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Fosun Pharmaceutical Deeply Embraces AI, Self-developed PharmAID Decision Intelligence Platform Boosts Efficient Innovation

SHANGHAI, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nowadays, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is profoundly reshaping the landscape of the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. As a global innovation-driven pharmaceutical and healthcare group, Fosun Pharma places great emphasis on the transformative potential of AI technology in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The company actively embraces AI technology, deploying it in areas such as drug research and development, medical imaging, and precision medicine through both independent research and external collaborations, thereby driving transformation and development in the pharmaceutical industry through technological advancements. At the same time, Fosun Pharma is accelerating the deeper application of AI technology in marketing, customer service, and smart office solutions, using AI to improve quality and efficiency while promoting enhanced corporate management effectiveness.

Fosun Pharma's Layout in AI Field
Fosun Pharma’s Layout in AI Field

Self-developed PharmAID Decision Intelligence Platform Integrates Global Leading Large Model Technology and Has connected with Deepseek R1

As a pioneer in the AI transformation of the pharmaceutical industry, Fosun Pharma recently launched its self-developed PharmAID decision intelligence platform internally. This platform establishes a full lifecycle intelligent decision-making network covering innovative R&D scenarios. Deeply integrated with global leading large model technologies, the platform has taken the lead in connecting to with Deepseek R1. Based on the PharmAID decision intelligence platform, Fosun Pharma is accelerating the development of “drug commercial value-assisted decision-making” capabilities, broadening decision-making perspectives, and improving decision accuracy. The platform enhances drug R&D efficiency and accelerates the transformation of R&D achievements by integrating point prediction, conformational prediction, binding mechanism analysis, toxicology optimization, medical writing, and clinical information extraction. This initiative aims to lead innovation and transformation, and it is the first self-developed AI decision intelligence platform in pharmaceutical industry.

The PharmAID decision intelligence platform offers AI translation and AI medical writing/revision features, significantly improving information retrieval and writing efficiency under the support of AI technology. At present, the PharmAID decision intelligence platform has integrated multiple professional clinical information and pipeline data platforms around the world, increasing content generation accuracy in the pharmaceutical and healthcare field by 50% compared to general large models, with data updated at T+1, ensuring outstanding accuracy and timeliness. Moreover, Fosun Pharma applies AI technology to carry out intelligent training for sales personnel and further assists business scenarios, achieving “more precise” marketing. Through the deep empowerment of the PharmAID decision intelligence platform, Fosun Pharma is building its digital competitiveness, leading the entire pharmaceutical industry into a new era of AI-driven innovation.

AI Technology Empowers Innovative R&D and Accelerate Breakthroughs

Fosun Pharma actively promotes AI-driven innovation. As early as 2022, Fosun Pharma formed a strategic partnership with AI pharmaceutical company Insilico Medicine, combining strengths to embark on a new journey in global AI drug R&D. In January 2025, Henlius, a subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, entered into a strategic collaboration with DP Technology for AI-assisted drug R&D, aiming to integrate AI with physical modeling to jointly advance new drug development processes. This collaboration leverages DP Technology’s technical strength and project experience in the “AI for Science” field, combining expertise in drug discovery and AI computing to provide new insights for the development of biologics antibodies/ADCs and small molecule drugs targeting difficult-to-drug targets.

Building an “AI+X” Smart Healthcare Ecosystem

In medical devices sector, Fosun Aitrox, a subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, focuses on the medical AI field and is one of the few companies in China offering comprehensive AI medical service solutions across multiple departments including radiology, pathology, ultrasound, cardiology, respiratory, orthopedics, neurology, and thyroid and breast surgery. Fosun Aitrox delves into medical institutions and primary healthcare service scenarios, identifying real needs and enhancing service capabilities in core scenarios of tiered healthcare systems, including early screening, remote diagnosis, and precision medicine. Through the “AI+X” model, Fosun Aitrox collaborates deeply with top medical centers, promoting the transformation of scientific research achievements and the popularization of standardized medical systems, empowering the construction of smart diagnosis and treatment systems. Its three major AI-assisted diagnostic product lines—radiology imaging, pathology imaging, and ultrasound imaging—have been widely used clinically and have won multiple world championships in international competitions.

Fosun Aitrox’s AI medical imaging products can quickly and accurately analyze medical imaging data, providing doctors with diagnostic suggestions, helping them more efficiently identify lesions and assess conditions, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy and timeliness. The application of this technology not only enhances the quality and efficiency of medical services but also benefits patients in remote and resource-scarce areas, allowing them to access high-quality medical services locally. To date, Fosun Aitrox has expanded its presence to cover 70% of China, with operating businesses in over 20 provinces, establishing nearly 10 regional smart healthcare project models. The company has released and is developing more than 70 AI products.

Additionally, Fosun Pharma’s incubated company, JeDiCare, leverages its extensive experience in image navigation algorithm development and interventional consumable design, along with a global perspective, to innovatively introduce AR navigation technology into minimally invasive surgery. Its self-developed puncture surgery navigation device (AR navigation puncture positioning system) is currently under market application review. This product features proprietary “monocular vision augmented reality” technology, integrating computer vision monocular tracking and AR display technology, not only achieving precise positioning but also optimizing the positioning process. In the future, with the assistance of the AR navigation puncture positioning system, primary hospitals will also be able to perform precise thoracoscopic surgeries, bringing high-quality medical care to more patients.

Looking ahead, Fosun Pharma will continue to increase investment and exploration in AI, accelerating the construction of AI innovation across the entire industry chain through independent research and external collaborations, leading the AI transformation of the pharmaceutical industry, and contributing more wisdom and strength to the cause of human health.

