HANGZHOU, China, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hikvision has published its 2023 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, disclosing its ESG practices and performance for the sixth consecutive year. The report offers a comprehensive look at Hikvision's focus on sustainability and its ESG priorities and actions, reaffirming the company's commitment to fulfilling corporate social responsibility with innovative and sustainable technologies. Hikvision releases its sixth ESG report, highlighting the commitment to ‘Tech for Good’ "Practicing the ethos of 'Tech for Good', adhering to 'pragmatism', and exploring 'Green' transformation, Hikvision leverages our products to deliver the value of sustainable development," said Huang Fanghong, Chief Compliance Officer and Senior Vice President of the company. "We firmly believe that together with the momentum of digital transformation and technological advancements, we will attain stable and sustainable growth." With the belief that technologies play a pivotal role in promoting overall well-being, Hikvision has formulated an ESG management framework with "Tech for Good" as its core. With this mission in mind, the year 2023 was marked by the company's continued commitment to sustainability-driven innovation to benefit the society at large. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, Hikvision endeavored to protect historical relics, prevent water and air pollution, as well as enhance efficiency and productivity in manufacturing. Moreover, the company has contributed to providing more educational resources for children in remote areas, ensuring abundant apple harvests, and safeguarding wildlife, fulfilling its part to further the aspiration to build a better world. Apart from giving back to the society with innovative technologies, Hikvision places great emphasis on integrity and compliance, low-carbon development, and harmonious relationships with employees, partners, and communities, integrating these principles into its ESG management framework. Hikvision 2023 ESG report highlights ESG performance highlights during the reporting period include: The company released the Hikvision Global Human Rights Policy, embedding the respect for human rights in the company's governance and operations. Hikvision formulated and introduced the Management Procedure for Greenhouse Gas Emissions, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promote low-carbon operations. Hikvision further integrated eco-friendly principles into the process of product R&D, design, packaging and utilization. By acquiring carbon footprint verifications of representative products, the company evaluated the GHG emissions throughout those products' life cycles for continuous improvement. While promoting energy savings, Hikvision also proactively advanced the procurement of green power. In 2023, around 12,533.7 MWh of power was generated by photovoltaic systems deployed in the company's manufacturing bases. Hikvision continued to drive sustainable development through innovation, winning 1,884 invention patents in 2023. The R&D investment of the company reached RMB 11.39 billion, up 16.08% year-over-year. Adhering to responsible procurement, Hikvision continuously enhanced supplier management. 100% of the new suppliers of the company were screened using the environmental and social criteria. Hikvision provided its employees with a series of trainings to support their personal and professional development, with total training time reaching 1,534,482 hours. Hikvision employees engaged actively in volunteer activities, collectively dedicating over 20,000 service hours. You can view and download the full ESG report here.  

LA CHAUX-DE-FONDS, Switzerland, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Horologer MING releases the new 37.09 Bluefin, featuring their third-generation design language. It is their first watch with a undirectionally-rotating, luminous sapphire timing dial that replaces a conventional dive bezel. It rides on bearings and is set by a dedicated crown. The Bluefin's steel case  is water resistant to 600m, but comfortably sized at 38x12.8mm. It is powered by a customized Sellita SW300-1 with 50 hours of power reserve and bidirectional automatic winding. The 37.09 Bluefin continues the MING design tradition of graphically minimalist scales that are easy to read and index. A new metallisation process creates a deep blue hue on the sapphire dial, which along with the hands, is extensively treated with Super-LumiNova X1 for optimal legibility under all conditions. Watches will be delivered on a new moulded FKM rubber strap that is also compatible with all of MING's previous 20mm lug watches. The natural shape of the strap matches the curvature of the average wrist, and it is also keeperless and tapered in thickness to further enhance comfort. It will be available as a standalone accessory as well. The MING 37.09 Bluefin is priced at CHF 4,950, with 500 watches produced for 2024. They will be exclusively available at www.ming.watch from 1PM GMT on 24 May 2024, with deliveries expected to begin October 2024. MING 37.09 Bluefin Specifications Case: 316L stainless steel, 38mm diameter, 12.8mm thickness, 44.5mm interlug Domed sapphire crystals with double anti-reflective coating Super-LumiNova X1 markings 600m water resistance Sellita for MING SW300.M1 with anthracite skeletonized bridges; automatic with 50h power reserve Moulded FKM rubber strap 2-year warranty against defects Made in Switzerland About MING: Horologer MING is an independent watch brand with the goal of reviving a sense of excitement and discovery among watch enthusiasts. We are dedicated to refined aesthetics, and pushing the boundaries of materials, mechanics and engineering. This has won us many accolades including the Horological Revelation Prize at the 2019 Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève. MING products are available exclusively online at www.ming.watch. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow our Instagram for the latest updates from MING. MING is an internationally registered trademark of Horologer MING SA, Switzerland.

SINGAPORE, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Singapore Post (SingPost), a leading postal and eCommerce logistics provider in Asia Pacific, and Qazpost, the national postal operator of the Republic of Kazakhstan, today announced a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at boosting eCommerce and logistics, and bolster development in both countries. SingPost and Qazpost sign strategic cooperation agreement aimed at boosting eCommerce and logistics, and bolster development in both countries. From Left to Right: Vincent Phang, Group CEO, Singpost, signs partnership agreement with Asel Zhanassova, Chairman of the Board of JSC «QazPost». Witnessed by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Singapore, Heng Swee Keat and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. (Photo Credit: SingPost) The strategic cooperation covers a number of areas including: Technology collaboration: Qazpost and SingPost to explore the adoption of SingPost's machinery and equipment, including its innovative eCommerce drop-off systems, to enhance customer experience and efficiency. Enhanced logistics & eCommerce growth: The agreement will facilitate the exploration of efficient logistics routes between Kazakhstan and Singapore, leveraging both companies' extensive networks to support the development of eCommerce growth in their respective countries and regions. Best practice sharing: The partnership will facilitate the mutual sharing of best practices and create new opportunities for trade and economic growth. "We are excited to partner with Qazpost to jointly explore opportunities for greater collaboration and enhance our postal and logistics sectors. Through our collaboration, we hope to enhance our eCommerce network and unlock new opportunities for both countries," said Li Yu, CEO, International, SingPost.  SingPost and Qazpost sign strategic cooperation agreement aimed at boosting eCommerce and logistics, and bolster development in both countries. From Left to Right: Vincent Phang, Group CEO, Singpost, signs partnership agreement with Asel Zhanassova, Chairman of the Board of JSC «QazPost». Witnessed by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Singapore, Heng Swee Keat and the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. (Photo Credit: SingPost) "This strategic cooperation with SingPost is a significant step towards modernising our operations and expanding our capabilities to further improve our customers' experience. We believe this partnership will be a catalyst for growth in eCommerce and logistics, benefiting businesses and consumers alike," said Chairman of the Board of JSC «QazPost» Asel Zhanassova. The agreement also includes provisions for knowledge exchange, training programs, and the exploration of additional areas for collaboration in the future. The Agreement was one component of high-level agreements exchanged between Kazakhstan and Singapore - and was witnessed by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Singapore, Heng Swee Keat. SingPost and Qazpost sign strategic cooperation agreement aimed at boosting eCommerce and logistics, and bolster development in both countries. From Left to Right: Vincent Phang, Group CEO, Singpost, Asel Zhanassova, Chairman of the Board of JSC «QazPost», and Li Yu, CEO, International, SingPost. (Photo Credit: SingPost) About Singapore Post Limited (SingPost) Singapore Post (SingPost) is a leading postal and eCommerce logistics provider in Asia Pacific. The portfolio of businesses spans from national and international postal services to warehousing and fulfilment, international freight forwarding and last mile delivery, serving customers in more than 220 global destinations. Headquartered in Singapore, SingPost has over 4,900 employees, with offices in 13 markets worldwide. Since its inception in 1858, the Group has evolved and innovated to bring about best-in-class integrated logistics solutions and services, making every delivery count for people and planet. www.singpost.com. About Qazpost Qazpost JSC - the National Postal Operator of Kazakhstan - is one of the basic elements of the national infrastructure. Qazpost JSC provides a wide range of postal, financial, brokerage, agency, and electronic services. Qazpost JSC has at its disposal the largest branch network in the country, more than 2,700 branches covering almost the entire territory of Kazakhstan. Qazpost is one of the largest employers in the country, with about 20,000 employees. Qazpost became the first of the Postal Services of the Commonwealth of Independent States to receive certification from the Universal Postal Union according to two standards - safety standards and production facilities and technological processes for processing international and domestic mail. www.qazpost.kz  

