KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 18 (Bernama) -- Southeast Asian companies are being urged to begin preparations now to capitalise on a widening window of opportunity for entry into the United States (US) market in 2026, as firms across the region move to diversify supply chains and sustain growth momentum.
Industry forecasts, including research from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, project Southeast Asia’s business-to-business digital commerce market to reach US$130 billion by 2026, driven by rising demand for consumer electronics, home furnishings and cross-border trade with overseas buyers. (US$1=RM4.07)
Dmitry Shubov Consulting founder, Dmitry Shubov said the most successful expansions treat the US market as a multi-layered project, addressing legal entity structure, tax exposure and local logistics simultaneously.
“We are helping them move beyond the simple manufacturing and business models to a sophisticated, sustainable American market strategy,” he said in a statement.
Market entry, however, requires more than competitive products. Companies expanding in the US must address complex legal, tax and operational frameworks to avoid costly delays and compliance risks, industry experts said.
Key challenges include structuring the appropriate US legal entity and managing tax nexus requirements, navigating customs classifications and tariffs, complying with product safety regulations such as those enforced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), and securing US intellectual property protections.
Operational readiness is also critical, with companies increasingly expected to localise supply chains through US-based warehousing, third-party logistics providers and faster delivery standards, while complying with a growing patchwork of state-level data privacy laws.
Experts say companies that address these legal and logistical requirements in late 2025 and early 2026 are better positioned to capture short-term market momentum and ensure long-term stability.
Consulting firms and online resources are increasingly supporting Southeast Asian founders, particularly at the pre-seed and seed stages, as companies prepare to establish compliant and scalable operations in the US. Dmitry Shubov remains committed to guiding these businesses, helping them hit the ground running when they launch into the US market.
-- BERNAMA
Thursday, 18 December 2025
Tuesday, 16 December 2025
SOUTH KOREA EASES DISCOUNT RATE RULES FOR NON-LIFE INSURERS
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- The recent easing of discount rate regulations by South Korea’s financial authorities will alleviate pressure on the solvency position of the country’s non-life insurers, according to a new AM Best commentary.
AM Best in a statement said the country’s non-life insurers are facing increasing solvency pressures due to declining market interest rates, together with the tightening of the discount rate calculation for insurance liabilities by its domestic regulators.
The report stated that a recently announced plan is expected to slow the pace of these cuts taking effect, which should ease the burden that insurers would face in securing their solvency positions.
In South Korea’s non-life insurance market, the discount rate used in liability valuation plays an essential role in determining balance sheet strength under IFRS 17 and the Korean Insurance Capital Standard (K-ICS), as the majority of the insurance book is structured as long-term contracts.
According to the global credit rating agency, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has been actively involved in setting standards for the discount rate curves to enable better comparability within the industry.
The FSS had initially planned for a soft landing under IFRS 17 accounting standards that were implemented in 2023, allowing a higher discount rate at implementation, then phasing in discount rate decreases gradually until 2027.
However, interest rates have since fallen faster than expected, in which South Korea’s 10-year treasury bond yield has decreased from 3.85 per cent in August 2023 to 2.56 per cent at the end of April 2025, with a partial rebound to 3.34 per cent in the beginning of December 2025.
The report indicates that the FSS has revisited its plans related to lowering the discount rate and opted to slow the implementation pace to alleviate excessive capital pressures, based on industry feedback.
-- BERNAMA
AM Best in a statement said the country’s non-life insurers are facing increasing solvency pressures due to declining market interest rates, together with the tightening of the discount rate calculation for insurance liabilities by its domestic regulators.
The report stated that a recently announced plan is expected to slow the pace of these cuts taking effect, which should ease the burden that insurers would face in securing their solvency positions.
In South Korea’s non-life insurance market, the discount rate used in liability valuation plays an essential role in determining balance sheet strength under IFRS 17 and the Korean Insurance Capital Standard (K-ICS), as the majority of the insurance book is structured as long-term contracts.
According to the global credit rating agency, the Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has been actively involved in setting standards for the discount rate curves to enable better comparability within the industry.
The FSS had initially planned for a soft landing under IFRS 17 accounting standards that were implemented in 2023, allowing a higher discount rate at implementation, then phasing in discount rate decreases gradually until 2027.
However, interest rates have since fallen faster than expected, in which South Korea’s 10-year treasury bond yield has decreased from 3.85 per cent in August 2023 to 2.56 per cent at the end of April 2025, with a partial rebound to 3.34 per cent in the beginning of December 2025.
The report indicates that the FSS has revisited its plans related to lowering the discount rate and opted to slow the implementation pace to alleviate excessive capital pressures, based on industry feedback.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 15 December 2025
Axi: Crypto as a Strategic Portfolio Component for Traders & Investors in 2026
SYDNEY, Dec 15 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As global financial markets evolve, Axi is making the case that cryptocurrencies — accessed through its platform and expanding lineup of crypto perpetual futures (“perps”) — deserve a meaningful place in diversified portfolio planning for 2026. Crypto trading has increasingly shifted toward derivatives, with perpetual futures now forming the core of digital asset activity worldwide. Recent data indicates that perpetual futures account for roughly 68% of all Bitcoin trading volume and about 76% of total global crypto derivatives volume in 2025, highlighting their continued growth and influence.
In parallel with this shift, Axi has expanded its lineup to include more than 150 perpetual futures contracts across major and emerging tokens, giving traders deep exposure within a regulated, single-platform environment. With derivatives dominating global crypto markets, Axi’s platform provides the liquidity, accessibility, and flexibility modern traders expect — including 24/7 market access and the ability to employ leverage in a controlled and regulated setting. This mirrors the versatility of traditional financial instruments while offering exposure to the rapidly developing digital asset landscape.
The rise in institutional participation underscores this evolution: as of 2025, institutions reportedly account for approximately 42% of all crypto derivatives trading volume, signalling growing institutional confidence in crypto markets beyond pure retail speculation. “With perps driving most crypto activity, we’re broadening our offerings to meet traders where the market is going,” said Stuart Cooke, Head of New Business at Axi. “Our goal is to bring everything into one trusted ecosystem — perps, copy trading, mobile apps, and institutional-grade support.” Looking ahead to 2026, the mainstream status of crypto derivatives highlights a pivotal moment for investors evaluating diversified strategies.
Looking ahead to 2026, the mainstream status of crypto derivatives highlights a pivotal moment for investors evaluating diversified strategies. The dominance of derivatives over spot trading in 2025 points to the rapidly maturing market environment, while traders and investors — from speculative participants to those hedging or seeking thematic exposure — increasingly require flexible, advanced tools. Axi’s infrastructure and broad contract range are built to support these evolving needs. The availability of perpetual contracts through a valued broker offers expanded flexibility, robust risk-management potential, and round-the-clock access, acknowledging both the opportunities and inherent risks of digital asset derivatives.
