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China-Singapore Youth Dialogue wraps up with focus on AI, innovation

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 March 2026 – The China-Singapore Youth Dialogue concluded in Singapore on March 25, bringing together young participants to exchange ideas on technology, culture and sustainability under the theme “Building Tomorrow: Youth Voices United.”

A total of 12 youth panelists from China and Singapore participate in three panel discussions at Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore on March 25.(Photo: People’s Daily)
A total of 12 youth panelists from China and Singapore participate in three panel discussions at Asian Civilisations Museum in Singapore on March 25.(Photo: People’s Daily)

Co-organized by the People’s Daily and Lianhe Zaobao, the two-day event featured 12 young representatives who explored how their generation is shaping the future through innovation, cultural renewal and cross-border collaboration.

In the first panel, “Youth Driving Tech Innovation,” participants working in robotics, flying cars and data verification discussed both the opportunities and challenges of the AI era.

Tan Wei Hua, head of design at Singapore-based LionsBot International, addressed concerns over “AI anxiety” and its impact on jobs. “New jobs are going to be created. The next generation will be doing something entirely different,” he said, pointing to robotics as a growing field of opportunity.

Quah Zheng Wei, CEO and co-founder of Accredify, encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to take the first step. With the tech industry evolving rapidly, he stressed that “nothing is holding you back.”

From an industry perspective, Michael Du, CFO and vice president of ARIDGE, said emerging technologies are expanding possibilities in everyday life. Meanwhile, Xu Huazhe, assistant professor at the Institute for Interdisciplinary Information Sciences at Tsinghua University, highlighted the strengths of younger generations: “With the correct taste, they will build the most meaningful things.”

The second panel, “Contemporary Renewal of Traditional Culture,” shifted focus from innovation to heritage. Artists and cultural practitioners in wood sculpture, paper art, jewelry design and journalism explored how tradition can be revitalized in modern contexts.

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Wood sculpture artist Deng Kun emphasized the importance of cultivating an eye for beauty, while Lianhe Zaobao arts and culture journalist Zhang Heyang described traditional culture as “a place of spiritual haven for today’s youth.”

Designer Longhong Ziwei, founder and art director of the accessory brand Soft Mountains, said engaging with Yi heritage has inspired her work and resonated with international audiences.

Singaporean paper and mixed media artist Koh Pei Li, drawing inspiration from everyday urban life, highlighted the value of noticing overlooked details. Through her work, she hopes to reconnect people with the subtle beauty around them.

In the final panel, “Jointly Building a Sustainable Future,” speakers from architecture, fashion, and marine conservation offered interdisciplinary perspectives on sustainability.

Chen Kan, principal architect of TAB Architecture and Design, spoke about the philosophy of “being-with” as a guiding principle. “We need a deeper capacity to coexist with others,” he said.

Goy Zhenru, principal architect of Goy Architects in Singapore, emphasized designing in harmony with nature. She highlighted the importance of connecting living spaces with natural elements such as breeze and sunlight to create comfort and environmental awareness.

Sam Shu Qin, co-founder of Our Singapore Reefs and Our Blue Spaces, who describes herself as “a gardener underwater,” expressed hope that younger generations will recognize their ability to give back to the ocean.

For fashion designer Chen Peng, founder of brand CHENPENG, sustainability is both cultural and practical. “It should be culture-based and do no harm to the earth. It’s not a choice, but a natural extension of philosophy,” he said.

The dialogue marked a step forward in media cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between China and Singapore. By amplifying youth perspectives, it showcased the innovative energy and collaborative potential of both countries, while helping to build a long-term platform for bilateral engagement and shared progress.

