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NSSK Closes Series IV Funds at JPY 250 Billion Hardcap, More Than 2x Oversubscribed

By
Advertorial Desk
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Fund substantially allocated within four months of launch; Thrive Alternatives served as exclusive advisor

SINGAPORE, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK), a leading Japan-focused private equity firm, today announced the final close of NSSK Series IV Funds with aggregate commitments totaling JPY 250 billion (approximately USD 1.7 billion) at the hard cap.

The NSSK Series IV Funds were more than 2x oversubscribed, drawing strong demand from a broad global and Japanese investor base spanning sovereign wealth funds, public and private pension funds, financial institutions, endowments, foundations, family offices, and asset managers.

The fundraise was substantially allocated within four months of launch, underscoring the conviction of the global investor community in NSSK’s differentiated approach to value creation in the Japanese mid-market. Thrive Alternatives acted as the exclusive advisor to NSSK in connection with the NSSK Series IV fundraise.

The funds will continue NSSK’s control-oriented buyout strategy in the Japanese middle market, targeting businesses with strong cash flow, leading niche market positions, and resilience across economic cycles. The firm emphasizes proprietary sourcing, particularly in under-penetrated regional markets and business succession situations in both private and public companies, leveraging its local network to access opportunities with limited competition. Value creation is driven through NSSK’s proprietary NVP® framework, combining organic growth initiatives with an increasing focus on buy-and-build strategies to build scale and drive efficiencies.

“The response from investors to NSSK Series IV Funds has been exceptional and reflects the strength of the platform we have built over the past decade and the herculean market leading performance of our management and employee partners. Japan’s private equity market continues to offer a compelling and opportunity set, and we are well positioned to deliver differentiated returns for our limited partners. We are grateful for the trust our investors have placed in us and look forward to putting this capital to work.“

— Jun Tsusaka, CEO and CIO, Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK)

“The oversubscription and speed of the NSSK Series IV Funds close are a testament to what NSSK has built. Investors recognized both the quality of the team and the structural tailwinds in the Japanese private equity market. It was a privilege for Thrive to support NSSK on this milestone raise, and we look forward to continuing our partnership.”

— Robin Tyrangiel, Co-Founder, Thrive Alternatives

The close of the Series IV funds positions NSSK among the largest independent private equity franchises focused on the Japanese market. The firm will continue to target investments in companies where its operational expertise and network can drive measurable value creation.

About NSSK

Nippon Sangyo Suishin Kiko (NSSK) is a Tokyo-based private equity firm established in 2014, focused exclusively on the Japanese mid-market. NSSK pursues control-oriented investments across business succession, carve-outs, management buyouts, and special situations, targeting market-leading niche businesses with strong cash flow and resilience. The firm partners closely with management teams to drive transformation from good to great through its proprietary, systematic value creation framework NVP®, combining operational improvement with selective buy-and-build strategies. NSSK has been named Private Equity Firm of the Year in Japan by Private Equity International five times, and Mid-Market Firm of the Year in Asia in 2023. The firm manages capital on behalf of both global and Japanese investors including sovereign wealth funds, public and private pension funds, financial institutions, endowments, foundations, family offices, and asset managers.

About Thrive Alternatives

Thrive Alternatives is a global, tech-enabled private markets advisory firm that partners with leading alternative investment managers to raise institutional capital. Headquartered in Singapore with presence in all major Asian markets, Europe and the U.S., Thrive Alternatives provides strategic fundraising advice, investor access, and transaction support across private equity, private credit and real assets. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep industry networks, and cross-border expertise, Thrive Alternatives helps clients navigate the complexities of global private capital markets and access institutional investors worldwide.

 

Nine New Spider Species Found in Laos Caves

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
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Picture 44-46 are the spiders' habits and sizes compare to human, and their behaviour of carrying eggs to increase survival chances. Picture 188, 189, and 191 are habitus of live spiders from Vangvieng region, male (188) and females (189 and 191) from Tham Phoukham. (Photo by Zootaxa from Magnolia Press)

Scientists have discovered nine new spider species in limestone caves across Laos, highlighting the country’s caves as important but fragile ecosystems.

The research was carried out by scientists from the Senckenberg Research Institute in Germany and the National University of Laos, and published in the journal Zootaxa. The study identified species across three genera and two families, and recorded the Ochyroceratidae family in Laos for the first time.

Many of the spiders were found in caves in Vientiane, Khammouane, and Champasak provinces, with seven species located in the Vang Vieng karst area, a key hotspot for cave biodiversity.

