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CCCC Advances China-ASEAN Connectivity Through Cultural Exchange and Regional Projects

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The following is a report from Xinhuanet:

On April 11, 2025, the China-ASEAN Media and Think Tank Forum, themed “Strengthening ASEAN-China Cooperation”, was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Chen Zhong, Deputy General Manager of China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), was invited to deliver the opening speech at the event, during which he highlighted CCCC’s efforts to advance cultural exchange and knowledge sharing with ASEAN countries.

Mr. Chen emphasized the geographic proximity and shared future between China and ASEAN, noting that the forum provides a platform to align the resources and efforts of ASEAN countries to further regional development. Over the years, CCCC has remained committed to contributing to a better future for all. The company leads major infrastructure projects abroad to strengthen global connectivity. In addition to advancing shared growth, CCCC has also fostered closer relationships and cross-cultural understanding, supporting global sustainable development.

CCCC deputy general manager Chen Zhong delivered the opening speech at the forum on April 11
CCCC deputy general manager Chen Zhong delivered the opening speech at the forum on April 11

Mr. Chen noted that, as a global leader in comprehensive infrastructure services, CCCC operates in 158 countries and regions. Under the Belt and Road Initiative, CCCC has engaged in extensive regional cooperation, investing in and building more than 3,000 infrastructure projects across partner countries. These include over 13,000 kilometers of highways, more than 200 major bridges, and more than 150 key ports. By capitalizing on its engineering expertise, CCCC strengthens connectivity and helps expand shared access to global development opportunities.

The forum was co-hosted by Xinhua News Agency and Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), and brought together approximately 260 representatives from more than 160 media organizations, think tanks, government agencies, and businesses across China and ASEAN.

 

The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health Publishes Phase III Trial and 24-Month Follow-Up Results of Ziresovir for RSV in Infants Under 6 Months

SHANGHAI, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, a leading international journal in pediatric and adolescent medicine, has published the Phase III clinical trial results of ziresovir, a novel RSV-targeted antiviral drug developed by Shanghai Ark Biopharmaceutical Ltd. The article, titled “Efficacy and safety of ziresovir in hospitalised infants aged 6 months or younger with respiratory syncytial virus infection in China: findings from a phase 3 randomised trial with 24-month follow-up”, presents detailed subgroup analysis of infants under six months of age, following the primary results published in The New England Journal of Medicine in September 2024.

Image credit: The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health
Image credit: The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health

RSV: An Urgent Unmet Medical Need

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality in children under six years old. With millions of cases annually worldwide, especially among infants under six months, RSV imposes a significant burden on families and healthcare systems. Current treatments are limited to symptomatic and supportive care, with no approved direct-acting antiviral therapies available.

Ziresovir’s Phase III results mark a significant milestone, representing the first clinical validation of an antiviral’s efficacy in hospitalized infants ≤6 months, and demonstrating long-term benefits in reducing recurrent wheezing and asthma.

Study Design

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase III trial was conducted at 30 sites in 28 hospitals across China. The trial included two parts:

  • Part 1 assessed safety and pharmacokinetics
  • Part 2 evaluated clinical efficacy and antiviral effects

Infants were randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive ziresovir or placebo for five days, with a 24-month follow-up. The latest publication focuses on infants aged six months or younger.

Key Findings

1. Significant Efficacy

  • Improved Bronchiolitis Symptoms: By Day 3, ziresovir-treated infants had a 3.5-point reduction in Wang Bronchiolitis Clinical Score (WBCS), compared to 2.2 points in the placebo group—a 54.5% difference (p<0.001). Improvements in respiratory rate, wheezing, and retractions were also statistically significant (p<0.05).
  • Rapid Viral Load Reduction: By Day 5, viral load decreased by 2.51 log₁₀ copies/mL in the treatment group, versus 1.87 log₁₀ in the placebo group (p=0.024), confirming ziresovir’s antiviral activity.
  • Faster Symptom Relief: Time to wheezing resolution (HR=1.53, p=0.021) and retraction relief (HR=1.49, p=0.018) were shorter in the treatment group. Hospital stay and oxygen use showed a reduction trend, though not statistically significant.

