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Strong 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Central Myanmar, Felt in Laos

People stand outside an office building in Bangkok on March 28, 2025 after an earthquake. A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit central Myanmar on March 28, with tremors felt south into Thailand, with residents in the capital Bangkok runing into the streets as buildings shook. (Photo by Candida NG / AFP)

UPDATED on 28 March at 2:33 PM

AFP- A powerful earthquake rocked central Myanmar on 28 March, buckling roads in capital Naypyidaw, damaging buildings and forcing people to flee into the streets in neighbouring Thailand.

The 7.7-magnitude tremor hit northwest of the city of Sagaing on Friday afternoon at a shallow depth, the United States Geological Survey said. A 6.4-magnitude aftershock hit the same area minutes later.

“I heard it and I was sleeping in the house, I ran as far as I could in my pajamas out of the building,” Duangjai, a resident of the popular northern Thailand tourist city Chiang Mai, told AFP.

Chunks of ceilings fell from buildings and roads buckled in Myanmar capital Naypyidaw, a sprawling, purpose-built city with highways up to 20 lanes wide, according to AFP journalists.

A team of AFP journalists were at the National Museum in Naypyidaw when the earthquake struck and the building began shaking.

Pieces fell from the ceiling and walls cracked as uniformed staff ran outside, some of them trembling and tearful, others grabbing cellphones to try to contact loved ones.

The ground vibrated violently for around half a minute before settling.

There were no immediate reports of casualties after the quakes but they caused panic in nearby cities in northern Thailand and down to capital Bangkok.

Sai, a 76-year-old Chiang Mai resident, was working at a minimart when the shop started the shake.

“I quickly rushed out of the shop along with other customers,” he said. “This is the strongest tremor I’ve experienced in my life.”

Buildings Damaged

The quake damaged buildings in Bangkok and forced the suspension of some metro and light rail services in the city.

Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said on Friday she had interrupted an official visit to the southern island of Phuket to hold an “urgent meeting” after the quake, according to a post on X.

Tremors were also felt in China’s southwest Yunnan province, according to Beijing’s quake agency, which said the jolt measured 7.9 in magnitude.

Earthquakes are relatively common in Myanmar, where six strong quakes of 7.0 magnitude or more struck between 1930 and 1956 near the Sagaing Fault, which runs north to south through the center of the country, according to the USGS.

A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake in the ancient capital Bagan in central Myanmar killed three people in 2016, also toppling spires and crumbling temple walls at the tourist destination.

The breakneck pace of development in Myanmar’s cities, combined with crumbling infrastructure and poor urban planning, has also made the country’s most populous areas vulnerable to earthquakes and other disasters, experts say.

The impoverished Southeast Asian nation has a strained medical system, especially in its rural states.

Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit 2025 reinforces city’s role as global family office hub, driving innovation, collaboration and lasting legacies


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 March 2025 – The Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit (WGHK) which has brought to Hong Kong some 360 influential global family office principals, visionary leaders and industry pioneers concluded today (March 26). Themed “Hong Kong of the World, for the World”, the event demonstrated Hong Kong’s unparalleled strengths as a bridge between East and West, where innovation, investment, and cross-cultural collaboration flourish.

Co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the third edition of the Summit delivered an influential platform for collaboration and innovation and drew global decision-makers from regions including the Mainland, Asia, Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa and Hong Kong to engage in interactive discussions exploring how wealth can drive social progress and sustainable impact.

As a flagship event of the Wealth and Investment Mega Event Week during Hong Kong Super March, the WGHK was opened by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan. He said, “Family offices play a vital role in preserving family wealth, creating lasting influences through philanthropy worldwide and leading impact investment. As an international financial centre, we have a robust network of world-class financial service professionals and offer an extensive array of investment opportunities. In this city, international foundations, charities and non-governmental organisations come together to form a vibrant philanthropy network. We are also investing heavily to propel Hong Kong’s development in innovation and technology like green tech and AI, benefiting the future of humanity. All these, together with the quality lifestyle in Hong Kong, the convergence of Eastern and Western cultures, the dazzling array of mega events, make Hong Kong the ideal place for family offices to thrive and realise their ambitions.”

