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Taboola Expands Beyond Native Ads with Realize

New Technology Platform Allows Taboola to Serve The Entire Performance Advertising Market, Delivering Outcomes at Scale Beyond Search and Social; Customers Include Babbel, eToro and More

HONG KONG, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Taboola, a global leader in delivering performance at scale for advertisers, today announced a new focus beyond native advertising and a powerful new technology platform called Realize.

Taboola has pioneered native advertising for more than a decade, driving success for advertisers, primarily in bottom of article placements. Today, Taboola extends far beyond this legacy with the introduction of Realize, an industry-first platform that specializes only in performance outcomes at scale beyond search and social.

Realize taps into Taboola’s unique data, performance AI, and an increasingly diverse range of inventory and creative formats to achieve performance objectives. While advertisers need great solutions for all parts of the marketing funnel, they need specialized solutions. Existing solutions that promise full funnel service face significant challenges to excel in each part of the marketing funnel. As of today, Taboola is opening Realize for all advertisers focused on performance.

Taboola estimates that advertisers spend $25B a year attempting to achieve performance outcomes on DSPs and niche AdTech solutions, yet in many cases these channels lack the performance expertise, scale or data to get the results advertisers need. DSPs tend to focus on video and CTV, which is great for branding goals but not performance, while AdTech companies tend to lack enough scale for success. Taboola estimates there is nearly $30B of spend suffering from diminishing returns on social media. In addition, 75% of performance advertisers spending on social media say they are dealing with diminishing returns and are looking for solutions, due to audience saturation, rising costs and ad fatigue. In total, Taboola estimates that a majority of the $55B being spent on performance advertising is not providing the ROI it could be.

Realize is the only independent performance platform that goes beyond search and social media and delivers outcomes at scale for advertisers, leveraging Taboola’s unique supply, first party data and AI technology. It delivers simplicity and efficiency for advertisers to run performance-based campaigns on many of the world’s largest and most trusted publishers across all ad inventory, OEMs and apps.

Key components of Realize include:

  • New Supply:  Going Beyond “Bottom of Article” Native
    For the first time ever, Realize allows advertisers to tap into display and even more parts of Taboola’s large network of publishers, apps and OEMs which include NBC News, Yahoo, Xiaomi and Samsung. Taboola advertisers can now go beyond native ad placements to connect with relevant customers in high visibility locations on many of the world’s most trusted publishers and apps to drive performance.
  • AI & Data Advantage: Driving Measurable Results at Scale
    Realize is powered by an AI performance engine that finds the best opportunities for campaigns across Taboola’s network of trusted publishers and apps. This AI performance engine is powered by the unique data advantage of Taboola’s code-on-page integrations with publishers, giving it more signal than any other open web platform to use when optimizing and placing ads.
  • Creative Freedom: Getting Started Faster with Social, Display, Vertical Videos 
    Realize provides an intuitive experience for performance advertisers, allowing them to now reach their customer acquisition goals with the same creative assets they use on display or social media campaigns. It transforms existing assets into high-performing ads across premium placements on leading publishers and apps, instantly.

“Every business deserves a chance to grow and succeed,” said Adam Singolda, CEO at Taboola. “Performance advertising beyond search and social media has been far too difficult for too long, however. Advertisers have settled on search and social media simply because there has been no viable alternative. Spending money with DSPs and CTV is great for branding but not optimized to drive performance, and running display with hundreds of advertising tech companies at low scale is simply not worth marketers’ time. Amazon started in 1994 and did a great job winning the book business by 2000, which allowed them to go into owning all of e-commerce. This is our “Amazon moment.” After many years of success with native ads, it’s time to go after all of performance advertising. We can do a lot more for advertisers, and a lot more for publishers. Today is an exciting day for me and us at Taboola.”

Supporting quotes

“Taboola’s new technology platform, Realize, expands the potential for success with our performance marketing. Realize provides more options to connect with customers in engaging and prominent ways through a vast network of trusted publishers globally. We expect Realize will greatly benefit our advertising reach and ROI, and we’re excited to use it,” said Julie Hansen, CRO & US CEO at Babbel.

