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MINISO Debuts Malaysia’s First MINISO LAND, Advancing Its Global IP‑Driven Retail Strategy

SELANGOR, Malaysia, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On February 28, global lifestyle brand MINISO unveiled the Malaysia’s first MINISO LAND at Sunway Pyramid, Selangor. Featuring a 1,700-square-meter immersive space and MINISO’s most comprehensive IP product offering in the country, the store brings local consumers an all‑day, joy‑filled experiential playground.

Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND- YOYO theme zone
Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND- YOYO theme zone

MINISO LAND Selangor is emerging as a key IP attraction in Malaysia, drawing both local and regional shoppers with its premium location and engaging experiential design. Situated on the first floor of the Sunway Pyramid Mall—one of Malaysia’s landmark shopping destinations—the store benefits from excellent connectivity and a diverse visitor base, making it a favored destination for young consumers and families.

Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND Opening Day
Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND Opening Day

In total the store features over 8,000 curated SKUs, with IP merchandise making up more than 70% of the assortment. Designed with 15 themed consumption and interactive experience zones, its gold‑toned interior, accented with eye-catching bulb‑inspired elements, brings a lively and welcoming energy to the space. Visitors can browse diverse product zones spanning IP‑themed collections, home and lifestyle, beauty and skincare, and toys, offering fan‑favorite goods such as blind boxes, vinyl plush toys, water bottles, blankets, and tote bags. Enhancing the experience, interactive installations—including giant pajama Stitch figures and a Snoopy themed zone—invite guests to enjoy playful, character‑driven moments.

Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND
Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND

Building on this immersive setting, MINISO LAND also brings together one of the broadest IP selections available in Malaysia, blending global icons, regional favorites, and first‑to‑market characters into a single cohesive experience. The lineup spans beloved names like Sanrio and Monchhichi, creating strong emotional appeal among diverse fan groups.

The store also introduces several IPs making their first appearance in Malaysia, including the retro-style Pac-Man, which has quickly gained attention for its distinctive visual appeal and collectible value. Adding to the excitement, MINISO’s proprietary IP lineup—such as the YOYO Cupid Ring series—makes its Malaysia debut at this MINISO LAND location. 10 YOYO character sculptures are displayed throughout the store, creating engaging photo moments while bringing the character’s heartwarming identity through immersive visual displays. Together, over 100 IPs forms a comprehensive, multi‑category ecosystem that encourages shoppers to discover, experience, and collect their favorite characters all in one place, reinforcing MINISO LAND as a go‑to destination for immersive retail experiences.

Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND IP selections - Sanrio
Malaysia‘s First MINISO LAND IP selections – Sanrio

To celebrate the opening, MINISO’s Gift Bear and Friends mascots made their Malaysia debut, energizing the crowd with upbeat interactions and highly shareable photo moments. Guests stepped into a vibrant “Fun Mode: ON” atmosphere filled with themed activations, exclusive check‑ins, and launch‑day perks. The momentum continued online, where the “What Is Your Favorite IP in MINISO LAND” campaign and UGC challenges gained strong buzz across RedNote, Instagram and TikTok. Together, the lively on‑site festivities and widespread digital buzz made the launch a local highlight.

MINISO’s Gift Bear and Friends
MINISO’s Gift Bear and Friends

MINISO LAND Selangor brings together a vibrant mix of global and local fan‑favorite IPs, creating an immersive space where shopping becomes a joyful experience. As Malaysia’s first and Southeast Asia’s largest MINISO LAND, the store elevates the brand’s presence in Southeast Asia and reflects to its continued global expansion. The MINISO LAND concept is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, with more openings on the way. MINISO will continue introducing richer IP choices and fresh immersive experiences, while creating fun, social spaces that bring joy to every fan.

About MINISO

MINISO Group is a global lifestyle brand offering a variety of design-led lifestyle products. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO’s wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand “MINISO” as a globally recognized retail brand.

ESR Launches iPhone 17e Accessories, Completing the Full iPhone 17 Protection Lineup

With new protection for the iPhone 17e and fresh spring colors for the iPhone 17, ESR delivers MagSafe performance and military-grade protection in step with the season

WILMINGTON, Del., March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ESR, a global tech accessories brand trusted by over 130 million customers worldwide, today announces its new spring lineup of iPhone 17 accessories. Timed to coincide with the launch of the MagSafe-enabled iPhone 17e, the lineup features brand-new protective cases and screen protectors for the iPhone 17e alongside fresh spring colors for the existing iPhone 17 series.

