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Oceanpayment Partners with Mastercard to Issue Its First-Ever Payment Card to Empower Global Businesses

Oceanpayment’s new Mastercard-powered virtual commercial credit card aims to help reduce the operational costs of multi-currency accounts while improving conversion rates

HONG KONG, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Oceanpayment, a global digital payment solutions provider, and Mastercard today announced the launch of Oceanpayment’s first-ever payment card, a Mastercard virtual commercial credit card. The new product is designed to help cross-border merchants reduce the operational costs of multi-currency accounts while improving conversion rates. Merchants can rapidly apply for and set up the Oceanpayment Card online, as the virtual card offers higher efficiency in overseas B2B payments to ensure seamless, compliant and secure cash flow management.

Source:Oceanpayment
Source:Oceanpayment

Simplifying financial management

According to the Virtual Card Benchmark Survey conducted by RPMG Research and commissioned by Mastercard, 85 percent of bank executives surveyed globally believe that virtual cards improve organizational processes including efficiency, reconciliation, system integrations and compliance.  Furthermore, 84 percent of them believe that virtual cards enhance cybersecurity, reduce fraud and increase data security. Through the new virtual Oceanpayment Card, businesses can now more easily address common financial management challenges associated with traditional cross-border transactions, including handling multiple currencies and real-time payments among many others, further optimizing their operational management.

Lanny Yang, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oceanpayment, said, “Building on Oceanpayment’s extensive expertise and experience in the acquiring space, and the deep integration with Mastercard’s capabilities in enabling virtual card issuance, we are excited to launch our new card product, completing our all-in-one fund management solution to streamline payment acceptance and disbursement. Tailored to meet our merchants’ needs with precision, this service simplifies money movement management and optimizes business cash flow, ultimately boosting overall operational efficiency for businesses.”

Helena Chen, Managing Director, Hong Kong & Macau, Mastercard, said, “This partnership with Oceanpayment not only highlights Mastercard’s commitment to delivering innovative, seamless and secure payment solutions, but also underlines the strength of its support for issuers. With B2B virtual card spend estimated to reach US$1.3 trillion by 2028[1], Mastercard is pleased to be the preferred partner of choice for digital payments solutions, leveraging its expertise and experience in virtual cards, end-to-end support to issuers, as well as its global acceptance network.”

Faster, safer, more stable payment without delays

The launch of a Mastercard Virtual Commercial Credit Card represents a key milestone in Oceanpayment’s global digital payment infrastructure. This marks a significant evolution from transaction capabilities to a holistic ecosystem that brings simplicity, security and efficiency of digital payments into merchants’ cash flow operations. By streamlining B2B payment processes and reducing transaction time, it empowers businesses to manage their working capital digitally.

The Oceanpayment Card eliminates transaction management and processing delays among consumers, merchants, international card schemes and issuing banks. It enables faster, safer and more stable payment interactions while improving merchants’ operational efficiency, transparency and predictability. This reduces dependency on traditional and inefficient processes, offering a streamlined and optimized payment workflow.

Furthermore, the new virtual card empowers cross-border merchants to achieve intelligent, integrated cash flow management systems and provides diverse commercial payment support for global operations. By incorporating issuing services, merchants can significantly enhance the efficiency of international payments in both online and offline scenarios, including advertising, subscriptions, consumption, procurement and business travel. With Oceanpayment’s automated and embedded solutions, merchants gain complete control over their financial visibilities, effectively minimizing operational friction.

