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Two Men Arrested in Thailand Over Trafficking Lao Women for Sex Trade

Two suspects arrested over sex workers trafficking | eventesan.com

Thai immigration police arrested two men in Nong Khai last week for allegedly trafficking Lao women into the country for sex trade. 

Global CEOs see a ‘mild and short’ recession, yet optimistic about global economy over 3-year horizon, KPMG says

  • More than eight out of 10 surveyed CEOs anticipate a recession over the next 12 months, with more than half expecting it to be mild and short
  • Seven out of 10 believe a recession will disrupt anticipated growth
  • However, rising confidence in longer-term growth of the global economy and their own companies’ prospects

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – The KPMG 2022 CEO Outlook, which surveyed more than 1,300 CEOs at the world’s largest businesses about their strategies and outlook, reveals that 58 percent of leaders expect a recession to be mild and short. Fourteen percent of senior executives identify a recession among the most pressing concerns today — up slightly from early 2022 (9 percent), while pandemic fatigue tops the list (15 percent).

Over the next year, more than eight out of 10 (86 percent) global CEOs anticipate a recession to hit, with 71 percent predicting it will impact company earnings by up to 10 percent. A strong majority of senior executives believe that a recession will disrupt anticipated growth (73 percent). However, three-quarters (76 percent) have already taken precautionary steps ahead of a looming recession.

Despite those concerns, senior executives also feel markedly more confident about the resilience of the economy over the next six months (73 percent) than they did in February (60 percent), when KPMG surveyed 500 CEOs for its CEO Outlook Pulse survey. Furthermore, 71 percent of leaders are confident about the global economy’s growth prospects over the next three years (up from 60 percent in early 2022) and nearly nine in 10 (85 percent) are confident about their organization’s growth over the next 3 years.

Bill Thomas, Global Chairman & CEO, KPMG, said: “Once-in-a-generation issues — a global pandemic, geopolitical tensions, inflationary pressures and financial difficulties — have come in short succession and taken a toll on the optimism of global CEOs. While it’s unsurprising the economic climate is now a top concern for business leaders, it’s encouraging to see reasonable levels of confidence among executives in their own companies and their longer-term prospects for growth.

“The events of recent years have created real turbulence for the business community. Our findings should provide some cautious optimism that, in contending with and overcoming these ordeals, executives are more confident in their companies’ resilience and are focused on mitigating some of the very real uncertainties we face today.”

Honson To, Chairman of KPMG China and Asia Pacific, said: “Four in five of the surveyed CEOs from China remain confident about the growth prospects of the local economy over the next three years, which is in line with last year’s figure. With the global economy currently facing significant uncertainty, economic growth is slowing and impacting on different areas ranging from strategies and operations to investments made in companies. Meanwhile, CEOs are proactively adopting various measures to strengthen the resilience of their companies to achieve growth in this constantly changing market environment. For example, digital transformation is being accelerated to enhance innovation and the agility of companies. By strengthening the synergy between environmental, social and governance (ESG) and corporate development strategies, companies are aiming to improve their financial results. To attract and retain high-quality talent, CEOs are also increasing the core competencies of their organisations.”

ADDITIONAL FINDINGS:

Hiring freezes and headcount reductions under heavy consideration by CEOs

With continued economic turmoil, there are signs that the Great Resignation could be cooling down, with 39 percent of CEOs having already implemented a hiring freeze, and 46 percent considering downsizing their workforce over the next six months. However, the three-year view is more optimistic with only 9 percent expecting a further reduced headcount.

Uncertainty fueling long-term digital transformation

While current uncertainty is driving CEOs to continue to prioritise digital transformation, 40 percent of businesses have paused their digital transformation strategies and another 37 percent plan to take such steps in the next six months.

In the longer-term, more than a quarter believe that advancing digitalisation and business connectivity is also vital to achieving growth objectives over the next three years. Seventy-four percent also agree that their organisation’s digital and ESG strategic investments are inextricably linked.

Evolving focus toward reputational and technological risks

Emerging and disruptive technology is perceived to be the top risk to business growth over the next three years. In addition, CEOs have identified several other areas as top risks to growth: reputation, regulatory and operational issues, and climate change.

Reputational risk — such as a misalignment with customer or public sentiment — is raising more concern among CEOs compared to early 2022 (10 percent in August vs. 3 percent in February).

Cyber security no longer corporations’ biggest threat, with more companies prepared for attacks

Cyber security has dropped from the top five risks to growth over the past year, with only 6 percent of CEOs naming it as their top risk (17 percent in February 2022). However, the cyber environment is evolving with 77 percent saying their organization views information security as a strategic function and as a potential source of competitive advantage. Geopolitical uncertainty is also raising concerns of corporate cyber attacks, according to 7 of 10 CEOs (73 percent).

Nearly three-quarters of organizations (72 percent) have a plan to handle ransomware attacks. However, more CEOs recognise that they are under-prepared for a cyber attack with nearly a quarter (24 percent) admitting so in 2022, compared to 13 percent in 2021.

