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Cisco Study: CEOs Embrace AI, But Knowledge Gaps Threaten Strategic Decisions and Growth

97% of CEOs plan AI integration, but only 1.7% feel fully prepared. New research highlights what’s getting in the way of progress – and how CEOs plan to shift ambition into action.

News summary:

  • While 4 out of 5 CEOs recognize AI’s potential, many worry gaps in their understanding will impact strategic decisions, risking missed opportunities and falling behind competitors.
  • Over 70% fear losing ground due to gaps in IT knowledge or network infrastructure, with more than half already seeing competitive losses from underinvestment in technology.
  • CEOs plan to stay ahead by investing in their people, modernizing infrastructure, and strengthening cybersecurity, with 96% relying on trusted partners to future-proof their network for AI.

AMSTERDAM, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CISCO LIVE — A new study from Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, reveals a paradox among CEOs While 4 in 5 recognize AI’s potential benefits and almost all plan to integrate AI into their operations, many fear gaps in their knowledge will hinder decisions in the boardroom (74%) and stifle growth (58%) – risking missed opportunities and falling behind competitors. Yet, CEOs are not standing still. With support from their IT leaders and trusted partners, they plan to empower their people, modernize infrastructure, and strengthen cybersecurity to sharpen their competitive edge in an AI-driven future.

CEO Barriers
CEO Barriers

Cisco’s Chief Product Officer, Jeetu Patel, underscores the urgency to act: “In a dynamic landscape where competition is fierce, speed decides the winners. Leaders who act decisively today to build resilient, future-proofed networks will be the AI-forward leaders driving real value for their business. Eventually there will be only two kinds of companies: those that are AI companies, and those that are irrelevant.”

CEOs fear the mounting costs of inaction
Cisco’s research shows more than 70% of CEOs are concerned about losing ground to competitors and missing out on opportunities because of IT and infrastructure gaps – fears that are already translating into real losses. Over half of CEOs (53%) worry that a lack of investment in technology is costing them competitive advantage, while two-thirds are concerned about the opportunity costs of not investing more in technology. The costs of inaction aren’t hypothetical scenarios. If they don’t invest in technology now, CEOs expect higher operating costs, lower profits, reduced productivity, and declining market share.

The bold act while others fall behind
For the leaders who confront their fears, the rewards will transcend simply “keeping up.” CEOs are turning to AI for its transformative potential: driving efficiency (69%), spurring innovation (68%), and outpacing competitors (54%). But fulfilling that ambition requires CEOs to break down the barriers holding them back from realizing AI’s potential: skills shortages, infrastructure gaps, and security risks (Figure 1).

While CEOs focus on the bigger picture, their CIOs and CTOs are often grappling with operational hurdles including the lack of compelling business use cases – a challenge CEOs rank lower (Figure 1). This tension perhaps reflects AI’s exploratory phase, where the 82% of CEOs who recognize AI’s potential benefits must support bold experimentation in the short term to uncover value in the long term.

Oliver Tuszik, President of Cisco EMEA, highlights the opportunity: “Whole businesses will be revolutionized if they can unlock AI’s potential to innovate faster, simplify their operations, and withstand digital disruptions. But no one can do it alone. That’s why 96% of CEOs are leaning on trusted partners to make the leap.”

The CEO’s Blueprint: People, infrastructure, and cybersecurity
Cisco’s research reveals CEOs’ plan to turn fear into progress – investing in knowledge and skills, upgrading infrastructure, and enhancing security to prepare for the demands of AI (Figure 2).

Delivering on this blueprint will require decisive technology leadership both within the organisation and through trusted partnerships. CEOs are increasingly looking to their CTOs and CIOs, with nearly 80% recognising their vital role in guiding business and investment decisions. More and more, technology leaders are business leaders who see modern networks and technology not just as tools, but as enablers of growth, resilience, and innovation.

CEOs know they can’t deliver on their blueprint without expert support: 96% are turning to trusted partnerships to future-proof their network for AI. With bold technology leadership inside and beyond their organizations, the CEOs have the expertise to navigate uncertainties and translate AI’s potential into tangible outcomes.