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SALTO WECOSYSTEM, a leading provider of integrated access control solutions, is delighted to announce its participation in the highly anticipated HoSkar Night Phnom Penh event. This collaboration aims to showcase Salto's innovative solutions tailored for the real estate and hospitality sectors and shares success stories contributed to hospitality property in Cambodia and the region. HoSkar Night Phnom Penh is brought by WeHub, hosted by Savills Hotels and in partnership with Salto Wecosystem, a prominent coworking and innovation hub in the heart of Cambodia's capital city. Scheduled to take place in the vibrant city of Phnom Penh on 29th May 2024, the event will bring together industry leaders, technology enthusiasts, and innovators to explore the latest trends and advancements in various sectors. SALTO WECOSYSTEM Connects with Hospitality and Real Estate Experts at HoSkar Night Phnom Penh Salto's participation at the event will feature the display of its latest access control and management systems with demo wire-free locks stand and artboards in a cozy gallery vibe to storytelling and showcasing most well-known project reference in Cambodia, which is a harmonious blend of technology, aesthetics, and sustainability. Their commitment to delivering security solutions aligns with luxury resorts' vision of providing an unforgettable, eco-friendly experience for its guests. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how Salto's technologies can streamline operations, enhance security, and deliver personalized experiences for real estate and hospitality businesses. "We are thrilled to be part of the HoSkar Night event in Phnom Penh and to partner with WeHub to enhance the guest access experience for every single property and project across Cambodia and the surrounding region," said Don Dinh, General Director for Salto Wecosystem Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos. Beyond showcasing its technologies, Salto Wecosystem is more than just a group of companies and individuals - it is a community born out of a common goal: to empower access, in every sense - access to places, experiences, and opportunities. The company believes that the industry still has a long way to go, and it wants to play an active role in the exciting journey ahead. "The Cambodia hospitality and real estate market is evolving rapidly, driven by global trends, and increasing local living standards. Engaging with local and international experts is crucial for staying updated and sharing market knowledge. The HoSkar Night event is tailored to connect local and foreign experts in a vibrant, engaging event, creating a community of business-minded individuals." said Mauro Gasparotti, Founder of WeHub. "We are delighted to have Salto Wecosystem as a partner for this event, bringing new technology and solutions to the hospitality & real estate sectors". For more information about Salto Wecosystem and its participation in HoSkar Night Phnom Penh, please visit SALTO WECOSYSTEM: Empowering smarter access.  To learn more about the event and inquire to attend, please visit https://hoskarnight.com/register/. For further inquiries or information, please contact the event organizers at Thi@wehubyou.com. About Salto Wecosystem: Salto Wecosystem is a leading provider of smart access solutions, dedicated to empowering businesses and individuals with seamless, secure, and personalized access to more experiences and opportunities. With a mission to enrich lives by enabling smarter access, Salto is at the forefront of the evolving access control and management landscape, delivering innovative technologies that redefine the way we interact with the spaces and services around us. Let's stay connected @saltowecosystem Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltowecosystem/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@saltowecosystem LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/salto-wecosystem/ Hotline: (+84) 2873000027 About WeHub: WeHub is one of the most vibrant hospitality and real estate communities in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. WeHub was founded with the vision to connect businesses, people and ideas. The platform offers the latest trends and insights while facilitating business connections within the real estate and hospitality industries through various activities, including Meet The Experts conferences (MTE), HoSkar Night networking events, SIF masterclasses, and WeTalk private meetings for lead generation. Follow WeHub's official channels at: LinkedIn: https://shorturl.at/Rw9GA  Facebook: https://shorturl.at/YKnlY  Contact WeHub for event collaboration: Host@wehubyou.com.

BEIJING, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 20, iQIYI, a leading online entertainment service in China, announced the upcoming launch of a VR immersive theater at first floor of Galaxy Promenade in Galaxy Macau this summer, adapted from its hit series Love Between Fairy and Devil, showcasing iQIYI's commitment to expanding location-based entertainment through its unique blend of 'IP+ Technology.' Poster of iQIYI VR immersive theater 'Love Between Fairy and Devil' Created by iQIYI DREAMVERSE Studio, this VR adaption of Love Between Fairy and Devil marks its debut in the Greater Bay Area, showcasing another 'Real Scenery + VR' immersive theater adapted from its blockbuster original IPs. It follows the success of previous VR projects launched in China, such as the ones based on the drama series Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty 2: To the West and the Luoyang VR project, both of which received positive reviews from players. This upcoming project in Macao is further enhanced with the use of innovative technology, including interactive gesture control and flight motion simulators, providing a more thrilling and realistic experience. Throughout this approximately one-hour-long journey, players will be immersed in a visually stunning ancient world with impressive aesthetics. They will also encounter a series of intriguing puzzles to solve, all accompanied by captivating plotlines to follow. This venture also marks the second project between iQIYI and Galaxy Macau, following the agreement announced last year that iQIYI's annual signature event, iQIYI Scream Night, will be held at Galaxy Arena for three consecutive years. This deep partnership aims to stimulate further growth in the cultural and entertainment industry of the Greater Bay Area, while solidifying Macao's position as a vibrant city of performing arts. According to Jeffrey JIANG, Senior Vice President of Galaxy Entertainment Group, the experience store includes a dress-up zone for traditional Chinese clothing and large-scale ancient-themed photo spots, recreating classic scenes from Love Between Fairy and Devil. Hang ZHANG, Senior Vice President of iQIYI, said, "With deep roots in Eastern mythology and traditional culture, the blockbuster original IP Love Between Fairy and Devil holds significant cultural value and has garnered wide market acclaim. By leveraging VR technology, we can further extend the long-tail value of this original IP, bringing Chinese culture to life in a modern way that resonates with a broader audience." With iQIYI's commitment to merging and creating synergy between IP, technological innovation, and cultural tourism, it plans to further collaborate with partners to explore new forms of offline entertainment on a global stage and enhance the value of its original IPs for a wider audience. CONTACT: iQIYI Press, press@qiyi.com 

Kia EV3 brings innovative technology of brand's flagship EV9 SUV to set new standards in the compact EV SUV segment Bold, progressive exterior with innovative, practical interior maximizing space, functionality, and comfort Best-in-class 600km AER driving range; 10-80% battery charging in 31 mins Kia AI Assistant, Premium Streaming, advanced driving assistance systems and Over-the-Air updates elevate ownership experience Fully electric EV3 to enhance EV accessibility and accelerate Kia's transition to a sustainable mobility solutions provider SEOUL, South Korea, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia has today revealed full details of the new Kia EV3, the company's dedicated compact EV SUV. With its combination of bold design, innovative technology, and groundbreaking features, the EV3 sets new standards in its sector. Kia EV3 Base – Exterior Drawing on Kia's advanced technology and customer-focused values of the brand's larger, EV9 SUV, the EV3 carves out its own identity. It brings a unique, immersive experience to the compact EV SUV sector. By significantly exceeding customers' expectations, the EV3 will broaden the appeal and elevate the perception of EV SUVs. Kia EV3 Base – Interior "Through groundbreaking design, an industry-leading electric drivetrain, and practical, innovative lifestyle solutions, the EV3 aims to extend Kia's exceptional EV SUV experience to a wider audience. With a WLTP driving range of up to 600km and fast-charging capability, the EV3 addresses common concerns about electric vehicles. It will reassure those who may have been hesitant to make the switch to electric mobility and will lead the mass adoption of EVs," said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO at Kia. Kia EV3 GT Line – Exterior Exterior design: A bold and progressive statement A combination of dynamic aesthetics with thoughtful functionality elevates the EV3's emotional feel and ambience. Interior design: Nature-inspired aesthetic to enhance wellbeingKia has created a highly functional and effective cabin that exudes an appealing living space-like ambience.   Electric drivetrain: Exemplary range and ultra-fast chargingThe EV3 features a state-of-the-art front-wheel drive electric powertrain based on the E-GMP, utilizing Kia's fourth-generation battery technology. Large electric SUV technology and safety in the compact sectorThe EV3 boasts a raft of ultra-advanced safety, driving, convenience and charging features usually reserved for the large EV SUV sector. Delivering new levels of innovative technology and digital connectivityKia has equipped the EV3 with a holistic suite of connectivity and entertainment features. Kia EV3 GT Line – Interior To read the full release, please visit www.kianewscenter.com.