ESR today announces its new spring lineup of iPhone 17 accessories.
ESR today announces its new spring lineup of iPhone 17 accessories.

As Apple makes color a defining theme for 2026 and brings MagSafe to more users with the iPhone 17e, ESR’s spring lineup arrives in perfect step. Reflecting the energy of the season, this expanded lineup completes ESR’s full iPhone 17 protection ecosystem. From the iPhone 17e to flagship models, every device in the iPhone 17 family now has a dedicated ESR solution, combining refined design with trusted MagSafe performance and everyday protection.

“With the iPhone 17e, we’ve completed protection for the entire iPhone 17 family, this lineup reflects the sense of renewal spring brings,” said Elsie Chu, Senior Director of Product Protection at ESR. “New colors, new protection, new possibilities — every detail of the full iPhone 17 lineup is designed to make everyday tech easier and more enjoyable, bringing a fresh sense of ease to the way people use their devices.”

Fully Protected, Fully MagSafe: New Accessories for iPhone 17e

The iPhone 17e is the first “e” model with MagSafe, bringing magnetic convenience to more users than ever. In response, ESR expands its protection ecosystem with MagSafe cases and military-grade screen protectors designed for seamless everyday use.

  • ESR Classic Hybrid Magnetic Case (Stash Stand): Slim yet tough, this case delivers 4× military-grade protection with drop resistance up to 16 ft, a zinc-alloy camera guard, and reinforced Air Guard corners. The built-in Stash Stand adjusts between portrait and landscape for hands-free viewing anywhere, and integrated magnets provide 1,500 g of holding force for secure magnetic alignment, enabling reliable MagSafe charging up to 15W. Available on Amazon and the ESR Store now.
  • ESR Cyber Tough Magnetic Case: Engineered for maximum durability, this rugged case delivers 7× military-grade protection and withstands drops of up to 23 ft. Its three-layer construction (PC backing, flexible TPE shell, and inner PORON® lining) absorbs impact from every angle, with integrated magnets providing 1,500 g of holding force for secure magnetic alignment, ensuring reliable MagSafe charging. Available on Amazon and the ESR Store now.
  • ESR UltraFit Armorite® Screen Protector: Edge-to-edge 9H tempered glass with 7× the impact absorption of generic screen protectors. The UltraFit tray ensures a bubble-free installation in one pull. Available on Amazon and the ESR Store now.

Beyond protection, the addition of MagSafe to iPhone 17e unlocks ESR’s broader magnetic ecosystem. From fast wireless chargers and stable OmniLock™ car mounts to magnetic wallets, users can enjoy secure alignment, reliable charging, and everyday flexibility, whether paired with a case or used on a streamlined device.

Color Meets Protection: New Spring Finishes for the iPhone 17

Beyond the iPhone 17e launch, ESR is expanding its Stash Stand series with new spring-inspired colors for the iPhone 17. As Apple makes color a centerpiece of the iPhone 17 experience, ESR’s new seasonal finishes are designed to complement that vision. Both cases feature 3× military-grade drop protection, an adjustable Stash Stand for hands-free viewing, and powerful built-in magnets for seamless MagSafe charging, all wrapped in designs made to move with the season.

  • ESR Cloud Soft Magnetic Case (Camera Control, Stash Stand)Soft silicone, four seasonal colors: Spring has a feeling, and this case captures it. The smooth silicone finish delivers a warm, comfortable grip that complements the season’s style. Available in Lavender, Sage, and Misty Blue for the iPhone 17, while Light Tan is compatible with the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. Available on Amazon and the ESR Store now.
  • ESR Classic Hybrid Magnetic Case (Camera Control, Stash Stand)Slim, clear, true-to-color: Designed to let the iPhone 17’s color take center stage, this lightweight clear case showcases the season’s palette without compromise. Available in Frosted Purple, Frosted Light Green, and Frosted Light Blue for the iPhone 17. Available on Amazon and the ESR Store now.

Availability

The full press kit can be found here. For more information, visit ESR’s official website or Amazon store to explore the complete iPhone 17 accessories range.

About ESR: Trusted for 17 Years

Founded in 2009, ESR is a global tech brand trusted by over 130 million customers worldwide. We design tech accessories for smart devices to enhance everyday tech experiences. We’re on a mission to make tech easier to use, developing products that seamlessly integrate into daily life, helping people live with greater ease and efficiency.

