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Galaxy Macau Celebrates 30 Years of China–Monaco Ties with the Spectacular ‘Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau’


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – In celebration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco, Galaxy Macau™ proudly presents the “Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau“. On May 21. This prestigious evening of classical music celebrates the deepening friendship between China and Monaco over the years with musical charm, further promoting exchanges and cooperation in cultural and other fields between Macau and Monaco, and contributing to establishing Macau as a platform for world-class cultural exchanges.

Zhang Zhang, the concertmaster and violinist, is one of the most influential Chinese artists in Western mainstream media today. She was invited by the Monaco royal family to perform for the leaders of China and Monaco during their high-level visit.
Zhang Zhang, the concertmaster and violinist, is one of the most influential Chinese artists in Western mainstream media today. She was invited by the Monaco royal family to perform for the leaders of China and Monaco during their high-level visit.

The concert features the internationally acclaimed Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, bringing together world-class musicians from Monaco and France under the distinguished direction of Zhang Zhang, offering the audience a magnificent musical feast.

The Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra traces its origins to the Monaco Principality String Quartet, founded in 2001 as an ensemble dedicated to supporting cultural diplomacy initiatives for the Principality of Monaco. Over the years, the ensemble has accompanied ambassadors of the Principality on musical missions around the globe.

Zhang Zhang, is one of the most influential artists in Western mainstream media today. The first Chinese musician of the Monte Carlo philharmonic, she was invited by HSH Prince Albert II to perform for leaders of China and Monaco during the 2019 state visit. An award winning author and public personality, she has published dozens of articles for major French newspapers including Figaro, Le Point, Le Droit de Vivre. A social entrepreneur pioneering in musical philanthropy, she is also the president of the Skäl International Monaco tourism association, and the concertmaster of the Royal Opera of Versailles

In 2007, Zhang Zhang founded the non-governmental organization “Zhangomusiq,” enabling concerts to make immediate and tangible contributions to humanitarian, ecological, and educational projects around the world. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco, she leads the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra on a tour to China, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Monaco.

The Galaxy Music Gala features an exceptional lineup of internationally renowned maestros, including conductor and guitarist Pablo Márquez and Andrea Cesari, principal horn of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra, among others.

Pablo Márquez, celebrated as one of today’s most accomplished musicians, has had a remarkable career as both a guitarist and conductor, performing in prestigious venues and collaborating with many renowned orchestras in over 40 countries. Andrea Cesari, Horn Soloist, earned the title at the Audimozart! in the Mozart International Competition in 2008 for his exceptional interpretation of Mozart’s concertos, gaining widespread recognition.

The Argentinean/French conductor and guitarist Pablo Márquez is regarded as one of the most accomplished musicians of our time.
The Argentinean/French conductor and guitarist Pablo Márquez is regarded as one of the most accomplished musicians of our time.

The evening’s exquisite program will showcase several classic works, including Gordon Jacob’s Horn Concerto, performed by Andrea Cesari; Tchaikovsky’s beloved Serenade for Strings; and an Asia Premiere performance of Manuel de Falla’s Three Dances, specially arranged for guitar and string orchestra, featuring Pablo Márquez. This unique arrangement promises to offer a fresh and enriching musical experience.

Andrea Cesari, Horn Soloist, earned the title at the Audimozart! in the Mozart International Competition in 2008 for his exceptional interpretation of Mozart's concertos, gaining widespread recognition.
Andrea Cesari, Horn Soloist, earned the title at the Audimozart! in the Mozart International Competition in 2008 for his exceptional interpretation of Mozart’s concertos, gaining widespread recognition.

With a one night only performance, the melodies of the Mediterranean will resonate throughout Macau. This masterful evening of music and cross-cultural exchange will provide the audience with an extraordinary journey that celebrates the friendship between China and Monaco.

Galaxy Macau, a world-class luxury integrated resort, continues to host premier international cultural and artistic events. Following performances by legendary tenor Plácido Domingo, renowned pianist Lang Lang, and the beloved tenor Andrea Bocelli, Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau takes the stage as yet another remarkable musical celebration that solidifies Macau’s development as a “City of Performing Arts,” further enhancing its reputation as a vibrant international metropolis.

Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau

Date: May 21, 2025
Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Galaxy Auditorium at Galaxy International Convention Center

Combining musical virtuosity, timeless melodies and state-of-the-art audio technology, the event will take place at Galaxy International Convention Center on May 21, 2025.
Combining musical virtuosity, timeless melodies and state-of-the-art audio technology, the event will take place at Galaxy International Convention Center on May 21, 2025.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau and Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit , and .

Cocoon Capital Announces First Close of USD 50 Million Fund III to Accelerate Southeast Asia’s Enterprise and Deep Tech Startups

SINGAPORE and NEW YORK, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cocoon Capital, one of Southeast Asia’s top-performing early-stage venture capital firms, today announced the first close of its third fund, Cocoon Capital Fund III, securing USD 30 million in commitments towards a target of USD 50 million. The new fund will continue the firm’s high-conviction strategy of backing the region’s most promising enterprise and deep tech startups from the earliest stages, combining capital with intensive hands-on support to help them scale globally.

Cocoon Capital partners Carol Cheung and Michael Blakey with investment director Zongxi Sia
Cocoon Capital partners Carol Cheung and Michael Blakey with investment director Zongxi Sia

In a region where investor returns are hard to come by, Cocoon Capital’s performance stands out. Fund I and Fund II are actively returning capital to investors and achieving a leading Distributed to Paid-In Capital (DPI) in the region. According to data insights firm Alternatives.pe, the second fund ranks among the top three performing VC funds in Southeast Asia by Internal Rate of Return (IRR). Cocoon’s track record of achieving DPI across all of its funds, clearly demonstrates its winning strategy of building businesses from Southeast Asia and exiting them globally.

“We chose to avoid chasing the hype around consumer tech and the latest buzzwords like AI and blockchain,” said Michael Blakey, Managing Partner at Cocoon Capital. “Instead, we are focusing on overlooked opportunities – founders solving hard, unsexy problems in enterprise infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and healthcare. Fund III doubles down on that strategy. We’re not looking to build the biggest portfolio, we’re looking to build the most resilient and transformational one.”

Cocoon quietly built a track record of backing exceptional founders in overlooked markets across Southeast Asia, always leading seed rounds before others took notice. This disciplined approach has enabled the firm to invest in companies that are now setting the pace for Southeast Asia’s enterprise and deep tech ecosystem.

Cocoon’s model is distinct from traditional early-stage investors. The firm leads every deal, takes a board seat, and implements a comprehensive 10-step diligence process that evaluates governance, technical depth, founder aptitude, and product potential even at the seed stage. Its post-investment platform, known as Cocoon Academy, provides founders with access to governance playbooks, financial fundamentals, personal coaching, and a network of domain experts and follow-on investors. With a disciplined pace of up to five investments a year, the team remains deeply engaged with every portfolio company.

The fund will continue to target pre-seed and seed-stage investments in B2B software and deep tech startups across Southeast Asia, while selectively exploring opportunities across broader Asia and Australia. Cocoon plans to invest in 20 companies over the next four to five years. Roughly 55% of the fund is reserved for follow-on investments up to Series A, allowing the firm to maintain support for its strongest companies as they scale.

“The digital transformation of traditional industries in Southeast Asia is still in its infancy,” said Carol Cheung, Partner at Cocoon Capital. “We are especially excited about backing founders using technology to modernise sectors long underserved by innovation – whether that’s to optimise industrial processes, combat climate change, improve healthcare outcomes, or reshape financial infrastructure. These are long-term problems that require long-term partnerships, and that’s what Cocoon is built for.”

With its portfolio companies now emerging as leaders in enterprise and deep tech, Cocoon’s investment continues to validate its thesis. Deep tech companies, such as Aprisium, which enables micron-level industrial contamination detection, and Augmentus, an industrial no-code robotics reprogramming platform now being used by leading manufacturers worldwide, exemplify how local startups are building globally competitive solutions. Other investments include TransTRACK, a fleet optimisation and logistics platform; BuyMed, one of Vietnam’s leading digital pharmaceutical distributors; and Shomvob, a Bangladesh-based job-tech platform improving access to employment and embedded financial services.