About Axi
Axi is a multi-asset broker offering access to forex, commodities, indices, and increasingly — crypto markets via regulated derivatives and spot adjacent instruments. Its expanded crypto perpetual offering is designed to meet demand from both professional and retail clients seeking regulated, versatile, and globally accessible trading options.
For more information contact mediaenquiries@axi.com
Promoted by AxiTrader LLC. Trading carries a high risk of investment loss. Crypto assets are complex and volatile products. Prices are highly volatile and can fluctuate rapidly, resulting in substantial losses. Crypto trading is not regulated in all jurisdictions and may not be suitable for all investors. Consider whether you understand how these products work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
SOURCE: Axi Trader LLC
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
In parallel with this shift, Axi has expanded its lineup to include more than 150 perpetual futures contracts across major and emerging tokens, giving traders deep exposure within a regulated, single-platform environment. With derivatives dominating global crypto markets, Axi’s platform provides the liquidity, accessibility, and flexibility modern traders expect — including 24/7 market access and the ability to employ leverage in a controlled and regulated setting. This mirrors the versatility of traditional financial instruments while offering exposure to the rapidly developing digital asset landscape.
The rise in institutional participation underscores this evolution: as of 2025, institutions reportedly account for approximately 42% of all crypto derivatives trading volume, signalling growing institutional confidence in crypto markets beyond pure retail speculation. “With perps driving most crypto activity, we’re broadening our offerings to meet traders where the market is going,” said Stuart Cooke, Head of New Business at Axi. “Our goal is to bring everything into one trusted ecosystem — perps, copy trading, mobile apps, and institutional-grade support.” Looking ahead to 2026, the mainstream status of crypto derivatives highlights a pivotal moment for investors evaluating diversified strategies.
Looking ahead to 2026, the mainstream status of crypto derivatives highlights a pivotal moment for investors evaluating diversified strategies. The dominance of derivatives over spot trading in 2025 points to the rapidly maturing market environment, while traders and investors — from speculative participants to those hedging or seeking thematic exposure — increasingly require flexible, advanced tools. Axi’s infrastructure and broad contract range are built to support these evolving needs. The availability of perpetual contracts through a valued broker offers expanded flexibility, robust risk-management potential, and round-the-clock access, acknowledging both the opportunities and inherent risks of digital asset derivatives.
About Axi
Axi is a multi-asset broker offering access to forex, commodities, indices, and increasingly — crypto markets via regulated derivatives and spot adjacent instruments. Its expanded crypto perpetual offering is designed to meet demand from both professional and retail clients seeking regulated, versatile, and globally accessible trading options.
For more information contact mediaenquiries@axi.com
Promoted by AxiTrader LLC. Trading carries a high risk of investment loss. Crypto assets are complex and volatile products. Prices are highly volatile and can fluctuate rapidly, resulting in substantial losses. Crypto trading is not regulated in all jurisdictions and may not be suitable for all investors. Consider whether you understand how these products work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
SOURCE: Axi Trader LLC
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
Saturday, 13 December 2025
Audiencerate Achieves Google Customer Match Partner Status, strengthening its role as a Global Data Provider
LONDON, Dec 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Audiencerate, an international technology company specializing in data activation solutions and platforms within the AdTech and MarTech sectors, has been officially awarded by Google as a Customer Match Upload Partner. This certification is granted to a restricted number of global operators (https://support.google.com/google-ads/answer/7361372?hl=en) authorized to manage and onboard first-party data into the Google Ads and DV360 ecosystem.
The company strengthen its strategic partnership with Google by adding the Customer Match Upload Partner accreditation to its existing status as a certified Google Data Provider. This new credential enables Audiencerate to seamlessly integrate proprietary audience segments and data into Google’s advertising platforms.
The combination of these two accreditations represents an exceptional situation in the international landscape and solidifies Audiencerate's position in the digital advertising market, which is increasingly reliant on first-party data.
Through the new integration, companies can securely use their own datasets (including hashed email addresses, phone numbers, and digital identifiers) to build tailored audiences for Search, YouTube, Gmail, Display and Shopping campaigns. The capability is particularly relevant at a time when the unification of AdTech and MarTech is critical and businesses are accelerating the transition toward marketing strategies based on proprietary data assets.
“Google’s approval marks a strategic milestone in our growth trajectory towards an innovative MadTech platform,” explains Nicola Boschetti, CEO of Audiencerate. “Our technology allows us to offer an integrated infrastructure that adheres to the highest standards, supporting businesses in their transition toward a data economy centered on privacy and the realization of their proprietary data's business value.”
Audiencerate operates across major European and international markets, partnering with brands, agencies, and technology platforms for the management and activation of marketing data. This newly recognized status from Google further enhances the company's ability to compete effectively with global players in the MarTech and AdTech sectors.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251210469664/en/
Contact
press@audiencerate.com
Source : Audiencerate
--BERNAMA
The combination of these two accreditations represents an exceptional situation in the international landscape and solidifies Audiencerate's position in the digital advertising market, which is increasingly reliant on first-party data.
Through the new integration, companies can securely use their own datasets (including hashed email addresses, phone numbers, and digital identifiers) to build tailored audiences for Search, YouTube, Gmail, Display and Shopping campaigns. The capability is particularly relevant at a time when the unification of AdTech and MarTech is critical and businesses are accelerating the transition toward marketing strategies based on proprietary data assets.
“Google’s approval marks a strategic milestone in our growth trajectory towards an innovative MadTech platform,” explains Nicola Boschetti, CEO of Audiencerate. “Our technology allows us to offer an integrated infrastructure that adheres to the highest standards, supporting businesses in their transition toward a data economy centered on privacy and the realization of their proprietary data's business value.”
Audiencerate operates across major European and international markets, partnering with brands, agencies, and technology platforms for the management and activation of marketing data. This newly recognized status from Google further enhances the company's ability to compete effectively with global players in the MarTech and AdTech sectors.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251210469664/en/
Contact
press@audiencerate.com
Source : Audiencerate
--BERNAMA
Friday, 12 December 2025
AM BEST LIFTS NEW INDIA ASSURANCE OUTLOOK TO POSITIVE
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- AM Best has revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of B++ (Good) and the long-term issuer credit rating (Long-Term ICR) of “bbb+” (Good) of The New India Assurance Company Limited (New India).
Concurrently, the global credit rating agency in a statement said it has affirmed the India National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.IN (Exceptional) of New India with a stable outlook.
The rating actions reflect New India’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, favourable business profile and marginal enterprise risk management (ERM), with a neutral impact from its majority ownership by the Government of India.
The outlook revision follows an improving trend in New India’s ERM fundamentals. AM Best cited enhancements to the company’s risk management framework, stronger systems and controls, and progress in resolving longstanding audit qualifications.
AM Best expects New India to continue strengthening its ERM in the near to medium term through improved internal controls and account reconciliation to resolve outstanding audit matters.