QINGDAO, China, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hisense, a leading global home appliance and consumer electronics brand, is proud to announce that the ERF6A66 Solar Remote Control has received both the Red Dot Award for Product Design 2024 and iF Design Award 2024 for its innovative and eco-friendly solar charging solution, which makes home living more environmentally friendly, enjoyable and stress-free. Hisense ERF6A66 Solar Remote Control Receives Both Red Dot Award for Product Design 2024 and iF Design Award 2024 Adopting an environmentally friendly power supply design, the ERF6A66 Solar Remote Control collects ambient light through an amorphous silicon solar panel and converts it into electrical energy. The energy is stored in a built-in lithium capacitor, which extends battery life. In a sunlit environment, it is able to charge itself without manual intervention. Through TV light sensing technology, the remote control can implement intelligent backlight function, improving the user's remote control experience in dark environments. The Hisense ERF6A66 Remote Control is compatible with Hisense UX, U7 and U8 TVs in the European and Oceanian markets and adopts a sleek and geometric design elevated by its concise shape and ergonomic hand-feeling. Created to complement any home lifestyle, the solar charging panel is strategically positioned on the top surface, aligning with user placement habits and optimizing solar area efficiency. The seamless integration of the solar area and the remote's control main body not only enhances the aesthetics but also safeguards against potential damage from dust and water, ensuring durability and longevity. The Red Dot Award in Product Design and iF Design Award are amongst the world's largest design competitions, recognizing products of outstanding design, creativity and innovation. These awards underline Hisense's commitment to sustainable development with excellence in design and innovation. In addition to winning awards, Hisense, as an official partner of UEFA EURO 2024™, aims to provide fans with immersive game watching experiences through its innovative TV products and home appliances. It recently kicked off the Hisense 'BEYOND GLORY' UEFA EURO 2024™ brand campaign highlighting the company's commitment to delivering reliable products with unparalleled quality in the pursuit of improving everyday life. About Hisense Hisense is a leading global home appliance and consumer electronics brand. Hisense's business covers multimedia products (with a focus on Smart TVs), home appliances, and IT intelligent information. Hisense Retains No. 2 Ranking Globally for TV Shipment in 2023. Hisense has grown rapidly, and now operates in more than 160 countries.

XUANCHENG, China, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The photovoltaic industry is entering a new era of high-quality development, marked by both opportunities and challenges. Heterojunction (HJT) technology has emerged as a pivotal driver of solar advancement due to its high efficiency, reliability, increased power generation, and low carbon footprint. As the world's largest HJT manufacturer, Huasun Energy has consistently pushed the boundaries of HJT technology, introducing groundbreaking products such as the industry's first rectangular HJT module and the zero busbar (0BB) module. Heterojunction June! Join Huasun at SNEC PV Power Expo & Intersolar Europe 2024 This June, Huasun will showcase its leading HJT technology and state-of-the-art products at two premier international solar exhibitions: the SNEC PV Power Expo and Intersolar Europe. Visitors will have the opportunity to see Huasun's flagship Himalaya G12-132 and Everest G12R series HJT wafers, cells and modules. In addition, Huasun will present its latest innovations in heterojunction, highlighting their applications across various photovoltaic scenarios, including large-scale utility, commercial and industrial, residential rooftops, offshore, and vertical installations. Huasun will further celebrate its "Heterojunction June" with two exclusive HJT Workshop & Gala events in China and Europe. These events will feature a series of insightful presentations, case studies, along with fun networking including cocktail party, gala dinner, and live band performance. Join Huasun Energy this June to explore the future of photovoltaic technology and witness the advancements in HJT that are propelling the industry forward. Agenda at a Glance- Huasun Heterojunction Tour June 2024 June 12 @ 740W+ High-efficiency HJT Club Industry Summit Shanghai June 12 Evening @Huasun HJT Exclusive Workshop & Gala Shanghai June 13-15 @SNEC PV Power Expo 2024 Shanghai: Huasun Booth #7.2H-F680, National Exhibition and Convention Center June 18 @Solar & Energy Storage Future Germany Summit 2024 Munich June 19-21 @Intersolar Europe 2024 Munich: Huasun Booth #A3-230, Messe München June 26 @Huasun HJT Exclusive Workshop & Gala Europe More on the event updates, please follow "Huasun HJT" on LinkedIn.Click to contact Huasun directly About Huasun Energy Recoganized as the industrial leader of heterojunction (HJT) solar technology, Anhui Huasun Energy Co., Ltd (Huasun) specializes in the R&D and large-scale manufacturing of ultra-high efficiency n-type silicon HJT solar wafers, cells and modules. With a capacity of 20GW HJT products, Huasun ranks as the largest HJT manufacturer in the world. The company has supplied 5GW of HJT products to over 40 countries worldwide. Website: www.huasunsolar.comEmail: sales@huasunsolar.com