“These founders aren’t just building regional plays,” said Zongxi Sia, Investment Director. “They’re solving universal problems with Southeast Asia as their launchpad. Whether it’s reducing emissions from manufacturing or improving access to healthcare, these companies are positioning themselves to scale globally from day one.”

Fund III’s first close of more than half of the target includes a significant number of returning limited partners (LPs), many of whom have increased their commitments, as well as new LPs from across Asia, Europe, and North America. Investors include institutional capital providers, successful founders, and family offices. The strong number of returning investors underscores continued confidence in Cocoon’s disciplined, high-engagement model and its track record of generating both returns and impact.

“In today’s challenging fundraising environment, it’s rare to find a firm like Cocoon,” said Gregoire Baudin, a returning investor. “Their ability to identify and nurture deeply technical companies solving critical challenges, and to actually deliver real cash returns, makes it an easy decision to continue supporting them. LPs have seen Cocoon’s exit strategy work, with DPI achieved across multiple funds.”

“We’re building a fund that delivers more than returns,” added Blakey. “We’re helping build companies that matter – companies that survive downturns, reshape industries, and set new standards for what innovation in this region can achieve.”

Cocoon Capital Fund III will remain open to new commitments until its final close, targeting USD 50 million in total capital.

ABOUT COCOON CAPITAL®

Cocoon Capital® is a Singapore-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in enterprise software and deep tech across Southeast Asia. Founded in 2016, Cocoon has more than USD 90 million assets under management and has made over 30 investments to date. The firm backs companies building transformative solutions in sectors including medtech, advanced manufacturing, logistics, diagnostics, and climate tech. With its slogan “Dare to Change™”, Cocoon stands apart by leading early, taking concentrated positions, and working hands-on with founders from Seed through Series A. Portfolio companies include Aprisium, TransTRACK, Shomvob, Augmentus, BuyMed, See-Mode Technologies, and Volt14. Learn more at www.cocooncap.com

Media Contact
info@cocooncap.com 

Backbase launches world’s first AI-powered Banking Platform, putting banks back in Growth Mode

Industry pioneer redefines what a banking platform is in the era of AI, and delivers both the technology and talent to drive remarkable growth


AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 April 2025 – Today, Backbase announces a major industry shift: the launch of the world’s first AI-powered Banking Platform, following the launch of its Intelligence Fabric in September 2024.

Momentum accelerates with the release of its next-generation platform, purpose-built to accelerate growth and efficiency in banking by unifying two mission-critical domains: customer servicing and digital sales.

This launch marks the next phase of Backbase’s bold vision: putting bankers at the forefront of the AI revolution, fully equipped to drive sustainable, profitable growth.

Built for unified sales and servicing
In today’s competitive landscape, banks can no longer afford to rely on passive digital channels and reactive workflows. Backbase’s AI-powered Banking Platform enables banks to:

  • Transform customer engagement with AI-powered self-service and real-time support
  • Hardwire AI into daily operations to maximize employee productivity and smarter decision-making
  • Streamline and scale sales through intelligent activation and end-to-end automation
  • Expand revenue with AI-driven up- and cross-sell journeys that deepen customer relationships.


“Banks don’t need more pilots – they need outcomes,”
said Jouk Pleiter, CEO & Founder of Backbase. “With our AI-powered Banking Platform, we’re going all-in on the AI opportunity and empower banks to boost productivity, automate intelligently, and unlock growth faster than ever.”

Why now?

The industry is at a tipping point. While fintechs surge ahead, many banks are still trapped by legacy tech and fragmented data — unable to fully seize the AI opportunity. The last decade delivered basic digital channels. The next will be owned by banks that master AI-powered growth orchestration: acquiring, activating, expanding, and retaining customers at scale.

Powered by the Intelligence Fabric
At the heart of the platform is the Intelligence Fabric — a unified data foundation that turns behavioral signals, transactional data, and operational insights into real-time, actionable intelligence.

A breakthrough addition is Agentic AI: modular, intelligent agents purpose-built for banking. Operating safely within guardrails, these agents seamlessly embed into service and sales journeys—automating tasks, guiding next-best actions, and boosting productivity across the front and back office.

