Home Blog Page 1492

TS Financial Holding’s TS SmartBrain Recognized for Driving Intelligent Financial Services

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SHANGHAI, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TS Financial Holding Co., Ltd. has been recognized under the Service and Solution category at the International Innovation Awards (IIA) 2025, organized by Enterprise Asia, for TS SmartBrain, an enterprise-level large language model developed in-house to support secure and intelligent digital transformation within the financial sector.

Purpose-built for high compliance environments, TS SmartBrain operates entirely within a fully controlled, on-premise infrastructure. This ensures that all model training and inference activities remain aligned with stringent data governance requirements, while offering financial institutions the confidence to adopt advanced AI without compromising security or regulatory obligations.

A defining feature of TS SmartBrain is its multimodal AI framework, which integrates text, voice, and image understanding within a unified system. This capability enables the platform to serve as a foundation for a range of internal, AI-driven applications, including a Knowledge Integration AI Assistant, a Smart Service & Virtual Human interface, an Intelligent Voice Quality Management System, and an Intelligent Report and Content Generation Engine.

Together, these applications support greater efficiency in daily operations by improving access to information, strengthening service quality monitoring, and assisting in the creation of accurate, timely reports and content. The system is designed to complement human expertise, enhancing employees’ ability to deliver faster, more consistent and more reliable financial services.

Through TS SmartBrain, TS Financial Holding demonstrates how responsible innovation can be applied in practice—blending advanced technology with strong governance and human-centred design. This recognition at the IIA 2025 reflects the company’s commitment to developing trustworthy AI solutions that contribute to a more resilient and digitally advanced financial industry.

About Enterprise Asia
Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.

About the International Innovation Awards
The International Innovation Awards (IIA) is an annual recognition program that recognizes outstanding innovations, and in the process, encourages organizations to continue investing in innovations. For more information, visit www.innovationaward.org.

State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power Reports 13.49 GW of Offshore Wind Capacity Connected

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Jiangsu records the highest level of grid-connected offshore wind capacity among China’s provinces

NANJING, China, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power Co., Ltd. reported that as of the end of 2025, Jiangsu’s offshore wind power (OWP) capacity connected to the provincial grid had reached 13.49 million kilowatts, the highest level among China’s provinces. This capacity is expected to supply more than 30 billion kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity annually to the Yangtze River Delta region, equivalent to an annual reduction of more than 22 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions.

After two decades of exploration, Jiangsu has established a mature and comprehensive OWP development framework spanning intertidal zones, nearshore waters, and far-offshore areas, with continued expansion across the sector. Yancheng provides a clear illustration of this development: the city is home to the country’s largest OWP industrial cluster, with an integrated industrial ecosystem that encompasses R&D and design, equipment manufacturing, resource development, and operation and maintenance services. Its offshore wind turbine manufacturing capacity accounts for more than 40% of the national total. 

Jiangsu’s OWP grid-connection capabilities have developed in parallel, with the commissioning of the nation’s first 110 kV and 220 kV offshore booster stations, as well as the country’s largest OWP grid-connection transmission facility. “Once aggregated, Jiangsu’s OWP is transmitted to major load centers in the Yangtze River Delta via six high-capacity cross-river transmission corridors within the province. During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, we will progress the planning and construction of key infrastructure, including the Sutong GIL DC link and the third phase of the Yangzhou-Zhenjiang DC project, to ensure a reliable and stable supply of coastal renewable electricity to the heart of the Yangtze River Delta,” said Cai Hui, Senior Expert at State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power.

Looking nationwide, China’s cumulative OWP installed capacity has ranked first globally for four consecutive years. By the end of the 15th Five-Year Plan period, the country’s total OWP capacity is anticipated to exceed 100 million kilowatts. As one of China’s leading provinces in offshore wind development, Jiangsu is steadily building an innovative power system that is clean and low-carbon, secure and reliable, cost-effective, well balanced between supply and demand, as well as operationally flexible and digitally enabled, providing critical support for low-carbon growth in the Yangtze River Delta and across the nation.

