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Screens for All: Samsung Unveils 2021 TV and Soundbar Lines, Along with The Premiere

  • The new line-up of Neo QLED TVs, Lifestyle TVs and UHD range redefines home entertainment experiences to meet consumers’ new needs and passion points
  • The Premiere is the industry’s first HDR10+ certified triple laser projector with 4K resolution

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach 24 March 2021 – Samsung Electronics Singapore unveiled its 2021 TV line-up today, with a new collection of Neo QLED TVs, as well as its expanded lifestyle category and UHD TV range. It is also bringing The Premiere, the world’s first HDR10+ certified triple laser projector with 4K resolution to market.

Samsung QN900 Neo 8K QLED TV

The 2021 portfolio brings the latest advancements in technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to offer an unparalleled viewing experience that fits every individual’s lifestyle, needs and passion points. This year’s line-up is anchored by the flagship 8K (QN900A) and 4K (QN90A) models – pushing the large screen experience to the next dimension by delivering deeper blacks, vibrant colours and incredible sound wrapped in a stunning design.

“The role of TVs in our lives has evolved in the new normal, and this year, Samsung is introducing new line-ups and refreshed ranges to suit the changing lifestyle habits of consumers. With more Singaporeans opting for widescreen TVs, our new Neo QLED technology will be a game-changer, offering incredible contrast, colour and brightness to deliver exceptional viewing experience for bigger screens at home,” said Steven Koh, Director & Head, TV & AV Business, Samsung Electronics Singapore. “Beyond Samsung’s continued efforts to deliver new innovative forms and features, our leadership in picture performance has also made Samsung the number one global TV manufacturer.”

Newly released data from market research firm Omdia notes that Samsung Electronics recorded 31.8% in global TV market share by revenue in Q4 2020 and retained the largest annual category market share by revenue in 2020, at 31.9%, making Samsung the global No.1 TV manufacturer for 15 consecutive years[1].


Neo QLED: The Pinnacle in Big Screen TV

Samsung is bringing the Neo QLED models to the next stage with a new light source called Quantum Mini LED, which is precisely controlled by Quantum Matrix Technology and Neo Quantum Processor, a powerful picture processor optimised for Neo QLED.

The Quantum Mini LED is 1/40 the size of a standard LED. It uses incredibly thin micro layers filled with several more LEDs instead of a lens to disperse light and a package to keep the LED in place. Quantum Matrix Technology allows for ultra-fine and precise control of the tightly packed LEDs, which prevents blooming and allows viewers to experience content as it is intended.

The luminance scale is increased to 12-bit with 4,096 steps in Neo QLED, which helps render dark areas darker and bright areas brighter, resulting in a more detailed and immersive HDR experience. Furthermore, Samsung’s patented, powerful Neo Quantum Processor with enhanced upscaling capabilities is used in Neo QLED, to optimise picture quality to 4K and 8K picture output regardless of input quality by using up to 16 different neural network models, each trained in AI upscaling and deep learning technology. For the innovation and value the new Neo QLED TV brings to daily lives and routines in this ‘new normal’ lifestyle, the 85-inch QN900A Neo QLED was one of the CES 2021 Best of Innovation award honourees this year.

Earlier this month, the Neo QLED range secured the first-of-its-kind ‘Eye Care’ certification and Gaming TV Performance certification from Verband Deutscher Elektrotechniker (VDE), a well-regarded electric engineering certification institute in Germany. This distinction illustrates Samsung’s dedication to improving the consumer reliability of its TVs. All of the Samsung 2021 QLED models that have completed the testing have received[2] the comprehensive ‘Eye Care’ certification which includes ‘Safety for Eyes’, ‘Gentle to the eyes’, flicker level[3], uniformity[4] and colour fidelity[5] assessments.

Samsung’s 2021 Neo QLED 8K features a new Infinity One Design, which is a virtually bezel-less screen that offers an even more immersive viewing experience while retaining a sleek design and form factor. An anti-glare and anti-reflection coating have been applied to the screen for optimum visibility at almost any angle, regardless in the day or night. The Neo QLED 8K’s Attachable Slim One Connect box – a brand-new cable management device that can be connected to the back of the TV stand – allows for a smoother installation and a cleaner look.

The 2021 Neo QLED 8K also includes several premium, room-filling audio features, including Object Tracking Sound (OTS) Pro[6], which produces dynamic sound that corresponds to the movement of objects on screen, and SpaceFit Sound, which analyses the physical environment of the installed TV and produces immersive sound tailored specifically to your space.

The 2021 Neo QLED range also features eight 4K TVs for consumers who are seeking more affordable options to refresh their TVs at home.

The Premiere: A True Home Cinema Experience

The Premiere

The Premiere is the newest addition to Samsung’s award-winning lifestyle product line, and it is designed to go beyond the display experience – without the display. In the comfort of one’s own home, the new 4K laser projector offers a big-screen cinematic experience of up to 130″.

With a peak brightness of up to 2,800 ANSI lumens, The Premiere is the world’s first HDR10+ certified projector with triple laser technology, offering ground-breaking contrast details as the user watches from bright to dark scenes.

The Premiere is available in an all-in-one lightweight, space-saving design that blends into a variety of living room settings and arrangements. The Premiere can be mounted directly in front of a wall or a screen since it is an ultra-short-throw projector. It is made to be simple to put together and has fabric finishes around its edges that effortlessly complement any environment.