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

Goodbaby International 2025 Revenue Reaches Approximately HK$8,659.2 Million

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CYBEX Set New Revenue and Profit Records Under Strong Momentum
Further Gaining Market Shares in Turbulent Global Environment

Highlights:

  • CYBEX set new records for both revenue and profit, with revenue rising sharply by 13.0% to approximately HK$5,047.4 million
  • Evenflo delivered a strong performance in the stroller category, while the continued and successful implementation of its digital strategy led to robust growth in the DTC channel
  • gb recorded strong growth in the car seats segment and has optimized its product mix
  • The Group’s one-dragon vertically integrated platform has mitigated risks associated with reliance on any single market and enabled agile, flexible responses to market volatilities

HONG KONG, March 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Goodbaby International Holdings Limited (“Goodbaby International” or the “Company”, HKEX stock code: 1086, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group“), a leading global parenting brands company, has announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 (the “Year”).

During the Year, the Group’s revenue totaled approximately HK$8,659.2 million (2024: approximately HK$8,765.9 million). Reported gross profit was approximately HK$4,434.0 million, reported operating profit was approximately HK$419.5 million, and reported net profit was approximately HK$218.4 million.

CYBEX achieves record results and expands global leadership amid challenging market conditions

Despite a challenging business environment, CYBEX achieved record revenue and profit, underscoring the brand’s exceptional resilience and considerable market influence. Supported by strong market demand for its products across the world, CYBEX recorded robust revenue growth of 13.0% to approximately HK$5,047.4 million (2024: approximately HK$4,467.3 million). Benefiting from positive operating leverage, CYBEX’s operating profit grew faster than its revenue, highlighting the brand’s focus on continuously improving business profitability. The sustained outstanding performance was driven by CYBEX’s solid brand position, diversified and innovative product portfolio, and continued expansion of its global omni-channel distribution network. During the Year, CYBEX opened two flagship stores in New York and Berlin, respectively, further reinforcing its leadership in “Strategic Big Cities” and enriching its omni-channel distribution network. The opening of the New York store also further boosted CYBEX’s momentum in the North American market, despite challenges from tariffs and price increases. Moreover, CYBEX garnered several international awards for product fashion design, safety, and functionality, further reinforcing its global leadership as a premium “technical-lifestyle” brand.

Evenflo achieves strong stroller growth and effective cost controls

Evenflo recorded revenue of approximately HK$2,118.1 million (2024: approximately HK$2,385.3 million). The decline was mainly attributable to lower sales in the car seat category and low-priced and older products in other categories. Nevertheless, the brand delivered strong performance in the stroller category through a record number of new launches, which partially offset the overall revenue decline. The brand also achieved strong growth in its DTC channel by leveraging a successful digital strategy. Additionally, Evenflo implemented mitigation measures, including stringent cost controls and a streamlined organization structure, which led to improved expense performance in the second half of the year.

gb’s product portfolio and channel upgrades lead to margin improvement

gb’s revenue was approximately HK$745.5 million (2024: approximately HK$918.1 million) for the Year. The revenue decline was mainly due to a strategic shift toward upgrading the product portfolio and focusing on the durables category (with strong growth recorded in the car seat segment), compounded by reduced sales of low-priced and older products. The brand enhanced consumer experience through improved fashion design and transitioned to offering one-stop solutions, resulting in strong growth in the car seat segment and a more optimized product mix. The channel mix was further optimized by prioritizing self-owned channels, adjusting the retail store network, and strengthening in-house management of online retail stores, all of which contributed to the gross margin improvement.

During the Year, the Blue Chip and other business recorded revenue of approximately HK$748.2 million. The Group’s relationship with its Blue Chip customers remained healthy and stable, and it continued to efficiently provide quality products and services for its customers.

Outlook

Looking ahead to 2026, the global economy is expected to remain volatile. Despite the challenges, the Group will continue to leverage its competitiveness strengths, respond swiftly to market changes, and pursue sustainable development opportunities. CYBEX will capitalize on its strong brand momentum and global omni-channel capabilities to further expand its market share worldwide. Evenflo will prioritize restoring revenue growth and profitability under its new management team, supported by continued product and channel enhancements. gb will focus on business turnaround by strengthening content marketing, growing the durables category, and enhancing the DTC strategy through strict cost discipline. And the Blue Chip business is expected to record moderate development as tariff policy uncertainties and fierce competition are expected to continue to impact its major customers’ business.