 

Jiangsu 500kV Grid Project Enters Service, Ensuring Full Winter Peak Demand Support

By
Advertorial Desk
-

NANJING, China, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A newly completed 500kV power transmission project supporting the SPIC Binhai 2×1000MW unit expansion was successfully placed into operation in Jiangsu Province on January 13. As the first major energy transmission project to enter service in Jiangsu in 2026, it represents a meaningful milestone in the province’s grid modernization, consistent with the strategy of adding new power capacity before retiring older coal-fired generation assets. Once fully operational, the project is expected to deliver approximately 10 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually—enough to power about four million households for a year.

Jiangsu has experienced rapid growth in clean energy installations in recent years. Last September, Yancheng became the first city in the Yangtze River Delta to exceed 20GW of grid-connected renewable capacity, reaching 20.34GW. The newly energized project includes 89.045 kilometers of transmission lines, which will significantly enhance regional power supply and provide critical grid infrastructure for transmitting and integrating large-scale wind and other renewable energy from Yancheng’s coastal region.

“The project route traversed complex terrain and required crossings over expressways, railways, and multiple existing power lines, posing substantial coordination and construction challenges,” said Sun Mingze, Director of the Second Office at the Project Management Center of State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power Engineering Consulting Company. To address these complex crossings, the team employed advanced engineering approaches such as UAV-based precision surveying and customized crossing plans for each site, contributing to the project’s successful commissioning.

Since 2025, Jiangsu has seen steady growth in electricity demand, coupled with increased variability in renewable energy output, presenting additional requirements for grid stability and operational flexibility. In response, State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power has expanded its grid development program, enabling the commissioning of the Jiangsu Guoxin Jingjiang Power Plant, Jiangyin Ligang Power Plant, the 500kV Chefang Substation, and the Shanggao Line projects. These efforts strengthen overall grid architecture and enhance power exchange capabilities, providing a robust foundation for meeting peak winter electricity demand.

Alongside the Yancheng Binhai Power Plant transmission link, several other major grid developments, including the Huaneng Tongzhou Bay Power Plant transmission project and the Yancheng Gaorong 500kV Transmission and Transformation facility, are also progressing on an accelerated timeline. Their upcoming commissioning will further improve Jiangsu’s grid resilience and its ability to integrate renewable energy while maintaining a secure and reliable power supply.

 

Agoda reveals: Sapa, Vietnam is Asia’s top emerging destination

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sapa (Vietnam) has emerged as the fastest growing destination for attracting international travelers in Asia, according to digital travel platform Agoda’s latest New Horizons ranking. Vietnam’s scenic mountain destination is followed by Okayama (Japan), Bandung (Indonesia), Matsuyama (Japan), and Takamatsu (Japan) as the top five rising stars in Asia showcasing the highest growth in international travel interest. 

Agoda’s New Horizons ranking, which is released annually, compares the accommodation booking ranks of the two previous years to identify the highest climbers in international travel in Asia.

In addition to the top five emerging destinations, Agoda also reports newcomers making it to the ranking of the top 100 Asian destinations of 2025 for the first time, indicating their growing popularity among international travelers. These include Ko Phangan (Thailand), Nagano (Japan), Nara (Japan), Shizuoka (Japan), Ko Tao (Thailand), Kagoshima (Japan), and Aomori (Japan). The trend indicates that even when visiting popular destinations such as Thailand and Japan, travelers are looking to go beyond traditional hotspots to seek out fresh, new adventures in unique locales.

Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia at Agoda, shared, “Lesser-known destinations are rapidly emerging as preferred choices for travelers seeking authenticity and immersive cultural experiences. Whether it’s the breathtaking scenery of terraced rice fields in Sapa or the refreshing seaside landscapes of Takamatsu, secondary destinations are capturing a growing share of traveler interest and spending, signaling a shift in the tourism landscape for 2026 and beyond. Agoda looks forward to helping travelers explore more hidden gems around the world with great deals on flights, accommodations and activities, wherever their adventures may take them.” 

Travelers making their 2026 plans are encouraged to check out Agoda’s great value deals on over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities and experiences that are available on the platform. The latest deals are available in the Agoda app or on agoda.com/deals.