REPROCELL Launches GMP Master Cell Bank Manufacturing for Clinical iPSCs

Integrated Workflow Including Clinical Seed Production and StemEdit Gene Editing Services

BELTSVILLE, Md., March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — REPROCELL (TYO: 4978) today announced the launch of its US FDA compliant Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Master Cell Bank (MCB) manufacturing service for human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Operating from its Beltsville, Maryland facility, REPROCELL now offers a comprehensive, end-to-end workflow for clinical iPSC manufacturing. This integrated service spans from StemRNA™ clinical seed iPSC manufacturing and StemEdit gene editing to GMP Master Cell Bank (MCB) production in compliance with FDA standards. By unifying these critical steps, REPROCELL enables cell therapy developers to accelerate IND submissions while reducing regulatory and manufacturing uncertainty.

As part of this platform, the StemRNA Clinical iPSC Seed Clone – LLF-34-F3, derived from US sourced donor material, is supported by an active FDA Drug Master File (DMF). This clone has been expanded into a GMP MCB using FDA-compliant closed system processes. This off-the-shelf GMP iPSC MCB is now available for commercial use, providing ready-to-use clinically validated starting material. For sponsors requiring European alignment, REPROCELL also offers MCB/WCB manufacturing through its partner, Histocell. This service operates with a GMP certificate and authorization from the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) under European Medicines Agency (EMA) oversight.

Key Highlights: Clinical iPSC Capabilities

  • Donor sourcing and eligibility meet FDA, EMA, and PMDA requirements with full consent for therapeutic use.
  • Footprint-free proprietary RNA reprogramming to generate StemRNA™ Clinical iPSC Seed Clones under FDA/EMA/PMDA requirements.
  • US-generated StemRNA Clinical Seed Clones supported by an active FDA DMF
  • Genetic integrity and oncogenic risk assessment using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for StemRNA Clinical Seed Clones
  • StemEdit clinical gene editing service, engineered for high on target efficiency with reduced off target activity and lower predicted immunogenicity
  • GMP MCB manufacturing in compliance with FDA or under EMA and PMDA authorization to manufacture

About StemRNA™ Clinical iPSC Seed Clone – LLF-34-F3
StemRNA™ Clinical iPSC Seed Clone – LLF-34-F3 is derived from a healthy O+ female US donor, fully consented for commercial and therapeutic use, and is homozygous at HLA-A and HLA-DPA1 loci enhancing its potential for allogeneic applications. The seed clone meets FDA, EMA and PMDA standards and is supported by a DMF while GMP MCB expansion uses FDA-compliant processes providing a traceable clinically ready starting material.

REPROCELL also offers options of StemRNA™ Clinical iPSC Seed Clones from different donor profiles.

Dr. Chikafumi Yokoyama, CEO of REPROCELL Inc., commented:
“By completing clinical iPSC workflow starting from donor screening, seed iPSC manufacturing, StemEdit gene editing, and GMP cell banking under one coordinated framework, we are delighted to provide cell therapy developers a streamlined path for clinical program development. This integrated platform is designed to accelerate IND/CTA submissions while preserving quality, traceability, and global regulatory alignment.”

About REPROCELL
REPROCELL provides integrated stem cell, gene editing, and GMP manufacturing solutions supporting the entire path from discovery to clinical translation. With clinical grade iPSC generation (StemRNA™ Clinical iPSC), StemEdit gene editing, and GMP banking capability, REPROCELL serves academic, biotech, and pharmaceutical organizations seeking reliable, regulatory ready cell starting materials and services.

This work was supported by a Commercialization Grant (no. 2024-MSCRFCO-6418) from the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF)

For more information, visit www.reprocell.com

Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/reprocell_usa_logo.jpg

Beyond Telcos: Exploring Deterministic Paths to Business Success in the Agentic Era

BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Eric Yang, President of Huawei Carrier Business, delivered a keynote speech at MWC Barcelona 2026. Yang pointed out, “The agentic era is creating unprecedented opportunities for the communications industry, and carriers are uniquely positioned to seize these opportunities. They can integrate intelligent capabilities deeply into their core business, consumer-and-home converged scenarios, and internal operations. This will allow them to explore deterministic paths and realize a value leap.”

