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UNIONPAY AND BANK SIMPANAN NASIONAL (BSN) PARTNER TO TRANSFORM PAYMENTS WITH QR PAYMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — UnionPay International (UPI) has announced a strategic partnership with Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), to launch the UnionPay QR payment in Malaysia in the first half of 2025. This collaboration underscores both parties’ commitment to advancing digital payment solutions in Malaysia and enhancing the country’s evolving payment ecosystem. Through this partnership, BSN will join UnionPay as a member, expanding its portfolio of payment system operators to include UnionPay alongside Visa, Mastercard, and MyDebit.


As the third-largest debit card issuer in Malaysia, managing over six million debit cards nationwide, BSN is adapting to evolving consumer preferences for e-wallets and contactless transactions. In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the digital payment landscape, BSN is expanding its payment and acceptance solutions to include QR payment. This initiative will empower customers, particularly digitally savvy and travel-oriented young consumers, to make seamless domestic and international payments through UnionPay’s secure and widely accepted QR payment system.

“We are thrilled to embark on this strategic collaboration with BSN, a leading Development Financial Institution in Malaysia,” said Dr. Jian Jiangtao, Regional Head of UnionPay International (Southeast Asia).  “This partnership allows us to expand our digital payment solutions while contributing to the growth of Malaysia’s digital payment ecosystem. With this virtual QR Pay solution, consumers will benefit from greater convenience, security, and control over their spending, enhancing their financial experiences, especially during cross-border travel.”

Encik Jay Khairil, Chief Executive of BSN said “This partnership with UPI marks a significant milestone in BSN’s digital transformation journey. The QR payment solution enables customers to transact effortlessly across UnionPay’s extensive network, including China and other participating countries. BSN’s facilitation of QR Pay acceptance amplifies our commitment to supporting micro-businesses and SMEs in adopting cashless payment solutions.”

This collaboration between UnionPay and BSN signifies a shared commitment to innovation and enhancing customer experiences. By introducing the widely accepted QR payment solution to Malaysia, BSN is set to offer a seamless, modern payment option tailored to the evolving needs of local communities.

END

About UnionPay International

UnionPay International (UPI) is a subsidiary of China UnionPay, dedicated to expanding and supporting UnionPay’s global business. With partnerships across 2,600 institutions worldwide, UnionPay cards are accepted in 183 countries and regions, with issuance in 82 of them. UPI delivers high-quality, cost-effective, and secure cross-border payment solutions to the world’s largest cardholder base, ensuring seamless local services for global cardholders and merchants.

About Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN)

Since its establishment in 1974, Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) has been committed to becoming a catalyst for change in the lives of Malaysians. With the vision of “No Malaysian Left Behind,” BSN provides inclusive and innovative financial solutions to ensure broad access to financial opportunities for all segments of society.

As a key national financial institution, BSN is dedicated to realizing its mission of improving financial literacy among Malaysians and building a brighter financial future. With an extensive network of services, BSN offers comprehensive products and services, including savings, financial management, microfinance, personal financing, as well as both Islamic and conventional credit cards.

BSN currently operates more than 387 branches, 40 Micro Finance Centres, 576 Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), 260 Cash Recycling Machines (CRM), 10 Mobile Bank Branches (CBB), and over 2,240 BSN Agents (EB BSN) nationwide, including in rural and remote areas. With more than 10.3 million customers, BSN continues to lead in financial inclusivity, supporting the national economic development agenda. (As of November 2024)

As of November 2024, BSN manages retail deposits valued at RM21.9 billion, reflecting the trust and confidence that the public places in our services. By combining digital technology with a personal touch, BSN continues to bring banking to every corner of the country, making financial services more accessible for all.

For further information, visit www.bsn.com.my

Discover ‘Stanley House Project’: A Coastal Living Dream Realised


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – Habitat Property, Hong Kong’s award-winning specialist in unique luxury properties, is thrilled to announce the details of its latest project, ‘Stanley House Project’. After more than four years of careful planning, ‘Stanley House Project’ is now ready for construction. Victoria Allan, Founder and Managing Director of Habitat Property, has secured permits and approvals, sparing buyers the time, expense, and effort required to navigate this intricate process. Located on Stanley Link Road overlooking Tai Tam Bay and just minutes from the golden sands of Stanley Beach, this ambitious residential development will be a once-in-a-lifetime ownership opportunity.