SINGAPORE, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Visa, a global leader in digital payments, unveiled the five new startups selected for its Accelerator Program in Asia Pacific for 2024. This year's applicant pool saw talent from Bangladesh, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, United States and Vietnam, all tackling cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence (AI) / generative AI, embedded finance, global money movement, digital acceptance and loyalty of the future. Standing out from a pool of more than 300 applicants, the five selected startups are: iFarmer (Bangladesh): Founded in 2019, iFarmer is a tech and data driven startup that helps farmers to maximise their profit potential with access to finance, advisory, direct-to-farm commerce. iFarmer also enables financial institutions and individuals to invest in agriculture projects, helps agriculture input companies with their last mile distribution and supplies high quality agriculture products to processing companies and to the export market. iPiD (Singapore): Founded in 2021, iPiD is a payments data orchestration platform that provides a single application programming interface (API) to access account validation services globally. This helps to reduce declined payments, reduce fraud risks and improve customer experience. On-us (Hong Kong SAR): Founded in 2019, On-us is a comprehensive incentive ecosystem offering domestic and cross-border fintech products. Using advanced data analytics and AI, the company provides integrated AdTech, MarTech, and MembershipTech solutions. On-us enhances customer engagement and loyalty through personalised, data-driven campaigns, helping businesses maximise return on investment. Opplane (United States): Founded in 2019, Opplane is building an AI-platform, at the intersection of connectivity, data quality, explainability and self-driving finance. Quqo (Vietnam): Quqo, which started operations in 2021, is a B2B digital marketplace enabler which allows micro, small and medium businesses (MSMB) to order inventory on demand. Quqo also provides upstream Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solutions such as sales force automation, distribution management system, business intelligence platform and payment solutions such as e-wallet and buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) financing. Its focus segments include fast moving consumer goods (FMCG), healthcare and the automotive aftermarket. "Visa is at the forefront of building the commerce of tomorrow, and the Visa Accelerator Program in Asia Pacific is a testament to this commitment. We want to foster a dynamic environment for collaboration and co-creation within our vast ecosystem. Through collaborations with Visa's payment experts, product architects, and business development teams, these startups are equipped to drive tangible outcomes and we look forward to creating new fit for purpose products and solutions that are commercially scalable with our clients and partners," said Kunal Chatterjee, Head of Innovation, Asia Pacific, Visa. Over the course of six months, these startups will have the unique opportunity to receive bespoke training from Visa's suite of product architects to co-develop, test, and iterate new solutions fit for technical integration to fast-track commercialisation. The program will culminate with a Demo Day. Additionally, one selected startup from this year's cohort will showcase their innovative solution at the Visa Everywhere Initiative, an open innovation program hosted by TechCrunch at Disrupt in San Francisco. Now in its fourth iteration, the Visa Accelerator Program has helped many startups to realise their growth potential and brought use cases to life. One of the key highlights of the 2023 Visa Accelerator Program in Asia Pacific was the partnership between Visa, startup participant Doxa and United Overseas Bank (UOB) to transform payment processes for the construction industry. The collaboration enabled contractors to gain faster access to working capital, by facilitating quicker and seamless payments for contractors, via deep-tier financing on the Doxa Connex platform. The platform significantly reduces time that contractors get paid by streamlining the work certification process and has also been further enhanced to provide embedded financing capabilities, allowing subcontractors the option to be paid for their services through the UOB virtual cards. Chatterjee continues, "Previous cohorts have not only signed multi-year agreements and integrated Visa products into their solutions but have also benefited from strategic investments. As we continue to invest in these forward-thinking startups, we stand together in shaping the future of digital commerce, ready for the next generation of commerce." For the program, Visa has collaborated with Plug and Play, a global powerhouse in innovation platforms. With an impressive track record of investments and mentoring other accelerator programs, Plug and Play will help select and mentor these promising startups with the tools to achieve scalable growth. To learn more about Visa's Accelerator Program, visit our website here. Startup quotes Fahad Ifaz, co-founder and chief executive officer of iFarmer said: "With our focus on agriculture, we take a systemic view of the challenges of today and the future. Our insight into interconnectivity informs our design and delivery of market-relevant solutions, improving the lives of the farmers and other actors in the agriculture value chain. Our solution related to payment facilities aligns with the Visa Accelerator Program's aim to expand financial access and enables us to help underserved populations in Bangladesh." Damien Dugauquier, co-founder and chief executive officer of iPiD said: "The global payment system is undergoing a dynamic transformation, and interoperability is emerging as a cornerstone for the future. The current remittance system is riddled with inefficiencies, causing friction at every stage of the value chain and leaving opportunities for fraudsters to deceive users into misdirecting transactions. Leveraging our extensive experience in traditional payments and settlements, iPiD aims to bridge these gaps. We envision a future where existing value-added services seamlessly interoperate, and the Visa Accelerator Program presents a perfect platform to propel this vision forward, ultimately transforming the way financial services are delivered and consumed." Dennis Shi, founder and chief executive officer of On-us said: "What makes On-us unique is that we go the last mile. We remove all the friction around that crucial moment of redemption, making it easy for the marketers, merchants and consumers to have a seamless and personalised digital experience. Being able to continue providing this level of service at scale is a challenging task, and this is why the Visa Accelerator Program is very exciting for us. It perfectly aligns with our strategic goals and allows us the opportunity to work alongside Visa, leveraging their insights and technology that are crucial to advancing our solutions globally." Sunny Trikha, founder of Opplane said: "Domain knowledge and deep data expertise is essential to help clients succeed in their data transformation initiatives. As part of building an AI-platform at the intersection of connectivity, data quality, explainability and self-driving finance, we recently created an AI-driven proof-of-concept to enrich financial data, significantly enhancing consumer experience as well as driving operational cost efficiencies for the bank. The Visa Accelerator Program gives us access to Visa's resources and network partners, providing the opportunity to scale the platform across geographies and financial data sources."  Jaime Roldan, founder and chief executive officer of Quqo said: "At Quqo, we are committed to empowering traditional retailers with the right tools to thrive in today's digital age. Our mission remains clear as we continue to bridge the financial inclusion gap for micro, small and medium businesses by equipping them with digital payments and access to credit. By combining our market acumen and our diverse network of strategic partners, we believe our solution not only facilitates secure digital B2B payments across traditional channels but also allows these businesses to grow and scale and ultimately foster a seamless buying experience for their customers. The Visa Accelerator Program enables us to forge deeper connections with other like-minded entrepreneurs, industry leaders, clients and partners and we have no doubt that it will further fuel our growth and expansion in this region and beyond." About Visa Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com. 

WUHAN, China, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Co-hosted by the Fiber Network Council APAC (FNCA) and Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Joint Stock Limited Company (YOFC), China FIBERTalk 2024 was held in China's Optics Valley on May 17th. The conference, which focused on "New Optical Network Technologies and Applications in the AI+ Era", brought together top management executives and senior engineers from leading telecom and mobile network operators, network service providers, research institutes, and corporate users of communications services. XIONG Zhuang, President of FNCA and Chief Cable Scientist at YOFC, highlighted in his address that this event marks the second collaboration between FNCA and YOFC following the FTTH APAC Conference 2019, also held in the same location. FNCA is dedicated to advancing the widespread use of fiber optic network . In the AI+ era, the synergy of AI and fiber optic network is unlocking numerous possibilities. The integration enhances efficiency and reliability, while enabling new services and applications, launching the next wave of innovation in technology. As an industry association, FNCA is dedicated to fostering communication and cooperation within the industry. By promoting the advancement and adoption of fiber optic network technology, the organization aims to shape the future of connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region. ZHUANG Dan, Executive Director and President of YOFC, delivered a welcome speech at the conference, extending a warm greeting to all the participants. He expressed his gratitude to FNCA for their trust and ongoing support. ZHUANG emphasized that AI is driving new opportunities for the development of fiber optic network technology. He highlighted the mutually beneficial relationship between AI and fiber optic network, noting that they drive each other forward. The sophisticated advancement of AI applications and the growth of data traffic are escalating the demand for fiber optic infrastructure. Concurrently, high-quality fiber optic network, empowered by new technologies, are enabling AI to process and analyze data at unprecedented speeds, providing fresh opportunities for innovation across multiple industries. ZHUANG also expressed his expectation that the conference would spark innovation and foster new breakthroughs in fiber optic network technology. With the theme of the conference first and foremost on the minds of all industry's leaders, the leading researchers and engineers in optical communication engaged in an in-depth discussion about new optical networks in light of network deployment requirements.  AO Li, Chief Engineer of the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, noted that the AI+ era is pushing optical communication to evolve towards higher speeds, greater capacity, and intelligence. He emphasized the need to enhance the integration and efficient support of high-speed transmission, modular devices, optical fiber and cables, intelligent management and control systems, as well as capacity assessment frameworks.  ZHANG Chengliang, President of China Telecom Research Institute, explained how China Telecom is advancing the development of FTTR by offering standardized products and solutions that center around networks, services and capabilities. He detailed how this is accomplished through multiple new technologies,such as intelligent middleware, open connectivity protocols, and AI computing power convergence.  WANG Guangquan, Chief Engineer of China Unicom Research Institute, described their digital transformation program. The program incorporates digital twin technology into optical networks and utilizes big data analysis, optoelectronic mathematical models, and deep learning algorithms to enable dynamic modeling and intelligent optimization of optical networks. The method, taking into account the characteristics of next-generation optical networks, aims to meet the requirements for intelligent network operation and maintenance.  GAO Junshi, General Manager of the Division of Optical Communication, China Mobile Group Design Institute, highlighted that due to network functions centralization, optical transport networks (OTNs) must meet the demands for higher bandwidth, and increased stability and reliability. Additionally, OTNs must have smarter operational and remote maintenance capabilities. As a global leader in optical communications, YOFC showcased their latest innovations in optical fiber and optical module products, designed to address the demands for high-speed, high-efficiency, and intelligent communication networks within the AI-driven technology landscape.  Raadjkoemar Matai, Chief Scientist of Optical Fibre of YOFC, gave a presentation on "YOFC Advanced Fibre Innovation & Application". He detailed the R&D, progress, and industry applications of YOFC's new advanced offerings, including G.654.E, multi-core, few-mode, and hollow-core optical fibers. His presentation also covered the evolution of optical fibers and the challenges facing the industry.  CHU Yuanliang, Chief Scientist of Optical Transceiver of YOFC, focused on introducing YOFC's AI Generated Content (AIGC)-based large model applications. He also outlined the company's customer-side optical interconnect technologies with higher speeds and increased complexity for applications on both AI's server and user sides, along with advanced optical interconnect solutions such as optical modules. Additionally, WU Guangzhe, Deputy Director of Communication Engineering Center of State Grid Information & Telecommunication Branch, shared his insights into the research and application of multi-source perception fusion technology for electric optical cable networks. Meanwhile, Melanie Germentil, Chief Procurement & Logistics Officer of InfiniVAN, a network service provider in the Philippines, detailed the company's domestic submarine cable network project. Nishiguchi Yuki, General Manager of Senko HK/China, delivered a keynote speech titled "Responsible AI Advancement, Balancing Growth with Sustainability". Representatives from Huawei, China Telecommunication Technology Labs, ZTE, and the University of Milan offered professional insights into key optical network technologies, the latest research findings and application cases.    Optical networks, originating from the invention of optical fiber, have evolved through iterations of information and communication technology and are now entering a significant period of opportunity due to the increasing focus on AI. Industry observers are all in agreement that with the collaborative efforts of the global industry, optical network technology is set to increasingly empower the advancement and application of AI technology, ultimately contributing to societal betterment.