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, stated that the well-received event reaffirmed Hong Kong’s stature as a pre-eminent global hub for family offices. He said, “This vibrant city – a beacon of opportunity, a super connector between East and West, and a thriving hub for over 2 700 single family offices – is where your vision, your capital, and your passion can flourish. Together, we stand on the cusp of a new era, one where wealth is not just preserved but harnessed as a force for good, transcending borders and generations. I invite you to join us in a shared mission: to build, to learn, and to give. These three pillars will define our collaboration, inspiring you to leverage Hong Kong’s unique ecosystem to create a lasting impact.”

The Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau, said, “Hong Kong is Asia’s leading global hub for wealth management, innovation, and sustainable investment. The WGHK again proved to be an exceptional platform for thought leadership, uniting global family offices to exchange ideas and drive positive change while leveraging the city’s robust financial infrastructure and connectivity. At InvestHK, we are dedicated to supporting global investors in unlocking new opportunities and making a lasting impact in Asia and beyond.”

The WGHK featured a distinguished lineup of international speakers who shared insights on the transformative power of wealth. Through insightful sharing of speakers on three sub-themes at panel discussions, participants delved into the evolving landscape of art, culture and luxury, the strategic delivery of impact philanthropy, and the expanding role of technology and artificial intelligence in driving sustainable wealth creation. There was also a fireside chat discussing on the theme “Crafting Success Across Continents and Industries”.

Many speakers today rated Hong Kong highly as an ideal place for setting up family offices.

Founder of ADLEGACY, Mr Horst Bente, said, “Hong Kong has always been a special place for our family. The expansion of the company in the ’60s and ’70s to Asia came through Hong Kong. My parents and I were here when I was a little boy, so we’ve spent a lot of time in this city. To me, Hong Kong has always been the gateway to Asia. Investors are here, money is here, and obviously the talent is here. Hong Kong has a dynamic energy, brand-new facilities, and a genuine enthusiasm for sports. We want to be part of that and help create something that doesn’t exist here yet.”

The Vice Chairman of Swarovski International Holding, Mr Robert Buchbauer, said, “When I look at Hong Kong, I see a city that offers stability, predictability, and an environment that is business-friendly – key elements for any family office seeking a solid foundation for long-term growth. People in Hong Kong want to do business, and that entrepreneurial spirit hasn’t changed. It’s what makes Hong Kong so dynamic and a perfect place for legacy-focused companies like ours to explore new partnerships and paths for growth.”

The Co-founder and Chairman of Alibaba Group, Mr Joe Tsai, said, “I first discovered Hong Kong in the 1980s, and it struck me as a truly international city with an unmatched entrepreneurial energy. Even through challenging times, Hong Kong’s free-market DNA, vibrant financial markets, and supportive tax environment stand out – making it, in my view, one of the best places for businesses and family offices to thrive.”

The Summit concluded with a Gala Dinner, uniting family offices and industry leaders from around the world for an evening of connections and insight-sharing. Set against the stunning backdrop of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s iconic skyline, attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about family legacies and opportunities, and appreciated the city’s energy, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration.
Hashtag: #WGHK

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

Pony.ai Wins First Permit for Fully Driverless Robotaxi Operation in Shenzhen’s City Centers

SHENZHEN, China, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pony.ai (NASDAQ: PONY) became the first company authorized to operate paid fully-driverless robotaxis in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District on March 27, marking a milestone as the city’s inaugural permit for paid autonomous ride-hailing services within its city centers.

Pony.ai granted permit to operate paid, fully-driverless robotaxis in Shenzhen’s Nanshan district
Pony.ai granted permit to operate paid, fully-driverless robotaxis in Shenzhen’s Nanshan district

The company further solidifies its leadership by expanding commercial operations to connect Nanshan with its existing service zone in Baoan District, covering two of Shenzhen’s most dynamic urban areas.

Nanshan District, Shenzhen’s economic powerhouse with a GDP nearing RMB1 trillion in 2024 and close to 2 million residents, surpasses the population of cities like San Francisco. By deploying here, Pony.ai addresses the growing demand for smart mobility solutions in a district that blends rapid innovation with a high concentration of businesses and commuters.

This expansion builds on Pony.ai’s successful launch of robotaxi services in Shenzhen’s Baoan District in 2024, where more than 4 million people reside. The latest permit enables the company to establish Shenzhen’s first cross-district driverless network, linking Nanshan’s tech hubs (including Qianhai, Houhai, and Shenzhen Bay) with Baoan’s central areas and critical infrastructure such as Shenzhen Baoan International Airport. Commuters now enjoy seamless connectivity between business, residential, and transport hubs.

