ROME — The Vatican announced on Tuesday that Pope Francis has developed pneumonia in both lungs. Further tests revealed this complication in the 88-year-old pontiff’s condition, raising concerns about his immune response. The Vatican statement indicated that the respiratory infection also involves asthmatic bronchitis, necessitating cortisone antibiotic treatment. The Vatican noted that "Laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture.” Despite this, Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni reported in a later update that the Pope, who had part of his right lung removed in his youth, remains in good spirits and is appreciative of the prayers for his recovery. Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Friday in “fair” condition after a week of worsening bronchitis. Monday’s medical assessment diagnosed a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection—a combination of viruses, bacteria, and potentially other organisms affecting his respiratory system. Bruni stated, “The follow-up chest CT scan which the Holy Father underwent this afternoon … demonstrated the onset of bilateral pneumonia, which required additional drug therapy.” Bronchitis can lead to pneumonia, a more severe infection of the lungs' air sacs. Pneumonia can affect part or all of one or both lungs, with bilateral pneumonia being more serious due to the lack of healthy lung tissue to compensate. Treatment varies but may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and addressing the infection's cause. Francis is reportedly not currently using supplemental oxygen and has been eating breakfast, reading, and working from his hospital room. The Vatican hasn't released details on Francis' response to medication beyond stating he is afebrile (not running a fever). Dr. Carmelo D’Asero, a Roman infectious disease and geriatric expert, noted that the absence of a fever isn’t necessarily positive, given the infection's severity. He explained, “A high fever is a sign of an immune response to a pathogen,” adding, “Having a low fever and having a serious bronchial infection … is a sign of a decreased immune response and that makes us worry a little bit more, let’s say. Maybe if he had a fever, it would have been better.” The Vatican hasn't specified the length of the Pope's hospitalization, stating only that the treatment of this “complex clinical picture,” which has involved medication adjustments, requires an “adequate” stay. Despite the concerning update, a rainbow appeared over Gemelli hospital on Tuesday afternoon, and Francis received well-wishes in the form of drawings and cards from children in the hospital's oncology ward. Indicating the Vatican's ongoing operations, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican No. 2, continued his visit to Burkina Faso, and Cardinal Michael Czerny prepared for a trip to Lebanon. However, other engagements were canceled. Wednesday's general audience is postponed, and Francis’ participation in the Sunday blessing remains uncertain. His hospitalization also necessitated cancellations related to the Vatican Holy Year. This Holy Year weekend was dedicated to deacons, a pivotal stage for men aspiring to the priesthood. Francis' audience was canceled, and the Mass will be led by the organizing archbishop. A similar arrangement occurred last weekend, with a cardinal presiding over a Mass for artists in lieu of a papal audience. Upcoming Holy Year events involving the Pope include the March 8-9 weekend dedicated to volunteers. Francis underwent a partial lung removal after a childhood pulmonary infection and experiences winter bronchitis. He has acknowledged being a non-compliant patient, with Vatican aides suggesting he overexerted himself despite his bronchitis diagnosis. He maintained his demanding schedule and disregarded medical advice to stay indoors during Rome's cold winter, attending an outdoor Jubilee Mass for the armed forces on February 9th despite breathing difficulties. This year's hospitalization has already lasted longer than his 2023 pneumonia-related stay. —Visual journalist Paolo Santalucia contributed.
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Biden Judge to Decide Fate of Trump’s Attempt to Drop Charges Against Adams “`
NEW YORK — Mayor Eric Adams's attorney requested it, top officials within President Trump's Justice Department concurred, and seven prosecutors resigned in protest. Now, Judge Dale E. Ho must decide the fate of Adams's corruption case. This is the most significant challenge of Ho's young judicial career, pitting the political aims of the Justice Department's new leadership against Manhattan federal prosecutors who charged Adams last September and maintain he should be held accountable for alleged bribery and illegal campaign contributions from foreign entities. Ho, an Ivy League-educated former civil rights lawyer and law professor, hasn't shown bias in a case with significant ramifications for Adams's future and the Justice Department's pursuit of politically expedient dismissals. Ho, who twice argued against Trump's first administration before the Supreme Court, will convene a hearing with all parties, including Adams, on Wednesday to investigate the Justice Department's motives for dropping the case and Adams's willingness to comply. The Justice Department's second-in-command, Emil Bove, stated the dismissal aims to secure Adams's cooperation with Trump's immigration policies. Two prosecutors who resigned rather than comply with Bove's order last week to drop the case described this as a “quid pro quo.” Adams's lawyer denies this. Since Bove, the acting deputy attorney general, intervened and filed for dismissal last Friday, Ho has proceeded cautiously. Instead of simply granting the dismissal, Ho is seeking further information, scrutinizing motives, and soliciting input from both sides. This approach is characteristic of Ho's career, according to David D. Cole, former national legal director for the American Civil Liberties Union, where Ho led the Voting Rights Project for a decade before his judicial appointment in 2023. “Dale Ho is one of the best lawyers I’ve worked with. He is diligent, meticulous, and unwavering in his pursuit of justice,” said Cole, now a law and public policy professor at Georgetown University. “And, importantly, he understands the limits and responsibilities of his role.” Ho, 47, was nominated to the Manhattan federal bench by President Biden in September 2021. His civil rights background and social media posts criticizing conservative senators during his confirmation process resulted in a protracted and contentious confirmation. In his confirmation questionnaire, Ho disclosed volunteering for Obama's 2008 campaign. Before the ACLU, he worked at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and, in college, wrote for a left-leaning student magazine. At his confirmation hearing, Sen. Ted Cruz called him an “extreme partisan,” and Sen. John Kennedy described him as “an angry man.” Ho assured senators that he would ensure fair treatment for everyone appearing before the court. Biden resubmitted Ho's nomination after the midterm elections, and the Senate confirmed him in June 2023 in a 50-49 party-line vote. He was sworn in two months later and assigned Adams's case randomly. Joshua Naftalis, a former Manhattan federal prosecutor uninvolved in Adams's case, explained that, until 1944, cases were automatically dismissed, but rules now require judicial approval. Ho's options are limited because the prosecution wants to drop the case. However, in a letter before her resignation, interim Manhattan U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon cited a 1977 case where a judge rejected a similar dismissal request, deeming it against the public interest. Ho previously ruled against Adams, rejecting his motion to dismiss a bribery charge and a request for an inquiry into grand jury leaks. Ho, the son of Filipino immigrants, was born in San Jose, California, and now lives in Brooklyn. He served on the 2018 New York City Charter Revision Commission. In 2017 testimony, Ho mentioned his grandfather's service in World War II and survival of the Bataan Death March. “He was always keenly aware of his parents' origins and what they escaped—a country where power rested not in the people but in the whims of one leader,” Sen. Chuck Schumer said in support of Ho’s nomination. Ho graduated summa cum laude from Princeton in 1999 and earned his law degree from Yale in 2005. He worked as a paralegal and then a law clerk for a Manhattan federal judge. As director of the ACLU’s Voting Rights Project, Ho wrote and testified on voting rights, including gerrymandering, mail-in voting, and voter purges. In 2019, Ho successfully challenged Trump's attempt to add a citizenship question to the Census. In 2020, he challenged a Trump memo excluding undocumented immigrants from the apportionment base; his side lost, but Biden reversed the memo.
