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CNN’s Visionaries concludes with a bold finish

Watch the full interview on Visionaries, airing on CNN International on Saturday 3rd May

HONG KONG, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CNN’s Visionaries series concludes a successful season after featuring trailblazers across industries, from Olympic medalists Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles to the face of rugby, Ilona Maher and head coach of the US Women’s National Team, Emma Hayes to inspiring business leaders such as former Pepsi CEO Indra Nooyi, Google DeepMind COO Lila Ibrahim, and former Patagonia CEO Kristine Tompkins.


In the fourth and final installment, Visionaries ends on a bold note with Senior Investigative Correspondent, Kyung Lah, chatting with the first woman in the United States to earn 3 Michelin stars, Dominique Crenn while International Correspondent, Larry Madowo, speaks with media mogul, Mo Abudu.

Born 10 minutes from Paris and adopted as a baby by a politician father and a mother who worked in finance, Dominique Crenn‘s early ambitions were not related to food. She studied business and economics but hoped to eventually become a photographer. Still uncertain about her future, she moved to San Francisco and chose to pursue her love for cooking. After building her culinary career, she opened her first restaurant, Atelier Crenn, in 2011.

However, just months after her restaurant earned her three Michelin stars, Dominique Crenn was faced with a series of life altering challenges. The same vulnerability and grit that helped her build a world-class career also powered her through her successful battle against breast cancer and also the grief of losing her mother. Crenn’s work continues to reflect her inspirations from the world around her, rooted in resilience, love, and creativity.

Growing up in London, Mo Abudu loved watching television and films, yet she often found that what was portrayed on screen did not reflect her own reality. Initially, she did not immediately pursue storytelling, instead building a career in corporate roles. When she turned 40, she decided to change the trajectory of her life, creating the media empire, EbonyLife Group.

Named one of TIME’s 100 most influential people, Mo Abudu continues to amplify African voices and is unafraid to shy away from stories about victimization or other challenges facing society. After adding films to its portfolio, with productions breaking Nollywood box office records, it did not take long for major Hollywood studios to take notice. EbonyLife Films made history as the first African production company to sign a multi-project deal with Netflix. Her vision extends beyond the continent, aiming to distribute Nigerian and African media on a global scale, ensuring these stories reach a wider audience worldwide.

See more from Visionaries:
https://edition.cnn.com/world/visionaries

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Visionaries airs on CNN International on Saturday 3rd May 2025 
at 1:30pm and 6:30pm HKT

The show also airs at the following times:
Sunday 4th May at 9:30am HKT
Monday 5th May at 1:30am HKT

Visionaries trailer
Visionaries images

Thailand’s First Quarter Investment Applications Almost Double to 431.2 Billion Baht Boosted by Fivefold Increase in Digital Sector, BOI Says

BANGKOK, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The value of applications for investment promotion in Thailand in the first quarter of 2025 amounted to 431.2 billion baht (USD 12.9 billion), an increase of 97% from the same period of last year, led by large infrastructure projects, including a fivefold jump in digital sector applications, mainly foreign investments in data centers, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) announced today.

Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, announced today that investment promotion applications in Thailand reached 431.2 billion baht (USD 12.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, almost doubling compared to the same period last year. The surge was driven by major infrastructure projects and a fivefold rise in digital sector applications, mainly by foreign investments in data centers.
Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI, announced today that investment promotion applications in Thailand reached 431.2 billion baht (USD 12.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, almost doubling compared to the same period last year. The surge was driven by major infrastructure projects and a fivefold rise in digital sector applications, mainly by foreign investments in data centers.

“The data for the first three months of 2025 further confirms the trend seen last year when the data centers and digital services became for the first time the top ranked sector in terms of investment value,” said Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI. “This demonstrates the increased focus by both foreign and local companies on high tech investments in Thailand in line with our five-year strategy. This also reflects investors’ confidence in Thailand’s long-term economic potential despite the current global uncertainties.”

Domestic and foreign investors filed a total of 822 project applications during the January-March period, a 20% increase from the first quarter of 2024. As many as 618 of those applications involved foreign investors.

Applications in the infrastructure sector included Bangkok Expressway and Metro PCL’s 109.2 billion baht investment in the construction of the 35.9 kilometer-long Orange Line which will connect Bangkok’s western and eastern suburbs, that will greatly facilitate travel in the city.

The digital sector saw the value of applications soar over five times to 94.75 billion baht, from 17.42 billion baht a year earlier, boosted by a combined investment value of 94.23 billion baht in five data center projects.

In other target industries, a total of 122 applications were filed for investments in the electrical and electronic (E&E) sector representing a combined value of 87.81 billion baht, while the automotive and parts sector saw 72 projects worth a combined 23.5 billion baht.

