Preferred Travel Group’s I Prefer Hotel Rewards program joins Ascenda’s global points transfer network to unlock new opportunities for financial service partners 

NEW YORK , July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ascenda, the loyalty ecosystem that powers growth for the world’s leading brands, today announced a strategic partnership with Preferred Travel Group, the parent company of I Prefer Hotel Rewards.

Through this collaboration, financial institutions within Ascenda’s global network can now offer their customers the ability to convert bank loyalty points directly into I Prefer points, giving access to exclusive hotel stays, upgrades, and member benefits at 650+ exceptional independent hotels worldwide.

The addition of I Prefer Hotel Rewards enhances Ascenda’s global rewards content network with a premium hospitality brand, enabling financial partners to deliver more aspirational travel experiences. With access to uniquely curated properties in both urban and resort destinations, this partnership offers meaningful value to discerning customers seeking more personalized and enriched travel rewards. 

“As upmarket customers seek more distinctive experiences, Preferred Travel Group is a partner that brings differentiated value to both consumers and financial institutions,” said Paul Smitton, President of International and Partnerships. “We’re excited to enable the transfer of bank partner rewards currencies to I Prefer points.”

“Our partnership with Ascenda opens up meaningful opportunities to expand the reach of our I Prefer Hotel Rewards loyalty program and broaden our points exchange ecosystem globally,” said Lori Strasberg, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Preferred Travel Group. “Through this relationship, both existing I Prefer members and customers of Ascenda’s vast financial partner network will be able to access redemptions faster, driving increased engagement with Preferred’s global portfolio of distinctive luxury hotels, resorts and residences.”

About I Prefer Hotel Rewards

Operated by Preferred Travel Group, I Prefer Hotel Rewards is the world’s largest loyalty program for independent hotels, with more than five million members enrolled globally. The program provides members with points, tier-based status, and special perks at a global portfolio of distinctive properties across 80 countries.

About Ascenda
Ascenda delivers loyalty-as-a-service for financial institutions and merchants globally, unlocking superior ROI across customer acquisition, engagement, and retention. With over a decade of proven results, an unrivaled roster of top-tier global clients, and enterprise-grade technology, Ascenda is trusted by leading brands to deliver growth outcomes, eliminate complexity, and create extraordinary customer experiences. For more information, please visit ascenda.com

Preferred Travel Group’s I Prefer Hotel Rewards program joins Ascenda’s global points transfer network to unlock new opportunities for financial service partners 

NEW YORK , July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ascenda, the loyalty ecosystem that powers growth for the world’s leading brands, today announced a strategic partnership with Preferred Travel Group, the parent company of I Prefer Hotel Rewards.

Through this collaboration, financial institutions within Ascenda’s global network can now offer their customers the ability to convert bank loyalty points directly into I Prefer points, giving access to exclusive hotel stays, upgrades, and member benefits at 650+ exceptional independent hotels worldwide.

The addition of I Prefer Hotel Rewards enhances Ascenda’s global rewards content network with a premium hospitality brand, enabling financial partners to deliver more aspirational travel experiences. With access to uniquely curated properties in both urban and resort destinations, this partnership offers meaningful value to discerning customers seeking more personalized and enriched travel rewards. 

“As upmarket customers seek more distinctive experiences, Preferred Travel Group is a partner that brings differentiated value to both consumers and financial institutions,” said Paul Smitton, President of International and Partnerships. “We’re excited to enable the transfer of bank partner rewards currencies to I Prefer points.”

“Our partnership with Ascenda opens up meaningful opportunities to expand the reach of our I Prefer Hotel Rewards loyalty program and broaden our points exchange ecosystem globally,” said Lori Strasberg, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Preferred Travel Group. “Through this relationship, both existing I Prefer members and customers of Ascenda’s vast financial partner network will be able to access redemptions faster, driving increased engagement with Preferred’s global portfolio of distinctive luxury hotels, resorts and residences.”

About I Prefer Hotel Rewards

Operated by Preferred Travel Group, I Prefer Hotel Rewards is the world’s largest loyalty program for independent hotels, with more than five million members enrolled globally. The program provides members with points, tier-based status, and special perks at a global portfolio of distinctive properties across 80 countries.

