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Myanmar Junta Declares Ceasefire as Quake Survivors Plead for Aid

Myanmar Junta Declares Ceasefire as Quake Survivors Plead for Aid
An elderly earthquake survivor rests on an outdoor bed in the compound of a hospital in Sagaing on April 2, 2025, five days after a major earthquake struck central Myanmar. (Photo by Sai Aung MAIN / AFP)

AFP – On 2 April, Myanmar’s junta announced a temporary ceasefire as the death toll from a devastating earthquake rose and desperate survivors pleaded for more help amid frantic scenes of aid distribution.

Trump’s New Reciprocal Tariffs Hit Laos, ASEAN Hard, Threatening Key Exports

More than 4,000 Lao nationals are among the over 1.4 million individuals in the United States with final deportation orders but not currently detained
US President Donald Trump speaks to journalists in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on January 30, 2025. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP)

Laos is among the countries most affected by the United States’ recent announcement of new reciprocal tariffs, which President Donald Trump unveiled on 2 April. This decision could have a severe impact on Laos’ economy and threaten its growing trade relationship with the U.S, according to economic experts.

Under President Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff policy, imports from Laos will face both a universal tariff and an additional reciprocal tariff.

Starting 5 April, a 10 percent universal tariff will be applied to all imports into the United States.

Additionally, a 48 percent reciprocal tariff will take effect on 9 April, specifically targeting imports from Laos. This combined approach will result in a total tariff of 58 percent on Lao imports, comprising the 10 percent universal tariff and the 48 percent reciprocal tariff. However, the White House calculates 95 percent as the total barrier to trade.

President Trump determined the 95 percent tariff rate by calculating each country’s trade deficit with the U.S. as a percentage of total U.S. imports from that country, incorporating both monetary tariffs and non-monetary trade barriers. He then imposed reciprocal tariffs at half these calculated rates, positioning them as a “kind” response to trade disparities.

This marks a shift that could spell new challenges for Laos’s agricultural, textile, and light manufacturing sectors, which have relied on the U.S. as a growing export market.

For years, Laos has worked to expand its export base, with the U.S. emerging as a key trading partner. The country’s main exports to the U.S. include footwear, wood furniture, textiles, and electronics components. However, with the newly imposed tariff rates, Lao businesses might face a significant drop in orders from American buyers.

Lao coffee, one of the country’s signature exports, could also take a significant hit. The United States has been a growing consumer of high-quality Lao coffee, but the added cost from tariffs could push buyers toward alternative suppliers such as Colombia.

Wider ASEAN Impact: Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand Also Hit

Laos is not alone in facing severe economic consequences from Trump’s new tariffs. Other ASEAN nations have also been hit hard, with Cambodia facing a 49 percent tariff, Vietnam 46 percent, and Thailand 36 percent.

Cambodia, which heavily relies on textile and footwear exports to the U.S., now faces the highest tariff in ASEAN. Analysts predict job losses in the garment sector and potential factory closures.

Vietnam, with a 46 percent tariff, may see declining demand for its key exports like electronics, furniture, and garments. The country had been one of the biggest beneficiaries of past U.S.-China trade tensions, but this tariff now threatens its competitive edge.

Thailand, facing a 36 percent tariff, may see its auto parts, electronics, and seafood exports to the U.S. take a hit. Thai business leaders are calling for government intervention to negotiate better terms.

Experts warn that the collective impact of these tariffs on ASEAN economies could disrupt regional supply chains and slow down investment in manufacturing hubs that cater to U.S. markets.

Siwage Dharma Negara, a senior fellow at the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, explained to The Guardian that recent tariffs imposed on Southeast Asian nations are primarily aimed at undermining China.

He noted that the administration likely believes these tariffs will impact Chinese investments in countries such as Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Indonesia, which could in turn affect Chinese exports and the broader economy.

However, the consequences for these Southeast Asian countries could be severe, as Chinese investments in the region have been crucial in generating jobs and export revenue.

Laos may now be forced to look toward regional trade partners, particularly China, which has already been increasing its influence in Laos through major infrastructure projects, including the Laos-China Railway.

The tariff hike is part of Trump’s broader economic agenda, which aims to reduce the U.S. trade deficit and encourage domestic production. However, for smaller economies like Laos, the policy presents a major setback. Laos had hoped to leverage trade agreements and preferential tariffs to boost its economy, but these new policies threaten to unravel years of progress.

