KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- Going International Asset Management Limited has received the Capital Excellence Fund Award at the Capital Merits of Achievement in Banking and Finance 2026 for its financial technology innovation, quantitative investment research and development capabilities, and fund performance.
According to a statement, the award recognises Going Asset’s strengths in asset management and its technology-driven approach, following the announcement of the winners by financial publication Capital Magazine on Sept 29.
The awards recognise financial institutions that have contributed to the development of Hong Kong’s financial sector. Winners are selected based on criteria including overall performance, service quality and reputation.
Now in their 17th consecutive edition, the awards have also recognised institutions such as BOC-Prudential Asset Management, CCB International, Dah Sing Bank, Hang Seng Investment Management Limited and Nanyang Commercial Bank.
Going Asset Management uses artificial intelligence (AI)-driven high-performance computing and ultra-low-latency systems to identify cross-market price movements within microseconds. The approach aims to accumulate small gains across a large volume of trades and improve asset allocation efficiency across market cycles.
The firm’s assets under management have exceeded US$3.3 billion. According to Morgan Hedge rankings as of Aug 31, 2026, its Going Algo SP 2-Class M Fund recorded returns of 89.44 per cent over one year and 280.64 per cent over three years, ranking first globally in both periods. (US$1 = RM4.08)
The company has also expanded its use of AI, with large models processing real-time information streams and improving through reinforcement learning to support investment research and trading strategies.
Going Asset Management plans to continue prioritising AI and risk management while expanding its quantitative research and development across global markets, leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a link between international capital markets.
The firm aims to provide global investors with more resilient portfolios and asset allocation solutions through stronger strategies, greater operational transparency and higher compliance standards.
-- BERNAMA
Monday, 12 October 2026
Tuesday, 6 October 2026
Digital Science appoints Charlesworth as strategic sales partner of Altmetric and Dimensions in China’s scholarly publishing sector
London, UK, Oct.6, 2026 / Agility-AsiaNet/--
Digital Science has appointed Charlesworth as its strategic sales partner of Altmetric and Dimensions in China’s scholarly publishing sector. This collaboration aims to support the growing demand for research data and information across this rapidly developing market.
China’s local publishing industry has grown significantly in scale and maturity, with journal publishers actively strengthening their international position, investing in publishing capability and seeking greater insight into the reach and impact of research.
The partnership brings together Digital Science’s research technology and data solutions with Charlesworth’s extensive knowledge of the Chinese publishing market and established relationships across publishing clusters, publishers and journals.
Dimensions is one of the world’s largest connected research databases, with 430M+ interconnected records – including publications, conference abstracts, grants, patents, clinical trials and more – enabling users to discover and analyze the global research landscape.
Altmetric tracks and analyzes engagement with research as it is shared, mentioned, reviewed and read online, providing insight into the attention surrounding research beyond traditional citations.
Together, the products can support the continued development of Chinese publishers by providing greater access to research information and a broader understanding of the reach and attention generated by published research.
Michael Evans , CEO of Charlesworth, said:
“Chinese scholarly publishing has developed significantly over recent years. We are seeing increasingly ambitious publishers, publishing clusters and journals looking to build their capabilities, strengthen their international presence and better understand their position within the global research landscape.
“Charlesworth has worked with Chinese publishers for many years, giving us a strong understanding of both the market and its changing needs. Altmetric and Dimensions are highly relevant to this next stage of growth, and we are delighted to be working with Digital Science to make these products more accessible to publishers across China.”
Stephen Leicht , CEO of Digital Science said:
“China is an important and rapidly developing part of the global research ecosystem. As its publishing sector continues to grow and mature, access to high-quality research data and insights can play an important role in supporting that development. Charlesworth’s knowledge of the local market and relationships across the publishing community make them an excellent partner for Digital Science in China.”
The agreement builds on Charlesworth’s long-standing work with the Chinese scholarly publishing community and its role in connecting publishing clusters, publishers and journals with international publishing expertise, technology and services.
About Charlesworth
Charlesworth, part of Enago, works with publishers and the wider research community in China and internationally, providing sales, marketing, technology and author services to support the development and internationalisation of scholarly publishing.
About Digital Science
Digital Science is an AI-focused technology company providing innovative solutions to complex challenges faced by researchers, universities, governments, funders, industry and publishers. We work in partnership to advance global research for the benefit of society. Through our brands – Altmetric, Dimensions, Figshare, IFI CLAIMS Patent Services, metaphacts, Overleaf, ReadCube, Symplectic, and Writefull – we believe when we solve problems together, we drive progress for all. Visit digital-science.com and follow Digital Science on Bluesky , on X or on LinkedIn .
Media Contact
David Ellis , Press, PR & Social Manager, Digital Science: d.ellis@digital-science.com
SOURCE: Digital Science
--BERNAMA
Digital Science has appointed Charlesworth as its strategic sales partner of Altmetric and Dimensions in China’s scholarly publishing sector. This collaboration aims to support the growing demand for research data and information across this rapidly developing market.
China’s local publishing industry has grown significantly in scale and maturity, with journal publishers actively strengthening their international position, investing in publishing capability and seeking greater insight into the reach and impact of research.
The partnership brings together Digital Science’s research technology and data solutions with Charlesworth’s extensive knowledge of the Chinese publishing market and established relationships across publishing clusters, publishers and journals.
Dimensions is one of the world’s largest connected research databases, with 430M+ interconnected records – including publications, conference abstracts, grants, patents, clinical trials and more – enabling users to discover and analyze the global research landscape.
Altmetric tracks and analyzes engagement with research as it is shared, mentioned, reviewed and read online, providing insight into the attention surrounding research beyond traditional citations.
Together, the products can support the continued development of Chinese publishers by providing greater access to research information and a broader understanding of the reach and attention generated by published research.
Michael Evans , CEO of Charlesworth, said:
“Chinese scholarly publishing has developed significantly over recent years. We are seeing increasingly ambitious publishers, publishing clusters and journals looking to build their capabilities, strengthen their international presence and better understand their position within the global research landscape.
“Charlesworth has worked with Chinese publishers for many years, giving us a strong understanding of both the market and its changing needs. Altmetric and Dimensions are highly relevant to this next stage of growth, and we are delighted to be working with Digital Science to make these products more accessible to publishers across China.”
Stephen Leicht , CEO of Digital Science said:
“China is an important and rapidly developing part of the global research ecosystem. As its publishing sector continues to grow and mature, access to high-quality research data and insights can play an important role in supporting that development. Charlesworth’s knowledge of the local market and relationships across the publishing community make them an excellent partner for Digital Science in China.”
The agreement builds on Charlesworth’s long-standing work with the Chinese scholarly publishing community and its role in connecting publishing clusters, publishers and journals with international publishing expertise, technology and services.
About Charlesworth
Charlesworth, part of Enago, works with publishers and the wider research community in China and internationally, providing sales, marketing, technology and author services to support the development and internationalisation of scholarly publishing.
About Digital Science
Digital Science is an AI-focused technology company providing innovative solutions to complex challenges faced by researchers, universities, governments, funders, industry and publishers. We work in partnership to advance global research for the benefit of society. Through our brands – Altmetric, Dimensions, Figshare, IFI CLAIMS Patent Services, metaphacts, Overleaf, ReadCube, Symplectic, and Writefull – we believe when we solve problems together, we drive progress for all. Visit digital-science.com and follow Digital Science on Bluesky , on X or on LinkedIn .
Media Contact
David Ellis , Press, PR & Social Manager, Digital Science: d.ellis@digital-science.com
SOURCE: Digital Science
--BERNAMA
Friday, 2 October 2026
Streamex CEO Henry McPhie to Embark on Asia Tour with Events in Singapore and Hong Kong
Meetings with Potential Partners and Investors Planned for Streamex Corp. and GLDY
WINTER PARK, Fla., Oct 2 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Streamex Corp. (“Streamex” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: STEX), a technology company building the future of the commodity markets through tokenization, today announced that Henry McPhie, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, will travel to Asia in October to attend multiple events in Singapore and Hong Kong. During the tour, Mr. McPhie will meet with potential partners and investors for Streamex and for GLDY, the Company’s gold-backed yield-bearing tokenized security.
