Author: Durian

SINGAPORE, Jan 15, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - EXPO REAL Asia Pacific 2026, set to take place in Singapore from 15 to 17 June 2026, is gearing up to be a significant event for the real estate, infrastructure, and investment sectors in the Asia Pacific region.The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) of Thailand has been announced as the first Founding Partner of EXPO REAL Asia Pacific 2026. This partnership highlights the EEC's commitment to promote investment, uplift innovation and advanced technology, aligning with the event's goal as a platform to accelerate real estate and infrastructure growth and investment.The Eastern Economic Corridor, a flagship economic development zone in Thailand, is renowned for its strategic initiatives aimed at transforming the region into a leading economic hub. By partnering with EXPO REAL Asia Pacific, the EEC aims to showcase its investment opportunities, infrastructure projects, and innovative developments to a global audience.The Thai government calls the 20-year strategy "Thailand 4.0", taking a cue from the concept of "Industry 4.0" aimed at transforming the country into an innovative, value-based industry, with an emphasis on 5 clusters: Medical & Health, Digital, Next-Generation Automotive, Bio-Circular-Green, and Services."We are thrilled to welcome the Eastern Economic Corridor of Thailand as our first Founding Partner," said Mr Michael Wilton, CEO and Managing Director of MMI Asia, the organiser of EXPO REAL Asia Pacific. "This partnership underscores the importance of EXPO REAL Asia Pacific as the platform where strategic economic regions like the EEC can tap on to share their success stories and attract more global investment and partners."The significant milestone provides the EEC with a prominent platform at EXPO REAL Asia Pacific, allowing it to engage with international investors and industry leaders. The EEC will also host forums and networking sessions highlighting its key projects and strategic initiatives."We are excited to join forces with EXPO REAL Asia Pacific," said Dr Chula Sukmanop, Secretary General of the Eastern Economic Corridor. "This partnership aligns with our vision to position the EEC as a global investment destination. We look forward to leveraging this opportunity to attract new investments and drive sustainable economic growth."EXPO REAL Asia Pacific will take place from 15-17 June 2026 in Singapore, bringing together key stakeholders from the real estate, infrastructure and investment sectors. The event will feature a comprehensive program of conferences, exhibitions, and networking opportunities designed to facilitate business connections and knowledge exchange.About EXPO REAL Asia PacificEXPO REAL Asia Pacific is the international event for the real estate, infrastructure and investment industry in the Asia Pacific region. Singapore is the leading financial and commercial centre in the region and offers an excellent business environment and direct market access. In one of the fastest growing regions, the event connects industry decision-makers to tap into market potential and do business and invest in an effective environment. The premiere will take place in Singapore from June 15 to 17, 2026. www.exporealasiapacific.comAbout Eastern Economic Corridor of ThailandThe Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development lies at the heart of Thailand 4.0 scheme. The project is an area-based development initiative, aiming to revitalize the well-known Eastern Seaboard of Thailand, where numerous business developers have experienced a rewarding investment journey and exceptional achievements.The project initially focused on the 3 Eastern provinces, namely Rayong, Chonburi, and Chachoengsao. The EEC development plan envisages a significant transformation of both physical and social development, playing an important role as a regulatory sandbox to uplift the country's competitiveness. It has the objectives of developing modern and environmentally friendly economic activities, providing comprehensive government services, creating efficient infrastructure and public utilities, determining the appropriate use of land as well as developing liveable cities to be modern and suitable for living and doing business. www.eeco.or.th/enFor media inquiries, please contact:Ms Adeline LimProject DirectorMMI Asia Pte LtdEmail: adeline.lim@mmiasia.com.sg Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

LONDON, Jan 13, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - AI and Big Data Expo Global, the premier event for AI and Big Data enthusiasts, innovators, and industry leaders, is under 4 weeks away. Set to take place at the stunning Olympia, London from 5-6 February 2025, this must-attend Artificial Intelligence and Big Data event is for professionals from all industries looking to learn more about the newest technologies that are transforming the world of work.Key Highlights:- Headline Speakers: The event boasts a stellar line-up of over 150 speakers from leading global organizations, including:NVIDIA, LinkedIn, Unilever, Sainsbury’s, Co-op, Salesforce, BT Group, Meta, Lloyds Banking Group, Philips, The Economist, Jaguar Land Rover and many others.These industry trailblazers will share their expertise and visions on how AI and Big Data are shaping the future across various sectors.- Industry leading agenda - topics include:Strategic insights into the convergence of machine learning, NLP, and neural architectures shaping AI’s future.Explore how AI is transforming businesses globally, beyond just augmenting intelligence.Understand how AI impacts work, organizational culture, trust and leadership.Examine AI’s effect on skills, human-AI collaboration and the workplace experience.Empower your organization to navigate the AI transformation journey.Dive into advanced analytics and AI for smarter, data-driven business decisions.