Eric Yang, President of Huawei Carrier Business, delivering a keynote speech
Eric Yang, President of Huawei Carrier Business, delivering a keynote speech

Reimagining home and consumer services to unlock new AI opportunities

Home services are a core business scenario in which carriers have traditionally been strong. By integrating AI into services such as home network management, deterministic experience assurance, and intelligent video watching, and synergizing high-quality networks and Wi-Fi 7 devices, carriers can drive a paradigm shift in home services from passive usage (users adapting to the network) to proactive services (network adapting to user requirements). Users can use single voice commands to realize automatic network fault detection and troubleshooting, control Internet access time, and enjoy guaranteed experience in key services such as gaming and videos. By combining these service innovations with bandwidth upgrades and home networking services, carriers can improve service quality and increase revenue.

Voice services are traditionally one of the main consumer services offered by carriers. AI-powered calling agents can boost service experience in multiple scenarios. They can remove background noise and ensure high-quality call experience for users even when in noisy surroundings. Furthermore, these agents can provide AI-enabled simultaneous interpretation, shorthand, and health assistance – all through calls. Calling agents help carriers explore new ways to increase revenue from voice services. In mobile Internet access scenarios, AI agents can provide services like intelligent network QoE degradation monitoring and real-time experience assurance. They are also capable of realizing cross-app scheduling and execution to enable intelligent assistants for multiple purposes, such as personal travel booking, travel planning, and real-time translation.

Providing consistent experience across devices and scenarios to enhance user stickiness

AI agents can provide consistent and personalized AI services for users wherever they are, be it at home, in the office, or on a trip, across screens of all sizes. For example, users at home can gain high-speed access to the carrier’s cloud drive, and use the agent for voice interaction and intelligent search. Users on the move can also access their home storage at high speeds through the carrier’s dedicated network channel. Additionally, by using an agent service platform capable of multimodal intent understanding, long-term and short-term memory, and concurrent multi-task scheduling, carriers can break down the boundaries between scenarios and devices, and deliver a consistent, intelligent service experience to users across scenarios and devices.

Using AI to first improve internal operational quality and efficiency, and then enable industries

For carriers exploring new opportunities in B2B intelligent transformation, service scenarios are the key to monetization, and capabilities are the foundation for providing services. Marketing and sales, customer services, office, and O&M are the core scenarios where value flows. Carriers can first focus on these scenarios, using AI to improve their operational efficiency, optimize user experience, and grow their service capabilities. These capabilities will lay the foundation to better position carriers for success in the AI era.

Carriers can then embed these AI capabilities into the business and operations of their industry customers. For core industry scenarios that demand high security and reliability, such as government services and manufacturing, carrier can fully utilize their systematic advantages in the cloud and networks, and work with partners to implement end-to-end solutions. Through such actions, carriers can help their industry customers realize digital and intelligent transformation.

Eric Yang concluded his speech by citing that “The future is not just a place we are going to, but one we are creating.” He reiterated that Huawei is creating AI-Centric Network solutions to enable intelligent services, networks, and network elements (NEs), thus helping carriers unleash their strengths in networks and provide differentiated experiences and intelligent services. Huawei will keep working with carriers and industry partners to innovate side by side, build an ecosystem together, jointly move towards a new intelligent world, and achieve a new leap in value.

MWC Barcelona 2026 will be held from March 2 to March 5 in Barcelona, Spain. During the event, Huawei will showcase its latest products and solutions at stand 1H50 in Fira Gran Via Hall 1. The era of agentic networks is now approaching fast, and the commercial adoption of 5G-A at scale is gaining speed. Huawei is actively working with carriers and partners around the world to unleash the full potential of 5G-A and pave the way for the evolution to 6G. We are also creating AI-Centric Network solutions to enable intelligent services, networks, and network elements (NEs), speeding up the large-scale deployment of level-4 autonomous networks (AN L4), and using AI to upgrade our core business. Together with other industry players, we will create leading value-driven networks and AI computing backbones for a fully intelligent future. For more information, please visit:
https://carrier.huawei.com/en/minisite/events/mwc2026/ 

Schwarzman Scholars Kicks Off Hong Kong and Macau Info Session Tour for Twelfth Cohort Admissions

HONG KONG, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — To support exceptional young talents in Hong Kong and Macau, Schwarzman Scholars kicked off a series of campus and public information sessions commencing this week. These events aim to provide in-depth program insights and application guidance for prospective candidates of its 2027 cohort (the 12th cohort).

