition experience.

Nobutoshi Araki’s “Paradise”

HONG KONG POP-UP MACAU EXHIBITION
Period: April 27 – May 15 (11:00 – 21:00)
Address: CEMENT, G31, MUSE EDITION, G/F, K11 MUSEA

Period: Apr 30 – May 28 (11:00 – 20:00)
Address: ARTELLI, THE SHOWROOM, CITY OF DREAMS

Co-organizer & Curator: Artelli

Co-organizer: ARTOX GROUP

Title Sponsor: FUJIFILM

Leading Partner: CEMENT

Venue Support: K11 MUSEA

Beverage Sponsors: Taiko Sake, Mezzanine Makers

Hashtag: #ForwardFashion

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

About Nobuyoshi Araki

Nobuyoshi Araki, born in 1940, is an internationally influential Japanese photographer. He is acclaimed alongside Daido Moriyama and Hiroshi Sugimoto as one of the most important post-war photographers in Japan. He is also the only Asian photographer featured in the BBC documentary series “The Genius of Photography”. Themes of life and death, love, and desire, have always been the focus of Araki’s lens. The desires and restraints of life, the inevitability and detachment of death, these elements blend and coexist, becoming the enduring essence and sharp inspiration of Araki’s work. Influenced by his childhood environment and living in Tokyo’s red-light district, with nearby graves as his playground, Araki’s work reflects these unique experiences. In his storied life, Nobuyoshi Araki has experienced a range of triumphs and tribulations. After the passing of his beloved wife, Yoko, in 1990, he created a large body of work focusing on the blooming, withering, and decay of flowers. The world Araki sees through his lens is his paradise. He effortlessly lingers and freezes moments among flowers, using their beauty and transient nature to depict the flow of time and the impermanence of life.

About CEMENT

CEMENT is a modular creative- and community-driven space dedicated to mapping the blueprint of a culturally-inspired generation. Furthering K11’s mission to incubate talent and propagate culture, the space aims to become a platform for creative expression and curation. Open for interpretation, CEMENT is a space to explore and push the boundaries of a new creative frontier, and a space to host cultural exchanges to cultivate a network of creatives that will become the foundation of a community-led destination.

About Artelli

Artelli is the pioneering multi-dimensional space for contemporary art, lifestyle aesthetics, digital and techno art, art communities, and brand collaborations. The space stands as a new and unprecedented international landmark for art and culture. Artelli will ultimately join forces with over a hundred internationally renowned artists and brand designers to co-create exclusive art projects and debut collections. With a dedicated focus on Web 3.0 digital art and metaverse, Artelli pioneers the exploration of new artistic dimensions. Guided by a strong commitment to become a multi-dimensional art space that fosters collaborations within the art and culture communities, Artelli’s visionary path unfolds through the fusion of art, technology, and the dynamic commercial sector. Artelli has successfully organised more than five highly anticipated art exhibitions, featuring international artists in prime locations spanning Macau, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Shanghai. In the future, Artelli envisions expanding its brand to attain international prominence as the landmark for art and culture. With aspirations reaching Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, New York, London, and Paris, Artelli is set to leave a vivid mark on the global stage over the next five years.

About Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited

Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited is an integrated group with three synergistic business segments – fashion, art, and lifestyle – and a commitment to creating innovative retail business model. With a track record of managing over 100 brands, the Group has helped many brands to establish their first presence in Greater China. In recent years, the Group has actively enhanced its operations and developed its own brands, such as Artelli, ASCE, UMJ, WF Fashion, to further enrich its brand portfolio. Leveraging its extensive retail experience and IP resources, the Group has spearheaded exclusive collaborations with brands and cultural and art communities to expand into the international market. The Group introduces and manages Galeries Lafayette Macau in 2024, becoming the local New Waterfront Fashion and Art Landmark.

Mr. Fan Wing Ting, Patrick, is the founder, chairman and executive director of Forward Fashion Holdings. In 2005, he founded the first company of the Group in Hong Kong focusing on fashion apparel retail in Greater China. Following the Group’s 2020 listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, Forward Fashion has embarked on eCommerce platforms and introduced international fashion and artistic brands and visionary international art projects to Greater China. The Group aims to cater for the preferences and needs of local youths and promotes business diversification.

Eight leaders with diverse backgrounds elected to ISCA Council


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 April 2024 – A diverse group of eight accountancy and business leaders have been elected to the Council of the national accountancy body, the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA). These leaders include partners from accounting firms, a leader from the healthcare sector, a representative from a polytechnic and an entrepreneur.