The petrochemicals and chemicals sector saw 81 applications worth 13.94 billion baht, the agriculture and food processing sector saw 61 projects worth a combined 12.72 billion baht, and the tourism infrastructure sector saw 10 projects worth a combined 9.26 billion baht

Hong Kong Tops FDI Source Ranking

Foreign direct investment (FDI) applications in the January-March period amounted to a combined investment value of 267.7 billion baht, an increase of 62% from a year earlier.

Hong Kong-based companies came on top of the ranking of FDI sources for the quarter with a combined investment value of 135.16 billion baht, accounting for 50% of all FDI pledges in the period, including 72.7 billion baht in the digital sector alone.

Mainland China came in second with 47.3 billion baht, mostly invested in the metal, electronics and automotive industries, followed by Singapore with 38.1 billion baht, focused on projects in the E&E and digital sectors.

Japan ranked fourth with 25.1 billion baht, mostly investments in the E&E and automotive sectors, followed in fifth position by investments from Taiwan-based companies with 4.76 billion baht, mostly in the E&E and automotive parts sectors.

Last year, Thailand’s total applications for investment promotion soared 35% in value to a 10-year high of 1.14 trillion baht. The digital sector, which includes data centers and cloud services, topped in 2024 for the first time the sectorial rankings with a combined 243.3 billion baht in pledged investment, and was followed by the E&E sector with 231.7 billion baht.

For more information, please contact:
Thailand Board of Investment
Tel. +66 (0) 2553 8111
Website: www.boi.go.th
YouTube: Think Asia, Invest Thailand

Schneider Electric advances in product environmental data transparency

  • Enabling customers to make better informed sustainability and business decisions
  • 14 environmental data attributes now covering 70% of product turnover

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has launched its Environmental Data Program. This initiative, which builds on the legacy Green Premium label, provides customers with unique access to information on the environmental impact of its products, enabling them to make better informed, data-based decisions and meet evolving regulatory requirements with confidence.

Schneider Electric has frequently been recognized as a leader in sustainability—including being named the world’s most sustainable company by Time Magazine and Statista in 2024 and by Corporate Knights for the second time in January 2025. It is this commitment to environmental leadership and customers’ growing demand for transparency that has led to the launch of this program.

By providing critical information, like carbon footprint, energy efficiency, packaging and recycled content, Schneider Electric helps customers make choices that align with their sustainability goals, enabling them to better track, understand, and reduce their own environmental impact.

Schneider Electric now shares information on 14 environmental data attributes up from the 5 previously disclosed by the company’s legacy Green Premium Label, offering a more comprehensive understanding of a product’s environmental impact. Those 14 attributes are available online for 110,000 commercial references. Schneider Electric aims to provide the same coverage for 155,000 commercial references by the end of the year, covering 80% of product turnover – up from 70% today.

With 2024 officially recorded as the hottest year on the planet, the urgency for accelerated progress on environment and climate action has never been more apparent. At the same time, studies show that the global economy is only 7.2% circular. Regulatory evolutions over the past years (such as the draft EU Green Claims Directive) have been raising the bar for transparency and accountability. The data provided by the Environmental Data Program will make it easy for customers to use these metrics for both business, as well as compliance and reporting purposes. Environmental data transparency is fundamental to both decarbonization and competitiveness, two goals that will define the times ahead. Ultimately, it’s about powering choices thanks to better, clearer, and more reliable data.

Chris Leong, Schneider Electric’s Chief Sustainability Officer, explains: “With over 15 years of experience in environmental product data, we’ve built a legacy of trust and transparency. Now, with the Environmental Data Program, we’re setting a new benchmark for environmental data accessibility and performance. We remain committed to helping our customers and partners across the industry to continue making informed, data-based, and responsible decisions with transparency at the core to use better, use longer, use again.”

Céline Coulibre-Duménil, Chief Sustainability Officer at Rexel, global leader in the distribution of electrical supplies, values the Environmental Data Program: “Giving customers access to more transparent and factual product data to help them make informed decisions on the environmental impact of their choices is a must. We support Schneider Electric’s ambition to influence the industry towards more environmental product transparency.”

Related resources

Hashtag: #Sustainability #EnvironmentalData #DataTransparency





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

About Schneider Electric

Schneider’s purpose is to create Impact by empowering all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. At Schneider, we call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be the trusted partner in Sustainability and Efficiency.

We are a global industrial technology leader bringing world-leading expertise in electrification, automation and digitalization to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centers, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by our deep domain expertise, we provide integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for our customers.

We are a people company with an ecosystem of 150,000 colleagues and more than a million partners operating in over 100 countries to ensure proximity to our customers and stakeholders. We embrace diversity and inclusion in everything we do, guided by our meaningful purpose of a sustainable future for all.