Stakeholder pressure increasing accountability in ESG

When asked what their top challenge in communicating ESG performance to stakeholders was, nearly one-fifth (17 percent) of CEOs indicated it was stakeholder skepticism around greenwashing, up from 8 percent in 2021. More than one-third (38 percent) of CEOs say their organisations struggle to articulate a compelling ESG story. Nearly three-quarters of respondents (72 percent) also believe that stakeholder scrutiny of ESG issues — gender equality, climate impacts etc. — will continue to accelerate.

On talent, compared to early 2022, more C-suite executives believe that having the right talent and skills is also key to achieving net zero — or similar — ambitions. Nearly a quarter (22 percent) say a lack of skills and expertise is hindering the implementation of solutions — an increase from 16 percent earlier this year.

Economic pressure slowing ESG ambitions

Global CEOs recognise the importance of ESG initiatives to their businesses, especially when it comes to improving financial performance and driving growth. In fact, 69 percent of senior executives noted greater demand from stakeholders for increased reporting and transparency on ESG — 58 percent in 2021.

Nearly half (45 percent) of CEOs agree that progress on ESG improves corporate financial performance, an increase from 37 percent just a year ago. However, as economic uncertainty continues, half are pausing or reconsidering their existing or planned ESG efforts in the next six months, and 34 percent have already done so.

The full findings of the KPMG CEO Outlook survey include qualitative interviews with the CEOs of: AMP, Bankinter, Fujitsu, Ricoh Europe, Tata Steel and ServiceNow.

To view additional information about the survey please visit http://www.kpmg.com/CEOoutlook. You can also follow @KPMG on LinkedIn and Twitter for updates and the conversation with #CEOoutlook.

Notes to Editors:

About KPMG’s CEO Outlook
The 8th edition of KPMG CEO Outlook, conducted with 1,325 CEOs between 12 July and August 24, 2022, provides unique insight into the mindset, strategies and planning tactics of CEOs not only comparable to pre-pandemic to today, but also from KPMG’s CEO Pulse Survey conducted between 12 January and 9 February, 2022, with 500 CEOs.

All respondents have annual revenues over US$500M and a third of the companies surveyed have more than US$10B in annual revenue. The survey included leaders from 11 key markets (Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Spain, UK and US) and 11 key industry sectors (asset management, automotive, banking, consumer and retail, energy, infrastructure, insurance, life sciences, manufacturing, technology, and telecommunications). NOTE: some figures may not add up to 100 percent due to rounding.

Hashtag: #KPMG

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

About KPMG China

KPMG China has offices located in 30 cities with over 14,000 partners and staff, in Beijing, Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Dongguan, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Nanjing, Nantong, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xiamen, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. Working collaboratively across all these offices, KPMG China can deploy experienced professionals efficiently, wherever our client is located.

KPMG is a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 144 countries and territories with more than 236,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.

KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in mainland China. KPMG was also the first among the Big Four in mainland China to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership, as of 1 August 2012. Additionally, the Hong Kong firm can trace its origins to 1945. This early commitment to this market, together with an unwavering focus on quality, has been the foundation for accumulated industry experience, and is reflected in KPMG’s appointment for multidisciplinary services (including audit, tax and advisory) by some of China’s most prestigious companies.

Yuexiu Transport Proposes to Acquire 100% of Equity Interests in Lanwei Expressway Company

The Company Makes Progress with GNSR Expressway R&E

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited (“Yuexiu Transport” or the “Company”; stock code: 01052) announced that a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company has entered into an agreement to acquire 100% of equity interests in the target company which operates Lanwei Expressway in Henan Province (“Target Company”) from Guangzhou Yuexiu Holdings Limited at a total consideration of RMB1.098 billion. The Target Company operates the expressway and is entitled to its toll collection right. The Company intends to finance approximately 60% of the total consideration by bank loan for acquisition and approximately 40% by internal resources. The acquisition is subject to approval by independent shareholders. Meanwhile, the Company’s GNSR Expressway is making further progress with its R&E Project. As a preliminary step of the R&E Project, an agreement on land expropriation has been entered into today. Upon the completion of the R&E Project, the Company may be able to extend its operating rights of GNSR Expressway for a period of up to 25 years.

Expanding business presence in Central China and directly enhancing toll revenue and profit contribution

Lanwei Expressway has been in operation for nearly 17 years since it opened to traffic in 2005. It has a total mileage of 61.03 km while the expressway networks connecting to Lanwei Expressway and the nearby expressway networks are all very mature and stable. Moreover, Lanwei Expressway has a significant geographical advantage, and is an important part of the expressway network planned by Henan. It is an important component of Lannan Expressway, one of the 16 expressways running from north to south vertically under the expressway network of Henan. It connects the section from Wanglou to Lankao of the Rilan Expressway in the north. It connects Zhengmin Expressway, Daguang Expressway and Shangdeng Expressway. It also connects Weixu Expressway, which is wholly owned by the Company, in the south, and serves as a highway from the hinterland of the Central Chinese Plains to the coastal areas of Shandong Province.

The Company is optimistic about the economic development in Central China in the long run. The acquisition of Lanwei Expressway aligns with the Company’s strategy of developing in the Central China region and the Company believes that Lanwei Expressway, located in the core development areas of the Central Chinese Plain city clusters, will continue to benefit from the regional strategic developments such as the “Rise of Central China” as well as the construction of the Central Chinese Plain city clusters and the Zhengzhou Metropolitan Area. At the same time, the connection between Lanwei Expressway and Weixu Expressway fosters a more united and consistent approach of operation management and facilitates the Company to set up a district-based management and control model, which can provide economies of scale and enhance management efficiency.