Mr. Tongyou LIU, Executive Director and Group CEO of Goodbaby International, said, “Over the past year, the macroeconomic environment has been extremely challenging. The Group responded proactively, overcoming difficulties and maintaining steady business development. Among its brands, CYBEX stood out with particularly impressive results, achieving strong growth in both revenue and profit, and demonstrating remarkable brand resilience and market influence. Looking ahead, the global political and economic landscape is expected to remain complex and uncertain. The Group will continue to strengthen its brands through its continuously expanded omni-channel networks and infrastructure across both existing and new markets. It will also further improve its global supply chain to enable faster market response and better utilize regional strengths, driving the Group’s long-term sustainable development.”

About Goodbaby International Holdings Limited

Goodbaby International Holdings Ltd. (stock code: 1086) is a world-leading parenting brands company. The Group serves millions of families around the world with its excellent portfolio of brands through design, research and development, manufacture, marketing and sales of children’s car safety seats, strollers, apparel and home textile products, feeding, nursing and personal care products, cribs, bicycles and tricycles and other children’s products.

For more information, please visit Goodbaby’s corporate website:
www.gbinternational.com.hk.

Citri Mobile Expands Singapore Repair Network as Jurong and Yishun Demand Grow

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Expansion strengthens access to fast, reliable device repair services across Jurong, Yishun, Tampines and Chinatown as demand for urgent technical support rises

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 March 2026 – Citri Mobile has expanded its Singapore repair network with stronger support in Jurong and Yishun, responding to rising demand for faster and more accessible device repair as device failures become increasingly disruptive to daily life.

A Citri Mobile technician performing internal diagnostics at a fully equipped repair station in Singapore.
A Citri Mobile technician performing internal diagnostics at a fully equipped repair station in Singapore.

What often begins as a minor inconvenience can quickly escalate. A phone may take longer to charge, a screen may flicker briefly before stabilising, or a laptop may run hotter than usual during routine use. These early signs are often ignored until the device stops functioning at a critical moment.

In recent months, technicians have observed a noticeable increase in cases involving sudden power loss, charging instability, motherboard-related faults and water damage. These issues often appear gradually before escalating into complete device failure, reflecting a broader shift in how modern devices behave under long-term usage.
Across Singapore, users are increasingly facing device failures at moments where immediate access is essential. A phone may stop responding during a payment, a transport app may fail to load before a journey, or a laptop may refuse to power on just before an important task. In such situations, the priority shifts quickly from convenience to restoring access in order to regain control of payments, communication and daily responsibilities.
Against this backdrop, Citri Mobile and its C3 Smart Repair by Citri Mobile outlets are strengthening support for customers dealing with urgent issues across smartphones, foldable devices, tablets, MacBooks and laptops.
In Jurong, these situations are often experienced during working hours and daily commutes. A phone that powers off unexpectedly mid-transaction or loses signal during navigation can create immediate disruption. In these moments, users searching for phone repair in Jurong often prioritise providers that are nearby, responsive and able to diagnose issues clearly without unnecessary delay.
In Yishun, the pattern frequently unfolds in residential settings. Devices that appear functional the night before may fail completely the next morning. A phone may not power on, a screen may remain black despite vibration, or a device may show signs of internal failure after minor exposure to moisture or accidental spills. When access to essential services is affected, the need for immediate local support becomes more urgent.
Water damage continues to be one of the more unpredictable causes of device failure. Even small amounts of moisture can lead to corrosion within internal components, affecting charging circuits, display connections or motherboard stability. In some cases, devices may continue to function temporarily before deteriorating rapidly over time.
At the same time, laptop and MacBook issues remain a significant concern, particularly for users who rely on their devices for work, study and communication. A MacBook that fails to power on, shuts down under load or shows inconsistent charging behaviour often indicates deeper issues such as logic board faults, battery degradation or power management instability.
For iPhone-related repairs, some users also look for providers that participate in Apple’s Independent Repair Provider programme, where applicable. Those seeking specialised support may explore iPhone repair in Singapore when reliability, diagnostics and parts compatibility are key considerations.
These issues are no longer isolated to one category of device. Similar underlying problems — including power IC faults, charging circuit instability and motherboard-level failures — can affect both smartphones and laptops. In many cases, users turn to providers offering broader device repair services in Singapore to address multiple concerns within a single visit.
In more complex cases, symptoms may appear inconsistent at first. A device may turn on intermittently, charge irregularly, or shut down without warning before failing entirely. These patterns often require careful diagnosis rather than immediate part replacement, particularly when internal board-level issues are involved.
Across Singapore, from Jurong and Yishun to Tampines and Chinatown, users increasingly choose repair providers that are close by, familiar and capable of handling both straightforward and complex faults with dependable turnaround. Customers in the northern region may also rely on nearby options such as mobile repair in Yishun for quicker access.
Citri Mobile said its recent expansion reflects a broader shift in customer expectations, where speed, clarity and reliability play a more significant role in decision-making.
“People usually start searching seriously when the problem stops them from doing something important,” a Citri Mobile spokesperson said. “Once payments, work access or communication are affected, the decision becomes immediate. They want a nearby solution they can trust.”
Citri Mobile operates across multiple Singapore locations under both Citri Mobile and C3 Smart Repair by Citri Mobile, supporting a wide range of repair needs from screen and battery replacements to charging issues, water damage recovery and motherboard-level repairs.
The company’s recent milestones include recognition as a Carousell Preferred Partner, receipt of the Carousell Best Service Award 2025, CaseTrust accreditation, and participation in Apple’s Independent Repair Provider programme for iPhone-related repair support.
With stronger coverage in Jurong and Yishun, alongside continued support in Chinatown and Tampines, Citri Mobile aims to improve access to timely and reliable device repair services for customers across the wider Singapore market.