--Highlights of the 2024 Exhibition SHANGHAI, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From May 17 to 19, 2024, China(Shanghai) International Metrology Measurement Technology and Equipment Exhibition was held at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center. Dongfa Group participated in the exhibition, showcasing its latest research achievements. At the expo, Chairman Liu Ming of Dongfa Group conducted the lighting ceremony and announced the official launch of the "Smart Gas Comprehensive Supervision Platform," demonstrating the convenience and efficiency achieved through the smart management of municipal gas meters. Dongfa Group's Gas Scenario + Digital Twin Technology, Leads the Industry with New AI Trend Dandong Dongfa (Group) Co., Ltd., established in 1962 and headquartered in Singapore, was formerly known as Dandong Thermal Instrument Co., Ltd. As an integrated group company engaged in research, production, and operations, Dongfa Group is dedicated to the development and application of instruments and meters. Its product range includes IC card gas meters, wired direct-reading remote diaphragm gas meters, wireless direct-reading remote diaphragm gas meters, NB-IoT IoT meters, and ultrasonic gas meters. These products incorporate the technical features of similar domestic and international products, offering high accuracy, reliability, and stability, making the company a leading smart gas meter manufacturer in China. At the expo, Dongfa Group showcased its Smart Gas Comprehensive Supervision Platform, which integrates AI, IoT, cloud computing, and big data. This platform connects the topological structure of all aspects of gas operations and consolidates all relevant data involved in production management and operation maintenance. This integration enhances the comprehensive research and development and operational maintenance capabilities of the big data governance system. At the same time, Dongfa Group is empowering comprehensive management and control with digital twins, AI, and big data. By leveraging digital twins, AI models, and 5G technology as data elements, the company is constructing a unified citywide network and a digital twin map of the gas pipeline network. This enables deep integration of AI monitoring, pressure and leakage detection, smart terminals, and other sensing devices with gas operations, ensuring the comprehensive safety and supply of urban gas. Digital twin gas technology not only provides auxiliary support for pipeline design, but also plays a crucial role in intelligent emergency response and precise distribution. Especially in the operation of gas stations, it enables comprehensive real-time monitoring, intelligent integrated operation scheduling, proactive warning, emergency event command plans, and other effects, thereby improving the efficiency and safety of gas management. However, there have been numerous incidents of data leakage involving smart AI devices in recent years. Sensitive data is being collected or even sold by malicious actors, leading to the disclosure of confidential information, resulting in significant economic losses and even legal risks. To ensure the security of both enterprise and user data, Dongfa Group utilizes Digital Envelope technology to encrypt and decrypt data packets during data collection and distribution. This approach combines the advantages of both symmetric and asymmetric encryption technologies for secure information transmission, enabling fast, efficient, and secure encryption and decryption processing for the smart gas digital business sector. This ensures the security and integrity of data during transmission. Visitors at the expo showed strong interest in the new products and technologies exhibited by Dongfa Group. Dongfa Group has always been committed to driving the development of the smart instrumentation industry through technological innovation. Through this exhibition, the company not only showcased its technical prowess but also strengthened communication and collaboration with industry peers. Looking ahead, they aim to join hands in opening a new chapter in the smart instrumentation industry.  

CHIBA, Japan, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From May 22 to 24, 2024, LiuGong showcases 6 electric machines at Construction&Survey Productivity Improvement Expo (CSPI-EXPO), including 9027FE & 922E excavators, LS0607E & LS0808E scissor lifts, 856HE & 870HE wheel loaders. Following its impressive appearances at INTERMAT in France and the Vei og Anlegg exhibition in Norway, LiuGong once again captivated global attention with its innovative technology as the company showcased all-electric products at the exhibition. YouTube: https://youtu.be/NIMcA5WMQ2Y  On the first day of the exhibition, LiuGong held the Electric Product launch at its booth. Industry media from Japan and Xinhua News Agency conducted an exclusive interview with Zeng Guang'an, Chairman and CEO of LiuGong. "Since embarking on the development of electric technology in 2014, LiuGong has made significant achievements in the field of electric intelligence over a decade of relentless pursuit and innovation. LiuGong's electric equipment has been successfully promoted in China, ASEAN, Europe, North America, and India. LiuGong has sold over 5,000 electric machines worldwide, marking our strong presence in the global market. Bringing LiuGong to Japan, we are embarking on a new journey. We aim to help Japan reduce carbon emissions, support green initiatives, and lower total ownership costs for customers through our full range of electric equipment. At the same time, we will respect Japan's culture and industry regulations and are committed to providing comprehensive solutions to Japanese customers with equipment that has been rigorously tested and validated worldwide,"said Zeng Guang'an during the interview. With their distinctive green livery, the six products displayed at the show share LiuGong's Red Dot Award-winning design DNA and put the operator right at the heart of the machine, demonstrating LiuGong's leadership in BEV technology. In the future, LiuGong will work closely with local Japanese dealers to promote the development of intelligent construction and assist Japan in achieving its carbon emission targets. Additionally, LiuGong will provide comprehensive and efficient solutions to Japanese customers through fast and efficient services and a complete spare parts system, creating more value. For more information, visit https://www.liugong.com/en/

TAIPEI, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- QNAP® Systems, Inc., a leading computing, networking, and storage solution innovator, today announced that its S3-compatible object storage solution "QuObjects" has qualified as Veeam® Ready - Object with Immutability, applicable for QNAP NAS with QTS and QuTS hero operating systems. This certification underscores the reliability of QuObjects as a secure object backup solution for enterprises, enhancing data management efficiency and upmost security. QNAP NAS is the ideal on-prem object storage for Veeam backups QuObjects is the S3 object storage solution for QNAP NAS, boasting read/write speeds 20 times faster than conventional cloud services, along with a highly flexible and scalable architecture to ensure efficient transmission and flexibility in object storage. From object service development to demanding workloads like machine learning and data lakes, QuObjects assists enterprises in achieving diverse application needs with higher cost effectiveness. QuObjects supports Object Lock to ensure data immutability, further safeguarding against ransomware threats, cyberattacks, or human error. Coupled with access controls and authentication features, it provides comprehensive protection for object data security. Jimmy Tam, Product Manager of QNAP, stated "Data security is critical for enterprises. With QuObjects certified by Veeam Ready - Object with Immutability, we empower organizations leveraging Veeam solutions to confidently opt for QNAP NAS for on-prem S3 object storage and backup, enjoying rapid transmission, extensive scalability, and steadfast security." QNAP is the preferred partner for Veeam object backup solutions. Learn more at Veeam Ready Object Partner and QNAP QuObjects- S3 Object Storage. For more information and to view the full QNAP NAS lineup, please visit www.qnap.com.