About Ascenda
Ascenda delivers loyalty-as-a-service for financial institutions and merchants globally, unlocking superior ROI across customer acquisition, engagement, and retention. With over a decade of proven results, an unrivaled roster of top-tier global clients, and enterprise-grade technology, Ascenda is trusted by leading brands to deliver growth outcomes, eliminate complexity, and create extraordinary customer experiences. For more information, please visit ascenda.com

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ascenda_blue_logo-1.jpg 

NEW YORK, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — For those who need reliable oxygen support without compromising mobility, VARON proudly introduces the VP-8G portable oxygen concentrator — its lightest and most advanced portable oxygen concentrator to date. Engineered for active users, the VP-8G combines powerful performance with effortless portability, offering eight adjustable pulse flow settings and delivering consistent oxygen purity of 93% ±3%, all in a sleek, travel-ready design.

“This isn’t just a smaller oxygen machine — it’s the freedom to breathe,” said VARON CEO. “The VP-8G was designed for those who want to stay active, independent, and mobile — without the burden of heavy equipment.”

Compact Size, Powerful Support

Weighing just 4.37 lbs, the VP-8G lightweight oxygen concentrator is one of the lightest oxygen concentrators in its class. It’s easy to carry by hand or with the included multi-functional carrying bag, making it the ideal companion for daily errands, travel, or relaxing at home. Despite its compact footprint, it provides steady and dependable oxygen delivery wherever it’s needed.

Key Features at a Glance

• Ultra-Lightweight: Only 4.37 lbs, perfect for everyday mobility
• Compact & Sleek: Fits easily into bags or in the palm of your hand
• Eight Pulse Flow Settings: Adjustable from 1–8 levels to meet a wide range of needs
• Consistent Oxygen Purity: Delivers 93% ±3% via advanced PSA technology
• Smart Oxygen Delivery: Breath-synchronized flow matches your natural breathing
• Removable Battery: Swappable lithium battery supports extended use outdoors
• Quiet Operation: Low-noise design for use in bedrooms, libraries, and public spaces
• User-Friendly Interface: LED display shows flow level, battery, system alerts, and total usage time; large tactile buttons ensure easy operation for users of all ages

Flexible Power, Anywhere You Go

To support a dynamic lifestyle, the VP-8G oxygen concentrator offers three versatile power modes:

• AC Adapter – for home or stationary use
• DC Car Adapter – for travel and commuting
• Rechargeable Battery – for complete freedom on the go

No matter where life takes you, your oxygen source remains reliable and uninterrupted.

A Smarter Carrying Experience

The included custom-designed carrying bag allows the VP-8G oxygen concentrator for travel to remain fully functional while inside. With options for hand-carry, shoulder strap, or backpack wear, the bag adapts to your comfort and style. Built-in cutouts provide easy access to ports, ventilation, the battery compartment, and controls—so there’s no need to remove the device for use, charging, or swapping the battery.

Designed Around Real Lives: What Inspired the VP-8G

The VP-8G portable oxygen concentrator wasn’t just built for specifications—it was shaped by conversations with real users.

During early development, the VARON team spoke directly with oxygen users across various age groups and lifestyles. A common theme emerged: many felt that even “portable” machines were still too bulky, too loud, or hard to manage in real-world scenarios.

Armed with this insight, VARON’s product engineers set out to redefine what true portability means—not just in size and weight, but in usability, comfort, and independence. The VP-8G is the result of this mission: an oxygen concentrator that feels less like a machine and more like a discreet daily companion.

From its intuitive controls and ultra-quiet operation, to the ergonomic carrying bag that doesn’t require constant removal or adjustment, every detail was crafted to give users more freedom—with less friction.

“When I first held the VP-8G in my hand, I knew this was something that could truly make a siginificant difference,” said one of the lead developers at VARON. “Every decision we made, from the weight to the way the buttons feel, was about making it easier for someone to breathe, move, and live more freely.”