The Asia tour reflects Streamex’s continued focus on building relationships with institutional investors, strategic partners and market participants across one of the world’s most active regions for digital assets and commodities trading. At the World Family Office Forum | Asia in Hong Kong, Mr. McPhie will participate on a panel and in 1:1 investor meetings to discuss Streamex, the Company’s roadmap and the growing opportunity for GLDY.
Henry McPhie, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Streamex, stated:
“Asian investors have been among the most forward-looking participants in digital assets and real-world asset tokenization, and their influence on how these markets develop continues to grow. We look forward to meeting with potential investors and partners across Singapore and Hong Kong to share our vision for bringing commodities on-chain.”
Singapore Events
Digital Asset Summit Asia 2026, October 7, 2026, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Mr. McPhie will attend Blockworks’ institutional digital asset conference, meeting with institutions and prospective partners.
Token2049 in Singapore, October 7–8, 2026. Mr. McPhie will attend Token2049, a leading digital asset industry gathering in Asia, meeting with prospective partners and investors.
Hong Kong Events
World Family Office Forum | Asia, October 15–16, 2026, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. Mr. McPhie will speak on the panel “Digital Assets & Blockchain: The Next Chapter of Innovation” on October 15 from 4:00 to 4:40 p.m. HKT. The panel will be moderated by Gabriel Karageorgiou of XBTO and includes Zann Kwan of Revo Digital Family Office and Leo Chiu of Click Ventures. The seventh edition of this forum convenes Asia’s leading business families, single family offices and their trusted advisors, and Mr. McPhie expects to meet with family offices and prospective investors for Streamex and GLDY.
How to Schedule a Meeting
Attendance at the forum is by invitation only. Qualified family offices and other interested parties may request an invitation at asia.worldfamilyofficeforum.com or contact the organizer, Connect Group, at info@connectgroup.global.
To arrange a meeting with the Streamex team while Mr. McPhie is in Singapore or Hong Kong, contact Streamex Investor Relations at IR@streamex.com.
About Streamex Corp.
Streamex Corp. (NASDAQ: STEX) is a technology and infrastructure company focused on the tokenization and digitalization of commodity real-world assets. Streamex delivers institutional-grade solutions that bridge traditional finance and blockchain-enabled markets through secure, regulated and yield-bearing financial instruments.
For more information, visit www.streamex.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding Streamex’s business strategy, investor relations initiatives, Mr. McPhie’s planned participation in events and anticipated meetings with potential investors and partners in Asia and any resulting partnerships or investments, the market opportunity for GLDY, the development and scalability of its tokenization platform, and expectations for the tokenization of real-world assets. Such statements are often identified by words such as “will,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions. They are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including that planned events or meetings may be changed, rescheduled or canceled, that meetings may not result in any partnership, investment or other transaction, and risks related to market conditions, regulatory developments affecting tokenized securities and digital assets, and the Company’s ability to develop and scale its platform and products. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, Streamex undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Additional information regarding these and other risks is contained in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
WINTER PARK, Fla., Oct 2 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Streamex Corp. (“Streamex” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: STEX), a technology company building the future of the commodity markets through tokenization, today announced that Henry McPhie, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, will travel to Asia in October to attend multiple events in Singapore and Hong Kong. During the tour, Mr. McPhie will meet with potential partners and investors for Streamex and for GLDY, the Company’s gold-backed yield-bearing tokenized security.
The Asia tour reflects Streamex’s continued focus on building relationships with institutional investors, strategic partners and market participants across one of the world’s most active regions for digital assets and commodities trading. At the World Family Office Forum | Asia in Hong Kong, Mr. McPhie will participate on a panel and in 1:1 investor meetings to discuss Streamex, the Company’s roadmap and the growing opportunity for GLDY.
Henry McPhie, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Streamex, stated:
“Asian investors have been among the most forward-looking participants in digital assets and real-world asset tokenization, and their influence on how these markets develop continues to grow. We look forward to meeting with potential investors and partners across Singapore and Hong Kong to share our vision for bringing commodities on-chain.”
Singapore Events
Digital Asset Summit Asia 2026, October 7, 2026, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. Mr. McPhie will attend Blockworks’ institutional digital asset conference, meeting with institutions and prospective partners.
Token2049 in Singapore, October 7–8, 2026. Mr. McPhie will attend Token2049, a leading digital asset industry gathering in Asia, meeting with prospective partners and investors.
Hong Kong Events
World Family Office Forum | Asia, October 15–16, 2026, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. Mr. McPhie will speak on the panel “Digital Assets & Blockchain: The Next Chapter of Innovation” on October 15 from 4:00 to 4:40 p.m. HKT. The panel will be moderated by Gabriel Karageorgiou of XBTO and includes Zann Kwan of Revo Digital Family Office and Leo Chiu of Click Ventures. The seventh edition of this forum convenes Asia’s leading business families, single family offices and their trusted advisors, and Mr. McPhie expects to meet with family offices and prospective investors for Streamex and GLDY.
How to Schedule a Meeting
Attendance at the forum is by invitation only. Qualified family offices and other interested parties may request an invitation at asia.worldfamilyofficeforum.com or contact the organizer, Connect Group, at info@connectgroup.global.
To arrange a meeting with the Streamex team while Mr. McPhie is in Singapore or Hong Kong, contact Streamex Investor Relations at IR@streamex.com.
About Streamex Corp.
Streamex Corp. (NASDAQ: STEX) is a technology and infrastructure company focused on the tokenization and digitalization of commodity real-world assets. Streamex delivers institutional-grade solutions that bridge traditional finance and blockchain-enabled markets through secure, regulated and yield-bearing financial instruments.
For more information, visit www.streamex.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding Streamex’s business strategy, investor relations initiatives, Mr. McPhie’s planned participation in events and anticipated meetings with potential investors and partners in Asia and any resulting partnerships or investments, the market opportunity for GLDY, the development and scalability of its tokenization platform, and expectations for the tokenization of real-world assets. Such statements are often identified by words such as “will,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “intends” and similar expressions. They are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including that planned events or meetings may be changed, rescheduled or canceled, that meetings may not result in any partnership, investment or other transaction, and risks related to market conditions, regulatory developments affecting tokenized securities and digital assets, and the Company’s ability to develop and scale its platform and products. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, Streamex undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Additional information regarding these and other risks is contained in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Contacts
Streamex Press & Investor Relations
Laura Kiernan
Head of Investor Relations
IR@streamex.com | laura@streamex.com
Henry McPhie
Chief Executive Officer, Streamex Corp.
www.streamex.com | X.com/streamex
SOURCE: Streamex Corp.
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.
Thursday, 1 October 2026
ERS ELECTRONIC UNVEILS AUTOMATED PANEL-LEVEL PACKAGING SYSTEM
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- ERS electronic, a provider of thermal management solutions for semiconductor manufacturing, has introduced a fully automated panel-level packaging (PLP) system for 310×310 mm substrates, integrating temporary carrier bonding, debonding and detaping on a single platform.
“Our new machine reflects our commitment to solving real manufacturing challenges,” said ERS electronic chief executive officer, Laurent Giai-Miniet in a statement.
He added that integrating three traditionally separate process steps into one automated platform enables customers to streamline production, improve process consistency and achieve higher yield and throughput.
The system operates at 13 panels per hour and eliminates inter-tool transfers across three thermally critical process steps. The first unit has been delivered to a leading semiconductor manufacturer for integration into its panel production line.
Developed and manufactured at ERS electronic’s Advanced Packaging facility in Barbing, Germany, the machine combines the company’s 55 years of thermal management expertise with more than 30 years of in-house machine-building capability, following ERS's 2024 integration of a semiconductor specialist equipment engineering team.
ERS has been an early adopter of panel-level packaging, having shipped its first commercial panel-level tool to Fraunhofer IZM in Berlin in 2018. The 310×310 mm panel format is gaining traction because it offers significantly greater substrate area utilisation compared with 300 mm circular wafers.
According to Yole Group, the panel-level packaging market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of more than 40 per cent over the next five years. Dual-carrier bonding and debonding workflows are also becoming increasingly important for backside processing in 3D IC, high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and 2.5D IC packaging.
In dual-carrier processes, bonding and debonding typically require separate machines positioned at different points on the fab floor. Moving panels between tools adds handling steps and transit time while increasing the risk of substrate damage.
