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Clarification on MetaComp Pte Ltd’s Media Releases dated 29 April 2024 and 7 May 2024 Regarding Cryptocurrency Spot ETF Promotion

SINGAPORE, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In reference to the announcements titled “MetaComp Announces Strategic Partnership with Harvest Global Investments to Explore Bringing HK-Listed ETFs to Investors in Singapore and Beyond” dated 29 April 2024 and “MetaComp and Bosera Strengthen Collaboration to Promote Bosera Cryptocurrency ETFs Among Global Investors” dated 7 May 2024, we would like to provide further clarifications on some inaccuracies and potentially misleading statements that were made. For the ease of reference, the aforesaid ETFs shall be collectively referred to herein as “Spot Cryptocurrency ETFs“.

In the 29 April 2024 and 7 May 2024 media releases, MetaComp Pte Ltd (MetaComp) had stated that it has established a strategic cooperation with Bosera and Harvest Global Investments for the promotion of the Spot Cryptocurrency ETFs. This is inaccurate because the partnerships with Bosera and Harvest Global Investments are, in fact, with Metaverse Green Exchange Pte Ltd (MVGX), the parent company of MetaComp. MVGX is a holder of a Capital Markets Services licence and a Recognised Market Operator. To clarify, MetaComp’s role in these two partnerships is solely as the digital payment token service provider and technological enabler.

MetaComp wishes to emphasise that it does not offer Spot Cryptocurrency ETFs. Through its online Platform, MetaComp offers investors off-ramping solutions and provides the technological infrastructure to facilitate these services. It is important to note that any page or domain relating to the Spot Cryptocurrency ETFs are operated and managed solely and directly by MVGX and these products are only offered to accredited investors, expert investors or institutional investors.

Note to Editors: Please note that this is a clarification issued by MetaComp Pte. Ltd. to address some inaccuracies in two earlier media releases, namely, “MetaComp Announces Strategic Partnership with Harvest Global Investments to Explore Bringing HK-Listed ETFs to Investors in Singapore and Beyond” dated 29 April 2024 and “MetaComp and Bosera Strengthen Collaboration to Promote Bosera Cryptocurrency ETFs Among Global Investors” dated 7 May 2024. If you have published articles on either of the two media releases, we kindly request that you make a file note on your articles indicating that some information has been corrected or include our clarification alongside the earlier articles to show a subsequent correction. This is to prevent further publication of articles based on any wrong information. Many thanks for your cooperation. 

About MetaComp Pte Ltd (https://www.mce.sg/)

MetaComp is a leading Singapore-based digital asset platform, licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) under the Payment Services Act 2019. Operating under a P2B2C (platform-to-business, partners-to-clients) model, MetaComp delivers a seamless, end-to-end suite of services designed to empower clients to confidently navigate the digital asset landscape. Focused on safety, security, and regulatory compliance, MetaComp enables businesses and institutions to scale their digital asset strategies through services such as OTC and exchange trading services, fiat payment solutions, digital asset custody, and prime brokerage.

As a wholly owned entity of Metaverse Green Exchange Pte Ltd (a holder of a capital markets services licence and recognised market operator regulated by the MAS), MetaComp’s flagship solution, CAMP (Client Assets Management Platform), offers a regulated and innovative ecosystem for digital asset management. MetaComp integrates the stability of traditional fiat-based financial systems with the transformative power of digital assets. By enabling seamless transitions between fiat currencies and digital assets, MetaComp provides businesses with secure, compliant, and efficient solutions to manage payments, custody, and trading in the evolving digital economy.

Binance Named “Best Crypto App” at Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2024

SINGAPORE, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Binance, the global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and users, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the title of “Best Crypto App” at the prestigious Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2024. Binance was recognized as the top application in the cryptocurrency taxonomy, earning the award based on its leading performance among all other applications in the category. This recognition highlights Binance’s exceptional performance, leadership, and impact in the cryptocurrency industry.

