(AsiaGameHub) - Holland Casino and VBET have modified their product offerings following concerns raised by the Dutch Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) regarding football bets available on their platforms. The KSA announced today that it had approached Holland Casino and VBET concerning the availability of "own goals" as a betting market on both operators' websites. The KSA, along with several other national gambling regulators, views betting on the number of own goals in a football match as a threat to sports integrity. In its official guidance on sports integrity, the KSA categorizes bets on own goals alongside events such as time penalties, Formula One car retirements, race red flags, and player injuries as examples of "negative or easily manipulated events." SBC News has contacted Holland Casino and VBET for comment. However, the KSA has confirmed that both companies have since removed the option to bet on own goals from their respective sportsbook platforms. “The KSA addressed both providers on this matter,” the regulator’s statement read. “Subsequently, both Holland Casino Online and VBET adjusted their offerings and removed own-goal bets. “They have also implemented additional control measures to prevent future occurrences. As a result, the KSA considers this matter sufficiently resolved for the time being.” The KSA has valid reasons to carefully consider which types of bets should be permitted, with a focus on safeguarding sports integrity and preventing match manipulation. According to quarterly and annual reports from the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), football consistently ranks as one of the two sports most vulnerable to match manipulation attempts and suspicious betting, alongside tennis. The KSA's action against these betting options also occurs amidst ongoing political scrutiny of the Dutch online gaming market. This market has seen substantial growth since its re-regulation under the KOA Act in October 2024, although the regulator itself notes a stagnation in its development. Political concerns regarding betting, its societal impact, and its visibility led to significant advertising restrictions being introduced in 2024, including a ban on sports sponsorship. In March of this year, opposition parties escalated these concerns by calling for a complete prohibition on gambling advertising. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Standard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Indices highlight resilience of GBA corporates despite Middle East uncertainties
HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Standard Chartered and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) jointly released the latest Standard Chartered Greater Bay Area Business Confidence Index (GBAI), revealing that business sentiment among companies in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) remained stable in the first quarter of 2026 despite ongoing geopolitical and trade headwinds, notably oil price shocks and continued repercussions from the Middle East conflict.Maintaining Momentum Amid HeadwindsThe Q1 findings largely captured activity and business sentiment since the Middle East conflict began in late February, which has remained highly uncertain and weighed on overall business and market sentiment.Despite a reduced appetite for expansion amid persistent geopolitical uncertainties, business sentiment remained steady across the GBA. The “current performance” index for business activity in Q1 edged down marginally to 49.9 from 50.3 in the previous quarter, while the “expectation” index moderated to 50.4 from 51. Both indices hovered around the 50-neutral mark, indicating GBA corporates’ resilience, supported by favourable policies announced by the Chinese Government aimed at boosting the domestic economy, which in turn would partially offset the fallout of the Middle East conflict.The “current performance” index came down mainly driven by “raw material inventory”, “fixed asset investment” and “financing scale”. The latter two readings were believed to reflect more cautious sentiment among businesses in light of the Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, “production/ sales”, “prices of finished goods/ services” and “profits” all experienced quarter-on-quarter expansion.The “expectations” index remained modestly positive, despite heightened external uncertainties. “New orders” held steady at 51.5, while “prices of finished good/ services” rose to 58.5. However, “profits” fell below the 50-watershed level, implying surveyed companies did not view price increases as sufficient to offset a likely rise in energy and material costs.Hong Kong to Sustain a Still-solid Growth PaceBy city, Hong Kong is expected to maintain a solid performance going forward. Although both the “current” and “expectation” sub-indices edged down to 52.7, these readings still comfortably stayed in expansionary territory, supported by improvements in “financial services” and “innovation and technology” sectors.Tommy Wu, Senior Economist, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered, said: “In addition to the initial impact of surging global energy and freight costs, there are concerns about second-round impacts, such as higher input costs and weaker global demand. This is aligned with the latest reading, which shows a 2.3-point decline in “new export orders” to 47.5 for “current performance”, indicating a more cautious outlook for export demand. With the prolonged Middle East conflict, we anticipate global energy prices to be higher for longer and the second-round effects to become more visible in the coming months. These will likely weigh on business sentiment and appetite on making fixed investment. Nevertheless, Hong Kong has once again demonstrated its resilience amid market turbulence, and such resilience is expected to attract more global capital into HKD and Renminbi assets as safe-haven allocation.”Demand-boosting Measures Favour GBA BusinessesThe survey also investigated the impacts of a series of supportive policies from the Chinese government aimed at stimulating domestic demand in its thematic section. Among the new policy measures introduced by the Ministry of Finance in January, most respondents cited “loan interest subsidies for small, medium and micro-sized enterprises” (38.4%), “large-scale equipment upgrade subsidies” (36.9%) and “consumer goods trade-in subsidies” (31.7%) as the top domestic demand-boosting policies likely to have the most positive impact on their business.Wing Chu, Deputy Director of Research, HKTDC, said: “Demand-boosting stimulus is generating tangible benefits for GBA companies, helping to cushion external challenges amid the Middle East conflict. Targeted support, including loan interest subsidies, alongside measures aimed at stimulating consumer spending, is underpinning demand and supporting business activity across the GBA. Overall, policy-led demand support continues to serve as a meaningful tailwind for GBA businesses. While cost pressures and market competition remain key concerns, respondents are considering stepping up investment in talent and market promotion to sustain further business growth.”While many respondents believe stimulative policies could benefit their businesses by boosting online sales (36.6%) and reducing operating costs (33.8%), challenges faced by GBA corporates remain. Specifically, 54.9% of respondents identified labour costs as the biggest pressure point for their businesses, followed by rental costs (41.7%) and market competition (33.3%). Zooming into Hong Kong respondents, market competition was viewed as a more pressing challenge than rental costs, likely due to the increase in cross-border travel and change in consumption behaviours in recent years. In these circumstances, 38.7% would prioritise their investment in talent recruitment, followed by market promotion (38.1%) and personnel training (36.7%).About the GBAIThe GBAI is the first forward-looking quarterly survey in the market that looks at the business sentiment and synergistic effects in cities and industries across the GBA. It is compiled based on a survey of more than 1,000 companies in the GBA covering the manufacturing and trading, retail and wholesale, financial services, professional services and innovation and technology sectors. The index enables investors and businesses to better understand the current business climate, gauge future performance prospects and formulate their market strategies for the GBA.Related materialsStandard Chartered GBA Business Confidence Index Report: https://www.sc.com/hk/gba/gba-index-report/HKTDC Research: https://research.hktdc.com/en/article/MjMwNjM2MTgxMQReport and photos download: https://bit.ly/4u3izEMWing Chu, Deputy Director of Research, HKTDC (right), and Tommy Wu, Senior Economist, Greater China and North Asia, Standard Chartered (left), announced the latest GBA Business Confidence Index (GBAI) on 27 April 2026.Media enquiriesCorporate Affairs DepartmentStandard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited Flora Chiu Tel: (852) 3843 2285 Email: flora.chiu@sc.com Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentHKTDC Christy LeeClayton Lauw Tel: (852) 2584 4369Tel: (852) 2584 4472Email: christy.wn.lee@hktdc.orgEmail: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.orgAbout Standard CharteredWe are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 54 of the world’s most dynamic markets. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, here for good.Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong stock exchanges.The history of Standard Chartered in Hong Kong dates back to 1859. It is currently one of the Hong Kong SAR’s three note-issuing banks. Standard Chartered incorporated its Hong Kong business on 1 July 2004, and now operates as a licensed bank in Hong Kong under the name of Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Standard Chartered PLC.For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.About HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The 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 the Chinese Mainland, 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 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
CMS (867.HK/8A8.SG) Signed An Exclusive Commercialization and Supply Agreement for Marketed Originator Intravenous Iron Products Monofer(R) and Cosmofer(R)
SHENZHEN, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - China Medical System Holdings Limited (“CMS” or the “Group”) is pleased to announce that, the Group through its wholly-owned subsidiary entered into an exclusive commercialization and supply agreement (the “Agreement”) with Pharmacosmos A/S for Iron Isomaltoside Injection (“Monofer®”) and Iron Dextran Injection (“Cosmofer®”) recently. In accordance with the Agreement, the Group has obtained an exclusive right to commercialize the products in the People’s Republic of China (for the purpose of this Agreement, excluding the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macau Special Administrative Region and Taiwan region). Pharmacosmos A/S will continue to manufacture and supply the products. The cooperation term shall be fifteen years from the effective date stipulated in the Agreement, which may be extended upon mutual agreement between the parties prior to expiry.The two intravenous iron therapies under this cooperation are both originator products that have been approved for marketing in China and included in the China’s National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL). Among them, Monofer® is an exclusive drug and the first third-generation intravenous iron therapy approved for marketing in China. It features an innovative and more stable matrix-like nanostructure and provides a superior safety profile[1]. Its single-dose full iron replenishment significantly reduces the number of infusions, enables faster improvement in hemoglobin levels and enhances clinical convenience. Another product, Cosmofer®, is currently the only intravenous iron therapy included in Category A of the NRDL and also the only one included in the National Essential Medicines List (NEML). With many years of accumulated clinical use, its efficacy and safety have been supported by accumulated clinical experience and published data.The above two products will form a comprehensive intravenous iron product portfolio covering all channels and treatment scenarios, which can support meeting the clinical needs of different levels of healthcare institutions and different types of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) patients, providing more diversified, safe and effective treatment options for patients. Patients with iron deficiency (ID) and IDA are widely distributed across multiple clinical departments, including gastroenterology, cardiology, nephrology, obstetrics and gynecology, and orthopedics, which are all key specialty areas of the Group. The addition of the two products will generate efficient synergies with the Group’s existing marketed products in expert resources and academic promotion network, further strengthening the Group’s overall competitiveness in the field of anemia treatment, and is expected to have a positive impact on the Group’s performance.More information about Monofer®Monofer® was approved on 30 January 2021 for the treatment of iron deficiency in patients where oral iron preparations are ineffective, cannot be used, or where there is a clinical need for rapid iron supplementation. In 2023, Monofer® was included in the NRDL as a Category B reimbursable drug. Monofer® consists of nanoparticles with a stable, matrix-like structure composed of interchanging layers of iron atoms and short, linear isomaltose carbohydrates. This structure enables controlled iron release with low levels of labile iron, contributing to a favourable safety profile, including a low risk of hypersensitivity reactions and hypophosphatemia. Monofer® can be administered as a high-dose infusion of 1,000 mg or more in a single visit, whereas older therapies such as iron sucrose typically require repeated administrations of 100 to 200 mg. This enables full iron repletion in one treatment, reducing the need for multiple infusions, lowering the burden on patients and healthcare systems, and increasing infusion capacity. At the same time, the low risk of hypophosphatemia helps avoid complications such as fractures and supports recovery from fatigue, a key symptom of iron deficiency anaemia.More information about Cosmofer®Cosmofer® is a second-generation low-molecular-weight iron dextran injection. It was approved for marketing in Mainland China in 2003 and is indicated for patients with iron deficiency who cannot take oral iron preparations (such as those who are intolerant to oral iron or have unsatisfactory therapeutic outcomes). Cosmofer® also allows single-dose high-dose iron repletion. With many years of accumulated clinical use, its efficacy and safety have been supported by accumulated clinical experience and published data. Its dual status as a Category A NRDL-listed product and NEML supports its core role in iron supplementation in primary healthcare settings.About Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency AnemiaID and IDA are global health issues that commonly affect children, premenopausal women (particularly pregnant women) and the elderly. These conditions may impair the function of multiple organ systems, leading to a series of health problems such as growth retardation, behavioral disorders, cognitive impairment, reduced physical capacity, and peri-natal and peri-operative complications. They also significantly affect the prognosis of chronic diseases such as gastrointestinal diseases, chronic kidney disease, heart failure and tumors[2]. More than 1 billion people live with iron deficiency anaemia[3], making it one of the leading contributors to the global burden of disease[4]. Data from the Fourth National Nutrition Survey in China indicate that the prevalence of IDA among Chinese residents is 20.1%[5]. However, both patients and healthcare professionals have insufficient awareness of the disease. Less than 20% of patients with mild anemia receive diagnosis and treatment, while only about 50% of patients with severe anemia receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment[2]. This indicates significant underdiagnosis and undertreatment of ID/IDA. Iron supplementation is the standard treatment for ID/IDA and includes oral iron therapy and intravenous iron therapy. Intravenous iron therapy is an important option for patients who cannot tolerate oral iron, have inadequate response to oral therapy, require rapid iron repletion, or prefer full iron supplementation within one to two administrations[1,2,6]. However, due to insufficient awareness of IDA, patient adherence issues, hospitalization constraints, infusion convenience, and safety concerns regarding intravenous iron therapies, the clinical use of intravenous iron in China remains relatively conservative. A Chinese real-world study shows that the average total dose of iron sucrose used in IDA patients was approximately 511 mg, which was significantly lower than the target dose of 1,000 mg[2]. There is therefore a significant clinical need for intravenous iron therapies that offer high safety, strong demonstrated efficacy and single-dose full iron repletion. Monofer® and Cosmofer® together establish a comprehensive intravenous iron product portfolio covering multiple treatment scenarios, providing tiered treatment options for patients with iron deficiency anemia.About Pharmacosmos A/SPharmacosmos A/S is a global leader in carbohydrate chemistry and innovative treatments for iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia. Leveraging its deep expertise in carbohydrate chemistry and cell cycle biology, the company is committed to developing innovative therapies to address unmet patient needs, with a particular focus on iron metabolism and hematology-related diseases. Pharmacosmos A/S was founded in 1965 and is headquartered in Denmark, and employs more than 700 specialists from the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Nordic countries, Germany, the United States, Canada and China. With excellent product quality and strong clinical value, its core iron therapy products have been approved and widely used in multiple countries and regions worldwide, establishing strong technological capabilities and a solid market reputation.About CMSCMS is a platform company linking pharmaceutical innovation and commercialization with strong product lifecycle management capability, dedicated to providing competitive products and services to meet unmet medical needs.CMS focuses on the global first-in-class (FIC) and best-in-class (BIC) innovative products, and efficiently promotes the clinical research, development and commercialization of innovative products, enabling the continuous transformation of scientific research into clinical practices to benefit patients.CMS deeply engages in several specialty therapeutic fields, and has developed proven commercialization capabilities, extensive networks and expert resources, resulting in leading academic and market positions for its major marketed products. CMS continues to promote the in-depth development in its advantageous specialty fields, strengthening the competitiveness of the cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic/gastroenterology/ophthalmology/skin health businesses, bringing economies of scale in specialty fields. Among them, the skin health business (Dermavon) has become a leading enterprise in its field, and is proposed to be listed independently on the SEHK. Meanwhile, CMS continuously promotes the operation and development of its integrated R&D, manufacturing and commercialization chain in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, capturing growth opportunities in emerging markets to support the high-quality and sustainable development of the Group.Reference:1. Chinese Pharmacological Society Professional Committee of Drug‑induced Diseases, Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association. Expert consensus of clinical application and pharmaceutical care for intravenous iron agents (2024) [J]. Adverse Drug Reactions Journal, 2025, 27(3): 129-141. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn114015⁃20240929⁃000702. Liao Minjing, Zhang Liansheng. Standardized diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency and iron‑deficiency anemia [J]. Chinese Journal of Internal Medicine, 2023, 62(6): 722-727. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112138-20230210-00074.3. Global Burden of Disease Collaborative Network. Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 (GBD 2019) Results. Seattle, United States: Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME); 2020. Available from http://ghdx.healthdata.org/gbd-results-tool.4. Pasricha SR, Tye-Din J, Muckenthaler MU, Swinkels DW. Iron deficiency. Lancet. 2021 Jan 16;397(10270):233-248.5. Li Lijuan, Zhang Liansheng. Considerations on the standardized diagnosis and treatment of iron‑deficiency anemia [J]. National Medical Journal of China, 2021, 101(40): 3266-3270. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112137-20210609-01319.6. Red Blood Cell Disease (Anemia) Group, Chinese Society of Hematology, Chinese Medical Association. Multidisciplinary expert consensus on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia (2022 edition) [J]. National Medical Journal of China, 2022, 102(41): 3246-3256. DOI: 10.3760/cma. j.cn112137-20220621-01361.CMS Disclaimer and Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release is not intended to promote any products to you and is not for advertising purposes. This press release does not recommend any drugs, medical devices and/or indications. If you want to know more about the diagnosis and treatment of specific diseases, please follow the opinions or guidance of your doctor or other medical and health professionals. Any treatment-related decisions made by healthcare professionals should be based on the patient’s specific circumstances and in accordance with the drug package insert.This press release which has been prepared by CMS does not constitute any offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities, and shall not form the basis for or be relied on in connection with any contract or binding commitment whatsoever. This press release has been prepared by CMS based on information and data which it considers reliable, but CMS makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, whatsoever, and no reliance shall be placed on, the truth, accuracy, completeness, fairness and reasonableness of the contents of this press release. Certain matters discussed in this press release may contain statements regarding the Group’s market opportunity and business prospects that are individually and collectively forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Any forward-looking statements and projections made by third parties included in this press release are not adopted by the Group and the Company is not responsible for such third-party statements and projections.Media ContactBrand: China Medical System Holdings Ltd.Contact: CMS Investor RelationsEmail: ir@cms.net.cnWebsite: https://web.cms.net.cn/en/home/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
Kincora Investor Webinar Invitation
Vancouver, British Columbia--(ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com - April 27, 2026) - Copper-gold explorer and hybrid project generator Kincora Copper Limited (ASX: KCC) (TSXV: KCC) (Kincora or the Company) is pleased to announce that it will be holding an Investor Webinar Presentation and Discussion on the afternoon of Tuesday April 28th Pacific Standard Time (PST) and morning of Wednesday 29th Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST).President & Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sam Spring, will update the market on recent and upcoming drill programs, exploration activities and corporate developments across the project portfolio.Both Kincora shareholders and interested investors are invited to attend the webinar and participate in the accompanying Q&A session.Kincora Copper Investor Webinar Details: Canada(Vancouver)US(Dallas)Australia(East Coast)Date28-Apr-202628-Apr-202629-Apr-2026Time4.00PM PST6.00PM CT9.00AM AEST Please note: Registration is required to attend this Zoom format investor webinar.Please register in advance for the Zoom webinar using the following link:https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_IE079ntuTbmoCUiWm6_O5QAfter registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.Questions can be submitted in advance of the webinar to Julia Maguire of The Capital Network via the following email address: julia@thecapitalnetwork.com.auA replay of the webinar will be available on Kincora's website on the following page:https://kincoracopper.com/interviews/About Kincora: Kincora Copper Limited (ASX: KCC) (TSXV: KCC) is an emerging Australia-focused gold-copper explorer with a hybrid project generator strategy.The Company is successfully proving up the prospectivity of its extensive project portfolio, which includes multiple district-scale landholdings and scalable drill ready targets. These assets are located in Australia's Lachlan Fold Belt and Mongolia's Southern Gobi, two of the globe's leading porphyry belts, and the historical Condobolin mining field within the Cobar basin in NSW.The Company has already unlocked over $100 million of potential partner funding for multiple earlier stage and/or non-core porphyry projects. These initial deals have supported over 18,000 metres of drilling and over A$9m of partner funded exploration since late 2024, with management fees and exploration ramping up.Partner discussions are ongoing for its remaining 100% owned flagship projects that are all situated within existing porphyry camps containing over 20-million-ounce gold equivalent resource inventory.By having a significant portfolio of partner funded large porphyry projects, and a very focused capital efficient programs at the Condobolin and other sole funded projects, the Company is seeking to position Kincora as a leading institutional grade explorer in the public Australian and Canadian markets, and the leading project generator on the ASX.The Company's website is: www.kincoracopper.comThis announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Kincora Copper Limited (ARBN 645 457 763)For further information please contact:Sam Spring, President and Chief Executive Officersam.spring@kincoracopper.com or +61431 329 345 Laurie Thomas, Strategic Advisor laurie.thomas@kincoracopper.com or +1306 341 3826 Media contactJulia Maguire, Managing Director, The Capital Networkjulia@thecapitalnetwork.com.au or +61 2 7257 7338Executive office Subsidiary office Australia 400 - 837 West Hastings Street C/- JM Corporate ServicesVancouver, BC V6C 3N6, Canada Level 6, 350 Collins StreetTel: 1.604.283.1722 Melbourne, VIC, Australia 3000 Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) or the Australian Securities Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/294246 Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
HKTDC’s seven flagship lifestyle and licensing events open today
HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today officially opened its seven flagship lifestyle and licensing events. The Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, Home InStyle and Fashion InStyle are being held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), while the Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong at AsiaWorld-Expo, from today until 30 April. The Hong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference are running concurrently from today until 29 April, also at HKCEC. Together, the six trade fairs have attracted some 5,600 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions. HKTDC Executive Director Sophia Chong said: "Hong Kong has long served as the key gateway for global businesses connecting with the Chinese Mainland, playing the role of super connector and super value-adder that bridges the Chinese Mainland's vast market with the rest of the world. Backed by its solid strengths, well developed innovation ecosystem and robust intellectual property infrastructure, Hong Kong is the ideal base for companies to grow their businesses, pursue creativity and innovation, and bring them to commercial fruition."Creative gifts and home products converge; Gifts & Premium Fair and Home InStyle serve as platforms for new product launchesThe Gifts & Premium Fair and Home InStyle continue to offer buyers a diverse range of gifts and home products spanning cultural creativity, sustainability, innovative materials and gerontechnology. Selected highlights from both fairs are brought together on the new "Reimagine" themed floor at HKCEC Hall 5, giving buyers a one-stop overview of the latest global trends in lifestyle homeware and gifting products, while inspiring the industry to envision future product possibilities with fresh perspectives and inspiration.Both fairs are also attracting exhibitors to unveil latest products. Wei Yit Vacuum Flask Manufactory (Booth: 1E-D02), an exhibitor at the Gifts & Premium Fair, is debuting the Camel Brand MINI20 thermos blind box, created by Hong Kong illustrator Pen So and Hong Kong contemporary artist Jerry Cho. With the Camel Brand celebrating its 85th anniversary – the same year as Bruce Lee’s 85th birth anniversary - the exhibitor is also launching another special co-branded thermos. Home InStyle exhibitor PREN Ltd (Booth: 5E-C20) is making its first-ever public introduction of an infection-prevention mobile toilet — an installation-free, waterless unit requiring no repeated disinfection and no direct contact with waste before and after use, incorporating health monitoring capabilities that seamlessly bring professional care into modern households.Gifts & Premium Fair spotlights design-led giftsThe Hall of Fine Designs at the Gifts & Premium Fair, located at HKCEC Hall 1, once again gathers over 100 local and international exhibitors, featuring premium, design-led products ranging from stationery and home accessories to smart collectibles incorporating the latest technologies. Star Industrial Co., Ltd (Booth: 1C-G03) presents the Red A "Made in Hong Kong" mini-series blind boxes, evoking nostalgic memories of Hong Kong daily life from the 1960s to the 1990s through iconic household items. Moral Team Holdings Ltd (Booth: 1C-E05) introduces the Napier Coded backpack designed for pickleball enthusiasts, crafted from recycled materials and combining sports with sustainability elements.Home InStyle shapes the future of home livingFunded by the Innovation and Technology Commission, Home InStyle this year presents the Gerontech and Innovative Material Pavilion (Booth: 5E-C20), showcasing over 20 local enterprises to feature gerontechnology products, smart living solutions and home products made from innovative materials.Scan Infinity Ltd presents the TechFitX Smart Sports Training System, which uses interchangeable modules and gamified training to help seniors easily build an exercise routine at home. The United Nations University Hub on Humanitarian Innovation and Technology at Lingnan University showcases IntuCREW, a smart power-assist solution designed to reduce the physical burden on caregivers when maneuvering wheelchairs. Other highlights include Sinomax's bionic ultrasonic sleep soother, German Pool's Natural Wellness Machine, and Afontane's self-cleaning bedding system.On the innovative materials front, Lotux International Holdings Co., Limited’sbiodegradable tableware and food containers are made from lotus stems alongside lotus fibre deodorising cat litter; Editecture showcases the reEDIT upcycled chair made from recycled plastic bottles and bottle cap fragments; and Mush Composites presents bio-based tiles produced from agricultural by-products and mycelium for decorative surface applications.Another focal point of Home InStyle, the Cultural and Creative Avenue, gathers design institutions and culturally inspired brands from over 10 countries and regions. Highlights include Indonesia's PT MANAMU ANAIA SUMBA (Booth: 5E-C09A) with its Banoura bracelets; Czech exhibitor Izaak Reich Crystal s.r.o. (Booth: 5E-A14), featuring handcrafted glass with over 150 years of heritage; UK exhibitor Block Design (Booth: 5E-C09B) with double-sided sculptural glass vases; Taiwan exhibitor Karari (Booth: 5E-A18) with incense accessories; and a Macao exhibitor (Booth: 5E-A16) featuring 3D-printed creations. Pantone returns as colour partner, presenting home décor trends through the PANTONE 2026 Colour of the Year "Cloud Dancer".Fashion InStyle showcases global innovation in fashion materialsThe highlighted zone NEXT@Fashion InStyle (NEXT), organised by the HKTDC and sponsored by the HKSAR Government's the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA), returns this year to demonstrate how material innovation is driving industry transformation and advancing sustainability across the fashion sector. The Philippines joins as the featured partner, powered by the Philippine Trade and Investment Centre – Hong Kong (PTIC-HK) and the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM). NEXT brings together over 60 exhibitors from across the globe.Exhibitors include Belgium's Bloom Biotech (Booth: 3F-F09), showcasing microalgae leather, the world's first carbon-neutral leather alternative produced through scalable green technology; At Booth: 3F-E04, Finland's Spinnova PLC’s SPINNOVA® is a next-generation textile fibre derived from wood or waste cellulose, and compatible with conventional textile processes and seamlessly blendable with cotton to deliver scalable, recyclable solutions for apparel and beyond; and Vietnam's Thai Son S.P Co., Ltd. (Booth: 3F-F03), has a range of fabrics that includes ramie fabric, a material with over 3,000 years of history and celebrated for its outstanding performance and natural antibacterial properties. The NEXT zone also features exhibitors from Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Sweden, Thailand, and the United States, among others.Returning as project ambassador, Han Chong, founder and creative director of internationally acclaimed brand self-portrait, leads six local designer brands, each drawing on forward-looking materials selected from eight participating material suppliers to create cross-disciplinary collections. In a first for the project, materials sourced from beyond Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland are incorporated this year, bringing fresh creative momentum to the field of fashion material innovation. For example, design label WILSONKAKI fuses the world's lightest H2 fabric from French supplier Chargeurs PCC, mycelium leather from Indonesian supplier MYCL-Mycotech Lab, and natural fibres from Hong Kong supplier Texwinca Holdings Ltd, to craft everyday pieces that balance lightweight protection with a natural tactile quality through lamination and bonding techniques. The full design collection will be unveiled at tomorrow's NEXT fashion parade.Fashion InStyle also features dedicated zones including the Designer Spotlight, Materials Bazaar, Fashion Accessories, Women in Style, Bridal & Evening Wear, and Athleisure, presenting a rich selection of ready-to-wear and accessories. Glory G International Limited (Booth: 3G-B31) presents its "Resilience" collection of lightweight suede denim, challenging the conventional perception of heavy denim outerwear; Hong Kong Haiyuan Limited (Booth: 3G-F18) showcases decorative and functional tassel ornaments designed to be attached to handbags, keys and everyday accessories; while Bibi Hanum from Uzbekistan (Booth: 3F-G29) brings traditional silk ikat patchwork wrap skirts.Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong present green solutions and high-end craftsmanshipThe Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong,co-organised by the HKTDC and CIEC Exhibition Company (HK) Limited, continue to highlight innovative, eco-friendly and premium printing and packaging solutions. Elements Printing and Packaging Limited (Booth: 3-E01) introduces FSC Transparent Non-plastic packaging products and FSC Glassine Paper Bag, championing plastic-free, recyclable design principles. BSN International Hong Kong Limited (Booth: 3-E02) offers radio frequency identification (RFID) () labels incorporating paper-based inner layers for sustainable design. Guangzhou Xingqiyuan Trading Co., Ltd. (Booth: 3-E11) presents eco-friendly wet-press paper-pulp packaging made from agricultural waste.At DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong, Ijen Enterprises Ltd. (Booth: 3-A05) presents 3D rotating music boxes and vintage phonograph gift packaging that integrate music, storage and packaging. Marshallom (Holdings) Limited (Booth: 3-A08) showcases a floral-and-bird paper lantern canister with a dual-purpose design that extends the product lifecycle, alongside the "Victoria Harbour Day & Night" gift box combining light and shadow effects with storage and premium food packaging.Licensing Show launches IP and e-Commerce Support Services zone for the first timeThe Hong Kong International Licensing Show welcomes more than330 exhibitors from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland and across Asia, showcasing more than 600 brands and intellectual property (IP) projects spanning arts and culture, animation and characters, brand extension, lifestyle, entertainment and sports licensing. In line with direction of the HKSAR Government's policy to strengthen Hong Kong businesses' competitiveness on cross-border e-commerce, the fair introduces for the first time a dedicated IP and e-Commerce Support Services zone. The zone unites e-commerce platforms, KOLs, marketing and PR firms — including e-commerce platform Digitify Online Growth (Booth: 5G-E04) and marketing firm Matrix Promotion Limited (Booth: 5G-F01) — to support brands and IPs in capitalising on the new opportunities generated by e-commerce growth. Throughout the fair, e-commerce associations will conduct workshops on topics including establishment of e-commerce platforms, global market expansion via e-commerce channels, and livestreaming commerce, equipping the industry to stay ahead of the curve.Headline IPs at the Licensing Show include Potatoz by 9GAG Limited (Booth: 5G-D20), LuLu the Piggy by Toyzeroplus Limited (Booth: 5G-A24), Café de Bollo by Yogurt Studio Ltd. (Booth: 5F-G20), along with Chinese Mainland IP Quby (Booth: 5G-A22), Korean IP LOTTY FRIENDS (Booth: 5F-G36) and Thai IP Warbie Yama (Booth: 5G-A51). Organised by the Innovative Entrepreneur Association (IEA) and sponsored by Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the HKSAR Government, the Design Licensing and Business (DLAB) Support Scheme again stages the DLAB Hong Kong Pavilion at the Hong Kong International Licensing Show, featuring close to 40 exhibitors showcasing a diverse portfolio of Hong Kong original brands and IPs. The HKTDC also continues its collaboration with the Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, with Hong Kong Design Institute joining as a new partner this year, to present the Hong Kong Licensing Force Showcase, spotlighting the creativity of Hong Kong's emerging talents.The concurrent Asian Licensing Conference invites industry leaders to examine key market developments. Today's programme features Maura Regan, President and CEO of Licensing International, presenting the "Global Licensing Trends to Watch in 2026". With the FIFA World Cup taking place this year, the conference also welcomes Alessandro Villa, Senior Licensing Manager of FIFA, and Ivan Chan, Founder and CEO of Promotional Partners Worldwide to share the commercial strategies underpinning successful sports licensing. Mark Mao, Executive Vice President and Head of Sales at COVER Corporation will explore how Virtual YouTubers forge connections with GenZ through strategic social media engagement on the next day.Industry seminars and forums explore emerging market opportunitiesTo help industry professionals keep pace with the latest developments, around 60 thematic seminars, buyer forums, product presentations and launch events will be held throughout the fairs, covering trending topics including the silver economy, market trends, culture and innovation, and sustainability.Among the seminar highlights, the Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong will present a seminar co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Digital Printing Association, titled “From Prompt to Reality: Revolutionizing Visual Design and Printing with Generative AI and Digital Printing”, examining how generative AI and digital printing are driving innovative transformation across the industry. The Gifts & Premium Fair and Home InStyle will host “Re-Gifted: Trends and Triumphs in Sustainable Home & Gift Design”, exploring new directions in sustainable design. Fashion InStyle will stage the seminar “Cultural Fusion in Lifestyle Design: The Surreal Aesthetics of Motifx”, offering the industry the latest market insights, innovative thinking and practical strategies.Photo Download: https://bit.ly/4vQE39EOrganised by HKTDC, the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, Home InStyle, Fashion InStyle, Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair, Deluxe PrintPack Hong Kong, Hong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference open today, with the six trade fairs bringing together some 5,600 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and regionsHKTDC Executive Director Sophia Chong delivered the welcome remarks at the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference this morning (27 April)(From left) Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries of CCIDA, Drew Lai; Director, Asia Tourism Exchange Centre, Zhang Dong; HKTDC Executive Director, Sophia Chong; Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, HKSAR Government, Sum Fong Kwang, Vivian; Plan and Policy Analyst Expert Level, Ministry of Culture, Thailand, Narathorn Parndee; and President and CEO of Licensing International, Maura Regan, officiated the opening ceremonyThe Hall of Fine Designs at the Gifts & Premium Fair showcases a premium selection of design-led gifts, including stationery, home products and smart lifestyle items featuring innovative technologyAt Home InStyle, the Gerontech and Innovative Material Pavilion features more than 20 local exhibitors showcasing gerontech products, smart living solutions and innovative materials applied to the homeware and home textilesThe Cultural & Creative Avenue showcases cultural and creative home products from around the world, presenting distinctive brands and designs that celebrate diverse cultural heritagesFashion InStyle this year presents the spotlight zone NEXT@Fashion InStyle, with featured partner the Philippines bringing over 25 exhibitors to showcase local fashion materialsNEXT@Fashion InStyle project ambassador Han Chong (centre) leads six local designer brands in creating fashion collections incorporating selected innovative global materialsBSN International Hong Kong Limited showcases radio frequency identification (RFID) labels with paper-based inner layers at the Printing & Packaging Fair, highlighting both functionality and sustainable designAt DeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong, Marshallom (Holdings) Limited presents its “Victoria Harbour Day & Night” gift box, a multifunctional design combining decorative lighting, food packaging and storage, inspired by the changing scenery of Victoria HarbourThe Hong Kong International Licensing Show this year introduces for the first time the dedicated IP & e-Commerce Support Services zoneWebsitesHKTDC Media Room: https://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enHong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkgiftspremiumfair/enHome InStyle: https://www.hktdc.com/event/homeinstyle/enFashion InStyle: https://www.hktdc.com/event/fashioninstyle/enHong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkprintpackfair/enDeLuxe PrintPack Hong Kong: https://www.hktdc.com/event/deluxeprintpackhk/enHong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hklicensingshow/enMedia enquiriesFor enquiries, please contact:Home InStyle, Fashion InStyle, HK Gifts & Premium Fair, HK International Printing & Packaging Fair and DeLuxe PrintPack Hong KongPandagon:Fraser LiTel: 6083 5623Email: pandagon.limited@gmail.comHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Clayton LauwTel: 2584 4472Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org HK International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing ConferenceRaconteur: Molisa LauTel: 6187 7786Email: molisalau@raconteur.hkBetsy TseTel: 9742 7338Email: betsytse@raconteur.hkHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Winnie KanTel: 2584 4055Email: winnie.wy.kan@hktdc.orgHKTDC Newsroom: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/enAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The 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 the Chinese Mainland, 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 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
Gibraltar MP urges nations to avoid falling behind in the prediction markets sector
(AsiaGameHub) - Gibraltar is acting swiftly to establish itself as a leader in technology, making prediction markets and tokenisation core parts of its regulatory approach. In remarks made before his journey to Consensus Miami, Justice, Trade and Industry Minister Nigel Feetham clarified the strategy: move early or face the possibility of falling behind. His statements highlight a focused effort to grow Gibraltar's current digital assets and gaming landscape into related areas, stating the intention to 'lead from the front'. Gibraltar’s jump into predictions The jurisdiction has already started issuing licences to prediction market operators, demonstrating a readiness to act more rapidly than larger regulators who are still evaluating how to categorise and oversee this sector. Nations such as the UK, France, and the Netherlands have all indicated that prediction markets would require gambling licences – a step most firms are reluctant to take as it would label them as gambling businesses. Feetham presented the quick licensing of the widely talked-about ADI Predictstreet in Gibraltar as a competitive edge rather than a regulatory danger, noting that more applications are already underway. He also cited US President Donald Trump, whose government has been considerably more receptive to prediction markets than that of his predecessor, Joe Biden. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) shifted from strong opposition under Biden to initial neutrality and then full support under Trump. “President Trump is right. In a fast-moving global market, countries that stand still risk being left behind,” said Feetham. “That is why Gibraltar is moving at pace across key digital sectors including AI, digital assets, and prediction markets, supporting innovation and expanding the ecosystem we have already built. “We have chosen to act early on the licensing of prediction markets because Gibraltar is not only ensuring it is not left behind, we intend to lead from the front. “We are already seeing strong interest following the recent licensing of an operator and expect to progress a number of new applications.” Nigel Feetham. Credit: LinkedIn Gibraltar keeps eye on emerging tech Tokenisation is the next focus. Draft laws are finished and should be released soon, fulfilling pledges made earlier this year. The goal is to build a clear framework enabling tokenised assets to evolve within a regulated setting, similar to Gibraltar's prior strategy for digital assets. This regulatory drive coincides with prediction markets gaining global momentum, especially around major sports events. As noted, FIFA has entered this arena via a new partnership with ADI Predictstreet. Nevertheless, initial limitations persist. Since ADI Predictstreet is presently licensed only in Gibraltar, its ability to access other regulated markets is restricted. Feetham may well be urging other jurisdictions to emulate Gibraltar, as with a single licence, ADI Predictstreet can only serve Gibraltar's approximately 40,000 residents. Indeed, prediction markets are increasingly featuring next to traditional sports betting and media deals, as shown by recent agreements like Polymarket's partnership with LaLiga's US business arm. However, numerous ethical concerns have been raised – from insider trading and the morality of geopolitical markets, to the argument over whether predictions constitute gambling or a financial service. These concerns were voiced again just this morning, with a gambling addiction expert demanding prediction market regulation in Ireland. Opportunities in prediction markets are evident, driving Gibraltar's speedy action, but hasty regulation could trigger various problems soon, which may be discouraging other European countries from acting. The controversies surrounding Kalshi and Polymarket serve as clear examples of the potential risks. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Unveils Home-Décor Line Chow Tai Fook Home, Redefining Luxury Lifestyle Experience Ahead of Global Flagship Store Grand Opening in Hong Kong
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 27/04/2026 / 18:20 UTC+8 Debut tableware collection developed in collaboration with Bernardaud, a renowned French porcelain maison expanding the brand’s luxury lifestyle universe (Hong Kong, 27 April 2026) Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited ("Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group", the "Group" or the "Company"; SEHK stock code: 1929), the global Chinese luxury group built on a nearly century-long legacy of trust and innovation, today announced its venture beyond jewellery - the launch of Chow Tai Fook Home, a new luxury home-décor line. The unveiling, ahead of the grand opening of the Group’s first global flagship store on Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui in mid-May, marks a milestone in the Group’s brand transformation journey. Since embarking on a holistic brand transformation in 2024, the Group has sharpened its focus on elevating customer experience through newly designed stores and a differentiated product portfolio. These dual launches deepen the Group’s commitment to enrich customer engagement and extend its relevance to a broader spectrum of discerning consumers worldwide. Ms Sonia Cheng, Vice-chairman of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, said, “The opening of our global flagship store and the debut of Chow Tai Fook Home mark a defining moment in our brand’s ongoing transformation. For nearly a century, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery has been a custodian of exceptional Chinese craftsmanship, and Chow Tai Fook Home represents a natural evolution of that heritage — bringing our artistry into the everyday lives of our customers. By entering the home-décor category, we are broadening the meaning of Chow Tai Fook and reinforcing our stature as a leader in the global luxury market.” Debut Chow Tai Fook Home Tableware Line in Collaboration with Bernardaud Chow Tai Fook Home represents a significant strategic extension of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery into elevated everyday living. As the first global Chinese luxury group to enter the luxury home category, the Group is bringing its mastery of fine craftsmanship to objects designed to enrich home décor. Developed in collaboration with internationally acclaimed brand, Bernardaud – the venerable French porcelain maison – Chow Tai Fook Home’s tableware collections, Rouge and Ginkgo, bring together world-class artisanal traditions with a contemporary design language. This expansion reinforces the Group’s positioning in the global luxury landscape, while integrating the brand more deeply into customers’ daily lives. Dazzled by Heritage Pavilion and Gold Ginkgo Tree The Group’s first global flagship store, which soft-launched in February, occupies a prime location on Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong’s iconic luxury destination. Conceived as the Home of Chow Tai Fook, the concept frames the brand’s history and craft as the point of origin for the store. With the space harmonising the brand’s signature ‘Chow Tai Fook Timeless Red’ with the warmth of natural wood, it creates an ambience that is refined and welcoming. At the threshold of the store, a Heritage Pavilion chronicles the brand’s journey since its founding in 1929, celebrating Chow Tai Fook Jewellery’s pioneering role in the industry and its dedication to preserving ancient gold crafting traditions – including chasing and filigree – developed in collaboration with leading cultural and academic institutions. Commanding over the entrance is the brand’s signature Gold Ginkgo Tree, which stands 2.1 metres tall and 2.3 metres wide, is adorned with approximately 3,500 pure gold leaves, weighs around 40 kilograms, handcrafted by nearly 50 master craftsmen in close to 60,000 hours, and completed in 2016. Enduring through the ages, the gingko tree stands as a symbol of resilience, grace and blessing. For nearly a century, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery has embodied the same spirit – constantly evolving, yet timeless in its craft. An Immersive Luxury Experience Beyond the Heritage Pavilion, the flagship store is thoughtfully zoned to present the Group’s iconic collections – including CTF Rouge, CTF Joie, Chow Tai Fook Palace Museum and HUÁ Collections – curated to reflect individual tastes and occasions. At the heart of the store, the brand introduces “Charm Your Path”, an interactive personalisation experience making its Hong Kong debut. Drawing on Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) personality types alongside Chinese zodiac symbolism, astrological meaning and personal style preferences, customers can create bespoke charm bracelets. The store also features High Jewellery, HEARTS ON FIRE collections, a dedicated bridal zone for couples, and a private VIP zone. By weaving together the brand history, spatial elegance and interactive discovery, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery is redefining the luxury experience, setting a new benchmark for Chinese luxury on the global stage. ### Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited Since its founding in 1929, CHOW TAI FOOK, the flagship brand of Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group, has been celebrated for its bold designs and meticulous attention to detail. Our commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has made us synonymous with excellence, value, and authenticity. As the global Chinese luxury group, we blend contemporary designs with traditional techniques to create timeless pieces. Each collection reflects our customers' stories and lives, celebrating their special moments. We aspire to inspire and captivate generations to come, weaving the story of CHOW TAI FOOK into their own. Our brand portfolio includes the iconic CHOW TAI FOOK flagship brand, HEARTS ON FIRE, ENZO, and MONOLOGUE, offering a wide variety of products that also includes an expanding range of cutting-edge IP collaborations. With over 5,000 stores worldwide, we offer a seamless client journey across all touchpoints that includes a network across China as well as a growing number of global locations. Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited (SEHK: 1929) has been listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange since December 2011. We are committed to delivering sustainable long-term value for our stakeholders by continually enhancing earnings quality and driving higher value growth. Media Enquiries: Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Limited Haide Ng Associate Director, Corporate Communications Tel: (852) 3115 4402 Email: haideng@chowtaifook.com Acky Chan Senior Manager, Corporate Communications Tel: (852) 3115 4403 Email: ackychan@chowtaifook.com 27/04/2026 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