One of the newly discovered species, Speocera inthy, was named after Lao businessman Inthy Deuansavanh, in recognition of his contributions to eco-tourism and environmental conservation. He is the founder of Inthira Group and Green Discovery Laos, as well as projects such as The Rock Viewpoint at Phou Pha Marn and La Forêt. 

Researchers said the naming acknowledges efforts to promote and protect natural sites, including cave and karst landscapes where these species are found.

These spiders are specially adapted to life in total darkness, where food is scarce. One species, Sinoderces phoukham, has no eyes, the first eyeless species ever recorded in its family, showing long-term evolution in cave environments.

Most of the spiders are extremely small, measuring about one millimeter. Researchers observed some females carrying eggs and even hatchlings in their mouths, a behavior that helps increase survival in low-nutrient conditions.

The spiders build very delicate webs and cannot survive outside caves, meaning they are limited to very small, specific habitats. Some species may exist in only a single cave.

Scientists warn that these ecosystems are under growing pressure from tourism and limestone quarrying, particularly in Vang Vieng. They stress the need for conservation, as many species remain undiscovered and could be lost before they are even documented.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China

By
Advertorial Desk
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SANYA, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – On March 30, the torch relay of the 6th Asian Beach Games took place in Sanya, China. A total of 74 torchbearers ran a roughly 10.5-kilometer relay along Sanya Bay, igniting enthusiasm as they passed golden beaches, city streets, and the sea.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China
Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China

With the theme “Passing Friendship, Meeting in Sanya,“ the relay route creatively integrates three settings: beach, road and sea. This design fully showcased Sanya’s unique coastal scenery and highlighted the distinctive charm of an island-based sports event.

Chang Yani, champion of the women’s synchronized 3m springboard at the Paris Olympic Games, was the first torchbearer. “Facing the vast ocean and running with the torch on the beach—this feeling is really special,” Chang said. Liu Shiwen, gold medalist in the women’s table tennis team at the Tokyo Olympic Games, completed about 2.5 kilometers of the relay by boat, gliding over the waves and showcasing the beauty of Sanya from the sea.

Along the route, four themed cultural performances energized the relay. Dynamic water sports demonstrations included jet ski stunts, flyboarding, freestyle kayaking, and wake surfing. Hainan’s local culture was presented through Li brocade fashion shows, bamboo pole dances, Qiong opera, and Yazhou folk songs. A performance combining robotic lion dances and drumming further showcased the innovative vitality of the Asian Beach Games.

Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China
Torch Relay for 6th Asian Beach Games Held in Sanya, China

“The Sanya Asian Beach Games is the first international multi-sport event held since the full implementation of independent customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port. It will serve as a grand sports gathering for Asian youth to compete and foster friendship, and a cultural gala where Asian civilizations exchange, learn from, and shine alongside one another,” said Song Luzeng, vice president of the Olympic Council of Asia.

The 6th Asian Beach Games will take place in Sanya, China from April 22 to 30. A total of 1,790 athletes from 45 National Olympic Committees, including those of Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, have registered to compete. The Games will feature 14 sports, including beach volleyball, beach handball, and teqball, with 62 gold medals up for grabs.
Hashtag: #AsianBeachGames #AsianBeachGames2026 #Sanya #Hainan #TorchRelay

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

RayNeo Leads Global AR Market with One-Third Share

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Advertorial Desk
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LOS ANGELES, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Following the release of several authoritative 2025 annual AR market reports, one brand has consistently emerged as the industry leader: RayNeo. Despite varying statistical methodologies across firms, the conclusion remains unanimous—RayNeo has secured the No.1 position in both global and Chinese markets. In just four years since its inception, the AR pioneer has achieved a “no-suspense” lead, dominating key regions with record-breaking growth.

RayNeo: Global No.1
RayNeo: Global No.1

Dominating Global and North American Markets

According to the Counterpoint Research 2025 Global AR Smart Glasses Brand Shipment Report, RayNeo commanded a 27% share of global shipments in 2025, ranking first worldwide. The brand saw explosive growth in Q4 2025 across China, North America, and Europe.

Data from IDC further confirms RayNeo’s global leadership in Q4 2025, highlighting a “phenomenal breakthrough” in the North American market, where RayNeo’s shipments surged by 456.5% year-over-year. Consequently, IDC noted in its report that the smart glasses sector has officially entered an era led by Chinese brands.

Full-Stack Innovation and Global Ecosystem

RayNeo’s ascent is fueled by its deep commitment to R&D in near-eye display, spatial computing, AI large models, and human-computer interaction. By achieving full-link self-research and mass production of core optical solutions, RayNeo has built a formidable technical moat.

