27.7 C
Vientiane
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 291

United States Solar Tariffs Could Drive Asia Transition Boom

United States Solar Tariffs Could Drive Asia Transition Boom
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: EnergyWorld.com)

Vantage Launches Copy Trading on Client Portal Website with Deposit Bonus for Users*

PORT VILA, Vanuatu, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Vantage Markets, a leading CFD broker in multi-asset trading solutions, is excited to announce the official launch of Copy Trading via the Vantage Client Portal website, further expanding access to one of its most popular features in jurisdictions where Vantage operates. This launch marks a new milestone in Vantage’s commitment to providing smarter, simpler, and more accessible trading experiences for its users.

Vantage Launches Copy Trading on Client Portal Website with Deposit Bonus for Users*
Vantage Launches Copy Trading on Client Portal Website with Deposit Bonus for Users*

Previously available through the Vantage App, the Copy Trading feature is now fully integrated into the Client Portal on the Vantage website, allowing both new and existing users to seamlessly access this powerful tool. Whether you’re new to the world of trading or looking to diversify your investment strategies, Copy Trading makes it straightforward to follow and copy top-performing traders in real-time – directly from your browser.

Similar to Copy Trading sign up via the app, eligible users who open a Copy Trading account via Client Portal may qualify for our deposit bonus promotion of up to 50% in credit bonus*. This exclusive promotion is designed to help users get started with additional capital to explore new strategies and learn from experienced Signal Providers.

Vantage’s Copy Trading solution is designed for ease, flexibility, and performance. Here’s what users can enjoy:

  • Zero Commission** on US Stocks – Trade popular U.S. equities via CFDs without any commission fees**, which may reduce trading costs.
  • 16 Technical Indicators Powered by TradingView – Access advanced charting tools to support informed decision-making and deeper market insights.
  • Free Access to 220+ Daily Product Analyses – Stay ahead with curated insights, forecasts, and research across global markets.
  • Fast Copy Trading Activation – Set up your Copy Trading account and start copying top traders right away.

Copy Trading has become a popular entry point for aspiring traders looking to gain exposure to financial markets with lower barriers to entry. By automatically mirroring the strategies of more experienced traders, users can observe real-time decision-making and better understand market dynamics – all within an approachable, community-driven environment.

Marc Despallieres, CEO of Vantage Markets, commented on the launch: “At Vantage, we are continuously working to democratize access to financial markets. By bringing Copy Trading to our Client Portal, we’re providing greater flexibility and convenience for our users. This expansion reflects our commitment to innovation and helping traders – both new and experienced – make more informed trading decisions, with the tools and support they need.”

Ready to trade? Log in to your Vantage Client Portal today to open a Copy Trading account, claim your deposit bonus*, and start exploring the possibilities.

*Terms & Conditions apply.

**Other fees may apply.

About Vantage

Vantage Markets (or Vantage) is a multi-asset CFD broker offering clients access to a nimble and powerful service for trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, ETFs, and Bonds.

With over 15 years of market experience, Vantage transcends the role of broker, providing a trusted trading ecosystem, an award-winning mobile trading app, and a user-friendly trading platform that empowers clients to seize trading opportunities. Download the Vantage App on App Store or Google Play.

trade smarter @vantage

RISK WARNING : CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Ensure you understand the risks before trading.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, an offer, or solicitation of any financial products or services. The content is not intended for residents of any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation. Readers are advised to seek independent professional advice before making any investment or financial decisions. Any reliance you place on the information presented is strictly at your own risk.

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/vantage_launches_copy_trading_client_portal_website_deposit_bonus_users.jpg
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/vantage_15_logo_logo-1.jpg

Agoda Unpacks the Ultimate Family Travel Bucket List in Asia

SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — With school breaks and summer holidays just around the corner, there’s no better time to pack up the kids and hit the road. Digital travel platform Agoda reveals its top family travel destinations in Asia for 2025, based on search data from January to March.

From bustling cities to serene beaches, Agoda’s top ten family-friendly destinations in Asia are led by Tokyo, Osaka, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul, with Singapore, Bali, Taipei, Okinawa, and Hong Kong following hot on their heels.

According to Agoda’s 2025 Trend Survey, family travel is on the rise, with over a third of travelers (34%) planning to explore the world with their loved ones this year—a testament to the growing desire for shared experiences. Families are embracing the joy of travel together, but none more so than travelers from South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand, who are leading the charge as the most avid family travelers in order of importance.