Rivalry’s leadership team makes major resignations including c-level and co founders
(AsiaGameHub) - Three of the four original founders of the Canadian esports company Rivalry have stepped down, with all three also serving in C-level roles. These departures occur during a period of considerable difficulty for Rivalry. The company suspended its operations in February as a broader initiative to cut expenses, which involved halting all player activity, implementing employee layoffs, and evaluating potential asset sales. Rivalry’s director exodus Rivalry, a business listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), reported on Friday that five senior executives in total have resigned from its board of directors. Those departing include Ryan White, Kevin Wimer, Steven Isenberg and Demi Abidogun-Benson. White and Wimer established Rivalry in 2016 together with Chief Executive Officer Steven Salz. They served as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively. Steven Salz, CEO of Rivalry – Source: Rivalry Steven Isenberg is the third and final co-founder to depart the company. According to Rivalry’s website, he sits on the local advisory committee for the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV). He also founded Urbanfund Corp, a real estate firm focused on Toronto that is listed on the TSXV, and was the founder and CEO of M Partners, an investment bank established in 2005. In 2023, Research Capital Corporation, another TSX-listed company, acquired M Partners. During its eight-year existence, the bank employed Rivalry co-founder and CEO Salz as an Equity Research Analyst from 2014 to 2016. The remaining two individuals who resigned were not among the company's 2016 founders. Abidogun-Benson has left her positions on the board and as interim Chief Financial Officer. She originally joined the firm in 2022 as a Senior Manager for corporate reporting, planning, and analysis, later advancing to Head of Finance in August 2024. The last director to resign was Stephen Rigby, the previous President and CEO of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). From 2010 to 2015, he acted as National Security Advisor to former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Rivalry’s struggle continues Rivalry has historically targeted Gen Z and millennial customers since it began, supported by product design, marketing, and content that leverages internet humor and culture. The company holds licenses in Ontario and Australia, but also operates in several international grey markets using an Isle of Man license. It introduced the casino.exe platform in March 2023, and iGaming has subsequently made up approximately half of its betting volume in quarterly reports. Its move into digital currencies happened even though cryptocurrency gambling is not permitted in Canada or Australia, its two licensed jurisdictions. The company continues to be referred to as a 'crypto casino' in Google search results, although its website has been offline since operations were paused in February. Rivalry started facing challenges on the TSX in 2025 when it was late filing its full-year 2024 financial statement. In April, it sought a management cease trade order from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). The subsequent months involved significant cost-cutting measures, including a strategic review and the engagement of New York advisory firm XST Capital Group. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Aluminum’s Supply Shock Is Making China Hongqiao Hard to Sell
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 27/04/2026 / 15:38 UTC+8 Why China Hongqiao Is Hard to Sell as Aluminum Gets Repriced?Aluminum’s Supply Shock Rewrites the Trade, Making Hongqiao’s Pullbacks Look BuyableGlobal markets are repricing aluminum. For years, aluminum was traded largely as a cyclical commodity: prices rose when demand improved and fell when inventories built up. This year, that framework is changing. Aluminum is increasingly being viewed as a supply-security asset. Conflict in the Middle East has raised energy and shipping risks. Disruption around the Strait of Hormuz has complicated the flow of raw materials into overseas smelters and the shipment of finished metal out of them. Policy shifts in Guinea, meanwhile, have forced investors to take another look at the scarcity value of bauxite. For China Hongqiao Group Ltd., that points to a simple conclusion: as long as the aluminum market remains intact, the stock will be hard to sell down in any meaningful way. The macro logic is straightforward. China’s domestic electrolytic aluminum capacity is approaching the 45 million-ton ceiling, leaving limited room for new supply. Overseas capacity is constrained by power availability, natural gas costs, logistics and geopolitics. Demand may still move with the cycle, but electric vehicles, solar power, energy storage, grid investment, lightweight materials and AI-related infrastructure continue to raise the medium- and long-term floor for aluminum consumption. Guotai Haitong Securities has said in a research note that aluminum supply is likely to remain tight in 2026, and raised its target price for China Hongqiao to HK$43.2. Its reasoning included domestic operating capacity nearing the regulatory cap and a high copper-to-aluminum price ratio encouraging substitution demand. Separately, a CICC view cited by Futubull noted that after Qatar Aluminium and Aluminium Bahrain declared force majeure, LME aluminum once climbed to $3,418 a ton, creating room for a rerating as aluminum prices and per-ton profits rise. Hongqiao is different from a smelter that merely tracks aluminum prices. It has an integrated chain covering upstream bauxite resources, alumina, electrolytic aluminum and aluminum processing. Huayuan Securities said in an April 25 report that by the end of 2025 China Hongqiao had 21 million tons of alumina capacity at home and abroad, 6.46 million tons of compliant electrolytic aluminum capacity, and 970,000 tons of aluminum processing capacity. The report also said Hongqiao, as a member of the Winning Consortium, has exposure to bauxite resources in Guinea. In 2025, the consortium’s Boké bauxite exports exceeded 70 million wet metric tons, while Winning International expects shipments to surpass 90 million tons in 2026. Huayuan also estimated Hongqiao’s theoretical alumina self-sufficiency ratio at 171%. Those numbers matter. When aluminum prices rise, investors focus on earnings leverage. When supply chains tighten, they focus on resource certainty. Hongqiao has both. Guinea sits at the center of that logic. A previous report by Minmetals Futures showed that in the first 10 months of 2025, China imported 171.4 million tons of bauxite, up 30.11% from a year earlier. Imports from Guinea reached 127.43 million tons, up 38.37%. Guinea is no longer a marginal supplier. It is a core variable in China’s aluminum raw-material security. For ordinary aluminum producers, that dependence is a risk. For Hongqiao, with long-term mine access and logistics infrastructure, it is a moat. Huachuang Securities offered another angle in an April 3 report. China Hongqiao’s 2025 revenue rose 4.0% to 162.35 billion yuan, while net profit attributable to shareholders increased 1.2% to a record 22.64 billion yuan. Sales of aluminum alloy products reached 5.824 million tons, with the gross margin rising to 28.5%. Its debt-to-asset ratio fell to 42.25% from 48.24%. Huachuang set a HK$44 target price and maintained its “recommended” rating, while raising its 2026-2028 net profit forecasts to 32.15 billion yuan, 34.97 billion yuan and 38.29 billion yuan. Shareholder returns add another layer of support. Shenwan Hongyuan said in an April 2 report that China Hongqiao proposed a 2025 final dividend of HK$1.65 per share, implying a payout ratio of about 65.4%. During the year, the company spent HK$5.58 billion buying back 306 million shares, all of which were canceled. The broker maintained an “accumulate” rating and forecast net profit of 32.2 billion yuan, 34.4 billion yuan and 37.8 billion yuan for 2026-2028. Foreign brokers have also been constructive. According to an AASTOCKS summary, HSBC Research said Hongqiao’s 2025 results were solid, though slightly below expectations, and maintained a “buy” rating with a HK$41 target price. HSBC said aluminum looked more resilient than copper and gold within its coverage universe amid macro uncertainty. It also noted that Hongqiao was trading at about 7.7 times estimated 2026 earnings, with a dividend yield of roughly 9%, making the valuation attractive. That is the underlying reason Hongqiao is hard to push lower. In the short term, the stock will still move with Hong Kong market sentiment, capital flows and commodity-price volatility. But as long as aluminum’s price floor does not collapse, and as long as Guinea bauxite and overseas smelter disruptions remain live issues, the market will find it difficult to ignore Hongqiao’s earnings leverage, resource position and cash returns. Put more directly: aluminum prices give Hongqiao earnings upside; bauxite resources give it a valuation premium; dividends and buybacks give the stock a cushion. Cyclical stocks are most vulnerable when the pricing logic breaks. Hongqiao’s support now comes from more than aluminum prices. It comes from ore access, alumina self-sufficiency, its position on the cost curve and shareholder returns. As long as aluminum remains in demand, and as long as global supply chains continue to price in risks from energy, shipping and resource policy, every sentiment-driven pullback in Hongqiao looks less like the start of a reversal and more like another chance to buy. 27/04/2026 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
Macau Pass Unveils AI Payment Assistant to Upgrade Local Payment Capabilities
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 27/04/2026 / 14:42 UTC+8 A natural-language tool that enables businesses to integrate payment functions with a single prompt, accelerating digital adoption and AI deployment Macau - 27 Apr 2026 - Macau Pass has launched its self-developed AI-powered payment integration tool, the AI Payment Assistant, and is making it available to local merchants, developers and ecosystem partners. The tool enables users to complete payment integration through natural-language prompts, reducing technical barriers and shortening development cycles for commercial applications. The launch comes as payments evolve from basic interface functions into core infrastructure supporting AI-powered services. Macau Pass, one of Macao’s leading fintech platforms, has built its business around local payments and digital lifestyle services. Its MPay app has become one of the city’s main mobile payment tools and is widely used by merchants and residents in everyday transactions. Building on this foundation, Macau Pass is further integrating payment capabilities with AI technology, enabling payments to move beyond simple connectivity toward AI-driven execution and become a key building block for the next generation of digital commerce. Traditional payment integration typically requires manual coding and technical coordination, resulting in long development cycles and high costs. With the new AI payment tool, developers can simply enter a request in natural language. For example, they can ask to build an application with ordering and payment functions, and the system will automatically generate the relevant code and integration logic. This significantly improves development efficiency and enables more merchants and developers to accelerate their digital transformation with lower barriers. The tool supports major local payment methods including Simple Pay,MPay, Alipay and WeChat Pay, and is also compatible with multiple cross-border e-wallets. It helps move AI beyond conversation into executable business capabilities, while also supporting Macao’s diverse payment needs as an international tourism hub and a key city in the Greater Bay Area. Macau Pass said as AI becomes an increasingly important driver of business efficiency, the company aims to standardize and make payment functions more intelligent. This ensures AI does not remain confined to the technical layer but can more effectively support merchant operations and industry development, while injecting fresh momentum into the local digital economy. Zhao Hao, Chief Technology Officer of Macau Pass, said: “In the AI era, payments are no longer just a tool for completing transactions, but core infrastructure that powers business operations and innovation. Through AI technology, Macau Pass aims to lower the barriers to innovation for merchants and developers, enabling more applications to move from idea to deployment more quickly, and enhancing overall business efficiency and industry vitality.” Looking ahead, Macau Pass will continue integrating AI, payments and local lifestyle services to build a more efficient and intelligent digital commerce ecosystem. The company aims to enhance digital experiences for Macao residents, create a more efficient operating environment for merchants, and support the city’s smart-city development and broader economic diversification. Public Relations, Macau Pass Group Holdings Ltd.MayEmail: myt455242@alibaba-inc.com 27/04/2026 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
CTF Life Launches MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan
HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CTF Life announced today the launch of the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan (the Plan) a robust, one-stop wealth management solution offering long-term wealth accumulation potential with flexibility. The plan offers both single-premium and regular-premium payment options, with an expected total internal rate of return (IRR) of up to 6.5% in the 20th policy year for a single-premium USD policy –the fastest and highest in the Hong Kong market¹ – enabling customers to realise attractive potential returns earlier. The Plan also features the special-in-market2 “Wealth Accumulation Switching Option”3, allowing customers to flexibly adjust their wealth management strategy by switching among three options (Advance, Balanced and Conservative) – to align with their evolving financial goals. Product features such as the “Currency Switching Option”4,5 and “Policy Split Option”6, as well as multiple product advantages are designed to comprehensively address customers’ financial needs and global wealth-planning objectives across different life stages.Harnessing its sound investment strategy and strong financial strength, CTF Life has maintained a non-guaranteed accumulation interest rate of 4.25% p.a.7 on participating USD policies for the 14th consecutive year. In addition, the three signature product series8 have achieved a 100% or more fulfilment ratio for ten consecutive years9, demonstrating the Company’s consistency and reliability in delivering customer returns. As of 31 December 2025, CTF Life’s solvency ratio under the Hong Kong Risk-Based Capital (HKRBC) regime stands at 282%10, leading the market11 and well above the minimum regulatory requirement of 100%, providing solid assurance for customers’ long-term wealth accumulation.Customers who successfully apply for the Plan within the designated period can enjoy a maximum premium discount of up to 24% on the total premiums for the first two policy years, together with a guaranteed interest rate offer on prepaid premiums. *The new MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan reflects CTF Life’s deep understanding of customer needs. In addition to offering market-leading wealth accumulation potential, the Plan incorporates a range of flexible and innovative legacy planning features, empowering customers to manage their wealth with confidence at every stage of life. Key features and dedicated services of the Plan include:1. Wealth Accumulation Switching Option3: While the policy is in force, customers may leverage the special-in-market² switching options with artisanal design to manage their wealth. On the 10th policy anniversary and every policy anniversary thereafter, customers can flexibly switch among the “Advance”, “Balanced”, and “Conservative” switching options. Each option is equipped with different ratio of the “Stable Asset Account”¹² value to the cash value of Reversionary Bonus¹³ (if any) and Terminal Bonus¹â'´ (if any).2. Free Policy Currency Conversion: From the 3rd policy anniversary and any policy anniversary thereafter and while the policy is in force, customers may apply to exercise the Currency Switch Optionâ'´,â'µ, changing the policy currency of the basic plan