Discover the newest perspectives shaping sustainability, electricity 4.0, and next-generation automation on .

AXA Enhances GBA Medical Concierge Service Network

Launches First-Ever Northbound and Southbound Cancer Care

Available to Both Individual and Group Customers

HONG KONG, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AXA Hong Kong and Macau (“AXA”) today announced a comprehensive upgrade to its GBA Medical Concierge Service Network. This enhancement includes an upgraded GBA Cancer Medical Concierge Service Network (“Cancer Medical Concierge”) and the introduction of a brand-new GBA Endoscopy Medical Concierge Service Network (“Endoscopy Medical Concierge”). The upgrade aims to facilitate medical access for customers seeking northbound or southbound care, offering more diverse and convenient treatment options. These upgrades cover eligible insured persons[1] under designated medical insurance plans[2] [3]and Employee Benefits policies.

As exchanges between Hong Kong and Mainland China increase, closer medical collaboration is driving a steady rise in cross-border medical services demand. A recent survey indicated that over 70% of Hong Kong residents believe cross-border medical services broaden their treatment options, while nearly 60% view this as a growing trend[4]. Cancer remains the leading health threat for Hong Kong citizens, with lung, breast, colorectal, and liver cancers among the most common types[5].

To enhance cross-border cancer medical support, AXA has partnered with Prosper Health, United Family Hospitals in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, and the Hong Kong Integrated Oncology Centre. The upgrades include expanding the medical network in Hong Kong for southbound customers, broadening cancer coverage to include colorectal and liver cancer, and offering premium waivers[6] and a HKD2,000 rehabilitation subsidy[7] for eligible policyholders of designated medical protection plans after completing a specified number of treatments at designated Greater Bay Area Cancer Healthcare Facilities.

Beyond treatment and rehabilitation needs, AXA has introduced a new Endoscopy Medical Concierge, extending Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (“OGD”) and/or Colonoscopy care to the Greater Bay Area. This service facilitates regular screenings and early detection of cancer in asymptomatic patients or high-risk individuals, enabling timely treatment for better outcomes and aiding in cancer prevention.

Janet Lee, Chief Life and Health Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau, said, “AXA is committed to leading the market by providing diverse healthcare support and services. Following the launch of the Greater Bay Area Cancer Medical Concierge Service Network in January, we have enhanced it by partnering with the Hong Kong Integrated Oncology Centre. to enhance the medical network across the Greater Bay Area. Additionally, we have also expanded cancer coverage to better address treatment and rehabilitation needs, and introduced the Endoscopy Medical Concierge to aid in early cancer detection and prevention, safeguarding our customers’ health at every step. Through continuous innovation and service enhancements, we will strengthen the healthcare ecosystem in the Greater Bay Area, offering more diversified choices.”

Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits & Wellness Officer, AXA Hong Kong and Macau, said, ” We are pleased that the upgrade covers eligible insured persons[1] under designated medical insurance plans[2],[3] and Employee Benefits policies. This enhancement aims to connect our customers and families with quality medical resources in the Greater Bay Area, providing a one-stop service for prevention, treatment, and recovery, and ensuring comprehensive protection for our customers and their families. We believe that these innovative services will help create a more effective ‘Healthcare and Wellness Ecosystem’ for our customers. Looking ahead, we will continue to expand medical options, enhance medical and healthcare cooperation between Hong Kong and Mainland China, and strengthen the seamless connection of cross-border medical protection.”

Throughout the Cancer Medical Concierge service, a dedicated Case Manager[8] with over 10 years of medical experience provides personalised guidance. This includes comprehensive support, assistance in obtaining a second medical opinion, booking appointments in Mainland China, and ongoing follow-ups from pre-treatment to post-treatment, ensuring customers receive quality care within the Greater Bay Area. The Case Manager also facilitates seamless cashless arrangements[9], eliminating the need for upfront deposits, allowing customers to focus on their treatment and alleviating financial stress.

Upgrade services of Cancer Medical Concierge include:

  • Cancer diagnosis: With an expanded network in Hong Kong, specialists will arrange consultations between doctors in Mainland China and Hong Kong if needed. Customers can choose their preferred location. Those diagnosed in Hong Kong can be referred to the Hong Kong Integrated Oncology Centre, while those in Mainland China can be referred to United Family Hospitals in Shenzhen or Guangzhou, tailored to the needs of customers in both regions.
  • Treatment scope: In addition to lung and breast cancer, coverage now includes colorectal cancer and liver cancer. Benefits such as premium waivers, private room upgrades, and point-to-point transport have been extended to these cancers[10].
  • Hassle-free cashless arrangement: Cashless arrangements eliminate the need for upfront deposits[9].
  • Recovery subsidy: Customers can receive up to HKD 2,000 in subsidies for recovery and alleviation of treatment side effects[11].