The company’s balance sheet remains supported by risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level in fiscal year 2025, based on Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio. Its reinsurance assets are viewed as high quality, while its investment portfolio carries moderate risk.
Despite sizeable holdings in domestic equities that may introduce volatility, New India’s bond investments are largely in well-rated government and corporate bonds.
AM Best assesses New India’s operating performance as adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 2.5 per cent (fiscal years 2021 to 2025). Fiscal year 2025 earnings declined due to lower investment returns and a one-off provision on old reinsurance balances, though underwriting performance improved.
However, robust investment income, including interest, dividends and realised equity gains, continues to provide a sizable contribution to overall earnings. Operating earnings remained positive in the first half of fiscal year 2026, driven by robust investment returns.
New India retains its position as India’s largest non-life insurer by gross premiums written. Its portfolio is moderately diversified, though concentrated in health insurance, while overseas branches and subsidiaries support its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
Concurrently, the global credit rating agency in a statement said it has affirmed the India National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.IN (Exceptional) of New India with a stable outlook.
The rating actions reflect New India’s very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, favourable business profile and marginal enterprise risk management (ERM), with a neutral impact from its majority ownership by the Government of India.
The outlook revision follows an improving trend in New India’s ERM fundamentals. AM Best cited enhancements to the company’s risk management framework, stronger systems and controls, and progress in resolving longstanding audit qualifications.
AM Best expects New India to continue strengthening its ERM in the near to medium term through improved internal controls and account reconciliation to resolve outstanding audit matters.
The company’s balance sheet remains supported by risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level in fiscal year 2025, based on Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio. Its reinsurance assets are viewed as high quality, while its investment portfolio carries moderate risk.
Despite sizeable holdings in domestic equities that may introduce volatility, New India’s bond investments are largely in well-rated government and corporate bonds.
AM Best assesses New India’s operating performance as adequate, with a five-year average return on equity of 2.5 per cent (fiscal years 2021 to 2025). Fiscal year 2025 earnings declined due to lower investment returns and a one-off provision on old reinsurance balances, though underwriting performance improved.
However, robust investment income, including interest, dividends and realised equity gains, continues to provide a sizable contribution to overall earnings. Operating earnings remained positive in the first half of fiscal year 2026, driven by robust investment returns.
New India retains its position as India’s largest non-life insurer by gross premiums written. Its portfolio is moderately diversified, though concentrated in health insurance, while overseas branches and subsidiaries support its international footprint.
-- BERNAMA
CTBC Highlights Global Strategy At London Summit
 |
| Rachael Kao (right), President of CTBC Financial Holding, joins the “CEO Keynote interview” at the Financial Times Global Banking Summit 2025, engaging in a discussion with moderator Kimberley Long (left) on CTBC’s development and trends in the banking industry. / Courtesy of CTBC Financial Holding |
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- CTBC Financial Holding president Rachael Kao has outlined the group’s digital innovation, environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy, and global expansion at the Global Banking Summit 2025 in London, from Dec 2 to 4, where she was the only representative from Taiwan’s financial sector.
In a statement, CTBC said Kao joined the "CEO keynote interview" at the three-day summit, co-hosted by the Financial Times and The Banker, which gathered over 1,000 participants and more than 40 C-suite executives.
Kao said resilience has become a defining capability for financial institutions, noting that CTBC’s strong operational foundation, risk management, digital transformation and sustainable finance efforts form its long-term growth engine.
She highlighted the bank’s focus on green finance, transition financing, ESG investment, and supply-chain decarbonisation, supported by its role as Asia-Pacific chair of the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) and participation in the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD).
CTBC said many Taiwanese exporters face rising sustainability requirements, and the bank assists clients with carbon accounting, transition planning and energy-efficiency solutions.
Kao added that CTBC, operating over 370 locations in 14 countries, acts as a "supply-chain bank" for companies expanding overseas, particularly in the semiconductor sector, offering financing, cash management and net-zero advisory services.
She concluded that the group also advances financial inclusion by providing easy-to-use ATM interfaces for seniors, visually impaired individuals, and foreign nationals, using artificial intelligence to prevent fraud, and offering a fully digital small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) lending process.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 9 December 2025
Bitget October 2025 Protection Fund Maintains $741M Average Despite Slumptober
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Dec 9 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), today released its October 2025 Protection Fund report, recording an average monthly valuation of $741,435,710 despite a challenging month across digital asset markets. The fund peaked at $811,031,000 on October 6 and registered a monthly low of $691,886,000 on October 17, maintaining stability even as broader crypto prices declined.
October marked one of the more turbulent months for the industry this year, with major assets facing sharp corrections and heightened volatility. Against this backdrop, Bitget’s Protection Fund, established in 2022 with a base commitment of $300 million, continued to demonstrate resilience and transparency. The fund’s October average remains nearly 147% above its original allocation, reaffirming the UEX's capacity to safeguard user assets even in unpredictable conditions.
The Protection Fund provides an independently verifiable safety net designed to protect users during abnormal market events. Valuations are updated daily based on prevailing market conditions and asset holdings, ensuring full visibility into available coverage at any point in time.
Alongside the Protection Fund, Bitget’s Proof of Reserves (PoR) maintains a 1:1 reserve ratio or higher for all user assets. Together, the initiatives form a comprehensive protection framework with the PoR ensuring complete backing, while the Protection Fund offers an additional layer of defense during periods of extreme volatility.
“As we advance toward a borderless Universal Exchange, security and transparency must lead the way. A sustained Protection Fund above $700 million and being transparent in our Protection Fund numbers every month builds trust for users to engage with the market confidently, even in volatile conditions,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.
October’s report reflects a market environment where users increasingly look for verifiable safeguards, not just performance. As global participation grows, consistent Protection Fund reserves help set expectations around incident response and recovery, forming part of Bitget’s long-term approach to user safety within the UEX architecture.
For real-time tracking, please visit Protection Fund here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet runs as the leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built-in the platform.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/613267e9-a67c-4ac3-8cf2-8cfa6608fd20
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/247fe204-ea93-404f-9a5e-bb856c1c6462
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
October marked one of the more turbulent months for the industry this year, with major assets facing sharp corrections and heightened volatility. Against this backdrop, Bitget’s Protection Fund, established in 2022 with a base commitment of $300 million, continued to demonstrate resilience and transparency. The fund’s October average remains nearly 147% above its original allocation, reaffirming the UEX's capacity to safeguard user assets even in unpredictable conditions.
The Protection Fund provides an independently verifiable safety net designed to protect users during abnormal market events. Valuations are updated daily based on prevailing market conditions and asset holdings, ensuring full visibility into available coverage at any point in time.