Storefriendly Earns HKGBC BEAM Plus “Excellent” Rating: Setting New ESG Standards for Mini Storage in Hong Kong

By
Advertorial Desk
-

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 January 2026 – Storefriendly Self Storage Group held an award presentation ceremony at Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula West) in Lai Chi Kok and was honoured with an Excellent grade in the Management aspect of BEAM Plus EB V2.1 Selective Scheme by Portfolio Assessment Mechanism. The award was presented by Dr CHEUNG Tin-cheung, SBS (Chairman of Hong Kong Green Building Council Limited), recognising the Group’s sustained commitment and performance in advancing sustainable building operations management—through robust governance, structured systems, and consistent execution.

IMG_2585 edit.JPG

A Milestone in Sustainable Operations & Facility Management

Storefriendly stated: “Achieving this Excellent rating reinforces our commitment to ESG goals. By optimizing our operations management, we ensure that our self-storage facilities are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible, providing our customers with a superior and greener storage experience.”

Selective Scheme Focuses on Building Performance Across Key Assessment Areas

BEAM Plus EB reviews a building’s sustainability performance through multiple assessment areas, including Site, Management, Materials & Waste, Energy Use, Water, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Innovation. Within these, the Management aspect places strong emphasis on responsible management practices and measures that promote the sustainable operation of building spaces. Achieving an Excellent rating in this aspect further validates Storefriendly’s ongoing investment and results in day-to-day operations management and its broader sustainability strategy.

Integrating Smart Technology with Green Logistics

Storefriendly continues to invest in cutting-edge technology—including AI-powered customer service systems and Safety Box. By combining smart access controls with energy-efficient facility management, the Group enhances both security and operational performance. This HKGBC recognition serves as a roadmap for the Group’s future, as it strives to modernize the mini storage industry with forward-thinking, sustainable solutions for both personal and business clients.

The following five Storefriendly Tower properties have been certified by HKGBC and included in the Existing Buildings portfolio assessment:
1. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula East): 82 Hung To Road, Kwun Tong
2. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis East): 13 Yip Cheong Street, Fanling, New Territories
3. Storefriendly Tower (Island East): 8 A Kung Ngam Village Road, Shau Kei Wan
4. Storefriendly Tower (Peninsula West): 850-870 Lai Chi Kok Road, Cheung Sha Wan
5. Storefriendly Tower (Metropolis West): 22-28 Tai Chung Road, Tsuen Wan

Hashtag: #Storefriendly

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

About Storefriendly Self Storage Group

Founded in 2002, Storefriendly Self Storage Group is one of Asia’s leading self-storage brands, with operations across Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, and Taiwan. The Group operates over 90 branches and more than 40,000 storage units. Over half of its branches are self-owned properties, conveniently located and equipped with 24-hour smart access and comprehensive security systems, providing safe and flexible storage solutions for both individual and business customers. The Group continues to invest in technology—including AI-powered customer service, wine storage, and smart safety boxes—to elevate service quality through innovation and deliver an enhanced storage experience.

Visit Storefriendly:

Hong Kong Banquet Market Shifts Toward Smaller-Scale Events, Runhotel.hk Data Shows

By
Advertorial Desk
-

HONG KONG, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — According to banquet enquiry data from the past year collected by Runhotel.hk’s “Venue Search” platform, Hong Kong’s banquet market is undergoing a noticeable shift, driven primarily by changing wedding preferences among younger couples. Compared with the traditional preference for large-scale Chinese wedding banquets, recent enquiry trends indicate a clear move toward more streamlined “light wedding” formats, including Western-style wedding receptions, cocktail weddings, and brunch weddings.

Runhotel.hk data shows that guest numbers for light wedding enquiries typically range between 20 and 50 attendees, representing a significant reduction compared with traditional banquets of over 100 guests. At the same time, wedding planning timelines have shortened. While venues were previously booked around a year in advance, most current enquiries are now made three to six months before the wedding date. In some cases, particularly for small-scale light weddings, venue searches begin as little as one to three months prior to the event.

Market observers note that younger generations place greater emphasis on atmosphere and personalised experiences. As a result, many couples are opting for simpler yet distinctive wedding formats in place of traditional, highly structured ceremonies. This shift has contributed to growing demand for flexible and customisable banquet venues.