Shenzhen’s dense urban environment—characterized by tunnels, heavy traffic, narrow lanes, and irregular intersections—demands rigorous performance from autonomous technology. Pony.ai’s fleet has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in these scenarios, underscoring the maturity and robustness of its systems.

The company continues to lead autonomous mobility innovation across China’s tier-1 cities, with fully-driverless robotaxis in Beijing and Guangzhou averaged over 15 daily paid rides per vehicle in the first six months of 2024 as passenger confidence grows. To date, Pony.ai has accumulated nearly 45 million kilometers in autonomous testing, including 5 million kilometers in driverless mode.

James Peng, CEO of Pony.ai, emphasized: “Expanding our fully driverless commercial robotaxi services to the vibrant city centers of Shenzhen will accelerate public adoption, as well as inspire confidence and trust in fully driverless technology as we deploy its application to daily urban use cases.”

Residents in authorized zones can book rides via Pony.ai’s app or WeChat mini-program. Operating daily from 7:30 AM to 10:00 PM, the service provides a reliable, weather-resistant commute option, positioning itself as an “all-weather mobility assistant.”

Through relentless technological innovation and real-world validation, Pony.ai is driving the transition toward a future where autonomous vehicles are integral to everyday life.

“As one of the few companies globally with fully driverless autonomous driving solutions, we remain firmly focused on scaling our robotaxi operations and guiding the industry into its next phase of development,” said James Peng.

Media Contact: media@pony.ai

Government Considers Primary School Extension to Enhance Education System

Vientiane High School (Photo: Lao Phatthana News)

The Lao government is considering a major change to the country’s education structure, with plans to extend primary school by adding an additional year, shifting from the current five-year primary school cycle to six years. 

Fujitsu announces winners of Quantum Simulator Challenge

Research teams judged on concrete proposals toward practical application of quantum computing

KAWASAKI, Japan, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fujitsu today announced the winners of its Quantum Simulator Challenge 2024, a competition to foster open innovation and identify practicial use cases for quantum computing. The awards ceremony will take place at Fujitsu Quantum Day 2025 Japan, an event for the quantum community, to be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, at Fujitsu Uvance Kawasaki Tower.

The Quantum Simulator Challenge, held for the second time in 2024, saw teams from academia and industry compete to develop quantum applications on Fujitsu’s 40-qubit quantum computer simulator, one of the largest of its kind in the world. The competition attracted 46 teams from 13 countries and regions who competed for a total prize fund of US$100,000. The collective usage of the quantum simulator by all participants during the competition period amounted to 2,282 job executions and 14,500 operational hours.

The first prize went to Delft University of Technology for its project ‘Industrial Shift Scheduling on the Fujitsu Quantum Simulator’. This project carried out a simulation to verify the optimization of the allocation of working hours for the different steps of a vehicle assembly and painting line. The simulation was based on the open-source Quantum Industrial Shift Scheduling (QISS) algorithm developed by the university, which enables the identification of the optimal shift scheduling solution. The project used up to 39 qubits and demonstrated that quantum computing technology can contribute to solving massive industrial optimization problems and was highly praised for its uniqueness and usefulness. Second prize was awarded to Technische Universität Ilmenau for their project “QuPIV – Quantum algorithm for cross-correlation analysis in particle image velocimetry” which presented a quantum solution for large-scale fluid analysis and utilized up to 32 qubits. Potential applications include aerospace and automotive engineering, urban pedestrian flow analysis, and microfluidics. Third prize was awarded to QunaSys Inc. for the project “Large-scale simulation of molecular electronic states using quantum phase estimation algorithm.” The simulation, which utilized up to 39 qubits, focused on the electronic states of hydrogen and ethane molecules, and was rated by the judges for its simulation efficiency.