of the policy to a different currency (like US Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Chinese Yuan, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Euro, British Pound Sterling or Singapore Dollar) without having to provide any evidence of insurability.3. Policy Split Option6: While the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 3rd Policy Year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later), customers may split the original policy by allocating part of the Units of the basic plan to one or more separate policy(ies). This option also applies to the split policy(ies), enabling enhanced flexibility in asset allocation.4. Multiple innovative legacy edges: After the 6th policy monthly anniversary, customers may change the Insured for unlimited times¹â'µ. The plan specially provides the Policy Continuation Option¹â'¶, allowing designated beneficiaries to become new Policy Owners and Insureds upon the death of the original Insured. Upon exercising either of these two options, the coverage will be adjusted to the age of 128 for the new Insured, providing greater flexibility for customers' inheritance arrangements and enabling wealth to be passed on to future generations.5. Flexible policy value withdrawal arrangements: In addition to setting up standing instructions for regular withdrawals17 for the Policy Owner, he/she may also arrange for payments to be directly credited to designated payee(s), such as family members, hospitals, residential care homes for the elderly or charitable institutions. The “Artisanal Default Policy Service” further complements the Plan through a range of dedicated arrangements, offering customers greater flexibility and convenience in withdrawal arrangements.6. Premium Holiday18 of up to 8 years: If the Policy Owner is unfortunately diagnosed with a specified Covered Illness, including cancer, severe heart attack or stroke, the Premium Holiday period may be extended free of charge, giving customers additional financial buffer and peace of mind.7. Flexible settlement options for Death Benefit¹â'¹ / Full Surrender²â'°: Customers can choose from a wide range of Death Benefit Settlement Options for each beneficiary, including a lump-sum payment, regular installment payment¹â'¹, or increasing installment payments¹â'¹. Customers can also choose to receive part of the benefit as a lump sum with the remaining balance paid for increasing installments or customise the payment to start at a specified year or at a specified age of the beneficiary with fixed or increasing installments, ensuring each beneficiary receives the most appropriate arrangement.8. Market-First Customised Life Event Option21: In conjunction with the applicable instalment Death Benefit Settlement Options and the “Life Event Option”, customers may choose to arrange death benefit payouts upon any of the nine preset life events of the Primary Beneficiary, such as marriage or home purchase. Through the first-in-market “Customised Life Event” Option21, customers can also freely customise lump-sum payouts at meaningful life milestones. More than one Life Event Options can be assigned for each primary beneficiary, making protection even more thoughtful and flexible.9. Flexible premium payment options: MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan offers a choice of single-premium, 5-year and 12-year premium payment periods. For the 5-year premium payment period, customers may also choose to prepay the premiums22 by lump sum payment upon application, thereby enjoying the benefit of paying up the Plan at a lower cost. Interest23 (if any) will also be earned on the prepaid premiums22.Notes:*Application submission period is from 27 April 2026 to 30 June 2026 (both dates inclusive). For details, please refer to the promotional leaflet: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/home/premium_offer_flyer.pdf 1An expected total internal rate of return (IRR) of 6.5% by the 20th policy year applies to single-premium USD policies that meet the minimum premium requirement, assuming no withdrawals, surrender or exercise of any policy options. As of 31 March 2026, the “fastest and highest in the Hong Kong market” refers to the highest expected total IRR of 6.5% and a total return multiple of 3.5 times by the 20th policy year (being the expected total cash value divided by the total premiums paid). These figures are calculated based on the current assumed investment returns, are not guaranteed, are shown on a rounded basis, and are the result of the Company’s comparison among major savings insurance products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong.2“Special-in-market” is the result of comparing similar major life insurance savings products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 27 April 2026.3Wealth Accumulation Switching Options and its portfolio ratio:Switching option(s)“Stable Asset Account” allocationAllocation of the cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any)Advance0%100%Balanced40%60%Conservative80%20%“Stable Asset Account Allocation” = the value of “Stable Asset Account” ÷ (cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) + cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) + value of Stable Asset Account) x 100%. Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customers may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option to adjust the Switching Option of the basic plan of the policy to achieve Stable Asset Account Allocation at customers’ desire. Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option.4On the 3rd policy anniversary or any policy anniversary thereafter and while the policy is in force, customers may change the policy currency of the basic plan of the policy to a different currency (“New Policy Currency”) through converting the existing basic plan of the policy to a designated new plan (“Designated Plan”) denominated in the New Policy Currency that is available and determined by the Company without providing any evidence of insurability. Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Currency Switch Option.5Upon the effective date of Currency Change, the basic plan of the policy will be converted to the Designated Plan denominated in the New Policy Currency. Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the policy will remain unchanged after the Currency Switch. The existing and future amounts of Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, premium(s) due and payable (if any), total premiums paid, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan of the policy will be determined and adjusted by the Company at its sole discretion. Any complementary policies and riders under the policy will remain in force under the original policy after the Currency Switch. If any complementary policies and riders are not accepted to retain under the original policy, such complementary policies and riders shall be automatically terminated from the effective date of Currency Switch.6While the policy is in force and after the end of the 3rd Policy Year, the Policy Owner may exercise the Policy Split Option to create one or more separate policy(ies) (the “Split Policy(ies)”), allocating a portion of the Units from the basic plan of the original policy to the Split Policy(ies) without providing any evidence of insurability, subject to specified conditions. The Split Policy(ies) will be effective only after its Policy Provisions and policy specifications are issued. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of Policy Split Option.7The interest rate is not guaranteed and may be adjusted from time to time.8The three signature product series include: (i) "Regent" Series (similar products as "MyWealth" Series), (ii) "HealthCare 168" Series (similar products as "FamCare 198"), and (iii) "Fortune Saver" series (similar products as “Ever Shine").9For policies under the above product series issued during the years from 2015 to 2024, the dividend fulfilment ratio of the Annual Dividend / Reversionary Bonus / Terminal Dividend / Terminal Bonus for each policy issue year reached 100% or above. Please visit CTF Life’s website for the latest dividend fulfilment ratio information of the above or other products.10Source: CTF Services Limited Interim Report 2025–2026. As of 31 December 2025, CTF Life’s solvency ratio under the Hong Kong Risk-Based Capital regime was 282%.11Based on an analysis and comparison of the solvency ratios of the 15 insurance companies with the highest total gross premiums for 2024, as announced in September 2025. Such information is based on the data disclosed by the relevant insurance companies as of 31 December 2024 in accordance with the public disclosure requirements of the Insurance Authority.12Account determined in accordance with the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option provision in which its long-term target asset allocation is 100% in fixed income type securities. The value in the Stable Asset Account will be accumulated at such interest rate as may be declared by the Company from time to time. However, interest rates on the Stable Asset Account are not guaranteed and may even be 0% in any year.13The face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus are non-guaranteed. However, once declared, the declared face value of Reversionary Bonus will become guaranteed and forms a permanent addition to the policy. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Reversionary Bonus.14A non-guaranteed Terminal Bonus may be declared for this Plan by the Company starting from the 1st policy anniversary. Non-guaranteed Terminal Bonus and its amount may be paid at the sole discretion of the Company. The cash value of Terminal Bonus should be either equal to or less than the face value of Terminal Bonus.15Change of the Insured is subject to the prevailing administrative rules and designated requirements. The Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any), any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account, Policy Date and Policy Years will remain the same on the Insured-Change Effective Date while the Plan End Date will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured or following the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured (whichever is applicable). Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Change of Insured Option.16Upon the death of the Insured, if the Policy Owner (still alive) and the Insured are different persons, the beneficiary will become the Continued New Insured; if the Policy Owner died at the same time or the Policy Owner and the Insured is the same person, subject to the prevailing administrative rules of the Company, the beneficiary will become the new Policy Owner and Continued New Insured of the policy. After this option has been exercised, all Units, total premiums paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any), Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable). Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Policy Continuation Option.17Policy value withdrawal is subject to the Company’s minimum Unit requirement and the relevant terms and conditions. For regular withdrawals to designated payee(s), the relationship of eligible designated payee(s) must meet the Company’s requirements. The Company reserves the right, at its discretion, to request proof of relationship and to amend the relevant terms and conditions from time to time as necessary. Policy value withdrawal belongs to other policy services. For details, please refer to the relevant service application form and the “Notification of Policy Service Confirmation.”18Premium Holiday is not applicable to the policy with single premium as the premium payment period. Regardless of whether there has been any change of Policy Owner throughout the premium payment period, if the Policy Owner is diagnosed with the Covered Illness, the Premium Holiday Period may be extended after the Company has received the prescribed form submitted by the Policy Owner together with the medical certificate completed by the attending doctor of the Policy Owner, in accordance with the applicable premium payment period. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Premium Holiday and Covered Illness.19Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Death Benefit Settlement Option.20Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Full Surrender.21“First-in-market” service feature is the results of comparing similar major insurance policy services of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 4 Dec 2025. For the relevant terms and conditions, please refer to the respective service application forms and “Notification of Policy Service Confirmation”.22The premium prepayment option is only applicable to annual premium payment mode. The prepaid premium will be credited to the premium deposit account and accumulate at the prevailing interest rate offered at that time (the current interest rate offered is 2% p.a.), but it is not guaranteed. The Policy Owner can withdraw the full amount of the prepaid premiums from the premium deposit account. However, any interest credited will be forfeited. If the amount of the premium deposit account is not sufficient to pay the premium and premium levy due to a decrease in interest rate, the Policy Owner is required to make up the relevant premium difference (including premium levy). Otherwise, the policy will be terminated or subject to an automatic premium loan. If the Insured passes away, the premium deposit account balance (if any) will be payable to the Policy Owner without any charge.23The current interest rate offered is 2% p.a. but it is not guaranteed.Important Notice:- The information contained in this press release is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. For more details, please refer to relevant product brochures, promotion leaflets, and policy documents. For details regarding the CTF Life MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan, please refer to the policy contract for details of the full terms and conditions.- This press release does not contain the full provisions, key product risks, and all exclusions of the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. The MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan may serve as a standalone plan(s) without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product. Please refer to the main product brochure and policy terms and conditions, as well as the explanatory documents provided by your licensed insurance intermediary, to fully understand the details and complete terms and conditions regarding the mentioned definitions, fees, product features, exclusions, and compensation payment conditions related to MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan.- Please refer to the product brochure for more information on the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-beyond-savings-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf- For more information on the Artisanal Default Policy Service, please visit: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/artisanal-default-policy-service-flyer.pdf - For further details, please contact CTF Life’s Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.- This press release is intended to be distributed in Hong Kong only and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or provision of any of our products outside Hong Kong. Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited hereby declares that it has no intention to offer to sell, to solicit to buy or to provide any of its products in any jurisdiction other than Hong Kong in which such offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any product of Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited is illegal under the laws of that jurisdiction.About CTF LifeChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) is proud of its rich, 40-year legacy in Hong Kong. CTF Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CTF Services Limited (“CTFS”) (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) and one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong. As a member of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, CTF Life consistently strengthens its collaboration with the Chow Tai Fook Group ecosystem to support customers and their loved ones in navigating life’s journey with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences. By leveraging the Group’s robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe, CTF Life aspires to become a leading insurance company in Asia while continuously creating value beyond insurance.Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com
CTF Life Launches MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan
HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CTF Life announced today the launch of the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan (the Plan) a robust, one-stop wealth management solution offering long-term wealth accumulation potential with flexibility. The plan offers both single-premium and regular-premium payment options, with an expected total internal rate of return (IRR) of up to 6.5% in the 20th policy year for a single-premium USD policy –the fastest and highest in the Hong Kong market¹ – enabling customers to realise attractive potential returns earlier. The Plan also features the special-in-market2 “Wealth Accumulation Switching Option”3, allowing customers to flexibly adjust their wealth management strategy by switching among three options (Advance, Balanced and Conservative) – to align with their evolving financial goals. Product features such as the “Currency Switching Option”4,5 and “Policy Split Option”6, as well as multiple product advantages are designed to comprehensively address customers’ financial needs and global wealth-planning objectives across different life stages.Harnessing its sound investment strategy and strong financial strength, CTF Life has maintained a non-guaranteed accumulation interest rate of 4.25% p.a.7 on participating USD policies for the 14th consecutive year. In addition, the three signature product series8 have achieved a 100% or more fulfilment ratio for ten consecutive years9, demonstrating the Company’s consistency and reliability in delivering customer returns. As of 31 December 2025, CTF Life’s solvency ratio under the Hong Kong Risk-Based Capital (HKRBC) regime stands at 282%10, leading the market11 and well above the minimum regulatory requirement of 100%, providing solid assurance for customers’ long-term wealth accumulation.Customers who successfully apply for the Plan within the designated period can enjoy a maximum premium discount of up to 24% on the total premiums for the first two policy years, together with a guaranteed interest rate offer on prepaid premiums. *The new MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan reflects CTF Life’s deep understanding of customer needs. In addition to offering market-leading wealth accumulation potential, the Plan incorporates a range of flexible and innovative legacy planning features, empowering customers to manage their wealth with confidence at every stage of life. Key features and dedicated services of the Plan include:1. Wealth Accumulation Switching Option3: While the policy is in force, customers may leverage the special-in-market² switching options with artisanal design to manage their wealth. On the 10th policy anniversary and every policy anniversary thereafter, customers can flexibly switch among the “Advance”, “Balanced”, and “Conservative” switching options. Each option is equipped with different ratio of the “Stable Asset Account”¹² value to the cash value of Reversionary Bonus¹³ (if any) and Terminal Bonus¹â'´ (if any).2. Free Policy Currency Conversion: From the 3rd policy anniversary and any policy anniversary thereafter and while the policy is in force, customers may apply to exercise the Currency Switch Optionâ'´,â'µ, changing the policy currency of the basic plan of the policy to a different currency (like US Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, Chinese Yuan, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Euro, British Pound Sterling or Singapore Dollar) without having to provide any evidence of insurability.3. Policy Split Option6: While the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 3rd Policy Year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later), customers may split the original policy by allocating part of the Units of the basic plan to one or more separate policy(ies). This option also applies to the split policy(ies), enabling enhanced flexibility in asset allocation.4. Multiple innovative legacy edges: After the 6th policy monthly anniversary, customers may change the Insured for unlimited times¹â'µ. The plan specially provides the Policy Continuation Option¹â'¶, allowing designated beneficiaries to become new Policy Owners and Insureds upon the death of the original Insured. Upon exercising either of these two options, the coverage will be adjusted to the age of 128 for the new Insured, providing greater flexibility for customers' inheritance arrangements and enabling wealth to be passed on to future generations.5. Flexible policy value withdrawal arrangements: In addition to setting up standing instructions for regular withdrawals17 for the Policy Owner, he/she may also arrange for payments to be directly credited to designated payee(s), such as family members, hospitals, residential care homes for the elderly or charitable institutions. The “Artisanal Default Policy Service” further complements the Plan through a range of dedicated arrangements, offering customers greater flexibility and convenience in withdrawal arrangements.6. Premium Holiday18 of up to 8 years: If the Policy Owner is unfortunately diagnosed with a specified Covered Illness, including cancer, severe heart attack or stroke, the Premium Holiday period may be extended free of charge, giving customers additional financial buffer and peace of mind.7. Flexible settlement options for Death Benefit¹â'¹ / Full Surrender²â'°: Customers can choose from a wide range of Death Benefit Settlement Options for each beneficiary, including a lump-sum payment, regular installment payment¹â'¹, or increasing installment payments¹â'¹. Customers can also choose to receive part of the benefit as a lump sum with the remaining balance paid for increasing installments or customise the payment to start at a specified year or at a specified age of the beneficiary with fixed or increasing installments, ensuring each beneficiary receives the most appropriate arrangement.8. Market-First Customised Life Event Option21: In conjunction with the applicable instalment Death Benefit Settlement Options and the “Life Event Option”, customers may choose to arrange death benefit payouts upon any of the nine preset life events of the Primary Beneficiary, such as marriage or home purchase. Through the first-in-market “Customised Life Event” Option21, customers can also freely customise lump-sum payouts at meaningful life milestones. More than one Life Event Options can be assigned for each primary beneficiary, making protection even more thoughtful and flexible.9. Flexible premium payment options: MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan offers a choice of single-premium, 5-year and 12-year premium payment periods. For the 5-year premium payment period, customers may also choose to prepay the premiums22 by lump sum payment upon application, thereby enjoying the benefit of paying up the Plan at a lower cost. Interest23 (if any) will also be earned on the prepaid premiums22.Notes:*Application submission period is from 27 April 2026 to 30 June 2026 (both dates inclusive). For details, please refer to the promotional leaflet: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/home/premium_offer_flyer.pdf 1An expected total internal rate of return (IRR) of 6.5% by the 20th policy year applies to single-premium USD policies that meet the minimum premium requirement, assuming no withdrawals, surrender or exercise of any policy options. As of 31 March 2026, the “fastest and highest in the Hong Kong market” refers to the highest expected total IRR of 6.5% and a total return multiple of 3.5 times by the 20th policy year (being the expected total cash value divided by the total premiums paid). These figures are calculated based on the current assumed investment returns, are not guaranteed, are shown on a rounded basis, and are the result of the Company’s comparison among major savings insurance products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong.2“Special-in-market” is the result of comparing similar major life insurance savings products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 27 April 2026.3Wealth Accumulation Switching Options and its portfolio ratio:Switching option(s)“Stable Asset Account” allocationAllocation of the cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any)Advance0%100%Balanced40%60%Conservative80%20%“Stable Asset Account Allocation” = the value of “Stable Asset Account” ÷ (cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) + cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) + value of Stable Asset Account) x 100%. Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customers may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option to adjust the Switching Option of the basic plan of the policy to achieve Stable Asset Account Allocation at customers’ desire. Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option.4On the 3rd policy anniversary or any policy anniversary thereafter and while the policy is in force, customers may change the policy currency of the basic plan of the policy to a different currency (“New Policy Currency”) through converting the existing basic plan of the policy to a designated new plan (“Designated Plan”) denominated in the New Policy Currency that is available and determined by the Company without providing any evidence of insurability. Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Currency Switch Option.5Upon the effective date of Currency Change, the basic plan of the policy will be converted to the Designated Plan denominated in the New Policy Currency. Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the policy will remain unchanged after the Currency Switch. The existing and future amounts of Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, premium(s) due and payable (if any), total premiums paid, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan of the policy will be determined and adjusted by the Company at its sole discretion. Any complementary policies and riders under the policy will remain in force under the original policy after the Currency Switch. If any complementary policies and riders are not accepted to retain under the original policy, such complementary policies and riders shall be automatically terminated from the effective date of Currency Switch.6While the policy is in force and after the end of the 3rd Policy Year, the Policy Owner may exercise the Policy Split Option to create one or more separate policy(ies) (the “Split Policy(ies)”), allocating a portion of the Units from the basic plan of the original policy to the Split Policy(ies) without providing any evidence of insurability, subject to specified conditions. The Split Policy(ies) will be effective only after its Policy Provisions and policy specifications are issued. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of Policy Split Option.7The interest rate is not guaranteed and may be adjusted from time to time.8The three signature product series include: (i) "Regent" Series (similar products as "MyWealth" Series), (ii) "HealthCare 168" Series (similar products as "FamCare 198"), and (iii) "Fortune Saver" series (similar products as “Ever Shine").9For policies under the above product series issued during the years from 2015 to 2024, the dividend fulfilment ratio of the Annual Dividend / Reversionary Bonus / Terminal Dividend / Terminal Bonus for each policy issue year reached 100% or above. Please visit CTF Life’s website for the latest dividend fulfilment ratio information of the above or other products.10Source: CTF Services Limited Interim Report 2025–2026. As of 31 December 2025, CTF Life’s solvency ratio under the Hong Kong Risk-Based Capital regime was 282%.11Based on an analysis and comparison of the solvency ratios of the 15 insurance companies with the highest total gross premiums for 2024, as announced in September 2025. Such information is based on the data disclosed by the relevant insurance companies as of 31 December 2024 in accordance with the public disclosure requirements of the Insurance Authority.12Account determined in accordance with the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option provision in which its long-term target asset allocation is 100% in fixed income type securities. The value in the Stable Asset Account will be accumulated at such interest rate as may be declared by the Company from time to time. However, interest rates on the Stable Asset Account are not guaranteed and may even be 0% in any year.13The face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus are non-guaranteed. However, once declared, the declared face value of Reversionary Bonus will become guaranteed and forms a permanent addition to the policy. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Reversionary Bonus.14A non-guaranteed Terminal Bonus may be declared for this Plan by the Company starting from the 1st policy anniversary. Non-guaranteed Terminal Bonus and its amount may be paid at the sole discretion of the Company. The cash value of Terminal Bonus should be either equal to or less than the face value of Terminal Bonus.15Change of the Insured is subject to the prevailing administrative rules and designated requirements. The Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any), any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account, Policy Date and Policy Years will remain the same on the Insured-Change Effective Date while the Plan End Date will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured or following the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured (whichever is applicable). Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Change of Insured Option.16Upon the death of the Insured, if the Policy Owner (still alive) and the Insured are different persons, the beneficiary will become the Continued New Insured; if the Policy Owner died at the same time or the Policy Owner and the Insured is the same person, subject to the prevailing administrative rules of the Company, the beneficiary will become the new Policy Owner and Continued New Insured of the policy. After this option has been exercised, all Units, total premiums paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any), Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable). Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Policy Continuation Option.17Policy value withdrawal is subject to the Company’s minimum Unit requirement and the relevant terms and conditions. For regular withdrawals to designated payee(s), the relationship of eligible designated payee(s) must meet the Company’s requirements. The Company reserves the right, at its discretion, to request proof of relationship and to amend the relevant terms and conditions from time to time as necessary. Policy value withdrawal belongs to other policy services. For details, please refer to the relevant service application form and the “Notification of Policy Service Confirmation.”18Premium Holiday is not applicable to the policy with single premium as the premium payment period. Regardless of whether there has been any change of Policy Owner throughout the premium payment period, if the Policy Owner is diagnosed with the Covered Illness, the Premium Holiday Period may be extended after the Company has received the prescribed form submitted by the Policy Owner together with the medical certificate completed by the attending doctor of the Policy Owner, in accordance with the applicable premium payment period. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Premium Holiday and Covered Illness.19Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Death Benefit Settlement Option.20Subject to specified conditions. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Full Surrender.21“First-in-market” service feature is the results of comparing similar major insurance policy services of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 4 Dec 2025. For the relevant terms and conditions, please refer to the respective service application forms and “Notification of Policy Service Confirmation”.22The premium prepayment option is only applicable to annual premium payment mode. The prepaid premium will be credited to the premium deposit account and accumulate at the prevailing interest rate offered at that time (the current interest rate offered is 2% p.a.), but it is not guaranteed. The Policy Owner can withdraw the full amount of the prepaid premiums from the premium deposit account. However, any interest credited will be forfeited. If the amount of the premium deposit account is not sufficient to pay the premium and premium levy due to a decrease in interest rate, the Policy Owner is required to make up the relevant premium difference (including premium levy). Otherwise, the policy will be terminated or subject to an automatic premium loan. If the Insured passes away, the premium deposit account balance (if any) will be payable to the Policy Owner without any charge.23The current interest rate offered is 2% p.a. but it is not guaranteed.Important Notice:- The information contained in this press release is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. For more details, please refer to relevant product brochures, promotion leaflets, and policy documents. For details regarding the CTF Life MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan, please refer to the policy contract for details of the full terms and conditions.- This press release does not contain the full provisions, key product risks, and all exclusions of the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. The MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan may serve as a standalone plan(s) without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product. Please refer to the main product brochure and policy terms and conditions, as well as the explanatory documents provided by your licensed insurance intermediary, to fully understand the details and complete terms and conditions regarding the mentioned definitions, fees, product features, exclusions, and compensation payment conditions related to MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan.- Please refer to the product brochure for more information on the MyWealth Beyond Savings Insurance Plan: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-beyond-savings-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf- For more information on the Artisanal Default Policy Service, please visit: https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/artisanal-default-policy-service-flyer.pdf - For further details, please contact CTF Life’s Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.- This press release is intended to be distributed in Hong Kong only and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or provision of any of our products outside Hong Kong. Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited hereby declares that it has no intention to offer to sell, to solicit to buy or to provide any of its products in any jurisdiction other than Hong Kong in which such offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any product of Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited is illegal under the laws of that jurisdiction.About CTF LifeChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) is proud of its rich, 40-year legacy in Hong Kong. CTF Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CTF Services Limited (“CTFS”) (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) and one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong. As a member of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, CTF Life consistently strengthens its collaboration with the Chow Tai Fook Group ecosystem to support customers and their loved ones in navigating life’s journey with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences. By leveraging the Group’s robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe, CTF Life aspires to become a leading insurance company in Asia while continuously creating value beyond insurance.Media enquiriesCTF LifeAnki Chong+852 2591 8427anki.chong@ctflife.com.hkParadigm ConsultingEvan Lu+852 2251 9833Ctflife@paradigmconsulting.com.hkChow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (Incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability) Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