- Unmatched Networking Opportunities: With over 7,000 attendees expected, the AI and Big Data Expo offers unparalleled opportunities for networking, including the Networking drinks on Day 1 of the event. Plus, utilize our AI-powered matchmaking tool to connect with potential collaborators, clients, and thought leaders from around the globe.- Co-located Shows: Gain access to nine co-located events, covering a wide range of technological innovations and trends. This multi-event format ensures attendees can explore the intersection of AI, big data, and other emerging technologies.- Exhibition Floor: Discover the latest innovations from over 150 industry-leading solution providers, including Salesforce, Experian, Edge Impulse, Snowflake, Coursera and more. The exhibition floor is your gateway to seeing cutting-edge products and services first-hand, offering solutions that can transform your business.In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, AI isn’t just a tool—it’s a strategic imperative. Executives and senior employees need to stay ahead of emerging trends to drive innovation, efficiency, and growth across the organisation.Discover how AI can transform your business! Dive deep into cutting-edge sessions covering everything from AI ethics and infrastructure to human-AI collaboration and revolutionary use cases.Register Today:Don’t miss your chance to attend this world-leading event and elevate your AI expertise. Secure your pass today by visiting our registration page.About AI & Big Data Expo:The AI and Big Data Expo is part of TechEx Events - the leading technology event: https://lnkd.in/erp6-F_M . Prepare for two days of unrivalled access to the trends and innovations shaping the future of AI, Automation and Big Data across industries globally. Plus, gain access to 9 co-located events, all under the TechEx Events Series. Don't miss out!We look forward to welcoming you to the AI & Big Data Expo Global in London!Media contact:Charlie Herne charlie@techforge.pub Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

TOKYO, Jan 15, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - EEJA Ltd. (Headquarter: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Akihiko Domae; hereafter “EEJA”), the main company operating TANAKA’s plating business, announced today that it would exhibit at the 39th NEPCON JAPAN, the electronics development and packaging exhibition scheduled to be held at Tokyo Big Sight from January 22–24, 2025. EEJA will premiere a range of new products in the field of plating technologies and processes to help meet rising needs in the electronics industry, including automotive electronic components and semiconductors.Technologies in demand have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years, with the primary usage domain for electronic components shifting from local to network usage. In contrast, the communications industry has shifted from 5G to 6G to support increased data volumes and faster communication speeds. The automotive industry has also changed, with the increased use of electronic components and semiconductors around the engine and demand for products able to pass testing in harsh environments in terms of characteristics such as heat and moisture resistance in particular.EEJA will exhibit several new plating technologies at NEPCON JAPAN, including PRECIOUSFAB Pd/Pt/Ru/Rh/Ir (a high hardness, wear-resistant platinum group plating process increasingly needed for in-vehicle electronic components), PRECIOUSFAB HG/GT/GS (a precious metal alloy plating process used as a means of reducing usage of precious metals that are becoming increasingly expensive, and to create further added value), MICROFAB series (a number of environment-friendly, non-cyanide processes), and SEADCAT (a direct patternable plating process that supports surface treatment of next-generation glass interposers that are essential for semiconductor packaging).Taking advantage of precious metals technologies acquired by TANAKA over many years in the industry, EEJA develops and provides the plating technologies and products that are essential in the electronics industry, from semiconductors to electronic components. With the demand for greater sophistication in the electronics industry, EEJA will continue contributing to technical innovations in the industry.Overview of EEJA's exhibition at 39th NEPCON JAPAN- Date and time: January 22–24, 2025 (10:00–17:00)- Venue: Tokyo Big Sight- Booth: E64-52, East Exhibition Halls- Main products on displayProduct nameOverviewPRECIOUSFAB Pd/Pt/Ru/Rh/Ir: High hardness, wear resistant platinum group plating processA plating process that achieves high reliability when used for contact parts of connectors, etc. that need durability and environment resistance, such as for in-vehicle applicationsMICROFAB Au2108/Au2168: Part of the MICROFAB series of environment-friendly, non-cyanide gold electroplating processes with improved stability of hardness and appearance (New Product)A plating process that does not use cyanide compounds, so will not only help in semiconductor manufacturing processes, but will also improve the plating work environments, which is expected to increase further in demand going forward. It is expected to improve product yields and reliability through stable appearance and hardness when forming gold bumps on increasingly fine-pitch and high-density wafersSEADCAT PRM200 series: Direct patterning plating technology (New Product) A