ERS said its integrated platform consolidates all three process steps within one system, allowing panels to move between process modules rather than between machines, reducing handling time and risk without requiring changes to the surrounding fab layout.
-- BERNAMA
“Our new machine reflects our commitment to solving real manufacturing challenges,” said ERS electronic chief executive officer, Laurent Giai-Miniet in a statement.
He added that integrating three traditionally separate process steps into one automated platform enables customers to streamline production, improve process consistency and achieve higher yield and throughput.
The system operates at 13 panels per hour and eliminates inter-tool transfers across three thermally critical process steps. The first unit has been delivered to a leading semiconductor manufacturer for integration into its panel production line.
Developed and manufactured at ERS electronic’s Advanced Packaging facility in Barbing, Germany, the machine combines the company’s 55 years of thermal management expertise with more than 30 years of in-house machine-building capability, following ERS's 2024 integration of a semiconductor specialist equipment engineering team.
ERS has been an early adopter of panel-level packaging, having shipped its first commercial panel-level tool to Fraunhofer IZM in Berlin in 2018. The 310×310 mm panel format is gaining traction because it offers significantly greater substrate area utilisation compared with 300 mm circular wafers.
According to Yole Group, the panel-level packaging market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of more than 40 per cent over the next five years. Dual-carrier bonding and debonding workflows are also becoming increasingly important for backside processing in 3D IC, high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and 2.5D IC packaging.
In dual-carrier processes, bonding and debonding typically require separate machines positioned at different points on the fab floor. Moving panels between tools adds handling steps and transit time while increasing the risk of substrate damage.
ERS said its integrated platform consolidates all three process steps within one system, allowing panels to move between process modules rather than between machines, reducing handling time and risk without requiring changes to the surrounding fab layout.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 30 September 2026
YYFORCE SUBSIDIARY WINS SG$15.96 MLN FACILITY SERVICES CONTRACTS IN SINGAPORE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- YYForce Inc (YYForce) announced that its Singapore subsidiary, Hong Ye Group Pte Ltd (Hong Ye Group), has been awarded multiple new commercial cleaning and related facility services contracts in Singapore with an aggregate contract value of approximately SG$15.96 million, or around US$12.5 million. (US$1 = RM4.07)
YYForce Chief Executive Officer, Mike Fu said the new multi-year contract awards expand the company’s commercial services business in Singapore and strengthen Hong Ye Group’s contracted business visibility ahead of the October commencement.
The company in a statement said the newly awarded contracts cover multiple properties in Singapore and are scheduled to commence across October 2026, with varying service periods and principal contracts extending for approximately three years.
Based on current contractual schedules, aggregate contract values are expected to be approximately SG$5.57 million in the first year, SG$5.55 million in the second year and SG$4.84 million in the third year.
In the first half of 2026, YYForce’s integrated facility management (IFM) revenue increased 11.1 per cent year over year to approximately US$16.06 million, supported by new contract wins, renewals of existing projects and full-period contributions from subsidiaries acquired in 2025.
The new awards expand Hong Ye Group’s portfolio of contracted commercial cleaning and facility services work in Singapore and provide YYForce with additional multi-year contracted business visibility, following its recently reported first-half 2026 results.
Hong Ye Group is an important component of YYForce’s IFM operations in Singapore, with the company’s strategy focused on combining established frontline facility services with technology-enabled workforce management and, over time, increasing levels of artificial intelligence (AI), automation and robotics.
YYForce said it believes this model can support improved workforce deployment, service consistency, operating efficiency and scalability.
The newly awarded contracts provide an expanded operating base through which the company can continue developing and deploying technology-enabled solutions within its facility services operations.
-- BERNAMA
AM BEST ASSIGNS B++ FINANCIAL STRENGTH RATING TO BEIBU GULF INSURANCE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 30 (Bernama) -- Global credit rating agency, AM Best has assigned a financial strength rating of B++ (Good) and a long-term issuer credit rating of “bbb+” (Good) to Beibu Gulf Property & Casualty Insurance Company Ltd (Beibu Gulf Insurance).
The outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting the company’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.
Headquartered in Guangxi province, China, Beibu Gulf Insurance was established in 2013 through a joint partnership comprising 10 state-owned enterprise shareholders and three private sector investors, according to AM Best in a statement.
Its ultimate controlling shareholder, Guangxi Investment Group Co Ltd, a provincial-level state-owned capital investment company in Guangxi, holds a 29.73 per cent equity stake through its subsidiaries.
Despite being a small-to-medium-sized non-life insurer in China, Beibu Gulf Insurance holds a prominent position in Guangxi province, capturing nine per cent of the local market share by premium income in 2025. It maintains a diversified product mix, with motor insurance making up nearly half of its gross written premiums.
Leveraging strong relationships between its shareholders and local governments, Beibu Gulf Insurance gains access to business opportunities in policy-driven agricultural insurance and has continued to expand its liability lines in recent years.
Beibu Gulf Insurance’s strong balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalisation as at year-end 2025, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, supported by organic capital accumulation and controlled expansion in underwriting and investment risks.
After posting two years of net losses, Beibu Gulf Insurance returned to profitability in 2023 and sustained momentum to deliver mid-single-digit return on equity in both 2024 and 2025.
AM Best said the company maintains a well-diversified and liquid investment book, dominated by bonds, fixed-income wealth management instruments and cash. The investment portfolio generated a low single-digit investment return, which was above the average level of the domestic non-life industry in 2025.
-- BERNAMA
The outlook assigned to these credit ratings (ratings) is stable, reflecting the company’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.
Headquartered in Guangxi province, China, Beibu Gulf Insurance was established in 2013 through a joint partnership comprising 10 state-owned enterprise shareholders and three private sector investors, according to AM Best in a statement.
Its ultimate controlling shareholder, Guangxi Investment Group Co Ltd, a provincial-level state-owned capital investment company in Guangxi, holds a 29.73 per cent equity stake through its subsidiaries.
Despite being a small-to-medium-sized non-life insurer in China, Beibu Gulf Insurance holds a prominent position in Guangxi province, capturing nine per cent of the local market share by premium income in 2025. It maintains a diversified product mix, with motor insurance making up nearly half of its gross written premiums.
Leveraging strong relationships between its shareholders and local governments, Beibu Gulf Insurance gains access to business opportunities in policy-driven agricultural insurance and has continued to expand its liability lines in recent years.
Beibu Gulf Insurance’s strong balance sheet strength assessment is underpinned by its strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalisation as at year-end 2025, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio, supported by organic capital accumulation and controlled expansion in underwriting and investment risks.
After posting two years of net losses, Beibu Gulf Insurance returned to profitability in 2023 and sustained momentum to deliver mid-single-digit return on equity in both 2024 and 2025.
AM Best said the company maintains a well-diversified and liquid investment book, dominated by bonds, fixed-income wealth management instruments and cash. The investment portfolio generated a low single-digit investment return, which was above the average level of the domestic non-life industry in 2025.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 29 September 2026
Alpaca Secures MAS In-Principle Approval to Launch Brokerage Services in Singapore
NEW YORK & SINGAPORE, Sept 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alpaca, a global leader in agent-first brokerage and clearing infrastructure, today announced that its Southeast Asian headquarters, Alpaca Securities Pte. Ltd. (“Alpaca Singapore”), has received in-principle approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Capital Markets Services (CMS) license, marking another milestone in Alpaca’s global expansion.
The IPA advances Alpaca’s strategy to deepen its presence in Southeast Asia and support financial institutions across the region through a locally regulated Singapore entity. Once licensed, Alpaca Singapore plans to provide brokerage and custodial services and serve as a local counterparty to prospective partners.
“As financial institutions across Southeast Asia look to meet growing customer demand for international investing, Singapore is a natural hub for connecting the region’s investors to global markets,” said Rohit Mulani, President of Alpaca Southeast Asia. “This milestone strengthens our ability to support institutions locally with global brokerage infrastructure, regional expertise, and a strong regulatory foundation. We’re excited to help our partners expand the markets and investment products available to their customers and shape the next era of investing across Southeast Asia.”