Hashtag: #CitriMobile #SingaporeRepair #Jurong #Yishun





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

C3 Smart Repair By Citri Mobile

Citri Mobile is a Singapore-based device repair provider serving customers across multiple locations, including Jurong, Yishun, Chinatown and Tampines. The company operates outlets under both Citri Mobile and C3 Smart Repair by Citri Mobile, supporting smartphones, foldable devices, tablets, MacBooks and laptops.
Its services cover a wide range of issues, including screen and battery replacements, charging faults, water damage recovery and motherboard-related repairs, with a focus on accurate diagnostics and reliable turnaround.
Citri Mobile is a Carousell Preferred Partner, recipient of the Carousell Best Service Award 2025, CaseTrust-accredited, and part of Apple’s Independent Repair Provider programme for iPhone repairs.

Inside China’s wildest cave basketball court

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BEIJING, March 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from chinadaily.com.cn:

Beneath the majestic mountains of Guizhou province lie some of nature’s most awestruck wonders: vast karst caves formed over millions of years. Many of these natural caverns feature distinct acoustics and stable temperatures, making them sanctuaries for gatherings, performances and even sports activities.

Players pose for a group photo following the friendly basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Players pose for a group photo following the friendly basketball game, on March 28. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Residents of Heishui town have made the most of this natural gift by transforming Fengming Cave into a vibrant basketball venue.

Located in Yanhe Tujia autonomous county, Guizhou province, Fengming Cave welcomed guests from around the world on March 28. A friendly match between local residents and international participants of the 2026 China Storyteller Partnerships filled the cavern with cheers and chanting, as the sound of bouncing basketballs echoed through the towering limestone chamber.

The game offered visiting content creators a rare opportunity to experience China’s grassroots basketball phenomenon known as “Village BA”, where community spirit, local pride and a passion for the sport come together. Under the dramatic, stalactite-lined cave ceiling, players and spectators shared the excitement, turning the natural cavern into a lively arena of cultural exchange.

For many of the international guests, playing basketball deep inside a cave was an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by towering rock formations and energized by the enthusiasm of the local crowd, they discovered that the spirit of sport can thrive even in the most unexpected places.

Foshan Launches First Provincial-Level International Medical Pilot

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Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital Sets New Benchmark for Greater Bay Area Healthcare

FOSHAN, China, March 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On March 28, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital inaugurated the International Medical Center (FIMC), Foshan’s first provincial-level international medical pilot, supporting Fosun Health’s role in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Belt and Road development.