Each year, the Sensor Tower APAC Awards recognizes leading apps and games in their respective categories, using insights from Sensor Tower Intelligence. These rankings are based on a variety of key metrics, including Downloads, IAP Revenue, Active Users, Reviews, Ratings, and overall impact on society and the industry.

“With Bitcoin’s price reaching new highs in 2024, Binance, the leading global app in the Cryptocurrency category, saw its downloads soar once again. It stands out as the premier all-in-one crypto solution for trading, staking, earning, and learning. With over 225 million downloads worldwide, it has earned an impressive average rating of 4.8 stars and has led the monthly active user rankings in its category globally since 2022, with particularly strong growth in Asia,” said Donny Kristianto, Principal Market Insights Manager at Sensor Tower APAC Awards.

Andy Goldin, Binance’s Head of Data and Analytics, commented on the achievement: “We are honored to receive the Best Crypto App award at the Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2024. This recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication to providing the best possible experience for our users and is in alignment with recent data showcasing Binance’s strong performance. According to DefiLlama, Binance safeguards $150 billion in crypto assets for our users, while CCData reported we’ve facilitated over $100 trillion in trading volumes since 2017. We remain committed to innovation and excellence in the cryptocurrency space, and we are excited about the future as we continue to grow and evolve.”

In addition to the Sensor Tower APAC Awards, 2024 was a milestone year for Binance, marked by multiple industry recognitions. Binance was ranked as the most visited cryptocurrency platform of 2024 by Cloudflare’s web traffic report and secured the 6th spot globally in the financial services sector. Fortune also named Binance the No.1 Asia FinTech Innovator in 2024, by virtue of its leadership and ongoing innovation in the fintech space.

ABOUT BINANCE

Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 250 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means. For more information, visit: https://www.binance.com 

Disney, Marvel Return to Laos Theaters After Year-Long Hiatus

Disney, Marvel Return to Laos Theaters After Year-Long Hiatus

UPDATED at 12:03 on 20 February

The last Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) movie to screen in Laos was on 12 November, 2023. Since then, local theaters have been without any new Disney, Marvel, or 20th Century Studios releases. But now, things are about to change. The US-based movie giant is about to make a comeback after over a year of hiatus.

Alpro Pharmacy and Believe Fitness Collaborate on Silver Sneakers Project to Enhance Elderly Well-being and Prevent Falls


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2025 – Malaysia’s aging population is growing at a faster-than-expected rate, with more than 17% of the population expected to be above the age of 60 by 2040 according to The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). This demographic shift indicates that more seniors will face mobility limitations, impacting their independence and overall well-being. One of the most pressing concerns among Malaysia’s elderly population is sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, which affects up to 59.8% of older adults in the Klang Valley. This condition diminishes strength and mobility, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and overall health decline, ultimately leading to reduced independence and quality of life.

From left: Eugene Siow (Chief Physiotherapist of Alpro Physio), Gan Chi Tat (Business Development Manager of Alpro Silvercare), Patrick Davis (Managing Director and Franchise Lead at Believe Fitness), Lucius Choo (Head of Sales at Believe Fitness)
From left: Eugene Siow (Chief Physiotherapist of Alpro Physio), Gan Chi Tat (Business Development Manager of Alpro Silvercare), Patrick Davis (Managing Director and Franchise Lead at Believe Fitness), Lucius Choo (Head of Sales at Believe Fitness)

Recognizing these challenges, Alpro Pharmacy has partnered with Believe Fitness to launch the Silver Sneakers Project, a dedicated initiative to enhance the health and well-being of seniors through structured fitness programs led by physiotherapists from Alpro Physio. The program aims to build muscle, improve physical health, and enhance the quality of life for older adults, ultimately reducing the risk of falls.

The Silver Sneakers Project is specially designed for elderly individuals aged 55 and above, with a primary focus on seniors at risk of falls or those looking to maintain and improve their physical health. The program will be conducted exclusively at Believe Fitness, Jaya Shopping Center, and will feature:

  • Guided exercise sessions by physiotherapist and Believe Fitness trainers focusing on balance, strength, and flexibility.
  • Physiotherapist assessments to monitor progress and provide personalised recommendations.
  • Safe and effective exercise programmes led by physiotherapists to ensure proper form and technique.
  • Complimentary body composition tests, blood pressure monitoring, and muscle strength tests to provide a comprehensive health overview for participants.
  • On-site support from healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists and home care healthcare professionals, to ensure the safety and well-being of participants.