(Left) The current property on 30 Stanley Link Road. (Right) ‘Stanley House Project’ represents the highest standard in contemporary design adapted for a coastal living experience. Across the 3,269 square feet, the design will bring a stunning integration of indoor and outdoor living areas, while the elevated terrace brings ample relaxing space. It puts views, privacy, interconnectedness, and comfort all in one place. * For visualisation only
(Left) The current property on 30 Stanley Link Road. (Right) ‘Stanley House Project’ represents the highest standard in contemporary design adapted for a coastal living experience. Across the 3,269 square feet, the design will bring a stunning integration of indoor and outdoor living areas, while the elevated terrace brings ample relaxing space. It puts views, privacy, interconnectedness, and comfort all in one place. * For visualisation only

Personally owned and curated by Victoria, ‘Stanley House Project’ comprises an iconic waterfront site with approved architectural plans in place, allowing prospective buyers to build their own luxurious dream complex. With nothing like this available on the market, the complex will be perched above a five-vehicle carpark and will span over 3,269 square feet of internal living space, and also feature a sea-facing swimming pool, a spacious terrace of 2,420 square feet[1] and a roof terrace of 357 square feet [1] .

The Apex of Waterfront Design

As envisioned by Victoria and renowned Australian Interior Design and Architecture studio K.P.D.O., ‘Stanley House Project’ represents the pinnacle of luxury waterfront living, prioritising the marriage of sophistication, comfort and security. Each of the three levels with full sea views and impressive 3.5-metre ceilings, all connected by an indoor lift. The integrated living and dining areas will organically engage with the home’s 2,777 square feet exterior space [1] , and the elevated swimming pool will blend effortlessly with Tai Tam Bay, offering complete privacy. ‘Stanley House Project’ will be the epitome of bespoke coastal living at its finest.

‘Stanley House Project’ is the culmination of Victoria’s long-term vision to create a singular luxurious residential experience. It is ultimately a labour of love, demonstrating her property foresight and architectural acumen. Leveraging knowledge gleaned from over two decades as one of Hong Kong’s leading property professionals, Victoria purchased her own home on one of the plots in 2010. Eight years later, she acquired the adjacent plot to combine the two. Securing the permits for the consolidation, proposed complex and approvals for a pool, terrace, and land lease modification took over four years.

After acquiring the consolidated site with GFA (Gross Floor Area) of 4,359 square feet , the new owner can either retain or demolish the existing structures. From there, the new owner can build their own dream home or utilise the existing plans of ‘Stanley House Project’ for a three-level complex envisaged by Victoria in partnership one of Australia’s most esteemed architects,K.P.D.O.The architecture captures and distills the very best elements of Australian coastal living, representing a major departure from the typical Hong Kong home. Having undertaken an S16 planning application to relax the site coverage to 33%, the design features rare lateral living space spanning nearly 60 feet, directly facing the sea view, that will open seamlessly to 2,420 sf of external terrace [1] and entertaining area with private pool & BBQ area. These plans maximise the plot’s gross floor area, the superb Southside location, and Stanley’s sophisticated lifestyle.

‘Stanley House Project’ will strive for a seamless connection between the generous, open interiors and the spacious, accommodating outdoor areas. Overlooking the magnificent Tai Tam Bay and mere steps from Stanley Main Beach, the location of ‘Stanley House Project’ is perfect for those looking to balance coastal tranquillity with modern convenience. * For visualisation only
‘Stanley House Project’ will strive for a seamless connection between the generous, open interiors and the spacious, accommodating outdoor areas. Overlooking the magnificent Tai Tam Bay and mere steps from Stanley Main Beach, the location of ‘Stanley House Project’ is perfect for those looking to balance coastal tranquillity with modern convenience. * For visualisation only

“As a long-time resident of the Southside, I’ve always dreamed of creating a truly exceptional beachfront property that captures the essence of this beautiful coastline. ‘Stanley House Project’ is the realisation of that dream, a labour of love meticulously planned and designed to offer an unparalleled luxury experience. This is more than just a complex; it’s a legacy, a testament to timeless elegance and refined taste,” said Victoria Allan, Founder and Managing Director of Habitat Property.

The site has a guide price of HK$238 million which includes fully paid land premium. In addition, Habitat Property has provided an estimate[2] of HK$45 million for the demolition of the current buildings and construction of ‘Stanley House Project’, which would take approximately two years. Habitat Property will serve as one of the sales brokerages of the property on 30 Stanley Link Road site.


[1]This is not included in the saleable area.

[2] The estimate is subject to change based on fluctuations in material and building costs, as well as final selections made.

