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HKA WELCOMES ADAM SMITH AS A PRINCIPAL IN THE ADVISORY TEAM IN AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HKA, a leading infrastructure project, strategy, commercial advisory and dispute resolution company, is delighted to announce the appointment of Adam Smith to our Advisory team in Australia. Adam joins our Brisbane office and brings with him over 20 years of experience across multiple industries, including transport infrastructure, defence, and renewable energy.

Adam Smith, Principal HKA
Adam Smith, Principal HKA

Adam is a dynamic and results-driven professional, with extensive experience leading strategic initiatives, shaping commercial and financial strategies, and delivering complex infrastructure projects. Adam has a proven track record of transforming vision into action by driving operational excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Dafydd Wyn Owen, Partner and Advisory Lead, International expressed his enthusiasm about Adam’s appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Adam to the HKA team. His extensive experience and strategic leadership will be invaluable as we continue to expand our advisory offerings in Queensland and across Australia. Adam’s ability to navigate complex business challenges and drive substantial growth aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our clients.”

Mike Pitt, Partner and Advisory Lead APAC added: “Adam’s expertise in leading organisations through transformational growth and his strong networks across Australia make him a perfect fit for our team. We look forward to leveraging his insights and experience to further enhance our advisory capabilities and support our clients’ success.”

Adam shared his excitement about joining HKA: “I’m excited to be joining HKA’s Advisory team and contributing to the organisation’s ongoing success. With a strong focus on delivering value to our clients, I look forward to leveraging my experience to help navigate complex challenges, drive strategic outcomes and support the delivery of critical infrastructure projects. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of excellence and innovation in the industry.

Adam holds a Bachelor of Commerce, is a Fellow Chartered Accountant (FCA), and holds a Diploma of Applied Finance and Investment. He is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and an Accredited Speaker with the National Speakers Association (Australia).

We are confident that Adam’s expertise and leadership will significantly contribute to the continued success and growth of HKA’s Advisory team in Australia. We look forward to the positive impact he will bring to our clients and our organisation.

For more information about HKA, visit www.hka.com

Contact: Peita Calvertpeitacalvert@hka.com 

Wahed, an Islamic robo-advisor, appoints Shahril Hamdan to its Board of Directors

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Wahed, a global Shariah-compliant fintech has appointed Shahril Hamdan to its Board of Directors.

Wahed, an Islamic robo-advisor, appoints Shahril Hamdan to its Board of Directors.
Wahed, an Islamic robo-advisor, appoints Shahril Hamdan to its Board of Directors.

Shahril Hamdan built a multi-sector career in the public, private, and digital media spaces over the last 15 years.

He notably held the position of Economic Director in the Prime Minister’s Office and was a member of the National Economic Action Council. He was a consultant at McKinsey and Company and later became the CEO of Destini Oil, a Malaysian oilfield services company.

Shahril was recently appointed Head of Southeast Asia and Managing Director at GP Bullhound, a global tech advisory and investor with over USD1 billion in AUM and 13 offices across Europe, US and Asia.

This built on his previous VC and private markets experience syndicating angel and venture investments into Malaysian tech startups and later on founding a consultancy firm Watchtower Advisory where he advised international investors, asset managers and entrepreneurs with an interest in Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asian region.

His more public profile also includes co-hosting and co-owning Keluar Sekejap, a Malaysian digital media company anchored on its main podcast covering policy, politics and current affairs.

Shahril holds a MSc in Race, Ethnicity, and Postcolonial Studies from the London School of Economics, where he was the recipient of the 2011 Hobhouse Memorial Prize. Prior to this, he gained a BA in Economics from the University of Manchester.

On this appointment, Shahril commented, ”I am delighted to join the board at Wahed. Wahed’s mission of furthering financial inclusion through creating best-in-class and values-based financial products is one I resonate with deeply and I look forward to supporting its growth ambitions.

Mohsin Siddiqui, Wahed CEO said, “We are pleased to welcome Shahril to Wahed. His unique understanding of the financial landscape in Southeast Asia, in particular the private markets, is valuable to us. We have always envisaged the region to be a global hub for Wahed and we are excited to bring Shahril’s expertise in realizing this vision and continuing to grow our presence.

About Wahed

Founded in 2015, Wahed is a financial technology company that is advancing financial inclusion through accessible, affordable, and values-based investing. The company has made significant inroads in the world Shariah compliant investing by creating an easy-to-use digital platform that provides portfolio options to clients that align with their risk appetite. Wahed’s services have already attracted over 400,000 customers globally.