Lao Businesses, Government Comment

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up the backbone of Laos’s economy, are particularly vulnerable. Many of these businesses have invested in expanding their operations to meet U.S. demand. Now, with higher tariffs reducing their competitiveness, they may face further challenges.

The Lao government has yet to issue an official response to Trump’s tariff policy, but trade officials have indicated they are closely monitoring the situation. 

Meanwhile, ASEAN leaders are expected to hold emergency discussions on a collective response to the tariffs, as the region faces potential economic fallout. The tariffs are already causing ripples in Asian markets, with stock prices of export-reliant firms tumbling following Trump’s announcement.

Trinasolar and Lodestone Power Up Newest Agrivoltaics Solar Project in New Zealand

Like a ‘well-oiled machine:’ Partnership delivers third agrivoltaics project, supporting dual use of land for solar energy generation and future sheep grazing in north island location

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trinasolar, a global smart photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions provider, has partnered with Lodestone Energy to bring Te Herenga o Te Rā, one of New Zealand’s latest and largest agrivoltaics farm, into operation this year. Situated along the border of the Waiotahe River in the Ōpōtiki District, the converted dairy farm will deliver clean renewable energy to the region while preserving the land’s agricultural value for sheep grazing under the modules.

Lodestone Energy's Latest Agrivoltaics Solar Farm in New Zealand, featuring Trinasolar's Vertex N modules
Lodestone Energy’s Latest Agrivoltaics Solar Farm in New Zealand, featuring Trinasolar’s Vertex N modules

Construction of the 71,000+ module utility-scale solar farm began in December 2023 and achieved first generation in December 2024, with the project’s construction progressing faster than anticipated. This was due, in part, to the ongoing partnership between module supplier, Trinasolar and Lodestone. As the third agrivoltaics project developed together, ongoing collaboration enabled the refinement of construction processes. Incremental improvements in small and repetitive installation tasks translated to large efficiencies at scale—significantly accelerating the construction schedule. Once fully operational, the 42MWp farm will generate 69 GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power nearly 10,000 homes, and is the first solar project in New Zealand to feed directly into the grid.

Agrivoltaics: Energy and Agriculture Side-by-Side

Like Lodestone’s other farms, Te Herenga o Te Rā, plans to integrate sheep grazing beneath elevated solar modules, allowing livestock and renewable energy production to coexist. The elevated panelling design provides shade for sheep during warmer months, reducing heat stress, while their natural grazing controls grass growth under the modules—reducing maintenance costs, herbicide use, and machinery emissions.

Connor Dent, grazing lessee and pastoralist of Lodestone’s first agrivoltaics project, Kohirā, has found the experience overwhelmingly positive,

“As a civil engineer, I was directly involved in constructing Lodestone’s first solar farm, Kohirā, which gave me a unique perspective on the project from the ground up. Through this work, I became aware of the opportunity to trial grazing under the panels and was keen to take it on,” he said.

“Since then, I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of agrivoltaics for both the land and livestock. The panels provide shelter, which has improved lamb survival rates, and we’ve noticed better grass retention through dry periods. There are some challenges, like managing fertiliser application and working the dogs when the panels are tilted, but overall, it’s been a really positive experience. Seeing the project through from construction, to now farming on the land has been incredibly rewarding.”

Strong Partnerships Driving Success

This project builds on the longstanding partnership between Lodestone Energy and Trinasolar, which has now seen nearly 200,000 Trinasolar modules deployed across Lodestone’s three operational solar farms in Kaitaia, Edgecumbe and the latest in Waitaohe.

Edison Zhou, Head of Trinasolar Australia & New Zealand, commented:

“We are proud to continue our strong partnership with Lodestone, delivering high-performance solar solutions for New Zealand’s growing renewable energy sector. Te Herenga o Te Rā is a standout example of how solar and agriculture can work together seamlessly, and we look forward to supporting more innovative projects in this space.

Globally, interest in agrivoltaics is accelerating, and Lodestone is at the forefront of delivering large-scale, dual-use projects. Their work is setting a benchmark for agrivoltaics initiatives worldwide, and we’re excited to be part of their journey.”

Gary Holden, Managing Director, Lodestone Energy, recognises the value of strong partners, “Ultimately, Trinasolar’s Vertex N modules were the natural choice, offering superior efficiency and power. When delivering projects at scale, this efficiency becomes even more critical, ensuring we maximise energy output while maintaining reliability. The n-type i-TOPCon technology also enhances longevity, aligning with our commitment to building durable, high-performing solar farms.

