KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) -- European credit specialist AlbaCore Capital Group (AlbaCore) has launched its new Senior Direct Lending Strategy (the Strategy), having secured anchor investments from a wholly owned subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking Corporation (the Trust Bank).
In a statement, AlbaCore said the firm has successfully completed its first close, bringing in an expected US$1.8 billion in investable capital. (US$1=RM4.42)
The Strategy positions AlbaCore to capitalise on the growing market opportunity in loan financing, further expanding its global presence and delivering enhanced value to clients.
AlbaCore Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer, David Allen highlighted that the backing from ADIA and Trust Bank reflects the appeal of the Strategy and AlbaCore's ability to take advantage of the opportunity.
Meanwhile, ADIA Executive Director of the Private Equities Department, Hamad Shahwan AlDhaheri, emphasised the importance of the anchor commitment in deepening its relationship with AlbaCore, noting the Strategy’s potential to meet the growing demand for private credit solutions in Europe.
On the other hand, the Trust Bank Chief Executive, Asset Management & Investor Services Business Unit, Takafumi Ihara expressed excitement about supporting the Strategy, aligning with the bank’s global asset management business in expanding private product competitiveness in the direct lending market.
The Strategy will leverage AlbaCore’s deep knowledge of European corporate capital structures to build a diversified portfolio of senior direct lending investments, focusing on downside protection and delivering attractive risk-adjusted returns.
It will also draw upon AlbaCore’s thorough bottom-up fundamental credit analysis to primarily finance senior private loans in upper-mid to large-cap performing European corporates.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, 27 March 2025
Wednesday, 26 March 2025
MDS GLOBAL PLATFORM TO POWER PXC’S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- MDS Global, a provider of Business Support Systems (BSS) for digital telcos, has announced a new strategic partnership with PlatformX Communications (PXC), the United Kingdom (UK)’s wholesale provider of connectivity, voice, cloud and security solutions.
In a statement, MDS Global said with this landmark agreement, it will continue to deliver its industry-leading Converged Monetisation Platform (CMP) as a fully outsourced end-to-end monetisation service to power PXC’s ambitious digital transformation and innovation goals.
Under this partnership, MDS Global’s CMP will serve as the single strategic wholesale billing platform for PXC, supporting their plans to build a powerful altnet aggregation platform while simplifying PXC’s information technology (IT) infrastructure and merging multiple BSS environments.
MDS Global Chief Executive Officer, John Burton said this partnership highlights its commitment to work closely with customers to deliver reliable solutions that power growth and digital transformation.
“We are delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with PXC. MDS Converged Monetisation Platform will not only simplify PXC’s IT architecture, but also drive innovation and efficiency, further underpinning PXC’s leading position in the UK wholesale telecoms market,” he said.
Meanwhile, PXC Chief Technology Officer, Phil Haslam said the MDS Converged Monetisation Platform enables PXC to simplify its technology stack and drive innovation, which has been critical in its journey to become the UK's leading wholesale connectivity provider.
The platform optimises PXC’s operations and brings process automation to reduce operational costs, power innovation and deliver digital customer experiences.
This partnership is a testament to MDS Global’s track record of delivering value and ensuring effective, trouble-free operations. PXC’s decision to extend this relationship, following a long partnership history, demonstrates their trust in MDS Global’s commitment to align with their strategy and help PXC achieve their ambitious goals.
-- BERNAMA
In a statement, MDS Global said with this landmark agreement, it will continue to deliver its industry-leading Converged Monetisation Platform (CMP) as a fully outsourced end-to-end monetisation service to power PXC’s ambitious digital transformation and innovation goals.
Under this partnership, MDS Global’s CMP will serve as the single strategic wholesale billing platform for PXC, supporting their plans to build a powerful altnet aggregation platform while simplifying PXC’s information technology (IT) infrastructure and merging multiple BSS environments.
MDS Global Chief Executive Officer, John Burton said this partnership highlights its commitment to work closely with customers to deliver reliable solutions that power growth and digital transformation.
“We are delighted to extend our long-standing relationship with PXC. MDS Converged Monetisation Platform will not only simplify PXC’s IT architecture, but also drive innovation and efficiency, further underpinning PXC’s leading position in the UK wholesale telecoms market,” he said.
Meanwhile, PXC Chief Technology Officer, Phil Haslam said the MDS Converged Monetisation Platform enables PXC to simplify its technology stack and drive innovation, which has been critical in its journey to become the UK's leading wholesale connectivity provider.
The platform optimises PXC’s operations and brings process automation to reduce operational costs, power innovation and deliver digital customer experiences.