The ceremony brought together government officials, medical experts, global insurance representatives and international guests. FIMC was officially unveiled, with strategic agreements signed alongside an International Medical Development Roundtable Forum.

Guangchang Guo, Chairman of Fosun International, stated: “Fosun’s international medical strategy integrates China’s medical capabilities with global resources, allowing GBA residents to access world-class healthcare at home while attracting patients from around the world.”

The hospital has been developing international medical services since establishing an International Health Care Unit in 2019, upgraded in 2024. Over the past three years, it has served nearly 24,000 overseas patients from 124 countries and regions, with nearly 10,000 visits from Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, Taiwan region and foreign patients in 2025.

Spanning 20,000 square meters with 100 beds, FIMC integrates outpatient, inpatient, examination and rehabilitation services. It pioneers a “General Practice + Specialist” model, offering personalized healthcare solutions. The center also provides an end-to-end service including medical visa support, multilingual support, direct insurance settlement, cross-border remote follow-ups and global referral services. It features a multilingual team, bilingual medical records, prayer rooms, and customized catering to meet diverse cultural needs.

FIMC has established direct settlement partnerships with over 50 insurers worldwide, and has directly linked with Fosun Health Group overseas offices in Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Central Asia.

Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital is a Grade A tertiary general hospital, ranking first in China’s Top 100 Private Single Hospitals for eight consecutive years and holding two JCI certifications. It operates five national-level treatment centers and 27 key specialties. As a designated hospital for the Hong Kong and Macau Drug and Device Access Policy, it has approved 52 international innovative drugs and devices, serving over 1,600 patients. The hospital is equipped with the sixth-generation CyberKnife (one of only four in South China) and the Da Vinci Surgical System.

As a provincial international medical pilot, FIMC aims to build a replicable model for international healthcare services, rooted in Foshan, radiating across the GBA, and connecting global networks.

Record Your Passion: TORRAS Partners with Portugal Football for the Season Ahead

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NEW YORK, March 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In 2026, Portugal will begin a World Cup journey with special significance. After missing the last World Cup hosted in the United States back in 1994, this storied national team now has the chance to create a new chapter on American soil, one that could become a defining moment in Portugal’s football history. And for this exciting stage, preparation is about more than training alone. Beyond the usual partnerships in kits and performance gear, Portugal has teamed up with innovative technology brand TORRAS, bringing it on as a partner to document the journey and help capture the moments that shape it.

TORRAS&FPF
TORRAS&FPF

Recently, the Portugal national football team and rising consumer electronics brand TORRAS unveiled a new collaboration titled “Record Your Passion.” At the heart of the partnership is TORRAS’ innovative Ostand Case, inspired by a habit that has become increasingly common in the everyday lives of athletes and sports enthusiasts: using their phones to capture the ordinary moments of training and competition. Unlike many sports brands that focus on match-day intensity and immediate results, TORRAS recognized that progress is rarely visible in a single day. It is through the steady act of recording those everyday moments that many athletes begin to see their growth, build deeper confidence, and strengthen their passion for sports.

In many ways, the partnership speaks directly to the long-standing spirit of Portuguese football. Instead of celebrating talent, instinct, or individual heroics alone, it points to something many Portuguese players — Cristiano Ronaldo among them — have come to represent over the years: a grounded willingness to face reality, and to pursue greatness through relentless focus, discipline, and daily commitment. The real effort and sacrifice they make, both in training and life, often resonate more deeply with fans and the public than the final result itself. That is exactly why it matters to capture the moments behind the scenes.

To empower the passion that carry through every moment, TORRAS is also releasing a limited-edition Portugal national team Q3 AIR Ostand case, honoring the dedication and courage that defines Portuguese football through the whole visual design. Drawing inspiration from the team’s new kit, the case features a red, green, and gold palette, while the wavy texture reflects Portugal’s enduring maritime spirit and legacy of adventure. The case’s signature airbag structure is further elevated with the iconic Quinas crest and football-inspired graphics.