For more information, visit: www.wahed.com

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/shahril_hamdan__1_wahed.jpg 

Movement Labs Announces “GMove: Move Asia’s Future” APAC Tour Following Mainnet Launch

SAN FRANCISCO, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Movement Labs, a Web3 company and core contributor of the Movement Network, today announced the launch of its Asia Pacific tour: “GMove: Move Asia’s Future.” This comprehensive tour will connect developers, investors, influencers, and community members across 11 vibrant cities throughout the APAC region.

Movement Labs: 'GMove: Move Asia's Future'
Movement Labs: ‘GMove: Move Asia’s Future’

Led by Cooper Scanlon, co-founder of Movement Labs, the tour aims to ignite excitement, foster collaboration, and establish Movement as a key player in the Web3 ecosystem across Asia Pacific. The tour runs from March 18 to April 17, 2025, with flagship events in:

  • Taipei: March 18 – 21
  • Shenzhen: March 21 – 23
  • Chengdu: March 23 – 25
  • Shanghai: March 25 – 27
  • Hangzhou: March 27 – 29
  • Bangkok: March 29 – April 3
  • Ho Chi Minh City: April 3 – 5
  • Hanoi: April 5 – 7
  • Singapore: April 7 – 11
  • Seoul: April 11 – 14
  • Tokyo: April 15 – 17

“The APAC Tour will help bring together all the essential parts that make blockchain and our amazing Movement community  successful,” said Scanlon. “By connecting developers, investors, community builders, traders, government officials, and crypto enthusiasts across these vibrant markets, we’re creating the foundation for continued growth and innovation that will truly ‘Move’ Asia’s digital future!”

Each city will host a dynamic flagship event featuring networking, presentations, panel discussions with local community leaders, and developer pitch sessions. As the first major in-person event series following Movement’s Mainnet Launch, these gatherings will provide a platform for local developers to pitch their projects and connect with interested investors. Developers, investors, community organizers & creators can also look forward to the unveiling of Movement’s new Global Ambassador Program and Global Hubs Program for the first time during the tour.

Attendees will receive exclusive benefits available only through event check-ins, rewards, branded merchandise, and early access to Movement pioneering projects. The tour will be promoted through localized campaigns in Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese languages to ensure maximum engagement across all regional communities. Events will be listed on Luma, with registration now open for developers, startups, community members, and builders.

For more information about the Movement APAC Tour, including event registration details and sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://lu.ma/MovementAPACTour2025 and movementnetwork.xyz or follow @movementlabsxyz, @movementfdn, @moveecosystem  @Move_Collective on Twitter.

About Movement Labs
Movement Labs develops the Movement Network, an ecosystem of Modular Move-Based Blockchains. The company is creating the first Move Virtual Machine for Ethereum, along with open-source tools to promote Move adoption across blockchains. Their platform enables developers to launch high-performance Move VM rollups easily, bridging Move and EVM ecosystems.

 

Getac’s Next Generation B360 and B360 Pro Combine Powerful AI-Ready Technology with Fully Rugged Reliability for Exceptional Versatility and Performance

Both laptops also offer an extensive range of industry-specific configurations and customisation flexibility*, meaning customers can tailor devices to their exact needs

News in brief:

  • Getac’s next generation B360 and B360 Pro are the first fully rugged laptops to feature the latest Intel® CoreTM Ultra Series 2 processors and Intel® AI Boost technology.
  • Both devices enable users to leverage on-device Edge AI to quickly and seamlessly execute tasks in scenarios requiring real-time processing, high levels of data privacy and security, offline capability, and cost efficiency.
  • The B360 is ideally suited to professionals working in the public safety and utility sectors, while the B360 Pro is built with the unique needs of defence professionals in mind.

TAIPEI, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Getac Technology Corporation (Getac), a leading provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions, today announced the launch of its next generation B360 and B360 Pro fully rugged laptops, offering professionals across industries including public safety, utilities and defence two powerful, yet versatile solutions to overcome the daily challenges they face.

The next generation B360 and B360 Pro combine fully rugged build quality with a host of innovative new technology upgrades.
The next generation B360 and B360 Pro combine fully rugged build quality with a host of innovative new technology upgrades.