The Premiere also features powerful built-in woofers and Acoustic Beam[7] surround sound, making it one of the best projector cinema experiences available today and reducing the need for additional sound equipment in smaller spaces. The innovative projector is also recognised as an Innovation Honouree at the CES 2021 Innovation Awards for Video Displays and Digital Imaging/Photography.

The Frame: Pioneering Lifestyle TV Experience

An all-new The Frame[8] will be introduced as part of Samsung’s extensive lifestyle TV line-up, along with new design forms and software upgrades. More original artwork will be included in The Frame to fit individual preferences. It also comes with AI-powered auto-curation technology that suggests artwork based on user’s selections. With a growing library of over 1,400 pieces of art from world-renowned institutions, one can easily curate their own personal art collection – right in the comfort of their living rooms.

Samsung has also made the 2021 Frame even slimmer than before at 24.9mm thick, similar to the depth of an actual photo frame. It comes with the all-new Slim Fit Wall Mount and the amazing One Invisible Connection to keep your Frame neat and clean. To make The Frame even more exciting, bezel options have been expanded to four colour choices in two different designs.

Crystal UHD TV: Elevated Colour Vibrancy with Smart Features

Samsung’s Crystal UHD TV line-up will feature a brand new AU8000. The AU8000’s sleek AirSlim design makes it the ideal addition to any home. It features a 25mm thin profile and comes with an adjustable stand for users to place the TV at the desired height they want.

Samsung 2021 Q Series Soundbars: Sound That Matches the Visual

Samsung HW-Q950A Soundbar

While Samsung TVs produce amazing sound from even the smallest of speakers, nothing beats the pairing of a Samsung soundbar with the screen to complete the home theatre experience.

The 2021 Q Series line-up includes exclusive Q-Symphony tech, which works in tandem with Samsung TV speakers to deliver the perfect 3-dimensional sound experience with Dolby Atmos. Select models with SpaceFit Sound+ can also assess the surroundings and automatically calibrate the sound field to fit the room.

Innovation in Sustainability

Samsung’s eco packaging solution will be introduced to all visual display and audio products in 2021, enabling consumers to repurpose TV boxes into small-scale pieces of furniture, thus responsibly managing waste generated from product purchases.

The award-winning sustainable packaging design extends to the solar cell-powered remote control, which is predicted to assist in preventing the wastage of around 99 million AA batteries globally over the course of seven years of TV usage[9].

Local Availability and Pricing

The Samsung Neo QLED, Lifestyle and UHD TV line-ups, and soundbars are now available in Singapore on Samsung Online Store and major consumer electronics & IT stores.

SERIES

MODEL

SIZE

RRP (S$)

(including GST)

Neo QLED 8K

QA65QN800AKXXS

65″

$9,199.00

QA65QN900AKXXS

65″

$13,499.00

QA75QN800AKXXS

75″

$14,499.00

QA75QN900AKXXS

75″

$18,499.00

QA85QN900AKXXS

85″

$30,999.00

Neo QLED 4K

QA50QN90AAKXXS

50″

$3,599.00

QA55QN85AAKXXS

55″

$4,099.00

QA55QN90AAKXXS

55″

$5,099.00

QA65QN85AAKXXS

65″

$5,699.00

QA65QN90AAKXXS

65″

$6,699.00

QA75QN85AAKXXS

75″

$8,999.00

QA75QN90AAKXXS

75″

$10,499.00

QA85QN90AAKXXS

85″

$14,999.00

QLED 4K

QA43Q60AAKXXS

43″

$1,499.00

QA50Q60AAKXXS

50″

$1,799.00

QA55Q60AAKXXS

55″

$2,299.00

QA55Q80AAKXXS

55″

$2,699.00

QA65Q60AAKXXS

65″

$3,099.00

QA65Q80AAKXXS

65″

$4,099.00

QA75Q60AAKXXS

75″

$4,599.00

QA85Q60AAKXXS

85″

$7,199.00

Crystal UHD TV

UA43AU8000KXXS

43″

$1,199.00

UA50AU8000KXXS

50″

$1,399.00

UA55AU8000KXXS

55″

$1,799.00

UA65AU8000KXXS

65″

$2,399.00

UA75AU8000KXXS

75″

$3,599.00

UA85AU8000KXXS

85″

$4,799.00

UHD TV

UA43AU7000KXXS

43″

$799.00

UA50AU7000KXXS

50″

$899.00

UA55AU7000KXXS

55″

$1,099.00

UA65AU7000KXXS

65″

$1,499.00

UA75AU7000KXXS

75″

$2,499.00

The Premiere

SP-LSP7TKAXXS

90″ ~ 120″

$6,999.00

SP-LSP9TKAXXS

100″ ~ 130″

$12,999.00

The Frame

QA43LS03AAKXXS

43″

$1,999.00

QA50LS03AAKXXS

50″

$2,499.00

QA55LS03AAKXXS

55″

$3,099.00

QA65LS03AAKXXS

65″

$4,599.00

QA75LS03AAKXXS

75″

$6,699.00

Q- Series Soundbars

HW-Q950A

$1,999.00

HW-Q900A

$1,599.00

HW-Q800A

$1,199.00

HW-Q700A

$999.00

HW-Q600A

$799.00

For more information about the 2021 TV and soundbar line-ups, please visit www.samsung.com/sg.



[2] Series QN900, QN800, QN90, QN85, Q80A, Q60A.