With Te Herenga o Te Rā, our largest solar farm yet, we’ve continued to strengthen our partnerships. Trinasolar’s high-quality modules, robust supply chain, and on-ground support have been instrumental in making this project a success—our third collaboration with them.

With these three projects at full generation, we can power around 25,000 Kiwi homes each year,” Holden said.

To complete the project, Lodestone Energy plans to reinstate the necessary infrastructure to support livestock, including new yards and fencing, before welcoming the next grazing lessee to Te Herenga o Te Rā later this year.

Together with Lodestone Energy, Trinasolar is contributing to New Zealand’s zero-carbon targets while setting global standards for agrivoltaics.

How to Start a CNC Business from Scratch – PR (Blue Elephant CNC)

JINAN, China, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — How to Start a CNC Business from Scratch

Starting a CNC business can seem like a big step—especially for those who have the skills, the contacts, and maybe even the tools, but no roadmap. Many aspiring entrepreneurs get stuck on questions like: How profitable is CNC machining? How much does it cost to get started? Where do the first customers come from?

To help answer those questions, Blue Elephant CNC—a global CNC machine manufacturer with years of industry experience—has developed a comprehensive guide. It’s designed to help machine dealers, repair specialists, or anyone with machining knowledge turn their capabilities into a profitable CNC venture.

“Many of our clients had everything in place except a clear plan,” says Jack Zhang, founder of Blue Elephant CNC. “They had experience, contacts, even workshop space—but they didn’t know how to start. That’s what this guide solves.”

Whether you’re looking to offer CNC services as part of an existing operation or you’re starting from scratch, this roadmap outlines the real steps involved. It’s not theory—it’s what Blue Elephant CNC has seen work for actual clients. It covers everything from setting up a workshop to winning your first contracts.

Step 1: Identify Your Niche

Trying to serve every market at once can lead to thin margins and operational chaos. Blue Elephant CNC encourages new businesses to focus their efforts by choosing a specific service model:

  • Custom part production for dealers: If you’re connected to dealerships, offer quick-turn, low-volume replacement parts. These customers often require high reliability and fast delivery. Building on your current distribution relationships allows for faster customer acquisition and higher repeat orders.
  • Rapid prototyping for engineers: Cater to startups that need fast, precise prototypes for testing and development. Many engineers need 1-5 sample pieces, not full runs. If you can meet tight deadlines and communicate clearly, you’ll win loyal clients in R&D-heavy industries.
  • CNC repair and upgrades: Offer servicing and retrofitting for shops using older equipment. Many small operations can’t afford new machines and need affordable upkeep options. This niche is in high demand—especially in industrial zones with aging infrastructure.
  • Machine rental or leasing: Ideal in regions with high demand but limited access to equipment. This can include short-term or project-based equipment access. It requires fewer staff but a strong maintenance and scheduling process.
  • Engraving, marking, or branding: Appeals to both industrial clients and consumers needing serialized or branded parts. These are typically small-batch, repeatable jobs. Adding creative services increases your average order size and customer stickiness.

Specializing allows you to work more efficiently and market more clearly. Blue Elephant CNC advises using your current connections and technical strengths to pick a profitable starting point.

Step 2: Create a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan helps you make smarter decisions and attract funding. It’s not just a formality—it’s the foundation for every major decision you’ll make. Blue Elephant CNC recommends every shop, no matter how small, create a clear business plan covering:

  • Defined services: Know what you’ll offer and what materials you’ll focus on. Clear offerings avoid confusion and help customers understand your value. It also simplifies machine and tooling decisions.
  • Target customers: Be clear about who you’re serving. Focus on specific industries or business types that need your expertise. Research 10–20 real businesses you could pitch in your first 3 months.
  • Your edge: Faster delivery? Lower cost? Precision finishes? Think about what differentiates your business. Blue Elephant CNC often helps clients position their offering for contract success.
  • Startup and ongoing costs: Cover everything from tools to insurance, raw materials, utilities, and software subscriptions. Use actual supplier quotes wherever possible.
  • Pricing strategy: Account for machine time, material waste, labor, and utilities. Don’t forget to include markup for profit. Run a few job simulations to test pricing.
  • Growth vision: How will you scale? Through automation, staff expansion, new services? What milestones will you track in your first year?