Next generation AI-ready performance

The next generation B360 and B360 Pro combine fully rugged build quality with a host of innovative new technology upgrades. This includes the latest Intel® CoreTM Ultra Series 2 processors and Intel® AI Boost technology, which enables users to leverage on-device Edge AI to quickly and seamlessly execute tasks. In a recent text-to-report evaluation test conducted with Getac industry customers using Llama 3.1 8B, AI applications running on the B360 were able to turn extensive texts into full reports in a matter of seconds. This powerful Edge AI performance offers significant operational advantages over cloud AI, particularly in scenarios requiring real-time processing, high levels of data privacy and security, offline capability, and cost efficiency.

Elsewhere, the next generation B360 and B360 Pro boast a range of versatile new I/O options, including up to two ThunderboltTM 4 ports for incredibly fast data transfer. LifeSupport hot-swappable battery technology boosts productivity by minimising the need to recharge the devices mid-shift, while WiFi 7 offers data speeds up to five times faster than WiFi 6, as well as up to 60% lower latency.

The B360 Pro features dual high-capacity batteries as standard, while an optional NVIDIA Quadro RTX A500 4GB discrete graphics controller takes visuals to the next level without impacting processing performance. The B360 Pro also includes an optional media bay, which can accommodate a third SSD (for up to 6TB storage capacity in total), third battery, DVD drive or Blu-Ray drive as required.

Fully customisable to meet specific industry needs

The next generation B360 and B360 Pro are both available in a range of industry-specific configurations and can be further tailored with bespoke customisation options* spanning hardware, software, accessories and service. As a result, customers can ensure their device specifications match intended use cases, even when only ordering in small batches. Key industry examples include:

  • Optimal situational awareness for public safety professionals

Situational awareness is paramount for public safety professionals such as police patrol units, where officers rely on their Getac rugged devices for secure, fast data access and real-time intelligence updates while in the field. Public safety organisations can customise their next generation B360 devices with a range of specific software, hardware, accessory and service options* to fully optimise their situational awareness capabilities. Software options such as Getac Geolocation can be specified for more accurate location information, while the addition of multiple optional device authentication layers, such as password, RFID reader and a fingerprint reader help ensure seamless device access while maintaining data security at all times. Additional accessories, including a secure vehicle dock and high-capacity batteries further enhance device usability in the field, while keeping downtime to a minimum.

  • Highly efficient mobile GIS, surveying and mapping for utilities professionals

The next generation B360 is ideally suited to mobile GIS, surveying and mapping tasks in remote locations and/or adverse weather conditions, thanks to its MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461G, and IP66 certifications, as well as 6ft drop resistance. An optional secure carry bag aids portability, while software such as Getac Virtual GPS Utility offers a fast and reliable way to manage up to five GPS applications simultaneously. If even more accuracy is required, the next generation B360 can also be equipped with an optional high accuracy GPS module and antenna, ensuring location accuracy to the greatest extent.

  • Secure, reliable command and control for defence professionals

In the defence industry, commanders rely on Getac rugged devices for real-time intelligence, military data integration, and secure communications to drive mission critical decisions and counter threats. The next generation B360 Pro features extended battery life as standard for uninterrupted operation in the field, while an optional secure vehicle dock can quickly turn any vehicle into a mobile command station. The B360 Pro can also be customised to include two PCMCIA readers* if needed (one is included as standard), further increasing device functionality without the need for external adaptors.

“As the popularity of open-source and Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) language models continues to grow at a rapid pace, we have collaborated with industry customers to develop innovative vertical market AI applications that enable them to take full advantage of the operational benefits on offer. These advancements will drive demand for rugged Edge AI devices like the next generation B360 and B360 Pro, and accelerate AI adoption across the public safety, utilities and defence sectors,” says James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation. “Our industry-specific solutions and customisation capabilities also give customers much more control when choosing devices for specific use cases, helping to maximise productivity and ensure a rapid return on their investment.”

The next generation B360 and B360 Pro will be available in April.

For more information, please visit www.getac.com

*Additional charges apply

About Getac

Getac Technology Corporation is a global leader in AI-capable rugged mobile technology and intelligent video solutions, including laptops, tablets, software, body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, digital evidence management and enterprise video analytics solutions. Getac’s solutions and services are designed to enable extraordinary experiences for frontline workers in challenging environments. Today, Getac serves customers in over 100 countries spanning defence, public safety, ambulance, fire & rescue, utilities, automotive, natural resources, manufacturing, transport, and logistics. Getac was recently recognized as one of Newsweek’s “World’s Most Trustworthy Companies” for 2024. For more information, visit: http://www.getac.com. Participate in the Getac Industry blog or follow the company on LinkedIn and YouTube

Getac and Getac logo are trademarks of Getac Holdings Corporation or its affiliates. Other brands or trademarks are the property of their respective owners. ©2025 Getac Technology Corporation.