SHANGHAI, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 22, Pylontech officially inaugurated its global headquarters, marking a significant milestone for this industry-leading energy storage system provider. Founded in 2009, Pylontech has been a key player in the energy storage industry, mastering core technologies in battery cells, modules, and Battery Management System (BMS), system integration, etc. It's products and solutions cater to a wide range of applications including residential, commercial & industrial(C&I), and utility-scale projects. In 2013, Pylontech delivered its first energy storage system to the international market, and now boasts over ten years of experience serving overseas markets, with cumulative shipments exceeding one million units. Thanks to continuous technological innovation and outstanding products and services, Pylontech has earned recognition from customers worldwide. In recent years, Pylontech has been improving its domestic and international layouts. It has established R&D and manufacturing bases in Yangzhou, Jiangsu, and Hefei, Anhui. Meanwhile, Pylontech has accelerated its global expansion by establishing branches in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, the USA, and other countries, building comprehensive local capabilities to provide more efficient and convenient services to global customers. The newly opened global headquarters, located in the Pudong New Area of Shanghai, spans over 20,000 square meters with a total building area of over 50,000 square meters. It integrates R&D, production, and offices to fully supporting Pylotnech's  continuous growth needs. Geoffrey Song, Vice President of Pylontech, stated, " The completion and utilization of our global headquarters is a pivotal moment in Pylontech's history, injecting new energy into our company. We look forward to deepening cooperation with global partners, jointly exploring the application and development of energy storage technology, and contributing to the global energy transition and sustainable development. " About Pylontech Pylontech (stock code: 688063) was founded in 2009 as a dedicated battery energy storage system provider and became the first publicly listed company in China in 2020 with a primary focus on energy storage as its core business. Pylontech integrates industrial chain with its robust research and development capabilities and comprehensive manufacturing expertise, spanning from cells, battery management systems and system integration. Its products and solutions have established a presence in over 80 nations and regions, with over one million energy storage systems successfully commissioned.

HEFEI, China, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungrow, a global leading PV inverter and energy storage system provider, has recently issued its 2023 Sustainability Report. This marks the 9th consecutive year that the company has publicly reported on its dedication to sustainable development. Against the backdrop of global consensus on the need for renewable energy, Sungrow has doubled down on its commitment to promoting green energy solutions. The report highlights the company's focus on solar, wind, storage, hydrogen, and electric vehicle technologies, offering a range of power equipment solutions. As a citizen of the Earth, Sungrow has actively practiced the ESG philosophy of "Green Mission, Better Life", continued to step up efforts in areas with professional influence, and strived to fulfil established corporate goals closely linked to the core areas of sustainability and business growth. Excellent governance Sungrow expanded the Strategy Committee to the Strategy and Sustainable Development Committee, and established a three-level sustainable development governance structure. Sungrow has topped the rankings of global PV inverter shipments for years in a row and ranked No.1 among Chinese companies for 8 consecutive years in terms of the global shipments of energy storage systems. In the principle of innovation-driven development, we invested $347 million in research and development and delivered the world's first 2000V inverter for grid-connected power generation, the world's first 10MWh fully liquid-cooled energy storage system, and the industry's first Stem Cell Grid Tech White Paper. By the end of 2023, Sungrow's cumulative installed capacity of inverter and converter equipment had exceeded 515GW worldwide, over 300 million tons* CO2 emissions can be avoided annually together with our customers. Sungrow released the Code of Conduct, initiated ISO37301 certification, strengthened compliance and business ethics training, and passed certifications of ISO27001 and ISO27701. Towards net zero Sungrow had pledged to achieve carbon neutrality on the operational level by 2028, carbon neutrality across the supply chain by 2038, and net zero emissions across the supply chain by 2048. Sungrow actively carry out GHG inventory development, with Scope 1 of 3594 tons of CO2 equivalent, Scope 2 of 38161 tons of CO2 equivalent, and Scope 3 of 8953862 tons of CO2 equivalent. Sungrow has built rooftop PV power stations in the plants, with a cumulative capacity of nearly 13MW and saved over 1,300MWh of electricity throughout the year and increased the proportion of green electricity consumption to 55%. Energy consumption per unit product decreased by 6.8% compared with 2020. Eco-friendly development The SG320HX series products have won the world's first inverter Italy EPD environmental product declaration. Sungrow has invested $1.1 million in environmental protection efforts to continuously optimizing the pollution and waste management system. Compared to 2020, the VOC and particulate matter emissions per unit production capacity have decreased by 46.4% and 87.1% respectively compared to 2020. The general industrial solid waste utilization rate stood at 60.1%, representing a year-on-year growth of 7%. The water consumption intensity per unit product has decreased by 37.3% compared to 2020. Mutually beneficial collaboration The customer satisfaction rate for Sungrow stood at a commendable level of 93.9%. Sungrow remains continuously focusing on the compliance and sustainability of supply chain management, with a signing rate of 96.8% for the Supplier Code of Conduct. Sungrow has successfully completed ESG audits for 33 suppliers. Sungrow has completed carbon inventory and product carbon footprint data collecting for 34 suppliers. Diversity and inclusion Sungrow's organizational health stands at 86.8%, with employee engagement rated at 4.3 points (Full score: 5 points). Sungrow boasts 1,287 foreign employees, representing a 43% year-over-year increase. Female managers constitute 15.7% of the workforce, while the localized employment rate stands at an impressive 98.8%. Sun Forest has successfully planted a total of 200 acres and oversight the construction of 10 wild animal breeding holes. A total of 1352 registered employee volunteers, with a volunteer service duration of 3442 hours. Cao Renxian, Chairman of Sungrow said, "Nowadays, the green energy represented by solar energy, wind energy, energy storage, and hydrogen energy is gradually replacing the 'impossible triangle' of traditional energy as clean, economic, safe, and sustainable energy. Sungrow will continue to uphold the mission of 'Clean power for all' and work together with all partners sharing a common vision for a sustainable future." Please download the full sustainability report here. *Avoided CO2 emissions are calculated using the global average carbon intensity of electricity generation released by the International Energy Agency (IEA). About Sungrow Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd. ("Sungrow") is a global leading PV inverter and ESS provider with over 515 GW of power electronic converters installed worldwide as of December 2023. Founded in 1997 by University Professor Cao Renxian, Sungrow is a leader in the research and development of solar inverters with the largest dedicated R&D team in the industry and a broad product portfolio offering PV inverter solutions and ESS for utility-scale, commercial & industrial, and residential applications, as well as internationally recognized floating PV plant solutions, NEV driving solutions, EV charging solutions and renewable hydrogen production systems. With a strong 27-year track record in the PV space, Sungrow products power over 170 countries worldwide. For more information about Sungrow, visit: www.sungrowpower.com.

