Category: ACN Newswire

Vancouver, BC, Apr 2, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV:DBG)(OTCQB:DBLVF)(FSE:1D4) (the "Company" or "Doubleview") is pleased to share its plans for the upcoming 2025 exploration season for its 100% owned BC projects. Based on the Company's successful 2024 exploration season, which included publishing the Hat Project's maiden resource estimate (‘MRE V1'), exceptional high-grade drill results from its 10,000m drill program (please see the Company's news release from February 05, 2025) and the recently announced collaboration of the Company with Her Excellency Sheikha Sara Nasser Al-Thani of Qmission of Qatar (please see the Company's news release from March 05, 2025), Doubleview is readying its field crews for the upcoming field season.Hat Project - 2025 Program of WorkDoubleview is setting out to continue building on its exploration success at its polymetallic Hat Project. The 2024 drill results have provided important information which is supporting the Company's geological team in understanding the evolution of, and ultimately the entire Hat Deposit ("Hat" or "Deposit") system. The goals of the upcoming drill season are to continue to expand and build the resource to higher levels of confidence, to test newly identified targets to the northwest and east of the Deposit, and to find the source of the system that created the Hat Deposit.Details for the environmental sampling program are currently being finalized. Doubleview's intensions are to implement this work to fulfill regulatory requirements necessary towards further development of the Hat Project. The Preliminary Economic Assessment ("HAT PEA") with an updated Mineral Resource Estimate ("HAT MRE 2.0") is steadily progressing as expected.President & CEO Farshad Shirvani states: "After achieving several milestones for the Hat Project, it is time to continue its development. Our field crew, technical team and I are excited about the newly acquired information which will guide this year's efforts. Our goals are to find the porphyry system's source, to further advance the integrity of the resource estimate categories, to continue advancing environmental work and building stakeholder relationships. There are less than 90 drill holes at the Hat Project, and we have been able to show tremendous results. At the same time, it is very clear that there are many more opportunities to enhance the Hat Deposit that our team is eager to explore." Mr. Shirvani added: "The Company is continuing its dialogue with Her Excellency Sara Nasser Al-Thani of Qmission of Qatar to build a strong relationship to explore optimal opportunities for both sides. With the worldwide growing attention on critical minerals, by governments and major mining companies alike, we believe that the Company is a great position."Red Spring - 2025 Exploration ProgramPart of Doubleview's portfolio of projects is Red Spring, which is located in central BC, Canada. It is a copper-silver-gold project which in recent exploration programs showed elevated zinc values. With copper and zinc being elements that are listed as Critical Minerals by the Canadian Government, the Red Spring project merits a well-tailored exploration program. For this season an extensive ground IP program is planned which will be followed-up by drilling based on the IP results. The goal of the exploration program is to build on existing data and together with the new results, narrow down the potential deposit type. Currently the two potential deposit types in focus for the project are sediment hosted copper-silver deposits and Eskay Creek type deposits.Doubleview maintains a website at www.doubleview.ca.Qualified Persons:Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview's Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.About Doubleview Gold CorpA mineral resource exploration and development company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV:DBG)(OTCQB:DBLVF)(WKN:LA1W038), and (FSE:1D4). Doubleview focuses on identifying, acquiring, and financing precious and base metal exploration projects across North America, with a strong emphasis on British Columbia. The company enhances shareholder value through the acquisition and exploration of high-quality gold, copper, cobalt, scandium, and silver projects-collectively critical minerals-utilizing cutting-edge exploration techniques.Doubleview's success is deeply rooted in the unwavering support of its long-term shareholders, supporters, and institutional investors. Their ongoing commitment has been instrumental in advancing the company's strategic initiatives. Doubleview looks forward to further collaborative growth and development, and continues to welcome active participation from its valued stakeholders as the company expands its portfolio and strengthens its position in the critical minerals sector.About the Hat Polymetallic DepositThe Hat Deposit, located in northwestern British Columbia, is a polymetallic porphyry project with major resources of copper, gold, cobalt, and the potential for scandium. As one of the region's significant sources of critical minerals, the Hat deposit has undergone targeted exploration and development. The 0.2% CuEq cut-off resource estimate, as of the recently completed Mineral Resource Estimate and the Company's July 25, 2024, news release, is summarized below:Average Grade Metal ContentOpen Pit Model Hat Resource Category Tonnage CuEq Cu Co Au Ag CuEq Cu Co Au AgMt % % % g/t g/t million lb million lb million lb thousand oz thousand ozIn Pit Indicated 150 0.408 0.221 0.008 0.19 0.42 1,353 733 28 929 2,045Inferred 477 0.344 0.185 0.009 0.15 0.49 3,619 1,945 91 2,328 7,575Scandium potential for the Hat Deposit is estimated to be 300 to 500 million tonnes at an average grade of 40 ppm (0.004%) Sc2O3.*- Copper Equivalent (CuEq) currently does not include the Scandium- Metal equivalents should not be relied upon for future evaluations.- Parameters used to calculate Copper Equivalent: Au price (US$/oz): 1900; Ag price (US$/oz): 24; Cu price (US$/lb): 4; Co price (US$/lb): 22. Au recovery: 89.0%; Ag recovery: 68.0%; Cu recovery: 84.0%; Co recovery: 78.0%. * Copper Equivalent Calculation CuEq in % = ([Ag grade in ppm] *24*0.68/31.1035 + [Au grade in ppm] *1900*.89/31.1035 + 0.0001* [Co grade in ppm] *22*0.78*22.0462 + 0.0001* [Cu grade in ppm] *4*0.84*22.0462)/(4*22.0462*0.84).For further details, please refer to the Company's July 25, 2024 news release.On behalf of the Board of Directors,Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive OfficerFor further information please contact:Doubleview Gold CorpVancouver, BC Farshad ShirvaniPresident & CEOT: (604) 678-9587E: corporate@doubleview.caNEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.SOURCE: Doubleview Gold Corp. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SEVEN HILLS, AUSTRALIA, Apr 2, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Innovation Beverage Group Ltd ("IBG" or the "Company") (Nasdaq:IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, announced today it has signed a distribution agreement with Republic National Distribution Company ("RNDC"). IBG's Australian Bitters Company and BITTERTALES brands will be distributed by RNDC in six states: California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Arizona, and Michigan."We are very pleased to partner with RNDC, one of the top distributors in the U.S. in our category. Their distribution reach is vast and their product expertise and executional excellence are ideal to promote the expansion of our award-winning bitters brands in the U.S.," stated IBG's Chairman and Interim CEO Sahil Beri. "Having recently achieved 45% market share in cocktail bitters in Australia, we are eager to gain similar momentum in the U.S."With roots extending before Prohibition, RNDC is one of the U.S.'s leading wholesale beverage alcohol distributors specializing in wine and spirits. Operating in 39 states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia, RNDC is ranked #46 on Forbes's list of America's Top Private Companies, with $11 billion in revenues.IBG's flagship product, Australian Bitters Company, hand crafted in small batches in Australia from the finest natural botanical herbs and spices, won the Gold Medal at the Los Angeles Spirts Awards in 2018. BITTERTALES, the Company's premium cocktail brand, won Best in Show and a Platinum Medal at the 2020 LA Spirits Awards, and a Gold Medal at the 2018 and 2021 LA Spirits Awards. IBG's bitters brands are produced at its state-of-the-art U.S. FDA and GMP certified facility in Australia and shipped worldwide.About Innovation Beverage GroupInnovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG's brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG's most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which disrupted a 200-year-old market leader, giving the Company a market dominating position in several territories including a partnership in Australia with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Established in 2018, IBG's headquarters, distillery, innovation, and manufacturing facility are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office is located in New Jersey. For more information visit: https://www.innovationbev.com/Forward Looking StatementThis press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information." This information and these statements, which can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts, are made as of the date of this press release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this press release, as applicable.The forward-looking statements herein relate to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects," "anticipates," "plans," "projects," "estimates," "envisages," "assumes," "intends," "strategy," "goals," "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain action events or results "may," "can," "could," "would," "might," or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) and include, without limitation, statements with respect to projected financial targets that the Company is looking to achieve.All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company's management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution any person reviewing this press release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur.The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Company or on behalf of the Company except as may be required by law.Contact:TraDigital IRJohn McNamara917-658-2602John@tradigitalir.comSOURCE: Innovation Beverage Group Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Apr 2, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Expert Systems Holdings Limited (“Expert Systems” or the “Group”; Stock Code: 8319), a leading information technology and innovation company in the Asia-Pacific region, has announced the expansion of its managed services offerings with the introduction of its Network Operations Center (“NOC”) and Security Operations Center (“SOC”).In response to the growing complexity of networks and the increasing frequency of cybersecurity incidents, ServiceOne International Holdings Limited (“ServiceOne”), a subsidiary of Expert Systems, is expanding its managed services offerings with the introduction of an AI-powered NOC and SOC. Scheduled for launch in April 2025, the new NOC and SOC will operate in Guangzhou, co-located with one of the Group’s existing service desk centers. These new centers are designed to provide seamless 24/7 service delivery and comprehensive regional coverage across the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing the management of customers’ network and security infrastructure.“The launch of our AI-powered NOC and SOC represents a significant step forward in our mission to deliver innovative, reliable, and secure IT solutions to our clients,” said Mr. Andy Lau, CEO and Executive Director of Expert Systems. “Backed by a highly skilled team of certified professionals, we ensure top-tier operational expertise and excellence. Our collaborative synergy across AI, sales, and marketing domains fosters a unified and innovative approach to service delivery, enabling us to effectively address the growing challenges of network complexity and cybersecurity threats.”Proven Expertise and Comprehensive Managed Services CoverageBuilding on a strong legacy of ServiceOne’s excellence and multi-industry experience, its managed services business is uniquely positioned to deliver tailored solutions that meet the diverse and evolving needs of its clients. With a proven track record of managing complex IT environments across multiple industries in both the public and private sectors, the Group brings deep domain expertise and a customer-centric approach to its managed services offerings. In addition to the NOC and SOC, ServiceOne provides a comprehensive suite of managed services, including hosting services and application management services (AMS). These offerings are designed to meet the growing demands of modern businesses, ensuring seamless integration, scalability, and operational efficiency. Whether it’s managing cloud infrastructure, optimizing application performance, or ensuring robust cybersecurity, ServiceOne delivers end-to-end solutions that enable businesses to focus on their core objectives.AI-Driven Operations and FinOps for Greater EfficiencyAt the core of the new NOC and SOC is a robust stack of advanced security and monitoring tools, enabling the implementation of artificial intelligence for IT operations (AIOps). This cutting-edge integration leverages machine learning algorithms to identify and mitigate threats in real time, while intelligent noise reduction filters out irrelevant alerts, allowing IT teams to focus on critical issues and reducing alert fatigue. Improved threat detection accuracy minimizes false positives, and automated recovery processes ensure swift incident response, reducing downtime and improving operational resilience. These AI-driven capabilities and tooling enhancement not only boost the efficiency of the NOC and SOC, but also significantly strengthen clients’ overall security posture, providing proactive protection against emerging cyber threats.At the same time, ServiceOne has introduced FinOps solutions to address the growing complexity of cloud environments and the need for financial accountability. This innovative approach offers clients clear visibility into cloud spending and resource utilization, enabling informed decision making. Through intelligent recommendations, FinOps optimizes cloud resource usage, reducing waste and improving cost efficiency. By aligning IT investments with business outcomes, ServiceOne ensures that clients achieve superior financial performance while maximizing the return on their IT investments.Mr. Lau concluded: "As a regional player, our managed services business is distinguished by its clear service catalogue approach and an unwavering commitment to delivering value-driven solutions. By embracing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, we are leveraging innovative technologies to drive sustainable and responsible business practices in line with the evolving expectations of our clients and stakeholders. As businesses across the Asia-Pacific region continue to navigate the complexities of digital transformation, we