plating technology that supports more material types than the SEADCAT100 seriesSEADCAT PRM200-MRG: Increased adhesiveness to LCPs and some fluororesins, with improved heat and moisture resistanceSEADCAT PRM200-MDI: Reduced copper diffusion through heat treatment after copper wire formation on polyimidesOptimization of primers has also enabled support for surface treatment of glass interposers.Refer to the following for detailed information on other plating processes and equipment.Plating Processeshttps://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/products/detail/plating-processes/Various plating processes are handled by EEJA Ltd.https://eeja.comPlating Equipmenthttps://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/products/detail/plating-equipment/Plating equipment is handled by group company Mitomo Semicon Engineering Co., Ltd.https://mitomo-semicon-eng.co.jp/en/home-2/EEJA Ltd.Headquarter: 2-6-6 Nihonbashi Kayabacho, Chuo-ku, TokyoEstablished: 1965CEO: Akihiko DomaeCapital: 100 million yenNet sales: 21.64333 billion yen (FY2023)Number of employees: 130 (including overseas sites) (as of December 31, 2023)Business activities: Development, manufacture, sales, and export of precious metal plating solutions and base metal plating solutions, additives, and surface treatment-related chemicalsHiratsuka Office: 5-50 Shinmachi, Hiratsuka-city, KanagawaOfficial Website: https://eeja.comAbout TANAKASince its foundation in 1885, TANAKA has built a portfolio of products to support a diversified range of business uses focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volume of precious metals it handles. Over many years, TANAKA has manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry and provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and assets. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies in Japan and worldwide collaborate on manufacturing, sales, and technology development to offer a full range of products and services. With 5,355 employees, the group’s consolidated net sales for the fiscal year ending December, 2023, was 611.1 billion yen.Official Website: TANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIEShttps://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/Product inquiriesTANAKA PRECIOUS METAL TECHNOLOGIES Co., Ltd.https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-on-industrial-products/Press inquiriesTANAKA PRECIOUS METAL GROUP Co., Ltd.https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/Press Release: http://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/2025115_EN.pdf Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

JAKARTA, Jan 16, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - PT TransNusa Aviation Mandiri (TransNusa), the new player with new rules, kick starts 2025 by introducing a new international route from Indonesia’s renowned tourism destination, Bali to Perth, Australia.TransNusa started selling the flight tickets, which are priced from IDR 1.799.000 onwards, AUD 169 onwards, CNY 782 onwards, USD 163 onwards, and MYR 514 onwards, on January 15. The TransNusa flight tickets can be purchased at transnusa.co.id or any secure online travel agent.TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Bernard Francis said that TransNusa has introduced this new international route in order to provide passengers with additional travel choices.“The Bali - Perth international route is a golden route as the highest number of tourists, almost every year, in Bali are from Perth. Hence, the demand for this route is equally significant,” said Datuk Bernard, adding that TransNusa will be launching the maiden flight from Bali to Perth on March 20, this year.On the details of the scheduled flights, Datuk Bernard explained, “Initially, TransNusa will operate three scheduled flights a week, which will be on Monday, Thursday and Saturday. From April 12, we will increase the frequency to four times a week by adding another flight on Tuesday and eventually increase the frequency to a daily flight from June 1 onwards.”TransNusa’s scheduled flight, 8B 080 (DPS-PER), will depart Bali at 09.10am from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport and arrive the Perth Airport at 12.50pm. The flight, 8B 081 (PER-DPS), will depart Perth Airport at 13.35pm and arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali on 17.20pm. TransNusa will be utilising its Airbus A320 that has a seat capacity of 174 for this international route that has a 3 hours and 40 minutes flight duration.Apart from the Bali-Perth international route, TransNusa also operates scheduled flights from Bali to Indonesia’s diving haven, Manado. TransNusa has five scheduled flights to Manado from Bali on a weekly basis. As such, tourists from Perth will also have an opportunity to visit Manado with a direct flight from Perth.For its international flights, TransNusa not only provide premium services with competitive ticket prices, but the airline also has attractive product bundles called SEAT, SEAT-PLUS and FLEXI-PRO."Our passengers will enjoy check-in baggage of between 15kgs to 30 kgs, depending on the product purchased,” Datuk Bernard said, explaining that the baggage offering was over and above the 7kgs limit offered as a passenger’s hand carry.