The new Oceanpayment Card can effectively address operational pain points in cross-border payments and meet the diverse needs of business payment scenarios by providing merchants with more precise solutions, including:

  • Integrated Transactions for Efficiency: all-in-one solution that integrates acquiring and issuing services, enabling seamless fund connectivity and significantly enhancing cash flow management efficiency.
  • Instant Activation with Comprehensive Features: such as instant card activation and quick transactions. This enables a full-suite, one-stop service with deeply integrated multi-functional capabilities.
  • Versatile Payment Scenarios: empowers merchants with diverse payment scenarios, supporting aviation, advertising subscriptions, procurement management, logistics and education.
  • Shared Card Limits for Global Reach: supports major settlement currencies including HKD and USD, along with over 140 transaction currencies. It facilitates multi-currency shared limits and streamlined foreign exchange processes for a seamless payment experience.
  • Membership with Secure and Global Coverage: As a Mastercard issuer, Oceanpayment has successfully tapped into Mastercard’s global network, enabling extensive international payment coverage. It caters to merchants’ diverse business payment needs, focusing on convenience, security and efficiency.

Oceanpayment: Simplifying Global Payments

Over the past decade, Oceanpayment has dedicated itself to empowering global partners with professional expertise and exceptional services. It has continuously strengthened payment infrastructure by integrating open APIs and digital services, seamlessly connecting payment technology across all aspects of the cross-border payment ecosystem.

The company’s comprehensive solutions unlock a wide range of cross-border business scenarios, including global acquiring services, financial payment gateways, intelligent risk management and compliance operations. This holistic approach enables seamless integration of cross-border business models, technological innovation and product offerings, fostering the global expansion of cross-border merchants.

Looking ahead, Oceanpayment will continue to enhance its payment chain products and services through technological innovation. It is committed to providing cross-border merchants with a more convenient and secure “global payment” experience. The company aims to facilitate businesses’ digital and intelligent transformation to accelerate growth and foster high-quality development of global cross-border e-commerce.

– Ends –

About Mastercard

Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we’re building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential.

www.mastercard.com

About Oceanpayment

Oceanpayment is a leading global payment service provider empowering businesses with secure, convenient, professional and simple payment solutions for cross-border transactions. We leverage cutting-edge technology, robust infrastructure, effective risk management, and proven expertise to deliver seamless payment experiences. Processing transactions continuously for hundreds of thousands merchants across over 200 countries and regions, enabling them to accept and process payments seamlessly and maximize revenue growth.

www.oceanpayment.com

References:

[1] Juniper Research, Virtual Cards, Strategy & Forecast, 2021-2026.

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreign Teachers with Tourist Visas

Thai Students Learning with Foreign Teachers
Thai Students Learning with Foreign Teachers (Photo: Pinoy Thaiyo)

Thailand has launched a crackdown targeting foreign teachers working with tourist or transit visas in an attempt to strictly enforce employment laws in the education sector. 

-30°C Extreme Challenge: JETOUR T2 Conquers the Arctic


CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – In the Arctic Circle, the JETOUR T2 faces tough challenges, proving its off-road capabilities in extreme cold and harsh terrain.

-30°C Extreme Challenge: JETOUR T2 Conquers the Arctic

The Arctic’s rugged geography, with snowfields, mountain roads, ice crevasses, and muddy paths, poses significant risks, such as skidding, imbalance, getting stuck, or flipping over. Snow-filled craters increase the difficulty, easily causing tires to become stuck or leading to rollovers. Equipped with the advanced XWD system and a rear differential lock, the JETOUR T2 handles these icy and snowy terrains effortlessly. Its 6+X driving modes automatically switch to adjust to road conditions, distributing power for optimal traction and ensuring smooth performance without stopping.

The JETOUR T2 delivers power with its 2.0T turbocharged engine and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Also, the engine boasts a maximum power of 187kW and a maximum torque of 390N·m, ensures high efficiency and stability in temperatures as low as -30ºC. Its approach angle of 28°, departure angle of 30°, and ground clearance of 220 mm enables the JETOUR T2 to easily overcome tough terrains.

No one is born a champion—true strength is forged through relentless trials. With extraordinary capability, the JETOUR T2 has conquered the harsh Arctic, showcasing the exceptional performance of a light off-road SUV.

Hashtag: #JETOUR

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

Dusit Thani Kyoto named Four-Star Hotel in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2025 Star Awards

Luxury hotel earns another prestigious accolade for its exceptional service and world-class facilities


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – Dusit Thani Kyoto, a luxury urban oasis operated by Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has built on its recent One Michelin Key recognition by earning a 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award—further cementing its reputation as one of Kyoto’s most exceptional hotels.