“Taboola has been a longstanding partner for eToro, providing the technology and team that has helped us excel in reaching customers. Taboola’s new Realize technology platform helps us go even further, driving success for our performance-focused campaigns and helping us to achieve our customer acquisition goals. We look forward to continuing to grow using Taboola and Realize,” said Nir Szmulewicz, CMO, eToro.

“We praise Taboola’s end-to-end approach to ensuring performance advertising success,” says Jeff Ratner, President Media, Data, Analytics at Quigley-Simpson. “We have worked with Taboola for many years and they have shown the technology and expertise needed for driving true ROI for our campaigns. Realize shows promise for going even further, bringing the best of all worlds–AI that works to find us the best outcomes, audiences that are uniquely engaged, and placements that are highly visible that live on trusted publishers.”

“For a media agency that has always been on the cutting edge of performance marketing, as we are at EVERSANA media, I could not be more excited to leverage Taboola’s new performance platform, Realize, which brings to life end-to-end performance campaigns. With Realize, you have the marriage of both audience engagement and scale, along with outcome-driven AI. I think this type of strategic pivot into performance is going to yield major dividends for Taboola and its clients,” says Justin Chase, EVP, Media at Eversana.

About Taboola 

Taboola empowers businesses to grow through performance advertising technology that goes beyond search and social and delivers measurable outcomes at scale.

Taboola works with thousands of businesses who advertise directly on Realize, Taboola’s powerful ad platform, reaching 600M daily active users across some of the best publishers in the world.

Publishers like NBC News, Yahoo, and OEMs such as Samsung, Xiaomi and others use Taboola’s technology to grow audience and revenue, enabling Realize to offer unique data, specialized algorithms, and unmatched scale.

iQIYI’s Love of the Divine Tree Shatters Records with 300 Million Views and Mass Fan Appreciation

Love of the Divine Tree Continues Its Meteoric Rise, Captivating Global Audiences

SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The fantasy romance drama Love of the Divine Tree, starring Deng Wei and Julia Xiang, is currently streaming and continues to soar in popularity. According to Maoyan All-Platform Popularity Chart, the series has surpassed 300 million views across all platforms, maintaining its position at the top of Maoyan’s daily popularity charts for two consecutive days. As the story reaches its emotional peak, audiences are deeply engaged with the drama’s compelling character arcs, romantic developments, and breathtaking visual effects, making it a must-watch sensation.


Deng Wei’s Heart-Wrenching Role Moves Audiences to Tears

Deng Wei takes on his first leading role as Su Yishui, a character embodying the ultimate “beautiful yet tragic” archetype. Deng Wei’s nuanced performance, capturing Su Yishui’s pain, resilience, and hidden tenderness, has won over viewers, with many exclaiming, Deng Wei has truly mastered the ‘beautiful yet tragic’ genre!”

During iQIYI’s recent in-office event (Feb 17), Deng Wei shared insights into his character’s emotions, revealing that Su Yishui’s phrase “breaking attachments” is actually a veiled confession of love. “Every time he says it, he is really saying ‘I love you.’ If there were no love, why would there be a need to sever attachments?” This revelation further deepened fans’ emotional connection to his character.

“My Wayward Disciple, Su Yishui” – A 19-Year Reunion That Shook the Internet

In the latest episodes, Julia Xiang’s character, Xue Ranran, begins to regain fragments of her lost memories. When she finally calls Su Yishui by his former title—“My wayward disciple, Su Yishui”—the moment instantly ignited online discussions. After waiting 19 long years to reunite with his master, Su Yishui’s expression of shock, grievance, and joy resonated deeply with viewers, who flooded social media with comments like, “He waited far too long for this!”

Breathtaking Visual Effects – The Awakening of the Azure Dragon

Beyond its compelling storyline, Love of the Divine Tree continues to impress with its cinematic-level special effects. In a recent pivotal scene, Su Yishui discovers an azure dragon hidden beneath the water, secretly nurtured by Su Yu through sinister means. Hatched from a lost dragon egg and forcefully enhanced with dark energy, the dragon exudes overwhelming rage and demonic power, shrouding the entire water realm in darkness.