Blue Elephant CNC has helped many clients develop realistic business plans that evolve as they grow. Starting small with a clear path makes future investments easier.

Step 3: Calculate Startup Costs

Startup costs vary, but here are the main categories:

  • CNC Machines: $10,000–$100,000+. Blue Elephant CNC provides starter packages and financing options. Consider machine versatility, training support, and warranty terms.
  • Software: $2,000–$10,000 for design and CAM tools. CAD/CAM software is essential for precision and speed. Include recurring licensing fees.
  • Workshop Setup: Power upgrades, benches, dust collection—$5,000–$50,000. Consider air compressors, lighting, and proper safety systems.
  • Raw Materials: $5,000–$15,000 depending on your focus. Buy enough to fulfill your first 5–10 orders.
  • Licensing & Insurance: Around $500–$3,000. Check zoning laws, permits, and required insurance in your region.
  • Marketing: Websites and branding from $2,000+. A simple site with testimonials and service pages is enough to start.

Blue Elephant CNC suggests building a detailed spreadsheet of both upfront and monthly costs. Include tooling, maintenance, and shipping to avoid surprises. They often work with clients to plan financing and capital allocation.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Before launching, get legally registered:

  • Choose a structure: LLCs are often best for CNC shops. They protect personal assets and are tax-efficient. If you plan to raise funds or sell equity later, consider an S-Corp.
  • Register your name: Make it industry-relevant and unique. A professional name builds trust. Check domain availability if you plan to market online.
  • Apply for an EIN: Needed for banking and payroll.
  • Secure licenses and permits: Required in many industrial zones. Check local zoning and business regulations. Some areas require specific environmental approvals.
  • Open a separate bank account: Keep personal and business funds apart.

Blue Elephant CNC emphasizes the importance of staying compliant with OSHA, EPA, or ISO standards if your work falls under regulated industries. Missing paperwork can delay machine installation and delay revenue.

Step 5: Purchase Machines and Tools

Your main investment should align with your services:

  • Mills: For metal or plastic part production. These are the most common machines in CNC shops.
  • Lathes: Best for cylindrical parts. Many repair and automotive jobs require them.
  • Routers: Great for wood, foam, and plastic. Used in signage, cabinetry, and decor.
  • Plasma Cutters: Ideal for sheet metal cutting. Often used in HVAC or metal fabrication.
  • 5-Axis Machines: For high-precision or complex jobs. Aerospace and medical fields demand them.

Blue Elephant CNC provides tailored recommendations based on client needs. Also invest in:

  • Tooling and holders: These determine your cut quality and speed.
  • Workholding gear: Fixtures and clamps secure parts during machining.
  • Inspection tools: Calipers, micrometers, and gauges.
  • Dust collection systems: Vital for health and equipment longevity.

Don’t overspend early. Start with essential tools and scale as orders grow.

Step 6: Source Raw Materials

Your choice of raw materials directly impacts part quality, machining speed, and pricing. Blue Elephant CNC recommends beginning with a focused inventory of core materials suited to your niche.

Common starting points include:

  • Aluminum or steel: Ideal for structural, mechanical, and automotive components.
  • Plastics: Useful for lightweight parts, electronics housings, or rapid prototyping.
  • Wood or MDF: Common for signage, cabinetry, and decorative projects when using CNC routers.

Reliable sourcing is just as important as material selection. Look for:

  • Local distributors: Offer faster turnaround and easier communication.
  • Online marketplaces: Provide wider selection and user reviews for comparison.
  • Direct from mills: Cost-effective for large orders, though usually with high minimums.

To reduce delays and quality issues, Blue Elephant CNC suggests building relationships with at least two trusted suppliers. Ask about lead times, bulk pricing, delivery reliability, and whether they provide test samples or material certifications for compliance-heavy industries.

Step 7: Learn CNC Programming & Techniques

Even the most advanced CNC machines need skilled operators to deliver quality results. Blue Elephant CNC emphasizes that strong technical knowledge is essential for running an efficient and profitable shop.

Key areas to focus on include:

  • G-code and M-code basics: These programming languages control movement, tool changes, and operations. Understanding how to read and adjust code can help troubleshoot issues and improve accuracy.
  • CAM software operation: Learning how to set up, simulate, and generate toolpaths using software like Fusion 360 or Mastercam is crucial for smooth production.
  • Feeds and speeds per material: Setting the correct parameters prevents tool wear, improves part quality, and boosts efficiency.
  • Tool selection and maintenance: Using the right tools—and knowing when to replace them—ensures consistency and reduces downtime.
  • Fixturing best practices: Proper workholding prevents vibration and errors during machining.