“For the highest package, FLEXI-PRO, we provide more complete services such as free baggage 30kgs, free to choose seats, free food, and drinks, priority at check-in and boarding. In addition, TransNusa also provides its FLEXI-PRO passengers with the ability to be able to change their flight schedule without restrictions and obtain refund when needed.”TransNusa, which aims to ensure its passengers travel with ease and comfort, has also configured their A320s with a 174-seat configuration, which allows for passengers to enjoy about 30 inches of legroom, comparable to the experience passengers would get in a full-service airline."We are committed to providing affordable and competitive ticket prices, while still providing premium services to our customers.” Stressed Datuk Bernard.TransNusa, A Short HistoryTransNusa, which had to close its business operation in September 2020 due to impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the aviation industry, started operations again after injection of new shareholders and a new management team led by aviation expert, Datuk Bernard, in October 2022.Within 6 months, the airline introduced its first international route between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur and celebrated its first-year anniversary for this route on April 14, 2024.“When we re-launched TransNusa in October 2022, we started from the bottom again. We had no aircraft or roadmap to follow. Everything was new because the pandemic had broken the aviation business operations boundaries. We re-created and customised our business operations and strategy model of being the first Premium Service Carrier based on the post-pandemic scenario,” Datuk Bernard explained.TransNusa launched its first international route between Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur in April, 2023, after which the airline successfully launched three more new international routes by the end of 2023. TransNusa’s aggressive international growth strategy combined with its domestic business operations approach has enabled the airline to be the fastest growing airline in South East Asia.Since the takeover of new shareholders and the injection of a new management team, TransNusa has been contributing and changing the aviation landscape in Indonesia. It has been making headlines in Malaysia, Singapore, China and around the world with news of being the first airline in Indonesia and the world to develop and introduce a new domestic route connecting Bali and Manado. TransNusa also became the second Indonesian airline to receive approval to fly to China and provided Indonesians with more pricing and route options to China.Media ContactTrina Thomas RajMobile: +6012 4992672E-mail: trina@myqaseh.orgAbout TransNusaEstablished in 2005, TransNusa started its operation by providing chartered flights. It began its commercial flights in 2011. After ceasing operations due to the Covid-19 pandemic, TransNusa relaunched itself in 2021 as a low-cost airline in its domestic market. In 2023, TransNusa introduced a new business model making it the first Premium Service Airline in the region. The new business model will apply only to its international routes. TransNusa introduced its first international route in April this year. The airline introduced its Jakarta – Kuala Lumpur round trip route and had its maiden flight on April 14. The airline is currently based in Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.Passengers can book their flights on the TransNusa website ( www.transnusa.co.id ), through authorized travel agents in Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia, or by contacting the airline's customer service centre at +62216310888. For the Singaporean market, passengers can contact TransNusa’s General Sales Agent, Chariot Travels Pte Ltd, at +65 86602719 while for the Malaysian market, passengers can contact MKM Ticketing Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd at +60378312581. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

NORTH BRUNSWICK, New Jersey – (EmailWire) -- Bedding Industries of America (BIA), a trusted leader in mattress manufacturing with nearly 70 years of experience, proudly announces the launch of its newest innovation: the Glacier Mattress brand. Designed and manufactured in the USA, Glacier offers hybrid cooling mattresses that combine cutting-edge technology, exceptional comfort, and affordability. Later this year, the brand will expand its offerings to include bedding accessories and adjustable bases.Cooling Technology at Its BestUnderstanding the importance of temperature regulation for quality sleep, Glacier mattresses feature advanced cooling technology. GlacierTech™ fibers in the cover are cool to the touch, while CopperElement™ memory foam, gel-infused memory foam, and ventilated ARCFlow™ material promote airflow and dissipate heat.Crafted in the USABIA takes pride in its American craftsmanship, manufacturing every Glacier mattress in its Los Angeles, Chicago, and New Jersey factories. The individually wrapped coil units, made in-house from recycled steel, ensure exceptional support and durability. Glacier also incorporates ChiroZone™ quilt technology, with extra stitching in the center third for enhanced back support. Every mattress is freshly made to order, with delivery times as quick as 2-3 business days nationwide. Commitment to Health and SustainabilityGlacier mattresses are 100% fiberglass-free, using natural thistle pulp fibers for fire resistance. The line also features REPREVE® recycled polyester, removing four water bottles from the waste stream per queen mattress, and Oeko-Tex® Standard 100-certified fabrics, ensuring reduced harmful chemicals for safer sleep.The Glacier Lineup12-Inch Original Hybrid: A balanced classic hybrid offering comfort and support.13-Inch Summit Hybrid Pillow Top: Additional cooling gel and memory foam layers for extra pressure relief.14-Inch Apex Euro Pillow Top Hybrid: The ultimate in luxury, featuring CopperElement™ memory foam for plush yet supportive comfort.AvailabilityGlacier mattresses will be available on glaciersleep.com and over the phone, offering customers an unparalleled sleep experience with American-made hybrid cooling technology. For more information, visit www.glaciersleep.com.Media Contact:Brian Ma Bedding Industries of America Marketing Manager 1-(732) 628-0800 info@glaciersleep.comThis press release is issued through EmailWire™ (www.emailwire.com) – the global newswire service that provides Press Release distribution with guaranteed results™. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.

- Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the 18th Asian Financial Forum 2025 (AFF), the region’s first major international financial and business event of the year, opened today, expecting about 3,600 global financial and business elites from over 50 countries and regions- A distinguished line-up of speakers attended the opening session on the first day, including Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People's Republic of China; Dr Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People's Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People's Republic of China- Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), spoke at today’s Keynote Luncheon, dissecting how to achieve stable growth and drive rapid economic development amid a complex international environment- The AFF brings together over 130 officials, multilateral organisation and business leaders from Mainland China, ASEAN, the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the United States to examine global dynamics and financial policies, foster global collaboration, and explore new drivers for future growth- The luncheon on the second day will feature a keynote speech by Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI, who will share insights on how AI could become a new engine for global economic growthHONG KONG, Jan 13, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – The 18th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) 2025, co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Themed “Powering the Next Growth Engine”, the two-day forum has attracted over 130 global business leaders, policymakers, financial and wealth management experts, entrepreneurs, tech giants and economists as speakers. About 3,600 financial and business elites from over 50 countries and regions are expected to gather and explore how to ignite new engines for growth in 2025 and navigate the challenges ahead.The forum kicked off with opening remarks by John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, followed by addresses from Zhou Ji, Executive Vice Director of the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council of the People's Republic of China; Dr Pan Gongsheng, Governor of the People's Bank of China; and Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People's Republic of China.Welcome remarks were delivered by Dr Peter KN Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, who said: “Future growth will be different to that of the past, as traditional growth models face resource constraints and environmental pressures. Innovations, such as AI, renewable energy, fintech developments and healthcare discoveries, have the potential to power economic growth and enrich human development for decades to come. It is timely that the theme of this year’s Asian Financial Forum, ‘Powering the Next Growth Engine’, addresses these very questions from the perspective of finance and its impacts on broader business communities. The forum will discuss how the finance industry and corporates can support the next generation of innovative businesses and industries to help them unleash their potential and drive global growth in the years ahead.”The two-day forum presents over 40 sessions ranging from Plenary Sessions, Policy Dialogue, Keynote Luncheons and Breakfast Panel, Fireside Chats, and thematic workshops. Topics included global economic outlook, China opportunities, new markets opportunities, investment outlook, artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, sustainability, philanthropy, and more, giving participants a deeper understanding of future opportunities and insights into global economic development.Discussion session gathers international experts to address global challengesThis year’s forum is dedicated to driving new thinking, strengthening international cooperation and trust, and addressing the global economic landscape in a challenging environment. Plenary Session I – Innovation: The Solution to Unlock the Next Growth Engines, hosted by Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, brought together finance officials and multilateral organisation leaders to examine financial policies in 2025. Guest speakers included Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers – Head of the Presidential Administration of Kyrgyz Republic; Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister of Finance and Revenue of Pakistan; Gilles Roth, Minister of Finance of Luxembourg; and Yoshiki Takeuchi, Deputy Secretary-General, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).Plenary Session II – Collaboration: The Road to Growth and Prosperity focused on international cooperation and was also moderated by Christopher Hui. The panel speakers included Roberta Casali, Vice-President of Finance and Risk Management of the Asian Development Bank; Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB); and Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General for ASEAN Economic Community of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). They explored ways to rebuild trust and deepen partnerships amid global challenges to achieve shared growth and common prosperity.A Policy Dialogue