Trusted and secure by design
Built on a trusted AI foundation, the platform ensures every decision, recommendation, and action is transparent, secure, and auditable. Agents are developed, deployed, and governed within a tightly controlled environment, enabling banks to confidently scale while upholding the highest standards of compliance, risk, and operational integrity.

Closing the talent gap with the AI Factory
AI adoption demands new expertise — and Backbase delivers it through the AI Factory: an embedded delivery model designed to bridge the industry’s AI skills gap. By integrating Backbase’s AI experts directly into their teams, banks can rapidly co-create high-impact use cases and turn innovation into execution with speed and confidence.

“This isn’t proof-of-concept AI. This is a packaged, production-ready operating model to move banks from experimentation to execution, fast” said Jouk Pleiter, CEO & Founder at Backbase. “AI waits for no bank. It’s not a wait-and-see – it’s here, and it’s rewriting the rules of the industry. The time to act is now.”

Available now
The AI-powered Banking Platform is already delivering breakthrough efficiency and unlocking new growth for early adopters. As of today, it’s officially live and globally available—ready to transform how banks operate at scale.
Hashtag: #Backbase #digitalbanking #AIPoweredBanking #ArtificialIntelligence #retailbanking #omnichannelbanking #businessbanking #smebanking #corporatebanking


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

About Backbase

Backbase is on a mission to put bankers back in the driver’s seat — fully equipped to lead the AI revolution and unlock remarkable growth and efficiency. At the heart of this mission is the world’s first AI-powered Banking Platform, unifying all servicing and sales journeys into an integrated suite. With Backbase, banks modernize their operations across every line of business — from Retail and SME to Commercial, Private Banking, and Wealth Management.

Recognized as a category leader by Forrester, Gartner, Celent, and IDC, Backbase powers the digital and AI transformations of over 150 financial institutions worldwide. See some of their stories .

Founded in 2003 in Amsterdam, Backbase is a global private fintech company with regional headquarters in Atlanta and Singapore, and offices across London, Sydney, Toronto, Dubai, Kraków, Cardiff, Hyderabad, and Mexico City.

Learn more at .

Agoda Unveils Top 5 Cities for a Memorable Motel Stay in South Korea

SINGAPORE, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has revealed the top five cities in South Korea where travelers are flocking to enjoy the unique charm of motel stays. Based on booking data from January to March this year, Seoul, Busan, Jeju, Incheon, and Daegu have emerged as the most popular destinations for those seeking a cozy and convenient lodging experience.

Top 5 Motel Destinations in South Korea

1

Seoul

2

Busan

3

Jeju

4

Incheon

5

Daegu

Motels in South Korea have gained popularity due to their affordability, accessibility, and distinctive local flavor. Motels often offer a personalized experience, making them an attractive option for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. With their strategic locations, motels provide easy access to city attractions, dining, and entertainment, enhancing the overall travel experience.

In Seoul, motels offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods and iconic landmarks with ease. Along the coast, Busan’s seaside charm and lively markets are just a stone’s throw away from its motels, which provide the perfect base for beach lovers and seafood enthusiasts. Jeju, known for its stunning natural beauty, offers motels that serve as a welcome retreat after a day of exploring volcanic landscapes and picturesque beaches. In Incheon, with its rich history, modern attractions and proximity to the airport, motel stays cater to both leisure and business travelers. Meanwhile, Daegu’s motels offer a gateway to the city’s cultural sites and lively nightlife.

Jay Lee, Country Director, South Korea at Agoda said, “Ask any Korean and they’ll probably have fond memories tied to a motel stay, whether it’s late-night chats with friends, a spontaneous city getaway, or a quiet moment after a day of exploring. It’s exciting to see more international travelers discovering what locals have long appreciated: motels in South Korea aren’t just a place to sleep, they’re a unique and meaningful part of the travel experience. With great locations, cozy touches, and affordable prices, they’re a perfect base for discovering everything South Korea has to offer.”

Those looking for a memorable local stay in a motel can choose from close to two thousand offerings throughout South Korea. The motel booking can be combined with flights and attractions, often leading to higher discounts on Agoda. Visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app for the best deals on South Korean motel stays.