The stunning CGI and immersive battle sequences have left audiences in awe, with many praising the production quality as on par with blockbuster films.

A Global Sensation – Captivating Fans Across Borders

Love of the Divine Tree is not only dominating in China but is also gaining widespread popularity overseas. In Thailand, the drama’s hype has extended to Union Mall, where Valentine’s Day screenings of key scenes drew large crowds of fans taking photos and celebrating the show.

Additionally, other hit iQIYI series such as White Olive Tree and Love You are set to host exciting offline events soon—stay tuned for more surprises!

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Sino Land is Well-Positioned to Capitalise on Opportunities Stable Interim Dividend at HK15 Cents per Share


Summary of 2024/2025 Interim Results

  • The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties for the six months ended 31 December 2024 (“Interim Period”) was HK$2,241 million (2023: HK$2,945 million).
  • Steady interim dividend at HK15 cents per share.
  • Attributable revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$2,448 million (2023: HK$6,635 million). Five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025.
  • The Group has a visible pipeline for property sales recognition. Approximately HK$11.3 billion of total attributable contracted sales are yet to be recognised, with approximately HK$9.1 billion expected for recognition in the second half of FY2024/2025.
  • Attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,748 million (2023: HK$1,777 million).
  • The Group’s hotel revenue, including attributable share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$794 million compared with HK$811 million in the same period last year. Gross operating profit was HK$261 million, an increase of 2.8% compared with HK$254 million in the same period last year.
  • As at 31st December, 2024, the Group had a land bank of approximately 19.4 million square feet of attributable floor area in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, sufficient to meet the Group’s development needs over the next few years. The Group will continue to be selective in replenishing its land bank to optimise its earnings potential.

Financial Highlights

For the six months ended 31 December: 2024 2023 Change

Revenue HK$3,854 million HK$4,923 million -21.7%
Underlying profit HK$2,241 million HK$2,945 million -23.9%
Profit attributable to shareholders HK$1,820 million HK$2,616 million -30.4%
Dividend per share
Interim HK15 cents HK15 cents

Results and Business Highlights

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Sino Land Company Limited (Stock Code: 83) today announced its interim results for the six months ended 31 December 2024 (the “Interim Period”). The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties for the Interim Period was HK$2,241 million (2023: HK$2,945 million). Underlying earnings per share was HK$0.26 (2023: HK$0.35).

After taking into account the revaluation loss (net of deferred taxation) on investment properties of HK$407 million (2023: revaluation loss of HK$142 million), which is a non-cash item, the Group reported a net profit attributable to shareholders of HK$1,820 million for the Interim Period (2023: HK$2,616 million). Earnings per share was HK$0.21 (2023: HK$0.31).

Interim dividend of HK$15 cents per share

The Board of Directors has declared an interim dividend of HK15 cents per share. (2023: HK15 cents per share). The steady interim dividend underscores the Group’s solid financial position. As at 31 December 2024, the Group had net cash of HK$45,880 million.

Property Sales – Five new projects scheduled for launch in 2025

Total revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including property sales of associates and joint ventures, attributable to the Group was HK$2,448 million (2023: HK$6,635 million).

Photo (7)

The Group has five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025. These include ONE CENTRAL PLACE in Central, Yau Tong Ventilation Building Property Development, Grand Mayfair III in Yuen Long, and LOHAS Park Package Thirteen Property Development in Tseung Kwan O which have obtained pre-sale consents. In addition, the Group expects to obtain pre-sale consent for Wing Kwong Street/Sung On Street Development Project in To Kwa Wan in calendar year 2025. The timing for launching these projects for sale will depend on when the pre-sale consent is received and the prevailing market conditions. Subsequent to the Interim Period, certain units of La Montagne in Wong Chuk Hang were launched for sale in January 2025.

As at 31 December 2024, the Group had a land bank of approximately 19.4 million square feet of attributable floor area in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney, which is sufficient to meet the Group’s development needs over the next few years.

Diversified and balanced investment properties portfolio showed long-term resilience

For the Interim Period, the Group’s attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,748 million (2023: HK$1,777 million), representing a decrease of 1.6% year-on-year. This decline was primarily due to emerging challenges in the retail sector. Given the dynamic nature of the current operating environment, the Group is continuously refining and optimising our tenant mix, while also organising ongoing marketing and promotional activities in our shopping malls to boost foot traffic.