Whether it’s a quick getaway or an extended adventure, Asia’s diverse offerings make it a playground for families of all kinds. For city-loving groups, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore deliver a mix of culture, entertainment, and kid-friendly attractions. Beach bums can soak up the sun in Bali or Okinawa, while adventure-seekers can explore the vibrant streets of Bangkok or the lush landscapes around Taipei. Families looking for a blend of culinary exploration and excitement will find Osaka, Seoul, and Hong Kong ticking all the right boxes.

Hiroto Ooka, Associate Vice President North Asia at Agoda said, “Family travel is all about creating memories that last a lifetime, and Agoda is here to make that as seamless and affordable as possible. Whether it’s a beach escape, a city adventure, or a mix of both, Agoda’s got the perfect stay for every family. Plus, with our mobile app, finding the best deals is as easy as planning your next family game night.”

With over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities to choose from, Agoda makes planning family vacations a breeze. From booking a cozy villa in Bali to securing tickets for a theme park in Tokyo, Agoda has everything families need to make their travel dreams come true. Check out Agoda’s family-friendly options at Agoda.com and find the best deals on the Agoda mobile app.

Kenanga Investors Awarded Best Malaysia Large-Cap Equity Fund at Morningstar Awards


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 May 2025 – Kenanga Investors Berhad (“Kenanga Investors”) has been awarded Best Malaysia Large-Cap Equity Fund at the Morningstar Awards 2025, recognising the strong performance of the Kenanga Blue Chip Fund (“KBCF”). This achievement marks a significant milestone for the firm, as KBCF celebrates its third win at this prestigious award and continues to deliver consistent results across varying market conditions.

From left: Christopher Kok, Head of Equities; Liong Chee How, Senior Portfolio Manager; Julianna Lim, Sales Director, South East Asia, Morningstar Research Pte Limited; Lee Sook Yee, Chief Investment Officer.
From left: Christopher Kok, Head of Equities; Liong Chee How, Senior Portfolio Manager; Julianna Lim, Sales Director, South East Asia, Morningstar Research Pte Limited; Lee Sook Yee, Chief Investment Officer.

Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors, said, “We are honoured to receive this recognition from Morningstar, one of the most trusted names in investment research. Awards like these reaffirm the value of our investing approach and the importance of staying true to our philosophy.”

The KBCF is guided by a bottom-up investment strategy. It aims to achieve long-term capital growth by investing in companies with relatively larger market capitalisation, with a clear focus on what represents fair value for their expected earnings potential.

Lee Sook Yee, Chief Investment Officer of Kenanga Investors, shared, “KBCF’s performance reflects the strength of our research-driven process. The team works closely to identify the right opportunities, backed by data and an understanding of market dynamics. In Malaysia, domestic growth outlook continues to be strongly driven by an investment upcycle in infrastructure and property. With that in mind, we intend to focus on stock picking for 2025. We maintain a favourable view on sectors such as financials, construction, property, new energy, utilities and healthcare. Ultimately, we believe staying nimble and responsive will allow us to navigate both uncertainty and opportunity.”

“Our focus is always on creating long-term value for our investors through performance, transparency, and sound governance,” added Datuk Wira De Alwis. “We are grateful for the continued trust our clients and investors place in us, as well as for the dedication of our team.”

The Morningstar fund category awards are based on Morningstar fund data as of 31 December 2024. The awards methodology emphasises the one-year period, but funds must also have delivered strong three-year returns after adjusting for risk within the award peer groups in order to obtain an award. In selecting winners, fund returns are adjusted for risk using the Morningstar Risk, a measure which imposes a higher penalty for downside variation in a fund’s return than it does for upside volatility.

The Award is the latest addition to Kenanga Investors’ recent string of recognitions from the likes of LSEG Lipper Fund Awards 2025 and Asia Asset Management’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards. The firm aims to continue building upon its track record through a robust investment process and a clear, long-term vision that helps clients navigate markets with confidence.

For more information about Kenanga Investors, please visit www.kenangainvestors.com.my.

Hashtag: #Kenanga

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

Kenanga Investors Berhad 199501024358 (353563-P)

We provide investment solutions ranging from collective investment schemes, portfolio management services, alternative investments, as well as wills and trusts for retail, corporate, institutional, and high net worth clients via a multi-distribution network.

The Morningstar Award 2025 has recognised the Kenanga Blue Chip Fund as Best Malaysia Large-Cap Equity Fund.