Alongside the Protection Fund, Bitget’s Proof of Reserves (PoR) maintains a 1:1 reserve ratio or higher for all user assets. Together, the initiatives form a comprehensive protection framework with the PoR ensuring complete backing, while the Protection Fund offers an additional layer of defense during periods of extreme volatility.
“As we advance toward a borderless Universal Exchange, security and transparency must lead the way. A sustained Protection Fund above $700 million and being transparent in our Protection Fund numbers every month builds trust for users to engage with the market confidently, even in volatile conditions,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.
October’s report reflects a market environment where users increasingly look for verifiable safeguards, not just performance. As global participation grows, consistent Protection Fund reserves help set expectations around incident response and recovery, forming part of Bitget’s long-term approach to user safety within the UEX architecture.
For real-time tracking, please visit Protection Fund here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet runs as the leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built-in the platform.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/613267e9-a67c-4ac3-8cf2-8cfa6608fd20
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/247fe204-ea93-404f-9a5e-bb856c1c6462
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
Monday, 8 December 2025
AM Best Affirms Excellent Ratings For Bermuda’s NEWGT Reinsurance
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (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 Bermuda’s NEWGT Reinsurance Company Ltd (NEWGT).
The outlook for these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting NEWGT’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
In a statement, AM Best said NEWGT’s balance sheet strength is well-supported by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, which was assessed at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio.
As of the financial year ending on March 31 (fiscal year 2024), the company showed somewhat elevated underwriting risks from significant premium growth during the period, and it expects to maintain a similar level over the coming years.
Underpinned by its stable internal capital generation and conservative investment portfolio, NEWGT is viewed to have enough capital buffer and a moderate level of reinsurance dependency. However, its exposure to potential credit risk is mitigated partially by a high-quality and well-diversified reinsurance panel.
A wholly owned subsidiary and captive insurer of ITOCHU Corporation (ITOCHU), one of Japan’s largest general trading companies, NEWGT’s operating performance has been consistently positive during the most recent five-year period.
For fiscal year 2024, while premium income from businesses related to its ultimate parent, ITOCHU, and a third party increased, net income moderately dropped due to sizeable reserves mainly booked to reflect uncertainty in United States tariffs and potential underwriting losses in Thailand from the Myanmar earthquake in March 2024.
Going forward, AM Best expects some volatility will accompany NEWGT’s expansion plan into non-marine business that carries higher net retention. Nevertheless, the company’s operating performance is expected to remain profitable given its prudent underwriting practices and reinsurance programmes.
-- BERNAMA
Bitget Releases Major Upgrades to GetAgent With Smarter Responses and Free Access for All Users
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Dec 8 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), today announced a major upgrade to GetAgent, its AI-powered trading assistant. The update introduces a more flexible answering engine, a streamlined user interface, and a significant expansion of membership quotas, making advanced AI trading tools more accessible than ever to users across all tiers.
GetAgent, launched earlier this year, has become a key part of Bitget’s trading experience, helping tens of thousands of users simplify analysis and execution. The centerpiece of this upgrade is the improved answer system. GetAgent now intelligently detects what a user is asking—whether they want a quick insight or a comprehensive analysis— and adjusts its response automatically. For fast requests, the assistant provides a concise, actionable answer. When deeper context is needed, traders can activate Research Mode with one tap, generating a full multi-dimensional analysis that includes technical signals, risk considerations, on-chain data, and market structure.
To complement the upgrade, Bitget has significantly increased usage quotas for all GetAgent membership levels. All users now have broader access to daily queries, research outputs, and analytical tools—even at the free Basic tier. Mid-tier members receive 10-times more daily limits than before, while premium tiers now enjoy unlimited or near-unlimited access to GetAgent’s full intelligence capabilities.
Also, Bitget has redesigned the GetAgent interface for clarity and ease of use. The improved UI offers smoother navigation, a more intuitive chat layout, and streamlined access to research reports, trade previews, and position insights.
“AI trading is entering a new phase, and GetAgent is leading that shift. By combining real-time intelligence, natural-language research, and fully integrated execution, we are redefining what an exchange can offer. This upgrade pushes us closer to a future where every trader has an AI companion capable of supporting their entire decision-making process,”said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.
Alongside the upgrade, Bitget recently introduced AI trading camp—specialized agents running live strategies with transparent performance. They offer users a lightweight way to explore different trading styles and compare real-time behavior across models, further showcasing the practical potential of GetAgent’s AI capabilities.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet is an everyday finance app built to make crypto simple, secure, and part of everyday finance. Serving over 80 million users, it bridges blockchain rails with real-world finance, offering an all-in-one platform to on/off ramp, trade, earn, and pay seamlessly.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3f6e93b2-8c4e-45b5-b78e-2b5b5620d64b
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
GetAgent, launched earlier this year, has become a key part of Bitget’s trading experience, helping tens of thousands of users simplify analysis and execution. The centerpiece of this upgrade is the improved answer system. GetAgent now intelligently detects what a user is asking—whether they want a quick insight or a comprehensive analysis— and adjusts its response automatically. For fast requests, the assistant provides a concise, actionable answer. When deeper context is needed, traders can activate Research Mode with one tap, generating a full multi-dimensional analysis that includes technical signals, risk considerations, on-chain data, and market structure.
| Member Tier | Before | After | |
| Daily Query Quota | Daily Query Quota | Additional Research Quota | |
| Basic | 0 | 20 | 10 |
| Plus | 10 | 100 | 50 |
| Ultra | 50 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
To complement the upgrade, Bitget has significantly increased usage quotas for all GetAgent membership levels. All users now have broader access to daily queries, research outputs, and analytical tools—even at the free Basic tier. Mid-tier members receive 10-times more daily limits than before, while premium tiers now enjoy unlimited or near-unlimited access to GetAgent’s full intelligence capabilities.
Also, Bitget has redesigned the GetAgent interface for clarity and ease of use. The improved UI offers smoother navigation, a more intuitive chat layout, and streamlined access to research reports, trade previews, and position insights.
“AI trading is entering a new phase, and GetAgent is leading that shift. By combining real-time intelligence, natural-language research, and fully integrated execution, we are redefining what an exchange can offer. This upgrade pushes us closer to a future where every trader has an AI companion capable of supporting their entire decision-making process,”said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget.
Alongside the upgrade, Bitget recently introduced AI trading camp—specialized agents running live strategies with transparent performance. They offer users a lightweight way to explore different trading styles and compare real-time behavior across models, further showcasing the practical potential of GetAgent’s AI capabilities.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet is an everyday finance app built to make crypto simple, secure, and part of everyday finance. Serving over 80 million users, it bridges blockchain rails with real-world finance, offering an all-in-one platform to on/off ramp, trade, earn, and pay seamlessly.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3f6e93b2-8c4e-45b5-b78e-2b5b5620d64b
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
Friday, 5 December 2025
EBC Financial Group Enters South Africa, Advancing Strategic Expansion in Africa
EBC Financial Group announces regulatory approval of its South African subsidiary, positioning the firm for future market access in South Africa's growing financial services sector.