Singapore is a strategic hub for Alpaca’s operations and continued growth across Southeast Asia, supported by an established local team led by industry veteran, David Grant, CEO of Alpaca Singapore.
Alpaca’s expansion in Singapore is grounded in the same commitment to regulatory compliance that underpins its infrastructure globally and builds on its broad regulatory footprint, which spans the U.S., U.K., 30 countries across the European Economic Area (EEA), Japan, India, and The Bahamas. Across these markets, Alpaca supports fintechs and financial institutions with locally regulated access to its brokerage infrastructure. Today, Alpaca serves partners in more than 50 countries worldwide.
About Alpaca
Alpaca is a global agent-first brokerage and clearing infrastructure that powers access to traditional and on-chain asset classes. Today, Alpaca supports over 10 million brokerage accounts across hundreds of fintechs and institutions in more than 50 countries, backed by $400 million in funding.
An in-principle approval (IPA) reflects MAS' view that a licence may be issued to the applicant upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. An IPA does not constitute a licence for Alpaca Securities Pte. Ltd. to provide brokerage and custodial services at this juncture. MAS reserves the right to rescind the IPA in circumstances where it considers appropriate.
This is not an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities or open a brokerage account in any jurisdiction where Alpaca is not registered or licensed, as applicable.
All investments involve risk; for more information, please see our Disclosure Library.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260928293053/en/
Contact
Media Contact
Lavinia Chirico
press@alpaca.markets
Source : Alpaca
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.
The IPA advances Alpaca’s strategy to deepen its presence in Southeast Asia and support financial institutions across the region through a locally regulated Singapore entity. Once licensed, Alpaca Singapore plans to provide brokerage and custodial services and serve as a local counterparty to prospective partners.
“As financial institutions across Southeast Asia look to meet growing customer demand for international investing, Singapore is a natural hub for connecting the region’s investors to global markets,” said Rohit Mulani, President of Alpaca Southeast Asia. “This milestone strengthens our ability to support institutions locally with global brokerage infrastructure, regional expertise, and a strong regulatory foundation. We’re excited to help our partners expand the markets and investment products available to their customers and shape the next era of investing across Southeast Asia.”
Singapore is a strategic hub for Alpaca’s operations and continued growth across Southeast Asia, supported by an established local team led by industry veteran, David Grant, CEO of Alpaca Singapore.
Alpaca’s expansion in Singapore is grounded in the same commitment to regulatory compliance that underpins its infrastructure globally and builds on its broad regulatory footprint, which spans the U.S., U.K., 30 countries across the European Economic Area (EEA), Japan, India, and The Bahamas. Across these markets, Alpaca supports fintechs and financial institutions with locally regulated access to its brokerage infrastructure. Today, Alpaca serves partners in more than 50 countries worldwide.
About Alpaca
Alpaca is a global agent-first brokerage and clearing infrastructure that powers access to traditional and on-chain asset classes. Today, Alpaca supports over 10 million brokerage accounts across hundreds of fintechs and institutions in more than 50 countries, backed by $400 million in funding.
An in-principle approval (IPA) reflects MAS' view that a licence may be issued to the applicant upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. An IPA does not constitute a licence for Alpaca Securities Pte. Ltd. to provide brokerage and custodial services at this juncture. MAS reserves the right to rescind the IPA in circumstances where it considers appropriate.
This is not an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities or open a brokerage account in any jurisdiction where Alpaca is not registered or licensed, as applicable.
All investments involve risk; for more information, please see our Disclosure Library.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260928293053/en/
Contact
Media Contact
Lavinia Chirico
press@alpaca.markets
Source : Alpaca
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, 28 September 2026
VOCALBEATS.AI REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO AI INNOVATION AT FCGF 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 (Bernama) -- Vocalbeats.AI, a Singapore-based artificial intelligence (AI) innovation company, continued its support for the FutureChina Global Forum 2026 (FCGF 2026), reinforcing its commitment to practical AI innovation and Singapore’s AI ecosystem.
Organised by Business China, the two-day FCGF 2026 was held at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore from Sept 24 to 25 under the theme “Strengthening Resilience, Rebuilding Trust”. The forum’s guests of honour included the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Health Tan Kiat How.
“We are pleased to support the FutureChina Global Forum and contribute to the wider discussion on how AI can be applied responsibly and translated into real-world value,” said Vocalbeats.AI Chief Executive Officer, Marco Lai Jinnan in a statement.
The forum featured a dedicated AI Track for the first time, highlighting the growing importance of AI in business and society, with discussions exploring AI deployment to improve productivity and deliver tangible business and societal value, drawing on applications ranging from enterprise software to robotics.
As AI systems become more capable and widely adopted, speakers also highlighted the importance of workforce skills, workflow redesign and viable business models, alongside safety, accountability and trust.
Vocalbeats.AI said these discussions reflect its belief that the next stage of AI development will be defined by its ability to address real-world needs and deliver tangible value to users.
The company develops AI-powered applications for productivity and communication, including Owll, an AI note-taking and productivity app, and Owll Translator, an AI-powered real-time translation app.
Vocalbeats.AI’s support for the forum forms part of its broader engagement with Singapore’s AI and technology ecosystem. Over the past year, the company has expanded its collaborations with universities, public-sector organisations and AI communities.
Its initiatives include the Vocalbeats.AI Scholarship at the National University of Singapore, the Vocalbeats.AI–Turing AI Scholarship at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; internship opportunities for students; and AI learning workshops for children and youth in local communities.
-- BERNAMA
Organised by Business China, the two-day FCGF 2026 was held at the Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore from Sept 24 to 25 under the theme “Strengthening Resilience, Rebuilding Trust”. The forum’s guests of honour included the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Health Tan Kiat How.
“We are pleased to support the FutureChina Global Forum and contribute to the wider discussion on how AI can be applied responsibly and translated into real-world value,” said Vocalbeats.AI Chief Executive Officer, Marco Lai Jinnan in a statement.
The forum featured a dedicated AI Track for the first time, highlighting the growing importance of AI in business and society, with discussions exploring AI deployment to improve productivity and deliver tangible business and societal value, drawing on applications ranging from enterprise software to robotics.
As AI systems become more capable and widely adopted, speakers also highlighted the importance of workforce skills, workflow redesign and viable business models, alongside safety, accountability and trust.
Vocalbeats.AI said these discussions reflect its belief that the next stage of AI development will be defined by its ability to address real-world needs and deliver tangible value to users.
The company develops AI-powered applications for productivity and communication, including Owll, an AI note-taking and productivity app, and Owll Translator, an AI-powered real-time translation app.
Vocalbeats.AI’s support for the forum forms part of its broader engagement with Singapore’s AI and technology ecosystem. Over the past year, the company has expanded its collaborations with universities, public-sector organisations and AI communities.
Its initiatives include the Vocalbeats.AI Scholarship at the National University of Singapore, the Vocalbeats.AI–Turing AI Scholarship at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore; internship opportunities for students; and AI learning workshops for children and youth in local communities.
-- BERNAMA
GTCFX Marks a Successful Presence at Forex Expo Dubai 2026
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Sept 28 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GTCFX successfully concluded its participation in Forex Expo Dubai 2026, held on September 22 and 23 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Throughout the two-day event, visitors met the GTCFX team at Hall 2, Booth 54 to learn more about the company’s multi-regulated trading solutions, mobile trading capabilities and commitment to client education.
Alt: GTCFX at Forex Expo Dubai 2026
A highlight of the event was GTCFX receiving the Best Forex Mobile Application award. The achievement complemented the company’s presentation of the GTC Go App at the exhibition and reflected its continued focus on providing traders with convenient access to global financial markets.
GTCFX also contributed to the expo’s educational programme through public presentations delivered by Jameel Ahmed, Chief Analyst at GTCFX. During the session titled “Trading Themes to Watch Out for: Q4 2026,” Ahmed examined several developments influencing global markets. The presentation covered geopolitical risk, inflation expectations and the changing interest-rate outlook, together with their potential implications for oil, the US dollar, gold and USD/JPY.
A further presentation introduced the GTC brand and highlighted the importance of investor education in a market environment increasingly shaped by political developments and fast-moving news. It also presented GTCFX’s growing presence in Dubai, including the development of GTC Tower as the company’s global headquarters.