Lanwei Expressway is a project with considerable benefits. The Target Company recorded an audited revenue of approximately RMB309 million and a profit before tax of approximately RMB36.011 million for the full year of 2021. The acquisition will expand the Company’s revenue stream. For the seven months ended 31 July 2022, the Target Company achieved an unaudited revenue of approximately RMB198 million, while its profit before tax for the same period rose to approximately RMB34.31 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 10.5% and 44.4% respectively.

Upon the completion of the acquisition, the toll mileage of the Company’s controlled expressways will increase from 495.2 km to 556.23 km, representing an increment of approximately 12.32%. In conclusion, the acquisition not only will help the Company increase its revenue, profitability and mileage, it will also help the Company optimize the regional presence of its expressway assets and raise revenue contribution from provinces in Central China, while scaling up its operation and enhancing its capability of sustainable development. The Company will continue to invest in its main business of toll expressways, with an aim to capitalize on opportunities arising from favorable policies, continuously optimize its asset portfolio, and improve its business model integrating “investment, financing, management and exit” on an ongoing basis, to create greater value and better returns for shareholders.

Making further progress in R&E Project, enhancing asset value for the long run

In order to relieve the traffic pressure and enhance the capacity of GNSR Expressway with an aim to support the government’s economic and infrastructure development plans in the Greater Bay Area, GNSR Company, an indirect subsidiary owned as to 60% by the Company, is going to undertake the GNSR Expressway R&E Project. As a preliminary step of the GNSR Expressway R&E Project, on 17 October 2022, GNSR Company has entered into the Baiyun District Land Expropriation Works Agreement with Baiyun Land Acquisition Office, for the land expropriation arrangement to be undertaken by Baiyun Land Acquisition Office in Baiyun District in connection with preliminary works for the GNSR Expressway. The total compensation amount for the expropriation of the relevant land is RMB50 million, and shall be paid by GNSR Company.

As a core component of the national expressway network and a key part of Guangzhou’s expressway network planning, GNSR Expressway is crucial to the expressway network of the Greater Bay Area. The traffic volume of GNSR Expressway has become substantially saturated, resulting in frequent traffic congestion. With the continuous growth of traffic volume in Guangzhou, actual traffic volume has exceeded the existing capacity of GNSR Expressway, and there is an apparent urgency for the reconstruction and expansion of GNSR Expressway. The preliminary works of the GNSR Expressway R&E Project will commence by the end of November 2022, while the subsequent major works are expected to commence in June 2023, with the construction works to be completed in June 2028. The total investment amount of the GNSR Expressway R&E Project is estimated to be approximately RMB17 billion. The total capital contribution of the Company in respect of the Project is expected to be approximately RMB3.06 billion, which will be contributed to GNSR Company based on the construction progress during the construction period between 2022 and 2028.

The GNSR Expressway R&E Project will significantly improve traffic conditions, enhance service standards, reduce traffic accidents, and ensure safe travel. Through the GNSR Expressway R&E Project, the Company believes it can effectively improve the asset quality of GNSR Expressway, extend the remaining comprehensive concession period, expand the scale of the Company’s expressway assets, enhance the future development capacity of its main toll road business, and further strengthen its core advantages in investment, construction and operation of toll roads.

The Board expects that upon the completion of the GNSR Expressway R&E Project, the Company should be able to obtain an approval for the extension of the operating rights of GNSR Expressway for a period of up to 25 years until 2053. The final toll period extension is subject to the approval of the Guangdong Provincial People’s Government.

The Board considers that the GNSR Expressway R&E Project is of strategic significance to the future growth and development of the Company and is in line its development plan. As a preliminary step of the GNSR Expressway R&E Project, the Baiyun District Land Expropriation Works Agreement and its implementation are fair and reasonable and on normal commercial terms. They are in the interests of the Company and its shareholders in general.

Hashtag: #YuexiuTransport

About Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited

Yuexiu Transport Infrastructure Limited is principally engaged in investment, operation and management of toll expressways, bridges and port in Guangdong Province and other high-growth provinces in mainland China. The Company will seize the strategic opportunities for mergers and acquisitions of expressway assets to establish a solid presence in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and other regions that will benefit from the continuous urbanization and rapid industrialization. In terms of its asset portfolio, mature projects such as GNSR Expressway, Suiyuenan Expressway and Weixu Expressway are the stable profit contributors of the Company. Other projects acquired in recent years have given new impetus to the Company’s growth driver. On 14 December 2021, the Company successfully spun off Han-Xiao Expressway, which was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange as a publicly offered Infrastructure REIT. Han-Xiao Expressway is no longer a subsidiary of the Company. At present, the Company has invested in and is operating a total of 16 projects encompassing toll roads, bridges and a port, including 9 in which the Company has controlling equity stakes and 7 which the Company has invested in through associates and joint ventures. The total mileage of the Company’s toll expressways and bridges attributable to its equity interests is about 495 km.