remain committed to providing future-ready solutions that drive growth, resilience, and innovation. The launch of the NOC and SOC, coupled with our expanded managed services offerings, reinforces the Group’s position as a trusted partner for businesses looking to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and digital world.”About Expert Systems Holdings Limited (Stock code: 8319)Established since 1985, Expert Systems Holdings Limited (“ESHL”) is a leading information technology and innovation company which operates under the brands “Expert Systems”, “ServiceOne” and “Expert AI Enabling” with around 1,000 IT professionals. We are principally engaged in the provision of IT infrastructure solutions, IT infrastructure management services, and in the development and provision of AI products and AI solutions for corporate and institutional customers in the Asia-Pacific region. For more information, please refer to ESHL's website: https://www.expertsystems.com.hk/.Media Inquiries:Strategic Financial Relations LimitedHeidi SoTel: (852) 2864 4826Email: heidi.so@sprg.com.hkRachel KoTel: (852) 2114 2370Email: rachel.ko@sprg.com.hkMaggie KoTel: (852) 2864 4890Email: maggie.ko@sprg.com.hkWebsite: www.sprg.com.hk Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HighlightsDue to strong demand Euro Manganese has upsized the previously announced C$5.9m (A$6.5m) placement to C$9.8m (A$10.8m) and the condition to raise C$8m has been metEric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd., confirms participation for C$3.0m (A$3.3m)European Bank for Reconstruction and Development subscription increased to approximately C$3.9m (A$4.2m)Share Purchase Plan ("SPP") for certain eligible ASX shareholders revised to up to A$1.5m (C$1.4m). Orion Resource Partners ("Orion") to fund any shortfall under the SPP for up to A$1.5mAnnual and special meeting of shareholders rescheduled to May 15, 2025Vancouver, British Columbia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - April 1, 2025) - Euro Manganese Inc. (TSXV: EMN) (ASX: EMN) (FSE: E06) (the "Company") today announced that, due to strong investor demand, the previously announced financing on March 6, 2025, including a placement in the Company (the "Placement") of common shares ("New Shares") and CHESS Depositary Interests ("New CDIs") (together, "New Securities"), has been upsized to up to C$9.8m (approximately A$10.8m)1 and the condition to raise C$8m has been met. Proceeds will be used to support ongoing development of the Chvaletice Manganese Project and customer engagements to secure additional offtake term sheets and strategic investments.All defined terms in this press release have the same meaning as set out in the March 6, 2025, press release, unless such terms are otherwise defined herein.Euro Manganese is pleased to report that Mr. Eric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd., a corporation which is beneficially owned by him, has agreed to subscribe for 16,666,666 (PC - 83,333,330) New Securities for an investment of C$3.0m (approximately A$3.3m). The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development ("EBRD") has increased its investment to approximately C$3.9m (approximately A$4.2m). Additionally, the Company is reducing the previously announced Share Purchase Plan ("SPP") amount to up to A$1.5m (approximately C$1.4 m), subject to receiving regulatory approval from the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") for the amount of units that form part of the SPP under the Equity Raising (defined below).As previously announced on March 6, 2025 and March 31, 2025, the Company undertook a consolidation of its existing securities, including all shares represented by CDIs on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX"), at a ratio of five (5) pre-consolidation shares to one (1) post-consolidation share (the "Consolidation"). Subscriptions for all New Securities in the Equity Raising will be completed on a post-Consolidation basis. For the avoidance of doubt, all references to New Securities, Warrants, Broker Warrants, Additional Warrants and all per Share or per CDI dollar figures in this news release are on a post-Consolidation basis. Pre consolidation figures ("PC") are shown in brackets.Martina Blahova, Interim CEO of Euro Manganese, commented:"We are extremely pleased with the robust support demonstrated by both our existing shareholders and new investors, including the notable participation of Mr. Eric Sprott. This strong response, alongside the continued support from EBRD and Orion, underscores the strategic significance of the Chvaletice Manganese Project to Europe's critical minerals independence and supply chain security, a conviction further reinforced by the recent designation of the Chvaletice Manganese Deposit as a Strategic Deposit by the government of the Czech Republic and the Project's recognition as a Strategic Project under the EU's Critical Raw Materials Act."Details of the Placement and the SPPThe Company has rescheduled the date of its Annual and Special General Meeting ("ASGM") from April 22, 2025, to May 15, 2025, where shareholders will be asked to approve the issuance of New Securities and Warrants to be issued under the Placement and the SPP (collectively referred to as the "Equity Raising"). The Company will file a management information circular in connection with the ASGM in due course in accordance with applicable securities laws. The Equity Raising, and all terms related thereto, remain subject to the approval of the TSX-V.Details of the PlacementThe Placement consists of an aggregate of 54,578,350 (PC -272,891,772) New Securities (comprised of 39,671,662 (PC -198,358,310) New Shares and 14,906,688 (PC - 74,533,462 New CDIs)) and 54,578,350 (PC - 272,891,772) Warrants for aggregate gross proceeds of C$9.8m (approximately A$10.8m)1 which will be subject to shareholder approval as required by Listing Rules 7.1, 10.11.1 and 10.11.4 of the ASX to be sought at the ASGM. Warrants issued in connection with the Placement will be exercisable any time prior to the date that is 18 months from the closing of the Placement and have an exercise price of C$0.225 (PC - C$0.045) per New Security.Included in the Placement are:(i) subscriptions are to be issued in excess of the number permitted under ASX Listing Rule 7.1, which includes:14,650,278 (PC - 73,251,410) New CDIs and 14,650,278 (PC - 73,251,410) Warrants subscribed for under the Placement led by the Joint Lead Managers (as defined below) for aggregate gross proceeds of A$2.9m (approximately C$2.6m);21,400,000 (PC - 107,000,000) New Shares and 21,400,000 (PC - 107,000,000) Warrants subscribed for by EBRD for gross proceeds of C$3.9m (approximately A$4.2m) (the "EBRD Subscription");18,063,331 (PC - 90,316,655) New Shares and 18,063,331 (PC - 90,316,655) Warrants subscribed for directly with the Company for gross proceeds of C$3.3m (approximately A$3.6m), which include 16,666,666 (PC - 83,333,330) New Shares and 16,666,666 (PC - 83,333,330) Warrants subscribed for by Mr. Eric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd. a corporation which is beneficially owned by him, for gross proceeds of C$3.0m (approximately A$3.3m) (the "Sprott Subscription"); and(ii) subscriptions by related parties of the Company (consisting of directors of the Company and companies controlled by directors of the Company) for 464,741 (PC - 2,323,707) New Securities (comprised of 208,331 (PC - 1,041,655) New Shares and 256,410 (PC - 1,282,052) New CDIs) and 464,741 (PC- 2,323,707) Warrants for gross proceeds of C$83,000 (approximately A$91,200) ("Related Party Subscription"), which are subject to approval by the Company's shareholders as required by ASX Listing Rule 10.11.1 and 10.11.4.Since certain directors and management of the Company are expected to participate in the Related Party Subscription, the Conditional Placement is expected to be a related party transaction subject to Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements provided under sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 on the basis that participation in the Conditional Placement by such directors and management is not expected to exceed 25% of the fair market value of the Company's market capitalization, as calculated in accordance with MI 61-101.Updated Details of the Share Purchase PlanDetails of the SPP were announced on March 6, 2025. The SPP will be reduced to up to A$1.5m (approximately C$1.4m) (the "SPP Subscription"), subject to receiving regulatory approval from the TSXV for the units that comprise the SPP under the Equity Raising. The SPP will include 7,692,307 (PC - 38,461,535) New CDIs and 7,692,307 (PC - 38,461,535) Warrants exercisable any time prior to the date that is 18 months from the date of issue of the Warrants, with an exercise price of C$0.225 (PC - C$0.045) per New Security. Orion has agreed to fill any shortfall under the SPP (at the Equity Raising Price) up to a maximum of A$1.5 million. The New CDIs and Warrants issued under the SPP will also be subject to shareholder approval at the ASGM under ASX Listing Rule 7.1. The record date for the SPP remains the same as disclosed on March 6, 2025, and the rest of the indicative timetable has changed as set out below.The Company retains the right to accept applications for the SPP (in whole or part) at its absolute discretion (subject to applicable law including compliance with the ASX Listing Rules). The Company may also cancel the SPP if the Company's Board of Directors determines it is in the best interest of the Company, after considering the final amount of units approved by the TSXV for the Equity Raising.European Bank for Reconstruction and DevelopmentWith the Sprott Subscription, the Company has now successfully secured additional funding that will satisfy the EBRD condition that the Company raise at least C$8 million (A$8.8m), assuming the Company receives shareholder approval at the ASGM. EBRD has increased its subscription to C$3,852,000 (approximately A$4.2m) given the upsizing of the Equity Raising. Prior to the completion of the EBRD Subscription, EBRD owns 3,560,000 common shares, representing an ownership interest of 4.42% of the issued and outstanding common shares. On completion of the EBRD Subscription, EBRD's ownership interest will be, in aggregate (including the common shares it currently owns) 24,960,000 common shares, representing an ownership interest of 17.48% of the issued and outstanding common shares and an increase of 13.06%. Assuming the exercise by EBRD of all its Warrants, and assuming the exercise of (i) all Warrants issued under the Equity Raising, (ii) all Warrants issued under the SPP Subscription, and (iii) all Additional Warrants, EBRD's ownership interest will be in aggregate 46,360,000 common shares, representing an aggregate beneficial ownership interest of 19.96% of the issued and outstanding shares and an increase of 15.54%. EBRD has agreed, pursuant to the terms of the Warrants issued to EBRD, that for so long as the Company is listed on the TSXV, unless approval from the TSXV and disinterested shareholders of the Company have been obtained pursuant to the policies of the TSXV (provided that such approval is required at the relevant time), EBRD will not be permitted to exercise such number of warrants that would result in it beneficially owning more than 19.99% of the outstanding common shares of the Company.Broker Fees and Additional WarrantsCanaccord Genuity (Australia) Limited ("Canaccord Genuity") and Foster Stockbroking Pty Ltd ("FSB") are acting as Joint Lead Managers and Bookrunners for the Equity Raising (together the "Joint Lead Managers"). Aggregate fees payable in cash by the Company to Canaccord Genuity and FSB in connection with the Placement and the SPP will be 6% of the aggregate gross proceeds from the Placement and SPP to a cap of C$8 million (A8.8m).Additionally, Canaccord Genuity and FSB will be issued 4,904,478 (PC - 24,522,396) broker warrants ("Broker Warrants"), representing 12% of the aggregate number of New Securities issued under the Placement and the SPP, excluding those issued pursuant to the EBRD Subscription, exercisable any time prior to the date that is 24 months from the date of issue of the Broker Warrants, with an exercise price of C$0.225 (PC - C$0.045) per New Security. As the number of Broker Warrants, together with the New Securities and Warrants to be issued under the Placement, exceeds the maximum number of securities that can be issued by the Company under ASX Listing Rule 7.1, this issuance will also be subject to approval by the Company's shareholders at the ASGM.Additionally, as announced previously on December 3, 2024, the Company agreed, subject to receipt of TSX-V approval, to issue to Orion 22,263,733 (PC - 111,318,665) warrants to purchase Shares (the "Additional Warrants"), exercisable any time prior to the date that is 18 months from the closing of the Placement, with an exercise price of C$0.225 (PC - C$0.045) per New Security. As the number of the Additional Warrants exceeds the maximum number of securities that can be issued by the Company under ASX Listing Rule 7.1, this issuance will also be subject to approval by the Company's shareholders at the ASGM.The securities to be issued or made issuable under the Equity Raising, as well as the Additional Warrants, have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to U.S. Persons absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration. This press release is not an offer or a solicitation of an offer of securities for sale in the United States, nor will there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.Applicable Hold PeriodsNew Shares issued or made issuable will not be permitted to be traded in or into Canada or through TSXV for 4 months and 1 day following completion and will be subject to legending requirements under Canadian securities laws. New Shares will be listed on the TSXV, and New CDIs listed on the ASX. Warrants will not be listed. New CDIs will not be permitted to be exchanged for common shares and traded on TSXV for 4 months and 1 day from their date of issue.Common shares issued upon exercise of the Warrants, Broker Warrants or Additional Warrants during the four-month period and 1 day after their respective date of issue are subject to the same restrictions noted above.The Warrants, Broker Warrants or Additional Warrants may not be traded in or into Canada for 4 months and 1 day following completion and will be subject to legending requirements under Canadian securities laws.Updated Indicative Equity Raising Timetable The following indicative timetable assumes A$1.5m SPP and is subject to the Company receiving TSXV approval for the amount of units that form part of the SPP under the Equity Raising. VancouverAustraliaSPP Record Daten/aWednesday, March 5, 2025Share Purchase Plan Opensn/aWednesday, April 16, 2025Share Purchase Plan Closesn/aWednesday, April 30, 2025Meeting to approve the Equity Raising and related mattersThursday, May 15, 2025Friday, May 16, 2025Settlement of New Securities Issued under the Equity RaisingWednesday, May 21, 2025Thursday, May 22, 2025Allotment of New Securities issued under the Equity RaisingThursday, May 22, 2025Friday, May 23, 2025 About Euro ManganeseEuro Manganese is a battery materials company focused on becoming a leading producer of high-purity manganese for the electric vehicle industry. The Company is advancing development of the Chvaletice Manganese Project in the Czech Republic and exploring an early-stage opportunity to produce battery-grade manganese products in Bécancour, Québec.The Chvaletice Project is a unique waste-to-value recycling and remediation opportunity involving reprocessing old tailings from a decommissioned mine. It is also the only sizable resource of manganese in the European Union, strategically positioning the Company to provide battery supply chains with critical raw materials to support the global shift to a circular, low-carbon economy.Euro Manganese is dual listed on the TSX-V and the ASX.www.mn25.caAuthorized for release by the Interim CEO of Euro Manganese Inc.Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) or the ASX accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.EnquiriesMartina BlahovaInterim Chief Executive Officer+1 (604) 681-1010martina@mn25.caLodeRock AdvisorsNeil WeberInvestor and Media Relations - North America+1 (647) 222-0574neil.weber@loderockadvisors.comJane Morgan ManagementJane MorganInvestor and Media Relations - Australia+61 (0) 405 555 618 jm@janemorganmanagement.com.au Company Address: #709 -700 West Pender St., Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V6C 1G8Website: www.mn25.caForward-Looking StatementsCertain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company, its Chvaletice Project, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of the Company to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements and, even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company.Such forward-looking information or statements also include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company's intentions regarding the development of the Chvaletice Project, statements regarding the terms of the Placement, including completion thereof, the anticipated closing dates of the Placement, receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, the holding of the shareholder meeting, the use of proceeds of the Placement and the SPP, the issuance of the Additional Warrants, the terms of the SPP, including completion thereof, and any participation by Orion, statements regarding the Consolidation, including completion thereof.All forward-looking statements are made based on the Company's current beliefs including various assumptions made by the Company including that the Chvaletice Project will be developed and operate in accordance with current plans, that the Company will be able to raise the financing that it requires, and that it will meet conditions of its secured credit facility. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: risks and uncertainties related to maintaining necessary licenses or permits; risks related to acquisition of surface rights; securing sufficient offtake agreements; the availability of acceptable financing, and risks related to granting security; developments in EV (Electric Vehicles) battery markets and chemistries; and risks related to fluctuations in currency exchange rates, changes in laws or regulations; and regulation by various governmental agencies. For a further discussion of risks relevant to the Company, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form for the year ended September 30, 2024, available on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this news release.NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESTo view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/246916 Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

JAKARTA, Apr 1, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Corinium Global Intelligence is excited to announce the return of CISO Indonesia 2025, the premier cybersecurity leadership conference, taking place on 28 May 2025 at the Pullman Thamrin CBD Jakarta. This highly anticipated event will serve as a dynamic platform for senior cybersecurity professionals to explore cutting-edge strategies, discuss pressing security challenges, and foster collaboration in an era of rapid digital transformation.With an agenda designed to address the evolving cyber threat landscape, CISO Indonesia 2025 will feature expert insights on:AI in cyber security – Navigating the double-edged sword of AI in cyber security – understanding the profound influence of AI on the offensive and defensive sides of cyber security.Government framework – Aligning cyber security strategies with government regulations and initiatives to effectively safeguard critical digital assets against emerging threats.Resilience for a digital future – Tackling the cyber security challenges related to emerging technologies, IoT, cloud security, and digital transformation in an increasingly connected world.Cyber security leadership – Addressing the talent shortage in cyber security by exploring initiatives to close the talent gap, including how AI can assist in this critical endeavor.Attendees will gain exclusive access to thought-provoking discussions led by over 20 distinguished speakers, representing some of the most influential voices in cybersecurity. The event will offer valuable networking opportunities, hands-on learning sessions, and actionable takeaways to help organisations stay ahead of emerging threats."As cyber threats continue to evolve, staying ahead requires more than just technology—it demands collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and strategic foresight. CISO Indonesia 2025 provides the ideal environment for security leaders to gain insights and forge connections that will help shape the future of cybersecurity,” said Eleen Meleng, Conference Director at Corinium Global Intelligence.This exclusive event is tailored for senior cybersecurity professionals, including CISOs, CIOs, CTOs, IT Directors, and Heads of Information Security from various industries. Those specialising in risk management, compliance, incident response, cloud security, and governance will find unparalleled value in attending.Registrations are now open! Secure your spot today and enjoy 20% off with the special discount code APAC20. Register now at: https://hubs.ly/Q03f2H8n0 . For additional event details, visit: ciso-id.coriniumintelligence.com.About Corinium IntelligenceCorinium Global Intelligence is a global leader in providing conferences, events, and content to the information and technology industries. With a focus on fostering collaboration and innovation, Corinium Global Intelligence brings together industry leaders to share insights, best practices, and strategies for success.For more information, please contactMoira Ungerleider, Marketing Manager at moira.ungerleider@coriniumgroup.com.  Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

KUALA LUMPUR, Apr 2, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - EdgePoint Towers Sdn Bhd, a part of EdgePoint Infrastructure, a leading ASEAN-based independent telecommunications infrastructure company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Ravin Vickneswaran as Chief Operating Officer of EdgePoint Towers. Ravin has been with EdgePoint since 2021 and has extensive experience spanning over 25 years in the local and international telecommunications industry.EdgePoint Towers Appoints Ravin Vickneswaran as Chief Operating OfficerAs Chief Operating Officer, Ravin will work closely with teams across the organization to drive the company's vision across various departments, including Engineering & Implementation, Property & Permitting and Operations & Maintenance. He will also lead teams towards enhancing service offerings, boosting customer satisfaction, ensuring the successful implementation of ESG practices, strengthening partnerships and driving the adoption of new technologies. In addition, Ravin will retain his previous portfolio in EdgePoint, continuing to lead the Innovations team.Speaking on his new role, Ravin shared, "I am thankful to step into this new role at such a transformative time for the industry. As Malaysia accelerates its 5G rollout, Edgepoint Towers remains committed to delivering future-ready infrastructure that enables seamless connectivity. Collaboration with our customers is at the heart of our strategy, ensuring we provide innovative and reliable solutions that support their evolving needs. Continuing to work alongside my talented colleagues, we aim to foster strong partnerships, drive operational excellence, and play a key role in advancing the nation’s digital transformation."Muniff Kamaruddin, Chief Executive Officer of EdgePoint Towers said, “We are pleased to see Ravin advance in his career at EdgePoint. As we rapidly scale in Malaysia, it is crucial that we expand our management bench strength, and Ravin’s expertise will be key in this effort. His proven leadership, operational expertise, and strong execution capabilities will be instrumental in ensuring the Company’s continued success. Ravin’s deep understanding of the industry and customer needs has enabled him to build high-performing teams who have delivered innovative solutions across various industries in Malaysia, even winning two international awards in the past three years. With his track record, we are confident that Ravin will drive our business forward and strengthen our position as a partner of choice for digital infrastructure solutions in Malaysia.”Ravin has served as Vice President of In-Building Coverage and Innovation at EdgePoint since 2021 and has been instrumental in growing the company’s IBC and small cells portfolio. Prior to joining EdgePoint, he has held key senior positions in telecommunications companies in Malaysia and Myanmar namely, Head of 5G Enterprise Business in Celcom Axiata Berhad, Director of APAC Operations at Flexenclosure AB, and Manager at Maxis Communications Berhad.To date, EdgePoint Towers is the second largest independent telecommunications infrastructure company in Malaysia with 1,800 sites in its portfolio.  ****ABOUT EDGEPOINT INFRASTRUCTUREEdgePoint Infrastructure is an ASEAN based independent telecommunications infrastructure company that aspires towards Building a Connected, Digital ASEAN. Headquartered in Singapore with operations in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, through EdgePoint Towers Sdn Bhd, PT Centratama Telekomunikasi Indonesia, Tbk and EdgePoint Towers Inc. respectively, the company is focused on providing sharable and leading-edge telecom structures, small cells and in-building systems. EdgePoint aims to be an industry leader through scale and innovation, driving operational efficiencies through the adoption of analytics and digital technologies.For more information on EdgePoint, please visit https://edgepointinfra.com/.  Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

ATLANTA, GA, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Despite fears of job loss, Quality Assurance (QA) professionals are leaning into AI faster than ever, according to Katalon’s newly released 2025 State of Software Quality Report. The report reveals that testers using AI tools are twice as likely to fear being replaced by them, a paradox that underscores the profession’s evolving relationship with automation. Yet those with stronger AI fluency aren’t just adapting—they’re testing faster, leveling up their skills, and reclaiming joy in the work that once burned them out.Source: Katalon, 2025 State of Software Quality Report, https://www.katalon.com That shift is fueled by both urgency and intent. As AI reshapes expectations, 82% of QA professionals say AI skills will be critical in the next 3 to 5 years, and teams are already adapting. The report finds that those with higher AI fluency excel not just at using new tools, but in test planning, problem-solving, and applying AI concepts in real-world scenarios.To close the skills gap, 67% of teams are investing in continuous learning, while 53% are adopting AI-driven testing practices to stay ahead. And for the most advanced teams, QA is no longer just a safeguard, it’s a business enabler. In fact, 77% of respondents say aligning QA with business goals has helped improve customer retention.Katalon’s 2025 State of Software Quality Report surveyed over 1500 quality professionals, from engineers to senior executives, across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.  The report explores the challenges, capabilities, and innovations shaping today’s testing landscape—and how QA teams are evolving from execution-focused roles to strategic drivers of business value.“The shift toward AI-powered testing isn’t just accelerating—it’s inevitable. This year’s report validates what we’ve long believed: QA professionals, the unsung heroes of software innovation, are navigating intense pressure to move faster without compromising quality, and their impact is finally being recognized, with 48% of organizations now viewing QA as a competitive advantage. Looking ahead, the future of quality will belong to teams who can combine AI fluency with human insight to lead testing into a smarter, more adaptive era.”– Vu Lam, CEO of KatalonKey highlights of Katalon’s 2025 State of Software Quality Report:* AI Integration with Human Expertise: Testers who blend AI, automation, and manual testing skills with critical thinking, the new generation of hybrid testers—are leading the next wave of innovation in software quality. According to the report, high-maturity QA teams that leverage these hybrid testers are 1.3 times more likely to adopt AI-augmented test optimization and 1.8 times more likely to implement intelligent test maintenance practices like self-healing tests, compared to lower-maturity teams.* The Happiness Edge: Happier QA pros aren’t just more satisfied, they’re more effective. According to the report, they’re 1.4 times more likely to implement advanced automation solutions (46% vs. 34%) and 1.4 times more likely to say AI has improved efficiency and automation in their roles (71% vs. 52%). As organizations modernize, these findings reveal a clear connection between job satisfaction and innovation in software quality.* AI and The Future of QA: AI-driven testing is gaining momentum, with 61% of QA teams adopting it to automate repetitive tasks and free up time for more strategic work. Forward-looking teams are embracing advanced automation tools, augmented with AI, with the potential to make testing more adaptive, efficient, and intelligent. Beyond AI, they’re also investing in performance and load testing tools (34%) and test management platforms (30%) to further optimize workflows and scale quality with confidence.* Redefine quality with AI: The research shows that high-performing teams are modernizing on three critical fronts: 61% are adopting AI-driven tools, 51% are using modern development practices, and 40% are investing in continuous testing. Together, these shifts are accelerating release cycles while preserving what matters most: trust, reliability, and quality at scale.Resources* Download the full report  katalon.com/SoSQR2025* Explore the future of software quality katalon.comSave your seat for the April 24 virtual summit katalon.com/webinars/quality-horizon. Join Katalon, industry experts, and QA leaders to discuss key findings from the report and what’s next for AI in testing.About KatalonKatalon is the category leader in AI-augmented software testing, empowering hybrid testers—those blending manual, automation, and AI skills, to deliver exceptional digital experiences. Trusted by more than 30,000 QA and DevOps teams across 80+ countries, Katalon has been named a G2 Leader in software testing for 11 consecutive quarters. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Atlanta, Katalon helps teams accelerate software delivery and elevate quality through a powerful, integrated test automation platform, empowering them to release with speed and confidence.Contact:Arati Mukerji commarati@gmail.com +91-9958895759Ms Nhung (Rosie) Nguyen nhung.nguyen@katalon.com +84-039689137 Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - Huatai Securities Co., Ltd. (the "Company"; stock codes: 601688.SH, 6886.HK, HTSC.L), a leading technology-driven comprehensive securities company in China, released its consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024, reporting record revenue and profit, alongside substantial progress in its internationalization strategy.Annual Highlights:- In 2024, the Company continued to execute on strategic priorities, contributing to net revenues of RMB 54.29 billion, net earnings of RMB 15.35 billion, and diluted EPS of RMB 1.62, achieving the highest results for each.- The Company announced a final payout of RMB 5.2 per 10 shares (including tax), reinforcing its commitment to shareholder value.- The investment banking business led the Mainland market, ranking first in STAR Market and ChiNext IPOs, and first in M&A activities.- The Company expanded its presence in Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, leveraging operations across Mainland China, Hong Kong, the US, the UK, and Singapore.- The Company drove growth across its comprehensive financial services, including investment banking, wealth management, and institutional services, through technology-driven initiatives.The Company made significant progress in the following areas: Investment Banking ExcellenceThe preeminent global investment banking business leveraged industry insights and deep expertise to help clients seize new opportunities, unlocking growth and driving transformation. Ranked first in IPO underwriting on the STAR Market and ChiNext, Huatai Securities achieved a total IPO underwriting volume of RMB 8.5 billion, ranking second in the A-share market. The Company maintained a leading position in M&A advisory, particularly in restructuring project reviews. Additionally, it secured second place in equity underwriting with RMB 54.9 billion and achieved third place in bond underwriting, with a total volume of RMB 1,296 billion. In 2024, the Company ranked third in the total number of Hong Kong IPOs across the market and third among Chinese securities firms in terms of funds raised.Huatai Securities solidified its leading position in China's capital markets by supporting innovation-driven enterprises. Since 2012, the Company has been a critical catalyst for technological innovation, backing over 270 technology companies with a collectively market capitalization of RMB 9.47 trillion. In 2024, this commitment continued with support for over 10 "Little Giants" and specialized medium-sized enterprises endorsed by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.Global Reach AcceleratesHuatai Securities expanded its international footprint in 2024, demonstrating resilience in navigating volatile overseas markets. Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong) became a lead underwriter in Tokyo's PRO-BOND market, while Huatai Securities (USA) gained Nasdaq underwriting membership. Additionally, a subsidiary of Huatai International, operating as a Chinese securities firm, successfully obtained a securities trading license in Vietnam.The Company's Global Trading Platform (GTP) now connects Hong Kong, the U.S., the U.K., and Singapore 24/7, enhancing cross-border capabilities. Research output surged, with 587 overseas reports (up 96% year-on-year) covering U.S., European, Japanese, and Southeast Asian markets, and stock coverage increased by 65%.Advancing Through TechnologyTo meet the evolving demands of institutional clients, Huatai Securities continued upgrading core trading infrastructure such as FICC HEAD platform and CAMS (Credit Analysis Management System). The tech-powered transformation enabled the Company to lead in market-making in the STAR Market with 126 stocks and fund liquidity services with 589 funds, while dual-counter RMB-HKD trading achieved full coverage and increased market share. The Company was awarded "2024 Top Market Maker – RMB Counter" by HKEX.On the retail front, "ZhangLe Fortune Path" app, the Company's mobile wealth management platform, is deepening AI integration to enhance client services, delivering sophisticated ETF tools for product selection and trading strategies, thereby boosting client and asset growth. Huatai Securities' fund distribution ranked second among securities firms, with AUM of equity fund reaching RMB 120.2 billion. The Huatai-PineBridge CSI 300 ETF approached RMB 360 billion, leading non-money-market ETFs in Shanghai and Shenzhen.Sustainability and GovernanceHuatai Securities' MSCI ESG rating rose to AAA in 2024, the highest among global investment banks, up from AA, marking two years of steady progress. Through its Huatai Foundation, rated 5A in Jiangsu's social organization assessment, the Company advanced rural revitalization, education, and eco-initiatives such as "One Yangtze River", promoting Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECM) in China, which were presented at COP16.Looking AheadHuatai Securities will continue its strategic focus on leveraging technology to enhance its wealth management and institutional services. By integrating resources across the business chain, the Company will further deepen its internationalization strategy, aiming to become one of the leading global investment banks providing top-tier professional financial services.About Huatai SecuritiesIncorporated in April 1991, Huatai Securities is a leading technology-driven securities group in China, with a highly collaborative business model, a cutting-edge digital platform and an extensive and engaging customer base. It provides comprehensive financial services to individual and institutional clients, including wealth management, investment banking, sales and trading, investment management, among others, with a substantial international presence.For enquiries, please contact:CDRBenny Liu                         Linda PuiTel: +86 10 6567 5056             Tel: +852 3103 0118Email: HTSC@cdrconsultancy.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - 28 March 2025, GF Securities Co., Ltd. ("GF Securities" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries within the scope of its consolidated financial statements (“subsidiaries”), the “Group”) announced its annual results for 2024. Last year was a crucial year for China in pursuing economic transformation and comprehensively deepening the reform of the capital market. Faced a challenging macroeconomic situation and an evolving industry landscape, GF Securities made a unified response and worked hard to press ahead by maintaining the positioning of a securities company as a functional entity in effectively playing its role of serving the real economy. The Company achieved steady progress in all areas of its work with main operating indicators in the forefront of the industry, realizing a total revenue and other income of RMB37,346 million and a net profit attributable to shareholders of the Company of RMB9,637 million.As one of the first batch of pilot comprehensive management brokerages selected by the CSRC, GF Securities possesses licenses for a full range of services involved in four business segments, including investment banking, wealth management, trading and institution, and investment management. The Group has successively set up futures subsidiaries, public fund subsidiaries, private fund subsidiaries, alternative investment subsidiaries and asset management subsidiaries. With its unique value concept and pragmatic entrepreneurial style, the Company has built up a full-service chain with comprehensive layout and strong strength. In respect of regional development, the Company based in Guangdong and serves the whole country, connecting domestically and internationally, forges a leading national brokerage with a long-term vision and an open mind. Against this backdrop, the Company has maintained main operating indicators ranking among the top securities companies in China for many consecutive years, and established its leading advantages in various key business segments.Mr. Lin Chuanhui, the Chairman of GF Securities, said: “Over the last year, the Company actively committed to its original aspirations of serving the real economy by tracing its roots in the industry for development. We actively integrated into the overall national development, made new progress in the in-depth development of “Five Major Areas”. In 2025, the “1+N” policy for the capital market will continue to take effect and deliver solid outcomes, further enhancing the value of investment. Accordingly, the Company will adhere to the main responsibilities and principal businesses and prioritize the role of performing its functions, while embracing technological revolution to actively pursue innovative changes, so as to make its contribution to the high-quality development of the capital market.”With Focusing on Main Responsibilities and Principal Businesses, the Four Major Business Segments Have Achieved Steady GrowthGF Securities has a complete business system with a balanced business structure, and has formed a leading advantage in many core business areas such as wealth management, asset management, and research. During the Reporting Period, the Company's four major business segments all achieved steady growth.The transformation of wealth management business segment has achieved remarkable results. As of the end of December 2024, the total balance of financial products sold by the Company on a commission basis exceeded RMB260 billion, representing an increase of approximately 22% as compared to the end of last year. The turnover of the Company’s SSE and SZSE stock and funds amounted to RMB23.95 trillion (bilateral statistics), representing a year-on-year increase of 28.98%. The balance of margin financing and securities lending of the Company was RMB103.686 billion, representing an increase of 16.52% as compared to the end of last year, with a market share of 5.56%. Clients’ asset allocation needs continue to be released. The Company has an investment advisory team of more than 4,600 employees, still ranking first in the industry (based on data of parent company). The net sales income and balance of financial products and commissions for multi-market transactions all achieved a year-on-year growth.The investment banking business segment achieved counter-cyclical growth. During the Reporting Period, the Company's equity and bond underwriting scale ranked among the top ten in the industry. In respect of domestic equity financing, the Company completed A-share equity financing projects with a lead underwritten amount of RMB8.666 billion, achieving market share increased against the downward trend. At the same time, the Company completed 14 Hong Kong IPO projects, and 1 US IPO project. According to the statistics of Dealogic, the Company’s equity financing business in Hong Kong ranked fourth among Chinese-based securities companies in terms of the total issuance size of IPOs and refinancing projects equally distributed among all underwriters. In respect of debt financing business, the Company acted as the lead underwriter for 665 tranches of bonds, representing a year-on-year increase of 59.86%, with a lead underwritten amount of RMB296.322 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 21.22%. In respect of Chinese offshore bond business, 60 bonds were issued with an underwritten amount of US$11.022 billion, while the Company completed five projects in major asset restructuring and financial advisory business that had industry and regional influence, involving a total transaction amount of approximately RMB13.357 billion.The investment management segment further solidified its strengths. The Group carries out public fund management business through its non-wholly owned subsidiary, GF Fund, and investee company, E Fund to manage the public funds with the net assets amounted to over RMB3.5 trillion. GF Fund and E Fund ranked third and first in the industry in terms of the size of public funds under the management excluding monetary funds, respectively (Source: Wind, Statistics of the Company). The Group also engages in private fund management business through its wholly-owned subsidiary, GF Xinde focusing on industries such as biomedicine, intelligent manufacturing, new energy and corporate services. The average monthly paid-in amount of funds under management by GF Xinde was over RMB17.5 billion in the third quarter of 2024 (Source: Asset Management Association of China). In the overseas market, GF Investments (Hong Kong), the wholly-owned subsidiary of the Group, has managed investment projects focused mainly in the fields of high-end manufacturing, TMT, big consumption, biomedical, etc. Several investment projects have exited by way of mergers and acquisitions or been listed on the stock exchanges in Hong Kong, the United States and other regions.The trading and institutional business segment maintained strong momentum. As a primary dealer of OTC derivatives business, the Company’s trading business ranks firmly in the first echelon, providing market-making services for more than 800 funds and all ETF options of the SSE and SZSE, and market-making services for CSI 300 stock index options and CSI 1000 stock index options of the China Financial Futures Exchange, and market-making services for 43 NEEQ companies. During the Reporting Period, the Company issued 84,691 private equity products through the China Securities Inter-agency Quotation System and OTC market, with a total amount of RMB900.744 billion. Meanwhile, the scale of FICC business continued to grow with multiple strategies and the Company ranked fifth in the industry in terms of the scale of custody of public funds.With Customer-centric Focus to Optimize Integrated Financial Service CapabilitiesGF Securities insists on being investor-oriented, and continues to improve the quality and efficiency of services to different customer groups such as individual investors, institutional investors, and corporate customers by honing its comprehensive financial service capabilities with the full life cycle across the entire business chain, and rewards investors with outstanding results.In respect of individual investors, the Company insists on a "customer-centric" business philosophy and unswervingly accelerates its transformation into a buy-side investment adviser to stay highly aligned with the interests of investors. During the Reporting Period, the Company closely followed its main tone for high-quality development and its digitalization and platform-based strategies, focused on the key development direction for “high-quality customer base and efficient online operation” of the wealth brokerage business, carried out customer development