[3] According to International Electrotechnical Commission(IEC) standard.

[4] According to International Standard Organization(ISO) standard.

[5] According to Information Display Measurement Standard (IDMS) standard.

[6] Series QN900

[7] Only available for the SP-LSP9TKAXXS model.

[8]Compared to previous Frame models. Bezels sold separately. Samsung collection supplied with 20 artworks. Additional artworks available for purchase or via subscription. Internet connection required.

[9] https://news.samsung.com/global/samsung-electronics-debuts-2021-neo-qled-microled-and-lifestyle-tv-lines-highlighting-commitment-to-sustainable-and-accessible-future.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

Luang Prabang Authorities Release New Year Events Schedule

Schedule of Events for Boun Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year) in Luang Prabang
The procession of the Prabang as it exits the national museum, Luang Prabang (Photo: Jason Rolan)

Much to the joy of everyone in Laos, the beloved Boun Pi Mai (Lao New Year) festival will be going ahead this year, after being canceled in 2020 due to the Covid-19 lockdown.

Newly Launched GOVirtual Business Expo & Conference Casts Vote of Confidence in Hong Kong’s Post Pandemic Economy Rebound

New event dedicated to virtual business will be an industry highlight and help businesses GO virtual to capture unlimited online opportunities

 

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – 2020 had been hard for Hong Kong’s business communities, yet the difficulties have fueled the growth of virtual businesses in Hong Kong, and opened doors of online opportunities to those who dare take on the digital challenge. In anticipation of the rebound of business activities led by virtual businesses, Baobab Tree Event Management Co., Ltd. (BTE) announced today that BTE is joining forces with CP Exhibition Ltd. (CPE), together with co-organizer GS1 Hong Kong Ltd. (GS1 HK), to organize the first edition of GOVirtual Business Expo & Conference (GOVirtual Expo), to be held on 10-12 June 2021 at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, to help the GOVirtual transformation of businesses in the region and support their post pandemic recovery. As the anchor conference co-located with the Expo, the 20th edition of GS1 Hong Kong Summit will also be held on 10 June with a compelling lineup of speakers.

Ms. Culsin Li, Managing Director of BTE (LEFT) and Anna Lin, Chief Executive of GS1 Hong Kong (RIGHT)

Professional platform driven by market demand

Virtual business, from eCommerce and e-Retail, to remote working and virtual meetings & events, to live streaming and online entertainment, has become vital to the margin, even survival of businesses in all sectors. Traditional businesses are looking to acquire virtual business capability, a trend being illustrated by the HK$1.88 billion given out to over 32,000 companies via the D-Biz Program under the HKSAR Anti-Epidemic Fund. The program positively put in motion the digital transformation momentum of SMEs in Hong Kong, and generated huge demands for virtual business technology and solutions. Many of the 1.4 million Hong Kong registered companies are looking for technology solutions and services to support their virtual business development.

Such enormous market demand is the driving force behind the realization of GOVirtual Business Expo & Conference. A unique exhibition targeting both trade delegates and public visitors, GOVirtual Expo aims to promote and enable conventional businesses’ digital conversion, and provides an ideal platform for virtual business service and solution providers to connect with potential clients and partners. The Expo also aspires to assist entrepreneurs who are looking for technology advices and support to start their online virtual businesses

“Virtual business capability has become a critical factor to the survival and success of all entities in the post-pandemic economy. ECommerce in Hong Kong, for example, is forecasted to grow 18.6% and reaches US$7.5 billion in 2020, while online entertainment is projected to grow 11.4% to US$343 million. GOVirtual Expo will support enterprises to unlock and capture the boundless potential of virtual business, and help make a positive impact to the economic recovery of Hong Kong. We are very pleased to co-organize the GOVirtual Business Expo & Conference with the highly respected GS1 Hong Kong. Furthermore, the Expo is well supported by industry bodies and organizations in various sectors”, said Ms. Culsin Li, Managing Director of BTE, organizer of GOVirtual Expo, “Furthermore, 2020 has been a very difficult year for the C&E industry, but we believe that the epidemic will eventually end and recovery is just around the corner. We want to show our support to the industry by organizing the GOVirtual Expo. With the support of our co-organizer and industry partners, we are confident that the Expo will be a success and a testimonial to the resilience of our industry.”

The Expo will be a one-stop trade platform that focuses on a spectrum of impactful technology areas including Disruptive Business Innovations, eCommerce, Marketing Technologies, Digital Sales Management, Payment & FinTech, Supply Chain & Logistics Technologies, Technologies for Remote Working, Virtual Meeting & Events, and Live Streaming & Online Entertainment. Furthermore, the Expo will feature “Hybrid Park“, a highlighted trade & public pavilion perfect for e-retailers and eCommerce companies to not only see and connect with potential investors, partners, suppliers, vendors for creating business opportunities; but also directly meet and interact with customer prospects for expanding their client base in a physical setting.

Bridging Online and Offline with Strong Lineup at 20th GS1 Hong Kong Summit

Co-located with the Expo, the 20th edition of the GS1 Hong Kong Summit will gather industry leaders and pioneers from HKTVmall, CUHK Medical Centre, DCH Auriga, DHL etc., to explore how technologies, new business and operation strategies are orchestrated to drive digital transformation and smarter business.