Hashtag: #HabitatProperty

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

About Habitat Property

Founded by real estate entrepreneur Victoria Allan in 2001, Habitat Property is Hong Kong’s leading specialist in unique luxury properties. Providing high-end residential sales, leasing and property management, Habitat Property is renowned for its distinct curation of some of the most unique and desirable properties in Hong Kong, along with exceptional client services and market insights. The team has been recognised by the prestigious International Property Awards in both APAC and Hong Kong, which celebrate the highest levels of achievement in the property and real estate industry, winning the best Real Estate Agency APAC & Hong Kong and Best Real Estate Agency Website as well as the Best Marketing in both 2022 and 2023.

About Victoria Allan

Victoria Allan, a visionary in property development, has built a distinguished career transforming complex sites into iconic developments across Hong Kong, Australia, and Spain. With an innate understanding of the real estate industry and remarkable strategic foresight, she has successfully executed numerous extensive and complex projects. Among her notable achievements in Hong Kong are revitalising the Tung Fat Building in Kennedy Town – the iconic historical ‘Tong Lau’, and strategically consolidating multiple sites on Davis Street in Kennedy Town. Both projects highlight her ability to identify opportunities and achieve remarkable sales outcomes.

Yahoo Celebrates Marketing Excellence at the 2024 Asia Big Idea Chair Awards

American Express International Inc. crowned Asia Big Idea Chair Champion
Bao Dim Sin Seng wins Asia’s Best Integrated Solution
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles awarded Asia Awards Best Branded Content Campaign
Debut of Public-Voted Yahoo Best Brand Awards

TAIPEI, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yahoo hosted the Asia Big Idea Chair Awards 2024 (Yahoo Asia BIC Awards 2024) in Hong Kong and Taiwan, marking 16 years of celebrating creativity and excellence in marketing. This year’s event introduced the highly anticipated Yahoo Best Brand Awards, an inaugural public-voted category where consumers chose the brands that resonated most with them, highlighting the power of consumer-driven marketing.

Pete Wong, General Manager of Yahoo Asia
Pete Wong, General Manager of Yahoo Asia

The Yahoo Asia BIC Awards has been a prestigious regional event for over a decade and a half, spotlighting exceptional campaigns and trailblazing innovations in marketing and advertising. This year’s judging panel featured 11 esteemed members from 9 leading industry organizations, including IAB Hong Kong, HK4As, The Hong Kong Advertisers Association, Hong Kong Association of Interactive Marketing, HKMA Digital Marketing Community, Taiwan Digital Media and Marketing Association, Media Agency Association Taipei, Taiwan Advertiser’s Association, and International Advertising Association Taipei. The diverse panel ensured a thorough and impartial evaluation process.

Pete Wong, General Manager of Yahoo Asia, emphasized the significance of this year’s awards in today’s dynamic landscape: “The Yahoo Asia BIC Awards is more than a celebration of success; it’s a platform that inspires innovation and drives transformation in marketing. With the introduction of the public-voted Yahoo Best Brand Awards, we’re bridging the gap between brands and their audiences, highlighting what truly resonates in today’s consumer-driven world. From engaging campaigns to seamless digital experiences, these awards showcase the best of marketing excellence and creativity.”

The event drew participation from 200 industry leaders, brands, and agency partners, with some remarkable winners:

  • Asia Big Idea Chair Champion:
    • Winner: American Express International Inc.
      American Express claimed the prestigious Asia BIC Champion title for their “AMEX x BetterMe Boundless Explorer Campaign,” which targeted Millennials—digitally savvy, adventure-seeking travelers who prioritize flexibility, unique experiences, and enjoy traveling to Japan. By partnering with Yahoo BetterMe and three top HK YouTubers to feature travel vlogs and behind-the-scenes content, along with a Boundless Explorer Lucky Draw that offers luxury Japan travel package and travel vouchers as prizes, and a limited-time welcome offer that captured attention, the campaign ensured broad visibility and engagement. This integrated approach was outstanding, achieving an 80% increase in card applications and a 20% reduction in acquisition costs. It showcases how a well-crafted campaign, supported by Yahoo’s platform, can drive both awareness and tangible results.
  • Asia’s Best Integrated Solution
    • Winner: Bao Dim Sin Seng
      Bao Dim Sin Seng was awarded Asia’s Best Integrated Solution for their 15th Anniversary Campaign, which seamlessly blended online and offline elements. The campaign crossover with Mrs. So Sauce debuted a limited-edition “Spicy Series Bun,” leveraging the Yahoo App’s redemption feature to engage members, achieving an impressive 98% redemption rate within three minutes. It later introduced a CSR-driven “Rice & Bun Voucher Promotion,” donating 2% of revenue to FOOD ANGEL, a Hong Kong-based NGO supporting vulnerable communities. The Yahoo Creative Team utilized AI technology to produce dynamic ad visuals and personalized content.