French dairy brand Elle & Vire × popular food outlets Burst the taste buds on the French sentiment

Add a little flavour to autumn life with limited offers!

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – The cool breeze of the fall reminds people of the romance along the streets in France, as well as the unforgettable French dishes with exquisite shapes and meticulous cooking. Elle & Vire, a professional dairy product brand from France, attaches importance to quality and selection of food materials. This time, the brand partners with 3 popular food outlets that share the same values to launch a joint discount promotion, in hopes that everyone can enjoy their signature items with the special offer simultaneously. Get ready to indulge in French sophistication this fall!

Elle-ENG.jpg

Discover the secret recipe of popular food outlets

When it comes to French delicacies, it is natural to come up with their completion of color, flavor and taste. Besides a highly “IGable” exquisite appearance, French dishes always make use of the simplest and natural ingredients to create a rich and refined taste. Be it a simple croissant or a delicate dessert, it all starts with choosing the highest quality butter and cream. That’s why Elle & Vire, the brand originated from Normandy which is famous for its high quality dairy products, has joined forces with several popular bakeries and restaurants to reveal their secret recipes for making their signature French-style dishes.

LUCULLUS CACAO
Signature Chocolate Croffle go viral in Hong Kong

LUCULLUS CACAO, which has several concept cafes, took on a new image recently. It has successfully captured the hearts of dessert fans with its signature Croffle series and unique CACAO series of special drinks. The café’s popularity soars due to the signature chocolate Croffle that combines the classic French croissant with waffle. Jeremy, the head of the R&D department, pointed out that to make the waffle’s layering more outstanding, the first and foremost is to use high quality flour and butter from France. By using Elle & Vire butter slices for pastry, not only can they bring the original French flavor, but also highlight the butter flavor and make the layers of the croffle more distinct and crispier. “Adding our chocolate, cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts to the roasted Croffle will bring an appealing and rich taste. It complements our special drink, CACAO Cola, which is made with the essence of cocoa,” added Jeremy.

Other Recommendations: Strawberry Waffle, Creme Brulee Waffle, Assorted Croissants, CACAO Tonic

LUCULLUS CACAO’s signature croffle is baked into a waffle shape with French croissants. It is fragrant on the outside and crunchy inside. Served with different ingredients and ice cream, the taste will be more layered and unforgettable.

MAISON KAYSER
The most authentic French Delicacy

MAISON KAYSER, a bakery from France, has emerged rapidly in Hong Kong in recent years, and become a must-visit for French residents in Hong Kong and local puff pastry lovers. The croissants are their signature item and sell over a thousand each day. They are made with Elle & Vire butter slices. Each croissant has a full shape and distinct layers, with a delicate honeycomb-like structure inside. By biting into the croissant, you can first feel the crispiness, followed by the butter flavor hitting your taste buds. No wonder a croissant and a cup of black coffee are the best to start a day for the French. Other than the awesome croissants, you cannot miss their classic French cakes. Despite its simple appearance, the ingredients are exquisite. The Chocolate & Hazelnut Cake is particularly popular among office ladies and has become the bakery’s signature. Divy Lorho, the French Executive Pastry Chef, said that the perfect balance of sweetness and the taste of other ingredients in this cake is the result of numerous experiments. One of his best-kept secrets is the Elle & Vire Whipping Cream. It is the cream on the top layer, which is made of Whipping Cream and chocolate, that gives a rich and smooth texture with aromatic dairy flavor perfectly balanced with the crispy cake base. Every bite is an enjoyment!

Other Recommendations: French Lemon Tart, Raspberry Pistachio Tart

MAISON KAYSER carefully selects ingredients in both puff pastries and cakes. Chocolate & Hazelnut Cake has a crispy base with a rich and creamy topping. The contrast makes the delicacy more sophisticated.

sensory ZERO
Original Flavor of Healthy Veggies

sensory ZERO, which always aims to bring out the original taste of food, provides nutritious food and high quality coffee to urbanites who are buried in their work every day. While making the popular meat-free spaghetti, the brand not only takes heed of the seasonality of the ingredients, but the sauce is also the key. Making a tasty vegetarian dish is challenging to get the right taste and creaminess of the sauce without overpowering the taste of the veggies. “We don’t use a lot of seasonings, rather just a pinch of salt to bring out the taste. We use Elle & Vire cream to make our creamy sauce for the meat-free vegetarian spaghetti because the cream is clean without unnecessary additives, and with perfect dairy taste and creaminess to enhance the vegetarian dishes,” said Dickson, the Group Executive Chef.

Other Recommendations: Carbonara Pasta with Onsen Egg, Pan-Fried Asparagus Scallops and Risotto with Basil Sauce and Cream Sauce, Crazy Chocolate, Beautiful Skin Tea

sensory ZERO is famous for its healthy food and leisurely boutique coffee. When cooking, it focuses on using ingredients from the brand with similar value to ensure high quality and healthy food for diners.