Forex Expo Dubai 2026 gave GTCFX an opportunity to connect face-to-face with traders, partners and industry professionals while sharing its latest market perspectives and digital trading solutions.
Following a successful two days in Dubai, GTCFX looks forward to building on the relationships established at the expo and continuing to support its global community through market education, technology and accessible trading solutions.
About GTCFX:
GTCFX is a global financial services provider offering access to a wide range of financial markets through advanced trading technology and client-focused solutions. Since 2012, GTCFX has served clients across more than 100 countries and regions, with a continued focus on transparency, innovation, and responsible trading.
Media Contact
Email: marketing@gtcfx.com
Website: https://www.gtcfx.com/
Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d0227dad-9245-4a1b-9aa8-252e9c4d1c34
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a7985ff7-eba5-43f8-99b8-ef478d8e5e2d
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1301a426-6841-4364-8c92-1bcd29d500c0
SOURCE: GTC Global Trade Capital Co. 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
AGC Biologics, Flen Health Partner On Wound Treatment Development
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- AGC Biologics, a global biopharmaceutical contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO), has been selected by Belgian biopharmaceutical company Flen Health as its CDMO partner to provide process development, scale-up and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) manufacturing services for a new and improved wound and skin healing product.
AGC Biologics' Heidelberg, Germany, facility will provide the next stage of development and clinical-scale manufacturing for two recombinant proteins, lactoperoxidase and glucose oxidase, the enzymatic components at the core of the wound treatment's novel mechanism of action, after cell line development was completed by myBIOS.
Following the technology transfer, AGC Biologics will conduct microbial manufacturing at 100-litre and 1,000-litre scales using the Pichia pastoris expression system in support of Flen Health’s planned Investigational New Drug submission and Phase II clinical trials, according to a statement.
AGC Biologics Heidelberg Managing Director, Dieter Kramer said the company was advancing into full GMP development and manufacturing after building on a feasibility programme initiated with Flen Health in July 2025.
Meanwhile, Flen Health Chief Executive Officer, Georges Sollie said the companies' combination of Flen Health's novel recombinant enzyme platform and AGC Biologics' manufacturing expertise would accelerate development of the new therapeutic approach.
Flaminal has been used clinically for 25 years in European markets as a topical enzyme-alginate gel for difficult-to-heal wounds. Flen Health is now advancing an improved recombinant version of the product as part of its strategic entry into the United States (US) market.
While Flen Health's Phase 0 human study will use current food-grade enzyme formulations, the strategic transition to AGC Biologics' pharma-grade recombinant enzymes will occur ahead of Phase II clinical trials, in preparation for US regulatory submissions.
In addition to Heidelberg, AGC Biologics' global microbial manufacturing network includes facilities in Copenhagen, Denmark; Seattle, USA; and Chiba, Japan.
-- BERNAMA
Sunday, 27 September 2026
i2i Logic Launches 'i2i Banker Fred', An AI-Powered Teammate for Wholesale Bankers
The new AI enabled system identifies, prioritizes and sizes opportunities in wholesale banking – and then activates the banker with all they need to win the deal with their clients.
NEW YORK, Sept 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- i2i Logic today announced the launch of Banker Fred, its AI-powered teammate for bankers across wholesale banking.
Assessing public and private data, Banker Fred spots opportunities bankers may have missed. He builds a complete picture of a company — its operating profile, industry benchmarks, filings, reports, and bank-proprietary data — then delivers a prioritized, wallet-sized list of exactly where to focus next. Banker Fred then hands the banker a playbook with everything needed to activate the opportunity: reach-out emails, a conversation guide, objection-handling tips, key questions to ask, and a pitch report for the client. The result - bankers who see more clients, more often, and who are far more effective once they're in the room. Banker Fred is the only AI-enabled system designed by and for bankers in corporate, commercial, and transaction banking.
Banker Fred is being made available on a priority basis to i2i Logic's existing commercial partners, including banks across Europe, the US, APAC, and the Middle East. Broader availability is expected during the fourth quarter of 2026.
"Within i2i Logic, we have decades of experience across wholesale banking markets," said Tim Maddock, Co-Founder of i2i Logic. "We've spent the last 10 months cloning our collective expertise into Banker Fred, making him ready to scale across both coverage and product teams. Our design approach is simple: if you can effectively identify the banking needs of your clients and then effectively activate your bankers in front of the C-Suite, your bank will win. We distilled that into Banker Fred. He isn't a machine waiting to be prompted — he does all the analysis and go-to-market support in a single click. Early market testing has been outstanding."
About i2i Logic
The i2i Logic Client Intelligence Platform is used by banks to generate intelligence on corporate client needs – it links those needs to bank solutions in a workflow for the banker and provides supporting material in seconds. Bankers can see more clients more often; clients receive hyper personalized attention. i2i Logic has established offices in Melbourne, New York, London and Hong Kong.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260921570255/en/
Contact
Contact i2i Logic at info@i2ilogic.com
Additional information may be found at www.i2ilogic.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/i2ilogic
Source : i2i Logic
--BERNAMA
NEW YORK, Sept 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- i2i Logic today announced the launch of Banker Fred, its AI-powered teammate for bankers across wholesale banking.
Assessing public and private data, Banker Fred spots opportunities bankers may have missed. He builds a complete picture of a company — its operating profile, industry benchmarks, filings, reports, and bank-proprietary data — then delivers a prioritized, wallet-sized list of exactly where to focus next. Banker Fred then hands the banker a playbook with everything needed to activate the opportunity: reach-out emails, a conversation guide, objection-handling tips, key questions to ask, and a pitch report for the client. The result - bankers who see more clients, more often, and who are far more effective once they're in the room. Banker Fred is the only AI-enabled system designed by and for bankers in corporate, commercial, and transaction banking.
Banker Fred is being made available on a priority basis to i2i Logic's existing commercial partners, including banks across Europe, the US, APAC, and the Middle East. Broader availability is expected during the fourth quarter of 2026.
"Within i2i Logic, we have decades of experience across wholesale banking markets," said Tim Maddock, Co-Founder of i2i Logic. "We've spent the last 10 months cloning our collective expertise into Banker Fred, making him ready to scale across both coverage and product teams. Our design approach is simple: if you can effectively identify the banking needs of your clients and then effectively activate your bankers in front of the C-Suite, your bank will win. We distilled that into Banker Fred. He isn't a machine waiting to be prompted — he does all the analysis and go-to-market support in a single click. Early market testing has been outstanding."
About i2i Logic
The i2i Logic Client Intelligence Platform is used by banks to generate intelligence on corporate client needs – it links those needs to bank solutions in a workflow for the banker and provides supporting material in seconds. Bankers can see more clients more often; clients receive hyper personalized attention. i2i Logic has established offices in Melbourne, New York, London and Hong Kong.
View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260921570255/en/
Contact
Contact i2i Logic at info@i2ilogic.com
Additional information may be found at www.i2ilogic.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/i2ilogic
Source : i2i Logic
--BERNAMA
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Samsung Property & Casualty Insurance Company (China), Ltd.
HONG KONG, Sept 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” (Excellent) of Samsung Property & Casualty Insurance Company (China), Ltd. (Samsung P/C China). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
The ratings of Samsung P/C China reflect its balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.
Samsung P/C China is a non-life insurance company in China. The company is jointly owned by Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co. Ltd. (SFM), Shenzhen Tencent Domain Computer Network Company Limited (Tencent Domain), and four minority shareholders. Samsung P/C China continues to receive explicit and implicit support from SFM, including stable business relationships with affiliated Samsung entities and Korean Interests Abroad (KIA) clients, strong brand recognition, reinsurance support and underwriting know-how. The company also benefits from the distribution capabilities and extensive market outreach of Tencent Domain’s affiliated online platforms and overall management oversight.
AM Best assesses Samsung P/C China’s risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), supplemented by its substantial capital buffer following the capital injection received in 2022, together with conservative investment strategy and relatively low level of underwriting leverage. The company holds a conservative investment appetite weighted towards fixed deposits and high-quality fixed-income products. AM Best views SFM and the parent group of Tencent Domain as being equipped with superior credit fundamentals. These shareholders also are expected to continue to provide financial and non-financial support to Samsung P/C China over the intermediate term.