For 20 years, the Summit has built itself as one of the region’s most distinguished and influential industry events, supporting businesses to both grow their market presence locally and expand it beyond Greater Bay Area to every corner of the online world. “The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation, which enables businesses to respond faster and stay relevant amid the changing markets.” said Anna Lin, Chief Executive of GS1 Hong Kong. “I think GOVB Expo and GS1 Hong Kong Summit are right on time to help business realise and capitalise on the power of technologies to embrace the new normal, which is in line with our objective to foster a business ecosystem where commerce connectivity and enhanced consumer experience converged.”

In addition to GS1 Hong Kong Summit, two conferences will also be hosted at the Expo: the 6th Cloud Forum by KORNERSTONE, principle partner; and the onsite GOVirtual Business conference. Industry experts and business leaders will share valuable insights on technology, innovation and trends, as well as advices critical to successful virtual business strategies on these concurrent conferences.

Great Business Opportunity

GOVirtual Business Expo & Conference is now inviting network and internet operators, hardware manufacturers, software developers, platform & systems creators, suppliers, solution providers engaged in providing infrastructure, products and services that enable businesses to advance and transform from traditional offline operations to innovative online ventures to exhibit in the GOVirtual Expo and capture the unlimited opportunities of the GBA’s enormous virtual business market!

Please download all photos here: https://bit.ly/2Po3FLC

Press release, Expo & Summit programmes are saved here: http://www.baobab-tree-event.com/project/GOVirtualExpoHK/doc/2021GOVirtualExpo-JointPressCon-MediaKit.zip

Stay connected with GOVirtual Expo

Website: www.GOVirtualExpoHK.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GOVirtualexpoHK

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/govirtualexpohk

Baobab Tree Event Management Company Limited

Founded in 2011, Baobab Tree Event Management Co., Ltd. (BTE) is a multi-disciplinary event & exhibition specialist headquartered in Hong Kong with branches in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. BTE offers a complete array of value-driven project management services from strategy consultation to concept development to planning to execution. BTE takes great pride in being a strategic partner to its clients, contributing its expertise and capabilities to the success of more than 20 large-scale exhibitions and mega events annually.

BTE manages some of the world’s leading tradeshows and events, such as InfoComm China – Asia’s number 1 Pro-AV Communications exhibition (www.infocomm-china.com), International Electronics Circuit Exhibition by HKPCA – largest PCB & EA exhibition in the world (www.hkpcashow.org), Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival – Asia’s largest wine & food event, International Chinese New Year Night Parade – Hong Kong ‘s most attended public spectator event; and co-organizes two of Asia’s foremost health & green living trade shows: LOHAS Expo (www.lohasexpohk.com) and Vegetarian Food Asia (www.vegfoodasia.com).

CP Exhibition Limited

CP Exhibition Ltd. (CP) has been a leading organizer of industrial and consumer trade shows in Hong Kong for over 40 years. Since its establishment in 1976, CP has organized nearly 400 trade exhibitions in China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and the Philippines in over 20 topics.

CP launched its first exhibition, “USA Electronics”, in Guangzhou, China in 1980, followed by the very successful biennial “Beijing Aviation” between 1984 and 2013. In 1991, CP launched the “SaigonTex & SaigonFabric – Textile/Garment Machinery and Fabric Expo”, which has now grown to become the largest international exhibition in Vietnam. Between 2006 and 2008, CP joined the Hong Kong Trade Development Council to launch the “Hong Kong International Medical & Healthcare Fair.” CP also launched the first “Philippine Garment Industry and Textile Expo” in Manila in 2018.

GS1 Hong Kong Limited

Founded by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce in 1989, GS1 Hong Kong (GS1 HK) is the local chapter of GS1®, which provides global supply chain standards (product identification key and barcode) and a full spectrum of standard-based platforms, solutions and services that support companies’ digitization to enhance supply chain transparency and efficiency, ensure product authenticity, and facilitate online and offline commerce.

Currently, GS1 HK has around 8,000 corporate members covering close to 20 industries including retail consumer goods, food and food services, healthcare, apparel, logistics as well as information and technology. By engaging with communities of trading partners, industry organisations, government, and technology providers, GS1 HK is fostering a collaborative ecosystem with the vision of “Smarter Business, Better Life”.

Headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, GS1® is a not-for-profit, standards organisation that has 115 national chapters serving 150 economies globally.

KORNERSTONE Limited

Established on 8 Dec 2006, KORNERSTONE, a renowned professional training provider and educational event producer in Asia, has over 10 years of experience in providing professional programs to individuals and corporate members. With the letter K stands for Knowledge, KORNERSTONE has a strong belief that knowledge is the cornerstone of success for every business.

TRAINOCATE becomes the major stakeholder of KORNERSTONE in January 2017. Combined, the companies possess 30 years of experience in delivering superior professional development training programs and events in info-tech, finance, and management across Asia including Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Hong Kong, China, Thailand and Vietnam.

SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

Angel Investment Foundation

Association of Cloud and Mobile Computing Professionals (ACMCP)

Communications Association of Hong Kong (CAHK)

E-Commerce Association of Hong Kong Limited

Federation of Hong Kong Industries (FHKI)

Finnish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (FinnCham HK)

Hong Kong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics (HAFFA)

Hong Kong Computer Society

Hong Kong Federation of E-Commerce

Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce

Hong Kong Information Technology Federation

Hong Kong Retail Technology Industry Association (RTIA)

Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Sea Transport and Logistics Association Ltd

Hong Kong Wireless Technology Industry Association (WTIA)

IoT HK Association Limited

Meetings & Exhibitions Hong Kong

Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong

Swiss Chamber of Commerce in HK

The Chamber of HK Logistics Industry

The Hong Kong Shippers’ Council

Book your 21-day quarantine at Dorsett Hotels and get USD$60* to use during your stay

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – With travel still on pause due to COVID-19, many hotel rewards memberships have also remained static. The Dorsett – Your Rewards loyalty programme has always prided itself on providing useful benefits redeemable at any time for all members.