French Promo in the fall

LUCULLUS CACAO

Within the promotion period, you get a 10% discount on signature Croffle series in Olympian City store.
– Promotion period: 2022.10.10 – 2022.11.30
– In case of any dispute, LUCULLUS CACAO reserves the right of final decision

Address: Shop G28, G/F, Olympian City 2, Olympic, Kowloon
Tel: 3480 0397

MAISON KAYSER

Within the promotion period, enjoy 20% off on all cake items for any purchase amount of HK$100 or above.
– Promotion period: 2022.10.10 – 2022.11.30
– This offer only applies to customer who have liked MAISON KAYSER Hong Kong’s social media page
– This offer does not apply to MAISON KAYSER e-shop
– In case of any dispute, MAISON KAYSER reserves the right of final decision.

Address: G/F, 248 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai
Tel: 3107 1380

Address: 38 Caine Road, Mid-Levels
Tel: 2178 2566

Address: 60 Ventris Road, Happy Valley
Tel: 3107 0008

Address: G/F, 8 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan
Tel: 2177 6122

Address: G/F, 70 Queen’s Road East, Admiralty
Tel: 2177 6779

Address: Shop 5, G/F, The Hudson, 11 Davis Street, Kennedy Town, Western District
Tel: 2577 1980

Address: G/F, 75 High Street, Sai Ying Pun, Western District
Tel: 2650 9928

Address: Shop 139, 1/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Road, Central
Tel: 9335 1418

Address: Kiosk A, 1/F, Dorset House, Taikoo Place, 979 King’s Road, Quarry Bay
Tel: 5994 0238

Address: G/F, Marina 8, 8 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang
Tel: 2893 6188

Address: Shot G01 & G02, G/F, 8 Minden Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 2869 6122

Address: Kiosk, 8/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 5331 7315

Address: Shop 9A, G/F, Papillons Square, 21 Tong Chun Street, Tseung Kwan O
Tel: 3621 0237

sensory ZERO

Within the promotion period, when order Green choice pasta or Green choice Japanese rice risotto, you will get the free soup or salad.

Terms & conditions:

  1. Applicable on Green choice pasta or Green choice Japanese rice risotto à la carte.
  2. Offer is not applicable on purchase of any gift card, voucher, designated products, events, coffee workshop/course.
  3. 10% service charge applies based on original price.
  4. This offer is valid for use in sensory ZERO shops only.
  5. sensory ZERO reserve the right on changing the offer content without prior notice.
  6. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other promotional coupons/offers and cannot be exchanged for cash
  7. This Offers valid from 10 October 2022 to 30 November 2022.
  8. sensory ZERO reserve the right to exercise this offer should there be any disputes.


Address: Shop G01, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang
Tel: 2511 6011

Address : Shop G104, Eslite Spectrum, G/F, Cityplaza, 18 Taikoo Shing Road, Tai Koo
Tel: 3419 1133

Address : Lane Crawford, G/F, Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel, Harbour City, 3 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Tel: 2118 6090

Address : Shop G29, G/F, Olympian City, 1 Hoi Wang Road, Tai Kok Tsui
Tel: 3547 2358

Address : Shop 116, 1/F, Kwun Tong Plaza, 68 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong
Tel: 3547 2358

Addres : Shop G01, G/F, 17W Building, 17 Science Park W Ave, Sha Tin
Tel: 2812 2021

Address : Shop 706, 7/F, New Town Plaza Phase 1, 18 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin
Tel: 2831 0880

Hashtag: #ElleetVire #ElleetVirexLucullusCacao #ElleetVirexMaisonKayser #ElleetVirexsensoryZERO #Luculluscacao #cafe #sensoryzero #frenchpastry #maisonkayserhk #hkfrench

About Elle & Vire

Elle & Vire is a worldwide renowned dairy brand originated from Normandy, an exceptional region in France for dairy production since 1947. With over 70 years of dairy know how and expertise, the brand has been supplying high quality dairy products to professionals and consumers. In which the butter and cream are highly recognized and preferred by professional chefs and bakers.

For more information, please go to , or Facebook page:

DHL: Ocean freight rate moving towards manageable levels

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – The DHL Ocean Freight Market Update report is now available. Below are highlights of the latest developments of the global ocean freight market in this monthly analysis by DHL Global Forwarding.

  • A muted peak shipping season in 2022 has prompted a downward shift for freight rate levels as effective vessel supply increases, demand into some key import markets slows. “This year, we did not see the normal rush for space ahead of Golden Week when factories close in China,” said Kelvin Leung, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific.
  • Easing bottlenecks – According to maritime analysis firm Sea-Intelligence, 50 percent of the global port congestion that was tying up vessels at ports in January had been cleared by August. The release of this extra capacity has relieved physical shortages of capacity and added to downward pressure on spot freight rates which have been in decline on the major East-West trades since the second quarter.
  • “We’ve seen an easing of port congestion, although labour strikes at ports in the U.K. are causing some disruption and we’re still seeing vessel queues on the U.S. east coast which has offset improvements at U.S. west coast ports,” said Leung.
  • Demand outlook – The demand side outlook continues to weaken on war risk, skyrocketing energy costs, political instability and general inflation, all of which are now impacting overall consumer spending and thus trade volumes. The combination of a manufacturing sector in recession, and rising inflationary pressures would add further to concerns about the outlook for the eurozone economy.
  • Meanwhile, the closure of factories during China’s October Golden Week holiday along with the Chinese government’s continuing zero Covid-19 policy have impacted production, reducing demand for shipping capacity. Drewry has now lowered its global container handling demand outlook for 2022 and 2023 to 1.5 percent, and to 1.9 percent, respectively, on the back of heavily downgraded GDP predictions.
  • Service reliability – The more favourable supply-demand balance for shipping’s customers has led to a global schedule reliability improvement of 5.8 percentage points in August compared to July, while the average delay for late vessel arrivals also dropped sharply, according to Sea-Intelligence.