At the LSEG Lipper Fund Awards Malaysia 2025, KIB received awards for the Kenanga DividendExtra Fund (“KDEF”) under the Best Equity Malaysia Diversified – Malaysia Funds over 3 years , Kenanga Malaysian Inc Fund (“KMIF”) under the Best Equity Malaysia Diversified – Malaysia Provident Funds over 10 years, Kenanga Balanced Fund (“KBF”) under the Best Mixed Asset MYR Balanced – Malaysia Provident Funds over 10 years, Kenanga Managed Growth Fund (“KMGF”) under Best Mixed Asset MYR Flexible – Malaysia Provident Funds over 10 years, and Kenanga SyariahEXTRA Fund (“KSEF”) under the Best Mixed Asset MYR Balanced – Malaysia Islamic Funds Awards over 10 years.

The Hong Kong-based Asia Asset Management’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards awarded KIG under the following categories, Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager, Best Impact Investing Manager in ASEAN, Malaysia Best Equity Manager, Malaysia CEO of the Year (Co-Winner), Malaysia CIO of the Year, Malaysia Best House for Alternatives, Malaysia Best ESG Engagement Initiative, Malaysia Fund Launch of the Year, and Malaysia Best Retail Asset Management Company.

The FSMOne Recommended Unit Trusts Awards 2024/2025 has awarded the Kenanga Growth Fund Series 2 with the “Sector Equity – Malaysia Focused” award for the third consecutive year since 2022. We were also recognised at The BrandLaureate BestBrands Awards 2024 – Brand of the Year under the category Wealth Management & Investment Solutions. For the eighth consecutive year, KIB was affirmed an investment manager rating of IMR-2 by Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad, since first rated in 2017. The IMR rating on KIB reflects the fund management company’s well-established investment processes and sound risk management practices.

This Press Release was issued by Kenanga Group’s Marketing, Communications & Sustainability department.

Introducing the Global Communication Tagline “HORO YOUR LIFE”

Takara standard launches full-scale global branding efforts to enhance brand awareness

OSAKA, Japan, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Takara standard Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Joto-ku, Osaka City, Japan; President: Masaru Komori), a leading manufacturer of residential equipment such as system kitchens and bathrooms, has announced the launch of its global communication tagline, “HORO YOUR LIFE,” aimed at strengthening its brand presence in overseas markets. In line with this initiative, the company launched official social media accounts on RED (Xiaohongshu) in Mainland China and Facebook in Taiwan region on April 21, 2025.

Since initiating full-scale overseas operations in 2015, Takara standard has steadily increased sales by leveraging its unique, high-quality enamel-coated steel, known as Takara Horo. With a mid-term goal of achieving JPY 10 billion in overseas sales by fiscal year 2030, the company is steadily expanding its local sales support systems and operational infrastructure.

New Global Communication Tagline: “HORO YOUR LIFE”
To reinforce its position as the only manufacturer of home fixtures made with Takara’s proprietary enamel technology, the company will promote the brand name Takara HORO globally. The tagline “HORO YOUR LIFE” expresses the company’s vision to enrich and enhance lives around the world through its enamel-coated steel products. Future campaigns will highlight the material’s signature features—easy maintenance, durability, and functionality—paired with clean, modern visuals of pristine white enamel kitchens.

Official Social Media Accounts Launched in Mainland China and Taiwan region
Takara standard has launched an official account on RED (Xiaohongshu), a Chinese social platform with over 300 million monthly active users. As word-of-mouth content on RED significantly influences purchasing decisions, the platform serves as an ideal touchpoint to engage Mainland Chinese consumers in their everyday lives. In Taiwan region, the company launched an official Facebook account, given the platform’s continued popularity and broad user base.

Content will be tailored to each region and will include product care tips, new product announcements, and event information. Through these efforts, the company aims to reach 10,000 followers and build a strong base of loyal fans across the region.

As part of its Mid-Term Management Plan 2026, Takara standard has identified global expansion as a key strategy in transforming its revenue structure. In April 2025, the company will also establish its first overseas branch in Taiwan region. With a strong focus on Asia, one of the most promising markets for future growth, Takara standard will continue to strengthen its international operations, aiming to achieve JPY10 billion in overseas sales by 2030.

Appendix

Takara standard’s HORO material:

“HORO” is a material that combines the strength of iron with the beauty of glass. Takara standard developed this proprietary HORO material, which overcomes the breakage of glass, over many years. Takara standard’s “High-Quality HORO” showcases the robustness of iron, providing resilience against impacts, while the glass layer acts as a barrier against dirt and moisture. The durability of the enamel surface makes it distinctly different from ordinary enamel pots or other materials.

Until recently, HORO’s surface had a glossy look, however, new products combine enamel with a matt finish. This means Takara can provide a variety of surface design products.