      “This award reflects the passion and creativity that drive our brand,” said Agnes Lung, Executive Director , Group Chief Marketing & Digital Officer from Bao Dim Sin Seng. “Partnering with Yahoo allowed us to connect with our audience in a meaningful way. From working with the Yahoo Creative team to creating AI-generated content to leveraging the Yahoo App for our redemption program, we were able to amplify our message and create moments that truly resonate with our community.”

  • Asia’s Best Branded Content Campaign
    • Winner: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
      Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles claimed the Best Branded Content Campaign award for their “My Iron-Willed Mother and Me” campaign, which shared the inspiring story of Xiao Bi, a man with cerebral palsy, and his mother, who has supported him through nearly 300 marathons and triathlons. The campaign not only resonated with audiences but also invited viewers to share their own stories of resilience, particularly their tales of mothers, as Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles‘s accessible vehicle—the Xiao Bi Dream Chaser—was featured around town to raise awareness. The heartfelt story of a mother and son overcoming disability sparked important conversations about accessible mobility and disability travel, generating over 4.9 million views and surpassing engagement targets by 870%.

      “Our campaign wasn’t just about telling a story; it was about starting meaningful conversations around accessibility and resilience,” said Victor Ting, Head of Marketing Department at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “Yahoo’s platform helped us connect with a wider audience, giving us the opportunity to amplify our message in a more impactful way. Winning this award reinforces purpose-driven storytelling that can create genuine connections and make a lasting impact.”

As a cornerstone of the marketing industry, the Yahoo Asia BIC Awards celebrates campaigns that push boundaries and set new benchmarks. With the addition of the Yahoo Best Brand Awards, the event now provides a platform for public recognition, reflecting real-world consumer preferences and brand excellence.

The Sustainable European Dairy from Ireland trade seminar, held in Kuala Lumpur, wraps up Bord Bia’s three-year promotional campaign in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 14, 2025, at Le Méridien Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, the Sustainable European Dairy from Ireland trade seminar took place. The seminar, which is the finale in a three-year campaign to promote European Dairy from Ireland in the region, highlighted the continued and growing opportunities for European Dairy products in Malaysia. The seminar brought together key Malay chefs and F&B professionals to not only gain insights on market opportunities, but also to see first hand the quality of ingredients through a professional chef demonstration hosted in Le Meridien in Central Kuala Lumpur.


Malaysia: A Leader Market for Dairy Imports That Is Still Growing 

Emma McLoughlin, Third Secretary of the Embassy of Ireland to Malaysia, gave her welcoming remarks to the attendees. During her welcome remarks, McLoughlin noted that the European dairy from Ireland campaign has offered an excellent opportunity to strengthen links with the Malaysian dairy industry, and looks forward to continuing to build on these relationships into the future.

Following this, a panel of expert speakers delivered insights on the Irish and Global Dairy landscape.

Robert Murphy, from Bord Bia Dublin, introduced the opportunities that sustainable European dairy from Ireland represents for the F&B industry in Malaysia. Ireland, alongside its European counterparts offers a wide portfolio of sustainable milk products. European dairy exports from Ireland to Malaysia were last year valued at €50 million, with milk powders accounting for over half of the total exports.[1]

Guest speakers, Mr. Tim Hill from Global Data, and Mr. YiFan Li from StoneX presented on the evolving trends within the Asian Dairy industry. Global Data and gave insights on consumer trends and examined consumer behaviours and opportunities for growth within the Malay Dairy industry and beyond. StoneX offered a review of current market activity, and an outlook for 2025 in the global arena, focusing offering attendees comprehensive update in the outlook of the Southeast Asian dairy market for 2025.

The Proven Quality of Sustainable European Dairy from Ireland


Concluding the seminar, Chef Budiman Bistari, Executive Sous Chef of Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur demonstrated the qualities and taste of sustainable European dairy ingredients from Ireland and how best they can be utilised in contemporary and traditional Malay recipes.

“European Dairy from Ireland offers a richness and quality that is synonymous with grass fed production methods. The adaptability and availability of the product can be incorporated into a wide range of Asian cooking styles, and offers a path for creativity in utilising dairy beyond classic European dining and baking. The sustainability aspect which is becoming increasingly important increases its appeal to customers.”

The trade seminar ended with a networking session, with key Malaysian F&B professionals. The attendees enjoyed a buffet featuring European Dairy from Ireland dairy ingredients, offering a first-hand experience of the high quality of European dairy from Ireland.