***

About Fosun Pharma

Founded in 1994, Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd.* (“Fosun Pharma”; stock code: 600196.SH, 02196.HK) is a global innovation-driven pharmaceutical and healthcare industry group. Fosun Pharma directly operates businesses including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, medical diagnosis, and healthcare services. As a shareholder of Sinopharm Co., Ltd., Fosun Pharma expands its areas in the pharmaceutical distribution and retail business.

Fosun Pharma is patient-centered and unmet clinical needs-oriented. Through diversified and multi-level cooperation models such as independent research and development, cooperative development, license-in, and industrial investment, the company continues to enrich its innovative product pipeline and focus on differentiated product R&D with high-tech barriers, to continuously enhance the value of its pipeline. Fosun Pharma’s innovative products focus on core therapeutic areas such as solid tumors, hematologic tumors and immunity inflammation. It also strengthens core technology platforms such as antibodies/ADC, cell therapy, and small molecules.

Guided by the 4IN strategy (Innovation, Internationalization, Intelligentization, and Integration), Fosun Pharma adheres to the business philosophy of “Innovation for Good Health”, continues to promote innovative transformation, actively deploys internationalization, strengthens business focus by product lines, promotes integrated operations and efficiency improvement, and is dedicated to being the global leading integrator of pharmaceutical and healthcare innovation.

For more information, please visit our official website: www.fosunpharma.com

 

Fosun Pharma Deeply Embraces AI, Self-developed PharmAID Decision Intelligence Platform Boosts Efficient Innovation

SHANGHAI, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nowadays, artificial intelligence (AI) technology is profoundly reshaping the landscape of the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. As a global innovation-driven pharmaceutical and healthcare group, Fosun Pharma places great emphasis on the transformative potential of AI technology in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The company actively embraces AI technology, deploying it in areas such as drug research and development, medical imaging, and precision medicine through both independent research and external collaborations, thereby driving transformation and development in the pharmaceutical industry through technological advancements. At the same time, Fosun Pharma is accelerating the deeper application of AI technology in marketing, customer service, and smart office solutions, using AI to improve quality and efficiency while promoting enhanced corporate management effectiveness.

Fosun Pharma's Layout in AI Field
Fosun Pharma’s Layout in AI Field

Self-developed PharmAID Decision Intelligence Platform Integrates Global Leading Large Model Technology and Has connected with Deepseek R1

As a pioneer in the AI transformation of the pharmaceutical industry, Fosun Pharma recently launched its self-developed PharmAID decision intelligence platform internally. This platform establishes a full lifecycle intelligent decision-making network covering innovative R&D scenarios. Deeply integrated with global leading large model technologies, the platform has taken the lead in connecting to with Deepseek R1. Based on the PharmAID decision intelligence platform, Fosun Pharma is accelerating the development of “drug commercial value-assisted decision-making” capabilities, broadening decision-making perspectives, and improving decision accuracy. The platform enhances drug R&D efficiency and accelerates the transformation of R&D achievements by integrating point prediction, conformational prediction, binding mechanism analysis, toxicology optimization, medical writing, and clinical information extraction. This initiative aims to lead innovation and transformation, and it is the first self-developed AI decision intelligence platform in pharmaceutical industry.

The PharmAID decision intelligence platform offers AI translation and AI medical writing/revision features, significantly improving information retrieval and writing efficiency under the support of AI technology. At present, the PharmAID decision intelligence platform has integrated multiple professional clinical information and pipeline data platforms around the world, increasing content generation accuracy in the pharmaceutical and healthcare field by 50% compared to general large models, with data updated at T+1, ensuring outstanding accuracy and timeliness. Moreover, Fosun Pharma applies AI technology to carry out intelligent training for sales personnel and further assists business scenarios, achieving “more precise” marketing. Through the deep empowerment of the PharmAID decision intelligence platform, Fosun Pharma is building its digital competitiveness, leading the entire pharmaceutical industry into a new era of AI-driven innovation.

AI Technology Empowers Innovative R&D and Accelerate Breakthroughs

Fosun Pharma actively promotes AI-driven innovation. As early as 2022, Fosun Pharma formed a strategic partnership with AI pharmaceutical company Insilico Medicine, combining strengths to embark on a new journey in global AI drug R&D. In January 2025, Henlius, a subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, entered into a strategic collaboration with DP Technology for AI-assisted drug R&D, aiming to integrate AI with physical modeling to jointly advance new drug development processes. This collaboration leverages DP Technology’s technical strength and project experience in the “AI for Science” field, combining expertise in drug discovery and AI computing to provide new insights for the development of biologics antibodies/ADCs and small molecule drugs targeting difficult-to-drug targets.

Building an “AI+X” Smart Healthcare Ecosystem

In medical devices sector, Fosun Aitrox, a subsidiary of Fosun Pharma, focuses on the medical AI field and is one of the few companies in China offering comprehensive AI medical service solutions across multiple departments including radiology, pathology, ultrasound, cardiology, respiratory, orthopedics, neurology, and thyroid and breast surgery. Fosun Aitrox delves into medical institutions and primary healthcare service scenarios, identifying real needs and enhancing service capabilities in core scenarios of tiered healthcare systems, including early screening, remote diagnosis, and precision medicine. Through the “AI+X” model, Fosun Aitrox collaborates deeply with top medical centers, promoting the transformation of scientific research achievements and the popularization of standardized medical systems, empowering the construction of smart diagnosis and treatment systems. Its three major AI-assisted diagnostic product lines—radiology imaging, pathology imaging, and ultrasound imaging—have been widely used clinically and have won multiple world championships in international competitions.