SINGAPORE, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MediThinQ, the Korean startup pioneering extended reality (XR) wearable displays for surgical applications, unveils its groundbreaking SCOPEYE 3D Micro Surgery Solution. This innovative microsurgery solution leverages the latest Eyes Up Display technology to enhance precision across medical specialties, revolutionising depth perception and spatial awareness without the need for eyepieces. The MediThinQ SCOPEYE 3D Micro Surgery Solution The SCOPEYE 3D Micro Surgery Solution comprises the SCOPEYE Eyes Up wearable display, the 3D Microvision, a light and portable high-performance 3D digital microscope, and the 3D AddON, a device that elevates conventional 2D microscopes to advanced 3D capabilities. Offering exceptional performance, mobility, and space efficiency while maintaining a minimalist design aesthetic, it empowers surgeons to perform 3D procedures wherever needed. Its portability makes it ideal for a wide range of applications, including microsurgery, plastic surgery, dental procedures, ophthalmology, hair transplant surgery, and dermatology. The benefits of the SCOPEYE 3D Micro Surgery Solution are manifold. With high-resolution 3D optics, surgeons gain unparalleled visual clarity and depth perception, enhancing their precision and accuracy during procedures. Additionally, the solution offers significant cost efficiencies, maximised ergonomic comfort, and advanced features such as 3D recording and training capabilities, further enhancing patient care and surgical outcomes. Propelling MediThinQ's growth forward, Chris Lee, Founder & CEO of VentureBlick, assumes the role Chairman of the Board of MediThinQ, marking a pivotal moment in MediThinQ's journey. With a remarkable 30-year career spanning top global pharmaceutical and medtech companies, Chris brings extensive experience and leadership to the table. In a strategic move to deepen their collaboration, MediThinQ and VentureBlick have entered a cross-ownership agreement. With this arrangement, both companies will own stakes in each other's shares, reaffirming their commitment to mutual advancement and success. MediThinQ and VentureBlick's partnership began when MediThinQ joined VentureBlick's Super Incubator programme. With VentureBlick's support, MediThinQ achieved key milestones. Now, their bond has deepened even further, marking a significant moment for both companies. Chris Lee, Founder & CEO of VentureBlick said: "MediThinQ's solutions deliver tangible medical value, and we are thrilled to collaborate with them on an even deeper level to enhance surgical visualisation, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Our partnership will accelerate MediThinQ's growth further and pave the way for pioneering advancements in the field of extended reality for surgical applications." Seungjoon Im, Founder & CEO of MediThinQ, said: "Our SCOPEYE 3D Mirco Surgery Solution sets a new standard and is a strong addition to our offerings as we ramp up our global commercialisation efforts. We're grateful to Chris for accepting the role of Chairman of our Board. With his vast international experience, he is the undoubtedly the ideal person to bring MediThinQ to new heights." MediThinQ's journey from a visionary startup to a global leader is marked by significant milestones. As the first Asian startup to globally launch XR surgical displays, the company has garnered attention and accolades worldwide. Securing major deals with industry giants in the USA, Japan, Australia, and Europe, is a testament to the quality and effectiveness of MediThinQ's offerings, positioning the company as a frontrunner in the global healthcare landscape. MediThinQ is currently raising its Series B fund while exploring IPO options in Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, and North America. It is setting the stage for potential early exits through strategic acquisitions or accelerated commercial growth.

SINGAPORE, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- XSQUARE Technologies (XSQUARE), a Singapore-based intelligent warehousing automation company, has successfully raised S$ 10.5 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Wavemaker Partners–Southeast Asia's leading VC firm investing in early-stage Enterprise, Deep Tech, and Sustainability startups; with participation from SEEDS Capital—the investment arm of Enterprise Singapore–and Goldbell Corporation. The fresh funds will be used to accelerate XSQUARE's regional growth and product development efforts. Since 2019, XSQUARE has been helping global and local companies successfully navigate their transition towards automation. The company provides intelligent warehouse solutions designed to address critical gaps arising from recurring labour shortages and the urgent need to automate and optimise operations in both brownfield and greenfield environments. This latest round of funding marks a pivotal stage for XSQUARE as it embarks on its next phase of growth. The company's impressive track record, to date, includes building a fast-growing client base of market leaders such as Coca-Cola, GSK and Katoen Natie, as well as forging of strategic global partnerships. Most notably, XSQUARE has recently partnered with Mitsubishi Logisnext (ML), one of the world's largest material handling equipment companies, to collaborate on the development of a new line of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and the distribution of XSQUARE's existing products through ML's global distribution network. "Over the past five years, we have enabled companies to overcome automation fragmentation and achieve complete interoperability across a diverse range of warehouses, factories, and dynamic environments," said Jens Bohnwagner, CEO of XSQUARE Technologies. "Our advanced suite of hardware and software solutions ensures seamless interworking of all components within both manned and unmanned settings, to deliver substantial productivity improvements, without the need for major reconfiguration. "This funding serves as a catalyst for XSQUARE's growth trajectory, empowering us to scale up our operations, further enhance our technological capabilities, and reinforce our position as a leader in intelligent warehouse solutions." Paul Santos, Managing Partner at Wavemaker Partners, said, "With consumer expectations changing rapidly, it's vital for businesses to boost their warehouse capabilities. XSQUARE empowers companies to optimise their warehousing operations through automation, delivering greater efficiency and precision, without completely overhauling their systems. "XSQUARE's AGVs not only enable 24/7 operations, but also run 20% faster than existing solutions, while maintaining the highest safety standards and providing real-time inventory visibility. This leads to significant cost savings for companies, including thousands of dollars in labour costs annually. We're thrilled to be part of XSQUARE's journey as it enables various industries to improve their warehouse processes and focus on creating higher-value jobs." Commenting on the deal, Kaixin Tan, General Manager at Enterprise Singapore's SEEDS Capital said, "SEEDS Capital is excited to partner XSQUARE as it seeks to scale their operations in Singapore and Southeast Asia. Its innovative solutions serve to meet the demand for greater efficiency and a more agile supply chain in this region." Building on its current momentum, XSQUARE plans to expand its operations in the region, strengthen its go-to-market capabilities, and advance the company's research and development efforts to introduce new and improved features powered by AI technology. About XSQUARE Technologies XSQUARE Technologies is at the forefront of the logistics revolution, offering cutting-edge warehouse automation solutions across Asia Pacific and beyond. Backed by Goldbell Group's 40 years of expertise, we offer a suite of Autonomous Forklifts and Intelligent Warehouse Orchestrator software that set new standards in interoperability and efficiency, simplifying warehouse operations without the need for extensive reconfiguration and thus saving time and costs. Spanning a diverse range of industries from pharmaceuticals to manufacturing, we have a rapidly growing clientele that benefits from our innovation-driven, real-world-tested solutions. Visit www.xsquaretechnologies.com to learn how XSQUARE is shaping the future of intralogistics. For more information and press enquiries, please contact  connect@xsquaretechnologies.com. About Wavemaker Partners Wavemaker Partners is Southeast Asia's leading VC firm investing in early-stage Enterprise, Deep Tech, and Sustainability startups. Since 2012, it has backed more than 210 companies across the region, with more than US$450 million in total committed capital and exits generating over US$2.2 billion in enterprise value. Today, 87% of Wavemaker's active portfolio startups in Southeast Asia are contributing to at least one UNDP Sustainable Development Goal. In 2021, the firm launched Wavemaker Impact, a venture build fund that aims to co-found climate-tech startups with proven entrepreneurs. For more information, visit https://wavemaker.vc/ or email orbit@wavemaker.vc. About Seeds Capital As the investment arm of Enterprise Singapore, SEEDS Capital catalyses smart investments into innovative Singapore-based early-stage startups with strong intellectual content and global market potential. We adopt a co-investment model, working hand in hand with institutional investors from around the world. Leveraging our collective expertise and networks, we help startups commercialise, realise their business development plans and expand globally. We focus our investments into emerging and strategic sectors aligned with national priorities, including Manufacturing, Trade & Connectivity, Human Health & Potential, Urban Solutions & Sustainability, and Smart Nation & Digital Economy. About Goldbell Corporation Goldbell Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Goldbell Group — Singapore's largest player in the leasing and distribution of commercial and industrial vehicles, providing transport and logistics solutions for nearly four decades. The company's diversified business portfolio operates under three main pillars: Distribution, Leasing and Financial Services. Its subsidiary, GB Helios, has also gained significant recognition for its impressive growth as one of the fastest-growing non-bank financial institutions. Poised to be the leader in the smart city landscape, Goldbell Group's Twin Engines for Disruptive Growth strategy combines its domain expertise and financial services capabilities with venture building and investing models to drive innovation and propel future-forward businesses. Notable venture builds include Swat Mobility, XSQUARE Technologies, BlueSG, Polaris, Pilon, and GB NXT. The group's venture investment arm actively nurtures and invests in promising start-ups, with initiatives like MoveSG accelerator and Cube3 Ventures to shape the future of the mobility industry. For more information, please visit http://www.goldbell.com.sg.  