A key highlight of the programme is that the exercise routines are designed by physiotherapists, who are posture and movement experts. Physiotherapists create workout plans that cater specifically to the elderly, considering their daily activity needs. Exercises mimic common daily movements such as bending down to pick up objects, climbing stairs, and raising hands to reach for items, ensuring practical benefits that directly enhance their mobility and independence.

Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in preventing and slowing down muscle loss (sarcopenia), improving balance and coordination, strengthening bones and joints, and enhancing cardiovascular and respiratory health. By participating in these structured sessions, seniors can reduce the risk of falls, enhance their confidence and independence, and improve overall well-being.

“At Believe Fitness, we are committed to empowering everyone, including seniors, with the strength and stability they need to lead active and independent lives. Through our partnership with Alpro Pharmacy, we aim to provide a safe and engaging environment where elderly participants can regain confidence in their mobility and reduce the risk of falls.” – Patrick Davis, Managing Director of Believe Fitness.

“The Silver Sneakers Project is a vital step towards proactive senior healthcare. At Alpro Pharmacy, we have established Silvercare, a dedicated team focused on elderly care, supported by healthcare professionals. We believe in holistic health solutions, and exercise is one of the key components in preventing falls and maintaining independence. This collaboration with Believe Fitness allows us to bring professional, guided fitness programs to seniors, ensuring they receive the care and support they need.” – Gan Chi Tat, Project Leader of Silver Sneakers Project at Alpro Pharmacy. He was inspired to initiate this project after witnessing the struggles of Madam Li, his auntie, who lost her independence due to a fall. Once an independent woman, she found herself confined to a wheelchair, her confidence shattered, and her family’s daily life upended. Seeing how one fall could disrupt an entire household, he realised that prevention was the key to preserving not just mobility, but dignity and independence. This project is his mission to ensure seniors have the strength and support to live life on their own terms.

The Silver Sneakers Programme is complimentary, starting in March, running for six months with sessions held twice a week, and free for all elderly individuals aged 55 and above, with limited seats available. Interested participants can register by visiting their nearest Alpro Pharmacy or Alpro Sugi in Klang Valley. For more information, visit https://www.alpropharmacy.com/event_promotion/silver-sneakers-senior-fitness-free-trial/ or contact 019-7500612.

Hashtag: #AlproPharmacy #AlproSilvercare #BelieveFitness

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

Alpro Pharmacy

With a humble beginning starting with a single pharmacy outlet in the small town of Port Dickson in 2002, Alpro Pharmacy is now a diversified community chain pharmacy that provides comprehensive primary healthcare solutions via over 300 outlets including Alpro Pharmacy, Alpro Clinic, Alpro Physio and Alpro Baby, both online and offline, nationwide. It is supported by a team of more than 650 healthcare professionals, ranging from doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, dietitians to physiotherapists and many other healthcare professionals.

Serving more than 3 million families in Malaysia, Alpro Pharmacy is the first and only community pharmacy in the country to provide RM1 million product liability insurance to safeguard the supply of genuine medications. With over 500,000 prescriptions filled per year, Alpro Pharmacy is also the largest prescription pharmacy chain in Malaysia.

For more information, please visit .

Thais Rely on Fabric Softeners as Daily Scents, but Gen Z Drives a Shift to Fragrances

BANGKOK, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thailand’s fragrance and scented products market is growing, with product launches increasing from two percentage points between October 2019 and September 2020 to 4% in the same period from 2023 to 2024 according to Mintel research. However, many consumers still turn to fabric softeners as their daily scent, whether through the laundry process or DIY softener sprays.