Fosun Aitrox’s AI medical imaging products can quickly and accurately analyze medical imaging data, providing doctors with diagnostic suggestions, helping them more efficiently identify lesions and assess conditions, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy and timeliness. The application of this technology not only enhances the quality and efficiency of medical services but also benefits patients in remote and resource-scarce areas, allowing them to access high-quality medical services locally. To date, Fosun Aitrox has expanded its presence to cover 70% of China, with operating businesses in over 20 provinces, establishing nearly 10 regional smart healthcare project models. The company has released and is developing more than 70 AI products.

Additionally, Fosun Pharma’s incubated company, JeDiCare, leverages its extensive experience in image navigation algorithm development and interventional consumable design, along with a global perspective, to innovatively introduce AR navigation technology into minimally invasive surgery. Its self-developed puncture surgery navigation device (AR navigation puncture positioning system) is currently under market application review. This product features proprietary “monocular vision augmented reality” technology, integrating computer vision monocular tracking and AR display technology, not only achieving precise positioning but also optimizing the positioning process. In the future, with the assistance of the AR navigation puncture positioning system, primary hospitals will also be able to perform precise thoracoscopic surgeries, bringing high-quality medical care to more patients.

Looking ahead, Fosun Pharma will continue to increase investment and exploration in AI, accelerating the construction of AI innovation across the entire industry chain through independent research and external collaborations, leading the AI transformation of the pharmaceutical industry, and contributing more wisdom and strength to the cause of human health.

***

About Fosun Pharma

Founded in 1994, Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical (Group) Co., Ltd.* (“Fosun Pharma”; stock code: 600196.SH, 02196.HK) is a global innovation-driven pharmaceutical and healthcare industry group. Fosun Pharma directly operates businesses including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, medical diagnosis, and healthcare services. As a shareholder of Sinopharm Co., Ltd., Fosun Pharma expands its areas in the pharmaceutical distribution and retail business.

Fosun Pharma is patient-centered and unmet clinical needs-oriented. Through diversified and multi-level cooperation models such as independent research and development, cooperative development, license-in, and industrial investment, the company continues to enrich its innovative product pipeline and focus on differentiated product R&D with high-tech barriers, to continuously enhance the value of its pipeline. Fosun Pharma’s innovative products focus on core therapeutic areas such as solid tumors, hematologic tumors and immunity inflammation. It also strengthens core technology platforms such as antibodies/ADC, cell therapy, and small molecules.

Guided by the 4IN strategy (Innovation, Internationalization, Intelligentization, and Integration), Fosun Pharma adheres to the business philosophy of “Innovation for Good Health”, continues to promote innovative transformation, actively deploys internationalization, strengthens business focus by product lines, promotes integrated operations and efficiency improvement, and is dedicated to being the global leading integrator of pharmaceutical and healthcare innovation.

For more information, please visit our official website: www.fosunpharma.com

 

 

Per Franzén appointed new CEO of EQT AB as of May 2025

  • The Board of Directors of EQT AB (“EQT”) has appointed Per Franzén as new CEO and Managing Partner, effective as of the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on 27 May 2025. During this transition period, Christian Sinding will remain as CEO.
  • Per Franzén has spent nearly two decades at EQT, currently serving as Deputy Managing Partner and Head of Private Capital Europe & North America. He has been instrumental to EQT’s growth and success, most recently leading the EUR 22 billion raise of EQT X, which was the largest private equity fund closed globally in 2024.
  • After the transition, Christian Sinding will become an Institutional Partner. In this role he will Chair the EQT Council, which brings together some of EQT’s most experienced leaders with external expertise to build partnerships and provide EQT and its clients the insights needed to stay ahead in an ever-evolving world. He will also continue to Chair the Global Investment Forum and remain a member of several Investment Committees.

STOCKHOLM, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of EQT AB (“EQT”) has appointed Per Franzén as the new CEO and Managing Partner of EQT, effective as of the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting on 27 May 2025. Per Franzén will succeed Christian Sinding, who has led EQT through a period of extraordinary transformation, growing the firm from a market capitalization of around EUR 7 billion at the time of its 2019 IPO to around EUR 40 billion at the time of this announcement. Per becomes CEO at a time of strength for EQT, which recently reported record levels of investments, increased exit activity, and significant portfolio valuation growth for 2024. This transition sets EQT up for continued success as it enters a EUR 100 billion fundraising cycle and looks to execute on new initiatives, including launching additional investment strategies, expanding distribution channels, and accelerating brand building efforts.

Per has spent nearly two decades at EQT, currently serving as Head of Private Capital Europe & North America and Deputy Managing Partner. He has been instrumental to EQT’s success, most recently leading the EUR 22 billion raise of EQT X, which was the largest private equity fund closed globally in 2024. Today, EQT Private Capital Europe & North America manages EUR 113 billion in total assets under management, making it EQT’s largest business line.

Commenting on his appointment, Per Franzén, said: “It is an honor to be appointed CEO of EQT. I am truly passionate about the firm, having spent most of my career here, and I am deeply committed to building on the fantastic global platform we have established under Christian’s leadership. It’s exciting to lead EQT into its next chapter together with the team and the support of the Board, and I’m grateful that Christian will remain at EQT as an Institutional Partner. I look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional value to our clients and shareholders, while upholding our core values.”