Among the different sectors, residential showed the biggest improvement, with occupancy rate rising by 1.1 percentage points to 89.0 % (2023: 87.9%). The industrial sector also saw an increase of 0.2 percentage points to 89.7% (2023: 89.5%). Hong Kong remains well-positioned to capitalise on its status as an international hub and financial centre. The ongoing integration into national development initiatives such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Northern Metropolis proposed by the HKSAR Government, will further bolster Hong Kong’s role as a key hub connecting the country with the world. Additionally, the various talent schemes launched by the HKSAR Government, along with the recent pickup in financial market activities, are expected to bolster the Group’s rental income over time.

As at 31 December 2024, the Group has approximately 13.2 million square feet of attributable floor area of investment properties and hotels in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney.

Hotel Operations – Continuous improvement in profitability

In 2024, Hong Kong saw a steady improvement in tourism. Visitors from Mainland China made up 76% of total visitor arrivals, posting a year-on-year increase of 27% to 34.0 million. Long-haul markets also experienced more than a 50% growth. The Group’s overseas operations in Singapore and Sydney continued to deliver encouraging results, with continuous improvement in gross operating profit during the Interim Period. For the Interim Period, the Group’s hotel operating profit increased by 2.8% to HK$261 million, driven by sustained occupancy rates and stringent cost containment measures.

Looking ahead, the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park in the first quarter of 2025, the development of panda tourism, and the resumption of multiple-entry permits for Shenzhen residents are expected to support the growth of the tourism industry and inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s hospitality industry. Management continued to prioritise cost control while actively seeking new strategies to enhance the quality of our hotel services and improve efficiency.

With robust financials and sustainable strategies, the Group is well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities

The Group is making steady strides on its sustainability journey. In the Interim Period, Sino Land was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) while maintaining its position in the DJSI Asia Pacific Index for the third consecutive year. In addition, Sino Land has recently been selected as a constituent of the FTSE4Good Index Series and achieved an AA+ rating in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index Series for the second consecutive year. These recognitions reaffirm Sino Land’s commitment to promoting ESG and sustainability.

Our robust financials and sustainable business strategies underpin the Group’s commitment to creating long-term value for our shareholders:

  • Approximately HK$11.3 billion of total attributable contracted sales are yet to be recognised, with approximately HK$9.1 billion expected for recognition in the second half of FY2024/2025.
  • Five new residential projects scheduled for launch in 2025.
  • Diversified and growing investment property portfolio providing stable recurrent income.
  • Committed to sustainability and promoting positivity in the community.
  • Strong financial position to support future growth

Looking ahead to 2025, the Group will remain vigilant and adaptable amidst the rapidly evolving macroeconomic environment. Our leadership emphasises the importance of solid fundamentals, deep customer insights, sustainability and the commitment to excellence. We shall continue to enhance productivity and efficiency, along with careful financial management. With robust financials and sustainable business strategies, the Group is well equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities that arise,” said Mr. Robert Ng Chee Siong, Chairman of Sino Land.

Please download photos from here.
Hashtag: #SinoLand

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

Kenanga Group Posts All-Time-High RM1 Billion Revenue and RM155.5 million Operating Profit in FY2024

KEY HIGHLIGHTS
FY2024 VS FY2023

  • Revenue at RM1.0 billion, up by 22.3%

  • Operating Profit at RM155.5 million, up by 88.7%

  • Profit Before Tax (“PBT“) at RM117.2 million, up 33.1%

  • Net Profit at RM95.8 million, up by 31.6%

  • Net Income at RM799.6 million, up by 22.6%

  • Operating Expense at RM644.0 million, up by 13.0%

  • Return on Equity at 8.75%, up by 25.8%

  • Earnings Per Share at 13.18 sen, up by 31.3%

  • Net Equity Trading Investment Income at RM55.8 million, up by 30.8%

  • Overall Market Share at 9.6%, Retail Segment Market Share at 25.3%

  • Asset Under Administration (“AUA“) at RM23.5 billion, up by 8.5%

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2025 – Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga Group” or “The Group“), Malaysia’s leading independent investment bank, today delivered one of its strongest financial results to date for the financial year ended 31 December 2024 (“FY2024“). The Group posted an all-time high revenue of RM1.0 billion, up 22.3% year-on-year, while operating profit surged 88.7% to RM155.5 million, also its highest yet. PBT rose 33.1% to RM117.2 million, while net profit climbed 31.6% to RM95.8 million.

Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad
Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad
Kenanga Group’s strong results were driven by a significant revaluation gain on strategic investments through its Private Equity arm, alongside higher trading and investment income, net brokerage income, and management and performance fees. Increased contributions from associates further bolstered its bottom line, partially offset by credit loss expenses.

Reflecting this performance, the Board of Directors has declared an interim single-tier dividend of 8.00 sen per ordinary share for FY2024.
“2024 was another landmark year for Kenanga Group, delivering one of our strongest financial performances to date, despite market headwinds. This milestone underscores the resilience of our diversified business model and our disciplined approach in capitalising on growth opportunities across all our key business segments,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad.
Kenanga Group’s Stockbroking division recorded RM363.6 million in revenue, a 17.9% increase from the previous year. PBT eased to RM15.4 million from RM16.1 million in FY2023, reflecting the impact of credit loss expense incurred during the year as opposed to a writeback in the previous year. Amid heightened market volatility and an evolving competitive landscape, the division successfully maintained its retail market share of 25.3%. The structured warrants business remained a key contributor, reinforcing the Group’s position as Malaysia’s leading issuer, with the highest market share in warrants trading volume.

Its Asset and Wealth Management division posted revenue of RM303.9 million, an increase of 14.9% year-on-year. The revenue was primarily driven from its institutional and retail segments. Despite higher overhead cost, which led to a PBT of RM47.0 million relative to RM58.7 million in 2023, the division’s AUA saw strong growth, closing at RM23.5 billion, an increase of RM1.8 billion year-on-year.

The Group’s Investment Banking division registered a jump in both revenue and PBT for FY2024, with a 10.0% increase in revenue to RM246.4 million, and an 8.4% increase in PBT to RM6.2 million. This was driven by higher investment income from treasury and fee income, buoyed by a vibrant bond market and capital market.

Kenanga Group’s Listed Derivatives business continued its growth streak, delivering yet another year of record performance. Revenue climbed 15.3% to RM27.6 million, while PBT surged 24.1% to RM7.8 million, its highest in over a decade. This sustained upward trajectory was fueled by higher trading commissions and interest income, supported by a surge in trading activity across the listed derivatives market.
“As we enter 2025, our focus remains on growing our core businesses while accelerating digital transformation. By strengthening recurring income streams, optimising cost efficiencies, and expanding product offerings, we are positioning Kenanga Group for sustainable, long-term growth,” added Datuk Chay.
“With a legacy that spans over five decades, we continue to leverage our vast experience from navigating market cycles, and create synergies across our ecosystem to drive innovation, expand market reach, and create greater value for our stakeholders,” concluded Datuk Chay.

Beyond financial performance, Kenanga Group remains committed to responsible and sustainable growth. In 2024, this commitment was reaffirmed with the Group’s continued inclusion on the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index, ranking among the Top 8% of Malaysian public-listed companies.

Hashtag: #Kenanga

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

About Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (197301002193 (15678-H))

Established for over 50 years, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“The Group“) is a leading financial group in Malaysia, offering a wide range of services, including equity broking, investment banking, treasury, Islamic banking, listed derivatives, investment management, wealth management, structured lending, and trade financing. The Group’s digital innovations include the launch of KDi GO, a wealth-centric app, along with game-changing products such as Rakuten Trade, Malaysia’s first fully digital stockbroking platform, and Kenanga Digital Investing, an A.I. robo-advisor.
Kenanga has garnered multiple awards, including top honours at the Bursa Excellence Awards 2023 and The Edge Malaysia Centurion Club 2023. The Group also secured the Top 20 Overall Excellence and the Niche Cap Excellence Award at the National Corporate Governance and Sustainability Awards 2024. As one of the highest- scoring constituents of the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index and a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact, Kenanga continues to drive collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in the financial industry.