The newly launched Endoscopy Medical Service offers:

  • Hospital environment: Standard private rooms[12] ensure a comfortable, spacious, and private space for rest before and after examinations. Family members can accompany customers throughout the process[5].
  • Additional support and benefits: Complimentary shuttle bus services[13] between designated medical institutions in the Greater Bay Area. Customers may also receive a gift voucher rebate worth HKD1,000 to 2,000[14] upon completing treatment, depending on their insurance plan.

For further details about AXA’s Greater Bay Area Medical Concierge Service Network, please visit: https://www.axa.com.hk/en/greater-bay-area-medical-concierge-service-network 

[1] Insured is diagnosed with cancer or is subject to the actual diagnosis report provided by the doctor and the doctor’s judgment as to whether the patient is suitable for cancer treatment and subject to the final decision of AXA.

[2] Designated medical insurance plans who can enjoy “Cancer Medical Concierge” include AXA WiseGuard Pro Medical Insurance Plan (Basic Plan or Supplement), Global Elite / Global Elite II Health Plan, GlobalReach Medical Insurance Plan, Smart Medicare, and Cancer Therapy Insurance, Cancer Therapy Insurance II and Cancer and Stroke Therapy Insurance.

[3] Designated medical insurance plans can enjoy “Endoscopy Medical Concierge” include AXA WiseGuard Pro Medical Insurance Plan (Basic Plan or Supplement), Global Elite / Global Elite II Health Plan, GlobalReach Medical Insurance Plan, AXa WiseGuard Medical Insurance, or Smart Medicare.

[4] Cancer Information: “Youth I.D.E.A.S” releases research report on “Enabling Robust Cross-border Health Services for Hong Kong Residents” 

[5] Hospital Authority: Hong Kong Cancer Statistics Overview 2022

[6]  Please visit the AXA website for details on the conditions for premium waivers, ward upgrades, recovery subsidies, and gift voucher rebates.

[7] Policyholder of AXA WiseGuard Pro Medical Insurance Plan (Basic Plan or Supplement), Global Elite Health Plan/ Global Elite II Health Plan or GlobalReach Medical Insurance Plan can enjoy HKD2,000 recovery subsidy. AXA reserves the right to make changes to the offer of a recovery subsidy and/or to amend terms and conditions related to the offer of a recovery subsidy at any time without prior notice. In the case of a dispute, the decision of AXA shall be final and conclusive.

[8] Case Managers are independent third parties and are not agents of AXA. AXA shall not have any obligation or liability whatsoever in relation to the medical services and advices provided by the Case Manager and shall not be responsible for any act or failure to act on the part of Case Manager. The list of Case Managers may be modified from time to time at the sole discretion of AXA without any notice. Therefore, the seniority and professional qualification of Case Manager may vary.

[9] The availability of the cashless arrangement provided by GBA Cancer Healthcare Facilities and GBA Healthcare Facilities (no need to pay deposit upon admission and enjoy cashless arrangement for eligible expenses at discharge) is subject to the applicable benefit limits, deductible (if any) and exclusions under the relevant terms and benefits of the policy.

[10]  Applicable only for treatment conducted in Mainland China.

[11] Policyholder of AXA WiseGuard Pro Medical Insurance Plan (Basic Plan or Supplement), Global Elite Health Plan/ Global Elite II Health Plan or GlobalReach Medical Insurance Plan can enjoy HKD2,000 recovery subsidy. AXA reserves the right to make changes to the offer of a recovery subsidy and/or to amend terms and conditions related to the offer of a recovery subsidy at any time without prior notice.

[12] Early check-in to a standard private room the day before your admission is only applicable for conducting colonoscopy or gastroscopy and colonoscopy at the same time. Standard private room are provided by designated GBA Healthcare Facilities. AXA shall not have any obligation or liability whatsoever in relation to the above services provided by the GBA Healthcare Facilities and shall not be responsible for any act or failure to act on the part of GBA Healthcare Facilities.

[13] Free shuttle bus service is provided by designated GBA Healthcare Facilities. AXA shall not have any obligation or liability whatsoever in relation to the above services provided by the GBA Healthcare Facilities and shall not be responsible for any act or failure to act on the part of GBA Healthcare Facilities.

[14] AXA reserves the right to make changes to the offer of a voucher and/or to amend terms and conditions related to the offer of a voucher at any time without prior notice.