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Hyundai Motor Group Launches ‘Pleos’ Software Brand, Unveiling New SDV Technologies and Collaborations

  • The Group introduced its software brand Pleos and outlined plans for its software-centric ‘Cloud Mobility’ ecosystem at Pleos 25 developer conference
  • Proprietary vehicle OS unveiled to boost SDV performance and scalability based on E&E architecture
  • Pleos Connect next-generation infotainment system to launch in Q2 2026; will be applied to more than 20 million vehicles by 2030
  • Pleos Playground, an open development platform, established to facilitate vehicle control and app development process and diversify the in-vehicle app ecosystem
  • The Group’s Next Urban Mobility Alliance introduced as a public-private partnership to connect and optimize the transportation environment 
  • Plans to expand SDV ecosystem unveiled, strengthening collaborations with Google, Uber, Samsung, Naver, SOCAR and Unity

SEOUL, South Korea, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) today introduced its new mobility software brand ‘Pleos’ at its ‘Pleos 25’ developer conference in Seoul, also unveiling plans for collaboration with global partners to enhance in-vehicle app ecosystems.

Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) Division
Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) Division

The inaugural event marked a significant step toward the Group’s evolution into a mobility tech company by sharing the development status of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and revealing plans for creating an in-vehicle app market and ecosystem based on its next-generation infotainment system.

“In the rapidly changing automotive industry, the Group has been dedicated to SDV development since 2023. Today, starting with Pleos 25, we are transforming into a company providing software-centered mobility experiences,” said Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform (AVP) Division.

“Our ultimate goal is to achieve Cloud Mobility, where all forms of mobility are connected through software on the cloud, and continuously evolve over time. Pleos serves to create a connected mobility experience expanding from a vehicle to fleets, hardware to software, and ultimately to the entire mobility infrastructure and cities.”

Pleos is a mobility software platform that supports all devices in motion to move autonomously and be managed smartly. It connects transportation and infrastructure, including vehicles, to help users, businesses and cities establish a freer, more efficient mobility environment.

Pleos is a compound word combining the Greek word ‘Pleo’, meaning ‘more’, and ‘OS’ for ‘Operating System’. It embodies the Group’s commitment to evolving technology, adding user-centric value to the movement of people and objects to achieve increased freedom to move.

To achieve a software-centered mobility environment, the Group is advancing towards SDVs through innovations in electrical and electronic (E&E) architecture, alongside the development of the Group’s own vehicle OS and Pleos Connect. These advancements enable vehicles to serve as efficient and flexible software platforms, strengthening connectivity between vehicles and infrastructure.

Through its software-defined everything (SDx) strategy, the Group plans to continuously connect all mobility solutions, services and devices, allowing everyone to universally enjoy the freedom to move.

(from left) Noah Zych, Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery at Uber; Jaeyeon Jung, EVP and SmartThings Head at Samsung Electronics; Jaeuk Park, CEO of SOCAR; Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform Division; Tatsuya Matsubara, APAC Head of Automotive at Unity; Denis Nekliudov, Staff Software Engineer and Automotive OS Team Lead Manager at Google; Jaehoo Lee, Head of App Division at Naver
(from left) Noah Zych, Head of Autonomous Mobility and Delivery at Uber; Jaeyeon Jung, EVP and SmartThings Head at Samsung Electronics; Jaeuk Park, CEO of SOCAR; Chang Song, President and Head of Hyundai Motor and Kia’s Advanced Vehicle Platform Division; Tatsuya Matsubara, APAC Head of Automotive at Unity; Denis Nekliudov, Staff Software Engineer and Automotive OS Team Lead Manager at Google; Jaehoo Lee, Head of App Division at Naver


CDFG Global Brands Meeting Fuels Global Expansion of Chinese Cultural-Trend Brands

CDFG Partners with 8 Leading Heritage-Inspired Brands to Chart New Course


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 March 2025 – Under the theme “Redefine Frontiers, Synergize Futures,” the CDFG Global Brands Meeting 2025 convened in Sanya, attracting 224 global brands across tobacco & spirits, fragrances & cosmetics, luxury goods, and food & general merchandises. The event provided deep insights into China’s travel retail market, focusing on policy trends, industry innovation, and cutting-edge technologies.