The DHL Ocean Freight Market Update is a monthly report by DHL Global Forwarding which tracks and analyses the latest developments of the global ocean freight market. Read full analysis on DHL’s Logistics of Things here.

Hashtag: #DHL

DHL – The logistics company for the world

DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 380,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of Deutsche Post DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 81 billion euros in 2021. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. Deutsche Post DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

HAI ROBOTICS brings cutting-edge intelligent logistics solutions to Southeast Asia with Singapore demo center

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – HAI ROBOTICS, the pioneer in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) systems for warehouse logistics, has opened its first demo center in Southeast Asia at Singapore Polytechnic, in Singapore.

Caption
Intelligent logistics solutions are critical for Singapore’s market as it transforms into a regional and global e-commerce hub

Launched in September, the center showcases its intelligent logistics solutions to the Southeast Asian marketplace through its ACR systems, centered around the HAIPICK A42 Multi-Layer ACR, and multi-function HAISTATION workstations, key components of the HAIPICK System, the world’s first ACR system. The demo center also signals HAI ROBOTICS expanded commitment to offering in-depth solutions and support for its customers in the region.

Southeast Asia’s E-Commerce logistics market is growing the fastest in the world. According to market research firm Technavio, the region is projected to grow by $58.93 billion during 2022-2026, with a CAGR of 20.16% during that time. Increasing online sales have been driving growth in warehouse logistics, with the region primed for the integration of tech-enabled logistical systems.

Despite the growth, logistics warehouses in Southeast Asia face increasing challenges. For instance in Singapore, high land prices, accelerating high wages and steep operational costs have become a constant challenge for warehouses and factories. The necessity of reducing operating costs and improving efficiency is driving organizations to consider the intelligent transformation of their facilities. Meanwhile, countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam are facing a lack of skilled manpower and high turnover rates due to unsafe and grueling warehouse conditions. Even with low manpower costs, these countries still experience low picking and sorting accuracy in their operations, with error rates reaching up to 30% – 40%, according to HAI ROBOTICS research.

With the launch of the Singapore Demo Center, HAI ROBOTICS is meeting the growing demand for intelligent warehouse solutions in Southeast Asia, while providing long-term customer care for clients in the region.

HAI ROBOTICS independently developed its ACR technology in 2015, followed closely by the introduction of its HAIPICK System, the first ACR system in the world. With the HAIPICK System, clients have seen storage density improve by 80-400% along with a 3 to 4-fold increase in worker picking efficiency.

The HAIPICK A42 Multi-Layer ACR featured in the Singapore demo center brings flexible and scalable solutions along with increased operational efficiency while enabling increased storage density. It features:

  • Picking and storage up to a height of 5.2 meters
  • Highly efficient operation- Handles up to 9 cases simultaneously
  • Flexible payload dimensions- Supports separate and mixed picking of plastic totes and carton boxes
  • CE/CNTRL certification, ensuring a high standard of safe operation

The demo center also features the HAIPORT-powered Workstation for flexible, adjustable case loading and unloading, and the On-Conveyor Picking Workstation for a more efficient and convenient picking process.

Concurrent to the demo center’s opening, HAI ROBOTICS has also launched a video titled ‘Warehousing Evolution.’ The video presents the pain points of warehousing and logistics in a humorous way while proposing ACR Systems to reduce costs, improve efficiency, accuracy and flexibility.

Hashtag: #HAIROBOTICS #Logistics #Singapore #AI

About HAI ROBOTICS

Established in 2016, HAI ROBOTICS, the pioneer in Autonomous Case-handling Robot (ACR) systems, provides efficient, intelligent and flexible solutions for warehouses and factories. We aim to reduce our customer’s storage footprint and operating costs, improve warehouse productivity and maximize workflow efficiency with increased speed & order accuracy.

HAI ROBOTICS’ solutions are helping warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing facilities advance their operations in over 30 countries and regions worldwide. 3PL, e-commerce, apparel, retail, grocery, automotive & manufacturing, electronics, and pharmaceutical industries are already turning to HAI ROBOTICS to enhance and accelerate their operations.

Lao Start Up Fest to be Hosted in December

Lao Startup Fest organizers at a press conference.