(From left): Janet Lee, Chief Life and Health Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau, and Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits & Wellness Officer, AXA Hong Kong and Macau
(From left): Janet Lee, Chief Life and Health Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau, and Emily Li, Chief Employee Benefits & Wellness Officer, AXA Hong Kong and Macau

About AXA Hong Kong and Macau

AXA Hong Kong and Macau is a member of the AXA Group, a leading global insurer with presence in 50 markets and serving 95 million customers worldwide. Our purpose is to act for human progress by protecting what matters. 

As one of the most diversified insurers in Hong Kong, we offer integrated solutions across Life, Health and General Insurance. We are the largest General Insurance provider and a major Health and Employee Benefits provider. Our aim is to not only be the insurer to provide comprehensive protection to our customers, but also a holistic partner to the individuals, businesses and community we serve. At the core of our service commitment is continuous product & service innovation and customer experience enrichment, which is achieved through actively listening to our customers’ needs and leveraging and investing in technology and digital transformation.

We embrace our responsibility to be a driving force against climate change and a force for good to create shared value for our community. We are proud to be the first to address the importance of mental health through different products and services and thought leading iconic research. Our overall Sustainability Strategy, with emphasis on climate strategy and biodiversity commitment, is developed based on TCFD recommendations. We are committed to integrating environmental, social and governance factors across our business and strive to contribute to a sustainable future through 3 distinct roles – as an investor, insurer and an exemplary company.

THIS PRESS RELEASE IS AVAILABLE ON AXA’S WEBSITE: AXA.COM.HK 

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFORMATION AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements contained herein may be forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends, plans or objectives. Undue reliance should not be placed on such statements because, by their nature, they are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties and can be affected by other factors that could cause AXA’s actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Please refer to Part 4 – “Risk factors and risk management” of AXA’s Universal Registration Document for the year ended December 31, 2019, for a description of certain important factors, risks and uncertainties that may affect AXA’s business, and/or results of operations. AXA undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether to reflect new information, future events or circumstances or otherwise, except as part of applicable regulatory or legal obligations.

UOB and Accenture collaborate to transform customer experience using advanced technologies including GenAI

Bank employees will be equipped to use new technologies leveraging Accenture’s training and development programmes

SINGAPORE, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — UOB and Accenture (NYSE:ACN) today announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support the Bank’s application and adoption of advanced technologies, such as generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) and agentic AI over the next three years. This strategic AI-focused collaboration is also the first between Accenture and a Singapore bank.  

UOB Deputy Chairman and CEO Mr Wee Ee Cheong (second from left) and Accenture Chair and CEO Ms Julie Sweet (third from right, onscreen) witnessed the MoU signing, marking the launch of a collaboration to accelerate the Bank’s customer experience transformation using advanced technologies, including Generative AI.
UOB Deputy Chairman and CEO Mr Wee Ee Cheong (second from left) and Accenture Chair and CEO Ms Julie Sweet (third from right, onscreen) witnessed the MoU signing, marking the launch of a collaboration to accelerate the Bank’s customer experience transformation using advanced technologies, including Generative AI.

UOB is committed to continually redefine and improve customer experience by harnessing technological innovation. Under the MoU, UOB will tap Accenture’s suite of AI-powered assets – including its AI Refinery™️ platform – to accelerate the Bank’s GenAI journey. The end goal is to apply these AI solutions across the Bank to enhance business processes, productivity, manage risk and better personalise customer experience at scale and at speed.

The Bank is also highly focused on the upskilling and retraining of its people, in embracing and utilising advanced technologies to actualise their full benefits. This strategic collaboration will not only build data and AI fluency in all UOB employees but also equip them with the right mindset to adopt and use advanced technologies. The Bank’s employees will also have access to enablement and talent development programmes through Accenture’s LearnVantage training services to help them to effectively deploy these technologies in their area of work, particularly in driving better customer engagement.

Mr Wee Ee Cheong, Deputy Chairman and CEO, UOB, said, “We are excited about the immense potential that advanced technologies offer. Our goal is to leverage AI solutions to transform our operations, enhance productivity, and deliver personalised customer experiences with scale and speed across our extensive network in ASEAN.”

Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO of Accenture, said, “We are proud to partner with UOB to help them realize their vision for the future of banking by scaling generative and agentic AI at speed, and by helping their people develop valuable advanced technology skills. Together, we will create more engaging experiences for UOB customers and drive new levels of efficiency, value and growth.”   

The collaboration with Accenture underscores UOB’s continued commitment to use AI and advanced technologies to drive greater customer value, enhance operational efficiency, and future-proof its workforce.

About UOB
UOB is a leading bank in Asia. Operating through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, UOB has a global network of more than 470 branches and offices in 19 markets in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. Today, UOB is rated among the world’s top banks: Aa1 by Moody’s Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings.