The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities.
The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities.

Founded in the United States in 1958, Forbes Travel Guide (formerly known as Mobil Travel Guide) is a globally respected authority in luxury hospitality, renowned for pioneering the five-star rating system in 1960. Its anonymous inspectors evaluate hotels based on more than 900 objective standards, ensuring a trusted benchmark of excellence in the travel industry.

The Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities. Dusit Thani Kyoto earned this distinction through rigorous, undercover assessments by Forbes Travel Guide’s inspectors, who experienced the hotel just as a typical guest would—paying their own way to ensure impartiality.

Opened in September 2023, Dusit Thani Kyoto is set in the peaceful Hongwanji Monzen-machi district, just 850 metres from the city’s bustling Kyoto Station. Operating under Dusit’s luxury Dusit Thani brand, the hotel seamlessly blends Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with Japan’s deep-rooted culture of omotenashi (wholeheartedly looking after guests) and features 147 meticulously designed guest rooms that balance timeless elegance with contemporary comfort.

The hotel also serves as a hub of gourmet dining experiences. Guests can embark on an interactive omakase journey at Kōyō, which showcases Kyoto’s 24 micro-seasons through the finest ingredients. Den Kyoto elevates mixology with handcrafted cocktails infused with Thai herbs, while Ayatana, the hotel’s signature Thai fine-dining restaurant, delivers an exquisite celebration of Thai flavours and culinary artistry. Committed to sustainability, Ayatana sources premium seasonal ingredients from the Kansai region, including fresh herbs and vegetables from Ohara Farm and organic tea leaves from its own tea farm in Wazuka.

Alongside versatile event spaces that accommodate up to 240 guests, the hotel also boasts a signature Devarana Wellness centre, where expert therapists blend ancient Thai massage therapies with traditional Japanese healing rituals, ensuring a truly restorative experience.

“Receiving Forbes Travel Guide’s distinguished Four-Star Award just over a year after our opening is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, heartfelt service, and creating truly memorable experiences for our guests,” said Makoto Yamashita, Cluster General Manager, Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo. “Inspired by this accolade and our One Michelin Key status, we remain committed to raising the bar, delivering exceptional service, and ensuring our hotel continues to be a place of warmth, elegance, and meaningful connections for all who visit.”

For more information about the hotel, please visit Dusit Thani Kyoto.

Hashtag: #dusitinternational #dusitthanikyoto

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

About Dusit Thani Kyoto

Opened on 1 September 2023, Dusit Thani Kyoto is located in a historic area near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nishi Hongwan-ji Temple. The hotel offers a unique fusion of Japan’s exquisite traditions and the gracious hospitality of Dusit’s Thai origins. Guests can enjoy beautifully designed, comfortable rooms alongside a rich variety of culinary experiences, including three distinctive restaurants, a tea salon, and a hidden bar. The Devarana Wellness centre provides rejuvenation for the mind and body, while exclusive experience programmes immerse guests in the true essence of Kyoto.

Our commitment to delivering “Everything You Deserve” ensures that guests not only enjoy the charm of Kyoto as a travel destination but also find a tranquil oasis for their hearts and senses. Notably, in July 2024, Dusit Thani Kyoto became the first Thai-origin hotel brand in Japan to receive a prestigious “Michelin Key” for its ‘outstanding’ facilities and service.

For more information about the hotel, please visit .

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Our anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best experiences. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through our independent inspection process.

For more information about Forbes Travel Guide, please visit .

Explosion in Oudomxay Auto Parts Shop Kills Four, Injures Six

Explosion in Oudomxay Auto Parts Shop Kills Four, Injures Six
High angle shot of the auto parts shop after the explosion (photo credit: Lao National Radio)

On 14 February, an explosion erupted at an auto parts shop in Nasao village, Xay district, Oudomxay province, around 10:20 am, killing four people and injuring six others.