Christian Sinding will remain CEO during the period leading up to the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, to ensure the best possible transition. Christian, who joined EQT in 1998 and has served as CEO since 2019, will then become an Institutional Partner. In this role he will Chair the newly formed EQT Council, which aims to amplify EQT’s ability to create meaningful partnerships, provide clients with the insights needed to succeed for the long-term, and accelerate the impact of its global business. Christian will also continue to Chair the Global Investment Forum, which brings together EQT’s most senior investment professionals to optimize performance by sharing expertise and insights from across all of EQT’s strategies. He will remain a member of several EQT fund Investment Committees.

“As I reflect on my journey with EQT so far, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for what we have accomplished together as a firm. Going from being employee number eleven to having nearly two thousand fantastic colleagues in over twenty markets is an unforgettable journey. Together, we have shown that a values-driven firm, which attracts and retains exceptional people, can deliver excellent performance that in the process benefits both our clients and the world at large,” said Christian Sinding, incoming Institutional Partner at EQT. “I would like to thank Conni and the rest of the Board for their support during my time as CEO. I am proud to hand over the leadership to Per and as Chair of the Council and Global Investment Forum, as well as through my membership of several investment committees, I am excited to continue supporting EQT.”

Conni Jonsson, Chairperson of the Board of EQT, said: “Christian has taken EQT through a period of remarkable transformation. His vision, dedication and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in establishing EQT’s leading global position. He successfully led us through our 2019 IPO and has had a relentless attention to performance and culture as EQT has expanded into new markets and strategies. On behalf of the Board, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to Christian and I am pleased that he will become an Institutional Partner.”

“This is the next logical step for EQT and we now enter an exciting new phase with Per at the helm. I have worked with Per for nearly two decades, so I know he is a role model for EQT’s distinct values and performance-driven culture. As Head of EQT Private Capital Europe & North America, Per has proven his ability to build and lead a large, multi-strategy, international team. I look forward to supporting him on this next step and am confident that with Per as CEO, thanks to his experience and performance mindset, EQT will continue delivering outstanding results for our clients and shareholders,” added Conni Jonsson.

This is information that EQT AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, at 08:30 CET on 17 February 2025.

About Per Franzén

Per Franzén joined EQT Partners in Stockholm in May 2007. He currently serves as Head of Private Capital Europe and North America and Deputy Managing Partner. He is a member of the EQT Executive Committee and Chairman of the Equity Partners Investment Committee.

Per is currently based in London but has previously worked in the Stockholm and Munich offices. He has been involved in a number of investments, including Anticimex, IVC Evidensia and IFS. Prior to joining EQT, Per spent six years at Morgan Stanley’s London and Stockholm offices working in M&A, Leveraged Finance and Nordic Banking.

Please find photos of Per Franzén here.

About the EQT Council

The EQT Council aims to amplify EQT’s ability to create meaningful partnerships, provide clients the insights needed to succeed for the long-term, and accelerate the impact of its global business. The EQT Council brings together some of EQT’s most experienced leaders with external expertise and is Chaired by Christian Sinding. 

From EQT, members also include EQT AB Chairperson Conni Jonsson and Lennart Blecher, Head of Real Assets and Deputy Managing Partner. They are joined by Marcus Wallenberg, the Vice Chair of Investor AB who holds a number of other Director and Board roles. Over time, EQT plans to expand the Council to further strengthen its expertise.

Contact
Olof Svensson, Head of Shareholder Relations, +46 72 989 09 15
EQT Press Office, press@eqtpartners.com, +46 8 506 55 334

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com.

https://news.cision.com/eqt/r/per-franzen-appointed-new-ceo-of-eqt-ab-as-of-may-2025,c4106371

The following files are available for download:

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Per Franzén_EQT

 

ANGEL J2810 Microfiltration Water Purifier Receives NSF Certification, Boosting Global Expansion

BANGKOK, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ANGEL, a global leader in water purification technology, announced that its J2810 series of microfiltration water filters has earned National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification after passing rigorous testing. All four products in the series meet the NSF/ANSI 42 standards for material safety and structural integrity. The certification, granted by the industry’s most trusted authority, is another recognition of ANGEL’s superior product quality, further strengthening its position for global expansion.

NSF certification is one of the most stringent standards in the global drinking water treatment industry, covering key testing dimensions including material safety, structural integrity, filtration effectiveness, and water quality improvement capabilities. Recognized by governments and enterprises worldwide, it is the most trusted certification in the water purification industry. The NSF-certified J2810 series microfiltration water filters underscore ANGEL’s technological innovation capabilities in the water purification industry and affirms the product’s readiness for international markets.

ANGEL Receives NSF Certification
ANGEL Receives NSF Certification

The J2810 series is a durable water filters designed specifically for the catering industry. Featuring high-efficiency microfiltration technology, it effectively removes particles, rust, sediment, and other impurities from water. The solution ensures safer and healthier water for the food service industry. The J2810 series includes parallel carbon fiber filters, quick-change filter design, and high compatibility, supporting both wall-mounted and floor-standing installations. It can be widely used in restaurants, cafes, milk tea shops, and fast food chains to meet the needs of various commercial settings, providing filtered water for ice machines, coffee machines, water boilers, soda machines, and other water-using equipment.

ANGEL's Commercial Kitchen Water Purification Solutions
ANGEL’s Commercial Kitchen Water Purification Solutions

Aiming to strengthen the company’s footprint in the commercial kitchen water filtration sector, ANGEL’s ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis water purifiers for food service industry are also undergoing NSF certification testing. ANGEL has made continuous breakthroughs in water purification technology and energy-saving solutions, releasing innovative water purification products that have earned recognition in domestic and international markets.