2. Long-Term Safety and Respiratory Health Benefits

  • Favorable Safety Profile: Treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) occurred in 18% of the treatment group vs. 11% in placebo. No drug-related severe adverse events or deaths were reported.
  • Reduced Risk of Recurrent Wheezing and Asthma:
    • Wheezing incidence was 3.6 times lower in the treatment group (0.18% vs. 0.65%, p=0.0048).
    • Wheezing episodes were reduced by 2.6 times (1.2 vs. 3.1 episodes).
    • Asthma rates were also lower (3% vs. 5%).

These long-term benefits suggest early antiviral intervention may reduce the risk of chronic respiratory conditions.

A New Era in RSV Treatment

Unlike existing RSV treatments focused solely on symptom relief, ziresovir is the first RSV-targeted antiviral therapy with demonstrated clinical efficacy in infants under six months—those most at risk of severe complications. These findings introduce a new therapeutic paradigm for RSV treatment and prevention of long-term sequelae.

The results were presented by Dr. Jim Wu, CEO of ArkBio, at the 13th International RSV Symposium in Brazil, receiving recognition from the global RSV research community.

Prof. Xin Ni, principal investigator of the Airflo study and professor at Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, commented:

“This pivotal Phase III trial provides the first solid evidence of an effective antiviral treatment for RSV in high-risk infants. Following our initial publication in The New England Journal of Medicine, this deeper analysis in infants under six months published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health further validates ziresovir’s safety, efficacy, and long-term benefit. We are proud of our team’s commitment and look forward to bringing this drug to patients in China and worldwide.”

For public readers, the article can be accessed at the following link:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(25)00067-7/fulltext 

About Ziresovir

Ziresovir is a first-in-class, oral small-molecule inhibitor targeting the RSV fusion (F) protein. It prevents viral entry and cell-to-cell transmission by blocking syncytia formation, a hallmark of RSV infection. It is the first oral RSV antiviral to successfully complete a pivotal Phase III trial with positive results and has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China.

About ArkBio

ArkBio is a global biotech company focused on developing innovative therapies for respiratory, infectious, and pediatric diseases. Founded in 2014, it has built core technology platforms and a differentiated R&D pipeline through in-house research and collaborations. Key assets include ziresovir, the first direct-acting RSV antiviral with positive pivotal phase III results globally, and AK0901, an FDA-approved pediatric ADHD therapy with commercialization rights in Greater China.

ArkBio has established strategic partnerships with several multinational pharmaceutical companies and academic institutes, including Roche, Genentech, the Scripps Research Institute, the Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, domestic and international biotechnology companies, as well as venture investment institutions.

For more information about the company, please visit our website: www.arkbiosciences.com 

Investor Inquiries: IR@arkbiosciences.com

Kempinski Hotels Extends Strategic Partnership with BTG Hotels to Grow Luxury Hospitality Offering in China

GENEVA, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Building on over 30 years of partnership in the luxury industry in China, Kempinski Hotels and BTG Hotels (Group) Co., Ltd. (BTG Hotels) are pleased to announce a new chapter in their strategic partnership in China. Kempinski Group has started executing a strategic plan aimed at reclaiming and strengthening the market leadership the oldest European hospitality company has enjoyed for over 150 years.

Pictured from left to right (first line): Rick Huo, Executive Vice General Manager of BTG Hotels (Group) Co.,Ltd., Chairman of NUO International Hotels Management Co.Ltd., Chairman of Key International Hotels Management Co.,Ltd; and Barbara Muckermann, Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Hotels. Pictured from left to right (second line): Yi Qian, Director; Tyrone Tang,General Manager of NUO International Hotels Management Co.,Ltd.; Li Yun,General Manager of Beijing Tourism Group Co.,Ltd., Chairlady of BTG Hotels (Group) Co., Ltd.; David Xing, Director; Charles Stuart Dickie, Director; Yuexin He, Director.
Pictured from left to right (first line): Rick Huo, Executive Vice General Manager of BTG Hotels (Group) Co.,Ltd., Chairman of NUO International Hotels Management Co.Ltd., Chairman of Key International Hotels Management Co.,Ltd; and Barbara Muckermann, Chief Executive Officer of Kempinski Hotels. Pictured from left to right (second line): Yi Qian, Director; Tyrone Tang,General Manager of NUO International Hotels Management Co.,Ltd.; Li Yun,General Manager of Beijing Tourism Group Co.,Ltd., Chairlady of BTG Hotels (Group) Co., Ltd.; David Xing, Director; Charles Stuart Dickie, Director; Yuexin He, Director.