HVL Hotels: Redefining Luxury in the Heart of the Hunter Valley

SYDNEY, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HVL Hotels in conjunction with Figure 8 capital is proud to present a visionary luxury hospitality project poised to redefine the Hunter Valley experience. This ultra-premium destination reimagines what a five-star retreat can be. Situated on the historic Ben Ean Estate — one of Australia’s first vineyards and the oldest in the Hunter Valley, originally known as Lindeman’s Estate — HVL Hotels is where heritage meets modern luxury.

Inspired by the world’s most iconic five-star hotels, HVL Hotels pushes the boundaries of design, art, and immersive experiences, setting a new benchmark for Australian hospitality.

An Architectural and Cultural Masterpiece

HVL Hotels offers 65 architecturally designed suites, including expansive 49–58 sqm villas with sunken lounges and panoramic vineyard views. The hotel ethos is built around a sense of theatre, designer architecture, and contemporary art, ensuring every stay is a memorable experience. Guests will be immersed in a cultural journey, featuring large-scale outdoor sculptures and contemporary art installations by renowned artists Gillie and Marc.

A Destination for Culinary Excellence & Wellness

HVL Hotels is home to two exceptional dining experiences, including Restaurant WHITE, an ever-evolving, celebrity chef-led concept curated by Justin North. Guests can also enjoy a sophisticated cocktail bar by the pool, which seamlessly transitions from a daytime lounge to a cool DJ nightlife experience.

Wellness is at the heart of HVL Hotels, featuring a European-style Rejuvenation Spa with:

  • Salt Room
  • Steam Room
  • Infrared Sauna Room
  • Finnish Sauna
  • Cold Plunge Pools
  • Snow Room
  • Indoor-Outdoor heated magnesium Pool

Additional amenities include:

  • A stunning 25m swimming pool and giant Spa
  • A high-end gymnasium
  • Dedicated wedding and conference facilities with state-of-the-art lighting for immersive events
  • A pavilion for outdoor functions
  • A total Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 6,558 sqm
  • Parking, internal access roads, and extensive landscaping

The Visionaries Behind HVL Hotels

HVL Hotels is led by an exceptional executive team, including:

  • Dr. John Hewson & Dominic Lambrinos (Executive Board)
  • Brian McGuigan & Colin Peterson (Special Counsel – Winemakers)
  • Stephen Leathley (Hotel & Town Planner)

This visionary team is dedicated to delivering an unparalleled luxury retreat, cementing HVL Hotels as a destination that celebrates history, culture, and innovation.

Transforming the Hunter Valley into a Global Luxury Destination

With a Development Application (DA) approval for 65 rooms, HVL Hotels will not only set a new standard in Australian luxury but also elevate the Hunter Valley’s reputation as a must-visit global destination for wine, art, and premium hospitality.

CGTN: How China speeds up AI development, advances high-quality Global South cooperation

BEIJING, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CGTN published an article on Chinese President Xi Jinping’s inspection tour in east China’s Shanghai. Focusing on his visits to an AI incubator and the New Development Bank, the article stresses China’s efforts in developing the AI industry to foster tech innovation, and its willingness to strengthen project cooperation with the bank and focus on green, innovative and sustainable development to achieve more results.

An artificial intelligence ecosystem platform, dubbed an “AI supermarket,” made its debut in Shanghai in February, providing one-stop access to AI resources such as DeepSeek models, government-subsidized computing power and high-quality corpus.

The initiative marks the latest advancement by the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center – a large model incubator home to over 100 enterprises.

Spanning over 60,000 square meters, the incubator provides developers with resources for ecosystem growth, including 18 support policies such as computing subsidies, fundraising networks and open data platforms.

Visiting the incubator on Tuesday as part of his inspection tour in Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the city to take the lead in AI development and governance, and accelerate the building of a highland of scientific and technological innovation with global influence.

The inspection trip came four days after China’s leadership convened a dedicated AI study session, where President Xi called for gaining a head start in this strategic sector.

Highland of tech innovation

Officially unveiled in 2023, the center stands as one of China’s first dedicated incubators and accelerators for large-scale AI models. It aims to fortify Shanghai’s pursuit of establishing a world-class, globally competitive AI industry cluster.

To solidify the foundation for resident enterprises, the center has established five major functional platforms on computing power dispatching, open data, evaluation service, financial service and comprehensive service, supporting companies in terms of text corpus and computer resources, investment funds and filing guidance.