Beyond its design and strong protection, the innovative magnetic stand is what makes the TORRAS Ostand case an ideal companion for documenting and sharing everyday training moments. With 180-degree flip, 360-degree rotation, and a secure magnetic hold, this magnetic stand gives athletes an effortless and hands-free way to capture their routines in almost any setting. The phone can be placed steadily on a flat court, attached to nearby fixtures, or mounted on gym equipment, all without bulky filming gear or interrupting the flow of training. The limited-edition case is now available at [https://bit.ly/40TcAWJ].

Recording is not only for athletes, it is also for everyone. For football fans, what could feel more natural than carrying a football-inspired Ostand case into the energy of the game? Whether watching a match or sharing experience with friends, anyone with their phone and Ostand case can capture their own football moments. After all, the chance to take part in, connect with, and share in a global event is itself a moment worth remembering.

Throughout the World Cup season, TORRAS will introduce a series of football-themed activities, bringing fans and sports enthusiasts together to take part in, share, and record the moments of passion that define this global event.

About TORRAS

TORRAS is a global consumer technology brand focused on designing innovative, high-performance mobile accessories that enhance everyday life. Known for its user-centric approach and premium design, TORRAS continues to deliver products that combine functionality, style, and reliability for modern consumers worldwide.

TORRAS
TORRAS

Lianlian DigiTech Reports 2025 Results with 31.9% Revenue Growth and 105.9% Increase in Adjusted Operating Profit

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HANGZHOU, China, March 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On March 26, 2026, Hong Kong-listed Lianlian DigiTech Co., Ltd. (“Lianlian DigiTech” or the “Company”; stock code: 2598.HK) released its 2025 annual results. The Company reported revenue of RMB 1.734 billion, up 31.9% year-on-year, and adjusted operating profit of RMB 82.26 million, an increase of 105.9%. Growth was driven by continued strength in its global payments business and greater deployment of AI across core operations. Both annual revenue and profit rose significantly, exceeding market expectations. Its core global payments business continued to perform strongly, while ongoing investments in AI and compliance contributed to improved operating efficiency and scalability.

A Milestone Year: Operating Profit Doubles, Third Consecutive Year in the Black

According to the results report, as of December 31, 2025, Lianlian DigiTech’s total revenue for the year reached RMB 1.734 billion, a year-on-year increase of 31.9%, reaching a new high. Gross profit grew 28% from the prior year to RMB 873 million, reflecting stable margins. After factoring in gains from equity disposals, the Company’s net profit stood at RMB 1.662 billion. Adjusted operating profit (excluding all non-operating items, including the gain from the disposal of the joint venture Express (Hangzhou) Technology Service Co., Ltd.) reached RMB 82.26 million, up 105.9% year-on-year, reflecting improved operating leverage in the Company’s core business. The customer base continued to expand. As of the end of 2025, the Company served a cumulative total of 10.4 million customers, with continued growth in both scale and customer engagement.

Zhang Zhengyu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lianlian DigiTech, said, “2025 was a year in which we solidified our foundation, accelerated across the board, and achieved a real breakthrough in profitability. Thanks to the dedication of our team, we exceeded our goals in customer acquisition, product system upgrades, and operational efficiency, delivering meaningful and high-caliber growth across all core metrics.”

Wei Ping, Chief Financial Officer of Lianlian DigiTech, said, “2025 marks the second year since Lianlian DigiTech’s listing, and we’ve delivered another impressive financial report. Revenue, gross profit, net profit, and operating profit all exceeded market expectations. The ratio of our three major expense categories to revenue improved significantly from last year, reflecting ongoing gains in operational efficiency, and we continue to hold a strong cash position with a solid financial structure. Looking ahead, the Company will increasingly focus on combining organic growth with disciplined merger and acquisitions (M&As) and strategic investments to expand our business footprint and drive sustained momentum, building out a broader Lianlian ecosystem. “

Core Business: Global Payments Revenue Outpaces Industry Growth, Value-Added Services Jump 81.2%

As one of China’s leading digital payment solution providers, Lianlian DigiTech’s core business consists of digital payment services—including global payments and domestic payments—alongside value-added services. Both segments continued to grow, with further improvement in the revenue mix.