The Sustainable European Dairy from Ireland trade seminar is part of an EU co-funded awareness campaign that presents Ireland, as a member of Europe, as an example of the high-quality standards of sustainable dairy production in the region. This seminar marks the end of a three-year campaign to promote European Dairy from Ireland in Malaysia.


About European Dairy from Ireland

Located on the western edge of Europe, Ireland’s island situation is the setting for the Irish proven quality dairy industry. In Ireland, the 1.5 million dairy cows graze a minimum of 240 days each year on pasture, with 95% of their diet consisting of grass. These distinct farming conditions are at the root of European Dairy from Ireland’s strong reputation for producing high-quality dairy products, from milk powders to cheddar cheeses, processed and exported globally to over 140 markets by trusted professionals. In numbers, the Irish dairy industry was equivalent to 1.64 million metric tons of exported dairy products for a value of €6.3 billion in 2023, a showcase example of what Europe has to offer to international markets.

About Bord Bia – The Irish Food Board

Bord Bia – the Irish Food Board, is the government agency responsible for the promotion and marketing of Irish food and beverages. With 15 offices, Bord Bia is present across 4 continents, including one in Singapore that focuses its efforts on delivering business development initiatives in Southeast Asia.

[1] Irish Dairy Export Figures to South East Asia 2023, Bord Bia Performance and Prospects

 

Cohesity Expands its Security Advisory Council with Additions of Dave DeWalt and Lieut. General (ret.) H.R. McMaster

Cohesity Bolsters its Advisory Council to Guide Customers in their Efforts to Protect Their Most Valuable Assets as Data Security Becomes Imperative for National Security

SINGAPORE, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cohesity, the leader in AI-powered data security, today announced the additions of Dave DeWalt and Lieut. General (ret.) H.R. McMaster to Cohesity’s Security Advisory Council, where DeWalt will serve as Chair. Increasingly, data security is national security; therefore, protecting sensitive data is critical to safeguarding a nation’s overall security. With the council’s support, Cohesity will continue to advise customers across the globe on how to keep their data safe from cyber attacks.

The Cohesity Security Advisory Council brings together industry-leading visionaries with deep expertise in security, technology, and IT from a host of enterprise and government agencies — including Netflix, Facebook, the National Security Agency (NSA), Microsoft, Accenture, Deloitte — and now, FireEye, McAfee, and the Executive Office of the President. The additions of DeWalt and McMaster are a testament to Cohesity’s commitment to data security, national security, and cyber resilience.

The council’s new Chair, Dave DeWalt, is a veteran CEO, advisor and investor. He is the founder and CEO of NightDragon, an investment and advisor firm dedicated to the cyber, safety, security, and privacy markets. DeWalt is also the former CEO of FireEye and McAfee and has substantial experience in the information technology and security industry. Lieut. Gen. H.R. McMaster retired from the U.S. Army after serving thirty-four years, including a tour of duty as the 25th National Security Advisor of the United States. McMaster is the Fouad and Michelle Ajami Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, the Bernard and Susan Liautaud Visiting Fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, and a lecturer in management at the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

“The global crises we face today are unprecedented and intensifying, fueled by AI and affecting both physical and digital infrastructures in ways we previously thought impossible. Operational and cyber resilience have never been more critical to our nation’s security than they are right now,” said Dave DeWalt, cybersecurity investor and CEO and Founder of NightDragon. “With over 12,000 customers worldwide, Cohesity is already playing a key role in safeguarding our nation by protecting valuable business data and helping enterprises recover faster than anyone else in the industry. Joining this Security Advisory Council to strengthen these efforts and ensure our nation remains resilient in the face of unprecedented threats is a no-brainer.”

“Data security is foundational to national security. Every day, we experience crippling ransomware attacks and acts of cyber espionage that threaten critical infrastructure, daily operations, and personal security,” said Lieutenant General H. R. McMaster (US Army, ret.). “What Cohesity does to protect companies and critical data from relentless and continuously evolving threats contributes directly to the safety and prosperity of our nation. I look forward to joining the team as part of the Security Advisory Council.”

With newly added strength, the council will continue advising the Cohesity team, customers, and partners on security trends and emerging cyber threats and vulnerabilities while working with industry groups and the broad technology ecosystem to prevent the impact of cyberattacks.

“The growth of our Security Advisory Council is a compelling testament to not only the dedication we have to our customers, but the strength we continue to build as a company in partnership with world-class innovators and leaders,” said Sanjay Poonen, CEO and President, Cohesity. “Our top priority is to help our customers across the globe build cyber resilience and keep their data secure and protected. With our combination with Veritas’ Data Protection business in December, we’re doing that on a much larger global scale than ever. We’re grateful to have talented advisors partnering with us as we accelerate our vision for AI-powered data security and help organizations navigate the challenges ahead.” 