Meanwhile, it also extends top-priority policy support to accelerate the world premieres of various small vertical scenario models across consumer, entertainment, finance, and other major application domains, expediting large model innovations’ integration into diverse industries.

“AI technology is evolving rapidly and entering a phase of explosive growth,” Xi said, urging the city to sum up successful experiences in incubating the AI industry, and take the lead in AI development and governance.

Within a single building, enterprises from across the foundation model industry chain converge, creating an ideal environment for collaboration. Companies choosing to establish themselves here include foundational technology providers, application developers, scene designers, computing power supporters, and product marketers.

In response to the rapid development of resident enterprises to meet the center’s need for more talents, Shanghai’s Xuhui District has unveiled a global recruitment plan for AI talent and launched the West Bund International Talent Hub to bring talents to enterprises.

The talent hub has also housed the Shanghai Emerging Industry Young Entrepreneurs Association, further supporting young entrepreneurial talents to pioneer innovation.

“AI is a nascent industry, and it’s also an industry that belongs to young people,” Xi said while joining a salon with young innovators, urging them to continue to show their talents and skills to advance Chinese modernization.

High-quality development of Global South

On the same day, President Xi also visited the New Development Bank (NDB) and met with Dilma Rousseff, president of the institution.

Noting that broader BRICS cooperation has entered a stage of high-quality development, he said the bank is set to embark on its second golden decade of high-quality development.

As a multilateral development bank founded by the BRICS nations, the NDB has approved over 100 projects in all member countries for approximately $35 billion by the end of 2023, safeguarding the economic development of member countries and contributing to the improvement of the global economic governance system.

From urban railway projects in India and green wind power projects in Brazil to highway projects in China, the bank, with its efficient and pragmatic cooperation model, has enriched the practice of South-South cooperation, setting an example for multilateral cooperation.

Calling the bank “a pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South,” Xi called on the NDB to consider the development needs of the Global South, and provide more high-quality, low-cost and sustainable infrastructure financing.

Unilateralism and protectionism undermine the stability of industrial and supply chains, Rousseff stressed, adding that the bank will continue to contribute to the development of developing countries and emerging markets.

For more information, please click:

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-04-29/How-China-speeds-up-AI-development-advances-Global-South-cooperation-1CY5Xuxjp7O/p.html

Alphamab Oncology Presented Preclinical Data on Two Novel Bispecific ADCs at the 2025 AACR Annual Meeting

SUZHOU, China, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alphamab Oncology (stock code: 9966.HK) announced that the preclinical data on two novel bispecific antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) JSKN021 and JSKN022 were presented as posters at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, which is held in Chicago, USA, from April 25 to 30, 2025.

Title: JSKN021, an innovative site-specific dual-payload bispecific antibody drug conjugate targeting EGFR and HER3 exhibits potent preclinical activities
Abstract ID: 5451 / 9
Location: Poster Section 15
Poster release time: April 29, 2025, 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM CDT

EGFR and HER3 are widely overexpressed in human malignancies, rendering them promising targets for cancer treatment. Alphamab has developed JSKN021, a dual payload bispecific ADC targeting EGFR/HER3, utilizing glycan-specific conjugation technology. The novel DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor T01 and the microtubule inhibitor MMAE, are conjugated to glycan on Fc via cleavable linkers, thereby achieving synergistic antitumor effects through the dual-payload strategy.

Preclinical studies have shown that JSKN021 exhibits excellent stability. Its dual-payload design effectively addresses tumor heterogeneity, demonstrating significantly superior tumor inhibition compared to single-payload ADCs, and might be a promising novel antitumor therapeutic agent. Key differentiating features of JSKN021 include:

  • Conjugation and Stability: JSKN021 demonstrated excellent stability in serum from rat, mice, monkey, and human, with minimal payload release owing to glycan-based conjugation.
  • Binding and Payload Release: JSKN021 successfully bound to both EGFR and HER3, and its payloads (T01 and MMAE) were effectively released without detectable side metabolites.
  • In Vitro Efficacy: JSKN021 significantly inhibited cancer cell growth in multiple cell lines expressing EGFR, HER3, or both (e.g., HCC827, MDA-MB-468, A431, NCI-H1975).
  • In Vivo Efficacy: In multiple CDX models, JSKN021 showed superior tumor inhibition compared to single-payload ADCs.