Separately, Runhotel.hk has observed a marked increase in enquiries from small and medium-sized enterprises regarding spring dinner banquets in recent months, as the Lunar New Year approaches. These enquiries are primarily focused on venues that offer flexible buyout arrangements and moderate capacity, catering to companies that prefer a streamlined event format while maintaining a strong social and dining atmosphere.

Hong Kong Banquet Market Shifts Toward Smaller-Scale Events, Runhotel.hk Data Shows
Hong Kong Banquet Market Shifts Toward Smaller-Scale Events, Runhotel.hk Data Shows

Runhotel.hk stated that platform data indicates the banquet market is moving toward greater “lightweight” and “flexible” solutions. Whether for weddings or corporate gatherings, demand for adaptable arrangements and diversified banquet formats continues to rise.

About Runhotel

Runhotel.hk is the only platform in Hong Kong dedicated to publishing first-hand hotel deals, buffet promotions, and travel discount information. The platform is committed to helping readers access value-for-money offers while providing the market with insightful industry analysis and reference information.

About Runhotel Venue Search

Runhotel’s “Venue Search” platform is a one-stop banquet and venue enquiry service that aggregates information from hotels and a wide range of event venues across Hong Kong. It is designed to help couples and corporate users find suitable venues based on their specific needs. By simplifying the traditional venue search process, users can contact multiple venues or restaurants through a single enquiry form.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/runhotel.hk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runhotel.hk/

Hashtags: #LightWedding #Banquet

 

D3 Bio Receives U.S. FDA Clearance for Two IND Applications, Enabling Phase 1 Trial of D3S‑003 and Phase 2 Combination Study of Elisrasib (D3S‑001) with D3S‑002

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SHANGHAI, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — D3 Bio, a global clinical‑stage biotechnology company focused on developing transformative oncology therapeutics, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared two Investigational New Drug (IND) applications:

  • D3S‑003 — a KRAS G12D inhibitor — enabling the start of a Phase 1 first‑in‑human clinical trial.
  • A Phase 2 combination trial evaluating D3S‑001 (elisrasib), the Company’s next‑generation KRAS G12C inhibitor, in combination with D3S‑002, a selective oral ERK1/2 inhibitor.

D3S‑003 is an orally bioavailable, allele‑specific KRAS G12D inhibitor that targets both the GDP‑bound (OFF) and GTP‑bound (ON) conformations. Preclinical data demonstrate a differentiated, best‑in‑class profile with potent anti‑tumor activity, favorable drug‑like characteristics, and a promising safety margin. With FDA clearance received, D3 Bio will advance D3S‑003 into a Phase 1 first‑in‑human study in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring KRAS G12D mutations.

The newly cleared Phase 2 study will evaluate the combination of D3S‑001 and D3S‑002 in patients with KRAS G12C–mutant non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have progressed on prior KRAS G12C‑targeted therapies. The trial, expected to begin in the first half of 2026, will investigate safety, pharmacokinetics, and early efficacy signals with the goal of establishing a rational combination strategy to address resistance and deliver more durable benefit in KRAS‑driven cancers.

“We are excited to receive FDA IND clearance for D3S‑003 and to advance a Phase 2 combination clinical trial of elisrasib and D3S‑002,” said George Chen, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of D3 Bio. “With D3S‑003, we are bringing a differentiated KRAS G12D inhibitor into the clinic to address one of the most prevalent and challenging KRAS mutations. In parallel, the combination study of elisrasib and D3S‑002 pushes forward our next‑generation KRAS G12C strategy, particularly for patients who have progressed on prior KRAS G12C‑targeted therapies. Together, these milestones underline the momentum of our KRAS franchise and reinforce our commitment to delivering transformative therapies for patients with KRAS‑mutant cancers who urgently need new options.”