This partnership is a testament to MDS Global’s track record of delivering value and ensuring effective, trouble-free operations. PXC’s decision to extend this relationship, following a long partnership history, demonstrates their trust in MDS Global’s commitment to align with their strategy and help PXC achieve their ambitious goals.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 25 March 2025
DDPAI LAUNCHES Z50 PRO DASH CAM WITH 4G, 4K RECORDING & WI-FI 6 IN MALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- DDPAI Technology has introduced its latest dash cam model, the Z50 Pro, in Malaysia, designed for modern drivers seeking enhanced security, convenience, and performance.
DDPAI chief executive officer, Leo Luo expressed confidence that the Z50 Pro’s combination of 4G connectivity and 4K resolutions would raise the bar in the dash cam market, offering drivers superior value, security, and convenience.
The Z50 Pro offers seamless 4G connectivity, allowing users to remotely access live footage, receive instant alerts, and manage recordings through the DDPAI app. The 4G package comes with a SIM card offering a 90-day free trial with a 30 gigabyte (GB) data plan, ensuring immediate connectivity.
According to a statement, the dash cam also features Wi-Fi 6 for faster and more stable video transfers, making it easier for users to access high--resolution footage without delays.
Beyond its advanced connectivity, the Z50 Pro records in true 4K resolution, capturing every detail with exceptional clarity. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI) ISP technology, the NightVIS 2.0 provides superior night vision, significantly enhancing nighttime parking monitoring in low-light conditions.
The Z50 Pro is designed for durability with a supercapacitor to prevent power failures and provide long-lasting performance. It also provides round-the-clock parking monitoring for constant security.
Additionally, the GPS version includes built-in GPS and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), providing real-time location tracking driving insights, lane departure warnings and collision alerts.
The Z50 Pro is now available for purchase through DDPAI's official Malaysia store and certified retailers.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 21 March 2025
AMTD RELEASES LATEST CINEMATIC VENTURE: ‘A GILDED GAME’
KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- AMTD Group Inc (AMTD), alongside World Media and Entertainment Universal Inc (WME), a subsidiary of the group under AMTD Digital, jointly announced that their latest film, “A Gilded Game”, will premiere in China on May 1.
According to AMTD in a statement, following the success of “The Last Dance”, this new movie is highly anticipated.
Directed by Herman Yau, the movie stars Andy Lau and Oho Ou in lead roles, along with a special appearance by Ni Ni. Lau plays a capital markets expert, while Ou takes on the role of Lau's apprentice.
“We are thrilled to embark on another creative journey with Andy Lau and our talented cast in ‘A Gilded Game’.
“This movie embodies our commitment to producing high-quality entertainment, and we look forward to the audience's enthusiastic response to this remarkable cinematic experience,” said AMTD and WME Chairman, Dr Feridun Hamdullahpur.
AMTD serves as a production company of the movie, alongside Universe Entertainment, Maoyan, and Yingming Culture, while the founder of AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital, Dr Calvin Choi, serves as both producer and executive producer.
The movie marks the fourth collaboration between AMTD and Lau, an internationally acclaimed actor.
Their previous joint projects have been immensely successful, with 'Shock Wave 2' reaching a box office of 1.314 billion Chinese yuan, 'Moscow Mission' grossing 664 million Chinese yuan, and 'Golden Finger' achieving 574 million Chinese yuan. (100 Chinese yuan = RM60.98)
-- BERNAMA
According to AMTD in a statement, following the success of “The Last Dance”, this new movie is highly anticipated.
Directed by Herman Yau, the movie stars Andy Lau and Oho Ou in lead roles, along with a special appearance by Ni Ni. Lau plays a capital markets expert, while Ou takes on the role of Lau's apprentice.
“We are thrilled to embark on another creative journey with Andy Lau and our talented cast in ‘A Gilded Game’.
“This movie embodies our commitment to producing high-quality entertainment, and we look forward to the audience's enthusiastic response to this remarkable cinematic experience,” said AMTD and WME Chairman, Dr Feridun Hamdullahpur.
AMTD serves as a production company of the movie, alongside Universe Entertainment, Maoyan, and Yingming Culture, while the founder of AMTD IDEA Group and AMTD Digital, Dr Calvin Choi, serves as both producer and executive producer.
The movie marks the fourth collaboration between AMTD and Lau, an internationally acclaimed actor.
Their previous joint projects have been immensely successful, with 'Shock Wave 2' reaching a box office of 1.314 billion Chinese yuan, 'Moscow Mission' grossing 664 million Chinese yuan, and 'Golden Finger' achieving 574 million Chinese yuan. (100 Chinese yuan = RM60.98)
-- BERNAMA
EXCELLENT CREDIT RATINGS ASSIGNED TO CHINA TAIPING INSURANCE (MACAU) - AM BEST
KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A (Excellent) and the long-term issuer credit rating of “a” (Excellent) of China Taiping Insurance (Macau) Company Limited (CTIM).