Title: JSKN022, a first-in-class multi-specific ADC targeting PD-L1 and ITGB6/8 with an innovative DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor demonstrates encouraging efficacy in preclinical models
Abstract ID: 5450 / 8
Location: Poster Section 15
Poster release time: April 29, 2025, 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM CDT

Monoclonal antibodies targeting PD-1/PD-L1 have significantly transformed cancer therapy. However, the majority of patients still cannot get benefit from this treatment or may develop resistance afterwards. Leveraging the increased expression of PD-L1 in tumors, Alphamab has developed JSKN022, an innovative sdAb (single domain antibody) Fc fusion protein drug conjugate, based on our independently developed Envafolimab. This drug molecule utilizes glycan-specific conjugation technology to site-specifically conjugate the DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor T01 to the Fc glycans. It is designed to simultaneously target PD-L1 and ITGB6/8, enabling a synergistic anti-tumor effect.

This preclinical study suggests JSKN022, as a first-in-class multi-specific PD-L1/ITGB6/8 ADC, might potentially bring in novelty in the therapeutic approach for cancers that are refractory or resistant to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. Preclinical data demonstrate that JSKN022 exhibits the following differentiating features:

  • Binding and Specificity: JSKN022 demonstrated specific binding to PD-L1, αvβ6 and αvβ8 protein without cross-reacting with other integrin family members.
  • Internalization: JSKN022 exhibited superior internalization capacity in HCC4006 and Capan-2 cancer cells compared to mono-target antibodies.
  • Conjugation and Stability: JSKN022 demonstrated excellent stability in serum from rat, mice, monkey, human, with minimal payload (T01) release, attributed to glycan-based conjugation.
  • Efficacy: JSKN022 effectively inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells and demonstrated greater tumor suppression than single-target ADCs in preclinical cancer models.

About JSKN021

JSKN021 is a first-in-class dual payload ADC consisting of an EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody conjugated with novel topoisomerase I inhibitor (T01) and MMAE. Engineered with finely tuned binding avidity in both arms to address tumor heterogeneity while minimizing on-target, off-tumor toxicity, JSKN021 was designed for enhanced stability and improved homogeneity. It combines T01 (DAR 4) and MMAE (DAR 2) payloads to overcome non-response and resistance observed with single-payload treatment strategies.

About JSKN022

JSKN022 is a first-in-class ADC targeting both PD-L1 and ITGB6/8. Based on independently developed Envafolimab, Alphamab integrates immuno-oncology (IO) mechanisms with ADC approaches. This novel drug molecule utilizes glycan-specific conjugation technology to enhance both stability and homogeneity. The topoisomerase I inhibitor T01 is site-specifically conjugates to multi-functional antibody via a cleavable linker, thereby improving therapeutic efficacy. JSKN022 might potentially bring in novelty in the therapeutic approach for cancers that are refractory or resistant to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors.

About Alphamab Oncology

Alphamab Oncology is an innovative biopharmaceutical company focusing on oncology therapeutics. By leveraging its proprietary core technology platforms including single-domain antibodies, bispecific antibodies, glycan-specific conjugation, linker-payload, dual-payload antibody conjugation, and subcutaneous high concentration formulation for biologics, the Company has established a differentiated and globally competitive product portfolio, covering cutting-edge areas such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, and single-domain antibodies.

The Company has one product approved for marketing (Envafolimab, the world’s first subcutaneously injectable PD-(L)1 inhibitor), which has made a significant breakthrough in the convenience and accessibility of cancer treatment. Additionally, the Company has multiple bispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs in clinical stage, while rapidly advancing the preclinical pipeline prioritizing bispecific ADCs and dual-payload ADCs. Multiple strategic collaborations based on innovative products or technology platforms have been established with partners such as CSPC, ArriVent, and Glenmark.

Our overarching mission is to make cancer manageable and curable by addressing unmet clinical needs in oncology. Alphamab Oncology is continuously dedicated to the development of effective, safe, and globally competitive anti-tumor drugs to benefit patients.