  • X Series: All-scenario AI+AR glasses.
  • Air Series: The “super blockbuster” focused on immersive viewing.
  • V Series: Specialized AI filming glasses.

RayNeo’s services now span over 30 countries and regions, with a strong retail presence in global mainstream channels such as Amazon and Best Buy. RayNeo’s ecosystem has received several praises, signaling the brand’s success in moving AR from “tech novelty” to “daily essential.”

Strategic Financing and Ecosystem Expansion

RayNeo’s market leadership is supported by robust capital backing and a rapidly expanding global partner network. In Q1 2026, the company successfully completed a financing round exceeding $140 million (approx. 1 billion RMB), led by an investment group including CITIC Goldstone and strategic funds from industry giants China Mobile and China Unicom.

Alongside this financial growth, RayNeo is deepening its technical integration with world-class telecommunications partners, including China Mobile, and China Unicom. These collaborations focus on building a 5G+AR+AI ecosystem centered on eSIM technology, advanced AI models, and cloud services. Additionally, RayNeo continues to co-create diverse application scenarios with global tech leaders such as Google, Applied Materials, SeeYA Technology, Alibaba Cloud, Ant Group, and Tencent, further accelerating the maturity of the global AR industry.

About RayNeo

RayNeo is the global leader in consumer Augmented Reality (AR) glasses, dedicated to transforming everyday life for one billion people. As the Official Worldwide Olympic Partner in the AR glasses category, the company represents the forefront of immersive technology. Its product portfolio features the AI-enhanced, full-color display X Series and the portable, large-screen Air Series, designed for versatility and high-quality viewing. According to Counterpoint Research, RayNeo dominated the global AR glasses market in Q3 2025, capturing a 24% market share and securing the top position worldwide.

Contact
PR Manager: Sophie
Email: lixj@rayneo.com

ISHIHARA SANGYO KAISHA Refreshes Corporate Brand Identity and Unveils New Corporate Slogan: “Local Insight, Global Impact” — Grounded in Community, Committed to Creating Value

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Advertorial Desk
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OSAKA, Japan, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ISHIHARA SANGYO KAISHA, LTD. (hereinafter “ISK” or “the Company”), headquartered in Osaka, Japan, announced on April 1 the refresh of its corporate brand identity and the launch of its new corporate slogan, “Local Insight, Global Impact.” This initiative is a key milestone in the Company’s transformation toward achieving its medium- to long-term vision, Vision 2030. Going forward, all ISK Group companies will roll out the new brand to accelerate the realization of the vision.

Logo: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M109048/202603256285/_prw_PI1fl_67MH39pt.png 

Philosophy behind Corporate Slogan

“Local Insight, Global Impact” reflects the ISK Group’s strengths and aspirations: Commitment to continuing to create value through the power of chemistry, moving from ideas to innovation to impact.

The Group’s business activities are deeply rooted in the communities and regions where it operates. This includes local engagement that addresses the specific needs of markets and regulatory environments across different countries, R&D that pushes the boundaries of chemistry, manufacturing that reliably delivers essential products to society, and facility operations conducted with a commitment to environmental preservation and safety. The ISK Group’s ability to create value stems from grassroots efforts across various regions and sites. This work supports social values like bettering living environments and stabilizing food supply.

The new corporate slogan captures how the Group brings together the knowledge and insights gained from these diverse, local ways of life and channels them as a unified force into value that benefits society at large. It is a succinct expression of the Group’s commitment to continually pushing forward in pursuit of a better future.

For more information about the ISK Group’s brands, please visit: https://www.iskweb.co.jp/eng/brand/ 

About Brand Symbol

As part of this brand refresh, the Company formally codified the long familiar ISK mark from its emblem as a brand symbol representing the values and identity of the entire Group.

The design draws on the image of a flag flying with energy and purpose — evoking a workforce that is engaged and dynamic, and an organization with an active, confident presence in the world. The brand symbol will serve as a consistent visual representation of the ISK Group across all markets. Together with the new corporate slogan, it will be used to communicate the Group’s direction and values across countries and regions in multi-dimensional ways.

Image: ISK Group Philosophy System

https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M109048/202603256285/_prw_PI2fl_5nSg1I65.jpg 

Under this refreshed brand, the ISK Group reaffirms its commitment to creating meaningful and essential value for people and society — contributing to better living environments worldwide through the power of chemical technology.

About Vision 2030

Vision 2030 is ISK’s management framework for achieving increased corporate value and sustainable growth through the expansion of existing businesses and the development of new ones. It is guided by the long-term vision: Originality. Acceleration. Global Reach. Transforming Lives Through the Power of Chemistry.