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Dec 3 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EBC Financial Group SA (Pty) Ltd has received approval from the Financial Sector Conduct Authority ("FSCA") as an Authorised Financial Service Provider, marking a strategic milestone in the firm's African expansion plans. This regulatory approval represents an essential first step as EBC Financial Group (“EBC”) works toward establishing a presence in South Africa's rapidly growing fintech ecosystem.
David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd., said, "The FSCA's approval represents an important milestone in our global expansion. This complements our existing licences, such as those from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd, and other entities within our group regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius (FSC). This acquisition positions us to serve one of the continent's most active trading markets while upholding the regulatory standards and transparency that define our operations worldwide."
Strategic Entry into South Africa's Financial Market
South Africa represents a compelling growth opportunity, with a population of 63 million and 76% internet penetration, creating a substantial digitally connected market. The country's fintech sector is projected to more than double from USD7.08 billion in 2023 to USD14.86 billion by 2033, reflecting the rapid digital transformation of financial services across the region. Within this expanding ecosystem, EBC observes that South Africa's trading community demonstrates strong participation across commodities, indices, and emerging digital assets, creating demand for reliable, regulated market access.
"South Africa's traders are sophisticated and globally minded, with three-quarters of the population connected online," Barrett continued. "This digital maturity, combined with the region's appetite for diversified trading opportunities, aligns closely with our offering. As we complete the integration process, we look forward to bringing our execution capabilities and comprehensive multi-asset market access to South African traders who seek reliable and transparent trading solutions."
Education and Empowerment: Core to the EBC Philosophy
Beyond market access, EBC continues to champion trader education as a cornerstone of responsible market participation. Over the past quarter, EBC has hosted more than 1,000 multilingual webinars. Its educational initiatives also include the Pulse 360º podcast series on Spotify, market insights, and trader education on EBC Trading Academy. EBC also collaborates with the Department of Economics at the University of Oxford to organise the ‘What Economists Really Do’ series. Its recent webinar, titled ‘Think Like an Economist: Financial Literacy and Economic Understanding in an Age of Complexity’ was held on 11 November 2025. EBC's digital-first educational initiatives are particularly well-suited to empower traders with the necessary facts, sound risk management practices, and financial literacy.
"Education and informed decision-making are fundamental to long-term trading success," Barrett noted. "Through our educational programmes, we aim to equip traders at all levels with the knowledge to navigate markets effectively, manage risk prudently, and adapt to evolving market conditions."
Guided by a Clear Mission
Beyond the regulatory milestone, this acquisition positions South African traders to access EBC's award-winning ecosystem that combines technological excellence with educational depth. EBC's infrastructure delivers execution speeds as low as 20ms alongside smart liquidity routing and expanded multilingual support. Proprietary tools, including the Trading Black Box and Private Room, enhance trader control over pricing and execution, supporting the platform's commitment to transparency and performance. This comprehensive approach has earned external validation through 3-year recognition from World Finance – including Most Trusted Broker and Best Trading Platform awards in 2025 – as well as the Best CFD Provider award at the 2025 Online Money Awards.
"This acquisition reflects our commitment to providing both technological excellence and educational support," Barrett added. "As we establish our presence in South Africa, we're bringing not just award-winning infrastructure, but a comprehensive approach to trading that prioritises transparency, execution quality, and continuous innovation to help traders rule the markets. Our commitment is to serve South African traders with the same standards that have earned us recognition globally."
For more information, visit: https://www.ebc.com/.
Disclaimer: This material is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or advice from EBC Financial Group and all its entities ("EBC"). Trading Forex and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on margin carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Before trading, you should carefully consider your trading objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and consult an independent financial advisor if necessary. Statistics or past investment performance are not a guarantee of future performance. EBC is not liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.
About EBC Financial Group
Founded in London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is a global brand known for its expertise in financial brokerage and asset management. Through its regulated entities operating across major financial jurisdictions—including the UK, Australia, the Cayman Islands, Mauritius, and others—EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, CFDs and more.
Trusted by investors in over 100 countries and honoured with global awards including multiple year recognition from World Finance, EBC is widely regarded as one of the world’s best brokers with titles including Best Trading Platform and Most Trusted Broker. With its strong regulatory standing and commitment to transparency, EBC has also been consistently ranked among the top brokers—trusted for its ability to deliver secure, innovative, and client-first trading solutions across competitive international markets.
EBC’s subsidiaries are licensed and regulated within their respective jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA); EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia's Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC); EBC Financial (MU) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission Mauritius (FSC).
At the core of EBC are a team of industry veterans with over 40 years of experience in major financial institutions. Having navigated key economic cycles from the Plaza Accord and 2015 Swiss franc crisis to the market upheavals of the COVID-19 pandemic. We foster a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor relationship is handled with the utmost seriousness it deserves.
EBC is a proud official foreign exchange partner of FC Barcelona and continues to drive impactful partnerships to empower communities – namely through the UN Foundation’s United to Beat Malaria initiative, Oxford University’s Department of Economics, and a diverse range of partners to champion initiatives in global health, economics, education, and sustainability.
https://www.ebc.com/
Media Contact:
Susindhraseghar Chandrasekar
Global Public Relations Executive
susindhra.c@ebc.com
Aldric Tinker
Global PR Lead
aldric.tinker@ebc.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db2ff409-6c9d-4e52-9c76-57d26de8cac7
SOURCE: EBC Tech Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
David Barrett, CEO of EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd., said, "The FSCA's approval represents an important milestone in our global expansion. This complements our existing licences, such as those from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for EBC Financial Group (UK) Ltd, and other entities within our group regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA), the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and the Financial Services Commission of Mauritius (FSC). This acquisition positions us to serve one of the continent's most active trading markets while upholding the regulatory standards and transparency that define our operations worldwide."
Strategic Entry into South Africa's Financial Market
South Africa represents a compelling growth opportunity, with a population of 63 million and 76% internet penetration, creating a substantial digitally connected market. The country's fintech sector is projected to more than double from USD7.08 billion in 2023 to USD14.86 billion by 2033, reflecting the rapid digital transformation of financial services across the region. Within this expanding ecosystem, EBC observes that South Africa's trading community demonstrates strong participation across commodities, indices, and emerging digital assets, creating demand for reliable, regulated market access.
"South Africa's traders are sophisticated and globally minded, with three-quarters of the population connected online," Barrett continued. "This digital maturity, combined with the region's appetite for diversified trading opportunities, aligns closely with our offering. As we complete the integration process, we look forward to bringing our execution capabilities and comprehensive multi-asset market access to South African traders who seek reliable and transparent trading solutions."