The 3rd edition of Lao Startup Fest 2022 will be held between 16-18 December, with the aim of improving the development of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Singapore’s top 100 companies outperform the global average in sustainability reporting, while the Asia-Pacific leads regions with 89 percent of its companies reporting on ESG

  • The latest findings from KPMG reveal that sustainability reporting has grown steadily, with 79 percent of leading global companies providing sustainability reports
  • In Singapore, sustainability reporting rate grew by 19 percent to 100 percent in 2022, up from 81 percent in 2020 for the country’s top 100 companies.
  • There has been marked improvements in companies reporting carbon reduction targets, but action remains too slow in key related areas, with less than half of companies currently recognising biodiversity loss as a risk
  • Among the thousands of reports analysed, less than half of the world’s largest companies are providing reporting on ‘social’ and ‘governance’ components of ESG

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 18 October 2022 – Singapore’s top 100 companies[1] have outperformed the global average in sustainability reporting for six out of 12 indicators (see Table 1) in KPMG’s 2022 Survey of Sustainability Reporting which surveys the largest 100 companies (termed as ‘N100’) in each of 58 countries or jurisdictions every two years, or 5,800 companies in total. These Singapore companies have also increased their sustainability reporting rate to 100 percent in 2022, up 19 percent compared to 2020 – higher than the 2022 global average which is 79 percent.

The Asia Pacific region leads with 89 percent of its companies undertaking sustainability reporting. This is followed by Europe (82 percent), the Americas (74 percent) and the Middle East and Africa (56 percent). Regional variations were observed in the contents of sustainability reporting, largely driven by top-of-mind concerns and regulatory differences. While North America (97 percent) and Western Europe (85 percent) emerged with the highest overall reporting rates, the Middle East (55 percent) and Asia Pacific region (30 percent) stand out on integrated reporting. Meanwhile, Latin America (50 percent) stands out on biodiversity reporting and Africa stands out on social and governance reporting (51 percent and 49 percent, respectively).

Globally, there has been a steady and consistent increase in reporting from the N100. Ten years ago, around two-thirds of the N100 group of companies provided sustainability reports and the figure now stands at 79 percent. Meanwhile, the world’s top 250 companies – known as the G250 (the G250 sample comprises the top 250 companies by revenue based on the 2021 Fortune 500 ranking) – are almost all providing some form of sustainability reporting, with 96 percent of this group reporting on sustainability or ESG matters. However, the findings reveal that there is still a disconnect between the urgency of addressing climate change and social equity, and the ‘hard results’ provided by businesses.

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) remains the most dominant standard used around the world. Singapore is a leader in the uptake with 100 percent of its N100 companies reporting against GRI standards and 85 percent reporting against Singapore stock exchange guidelines.

Specifically, Singapore companies have scored better than the global average for material topics identified, reporting of carbon reduction targets, the inclusion of environmental, social and governance (ESG) information in their annual reports, acknowledging climate change as a financial risk to business, and in terms of governance when it came to appointing a member of the board or leadership team to be responsible for sustainability as well as including sustainability within compensation.

Cherine Fok, Partner, KPMG ESG, KPMG in Singapore said, “In this latest report, Singapore takes the lead for sustainability reporting globally. This is an encouraging indicator of progress and reflects the country’s determination to consistently deliver on earlier climate commitments. Recent moves by the regulators to further refine and enforce reporting requirements were decisive, steering companies towards the adoption of best practice disclosures backed by strategic business planning and operational transformation. The regulations were complemented simultaneously by widespread capacity building efforts, and the introduction of a comprehensive series of initiatives that extended support to businesses as they grapple with the challenges pose by the net zero transition. These initiatives include revisions to carbon tax rates to better consider the gravity of the issue, new green policies and incentives to drive commercially scalable solutions and technology adoption that facilitated measurement, reporting and verification of sustainability disclosures. With the groundwork being laid, we can look forward to a deepening in the next phases of sustainability reporting, with more focus placed on complex aspects such as climate impact modelling, analysis of the socio-economic impacts arising from climate change, and a clearer link between sustainability performance and enterprise value.”

Table 1: Results of sustainability key data points by N100 companies in Singapore versus global average

No Key data points Global average Singapore
Results
1 ANNUAL REPORT

(number of companies that include ESG/Sustainability information in their annual report)

60% 68%

Medium/High

2 INTEGRATED REPORT

(number of companies that state that it follows the International <Integrated Reporting > Framework)

22% 9%

Medium/High

3 ASSURANCE

(number of companies that seek assurance for their ESG/Sustainability information)

47% 26%

Medium/Low

4 MATERIALITY

(number of companies that identify material topics)

71% 100%

High

5 SDG

(number of companies that identify specific Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) it considers most relevant to the business)

71% 69%

Medium/High

6 CARBON TARGET

(number of companies that report carbon reduction targets)

71% 78%

High

7 BIODIVERSITY

(number of companies that recognize the loss of biodiversity/nature as a risk to the business)

40% 34%

Medium/High

8 CLIMATE RELATED RISK

(number of companies that acknowledge climate change as a financial risk to business)

46% 49%

Medium/High

9 SOCIAL RELATED RISK

(number of companies that acknowledge social elements as a financial risk to business)

43% 34

Medium/Low

10 GOVERNANCE RELATED RISK

(number of companies that acknowledge governance elements as a financial risk to business)

41% 41%

Medium/High

11 GOVERNANCE

(number of companies with dedicated member of the Board and/or leadership team responsible for sustainability)

34% 35%

Medium/High

12 GOVERNANCE

(number of companies that included sustainability within compensation)

24% 67%

High

Legend:

For each data point, the country has been ranked and grouped into one of four quartiles:

  • Top quartile (High) = Countries ranked 1 – 15
  • Middle – high quartile (Medium/High) = Countries ranked 16 – 30
  • Low – middle quartile (Medium/Low) = Countries ranked 31 – 44
  • Bottom quartile (Low) = Countries ranked 45 – 58

Climate continues to dominate

The latest findings reveal that businesses are increasingly recognising that they have a role to play in helping to achieve climate targets, with an impressive 71 percent of the N100 globally and 80 percent of the G250 setting carbon reduction targets. Reassuringly, most companies recognise that they must reduce their own emissions to achieve their carbon targets rather than rely solely on carbon credits. The number of companies reporting against Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) guidance has nearly doubled, leading to better climate disclosure.