In addition to DeWalt and McMaster, the council is comprised of leading industry experts, including:

  • Kevin Mandia: Current Cohesity board member, founder of Mandiant at Google Cloud, and co-founder and partner at Ballistic Ventures.
  • Alex Stamos: Director of the Stanford Internet Observatory, a Partner in the Krebs Stamos Group, and former CSO at Facebook and Yahoo!
  • Jason Chan: Former vice president of Information Security at Netflix.
  • Marianne Bailey: Currently leads Guidehouse’s Advanced Solutions Cybersecurity practice and is a former senior cybersecurity executive at the NSA.
  • Laura Mather: Current chief operating officer and a member of the Group Executive Committee at Societe Generale.
  • Sheila Jordan: Current chief digital technology officer at Honeywell, and former CIO at Symantec.
  • Kelly Bissell: Corporate vice president at Microsoft and former global manager director at Accenture Security.

For More Information

About Cohesity

Cohesity is the leader in AI-powered data security. Over 12,000 enterprise customers, including over 85 of the Fortune 100 and nearly 70% of the Global 500, rely on Cohesity to strengthen their resilience while providing Gen AI insights into their vast amounts of data. Formed from the combination of Cohesity with Veritas’ enterprise data protection business, the company’s solutions secure and protect data on-premises, in the cloud, and at the edge. Backed by NVIDIA, IBM, HPE, Cisco, AWS, Google Cloud, and others, Cohesity is headquartered in San Jose, CA, with offices around the globe. To learn more, follow Cohesity on LinkedIn, X, and Facebook.

Fosun International Enters into Strategic Cooperation Agreement with Natixis CIB

HONG KONG, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On 16 January 2025, Fosun International Limited (“Fosun International”, HKEX stock code: 00656) and Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (“Natixis CIB”) entered into a strategic cooperation agreement (“Agreement”), committing to collaborate closely in support of Fosun International and its subsidiaries’ (collectively as “Fosun”) future development strategies.

Under the witness of Wang Qunbin, Executive Director and Co-Chairman of Fosun International, Gong Ping, Executive Director and CFO of Fosun International, Bruno Le Saint, CEO of Natixis CIB, Asia Pacific, and Aurélien Lasjunies, Head of Coverage of Natixis CIB, Asia Pacific; Zhang Houlin, Senior Vice President and Co-CFO of Fosun International, and Liu Hong, Senior Country Manager, Greater China, Natixis CIB, signed a strategic cooperation agreement at the Bund Finance Center (BFC), marking further cooperation between Fosun and Natixis CIB.

Under the strategic cooperation agreement, Natixis CIB will fully leverage its strengths in specialized fields, its operations in Europe and the Americas, and its expertise in boutique investment banking mergers and acquisitions (M&A). With its high credit ratings and long-term stable funding sources, Natixis CIB will provide Fosun with the best consulting and financial services in areas such as financing, transaction structuring, and risk hedging.

Regarding the cooperation, Wang Qunbin remarked, “We are very pleased to continue strengthening our long-term strategic cooperation with Natixis CIB. Our cooperation began in 2010 and was further enhanced in 2014 when Natixis CIB provided financing for several of our operations in Europe. After more than 30 years of development, Fosun has established a global business presence while maintaining good relationships with financial institutions, with sufficient funds and stable operations. This cooperation enables Fosun to leverage Natixis CIB’s network and resources to continuously support the healthy development of Fosun and its industrial groups worldwide, and enhance our globalization and innovation capabilities.”

Bruno Le Saint stated, “With the signing of this new strategic cooperation agreement, we acknowledge two things: firstly, that our previous partnership signed in 2018 has been very successful and secondly that we are willing to do even more together going forward. With this new partnership, we will fully leverage our international expertise in specialized fields to provide Fosun with high-quality financial services in advisory, financing, transaction structuring, and risk hedging. We have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with Fosun since 2010, further strengthened in 2014, and we look forward to continuing this trajectory, with future collaborations based on strategic alignment, complementary advantages, and mutual support.”

Rooted in China, Fosun has been developing globally and has long adhered to the two core growth drivers of “globalization” and “innovation”. Currently, Fosun has established a business presence in more than 35 countries and regions worldwide. Natixis CIB, a subsidiary of Groupe BPCE, one of the largest banking groups in France, operates as a multinational bank specializing in corporate and investment banking, asset management, insurance and financial services. Through this Agreement, Fosun International and Natixis CIB are committed to strengthening their cooperation. Based on strategic alignment, complementary strengths, and mutual support, the two parties will engage in comprehensive collaboration in the future.