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Debunking Elon Musk’s Claim of Millions of Deceased Receiving Social Security Benefits
WASHINGTON — Claims by the Trump administration that tens of millions of deceased individuals over 100 years old are receiving Social Security benefits are inaccurate. President Trump and Elon Musk recently asserted on social media and during press briefings that individuals aged 100, 200, and even 300 years old are improperly receiving benefits—a significant issue, according to Musk, as his investigation into federal agencies targets waste, fraud, and abuse. While improper payments, including some to deceased individuals, have occurred, the figures cited by Musk and the White House are exaggerated and misrepresent Social Security data. Here's a factual account: The Trump administration's statements on payments to centenarians During a Florida press briefing, President Trump stated that millions of people over 100 years old receive Social Security benefits, labeling them fraudulent or incompetent. He also mentioned a purported recipient listed as 360 years old. Musk similarly posted on X, suggesting the possibility of vampires collecting Social Security and highlighting the significant problem of tens of millions of deceased individuals incorrectly marked as alive in the system. The extent of Social Security fraud A report from Social Security's inspector general indicates that from fiscal years 2015 to 2022, approximately $71.8 billion (less than 1%) of the nearly $8.6 trillion in benefits paid out were improper payments. Most errors involved overpayments to living individuals. In early January, the U.S. Treasury recovered over $31 million in federal payments (not solely Social Security) made to deceased individuals—a fraction of the anticipated total. This recovery was part of a pilot program following Congress granting the Treasury temporary access to the Social Security Administration's "Full Death Master File". This file, containing over 142 million records dating back to 1899, is maintained by the SSA. The Treasury projected recovering over $215 million during its three-year access period (December 2023 to 2026). Are tens of millions of people over 100 receiving benefits? No. The confusion stems partly from Social Security's COBOL-based software system's lack of a robust date type. Incomplete birthdates default to a reference point over 150 years ago. WIRED first reported on the use of COBOL at the Social Security Administration. Reports from the Social Security Administration's inspector general (March 2023 and July 2024) revealed the agency's failure to implement a system for properly annotating death information, involving roughly 18.9 million Social Security numbers of individuals born in 1920 or earlier but not marked as deceased. This doesn't imply benefit receipt. The agency cited the high cost (over $9 million) as the reason for not updating the database. A report indicates almost no individuals discussed in the report currently receive SSA payments. The agency automatically halts payments to those over 115. Concerns about misinformation on Social Security payments Chuck Blahous, a senior research strategist, supports efforts to eliminate improper payments but notes that Social Security's error rate is comparatively low compared to other federal programs like Medicaid. Sita Nataraj Slavov, a professor of public policy, expressed concern that these claims oversimplify solutions to Social Security's financial problems, potentially misleading the public into believing easy fixes exist without necessary sacrifices. The White House's response to criticism White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt referenced a Social Security inspector general report highlighting improper payments and stated that the Social Security Administration is actively working to address waste, fraud, and abuse.
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Brazil Charges Bolsonaro with Coup Attempt and Plot to Assassinate “`
Brazil's top prosecutor filed formal charges on Tuesday against former President Jair Bolsonaro, accusing him of orchestrating a coup attempt to cling to power following his 2022 electoral defeat. This alleged plot, the prosecutor claims, also involved plans to poison current President Lula and assassinate Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. Prosecutor-General Paulo Gonet alleges that Bolsonaro and 33 others conspired to retain power. The alleged scheme included plans to poison Lula and fatally shoot Justice Moraes, a known adversary of the former president. “The criminal organization devised a plan within the presidential palace to attack institutions, aiming to dismantle the system of powers and the democratic order, a plot ominously dubbed ‘Green and Yellow Dagger’,” Gonet stated in a 272-page indictment. “The president was aware of and approved this plan.” Bolsonaro is frequently seen wearing Brazil's yellow-and-green national soccer jersey, colors now associated with his political movement. Bolsonaro's legal team responded to the accusations with “dismay and indignation,” asserting in a statement that the former president “never supported any movement aimed at undermining the democratic rule of law or the institutions that uphold it.” Bolsonaro's son, Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, declared on X that the indictment was “baseless” and lacked evidence of wrongdoing. He accused the Prosecutor-General’s Office of serving “Lula's malicious interests.” In November, Brazil’s Federal Police submitted an 884-page report to Gonet detailing the alleged scheme. They allege a systematic effort to erode public trust in the electoral system, including drafting a decree to legitimize the plot, pressuring military leaders, and inciting a riot in the capital. Gonet described the alleged crimes as a series of events designed to prevent Bolsonaro from leaving office, “defying the outcome of the popular vote.” The Supreme Court will review the charges; if accepted, Bolsonaro will face trial. The far-right leader denies any wrongdoing. “I have no concerns about the accusations, zero,” Bolsonaro told reporters earlier on Tuesday during a Senate visit in Brasilia. “Have you seen the coup decree, by any chance? You haven’t. Neither have I,” he added. Besides participating in a coup d’état, the 34 defendants are charged with forming an armed criminal organization, attempting to violently abolish the democratic rule of law, causing damage through violence and serious threats against state assets, and damaging listed heritage, according to a statement from the Prosecutor General’s press office. Gonet stated that the charged criminal organization “was led by the (then) president himself and his running mate, Gen. Braga Netto.” “Both accepted, encouraged, and committed acts that, according to our criminal law, constitute attacks on the existence and independence of the branches of power and democratic rule,” Gonet wrote in his report. The crimes carry varying penalties. A conviction for attempted coup and violent abolition of the democratic rule of law could result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, according to the country’s criminal code. The indictments, based on written documents, digital files, spreadsheets, and message exchanges, reveal a scheme to disrupt the democratic order, according to the prosecutor-general’s office. The charges are “historic,” commented Luis Henrique Machado, a criminal lawyer and professor at IDP University in Brasilia, predicting the Supreme Court will accept the charges and bring Bolsonaro to trial sometime before the end of next year. “The charges demonstrate the strength, independence, and efficiency of Brazil’s institutions,” Machado said. “They serve as a model for other countries where democracy is threatened.” Bolsonaro is ineligible to run in the 2026 election after judges on the country’s top electoral court ruled that he abused his power and spread unfounded doubts about the country’s electronic voting system. Following Tuesday’s charges, Bolsonaro will likely “portray himself as a victim,” suggested Carlos Melo, a political science professor at Insper University in Sao Paulo. Bolsonaro has previously claimed his legal troubles are an attempt to prevent his return to office. “Polls indicate he would be a competitive candidate in the 2026 elections against Lula, one of which was released today,” said Melo. “There will be political turmoil, but it will subside.” —Savarese reported from Sao Paulo.
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Trump Issues Executive Order to Lower IVF Costs
President Trump issued an executive order on Tuesday aimed at making in vitro fertilization (IVF) more affordable. The procedure assists individuals struggling with infertility to build families. The order acknowledges the significant cost of IVF, ranging from $12,000 to $25,000 per cycle, and emphasizes the need for increased access and more affordable treatment options. It states that supporting and improving access to affordable fertility treatments helps families pursue parenthood with greater hope and confidence. The order directs the assistant to the president for domestic policy to submit recommendations within 90 days on safeguarding IVF access and substantially lowering out-of-pocket and health plan expenses for IVF treatment. IVF emerged as a key discussion point during the 2024 presidential campaign following Alabama's decision to shield IVF providers from legal liability, shortly after the state Supreme Court classified frozen embryos as children under state law. Trump publicly declared his strong support for IVF access. A June poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research revealed that roughly 60% of U.S. adults favor protecting access to IVF, with 26% expressing neutrality and approximately 10% opposing it. In 2018, assisted reproductive technologies, including IVF, accounted for 2% of all births in the United States, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Here’s what to know about this increasingly prevalent fertility treatment. What is IVF? IVF provides a solution for women experiencing difficulty conceiving, typically employed after less costly fertility treatments have proven unsuccessful. The process involves retrieving a woman's eggs, combining them with a man's sperm in a laboratory dish to create a fertilized embryo, and then transferring the embryo into her uterus to initiate pregnancy. IVF is conducted in cycles and may require multiple attempts. The procedure can utilize a couple's own eggs and sperm or those from donors. Does insurance cover the procedure? Insurance coverage for IVF and other fertility treatments varies widely depending on the insurer. Larger employers are increasingly offering this coverage to attract and retain employees. Many businesses are expanding coverage beyond those with infertility diagnoses, making it accessible to LGBTQ+ couples and single women. Government-funded programs like Medicaid generally have limited fertility treatment coverage. Smaller employers are less likely to offer this coverage. Critics argue that the lack of widespread coverage creates inequity, restricting access primarily to those who can afford the substantial out-of-pocket costs. What is the history of IVF? The world's first IVF baby was born in England in 1978. The first IVF birth in the U.S. occurred in 1981 in Norfolk, Virginia, with the arrival of Elizabeth Carr. Her mother, Judith Carr, experienced three abnormal pregnancies requiring the removal of her fallopian tubes. She and her husband sought treatment from Howard and Georgeanna Jones, physicians who established a fertility clinic at Eastern Virginia Medical School. The Norfolk clinic encountered opposition even before opening. A 1979 state certification hearing attracted over 600 attendees. While some women testified in support of IVF, citing their desire to have children, anti-abortion groups raised concerns about medical interference with conception and embryo disposal. Despite legislative attempts to halt the clinic, it opened in 1980, followed by others in California, Tennessee, and Texas. By 1988, at least 169 in vitro centers operated across 41 states. While IVF use expanded, opposition within the American anti-abortion movement persisted, according to Margaret Marsh, a history professor at Rutgers University. Marsh notes that although some within the movement had accepted IVF as a treatment for infertility, opposition has intensified since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. “Not everyone in the anti-abortion movement opposes these reproductive technologies, but many do,” she stated. How are embryos made? The treatment often involves using hormones to stimulate ovulation, producing multiple eggs that are retrieved using a needle from the ovaries. Fertilization occurs by either adding sperm to the eggs in a lab or injecting a single sperm into each egg. The fertilized egg is cultured for about five to six days to develop into a blastocyst—the early-stage embryo—which is then either transferred or stored for later use, explains Dr. Jason Griffith, a reproductive endocrinologist in Houston. Griffith explains that a three-day-old embryo comprises six to 10 cells, while a six-day-old embryo has 100 to 300 cells. This is in contrast to a human body containing over 1 trillion cells. How are embryos frozen and stored? Frozen embryos can be used for future pregnancies, and the majority survive the thawing process. Freezing involves replacing the water in embryo cells with a protective fluid and flash-freezing using liquid nitrogen, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. Frozen embryos are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks at hospital labs or reproductive medicine centers. Griffith notes that they can also be stored in facilities contracted by healthcare providers, especially for long-term storage. Frozen embryos can remain safely preserved for a decade or more. Griffith emphasizes that these facilities meticulously monitor conditions and employ physical security measures, including backup generators for power outages. —Ungar reported from Louisville, Kentucky. Associated Press writers Tom Murphy in Indianapolis and Ben Finley in Norfolk, Virginia contributed reporting.