Kempinski Group launches a multi-year investment plan to support the growth of the very successful partnership with BTG Hotels. The plan will focus on four key pillars:

  1. Expand the Chinese Heritage Portfolio for the Kempinski brand, enlarging the offering for sophisticated Chinese travellers discovering China and offering authentic Chinese heritage experiences for the international travellers discovering this beautiful country.
  2. Launch a new lifestyle hospitality brand to reach 200 hotels in China over the next five years. Leveraging the strength of BTG Hotels, the continuous growth of the Chinese market and Kempinski’s expertise in crafting unique experiences, this new brand will enlarge the choice for Chinese customers in China.
  3. Continue to strategically support the Bristoria brand portfolio and strengthen the collaboration to expand the global expansion of the NUO brand and establish it as a benchmark in luxury cultural hospitality worldwide.
  4. Reinforce the cooperation on membership system integration.

This commitment underscores their mutual ambition to lead the way in hospitality and meet the evolving needs of the Chinese market.

“BTG and Kempinski have achieved tremendous success during the past two decades. China’s role on the travel and tourism stage has undergone a major shift in the last quarter century, and Kempinski has been a part of that journey since day one,” said Madame Li, Chairlady, BTG Hotels (Group) Co., Ltd., “We look forward to further strengthening the long-term strategy in the region, leveraging the hospitality expertise of Kempinski, and together, continuing to be a driving force in the development of China’s hospitality landscape.”

Commenting on the partnership extension, Barbara Muckermann, Chief Executive Officer, Kempinski Group, says: “Kempinski and BTG enjoy a strong partnership and rich history together, as pioneers in luxury hospitality in China. We are very fortunate to have BTG Hotels, the third largest hotel group in the country, as our partner. Our collaboration offers us a unique advantage to continue aggressively expanding in the region. I look forward to the next phase of the collaboration to reinforce our position into the future.”

Kempinski originally expanded into China in 1992 with the country’s first-ever five-star luxury hotel, Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center, formerly known as Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center. Following early successes in China, Kempinski and BTG created Key Co. in 2001, a joint venture established to operate hotels throughout China, leveraging the hospitality expertise of Kempinski, as the oldest independent luxury hotel company in Europe, and BTG Hotels’ reputation as the most prestigious travel and tourism company in China. In 2018, Kempinski and its long-term Chinese partner mutually agreed to prematurely review the joint venture for another 50 years as a sign of confidence from both parties in the partnership and the enduring potential of this market. Today, the joint venture is one of the largest international luxury brand operators in China, operating 22 hotels.

“We are thrilled to cement our partnership with Kempinski,” says Rick Huo, Chairman of Key Co. and NUO International Hotels Mgmt. Co., Ltd., “This is a significant step in expanding our portfolio and strengthening our brand offering in China and beyond. This renewed collaboration not only demonstrates the shared commitment of both Kempinski and BTG Hotels, but also paves the way for increased market share, ensuring that our joint venture continues to set new benchmarks in the industry.”

As part of the renewed partnership, Kempinski and BTG Hotels will focus on Chinese travellers by launching a new brand which will offer a curated selection of rooms, experiences and services to cater to the evolving needs of the local demand. “Given China’s strategic importance in our strategy, this new lifestyle brand will just reinforce our long-term commitment to the local market and will help further expand our footprint in the region,” says Rasha Lababidi, Chief Product Officer Kempinski Hotels, “Domestic travellers will benefit from the best of both worlds, Kempinski hospitality and service expertise on one hand, distinct products and experiences specially designed for them on the other hand. Together with BTG Hotels, I look forward to bringing this new brand to life.”