Yeahka’s Local Life Open Platform Achieves 894% YoY GMV Growth

SHENZHEN, China, Jan. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Starting January 13, RedNote topped the App Store’s free download chart. As a lifestyle platform for young people, RedNote has rapidly expanded in the local life sector recently, creating new opportunities for upstream and downstream industries and further opening up market space.

Take Yeahka (9923.HK) as an example. Yeahka’s local life business continues to expand. Among them, Yeahka’s in-store open platform achieved steady GMV growth in 2024, with a month-on-month average growth rate of around 20%, and a year-on-year GMV growth of 894%. Another local life brand under Yeahka has become an official service provider for RedNote, helping merchants enhance their brand power and effectively drive traffic by precisely matching influencers, leveraging trending topics for exposure, and creating high-quality content.

Local life service providers are very optimistic about RedNote’s future in the local life sector and are rushing to enter the platform. RedNote, with its diverse and high-quality recommending content and a sincere sharing community atmosphere, has become an important platform that influences consumer decision-making. Yeahka has recognized RedNote’s commercialization potential and established a dedicated team for the platform’s “mindset” marketing last year.

Currently, Yeahka’s collaborating merchants on RedNote cover various sectors, including catering, leisure, entertainment, and health. In August 2024, Yeahka’s local life business promoted the opening of a new store of a snack brand Jianbingdao in Wuhan, using strategies such as trending topics, campaigns at tourist attractions, which resulted in over 1.5 million exposures and nearly 7,000 user interactions, increasing the store’s popularity. In another collaboration with the National Classics Museum, Yeahka helped drive traffic for its new exhibition. Through high-quality exploration posts, the platform users spontaneously posted commenting notes, leading to more than 120 related posts about the exhibition’s theme on RedNotes.

It is worth noting that Yeahka’s local life business is also actively expanding its global layout. Currently, RedNote marketing projects have been launched in Hong Kong (China), Singapore, and Japan, with cooperative clients including Art & Taste Taiwanese restaurant, W. K. Fine Dining Hong Kong-style tea restaurant, Golden Aroy Thai Restaurant, Lok Chui Yuen Seafood Restaurant, Eyeshome optical, Mr. Korea BBQ, Mashi No Mashi, and others. For example, through RedNote’s real exploration posts, Golden Aroy achieved over 100,000 exposures and more than 2,000 interactions without paid traffic, boosting the brand’s long-term customer goodwill and increasing foot traffic to the store.

Multiple platforms are flourishing in local life. Yeahka recognized this trend early on and developed a multi-platform and diversified strategy based on market demand. According to its financial report, in addition to RedNote, Yeahka’s in-store e-commerce business (i.e., local life business) has already covered multiple platforms such as Douyin, Kuaishou, WeChat Channels, and Meituan. The standardized middle platform tools developed by Yeahka can help merchants accurately target their consumer groups, provide various content services such as images, live streams, and short videos, tailored to different platform attributes and consumer groups, helping merchants attract and retain customers.

In the future, Yeahka will adopt more refined industry operation strategies for vertical merchants, refine middle platform operations, and integrate its payment and merchant solution capabilities, further enhancing its comprehensive digital marketing capabilities for merchants.

Innovent and ASK Pharm Jointly Announce NMPA Approval of Limertinib, a Third-generation EGFR TKI for the Treatment of Lung Cancer

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Innovent Biologics, Inc. (“Innovent”) (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high-quality medicines for the treatment of oncologic, autoimmune, cardiovascular and metabolic, ophthalmologic and other major diseases, and Jiangsu Aosaikang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (ASK Pharm, 002755.SZ), jointly announce that China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved the New Drug Application (NDA) of limertinib for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR T790M-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Limertinib is the 14th product in Innovent’s commercial portfolio and represents a cutting-edge addition to its strong TKI franchise, offering an innovative precision therapy option to lung cancer patients.

A Phase 2b pivotal study evaluating 301 patients with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR T790M-mutated NSCLC demonstrated limertinib’s robust efficacy and safety profile. Independent review committee(IRC) assessment showed an overall response rate (ORR) of 68.8% and a disease control rate (DCR) of 92.4%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) reached 11.0 months, with a median duration of response (DoR) of 11.1 months. For patients with assessable central nervous system (CNS) lesions (N=99), the CNS best-ORR was 65.9% with a median PFS of 10.6 months. The safety profile aligned with other EGFR-targeting agents in its class.