However, the report also reveals some key areas where faster progress is required. Only 64 percent of G250 companies formally acknowledge that climate change is a risk to their business, and less than half of companies currently recognise biodiversity loss as a risk.

Sustainability reporting through the ESG lens

This year’s report has also highlighted some further challenges the world’s major companies are facing reporting on ESG. Among the thousands of reports analysed, less than half of the world’s largest companies provided reporting on ‘social’ components (e.g. modern slavery; diversity, inclusion and equity; community engagement; and labor issues), despite an increasing awareness of the link between the climate crisis and social inequality. At the same time, less than half of companies disclosed their governance risks (e.g., corruption bribery and anti-corruption, anti-competitive behavior or political contributions.) In addition, only one third of N100 companies have a dedicated member of their leadership team responsible for sustainability and less than one-quarter of these companies link sustainability to compensation among business leadership.

ESG disclosures continue to be overwhelmingly narrative-driven, rather than publishing quantitative or financial data regarding impacts. This is clearly an area of improvement for companies around the world.

On a positive note, around three-quarters of reporting companies conducted materiality assessments and are disclosing material topics.

John McCalla-Leacy, KPMG’s Global Head of ESG, said:

“Last year, scientists from the IPCC warned the world was on ‘Code Red’ for human driven global warming. It was followed by a number of commitments from political leaders at COP26. As we head towards COP27, immediate action is now needed to avert human and environmental tragedies on an ever-increasing scale.

“KPMG’s 2022 Survey of Sustainability Reporting reveals regulation is making a difference. My view is that it is critical to provide guidance and direction to companies and help drive cultural change. Business leaders have accepted they have a responsibility and role to play in helping to slow and potentially avert the unfolding crisis. What’s needed more than ever is globally consistent standards from governments and a collective effort from the world’s major companies to report on all aspects of ESG, recognizing the clear links between the environment and wider social equality issues.”

Jennifer Shulman, report co-author and Global Lead for KPMG’s Global ESG Advisory Hub, commented:

“The COP26 summit offered the world a human face to the unfolding climate tragedy facing the planet. Representatives from some of the world’s most remote and heavily impacted nations and territories were present to share their story. But, despite that growing recognition of the human side of ESG, our latest survey continues to highlight a real challenge facing the C Suite – which is in how they demonstrate and reflect on their company’s wider societal impact.

“We should start to see some progress over the coming year as organizations like the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) roll out new global standards for reporting. But, companies shouldn’t wait to be told. Leadership from the top is essential. The global pandemic and COP26 shone a light on the growing inequalities in society. Many major organizations are responding with proactive action that should be applauded. We’re seeing far greater action on gender equality, pay equity and community impact assessments. It’s time for organizations to be transparent in their reporting to highlight what they’ve achieved and hold themselves to account on areas where further progress is required.”

A call to action

New ESG requirements are driving a different perspective and set of conversations in Boardrooms, driving business leaders to stretch their thinking and ensure that from the top down they are making strategic decisions that take climate and broader ESG considerations more into account.

The KPMG report outlines the tangible ways businesses can invest in sustainability reporting:

  • Understanding stakeholder expectations
  • Incorporating materiality assessments into reporting
  • Aligning reporting to mandatory or voluntary frameworks
  • Investing in quality non-financial data management
  • Understanding the impact of climate change and social issues on business

The pressure on businesses to report on non-financial metrics is only expected to grow as regulations evolve. By acting now, companies can make informed choices to drive the change that is much needed to be a good corporate citizen in today’s world.

[1] These are the top 100 companies based on a recognised national source or, where a ranking was not available or was incomplete, by market capitalisation or a similar measure. All company ownership structures were included in the research: publicly listed and state, private, and family-owned.

Hashtag: #KPMG

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

About KPMG’s Survey of Sustainability Reporting

First published in 1993, this 2022 survey marks the twelfth edition, examining sustainability reporting trends around the world. Over the past two decades, sustainability reporting has been largely voluntary, so the purpose of this survey was to offer meaningful insights about how to improve levels of disclosure by business leaders, sustainability professionals, and company boards.

Today, we are on the precipice of adopting mandatory and regulated sustainability reporting and the reporting landscape is poised to change drastically. The findings in this report reflect on the current state of reporting today, the gaps that should be filled to meet regulatory requirements and the overarching business strategy considerations that can allow companies to meet increasing regulatory expectations while still creating impact and generating value.

About KPMG International

KPMG is a global organization of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 144 countries and territories with more than 236,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.

KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

For more detail about our structure, please visit kpmg.com/governance.