Samsung P/C China has been one of the fastest growing non-life insurers despite having a market share of less than 1%. The company has built a stable commercial book and a growing personal line portfolio with the support of its two major shareholders. The company offers a wide range of insurance products including commercial property, liability, engineering, accident and health (A&H) and shipping return insurance. Samsung-affiliated businesses and KIA clients are primarily managed by Samsung P/C China’s direct channel, with client management, pricing and underwriting guidance supported by SFM. The company leverages on Tencent Domain’s affiliated platforms to acquire shipping return business and distribute A&H products, while continuing to diversify its third-party business sources by partnering with brokers, agents and external platforms. AM Best also views Samsung P/C China’s overall risk management practices as appropriate for its risk profile.
Samsung P/C China has delivered improved operating results despite a low single-digit return-on-equity in 2025. Group-related commercial business from the affiliated Samsung entities and KIA has been profitable and stabilises the company’s underwriting profitability. Shipping return and health insurance recorded double-digit premium growth and are expected to deliver gradually improving underwriting profits as Samsung P/C China continues to build scale and expand its customer base. Investment returns have been consistently positive, supported by a steady stream of interest income sourced from deposits and fixed-income investments.
Negative rating actions could occur if Samsung P/C China’s balance sheet strength materially deteriorates, due to a significantly reduced level of support from major shareholders, including financial flexibility and reinsurance. Negative rating actions could also arise if there is a reduced level of business and distribution support from major shareholders, which negatively impacts Samsung P/C China’s business profile assessment. While deemed unlikely over the intermediate term, positive rating actions may occur if the company demonstrates sustained and favourable operating performance with no material deterioration in its current balance sheet strength assessment.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
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 © 2026 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/20260923330983/en/
Contact
Madison Fan
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3416
madison.fan@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
--BERNAMA
Samsung P/C China is a non-life insurance company in China. The company is jointly owned by Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance Co. Ltd. (SFM), Shenzhen Tencent Domain Computer Network Company Limited (Tencent Domain), and four minority shareholders. Samsung P/C China continues to receive explicit and implicit support from SFM, including stable business relationships with affiliated Samsung entities and Korean Interests Abroad (KIA) clients, strong brand recognition, reinsurance support and underwriting know-how. The company also benefits from the distribution capabilities and extensive market outreach of Tencent Domain’s affiliated online platforms and overall management oversight.
AM Best assesses Samsung P/C China’s risk-adjusted capitalisation at the strongest level, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), supplemented by its substantial capital buffer following the capital injection received in 2022, together with conservative investment strategy and relatively low level of underwriting leverage. The company holds a conservative investment appetite weighted towards fixed deposits and high-quality fixed-income products. AM Best views SFM and the parent group of Tencent Domain as being equipped with superior credit fundamentals. These shareholders also are expected to continue to provide financial and non-financial support to Samsung P/C China over the intermediate term.
Samsung P/C China has been one of the fastest growing non-life insurers despite having a market share of less than 1%. The company has built a stable commercial book and a growing personal line portfolio with the support of its two major shareholders. The company offers a wide range of insurance products including commercial property, liability, engineering, accident and health (A&H) and shipping return insurance. Samsung-affiliated businesses and KIA clients are primarily managed by Samsung P/C China’s direct channel, with client management, pricing and underwriting guidance supported by SFM. The company leverages on Tencent Domain’s affiliated platforms to acquire shipping return business and distribute A&H products, while continuing to diversify its third-party business sources by partnering with brokers, agents and external platforms. AM Best also views Samsung P/C China’s overall risk management practices as appropriate for its risk profile.
Samsung P/C China has delivered improved operating results despite a low single-digit return-on-equity in 2025. Group-related commercial business from the affiliated Samsung entities and KIA has been profitable and stabilises the company’s underwriting profitability. Shipping return and health insurance recorded double-digit premium growth and are expected to deliver gradually improving underwriting profits as Samsung P/C China continues to build scale and expand its customer base. Investment returns have been consistently positive, supported by a steady stream of interest income sourced from deposits and fixed-income investments.
Negative rating actions could occur if Samsung P/C China’s balance sheet strength materially deteriorates, due to a significantly reduced level of support from major shareholders, including financial flexibility and reinsurance. Negative rating actions could also arise if there is a reduced level of business and distribution support from major shareholders, which negatively impacts Samsung P/C China’s business profile assessment. While deemed unlikely over the intermediate term, positive rating actions may occur if the company demonstrates sustained and favourable operating performance with no material deterioration in its current balance sheet strength assessment.
Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.
This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.
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 © 2026 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/20260923330983/en/
Contact
Madison Fan
Senior Financial Analyst
+852 2827 3416
madison.fan@ambest.com
James Chan
Director, Analytics
+852 2827 3418
james.chan@ambest.com
Christopher Sharkey
Associate Director, Public Relations
+1 908 882 2310
christopher.sharkey@ambest.com
Al Slavin
Senior Public Relations Specialist
+1 908 882 2318
al.slavin@ambest.com
Source : AM Best
--BERNAMA
Saturday, 26 September 2026
Jumio Appoints Matt DeLauro As Chief Revenue Officer For Global Expansion
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Jumio, a provider of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered identity intelligence, has announced the appointment of Matt DeLauro as Chief Revenue Officer.
DeLauro brings more than 20 years of experience successfully scaling high-growth technology organisations and will play a central role in unifying Jumio’s customer-facing teams to support its next chapter of global expansion.
Jumio Chief Executive Officer, Mark Lorion said DeLauro has built and scaled revenue engines at companies undergoing the kind of transformation that Jumio is currently undertaking.
“We brought him in to align our customer-facing teams and drive accountability across the full customer lifecycle. He has done this at scale before, and I expect him to move fast,” added Lorion in a statement.
Meanwhile, DeLauro expressed his excitement about joining Jumio at a crucial juncture in the company's journey, highlighting its dedication to innovation and market-leading solutions as a solid foundation for identity intelligence.
“I look forward to driving this new chapter of growth and working with our global teams to empower customers to accurately establish, maintain and reassert trust in every digital interaction,” said DeLauro.
Most recently, DeLauro served as president of SEON Technologies, where he led a strategic transformation and global teams responsible for revenue, marketing, engineering, operations and corporate systems.
He also brings expertise in fraud prevention and regulatory compliance to Jumio’s leadership team, supporting the company’s global expansion.
-- BERNAMA
Friday, 25 September 2026
TEMPO SOFTWARE CPO HIGHLIGHTS AI SPENDING ACCOUNTABILITY AT REUTERS CONFERENCE
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Tempo Software Chief Product Officer (CPO), Kevin Nanney highlighted the growing need for enterprises to connect artificial intelligence (AI) spending with measurable business outcomes at the Reuters Momentum AI Conference in Austin, Texas.
Nanney discussed how enterprises can manage AI adoption while tracking its costs, outcomes and alignment with strategic priorities. He also shared examples from his experience at Tempo, including how competing initiatives can reveal underlying efficiency issues and how changes in measurement can help guide resource-allocation decisions.
In his keynote, titled “Spend Is Tracked. Outcomes Are Not. The AI Accountability Distance Nobody Has Closed”, Nanney outlined three areas for enterprise leaders: tracking the cost and contribution of AI agents, establishing a governed operating model for human and AI work, and adopting more adaptive planning to identify and address strategic drift.
Tempo’s 2026 State of AI in Portfolio Management report found that 91 per cent of surveyed organisations are piloting or actively using AI in project delivery, while 26 per cent use AI to prioritise or reprioritise work.
In a statement, Tempo said the findings highlight a gap between AI adoption and AI-informed decision-making, reinforcing the need to align strategy, investment and execution across human and AI workforces.
Nanney’s presentation followed Tempo’s launch of Loop, an AI-native Intelligent Portfolio Orchestration platform designed to provide enterprises with a continuously updated view of time, capacity, cost and execution across existing work systems.
The company also recently launched Workforce Intelligence, which attributes AI activity to Jira work items, epics and initiatives.
Tempo said these capabilities are designed to help enterprises coordinate human and AI work while improving visibility into portfolio execution and resource allocation.
The 2026 Reuters Momentum AI Conference, held in Austin from Sept 24 to 26, brought together enterprise leaders focused on AI implementation, business value and investment returns. More than 500 senior executives were expected to attend.