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting CTIM’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
As measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, CTIM’s risk-adjusted capitalisation remained at the strongest level as of year-end 2023, while its capital level remained robust and further strengthened to US$120 million at year-end 2024, based on the unaudited financial statements. (US$1=RM4.42)
According to AM Best in a statement, the company’s investment strategy is consistently conservative, with the majority of its assets held in cash and investment-grade bonds.
In addition, CTIM’s reinsurance programme remains comprehensive with reinsurer panels of good credit quality; although, the reinsurance dependency of the company is moderate.
Reported a five-year average return-on-equity ratio (ROE) of 18.4 per cent from 2019 to 2023, CTIM achieved an ROE of 19.8 per cent in 2024, with a historical full-year-recorded net profit.
Last year, the net combined ratio increased moderately, mainly driven by an uptick in the loss ratio from motor business, while the net expense ratio stayed largely at a similar level as the prior year, thanks to the effective control of management expenses.
CTIM maintains a long track record as the leader in Macau’s non-life insurance segment and has a market share of approximately 33 per cent as of the third quarter 2024, based on gross premiums written, with its underwriting portfolio and distribution channels remaining diversified.
-- BERNAMA
The outlook of these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting CTIM’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
As measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, CTIM’s risk-adjusted capitalisation remained at the strongest level as of year-end 2023, while its capital level remained robust and further strengthened to US$120 million at year-end 2024, based on the unaudited financial statements. (US$1=RM4.42)
According to AM Best in a statement, the company’s investment strategy is consistently conservative, with the majority of its assets held in cash and investment-grade bonds.
In addition, CTIM’s reinsurance programme remains comprehensive with reinsurer panels of good credit quality; although, the reinsurance dependency of the company is moderate.
Reported a five-year average return-on-equity ratio (ROE) of 18.4 per cent from 2019 to 2023, CTIM achieved an ROE of 19.8 per cent in 2024, with a historical full-year-recorded net profit.
Last year, the net combined ratio increased moderately, mainly driven by an uptick in the loss ratio from motor business, while the net expense ratio stayed largely at a similar level as the prior year, thanks to the effective control of management expenses.
CTIM maintains a long track record as the leader in Macau’s non-life insurance segment and has a market share of approximately 33 per cent as of the third quarter 2024, based on gross premiums written, with its underwriting portfolio and distribution channels remaining diversified.
-- BERNAMA
VIETNAM’S PVI INSURANCE RATED EXCEPTIONAL - AM BEST
KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent), the long-term issuer credit rating of “a-” (Excellent) and the Vietnam National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.VN (Exceptional) of PVI Insurance Corporation (PVI Insurance), with a stable outlook.
In a statement, AM Best said the ratings reflected PVI Insurance’s strong balance sheet, robust operating performance, neutral business profile, and sound enterprise risk management.
The assessment also incorporates rating enhancement from its parent company, HDI Haftpflichtverband der Deutschen Industrie V.a.G. (HDI V.a.G.).
PVI Insurance’s balance sheet strength is supported by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, which is expected to remain at the strongest level over the medium term. The company also benefits from good financial flexibility due to HDI V.a.G.'s majority ownership.
Despite high dividend payouts and reinsurance dependency, AM Best considers PVI Insurance’s investment portfolio to be of moderate risk, with allocations in cash, term deposits, corporate bonds, private equity, and real estate.
The credit rating agency noted that PVI Insurance maintains strong operating performance, with a five-year average return-on-equity (ROE) ratio of 17.1 per cent (2020-2024). Although underwriting results were impacted by Typhoon Yagi, the company recorded a 14 per cent ROE in 2024, supported by profitable commercial and retail business lines.
As Vietnam’s largest non-life insurer based on 2023 direct premiums, the company continues to expand its market share, particularly in industrial and commercial insurance segments, benefitting from its affiliation with the PetroVietnam (PVN) group. HDI V.a.G.’s support has further strengthened its technical expertise and regional market position.
PVI Insurance’s business expansion in inward reinsurance has contributed to growth, though prudent risk accumulation remains a focus for monitoring.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 19 March 2025
AMTD’S AWARD WINNING THE LAST DANCE MOVIE TO RELEASE THE EXTENDED VERSION
PARIS & NEW YORK & SINGAPORE, March 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AMTD Group Inc. ("AMTD" or the "Group"), alongside World Media and Entertainment Universal Inc. ("WME"), a subsidiary of the Group under AMTD Digital, jointly announced that AMTD’s latest movie, "The Last Dance: Extended Version" ("Movie"), is officially set to release to the public on April 4.
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250317607232/en/
The extended version of The Last Dance will feature an additional 15 minutes of footage, including new scenes with acclaimed actors Kaki Sham and Vincent Kok, as well as additional scenes of Catherine Chau and Dayo Wong. The additional footage enriches the story by delving deeper into the family background issues faced by Dayo Wong's character, Dominic Ngai.