Announced May 27, 2024: Vision 2030 Stage II

https://www.iskweb.co.jp/eng/ir/pdf/middle.pdf 

About ISHIHARA SANGYO KAISHA, LTD.

Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Osaka, Japan, ISK is a global chemical manufacturer with operations spanning a wide range of fields. The Company’s portfolio includes agrochemicals backed by world-class R&D capabilities, electronic component materials used in smartphones, computers, and other devices, titanium dioxide for use in paints and plastics, and veterinary pharmaceuticals. ISK continues to advance new product development across both organic and inorganic chemistry, while pursuing growth in high-potential areas, including environmental solutions, energy, biotechnology, and IT.

For more information, please visit: https://www.iskweb.co.jp/eng/ 

BDx Secures US$320 Million Loan to Accelerate AI-Ready Data Center Infrastructure in Asia

By
Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — BDx Data Centers today announced the successful close of a US$320 million loan facility, marking a major milestone in the company’s commitment to building world-class digital infrastructure across Asia. Led by Bank Permata, BCA, and KB Bank, the transaction underscores the strong confidence financial partners have placed in BDx’s long-term strategy and its execution capabilities.

The facility will support several strategic initiatives, including the further development of CGK3, BDx’s AI-focused data center campus in Jakarta’s emerging central business district which went live in Sep 2025. Purpose-built to meet the rapidly growing demand for high-density compute infrastructure, CGK3 is among the first liquid-cooled campuses in Jakarta, which is designed to support the most advanced and power-intensive AI workloads being adopted by enterprises and hyperscalers.

In addition, the loan proceeds will be used to refinance existing debt on more favourable terms and to fund investments to increase the high-voltage grid capacity at BDx’s Jatiluhur (CGK4) and Suryacipta (CGK5) campuses to 1.2 GVA. These campuses are being developed to cater to the increasing demand from US and regional hyperscaler and AI customers. Indonesia represents one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic digital growth markets, and BDx’s investments in energy-efficient facilities designed for long-term resilience and sustainable growth are aligned with the region’s accelerating AI and cloud adoption.

“This financing represents a strong vote of confidence in BDx’s vision and our role in enabling the next generation of digital and AI-driven growth in Asia,” said Mayank Srivastava, CEO of BDx Data Centers. “By investing in AI-optimized liquid-cooling infrastructure, high-voltage power platforms, and scalable campuses, we are developing the next generation of infrastructure for ‘AI Factories’ with ultra-high-density GPU workloads.”

BDx extends its sincere appreciation to the Mandated Lead Arrangers — Bank Permata, BCA, and KB Bank — for their continued partnership and unwavering support. Their trust and collaboration underpin BDx’s growth and its ability to deliver highly reliable, scalable, and energy-efficient facilities as AI adoption accelerates across the region.

About BDx Data Centers

BDx Data Centers is a leading owner and operator of data centers in Asia, with a strong focus on high-power-density facilities supporting AI, cloud computing, and enterprise workloads in Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong SAR, and Taiwan region. BDx has an operating and contracted portfolio of 18 data centers and 50 edge sites, with a development pipeline of 2 powered land parcels offering over 1.2 GVA of grid capacity—making it one of the most significant data center platforms in Asia. Backed by global infrastructure investor I Squared Capital, which manages over $60 billion in assets, BDx combines cutting-edge infrastructure with renewable resources to empower businesses in a connected world.

For more information, visit www.bdxworld.com.

MedJ Unveils International Platform: Your Trusted Gateway to China’s Fast-Growing Biomedical Landscape

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Advertorial Desk
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SHANGHAI, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — MedJ, China’s leading medical media platform, today officially launched its dedicated International Platform: a first-of-its-kind authoritative English-language hub delivering real-time, contextualized insights into China’s fast-evolving healthcare and biomedical landscape for clinicians, researchers, and industry stakeholders worldwide.

The launch comes as China’s global influence in biomedical research reaches unprecedented heights. The 2025 NCS Hospital Index, a bibliometric ranking from the editorial teams of Nature, Cell, and Science (collectively NCS), found 41 hospitals from Chinese mainland ranked in the global top 100 for 2025 publications in the three flagship journals and their high-impact sub-journals. This figure outpaced the U.S. (29 hospitals) to claim the No.1 global spot, underscoring the rising authority of Chinese medical institutions on the world’s top academic stage.

A trusted leader in China’s medical media for over a decade, MedJ serves 3 million registered healthcare professionals, reaches 10 million subscribers, and partners with 20,000+ leading medical experts and 10,000+ hospitals nationwide. Its new International Platform eliminates longstanding barriers for global peers: fragmented information sources, language gaps, and missing critical context around China’s medical advances.