-- BERNAMA
Nanney discussed how enterprises can manage AI adoption while tracking its costs, outcomes and alignment with strategic priorities. He also shared examples from his experience at Tempo, including how competing initiatives can reveal underlying efficiency issues and how changes in measurement can help guide resource-allocation decisions.
In his keynote, titled “Spend Is Tracked. Outcomes Are Not. The AI Accountability Distance Nobody Has Closed”, Nanney outlined three areas for enterprise leaders: tracking the cost and contribution of AI agents, establishing a governed operating model for human and AI work, and adopting more adaptive planning to identify and address strategic drift.
Tempo’s 2026 State of AI in Portfolio Management report found that 91 per cent of surveyed organisations are piloting or actively using AI in project delivery, while 26 per cent use AI to prioritise or reprioritise work.
In a statement, Tempo said the findings highlight a gap between AI adoption and AI-informed decision-making, reinforcing the need to align strategy, investment and execution across human and AI workforces.
Nanney’s presentation followed Tempo’s launch of Loop, an AI-native Intelligent Portfolio Orchestration platform designed to provide enterprises with a continuously updated view of time, capacity, cost and execution across existing work systems.
The company also recently launched Workforce Intelligence, which attributes AI activity to Jira work items, epics and initiatives.
Tempo said these capabilities are designed to help enterprises coordinate human and AI work while improving visibility into portfolio execution and resource allocation.
The 2026 Reuters Momentum AI Conference, held in Austin from Sept 24 to 26, brought together enterprise leaders focused on AI implementation, business value and investment returns. More than 500 senior executives were expected to attend.
-- BERNAMA
Sharjah Deputy Ruler Announces US$1.6 Mln Humanitarian Innovation Centre In Indonesia
 |
Sultan bin Ahmed announces establishment of Jawaher Al Qasimi Humanitarian Innovation Centre in Indonesia with $1.6m funding (Photo: AETOSWire) |
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Sharjah Deputy Ruler, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi has announced the establishment of the Jawaher Al Qasimi Humanitarian Innovation Centre at Universitas Gadjah Mada in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
The centre has received total funding of US$1.6 million and will connect academic research and innovation with humanitarian field expertise to develop, test and implement practical responses to humanitarian challenges. (US$1=RM4.06)
It is being established through a partnership between The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), NAMA Women Advancement Establishment (NAMA) and Universitas Gadjah Mada. TBHF will contribute US$1 million, NAMA US$500,000 and the university US$100,000.
According to a statement, the announcement was made during a visit to Indonesia by a TBHF delegation led by Sheikh Sultan, who is also the humanitarian envoy of TBHF, as part of the foundation’s efforts to expand its humanitarian and development partnerships.
The centre will use research to address challenges ranging from food security and climate change to livelihoods, economic opportunities, disaster risk reduction, and maternal and child wellbeing, particularly in communities with limited access to services and opportunities.
The agreement includes an investment endowment fund to provide long-term financing for the centre’s programmes, which will focus on multidisciplinary research, policy studies and researcher residencies, innovation challenges and humanitarian project incubators, field testing and impact assessment, as well as public engagement and community empowerment.
The centre will operate through two facilities at Universitas Gadjah Mada. The first will serve as its main base for research, collaboration and community events, while the second, known as the “Living Humanitarian Lab”, will occupy about two hectares allocated by the university for agricultural innovation, field trials and community participation, supporting food security, sustainable agriculture and community empowerment.
The visit is part of TBHF’s efforts to expand partnerships across South and Southeast Asia and draw on local expertise to develop initiatives that respond to community needs.
Sheikh Sultan also reviewed several humanitarian and community programmes during the visit, including services for people with disabilities, education and family empowerment initiatives, and family care and child protection programmes in Bali. In Central Java, he visited a coffee farm supported by NAMA under a programme aimed at equipping about 2,800 women with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in coffee farming.
The visit concluded in Gunung Kidul, where Sheikh Sultan reviewed the “Home for a Home” initiative, which plans to build 250 homes, adapt 50 others for people with disabilities and provide clean-water infrastructure, benefiting more than 3,700 people. He also visited Universitas Gadjah Mada and the site of the centre in Yogyakarta.
-- BERNAMA
SunCar Posts US$3.4 Mln Net Income In First Half 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- SunCar Technology Group Inc (SunCar), an innovative leader in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered auto insurance and auto services, has reported net income of US$3.4 million for the six months ended June 30, an improvement of US$8.9 million from a net loss of US$5.5 million in the same period last year. (US$1=RM4.06)
The company said the improvement reflected revenue growth in electric vehicle (EV) insurance and technology services, together with disciplined expense management.
Revenue increased 24 per cent to US$276.5 million in the first half of 2026 from US$222.3 million a year earlier, driven by continued growth in auto insurance and stronger growth in auto services.
Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) surged 276 per cent to US$9.4 million from US$2.5 million, reflecting improved operating performance and cost efficiency, SunCar said in a statement.
“Our top-line growth of 24 per cent demonstrated that SunCar can maintain strong revenue growth while also growing profits. Major wins for the company in the first half, including the AgBank chauffeur contract and multiple Huawei ecosystem customer wins, show that the size and scope of SunCar’s contracts are increasing,” said its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Zaichang Ye.
Insurance premiums for EVs increased 31 per cent to US$915.9 million from US$697.6 million, while auto eInsurance service revenue rose 29 per cent to US$126.2 million from US$97.8 million. Auto service revenue also increased 22 per cent to US$122.3 million from US$100.1 million.
SunCar added that operating costs and expenses increased 21 per cent to US$270.2 million from US$223.5 million, while integrated service costs rose 39 per cent to US$141.3 million from US$101.5 million. Selling expenses, however, fell 49 per cent to US$5.6 million, while general and administrative expenses declined 56 per cent to US$6.7 million.
During the first half, SunCar continued to expand its auto insurance and services with customers including Tesla, Xiaomi, NIO, Li Auto and Zeekr. Its auto services business also secured contracts with PICC, Ping An Insurance, Ping An Bank, Agricultural Bank of China and China UnionPay.
SunCar said its AI initiatives also progressed during the period, with AI feature testing completed for eight original equipment manufacturer (OEM) projects. Automated testing coverage reached 75 per cent of vehicles, while overall operational efficiency increased 45 per cent and error rates fell 80 per cent.
The company maintained its forecast for full-year 2026 revenue of approximately US$600 million.
-- BERNAMA
Wednesday, 23 September 2026
ITRON LAUNCHES GRID EDGE METERS FOR APAC UTILITIES
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Itron Inc, an intelligent infrastructure provider for modern energy and water management, has announced the availability of its grid edge portfolio, including Itron Riva S and Itron Riva T IEC electricity meters, for utilities in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.
As the first Itron Gen6 network platform devices available in APAC, the launch marks a significant milestone in its expansion of Grid Edge Intelligence in the region, according to the company in a statement.
Itron senior vice president of Networked Solutions, John Marcolini said the launch was an important step in helping utilities translate awareness into action, with an interoperable and modular architecture designed to preserve technology choice and expand value over time.
The Itron Riva meters provide utilities with a practical starting point to improve visibility across the low-voltage network and respond to the growing impact of distributed energy resources (DERs) with advanced intelligence over time.
Serving as both grid sensors and DER control points, the meters provide utilities with real-time visibility into grid conditions, enabling earlier identification of emerging network faults and constraints, proactive management of growing DERs across the low-voltage network, and optimisation of operational and capital budget allocation.
By extending sensing and intelligence to the grid edge, the Itron Riva meters allow utilities to begin with advanced metering and localised grid awareness and seamlessly expand to distributed intelligence (DI) applications as operational needs evolve, improving grid reliability, resilience and efficiency.
The meters also extend visibility beyond energy consumption data, helping utilities detect voltage fluctuations, transformer loading issues, emerging faults and other network conditions through high-frequency sensing and edge computing capabilities.
Built on open DLMS/COSEM standards and designed to meet International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) requirements, the meters help utilities modernise their infrastructure while maintaining flexibility to integrate with existing and future technologies.
The Itron Riva IEC electricity meter is initially available in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore and is expected to expand to additional APAC countries, helping utilities modernise grid operations and respond to growing network complexity across the region.