Blue Elephant CNC offers guidance on software selection and connects clients to training resources. Whether you’re self-learning or hiring a skilled operator, mastering these areas is key to long-term success.

Step 8: Set Up Your Workshop

A well-organized workshop can significantly boost productivity and reduce errors. Blue Elephant CNC advises business owners to prioritize layout and workflow early in the setup process.

Key setup tips include:

  • Logical material flow: Arrange stations so materials move smoothly from delivery → machining → inspection → packaging.
  • Safe spacing: Leave enough room between machines and walkways to allow easy movement and prevent accidents.
  • Clean environment: Dust and chip control is essential for both machine health and worker safety—install proper dust collection or ventilation systems.
  • Compliance: Ensure your facility supports electrical loads for CNC machines, has designated PPE zones, and meets safety regulations.

Other smart layout considerations:

  • Set up dedicated storage for raw materials and finished parts to avoid clutter and confusion.
  • Keep inspection tools near machining areas to speed up quality checks.
  • Use visual boards or workflow charts to monitor active jobs and deadlines.

Even small spaces can operate efficiently when thoughtfully arranged. Blue Elephant CNC works closely with new shops to design productive, scalable layouts from day one.

Step 9: Build a Marketing Strategy

Many CNC businesses struggle because they wait for clients to come. Blue Elephant CNC recommends starting with:

  • Website: List services and upload sample parts.
  • Google My Business: Helps nearby clients find you.
  • Social media: Show your capabilities visually.
  • Direct outreach: Email or call businesses in your target industry.

Other tactics include:

  • Publishing articles or case studies about your work.
  • Offering workshops or free consultations for new clients.
  • Asking for Google and LinkedIn reviews from satisfied customers.

Referral incentives, testimonials, and industry networking can also help build your brand. Blue Elephant CNC has seen small shops grow fast by combining digital and relationship-based outreach.

Step 10: Scale Your CNC Business

Once your CNC business is stable and generating consistent work, it’s time to think about growth. Scaling effectively means increasing output without compromising quality.

Ways to scale include:

  • Adding machines or shifts: More capacity allows you to take on larger orders or reduce lead times.
  • Hiring machinists or designers: Skilled staff help handle increased workload and bring in new capabilities.
  • Automating workflows: Implement automation tools like tool changers or part loaders to save time and reduce manual steps.
  • Expanding services: Offering laser engraving, 5-axis machining, or specialty finishes can help you move upmarket and attract higher-value clients.

Blue Elephant CNC recommends using operational data to guide decisions. Analyze which services, machines, or clients generate the most profit—and prioritize scaling those areas.

As your shop evolves, Blue Elephant CNC offers ongoing support, advanced equipment options, and strategic insight to help you scale sustainably while staying competitive.

Conclusion: Start With Confidence

With clear steps and the right support, starting a CNC business doesn’t have to be risky. Blue Elephant CNC has helped businesses around the world move from side projects to full-time production shops. With experience-backed guidance and reliable equipment, they’re here to help you turn your skills into a business.

To learn more or speak with a specialist, contact the Blue Elephant CNC team today:

Blue Elephant CNC
Website: www.elephant-cnc.com
Email: manager@elephant-cnc.com 
Phone: +86 18668991371

Tronsmart Gears Up for Its 12th Anniversary with Innovative Product Launch in Vietnam

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Tronsmart, a global leader in smart tech accessories, is gearing up to mark its 12th anniversary with a spectacular event at Gem Center in Vietnam on April 11. The celebration will feature the unveiling of a lineup of cutting-edge tech products.

Alais Wang, Regional Marketing Director at Tronsmart said, “For 12 years, Tronsmart has remained committed to technological innovation, delivering high-tech, high-quality, and high-performance audio products to consumers worldwide. This anniversary celebration will not only be a major milestone for our brand but also a testament to our dedication to the Vietnamese market. We are excited to share our latest innovations with our valued partners, media representatives, and consumers.”

The event’s highlights promise an exciting day for attendees. The spotlight will be on seven exclusive product launches that cater to diverse consumer needs, from portable speakers designed for superior sound quality on the go to revolutionary open-ear headphones that provide an immersive audio experience while ensuring user comfort and awareness of surroundings.