Cisco continues to help organizations overcome complexity and create opportunity in the AI era
Skills shortages, implementation challenges, AI-ready infrastructure, and cybersecurity are top concerns for IT teams and leaders across industries. Cisco’s upcoming announcements aim to address these challenges: closing gaps between security and networking for AI data centres, empowering Service Providers with new revenue-generating tools, and equipping the next generation of AI-forward professionals with enhanced certifications.

Download highlights from Cisco’s CEO research here
The CEO study, conducted by Opinion Matters (24 Dec 2024–2 Jan 2025), surveyed 2,503 CEOs from companies with 250+ employees worldwide. A companion study with 8,065 senior networking leaders will follow in the coming months, exploring the strategic and operational needs of AI-era networking and security.

Additional resources:

About Cisco  
Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide technology leader that is revolutionizing the way organizations connect and protect in the AI era. For more than 40 years, Cisco has securely connected the world. With its industry leading AI-powered solutions and services, Cisco enables its customers, partners and communities to unlock innovation, enhance productivity and strengthen digital resilience.  With purpose at its core, Cisco remains committed to creating a more connected and inclusive future for all. Discover more on The Newsroom.

Cisco and the Cisco logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Cisco’s trademarks can be found at http://www.cisco.com/go/trademarks. Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word ‘partner’ does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.

CEO Blueprint
CEO Blueprint

 

 

HKFindLawyer.com Launches Comprehensive Glossary for Criminal Offences in Hong Kong

Helping the Public Understand Legal Definitions and Consequences of Criminal Charges


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2025 – HKFindLawyer.com, a leading legal information platform, has launched a Criminal Offences Glossary to help the public better understand various criminal charges under Hong Kong law. This new resource provides clear, concise, and legally accurate explanations of common offences, empowering individuals with essential knowledge before seeking legal assistance.

The glossary covers a wide range of offences, including fraud, theft, burglary, money laundering, extortion, and forgery, helping users grasp the legal implications of financial and property-related crimes. It also provides detailed insights into violent and personal offences, such as assault, sexual harassment, indecent assault, upskirting, and underage sex.

Additionally, the glossary addresses public safety and traffic-related offences, including dangerous driving, careless driving, and criminal damage, as well as immigration-related violations such as bogus marriages and overstaying. Lesser-known yet serious crimes like upskirting, voyeurism, and making false statements are also explained to raise public awareness.

“At HKFindLawyer.com, our mission is to make legal information more accessible. Many people facing legal issues don’t fully understand the nature of the charges against them. This glossary serves as an educational tool, bridging the gap between legal jargon and practical understanding,” said Adrien Kwong, founder of HKFindLawyer.com.
Hashtag: #HKFindLawyer

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

About HKFindLawyer.com

HKFindLawyer.com is Hong Kong’s premier legal service platform, dedicated to connecting individuals with the right lawyers for their legal needs. By offering a wealth of legal resources, including informative articles, legal consultations, and lawyer-matching services, the platform simplifies the process of finding expert legal assistance. Whether facing criminal charges, civil disputes, or business-related legal matters, HKFindLawyer.com provides an accessible and reliable solution for those in need of professional legal guidance.

For more information, visit .

Eight Lao Nationals Caught in Thai Online Gambling Raid

Eight Lao Nationals Caught in Thai Online Gambling Raid
Eight Lao Nationals Caught in Thai Online Gambling Raid

On 5 February, Thai authorities arrested eight Lao nationals and five Thais in a raid on an illegal online gambling operation in Nong Khai Province. 

The police initiated the crackdown after detecting a blocked SIM card signal in Chommanee village, Michai subdistrict, believed to be connected to an illegal call center gang.

The operation uncovered an open server used to run online gambling websites, managed by 13 individuals—eight Lao nationals and five Thai nationals. Police seized various items, including the server, routers, CCTV cameras, mobile phones, laptops, and other IT equipment.

An initial investigation revealed that the routers, equipped with both Thai and Lao SIM cards, were used to distribute internet signals. 