6 Ways to Avoid Hidden Fees When Spending Overseas
SINGAPORE, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Travelling overseas often feels exciting until unexpected charges appear on your card statement after returning home. Many travellers from Singapore rely on overseas credit cards for convenience, rewards, and security, but international transactions can sometimes include hidden costs that are easy to overlook. From currency conversion markups to foreign transaction fees, these charges can quietly increase overall travel expenses. Understanding how these charges work can help travellers manage spending better and make more informed payment choices while abroad.Below are practical ways that can help minimise hidden fees when using credit cards overseas while keeping travel spending smooth and predictable.Understand foreign transaction fees before travellingForeign transaction fees are among the commonly overlooked charges linked to overseas spending. Many cards issued in Singapore charge a fee of around 3.25% per foreign currency transaction, which may not seem significant at first glance. However, on a holiday budget of SGD 4,000, this fee alone can add SGD 130 to total expenses without obvious visibility during purchases.Reviewing the fee structure of an overseas card before travelling can help travellers estimate actual costs more accurately. Some cards offer reduced or promotional foreign transaction charges, which can help manage overall travel budgets more effectively. Knowing these details in advance may also help travellers decide when card payments make financial sense compared to alternative payment methods.Consider paying in local currency instead of SGDWhen paying overseas, merchants sometimes offer the option to charge the amount directly in Singapore dollars. This feature, known as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), may appear convenient because it shows the final amount immediately. However, exchange rates used in DCC transactions often include markups, which can exceed standard bank conversion fees.Choosing to pay in the local currency allows the overseas card network to process the exchange instead. Card networks typically apply more competitive rates compared to merchant-set conversions. Over multiple transactions, such as dining, shopping, and transport, this can help reduce unnecessary markups.Check card currency conversion ratesExchange rates used by card issuers fluctuate daily and may differ slightly from rates seen on currency apps or news platforms. While the difference per transaction might appear minor, frequent purchases abroad can still affect total spending. For example, a 1% difference on SGD 2,500 worth of spending can translate into roughly SGD 25 in additional costs.Reviewing how an overseas card calculates exchange rates can provide better transparency. Some banks publish their rate calculation methods, allowing travellers to estimate expected charges more accurately.Avoid overseas ATM withdrawals when possibleWithdrawing cash abroad using a credit card can trigger multiple layers of fees simultaneously. These may include cash advance fees, overseas ATM operator charges, and immediate interest accrual starting from the withdrawal date. In Singapore, cash advance fees commonly range between 6% and 8% of the withdrawn amount, with minimum charges around SGD 15.Using an overseas card mainly for purchases rather than cash withdrawals can help reduce these compounded costs. Carrying a modest amount of exchanged currency from Singapore or using debit-based solutions for cash needs may help travellers avoid high-interest situations linked to credit card withdrawals overseas.Watch for hotel and car rental pre-authorisation chargesHotels and car rental companies frequently place temporary holds on credit cards as security deposits. These pre-authorisation amounts can be significant depending on location and booking type. Although not permanent charges, they temporarily reduce available credit limits and sometimes involve conversion adjustments once released.Understanding how pre-authorisation works can help travellers avoid confusion when reviewing statements. Using an overseas card with sufficient credit limits may reduce the likelihood of declined transactions during travel. Checking release timelines with merchants can also help travellers track when funds become available again after checkout.Choose a Travel Credit Card designed for overseas spendingNot all credit cards function the same way internationally. Some overseas card options available in Singapore include travel-focused features, such as lower foreign currency fees, travel rewards, or complimentary insurance coverage. These features can help offset certain costs associated with overseas spending when used strategically.Comparing card benefits based on travel frequency, spending habits, and destinations can help travellers identify options aligned with their lifestyle. A well-matched overseas card may also offer added value through rewards or travel-related privileges, making international spending more predictable overall.Final thoughtsFor Singapore travellers, using an overseas card thoughtfully, alongside awareness of currency conversion practices and transaction structures, can help make international payments more transparent. With a few informed habits, overseas spending can remain convenient while reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs appearing after the journey ends.Disclaimer: This content is published by iQuanti Singapore Pte. Ltd., an external marketer engaged and compensated by UOB Ltd.Contact Information:Name: Sonakshi MurzeEmail: Sonakshi.murze@iquanti.comJob Title: ManagerSOURCE: iQuanti Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
SeaPRwire Enhances PR Links across Asia’s Four Core Hubs
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 27/04/2026 / 10:50 UTC+8 Hong Kong - April 27, 2026 - (SeaPRwire) - As one of the most economically dynamic regions in the world, the linkage between Asia's core business hubs is becoming increasingly close. To adapt to this trend and help multinational enterprises achieve highly efficient cross-regional PR synergy, SeaPRwire (https://seaprwire.com) announced today that it has officially completed a comprehensive strategic upgrade of its "one-stop" PR communication links across Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore, as Asia's four major economic and financial engines, each possess unique media ecosystems and business cultures, yet they are simultaneously the preferred choices for many multinational enterprises setting up Asia-Pacific headquarters. In the past, when enterprises conducted PR placements in these regions, they often had to interface with different local agencies, which not only incurred high communication costs but also made it difficult to guarantee brand tonality consistency. The core of SeaPRwire's upgrade this time is to break down geographical barriers and integrate top-tier media resources from these four regions in a modular, one-stop manner. Through the upgraded full-featured workbench, corporate PR teams only need to use a single background to simultaneously assign and monitor news distribution tasks in these four countries and regions. Based on the communication goals set by the enterprise, the AI system automatically coordinates the distribution rhythm of media across the four regions. Whether releasing strategies in Singapore, synchronizing with capital markets in Hong Kong, or conducting localized product promotions in Japan and South Korea, millisecond-level cross-border synergy and voice resonance can be achieved. "Business competition in Asia has long ceased to be a solo fight; it is a contest of regional synergy," emphasized SeaPRwire's VP of Product. "By opening up the links across Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore, we aim to provide enterprises with a 'PR highway network' covering Asia's core economic circles. Enterprises can easily leverage the attention of mainstream media across the entirety of Asia as simply as distributing drafts locally." About SeaPRwire SeaPRwire is Asia’s leading AI-driven earned media management platform, purpose-built to empower PR and communications professionals. Through its flagship Branding-Insight Program, the platform connects clients to over 80,000 journalists and an influencer matrix reaching 300 million followers. Leveraging advanced AI, SeaPRwire helps users identify media targets, personalize pitches, and measure PR impact across key APAC markets, including Japan, China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Media Contact Company: SeaPRwire Contact: Media Relations Team Email: cs@seaprwire.com Website: https://seaprwire.com 27/04/2026 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
China Chunlai Announces 2026 Interim Results
HONG KONG, Apr 27, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - China Chunlai Education Group Co., Ltd. ("China Chunlai" or the "Company", together with its subsidiaries and its consolidated affiliated entities, the "Group", Stock Code: 1969) is pleased to announce the unaudited consolidated interim results of the Group for the six months ended 28 February 2026 (the "Reporting Period").For the Reporting Period, the Group continued to increase the number of students enrolment, and recorded a revenue of RMB956.3 million, representing an increase of 7.4% compared with the same period of last year; gross profit recorded RMB511.6 million, representing an increase of 2.4% compared with the same period of last year; profit recorded RMB429.8 million, representing an increase of 5.7% compared with the same period of last year.During the Reporting Period, the Group recorded tuition fees of RMB874.1 million, representing an increase of 7.4%, boarding fees recorded RMB82.2 million, representing an increase of 6.9%. Besides, the revenue of Group's schools increased: Anyang University recorded a revenue of RMB232.5 million, representing an increase of 12.3% compared with the same period of last year; Jingzhou College recorded a revenue of RMB191.7 million, representing an increase of 12.0% compared with the same period of last year; Jiankang College recorded a revenue of RMB76.1 million, representing an increase of 10.5% compared with the same period of last year; Shangqiu University Kaifeng Campus recorded a revenue of RMB138.0 million, representing an increase of 6.1%;Shangqiu University recorded a revenue of RMB217.7 million, representing an increase of 5.8% compared with the same period of last year.As of 28 February 2026, the number of students enrolled was 116,784, representing an increase of 5.3% compared with the same period of last year. Among which, Jingzhou College had a total enrollment of 21,643, representing an increase of 11.0% compared with the same period of last year; Jiankang College had a total enrollment of 10,808, representing an increase of 10.2% compared with the same period of last year; Anyang University had a total enrollment of 28,897, representing an increase of 9.4% compared with the same period of last year; Shangqiu University Kaifeng Campus had a total enrollment of 16,280, representing an increase of 4.8%;Shangqiu University had a total enrollment of 27,051, representing an increase of 1.8% compared with the same period of last year.The educational philosophies of the Group’s schools and well-developed curricula as well as its high graduate employment rates enable the Group to attract high-quality students who are seeking a pathway to satisfactory employment. For the 2025/2026 school year, the overall yield of five colleges that offer bachelor’s degree programmes (being Shangqiu University, Shangqiu University Kaifeng Campus, Anyang University, Anyang University Yuanyang Campus and Jingzhou College) was 91.55%.The Board of China Chunlai Education Group Co., Ltd. said: “In recent years, private higher education in China has continued to improve, and the number of students in schools has continued to increase. We have seized the opportunity to continuously improve and optimize the curriculum system, build an excellent teacher team, strive to expand the enrollment scale, and promote sustained and steady growth in performance. In the future, we expect to enlarge the capacity of the colleges progressively, continue to increase the total number of enrolled students, and hire teachers with a strong command of their respective subject areas who are open to innovative teaching methods and a caring heart toward students’ well-being, and continuously improve the high-quality curriculum system. With Tianping College becoming a consolidated affiliated entity of the Company, our future performance is expected to maintain steady growth.”About China Chunlai Education Group Co., Ltd.:China Chunlai Education Group Co., Ltd. (1969.HK), is a leading provider of private higher education in China. In September 2018, the Group was listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Since the Group was established in 2004, it has grown to operate four colleges in Henan Province and two colleges in Hubei Province, participate in the operation of one college in Jiangsu Province. For the past two decades, the schools under the Group have provided tens of thousands of graduates and talents for construction for the country and socialist society. With a strong passion for education, the Group has seen continuous improvements in educational standards across its curriculum. The Group’s unique educational traits and overall excellence have been widely accredited by authorities and society. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
Strait of Hormuz crisis propels $24 billion Iraq trade initiative as Gulf sea routes change
(SeaPRwire) - According to an analyst, the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis is pushing countries to accelerate development of alternative trade routes linking the Gulf to Europe, with Iraq’s $24 billion "Development Road" project leading these efforts. The corridor running from Iraq’s Grand Faw Port through Turkey and onward to Europe is advancing "with discipline," Muhanad Seloom, an analyst at the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, told Digital, describing the initiative as a "permanent" and "transformative" wartime shift. Seloom made these remarks as President Donald Trump warned Tehran against further escalating tensions in the Gulf, and indicated the U.S. is prepared to take action to keep the strait accessible. Iranian forces have placed mines and issued threats against commercial traffic in the narrow waterway. As of Sunday, the shipping route remains effectively closed to most traffic. "Iraq’s Development Road means every container moving through Basra instead of Iranian-controlled waters cuts down Tehran’s leverage over Iraq," Seloom said. "Independent estimates place the actual scale of the Development Road at close to $24 billion, and the project is now moving with discipline," he noted. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani officially opened the first 63-kilometer section of the Development Road in 2025. The first phase of the project is scheduled for completion by 2028. "What the Iraqi government billed as a flagship of its statecraft now has a clear regional justification, with governments and financiers viewing it as essential rather than an aspirational goal," explained Seloom, who also works as an assistant professor at the Doha Institute for Graduate Studies. "Sudani appears to be positioning Iraq exactly where its geographic location has always suggested it belongs, as a connecting state between the Gulf, Turkey and Europe," he remarked. Seloom notes that other regional infrastructure projects are also being advanced in parallel alongside the Development Road. Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline pipeline is currently operating near its maximum 7 million-barrel-per-day capacity, with expansion plans currently under review. The UAE’s ADCOP pipeline leading to Fujairah is also running at full capacity, and discussions for a second parallel line are underway, he said. "Turkey’s Zangezur and Middle Corridors, which bypass Iran via the Caucasus, are four to five years away from completion." He added: "Six Gulf-backed overland fiber optic projects are also currently in progress, running across Syria, Iraq and the Horn of Africa." Iran reinstated closure measures for the Strait of Hormuz on April 18, cutting daily traffic down to just a small number of vessels, compared to the pre-war average of roughly 130 to 140 ships per day. These restrictions, which apply to commercial ships, have faced widespread criticism in recent days, and vessel interceptions in the area date back to the start of the war on February 28, when Tehran first moved to block transit following U.S.-Israeli strikes. "Hormuz remains irreplaceable for global energy trade, but it is no longer treated as the default route. That shift is permanent as a result of the war," Seloom stated. Seloom said Iraq’s corridor is "potentially transformative," with projected annual transit revenue of $4 billion, and will support Iraq’s repositioning from an oil-dependent rentier state to a regional logistics hub. "Turkey will be the single largest beneficiary. Combined with the Zangezur and Middle Corridors, Ankara becomes the primary overland bridge between Asia and Europe," he said. "Europe will gain an additional overland trade option on a timeline starting after 2028, but there will be no relief for the current crisis from these projects. They will marginally reduce Europe’s structural dependence on the unreliable Suez–Red Sea trade axis." This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.