With the online application system for China officially open since January 1, 2026, the recruitment for the 2027 cohort is well underway. The admissions committee will rigorously select up to 200 outstanding scholars worldwide who demonstrate academic excellence, broad perspectives, and a strong sense of responsibility and mission. The submission deadline is set for 12:00 PM (Beijing Time) on May 20, 2026, with the selected scholars for the Class of 2027-2028 scheduled to enroll in late August 2027.

As the world’s first scholarship program designed to navigate the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century, Schwarzman Scholars offers a fully English-taught master’s degree in Global Leadership, anchored in three core pillars: Global Affairs, Leadership, and China. For young talents from Hong Kong and Macau with multicultural backgrounds, the program serves as a premier platform for deepening understanding of China’s economic and social development. Through immersive practical learning and high-level global dialogues, scholars are empowered to build lifelong learning and global alumni networks, ultimately becoming future global leaders who truly understand both China and the world.

To provide prospective applicants with a comprehensive understanding of the program and its evaluation criteria, the Admissions Team will host a dedicated public information session in Hong Kong. Details are as follows:

Hong Kong Public Info Session

  • Time: March 7, 2026 (Saturday), 2:00 PM (Beijing Time)
  • Location: To be notified via email upon successful registration

Prospective applicants from Hong Kong and Macau can access detailed application guidelines via the online application system. Future info sessions and events for other regions in China will be continuously updated on the College’s official platforms.

AI × Fibre Lights the Way to an Intelligent Future: YOFC Showcases All-Optical Innovations at MWC 2026

BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At MWC Barcelona 2026, held on March 2, Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Joint Stock Limited Company (YOFC) unveiled its latest innovations under the theme “AI × Fibre Leading an Intelligent Future.” The company’s exhibition featured dedicated solution zones including the AI Computing Center, Link the Global AI, Empower AI Applications, All Optical Home and the Hollow-Core Fibre VIP Showcase, highlighting end-to-end optical communications solutions and recent technical developments.

YOFC Showcases All-Optical Innovations at MWC 2026
YOFC Showcases All-Optical Innovations at MWC 2026

The centerpiece of YOFC’s showcase was hollow-core fibre, the event’s key technology highlight. Compared with traditional solid-core fibre, YOFC’s hollow-core fibre reduces transmission latency by approximately 31% and lowers nonlinear effects by nearly three orders of magnitude. This breakthrough meets the high-bandwidth, low-latency demands of large-scale AI model training and distributed computing, while its energy-efficient design supports efficiency and sustainability objectives. With decades of expertise in large-scale fibre manufacturing, YOFC has achieved commercial-scale production of long-length, ultra-low-loss (<0.1 dB/km) hollow-core fibre, placing it among a small number of companies worldwide with both core technical capability and proven commercialization readiness.

At MWC Barcelona 2026, YOFC showcased a cohesive all-optical ecosystem. The AI Intelligent Computing Center integrates hollow-core fibre with multi-core fibre and 400G/800G optical transceivers to deliver high-efficiency, low-carbon computing infrastructure. The Global AI Network Connectivity solution uses hollow-core fibre, G.654.E fibre, and submarine optical cables to form an intercontinental all-optical network corridor. Meanwhile, YOFC’s industry-specific fibre-based solutions extend optical fibre applications into smart transportation, immersive entertainment, and other real-world scenarios, creating an end-to-end ecosystem from core technology to commercial and operational deployment.

Zhuang Dan, Executive Director and President of YOFC, said: “The scaled deployment of hollow-core fibre represents a major step forward for optical communications—from supporting the digital economy to enabling next-generation intelligent networks. We will continue to drive innovation, expanding hollow-core fibre applications in emerging fields such as intelligent computing and quantum communications. Through environmentally responsible manufacturing and our global footprint, we aim to translate technical capability into sustainable growth, building intelligent networks that are low-latency, energy-efficient, and broadly accessible.”

Notably, YOFC integrates technological innovation with sustainability across its solutions, embedding low-carbon and energy-efficiency considerations throughout the entire lifecycle—from R&D and production to deployment and application. With its global presence and environmentally responsible manufacturing, YOFC delivers efficient, reliable, and low-carbon optical communications, supporting the long-term development of digital infrastructure worldwide.