Mintel’s Chayapat Ratchatawipasanan, Associate Director, Beauty and Personal Care, for Thailand, explains that Thai consumers “associate smelling good with cleanliness, favouring subtle fragrances that complement their hygiene routines.” Mintel research shows that 73% of Thais shower more than once daily and 30% enjoy switching scents based on their outfit. “This trend underscores a strong market opportunity for fragrance and scented products that cater to evolving consumer demands for light, adaptable scents,” he said.

For Thai consumers, fabric softeners serve a dual purpose: they soften clothes and add fragrance, reducing the perceived need for traditional perfumes. According to Mintel research, nearly a quarter (23%) of Thais find fabric softeners sufficient as a daily fragrance, reflecting their preference for pleasant but subtle scents. Additionally, 40% use the scent of their laundry as a personal fragrance.

However, launches of fabric softeners with perfume claims have declined from 18% to 9% between October 2023 and September 2024 compared to the same period in 2020-2021. According to Ratchatawipasanan, this presents an opportunity for brands to offer complementary products, such as body lotions or fabric sprays. “Brands can also innovate in the fabric care category by introducing new scent formats that can be used between washes or on the go,” he noted.

Gen Z leans toward mid-range fragrances that reflect their identity

The report also highlights a shift towards mid-range fragrances, particularly those priced between USD4.74 and USD8.73. Over two years, from October 2022 to September 2024, this segment grew from 27% to 33%.

Mid-range products cater to consumers’ demand for affordable yet unique products that resonate with their identity, particularly among Gen Z. A significant 67% of Thai Gen Z view luxury fragrances as a waste of money, while nearly a third (29%) agree that finding a fragrance that matches their personality is challenging.

“While mid-range fragrances are more accessible, their cost per millilitre can still be relatively high (for example, some products cost around THB 200 per 10ml). However, shoppers can benefit from single purchases, allowing them to enjoy high-quality scents without straining their wallets,” said Ratchatawipasanan.

Gen Z’s tech-savvy nature is also driving interest in fragrances enhanced by advanced technology, with 31% expressing strong interest in tech-driven scent innovations. “Brands can explore the potential of biotechnology to boost fragrance personalisation, with wearable devices customising scent releases, for example,” he added.

Wellness-driven fragrances also gain momentum

Another growing trend is the integration of fragrances with wellness-focused products. Thai consumers are willing to pay a premium for fragrances that offer mental health benefits, with stress reduction being the most sought-after benefit (55%). “This trend underscores the potential for fragrances as a form of self-care, providing both appealing scents and enhanced wellbeing,” said Ratchatawipasanan.

Spirox Establishes the Asia-Pacific’s First Power Semiconductor Dynamic Reliability Verification Laboratory

HSINCHU, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Spirox Corporation (TWSE: 3055), a professional semiconductor equipment provider announced its plan to build the first power semiconductor dynamic reliability verification laboratory in the Asia-Pacific region. This strategic initiative, undertaken in collaboration with its distribution partner, SET GmbH (now part of NI), is designed to address the escalating demand for automotive-grade verification of power semiconductor chips. The laboratory aims to provide local semiconductor manufacturers with convenient and efficient verification services, accelerating their research, development, and production processes.

Spirox Establishes the First Power Semiconductor Dynamic Reliability Verification Laboratory in APAC in collaboration with SET GmbH (now part of NI). (Left Joseph Soo, NI Vice President of APAC; Right Paul Yang, CEO of Spirox)
Spirox Establishes the First Power Semiconductor Dynamic Reliability Verification Laboratory in APAC in collaboration with SET GmbH (now part of NI). (Left Joseph Soo, NI Vice President of APAC; Right Paul Yang, CEO of Spirox)

Driven by electric vehicle and renewable energy applications, the power semiconductor market is experiencing rapid growth. Compared to traditional IGBT silicon chips, SiC offers higher efficiency and lower energy consumption under high-temperature and high-voltage conditions. While silicon chips remain dominant in the semiconductor industry, a growing number of high-performance products are shifting towards wide-bandgap materials like compound semiconductors as the foundation for chip design architectures. According to EETimes Asia, the automotive electronics market for SiC power devices is projected to reach nearly 4 billion USD by 2026.