Many loyalty programmes only reward guests with points after check-out, Dorsett – Your Rewards will now do so instantly so they can enjoy their credits during their 21-day quarantine stay at our designated Hong Kong hotels Dorsett Wanchai, Dorsett Mongkok, Dorsett Tsuen Wan and Lan Kwai Fong Hotel @ Kau U Fong.

Those who book their 21-day quarantine stay at our hotels directly will be rewarded the Dorsett – Your Rewards points entitled for their booking on the day after check in. Guests can earn up to USD$60 point credits for a superior room and USD$252 point credits for a suite*. Stays booked via third party websites and OTAs will only receive 50% of the above Dorsett – Your reward cash points.

This means members can make use of their points to redeem meals and snacks via the hotel’s Foodpanda in-room dining menu as well as groceries, charging cables and gym equipment from our Dorsett Mart throughout their quarantine period.

Dorsett Hospitality International’s hotels in Hong Kong launched an online Dorsett Mart as part of their #DorsettCares commitment to providing a caring and comfortable experience for guests. Items may vary from hotel to hotel.

Visit https://www.dorsetthotels.com for more details.

Guests must sign up to the Dorsett – Your Rewards loyalty programme to be eligible for credits.

  • Dorsett Wanchai | Starting from HK$800 net daily | 387-397 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
  • Dorsett Mongkok | Starting from HK$700 net daily | 88 Tai Kok Tsui Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
  • Dorsett Tsuen Wan | Starting from HK$570 net daily | 28 Kin Chuen Street, Kwai Chung, Kowloon, Hong Kong
  • Lan Kwai Fong Hotel @ Kau U Fong | Starting from HK$780 net daily | 3 Kau U Fong, Central District, Hong Kong

*Based on Dorsett Wanchai’s starting rates. Other Dorsett – Your Rewards hotels will reward points based on their starting rate as above. Validity is until June 30 2021. Terms apply.

The New Moon: A New Platform Celebrating A Discerning Approach To Wellness Rituals

A sophisticated, minimalist edit of objects to enhance home and self-care rituals, coupled with a focused content offering that delves into contemporary wellness culture

 

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – The New Moon is a new retail and content platform. The distinctive online space seeks to bring a sense of luxury and avant-garde style to the world of wellness, with an succinct edit of products chosen as much for form as function.

The New Moon’s edits can guide you in selecting the correct gift for the modern mystic in your life

The New Moon’s curated boutique presents the items that become an indispensable part of any wellness journey; objects that are minimalist and luxurious, selected to elevate the home while bringing forth positive energy through the principles of good design. The approach further extends from the tangible to the intangible – through an explorative editorial platform, The New Moon will also investigate wellness practices through the eyes of healers, practitioners, industry luminaries and real women.

As the founder of an interior design firm, Kaye Dong was driven to create The New Moon after noticing a dearth of design-driven home-rituals items that added visual gratification to her home altar, deciding to pull together an edit of sophisticated objects that unite form, function and the flow of energy. These range from diffusers and incense burners to healing crystals, as well as an inspiring selection of books that cover a variety of wellness topics, from moon bathing to astrology, mindfulness to slow living, all selected with a highly discerning eye.

BRANDS

Many of the brands found on The New Moon are conceived with passion and intention from creatives whose imagination crosses disciplines, or artisans who are influenced by other fields.

Left to right: Hyssop Concrete Dome Diffuser by Photogenics + Co., Circa Mineral Incense Burner by Cinnamon Projects; Cubic Oil Burner by Addition Studio

The line-up includes minimal yet subversive diffusers and scented products by LA-based model agency Photogenics + Co.; geometrically riveting incense stands by branding firm Cinnamon Projects; Brutalist, sculptural stone aromatherapy burners by furniture designer Addition Studio; and a series of ornate, gilded nesting bowls by ceramicist Christina Liu that have been custom created for The New Moon.

OUR EDIT

The New Moon has created an edit of gifting suggestions that follow themes relevant to the modern urban sophisticate.

And a little extra zen is surely welcome in every household. Aromatherapy and crystals that promote relaxation are a perenial good choice – we recommend kyanite or the more unusual black amethyst, and oils such as Japanese scent specialist @aroma’s For Rose Dream to assist in easy slumber.

Those who need a little bit of luck in love will feel an immediate connection to spodumene kunzite, a healing crystal that allows its recipient to accept love, from others as well as the self. For daily confidence and guidance, using the beautifully illustrated Inner Compass Cards is a reassuring way to start every day with a positive attitude to manifest love.

Grounding is also of great importance, in order to set strong foundations and achieve goals. Stone aromatherapy burners from Addition Studio have a natural grounding effect, while stones such as black tourmaline can assist in connecting to the earth. Bodha’s Vibration Perfume No. 1 plunges the olfactory sense into a stable, natural environment.