Twenty Teams Set Sail for Glory at the 2026 Rolex China Sea Race

HONG KONG, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The anticipation is palpable at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club (RHKYC) as crews prepare to compete in the renowned 2026 Rolex China Sea Race.  Twenty teams will start from Hong Kong’s iconic Victoria Harbour, embarking on an epic 565-nautical-mile journey across the South China Sea to Subic Bay in the Philippines. The race will push their navigation skills, physical stamina, endurance, and teamwork to the ultimate test.

The Rolex China Sea Race 2026 will kick off tomorrow.
The Rolex China Sea Race 2026 will kick off tomorrow.

Rolex, the event’s esteemed title sponsor since 2008, shares a longstanding partnership with RHKYC, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious yacht clubs. This relationship forms a cornerstone of Rolex’s nearly 70-year association with yachting.

This year’s lineup features entries from all over the world, including: Team Alive–Rampage from Australia, Seawolf from the Chinese Mainland, and two teams from the Philippines — Standard Insurance Centennial V and Standard Insurance Centennial VII. Notably, this year marks the first single‑handed entry, 2 Easy.

Among the returning challengers is Happy Go, 2024’s double-title winner, having claimed both Line Honours and IRC overall. Led by owner Nie Hua, includes Olympic gold medallist and 2012 ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year, Lijia Xu (Lily) as helmsman. Having undergone significant maintenance and upgrades on the TP52, the team is eager to defend their titles and excel in the face of stiff competition. “Winning double in the last edition was unforgettable, but now we’re focused on giving our very best, “said Nie. Xu, racing in the event for the first time, emphasizes her tactical role on board and hopes to guide the team skillfully through challenging, light-wind conditions.

The Australian contender, Team Alive–Rampage combines two leading crews aboard the Reichel/Pugh 66, Alive. Skippered by Duncan Hine and supported by Rampage owner Noel Chan, the team seeks to repeat Alive’s 2016 feat, when they set the enduring monohull race record of 47 hours, 31 minutes and 8 seconds, which still stands today.

Filipino sailing legend Ernesto Echauz returns for his fourteenth China Sea Race, leading Standard Insurance Centennial V – the 2023 Line Honours winner and the first Philippine entry to achieve this milestone. With all crew members drawn from the Philippine national team, Echauz credits their consistent success to teamwork and has championed greater inclusion of women in key sailing roles.

Making a groundbreaking solo run, Tiger Mok will helm 2 Easy, becoming the first competitor to enter the Rolex China Sea Race single-handed.  Mok, who previously raced as part of a team, described solo racing as “akin to running a start-up—every problem is yours alone.” His goal this year: simply finish the demanding race, balancing intense racing with essential rest.

In his welcome address, Commodore of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Adrian Pang celebrated the race’s storied legacy: “We extend our sincere gratitude to Rolex for their unwavering support, which has made this event a pillar of international sailing. It is a privilege to host Asia’s first Rolex-sponsored sailing competition.” Pang also welcomed new official partner, Nautor Swan, underscoring the event’s growing prestige and Hong Kong’s commitment to hosting major sporting events.

Rolex China Sea Race 2026 Chairman Hugues de Saint Germain echoed this appreciation: “While the course remains unchanged, each edition brings fresh challenges—from fishing nets and commercial traffic to the infamous Luzon Hole. It’s a true test of endurance, strategy, and seamanship.” He also thanked the organizing committee, safety officials, club staff, and participants for their dedication.

The race will see entrants compete for two prestigious trophies: the Rolex China Sea Race Trophy, awarded to the overall IRC winner on corrected time, and the Sunday Telegraph Trophy, for the first yacht to finish in real time (Line Honours). Winners in both categories will also receive a coveted Rolex timepiece.

For more information about Rolex China Sea Race 2026, please visit www.rolexchinasearace.com.

ABOUT ROYAL HONG KONG YACHT CLUB (RHKYC)

The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club is one of the oldest and largest sports clubs in Hong Kong, with a rich, colourful history that spans over 170 years of community and competitive sailing and rowing. RHKYC provides training programmes for practitioners of all abilities and ages – both members and non-members – to nurture their development, produce elite athletes capable of competing at the highest levels, and contribute to the growth and popularity of these great pastimes. The Club also organises a full calendar of high-profile local and international race events, helping place Hong Kong firmly on the global sporting map.