services and standardized operations both online and offline; achieved steady progress in the implementation of transformation and reform of the wealth management and brokerage business; continued to enhance the comprehensive capacity of serving residents’ wealth management. In terms of the balance maintained by the agency sales of non-monetary public funds, the Company ranked No. 3 in the industry. At the end of December 2024, the Company had 356 branches and business departments nationwide, with a presence in 31 provinces, municipalities, and autonomous regions across the PRC. The number and coverage ratio of business outlets in the nine cities of the Pearl River Delta in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ranked No. 1 in the industry, providing a wide range of market reach for the Company’s business and laying important support for customer accumulation and service. In 2024, the Company also obtained the qualification for the first batch of pilot work for the Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect Scheme, marking a solid pace to deepen the cooperation between institutions in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, catering the customers’ demands of wealth allocation.In respect of institutional clients, the outstanding research capacity of the Company enjoys a high reputation in the industry and received numerous honors. The Company has won awards from mainstream organizations and ranked among the top: Best Analyst of Securities Times , Best Analyst of New Fortune , China Securities Industry Analyst Golden Bull Award, etc. As of the end of December 2024, the Group’s equity research covered 28 industries and 993 A-share listed companies in China, and 169 Hong Kong and overseas listed companies. In 2024, focusing on the main line of Chinese-style modernization, the Company held large-scale strategy conferences such as “Focusing on New Quality Productive Forces ”, “Strengthening the Foundation and Cultivating the Roots” and “Forseeing 2025”to build a communication platform between listed companies and institutional investors to serve the development of the real economy, and also held an investment strategy seminar in Hong Kong, with a focus on serving overseas institutional investors.In respect of corporate clients, guided by client demand, the Company has built an investment banking service system with a full business chain throughout the life cycle, adhered to the original purpose of serving the real economy with finance and giving priority to functionality, as well as endeavored to develop into an industrial investment bank and a technology investment bank. As of the end of 2024, the Company sponsored a total of 44 companies listed on the market as the lead brokerage, of which 84.09% were “specialized, sophisticated, distinctive and innovative” enterprises. The Company attached great importance to serving national strategies with bond business and facilitated high-quality development with financial power. During the Reporting Period, the Company acted as the lead underwriter for 110 tranches of various science and technology innovation bonds with an underwritten amount of RMB34.479 billion; acted as the lead underwriter for 18 tranches of various low-carbon transformation and green bonds with an underwritten amount of RMB5.631 billion; and acted as the lead underwriter for 5 tranches of rural revitalization bonds with an underwritten amount of RMB1.119 billion. The Company took multiple measures to strengthen the quality control of its practices and received a Class A rating in the 2024 quality evaluation of bond practices of securities companies organized by the Securities Association.Moreover, centering around the guidance of national industrial policies, financial policies and regional development policies, the Company practiced the business model of “One Guangfa” by holding a number of large-scale M&A themed events, such as the forum on merger and acquisition of new quality productive forces and the inaugural conference of the Guangdong capital market M&A alliance, and building a merger and acquisition business ecosystem to provide customers with multi-level and all-round comprehensive services, promoting the orderly circulation of assets and capital. During the Reporting Period, the industrial research institute of the Company continued to build an ecosystem of production, learning, research, investment and financing integration, empowered the development of various business segments, provided research support for policy formulation and industrial planning of government departments, and explored the establishment of industrial incubation and transformation cooperation mechanism with key scientific research universities to play a role as a bridge of “technology-finance-industry”.Deepening the Development of "Five Major Area" and Actively Fulfill Social ResponsibilitiesAs one of the few major brokerages which have not accepted investment or undergone restructuring due to operating losses among the first batch of brokers established from the end of the 1980’s to the early 1990’s, GF Securities always maintains a strong sense of family and country, upholds its mission of “creating values to realize the dream of serving the country with financial services”. Moreover, in making continuous progress in developing its corporate values of “inquisitiveness and integrity” and carrying forward its excellent cultural genes of an “army of PhDs”, with knowledge as the guarantee and professionalism as the cornerstone, GF Securities will actively serve the real economy for both quantity and quality.During the Reporting Period, the Company proactively integrated into the national development and made new progress in the in-depth development of the “Five Major Areas”. The Company made efforts to support the development of the area of technology and finance by making equity investment in 30 I&T enterprises, entered into equity financing and debt financing arrangements for 42 technology enterprises with a total amount of RMB147.0 billion, and established 6 investment funds for technological innovation enterprises, so as to cater the needs of various technology innovation entities for investment and financing. The Company also continued to build a green financial service system and published 11 in-depth research reports such as the Blue Book on the Development of the Green Energy Industry to support the research in the area of green industries. In addition, the Company has underwritten and issued bonds for 7 green ABS projects with a raised fund of RMB14.759 billion, thereby providing diverse financial solutions for green industries. The Company has made investment in green bonds through its owned funds with an amount of RMB5.993 billion, thereby introducing “financial water” that helps the development of the green industries. The Company has expanded the business layout of the pension finance business by issuing a total of 24 products of pension target funds with a total amount of RMB6.9 billion, so as to develop a multi-level pension finance service system. The Company continued to explore possibilities for application and implementation of digital finance and put a total of 43 large-scale AI models into practice, which has help the Company maintain its leading position in the industry in terms of number of scenarios and business coverage.At the same time, the Company also commits to the philosophy of finance for the country and finance for the people and proactively performed its social responsibilities. During the Reporting Period, the Company focused on areas of rural revitalisation by providing student subsidies and boosting education, finance empowerment and medical assistance, and has made social welfare expenses at an amount of RMB22.6760 million. Meanwhile, the total social welfare expenses incurred by GF Charity Foundation established by the Group, amounted to over RMB300 million. In terms of improving ESG governance, the Company has strengthened its comprehensive risk management, strictly abided by compliance operation requirements to enhance investor protection and shareholder return, and achieved a total social contribution of RMB4.29 per share. The Company has been included as a constituent stock in the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainable Index Series for many consecutive years.In the future, GF Securities will follow the guidance of China’s socialism with Chinese characteristics in a new era, serve national strategies in the course of its development, embrace the trend of technological revolution in its development, and pursue innovation and reform for its development, thus opening a new page in the development of the Company into an international first-class investment bank. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

Industry leaders converge to explore technology-driven strategies for enhancing customer experiencesBENGALURU, INDIA, Mar 26, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - In a world where customer experience (CX) is increasingly defining business success, the Bengaluru edition of Team Marksmen Network's CX Transformation Conclave 2025 scheduled for 21st March, 2025 at Taj Vivanta, Bengaluru, proved to be a beacon of insight and innovation. Bringing together an array of industry stalwarts and forward-thinking leaders, the event delved into the transformative power of technology in shaping exceptional customer journeys, offering actionable strategies to future-proof businesses.As India continues to climb the global CX maturity ranks — standing third worldwide and leading the Asia-Pacific region, according to an industry report — the conclave highlighted the immense potential that lies in crafting thoughtful, technology-enabled customer experiences.However, despite 79% of Indian firms acknowledging CX as a revenue driver, only 17% have achieved the elusive goal of providing "exceptional" customer service. The event set out to bridge this gap, serving as a platform for industry experts to exchange ideas and chart a path toward customer-centric innovation.The day featured a series of engaging keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions that covered diverse facets of CX transformation. Attendees gained insights into the power of omnichannel strategies, where the seamless integration of digital and physical touchpoints ensures continuity and consistency in every customer interaction. The role of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics was also explored, with experts showcasing how these innovations can unlock personalised, real-time experiences that resonate deeply with consumers.One of the key takeaways was the importance of balancing innovation with empathy. While technology offers endless possibilities for personalisation and efficiency, the human element remains crucial. Speakers emphasised that businesses must strive to forge genuine connections with customers, understanding their needs, emotions, and expectations to deliver experiences that are not just satisfying but truly memorable.Throughout the event, the importance of measuring and optimising CX investments was underscored. Experts shared frameworks for tracking the impact of CX initiatives on key metrics such as customer lifetime value, retention rates, and revenue growth, ensuring that businesses can continually refine their approaches for maximum impact.This industry-centric platform was brought to life by its industry partners, namely Presenting Partner NICE, AI Transformation Partner Exotel, and Associate Partner Ubona Technologies.The CX Transformation Conclave also saw a select cross-section of eminent organisations lauded for their trailblazing CX efforts. This included:Ather Energy LimitedBrick and Bolt - home and commercial constructionCashfree PaymentsElectrolux India Private LimitedFirstsourceFlipkartForce PointInfosys FinacleITC InfotechITC LimitedKapiva AyurvedaLTIMindtreePrestige GroupXiaomi Technology India Private LimitedReflecting on the event's impact, Rajesh Khubchandani, Co-Founder and MD, Team Marksmen Network, said, "The insights shared at the CX Transformation Conclave reaffirmed that customer experience is more than just a business strategy — it’s the heart of every successful organisation. Technology is an incredible enabler, but true transformation lies in embracing a customer-first mindset at every level. Our goal with this event was to bring together brilliant minds to explore the future of CX and empower businesses to harness innovation in creating meaningful, lasting connections with their customers."As the curtains closed on yet another successful edition of the CX Transformation Conclave, one thing was clear: the future of customer experience lies in a harmonious blend of technology, empathy, and continuous evolution. The insights shared and connections forged at the event are sure to inspire a new wave of customer-centric innovation, positioning businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving experience economy.About Team MarksmenThrough an array of bespoke industry-centric knowledge platforms, using a variety of formats, such as Roundtables, Summits & Conferences, Workshops, and Recognition Ceremonies, Team Marksmen helps senior industry decision makers navigate through issues of critical importance and informs their world-view for better decision-making.Team Marksmen has successfully executed more than 50 events that have featured 1500+ brands, helping businesses across industries create opportunities to engage audiences through on-ground and virtual experiences.  The organisation empowers industry leaders by providing them with insights, ideas, and opportunities that fits their unique industry and context. Through content shared via its flagship website, Marksmen Daily, and print magazine ‘in Focus’ focused on business, leadership, and lifestyle, they help advance the practice of management. Meanwhile, through strategic initiatives like Marksmen Media, it helps organisations achieve their objectives through a plethora of bespoke digital and content strategies.To know more about this unique initiative, write to us at contact@teammarksmen.com. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