Two main servers hosted gambling websites operating in both Thailand and Laos. 

In Thailand, the FBC189 website generated an estimated THB 2 million (approximately USD 56,000)  per month, while in Laos, the UFAR88 website reported a monthly turnover of about THB 1.5 million (approximately USD 42,000).

The server’s owner was not present at the scene. According to Thai media, the owner is originally from Phrae Province but has a registered address in Nonthaburi. 

The arrested suspects face charges for organizing illegal gambling and promoting it through electronic media, along with violating immigration laws. They were taken to Nong Khai city police station for legal proceedings, and authorities plan to expand the investigation to locate the server’s owner and other connected networks.

SIAL Shanghai 2025: Own Asia’s Changing Food Market and Inspire New Business with the Tutto Pizza Initiative

BEIJING, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As China’s dynamic food and beverage market continues its rapid expansion, SIAL Shanghai 2025 is poised to be the premier platform for international professionals seeking to engage with this vibrant industry. Scheduled from May 19 to 21, 2025, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre, this trade fair will unite global industry leaders, offering unparalleled opportunities for exhibitors, visitors,  buyers and food professionals to connect, discover the latest trends, and grow their businesses.

2024 SIAL Shanghai opening day
2024 SIAL Shanghai opening day

China’s Food Market: A Golden Opportunity

China’s food market is on a clear upward trajectory, projected to reach a remarkable $1.736 trillion by 2025, according to Statista. With a compound annual growth rate of 7.13%, online sales are also expected to account for 20.1% of total revenue by 2025. This booming market is fueled by China’s vast consumer base of over 1.4 billion people, all demanding high-quality, innovative, and diverse food products. As China continues to assert its position as the world’s largest food consumer, global food and beverage companies are increasingly focusing their efforts on capturing this thriving market.

Showcase Global Food Innovations to Buyers in the Asia-Pacific Region (APAC)

For exhibitors, SIAL Shanghai 2025 offers an unrivaled opportunity to showcase their products and innovations to a highly targeted audience of influential buyers and industry leaders. With more than 5,000 exhibitors from 75 countries and regions, SIAL Shanghai is Asia’s largest food and beverage trade fair, providing a powerful platform for global food brands to gain significant exposure in the thriving Chinese and broader Asian markets.

Testimonials from exhibitors at SIAL Shanghai 2024 highlight the event’s success:

“We’ve had great success at SIAL Shanghai, connecting with both Chinese and international customers. The exposure here has been invaluable for expanding our brand’s reach in the Asian market.” — Adam Kalaxizian, Director, CCI France Vietnam

“It’s our first time exhibiting here, and the turnout has been exceptional. The ability to connect with distributors, retail chains, and potential buyers is exactly what we need to drive our product’s growth in China.” — Jonathen Braeuer, Sales and Marketing Manager, Beth-EI Food Ltd.

Discover the Future of Food

At SIAL Shanghai 2025, visitors and buyers will have a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends and innovations in the food and beverage industry. With over 180,000 professionals from 110 countries expected to attend, the fair will be a melting pot of ideas, connections, and opportunities. Attendees will gain access to a diverse range of products, including organic foods, gourmet beverages, frozen foods, snacks, and convenience foods, all showcasing innovative solutions that cater to the evolving demands of today’s discerning consumers. The exhibition’s strategic location in Shanghai, the heart of China’s flourishing food industry, ensures that participants will be at the forefront of the latest market trends and consumer demands.

Tutto Pizza: Bridging Cultures Through Culinary Excellence

A major highlight of SIAL Shanghai 2025 will be the Tutto Pizza Village, a celebration of pizza-making that brings together Ho.Re.Ca professionals and pizza lovers from around the world. Founded in Naples in 2016, this exhibition has quickly become the premier gathering for pizza enthusiasts worldwide. The 2025 edition will mark a groundbreaking collaboration between Tutto Pizza, Regione Campania, SIAL Network, and Universal Marketing, showcasing the finest Italy’s agri-food products.

Nicola Caputo, Campania’s Agriculture Councilor, stated, “This initiative will elevate the Campania Region and its world-renowned products, such as San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, to a global audience.”