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A$AP Rocky Acquitted on Assault Charges
LOS ANGELES — A$AP Rocky embraced his defense team upon hearing the not-guilty verdict on two felony assault charges. The Los Angeles courtroom, filled with fans and supporters of the rapper and his partner, erupted in joyous celebration as Rocky and Rihanna shared an emotional embrace. Following a three-week trial and a three-hour jury deliberation, the verdict spared Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, from a potential prison sentence exceeding two decades. “Thank y’all for saving my life,” he expressed to the jurors as they left the courtroom. A slight delay occurred in announcing the second not-guilty verdict, though a divided jury outcome was highly improbable. Before the trial, Rocky declined a plea bargain offering six months' imprisonment, probation, and additional stipulations in exchange for a guilty plea on one charge. Maintaining his innocence, Rocky opted for a jury trial, a gamble that ultimately proved successful, as the jury concluded there was reasonable doubt regarding his guilt. Rihanna wept and hugged the defense lawyers, mirroring Rocky's emotional response. She intermittently attended the trial, even bringing their two sons—2-year-old RZA Athelston Mayers and 1-year-old Riot Rose Mayers—for parts of the closing arguments. The verdict arrives during a period of significant professional success for Rocky. The three-time Grammy nominee, fashion icon, and actor has numerous high-profile projects planned, now unburdened by the threat of imprisonment. He is slated to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in March, co-chair the Met Gala in May, and star alongside Denzel Washington in Spike Lee's film “Highest 2 Lowest,” set for release in early summer. Prosecutors and their witnesses alleged a conflict between Rocky and a former friend, A$AP Relli, a fellow member of the A$AP Mob. They claimed that on November 6, 2021, following a dispute, Rocky fired a gun at Relli, causing a minor graze wound. Rocky's lawyer, Joe Tacopina, characterized Relli in his closing argument as “an angry pathological liar” who “committed perjury repeatedly.” Rocky's legal team and their witnesses contended that Rocky fired a blank-firing prop gun, obtained from a music video set, as a warning shot during an altercation in which Relli was attacking another individual. The jury was informed that despite three years elapsing since the incident, the prop gun was not mentioned to authorities until jury selection commenced. The jury was instructed that if they believed Rocky reasonably feared for his or his companions' safety, and acted with reasonable force, they could find him not guilty. The basis for the verdict—whether it stemmed from a belief that Rocky possessed a prop gun or acted in self-defense—remains unclear, as the jury wasn't obligated to explain its reasoning beyond the deliberation room. Rocky chose not to testify in his own defense. In his closing statement, Deputy District Attorney John Lewin cautioned the jury against undue influence from celebrity status or family dynamics, suggesting Rihanna's presence with the children during closing arguments was a manipulative tactic. “You are not allowed to consider how this might affect Rihanna and his kids,” the prosecutor stated. “We are all responsible for our own actions in the world.” Following the verdict, Tacopina stated outside the courthouse that Rocky had preferred Rihanna's absence but was unable to dissuade her. He described Rocky's desire to shield Rihanna from the trial, adding that “Wild horses couldn’t keep her away.” “I can't imagine this has been anything but a life-altering experience for them,” he concluded.
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Boost Your YouTube Presence with Videoipsum’s Targeted Video Promotion “`
Videoipsum, a leading video marketing company, offers targeted video promotion campaigns to boost online presence. Elevate your career with effective online video promotion.Bloomfield, Connecticut, February 18, 2025 – In today's competitive entertainment landscape, effective marketing is crucial for artists. Success hinges not only on creative quality but also on strategic promotion. Video marketing plays a pivotal role, and Videoipsum is a prominent player in music video promotion. YouTube's vast reach presents significant opportunities, and Videoipsum helps artists leverage this platform. They provide affordable, strategically designed video promotion campaigns for artists of all genres. The service is not limited to musicians; it also benefits content creators looking to expand their audience. Partnering with Videoipsum is easy. Their four-step process is efficient and cost-effective. Artists select their video and target audience, specifying the YouTube URL and desired demographics. This optimizes search ranking. Videoipsum's team then leverages YouTube Ads and collaborations with major digital publishers to increase visibility, organically reaching relevant viewers. Videoipsum is a reliable video marketing company, guaranteeing increased viewership. Their affordability is combined with organic promotional strategies. Reasonably priced campaigns ensure effective results without excessive spending. Organic marketing efforts, strategically placed across YouTube's display networks, maintain channel authenticity and avoid potential shadowbans by adhering to YouTube's policies against view manipulation. Videoipsum's approach focuses on genuine views, engagement, and likes. Their team of marketing experts delivers authentic reach. Content creators can build stronger fan bases and enhance their online presence. Real-time analytics provide insights into campaign performance. Artists can monitor comprehensive analytics, including watch hours, demographics, subscribers, likes, and views. Cost-effective campaigns utilize three advertising formats: YouTube Search (Discovery Ads), YouTube-Related (Discovery Ads), and Commercial (In-stream Ads). These strategies secure top search rankings, prominent thumbnail placement, and in-video advertising. Videoipsum differentiates itself by guaranteeing 100% genuine views, exclusive real traffic, and immediate engagement, all at budget-friendly prices. Increase your YouTube visibility with Videoipsum today!Media ContactVideo Ipsum1603 Capitol Ave., Suite 310 A366, Cheyenne Wyoming 82001 Source :videoipsum
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Huopan’s Cross-Border E-commerce Platform Launches, Boosting Global Consumption “`
Huopan's cross-border e-commerce platform is now fully operational, offering a wide array of products and enhancing international consumer access to Chinese goods.Shenzhen, Guangdong, February 18, 2025 – With the global e-commerce market flourishing, cross-border platforms are crucial for connecting international markets. Huopan, a new self-delivery cross-border e-commerce platform, has launched its fully accessible online marketplace, providing overseas customers with a vast selection of Chinese products, marking a significant development in global consumption. Dedicated to providing global consumers with high-quality Chinese products, Huopan collaborates with numerous reputable domestic suppliers. The platform offers a diverse range of products, encompassing apparel, electronics, home goods, cosmetics, and baby products, catering to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences. From fashion-conscious youth to discerning homemakers, Huopan aims to meet diverse needs. Huopan maintains rigorous supplier vetting processes, conducting thorough qualification audits to ensure reliable supply and credibility. All products undergo strict quality control, guaranteeing compliance with international standards and exceeding consumer expectations. Huopan's user-friendly interface and streamlined shopping experience facilitate easy browsing and purchasing for international customers. The platform supports multiple payment options and flexible delivery choices, including credit cards, third-party payment services, international and local shipping. Huopan's comprehensive logistics system, coupled with intelligent warehousing, ensures efficient order processing, faster delivery, and reduced shipping costs. Strategic partnerships with numerous international logistics providers guarantee swift and accurate product delivery. A dedicated customer service team, possessing extensive e-commerce expertise, provides prompt and professional support for all customer inquiries, from product information to after-sales service. Huopan's market expansion strategy emphasizes deep integration with local markets. The platform tailors product selection, marketing campaigns, and customer service to local cultures and consumer habits. This includes regional product recommendations, culturally relevant marketing events, and multilingual customer support, enhancing competitiveness and assisting Chinese brands in global expansion. Huopan's unique self-delivery model and extensive product offerings have garnered significant international attention. The platform's ongoing growth will continue to introduce high-quality Chinese goods to the global market, offering increased convenience and choice to consumers worldwide.Media ContactHuopan Source :Huopan
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LokdX Social Unveils Blockchain Financial Platform “`
LokdX Social, a social media platform, is introducing a blockchain-based financial service for its users. This initiative seeks to broaden access to decentralized finance (DeFi) for a diverse user base.Amsterdam, Netherlands Feb 18, 2025 - The service leverages blockchain technology to create a user-friendly environment for both crypto novices and experienced users. LokdX's intuitive interface simplifies the complexities often associated with DeFi, enhancing the user experience and empowering individuals to make informed financial choices. The platform utilizes robust encryption and decentralized storage to safeguard user data and transactions. Built on transparency and security, LokdX fosters trust among its users. It functions as a social network where individuals connect, exchange ideas, and share their experiences within a supportive community. This collaborative environment promotes learning and skill development in a safe and encouraging setting, strengthening the platform's community as a whole. LokdX offers diverse financial tools supporting various digital currencies and provides a range of centralized and decentralized financial resources to meet user needs. Comprehensive educational resources, including tutorials and articles, help users understand DeFi and navigate the evolving financial landscape. This commitment to education aims to promote informed participation in the blockchain ecosystem. LokdX CEO Vikki Summers states, "Our goal is to support true digital empowerment," emphasizing user control and ownership, aligning with the industry's growing focus on decentralization and transparency. Blockchain technology, she adds, presents opportunities to enhance digital experiences and improve online interaction management. For updates and registration, follow LokdXSocial on Instagram, and .Media ContactVikki Summers, Virtua Media Source :Virtua Media