The Last Dance continues to enjoy widespread acclaim following its original release in November, 2024. As of the date of the announcement, the Movie has achieved a global box office of US$50.7 million, becoming the highest-grossing Chinese-language film ever in Hong Kong history.
The Last Dance is also a clear front runner for various international film festivals, including:
1. The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards - 18 Nominations
This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250317607232/en/
The extended version of The Last Dance will feature an additional 15 minutes of footage, including new scenes with acclaimed actors Kaki Sham and Vincent Kok, as well as additional scenes of Catherine Chau and Dayo Wong. The additional footage enriches the story by delving deeper into the family background issues faced by Dayo Wong's character, Dominic Ngai.
The Last Dance continues to enjoy widespread acclaim following its original release in November, 2024. As of the date of the announcement, the Movie has achieved a global box office of US$50.7 million, becoming the highest-grossing Chinese-language film ever in Hong Kong history.
The Last Dance is also a clear front runner for various international film festivals, including:
1. The 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards - 18 Nominations
- Best Film
- Best Director
- Best Actor - Michael Hui
- Best Actress - Michelle Wai
- Best Supporting Actor - Tommy Chu
- Best Supporting Actor - Paul Chun Pui
- Best Supporting Actress - Rachel Leung
- Best Supporting Actress - Rosa Maria Velasco
- Best Screenplay - Chan Mou Yin Anselm, Cheng Wai Kei
- Best Cinematography - Anthony Pun
- Best Film Editing - William Chang Suk Ping, Curran Pang
- Best Art Direction - Yiu Hon Man
- Best Costume & Makeup Design - Lee Pik Kwan
- Best Action Choreography - Jack Wong Wai Leung
- Best Original Film Score - Wan Pin Chu
- Best Original Film Song - Composer, Lyricist, Vocal Artist: Terence Lam
- Best Sound Design - Yiu Chun Hin
- Best Visual Effects - Chan Tik Hoi Water
2. The 18th Asian Film Awards
- Best Original Music - Wan Pin Chu
3. Hong Kong Screenwriters' Guild
- Most Recommended Screenplay - Chan Mou Yin Anselm, Cheng Wai Kei
4. Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Awards
- Best Actor - Michael Hui
- Best Actress - Michelle Wai
- Best Supporting Actor - Tommy Chu
5. The 31st Hong Kong Film Critics Society Awards
- Films of Merit
6. The 19th Edition of Asian Pop-Up Cinema
- Extraordinary Actors Award - Michelle Wai
7. The 16th Golden Lotus Awards (Macau International Movie & Television Festival)
- Best Director - Chan Mou Yin Anselm
- Best Actor - Dayo Wong
- Best Actress - Michelle Wai
8. The 61st Asia Pacific Film Festival
- Best Director - Chan Mou Yin Anselm
- Best Actress - Michelle Wai
- Best Film Editing - William Chang Suk Ping, Curran Pang
- Best Art Direction - Yiu Hon Man
9. The 39th Huading Awards
- Best Chinese Film and Television Actress-Michelle Wai
10. The 5th New Era International Film Festival Golden Flowering Awards
- Best Actress -Michelle Wai
About AMTD Group
AMTD Group is a conglomerate with core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality areas.
About AMTD IDEA Group
AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) represents a diversified institution and digital solutions group connecting companies and investors with global markets. Its comprehensive one-stop business services plus digital solutions platform addresses different clients’ diverse and inter-connected business needs and digital requirements across all phases of their life cycles. AMTD IDEA Group is uniquely positioned as an active super connector between clients, business partners, investee companies, and investors, connecting the East and the West. For more information, please visit www.amtdinc.com or follow us on X (formerly known as “Twitter") at @AMTDGroup.
About AMTD Digital Inc.
AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) is a comprehensive digital solutions platform headquartered in France. Its one-stop digital solutions platform operates key business lines including digital media, content and marketing services, digital investments as well as hospitality and VIP services. For AMTD Digital’s announcements, please visit https://ir.amtdigital.net/investor-news.
About World Media and Entertainment
World Media and Entertainment, jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) and AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD), focuses on global strategies and developments in multi-media, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide. WME comprises L’Officiel, The Art Newspaper, movie and entertainment projects, collectively a diversified media and entertainment portfolio of global businesses, and a global portfolio of premium properties.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the beliefs, plans, and expectations of AMTD IDEA Group and/or AMTD Digital, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the filings of AMTD IDEA Group and/or AMTD Digital with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and neither AMTD IDEA Group nor AMTD Digital undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250317607232/en/
Contact
For AMTD IDEA Group:
IR Office
AMTD IDEA Group
EMAIL: ir@amtdinc.com
For AMTD Digital Inc.:
IR Office
AMTD Digital Inc.
EMAIL: ir@amtdigital.com
Source : AMTD Digital Inc.
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