Laurent Noel, Managing Director of Comexposium, commented, “Naples is the birthplace of authentic Italian pizza, and we wanted to take this iconic event international to celebrate the global love for pizza.”

The growing global appeal of pizza — valued at $148.6 billion in 2023 — underscores the significant opportunities for exhibitors in the food sector.

Release of the ‘2025 Pizza New Innovation White Paper’

In addition to the Tutto Pizza Village, SIAL Shanghai 2025 will unveil the ‘2025 Pizza New Potential White Paper’, offering in-depth analysis of demand trends and opportunities in the pizza market. This valuable resource will provide crucial insights into China’s expanding pizza consumer base.

SIAL Global Food Industry Summit: Onward and Upward

The 7th SIAL Global Food Industry Summit at SIAL Shanghai 2025 will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and experts to delve into the latest advancements in the food and beverage industry. With over 100 global speakers and 3,500 attendees participating in 10 thematic forums, the summit will cover critical topics such as sustainability, innovation, and future market trends. It is an essential event for professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and establish new business partnerships.

Concurrent Activities and Competitions: Revolutionizing Consumer Scenarios

SIAL Shanghai 2025 will feature dynamic activities and competitions designed to inspire and engage, highlighting innovation and sustainability across the food industry. Highlights include SIAL INNOVATION, SIAL Snacking Awards, SIAL CUP Barista Challenge, La Cuisine, SIAL Best STEAK Awards, SIAL Chinese Restaurant, SIAL Chic & Tea Contest, and more. These events provide businesses with the opportunity to create innovative consumer experiences, showcase groundbreaking products, and stay ahead of evolving consumer trends.

Match Me: Maximizing ROI for Buyers and Suppliers

To further enhance the value of participation, SIAL Shanghai 2025 introduces Match Me, an business matching program designed to help exhibitors and buyers connect directly. Leveraging over 1 million trade database entries accumulated over 25 years, Match Me ensures that participants connect with the right partners and buyers to maximize their ROI on-site.

SIAL Shanghai 2025: Own the Changing Food Market in China and Asia

SIAL Shanghai 2025 is more than just a trade fair; it is a gateway to the future of China’s and Asia’s food and beverage markets. With its unrivaled scale, strategic location, and diverse range of activities, the event offers a unique opportunity for international professionals to showcase their products, discover emerging trends, and form meaningful business connections. As China’s food market continues to evolve, SIAL Shanghai 2025 is the ideal platform to seize new opportunities and stay ahead in this rapidly growing market.

About SIAL Shenzhen 2025: Gateway to Southern China and South Asia’s Food & Beverage Market

SIAL Shenzhen 2025, held from September 1–3, 2025, at the Shenzhen Convention & Exhibition Center, will cover 60,000 square meters with 1,500+ exhibitors and 67,000 professionals. Focusing on the booming markets of Southern China and South Asia, the exhibition will feature six Highlight Villages, including Chinese & International Food & Beverage, International Meat, and Pulses & Grains.

For media and business inquiries, please contact:

SIAL Shanghai Press Office
Email: press@sialchina.cn
Website: www.sialchina.com 

CStone Announces Inclusion of Cejemly® (sugemalimab) as a First-Line Combination Therapy for NSCLC in ESMO Guideline

SUZHOU, China, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CStone Pharmaceuticals (“CStone”, HKEX: 2616), an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of anti-cancer therapies, today announced that its key product, Cejemly® (sugemalimab), has been included in the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Non-Oncogene-Addicted Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Living Guideline. Sugemalimab is recommended as a first-line combination therapy for both squamous and non-squamous NSCLC, with substantial clinical benefits. This is a significant milestone in sugemalimab’s global journey and provides critical support for our efforts to expand market access, enter the markets, and reach patients.