With the trials and tribulations of 2020, cleansing rituals are of particular importance to clear negative energies, leaving room to usher in positivity and new beginnings. Our palo santo is larger than the average, with more oils infused into each stick, making for a more fragrant session. Besides clear quartz, stones such as vivianite, hematite and glass fluorite also have natural cleansing abilities.

Website: http://thenewmoon.com

Instagram: thenewmoon

Please download high-resolution images here.

Technology for Change Week Asia highlights the need to close the gaps in digital inclusivity across the region

A virtual week exploring the issues affecting over 5 billion citizens in Asia – the built environment, access to education and reskilling, and food security.

 

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – The Economist Events hosted its inaugural Technology for Change Week Asia virtually on March 8th-12th 2021. The event brought together more than 70 cross-industry expert speakers and 1,800 delegates from both private and public sectors to discuss how technology and data-driven solutions can ensure that no adult or child is left behind in an increasingly digital world.

The virtual week kicked off with a live ministerial keynote to discuss how territories in Asia can strive to be regional and global leaders in driving connectivity and digital inclusivity. S. Iswaran, Minister of communications and information, Minister-in-charge of trade relations, Republic of Singapore shared:

“Digitalisation is a means to an end, and therefore, by digital inclusion, what we [Singapore] mean is every citizen and member of society must feel that they have a place in this digital economy and they stand to benefit. If you are an SME owner, this is not just a play for the big boys, you too can benefit and in fact digitalisation is a great democratiser of the economy, creating fantastic new opportunities to access the market.”

Echoing Minister Iswaran later in the day, Dan Neary, Vice-president, Asia-Pacific, Facebook commented: “In early stages, while many think SMEs will be disproportionately impacted by the pandemic in a negative sense due to lack of resources, what we are seeing is while catastrophic impact has been serious, the pivot to digital transformation is more pronounced among the SMEs than their global counterpart, which is inspirational.”

The second day of the event welcomed Audrey Tang, digital minister, Taiwan. Expressing her excitement for the future of Taiwan in co-creating social innovation with citizens, she shared:

“My hope is that more people will see democracy as a type of technology, a social technology that improves beyond just each person contributing through this every 4 year [the election], and can contribute at a much higher bit-rate of democracy using the day-to-day democratic participation as we have been deploying.”

The week also touched on digital education. On day three, Nadiem Makarim, Minister of education and culture, Republic of Indonesia highlighted that the limits of technology in education has never been so strongly proven than through the pandemic:

“The science and research disprove the wish that AI could solve the issues we are facing in education. The emotional and physical presence of adult as mentor within a face-to-face interaction in the classroom is mission critical, and therefore the most important impact of technology has got to be enhancing and empowering the capability every teacher, principal and parent to be able to learn what it means to be a facilitator in the learning of a child.”

The full week of discussions came to an exciting conclusion with a live Q&A featuring questions from the audience to speakers from WWF, social sentiment analyst BrandsEye, decentralized AI network SingularityNET, and the National University of Singapore. The day was then concluded by Jason Wincuinas, senior editor, thought leadership Asia, The Economist Intelligence Unit’s remark: “The major headwinds of gaps in connectivity, digital inclusivity and digital fluency have been highlighted and need to be closed through proactive collaboration between public and private sectors”.

Key topics addressed at this year’s event were:

  • Is technology a force for good?
  • The gaps in digital inclusivity, digital fluency and connectivity
  • How best to foster the ethical adoption of digital platforms
  • How to implement shared values and authentic sustainability initiatives in organisations
  • Where impact and ESG investment is most needed

Chaired by The Economist Group’s editors, the event featured industry expert speakers including:

  • S. Iswaran, Minister of communications and information, Minister-in-charge of trade relations, Republic of Singapore
  • Audrey Tang, Digital minister, Taiwan
  • Nadiem Makarim, Minister of education and culture, Republic of Indonesia
  • Taesik Yoon, Deputy Minister, International Affairs, Ministry of Economy and Finance, Republic of Korea
  • Lew Chuen Hong, Chief executive, Infocomm Media Development Authority Singapore
  • Krittee Manoleehagul, Managing director, Tencent Thailand and General manager, Tencent International Business Group
  • Tim Minahan, Executive vice president, business strategy and chief marketing officer, Citrix
  • Dan Neary, Vice-president, Asia-Pacific, Facebook
  • Oliver Tonby, Chairman, Asia, McKinsey & Company
  • Mario Knoepfel, Head, Sustainable Investing Advisory, Asia-Pacific, UBS Global Wealth Management
  • Michele Lemmens, Head of business sustainability and Chief technology officer, Asia-Pacific, Tata Consultancy Services

and many more

View the final agenda.

Technology for Change Week Asia is supported by McKinsey & Company, Asian Development Bank, Citrix, Kearey, NEC, Tata Consultancy Services, Tencent and Infocomm Media Development Authority.

On-demand access to Technology for Change Week Asia is available. For online registration and event details, please visit the website: techforchange.economist.com

To engage with Technology for Change Week Asia on social media, use #EconTechForChange in your conversations and follow @EconomistEvents.

About The Economist Events

We gather the world’s top thinkers to build insights and exchange views on the issues that define our world. With a uniquely global perspective, we create over 100 unusually high-level and engaging live and virtual events each year. Our aim is to bring clarity to complex problems, inspire ideas and help our audiences make better decisions.

Visit events.economist.com for more information.