SOL ARENA USHERS IN A NEW ERA OF CASUAL GAMING AND CRYPTO WAGERING ON SOLANA, WITH $CHILL TOKEN LAUNCHING SOON

  • SOL Arena, the Web3 multiplayer battle game developed by Chillchat, will launch its $CHILL token at end-March 2025, following its sold-out Challengers NFT mint on Magic Eden on February 6, 2025.
  • Delivering a fresh take on snake-like gameplay on the Solana blockchain, SOL Arena has attracted 80,000+ global players since its Open Beta launch in September 2024.
  • Backed by Solana Ventures, Crypto.com Capital, and Big Brain Holdings, Chillchat aims to pioneer innovation in Web3 gaming by marrying casual gameplay with high-stakes crypto wagering in massive real-time battles.

BANGKOK, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SOL Arena, a high-stake multiplayer battle game powered by Solana and now live in Open Beta, will launch its $CHILL token at end-March 2025, which will allow players to wager $CHILL in real-time crypto battles, or stake for in-game and ecosystem rewards. After welcoming more than 80,000 players worldwide since its Open Beta began on September 20, 2024, SOL Arena’s highly anticipated $CHILL token launch follows a sold-out Challengers NFT mint on Magic Eden last month.

SOL Arena, the Web3 multiplayer battle game developed by Chillchat Games, will launch its $CHILL token at end-March 2025.
SOL Arena, the Web3 multiplayer battle game developed by Chillchat Games, will launch its $CHILL token at end-March 2025.

Developed by Chillchat, a Bangkok-based Web3 gaming studio, SOL Arena unites casual snake-style gameplay with massive real-time battles and large-scale crypto wagering. By pairing the simplicity of casual gaming with the thrill of real crypto stakes, SOL Arena delivers a fresh take on Web3 gaming on Solana — appealing to both casual gamers and competitive enthusiasts.

To support its continued growth and development, Chillchat previously secured US$8.69M in seed funding, led by Solana Ventures, Crypto.com Capital, and Big Brain Holdings. Matt Beck, Head of Investments at Solana Ventures said: “SOL Arena is introducing a new way to engage with crypto gaming — where every match matters because there’s something real at stake. This is exactly the kind of innovation that will drive Web3 gaming forward.”

SOL Big Brain of Big Brain Holdings said: “I’m hyped to see how SOL Arena evolves over time. Its approach to merging casual gaming with real-time wagering is already making waves in the Solana community.”

A New Era of Web3 Gaming: Real-Time Crypto Wagering at Scale
SOL Arena merges the simplicity of popular multiplayer snake games with intense extraction gameplay, allowing up to 50 players to compete in real-time battles to collect noCHILL, outmaneuver opponents, and strategically withdraw their winnings. The upcoming High Roller Mode will introduce crypto wagering with $CHILL, raising the stakes for both casual players and high-level competitors. SOL Arena integrates the dynamic, community-driven Solana ecosystem directly into the game, where memecoin projects, NFT communities, and token holders unite under shared teams.

“Our vision is to merge casual gaming with degenerate memecoin activity and crypto network effects,” said James Au, CEO and Game Director of Chillchat, “to deliver an exciting new player experience that redefines the thrill of ‘winning’.”

What’s Next? Token Launch and Mobile Play
Following the Challengers NFT mint in February 2025, SOL Arena’s next significant milestone is the launch of its ecosystem token, $CHILL, at the end of March.

The $CHILL token fuels SOL Arena’s in-game economy, allowing players to wager it in High Roller mode, or stake it to earn in-game rewards. Players can qualify for a $CHILL airdrop by playing the game and extracting noCHILL, or by holding Chillchat Origin or SOL Arena Challengers’ NFTs.

The official launch of the SOL Arena game, which will introduce new features such as Seasons, will include mobile versions for both iOS and Android available in mid-2025.

Join the SOL Arena Battles Now
SOL Arena is free to play now at solarena.io. Jump in, collect and extract noCHILL, and start climbing the leaderboards to secure your spot in the upcoming $CHILL airdrop.