According to the ESMO Guideline:

  • For patients with squamous NSCLC, performance status (PS) 0-1, regardless of tumour PD-L1 status and without contraindications for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), sugemalimab-platinum-doublet chemotherapy is recommended as a Level [I, A] first-line combination therapy, with an ESMO-MCBS v1.1 score of 4, indicating substantial clinical benefit. Link to guideline: PS 0-1 & any expression of PD-L1 | ESMO
  • For patients with non-squamous NSCLC, PS 0-1, regardless of tumour PD-L1 status and without contraindications for ICI, sugemalimab-platinum-based chemotherapy is recommended as a Level [I, A] first-line combination therapy, with an ESMO-MCBS v1.1 score of 4, also indicating substantial clinical benefit. Link to guideline: PS 0-1 & any expression of PD-L1 | ESMO

These recommendations are supported by robust clinical data from the Phase III GEMSTONE-302 trial, which demonstrated significant benefits in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) with sugemalimab plus platinum-based chemotherapy, compared to placebo plus platinum-based chemotherapy. Notably, sustained and consistent benefits were observed across various histological subtypes and PD-L1 expression levels. Long-term survival data from the GEMSTONE-302 study were presented at the 2024 ESMO Annual Meeting.

Currently, sugemalimab has been approved in China, the EU, and the UK for first-line treatment of advanced NSCLC. After successfully establishing commercial partnerships in dozens of countries in Switzerland, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America, CStone is actively pursuing strategic commercial partnerships in Western Europe, Southeast Asia, and Canada. This effort is in parallel with the overseas registration and launch process for other indications of sugemalimab.

About Cejemly® (sugemalimab)

The anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody Cejemly® (sugemalimab) was developed by CStone using OmniRat® transgenic animal platform, which allows creation of fully human antibodies in one step. Sugemalimab is a fully human, full-length anti-PD-L1 immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) monoclonal antibody, which may reduce the risk of immunogenicity and toxicity for patients, a unique advantage over similar drugs.

The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China has approved sugemalimab for five indications:

  • In combination with chemotherapy as first-line treatment of patients with metastatic squamous and non-squamous NSCLC;
  • For the treatment of patients with unresectable Stage III NSCLC whose disease has not progressed following concurrent or sequential platinum-based chemoradiotherapy;
  • For the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma;
  • In combination with fluorouracil and platinum-based chemotherapy as first-line treatment of patients with unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic ESCC; and
  • In combination with fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-containing chemotherapy as first-line treatment for unresectable locally advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) adenocarcinoma with a PD-L1 expression (Combined Positive Score [CPS] ≥5).

The European Commission (EC) has approved sugemalimab in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC with no sensitizing EGFR mutations, or ALK, ROS1 or RET genomic tumor aberrations.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the United Kingdom has approved the marketing authorization application for sugemalimab in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy for first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC with no sensitizing EGFR mutations, or ALK, ROS1 or RET genomic tumor aberrations.

About CStone 

CStone (HKEX: 2616), established in late 2015, is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of anti-cancer therapies. Dedicated to addressing patients’ unmet medical needs in China and globally, the Company has made significant strides since its inception. To date, the Company has successfully launched 4 innovative drugs and secured approvals for 16 new drug applications (NDAs) covering 9 indications. The company’s pipeline is balanced by 17 promising candidates, featuring potentially first-in-class or best-in-class antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), multispecific antibodies, immunotherapies and precision medicines. CStone also prides itself on a management team with comprehensive experiences and capabilities that span the entire drug development spectrum, from preclinical and translational research to clinical development, drug manufacturing, business development, and commercialization. For more information about CStone, please visit www.cstonepharma.com.

Forward-looking statements 

The forward-looking statements made in this article only relate to events or information as of the date when the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or publicly revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. All statements in this article are made on the date of publication of this article and may change due to future developments.