-- BERNAMA
As the first Itron Gen6 network platform devices available in APAC, the launch marks a significant milestone in its expansion of Grid Edge Intelligence in the region, according to the company in a statement.
Itron senior vice president of Networked Solutions, John Marcolini said the launch was an important step in helping utilities translate awareness into action, with an interoperable and modular architecture designed to preserve technology choice and expand value over time.
The Itron Riva meters provide utilities with a practical starting point to improve visibility across the low-voltage network and respond to the growing impact of distributed energy resources (DERs) with advanced intelligence over time.
Serving as both grid sensors and DER control points, the meters provide utilities with real-time visibility into grid conditions, enabling earlier identification of emerging network faults and constraints, proactive management of growing DERs across the low-voltage network, and optimisation of operational and capital budget allocation.
By extending sensing and intelligence to the grid edge, the Itron Riva meters allow utilities to begin with advanced metering and localised grid awareness and seamlessly expand to distributed intelligence (DI) applications as operational needs evolve, improving grid reliability, resilience and efficiency.
The meters also extend visibility beyond energy consumption data, helping utilities detect voltage fluctuations, transformer loading issues, emerging faults and other network conditions through high-frequency sensing and edge computing capabilities.
Built on open DLMS/COSEM standards and designed to meet International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) requirements, the meters help utilities modernise their infrastructure while maintaining flexibility to integrate with existing and future technologies.
The Itron Riva IEC electricity meter is initially available in Australia, New Zealand and Singapore and is expected to expand to additional APAC countries, helping utilities modernise grid operations and respond to growing network complexity across the region.
-- BERNAMA
Tuesday, 22 September 2026
Hubei launches tourism routes tailored for overseas visitors
XIANGYANG, China, Sept. 21, 2026 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/--
Central China's Hubei Province has launched five tourism routes tailored for overseas visitors, aiming to turn its rich cultural and natural resources into market-ready inbound tourism products.
The routes were unveiled at the 2026 Hubei Culture and Tourism Development Conference, held Thursday in Xiangyang City. Business-matching activities between local tourism operators and overseas travel agencies were also held during the event.
Known for its profound cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, Hubei has prioritized the integrated development of culture and tourism in recent years. The province received nearly 1 billion tourist visits in 2025, with tourism revenue exceeding 1 trillion yuan.
The five routes include a Yangtze River journey featuring the Three Gorges and Three Kingdoms culture, an ecological tour covering Shennongjia, Wudang Mountain and the Three Gorges, a cultural itinerary linking Jingzhou, Xiangyang and Suizhou, a revolutionary heritage tour of Hong'an and Honghu, and an urban tour of Wuhan.
The itineraries also incorporate local cuisine, intangible cultural heritage activities and emerging urban consumption experiences, offering overseas travelers more convenient access to Hubei's diverse attractions.
Eight themed travel experiences were also introduced, covering world heritage, Yangtze River sightseeing, Jingchu culture, technological innovation, traditional Chinese medicine and wellness, contemporary lifestyles, festivals and seasonal flower viewing.
In recent years, Hubei has worked to tap the inbound tourism market by developing new products, expanding overseas marketing channels, enriching immersive cultural experiences, improving services for international visitors and strengthening tourism exchanges with overseas partners.
A provincial culture and tourism official said the new offerings are expected to provide overseas tour operators with more integrated options and enhance Hubei's appeal as an international cultural tourism destination.
SOURCE: The 2026 Hubei Culture and Tourism Development Conference
--BERNAMA
Saturday, 19 September 2026
RobotPlusPlus Raises Series C to Scale Working-at-Height Robots
BEIJING, Sept 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RobotPlusPlus (ROBOT++) has closed a Series C round worth hundreds of millions of RMB (tens of millions of USD) to accelerate global expansion and embodied AI development.
Qianggang Capital Fund led the round, joined by GIG Capital Group, Sealand Innovation, and Juntong Capital. Fosun RZ Capital increased its stake.
"The true value of industrial robotics lies in real-world execution," said Dr. Hua-Yang Xu, Founder and CEO of RobotPlusPlus. "Over ten years, we have built special-purpose robots that are genuinely deployable at scale, and this round lets us bring those solutions to more industrial sites around the world."
Taking humans out of dangerous work
Across shipyards, oil-and-gas facilities, wind farms, and building façades, maintenance still puts skilled workers on scaffolding and other hazardous structures. RobotPlusPlus builds robots to handle these dangerous tasks, improving safety and efficiency while allowing professionals to focus on supervision and decision-making.
Its hull derusting robots have been deployed at more than 100 shipyards, with market share above 70%, and have worked on over 10,000 cargo vessels. They improve efficiency five to six times and reduce overall costs by 30% to 50% compared with manual methods.
"The endgame for embodied AI in industry is not the laboratory; it is the most demanding worksites," said Zhang Zhenming, General Manager of Qianggang Capital Fund. "RobotPlusPlus has brought robot fleets to commercial scale and expanded from ship-hull derusting into other demanding industrial applications. We see the potential for a global platform in autonomous industrial operations."
Global Scale, Deep R&D and data advantage
RobotPlusPlus operates across more than 18 countries, with customers and partners including NOSCO Shipyard, Drydocks World, ST Engineering Marine, Saudi Aramco and Vopak.
More than 60% of its workforce is in R&D, with R&D investment above 20% of revenue for three consecutive years. Its robots have accumulated over 2 million operating hours, generating real-world data to strengthen vertical AI models for complex industrial environments.
"We first invested in 2022 and have continued to increase our commitment," said Jin Hualong, chairman of Fosun RZ Capital. "RobotPlusPlus has built deep expertise in special-purpose robotics and marine applications. Its move from individual robots to industrial-grade embodied intelligence and complete system solutions creates strong technical barriers for high-risk industrial environments."
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/431809ea-215c-4d91-8b7c-316755da10a2
Contact RobotPlusPlus: sales@robotplusplus.com
SOURCE: Robot PlusPlus
--BERNAMA
Qianggang Capital Fund led the round, joined by GIG Capital Group, Sealand Innovation, and Juntong Capital. Fosun RZ Capital increased its stake.
"The true value of industrial robotics lies in real-world execution," said Dr. Hua-Yang Xu, Founder and CEO of RobotPlusPlus. "Over ten years, we have built special-purpose robots that are genuinely deployable at scale, and this round lets us bring those solutions to more industrial sites around the world."
Taking humans out of dangerous work
Across shipyards, oil-and-gas facilities, wind farms, and building façades, maintenance still puts skilled workers on scaffolding and other hazardous structures. RobotPlusPlus builds robots to handle these dangerous tasks, improving safety and efficiency while allowing professionals to focus on supervision and decision-making.
Its hull derusting robots have been deployed at more than 100 shipyards, with market share above 70%, and have worked on over 10,000 cargo vessels. They improve efficiency five to six times and reduce overall costs by 30% to 50% compared with manual methods.
"The endgame for embodied AI in industry is not the laboratory; it is the most demanding worksites," said Zhang Zhenming, General Manager of Qianggang Capital Fund. "RobotPlusPlus has brought robot fleets to commercial scale and expanded from ship-hull derusting into other demanding industrial applications. We see the potential for a global platform in autonomous industrial operations."
Global Scale, Deep R&D and data advantage
RobotPlusPlus operates across more than 18 countries, with customers and partners including NOSCO Shipyard, Drydocks World, ST Engineering Marine, Saudi Aramco and Vopak.
More than 60% of its workforce is in R&D, with R&D investment above 20% of revenue for three consecutive years. Its robots have accumulated over 2 million operating hours, generating real-world data to strengthen vertical AI models for complex industrial environments.
"We first invested in 2022 and have continued to increase our commitment," said Jin Hualong, chairman of Fosun RZ Capital. "RobotPlusPlus has built deep expertise in special-purpose robotics and marine applications. Its move from individual robots to industrial-grade embodied intelligence and complete system solutions creates strong technical barriers for high-risk industrial environments."
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/431809ea-215c-4d91-8b7c-316755da10a2
Contact RobotPlusPlus: sales@robotplusplus.com
SOURCE: Robot PlusPlus
--BERNAMA
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