The extension of the partnership between Kempinski Hotels and BTG Hotels demonstrates Kempinski long-term vision to remain a key hospitality player in the region, as part of the transformational change that the brand is going through to develop and position Europe’s oldest luxury hospitality group as a dynamic, world-class leader in the luxury travel industry.

About BTG Hotels (Group) Co., Ltd.: 
BTG Hotels Group (600258.SH) is one of the top ten hotel groups in the world and one of the three major chain hotel groups in China. Established in 1999, BTG Hotels Group was listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange on June 1, 2000. The company focuses on hotel brand and operation management as well as scenic area operations, and serves as a key Strategic Business Unit within the lodging segment of BTG Group.

As of the end of 2024, BTG Hotels Group manages over 20 brand series centered around accommodation, with nearly 40 products and a total membership exceeds 200 million. The group operates over 7,000 hotels in China, offering nearly 520,000 guest rooms. Its portfolio includes a full range of hotel products, covering “luxury high-end,” “mid to high-end,” “comfortable,” “leisure resort,” and “social entertainment,” to meet consumers’ demands for quality accommodation during business trips and leisure travel. In addition, the Nanshan Scenic Area, which is controlled by BTG Hotels Group, is one of the most influential 5A-level scenic spots in Hainan, attracting over 6 million visitors annually.

About Kempinski: Created in 1872, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hospitality group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today, the Kempinski Group operates 79 hotels and residences in 35 countries and has more than 38 projects currently under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality that guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands. www.kempinski.com

About Key & Co.: Key International Hotels Management Co., Ltd’ (Key Office) is a joint venture between Beijing Tourism Group, one of the largest tourism companies of mainland China, and Kempinski Hotels, Europe’s oldest luxury hotel company. The joint venture was created on 5 June 2001 with a mandate to operate Kempinski and NUO Hotels in Greater China and Mongolia . Each brand stands on its own with a clear differentiation of European and new Chinese luxury, respectively, and is supported by Key International.
As one of China’s most successful luxury hospitality management companies, KEY offers experienced technical services and hotel management. Today the portfolio in Greater China and Mongolia comprises 19 Kempinski hotels and 3 NUO Hotels.

For further press information contact:
Media contact for further information:
Linda Wu •Regional Director of Marketing and Communications Kempinski Hotels
linda.wu@kempinski.com

Grand Stevie Winners Announced in 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards

FAIRFAX, Va., April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Stevie® Awards, organizer of the world’s premier business awards programs, announced the winners of five Grand Stevie® Award trophies in the 12th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, the only awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

The Stevie® Awards, organizer of the world's premier business awards programs, announced the winners of five Grand Stevie® Award trophies in the 12th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, the only awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
The Stevie® Awards, organizer of the world’s premier business awards programs, announced the winners of five Grand Stevie® Award trophies in the 12th annual Asia-Pacific Stevie® Awards, the only awards program to recognize innovation in the workplace throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners in various categories were announced on 2 April. Those awards were determined by the average scores of more than 120 executives worldwide acting as judges.

The 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards have recognized organizations in 23 markets, including Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Macao, Malaysia, Maldives, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, São Tomé and Príncipe, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Türkiye, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.

The Grand (“best of show”) Stevie Award trophy is awarded to only a handful of organizations in each of the nine Stevie Awards competitions. In the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, one Grand Stevie Award is presented to the most honored organization, and one to each of the highest-scoring nominations from the four markets that submitted the most Stevie-winning nominations.

The 2025 Grand Stevie Award for Most Honored Organization of the Year goes to the SM Group of Companies, with 42 award points earned through Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie wins by related organizations throughout the Philippines. SM Companies also won Grand Stevies in the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards in 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Grand Stevie Award winners for the highest-scoring nominations in the competition are:

From Australia:
Healthcare Innovated
, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, for their nomination “Jodie Granger, CEO,” which also won the Gold Stevie for Most Innovative Mentor of the Year. The nomination was submitted by Reputation by Design.