For more information, please visit

Emeren Group to Participate at the 37th Annual ROTH Conference

NORWALK, Conn., Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Emeren Group Ltd (“Emeren” or the “Company”) (www.emeren.com) (NYSE: SOL), a leading global solar project developer, owner, and operator, today announced that management will participate in one-on-one or small group meetings with institutional investors at the 37th Annual Roth conference to be held March 16th – 18th in Dana Point, CA.

For more information or to request a meeting, please contact a Roth sales representative. To submit a registration request, visit https://ibn.fm/Roth2025Registration.

About Emeren Group Ltd

Emeren Group Ltd (NYSE: SOL), a renewable energy leader, showcases a comprehensive portfolio of solar projects and Independent Power Producer (IPP) assets, complemented by a significant global Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity. Specializing in the entire solar project lifecycle — from development through construction to financing — we excel by leveraging local talent in each market, ensuring our sustainable energy solutions are at the forefront of efficiency and impact. Our commitment to enhancing solar power and energy storage underlines our dedication to innovation, excellence, and environmental responsibility. For more information, go to www.emeren.com.

 

Fosun Pharma Received NMPA Approval for Wan Ti Le (Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets)

Bringing New Hope to Chinese Dialysis Patients with Hyperphosphatemia

SHANGHAI, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd. (Fosun Pharma; stock code: 600196.SH, 02196.HK) announced that its holding subsidiary, Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Industrial Development Co., Ltd. (“Fosun Pharma Industrial”), has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration (“NMPA”) for the New Drug Application (“NDA”) for Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets (Chinese trade name: Wan Ti Le, the “New Drug”), an innovative phosphate absorption inhibitor with a novel mechanism, with the indication being for the control of serum phosphorus levels in dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who have an inadequate response or are intolerant to phosphorus binders.

As the world’s first and currently only approved phosphate absorption inhibitor, Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets has been officially approved in China, ushering in a new era of multi-mechanism synergistic phosphate control and offering new hope for patients with hyperphosphatemia on hemodialysis in China.

“The approval of tenapanor for the treatment of adult dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease in China market brings new hope for dialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia in China,” said Xingli Wang, Executive President, CEO of Global R&D Center of Fosun Pharma, “Fosun Pharma is committed to addressing unmet clinical needs by focusing on innovative R&D in core therapeutic areas such as oncology, immunology, and chronic diseases. We look forward to our continued collaboration with Ardelyx as we advance the development and commercialization of more innovative therapies, bringing greater benefits to patients.

“The approval of tenapanor for hyperphosphatemia in China marks another important milestone in Ardelyx’s commitment to bringing our novel therapies to patients with unmet medical needs globally,” said Mike Raab, president and chief executive officer of Ardelyx. “I thank our partners at Fosun Pharma for their continued efforts to support this approval. Fosun Pharma is a leading healthcare company in China with a strong focus and track record of successfully marketing cardiorenal medicines in China and shares our commitment to improving the lives of patients. We look forward to further collaboration as Fosun Pharma brings this treatment to patients.”

Tenapanor Hydrochloride Tablets is a First-in-class oral intestinal sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 (NHE3) inhibitor licensed by Fosun Pharma Industrial from Ardelyx, Inc. In October 2023, Tenapanor was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce serum phosphorus in adults with CKD on dialysis as add-on therapy in patients who have an inadequate response to phosphate binders or who are intolerant of any dose of phosphate binder therapy. Tenapanor is also approved for the treatment of Irritable Bowel syndrome with Constipation in the U.S. and Hong Kong SAR.