LG Energy Solution Releases 2025 First-Quarter Financial Results

  • LG Energy Solution posts KRW 6.3 trillion in consolidated revenue and KRW 375 billion in operating profit in Q1 2025
  • Company returns to profitability through rigorous cost-cutting efforts
  • Company to focus on operational efficiency, cost reduction, and strategic business opportunities to cope with impacts from regulatory transitions this year

SEOUL, South Korea, April 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220) today announced its first-quarter earnings for 2025, turning a profit through rigorous cost-cutting efforts.

The company posted consolidated revenue of KRW 6.3 trillion, a 2.9 percent decrease quarter-on-quarter and 2.2 percent increase year-on-year. The operating profit was KRW

375 billion with an EBITDA[1] margin of 20 percent, marking a turn around to profitability. The operating profit includes the IRA tax credit amount of KRW 458 billion.  

“In the first quarter, we demonstrated solid shipments to North America and for newly launched EV models. However, as automakers continued their conservative approach to inventory management, our quarterly revenue declined compared to the last quarter,” said Chang Sil Lee, CFO of LG Energy Solution. “Nevertheless, we successfully returned to profitability in the first quarter as our efforts to reduce material costs and enhance cost efficiency came to fruition, with one-off items reflected in the previous quarter no longer playing base effect into Q1 profit,” Lee added. 

In the first quarter, LG Energy Solution has reallocated its production capacity in North America to better respond to market demands and address ongoing uncertainties. Namely, the company put the construction of its ESS battery plant in Arizona on hold and instead decided to first utilize the existing production capacity at its plant in Michigan, aiming to start producing LFP (lithium, iron, phosphate) batteries for ESS this year, a year earlier than planned.

Also, the company is in the process of acquiring the GM JV phase 3 in Michigan, which would significantly expand its footprint in North America. This move will also maximize the utilization of investments already undertaken by minimizing the facility’s downtime.

Alongside this strategic adjustment, LG Energy Solution continued to make notable achievements in both the EV and ESS businesses based on its strong product competitiveness. The company successfully expanded its customer portfolio for 46-Series cylindrical batteries to legacy automakers by securing a new 10GWh (annual) order from an established automaker in North America. It also won contracts from Polska Grupa Energetyczna (PGE) for grid-scale ESS batteries in Europe and Delta Electronics for residential ESS batteries (4GWh) in the U.S. The company also ventured into new applications, including solar EVs and offshore wind farms, as well as establishing its first European battery recycling joint venture facility with Derichebourg in France, which will establish 20,000 tons of annual preprocessing capacity to meet the EU’s battery recycling regulations and secure a metal supply chain.

Moving forward, as regulatory transitions such as U.S. tariffs and the EU’s industrial action plan for the automotive sector are expected to affect the battery industry broadly, LG Energy Solution will concentrate on streamlining operations and reducing costs this year, while actively pursuing strategic business opportunities.

It will focus on indispensable investments and proactively adjust the scale and speed of capacity expansion in response to changing market demands. It will also take a cautious approach to managing inventory for EV batteries, while accelerating the revenue expansion in its ESS business, which holds relatively higher growth potential.

At the same time, LG Energy Solution will continue to cultivate strategic business opportunities by continuing to secure future demands from its key customers with new products, including 46-Series cylindrical batteries. Simultaneously, it will proactively discover new applications for its cylindrical batteries, such as humanoid robots and drones.

To mitigate the impact of tariffs, the company will promote the local production of raw materials by collaborating with material companies entering North America. It will also accelerate the development and adoption of new technologies, such as dry electrodes, to lower production costs.

[1] EBITDA: Earnings before interest and tax

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About LG Energy Solution
LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220), a split-off from LG Chem, is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in revolutionary battery technology and extensive research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 69,600 patents. Its robust global network, which spans North America, Europe, and Asia, includes battery manufacturing facilities established through joint ventures with major automakers. Committed to building sustainable battery ecosystem, LG Energy Solution aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its value chain by 2050, while embodying the value of shared growth and promoting diverse and inclusive corporate culture. To learn more about LG Energy Solution’s ideas and innovations, visit https://news.lgensol.com.