The results show that in 2025, digital payment services remained the primary revenue contributor, generating RMB 1.45 billion, a year-on-year increase of 26%. Within that, global payments delivered strong growth, with total payment volume (TPV) hitting RMB 452.4 billion, up 60.7% from the previous year, and revenue reaching RMB 1.045 billion, a 29.3% jump, outpacing industry averages.

Lianlian DigiTech noted that in 2025, against a shifting global trade environment, its global payments business delivered strong growth, driven by continued investment in technology and international expansion. On the technology side, by upgrading its underlying architecture and deepening integration with key industry verticals, the Company rebuilt its payments infrastructure and expanded the deployment of privately hosted AI large language models. A range of AI-enabled tools were embedded across key functions—risk management, customer support, and exchange rate optimization—reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing the customer experience.

In parallel, while strengthening its presence in Europe and the United States, the Company expanded into Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, leveraging local payment licenses and in-market operations teams. By establishing regional operation centers, it further integrated its global and local payment capabilities with regional trade ecosystems.

In the domestic payments segment, Lianlian DigiTech continued to align with regulatory developments and reinforce its core payments capabilities. The Company reinforced the close coordination between its domestic payments capabilities and its global payments network. During the period, it allocated resources to support the cross-border needs of Chinese companies expanding internationally, reinforcing the foundation for its domestic payments business and improving overall growth quality. In 2025, the gross margin for domestic payments rose to 23%, up 3.3 percentage points from a year earlier.

On the value-added services front, driven by the strong performance of virtual card services built around high-frequency cross-border trade scenarios, customer engagement increased. In 2025, revenue from value-added services surged 81.2% year-on-year to RMB 265 million.

Technology Roadmap: R&D Spending Increases 13% YoY, Expanding AI Deployment

In 2025, Lianlian DigiTech continued to prioritize technology investment, with R&D spending rising. R&D expenses for the year reached RMB 361 million, up 13% year-on-year, or 17.6% when excluding share-based compensation expenses, reflecting the Company’s ongoing investment in AI and related technologies, including blockchain and digital assets.

The Company broadened the application of AI across its operations. During the period, Lianlian DigiTech completed the private deployment of AI large language models, embedding AI-driven tools such as LoopAI and LoopChat across key areas including risk management, foreign exchange, and customer service. On the risk front, the AI-powered risk control system enabled automated document capture, intelligent compliance checks, and millisecond-level anomaly alerts, significantly improving both efficiency and accuracy while strengthening compliance capabilities.

In customer service, by integrating cloud-native technology, big data, and AI, the Company developed tools such as the Lianlian Cross-Border Merchant Confidence Index to provide actionable insights into merchant performance, helping customers navigate uncertainty and enhancing the overall user experience.

The Company continued to assess applications in digital assets and blockchain. Drawing on its Hong Kong VATP (virtual asset trading platform) license, it began early-stage work in digital assets, while evaluating how blockchain could improve cross-border payment efficiency and reduce costs, bridging traditional payment infrastructure and emerging digital technologies.

In 2026, Lianlian DigiTech plans to further scale its AI deployment, driving AI adoption across its payments and value-added services. Through targeted organizational changes and a focus on AI-native talent, the Company will continue to enhance operational efficiency and execution.

Global Footprint: Payment License Portfolio Expands to 66, Accelerating International Expansion

2025 marked a key year for Lianlian DigiTech as it grew its international operations. With the establishment of an overseas headquarters in Hong Kong, an larger portfolio of licenses, and a broader partnership ecosystem, the Company further strengthened its position as a global payments provider.