DUBAI, UAE, Mar 25, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Vibe Marketing Tech Fest – the Middle East’s largest marketing technology summit, will take place on April 23 and 24, 2025, in Dubai, UAE.Digitalisation has revolutionised how customers engage with brands, transforming the traditional linear funnel into an intricate web of touchpoints. Today’s customer journey is dynamic, interconnected, and far from predictable.Marketers must now navigate a landscape where customer expectations are higher, attention spans are shorter, and engagement spans across multiple platforms and moments.The 16th global edition of  Vibe Marketing Tech Fest (VMF) will delve into these challenges, offering insights, strategies, and Martech solutions that empower modern marketers to adapt, innovate, and thrive in this new reality.The theme will focus on the convergence of marketing technologies, ad technologies, and ad journeys and explore how marketers need to adapt, be dynamic, and incorporate customer-centricity into their approach.Marketers must leverage the power of real-time data and technology to comprehend where a customer changes trajectory and what influences their decisions in doing so. “Customers are discerning and any disruption in convenience can hamper the path to conversions. Brands must adapt to fragmented and dynamic paths to purchase, driven by real-time data and emerging AI capabilities. Vibe Marketing Tech Fest puts the spotlight on the consumer, and how brands can navigate the changing technology landscape to deliver this convenience. With this edition, we have added themes like app marketing, ad tech integration, growth, digital marketing and retail media networks,” said Sanjay Swamy, Director at Martechvibe.Top conversations at VMF 2025 will cover:Engagement, Apps & SocialAI, Automation & TechMartech, Adtech & DataBrand Growth & RetentionThe conversations at VMF tackle real-world challenges affecting marketers today, with a look at preparing for possible scenarios in the near future. Rajesh Verma, General Manager, Middle East, Epsilon said, “We need forward-facing platforms like these to help dispel the myths that surround marketing and tech in the Middle East. Take retail media as an example; many believe retail media strategies rely solely on online behaviour and demographics, overlooking the power of transactional data, or that retail media only occurs on a retailer’s website. These gatherings provide an opportunity to educate marketers on the true potential of new media opportunities, and how to avoid the pitfalls. They foster important connections that place attendees in a much better position to navigate the complexities of the evolving landscape.”Richard Shotton, Founder of Astroten, a behavioural science consultancy and author of The Choice Factory and The Illusion of Choice, will deliver the keynote on how human decision-making remains remarkably constant in an evolving technology landscape in his session titled The Enduring Power of Behavioural Science. “It’s increasingly common to see brands and agencies incorporate consumer psychology as part of their process, although it’s not often systematically applied. There’s still an over-reliance on intuition, or when research happens, it’s based on claimed data. For example, creative routes are tested by asking people which ads they think would make them purchase… It’s not that respondents deliberately mislead researchers, just that nobody is aware of all the elements that influence their decisions.  When asked, people don’t — in fact, can’t — tell you what motivates them. So, findings from a lot of market research can never uncover the whole truth. There’s still more headroom to align research with genuine motivation through the application of behavioural science.”Speakers like Scott Brinker, Sir Martin Sorrell, Brian Solis, Neil Patel, Darell Alfonso, Fernando Machado, David Raab, Rob Bloom, and Steve Lok have delivered rich sessions in the previous editions of the summit.This year’s speakers include Alexis Jean Baptiste - Chief Data & Analytics Officer | L'Oréal, James Dutton – Chief Product Officer  | UM MENAT, Mai Cheblak - Vice President Group Media & Social | Emirates NBD, Marwen Ben Messaoud - Head of Growth Middle East, Africa, South Asia |  Spotify, Matthew Horobin - Associate Director Customer Experience | Modon Holdings, Mustafa Bohra - Associate Director - Martech and Analytics | Careem, Nandakumar Vijayan - Global Director, Marketing & Communications | LuLu Group International, Oleg Nesterenko - Chief Marketing Officer | Storytel, Charlotte Davis | Acting Director of Retail Media | Majid Al Futtaim, Sohail Nawaz MBE -  Head of Retail Media | Landmark Group, Sevgi Gur - Chief Marketing Officer | Property Finder, Rishi Gupta - Regional Director: Middle East & Africa | Nothing, and many more.For more information, visit Vibe Marketing Tech Fest 2025.About VMFFounded in 2018, Vibe Marketing Tech Fest (VMF) is one of the world’s largest and most influential marketing tech conferences. It is the premier gathering for marketing, technology, product, CRM, revenue, and CX leaders. Designed to explore the latest trends, strategies, and cutting-edge tools shaping the marketing landscape, VMF serves as the ultimate platform where marketing pioneers connect with technology innovators.Join industry leaders as they network, exchange insights, and redefine the future of marketing through the power of technology.Media contact:Mrunalini Polmrunalini@vibeprojects.com  Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched its inaugural "Fashion Hong Kong Pop-up Salon" in Milan, Italy, introducing the unique creations of some of Hong Kong’s top designers to the global fashion industry. The pop-up store ran at Milan's Corso Garibaldi from 7 to 30 March to showcase works from Hong Kong designer brands, including pieces from four brands that participated in the Fashion Hong Kong London Fashion Show in February, presenting European buyers with consumers designs with a distinctive Hong Kong style, covering fashion, accessories, footwear, and lifestyle products.Various events were held over the period of the Milan pop-up. Supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, a cocktail reception on 13 March attracted more than 100 Milan-based fashion buyers, media representatives, bloggers and industry insiders. Some of the designers shared their brand stories and product concepts with local media and buyers, enhancing the exposure for Hong Kong brands in the European market and helping to foster cultural and trade exchanges between industry participants from Milan and Hong Kong.  Hong Kong brands showcased in MilanHong Kong fashion brands participating in the Milan pop-up store showcased a range of quality designs, including men's and women's fashion apparel, handbags, accessories and lifestyle products. Maverick & Co. offers a selection of high-quality backpacks and briefcases, showcasing practical aesthetics. DEROR JEWELLERY, La Serenidad, and Love by the Moon each have unique styles, creating exquisite and delicate jewellery pieces. SOULMATTE uses sustainable materials to create women's handbags that combine eco-friendliness and fashion, FEMANCE showcases its signature streamlined handbags, while JARDIN DES FONTAINES brings together adorable and refined fabric bags and scarves. IZSEL offers a fashionable and practical series of rain boots. morphil's eyewear designs combine lightweight materials with classic styles. Get the Pong presents coffee and tea sets that blend functionality and artistry, adding a touch of sophistication to everyday life. And KnitWarm, with its patented technology, skilfully incorporates conductive silver fibre yarns into soft, breathable fabrics to create warming textiles with efficient heat conduction. In addition, four Hong Kong fashion designers who had previously participated in London Fashion Week, including Angus Tsui (brand: ANGUS TSUI), Bettie Jiang (brand: Bettie Haute Couture), Ricky Wong (brand: RICKYYWONG), and Nathan Moy (brand: Z I D I), showcased their striking clothing collections at the Milan pop-up.Crafts on Peel, meanwhile, presented a handmade bamboo console table and a mahjong box crafted from rich mahogany, showcasing the beauty of traditional Hong Kong design and craftsmanship.The business exchange tour from 12 to 14 March was organised by Fashion Hong Kong. Representatives from the Hong Kong brands participating in the Milan pop-up store visited key retail destinations in the city, including La Rinascente Department Store, Orlando Design Gallery and Scalo Milano Outlet, to gain a deeper understanding of the local retail market. In addition, meetings with representatives from the Italian Trade Agency, the Italian Chamber of Fashion Buyers and the ADI Museum were arranged to discuss development trends in the Italian and broader European markets.Fashion Hong Kong returns to ShanghaiFashion Hong Kong has been actively promoting Hong Kong’s diverse designer brands on the global stage since 2015, with a footprint that includes fashion hubs such as New York, London, Paris, Copenhagen, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai. Coinciding with Shanghai Fashion Week, which kicked off earlier this week, Fashion Hong Kong is running a pop-up store at the city’s HKRI Taikoo Hui shopping mall from 28 March to 6 April. Featuring collections from seven Hong Kong fashion brands, the temporary outlet will give the brands exposure in Shanghai and help them expand in the domestic market.WebsitesFashion Hong Kong: https://fashionhongkong.com.hk/enPhoto download: https://bit.ly/4kIhte6The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) launched its inaugural "Fashion Hong Kong Pop-up Salon" in Milan, Italy, introducing the unique creations of some of Hong Kong’s top designers to the global fashion industrySupported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, a cocktail reception on 13 March attracted more than 100 Milan-based fashion buyers, media representatives, bloggers and industry insidersSome of the designers shared their brand stories and product concepts with local media and buyers, enhancing the exposure for Hong Kong brands in the European market and helping to foster cultural and trade exchanges between industry participants from Milan and Hong Kong  Hong Kong fashion brands participating in the Milan pop-up store showcased a range of quality designs, including men's and women's fashion apparel, handbags, accessories and lifestyle productsThe business exchange tour from 12 to 14 March was organised by Fashion Hong Kong. Representatives from the Hong Kong brands participating in the Milan pop-up store visited key retail destinations in the city, to gain a deeper understanding of the local retail marketMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communications and Public Affairs Department:Stanley SoTel: (852) 2584 4049Email: stanley.hp.so@hktdc.orgSnowy ChanTel: (852) 2584 4525Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.  Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - Huatai Securities Co., Ltd. (the "Company"; stock codes: 601688.SH, 6886.HK, HTSC.L), a leading technology-driven comprehensive securities company in China, released its consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2024, reporting record revenue and profit, alongside substantial progress in its internationalization strategy.Annual Highlights:- In 2024, the Company continued to execute on strategic priorities, contributing to net revenues of RMB 54.29 billion, net earnings of RMB 15.35 billion, and diluted EPS of RMB 1.62, achieving the highest results for each.- The Company announced a final payout of RMB 5.2 per 10 shares (including tax), reinforcing its commitment to shareholder value.- The investment banking business led the Mainland market, ranking first in STAR Market and ChiNext IPOs, and first in M&A activities.- The Company expanded its presence in Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, leveraging operations across Mainland China, Hong Kong, the US, the UK, and Singapore.- The Company drove growth across its comprehensive financial services, including investment banking, wealth management, and institutional services, through technology-driven initiatives.The Company made significant progress in the following areas: Investment Banking ExcellenceThe preeminent global investment banking business leveraged industry insights and deep expertise to help clients seize new opportunities, unlocking growth and driving transformation. Ranked first in IPO underwriting on the STAR Market and ChiNext, Huatai Securities achieved a total IPO underwriting volume of RMB 8.5 billion, ranking second in the A-share market. The Company maintained a leading position in M&A advisory, particularly in restructuring project reviews. Additionally, it secured second place in equity underwriting with RMB 54.9 billion and achieved third place in bond underwriting, with a total volume of RMB 1,296 billion. In 2024, the Company ranked third in the total number of Hong Kong IPOs across the market and third among Chinese securities firms in terms of funds raised.Huatai Securities solidified its leading position in China's capital markets by supporting innovation-driven enterprises. Since 2012, the Company has been a critical catalyst for technological innovation, backing over 270 technology companies with a collectively market capitalization of RMB 9.47 trillion. In 2024, this commitment continued with support for over 10 "Little Giants" and specialized medium-sized enterprises endorsed by China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.Global Reach AcceleratesHuatai Securities expanded its international footprint in 2024, demonstrating resilience in navigating volatile overseas markets. Huatai Financial Holdings (Hong Kong) became a lead underwriter in Tokyo's PRO-BOND market, while Huatai Securities (USA) gained Nasdaq underwriting membership. Additionally, a subsidiary of Huatai International, operating as a Chinese securities firm, successfully obtained a securities trading license in Vietnam.The Company's Global Trading Platform (GTP) now connects Hong Kong, the U.S., the U.K., and Singapore 24/7, enhancing cross-border capabilities. Research output surged, with 587 overseas reports (up 96% year-on-year) covering U.S., European, Japanese, and Southeast Asian markets, and stock coverage increased by 65%.Advancing Through TechnologyTo meet the evolving demands of institutional clients, Huatai Securities continued upgrading core trading infrastructure such as FICC HEAD platform and CAMS (Credit Analysis Management System). The tech-powered transformation enabled the Company to lead in market-making in the STAR Market with 126 stocks and fund liquidity services with 589 funds, while dual-counter RMB-HKD trading achieved full coverage and increased market share. The Company was awarded "2024 Top Market Maker – RMB Counter" by HKEX.On the retail front, "ZhangLe Fortune Path" app, the Company's mobile wealth management platform, is deepening AI integration to enhance client services, delivering sophisticated ETF tools for product selection and trading strategies, thereby boosting client and asset growth. Huatai Securities' fund distribution ranked second among securities firms, with AUM of equity fund reaching RMB 120.2 billion. The Huatai-PineBridge CSI 300 ETF approached RMB 360 billion, leading non-money-market ETFs in Shanghai and Shenzhen.Sustainability and GovernanceHuatai Securities' MSCI ESG rating rose to AAA in 2024, the highest among global investment banks, up from AA, marking two years of steady progress. Through its Huatai Foundation, rated 5A in Jiangsu's social organization assessment, the Company advanced rural revitalization, education, and eco-initiatives such as "One Yangtze River", promoting Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECM) in China, which were presented at COP16.Looking AheadHuatai Securities will continue its strategic focus on leveraging technology to enhance its wealth management and institutional services. By integrating resources across the business chain, the Company will further deepen its internationalization strategy, aiming to become one of the leading global investment banks providing top-tier professional financial services.About Huatai SecuritiesIncorporated in April 1991, Huatai Securities is a leading technology-driven securities group in China, with a highly collaborative business model, a cutting-edge digital platform and an extensive and engaging customer base. It provides comprehensive financial services to individual and institutional clients, including wealth management, investment banking, sales and trading, investment management, among others, with a substantial international presence.For enquiries, please contact:CDRBenny Liu                         Linda PuiTel: +86 10 6567 5056             Tel: +852 3103 0118Email: HTSC@cdrconsultancy.