The total number of votes casted by eligible ISCA members was the highest based on our records and corresponds with the increase in member engagement level and growing interest in ISCA’s initiatives.
The newly-elected Council Members are:
  • Mr Choo Kok Wei Eric, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Dontia Holdings Pte Ltd and T32 Dental Centre Pte Ltd
  • Mr Lee Boon Teck, Regional Managing Partner Southeast Asia, Audit & Assurance of Deloitte & Touche LLP
  • Mr Lim Wei Kiat William, Director, School of Business & Accountancy of Ngee Ann Polytechnic
  • Mr Helmi Bin Ali Bin Talib, Managing Partner of Helmi Talib LLP
The re-elected Council Members are:
  • Mr Choo Eng Beng, Engagement Partner, Head of Assurance of PwC Singapore
  • Ms Goh Chern Ni Jocelyn, Audit & Assurance Partner of BDO LLP
  • Mr Koh Wee Kwang, Director of Nexia Singapore PAC
  • Mr Teo Ser Luck, Entrepreneur and Company Board Chairman
Mr Teo Ser Luck has been re-elected as President of ISCA for a second term. Mr Teo is joined by newly elected office bearers:

  • Vice President: Mr Choo Eng Beng
  • Vice President: Ms Judy Ng
  • Treasurer: Ms Jocelyn Goh Chern Ni
  • Secretary: Mr Lee Boon Teck
The newly-elected and re-elected Council Members will serve as ISCA Council Members until ISCA’s Annual General Meeting in 2026.
Mr. Helmi Bin Ali Bin Talib, Managing Partner of Helmi Talib LLP, has been elected to the ISCA Council. His election to the Council also reaffirms ISCA’s dedication to fostering diversity and inclusion within its leadership ranks.
Among the newly-elected Council Members is Mr William Lim, Director of the School of Business & Accountancy at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. This marks the first time that ISCA’s Council has a representative from the polytechnic who will be able to contribute to our efforts to boost the attractiveness of the profession and develop talent pipeline.

ISCA President Mr Teo Ser Luck said, “I am honoured to be re-elected as President of ISCA for a second term and am excited to continue serving alongside such a diverse group of members on the Council. Together, we remain committed to advancing the profession, fostering diversity and inclusion, and driving innovation in the accountancy sector. I would like to thank Council Members who have retired for their invaluable contribution and look forward to collaborating with the new Council to further strengthen ISCA’s position as a leading accountancy body regionally and globally.”
For more information on the biographies of the new and re-elected Council Members, please refer to the Annex via our website.

Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #DifferenceMakers #ISCAAGM

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

About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 36,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.
Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.
ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.
ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.
For more information, visit .

Moomoo Wins “Digital CX Awards 2024” by The Digital Banker

Outstanding Digital Customer Experience as Key-to-Success in Canada Market


TORONTO, CANADA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 April 2024 – Moomoo, one of the leading one-stop digitalized stock trading platforms, announced winning the “Outstanding Use of Digital Channels for Improved CX – Investments” Award at the Digital CX Awards 2024 by The Digital Banker. The Digital CX Awards is the world’s only program dedicated to recognising pioneering innovation in Digital Customer Experience across the Financial Services ecosystem. This market recognition again demonstrates moomoo’s dedication in digital customer experience (CX) innovations, a key game-changer that impacts the entire market.

Moomoo Wins “Digital CX Awards 2024” by The Digital Banker.
Moomoo Wins “Digital CX Awards 2024” by The Digital Banker.

As a customer-centric trading platform, moomoo aims to reinvent Canadians’ trading experience and empower Canadians to make sophisticated investment decisions by providing them with advanced tools and comprehensive data essentials at a low cost. Moomoo also offers 24/7 customer service to everyone, one of the main differentiators of the platform.

Moomoo Financial Canada Inc wins the “Outstanding Use of Digital Channels for Improved CX – Investments” Award at the Digital CX Awards 2024 by The Digital Banker
Moomoo Financial Canada Inc wins the “Outstanding Use of Digital Channels for Improved CX – Investments” Award at the Digital CX Awards 2024 by The Digital Banker.

Moomoo Canada – A Dedication to Drive Market Change

Officially launched in Canada since September 2023, the moomoo app has rapidly gained popularity among Canadian users, ranking #1 among finance app downloads in Canada on Android.

Canadian investors can trade US and Canadian stocks and ETFs, as well as US options on moomoo. With self-directed moomoo accounts, Canadian investors can trade in U.S. and Canadian markets through one single moomoo account, with fees significantly lower than competitors.