SINGAPORE, May 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GreenNode, a member of VNG Digital Business, has emerged as a key player in AI Cloud and driving Generative AI advancements across Asia Pacific. Leveraging cutting-edge Nvidia technology, GreenNode has unveiled significant innovations in AI cloud, generative AI chatbots and Stable Diffusion applications, marking a pivotal moment in the region's AI development. GreenNode is the official Nvidia Cloud Partner, leading AI Cloud services in the APAC region. Through its strategic partnerships with industry leaders, namely NVIDIA, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, and VAST Data, GreenNode offers a robust GPU Cloud infrastructure, enabling customers worldwide to seamlessly access and leverage powerful AI capabilities. As a Cloud Service Partner (CSP) of U.S. chipmaker Nvidia, GreenNode enjoys priority access to Nvidia's premier chips and AI Factory solutions, enhancing its service offerings. Since April 2024, GreenNode's data centers in Thailand and Vietnam have been equipped with thousands of high-performance Nvidia H100 GPUs. These facilities offer efficient and rapid training of large language models (LLMs), significantly accelerating the delivery of generative AI solutions to businesses. Sunil Chavan, Vice President, Asia Pacific & Japan at VAST Data, commented: "We are excited to collaborate with GreenNode to drive AI advancements in the APAC region and beyond. Accessing high-demand resources like Nvidia H100 GPUs has been a challenge for AI startups. By combining GreenNode's instant access to H100 GPUs and VAST's unique data platform built from the ground up for AI workloads, we can provide a seamless and resilient AI-as-a-Service that empowers organizations to deliver their innovative AI solution to market much faster." In addition to its cloud services, GreenNode is also at the forefront of developing Generative AI technologies and applications. Notable developments include a 34-billion parameter Vietnamese Large Language Model (LLM) and a No Code Chatbot platform that facilitates high-performance, 24/7 customer service with AI-driven chatbots capable of handling complex Vietnamese interactions and precise question-and-answer sessions. Moreover, in collaboration with VNGGames, GreenNode has successfully launched "Artian", a Stable Diffusion-powered application that significantly improves the design and production of game characters and multimedia content, all powered by GreenNode's advanced GPU cloud infrastructure. Tung Vu, Head of Product, GreenNode & VNG Digital Business, added: "GreenNode is thrilled to be a driving force behind Asia's booming AI innovations. Our GPU Cloud offering will facilitate regional AI trailblazers in delivering exceptional AI initiatives effectively." For more information about GreenNode and its transformative AI services, please visit here.

TAIPEI, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- GIGABYTE, the world's leading computer brand, is poised to captivate audiences at this year's COMPUTEX with its latest offerings. From user-friendly designs to groundbreaking advancements in AI, visitors can expect a truly immersive experience across GIGABYTE and AORUS product lines such as motherboards, graphics cards, gaming monitors, and gaming laptops. As the world enters a new era of AI, GIGABYTE's presence at COMPUTEX hints at exciting developments in the realm of AI, promising visitors a glimpse into the future of computing. GIGABYTE Showcases AI and User-Friendly Innovative Technology at COMPUTEX 2024 GIGABYTE will showcase cutting-edge features across its product lineup at COMPUTEX 2024. The AI Laptops including AORUS 17X and AORUS 16X steal the spotlight with the exclusive GIGABYTE AI Nexus, featuring three functions including AI Boost, enhancing performance as per specific scenarios, AI Generator for quick startups with generative AI utilities, and AI Power Gear that intelligently conserves battery life by optimizing power consumption. Additionally, the GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 40 SUPER series graphics cards are engineered to provide intense gaming and reliable AI computing power across a diverse range of applications. Complementing these advancements, the OLED Monitor series such as AORUS CO49DQ, integrates AI algorithms to introduce OLED CARE, including six key features designed to minimize burn-in risks on OLED screens and extend the screen's lifespan. In terms of user-friendly designs, GIGABYTE presents innovations like the EZ-Latch and Stealth Design on motherboards, streamlining PC assembly with quick and convenient installations while ensuring a clean appearance through efficient cable management. The LCD Edge View across various components like AORUS GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER MASTER enables real-time monitoring of PC performance and customizable display options. Furthermore, the GIGABYTE Arm Edition gaming monitors are equipped with ergonomic monitor mounts designed to cater to various usage environments from PC gaming, console gaming, to even streaming media, realizing the true 4K entertainment. Within the GIGABYTE OLED Gaming Monitor series, the Tactical Switch feature optimizes gaming by instant switching to a 24-inch size, 1080p resolution with a single click, specifically designed for first-person shooter games. Additionally, GIGABYTE is proud to showcase multiple Red Dot 2024 award-winning products, including the Z790 AORUS XTREME X, Z790 AORUS MASTER X, Z790 AORUS PRO X, X670E AORUS PRO X motherboards, AORUS FO32U2P, GIGABYTE MO34WQC2 gaming monitors, and AORUS C400 GLASS gaming chassis. For more information, please visit the official GIGABYTE website at: https://bit.ly/GIGABYTE_COMPUTEX_2024

Hyundai Motor and Plus collaboration aims to enhance road safety and freight efficiencies by demonstrating benefits of XCIENT Fuel Cell truck equipped with Plus's Level 4 autonomous driving software Hyundai Motor's Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell truck featuring Plus's Level 4 SuperDrive™ system is on display at the Plus ACT Expo booth (#2044) LAS VEGAS and SEOUL, South Korea, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) and autonomous driving software leader Plus today unveiled the first Level 4 autonomous Class 8 hydrogen fuel cell electric truck in the U.S. at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo, the largest advanced clean transportation technology and fleet event in North America. Hyundai Motor and Plus Announce Collaboration to Demonstrate First Level 4 Autonomous Fuel Cell Electric Truck in the U.S. A result of the collaboration between Hyundai Motor and Plus, Hyundai Motor's XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, equipped with Plus SuperDrive™ Level 4 autonomous driving technology, is on display at the Plus ACT Expo booth (#2044). The Level 4 autonomous XCIENT Fuel Cell truck is undergoing initial autonomous driving assessments in the U.S., making it the first-ever Level 4 self-driving test on a Class 8 fuel cell electric truck to take place in the country. The collaboration seeks to show that autonomous hydrogen fuel cell trucks can help make trucking safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. "We are excited to showcase our collaboration with Plus to test Level 4 autonomous driving technology with our Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell truck," said Martin Zeilinger, Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicle Development at Hyundai. "Hyundai Motor has been driving the energy transition paradigm with our advanced fuel cell technologies. By adding autonomous capabilities to our world's first mass-produced hydrogen-powered XCIENT Fuel Cell truck, Hyundai is looking forward to providing fleets and vehicle operators additional solutions that enhance road safety and freight efficiencies thanks to Plus's industry-leading autonomous driving technology." First introduced in 2020, Hyundai Motor's XCIENT Fuel Cell truck has conducted commercial operations in eight countries worldwide, establishing a successful track record of real-world applications and technological reliability. At last year's ACT Expo, Hyundai introduced XCIENT Fuel Cell tractor, the commercialized Class 8 6x4 fuel cell electric model, powered by two 90kW hydrogen fuel cell systems and a 350kW e-motor, providing a driving range of over 450 miles per charge even when fully loaded. Plus's SuperDrive™ solution is being deployed across the U.S., Europe, and Australia. The system uses a combination of cutting-edge sensors, including LiDAR, radar and cameras, to provide surround perception, planning, prediction and self-driving capabilities. "We are thrilled to collaborate with Hyundai Motor Company on this important initiative to create more sustainable and safe transportation options. A decarbonized future with autonomous hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks that also improve safety and efficiency is one that Plus is proud to support with our cutting-edge autonomous driving technology," said Shawn Kerrigan, COO and Co-Founder at Plus. Hyundai Motor and Plus have released a video highlighting their collaboration, which can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d19h_v7abo.   About Hyundai Motor Company More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at: https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/ or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai About Plus For more information, visit http://www.plus.ai/.