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Techna Boosts Bookings and Memberships for Recreation Businesses “`
Digital Marketing Expertise for the Recreation and Travel IndustriesVancouver, Washington, February 18, 2025 – Techna Digital Marketing offers specialized digital marketing services designed to help recreational facilities thrive. Their proven strategies boost brand visibility, generate leads, and increase bookings, memberships, and reservations. They work closely with clients to create customized plans. Key Digital Marketing Services for Recreation and Travel Techna Digital Marketing understands the unique needs of the travel and recreation industry and provides a comprehensive suite of services: Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Techna Digital uses advanced SEO techniques to improve search engine rankings, making recreational websites more visible to potential customers during their planning stages. This includes leveraging local and national SEO strategies to increase organic traffic. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising: Targeted PPC campaigns reach adventure seekers and leisure travelers. Compelling ad copy and strategic ad placement maximize click-through rates and conversions. Content Marketing: Techna Digital’s content marketing team creates engaging stories that connect with target audiences. From blog posts to social media content, their goal is to inspire travel and recreational activities. Website Design and Development: Techna Digital designs visually appealing and user-friendly websites that showcase recreational experiences and provide seamless booking processes. These websites are optimized for conversions. Proven Expertise "Travel and recreation are ongoing activities, regardless of the season," says DaBina Heng, CEO of Techna Digital Marketing. "Whether it's winter travel or summer adventures, people are always looking for fun. Our digital marketing strategies ensure our clients are discoverable year-round. We help them connect with customers whenever and wherever they're searching for their next experience." Take Action Today Techna Digital Marketing encourages travel and recreation businesses to elevate their brand awareness and increase bookings through effective digital marketing. Visit www.technadigital.com to learn more or schedule a consultation. About Techna Digital Marketing: Established in 2011, Techna Digital Marketing leverages its business consulting background to deliver specialized digital marketing solutions across various industries, including travel and recreation. Committed to measurable results and client satisfaction, Techna Digital is a reliable partner for business growth. Our experienced marketers work collaboratively with clients to develop tailored strategies that achieve specific business objectives, from increasing website traffic to driving conversions.Media ContactTechna Digital Marketing(360)670-0699 Source :Techna Digital Marketing
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Cabot, AR’s Sunny’s House Painting Unveils New Website
Cabot, Arkansas-based Sunny's House Painting is pleased to announce its new website, designed to enhance the online experience for Cabot, Little Rock, and Jacksonville homeowners and businesses. The new, user-friendly site offers easy navigation through a full range of services, including interior and exterior painting, drywall repair, and pressure washing. Users can also access painting tips, color selection advice, and a project gallery. "At Sunny's House Painting, we're dedicated to improving customer experience, and this new website reflects that commitment," said owner Sunny Charleston. "We aim to make it easier for clients to learn about our services, see our work, and connect with our team, ensuring client confidence and knowledge throughout their painting projects." The website also includes a convenient contact form for free estimates, simplifying the process for potential clients. Sunny's House Painting remains committed to providing superior craftsmanship and personalized service that elevates the beauty and value of homes across Central Arkansas. For more information and to explore the new website, contact Sunny's House Painting directly.Media ContactSunny's House Painting(501) 446-90023834 Mountain Springs Rd Source :Sunny's House Painting
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New HKTDC Chairman appointed
HONG KONG, Feb 19, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) today announced the appointment of a new Chairman for the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC).The HKTDC welcomes the HKSAR Government’s appointment of Prof Frederick Ma Si-hang as the new Chairman of the HKTDC. Prof Ma is currently the Non-Executive Chairman of FWD Group and a member of the Chief Executive’s Council of Advisers. As the former Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development and Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of Hong Kong, Prof Ma is well acquainted with the Council’s work in promoting Hong Kong’s strengths and advantages. His two-year term as HKTDC Chairman will commence on 1 June 2025 and will run until 31 May 2027. Dr Peter K N Lam, current Chairman of the HKTDC, remarked: “Hong Kong’s post-pandemic economy faces numerous challenges. Over the past six years, I have been honoured to serve as Chairman of the HKTDC. I would like to express my gratitude to the HKTDC team for their continued effort and determination in overcoming challenges and driving Hong Kong’s growth. Trade and tourism are closely connected and are crucial to Hong Kong’s economic development. I will continue to contribute in my new position and work with the HKTDC to promote Hong Kong.” Dr Lam added: “I am pleased that the HKSAR Government has appointed Prof Frederick Ma as the next Chairman. I am confident he will lead the HKTDC to new heights, creating opportunities for Hong Kong’s businesses and driving our city’s high-quality economic development.” Ms Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “Prof Ma is a distinguished leader in the business community with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors, strengthening Hong Kong’s connections with the global business world. Under his and HKTDC Council Members’ leadership and guidance, the HKTDC will reinforce Hong Kong’s eight-centre advantages to help businesses seize national development opportunities and support our city’s continued growth and development.” Ms. Fong also expressed gratitude to Dr Lam: “Under Dr Lam’s outstanding leadership, the HKTDC has introduced many new initiatives, particularly in promoting the healthcare, innovation and technology industries, while assisting the business community in seizing new opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and global markets and facilitating the development of Hong Kong’s pillar industries and emerging industries. His wise counsel and guidance over the years have helped the HKTDC reinforce Hong Kong’s role as an international business hub, a two-way investment gateway and a leading convention and exhibition centre.” Media EnquiriesAgnes Wat Tel: (852) 2584 4554 Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.orgSam Ho Tel: (852) 2584 4569 Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.orgHKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com About 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. Follow us on @hktdc and LinkedIn Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Goldman Sachs Raises Everest Medicines’ Target Price to HK$48.32 on Stronger Commercial and R&D Outlook
HONG KONG, Feb 19, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Goldman Sachs’ latest report on China’s biotechnology sector highlights Everest Medicines (1952.HK) as a company on track to achieve EBITDA break-even by the end of 2025. This outlook is driven by the accelerated commercialization of Nefecon®, which was recently included in China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL). The report underscores that expanded reimbursement coverage is expected to significantly boost market potential in treating IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) and address a substantial unmet medical need. Goldman Sachs notes, “Everest targeted EBITDA break-even by YE25, expecting the NRDL coverage to unleash the significant patient need in IgAN.”Beyond Nefecon®, Everest’s BTK inhibitor EVER001 is emerging as a promising pipeline asset, with encouraging early clinical data in primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). According to Everest’s Phase 1b/2a trial results, EVER001 demonstrated quick disease remission in pMN patients, with 82% of low-dose and 86% of high-dose patients achieving clinical remission based on 24-hour proteinuria reduction, and 91% and 100% achieving immunological complete remission, respectively, based on anti-PLA2R autoantibody decrease. The data also showed clear dose-dependency across key biomarkers, reinforcing the drug’s mechanism of action. With no major safety concerns reported, EVER001 has the potential to be a best-in-class therapy for pMN.Goldman Sachs also highlights EVER001’s global development potential, as Everest prepares for multinational clinical trials to evaluate its benefits across different ethnic populations. The report notes that while pMN is a smaller market than IgAN, it shares strong synergies in disease mechanism and treatment approaches, making it a strategically valuable addition to Everest’s renal disease franchise.The report further emphasizes China’s evolving biotech landscape, where global licensing and partnerships are becoming key drivers of growth. Everest’s consistent execution of its renal and mRNA-focused strategy, combined with its emphasis on global expansion, positions the company well for sustained success.Reflecting these positive developments, Goldman Sachs has raised its 12-month target price for Everest Medicines to HK$48.32, nearly doubling from the previous HK$24.50. The upgrade factors in stronger commercial visibility, EVER001’s potential in pMN, and an improved financial outlook as Everest advances toward profitability. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund Supports Elite Athletes from The Education University of Hong Kong for the Third Consecutive Year