Additionally, limertinib met its primary endpoint in a Phase 3 clinical trial comparing it to gefitinib for first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations. A separate NDA for the first-line treatment in adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC carrying EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations is currently under NMPA review.

“Limertinib has demonstrated significant efficacy and safety in NSCLC patients with EGFR T790M mutation and EGFR-sensitive mutations. Patients treated with limertinib showed a reduced risk of CNS progression or death. This approval brings new hope and options to patients with advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC in China,” said Professor Shi Yuankai, MD, Department of Medical Oncology at Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Principal Investigator of the Phase 2b and Phase 3 clinical studies.

Dr. Hui Zhou, Senior Vice President of Innovent, stated:”The approval of limertinib’s first indication marks a significant milestone, providing new treatment options for T790 mutation-positive lung cancer patients who have progressed after previous EGFR-TKI treatments. We anticipate the first-line treatment indication will benefit even more patients in the near future. As our 14th commercial product, limertinib represents an important advancement in precision medicine for lung cancer. We look forward to working with ASK Pharm to bring limertinib to market and benefit Chinese patients with EGFR-mutated NSCLC.”

Mr. Jingfei Ma, CEO and Executive Director of ASK Pharm, stated: “Beyond the approval for EGFR T790M+ NSCLC, limertinib is also under regulatory review for first-line treatment of EGFR 19DEL+ or L858R+ NSCLC in China. ASKC202, a new highly selective c-Met inhibitor, is currently undergoing clinical study in combination with limertinib to treat patients with third-generation EGFR-TKI resistance. Together with Innovent, we look forward to limertinib benefiting more Chinese lung cancer patients in the near future. The first approval of limertinib, a Class I innovative product, represents significant progress in the company’s transformation toward innovative drug research and development. ”

About EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

Lung cancer remains one of the deadliest and most common cancers globally[i], with NSCLC accounting for about 85% of cases. Around 70% of NSCLC patients are diagnosed at locally advanced or metastatic disease stages that cannot be surgically resected. EGFR mutations are particularly prevalent in Asian NSCLC patients, affecting 30% to 50% of cases. EGFR-TKIs are the recommended first-line standard of care for this group, with third-generation EGFR inhibitors offering the broadest applicability.

About Limertinib

Limertinib is an orally-administrated, third-generation EGFR TKI with proprietary rights, approved by the China’s NMPA for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic EGFR T790M-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A second NDA is under NMPA review for first-line treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC carrying EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations.

The drug demonstrated success in a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, controlled Phase 3 clinical trial comparing its efficacy and safety of to gefitinib in first-line treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations. With the primary endpoint met, results will be presented at upcoming academic conferences or published in academic journals.

In October 2024, Innovent and ASK Pharm entered into a strategic collaboration and license agreement for limertinib in Mainland China.

About Innovent

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to empower patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that target some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has launched 14 products in the market. It has 3 new drug applications (NDA) under regulatory review, 3 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 17 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Incyte, Adimab, LG Chem and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, “Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action,” Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

About Jiangsu Aosaikang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (ASK Pharm)

Founded in January 2003, Jiangsu Aosaikang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (ASK Pharm) is a research-based pharmaceutical enterprise that integrates and streamlines innovative research and development with manufacture, marketing promotion and sales of proprietary pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals and health-care products. ASK Pharm specializes in digestive disease, multidrug resistant infection, oncology and chronic disease areas.

ASK Pharm focuses on the R&D of small-molecule targeted innovative drugs and immuno-oncology biologic drugs. Currently, there are 48 major research projects, including 11 disclosed key projects focused on innovative chemical and biologic drugs. Among these, the innovative anti-tumor drug Limertinib are in the NDA stage, while ASKC109 (maltol iron capsules) and ASKB589 (Claudin18.2 monoclonal antibody) are in Phase III clinical trials. ASK Pharm has Ranked among the top 20 best industrial enterprises in China’s pharmaceutical R&D pipeline for 14 consecutive years and it has also received numerous honors such as “Top Ten National R&D Innovators”, “Best National Enterprise for Investment”, and “National Torch Program High-Tech Enterprises”.

For more information, visit www.ask-pharm.com.

Innovent’s Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Innovent does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of Innovent with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Innovent’s control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Innovent’s competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

Reference

[i] Bray F, et al. Global cancer statistics 2022. CA Cancer J Clin. 2024 May-Jun;74(3):229-263. doi: 10.3322/caac.21834. Epub 2024 Apr 4. PMID: 38572751.