For nine decades, UOB has adopted a customer-centric approach to create long-term value by staying relevant through its enterprising spirit and doing right by its customers. UOB is focused on building the future of ASEAN – for the people and businesses within, and connecting with, ASEAN.

The Bank connects businesses to opportunities in the region with its unparalleled regional footprint and leverages data and insights to innovate and create personalised banking experiences and solutions catering to each customer’s unique needs and evolving preferences. UOB is also committed to help businesses forge a sustainable future, by fostering social inclusiveness, creating positive environmental impact and pursuing economic progress. UOB believes in being a responsible financial services provider and is steadfast in its support of art, social development of children and education, doing right by its communities and stakeholders.

About Accenture
Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services—creating tangible value at speed and scale. We are a talent- and innovation-led company with approximately 801,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Technology is at the core of change today, and we are one of the world’s leaders in helping drive that change, with strong ecosystem relationships. We combine our strength in technology and leadership in cloud, data and AI with unmatched industry experience, functional expertise and global delivery capability. Our broad range of services, solutions and assets across Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X and Song, together with our culture of shared success and commitment to creating 360° value, enable us to help our clients reinvent and build trusted, lasting relationships. We measure our success by the 360° value we create for our clients, each other, our shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at accenture.com.

For access to the Annex containing legal statements, please refer to the following link: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2676484/Annex_Legal_statements.pdf

 

J INTS BIO Presents Research Results for Next-Generation Innovative Anticancer Therapeutics ‘JIN-A02’ and ‘JIN-001’ at AACR 2025

SEOUL, South Korea, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — J INTS BIO, a company specializing in anticancer and orphan drugs, announced its research findings for the next-generation EGFR-TKI therapeutic ‘JIN-A02’ (clinical Phase 1/2 results) and the ovarian cancer treatment candidate ‘JIN-001’ (preclinical results) at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 2025, held in Chicago from April 25 to 30. In this presentation, J INTS BIO demonstrated its innovative drug development capabilities on a global stage, attracting significant attention from both academia and the industry.

Professor Byoung Chul Cho from Yonsei Cancer Center is presenting a poster at AACR on the phase 1/2 clinical trial of ‘JIN-A02’, a next-generation oral EGFR-TKI. (Photo = J INTS BIO)
Professor Byoung Chul Cho from Yonsei Cancer Center is presenting a poster at AACR on the phase 1/2 clinical trial of ‘JIN-A02’, a next-generation oral EGFR-TKI. (Photo = J INTS BIO)

‘JIN-A02’: New Hope for Overcoming Resistance – 4th Generation EGFR-TKI Clinical Results

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases worldwide, and among these, EGFR mutations are considered a major therapeutic target. JIN-A02, introduced at AACR 2025, showed outstanding therapeutic efficacy in patients who developed resistance to existing third-generation EGFR-TKIs. In particular, JIN-A02 demonstrated remarkable antitumor activity in patients with EGFR C797S mutation—currently a mutation for which no approved targeted therapies exist—thus opening a new avenue for treatment options.

In the clinical trial, a patient in the 300 mg cohort showed complete clearance of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) harboring either the C797S or Ex19del mutation, and ctDNA carrying the T790M mutation was reduced by over 90%. Clinically, a partial response (PR) was observed, with tumor size reductions of up to 39.7%, and notable shrinkage of intracranial metastatic lesions. These findings are particularly important for NSCLC patients, in whom brain metastases are common. Furthermore, no dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) or serious adverse events were observed up to the 300 mg dose, highlighting the excellent safety profile of JIN-A02. This safety profile is expected to be particularly beneficial for patients requiring long-term treatment and combination therapies.

Currently, JIN-A02 is undergoing multinational clinical trials in Korea, the United States, Thailand, and other countries, and it is being closely watched as a potential groundbreaking treatment option for EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients.

‘JIN-001’: An Innovative New Drug Targeting Refractory Ovarian Cancer

Also presented was ‘JIN-001,’ J INTS BIO’s second-generation synthetic HSP90 inhibitor, developed as a new strategy to overcome resistance to existing ovarian cancer treatments. Ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest gynecological malignancies, as it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when effective treatment options are extremely limited.

The preclinical study demonstrated that JIN-001, when combined with the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin, significantly enhanced tumor suppression compared to cisplatin alone. Notably, even at low concentrations (≤0.1 μM), JIN-001 enhanced the antitumor activity of cisplatin against both cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cells, compared to cisplatin alone. Moreover, the combination therapy significantly reduced the expression of key signaling proteins related to cisplatin resistance, contributing to a sustained antitumor effect.