From China:
MSquare Technology
, Shanghai, China, for their nomination “Wendy Chen, CEO,” which also won the Gold Stevie for Most Innovative Woman of the Year.

From India:
IntouchCX
, Hyderabad, Telangana, India for their nomination “Dishant Bhojwani, Global Chief Operating Officer,” which also won the Gold Stevie for Most Innovative Customer Service Executive of the Year.

From The Philippines:
Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc.
(Prime Infra), Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines, for the nomination of “Guillaume Lucci, President and CEO,” which also won the Gold Stevie for Most Innovative Sustainability Leader of the Year.

The 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards also includes the People’s Choice Stevie Awards for Favorite Companies, a worldwide public vote for all nominees in the competition’s Company/Organization categories. Voting for that continues through 2 May. People’s Choice winners will receive a crystal People’s Choice Stevie Award trophy.

Winners in the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards will be celebrated during an awards banquet on 13 May at the Lotte Hotel in Seoul, South Korea. Tickets for the awards banquet are on sale now.

PR Newswire Asia is the official news release distribution partner of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.

adobo magazine is the official Creative Media Partner of the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.

About the Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in nine programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service, and the Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence. Stevie Awards competitions receive over 12,000 entries annually from organizations in more than 70 nations and territories. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

 

 

Indonesia in Focus as FancyTech’s B+ Funding Drives Global AI Content Growth

JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — FancyTech, the Grand Winner of the 2024 LVMH Innovation Award and an AI startup specializing in commercial content generation, has successfully closed its Series B+ funding round. The round is co-led by GSR Ventures and Zhilin Capital, with previous backers, including DCM, reaffirming their commitment to further develop FancyTech’s AI-driven content platform. The company reported $15 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) for 2024, doubling its revenue from the previous year.

Series B funding will be used to develop FancyTech’s AI-driven content platform further and fast-track FancyTech’s expansion into priority markets, especially Indonesia. The company has begun collaborating with a select network of Indonesian partners across e-commerce, retail, and creative sectors. Early adopters include Brainchild Communication, a pioneering lifestyle branding creative agency that leverages innovative strategies to enhance brand visibility; Sideroom Studio, a 3D, CGI, and animation studio known for its unique visual storytelling approach; as well as Space and Shapes, a multidisciplinary creative agency specializing in helping brands succeed through innovative and integrated solutions. These Indonesian agencies and creative studios leverage FancyTech’s AI tools to enhance speed-to-market and drive their clients’ future growth. 

Indonesia Digital Potential

Indonesia, home to more than 280 million people and Southeast Asia’s largest digital economy, recorded over $62 billion in e-commerce transactions in 2023 alone—a figure projected to surpass $90 billion by 2026. As mobile usage surges and demand for localized, engaging content grows, Indonesian brands and marketplaces are competing to stand out online.

FancyTech’s proprietary AI models, specializing in precise object reconstruction and content control, are uniquely positioned to meet this demand. By reconstructing objects with high precision and maintaining brand integrity across various content types, the company trains custom AI models for each client. With the same prompt, these models empower businesses to generate consistent, yet customized, high-impact visuals at scale, resonating with local audiences and aligning with cultural context, crucial for Indonesia’s hyper-local consumer landscape.

With more than 1,000 clients from over ten countries and newly established global headquarters in Dubai, FancyTech is expanding its sector-specific offerings to support Indonesian enterprises across retail, e-commerce, fintech, travel, and entertainment.

As part of its global strategy, FancyTech is actively building an AI content supply chain and collaborating with Indonesia’s creators to fuel a more streamlined ecosystem for visual content production.

“Our mission in Indonesia is clear,” said Bryan Lim, FancyTech’s Channel Manager APAC & Indonesia Country Manager. “E-commerce is our strength—where speed, scale, and standout visuals are mission-critical. Yet, we believe this is just the beginning. Our vision is to bring the benefits of AI-generated content to industries far beyond online retail.”

He added: “Indonesia’s rich artistic heritage offers a unique layer of depth to the global AI content supply chain. Indonesian creators are co-architects of a more expressive, culturally intelligent AI future.”