For more on SOL Arena:
Website
Discord
X (Twitter)
Telegram

About Chillchat
Chillchat is a Bangkok-based Web3 gaming studio dedicated to creating fun, accessible, and innovative blockchain-powered experiences. SOL Arena is the studio’s flagship title, merging traditional gaming fundamentals with real crypto stakes, all secured by Solana’s lightning-fast network. With an aim to pioneer the next generation of Web3 gaming, Chillchat invests in bold ideas that blend community engagement, financial incentives, and immersive gameplay.

WESTIN WELLNESS WEEKEND : WELLNESS BEFORE THE RUN

Prepare, recover, and recharge with expert-led wellness experiences tailored for runners

SINGAPORE, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The second Westin Wellness Weekend, from 25 to 27 April 2025, is dedicated to preparing both mind and body for the ultimate running experience—whether it’s a 5KM, 10KM, half marathon, or marathon. This invigorating 3D2N retreat at The Westin Singapore offers a holistic approach to pre-run readiness, featuring expert-led sessions on mental resilience, revitalizing yoga, mobility for better movement, and a mindful silent breakfast, all designed to optimize performance and well-being.

Westin Wellness Weekend at The Westin Singapore
Westin Wellness Weekend at The Westin Singapore

From the moment you arrive, immerse yourself in a sensory welcome with our signature White Tea scent, setting the stage for a truly relaxing stay. Check into one of our spacious guest rooms, thoughtfully designed with premium amenities, including the Sleep Well Lavender Balm and our iconic next generation Heavenly® Bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep.

Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the hotel’s comprehensive facilities before making your way to the exclusive Presidential Suite for an engaging welcome dinner where you can meet your wellness hosts for the weekend. This special evening also highlights Curated Culture, a pioneering homegrown brand revolutionizing the health and wellness beverage industry with innovative, science-backed formulations. Next, learn about managing urban stressors with registered psychologist, Felix Lim, PhD, followed by a short relaxing sound bath to let your mind unwind for better sleep.

Rise up early and start your Saturday with an energizing yoga session led by Jacyln Chan, designed to awaken the body and enhance flexibility. Next, join Jacyln in embracing a moment of intentional pause and presence with the Mindful Silent Workshop, where participants are encouraged to disconnect from digital distractions. With over 15 years of experience in commercial, operational, and people leadership roles, Jacyln is the founder of Noetic Movement, a wellness and leadership company dedicated to harnessing the power of intentional pausing.

Take a mid-day break with Samuel Lim, owner of Fire City Gym, to improve your range of motion through a series of light mobility exercises with some fun. Fire City Gym is a close-knit fitness community offering a variety of classes suitable for all fitness levels, focusing on strengthening muscles to promote better movement, flexibility, and ease in both daily activities and workouts.

Engage your senses at the scent workshop by Lynk Fragrances, a Singapore-based brand committed to using only the finest all-natural ingredients sourced from the United States and Europe. Create your own personalized essential oil blend to accompany you throughout the retreat.

Immerse yourself in a deeply restorative sound bath session with Dawn Sim, an experienced yoga practitioner, teacher, and mindfulness coach. Let the soothing vibrations of gongs and singing bowls guide you into a state of profound relaxation and self-awareness, enveloping you in a cocoon of tranquility. For an even more immersive experience, bring along your handmade essential oil, enhancing the sensory journey.

Conclude the evening with a gathering over dinner, offering the perfect opportunity to connect with your retreat mates and hosts, reflecting on the transformative experiences shared throughout the retreat.

On the final day of the retreat, lace up for an invigorating 5KM scenic run around Marina Bay with our Run Concierge, Eddie Chang, as you take in the breathtaking waterfront views. After the run, accelerate your post-workout recovery and reduce muscle soreness with a cold ice bath at PURE Fitness or enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace until check-out at 2PM.

Use this time for self-reflection, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or unwind in the luxurious facilities of our award-winning Heavenly Spa by Westin on Level 35. Relax in the whirlpool, refresh under the experience shower, or immerse yourself in the calming aromatherapy steam bath—the perfect way to conclude your wellness journey.

Package includes:

For room reservation, visit thewestinsingapore.com or email Reservations.Singapore3@westin.com  

*Activities listed above might be subject to change. For most updated activities, please visit our website here.