ROLEX AND YACHTING

Rolex celebrates human achievement, recognizing the journey marked by milestones and emotions that culminates in defining moments – determined by a path followed, not just a trophy. Since the late 1950s, Rolex has championed perseverance and resilience in yachting across all its forms – from prestigious yacht clubs to pioneering feats of exploration, legendary offshore races, and its most successful sailors. Today, the Swiss watchmaker supports the innovative future of sailing through its Title Partnership of the Rolex SailGP Championship, the world’s leading sailing league where the best athletes compete on identical supercharged foiling F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous stretches of water. Furthermore, the brand is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events, from the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. Rolex also partners institutions that share its enduring commitment to sailing, including the New York Yacht Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Royal Yacht Squadron, Royal Ocean Racing Club, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and Royal Malta Yacht Club. Integral to this relationship are the towering figures in the sport and Rolex honours their unrelenting determination in the pursuit of excellence. From groundbreaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester to modern-day sailors, Rolex celebrates the individuals who embody adaptability, teamwork and precision. The Rolex family of Testimonees includes legends Paul Cayard and Robert Scheidt, the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie, and the heroes at the heart of the Rolex SailGP Championship, Hannah Mills, Tom Slingsby and Martine Grael.

ABOUT ROLEX

AN UNRIVALLED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex is an integrated and independent Swiss watch manufacture. Headquartered in Geneva, the brand is recognized the world over for its expertise and the quality of its products – symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige. The movements of its Oyster Perpetual and Perpetual watches are certified by COSC, then tested in-house for their precision, performance and reliability. The Superlative Chronometer certification, symbolized by the green seal, confirms that each watch has successfully undergone tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria. These are periodically validated by an independent external organization. The word ‘Perpetual’ is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster watch. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of the company, instilled a notion of perpetual excellence that would drive the company forward. This led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and numerous major watchmaking innovations, such as the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931. In the course of its history, Rolex has registered over 600 patents. At its four sites in Switzerland, the brand designs, develops and produces the majority of its watch components. A fifth site, also in Switzerland, is under construction and is expected to open in 2029. Rolex carries out its own manufacturing operations, from casting the gold alloys to machining, crafting, assembling and finishing the movement, case, dial and bracelet. Furthermore, the brand is actively involved in supporting the arts and culture, sport, and exploration, as well as those who are devising solutions to preserve the planet.

Photos credit: ©Rolex/Andrea Francolini

TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES DELIVERS SOLID PERFORMANCE IN 2025

GROWING SALES TO US$15.3 BILLION, NET PROFIT INCREASED TO US$1.2 BILLION

HONG KONG, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (“TTI” or the “Company”) (stock code: HK:0669, ADR symbol: TTNDY), a global cordless power tool, outdoor power equipment and floorcare & cleaning company, is pleased to announce the audited consolidated results of the Company and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2025. TTI delivered record sales of US$15.3 billion in 2025, growing 4.4% on a reported basis and 4.1% in local currency. Our two leading brands, MILWAUKEE and RYOBI, both delivered solid performances in 2025 with MILWAUKEE growing 7.9% and RYOBI growing 5.4% in local currency.

  • TTI delivered record sales and earnings despite significant tariff headwinds, growing sales 4.4% to US$15.3 billion and net profit 6.8% to US$1.2 billion.
  • Our Global MILWAUKEE business grew 8.1% on a reported basis with underlying sales rising 10.3% in local currency (excluding the discretionary suspension of certain second half promotions due to tariffs).
  • RYOBI, the #1 global consumer cordless tool and outdoor products brand, grew 5.4% in local currency.
  • Reported EBIT Margin increased 7 bps to 8.8% as a percentage of sales, while normalized EBIT Margin (after adjusting for the exit of the HART business) increased 57 bps to 9.3%, due to strong performance in the EMEA region, corporate cost out initiatives and a focus on driving leverage and profitability.
  • TTI reported nearly US$1.4 billion in Free Cash Flow in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of US$1.2 billion+ in Free Cash Flow and ending the year in a net cash position of US$700 million.
  • The Board intends to implement a discretionary share buyback plan of up to US$500 million over the next 18 months.