Moomoo is currently the ONLY online brokerage that offers free in-depth level 2 premium real-time US stock quotes and market intelligence for Canadian investors. Canadian investors can trade U.S. stock with fees up to 90 per cent lower than competitors. Opening an account on moomoo requires $0 capital threshold and $0 account management fees. Moomoo also offers 30+ advanced charting tools, 100+ indicators and customizable technical analysis features with an aim to equip users, whether new or experienced, with ready-to-deploy toolkit for informed decision-making. The moomoo stock screener offers 100+ data filters, enabling users to uncover hidden opportunities across various sectors and markets.

Additionally, moomoo offers Canadian investors extended trading hours so they can take advantage of pre- and post-market trading opportunities. With moomoo, Canadian investors can trade in the US market from 4 AM to 8 PM ET, and trade in the Canadian market from 8 AM to 5 PM ET.

Moomoo is currently offering Canadian users 3-month free access to Nasdaq TotalView® starting May 1, 2024. Now would be a great opportunity to sign up and try out the moomoo app to make well-informed decisions at ease and with confidence.

For more information, please visit moomoo’s official website at www.moomoo.com/ca or contact pr@moomoo.com.

Hashtag: #moomoo

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

About moomoo

Founded in the United States in 2018, moomoo has rapidly expanded globally, serving investors in countries such as the US, Australia, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Canada. Globally, moomoo and its affiliates are trusted by over 21 million users. Moomoo takes pride in its role as a global strategic collaborator of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and global collaborator of CBOE Global Markets, earning numerous international accolades from renowned industry leaders such as Best Day Trading Software 2023 awards from Benzinga, Best of the Best 2024 – Online Broker Rising Star from Money Australia and Best Retail Broker 2023 Award from the Securities Investors Association (Singapore).

About Moomoo Financial Canada Inc

Moomoo Financial Canada Inc (MFCI) provides brokerage products and related services to Canadian investors through the moomoo app. MFCI is a Canadian securities broker specializing in Order Execution Only (OEO) services and is registered with CIRO and a member of CIPF. MFCI does not provide investment advice or recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of any investments. Investors are responsible for their own investment decisions.

Nano-Care Deutschland AG launches next generation of sustainable PFAS-free oleophobic coatings


REHLINGEN-SIERSBURG, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 26 April 2024 – Nano-Care Deutschland AG, leader in the development of innovative surface finishes, is excited to announce the launch of its latest product range. Taking “next generation products” as its theme, the company is introducing a range of revolutionary solutions that not only offer maximum performance, but also place a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental compatibility.

Nano-Care Deutschland AG launches next generation of sustainable PFAS-free oleophobic coatings
Nano-Care Deutschland AG launches next generation of sustainable PFAS-free oleophobic coatings

This new range includes the stand-out product Nano-Care® C0-L, a PFAS-free (per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances) formulation specially developed for natural leather surfaces, featuring oil and dirt repellent properties.

Nano-Care® C0-L sets a new standard in leather care in that it not only delivers exceptional results but is also completely PFASfree. This means that consumers can now look after their favourite leather items using a predominantly natural product.

A further notable product development has been specially formulated for sanitary ceramics. This innovative formulation utilises a water-based solvent that’s highly effective yet is non-flammable. As well as its outstanding dirt repelling properties, Nano-Care® VP H2O also minimises risks and safety concerns related to coating sanitary surfaces.

Nano-Care Deutschland AG has also developed a product specifically for use on membranes and filters. The use of C6 technology was consciously set aside – a decision which emphasises the company’s commitment to sustainable innovation. Utilising advanced and environmentally friendly technologies, Nano-Care® KS 24 offers a sophisticated solution for the effectiveness of membrane and filter surfaces and is also future-ready in terms of new environmental regulations.

Removing graffiti can be extremely difficult and often involves the use of environmentally harmful cleaning agents. Nano-Care Deutschland AG’s PFAS-free Nanoflex® Barrier is raising the bar in the anti-graffiti coatings market. Nanoflex® Barrier is a permanent anti-graffiti product designed for absorbent mineral surfaces, coated metals and wood. It offers excellent anti-adhesive properties, ensuring that most permanent markers and aerosol-based paints can be easily washed off with water.

“We’re extremely proud to unveil these innovative products that not only meet and exceed our customers’ requirements, but also have a positive impact on sustainability,” says Lisa Sonntag, Authorised Representative at Nano-Care Deutschland AG. “These products are the result of intensive research and development as well as our strong commitment to environmental protection and innovation. We’re confident that they will significantly impact the market and help shape a more sustainable future.”