About FancyTech

FancyTech is a global leader in AI-generated content, specializing in high-quality, brand-aligned visual content for businesses. FancyTech helps businesses looking to integrate AI across marketing, design, and digital experiences. In 2024, the company was named Grand Winner of the LVMH Innovation Award and featured on Forbes Asia’s “100 to Watch” list. With deep expertise in AI-powered creative and scalable commercial content, FancyTech is shaping how enterprises harness artificial intelligence to elevate their brands and accelerate innovation.

GTN and Webull Singapore open up fixed income investing to APAC investors

SINGAPORE, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GTN, a global fintech redefining trading and investing for all, today announced its partnership with Webull Singapore (“Webull”), a leading global investment platform, to open up fixed income investing. 

Webull users across APAC can now tap into GTN’s unique fractional fixed income offering, breaking down traditional investment barriers. Webull’s users gain access to carefully selected fractional US treasuries, as well as a comprehensive range of non-fractional fixed income assets.

By integrating GTN’s robust single API framework for seamless market data access, trading, and account management, Webull empowers its users with convenient, on-the-go e-trading capabilities for the traditionally complex fixed income markets, directly via mobile.

“I am happy to partner with GTN as they are a leader in this space. This collaboration makes sense for us; Webull Singapore offers a best-in-class platform to our customers, and by adding another asset class, i.e. fixed income – and US Treasuries especially – this allows Webull to further cater to their investment needs and preferences,” said the CEO of Webull Singapore, Jonathan Man.

Ankit Shah, Global Head of Fintech at GTN, said: “We are delighted to work with Webull to extend fixed income access to investors in APAC. Our technology is designed to make investing in key assets like US Treasuries as seamless and efficient as trading equities. With fractionalisation, we are removing significant hurdles and empowering more individuals to build truly resilient and sophisticated portfolios in today’s volatile market conditions.”

With increasing interest in fixed income investments, GTN and Webull are committed to democratising investing and empowering users to diversify their portfolios. This partnership opens up new possibilities for all investors in APAC, providing them with the tools and access to build more resilient and balanced investment strategies.

About GTN

GTN is a global fintech holding broker-dealer and capital markets services licences in multiple jurisdictions through its subsidiaries. We are committed to empowering brokers, banks, asset managers, and fintechs with scalable and innovative investment and trading solutions that enable access to a comprehensive network of global markets and multiple asset classes, making investment and trading accessible to all.

Spread across 14 countries, GTN brings together a talented team of over 500 professionals united by a shared passion and purpose: empowering clients and transforming the accessibility to investment and trading opportunities for all.

GTN is backed by strategic investors IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and SBI Group, one of the largest financial services firms listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. To learn more, visit www.gtngroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

About Webull 

Webull Securities (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. (“Webull Singapore”), incorporated in 2021, is a subsidiary of Webull Corporation, a leading digital investment platform built on next generation global infrastructure. Webull Singapore is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and holds a Capital Markets Services (CMS) Licence under the Securities and Futures Act 2001. Webull Singapore aims to offer an all-in-one self-directed investment platform that provides quality user experience and advanced tools and services. With low-cost trading on a wide range of assets, Webull Singapore is revolutionising the way individuals approach investing. Learn more at https://www.webull.com.sg/.

Hurom’s E50ST Slow Juicer Wins 2025 Red Dot Design Award

SEOUL, South Korea, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hurom’s newest juicer, the E50ST Slow Juicer, has been awarded a 2025 Red Dot Design Award, a globally prestigious honor recognizing outstanding achievements in product design.

▲ Hurom E50ST Slow Juicer
▲ Hurom E50ST Slow Juicer

Recognized as one of the world’s top three design competitions—alongside Germany’s iF Design Award and the IDEA Design Award in the U.S.—the Red Dot Design Award has been hosted by Germany’s Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen since 1955. Winning entries are selected each year through a rigorous evaluation process by leading international design experts.

Hurom’s E50ST impressed judges with its innovation, functionality, emotional appeal, eco-consciousness, and durability, winning the main prize in the Product Design category.