For many years, the rate of achieving target serum phosphate levels in hemodialysis patients in China has been lower than the international standards[1]. Despite existing pharmacotherapy, a significant proportion of patients fail to meet the target phosphate levels. Data indicate that by the end of 2023, there were more than one million patients on maintenance hemodialysis in China, with an annual growth rate of approximately 10%. Among these patients, 76% have hyperphosphatemia, and the rate of achieving target phosphate levels is only 39%[2] (according to China’s hemodialysis quality control standards: serum phosphate 1.13–1.78 mmol/L). If the target range for serum phosphate is set at 0.87–1.45 mmol/L, as stipulated by the Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), the achievement rate decreases to 26.7%[3]. Given the current situation where the blood phosphorus levels of dialysis patients are poorly controlled, the National Health Commission of China listed “improving phosphate control rates in hemodialysis patients” as a key quality control improvement target for 2024.

Tenapanor is a local inhibitor that targets the NA(+)/H(+) exchanger-3 (NHE3), a reverse transporter expressed on the apical surface of the epithelium in the small intestine and colon. By inhibiting NHE3, the drug tightens intercellular junctions, thereby reducing the permeability of the paracellular pathway to phosphate, which is the primary route for intestinal phosphate absorption. This action leads to a decrease in phosphate absorption and, consequently, a reduction in serum phosphorus levels[4].

Owing to its novel mechanism of action, tenapanor can be used in combination with phosphate binders to further significantly reduce serum phosphate levels and improve the rate of achieving target levels. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study[5], 164 hemodialysis patients with hyperphosphatemia were enrolled. After 8 weeks of treatment with tenapanor in combination with phosphate binders, serum phosphate levels decreased by an additional 0.57 mmol/L compared to phosphate binders alone. In another multicenter, randomized, open-label study[6], 303 hemodialysis patients who were not achieving target phosphate levels with phosphate binders were switched to a tenapanor-based regimen (tenapanor 30 mg BID, with phosphate binders added or adjusted if necessary). After 10 weeks of treatment, the rate of achieving target phosphate levels increased by 34.4% to 38.2%.

A tenapanor can lower levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH)[7] and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)[8], thereby aiding in the comprehensive achievement of key therapeutic targets in the management of chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD).

[1] Adv Ther.2020 Jun;37(6):2748-2762.

[2] Data from the Chinese National Renal Data System (CNRDS 2023)

[3] Ya Zhan, et al. Sci Rep. 2022 Oct 6;12(1):16694.

[4] Yee J, et al. Am J Nephrol. 2021;52(7):522-530.

[5] Kosaku Nitta, et al. Kidney Int Rep. 2023 Aug 13;8(11):2243-2253.

[6] Sprague SM, et al. Kidney360. 2024 May 1;5(5):732-742.

[7] Block GA, et al. Kidney360. 2021 Aug 27;2(10):1600-1610.

[8] Pablo E Pergola, et al. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2021 Jun 1;32(6):1465-1473.

 

DIGITIMES Asia: Huawei Ascend 910C reportedly hits 40% yield, turns profitable; aims for 60% industry standard

TAIPEI, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to the news report from the technology-focused media DIGITIMES Asia, Huawei’s Ascend 910C AI chip has reportedly reached a 40% manufacturing yield, marking the first time the Ascend production line has turned profitable. The company aims to improve the yield to 60%, bringing it closer to industry standards.

Credit: DIGITIMES
Credit: DIGITIMES

Yield improvement and profitability milestone

The Financial Times, citing industry sources, reports that Huawei’s Ascend 910C, manufactured using the SMIC 7nm (N+2) process, has improved its yield rate to nearly 40%, making the Ascend production line profitable for the first time.

Production targets for 2025

Huawei plans to produce 100,000 Ascend 910C chips and 300,000 Ascend 910B chips in 2025—up from zero and 200,000 units in 2024, respectively. The company now accounts for over 75% of China’s total AI chip production, highlighting its growing presence in the domestic semiconductor market.

Yield gains and sector benchmark

In September 2024, reports from ReutersYahoo Finance, and TrendForce revealed that Ascend 910C’s yield was only 20%, while the older Ascend 910B reached 50%. Since then, Huawei has doubled the 910C’s yield, aiming for 60% to match industry norms.

Performance comparison with Nvidia

According to ICSmart and Tom’s Hardware, Huawei’s Ascend 910C delivers 60% of the inference performance of Nvidia’s H100 GPU. While it still trails Nvidia’s next-generation Blackwell AI chips, its advancement signals China’s push to reduce reliance on Nvidia’s hardware.