The “next generation” products from Nano-Care Deutschland AG are manufactured using a special nano-Care® process and mark a significant step towards effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly surface finishes. All the products mentioned are immediately available.

“nano-Care – Development of processes for the surface finishing of materials”

Hashtag: #Nano‐CareDeutschlandAG

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

About Nano‐Care Deutschland AG:

Nano-Care Deutschland AG was founded 24 years ago as a spin-off from the Leibniz Institute for New Materials and is a leading provider of innovative surface finishes for a diverse range of applications. With a strong focus on research and development, the company strives to develop sustainable and environmentally friendly products that offer maximum performance and effectiveness.

Nano-Care also has a presence in America, Bulgaria, UK, Romania, and Spain.

Contact:

Dr. Fabienne Hennessen, R&D

Nano-Care Deutschland AG, Hauptstraße 122, 66780 Rehlingen-Siersburg, Germany

Phone: +49 6835 95567‐00, E‐Mail: info(at)nano‐care.de

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or require more information.

Further information on products and their availability can be found on the company’s website at www.nano-care.de.

Winner of Hong Kong’s Flagship Global Elevator Pitch Competition Crowned

Circular economy battery startup tozero GmbH walks away with the title of overall champion of the EPiC 2024

  • tozero GmbH crowned as EPiC 2024 champion claiming the top cash prize of US$90,000, 1,100,000 Asia Miles, as well as invaluable investor exposure and partnership opportunities
  • The EPiC 2024 competition breaks new ground as the Grand Finale caps off the first-ever four-city semi-final series across the U.S., Europe and Asia
  • EPiC 2024 attracted a total of 603 contestants from 47 economies solidifying Hong Kong’s unique position as a leading global innovation hub and ideal launchpad for startups on a mission to grow in Asia and go global

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 April 2024 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) today successfully held its flagship Elevator Pitch Competition (EPiC) 2024, with judges selecting tozero GmbH as the overall champion, beating over 70 startups from around the world. tozero GmbH from Germany is a circular economy start-up with plans to establish Europe’s leading lithium-ion battery recycling plant.

Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of Hong Kong SAR (9th from right), Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman at HKSTP (8th from left), the top 12 finalists together with the competition’s panel of judges and distinguished guests.
Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of Hong Kong SAR (9th from right), Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman at HKSTP (8th from left), the top 12 finalists together with the competition’s panel of judges and distinguished guests.

The HKSTP signature event held four semi-finals around the world in Hong Kong, Silicon Valley, Stuttgart and Singapore. The Grand Finale featured over 70 companies, representing 16 economies, making this contest the most international iteration of the global pitching event to date. This broadened the net to attract outstanding startups from abroad.

The winners excelled from among 603 startups in the first round of applications in January to the semi-finals, to today’s Grand Finale – all with their sights set on the to-be-arranged US$45 million investment[1] including up to US$5 million from the HKSTP Corporate Venture Fund (CVF), as well as US$240,000 in cash prizes, plus partnership opportunities. The Grand Finale saw all semi-finalists being propelled up to the sky100 venue at the top of the International Commerce Centre in West Kowloon, re-creating a real-life 60-second elevator pitch experience.

Ms. Sarah Fleischer from tozero GmbH, overall champion and MobilityTech winner at EPiC 2024.
Ms. Sarah Fleischer from tozero GmbH, overall champion and MobilityTech winner at EPiC 2024.

Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of Hong Kong SAR, said, “Last year, Hong Kong’s start-ups exceeded 4 200 – up more than one third over just four years ago. About a quarter of them are from outside Hong Kong.”

The Government believes in innovation and technology. We continue to accelerate our I&T development, fostering the commercialisation of R&D (research and development) outcomes and expediting new industrialisation with staunch government support. We actively attract strategic enterprises engaged in artificial intelligence, life and health technology, fintech, and new energy and materials.

This year's EPiC featured over 70 companies, representing 16 economies at the Grand Finale, making this contest the most international iteration of the global pitching event to date.
This year’s EPiC featured over 70 companies, representing 16 economies at the Grand Finale, making this contest the most international iteration of the global pitching event to date.

We’re also expediting our collaboration with sister cities in the Greater Bay Area. The joint innovation and technology park that we’re developing close to the boundary with Shenzhen is a best case in point.”

Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman, HKSTP, said, “EPiC 2024 has firmly established the annual pitching competition as Hong Kong’s mega startup event, drawing the best of the best in tech startups from around the world as they seek to leverage Hong Kong as a launchpad to global success. The Grand Finale caps a truly epic journey for the winners and finalists, competing across the four-city semi-final series around the world, with the final stop in Hong Kong. The city provides unmatched growth opportunities for startups plugging into the HKSTP innovation ecosystem and primes them for seamless expansion from Hong Kong to the GBA, China and beyond.”

Competitors were split across three categories: FinTech, PropTech and MobilityTech, with Bizbaz Pte. Ltd. from Singapore being named as the FinTech category winner, while Roboticplus.AI from Mainland China named the PropTech winner and tozero GmbH from Germany crowned the MobilityTech winner. (Full list of winners and prizes below).

The event was also sponsored by world leading corporations and industry innovators, Cathay, HSBC and MTR Lab. Ahead of the EPiC final pitching contest, the semi-finalists also took part in an immersive three-day “Market Discovery Programme”, between 22-24 April. Participants explored ways to unlock growth opportunities through a programme of business matching, hands-on seminars and networking with leading corporate partners and investors in the HKSTP ecosystem. They also visited the Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch and introduced to the fast-emerging innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities in the Greater Bay Area and mainland China.

Sarah Fleischer, CEO and co-founder of overall champion and MobilityTech category winner, tozero GmbH, said, “Winning EPiC is a recognition of the hard work of our entire company. It is truly an amazing achievement. Hong Kong is a great place to be as it attracts top talent. At tozero, we’re building a battery recycling machine so we need to hire the best AI guys out there and Hong Kong could be a nice place to do that. Through the EPIC programme, we also visited Shenzhen, as well as met with some of Hong Kong’s most powerful and recognised people.”

Vincent Choy, Co-founder of FinTech category winner, Bizbaz Pte. Ltd., said, “EPiC is one of the most organised FinTech competitions that I have been in. The elevator pitch concept is genius as it forces us to compress the entirety of what we are about and distil our vision into a minute. I hope EPiC lets more companies know what we do and help with recognition in the region. We see Hong Kong as a key area when it comes to business opportunities, and we will be coming back to establish more roots here.”

Hyde Meng, Co-Founder and CEO of PropTech category winner, Roboticplus.AI, said, “EPiC was an amazing experience. It was a great opportunity to learn about what technology companies around the world are working on, and to make new acquaintances in a such a short amount of time. With Hong Kong as a connector, we can bring Mainland China’s technology to Europe, the Middle East, and overseas.”

Winners List and Prizes:

Overall Champion: tozero GmbH US$60,000 cash prize and 1,100,000 Asia Miles
FinTech Winner: Bizbaz Pte. Ltd. US$20,000 cash prize
PropTech Winner: Roboticplus.AI US$20,000 cash prize
MobilityTech Winner: tozero GmbH US$20,000 cash prize

Top 12 Overall Finalists (each received US$10,000 cash prize):

FinTech Category:
  • Bizbaz Pte. Ltd.
  • imBee
  • Rey
  • Tanbii
PropTech Category:
  • Green Independence
  • Hyele Limited
  • Kodifly Limited
  • Roboticplus.AI
MobilityTech Category:
  • Certivity
  • Novac
  • tozero GmbH
  • wheel.me

Semi-Finalists Breakdown:

Category No. of contestants
FinTech 21 (30%)
PropTech 23 (32%)
MobilityTech 27 (38%)

Region No. of contestants
Europe 17 (24%)
North America 14 (20%)
APAC 13 (18%)
Mainland China 12 (17%)
Hong Kong 15 (21%)

For more information on EPiC 2024, please visit: https://epic.hkstp.org/


[1] Target to arrange USD45 Million investment: Investors (including funds managed by HKSTP CVF, Beyond Ventures, BitRock Capital, Gaw Capital, HKX, InnoAngel, Jafco Asia, Mindworks Capital and Radiant Tech Ventures) will consider investing in applicants (subject to terms and conditions to be agre ed between the parties)

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 12 unicorns, more than 14,000 research professionals and over 1,700 technology companies from 27 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.

Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Shatin, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.

Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at .

Forward Fashion’s Artelli Presents: Nobuyoshi Araki’s “Paradise” Starting from April 27th, at K11 MUSEA

A Hong Kong and Macau Collaborative Tribute to Four Decades of Iconic Photography


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 April 2024 – Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited (“Forward Fashion Group” or the “Group”; Hong Kong stock code: 2528), a creative integrated group with three synergistic business segments – fashion, art, and lifestyle, is pleased to announce that Artelli, the Group’s pioneering multi-dimensional art space presents “Paradise” by renowned Japanese photography master Nobuyoshi Araki as the co-organizer and curator. The grand opening took place today (26 April) at K11 MUSEA CEMENT. In celebration of Nobuyoshi Araki’s upcoming 84th birthday in May this year, the dual-city collaboration will present over 200 classic works, paying tribute to him in various ways.