Disclaimer: only for communication and scientific use by medical and health professionals, it is not intended for promotional purposes.

mCloudTech.ai Announces Web3 Launch in Saudi Arabia, Highlights Digital Leadership in Sustainability

  • AssetCare Web3 capabilities built using Google Cloud and its generative AI capabilities, available in Saudi Arabia via Google Cloud Region in Dammam
  • Initial launch in Saudi Arabia highlights digital sustainability leadership as one of the largest energy markets in the world for decarbonization and carbon trading

San Francisco, California–(Newsfile Corp. – February 9, 2025) – mCloudTech.ai Corp. (“mCloudTech.ai”), a provider of AI-enabled cloud applications optimizing the performance, reliability, and sustainability of energy-intensive assets announced today it will be launching new Web3 capabilities for AssetCare, mCloudTech.ai’s flagship asset performance management platform on Google Cloud in 2025. This launch highlights mCloudTech.ai’s partnership with Google Cloud and spotlights Saudi Arabia’s strategic position to lead digital transformation to power sustainability efforts.

Pioneering Web3 for decarbonization

AssetCare will integrate Web3 with blockchain and AI capabilities from Google Cloud to deliver a unified platform for carbon emissions tracking and digital measurement, reporting, and verification (DMRV). The solution enables full lifecycle management for carbon credits, from issuance to trading to retirement, ensuring transparency and accountability in decarbonization efforts. These innovations position AssetCare as the platform of choice for organizations on the path to net zero through asset performance optimization.

Saudi Arabia as launchpad for global expansion

AssetCare’s Web3 capabilities will debut in Saudi Arabia, leveraging the Kingdom’s robust hyperscale infrastructure, data sovereign policies, and advanced AI ecosystem enabled by Google Cloud. Saudi Arabia, one of the largest global energy markets, provides an ideal launchpad for decarbonization and carbon trading activities. mCloudTech.ai and Google Cloud plan to expand globally, targeting energy-intensive economies with state-owned or national energy companies.

Russ McMeekin, mCloudTech.ai Co-Founder, President, and CEO said: “With mCloudTech.ai’s inception and our partnership with Google Cloud in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, AssetCare’s Web3 capabilities will be an excellent showcase of the Kingdom’s digital leadership. Saudi Arabia’s hyperscale compute, data sovereignty policies, and advanced AI capabilities enabled by Google Cloud underscore the Kingdom’s pivotal role in driving digital sustainability around the world. We are honoured to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s success alongside organizations such as Aramco and their sustainability ambitions with the unparalleled capabilities of Google Cloud’s AI, LLM, and blockchain capabilities.”

Bader Almadi, Google Cloud Country Manager for Saudi Arabia said: “Today, mCloud provides valuable services that help global customers across industries improve their sustainability and streamline their operations. Now, these new capabilities in mCloud’s AssetCare platform, built on Google Cloud, can help customers even further track carbon emissions, streamline reporting, and manage carbon credits.”

Saudi Arabia’s digital sustainability vision

mCloudTech.ai, a MISA registered company in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a key partner to deliver a decentralized experience that will empower the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to lead the way in effectively reducing carbon emissions by leveraging cloud solutions. mCloud plays a critical role in this vision, delivering exclusive digital sustainability applications built on Google Cloud.

This announcement marks a turning point in decarbonization efforts, positioning Saudi Arabia, mCloudTech.ai, and Google Cloud as leaders at the intersection of technology and sustainability.

About mCloudTech.ai
mCloudTech.ai Corp. is a newly-formed, privately-held software company incorporated in Delaware, United States with a regional wholly-owned subsidiary in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia holding a MISA license to operate in-Kingdom. mCloudTech.ai is a Google Cloud partner with a coveted Google Cloud Ready – Sustainability designation. mCloudTech.ai offers AssetCare, asset performance, reliability, and sustainability solutions to asset-intensive organizations around the world, with cloud applications built on top of the industry-leading cloud, AI, and blockchain technologies provided by Google Cloud.

Contact:
Anna Los, Director, Global Operations, mCloudTech.ai Corp., info@mcloudtech.ai

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

CIFF Guangzhou 2025 Preview: A Showcase of Innovation and Sustainability

GUANGZHOU, China, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The second phase of the 55th edition of the China International Furniture Fair (Guangzhou) (CIFF Guangzhou 2025), featuring the Office and Commercial Space, as well as the CIFM/interzum guangzhou, is set to take place from March 28 to 31, 2025, at the Canton Fair Complex in Guangzhou.