As global consumers become increasingly concerned about safe and healthy drinking water, the market demand for water purification solutions is surging rapidly. At this backdrop, ANGEL’s NSF certification demonstrates its top-tier product quality, and enhances the competitiveness in the global market. ANGEL will persist in driving technological innovation and advancing its global expansion, harnessing its expertise to provide superior, efficient, and intelligent water purification solutions for consumers worldwide.

Sorra.net Announces Results of 2024 Annual Awards, Unveiling Top 10 Beauty Trends


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – Sorra.net, a beauty tech startup from Hong Kong Science Park, held its inaugural annual awards at the end of 2024, aiming to identify the most popular beauty products of the year through authentic user reviews.

The theme of Sorra.net‘s 2024 Annual Awards was “If you could only choose one, which would you pick…”, covering 10 different skin concerns: hydration, pores, brightening, anti-aging, acne care, soothing, cleansing, dark spot reduction, deep cleansing/exfoliation, and eczema care. In each category, members could vote for the product they believed most effectively addressed the specific skin issue.

To ensure the authenticity and fairness of the results, all participating voters had to be verified users. The final rankings were based on the total number of positive reviews and votes received throughout 2024, reflecting the genuine opinions of a broad consumer base.

The voting event concluded successfully, with Sorra.net receiving a total of 33,807 product reviews and 22,320 verified votes. The top products in each skin concern category are as follows:

Additionally, based on the voting data and product reviews, Sorra.net‘s editorial team identified the top 10 beauty trends of 2024, including microneedling, PDRN, peptides, color-correcting concealers, makeup accessories, lip and cheek tints, dewy finishes, beauty devices, tear trough concealers, and aegyo-sal eye makeup.

Jessie Chan, founder of Sorra.net, stated, “Through this event, we hope consumers can better understand which products are truly favored by the community. We also encourage more people to share their experiences, bringing more genuine and valuable information to the beauty community.”

Interested readers can visit Sorra’s 2024 Annual Awards page to view the complete voting results and learn more about various beauty products.
Hashtag: #Sorra #Beauty




Ecommerce:

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

About Sorra

was founded in 2021 with a mission to make beauty information transparent and accurate. We are creating a beauty product comparison platform that is accessible to all. We offer a brand-neutral, free and data-supported AI comparison and product-matching experience.

Global Times: How Guangxi snack ‘snail rice noodles’ becomes signature industry to fuel poverty reduction

BEIJING, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In the bustling alleys of Liuzhou, South China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the aroma of snail rice noodles, or Luosifen, wafts through the air, drawing locals and visitors alike into the myriad of shops that line the narrow streets. The dish of rice noodles boiled with pickled bamboo shoots, dried turnip, fresh vegetables, and peanuts in spiced river snail soup – a little stinky but flavorful – has surged in popularity across China and beyond, becoming a culinary emblem of Liuzhou and a symbol of China’s gastronomic culture in the world.

This bowl of Luosifen embodies how over a hundred impoverished villages in Liuzhou triumphed in the battle against poverty before 2020, transforming the city into the vibrant hub it is today, while elevating a local delicacy into a global stage.

In the heart of Liuzhou, the local community has harnessed the potential of snail rice noodles to fill farmers’ pockets, forge new pathways out of poverty, and drive industrial development. As the demand for this delicacy skyrocketed, the agricultural sectors supplying its ingredients flourished, becoming a vital engine for revitalizing both the local economy and rural communities.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited machinery manufacturer Guangxi Liugong Group Co., Ltd., and a food-processing zone for local specialty Luosifen rice noodles on April 26, 2021. He learned about the reform and innovation of enterprises, and the development of the manufacturing industry and distinctive local businesses, the Xinhua News Agency reported.

Noting that developing signature industries is a practical measure to boost the real economy, Xi called for more support for private enterprises to help them grow. The snack industry is just a part of China’s rural industries, which range from planting and breeding to agricultural product processing and tourism, according to Xinhua.

This dish, once a simple street food, has become a key to industrial advancement and a beacon of hope for poverty alleviation. Farmers now enjoy stable incomes and local job opportunities, while businesses export high-quality, distinctive products overseas. Young entrepreneurs are returning to their hometowns to realize their dreams of success.

Now, under Xi’s encouragement, the aspirations of the local community are creating a tapestry of prosperity woven with the threads of snail rice noodles.

A bite of China

To promote Liuzhou’s culinary culture and stimulate related consumption, in 2010, Liuzhou launched initiatives to promote Luosifen beyond its local area, and in 2012, Luosifen gained fame through the hit documentary “A Bite of China.” Since then, Liuzhou Luosifen has continued to gain popularity, giving rise to a pre-packaged Luosifen market.

In 2014, the first packaged snail noodles were introduced to the market. This local delicacy, once challenging to preserve and transport, began its journey to national prominence.

Today, packaged snail noodles are exported to over 30 countries and regions. Each bowl of snail noodles has generated more than 300,000 jobs, lifted 5,500 impoverished households and 28,000 individuals out of poverty, and stimulated the development of hundreds of thousands of acres of raw material bases, including rice, bamboo shoots, green beans, and black fungus. This has fostered an industrial chain encompassing agriculture, food processing, and e-commerce, Lu Shichang, director of the Snail Noodle Industry Development Center in Liuzhou, told the Global Times.

Although smells stinky, Luosifen has become a favorite for many due to its sour and spicy flavors, as well as the naturally fermented sour bamboo shoots found in the region’s caves, which maintain a constant temperature and humidity throughout the year. 