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Asiaray Media Group Limited (“Asiaray” or the “Group”; stock code: 1993), an established out-of-home (“OOH”) media company with a strategic focus on advertising media management at mass transportation hubs, including airports, metro stations and high-speed rail stations, has announced its annual results for the financial year ended 31 December 2024 (the “Year”). The Group recorded a net profit of RMB10.4 million, compared with a loss of RMB9.9 million in 2023, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment.Mr. Vincent Lam JP, Chairman and Executive Director of Asiaray, said, “I am pleased to report that Asiaray has achieved a turnaround, which not only marks a financial milestone, but also demonstrates our ability to adapt to the evolving market landscape. We have improved operational efficiency by divesting underperforming assets and enhancing retained media resources. We also reacquired operating rights of high-potential media resources at competitive costs and streamlined our operations for better internal control. We continue to leverage our industry expertise to provide creative solutions that empower long-standing clients, especially in the dynamic mass consumption sector, to achieve brand breakthroughs with measurable results, strengthening our network and seizing new opportunities.”For the year ended 31 December 2024, despite a decline in revenue to RMB1,069.2 million due to a decrease in media resource inventory from optimization initiatives, gross profit was RMB306.7 million, with the gross margin improving by 6.8 percentage points from 21.9% in 2023 to 28.7%. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) amounted to RMB593.2 million. As of 31 December 2024, the Group was in a healthy financial position with cash and cash equivalents, including restricted cash amounting to RMB232.5 million, laying a solid foundation for its business recovery.Business ReviewThe Metro Lines and Billboards business recorded revenue of RMB399.6 million, with gross profit of RMB103.8 million and a gross profit margin of 26.0%. For metro operations, the Group leveraged its expertise and market insights to secure more favorable terms when renewing key metro media resources such as Shenzhen Metro, which delivered solid results. Meanwhile, established assets such as Hangzhou Metro performed stably in line with expectations. Additionally, the growing prominence of high-speed rail as a preferred mode of travel has enhanced the advertising value at hubs such as Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station and Kunming Railway Station, supported by steady passenger flows and the Group’s business synergies derived from the resources in the Greater China region. The billboard business continued to improve through the diversification of media formats, including the gradual improvement of billboard effectiveness through tailored adjustments.As for the performance of the Airports business, it recorded segment revenue of RMB358.3 million, gross profit of RMB124.5 million and a gross profit margin of 34.8%, representing a year-on-year increase of 8.2 percentage points. The improvement in profitability was driven by the optimization of the Group’s airport media portfolio through continuous resource rationalization, including the regained advertising and media contracts for Haikou Meilan International Airport, for which costs were substantially reduced. While the full operational restructuring is still ongoing, encouraging progress was made during the Year, confirming the effectiveness of the current strategy to improve returns.Regarding the Bus and Other businesses segment, it recorded revenue of RMB311.4 million, gross profit of RMB78.4 million and a gross profit margin of 25.2%, a year-on-year increase of 14.3 percentage points. By formally terminating underperforming contracts in the second half of the year, this segment streamlined operations and enhanced efficiency, resulting in a return to stable performance.During the Year, the Group continued to leverage its industry-leading Outdoor and Online (“O&O”) New Media Strategy and Digital Out-of-Home Plus (“DOOH+”) platform, earning 45 accolades from influential industry platforms for innovative campaigns. The group has fully leveraged its deep market insights, decades of expertise, and economies of scale, combining creativity to connect brands with audiences while prioritizing efficiency, rapid execution and cost-effectiveness. Notable projects included a collaboration with a globally renowned beverage brand, which was awarded the OOH Contextual Marketing Award[1]. The Group redesigned a subway station using the brand’s signature colors, transforming the space into a vibrant brand showcase. Coinciding with the buzz around the Paris Olympics, the campaign incorporated athletic track motifs and Olympic ring installations to amplify the theme of “cheering for athletes”. In Hong Kong, the Group won the prestigious IAI Awards[2] by reimagining bus stops for an international beer brand, integrating atmospheric lighting to create an immersive nighttime experience that offered pedestrians a fresh perspective.On the supply side, the Group strengthened its partnership with programmatic advertising leaders such as The Trade Desk, Hivestack by Perion and Vistar Media, seamlessly connecting its premium OOH media resources with global advertisers seeking precise, data-driven advertising solutions. For example, a telecom brand targeting tech-savvy, data-heavy mobile users leveraged the Group’s media resources across Singapore’s Thomson-East Coast Line via programmatic platforms. Coupled with the Group’s Weather Triggering technology, creatives dynamically switched between “sunny” and “rainy” versions based on real-time weather to complete the offline-to-online cycle, enabling the brand to chase away the rainy day blues by offering customers free data whenever it rained in Singapore. This real-time customization boosted engagement by aligning incentives with immediate scenarios, adding interactivity and playful relevance. These efforts not only enriched urban visual landscapes but also demonstrated the strategic balance between innovative impact and operational agility.ProspectsLooking ahead to 2025, supported by the Chinese government’s initiatives to boost domestic consumption, the Group aims to strengthen its partnership with sectors aligned with current consumption patterns. By harnessing its strategically located media resources across airports, metro systems, and high-speed rail networks, the Group will continue to deliver campaigns that link brand objectives with consumer trends, enabling the creation of targeted and innovative advertising solutions designed to broaden revenue streams and strengthen market position.For the longer term, the Group remains committed to refining its internal control and adopting prudent financial practices that mitigate risk and allow it to navigate the evolving business landscape. Meanwhile, the Group will continue to optimize its media portfolio through long-standing partnerships with major media resource owners, enhancing profitability while maintaining operational efficiency. These initiatives will be supported by organizational restructuring to better align with ever-changing market demands and opportunities.Mr. Lam concluded, “The year 2024 has highlighted a fundamental truth: challenges, when met with clarity and determination, can become catalysts for new beginnings. Innovation remains at the heart of our strategy as we push the boundaries of advertising technologies, optimizing campaigns and turning insights into impact. Building on our leadership in Greater China’s transport advertising sector, we will expand cross-media solutions that connect brands with evolving consumer demands. Leveraging our agility, deep market expertise, and strategic foresight, Asiaray will continue to turn industry shifts into opportunities, delivering long-term value for shareholders and stakeholders while reinforcing our legacy of resilience and innovation.”About Asiaray Media Group Limited (stock code: 1993.HK)Established in 1993, Asiaray is an out-of-home media company in Greater China with a strategic focus on managing mega transport advertising media, including airports, metro lines, and high-speed rail lines. As of now, the Group’s business network spans nearly 40 cities in Greater China, with advertising media resources available at over 24 airports (including exclusive concession rights at 22 airports); providing exclusive advertising media resources in a total of 15 metro lines, including the Singapore Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL), and a total of16 high-speed rail line and railway stations, including the High-Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and the China-Laos Railway (Yumo Line). Additionally, the Group has been granted exclusive advertising media resources at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (Zhuhai Port), as well as on KMB and LWB bus shelters. In recent years, the Group has actively engaged in programmatic advertising transactions with various ad-tech partners such as Google, Hivestack by Perion and The Trade Desk.Asiaray is also dedicated to investing in corporate social responsibility and environmental protection initiatives. The company has received the “Hong Kong Green Organisation” award and has been recognised as a “Caring Company”.For more detailed information about Asiaray, please visit its official website: www.asiaray.com or follow the Group’s WeChat official account via the QR code provided (ID: asiaray_airport˜).[1] The OOH Contextual Marketing Award serves as an industry benchmark and has been held for nine consecutive years. It aims to identify outstanding cases that best represent the innovative spirit and communication value of OOH contextual marketing from numerous entries, thereby driving industrial development. Recognized as one of the most authoritative awards in China’s advertising sector, it maintains rigorous evaluation standards and systematic selection mechanisms.[2] The renowned IAI AWARDS was founded in 2000, co-organized by the China Advertising Association of Commerce and the School of Advertising of Communication University of China. Its jury panel of around 200 members includes influential figures from the academic, advertising, corporate, and media sectors, demonstrating its high recognition in the industry. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 28, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Analogue Holdings Limited (“Analogue” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) (stock code: 1977), a leading provider of electrical and mechanical (“E&M”) engineering solutions, and information and communications technology services for smart cities, today announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024 (the “Year” or “FY2024”).Financial Highlights- Contracts-in-hand remained at a high level of HK$11,052.7 million- Revenue rose to HK$6,450.1 million, up 5.2% year-on-year- Adjusted profit attributable to owners of the company recorded HK$206.0 million 1 with a growth of 10.2% 2 year-on-year, excluding a one-off expense and provision- Total dividend for the year amounted to HK4.38 cents per shareChairman Dr Mak Kin Wah said, “Capturing opportunities from shifting market priorities towards intelligent and digital solutions, data centres, environmental engineering and climate solutions, hospitals, infrastructure, and housing, we maintained a high level of contracts-in-hand across the Group’s diverse scope of business, providing a strong underlying foundation for the business over the next two years and beyond; this was notwithstanding the challenges around the world and in Hong Kong during the year.ATAL Tower, our new headquarters, is a significant investment that demonstrates our confidence in the future and our commitment to Hong Kong. We will continue to leverage our expertise and strong financial position to take up additional opportunities in the Hong Kong market, and explore further business development in overseas markets. Our investment in research and development, and innovation will enhance our core strengths and competitiveness. We will tirelessly live up to our motto of ‘We Commit. We Perform. We Deliver.’, ultimately driving our sustainable growth, optimising value for shareholders and other stakeholders, and contributing to the wider community.”Business Review: Building Services- This segment is the largest revenue contributor, with revenue up 5.3% to HK$3,933 million.- The recurring maintenance revenue increased by 40.2% to HK$422 million.- Leadership in the innovative construction technology of Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (“MiMEP”) received a major boost during the year, not only with the award of significant contract for a Grade A office building in Causeway Bay with the highest level of MiMEP application at 85% for a commercial building, but also with the development of our own systematic MiMEP methodologies and solutions.- The “MiMEP Design and Manufacturing Centre” and “MiMEP High Productivity Research Centre” in Zhuhai, as well as other MiMEP manufacturing facilities in Hong Kong, were established to integrate our capabilities in the Greater Bay Area with cutting-edge technology from Hong Kong.Environmental Engineering- The order intake significantly increased by 107.4% to HK$1,514 million, with contracts won for environmental infrastructure needed to enhance climate resilience, environmental protection, sustainability of water supply and waste treatment, and support for public housing and utilities.- The segment actively extended its expert services around the world, including Teresa in the Philippines, Dubai and other parts of the world.Information, Communications and Building Technologies (“ICBT”)- The order intake increased 22.5% to HK$757 million, with contracts-in-hand up 13.8% to HK$959 million.- The segment actively collaborated with leading manufacturers worldwide and in Mainland China to expand its technology reach and deliver cutting-edge solutions in diverse sectors.Lifts and Escalators- There was a significant growth in order intake and revenue, up 48.5% to HK$548 million and up 39.9% to HK$529 million respectively.- The two recently acquired lift companies in the United Kingdom (“UK”) contributed to revenue growth and made progress in the UK business.- The associate in the United States turned from a loss to a profit in FY2024 and made progress in expanding its business into additional cities in the South.For further details of the 2024 Annual Results, please refer to the announcement filed with The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited.Remark:1. Profit attributable to the owners of the Company was HK$135.3 million, including a one-off expense of approximately HK$23.1 million before tax for relocation to the new consolidated headquarters to realise enhanced efficiency and synergy across business units, and a provision for expected credit loss of HK$88.0 million before tax to reflect risks with the recoverability of certain receivables and contract assets held by the Group in relation to certain construction companies.2. When compared with the adjusted profit attributable to owners of the company of HK$186.9 million in FY2023, which excludes a one-off dilution gain before tax upon completion of a private placement by an associate in Mainland China, a gain on disposal of interest before tax in an associate, and a provision before tax in respect of certain contracts in the healthcare sector.About Analogue Holdings LimitedEstablished in 1977, Analogue Holdings Limited is a leading provider of electrical and mechanical (“E&M”) engineering solutions and information and communications technology (“ICT”) services for smart cities, with headquarters in Hong Kong and operations in Macau, Mainland China, the United States and the United Kingdom. Serving a wide spectrum of customers from public and private sectors, the Group provides multi-disciplinary and comprehensive E&M engineering and technology services in four major segments, including Building Services, Environmental Engineering, Information, Communications and Building Technologies (“ICBT”) and Lifts & Escalators.The Group also manufactures and sells Anlev lifts and escalators internationally and has entered into an alliance with Transel Elevator & Electric Inc. (“TEI”), one of the largest independent lifts and escalators companies in New York, the United States. The Group’s associate partner, Nanjing Canatal Data-Centre Environmental Tech Co., Ltd (603912.SS), specialises in manufacturing of precision air conditioners. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