Education and Empowerment: Core to the EBC Philosophy
Beyond market access, EBC continues to champion trader education as a cornerstone of responsible market participation. Over the past quarter, EBC has hosted more than 1,000 multilingual webinars. Its educational initiatives also include the Pulse 360º podcast series on Spotify, market insights, and trader education on EBC Trading Academy. EBC also collaborates with the Department of Economics at the University of Oxford to organise the ‘What Economists Really Do’ series. Its recent webinar, titled ‘Think Like an Economist: Financial Literacy and Economic Understanding in an Age of Complexity’ was held on 11 November 2025. EBC's digital-first educational initiatives are particularly well-suited to empower traders with the necessary facts, sound risk management practices, and financial literacy.
"Education and informed decision-making are fundamental to long-term trading success," Barrett noted. "Through our educational programmes, we aim to equip traders at all levels with the knowledge to navigate markets effectively, manage risk prudently, and adapt to evolving market conditions."
Guided by a Clear Mission
Beyond the regulatory milestone, this acquisition positions South African traders to access EBC's award-winning ecosystem that combines technological excellence with educational depth. EBC's infrastructure delivers execution speeds as low as 20ms alongside smart liquidity routing and expanded multilingual support. Proprietary tools, including the Trading Black Box and Private Room, enhance trader control over pricing and execution, supporting the platform's commitment to transparency and performance. This comprehensive approach has earned external validation through 3-year recognition from World Finance – including Most Trusted Broker and Best Trading Platform awards in 2025 – as well as the Best CFD Provider award at the 2025 Online Money Awards.
"This acquisition reflects our commitment to providing both technological excellence and educational support," Barrett added. "As we establish our presence in South Africa, we're bringing not just award-winning infrastructure, but a comprehensive approach to trading that prioritises transparency, execution quality, and continuous innovation to help traders rule the markets. Our commitment is to serve South African traders with the same standards that have earned us recognition globally."
For more information, visit: https://www.ebc.com/.
Disclaimer: This material is for information only and does not constitute a recommendation or advice from EBC Financial Group and all its entities ("EBC"). Trading Forex and Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on margin carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Before trading, you should carefully consider your trading objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and consult an independent financial advisor if necessary. Statistics or past investment performance are not a guarantee of future performance. EBC is not liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.
About EBC Financial Group
Founded in London, EBC Financial Group (EBC) is a global brand known for its expertise in financial brokerage and asset management. Through its regulated entities operating across major financial jurisdictions—including the UK, Australia, the Cayman Islands, Mauritius, and others—EBC enables retail, professional, and institutional investors to access global markets and trading opportunities, including currencies, commodities, CFDs and more.
Trusted by investors in over 100 countries and honoured with global awards including multiple year recognition from World Finance, EBC is widely regarded as one of the world’s best brokers with titles including Best Trading Platform and Most Trusted Broker. With its strong regulatory standing and commitment to transparency, EBC has also been consistently ranked among the top brokers—trusted for its ability to deliver secure, innovative, and client-first trading solutions across competitive international markets.
EBC’s subsidiaries are licensed and regulated within their respective jurisdictions. EBC Financial Group (UK) Limited is regulated by the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA); EBC Financial Group (Cayman) Limited is regulated by the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA); EBC Financial Group (Australia) Pty Ltd, and EBC Asset Management Pty Ltd are regulated by Australia's Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC); EBC Financial (MU) Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Commission Mauritius (FSC).
At the core of EBC are a team of industry veterans with over 40 years of experience in major financial institutions. Having navigated key economic cycles from the Plaza Accord and 2015 Swiss franc crisis to the market upheavals of the COVID-19 pandemic. We foster a culture where integrity, respect, and client asset security are paramount, ensuring that every investor relationship is handled with the utmost seriousness it deserves.
EBC is a proud official foreign exchange partner of FC Barcelona and continues to drive impactful partnerships to empower communities – namely through the UN Foundation’s United to Beat Malaria initiative, Oxford University’s Department of Economics, and a diverse range of partners to champion initiatives in global health, economics, education, and sustainability.
https://www.ebc.com/
Media Contact:
Susindhraseghar Chandrasekar
Global Public Relations Executive
susindhra.c@ebc.com
Aldric Tinker
Global PR Lead
aldric.tinker@ebc.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/db2ff409-6c9d-4e52-9c76-57d26de8cac7
SOURCE: EBC Tech Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
Thursday, 4 December 2025
AI-Media Launches ADA Title II Compliance Initiative to Support Public Entities Meeting WCAG 2.1 AA Deadlines
NEW YORK, Dec 3 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AI-Media, a global leader in AI-powered captioning and audio description technology, today announced the launch of its comprehensive ADA Title II Compliance Initiative, aimed at helping state and local governments across the United States meet the newly finalized federal accessibility requirements for digital content.
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice finalized the ADA Title II Web and Mobile Accessibility Rule, requiring public entities to conform to WCAG 2.1 Level AA across their digital services. Compliance deadlines begin April 24, 2026, for entities serving more than 50,000 people, and April 26, 2027, for smaller jurisdictions and special districts. These rules require accessible websites, mobile apps, and multimedia - including captions, transcripts, and audio description.
To support government agencies in preparing for these deadlines, AI-Media is launching a multi-month educational initiative featuring practical tools and increasing awareness of their solutions designed to simplify compliance and make it more achievable at scale.
“Public entities are facing one of the most significant accessibility transitions in decades,” said Tony Abrahams, Co-founder & CEO, AI-Media. “The new ADA Title II rule sets clear expectations for digital accessibility - and our mission is to equip governments with AI-powered tools that deliver compliance simply, affordably, and at scale.”
As part of the initiative, AI-Media is releasing a 10-Point ADA Title II Compliance Checklist, and highlights two flagship technologies central to ADA compliance:
· LEXI Text: AI-powered captioning and transcription for live and prerecorded content, enabling agencies to meet WCAG captioning and transcript requirements with accuracy and low latency.
· LEXI AD: AI-powered audio description with new advanced customization options, delivering natural-sounding narration and enabling audio description at scale - critical to meeting WCAG 2.1 AA requirements for prerecorded video.
The campaign aligns with AI-Media’s expanded Government Solutions program, designed to support public entities through scalable technology and predictable cost models.
Educational Webinar: “ADA Title II - Compliance Made Simple with AI”
To further support the rollout, AI-Media will host a national webinar, “ADA Title II: Compliance Made Simple with AI,” on January 20, 2026. The session will recap the accessibility requirements outlined in WCAG 2.1 AA and explore how AI-driven captioning and audio description solutions can support compliance. Participants can view details and register for the webinar here.
“As agencies prepare for the new ADA Title II deadlines, they’re looking for scalable, cost-effective ways to deliver accessible digital services,” said Abrahams. “LEXI Text and LEXI AD provide exactly that - AI-driven captioning and audio description solutions that help public entities meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards at scale.
The ADA Title II Compliance Checklist and details about AI-Media's solutions that can help entities comply can be accessed HERE.