Lianlian DigiTech established its overseas headquarters in Hong Kong to support its international expansion. In October 2025, Lianlian DigiTech signed on as a strategic enterprise partner with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, and in November it set up its overseas headquarters in Hong Kong, establishing the city as the central hub for global operations and coordination, R&D, and international partnerships. The headquarters is focused on three main areas:

  • Building an “Intelligent Pay+” cross-border payments architecture powered by blockchain and AI;
  • Focusing on both technology and compliance, including turning its compliance capabilities in anti-money laundering and data privacy into scalable products, supporting Hong Kong’s fintech ecosystem;
  • Forging partnerships with leading global technology firms, academic institutions, and investment partners to strengthen its technology stack through M&As and joint R&D.

The Company also continued to broaden its global licensing footprint. In August 2025, its wholly owned subsidiary Lianlian StarFX Company Limited obtained a Type 3 license from the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong, supporting the growth of its product offerings. As of December 31, 2025, Lianlian DigiTech held 66 global payment licenses and related credentials, enabling it to operate in more than 100 countries and regions and support transaction settlements in over 130 currencies. As the only Chinese digital payment solutions provider with money transmitter licenses across all U.S. states, the Company’s global compliance advantage remains a key differentiator. Combined with its VATP license and its early work on blockchain applications in digital RMB and cross-border payments, this positions the Company well for continued international growth.

Lianlian DigiTech also strengthened its global payments ecosystem through collaborations. In 2025, the Company established partnerships with a range of global payment service providers, including UnionPay International (UPI), Visa, 12 Victory, Veem, PAYSO, and Waffo. By integrating complementary capabilities and increasing partner coverage, the Company continued to refine its global payments network and enhance service capabilities.

Looking ahead, Zhang Zhengyu said, “We will continue to expand the use of AI across our business and apply it to real-world payment scenarios. At the same time, we will continue to grow our international footprint and strengthen our capabilities in cross-border payments and compliant financial services. Our goal is to build secure, efficient, and accessible financial infrastructure to support global trade.”

SMU emerges as world’s most improved university in QS Subject Rankings

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SINGAPORE, March 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore Management University (SMU) has recorded strong gains in the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, emerging as the world’s most improved university among institutions with 10 or more ranked subjects.

Singapore Management University located in the heart of Singapore's city centre.
Singapore Management University located in the heart of Singapore’s city centre.

In this year’s rankings, eight out of 10 SMU subjects climbed globally, reflecting a broad-based uplift across disciplines and reinforcing the University’s continued upward trajectory as a dynamic and fast-evolving institution.

The results highlight sustained progress across SMU’s academic portfolio. Notably, Business & Management Studies rose to 39th globally, while Accounting & Finance ranked 50th globally, both breaking into the top 50 and marking a significant milestone for some of the University’s core areas of strength.

Among the standout gains, SMU’s Law programme was the most improved subject entry in Singapore, rising 45 places to 56th globally. This represents one of the most significant single-year improvements across all ranked subjects in the country. This achievement comes as the Yong Pung How School of Law looks forward to celebrating its 20th anniversary next year.

With these improvements, SMU features in the global top 60 for four subjects – Business & Management Studies, Accounting & Finance, Economics & Econometrics, and Law.

At an aggregate level, SMU’s Social Sciences & Management entered the global top 100, with a substantial rise of 89 places to 86th globally, making it the most improved among Singapore universities this year.

Taken together, these results underscore SMU’s continued progress in strengthening both disciplinary depth and global recognition. The University’s emphasis on impactful research has contributed to sustained improvements across multiple fronts.

SMU President, Professor Lily Kong, said, “These results reflect the dedication of our faculty, students and partners in building a university that is both academically rigorous and deeply connected to real-world impact. We are encouraged by the strong, broad-based progress across our disciplines, which affirms the high quality of SMU’s education and research.”

As a young university, SMU’s performance in this year’s rankings underscores its growing international standing and continued momentum. With consistent gains across the majority of its subjects, the University remains focused on deepening its strengths while advancing new areas of impact in an increasingly complex global landscape.

According to QS Quacquarelli Symonds, this year’s ranking analyses more than 21,000 academic offerings from some 1,900 institutions across 100 countries in 55 academic disciplines and five broad faculty areas (Arts & Humanities, Engineering & Technology, Life Sciences & Medicine, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences & Management).   

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