Now Available: Your Next Portable Oxygen Companion

The VP-8G oxygen machine is now available for purchase on VARON’s official website and through authorized distributors. To celebrate this launch, we’re offering a limited-time introductory price:

Originally $1,300 — Now Just $999 (Limited Time Only)

Take advantage of this exclusive offer and experience the freedom, confidence, and comfort that comes with a truly lightweight and intelligently designed oxygen concentrator.

Visit our online store at VARON to learn more about product specifications, accessories, and user guides.

About VARON

VARON develops innovative respiratory care products that prioritize mobility, reliability, and user comfort. By combining advanced technology with user-centered design, VARON empowers people worldwide to live healthier, more independent lives through modern supplemental oxygen solutions.

Media Contact:
VARON Oxygen Solutions
Email: official@varoninc.com 
Website: www.varoninc.com

With 16 years of expertise in optical communications, FIC Global is powering the next wave of advancement for AI with leading-edge optical transceivers up to 1.6T and beyond.

TAIPEI, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global economy, fiber optic connections have emerged as a key enabler of the scale and speed AI factories require. A little-known but critical component — optical transceivers — is at the core, and FIC Global Inc. (TWSE: 3701; FICG), a leading expert in packaging and installing semiconductors on optical modules, is drawing on over 16 years of expertise to take the lead in this space.

“The full potential of AI will only be unleashed when data can move at light speed among AI cluster networks,” remarked Mr. Leo Chien, Chairman of FICG. “That’s why we’ve spent over a decade building the process leadership and technologies to make the most advanced optical transceivers for AI factories.”

Enabling breakthrough capabilities for AI factories

The AI factories of the future require high speed and low latency at scale, along with greater energy efficiency to temper significant power demands. But electrical connections are limited in terms of performance and data transmission. Using fiber optics to interconnect AI clusters offers:

• Unmatched bandwidth and low latency
• Energy efficiency
• Infrastructure scalability

As the key component, optical transceivers convert electrical signals into light data for transmission over fiber optic cables, significantly accelerating data movement between compute nodes. This year, the new benchmark for data transmission speeds is now 1.6 terabits (T) per second, and companies like FICG are innovating to double speeds in the future. 

FICG: A decade of engineering in optical communications

FICG brings more than 16 years of expertise in process leadership and manufacturing technology, delivering optical transceivers for telecommunications, enterprise networks, data centers, and cloud computing since 2008. The company’s early leadership in optical communications give it a major advantage to harness the current AI boom.

From 2008 to 2020, when it included chips-on-board, FICG made significant technological advancements:

• 2008: Established the foundation for optical module manufacturing with 1.25G small form factor and 2G copper modules
• 2010: Enhanced capabilities by launching 2G and 4G small form-factor pluggable modules
• 2012: Further expanded by introducing 8G, 10G, and 40G modules
• 2014: Launched the first 100G modules and entered the high-speed module segment with 100G C-Wire, 100G C form-factor pluggable, and 100G Topaz modules
• 2016: Introduced 400G applications and achieved commercialization of the latest 100G modules
• 2018: Further advanced 400G, 200G, and 100G solutions to support diverse high-speed switching and optical transport architectures

These achievements come from FICG’s competitive vertically integrated model and process leadership. It focuses on joint design manufacturing (JDM) and high-performance, high-precision printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), and then packages PCBs with semiconductors. Specifically, FICG integrates higher-tech manufacturing processes like 2.5D and 3D semiconductor packaging and bare-die flip chip installation with the more mainstream surface mount technology for the rest of a PCB, enabling customers to consolidate their optical module supply chains.

The company also mastered ultra-miniaturization manufacturing techniques early on, including the installation of component sizes such as 008004 (0.25×0.125 mm), 01005 (0.4×0.2 mm), and 0201 (0.6×0.3 mm) — almost as small as a hair’s breadth.

Today, FICG supplies major players worldwide and collaborates closely with semiconductor manufacturers. It represents 20% of global market share in 400G, 18% in 800G, and is establishing a lead in the latest 1.6T segment while innovating for 3.2T.