HONG KONG, Feb 19, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund (“Charity Fund”) announced its continued support for elite athletes from The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) for the third consecutive year. The Presentation Ceremony for Nissin Foods Scholarship for Elite Athletes 2024/2025 was held to present scholarships for seven outstanding athletes, who not only excel in their sports but also aspire to become future educators. The scholarship will cover their full tuition fees throughout their study period, so they can focus on their studies without worrying about their financial burden.Established in 2022 by Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund, the scholarship is intended to encourage elite athletes taking the Bachelor of Health Education (Honours) or the Postgraduate Diploma in Education programme at EdUHK to pursue studies and become health educators in the future while continuing to strive for excellence in their athletic performance.The four new awardees for the 2024/2025 academic year are: Mr. CHEN Pak Hong (rowing), Mr. WONG Ching (rowing), Miss LAM Yee Ting (volleyball, retired) and Miss QIAN Jiayu (rugby). In addition to providing support to new awardees, the Charity Fund also made the scholarship renewable to support the elite athletes throughout their study period. The three recipients of the renewed scholarship are: Mr. CHOI Kwan Lok (cycling, retired), Mr. TANG Cheuk Yiu (shuttlecock) and Mr. Joseph LAU (cycling).Mr. Kiyotaka ANDO, Chairman of Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund, said, “Nissin Foods has been present in Hong Kong for over 40 years, and our commitment to the local community has only grown stronger. The scholarship is a key initiative to empower local talent and foster community development. In alignment with our founder Mr. Momofuku Ando's belief that ‘Eating and sports are the two axles of health,’ we provide scholarships to elite athletes at The Education University of Hong Kong as well as a scholarship in food and nutritional sciences at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Altogether this year, we nurture 20 scholars who will join the Nissin team to promote a healthy lifestyle through food and sports in the future.”Expressing his gratitude to the Charity Fund for its generous support to EdUHK, Professor Chetwyn CHAN, Vice President (Research and Development) of EdUHK, said, “EdUHK is committed to fostering sustainable and dual career development for elite athletes. I am delighted to witness that some of the previous awardees have already embarked on their journeys as teachers, becoming inspirational torchbearers and role models for younger generations. Meanwhile, some have become leaders in the local sports industry. Their achievements live up to the support of the scholarship and the dedicated nurturing of their alma mater.”Accomplished rugby player Miss QIAN Jiayu, recipient of the scholarship from the Postgraduate Diploma in Education, majoring in Physical Education, explained her heartfelt appreciation to the Charity Fund. "The invaluable support provided through this scholarship equips me with the resources to further my studies and enhance my expertise in physical education, whilst also enabling me to contribute to the development of future athletes," she said.PhotoMr. Kiyotaka ANDO, Chairman of Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund (middle right), and Professor Chetwyn CHAN, Vice President (Research and Development) of EdUHK (middle left), attended the Presentation Ceremony for Nissin Foods Scholarship for Elite Athletes 2024/2025 on 18 February 2025. Five scholarship recipients attended the ceremony, including four new awardees for the 2024/2025 academic year, namely: Mr CHEN Pak Hong (first from left), Mr. WONG Ching (second from left), Mr. LAM Yee Ting (third from right) and Miss QIAN Jiayu (second from right), as well as the renewed awardee - Mr. TANG Cheuk Yiu (first from right).Awardees of Nissin Foods Scholarship for Elite Athletes 2024/2025 are excelling in their respective fields. From top left: Mr. CHEN Pak Hong (rowing), Mr. WONG Ching (rowing), Miss LAM Yee Ting (volleyball, retired), Miss QIAN Jiayu (rugby), Mr. CHOI Kwan Lok (cycling, retired), Mr. TANG Cheuk Yiu (shuttlecock) and Mr. Joseph LAU (cycling).About Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity FundThe Nissin Foods (Hong Kong) Charity Fund (“Charity Fund”) was set up in September 2020 by way of a trust deed by Nissin Foods Company Limited (Stock code: 1475). The objectives of the Charity Fund are: a) to advance education, teaching, learning, arts, science and academic research; b) to make provision for people in need; and c) to carry out works of a charitable nature that are beneficial to the Hong Kong community.For media enquiries:Nissin Foods Company LimitedPublic Relations DepartmentBlanche Wong / Wing WuEmail: pr@nissinfoods.com.hkStrategic Financial Relations LimitedVicky Lee Tel: (852) 2864 4834Iris Au Yeung Tel: (852) 2114 4913Email: sprg_nissin@sprg.com.hk Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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TrustCSI 3.0 Navigates the ‘Belt and Road’ and Empowers Global Enterprise’s Digital Journey
HONG KONG, Feb 19, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883) is pleased to announce that its subsidiary, China Enterprise ICT Solutions Limited (“China Entercom”), and H&H Group (“H&H Group”) has forged a successful partnership, strengthening the “Belt and Road” initiative and embodying the service of “CITIC, your trusted partner for Going Global and Coming to China”, deepening the company's strategy of connecting the world and fostering ecosystem collaboration. This partnership showcases how holistic information security and agile connectivity are achieved through a strengthened digital infrastructure, demonstrating how enterprises can excel in the global market by harnessing digital capabilities and embarking on a successful digital journey.An Unbreakable Bond: From Biostime to a Globally Diversified BrandEstablished as Biostime, H&H Group has overcome challenges and matured through various developmental phases, and more importantly, it has achieved remarkable digital transformation leveraging a suite of innovative technologies. In 2015, the Group strategically acquired Swisse, an Australian supplement brand, and therefore unlocked unprecedented opportunities for its development in the global market.Amidst transformative shifts, China Entercom has excelled as the digital service partner of H&H Group since Biostime’s listing in Hong Kong in 2010, offering a comprehensive “Cloud-network-security” full-stack service that encompasses a mature network architecture and cloud resources. Leveraging international experience and reliable technical capabilities, China Entercom provides H&H Group with crucial ICT infrastructure. Over the years, China Entercom and H&H Group have laid a solid foundation for domestic and international global coverage, including the seamless connection of its digitized platforms, private line service and cloud voice service, enhanced the network architecture to ensure efficient collaboration and service stability of its global team.Joe Liang, IT Operations and Information Security Head, H&H GroupJoe Liang, IT Operations and Information Security Head of H&H Group, stated that the Group faces challenges such as global expansion and ensuring information security in its digital transformation journey. However, leveraging China Entercom’s extensive ICT resources, global service expertise, robust network operation and maintenance, as well as in-depth industry insights, China Entercom successfully established a reliable platform for the Group’s businesses and facilitated its entry into the international market.Joe emphasized that besides being a trusted service provider, China Entercom is also a partner working hand-in-hand with the Group. The partnership marked a new era in digital transformation, transcending technical level and delved into strategic planning, cost reduction, efficiency enhancement and other aspects. This profound partnership infused boundless momentum and dynamism into the globalization and diversification journey of the H&H Group.Taking Cooperation to the Next Level: From Single Private Network to SD-WAN and IP-GuardIn today’s era of globalization, numerous Chinese enterprises have proactively set sail for the overseas market. As a leading company of the industry, H&H Group has also been steadily expanding its market abroad. Despite its successful expansion, challenges such as global management of operating systems, data interaction efficiency, system stability have emerged, prompting the H&H Group team to actively address these issues with determination.Acknowledging the immediate needs of H&H Group, China Entercom customized a comprehensive solution that upgraded the single private network to SD-WAN and IP-Guard together with its parent companies, CITIC Telecom CPC and CITIC Group. This solution delivered exceptional results for the Group that fulfilled its goal of global business expansion with unparalleled security, stability, reliability, flexibility, scalability and highly efficient cross-cultural management capability. China Entercom empowered H&H Group to overcome various challenges during business expansion – from introducing systems and applications across different regions to enhancing data interaction and unified management, ultimately raising the operation efficiency and market competitiveness in the globe. Today, H&H Group has been thoroughly immersed in globalization and firmly rooted in the whole-family nutrition and wellness market.