About Elisrasib (D3S-001)

Elisrasib is a next‑generation KRAS G12C inhibitor designed for rapid, complete, and selective target engagement. It covalently binds the GDP‑bound (OFF) form of KRAS G12C, effectively blocking nucleotide cycling and suppressing oncogenic signaling. Preclinical studies show robust potency, complete KRAS G12C engagement at clinically relevant exposures, and CNS penetration capability. Elisrasib is currently being evaluated globally in a Phase 2 monotherapy and combination trial across KRAS G12C–mutant solid tumors including NSCLC, CRC, and others.

Key publications:

  • Cancer Discovery (2024) 14(9):1675–1698
  • Nature Medicine (2025) 31(8):2768–2777

About D3S‑002

D3S‑002 is a selective ERK1/2 inhibitor strategically designed for combination approaches, providing vertical MAPK‑pathway inhibition to enhance efficacy and overcome acquired resistance, particularly in tumors previously treated with KRAS G12C inhibitors.

Key publication:

  • Cancer Res 1 April 2023; 83 (7_Supplement): 5501.

About D3S‑003

D3S‑003 is a differentiated KRAS G12D inhibitor targeting both OFF and ON conformations to address one of the most common KRAS mutations. The program aims to broaden D3 Bio’s multi‑allele KRAS franchise and deliver new solutions for the heterogeneous and evolving landscape of KRAS‑driven cancers.

About D3 Bio

D3 Bio is a global biotechnology company focused on the discovery, development, and registration of novel oncology and immunology therapies with first‑ or best‑in‑class potential. Guided by deep clinical insight and biomarker‑driven strategies, the Company is advancing a pipeline of programs targeting key oncogenic drivers and immune pathways. D3 Bio owns global rights to all its programs.

For more information, please visit www.d3bio.com

Harbour BioMed Acquires Common Stock in Spruce Biosciences, Deepening Strategic Collaboration

By
Advertorial Desk
-

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., ROTTERDAM, Netherlands and SHANGHAI, Jan. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142), a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of novel antibody therapeutics in immunology and oncology, today announced that through its wholly-owned subsidiary, it has exercised its warrant to acquire the common stock in Spruce Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPRB) (“Spruce”). Following this transaction, Harbour BioMed holds approximately 3.8% of the total outstanding shares of Spruce and approximately 3.1% of the fully diluted shares of Spruce[1].

The warrant was originally issued to Harbour BioMed’s subsidiary and other minority shareholders of HBM Alpha Therapeutics (“HBMAT”), an innovative biotechnology company incubated by Harbour BioMed, in connection with a license and collaboration agreement by and between HBMAT and Spruce. The collaboration aims to advance the development of SPR202 (formerly known as HBM9013 by Harbour BioMed), a potent and selective anti-corticotropin-releasing hormone monoclonal antibody for various disorders, including congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Dr. Jingsong Wang, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Harbour BioMed, stated: “This warrant exercise marks a significant milestone in our relationship with Spruce Biosciences. It moves us beyond a traditional licensor-licensee relationship to a truly aligned strategic partnership, reinforcing our shared commitment to accelerating the development of transformative therapies for patients worldwide.”

[1] Calculated based on the total outstanding shares and fully diluted shares of Spruce as of September 30, 2025.

About Harbour BioMed

Harbour BioMed (HKEX: 02142) is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of novel antibody therapeutics in immunology and oncology. The company is building a robust and differentiated pipeline through internal R&D capabilities, strategic global collaborations in co-discovery and co-development, and selective acquisitions.

Harbour BioMed’s proprietary antibody technology platform, Harbour Mice®, generates fully human monoclonal antibodies in both the conventional two heavy and two light chain (H2L2) format and the heavy chain-only (HCAb) format. Building upon HCAb antibodies, the HCAb-based immune cell engagers (HBICE®) bispecific antibody technology enables tumor-killing effects that traditional combination therapies cannot achieve. Additionally, the HCAb-based bispecific immune cell antagonist (HBICATM) technology empowers the development of innovative biologics for immunological and inflammatory diseases. By integrating Harbour Mice®, HBICE®, and HBICATM with a single B-cell cloning platform, Harbour BioMed has built a highly efficient and distinctive antibody discovery engine for developing next-generation therapeutic antibodies. For more information, please visit www.harbourbiomed.com.

1...1,4911,4921,493...6,702Page 1,492 of 6,702