CellphoneS, a popular retail chain in Vietnam, has been announced as the official partner for this event. It will serve as the official first-sale channel for these new offerings. Vietnamese customers will have the unique opportunity to purchase these products at special early-bird prices, which are available only through CellphoneS for a limited time.

Event attendees will include top media representatives and industry leaders who are eager to explore how these advancements could redefine everyday sound interactions. A highlight of the event will be the presence of Vietnam’s leading tech influencer, Tuấn Ngọc đây, who will attend the event in person and deliver a speech. As one of the most influential tech figures in Vietnam, Tuấn Ngọc đây will share his firsthand experiences with Tronsmart products, providing valuable insights into their impact. Additionally, the gathering of retailers in Vietnam underscores their support for innovative technologies and their confidence in Tronsmart’s continued growth trajectory within international markets.

Established in 2013 and now celebrating its 12th anniversary in April this year, Tronsmart has carved out its niche as a premier designer and manufacturer of world-class tech accessories. Renowned by reputable organizations such as Qualcomm and featured by major publications like Forbes and Yahoo!, Tronsmart continues its commitment to excellence with over ten international product certifications under its belt.

With trademarks registered in over 60 countries and regions, including North America through Asia-Pacific regions including Europe and the Middle East, coupled with more than 40 patents such as their innovative SoundPulse® technology, it’s clear why many consider them leaders within their field.

Tronsmart’s core value remains steadfast: simplifying life by providing customers worldwide with tech accessories that stand out for their high-tech and high-performance qualities. The brand is committed to maintaining the quality standards established from the beginning, ensuring that every device exceeds the highest benchmarks possible today.

For more information, please visit: https://tronsmart.vn/ , or follow the brand on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TronsmartVN .

World-Renowned Composer Joe Hisaishi Returns for Spectacular Collaboration with Singapore Symphony Orchestra

SINGAPORE, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Esteemed composer and conductor Joe Hisaishi will return to Singapore on July 3–4, 2025, at The Esplanade Concert Hall for an extraordinary evening of music in collaboration with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO). Presented by Willow Arts, this landmark reunites Hisaishi with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), marking their third highly anticipated partnership, this exceptional event promises audiences a remarkable blend of musical brilliance and cinematic magic.

The concert will feature the World Premiere of Hisaishi’s “Symphonic Suite The Boy and the Heron,” offering an unprecedented symphonic interpretation of the score from legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki’s latest masterpiece. Additionally, the performance will showcase the Asia Premiere of Joe Hisaishi’s Harp Concerto, an extraordinary composition co-commissioned by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra alongside prominent orchestras from France and the United States.

Emmanuel Ceysson, the acclaimed principal harpist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, joins the ensemble as soloist for the Harp Concerto. Renowned for his exceptional artistry, Ceysson’s performance is set to illuminate this groundbreaking musical experience.

Complementing these premieres, the evening’s diverse repertoire also includes Igor Stravinsky’s captivating Firebird Ballet Suite (1945) and Arturo Márquez’s exhilarating Danzón No. 2, further enriching this celebration of orchestral music.

Music lovers are invited not to miss this unforgettable night of cultural and artistic celebration, merging the worlds of orchestral performance, cinematic storytelling, and virtuosic talent.  Ticket Sales begin on April 7, 2025, exclusively on SISTIC. Audiences are encouraged to book early to experience this once-in-a-lifetime musical spectacle.

Aspire Secures Capital Markets Services Licence from Monetary Authority of Singapore

Gears up to launch Aspire Yield


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Neswire – 3 April 2025 – ASG2 Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Aspire, a Singapore-headquartered all-in-one finance platform for modern businesses, today announced that it has secured the Capital Markets Services Licence (CMS) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). The licence will enable Aspire to better serve businesses in Singapore by widening its offering to include regulated investment solutions designed to help them optimize their capital.

Aspire Secures Capital Markets Services Licence from Monetary Authority of Singapore
Aspire Secures Capital Markets Services Licence from Monetary Authority of Singapore

With the CMS licence in hand, Aspire also announces the upcoming launch of Aspire Yield, a new investment solution integrated within the Aspire Business Account. Aspire Yield enhances Aspire’s all-in-one financial platform, providing businesses with seamless access to investment opportunities while managing their finances in one place.