Based on these promising results, J INTS BIO is planning additional preclinical studies and aims to rapidly advance JIN-001 into clinical trials, with the goal of establishing a new standard of care for the treatment of refractory and multidrug-resistant ovarian cancer.

Led by the presentation at AACR 2025, J INTS BIO aims to further strengthen its competitiveness in the global oncology market and solidify its position as a frontrunner in next-generation anticancer drug development. The company also outlined its vision to continue delivering innovative therapies through ongoing research and development efforts, offering new hope to cancer patients worldwide.

Laos Seeks Solutions to Address New United States Tariff Hikes

Container terminal, Port of Manila. (Photo: PortCalls Asia on Unsplash)

Laos’ exports to the United States are expected to face significant impacts following the recently announced tariff increases, prompting the Lao government to seek urgent solutions.

Xaybandith Rasphone, Vice President of the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), stated that new United States tariff measures pose major concerns for Laos’ export sector, according to the Vientiane Times.

The official noted that despite the 90-day negotiation period and the marginally reduced rate of 10 percent afforded to Laos compared to other affected nations, the economic ramifications of the elevated reciprocal tariffs remained unavoidable.

Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Laos currently faces the second-highest tariff increase at 48 percent, surpassed only by Cambodia. This substantial rate has generated considerable apprehension throughout the country’s export industries.

In response to this economic challenge, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce has initiated collaborative efforts with private sector representatives to formulate appropriate countermeasures.

Xaybandith noted that the government, in cooperation with industry stakeholders, had been conducting a comprehensive analysis of the situation since the tariffs were announced. He emphasized that the task force—comprising leading figures from the private sector—was consulting directly with export-oriented enterprises to craft practical solutions.

He also highlighted that bilateral trade between Laos and the United States reached approximately USD 500–600 million last fiscal year, driven in part by increased activity in special economic zones. This growth, he said, underscores what is at stake should trade relations be disrupted.

The chamber vice president stressed that the manufacturing sector would be hit particularly hard, as tariffs shift from single-digit to double-digit rates. He warned that such changes could threaten employment and slow investment if production operations are forced to pause.

According to Xaybandith, a key challenge for manufacturers lies in their substantial capital investment in production materials, costs that may become unsustainable if American importers reduce or suspend orders.

He further remarked that Laos’ commercial ties with U.S. partners represent years of development and mutual trust. Establishing similar relationships in alternative markets, he noted, would be both time-consuming and resource-intensive.

In closing, the LNCCI representative confirmed that the government intends to carry out detailed deliberations on possible solutions and will undertake a thorough analysis of trade volumes across individual product categories.

Benchmark ads in the Kantar Digital Creative Effectiveness Awards for APAC are built on meaningful moments

 L’Oréal Paris, Garnier and Mama Sita deliver the most creatively effective advertising in APAC

SINGAPORE, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — L’Oréal Paris was today awarded as the brand delivering the most creatively effective digital ad as judged by consumers in the 2025 Kantar Digital Creative Effectiveness Awards for APAC. The global skincare and cosmetics powerhouse connected with consumers with its ‘Revitalift Oil Control TikTok’ in Thailand.

The success of the L’Oréal Paris creative is due to it effectively leveraging platform-native nuances to drive intentional attention. It directed viewers focus exactly where it matters thus ensuring the message lands and the brand shone through it all. The portrayal of Thai actress and L’Oréal Paris’ spokesperson felt warm yet aspirational, creating a sense of shared intimacy that encouraged viewers to linger and connect.

“Overall, the content felt purpose-built for TikTok. It’s the type of content that feels right at home on the platform, so viewers are more likely to be drawn in, be entertained and enticed” says Irene Joshy, Kantar’s Head of Creative for APAC. “Having taken second place in the 2024 awards too, L’Oréal is a stellar example of a marketer who invests in consumer insights and creative development to guide creative choices that resonate in context.”

Garnier earned runner-up honours for its ‘Turbo Bright Double Action Face Wash’ ad, which resonated with Indian consumers by showcasing how the brand empowers men to navigate the challenges of urban life. Reflecting the relevance of maintaining one’s appearance while leading an active lifestyle amidst a polluted environment, the ad combined dynamic visuals, purposeful settings, and music tailored to appeal to the modern Indian man.

Mama Sita’s ‘Divers’ ad from The Philippines rounds up the top three. The ad delivered a humorous twist on food category tropes leading to a fun family moment. The light-hearted narrative, combined with mouth-watering visuals, created a joyful family moment that resonates deeply with Filipino viewers.

Overall, the 2025 winners represent a vibrant showcase of brands, categories, and markets all reflecting the rich diversity of the region. Each campaign is unique in how it makes meaningful moments matter with platform-first thinking through powerful storytelling with emotional clarity.