About McKinsey & Company

We help organizations across the private, public, and social sectors create the Change that Matters most to them. From the C-suite to the front line, we partner with our clients to transform their organizations, embed technology into everything they do, and build enduring capabilities. With exceptional people in 65 countries, we combine global expertise and local insight to help you turn your ambitious goals into reality. For more information, visit www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/how-we-help-clients/service-operations

About Asian Development Bank

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region. Its main instruments for helping its developing member countries are policy dialogue, loans, equity investments, guarantees, grants, and technical assistance. For more information, visit www.adb.org

About Citrix

Citrix builds the secure, unified digital workspace technology that helps organizations unlock human potential and deliver a consistent workspace experience wherever work needs to get done. With Citrix, users get a seamless work experience and IT has a unified platform to secure, manage, and monitor diverse technologies in complex cloud environments. For more information, please visit www.citrix.com

About Kearney

As a global consulting partnership specializing in strategic operations and transformation across industries in more than 40 countries, our people make us who we are. We’re individuals who take as much joy from those we work with as the work itself. Driven to be the difference between a big idea and making it happen, we help our clients break through. Visit www.kearney.com.

About NEC

NEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com.

About Tata Consultancy Services

Tata Consultancy Services is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization that has been partnering with many of the world’s largest businesses in their transformation journeys for over 50 years. A part of the Tata group, India’s largest multinational business group, TCS has over 443,000 of the world’s best-trained consultants in 46 countries. The company generated consolidated revenues of US $22 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, and is listed on the BSE (formerly Bombay Stock Exchange) and the NSE (National Stock Exchange) in India. TCS’ proactive stance on climate change and award-winning work with communities across the world have earned it a place in leading sustainability indices such as the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), MSCI Global Sustainability Index and the FTSE4Good Emerging Index. For more information, visit us at www.tcs.com

About Tencent

Tencent is a global company that uses technology to enrich the lives of internet users and assist in the digital transformation of industries through its diverse list of products and services. The company stands by its vision and mission of “Value for Users, Tech for Good” and aims to promote technological innovation and cultural vitality to help industries digitally upgrade and collaborate towards sustainable development of society. Shares of Tencent (00700.HK) are listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. For more information, visit www.tencent.com

About Infocomm Media Development Authority

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) leads Singapore’s digital transformation with infocomm media. To do this, IMDA will develop a dynamic digital economy and a cohesive digital society, driven by an exceptional infocomm media (ICM) ecosystem – by developing talent, strengthening business capabilities, and enhancing Singapore’s ICM infrastructure. IMDA also regulates the telecommunications and media sectors to safeguard consumer interests while fostering a pro-business environment, and enhances Singapore’s data protection regime through the Personal Data Protection Commission. For more news and information, visit www.imda.gov.sg or follow IMDA on Facebook IMDAsg and Twitter @IMDAsg.

Huntkey Releases 20W Mini PD Charger

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – Huntkey, a leading provider of power solutions, has recently released its new smart phone charger – the 20W Mini PD Charger. It is equipped with one USB-C charging port to deliver fast charging speeds.

The charger provides optional charging outputs including 5V3A and 9V2.22A according to the charging device. It is well-suited for iPhone 8 or later models. According to lab testing results, it is able to charge an iPhone 12 to 50% within 30 minutes when it is paired with a Huntkey MFI-certified cable.

It is compatible with PD3.0 charging protocol to intelligently charge a smart phone with a fastest possible charging speed. Apart from iPhones, it will be also fit for other brands of smart phones, and even tablets. To ensure charging safety, it provides 5 different charging protections – Over Current Protection, Over Voltage Protection, Over Heat Protection, Over Charging Protection and Short Circuit Protection.

It’s stylish and designed like a mini cube, measuring a dimension of 30*30*30mm, which is smaller than the iPhone’s original chargers. It features a 2-pin plug and supports 100-240V input power, meaning it can be directly used in many countries apart from Vietnam. For more information, please visit: https://en.huntkey.com/product/20w-usb-c/

About Huntkey

Founded in 1995, Huntkey is a leading provider of PC power supplies, power strips, surge protectors, laptop adapters, phone chargers, monitors and air purifiers. Huntkey is an Asia renowned brand, a member of The International Power Supply Manufacturer’s Association (PSMA) and China Power Supply Society (CPSS). Including three total nearly 1,000,000 square meters industrial parks, Huntkey is one of the most famous brands and largest companies in mainland China. It is headquartered in Shenzhen, with branch companies in the US, Japan and Hong Kong, and with cooperating factories in Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina and India.

In 2020, Huntkey introduces its latest photocatalyst air purifier – the desktop air purifier globally. The desktop air purifier is designed portable and can efficiently remove chemical vapors, odors, haze particles, and many more air pollutants. Check them out via: https://en.huntkey.com/products/air-purifiers/

Allianz: Companies Need to Prepare for More Political Disturbances and Violence Ahead

  • Significant increase in the number of riots, demonstrations and vandalism, as terrorism events decline, means civil unrest is now the main political risk exposure for companies, resulting in significant losses and insurance claims.
  • Impact of political violence can cause business disruption beyond physical property damage. Covid-19 pandemic is likely to fuel further disturbances.
  • Business continuity planning needs to explicitly address civil unrest, particularly in exposed sectors such as retail.
  • AGCS sees increasing interest in specialist political violence cover to mitigate risks.