DeepSeek V4 Open Source Fuels Token Demand Surge; Xunce Tech’s ARR Soars 300% QoQ
EQS via SeaPRwire.com / 27/04/2026 / 09:00 UTC+8 The open-sourcing of DeepSeek V4 is triggering renewed market attention toward the large language model (LLM) value chain. Industry consensus holds that as open-source models continue to improve in capability and inference barriers keep falling, enterprise-grade AI application deployment is entering a phase of broad-based acceleration. Token consumption across scenarios including intelligent customer service, agent collaboration, knowledge base Q&A, and business process automation is poised to enter a new cycle of explosive growth.Market observers note that in this phase of accelerated LLM adoption, the primary beneficiaries are not limited to foundational model providers alone. AI application infrastructure companies capable of handling high-frequency enterprise-level calls, accumulating vertical domain data, and generating sustained subscription revenues also command significant revaluation potential.Xunce Technology stands as a paradigmatic example of this investment thesis. With over a decade of deep cultivation in high-barrier industries, the company has built end-to-end capabilities spanning data acquisition, cleansing, standardization, real-time computation, and model fine-tuning—refining raw, heterogeneous, non-standardized data into vertical tokens that LLMs can directly and efficiently consume. This capability stack is not only technically demanding but also critically dependent on the continuous accumulation of long-term industry know-how. Having become deeply embedded in core enterprise business workflows, it remains difficult to replicate.From the latest performance metrics, the company's operational improvements are beginning to manifest in financial results. Xunce's 2025 results show AI revenue growing 105% year-over-year, inaugurating a second growth curve. In April 2026, Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR) related to token calls surged 300% quarter-over-quarter. Token-based paid revenue has already broken through 5% of total revenue, with a full-year target of lifting this to 20%–30%.Beyond revenue growth, the company's penetration across customer scenarios continues to deepen. Public disclosures indicate its services now span more than ten industries, including asset management, telecommunications, power, energy, robotics training platforms, commercial aerospace, and biotech. Market analysis suggests this diversified customer structure reflects deep integration with business workflows and real-time data processing demands, conferring stronger customer stickiness and commercialization certainty.More importantly, the impact of DeepSeek V4 is being reassessed. The core implication of open-source model iteration is not simple value compression across the industry, but rather increased model supply, reduced barriers to application development, and the embedding of AI into daily business operations for a growing number of enterprises. As model capabilities become universally accessible, enterprise focus is shifting from "whether we have a model" to "whether we have scenarios, whether we have data, whether we have stable access points."From this perspective, Xunce's investment logic is undergoing a fundamental transition.The market previously tended to categorize the company as a "LLM concept extension," leaving it vulnerable to sentiment volatility around foundation model competition, price wars, and open-source disruption. Yet as DeepSeek V4 drives further model proliferation, the enterprise-level inference calls, knowledge queries, customer service interactions, and agent execution demands that Xunce captures are instead seeing substantial volume expansion.In other words, the richer the model supply, the easier it becomes for enterprises to deploy AI; the more applications are deployed, the higher the value of vertical-domain calls. It is understood that Xunce's vertical token pricing has reached $10–$100 per million tokens—more than ten times that of Anthropic—and continues to rise based on specialized use cases.If the company continues to deliver positive signals on ARR and AI commercialization conversion rates, the market's valuation anchor for Xunce could shift from "model mapping" to "enterprise-grade AI application infrastructure."Overall, DeepSeek V4's open-source release represents not a simplistic model substitution narrative, but a systemic opportunity characterized by accelerated enterprise AI adoption, expanding token demand, and enhanced value in vertical scenarios.With AI revenue maintaining high growth, customer structures continuing to diversify, and application scenarios deepening, Xunce Technology is increasingly viewed as one of the most direct beneficiaries of enterprise-grade token demand growth in this wave of industry upgrading driven by open-source models. 27/04/2026 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
Iran turmoil escalates: A hardliner mocking Trump contends with nuclear talks
(SeaPRwire) - According to reports, new signs of upheaval have emerged within Iran’s negotiating team for talks with the United States, as hardliner Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf is widely expected to be replaced by a veteran conservative known for rejecting any nuclear concessions. Iran International reported on April 24 that 60-year-old Saeed Jalili — who already leads what has been described as a "shadow government" — is anticipated to take over Ghalibaf’s role after Ghalibaf’s sudden exit amid internal political disputes. Jalili also leads Iran’s ultra-hardline political faction called the Stability Front (Paydari), which is labeled a "bastion of ultraconservatism in Iran," per multiple reports. Ali Safavi, an official with Iranian opposition coalition the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), told Digital that Jalili "has developed from a simple nuclear negotiator into a highly influential actor within the ruling regime." Reports note Ghalibaf was forced to step down after he tried to add the nuclear issue to the agenda of talks with Washington, a move that sparked strong backlash within Iran’s political establishment. Former U.S. President Donald Trump canceled plans for U.S. envoys to travel to Pakistan for peace talks with Iran on April 25. The power struggle between Jalili and Ghalibaf is said to stretch back more than 10 years, and grew much more intense during the 2024 Iranian elections, when Jalili refused to drop out of the race. This split ultimately helped contribute to President Masoud Pezeshkian’s election victory. Safavi said, "The growing visibility of previously hidden internal divisions comes from repeated nationwide uprisings, deep economic crises and the pressures of war, all of which have intensified internal feuding. "Far from signaling any sort of systemic transformation, these developments show accelerating erosion and mounting pressure on the regime, deepening internal fractures and leaving the regime increasingly weaker and more vulnerable," he added. Sources add that Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is also seeking to retain a leading role in the nuclear negotiations, highlighting the competing centers of influence shaping Iran’s overall diplomatic strategy. Araghchi is currently in Islamabad, Pakistan, after returning from a short trip to Muscat, Oman, where he held high-level diplomatic talks on the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate Araghchi will next travel to Moscow. Jalili’s potential appointment, however, points to a clear hardening of Iran’s negotiating stance, with far more emphasis placed on resistance rather than compromise. "Within this regime, there are a number of core positions shared by every faction," Safavi said before highlighting that these core positions are "repression, the export of terrorism and the pursuit of nuclear weapons." "All factions ultimately follow the same core path: holding onto power. They differ only in their methods, not in their end goals," Safavi cautioned. Jalili, for his part, served as Iran’s top nuclear negotiator from 2007 to 2013 under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and later ran for president three times. He also previously served as secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. A former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Jalili lost his right leg at age 21 during the Iran-Iraq War, which earned him the title of "Living Martyr." The Paydari Front, which Jalili is affiliated with, opposes any engagement with the West — particularly the 2015 nuclear deal — and advocates for a doctrine of "active resistance." During Hassan Rouhani’s presidency, Jalili established a "shadow government" to push back against the Rouhani administration’s policies, especially the 2015 nuclear deal. On April 7, Jalili wrote on X: "Yes — the ‘infrastructure’ of American domination and the U.S.-led order is on the verge of collapse; once it falls, a far better foundation will be built in its place." A day before that post, he shared: "Telling Trump to ‘shut up’ is not the right response to his ramblings; let him keep talking. Nothing exposes the true nature of the United States more effectively than Trump’s outbursts." "When dealing with this regime," Safavi said, "we must remember that in the 45 years since mullahs consolidated their rule in 1981 by crushing all peaceful political activity, so-called reformists have governed for nearly half that time — and presided over some of the regime’s darkest crimes." "These crimes include the 1988 massacre of 30,000 political prisoners, the assassination of dissidents abroad, the serial murders of intellectuals inside Iran, and the relentless pursuit of nuclear weapons." This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.
World leaders denounce ‘unacceptable’ violence following an armed attack that disrupted the WH Correspondents’ Dinner
(SeaPRwire) - Leaders from around the world quickly denounced political violence and voiced relief that President Donald Trump remained unhurt following a chaotic armed assault that interrupted the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday evening.Reactions from these leaders flooded in on X after an individual carrying guns and knives rushed into the lobby of the Washington Hilton and ran toward the ballroom—where Trump, legislators, journalists, and foreign officials were assembled—leading Secret Service agents to fire shots and attendees to take cover under tables.The suspect—subsequently identified as 31-year-old Cole Allen from Torrance, California—was arrested, and Trump was quickly escorted offstage without injury. Authorities stated that the suspect was a guest at the Washington Hilton (the venue for the dinner) and was apprehended at the site. He is scheduled to appear in court on Monday.In their comments, global leaders highlighted two key points: solidarity with the U.S. and worry about the increasing tide of political violence.French President Emmanuel Macron labeled the event "unacceptable," noting that "violence has no role in a democracy" and offering "full support" to Trump.Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni mirrored that view, cautioning against political extremism."Political hatred has no place in our democracies," she stated, adding that democratic countries must prevent "fanaticism from contaminating spaces for free discussion and information."Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed relief that Trump, the first lady, and Vice President JD Vance were safe, underscoring that violence "must be clearly and unconditionally condemned."European leaders shared a comparable stance. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was "shocked by the events," describing the attack as one that should be "condemned in the most forceful way," especially since it targeted a prominent democratic gathering.UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated she was "appalled," noting that democracies need to "unite against political violence."NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte characterized the incident as a wider threat to democratic systems, terming it "an attack on our free and open societies" and reaffirming solidarity with the U.S.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the incident as an "attempted assassination," even though U.S. officials have not publicly labeled it that way. He and his wife were "shocked," he said, and he commended U.S. security forces for their "quick and decisive response." Additionally, he wished a fast recovery to a police officer who was shot in a bulletproof vest during the clash.From the Western Hemisphere, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed relief that all participants were safe but called the incident a "disturbing event," while Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum simply stated: "Violence should never be the solution."Argentine President Javier Milei released one of the most forceful statements, denouncing what he called a "new assassination attempt" and connecting the attack to "the left’s violent rhetoric worldwide." U.S. authorities have not verified his description.Leaders outside the traditional Western alliance also commented. Venezuela’s acting president, Delcy Rodríguez, stated her government "strongly condemns" the attack and stressed that "violence is never an option." Meanwhile, European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas pointed out the venue’s symbolic significance, noting that "an event intended to honor a free press should never turn into a place of fear."Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lauded U.S. law enforcement and Secret Service agents for their "quick action" in controlling the situation.This attack is the latest in a series of security threats against Trump since 2024, and it will probably increase scrutiny of security measures at large public events featuring the president. It is also expected to reignite discussions about the growing problem of political violence in the U.S.Officials report that the suspect acted alone, and they have not yet determined a motive. FBI agents and local law enforcement officers went to the suspect’s Torrance residence on Saturday night. This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.
62 Years On, Star Trek Is Returning To Its Earliest Concept
Paramount+(SeaPRwire) - Captain Pike on horseback—why is he there? In the newly released Season 4 trailer for Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, Christopher Pike (Anson Mount) is literally back in the saddle again. We first saw Pike riding a horse in the 2022 premiere episode of SNW, and the concept of a space cowboy exploring the unknown was also part of the show’s early promotional materials. But beyond the fact that Pike is canonically known to have owned horses in The Original Series (shoutout to Tango and Mary Lou!), showing Starfleet characters on horseback is one of the longest-standing traditions in Star Trek’s history—so old, it actually predates the franchise’s very first episode. During a panel at CCXP Mexico on April 25, Strange New Worlds Season 4 announced its upcoming July release date and teased Pike and his crew riding into action with plenty of classic, old-school style.Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4 Trailer The latest trailer for Strange New Worlds has a vibe that’s very similar to earlier seasons of the series. It features vibrant planets, a crew brimming with courage and teamwork, and a strong sense of timeless adventure. Pike cracks a joke about the iconic phrase “boldly going where no one has gone before,” and the trailer wraps up with Kirk (Paul Wesley) stating plainly: “Let’s boldly go.” While Discovery and Starfleet Academy were created to experiment with the Star Trek formula, Strange New Worlds remains the franchise’s traditionalist entry—and the trailer implies the series still adheres to the motto: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.But let’s circle back to the horses. Horses have appeared in numerous iconic Star Trek moments—so many, in fact, that fans have written extensive essays about this unusual link. Picard (Patrick Stewart) had his own saddle in The Next Generation; Kirk (William Shatner) and Picard rode horses side by side in Star Trek Generations. And in the underrated Enterprise episode “North Star,” Captain Archer (Scott Bakula) and his crew found themselves in a full-blown western-style story, discovering a lost Earth colony that functioned just like the Old West. Will the horse scenes in SNW Season 4 take place on that same planet? Is it a hologram? Or something entirely different? Regardless of the reason, the western influence on Star Trek runs deeper than just Easter eggs or the contrast between technology and nature. When Gene Roddenberry first pitched the original Star Trek in early 1964, one of his most well-known analogies was to compare the unproduced sci-fi series to a western. In many Trek documentaries, you’ll learn that Roddenberry famously described the show as Wagon Train to the Stars—meaning it would capture the essence of the 1957 western series of the same name, but set in a science fiction universe. In modern terms, that’s like saying it’s “Yellowstone in space.” Richard Boone as Paladin in Have Gun— Will Travel, a show that Gene Roddberry wrote for before Star Trek. | CBS Photo Archive/CBS/Getty ImagesRoddenberry also sharpened his teleplay writing skills on the hit western Have Gun— Will Travel (1957-1963), which centered on Paladin (Richard Boone), a character who traveled from town to town delivering justice—often on horseback and armed with a six-shooter. In many respects, the moral quandaries Paladin faced foreshadowed the kinds of discussions Kirk, Spock, and Bones would have in The Original Series. Strange New Worlds star Anson Mount is also a dedicated horse enthusiast. He once told this reporter: “...horses are some of the best actors you could ask to work with because every thought or feeling they have shows up on their bodies.”But putting Pike back on a horse in SNW Season 4 isn’t just a fun moment for Mount—it’s also a nod to Star Trek’s core identity, and the action-adventure legacy that transformed a growing sci-fi series into a cultural icon.Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 4 will hit Paramount+ on July 23, 2026.Phasers on Stun!: How the Making — and Remaking — of Star Trek Changed the WorldAmazon - This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content. Category: Top News, Daily News SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.