  • 10 points that demonstrate the strength of Takara standard’s HORO:
  1. Can quickly wipe up water, easy to clean
  2. Resistant to moisture and mold
  3. Conveniently magnetic and can be used as a family message board
  4. Very shock and crack resistant
  5. Thanks to the ink jet printing tech, it is available in a wide range of colors and designs
  6. The material allows permanent maker pen to be wiped off with water, meaning family can leave temporary messages
  7. Scratch resistant
  8. Heat resistant, giving peace of mind
  9. Environmentally friendly (easily recyclable material; no adhesive used in assembly)
  10. Odor resistant

 

FOREX.com lands in Singapore, reflecting a new era in retail and self-directed CFD trading

SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — StoneX Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SNEX) (“StoneX”) today announced the launch of FOREX.com in Singapore, providing retail and self-directed traders access to its award-winning CFD trading platform. FOREX.com is the trading name in Singapore for StoneX Financial Pte. Ltd., which is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

FOREX.com was first launched in 2001 in the United States, to educate and support retail FX traders, and has since expanded to serve CFD traders across Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. The holding company behind FOREX.com was acquired in 2020 by StoneX, a Fortune 100 company, whose 4,600+ employees serve 54,000+ commercial, institutional and payments clients, along with 400,000+ retail accounts, from over 80 offices across six continents.

FOREX.com maintains the StoneX mission of delivering transparent, price competitive, and customer-first solutions. Its comprehensive trading and risk management tools, robust educational resources, and on-the-ground customer service are now available in Singapore.

“This launch marks a strategic milestone in empowering Singapore’s retail traders to access thousands of global CFD markets across top FX pairs, indices, shares, gold, silver and commodities,” remarked Andy Hudson, Head of Retail – Singapore.

Hudson added “FOREX.com supports its users from education through to execution, and empowers retail customers to trade with confidence. That confidence is supported by a full suite of user-first platforms, fast execution, tight spreads and transparent pricing.”

Greg Kallinikos, CEO, APAC, elaborated “Since 2006, StoneX has supported its customers across APAC from our Singapore headquarters. We are proud to expand this servicing further by having FOREX.com launch in Singapore and help us connect even more clients to markets. FOREX.com customers in Singapore stand to benefit from dedicated support operating 24 hours a day, five days a week in facilitating their trading needs.”

About FOREX.com:
Established in the United States back in 2001, FOREX.com is an award-winning trading platform[†]with over 1 million traders worldwide[‡]. FOREX.com is the trading name in Singapore for StoneX Financial Pte. Ltd. It operates across the US, UK, Europe and Asia, and provides retail traders with a suite of educational and trading platforms, access to thousands of global CFD markets, and reliable trade execution. In 2020, the holding company of FOREX.com (Gain Capital Inc.) was acquired by StoneX Group Inc.

‘Best in Class’ for ‘Mobile Trading App’ and ‘Platforms & Tools’ – ForexBrokers.com Annual Awards 2025.
  Based on demo and active live trading accounts globally since 2023.

About StoneX Group Inc.
StoneX Group Inc. connects clients to the global financial markets via a full suite of services including institutional-grade platforms, end-to-end clearing and execution, post-trade settlement, market intelligence and local expertise.

A Fortune-100 company headquartered in New York City and listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (NASDAQ: SNEX), StoneX Group Inc. and its 4,600+ employees serve 54,000+ commercial, institutional, and payments clients, and 400,000+ retail accounts, from 80+ offices spread across six continents.

As a regulated and publicly traded company, StoneX Group Inc. is subject to stringent corporate governance, financial reporting and disclosure requirements. Our commitment to integrity, transparency, and trust is integral to building deeply valued, long-term relationships with our clients.

More information is available at www.stonex.com

Revolutionary test for male infertility can be a game changer for couples striving to conceive

SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A simple, but revolutionary test has been developed to help unravel the mystery of infertility among men who display normal semen parameters.

Infertility affects an estimated one in every six couples worldwide with male factor prevalent in about half of those cases.

For many of those men who have seemingly otherwise healthy sperm the anguish of their condition is deepened by the perplexity of an underlying reproductive dysfunction called CatSper-related male infertility.

In these cases, there are defects in the chemosensory CatSper channels of sperm that allows them to move in a whip-like fashion essential to penetrate the coating of a female egg. If penetration fails, fertilisation is not possible.

There are many case histories in fertility treatment of couples where conventional IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI) has failed, but where single sperm injection of an egg – known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI – has resulted in a pregnancy.

The 2025 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in Singapore today heard of a breakthrough diagnostic test for CatSper-related male infertility that has delivered remarkable validation results.

Dr Samuel Young, a pathfinding researcher in the Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology at the University Hospital Münster in Germany, said a desire to better understand the role of CatSper in male fertility led to the development of the test as a novel diagnostic tool.