Forward Fashion’s Artelli Presents: Nobuyoshi Araki's

“Before withering comes the most beautiful.” – Nobuyoshi Araki

Hong Kong POP-UP showcasing over 100 classic masterpieces at K11 MUSEA, Limited-Edition merchandise sparks collecting frenzy

“Paradise” Hong Kong POP-UP is another remarkable art project curated by Artelli, the pioneering multi-dimensional art space of Forward Fashion. Following the highly anticipated “BE@RBRICK WORLD WIDE TOUR 3 – Hong Kong”, this POP-UP takes place at CEMENT, the modular creative- and community-driven space of K11 MUSEA, under the New World Development Company Limited, presenting a grand visual feast for art enthusiasts.

Forward Fashion’s Artelli Presents: Nobuyoshi Araki's

Ms. Linwood Lin, Chief Innovation Officer of Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Limited, said, ” The Group has long been committed to exploring the innovative fusion of art and commerce. Through our esteemed art brand, Artelli, we serve as a global platform for artistic exchange, bringing outstanding works from artists worldwide to the public. We are delighted to announce our collaboration with the renowned Japanese photographer, Nobuyoshi Araki, featuring his iconic works that epitomize his unique vision and avant-garde breakthroughs in the contemporary photography scene. Collaborating with multiple cultural and creative units, this project is a tribute to Araki’s unparalleled contributions to the art world. Moving forward, Artelli will continue to expand its reach and act as a bridge, curating original and distinctive content for international artists, offering art enthusiasts a truly unique and diverse artistic experience. ”

Forward Fashion’s Artelli Presents: Nobuyoshi Araki's

The Hong Kong POP-UP^ will be held from 27 April (Saturday) to 15 May (Wednesday), featuring highlights such as Nobuyoshi Araki’s various works from the 1990s to the latest 2023 focusing on “Flowers” and “Women”. Additionally, the POP-UP will showcase nearly a hundred instant photography works, which serve as an important medium of photography for Nobuyoshi Araki beyond film. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the unique imagery captured by Araki’s lens on these one-of-a-kind instant film prints. Furthermore, the event will also showcase the iconic Carousel projector, which made its debut in the 1980s, displaying slide photographs by Nobuyoshi Araki.

^Open to the public 18 years and older only. Personal identification required for entry.

Highly collectible artist-signed instant photography works in deluxe editions will be available for purchase in both Hong Kong and Macau
Highly collectible artist-signed instant photography works in deluxe editions will be available for purchase in both Hong Kong and Macau

Macau Exhibition will be located at Artelli, “Darkroom” to offer glimpse into Araki’s photographic desires

The “Paradise” Exhibition in Macau will be held from April 30 (Tuesday) to May 28 (Tuesday) at Artelli, the pioneering multi-dimensional art space, featuring a selection of Nobuyoshi Araki’s photographic works from the 1990s to recent years, with a focus on his floral-themed works, spanning various series including “Women”, “Private Photography”, and selected works from “Erotos”, offering a glimpse into the sincere emotions of the master photographer. A special “Darkroom^” area will be set up to give visitors a glimpse into Araki’s photographic desires.

^Open to the public 18 years and older only. Personal identification required for entry.

Forward Fashion’s Artelli Presents: Nobuyoshi Araki's

Exclusive Collaboration: FUJIFILM Experience Zone with the new launched instax mini 99

Additionally, the event in Hong Kong and Macau will feature a FUJIFILM Experience Zone, showcasing Nobuyoshi Araki’s works through the FP-Z8000/FP-Z6000 projector, providing a unique perspective on the master’s emotive photography. The event will also introduce the latest model of the instax mini camera, the instax mini 99, which has been updated for the first time in 11 years to the highest specifications available on the market. Visitors will have the opportunity to be the first to experience and purchase, offering photography enthusiasts an engaging and interactive exhibition experience.