As part of Hurom’s latest “Pure Line” series, the E50ST integrates next-generation juicing technology with a precision fine-mesh filter to deliver smooth, clear, and nutrient-rich juice with exceptional performance.

Launched this year, the E50ST stands out for its sleek, approachable design—a minimalist body, softly curved lines, and a refined material finish that encourages consumer connection. By highlighting the natural matte texture of the materials and avoiding additional surface treatments, the design achieves a cohesive, sculptural aesthetic. The ventilation grille at the base of the unit adds both form and function—deliberately patterned for optimal airflow to dissipate motor heat while enhancing the visual appeal with its subtle detailing.

Since launching its first product in 2008, Hurom has been recognized for its world-class product design, winning multiple accolades at the world’s top three design awards, including four Red Dot Design Awards, four iF Design Awards, and three IDEA Design Awards.

In addition, the Hurom E50ST was awarded the Kitchen Innovation Award 2025 this past February in Germany. Presented annually at Ambiente—the world’s largest consumer goods trade fair held in Frankfurt—the award recognizes products that combine innovation with a deep understanding of consumer needs. What distinguishes this honor is its dual evaluation process, combining expert jury assessment with consumer voting for added credibility. The E50ST earned high praise in four core categories: functionality, ease of use, product excellence, and overall quality.

Hurom CEO Jae-won Kim shared, “We’re honored that our new E50ST Slow Juicer has received back-to-back recognition from such prestigious global awards,” adding “As a pioneer in slow juicing, Hurom remains committed to delivering innovative, design-forward products that help people live healthier lives worldwide.”

NORTH AMERICA’S 50 BEST BARS UNVEILS INAUGURAL LIST OF BARS RANKED 51st TO 100th FOR 2025

LONDON, April 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025, sponsored by Perrier, has revealed the inaugural 51-100 list. This extended list is the result of the votes cast by the voting Academy, which is comprised of more than 300 independent cocktail experts, renowned bartenders, educators and drinks writers from across the region.

North America’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, announces the inaugural extended 51-100 list for 2025
North America’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier, announces the inaugural extended 51-100 list for 2025

The 51-100 List in Numbers

  • The 51-100 list includes bars spanning 23 destinations across North America
  • The US leads the list with 29 bars represented, from cities across the country including New York, Los Angeles and Chicago as well as Albuquerque, Boston, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, Phoenix, and more
  • Canada boasts 15 institutions on the list, hailing from Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Calgary and Victoria
  • Mexico City, Oaxaca and Playa del Carmen have a combined total of 5 bars featured

The 51-100 list celebrates the rich and diverse cocktail cultures across the region in the lead-up to the unveiling of the 1-50 list on April 29 in Vancouver, Canada.

Emma Sleight, Head of Content for North America’s 50 Best Bars, says “In sharing the 51-100 list, we recognize the hard work and dedication of even more of the hospitality and drinks community and shine a spotlight on the development of exceptional drinks culture across the region.”

Topping the 51-100 list is Library Bar in Toronto at No.51. Other Canadian bars include Missy’s at No.52 from Calgary and Bar Bisou Bisou at No.75 from Montreal.

Bars from across the US include destinations like Austin’s Nickel City at No.70, Albuquerque’s Happy Accidents at No.88, Honolulu’s Bar Leather Apron at No.73, Houston’s Bandista at No.59 and Boston’s Equal Measure at No.81. Bars in Seattle on the list include Roquette at No.72, The Doctor’s Office at No.76 and Canon at No.79.

Five bars from Mexico are featured: Sabina Sabe (No.54), Brujas (No.65), Zapote Bar (No.74), Ticuchi (No.82) and Casa Prunes (No.94).

The full list can be viewed here.

The 1-50 list of North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025, sponsored by Perrier, will be revealed at a live awards ceremony in Vancouver on April 29 in collaboration with host destination partner, Destination Vancouver. The countdown of the list will be broadcast live to a global audience who are unable to attend in person, through the 50 Best Bars TV channel on YouTube.

Media center access:
https://mediacentre.theworlds50best.com/