Strategic Partnerships to Drive Global Expansion

CDFG signed agreements with eight representative Chinese brands that exemplify the rise of national trends, blending traditional culture with modern design across fashion, sports, beauty, and lifestyle sectors:

  • Bloomage Bio Technology Corporation Limited (skincare innovation)
  • Giant Biogene Holding Co., Ltd. (biotech-driven beauty)
  • Shanghai Chando Group Co., Ltd. (eco-conscious cosmetics)
  • Eve Group (traditional craftsmanship meets modern design)
  • Xian You San Ding Culture & Art Adverting Co. , Ltd. (cultural art revitalization)
  • Putian Cangyuntang Art Co. (heritage-inspired collectibles)
  • Youth Home Sporting Goods (sports lifestyle branding)
  • Xiamen Tianxingke Digital Tech (digital cultural experiences)


From Local Champions to Global Icons

As the world’s leading travel retailer, CDFG will leverage its global distribution network, supply chain expertise, and consumer insights to support these brands in product localization, marketing, and overseas channel expansion. The partnerships aim to bridge Chinese cultural heritage with global consumer trends, transforming “Made in China” into “Global Icons” while enhancing both cultural influence and commercial value.

Quality as the Cornerstone

CDFG maintains rigorous quality control from procurement to retail, ensuring every product embodies brand excellence. As the most trusted gateway for international brands entering China and Chinese brands expanding abroad, CDFG combines operational precision with cultural authenticity.

Future Vision: A New Era for Travel Retail

CDFG will continue to accelerate the globalization of China-chic brands through cross-cultural innovation and overseas market development. By collaborating with global partners, the group aims to redefine the future of travel retail, creating shared value in an interconnected world.

Hashtag: #CDFG

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

About CDFG – The World’s Leading Travel Retailer

China Duty Free Group was officially established in 1984 and has since set up over 200 duty free shops. These outlets cover a wide range of areas, including airports, on-board aircrafts, borders, passenger stations, railway stations, foreign cruise supplies, diplomatists, cruises and local (both offshore and outbound) destinations, all supported by eight customs supervised logistics centers. It has developed into the duty free operator with the most types and the highest number of retail outlets in a single country worldwide, providing duty free products and services to nearly 200 million domestic and foreign tourists every year.

Shanghai solidifies status as global hub for overseas investment

SHANGHAI, March 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from english.shanghai.gov.cn

 

Global enterprises vowed to invest in Shanghai as the city pledges to improve government efficiency and facilitate technology innovation. Their investment commitments came during the Shanghai Global Investment Promotion Conference 2025 held on March 25, which also marked the beginning of a weeklong business soliciting activity called “Invest in Shanghai”.

The 2025 Shanghai Global Investment Promotion Conference, held on March 25, brought together hundreds of business representatives, renowned investment institutions, and key chambers of commerce. It highlighted Shanghai’s pivotal role as a premier global investment destination and its enduring appeal to international investors.

Jenny Johnson, president and chief executive officer of Franklin Templeton, a global asset management giant, emphasized her company’s strong confidence in the city. “Our longstanding presence here reflects not only our confidence in Shanghai but also in China as a whole,” she said, reinforcing a sentiment shared by many attendees.

This confidence is mirrored by the city’s optimal business environment, which continues to attract substantial investment and serves as a vital R&D hub for foreign enterprises. “Our investments in Shanghai have grown at double-digit rates over the past 15 years and we are doubling our investment in China,” noted Kilian Aviles, executive vice president of Dekra Group and head of the Asia-Pacific Region.

Further highlighting the significance of the conference, Zhang Xiaoyu, president of Arkema Greater China, stated, “This event highlights the government’s commitment to further encouraging foreign investment through concrete measures. We will share this information with our headquarters so that they can better understand and gain more confidence in China.”

Shanghai is a major hub of overseas investment, hosting over 75,000 enterprises from 192 countries and regions, which contribute more than a quarter of its GDP. The city boasts 1,016 regional headquarters of multinational companies and 591 foreign R&D centers, leading the nation in these metrics.

Such a dynamic environment makes Shanghai a prime location for foreign headquarters and a fertile ground for innovation among both State-owned and private enterprises. Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding, emphasized Shanghai’s strong industrial base and favorable investment climate, which have benefited investors over the past two decades. Similarly, the commercial rocket division of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation has thrived in Shanghai, receiving extensive support from the city, which has streamlined policy implementation and enabled rapid operational capabilities.

In this innovative landscape, businesses can not only find abundant growth opportunities but also cultivate a symbiotic relationship with the city. With 2.8987 million enterprises, Shanghai leads the nation in both total numbers and entrepreneurial density. This synergy between businesses and the city not only drives economic growth but also reinforces Shanghai’s position as a leader in global innovation and investment.

For more information: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-InvestmentPromotionConference2025/index.html