About FIC Global Inc.
FIC Global Inc. (TWSE: 3701) is a leading provider of optical transceivers, specializing in the semiconductor packaging and advanced printed circuit board (PCB) assembly.  Formed by the integration of FIC, Ubiqconn and 3cems, FICG leverages a strong foundation of expertise to deliver innovative solutions. With expertise in optical modules since 2008, FICG has rapidly grown into a key player in the global supply chain, collaborating with major industry leaders worldwide and standing out for cutting-edge, high-yield manufacturing capabilities.

https://www.ficg.com.tw/en/

With 16 years of expertise in optical communications, FIC Global is powering the next wave of advancement for AI with leading-edge optical transceivers up to 1.6T and beyond.

TAIPEI, July 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global economy, fiber optic connections have emerged as a key enabler of the scale and speed AI factories require. A little-known but critical component — optical transceivers — is at the core, and FIC Global Inc. (TWSE: 3701; FICG), a leading expert in packaging and installing semiconductors on optical modules, is drawing on over 16 years of expertise to take the lead in this space.

“The full potential of AI will only be unleashed when data can move at light speed among AI cluster networks,” remarked Mr. Leo Chien, Chairman of FICG. “That’s why we’ve spent over a decade building the process leadership and technologies to make the most advanced optical transceivers for AI factories.”

Enabling breakthrough capabilities for AI factories

The AI factories of the future require high speed and low latency at scale, along with greater energy efficiency to temper significant power demands. But electrical connections are limited in terms of performance and data transmission. Using fiber optics to interconnect AI clusters offers:

• Unmatched bandwidth and low latency
• Energy efficiency
• Infrastructure scalability

As the key component, optical transceivers convert electrical signals into light data for transmission over fiber optic cables, significantly accelerating data movement between compute nodes. This year, the new benchmark for data transmission speeds is now 1.6 terabits (T) per second, and companies like FICG are innovating to double speeds in the future. 

FICG: A decade of engineering in optical communications

FICG brings more than 16 years of expertise in process leadership and manufacturing technology, delivering optical transceivers for telecommunications, enterprise networks, data centers, and cloud computing since 2008. The company’s early leadership in optical communications give it a major advantage to harness the current AI boom.

From 2008 to 2020, when it included chips-on-board, FICG made significant technological advancements:

• 2008: Established the foundation for optical module manufacturing with 1.25G small form factor and 2G copper modules
• 2010: Enhanced capabilities by launching 2G and 4G small form-factor pluggable modules
• 2012: Further expanded by introducing 8G, 10G, and 40G modules
• 2014: Launched the first 100G modules and entered the high-speed module segment with 100G C-Wire, 100G C form-factor pluggable, and 100G Topaz modules
• 2016: Introduced 400G applications and achieved commercialization of the latest 100G modules
• 2018: Further advanced 400G, 200G, and 100G solutions to support diverse high-speed switching and optical transport architectures

These achievements come from FICG’s competitive vertically integrated model and process leadership. It focuses on joint design manufacturing (JDM) and high-performance, high-precision printed circuit board assembly (PCBA), and then packages PCBs with semiconductors. Specifically, FICG integrates higher-tech manufacturing processes like 2.5D and 3D semiconductor packaging and bare-die flip chip installation with the more mainstream surface mount technology for the rest of a PCB, enabling customers to consolidate their optical module supply chains.

The company also mastered ultra-miniaturization manufacturing techniques early on, including the installation of component sizes such as 008004 (0.25×0.125 mm), 01005 (0.4×0.2 mm), and 0201 (0.6×0.3 mm) — almost as small as a hair’s breadth.

Today, FICG supplies major players worldwide and collaborates closely with semiconductor manufacturers. It represents 20% of global market share in 400G, 18% in 800G, and is establishing a lead in the latest 1.6T segment while innovating for 3.2T.

About FIC Global Inc.
FIC Global Inc. (TWSE: 3701) is a leading provider of optical transceivers, specializing in the semiconductor packaging and advanced printed circuit board (PCB) assembly.  Formed by the integration of FIC, Ubiqconn and 3cems, FICG leverages a strong foundation of expertise to deliver innovative solutions. With expertise in optical modules since 2008, FICG has rapidly grown into a key player in the global supply chain, collaborating with major industry leaders worldwide and standing out for cutting-edge, high-yield manufacturing capabilities.

https://www.ficg.com.tw/en/