“Zero Trust” Reinforcement: Building Globalized Security FrontierH&H Group and China Entercom have established a nearly 15-year closely bonded partnership from 2010 to 2025. In the next phase, this partnership will mark a new milestone with Zero Trust. According to Joe, Zero Trust can be illustrated in three ways. First of all, ensuring data uniqueness is paramount, any unauthorized endpoint accessing the Group’s network, system or SaaS platform may pose a severe risk of data breach. The second concern is hackers may use illegal terminals to invade the network, which will constitute significant security vulnerabilities and require urgent response and remedial measures from the Group. At last, due to its notable market share and profitability of e-commerce in the world, especially in North America, there is an increasing demand for data security capabilities in the online business of the Group. With Zero Trust being the key technology, the partnership with China Entercom is expected to build a more solid security protection for the Group in terms of operation and maintenance.Sam Guo, Sales General Manager, South China, China EntercomSam Guo, Sales General Manager of South China, China Entercom, further explained the integration of “Zero Trust” into the SASE solution, making it the cornerstone of TrustCSI™ 3.0, as China Entercom pioneers Zero Trust MSP (Managed Service Provider) services. The solution has 2 key features, first of all, by implementing Zero Trust technology, it significantly enhances the efficiency of users’ access to enterprises’ resources; secondly, through continuous monitoring measures, it effectively reduces cybersecurity risks and minimize operational downtime and financial loss resulting from security incidents. As for H&H Group, the day-to-day challenge lies in enhancing access efficiency and strengthening security defenses in its North American and interstate operation. Meanwhile, the pivotal role of security stakeholders in steering corporate growth and operation and development remains prominent.Securing “Going Global” through Digital Intelligence EmpowermentWith the ever-increasing threats of information security around the globe, enterprises going overseas like H&H Group are seeking to cope with the challenges and enhance their security protection level by improving intelligentized capabilities. The potential attack surface broadens as the globalization of enterprises accelerates, it underscores the increasingly symbiotic relationship between security and development.Adan Zhan, Senior Director of Data Science and Innovation of China Entercom, underlined that China Entercom has implemented TrustCSI™ 3.0, a holistic protection solution focusing on defense and attack strategies to address the challenges faced by H&H Group. To enhance its defense capabilities, China Entercom continuously optimizes its intelligent algorithms for precise threat detection, leveraging anomaly detection technology, big data models and AI to combat evolving threats such as zero-day attacks, enabling AI-driven human-machine collaboration that surpasses AI in global security operations. In terms of attack strategy, adhering to the principle of "Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated”, China Entercom strategically deploys AI to automate the penetration testing tools, scanning enterprises’ threat and attack surface from various aspects. Conducting precise penetration test for in-depth analysis of existing assets is critical in addressing potential security vulnerabilities. By integrating attack and defense strategies with red-blue cybersecurity practices, China Entercom is committed to providing comprehensive security solutions for enterprises amidst the global digital transformation.Win-Win Alliance: Striving together for New Opportunities in “Belt and Road”In the ever-changing global market environment, it is a must to navigate the business with holistic planning and execution of corporate strategies, while combining digitization and innovation to power the engine. As a healthcare industry pioneer, H&H Group overcomes challenges and thrives.During the journey of business expansion and globalization, H&H Group has been supported by China Entercom’s premium services that have achieved highly efficient network connection, stable operations and reliable protection of information security. Joe pointed out that the partnership between China Entercom and H&H Group is poised to tackle diverse global challenges, as H&H Group is a private enterprise with extensive international experience and global resources. In addition, this partnership is made possible not only by a solid technical foundation, but also on mutual recognition of each other’s brand and global reputation. Lastly, Joe suggested that enterprises interested in joining the “Belt and Road” Initiative should gain a clear insight into their own businesses in terms of the current IT operation and development needs, and partner with a well-established service provider such as China Entercom, achieving a win-win strategy.To facilitate the “Belt and Road” Initiative, Guo proposed the following suggestions: carrying out in-depth research into the legal systems, policies, cultural characteristics and social needs of the targeted markets for a smooth project implementation; strictly complying with international standards and local laws and regulations by strengthening compliance and security management; proactively perform social responsibility in terms of environmental protection and community contribution; forming a network of information technology application innovation industry (ITAI) to collaborate with top-class worldwide partners, and fostering growth and development through resource sharing and complementary strengths. He believed that the best practices of these suggestions are fully manifested in the partnership between China Entercom and H&H Group. In the future, this partnership will continue to accelerate the “Belt and Road” Initiative and sustainable development.About H&H GroupH&H Group is a global health and nutrition company. Dynamic, courageous and ambitious in its mission to make people healthier and happier, the Group strives to inspire wellness while contributing positively to the needs of society and the planet. The Group has three business segments – Baby, Adult and Pet Nutrition and Care – supporting whole-family health and happiness, with premium brands providing nutrition and wellness solutions backed by science.Consumer brands include Biostime, Swisse, Zesty Paws, Solid Gold Pet, Dodie, Good Goût and Aurelia London. For details, please visit www.hh.globalAbout China EntercomChina Enterprise ICT Solutions Limited (“China Entercom” or “CEC”), a subsidiary of the CITIC Group. With solid global knowledge, diversified industrial experience, successful cases and top-notch expertise, as well as incorporating extensive ICT resource coverage, global-local capabilities and world-class solutions, China Entercom stands as the trusted partner for comprehensive solutions, addressing customers’ specific ICT requirements and fostering their development along the “Belt and Road” and around the globe. For more information, please visit https://www.china-entercom.com/En/.About CITIC Telecom CPCWe are CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (SEHK: 1883), serving multinational enterprises the world over by addressing their specific ICT requirements with highly scalable tailored solutions built upon our flagship technology suites, comprising TrueCONNECT™ private network solutions, TrustCSI™ information security solutions, DataHOUSE™ cloud data center solutions, and SmartCLOUD™ cloud computing solutions.With the motto “Innovation Never Stops,” we leverage innovative technologies, embracing AI, AR, Big Data, IoT, and other cutting-edge emerging technologies to transform technical potential into business value for our customers. As an enterprise digital transformation partner, we strive to help our customers achieve industry-leading positions, high agility, and cost-efficiency through digitalization.With our Global-Local capabilities, we are committed to providing our customers with one-stop-shop ICT solutions with superior quality. Having a worldwide footprint across nearly 160 countries and regions, including Asia, Europe and America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, our global network resources connect nearly 170 points of presence (POPs), 60+ SDWAN gateways, 21 Cloud service centers, 30+ data centers, and three dedicated 24x7 Security Operations Centers (SOCs). We are certified with a series of international certifications, including SD-WAN Ready, ISO 9001, 14001, 20000, 27001, and 27017, to ensure our services compliance with international standards and resources for enterprises. We offer local professional services, superior delivery capabilities as well as exceptional customer experience and best practices through our global presence and extensive industry know-how, becoming a leading integrated intelligent ICT service provider to enterprise customers. For more information, please visit www.citictel-cpc.comMedia Contacts:Catherine YuenCITIC Telecom CPC(852) 2170 7536Email: catherine.yuen@citictel-cpc.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Honda Reveals Specification for its Next-generation Fuel Cell Module
TOKYO, Feb 19, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today made its first global release of specifications for Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module and Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator at H2 & FC EXPO – the 23rd Int’l Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo – which started today at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan.Mass production of the Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module is scheduled to begin in 2027 (fiscal year ending March 31, 2028), with mass production of the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator scheduled to begin in 2026. Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell ModuleThe Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module unveiled today is being independently developed by Honda as a successor to the current model Honda jointly developed with General Motors (GM).In addition to achieving a rated output of 150 kW, the Honda Next Generation Fuel Cell Module will feature half of the production cost and more than double the durability compared to the current model. Moreover, the module was downsized by increasing the volumetric power density(1) by more than three times, which increased the flexibility of installation layouts.By further expanding domains for application of the system and sales regions of this next-generation fuel cell module, Honda is striving to make a greater contribution to the realization of a sustainable, energy-oriented society. - CLARITY FUEL CELL equipped model:First-generation Honda FC module introduced in 2016; production discontinued in 2019.- CR-V equipped model:Current FC module codeveloped with GM and installed in CR-V e:FCEV in 2024. Honda Fuel Cell Power GeneratorThe Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator, scheduled for mass production in 2026, is a stationary power storage system capable of supplying hydrogen-derived, clean electricity to large facilities such as factories and offices. It utilizes the fuel cell also being used for the Honda CR-V e:FCEV fuel cell vehicle.The compact size of the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator realized through the optimization of the design of its cooling system and internal layout enables flexible fit to the installation environments of each customer. Moreover, to promptly provide highly reliable backup power, the Honda Fuel Cell Power Generator is being developed to feature high responsiveness that enables it to begin supplying power within 10 seconds of startup.In addition to supplying power that accommodates the diverse power needs of customers through this product, Honda will contribute to the decarbonization initiatives of customers by offering comprehensive support ranging from product installation to after-sales service. (1) Volumetric Power Density: The amount of electrical energy that can be output per unit volume.About Honda hydrogen businessHonda was one of the first companies to focus on the potential of hydrogen toward the realization of a carbon-neutral society and has been conducting research and development of hydrogen technologies and FCEVs for more than 30 years.Working toward the realization of carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050, Honda has identified four core domains for its fuel cell system application – fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), commercial vehicles, stationary power generator and construction machinery – and has been working to further expand opportunities for its hydrogen business to grow it as one of the new core businesses of Honda. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Indonesia Economic Summit (IES) 2025 Brings Business Sector Collaboration to Drive High, Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth
JAKARTA, Feb 18, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Indonesia Economic Summit (IES) 2025 officially opened today in Jakarta, attended by more than 1,500 participants from 48 countries. The two-day summit (Feb 18-19), organized by the Indonesian Business Council (IBC), offers a forum for 100 speakers representing policy makers, business leaders, experts, and academics.Chairman of the IBC Supervisory Board Arsjad Rasjid said that IES 2025 focuses on two main topics, growth and prosperity, which are expected to be catalysts for real action in various sectors."We hope that IES 2025 is not just a gathering place but can be a turning point where ideas become concrete steps. We want to ensure that the discussions held at IES 2025 are able to create a significant impact in driving Indonesia's economic growth and realizing people's welfare," said Arsjad.Chairman of the IBC Supervisory Board Arsjad RasjidHe added that high, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth can only be achieved with strong collaboration in various sectors. IES 2025 also builds closer partnerships with the government to encourage policies that are pro-investment and pro-economic growth.IBC Chief Executive Officer Sofyan Djalil said that IES 2025 is expected to build momentum to strengthen the contribution of the private sector to encourage growth. This can be realized with the right public policies that can strengthen competitiveness and facilitate business and economic activities."IES 2025 bridges business leaders, economists, and policy makers to discuss strategic steps and policies to create a public policy climate that will encourage high, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth," said Sofyan.IBC COO William Sabandar explained that IES 2025 accommodates discussions with topics that are relevant to the economic challenges and opportunities faced by Indonesia amidst global geopolitical changes. The topics include: 1. Economic priorities and strategies to achieve economic growth, which requires a strategic vision and targeted policy priorities. 2. Monetary and financial policies to support high and sustainable economic growth, while balancing government spending and macroeconomic stability. 3. Ensuring industrial policies that encourage growth in the manufacturing sector and increase the contribution of the manufacturing industry to GDP as key to achieving sustainable economic growth. 4. Ensuring that Indonesia wins in the developing trade war, through a more active and diverse global trade strategy, including trade diversification, market expansion, and improving export performance.ParagonCorp Co-founder and IBC member Salman Subakat, who is also a speaker at the industry session at IES 2025, expressed his support for IBC's initiative to encourage closer collaboration between business actors and policy makers."We need policies that can encourage the business sector, especially the manufacturing industry, because this sector plays a major role in triggering high, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth," said Salman.IES 2025 has produced concrete commitments from various parties. Several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between the government, private companies, and international institutions to support strategic projects in the fields of renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and human resource development (HRD).One of the flagship projects announced was the development of a renewable energy center in Eastern Indonesia and a vocational training program to improve the competence of the local workforce. IES 2025 is expected to be a catalyst for the creation of real steps that can accelerate Indonesia's economic growth in a sustainable and inclusive manner.For more information about IES 2025, visit the official website: https://indonesiaeconomicsummit.com/.About the Indonesia Economic Summit (IES)The Indonesia Economic Summit (IES) is an annual initiative of the Indonesia Business Council (IBC). Initiated as a high-level forum for collaboration and innovation, IES seeks to promote competitiveness, inclusive growth, and sustainable prosperity for Indonesia. This forum reflects IBC's commitment to advancing Indonesia's role in the global economic arena.About the Indonesian Business Council (IBC)The Indonesian Business Council (IBC) is an association of CEOs and business/industry leaders of leading companies in Indonesia, established in February 2023. IBC seeks to promote and strengthen Indonesia's competitiveness, encourage collaboration, and enhance the contribution of the Indonesian private sector to economic growth and prosperity, through advocacy. https://business-council.id/.Media Contact:Ayu Dea: ayudea@onus.asiaKartika Susanti: kartika.susanti@business-council.id Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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GoDaddy Airo: An AI-Powered Revolutionary Solution for Asian Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners
MANILA, Feb 18, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - GoDaddy, a global leader in empowering entrepreneurs, unveiled GoDaddy Airo®, an innovative AI-powered experience set to transform small and medium-sized businesses sector. This groundbreaking new AI-powered experience enables entrepreneurs to establish a comprehensive online presence within minutes, bridging the gap between vision and digital reality.Selina Bieber, Vice President for International Markets at GoDaddy, emphasized the new experience’s significance, "GoDaddy Airo® provides accessible AI-powered tools for Asian entrepreneurs and business owners to realize the benefits of using AI technology to help build and grow their digital brands together effortlessly."The AI-driven features include instant brand creation, digital marketing tools, Search Engine Optimization, and a user-friendly interface that allows navigation of advanced features without technical expertise. GoDaddy Airo® generates custom logos, websites, and email addresses in moments, develops targeted social media calendar aligned with local events, and enhances online visibility with built-in email marketing campaigns.Many small business owners feel they face challenges in leveraging new technologies, primarily due to high implementation costs and lack of in-house technical expertise. GoDaddy Airo® eliminates these obstacles by providing cost-effective solutions accessible to businesses of all sizes, an intuitive design requiring no specialized skills, and comprehensive support and resources to confidently embrace AI technology and realize its benefits to their business operations.With the purchase of a domain name, GoDaddy Airo® leverages the power of AI to make it easy to start a business and take it to the next level with a user-friendly online interface that requires no technical expertise. Key features include: Logo Creation – Building a compelling visual identity is essential for any business but can be time-consuming and expensive. With GoDaddy Airo® entrepreneurs can generate unique, professional logos in minutes, providing a solid brand image without needing design expertise. Instant Website Development – One of the platform's standout features is its ability to generate complete websites instantly. Entrepreneurs can publish a functional site with personalized content within minutes, simplifying digital presence creation without technical skills. Automated Search Engine Optimization – GoDaddy helps businesses enhance their search rankings by providing suggestions to optimize their websites with targeted keywords and descriptions. AI analyses and recommends improvements, increasing visibility in search engine results and helping small businesses attract more customers. Professional Email Services – A company domain-based email not only builds customer trust but also promotes the brand with every message sent. Additionally, it is backed by advanced email security through Microsoft 365, with features such as proactive protection, email backup, archiving, and seamless migration. “GoDaddy Airo® can offer business owners new opportunities, while saving valuable time, so they can focus on building their brand, engaging with their customers and growing,” added Bieber.For more information on how GoDaddy Airo® can help your business, visit.About GoDaddyGoDaddy helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their idea, build a website and logo, sell their products and services, and accept payments. GoDaddy Airo®, the company’s AI-powered experience, makes growing a small business faster and easier by enabling them to get their idea online in minutes, drive traffic and boost sales. GoDaddy’s expert guides are available 24/7 to provide assistance. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com. Issued on behalf of GoDaddy.For more information, contact:Fekra Communicationsinfo@fekracomms.com Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Osaka Gas and MHI Launch CO2NNEX Digital Platform for Management and Transfer of Clean Gas Certificates for e-Methane, for Use during Expo 2025