Shift to domestic foundry amid US sanctions

Due to US trade restrictions, TSMC halted production of Huawei’s AI chips in 2020. Huawei has since shifted manufacturing to SMIC, ensuring continued chip production despite sanctions.

Analysts view Huawei’s progress with the Ascend 910C as a key milestone in China’s push for semiconductor self-sufficiency, reducing its dependence on Western chipmakers.

Asia Photonics Expo 2025: The Gateway to Photonics Innovations and Cross-Industry Collaborations

SINGAPORE, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2nd edition of Asia Photonics Expo (APE) 2025 officially opens today at Sands Expo and Convention Centre. Running from 26 to 28 February, APE 2025 brings together global industry leaders and innovators to network, collaborate, and drive business opportunities. As Asia’s premier platform for the photonics sector, the event showcases the latest advancements in optical communications, optics, lasers, sensing, quantum technology, and displays.

APE 2025 Kick Off
APE 2025 Kick Off

A Global Stage for Photonics Innovation

Under the theme “Gateway to the Photonics Market in Asia“, APE 2025 is set to welcome over 5,000 industry professionals and showcase 344 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, including national and regional pavilions from Singapore, Europe, Germany, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, and China. Spanning 15,000 square meters, the exhibition features dedicated technology zones for Quantum, Intelligent Sensors, and Vacuum Coating, spotlighting cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of photonics.

As a key industry hub, APE 2025 brings together manufacturers, R&D pioneers, and buyers to discover breakthrough technologies, foster strategic partnerships, and strengthen global supply chain connections across industries such as semiconductors, automotive, MedTech, automation, and consumer electronics.

Mr. Sukumar Verma, Managing Director at Informa Markets in Singapore, said: “Following a successful launch in 2024, the second edition of APE is uniquely placed to build a B2B marketplace for the optics, lasers, infrared, machine vision, industrial imaging, sensing, and measurement sectors. It will bring to market exhibitors from new geographies, as well as a range of new partnerships that will bring buyers from different industry verticals. We are thankful for the continued support from our local and international partners.”

Prof. Tjin Swee Chuan, Chairman of the LUX Photonics Consortium, emphasised Singapore’s pivotal role in photonics development: “LUX Photonics Consortium has contributed to cultivating a thriving photonics ecosystem in Singapore, growing from 12 founding industry members to the current vibrant community of over 150 industry and research partners from NTU, NUS, SUTD, and A*STAR. Through LUX’s collaboration with Informa in the Asia Photonics Expo 2025, we aspire to further enhance this academia-industry collaborations to drive photonics innovation, positioning Singapore as a leading hub in the international photonics landscape.”

Additionally, the opening ceremony featured a keynote by Mr. Carlos Lee, Director General of the European Photonics Industry Consortium, who shared insights into Europe’s photonics market and opportunities for cross-regional collaboration and said: “APE plays a meaningful role in helping European companies establish valuable contacts to understand the photonics industry in Asia.”

An Exhibition and beyond

Backed by strong local and regional industry partners and associations including the Lux Photonics Consortium, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association, Machinery & Engineering Industries Federation and more – APE 2025 will deliver a dynamic three-day conference line-up, featuring thought-provoking discussions on key topics shaping the future of photonics. The event will also host regional delegations from Malaysia and Thailand, reinforcing its position as the leading platform for business in the photonics sector.

Perry Shum, President of the IEEE Photonics Society, emphasised APE’s role as a catalyst for collaboration and progress: “Asia Photonics Expo is more than a showcase of cutting-edge research and technology; it is a vibrant platform for collaboration, learning, and inspiration. This event fosters the exchange of ideas, the forging of partnerships – shaping of the future of photonics.”

APE 2025 is set to offer unparalleled opportunities for industry professionals, researchers, and business leaders to collaborate and explore breakthrough technologies, connect with global experts, and forge partnerships. Registration is complimentary, and the event remains open till 28 February 2025 in Singapore.

For exhibitor listing – https://exhibitors.informamarkets-info.com/event/2025APE/en-US
For conference programme – https://www.asiaphotonicsexpo.com/hyylb