session, Accelerating Growth through Innovation, was moderated by Eddie Yue, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority. Speakers included Bayardavaa Bayarsaikhan, Director General of the Monetary Policy Department of the Bank of Mongolia; Philip Lane, Chief Economist and Member of Executive Board of the European Central Bank; Rogelio V. Quevedo, Commissioner of Securities and Exchange Commission of the Philippines; and Dr Olli Rehn, Governor of the Bank of Finland. They exchanged valuable insights on issues such as global monetary policy trends and the impact of geopolitical factors on markets, helping businesses and organisations better navigate uncertainty and explore new opportunities for collaboration and growth.High calibre economists discuss economic growth strategies at today’s Keynote Luncheon Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government, gave his welcome remarks at today’s Keynote Luncheon. Prof Justin Lin Yifu, Chief Economist and Senior Vice President of the World Bank (2008-2012), delivered a keynote speech that addressed strategies for achieving stable economic growth. A dialogue session was moderated by Prof Richard Wong, Philip Wong Kennedy Wong Professor in Political Economy and Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong.Exploring the global outlook, opportunities in China and avenues for cooperationOne of the highlights of the afternoon session, the Global Economic Outlook discussion, was kicked off by Liu Haoling, Vice Chairman and President and Chief Investment Officer of the China Investment Corporation with a special address. The panel discussion was moderated by Victor Chu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Eastern Investment Group, with speakers including Ernesto Torres Cantú, Member of Executive Management Team and Head of International of Citi; Bonnie Y Chan, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; J Christopher Donahue, President and Chief Executive Officer of Federated Hermes, Inc; Antoine Gosset-Grainville, Chairman of the Board of Directors of AXA; and Dr Fred Hu, Founder and Chairman of Primavera Capital Group. The participants shared valuable insights on the drivers for global economic growth.Another well-received panel discussion at last year’s AFF, the China Opportunities session, was joined by some heavyweight speakers, including Charles Li, Founder and Chairman, Micro Connect; Li Yimei, Chief Executive Officer of China Asset Management; Ken Wong, Executive Vice President of Lenovo and President of Lenovo Solutions and Services Group; and Wilson Zhang, Managing Director, Global Executive Head of Equities, China International Capital Corporation Limited. They delved into the potential of the Chinese market and investment prospects under the country’s commitment to technological innovation.The green economy and sustainable development are among the key topics at this year’s forum. Corporates worldwide are actively undergoing a green transformation as regulators introduce relevant policies. The International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) published its first international sustainability disclosure standards, providing clear guidance for the green transition and sustainable development of corporates. In the meantime, corporates in Hong Kong will fully align the ISSB's sustainability disclosure standards from this year. Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the ISSB, will join other speakers to share the latest progress in sustainability reporting standards.Meanwhile, the HKTDC with AFF Knowledge Partner EY jointly conducted a survey exploring the perspectives and practices of Asian corporations and investors with regard to readiness to sustainability reporting, sustainable finance and climate change. The survey results were released today. Jack Chan, EY China Chairman and EY Greater China Regional Managing Partner, said the survey shared that an increasing number of businesses and investors are considering integrating sustainability into their operations, but barriers persist due to the lack of clearly defined frameworks and accessible resources. The survey also offers actionable insights and recommendations for companies looking to embark on a path toward sustainable development.Global investment matchmaking and diverse exhibition zonesAs one of the highlights of the forum, AFF Deal-making continues to offer an efficient one-on-one matching platform to project owners and investors. This year it has attracted over 270 investors and over 560 investment projects, covering a wide spectrum of sectors such as environment, energy and environmental technology, food and agritech, health tech, fintech, and deep tech. The Deal-making session helps foster active global collaboration and generate new business opportunities.Diverse exhibition zones foster innovation and cross-border collaborationThis year's AFF exhibition attracted over 140 fintech companies, start-ups and investment promotion agencies from around the world that are striving to stage an innovative and investment-driven grand financial event.A variety of exhibition zones are featured, including the Fintech Showcase, Fintech HK Startup Salon, the InnoVenture Salon and Global Investment Zone. The InnoVenture Salon offered a platform for over 100 start-ups to showcase the application of innovative technologies across different sectors, of which the Fintech HK Startup Salon has brought together over 60 fintech start-ups, featuring cutting-edge solutions from 22 countries and regions and helping to highlight Hong Kong's potential as a powerhouse for innovation and technology. The Global Investment Zone connects participants with business opportunities from different countries and regions.Sharing advanced insights into exploring emerging marketsThe session tomorrow offers a wide array of topics, including an exploration of the impact of AI on the financial industry. Prof Stuart Russell, Co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Council on AI, and Dr Kai-Fu Lee, Chairman of Sinovation Ventures, will deliver remarks at the Keynote Luncheon and Dialogues for Tomorrow respectively, exploring the development and opportunities that AI offers for the future of workforce, investors and businesses from different perspectives.The Forum and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) co-host the Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter tomorrow, making its debut this year. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, and Jasem Mohamed AlBudaiwi, Secretary General of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf, will deliver keynote remarks. Financial officials and representatives of financial institutions from Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will join industry leaders from Hong Kong to discuss the economic development of Gulf countries and the potential for financial cooperation with Hong Kong.Additionally, the CIO Insights session, moderated by Albert Goh, Chief Investment Officer (External Managers), Exchange Fund Investment Office, Hong Kong Monetary Authority, panelists will share their views on asset allocation plans, maintaining investment convictions, and the opportunities emerging across the wider region and beyond. The session will bring together representatives from internationally renowned large corporations and family office, including Vincent Mortier, Group Chief Investment Officer of Amundi; Bei Saville, Chief Investment Officer, Treasury and Fingerboard Family Office, Advance; Manraj Sekhon, Chief Investment Officer of Templeton Global Investments; and Alexandra Wilson-Elizondo, Partner, Managing Director, and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Multi-Asset Solutions of Goldman Sachs Asset Management.With environmental, social and governance (ESG) now playing a larger role in the development of businesses, Asia needs to look at achieving the goals set by the Paris Agreement over the next 30 years. COP29 this year have reinforced the global trend towards a green and low-carbon transition. In a session titled Dialogues for Tomorrow – Asia Dialogue on Post COP29 Implementation: Enhance Climate Ambition and Enable Financing Action, Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change of the People's Republic of China, will explore innovative financing mechanisms and collaboration opportunities with several leading experts to advance climate initiatives, as well as strategies to strengthen commitments and cooperation on climate goals. Additionally, Joe Tsai, Chairman of the Alibaba Group, will join the Global Spectrum session analysed the role of corporate social responsibility and philanthropy in supporting start-ups and social enterprises from a macro perspective.For the latest edition of the AFF, the event has collaborated with several organisations to offer special discounts and privileges for travel, dining and shopping, encouraging participants to make the most of their stay in Hong Kong and experience the city’s vitality. Activities offered to visitors include the Peak Tram and Sky Terrace experience, the Aqua Luna Victoria Harbour Cruise, visits to Man Mo Temple and Tai Kwun, dining discounts in Lan Kwai Fong, access to the Winter Wonderland at Happy Valley Racecourse’s Happy Wednesday, and a dining discount provided by Lei Garden. The goal is to give overseas participants a deeper understanding of Hong Kong, promote the conference and mega event economy, and tell positive stories about the city.Photo download: http://bit.ly/42igLNwhttps://www.uphoto.cn/album_ia1082272835.htmlThe 18th Asian Financial Forum opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), running for two days under the theme “Powering the Next Growth Engine”John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, delivered opening remarks todayDr Peter KN Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, delivered welcome remarks to participants this morningPaul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government participated in the Keynote Luncheon today and delivered welcome remarksChristopher Hui (left), Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, hosted two thematic discussion sessions todayThis year’s AFF Deal-making, an investment project matchmaking event organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA), has brought together over 270 investors and over 560 projects. After the forum, participants can join one-to-one online meetings to build connections until 16 January (Thursday)The exhibition zones at this year’s AFF have attracted over 140 fintech companies, start-ups, and international investment agencies from around the worldWebsites- Asian Financial Forum: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en- Programme: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/programme- Speaker list: https://www.asianfinancialforum.com/conference/aff/en/speakerMedia enquiriesYuan Tung Financial Relations:Agnes YiuTel: (852) 3428 5690Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hkLouise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hkHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Clayton LauwTel: (852) 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgKaty WongTel: (852) 2584 4524Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With 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.