Note AI-Media will not provide legal advice; attendees are encouraged to consult their legal teams with questions about regulatory interpretation.
About AI-Media
AI-Media (ASX: AIM) is a global leader in AI-powered voice translation, captioning, and language orchestration. The LEXI Suite and global encoder network deliver real-time multilingual intelligence - trusted worldwide to modernize workflows, enhance communication, and scale the shift from text to spoken AI.
For more information visit the AI-Media website.
Contact details:
Fiona Habben
Head of Global Marketing
Fiona.habben@ai-media.tv
+61 2 8870 7722
To support government agencies in preparing for these deadlines, AI-Media is launching a multi-month educational initiative featuring practical tools and increasing awareness of their solutions designed to simplify compliance and make it more achievable at scale.
“Public entities are facing one of the most significant accessibility transitions in decades,” said Tony Abrahams, Co-founder & CEO, AI-Media. “The new ADA Title II rule sets clear expectations for digital accessibility - and our mission is to equip governments with AI-powered tools that deliver compliance simply, affordably, and at scale.”
As part of the initiative, AI-Media is releasing a 10-Point ADA Title II Compliance Checklist, and highlights two flagship technologies central to ADA compliance:
· LEXI Text: AI-powered captioning and transcription for live and prerecorded content, enabling agencies to meet WCAG captioning and transcript requirements with accuracy and low latency.
· LEXI AD: AI-powered audio description with new advanced customization options, delivering natural-sounding narration and enabling audio description at scale - critical to meeting WCAG 2.1 AA requirements for prerecorded video.
The campaign aligns with AI-Media’s expanded Government Solutions program, designed to support public entities through scalable technology and predictable cost models.
Educational Webinar: “ADA Title II - Compliance Made Simple with AI”
To further support the rollout, AI-Media will host a national webinar, “ADA Title II: Compliance Made Simple with AI,” on January 20, 2026. The session will recap the accessibility requirements outlined in WCAG 2.1 AA and explore how AI-driven captioning and audio description solutions can support compliance. Participants can view details and register for the webinar here.
“As agencies prepare for the new ADA Title II deadlines, they’re looking for scalable, cost-effective ways to deliver accessible digital services,” said Abrahams. “LEXI Text and LEXI AD provide exactly that - AI-driven captioning and audio description solutions that help public entities meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards at scale.
The ADA Title II Compliance Checklist and details about AI-Media's solutions that can help entities comply can be accessed HERE.
Note AI-Media will not provide legal advice; attendees are encouraged to consult their legal teams with questions about regulatory interpretation.
About AI-Media
AI-Media (ASX: AIM) is a global leader in AI-powered voice translation, captioning, and language orchestration. The LEXI Suite and global encoder network deliver real-time multilingual intelligence - trusted worldwide to modernize workflows, enhance communication, and scale the shift from text to spoken AI.
For more information visit the AI-Media website.
Contact details:
Fiona Habben
Head of Global Marketing
Fiona.habben@ai-media.tv
+61 2 8870 7722
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e04f14f6-9709-4d60-9f5f-d86ef4a03fe2
SOURCE: Ai-Media Technologies LLC
--BERNAMA
Wednesday, 3 December 2025
Best’s Commentary: Hong Kong Fire Expected to be Credit Negative for (Re)Insurers
HONG KONG, Dec 2 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best expects a material portion of the gross incurred loss in the deadly Hong Kong apartment fire to be transferred to reinsurers, which may halt downward pressure on Hong Kong property reinsurance rates amid a global reinsurance softening backdrop.
In its Best’s Commentary, “Hong Kong Fire Expected to be Credit Negative for (Re)Insurers,” AM Best states that residential property all-risk policies have been viewed as low-severity exposures by Hong Kong insurers. However, this event highlights the potential for risk accumulation in high-rise condominiums within a densely populated city. The Hong Kong fire loss is expected to be significant, involving multiple lines of business, including property, engineering, public liability, third-party liability, employee compensation, personal accident, motor and life insurance. Property losses are anticipated to dominate general insurance claims, underscoring significant protection gaps in public liability, third-party liability, and professional indemnity coverage.
According to the commentary, primary insurers typically maintain reinsurance arrangement in various forms—facultative, proportional and non-proportional treaties—to safeguard their balance sheets. Therefore, a material portion of the gross incurred loss is expected to be borne by reinsurers. With reinsurance January 1 renewals approaching, this event may trigger premium adjustments. Reinsurers also may respond by tightening terms and conditions.
“Loss-impacted proportional treaties will likely see commission reduction in subsequent years as form of payback, prompting potential restructuring for improved economic and capital efficiency,” said Christie Lee, senior director, head of analytics, AM Best. “The market anticipates stricter underwriting standards ahead, including unbundled coverages, added exclusions, and tighter controls on exposure accumulation.”
The fire in the densely packed Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's northern district of Tai Po has underscored the risk concentration in high-rise buildings, and may expose significant protection gaps in public liability, third-party liability and professional indemnity coverage. The fire marks a tumultuous end to 2025 after Hong Kong experienced record breaking rainfall in August after a series of Black Rainstorms. Preliminary estimates of USD 200 million or more suggest the gross loss could approach half the scale of Typhoon Mangkhurt in 2018, which totaled about USD 400 million, according to the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers.
To access the full copy of this commentary, please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=360450.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251201960930/en/
Contact
Christie Lee
Senior Director, Head of Analytics
+852 2827 3413
christie.lee@ambest.com
Sridhar Manyem
Senior Director, Industry Research
And Analytics
+1 908 882 2087
sridhar.manyem@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Cynthia Ang
Senior Industry Research Analyst
+65 6303 5026
cynthia.ang@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
--BERNAMA
According to the commentary, primary insurers typically maintain reinsurance arrangement in various forms—facultative, proportional and non-proportional treaties—to safeguard their balance sheets. Therefore, a material portion of the gross incurred loss is expected to be borne by reinsurers. With reinsurance January 1 renewals approaching, this event may trigger premium adjustments. Reinsurers also may respond by tightening terms and conditions.
“Loss-impacted proportional treaties will likely see commission reduction in subsequent years as form of payback, prompting potential restructuring for improved economic and capital efficiency,” said Christie Lee, senior director, head of analytics, AM Best. “The market anticipates stricter underwriting standards ahead, including unbundled coverages, added exclusions, and tighter controls on exposure accumulation.”
The fire in the densely packed Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's northern district of Tai Po has underscored the risk concentration in high-rise buildings, and may expose significant protection gaps in public liability, third-party liability and professional indemnity coverage. The fire marks a tumultuous end to 2025 after Hong Kong experienced record breaking rainfall in August after a series of Black Rainstorms. Preliminary estimates of USD 200 million or more suggest the gross loss could approach half the scale of Typhoon Mangkhurt in 2018, which totaled about USD 400 million, according to the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers.