Small businesses have long been excluded from accessing competitive investment opportunities, which remain reserved for large corporations with deep banking relationships. In Singapore, traditional banks offer savings interest rates ranging from 0.01% to 0.25% per annum, leaving small businesses minimal returns on their idle capital. Without access to investment options, these businesses struggle to optimize their funds while ensuring liquidity, limiting their ability to grow sustainably.

Aspire Yield aims to bridge this gap by enabling startups and small businesses to earn competitive returns on idle capital while ensuring funds are easily accessible for operational needs. Powered by top-tier money market funds managed by Singapore’s leading asset managers, Aspire Yield will offer flexible investments with no minimum investment requirement, no lock-up period, and next business day liquidity—helping businesses optimize their capital with ease.

“Securing the CMS licence from MAS, one of the world’s most respected regulators reaffirms our continued commitment to building a trusted and innovative financial ecosystem that empowers startups and businesses with the tools they need to scale,” says Joel Leong, Aspire’s co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “As we enhance our capabilities, we remain dedicated to delivering seamless, compliant, and innovative financial solutions like Aspire Yield.”

“The launch of Aspire Yield is a major milestone in our mission to help businesses not just manage but grow their capital,” said Andrea Baronchelli, CEO and co-founder of Aspire. “By unlocking access to high-yield investment opportunities for global startups and small businesses, we are leveling the playing field and giving them the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.”

Aspire Yield is currently in private beta. Interested businesses can join the waitlist at https://aspireapp.com/yield.

Hashtag: #Aspire


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

Aspire

Aspire is the all-in-one finance platform for modern businesses globally, helping over 50,000 companies save time and money with international payments, treasury, expense, payable, and receivable management solutions – accessible via a single, user-friendly account.

Headquartered in Singapore, Aspire has 600+ employees across nine countries, clients in 30+ markets and is backed by global top tier VCs, including Sequoia, Lightspeed, Y-Combinator, Tencent and Paypal. In 2023, Aspire closed an oversubscribed US$100M Series C round and announced that it has achieved profitability.

THE PENINSULA BOUTIQUE UNVEILS NEWLY TRANSFORMED RETAIL SPACE AT HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

HONG KONG, April 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Since 1928, The Peninsula name has embodied an elegant blend of tradition, glamour, innovation and service. Visit The Peninsula Boutique at Hong Kong International Airport – a newly transformed retail space to discover a thoughtfully curated collection, which captures the heritage of the company and the Hong Kong spirit. 

The Peninsula Boutique at Hong Kong International Airport
The Peninsula Boutique at Hong Kong International Airport

“The Peninsula has a rich history of providing impeccable service to travellers from all over the world. We are delighted to unveil this newly transformed retail space which offers customers a taste of our signature experience,” said Guy Riddell, Managing Director, Peninsula Merchandising Limited.

Following the renovation of the company’s flagship store at The Peninsula Hong Kong in May 2021, the newly renovated airport boutique showcases the iconic design developed by renowned London-based interior design studio Conran and Partners that seamlessly blends contemporary and traditional elements.

The newly re-opened boutique offers an exclusive collection that showcases the company’s cherished relationship with the city through magnificent skyline illustrations. Guests can bring home a taste of The Peninsula, from palmiers to handcrafted egg rolls and almond puffs, alongside The Peninsula’s signature teas and chocolates, to celebrate the unmatched heritage of The Peninsula Hong Kong.

The Peninsula Boutique also carries an array of brand new lifestyle gifts including travel essentials from caps to water bottles as well as colouring mats and wooden play sets to keep the little ones inspired and entertained. Airport exclusives include the adorable Pen Bear, dressed in traditional Kung Fu attire and ready to meet guests with a warm smile, as well as a charming key holder which is an ideal keepsake to take home, capturing fond memories from The Peninsula.

To celebrate the exciting opening, guests can explore an array of limited-time offers including complimentary mini fruit candies upon following The Peninsula Boutique’s social media accounts and to receive luscious chocolate squares upon spending of HK$600 or above. The Peninsula Boutique also invites travellers to capture their shopping experience by taking photos and sharing on social media. The three most creative photo entries will win a one-night complimentary stay for two with breakfast at The Peninsula Hong Kong! Join the boutique for a celebration brimming with style, sweetness and delightful surprises!

For more information, please visit The Peninsula Boutique at Shop 7E144, Level 7, East Hall, Terminal 1 (Restricted Area), Hong Kong International Airport, New Territories from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm or email enquiry.pml@peninsula.com.