Nobutoshi Araki’s “Paradise”

HONG KONG POP-UP MACAU EXHIBITION
Period: April 27 – May 15 (11:00 – 21:00)
Address: CEMENT, G31, MUSE EDITION, G/F, K11 MUSEA

Period: Apr 30 – May 28 (11:00 – 20:00)
Address: ARTELLI, THE SHOWROOM, CITY OF DREAMS

Co-organizer & Curator: Artelli

Co-organizer: ARTOX GROUP

Title Sponsor: FUJIFILM

Leading Partner: CEMENT

Venue Support: K11 MUSEA

Beverage Sponsors: Taiko Sake, Mezzanine Makers

High-resolution image download: https://we.tl/t-Ae8fbHmCwY

Follow Artelli’s official platform to get the latest information:

Website: https://www.artelli-meta.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/artelli.official

RED: Artelli

Hashtag: #ForwardFashion

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

About Nobuyoshi Araki

Nobuyoshi Araki, born in 1940, is an internationally influential Japanese photographer. He is acclaimed alongside Daido Moriyama and Hiroshi Sugimoto as one of the most important post-war photographers in Japan. He is also the only Asian photographer featured in the BBC documentary series “The Genius of Photography”. Themes of life and death, love, and desire, have always been the focus of Araki’s lens. The desires and restraints of life, the inevitability and detachment of death, these elements blend and coexist, becoming the enduring essence and sharp inspiration of Araki’s work. Influenced by his childhood environment and living in Tokyo’s red-light district, with nearby graves as his playground, Araki’s work reflects these unique experiences. In his storied life, Nobuyoshi Araki has experienced a range of triumphs and tribulations. After the passing of his beloved wife, Yoko, in 1990, he created a large body of work focusing on the blooming, withering, and decay of flowers. The world Araki sees through his lens is his paradise. He effortlessly lingers and freezes moments among flowers, using their beauty and transient nature to depict the flow of time and the impermanence of life.

About CEMENT

CEMENT is a modular creative- and community-driven space dedicated to mapping the blueprint of a culturally-inspired generation. Furthering K11’s mission to incubate talent and propagate culture, the space aims to become a platform for creative expression and curation. Open for interpretation, CEMENT is a space to explore and push the boundaries of a new creative frontier, and a space to host cultural exchanges to cultivate a network of creatives that will become the foundation of a community-led destination.

About Artelli

Artelli is the pioneering multi-dimensional space for contemporary art, lifestyle aesthetics, digital and techno art, art communities, and brand collaborations. The space stands as a new and unprecedented international landmark for art and culture. Artelli will ultimately join forces with over a hundred internationally renowned artists and brand designers to co-create exclusive art projects and debut collections. With a dedicated focus on Web 3.0 digital art and metaverse, Artelli pioneers the exploration of new artistic dimensions. Guided by a strong commitment to become a multi-dimensional art space that fosters collaborations within the art and culture communities, Artelli’s visionary path unfolds through the fusion of art, technology, and the dynamic commercial sector. Artelli has successfully organised more than five highly anticipated art exhibitions, featuring international artists in prime locations spanning Macau, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Shanghai. In the future, Artelli envisions expanding its brand to attain international prominence as the landmark for art and culture. With aspirations reaching Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, New York, London, and Paris, Artelli is set to leave a vivid mark on the global stage over the next five years.

About Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited

Forward Fashion (International) Holdings Company Limited is an integrated group with three synergistic business segments – fashion, art, and lifestyle – and a commitment to creating innovative retail business model. With a track record of managing over 100 brands, the Group has helped many brands to establish their first presence in Greater China. In recent years, the Group has actively enhanced its operations and developed its own brands, such as Artelli, ASCE, UMJ, WF Fashion, to further enrich its brand portfolio. Leveraging its extensive retail experience and IP resources, the Group has spearheaded exclusive collaborations with brands and cultural and art communities to expand into the international market. The Group introduces and manages Galeries Lafayette Macau in 2024, becoming the local New Waterfront Fashion and Art Landmark.

Mr. Fan Wing Ting, Patrick, is the founder, chairman and executive director of Forward Fashion Holdings. In 2005, he founded the first company of the Group in Hong Kong focusing on fashion apparel retail in Greater China. Following the Group’s 2020 listing on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, Forward Fashion has embarked on eCommerce platforms and introduced international fashion and artistic brands and visionary international art projects to Greater China. The Group aims to cater for the preferences and needs of local youths and promotes business diversification.

Liverpool FC continues international growth with first official retail partnership in South Korea


LIVERPOOL, UNITED KINGDOM – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 April 2024 – Liverpool FC continues with its ambitious plans for international growth, with the signing of its first ever retail partnership in South Korea.

Caption

Working with Over the Pitch, a brand and creative design studio founded in 2014 that presents football culture in the country and collaborates with domestic and international clubs. The new partnership will bring fans in the market closer to the club and grow the developing fanbase.