JOHANNESBURG/LONDON/MUNICH/NEW YORK/PARIS/SAO PAULO/SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 24 March 2021 – Anti-lockdown demonstrations in Germany, “Black Lives Matter” protests in the US or arson attacks on cell phone towers in the UK: Damages, disturbances and, ultimately, losses from riots, protests, vandalism or other forms of civil unrest are now among the main political risk exposure for companies, with the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 pandemic likely to drive further activity, according to the latest issue of Global Risk Dialogue from Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS). Business continuity planning needs to proactively address political violence risks, particularly in highly-exposed sectors such as retail.

“Fortunately, large scale terrorism events have declined drastically in the last five years. However, the number, scale and duration of riots and protests in the last two years is staggering and we have seen businesses suffering significant losses,” says Bjoern Reusswig, Head of Global Political Violence and Hostile Environment Solutions at AGCS. “Civil unrest has soared, driven by protests on issues ranging from economic hardship to police brutality which have affected citizens around the world. And the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic is making things worse – with little sign of an end to the economic downturn in sight, the number of protests is likely to continue climbing.”

Civil unrest as a key business risk

Causing physical damage, business interruption or loss of revenues, civil unrest incidents are becoming a more significant risk for companies in the current environment, as reflected in the findings of the Allianz Risk Barometer 2021. In the annual global risk survey, ‘political risks and violence’ returned to the top 10 risks for the first time since 2018. This risk trend is supported by recent research findings which predict the ranks of global protesters to swell over the next two years: Verisk Maplecroft, a research firm specializing in global risk analytics, expects 75 countries to experience an increase in protests by late 2022. Of these, more than 30 – largely in Europe and the Americas – will likely see significant activity. Political violence also caused significant insurance claims in 2020. While the protests, following the death of George Floyd at the hands of the Minneapolis police, which occurred in 140 US cities over the spring, were mostly peaceful, the arson, vandalism and looting that did occur will cost the insurance industry at least US$1bn to $2bn in claims, according to Axios.

Businesses do not have to be direct victims of civil unrest to suffer financial losses. Revenues can suffer if the surrounding area is cordoned off for a prolonged time or while infrastructure is repaired to allow reentry of customers, vendors and suppliers. For example, during the “yellow vest” demonstrations, shops along the Champs-Élysées in Paris were looted and heavily damaged, which drove customers away. After only a few weeks of demonstrations, the French retail federation reported that retailers nationally had lost $1.1bn in revenue.

Covid-19 pandemic likely to fuel further violence

The Covid-19 pandemic is a key driver behind the rise of civil unrest as it has both magnified underlying long-standing grievances and given them a focal point. The pandemic has negatively affected political stability, increasing polarization and bringing into sharp relief issues surrounding equality, worsening labor conditions and civil rights.

“Unfortunately, the risk of riots and violence is likely to become more acute because of Covid-19,” says Michael Stone, a risk consultant for AGCS North America. “The measures governments have used to combat the coronavirus have had a significant socioeconomic impact and frustration is growing in large population segments. The impact is particularly evident in the US, where the social safety net is not as comprehensive as elsewhere. People are concerned. Job, health and income security are all gone. They’re more likely to demonstrate and have a shorter fuse, so it isn’t surprising that anti-lockdown demonstrations can turn violent.”

The fact that the pandemic has enabled conspiracy theories to flourish among sections of population also prepares the ground for future turbulence – and even physical damage in some cases, according to Reusswig. One theory that baselessly links 5G technology with the coronavirus resulted in a series of arson attacks on cell phone towers in the UK and other European countries.

Growing need for business continuity planning

Preparation against political violence risks is key – in particular for exposed sectors such as retail. During two days of “Black Lives Matter” demonstrations in late May in Chicago, almost every storefront on Michigan Avenue, which includes the “Magnificent Mile” shopping district, sustained damage. Businesses need to review their business continuity plans (BCP). Typically, these only focus on national catastrophes, but there is a growing need for BCPs to address political disturbances and other types of disruption like cyber incidents. Having defined, and tested, procedures in place is crucial – these should focus on staff, clients and include general communication and social media plans.

Companies should also review their insurance policies. Property policies may cover political violence claims in some cases but insurers also offer specialist coverage to mitigate the impact of strikes, riots and civil commotion via the specialist political violence market. “Previously this coverage was seen as a ‘nice to have’ for clients and ‘nothing to be overly concerned about’ by insurers. However, this has changed since 2018, as both the frequency and severity of these events has increased significantly. We see growing interest and demand for political violence covers from companies,” says Reusswig.

About Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty

Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) is a leading global corporate insurance carrier and a key business unit of Allianz Group. We provide risk consultancy, Property-Casualty insurance solutions and alternative risk transfer for a wide spectrum of commercial, corporate and specialty risks across 10 dedicated lines of business.

Our customers are as diverse as business can be, ranging from Fortune Global 500 companies to small businesses, and private individuals. Among them are not only the world’s largest consumer brands, tech companies and the global aviation and shipping industry, but also satellite operators or Hollywood film productions. They all look to AGCS for smart answers to their largest and most complex risks in a dynamic, multinational business environment and trust us to deliver an outstanding claims experience.

Worldwide, AGCS operates with its own teams in 31 countries and through the Allianz Group network and partners in over 200 countries and territories, employing over 4,400 people. As one of the largest Property-Casualty units of Allianz Group, we are backed by strong and stable financial ratings. In 2020, AGCS generated a total of €9.3 billion gross premium globally.

www.agcs.allianz.com

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