About The Westin Singapore

As Singapore’s first integrated hotel located within an office building, The Westin Singapore occupies levels 32 to 46 of Asia Square Tower 2 commercial development in Marina Bay, the heart of Singapore’s bustling financial district. The hotel offers 305 guestrooms and suites, four distinct dining venues, an outdoor infinity pool with a stunning view over Singapore’s south coast, the Heavenly Spa by Westin™, WestinWORKOUT® fitness studio equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym and TRX fitness equipment and 1,350 square meters of versatile event spaces, all designed with guests’ well-being in mind.

For more information, please visit thewestinsingapore.com.

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts 

Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in well-being for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 240 hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program featuring the latest in recovery and strength training from Hyperice and Bala, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott International

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,100 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 142 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program.  For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.  In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram.

Akeso Announces Completion of Patient Enrollment in The Phase III Clinical Trial of Cadonilimab for Adjuvant Treatment of High-Risk Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma

HONG KONG, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926. HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the completion of patient enrollment for its Phase III registrational clinical trial (COMPASSION-22/AK104-306) evaluating cadonilimab, the world’s first PD-1/CTLA-4 bispecific antibody independently developed by the company, as an adjuvant treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with high recurrence risk following curative resection or ablation.

The completion of patient enrollment in the COMPASSION-22/AK104-306 trial marks a significant milestone in the clinical development of cadonilimab for HCC. In addition to this Phase III study, another Phase III trial investigating cadonilimab in combination with lenvatinib and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for the treatment of unresectable intermediate to advanced HCC is currently progressing on schedule. The extensive exploration of combination therapies involving cadonilimab for HCC is expected to offer more effective treatment options for both early-stage and advanced HCC patients.

HCC is one of the most common malignant tumors globally. According to 2024 data, there are about 865,000 new cases of liver cancer worldwide, with 370,000 occurring in China. The recurrence rate after surgery is high, especially in patients with high-risk factors, with a five-year recurrence rate exceeding 70%. Currently, no standard adjuvant treatment exists for HCC in clinical practice. Identifying effective adjuvant therapies to reduce recurrence risk and extend survival is a critical unmet need in HCC treatment.

Cadonilimab is the world’s first approved bispecific immunotherapy for cancer. Previous studies have shown its significant efficacy and favorable safety profile in treating HCC. Research presented at the 2023 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Asia Annual Meeting demonstrated that cadonilimab combined with FOLFOX-HAIC as neoadjuvant therapy for resectable multinodular HCC achieved a 100% disease control rate (DCR) with manageable safety. Furthermore, data from the 2023 ESMO Congress highlighted that cadonilimab combined with lenvatinib as a first-line treatment for advanced HCC showed superior antitumor activity compared to approved therapies, effectively controlling tumor progression and offering long-term survival benefits over current treatment options.

Akeso will continue to advance cadonilimab clinical development for multiple malignant tumors, with the aim to provide more therapeutic options for patients worldwide. Currently, cadonilimab is currently involved in over 23 clinical studies across 16 indications, including gastric cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, and pancreatic cancer. It has already received approval for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer and first-line gastric cancer. The sNDA for cadonilimab for the treatment of first-line cervical cancer is currently under review. Additionally, five Phase III trials for HCC, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and gastric cancer are underway. Studies across multiple indications, including cervical cancer, gastric cancer, and NSCLC, have shown that cadonilimab offers meaningful efficacy benefits in all patient populations, regardless of PD-L1 expression levels (high, low, or negative). These patient data indicates that cadonilimab can also significantly broadens the eligible patient population that can benefit from cancer immunotherapies.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 23 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 11 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific antibody-drug conjugates). Additionally, 5 new drugs are commercially available, and 5 new drugs across 7 indications are currently under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin.

CStone Submits Clinical Trial Application in Australia for CS5001 (ROR1 ADC) in Combination with First-Line Standard-of-Care for DLBCL

  • Phase Ib trial to evaluate CS5001 in combination with R-CHOP as a first-line treatment for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), aiming to reshape the standard-of-care landscape.
  • CS5001 is also being investigated globally in a multi-center Phase Ib clinical trial for multiple solid tumor types.

SUZHOU, China, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CStone Pharmaceuticals (“CStone”, HKEX: 2616), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing innovative cancer therapies, today announced the submission of a Phase Ib clinical trial application in Australia for CS5001, its ROR1-targeting antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), in combination with first-line standard-of-care (SoC) for DLBCL. CS5001 is also being evaluated as both a monotherapy and in combination with a PD-L1 inhibitor for advanced solid tumors in an ongoing global multi-center clinical trial.