“Great advertising is not about the loudest voice or the flashiest display or the most impressive content partnerships; it’s about creating meaningful moments that resonate deeply, inspire action, and build lasting connections. Without this, brands are wasting precious dollars,” explains Irene.

Joshy also adds that the top-performing ads in the region share a common foundation: “The ads that resonated most with APAC consumers are built on five key tenets making moments more meaningful to build deeper audience connections and drive greater brand preference.”

How brands can create Meaning in Moments:

  • Strive  for intentional attention: Intentional attention is the reward for content that connects intuitively with consumers. It stops the scroll and gets them in the flow state of experiencing the content. The trigger- it entertains and fits in naturally in the context it is served.
  • Creating legacy through moments they own: The focus shifts from why consumers need a brand to what the brand meaningfully contributes to their lives – sometimes quietly working its magic in the background. These standout ads reframed brand heritage in emotionally resonant ways, weaving together themes like gratitude and care to create relevance and link it back to the brand’s story.
  • Putting the ‘me’ in meaning: being meaningful starts with the consumer reality. The most effective ads foster spaces where authentic emotional connections can emerge. The brand reminds us to connect, keep it real and make meaningful moments happen in our lives.
  • Deriving meaning through creative optimisation journeys – Success favours those that boldly optimise and never shy from gathering consumer content intelligence. Early testing translates into a 15 per cent greater likelihood of short-term sales uplift[1]so they start at a very early stage building strong ideas that become foundational for their content across media. These are the early birds that sing to the bank.
  • Meaningful Tech: Leveraging AI to experiment, innovate and learn – iteratively and at scale has proven to deliver full funnel impact to the pioneers. They have embraced technology and used it meaningfully, augmenting human and artificial intelligence for business success.

The uniqueness of the Kantar Creative Effectiveness Awards is that the winners are determined by real consumer feedback through Kantar’s LINK+ ad testing solution and qualitative evaluation of Kantar’s diverse creative experts based on analysis of over five hundred ads tested in 2024. LINK+ is independently validated to predict both short-term sales impact and long-term brand growth. Creatively effective ads identified through LINK+ are four times more likely to drive sales and deliver stronger returns on marketing investment[2].

The most creatively effective digital ads in APAC in 2024:

Rank

Country

Brand

Title

Agency

1

Thailand

L’Oréal Paris

Revitalift Oil Control TikTok

McCann Paris

2

India

Garnier Men

Turbo Bright Double Action Face Wash

Publicis Thailand

3

Philippines

Mama Sita

Divers

GIGIL

4

Vietnam

Heineken

Festive Fireworks

LePub Singapore

5

India

Coke

Janhvi Kapoor is ready to feel the #RealMagic

Ogilvy India

6

Japan

JBL

Japan Tour Pro

Havas

7

South Korea

LG

We don’t make life good, you do

TBWA / Chiat / Day

8

Thailand

S-Pure

The Best of S-Pure Farm to Your Table

Spa Hakuhoda

9

South Korea

Ballentines

Ballantine’s Time Well Spent with Hyun Bin

BBDO Korea

10

Thailand

Moccona

For Lovers of Coffee

Dentsu Thailand

APAC digital ads recognised in Kantar’s Global Creative Effectiveness Awards 2025

Three standout ads from the region were also celebrated in Kantar’s 2025 Global Creative Effectiveness Awards.  

Digital / Social Top 10:

Rank

Country

Brand

Title

Agency

3

USA

Tourism Australia

Colours of Australia, Taylor’s Version

Tourism Australia Social Media Team

9

Japan

Nikka Whisky

Savour the Joy of Life

Dentsu

LINK AI Tested:

Rank

Country

Brand

Title

Agency

9

Thailand

Maybelline New York

สวยทุกแสง All Lights I Shine – INK WARUNTORN [Official MV]

Soho Square

-ends-

1 Kantar LINK database
2 WARC and Kantar LINK research

About the Kantar Creative Effectiveness Awards

All the ads we showcase are brought to us by our clients and their agencies. We select our winners on a quantitative level from our LINK+ scores ‘as judged by the consumer’ and a qualitative level by review across the global creative team of our top scoring ads. Our LINK solution gives us benchmarked creative performance metrics and a validated predicted short-term sales lift, meaning our winners are a magic combination of creativity and effectiveness, driving sales and brand equity.

About Kantar

Kantar is the world’s leading marketing data and analytics business and an indispensable brand partner to the world’s top companies. We combine the most meaningful attitudinal and behavioural data with deep expertise and advanced analytics to uncover how people think and act. We help clients understand what has happened and why and how to shape the marketing strategies that shape their future. www.kantar.com