Vitafoods India 2025: Angel Yeast Brings Innovative Yeast Protein to Dining Table

MUMBAI, India, Feb. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Angel Yeast (SH600298), a global leader in yeast manufacturing, has recently showcased its revolutionary yeast protein solutions and products at the 2025 Vitafoods India which was held from February 5 to 7 in Mumbai. Under the theme of “Discover the Values of Yeast for Human Health,” Angel Yeast showcased its flagship product AngeoPro, which offers a new and inclusive protein choice to global consumers.

At the tradeshow, Angel Yeast’s exhibition captivated audiences and industry partners with a series of interactive activities and immersive experience. AngeoPro, the premium yeast protein known for high digestibility, comprehensive amino acid profile and sustainability credentials, drew significant attention from nutrition brands, health professionals, distributors as well as visitors seeking innovative health solutions. A sampling zone offered firsthand experience for attendees to taste AngeoPro-infused beverages and explore its neutral flavor and versatile applications in functional foods and sports nutrition.

Vitafoods India 2025: Angel Yeast Brings Innovative Yeast Protein to Dining Table
Vitafoods India 2025: Angel Yeast Brings Innovative Yeast Protein to Dining Table

Angel Yeast is committed to the strategy of bringing yeast protein to the family dining tables. It continues to expand market share in Asia Pacific and collaborates with leading food manufacturers. To date, the yeast protein products are exported to over 40 countries and regions that are widely used in the production of protein powder, protein bar, dietary supplements, sports beverage, and vegan foods.

Angel Yeast’s yeast protein contains 80 percent protein content that’s equal to plant-based protein. It’s an economical and environmental-friendly new protein material that can serve as an alternate to whey protein. We aim to further improve the protein content to 85 percent and push to popularize it into everyday life,” said Li Ku, Senior Engineer and Deputy General Manager of Protein Nutrition and Seasoning Technology Center.

Angel Yeast is committed to make premium yeast protein affordable to more people, and it already boasts a price advantage comparing to whey protein. Large-scale production will boost yeast protein’s competitiveness comparing to other high-quality vegetarian proteins. Angel Yeast’s industrial yeast protein production project at Baiyang Yichang will boost an annual output of 11,000 tons, which is expected to go into production in 2025.

“From the lab to dining table, Angel Yeast is breaking the protein material market pattern to innovative, upgrade and popularize nutrition for all.  We will continue to advance R&D, manufacturing techniques and boost yeast protein production efficiency to bring more affordable products to consumers, and build a sustainable future,” said Li Ku.

/DISREGARD RELEASE: Copeland/

We are advised by Copeland that journalists and other readers should disregard the news release, “Copeland Expands Variable Speed Integrated Solution Portfolio Addressing Global Efficiency and Sustainability Challenges”, issued on 17-Feb-2025 by Copeland over PR Newswire, as the release will be released with updated information. (Copeland said a revised release will be issued after today. )

South Korean Actress Kim Sae-ron found dead at home

Photo credit: South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron was found dead in her house in Seoul on February 16, 2025, police said. (Photo by YONHAP / AFP)
Photo credit: South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron was found dead in her house in Seoul on February 16, 2025, police said. (Photo by YONHAP / AFP)

AFP— South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found dead in her house in Seoul on Sunday, police said.

“She was found dead, and there is no sign of foul play,” a police official told AFP, without giving more details. She was 24 years old.

Kim was found at her home Sunday evening by a friend who reported the discovery to police, the Yonhap news agency said.

Kim is best known for her role in the 2010 movie “The Man from Nowhere,” in which she played a kidnapped child rescued by a former special forces agent.

She won the best new actress award at the Korean Film Awards for her performance. In her career, Kim displayed versatility in a range of acting roles and won several other film awards.

But her career came to a sudden halt following a drunk-driving accident in 2022, for which she was fined KRW 20 million (USD 13,800).
With negative public sentiment following the incident, she later struggled to land a new role.