Financial Performance Highlights for 2025

2025*

US$’

million

2024

US$’

million

  Changes

Revenue

15,260

14,622

+4.4 %

Gross profit margin

41.2 %

40.3 %

+91 bps

EBIT

1,336

1,270

+5.2 %

Profit attributable to Owners of the Company

1,198

1,122

+6.8 %

Basic Earnings per share (US cents)

65.61

61.43

+6.8 %

Dividend per share (approx. US cents)

33.08

29.09

+13.7 %

*For the year ended December 31, 2025

Gross margin improved 91 basis points to 41.2% in 2025. The increase reflects the positive mix impact of our high margin MILWAUKEE business, productivity enhancements, and operational efficiencies created in our RYOBI and other Consumer businesses. Margin expansion accelerated as tariff mitigation efforts materialized in the second half of the year. EBIT grew 5.2% to US$1.3 billion, while EBIT margin increased 7 basis points to 8.8%. Net Profit increased 6.8% to US$1.2 billion and earnings per share rose 6.8% to US65.61 cents. As a percentage of sales, working capital rose 109 bps to 15.5%. Inventory days on hand increased 4 days to 106 days and remain at a very comfortable level. The Company generated nearly US$1.4 billion in positive Free Cash Flow in 2025, ending the period in a US$700 million net cash position.

The TTI Power Equipment segment delivered sales of US$14.4 billion in 2025, an increase of 5.3% in reported currency and 5.0% in local currency. On a reported basis, MILWAUKEE achieved 8.1% reported sales growth in 2025, finishing up 7.9% in local currency. RYOBI business had another outstanding year, growing 5.4% in local currency and marking the second consecutive year of mid-single digit revenue growth following the post-pandemic adjustment period of 2022-23. Sales for Floorcare and Cleaning fell 9.7% in 2025 due to weakness in the HOOVER, DIRT DEVIL, ORECK, and VAX brands.

The Board is recommending a final dividend of HK132.00 cents (approximately US16.99 cents) (2024: HK118.00 cents (approximately US15.19 cents)) per share. Together, with the interim dividend of HK125.00 cents (approximately US16.09 cents) per share, this will result in a full-year dividend of HK257.00 cents (approximately US33.08 cents) per share.

Mr. Horst Pudwill, Executive Chairman of TTI, said, “With the healthiest balance sheet in the Company’s history, a diversified global manufacturing footprint, and stable capital spending requirements, we anticipate our ability to further increase returns to shareholders in the years to come.”

Mr. Steven P. Richman, CEO of TTI, commented, “With the #1 Professional and Consumer brands in the World, TTI is off to a strong start in 2026 and we look forward to another year of strong results. On a blended basis, we expect the core MILWAUKEE and RYOBI businesses to grow revenue mid-to-high single digits.”

Forward-Looking Statements
This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements or uses certain forward-looking terminologies which are based on the current expectations, estimates, projections, beliefs and assumptions of TTI about the businesses and the markets in which the Group operates and reflect TTI’s views as of the date of this announcement. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to market risk, uncertainties and factors beyond the control of TTI. Therefore, actual outcomes and returns may differ materially from the assumptions made and the statements contained in this announcement.

About TTI 
Techtronic Industries Company Limited (“TTI” or the “Company”), founded in 1985 by German entrepreneur Horst Julius Pudwill, is a world leader in cordless technology. As a pioneer in Power Tools, Outdoor Power Equipment, Floorcare and Cleaning Products, TTI serves professional, industrial, Do It Yourself (DIY), and consumer markets worldwide. With more than 48,000 employees globally, the company’s relentless focus on innovation and strategic growth has established its leading position in the industries it serves.

MILWAUKEE is at the forefront of TTI’s professional tool portfolio. With global research and development headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, the historic MILWAUKEE brand is renowned for driving innovation, safety, and jobsite productivity worldwide. The RYOBI brand, headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, remains the top choice for DIYers and continues to set the standard in DIY tool innovation. TTI’s diverse brand portfolio also includes trusted brands like AEG, EMPIRE, HOMELITE, and leading floorcare names HOOVER, ORECK, VAX, and DIRT DEVIL.

TTI’s international recognition and renowned brand portfolio are supported by a strong ownership structure that underscores the company’s global reach and stability. The Pudwill family remains the company’s largest shareholder, with the remaining ownership held largely by institutional investors at North American and European-owned firms. TTI is publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and is a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Index, operating globally with a strong commitment to environmental, social, and corporate governance standards. For more information, visit www.ttigroup.com.

All trademarks listed other than AEG and RYOBI are owned by the Group. AEG is a registered trademark of AB Electrolux (publ.) and is used under license. RYOBI is a registered trademark of Ryobi Limited and is used under license.