On January 9, Liuzhou celebrated the 10th anniversary of the industrialization of its snail noodles. Preliminary forecasts indicated that in 2024, the total sales revenue of the entire snail noodle industry chain in Liuzhou could reach 75.96 billion yuan ($10.39 billion), according to a press release from the local government.

The rise of the snail noodle industry and its international reach vividly illustrate a distinctive path out of poverty.

In 2017, Leitang village in Liucheng county, Liuzhou, was still grappling with poverty.

Entrepreneur Yao Hanlin, a local District People’s Congress deputy, conducted thorough research in the area, and he contemplated a way to help local people escape poverty.

“Why not begin with the raw materials for Luosifen and leverage them to boost rural economic development, tackling the issue of industrial underdevelopment in impoverished areas right from the source?” Yao decided to sign a contract with an integrated cooperative that supports households to develop a 600-acre planting base for large-scale and standardized planting of green beans, the “soul” ingredient of snail noodles, and ensuring a guaranteed purchase to increase farmers’ income and alleviating their concerns about unsold produce.

Additionally, farmers received industry subsidies from the local government for cultivating green beans. A successful model of cooperation among cooperatives, enterprises, and farmers was then founded and expanded to wider regions.

Farmers selling green beans to the company on pre-packaged Luosifen saw their annual income increase by over 10,000 yuan per household. In just two years, most villagers in Leitang had successfully escaped poverty. Beyond the financial benefits, the villagers take pride in knowing that their sour green beans have traveled across oceans alongside the snail noodles. Many villagers also found employment right in their own communities, said Yao.

Yao still vividly remembers the moment President Xi visited and his inspiring words.

“Everyone could feel his high regard for the development of local specialty industries and rural revitalization efforts. His words deeply moved us and strengthened our resolve to use the snail noodle industry to help more people achieve prosperity,” Yao told the Global Times.

The “spillover effect” of the Luosifen industry has also brought significant benefits to the ethnic minority communities in the Miao and Dong villages of Guangxi, a region known for its rich cultural diversity.

“Both rice farming and snail raising are lucrative ventures, and with government subsidies, we feel more confident about our path to prosperity,” shared Wei Yaoke, a villager from a minority ethnic group who has successfully lifted himself out of poverty in 2019.

“In recent years, whenever people mention Liuzhou, they immediately think of snail rice noodles. Many have traveled to Liuzhou specifically for a bowl of noodles, which is a remarkable achievement for the city,” remarked Yao. “A simple bowl of noodles has not only revitalized a city, but also enriched the lives of its people.”

A bowl of Liuzhou snail noodles weaves together the threads of rural prosperity, Lu told the Global Times.

As President Xi has said that the revitalization of industries is the top priority of rural revitalization, years of exploration have proven that activating the internal motivation for poverty alleviation hinges on developing strong industries. Without industry, there is no stable economic foundation for true poverty alleviation. In China’s poverty alleviation practices, industrial development has become one of the most dynamic models, Lu emphasized.

Entrepreneurs bring fresh innovations

The booming Luosifen industry has drawn many young entrepreneurs back home, leveraging e-commerce benefits and new technologies to showcase their “hometown flavors” on the global stage.

Mo Qinji, a millennial born in Liuzhou, became a technician in a manufacturing company in South China’s Guangzhou after graduation. During his years away, a bowl of Luosifen became a nostalgic link to home, inspiring him to merge his expertise with local delicacies.

Five years later, he decided to quit the job and returned to hometown in November 2012 to start a business in manufacturing and selling Luosifen, seizing the opportunity in the new e-commerce landscape. The surge in online Luosifen sales prompted him to continuously improve production lines and supply chains. Mo’s factory operates a fully automated packaging line, researched and developed by his team over a year.

Mo stressed that the achievements of local poverty alleviation are the result of collective efforts and coordinated strength.

“In the past, farmers often grew crops based on high market prices, only to see prices drop once the crops were overly harvested, leading to increased poverty and reluctance to plant. However, products like Luosifen integrate various agricultural ingredients, providing a stable industry that prevents crops from going to waste,” Mo explained to the Global Times. “For instance, if green beans are harvested and the market price is high, say 2.5 yuan per kilogram, farmers can sell them to wholesale markets or buyers to secure better income. However, if market prices decline, they can sell their beans to Luosifen processing factories for pickling, or even pickle them independently to generate profits from initial processing. This serves as a sort of insurance mechanism for local farmers.”

Mo said that an increasing number of young people in the local area are gradually shifting from being beneficiaries of poverty alleviation in rural areas to becoming emerging forces in rural revitalization.

Mo reminisced about how, after returning to Liuzhou from work in Guangzhou, he would eagerly rush to the nearest stall, savoring every bite of his favorite dish and wishing he could take some home. Now, he has turned that dream into reality. The ambitions of merchants like Mo to elevate Liuzhou’s Luosifen from humble street carts to global acclaim align perfectly with China’s commitment to poverty alleviation and rural revitalization.

In Mo’s factory, hundreds of workers bustle about. The busy assembly line is leading them toward a better future – one that belongs to both the company and the whole industry, and perhaps serves as a model for the future of many more rural areas in China.

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202502/1328399.shtml 

New Manulife and Deloitte Report: Over Two-Thirds of High-Net-Worth Individuals in Greater China Consider Insurance Essential for Legacy and Succession Planning

Manulife Hong Kong collaborates with Deloitte to offer insights into legacy planning solutions for high-net-worth individuals

HONG KONG, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife Hong Kong and Deloitte have unveiled key findings from a new report[1] examining the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in the Greater China region. The report reveals that 70% of respondents have integrated insurance into their asset portfolios, with 30% allocating 11% or more of their assets to insurance products. This underscores the role insurance solutions play in the financial planning strategies of HNWIs.