Building on promising data from CS5001 monotherapy in later-line aggressive and indolent lymphomas, this Phase Ib trial aims to expand the therapeutic potential of CS5001 across all DLBCL stages and solid tumors. The study will explore:

  • CS5001 + R-CHOP: First-line treatment for DLBCL patients who have not received prior systemic therapy.
  • CS5001 + SoC: For patients with relapsed or refractory DLBCL.
  • CS5001 Monotherapy: Targeting ROR1-expressing solid tumors.
  • CS5001 + Sugemalimab: Combination therapy for advanced solid tumors.

Dr. Jason Yang, CEO, President of R&D, and Executive Director at CStone, stated: “We are thrilled to reach another key clinical milestone for CS5001. The existing data underscore its broad potential in both lymphomas and solid tumors. Notably, a ROR1 ADC combined with R-CHP has demonstrated an impressive complete response (CR) rate in a Phase II trial for first-line DLBCL. As we advance from late-line monotherapy to frontline combination therapy, we are optimistic that CS5001 will provide significant clinical benefits to DLBCL patients and establish itself as a first-line treatment option. Meanwhile, we continue to explore CS5001’s potential in solid tumors and eagerly anticipate further positive outcomes.”

The global multi-center Phase Ib trial for CS5001 is actively enrolling patients across the United States, Australia, and China. Recruitment is ongoing for monotherapy cohorts targeting aggressive and indolent advanced lymphomas, which could potentially expand into a Phase II single-arm registrational study. Additional cohorts, including the first-line DLBCL combination therapy and solid tumor monotherapy and combination therapy arms, will be initiated soon.

About CS5001 (ROR1 ADC)

CS5001 is a clinical-stage antibody-drug conjugate (“ADC”) targeting ROR1 (receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1). CS5001 has been uniquely designed with proprietary tumor-cleavable linker and pyrrolobenzodiazepine (“PBD”) prodrug. Only after reaching the tumor, the linker and prodrug are cleaved to release the PBD toxin, resulting in lethal DNA cross-links in cancer cells. The use of the linker plus PBD prodrug effectively helps address the toxicity associated with traditional PBD payloads, leading to a better safety profile. CS5001 has demonstrated complete tumor suppression in several preclinical cancer models and demonstrated favorable serum half-life and pharmacokinetic characteristics. CS5001 is a promising candidate drug with precision treatment potential in both hematologic tumors and malignant solid tumors. Additionally, CS5001 utilizes site-specific conjugation for a precise drug antibody ratio of which enables homogeneous production and large-scale manufacturing.

In October 2020, CStone signed a licensing agreement with LigaChem Biosciences, Inc. (LCB) for the development and commercialization of CS5001 which was originally generated by collaboration of LCB and ABL Bio, both South Korea-based leading biotech companies. Under the agreement, CStone obtains the exclusive global right to develop and commercialize CS5001 outside the Republic of Korea.

The first-in-human data for CS5001 in patients with advanced solid tumors and lymphomas was presented at the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. Additionally, the latest clinical data on CS5001 as a monotherapy in patients with advanced lymphomas has recently been presented at the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting.

CS5001 has demonstrated encouraging safety and robust anti-tumor activity in the Phase 1a dose escalation trials across 10 dose levels.

  • At the tentative recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) of DL8 (125 μg/kg), CS5001 achieved objective response rates (ORRs) of 70% in advanced B-cell lymphoma and 100% in Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Encouraging efficacy signals were also observed in advanced solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer.
  • CS5001 was well tolerated in heavily pre-treated patients with advanced B-cell lymphomas and solid tumors.

About CStone

CStone (HKEX: 2616), established in late 2015, is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of anti-cancer therapies. Dedicated to addressing patients’ unmet medical needs in China and globally, the Company has made significant strides since its inception. To date, the Company has successfully launched 4 innovative drugs and secured approvals for 16 new drug applications (NDAs) covering 9 indications. The company’s pipeline is balanced by 16 promising candidates, featuring potentially first-in-class or best-in-class antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), multispecific antibodies, immunotherapies and precision medicines. CStone also prides itself on a management team with comprehensive experiences and capabilities that span the entire drug development spectrum, from preclinical and translational research to clinical development, drug manufacturing, business development, and commercialization. For more information about CStone, please visit www.cstonepharma.com.

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