SINGAPORE, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Avantor Inc., a leading global provider of mission-critical products and services to customers in the life sciences and advanced technologies industries, was recognized  with two prestigious awards at the recent Asia-Pacific Biopharma Excellence Awards (ABEA) 2025. The recognition underscores Avantor’s commitment to providing high-quality biopharma manufacturing solutions, addressing logistics challenges and optimizing supply chain.Specifically, Avantor was recognized for the ABEA:Best Bioprocessing Supplier Award: Single Use SystemsBest Bioprocessing Supplier Award: ChromatographySingle-use solutions enhance flexibility and speed in biopharma manufacturing. As the only open-architecture provider, Avantor offers end-to-end design, manufacturing, and logistics support worldwide. With a diverse portfolio of chromatography resins and advanced production technologies, these solutions enable the rapid and scalable delivery of high-quality therapies.Narayana Rao Rapolu, VP & GM, BPS AMEA, Avantor said, “We are honored by these two awards recognizing Avantor and our team’s contributions to advancing biomanufacturing. As biologics grow more complex, Avantor remains dedicated to providing innovative chromatography and single-use solutions that enhance flexibility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness globally. Additionally, by leveraging our wide range of chromatography resins, process chemicals, and reagents, our application scientists, and customer support centers are able to provide total solutions that improve process efficiency."Rajesh Bhagwat, Director, Strategy & Marketing, BPS AMEA, Avantor said, “Avantor’s expertise in delivering customized, scalable solutions drives innovation in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Our advanced chromatography resins, including PROchievA and J.T.Baker® Bakerbond®, provide unique selectivity for next-generation therapies across the Asia-Pacific region. This award reinforces our commitment to supporting customers at every stage, from small-scale development to large-scale production.”Rajesh Bhagwat, Director, Strategy & Marketing, BPS AMEA, Avantor, receiving the Best Bioprocessing Supplier Award - Chromatography at ABEA 2025Stephanie Chan, Head of Biopharma, SEA, Avantor, receiving the Best Bioprocessing Supplier Award - Single Use Systems at ABEA 2025The Asia-Pacific Biopharma Excellence Awards (ABEA) recognizes exceptional Asian bioprocessing, biologistic, clinical trials and aseptic fill and finish experts, organizations and technologies. It celebrates outstanding achievements and innovations in the bioprocessing industry across the Asia Pacific region. The awards are judged by a panel of industry experts, and winners are selected based on their contributions to the advancement of the bioprocessing industry.About AvantorAvantor® is a leading life science tools company and global provider of mission-critical products and services to the life sciences and advanced technology industries. We work side-by-side with customers at every step of the scientific journey to enable breakthroughs in medicine, healthcare, and technology. Our portfolio is used in virtually every stage of the most important research, development and production activities at more than 300,000 customer locations in 180 countries. For more information, visit avantorsciences.com and find us on LinkedIn, X (Twitter) and Facebook.Regional Media Contact:Swati ChhabraManager - Corporate Communications, AMEAAvantor91-9958-404-334swati.chhabra@avantorsciences.comGlobal Media Contact:Eric Van ZantenHead - External CommunicationsAvantor1-610-529-6219eric.vanzanten@avantorsciences.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

HONG KONG, Mar 31, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Guoquan Food (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (“Guoquan” or the “Company”, Stock Code: 2517.HK), a leading and fast-growing brand of dining-at-home food products in China, announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2024.In 2024, despite a highly challenging market environment, the Company achieved simultaneous growth in both revenue and gross profit through its robust supply chain capabilities, innovative channel strategies, and efficient membership operations. For the year ended December 31, 2024, Guoquan reported annual revenue was RMB6,469.8 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 6.2%; gross profit was RMB1,416.8 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 4.9%; and core operating profit was RMB310.8 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.1%. Meanwhile, Guoquan places particular emphasis on shareholder returns. The Board of Directors has resolved to recommand a final dividend of RMB0.0746 per share for the year 2024, representing a return to shareholders of over RMB200 million.Consolidate the infrastructure of its 10,000+ stores and strategically penetrate lower-tier marketsIn 2024, Guoquan has proactively grasped changes in consumption trend, improved stores’ capabilities of operation and management by optimizing product portfolio, and embraced multi-faceted initiatives such online leads, which formed a holistic and instant retail store network. The number of stores increased from 9,660 as at 30 June 2024 to 10,150 as at 31 December 2024, with its retail store network covering 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities. Meanwhile, based on in-depth understanding of markets in lower-tier cities, the Company also has achieved outstanding performance on expansion of stores in township-level market. There were 287 net new township-level stores for the year of 2024. The new township-level stores differs in product structure, store display and other aspects from the standard stores, and better meet the needs of consumers from township-level markets.Online and offline dual-wheel drive, omni-channel sales network to pry the multi-scene consumer ecologyTo empower franchisees and facilitate their sales growth as well as further expand consumer reach and offer more flexible shopping experience, the Company has also developed multiple online sales networks, including the Company’s Guoquan APP, WeChat mini-program, third-party food delivery platforms as well as on popular social commerce platforms such as Douyin to promote interplay between offline stores and online leads. In 2024, the Company continued to conduct consumer reach for Guoquan’s products on its multi-level Douyin accounts, gaining a total exposure of over 6.21 billion times throughout the year. In addition, Guoquan successively launched“RMB99 Beef Tripe Freedom Hotpot Set”,“RMB99 Sauerkraut Fish Freedom Hotpot Set”and other product portfolio with high quality-price ratio that is popular with consumers. Among them, the “RMB99 Beef Tripe Freedom Hotpot Set”and other beef tripe hotpot sets successively launched since late May were well received by consumers with accumulated sales exceeding RMB500 million in 2024.Quality member ecosystem empowers growth, and systematic innovation enhances consumer stickiness.Guoquan’s membership program built close online and offline connections and engagement with consumers and fostered consumer loyalty. In the second half of 2024, the Company has thoroughly upgraded the membership system and increased member benefits by making adjustments to tiered membership system, so as to further promote the membership growth and stickiness. As at 31 December 2024, the number of the Company’s registered members reached approximately 41.3 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 48.2%. The Company continued to enhance and develop the prepaid cards program. The value stored in prepaid cards for the year ended 31 December 2024 was approximately RMB0.99 billion, representing a year-on-year increase of 36.6%.Deepening the upstream industry layout and building a "tasty and value-for-money" moatAdopting a one-product-one-factory model, Guoquan has strategically acquired food ingredient production capabilities to achieve stronger control over the production and supply of its staple products. The Company has created industrial layout of essential ingredients of hotpot at all levels. As at 31 December 2024, the Company had six food ingredient production plants, namely, Heyi Plant for the production of its beef products, Wanlai Wanqu Plant for the production of meatballs, Chengming Plant for the production of its hotpot soup base products, Huanhuan Plant for the production of aquatic products, Daixiaji for the production of paste products and Taijiang Plant for the production of sour soup base products. The Company has continuously enhanced its bargaining power in upstream procurement, increasingly realized economies of scale of production and continuously optimized production costs by development and deployment of industry.In 2025, Guoquan will focus on the development strategy of "brand, product and channel", deepen the synergistic effect of "production, supply and marketing", continue to integrate the upstream and downstream supply chain, embrace AI and unmanned retailing, realize the integrated development of online and offline, and actively explore the overseas market to deliver the good taste of China.Firstly,  expanding and deepening the network and continued expansion of low tier markets. Guoquan plans to expand the multi-level sales network, improve market penetration, and promote new regions’ network expansion via new store types of stores for town-level and county-level markets, covering more towns and counties. Meantime, the Company will continue to launch products and services to meet consumers’ demand from low-tier markets, in order to capture more market share in low-tier markets.Secondly, strengthening the membership ecosystem construction to empower brand reach by IP. Guoquan will continue to extend the channels for expanding customers, encourage members to introduce new customers, improve public and private traffic, and reach consumers through popular TV commercials, offline advertising and social media and e-commerce platforms, such as Douyin, so as to expand the Company’s member groups. The Company will continue to optimize the membership benefits program by enriching the points redemption portal and upgrading the member’s rights system. The Company will gradually create and distribute various contents with high quality in the form of image text and videos focused on our brand’s cartoon image of IP “Guobao” to emotionally connect with consumers, so as to better convey our brand value concept. The Company will enhance the understanding of consumer behaviours to provide the most suitable marketing, services and products, so as to raise engagement velocity.Thirdly, strengthening its position as community central kitchen by increasing real-time retails and intelligent retails. Guoquan will continue to deepen the diversify consumption scenarios. The Company will also continue to innovate sales channels by vigorously developing the business model of "one shop, one store, and one warehouse", providing an unlimited shopping experience and breaking free from the limitations of the retail space of physical stores. Relying on the Internet of Things, big data, and AI technology, the Company will transform some instant retail stores into intelligent unmanned retail stores, further extending the business hours of stores, serving more home - dining consumption scenarios, and creating a 24/7 intelligent retail network.Fourthly, expanding its presence in the industry, consolidate supply chain system and build up core competencies of products. Guoquan will continue to adopt its one-product-one-factory strategy to achieve economies of scale and increase its cost advantage. The Company plans to expand its presence in the industry through investment or collaboration and further integrate its upstream resources and source quality food ingredients by joining hands with selective and qualified domestic and overseas food suppliers who have market potential and can achieve synergy with the Company, developing a strong industrial supply chain.Fifthly, exploring overseas markets to deliver the good taste of China. The Company plans to initially explore overseas regional markets by prudently evaluating and selecting suitable locations, such as Hong Kong, Southeast Asia and other regions. The Company will try to arrange the sales of its products, export its supply chain capability to abroad, and deliver the good taste of China, so as to continuously improve its global recognition and explore overseas sales growth points.ABOUT GUOQUAN FOOD (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD. (2517.HK):Guoquan Food (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. ("Guoquan"; Stock Code: 2517.HK) is the leading one-stop home meal products brand in China, offering a variety of ready-to-eat, ready-to-heat, ready-to-cook and prepared ingredients, with a focus on at-home hotpot and barbecue products. Leveraging the Group’s robust supply chain capabilities, a strategic industrial layout with self-owned factories, a nationwide network of around 10,000 instant retail stores, and a carefully curated product portfolio, the Group offer a variety of home meal products solution under the "Guoquan Shihui" brand, catering to different dining scenarios. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.