To access the full copy of this commentary, please visit http://www3.ambest.com/bestweek/purchase.asp?record_code=360450.
AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.
Copyright © 2025 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251201960930/en/
Contact
Christie Lee
Senior Director, Head of Analytics
+852 2827 3413
christie.lee@ambest.com
Sridhar Manyem
Senior Director, Industry Research
And Analytics
+1 908 882 2087
sridhar.manyem@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Cynthia Ang
Senior Industry Research Analyst
+65 6303 5026
cynthia.ang@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
--BERNAMA
Xiamen International Bank Marks Four Decades Of Growth, Global Connections
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| Rendering of the new Xiamen International Bank headquarters |
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 1 (Bernama) -- Xiamen International Bank has operated from the Xiamen Special Economic Zone since 1985, expanding nationwide and establishing global connections while participating in China’s financial opening-up.
In its early years, the bank supported the Special Economic Zone’s development and helped attract international capital, serving as the issuing agent for the first phase of bonds for the Xiamen Bridge. The issuance introduced a new financing model in China, combining state investment with locally issued bonds.
According to Xiamen International Bank in a statement, the bonds were subscribed by residents and compatriots from Hong Kong and Macao, providing critical funding for cross-island development.
The bank also introduced Hong Kong and Macao banking expertise in mortgage lending, becoming one of China’s first to offer housing loans. Additionally, it opened a remittance channel via the United States, enabling telegraphic transfers from Taiwan to be credited within two days before direct cross-strait clearing was available.
Following a strategy of connecting domestic and international markets, focusing on Fujian, and extending services nationwide, Xiamen International Bank opened its first mainland branch in Fuzhou in 1992 and subsequently expanded across all prefecture-level cities in the province.
As of June this year, the bank and its affiliate, Chiyu Banking, operate more than 50 branches in Fujian with over 3,000 employees, contributing more than 14 billion Chinese yuan in tax revenue over the past decade. (100 Chinese yuan = RM58.43)
In recent years, the bank has leveraged its overseas Chinese heritage to expand services for overseas Chinese communities and strengthen cross-border financial operations.
As of September 2025, its overseas Chinese financial business reached nearly 230 billion Chinese yuan, and it has assisted over 120 Chinese non-financial enterprises in issuing offshore bonds. Its international business now accounts for more than one-third of total operations.
-- BERNAMA
Bitget Launches MONAD On-Chain Earn and 800,000 MON Trading Rewards as MON Lists on the Universal Exchange
VICTORIA, Seychelles, Dec 2 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s largest Universal Exchange (UEX), is marking the listing of Monad (MON) with a dual promotion that lets users earn high on-chain yields while competing for a share of an 800,000 MON reward pool through spot trading. The campaign reflects Bitget’s push to give users simpler, more rewarding ways to engage with new ecosystems as interest in modular L1 development accelerates.
MON is now available on Bitget with on-chain Earn subscriptions open at a promotional 20% APR from November 30 to December 7 (UTC+8). Users can subscribe flexibly through Bitget’s On-chain Earn interface on both web and app, making it one of the easiest entry points into Monad’s ecosystem at launch. When the promotion ends at noon on December 7, rates revert to their standard baseline displayed on the product page.
In parallel, Bitget is opening an 800,000 MON trading pool for users who accumulate a qualifying amount of MON between November 24 and December 7. A daily snapshot system records net increases in users’ MON Earn positions, and the average new balance becomes the basis for calculating individual airdrops. Rewards scale proportionally, allowing both new and experienced traders to compete fairly across the full campaign period. Airdrops are distributed within five working days after the event closes.
“MON is an exciting addition because it represents the next chapter of performance-first blockchain design,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “Users want real utility, real yield, and real participation, and our on-chain Earn and trading programs are designed to give them meaningful opportunities from day one.”
The MON launch arrives just ahead of Bitget’s expanded POS Earn lineup, which introduces a new suite of staking products built for users who prefer predictable, asset-backed yields. As the Universal Exchange continues unifying CeFi, DeFi, and payment rails in a single environment, these products give users a smoother and more intuitive path into on-chain earning without the usual complexity barriers.
The MON promotions mark another step in Bitget’s approach to UEX adoption: giving users a low-friction way to engage with tokens, earn through real on-chain mechanics, and benefit from trading activity in ways that feel accessible rather than intimidating. With more launches planned in December, Bitget continues to layer yield, liquidity, and discovery tools into a unified entry point for the next generation of on-chain participation.
For more details, visit here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price, and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet is an everyday finance app built to make crypto simple, secure, and part of everyday finance. Serving over 80 million users, it bridges blockchain rails with real-world finance, offering an all-in-one platform for on- and off-ramping, trading, earning, and paying seamlessly.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0958d32c-6e06-4dc0-a2e5-e75cce10a21b
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
In parallel, Bitget is opening an 800,000 MON trading pool for users who accumulate a qualifying amount of MON between November 24 and December 7. A daily snapshot system records net increases in users’ MON Earn positions, and the average new balance becomes the basis for calculating individual airdrops. Rewards scale proportionally, allowing both new and experienced traders to compete fairly across the full campaign period. Airdrops are distributed within five working days after the event closes.
“MON is an exciting addition because it represents the next chapter of performance-first blockchain design,” said Gracy Chen, CEO of Bitget. “Users want real utility, real yield, and real participation, and our on-chain Earn and trading programs are designed to give them meaningful opportunities from day one.”
The MON launch arrives just ahead of Bitget’s expanded POS Earn lineup, which introduces a new suite of staking products built for users who prefer predictable, asset-backed yields. As the Universal Exchange continues unifying CeFi, DeFi, and payment rails in a single environment, these products give users a smoother and more intuitive path into on-chain earning without the usual complexity barriers.
The MON promotions mark another step in Bitget’s approach to UEX adoption: giving users a low-friction way to engage with tokens, earn through real on-chain mechanics, and benefit from trading activity in ways that feel accessible rather than intimidating. With more launches planned in December, Bitget continues to layer yield, liquidity, and discovery tools into a unified entry point for the next generation of on-chain participation.
For more details, visit here.
About Bitget
Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 120 million users with access to millions of crypto tokens, tokenized stocks, ETFs, and other real-world assets, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, XRP price, and other cryptocurrency prices, all on a single platform. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI-powered trading tools, interoperability across tokens on Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and BNB Chain, and wider access to real-world assets. On the decentralized side, Bitget Wallet is an everyday finance app built to make crypto simple, secure, and part of everyday finance. Serving over 80 million users, it bridges blockchain rails with real-world finance, offering an all-in-one platform for on- and off-ramping, trading, earning, and paying seamlessly.
Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.
For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com
Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0958d32c-6e06-4dc0-a2e5-e75cce10a21b
SOURCE: Bitget Limited
DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.
--BERNAMA
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