The Office and Commercial Space exhibition, themed “Sustainability,” will present pioneering solutions for office spaces and the latest trends in commercial space design. Spanning 24 exhibition halls in Areas A, B, and D of the Canton Fair Complex, it will cover an impressive area of over 240,000 square meters and feature more than 1,000 exhibitors.

The exhibition will feature the Office Environment zone, where comprehensive solutions will be offered, and the latest office design trends will be unveiled. The Office Seating zone will address the challenges of prolonged sitting with various ergonomics innovations that focus on wellness in offices. The Public Commercial Space will cater to multiple scenarios, providing one-stop solutions for commercial spaces.

Design and trends will take center stage with special exhibitions curated in collaboration with professional curators, designers, and media personnel. These exhibitions will focus on cutting-edge design trends, offering a visual feast and a source of inspiration for attendees.

The CIFM/interzum guangzhou will operate under the theme “Engine of New Productivity Boosters in the Home Industry,” showcasing advanced concepts and technologies in the upstream production of home furnishings. This fair segment will focus on the entire industrial chain of home production, with continuous upgrades to the exhibition zones.

The Machinery zone will highlight trends in intelligent, automated, and integrated development, while the Furniture Hardware zone will present smart technology concepts and comprehensive hardware solutions. The Furniture Materials zone will offer one-stop efficient production solutions and explore innovative material designs.

The four-day event will also bring together leading domestic and international brands, showcasing achievements in the upstream home furnishing industry chain. A series of industry activities will be held to provide insights into industry trends and empower high-quality development.

CIFF Guangzhou 2025 promises to leave a lasting impact on the industry, setting new standards for innovation and sustainability in furniture design and production. Attendees are encouraged to explore the opportunities and insights offered at the event, which continues to shape the future of the furniture industry.

Visit https://www.ciff-gz.com/en/  for more information.

Seraya Partners Launches Tokyo-Based Digital Infrastructure Investment Platform AQX

SINGAPORE, Feb. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore-based asset manager Seraya Partners has launched AQX, a Tokyo-based digital infrastructure investment platform, in partnership with industry veteran Matthias Vukovich.

AQX will target investments in shared telecom infrastructure and AI-enabling digital infrastructure across the APAC region, with a special focus on the Japanese market.

Seraya Partners, headquartered in Singapore, is the first Asia-based independent private equity fund focused on next-generation infrastructure investments with $1.3 billion in AUM across its funds and co-investment vehicles.

The new investment platform AQX is led by CEO Matthias Vukovich, a seasoned expert in Japan’s digital infrastructure space. Starting 2020, Matthias has held executive roles at digital infrastructure portfolio companies under Warburg Pincus Asia, including serving as CFO of Converge ICT, a publicly listed Philippine fiber broadband operator. In this role, he successfully led Converge through its Initial Public Offering (IPO). With over 12 years at Morgan Stanley as a TMT banker in Tokyo, London, and Hong Kong, Matthias was involved in some of the largest M&A, IPO, and private fundraising deals in the digital infrastructure sector.

We are thrilled to partner with Matthias, who brings a unique combination of extensive digital infrastructure financing and investment expertise, along with a deep understanding of the Japanese market. Together, we aim to invest in next-generation, technology-enabled digital infrastructure assets across Japan and the broader APAC region,” said James Chern, Managing Partner and CIO of Seraya Partners.

Japan is the world’s third-largest digital infrastructure market, following the United States and China, in terms of deployed capex across telecom towers, optical fiber, and data center assets. However, the provision of shared carrier-neutral telecom infrastructure remains limited, opening investment opportunities for digital infrastructure specialists and platform builders. The recent surge in hyperscale data center projects in Japan will lead to the build-out of broader AI infrastructure asset classes, which we aim to capitalize on through AQX,” said Matthias Vukovich, CEO and founder of AQX K.K.

The AQX brand combines “AQ,” which means “permanent” in Japanese (永久), and a green “X,” symbolizing energy-efficient digital transformation. “Our brand embodies AQX’s mission to invest in highly resilient infrastructure that will drive sustainable digital transformation across society,” said Matthias.