“Sperm generate a powerful swimming behaviour known as hyperactivation. CatSper, a specific calcium channel found exclusively in the tail of sperm, controls this swimming behaviour.

“If CatSper is defective, sperm cannot hyperactivate and the egg remains unfertilised. The man is therefore infertile.

“The CatSper test is a simple procedure with a standard semen analysis. It quickly and reliably determines whether a CatSper defect is present, enabling evidence-based therapy choices for couples with unexplained infertility.

“We used it to screen 2,386 patients as a proof-of-concept study. It showed exceptional sensitivity and specificity of the test with precise assessment of CatSper function.

“It has transformed the CatSper test from a scientific possibility into a diagnostic device for everyday clinical practice.

“For the first time it allows diagnosis of CatSper defect in male infertility potentially preventing couples from embarking on unsuccessful medically assisted reproduction attempts such as IUI and IVF.

“This has the potential to save patient expense and possible adverse effects of hormonal stimulation in IVF for the female partners.

“The time factor of going through cycles of IVF is also an important consideration for couples striving to conceive, especially when almost every day counts among women in their thirties and forties when fertility is in decline.

“The CatSper test can guide clinicians toward more personalised, evidence-based treatment approaches, including ICSI.”

The ASPIRE Congress in Singapore has attracted around 2,000 scientists, clinicians, nurses and counsellors in fertility health to address latest global advances in assisted reproduction.

For more information, go to www.aspire2025.com

Interview: Dr Samuel Young is available for interview.

Synpulse announces appointment of Jieke Pan as CTO to supercharge technology house Synpulse8

SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Synpulse, a leading consultancy for the financial services industry, today announces the appointment of Jieke Pan as its Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Jieke Pan is a passionate technology leader with over 20 years of experience in digital transformation, product innovation, and engineering excellence.

Synpulse Appoints Jieke Pan as Chief Technology Officer
Synpulse Appoints Jieke Pan as Chief Technology Officer

Jieke is an accomplished CTO, recognised for fostering hyper-collaborative, excellence-driven engineering cultures within the financial sector. Over the past decade, he has held the position of CTO for Hexaware’s digital and software division for EMEA / APAC, as well as serving as CTO Advisor and Enterprise Architect for prominent clients in financial services, banking, and insurance.

The appointment of Jieke Pan as CTO follows the successful launch of Synpulse8, the consulting’s technology house, in 2022. Notable achievements include the deployment of the Synpulse8 Wealth Cockpit at a bank in Thailand, the introduction of the OpenWealth API Standard at LGT and the launch of the reinsurance underwriting workbench for MS Reinsurance. Synpulse8 is dedicated to creating seamless digital experiences tailored for the financial services industry.

“I am excited to join Synpulse8 and lead it into the future. Together, we will bring PULSE8 to new heights, leveraging AI capabilities to meet the evolving needs of the financial services industry,” expressed Jieke Pan.

Jieke will lead Synpulse8’s global engineering team in delivering customised solutions, pioneering products, and managed platform services in close collaboration with clients and partners. In his role at Synpulse, he will be in charge of the firm’s global technology offerings. His focus will be on evolving PULSE8 into a robust solution platform that drives innovation and accelerates progress across the financial services landscape worldwide. PULSE8 is an orchestration platform that seamlessly integrates with legacy systems, efficiently extracting and unifying data to create a tailored environment. PULSE8 will be further empowered with AI capabilities, addressing the pressing need for advanced technological solutions within the financial industry.

“Jieke Pan’s appointment as CTO marks a significant milestone for Synpulse8. His extensive experience in digital transformation and engineering excellence will be instrumental in driving our solutions forward,” said Salomon Wettstein, Managing Partner at Synpulse and Co-CEO of Synpulse8. “With Jieke at the helm, we are poised to enhance our technology offerings and foster a culture of collaboration that will elevate our services in the financial sector,” added Raphael Bianchi, Senior Partner at Synpulse and Co-CEO of Synpulse8.

-END-

About Synpulse  

Synpulse is a global professional services company and a valued partner of leading players in the financial services and related industries. We optimise the proximity to our clients and deep domain expertise to create sustainable value using technology as a business driver. Leveraging our strong network of over 100 ecosystem partners, we accompany our clients throughout their transformation journey – from strategy and development to implementation and management. With our tech powerhouse, Synpulse8, we collaborate with our clients to co-create digital experiences with innovative technologies and proprietary methods. Synpulse is powered by the passion and commitment of its more than 1000 employees from 21 offices who come from over 30 countries.

More information: www.synpulse.com