Together LFC and Over the Pitch will collaborate on product development, market expansion, and growing the LFC fanbase in the market.

The launch will initially involve two new shop-in-shops located in Hongdae (Seoul) and Suwon selling Official LFC Merchandise. A standalone store is also planned to follow.

The move supports LFC’s ambitions growth in Asia following recent announcements regarding a new official retail partnership with All Star Partners (ASP) in China last year. It has helped bring Chinese fans closer to the Reds with easier access to official retail merchandise via digital e-commerce marketplaces on the Tmall, Douyin and JD platforms.

This was followed last month with the partnering with Swire Properties to bring a fully immersive celebration of the iconic Anfield experience to supporters across the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong.

Mike Cox, Senior Vice President Merchandising at Liverpool FC, said, “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Over the Pitch in South Korea, it’s an exciting opportunity for LFC Retail in a fast-growing market.

“As a club with fans based all around the world, we have ambitious plans to grow our international presence in key markets and this partnership is an ideal way of doing that.

“With their local knowledge we can give supporters easier access to official club merchandise. The instore experiences will feature LFC branding for supporters to feel a part of the LFC family and connect with what this club is about.”

Hokeun Choi, Creative Director and CEO of Over the Pitch, said, “We are more than excited to be partnering with such a huge club with a concrete fanbase in Korea while being the most symbolic and historical club in the world.

“We are definitely looking forward to our future plans and cannot wait to bring Korean fans closer to Liverpool FC with our abundant collaborating experience with different clubs and unique designs and branding.”

Hashtag: #LiverpoolFC

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

Liverpool Football Club

Founded in 1892, Liverpool FC is one of the world’s most historic and famous football clubs, having won 19 League Titles, including the Premier League, eight FA Cups, ten League Cups, six European Cups, three UEFA Cups, four European Super Cups, 16 Charity Shields, two Women’s Super League titles and one Women’s Championship.
As a socially responsible Club, Liverpool FC is proud of the work it does via the award-winning The Red Way, its ongoing commitment to creating a better future for its people, its planet and its communities. This includes efforts to improve club-wide sustainability, enhance Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all areas, and create life changing opportunities for children and young people in Merseyside and beyond thanks to its official charity, LFC Foundation.

“Hello China, Sunshine Hainan” International Media Tour witnessed the evolution of Hainan’s tourism and culture


HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 April 2024 – The “Hello China, Sunshine Hainan” 2024 International Media Tour unfolded in Haikou City from April 22 to 25. Journalists from various mainstream international media outlets delved into Hainan, capturing its vibrant tourism and cultural attractions with their lenses and words.

During the tour, journalists ventured into locations like Haikou, Sanya, Qionghai, Danzhou, and Chengmai. They provided a window into Hainan’s duty-free shopping, wellness retreats, countryside excursions, yacht voyages, low-altitude flights, and cruise getaways, and their goal was to unveil the island’s evolving tourism and culture within the context of the Hainan Free Trade Port.

The tourism sector is a key focus in the development of the Hainan Free Trade Port. In recent years, Hainan has actively promoted the construction of an international tourism hub, continuously enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international tourists. Earlier this year, Hainan has rolled out a range of inbound tourism offerings, spanning six key themes and 12 travel routes: from visits by overseas Chinese to cultural immersions, healthcare and wellness, sports adventures, international study tours, and business trips. Among them, the newly unveiled round-the-island tourist highway has emerged as a mega tourism hotspot in Hainan.

In February of this year, Hainan’s visa-free entry policy for 59 countries including France, Germany, Japan and South Korea, has been expanded to areas including business, visits, family reunions, medical treatment, exhibitions, and sports competitions for nationals of 59 countries. Hainan Province also launched the “Hainan Trust Pay” app, seamlessly incorporating traditional POS machine functionality into a mobile application. Overseas tourists can now enjoy convenient and efficient payment experiences.

To showcase the latest developments in Hainan’s tourism and culture to visitors worldwide, Xinhua News Agency and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province jointly initiated the global selection of ” Hainan Tourism and Cultural Excellence TOP 10″ in February. Each month, they introduce a selection of tourism and cultural sites, new experiences and innovative leisure ideas unique to Hainan to global audiences, particularly to those from the 59 visa-free entry countries.

As of now, two rounds of selections have been held on the Facebook account of Xinhua News Agency, gaining publicity in more than 70 countries and regions, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy. The initiative has attracted attention from over 600 overseas media outlets, accumulating a total of 170 million views and 60,000 comments and likes.

Hashtag: #HainanTourism

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