As power semiconductor materials advance, new standards for automotive electronics verification are emerging. ECPE AQG 324 has become a critical certification for entering the automotive electronics market. Spirox responses to this market demand by establishing the first power semiconductor dynamic reliability verification laboratory in the Asia-Pacific region, located in Hsinchu, Taiwan region. Utilizing equipment from SET GmbH (now part of NI), the lab will provide crucial verification services, helping clients capitalize on market opportunities with faster product development cycles, further enhance their competitiveness in the automotive electronics market.

Paul Yang, CEO of Spirox, highlights the immense potential of the power semiconductor market, emphasizing that the Asia-Pacific region is poised to experience demand far exceeding other regions. Building on its extensive semiconductor testing knowledge, Spirox’s new Power Semiconductor Dynamic Reliability Verification Laboratory will provide essential SiC automotive module verification services during product development. Focusing on DGS/Dynamic HTGB, Dynamic H3TRB/DRB, and IOL and Power Cycling systems, Spirox, a key NI distribution partner for semiconductor testing, will deliver tailored verification and comprehensive equipment solutions, ensuring timely, professional, and reliable after-sales service.

“We are committed to providing flexible testing solutions that enable our customers to manufacture products compliant with stringent safety standards” said Joseph Soo, NI Vice President of APAC. “This continued partnership with Spirox will facilitate accelerated product development timelines for their regional clientele.” Spirox’s established customer base in Taiwan region and Mainland China, along with the professional engineering team, will contribute significantly to the advancement of power semiconductor technology in the Asia-Pacific region.

About Spirox

Spirox Corporation (TWSE: 3055) is a professional semiconductor equipment provider in the Great China. Partnered with worldwide leading suppliers, Spirox provides various integrated solutions to fulfill customer needs in testing, packaging, and inspection in semiconductor industry. Founded in 1987, Spirox is headquartered in Hsinchu, Taiwan region, with additional branches in Shanghai, Suzhou, and Shenzhen. For more information, please visit www.spirox.com.

EVIDENT and IDA to Tokenize Revenue-Based Financing Products with Micro Connect

HONG KONG, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EVIDENT and IDA Finance Hong Kong Limited (IDA) announce their strategic partnership to tokenize and distribute revenue-based financing (RBF) investment instruments listed and traded on Micro Connect (Macao) Financial Assets Exchange (“MCEX“), the first licensed global RBF exchange connecting global financial markets with the real economy. This unprecedented collaboration will explore the feasibility of seamless connection of asset origination with tokenized issuance, distribution, and stablecoin-based settlement of RBF investments, creating a truly integrated digital value chain.

This streamlined approach is aimed at simplifying access to cash flow-based investment instruments for a diverse investor base in Web3 and private wealth, and drive capital to bridge the financing gap for micro and small businesses. The project heralds a new era in integrated digital market infrastructure for capital markets.

The collaboration is made possible by combining the distinctive expertise of the partners:

  • EVIDENT contributes its next-generation digital market infrastructure by tokenizing RBF investment instruments. Through advanced asset tokenization on blockchain, EVIDENT digitizes the entire asset lifecycle – from efficient structuring and automated administration to seamless electronic trading, clearing, and settlement – thereby enhancing liquidity, transparency, and operational efficiency in a regulatory-compliant setup.
  • IDA enriches the ecosystem with its cutting-edge stablecoin infrastructure to bridge between traditional financial systems and tokenized digital asset products. IDA’s technology will enable secure and efficient transaction of tokenized RBF investment instruments while providing seamless access for Web3 investors.

This alliance exemplifies the power of strategic synergy – where EVIDENT’s innovative tokenization of RBF investment instruments and IDA’s robust stablecoin infrastructure converge to create a transformative investment ecosystem that was previously untapped by traditional capital markets.

The collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of RBF, uniting traditional financial rigor in a regulated environment with the agility and inclusivity of digital assets. Together, the partners are poised to redefine market access and liquidity, ultimately driving sustainable growth for businesses and delivering unparalleled investment opportunities to a global audience, setting a new standard for the digital transformation of private capital markets.

About EVIDENT

EVIDENT is a licensed investment platform for alternative assets, dedicated to building next-generation digital market infrastructure to redefine the way private wealth connects with private markets. Harnessing advanced asset tokenization on blockchain, EVIDENT digitizes the entire asset lifecycle from efficient structuring and automated administration to seamless electronic trading of alternatives. The company operates within established regulatory frameworks, building trust and reliability for all participants. EVIDENT is committed to building a future where private markets are as open as public markets, enabling enhanced distribution for asset managers and exceptional access and convenience for investors and intermediaries.

For more information, please visit https://www.evident.capital/ and follow on LinkedIn: EVIDENT and X(Twitter): @EVIDENT_Capital

About IDA Finance Hong Kong Limited (IDA) 

IDA is the premier digital asset technology company to spearhead the widespread adoption of blockchain finance and to empower businesses to seamlessly integrate between Web2 and Web3.  

IDA will launch a stablecoin product which is designed to drive enhanced connectivity of digital currency for seamless commerce and payments between Hong Kong and global markets, 24/7/365. To maintain the highest level of security and stability, all circulating stablecoins will always be fully backed by at least 100% reserve assets in regulated Hong Kong based authorized institutions.  

To maximize the network effect of the stablecoin project for domestic and cross-border usage, IDA is partnering with key industry players to facilitate the minting, redemption and widespread acceptance of stablecoins as a payment and settlement digital currency.  

More information can be found at idafi.xyz / LinkedIn / X  

Disclaimer

Nothing contained in this article constitutes an offer or solicitation of offer, or an investment advice or recommendation to transact in any investment and should not be construed as such. The information provided in this article is not a substitute for investment advice, risk statements, suitability statements, investor education or similar content, neither should it be used as a basis for making investment decisions. For the avoidance of doubt, this article does not involve advertising and promoting the purchase of or investment in any securities, futures contracts and derivatives, funds, equity, limited partnership, loans, trusts, foreign exchange or digital asset products to residents or enterprises of Mainland China, Macao SAR, Hong Kong SAR, or any other place.

Instant White Lotus effect: Agoda sees rise in Koh Samui interest following premiere of popular tv show

SINGAPORE, Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thailand is enjoying the global spotlight following the season premiere of the popular HBO show ‘The White Lotus’. For the island of Koh Samui in particular, the series’ main shooting location, Agoda noted a 12% increase in accommodation searches. Interest from the United States grew by 65% compared to last month’s average.  

The search increase from the United States sees the market enter Koh Samui’s inbound top five based on accommodation searches made on Agoda. With the US replacing Malaysia, the top international markets searching for travel to Koh Samui in the past two days are now all from the West: Israel, Germany, France, United States, and United Kingdom, respectively.

After the previous two seasons of ‘The White Lotus’ were reported to have a positive effect on the tourism sectors of Hawaii and Sicily, respectively, the Thai government and Thailand’s tourism authority TAT successfully convinced the series’ producers to shoot the third season in ‘the Land of Smiles.’ Filming took place in Bangkok, Koh Samui, Koh Pha-Ngan, and Phuket, with a star-studded cast including the likes of Patrick Schwarzenegger and Thailand’s BLACKPINK megastar, Lalisa Manobal.

Pierre Honne, Country Director Thailand at Agoda said: “The third season premiere of ‘The White Lotus’ has been a highly anticipated event in Thailand as it has across the rest of the world. It’s thrilling to finally see beloved Thai destinations like Bangkok and Koh Samui as the settings for a global TV sensation. The potential positive effects on Koh Samui and Thailand’s tourism are undeniable.”

In addition to a wide variety of holiday accommodations across Thailand, Agoda’s platform hosts over five million holiday properties globally, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities. Agoda’s wide offerings make it the ideal online travel platform for finding great value deals and helping travelers see the world for less.