The platform launches with four core editorial sections:

  • Innovation Therapy: Full-lifecycle updates on novel drugs, devices, and regulatory milestones in China
  • Doctors: Exclusive perspectives from China’s top clinical and research leaders
  • Conferences: Frontline reporting from key global medical congresses
  • Webinar: Live, two-way academic exchanges between Chinese and global medical communities

As China solidifies its rightful place in global healthcare, MedJ’s International Platform stands as an open, inclusive gateway for cross-border collaboration. All the critical insights you need, in one centralized destination.

Visit [MedJ.cn] to explore.

Contact: MedJ

Phone: +86 21 58545118

Mail: medjservice@medj.cn

Tenchijin to Exhibit at ASIAWATER 2026 and Deliver a Presentation

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Advertorial Desk
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TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – Tenchijin Inc., a space-tech innovator transforming sustainable water infrastructure management, is pleased to announce its participation in ASIAWATER 2026, the region’s leading platform for the water and wastewater industry in developing Asia.

The event will take place from 7–9 April 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in the heart of Malaysia’s vibrant capital city. Now in its 14th edition, ASIAWATER is expected to welcome over 20,000 industry professionals and more than 1,000 exhibiting brands and companies from across the region and around the world.

As a key gathering for water industry stakeholders, ASIAWATER 2026 provides a valuable opportunity to explore the latest technologies, solutions, and innovations shaping the future of water and wastewater management. The event will also host a series of flagship conferences and seminars, where global thought leaders and experts will discuss pressing industry challenges and drive forward transformative policies. The 14th ASIAWATER Conference tackles this head-on with the theme “Building Nations: Leveraging Technology-Driven Water Services for Inclusive Growth.”

This marks Tenchijin’s second participation in the event, following its successful presence last year. Tenchijin will showcase “KnoWaterleak,” our water leakage assessment and management platform, at the exhibition booth. Additionally, Yohei Nishiyama, VP of Business Development, will deliver a presentation at the conference on sustainable water management solutions.

This marks Tenchijin’s second consecutive year of participation, following its successful presence last time. At the exhibition, Tenchijin will showcase “KnoWaterleak,” our water leakage assessment and management platform. In addition, Yohei Nishiyama, VP of Business Development, will deliver a presentation on “Space to Ground: AI-Powered NRW Reduction in Asia” during the technology seminar.

Event Overview

■ Event: ASIAWATER Expo & Forum 2026
■ Organizer: Informa Markets Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
■ Date: April 7 to 9, 2026
■ Venue: Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
■ Event URL: https://www.asiawater.org/

Tenchijin’s Exhibition

■ Exhibition Date: April 7 to 9, 2026
■ Tenchijin’s Booth Location: C802 (Level 4, Exhibition Hall 8)
■ URL: https://exhibitors.informamarkets-info.com/event/2026WTA/en-US/exhibitor/476730/knowaterleak—tenchijin-inc-

Tenchijin’s Presentation

■ Date: April 9, 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM
■ Venue: KIOSK 2 (HALL 2)
■ Speaker: Yohei Nishiyama, VP of Business Development
■ Theme: Space to Ground: AI-Powered NRW Reduction in Asia
Hashtag: #Tenchijin #ASIAWATER2026 #KnoWaterleak #ASIAWATER #SpaceTech #WaterManagement #AI #SmartWater #Infrastructure #Sustainability




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

Tenchijin Inc.

About Tenchijin KnoWaterleak

KnoWaterleak is an innovative platform that harnesses satellite data and AI to predict and prevent water infrastructure risks. The system analyzes space-derived data to identify potential leaks within 100-meter square zones, providing unprecedented insights through a 5-level risk evaluation system.
Through continuous AI learning and data collection, the platform demonstrates efficiency in sustainable water management. This technology has earned recognition from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare at the 7th Infrastructure Maintenance Grand Prize.

About Tenchijin Inc.

Tenchijin Inc. is a space-tech innovator leveraging satellite data and AI to detect hidden water infrastructure risks, predict potential leaks, and drive more sustainable, efficient water management through space-derived insights. Our flagship product, KnoWaterleak, combines satellite technology with advanced AI algorithms to proactively identify and prevent costly infrastructure failures, enabling organizations to manage their water systems more sustainably.

Company Overview:

  • Company Name: Tenchijin Inc.
  • Address: 5F, Nihonbashi 1-chome Mitsui Building, 1-4-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
  • Representative: Yasuhito Sakuraba, CEO
  • Business Content: Land evaluation consulting using satellite data
  • Website:

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