The study, which focuses on HNWIs with net assets of at least HKD 7.8 million in the Greater China region, also offers fresh insights into how this segment approaches insurance as a wealth planning tool. It explores the unique challenges this segment faces and demonstrates how insurance solutions can effectively support HNWIs in their wealth preservation, accumulation, and distribution goals.

Over half of respondents aim to leverage insurance for legacy and succession planning

The report highlights that life insurance is the leading form of coverage, with close to 78% of responding HNWIs owning a life insurance policy, while medical insurance (76%) and savings insurance (60%) follow close behind. Notably, 57% of respondents express a desire to leverage insurance to facilitate a smoother transfer of wealth to future generations. In addition, when asked to rank the most important outcomes they hoped to achieve in asset inheritance, 64% of those who picked “prioritizing the distribution of their assets in their desired manner to prevent inheritance disputes” identified it as their main anticipated outcome. Among all respondents, 67% acknowledge that designating beneficiaries through insurance can help mitigate conflicts in the eventual distribution of their wealth.  

“This comprehensive report, drawing on Deloitte’s consulting expertise, offers valuable insights into the legacy planning preferences of HNWIs in Greater China,” said Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau. “In today’s evolving financial environment, HNWIs are turning to insurance as a key strategic means of achieving financial stability, effectively managing risks, and preserving their legacies. It’s important to note that legacy planning isn’t exclusive to those with significant assets; in fact, effective legacy planning can benefit anyone who wishes to pass on their wealth to future generations.”

“Insurance has evolved from a risk management product to a legacy planning tool highly preferred by our HNWI clients,” said Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader. “It mimics some key features of will, family trust, and limited power of attorney, making insurance one of the most accessible legacy planning components. Moreover, in certain jurisdictions, tax authorities offer preferential tax treatment such as tax exemption, deferral and deductions for insurance products, as outlined in their tax law. Families are becoming more open-minded about starting legacy planning at a younger age, having recognized the benefits of facilitating the smooth transition of wealth and maintaining harmonious family relationships.”

A holistic approach to meeting the needs of HNWIs

Reflecting the insights revealed in the report, Manulife has established a holistic approach to ensure it is well-positioned to meet the financial planning needs of HNWIs. Given their unique circumstances and goals, Manulife has established a dedicated Private Client Wealth Planning team focused on helping its high-net-worth clients preserve, accumulate, and transfer their wealth to next generations while managing unforeseen risks. In addition, based on client’s needs, Manulife can introduce clients to a network of premier professional service providers, each offering specialized expertise for tailored insights and guidance.

Guided by its overarching focus on customer needs, Manulife’s diverse range of products, including Genesis, Whole-In-One-Prime 3, and Future Assure[2], offer features and administrative arrangements that cater to various customer segments, including HNWIs. This includes the market-first[3] Legacy Choice[4] service within designated insurance products, which enables customers to transfer their policy, either on a designated date or when the successive policy owner reaches a designated age, in the event of the policyowner’s passing.

“The combination of legacy planning expertise, leading specialist advice and innovative features is essential to delivering bespoke and holistic solutions that effectively address the individual needs of HNWIs, empowering them to navigate complex planning challenges with confidence,” Mr. Mak added.

Other notable findings highlighted include:

  • Concerns related to legacy succession:

Among the respondents who selected the following as one of their top five concerns, the percentages below represent those who ranked it as their primary worry:

    • Disputes among heirs: 52% fear that wealth distribution may trigger family conflicts.
    • Heirs’ ability to manage wealth: 43% are concerned about potential issues such as poor financial planning, lack of investment knowledge, excessive spending, and immature decision-making.
    • Risk of wealth loss or depreciation: 43% worry about the potential loss or depreciation of wealth during the succession process.
  • Regarding retirement priorities:
    • 86% emphasize the importance of quality of life and the associated expenses.
    • 69% consider their living environment important, including housing options and potential overseas relocation.
    • 65% prioritize access to high-end medical protection.

Manulife and Deloitte have jointly published a new report on the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals in the Greater China region. Pictured: Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau (left), and Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader (right).
Manulife and Deloitte have jointly published a new report on the financial planning preferences and considerations of high-net-worth individuals in the Greater China region. Pictured: Albert Mak, Chief Agency Officer of Manulife Hong Kong and Macau (left), and Anthony Lau, Deloitte Private Hong Kong Leader (right).

About the Study

The report jointly published by Manulife and Deloitte was developed based on proprietary research and interviews with relevant stakeholders including HNWIs, as well as an analysis of qualitative and quantitative data. Customer research was conducted in Greater China. Details of the report, initially available in Chinese and later in English, can be downloaded here

About Manulife Hong Kong

Manulife Hong Kong has been a trusted name for more than 125 years. Since our operations started in Asia in 1897, we have grown to become one of the top-tier providers of financial services, offering a diverse range of protection and wealth products and services to about 2.6 million customers in Hong Kong and Macau. We are committed to helping make decisions easier and lives better for our customers.

Manulife Hong Kong, through Manulife International Holdings Limited, owns Manulife (International) Limited, Manulife Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited, and Manulife Provident Funds Trust Company Limited. These entities are all subsidiaries of Manulife Financial Corporation.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, helping people make their decisions easier and lives better. With our global headquarters in Toronto, Canada, we provide financial advice and insurance, operating as Manulife across Canada, Asia, and Europe, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2023, we had more than 38,000 employees, over 98,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 35 million customers. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong.

Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

About Deloitte

Deloitte China provides integrated professional services, with our long-term commitment to be a leading contributor to China’s reform, opening-up and economic development. We are a globally connected firm with deep roots locally, owned by our partners in China. With over 20,000 professionals across 31 Chinese cities, we provide our clients with a one-stop shop offering world-leading audit, tax and consulting services.

We serve with integrity, uphold quality and strive to innovate. With our professional excellence, insight across industries, and intelligent technology solutions, we help clients and partners from many sectors seize opportunities, tackle challenges and attain world-class, high-quality development goals.

The Deloitte brand originated in 1845, and its name in Chinese denotes integrity, diligence and excellence. Deloitte’s global professional network of member firms now spans more than 150 countries and territories. Through our mission to make an impact that matters, we help reinforce public trust in capital markets, enable clients to transform and thrive, empower talents to be future-ready, and lead the way toward a stronger economy, a more equitable society and a sustainable world.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (“DTTL”), its global network of member firms, and their related entities (collectively, the “Deloitte organization”). DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) and each of its member firms and related entities are legally separate and independent entities, which cannot obligate or bind each other in respect of third parties. DTTL and each DTTL member firm and related entity is liable only for its own acts and omissions, and not those of each other. DTTL does not provide services to clients. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more.

Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited is a company limited by guarantee and a member firm of DTTL. Members of Deloitte Asia Pacific Limited and their related entities, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity, provide services from more than 100 cities across the region, including Auckland, Bangkok, Beijing, Bengaluru, Hanoi, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Melbourne, Mumbai, New Delhi, Osaka, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Taipei and Tokyo.

Deloitte Private is the brand under which member firms and their related entities in the Deloitte organization provide services to privately owned entities and high-net-worth individuals.

This communication contains general information only, and none of DTTL, its global network of member firms or their related entities is, by means of this communication, rendering professional advice or services. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your finances or your business, you should consult a qualified professional adviser.

No representations, warranties or undertakings (express or implied) are given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information in this communication, and none of DTTL, its member firms, related entities, employees or agents shall be liable or responsible for any loss or damage whatsoever arising directly or indirectly in connection with any person relying on this communication.

© 2025. For more information, please contact Deloitte China.

[1] Manulife and its insurance advisors do not provide any tax or legal advice. Any information provided in the report is for reference only and does not constitute professional advice. If needed, please consult relevant tax, legal advisor(s), or other related professionals.

[2] The content of this material does not contain the full terms of the policy(ies), and the full terms can be found in the corresponding policy document(s). Please refer to the product brochure/product guide to understand more about the product features and risks.

[3] The statement about first-in-market features is based on comparisons with other publicly available savings insurance plans and life insurance plans issued by Hong Kong’s major life insurance companies for individual customers as of April 2024.

[4] Applicable to policies issued in Hong Kong only. This is an administrative arrangement and is not part of the product features. Such application is subject to our prevailing administrative rules which shall be determined and modified by us from time to time without prior notice. Please note that the service may not be available with the designated new plan after the currency switch option is exercised.

 

Brave the Cold: JETOUR T2 Master the Arctic Circle


CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – At 70 degrees north latitude in the Arctic Circle, where temperatures plunge to -30°C, the harsh environment provides the ultimate test for vehicle performance. The challenging terrain further intensifies the rigorous test of vehicle features. The Jetour T2 has set a new benchmark for light off-road SUVs with its advanced engineering.

The extreme cold of the Arctic poses a formidable challenge to auto systems, especially when temperatures drop to -30°C. Ensuring steady operation under such conditions is a critical measure of reliability. The JETOUR T2 excelled in these harsh environments, with its showcasing engine reliable operation and rapid startups unaffected by the frigid climate. Key systems, including the power system, electrical system, and thermal circulation system, responded swiftly and operated smoothly, ensuring a seamless driving experience. In extreme cold, the performance of the air conditioning system is particularly crucial. The T2’s air conditioning system effectively heated the cabin, quickly raising the interior temperature to a comfortable level despite the severe conditions, maintaining a warm and cozy environment. Confronting the Arctic’s unforgiving cold, the JETOUR T2 showcased remarkable adaptability.

In the elk test, the icy surface, riddled with potholes and bumps caused by salt and bubbles, created dramatic changes in friction coefficients, making it easy for vehicles to deviate from their intended trajectory. Despite these challenges, the JETOUR T2 maintained exceptional handling performance and stability, thanks to its XWD fully automatic intelligent four-wheel drive system. During driving, if any wheel slips, the system swiftly adjusts, accurately redistributing power to the wheels with traction, ensuring the vehicle continues to move steadily forward. In scenarios where obstacles suddenly appear or the driver executes an emergency maneuver, the 4WD system and differential lock respond instantaneously, optimizing power output and torque distribution. This allows the T2 to maintain stability during high-speed evasive actions, avoiding skidding or losing control. As a result, the T2 achieved outstanding performance even in extreme test conditions, demonstrating remarkable driving stability and control.

In the extreme conditions of the Arctic Circle—characterized by low temperatures, high humidity, and rugged terrain—the JETOUR T2 overcame numerous challenges with its strong power system and XWD technology. It demonstrated reliable driving stability and outstanding off-road capability, excelling in even the harshest environments. This remarkable performance not only highlights the T2’s advanced engineering but also reinforces JETOUR’s confidence and technological strength in its journey toward globalization.

Hashtag: #JETOUR

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