TOKYO, Feb 18, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Osaka Gas Co., Ltd. (Osaka Gas) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) today initiated operations for CO2NNEX®, the city gas industry's first digital platform to enhance visibility in carbon dioxide (CO2) trading and facilitate the transfer and management of Clean Gas Certificates, which certify the environmental value of e-methane,(1) allowing for use of the system during Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan (the Expo).(2)The CO2NNEX platform will be used during the Expo to support Osaka Gas' e-methane production and utilization demonstration(3) by accumulating data and providing visibility on the amount of e-methane biogas produced, as well as its raw materials (CO2 and H2), and CO2 emissions throughout the life cycle. It will also be utilized to manage utilization of the clean gas certificates generated by the demonstration. The clean gas certificates for the e-methane and biogas produced by Toho Gas Co., Ltd., Nihon Gas Co., Ltd., and Hokuriku Gas Co., Ltd. will be transferred through the platform and used for the natural gas supplied by Osaka Gas to the Expo site, contributing to the carbon neutrality of the Expo. The Gas Pavilion and Expo demonstration area presented by the Japan Gas Association will also feature videos for visitors introducing the forward-thinking initiatives by the city gas industry to systematize the transfer of clean gas certificates. (Fig. 1)Fig. 1: System for transfer of Clean Gas Certificate through CO2NNEXTo ensure efficient operation of the platform, Osaka Gas and MHI solicited advice from the Japan Gas Association, and held discussions with Toho Gas, Nihon Gas, and Hokuriku Gas, the companies that will use CO2NNEX for exchange of clean gas certificates for the Expo, as well as with INPEX CORPORATION, which acted as advisor during the proof of concept stage for the system.(4) The aim of these measures was to enhance user convenience and reliability in the transfer and management of clean gas certificates.Along with the reuse of CO2 (CCU(5)), such as for e-methane and recycled carbon fuels (e-fuel, SAF, Green LPG), practical applications for CO2 storage (CCS(6)) technology are expected to emerge in the future. Osaka Gas and MHI are also considering implementing the CO2NNEX digital platform for CO2distribution management in the CCS demonstration project currently being developed, with the aim of utilizing it as a management system for the establishment of the CO2 value chain. (Fig. 2)Fig. 2: Conceptual image of the CO2 value chainPrivate sector utilization of Clean Gas Certificates came into effect on April 1, 2024, and efforts to convert the environmental value of e-methane and biogas produced in Japan into Clean Gas Certificates are gaining momentum. Since the volume of transactions, such as those for the Expo demonstration, is expected to increase further in the future, a system for the transfer and management of clean gas certificates is required. Osaka Gas and MHI will utilize the results from CO2NNEX at the Expo to support the practical application of e-methane technology across society, and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral world by 2030.(1) Environmental value: Since CO2 emitted into the atmosphere (or CO2 in the atmosphere) is captured and carbon recycled as raw material for e-methane, even when e-methane is used (burned), the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere does not increase in real terms, so CO2 emissions are effectively zero.(2) For details on the implementation of CO2NNEX at Expo 2025, see the following press release: "Osaka Gas and MHI to Implement the CO2NNEX® Digital Platform for Managing and Transferring the Environmental Value of e-Methane at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan" (September 25, 2024)www.osakagas.co.jp/en/whatsnew/__icsFiles/afieldfile/2024/09/24/240925.pdfwww.mhi.com/news/24092501.html (3) Osaka Gas' e-methane production and utilization demonstration is a project to build and demonstrate a hydrogen supply chain in urban areas based on methanation using hydrogen derived from renewable energy, and biogas derived from food waste. The project was selected by Japan's Ministry of the Environment for its "Demonstration Project to Build a Model for Lowering the Cost of Hydrogen Supply Using Existing Infrastructure."(4) CO2NNEX Proof of Concept is a project conducted in 2022 that demonstrated the feasibility of a system to enable the transfer and management of clean gas certificates from the standpoint of CO2 emissions in the e-methane supply chain.(5) CCU: Carbon dioxide Capture and Utilization(6) CCS: Carbon dioxide Capture and Storage(7) H-to-A industry: Hard-to-abate industryaAbout Osaka GasOsaka Gas aims to achieve net-zero emissions across its group under the Carbon Neutral Vision the company announced in 2021. Osaka Gas is developing technologies and services that drive the decarbonization of society. As a company serving customers for their life and business advancement, Osaka Gas is actively addressing climate change and other social challenges.About MHIMHI Group is actively involved in programs targeting the realization of a carbon neutral society. Building a CO2 ecosystem is central to its energy transition initiatives. As a global leader in CCUS, the company aims to accelerate this ecosystem development by seeking widespread adoption of related hardware as well as the CO2NNEX® digital platform.For more information, see the CO2NNEX website.About MHI GroupMitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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by: eqs
HUAWEI Mate XT | ULTIMATE DESIGN Debuts Global with HUAWEI Watch Supporting Macao’s Leading E-Wallet, MPay
EQS Newswire / 18/02/2025 / 19:28 UTC+8 On February 18, HUAWEI revealed its latest products at a launch event in Malaysia, including the HUAWEI Mate XT | Ultimate Design, while announcing a strategic collaboration with Macau Pass. This partnership integrates MPay—Macao's leading mobile payment platform—making it one of the first three international e-wallets supporting the HUAWEI watch. This not only represents an innovative step in Macao’s digital payment landscape, but also set a new template for wearable technology applications. (MPay becomes one of the first three international e-wallets supporting the HUAWEI watch) MPay ewallet payment is now available on HUAWEI WATCH GT 4 series, HUAWEI WATCH GT5 series, HUAWEI WATCH FIT3, HUAWIE WATCH D2 and HUAWEI WATCH ULTIMATE. The above mentioned HUAWEI watch series also support GCash (Philippines) and Touch 'n Go e-Wallet (Malaysia). Users can link their MPay accounts to the HUAWEI watch, allowing them to pay by tapping wrist without using smartphones to pay. This provides significant convenience, especially during outdoor activities and fitness routines. The system utilizes dynamic encryption technology to prevent QR code fraud, ensuring secure and reliable transactions. Visitors from Chinese mainland and Hong Kong can download and register the MPay app, link it to their HUAWEI watch, and enjoy the seamless "tap your wrist to pay" experience in Macao. Dickson Yang, Director of Huawei Device Business Hong Kong, stated, " Technology exists to serve humanity. In designing and innovating wearables, we focus on incorporating more practical features into users' daily lives. As Macao's leading financial technology company, Macau Pass has established MPay not only as a widely used regional payment platform but also as a way that connects users to diverse services. This collaboration will drive innovation in wearable device payments, with plans to explore further partnerships in various scenarios, aiming to build a comprehensive ecosystem for wearable devices.” Sun Ho, Chairman and CEO of Macau Pass, said, "We're honored to partner with global technology leader HUAWEI as one of the first three international e-wallets supporting HUAWEI watch. The first launch of the wearable payment solution in Macao not only enhances payment convenience for users, but also represents a significant innovation in Macao's financial technology industry and injects fresh energy into Macao’s smart city construction.” At the product launch event, Macau Pass has been honored with HUAWEI Outstanding Ecosystem Award 2025. As strategic partners, HUAWEI and Macau Pass will leverage their respective strengths in technology and finance to explore new collaboration opportunities, engage in extensive and in-depth partnerships, and offer users a more seamless smart living experience. This will also contribute to the construction of Macao as a smart city and further enhance its global influence. About HUAWEI Device Co., Ltd. Huawei’s products and services are available in more than 170 countries, and are used by a third of the world’s population. With 14 R&D centers having been set up in the Germany, Sweden, Russia, India and mainland China, Huawei Consumer Business Group is one of Huawei’s three business units and covers smartphones, personal computers and tablets, wearable gears, and cloud services etc. Building on its solid foundation and expertise in the telecommunications business for over 30 years and on the strength of its self-owned global network, its globalized operational capabilities and its worldwide network of cooperation partners, Huawei Consumer Business Group is dedicated to delivering the latest technological advances to consumers around the world. “Make it Possible to Build a Better Connected World”, Huawei Consumer Business Group is committed to living up to its motto at all times. About Macau Pass S.A. Macau Pass, a leading financial technology and payment services company in Macao, contributes to the popularization of mobile payments and the construction of a smart city in Macao by providing contactless smart cards, e-wallets, and versatile electronic payment systems. In 2007, Macau Pass introduced the first contactless smart card mCard in Macao, which is now one of the largest contactless smart card and electronic payment system in Macao. In 2015, Macau Pass introduced mobile payment to Macao and created the MPay app in 2018. Today, it is not only one of the most widely used payment applications in Macao but has also developed into a super app that covers financial payments, lifestyle services, and leisure and entertainment scenarios, providing comprehensive digital services for local merchants, residents, and tourists in Macao. Rooted in Macao and with a vision for global connectivity, Macau Pass is committed to advancing financial technology and smart city initiatives. The company continues to expand its digital service offerings and enhance payment solutions to meet the evolving demands of users in the Greater Bay Area and beyond. Through these efforts, Macau Pass strives to strengthen Macao's connections with the global community and foster economic and cultural prosperity across the region. 18/02/2025 Dissemination of a Financial Press Release, transmitted by EQS News.The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.Media archive at www.todayir.com