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Globe leaders take on global connectivity discussions at MWC Barcelona 2025

MANILA, Philippines, March 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Senior leaders of top Philippine telco Globe Telecom, Inc. actively shaped the global discourse on digital transformation at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona. Participating at various high-level discussions, the Globe executives were able to drive innovations through solutions that address challenges relevant to emerging markets like the Philippines. Ernest Cu, Globe President and CEO, signs an MoU with other Philippine telco operators on CAMARA APIs under GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative. Held in Barcelona last week, MWC is the world's premier ICT event, uniting the industry behind the advancement of business and society. Globe CEO Ernest Cu was joined by Deputy CEO Carl Cruz and other senior leaders on a hectic week of engagements with global telco leaders to tackle the most pressing concerns facing the industry today. Cu represented Globe in signing a Memorandum of Understanding with other Philippine telco operators on the deployment of federated CAMARA APIs under GSMA's Open Gateway initiative. Through CAMARA APIs, Globe will be able to improve security measures against fraud. These standardized APIs will also make it easier for businesses to create and expand digital solutions across telco networks. The partnership will also help fintech, e-commerce, and other digital services grow by turning telecom networks into platforms that developers can easily use, ensuring wider reach and smoother integration. Carl Cruz, Globe’s Deputy CEO, at the MWC in Barcelona, leading a delegation of senior leaders in discussions on AI, cybersecurity and telco innovation. "Globe remains dedicated to advancing digital innovation while prioritizing customer security. This partnership marks a major step in enhancing fraud prevention and identity verification in the Philippines. By leveraging GSMA Open Gateway and federating CAMARA APIs, we can create a safer and more seamless digital experience, empowering both businesses and consumers in today's fast-evolving digital landscape," Cu said. Cu also participated in his first GSMA Board Meeting and spoke about Globe's best practices in combatting digital scams and fraud. Cruz, meanwhile, shared insightful perspectives on the impact of 5G-A×AI on the future of connectivity at the GTI Summit 2025 as a session speaker. The Summit revolves around the 5G-A×AI 100 Commercial Campaign that aims to engage 100+ partners, open 100+ APIs, and develop 100+ lighthouse projects, over the next three years. "Globe is focused on strengthening connectivity, driving inclusive growth through initiatives like JuanSim ng Bayan, expanding 5G access, and making fiber internet more affordable. By working closely with industry partners and the government, we are building a future where every Filipino can fully participate in the digital economy and benefit from AI-driven innovation," he said. Globe's active presence at the MWC 2025 underscores its leadership in the Philippine telecom sector and its pivotal role in fostering digital inclusion whilst supporting the country's digital transformation. To learn more about Globe, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

2025-03-12

Haig Court Welcomes Its First Guest After an Elegant Revival

Revitalizing Shanghai's Historic Architecture for a New Era of Elevated Urban Living SHANGHAI, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Haig Court, the first luxury serviced apartment under Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels, welcomed its first guest recently, making a new chapter in its history. As a landmark reborn, it reflects Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels' commitment to urban renewal and the revitalization of historic architecture. Following an extensive renovation in 2024 that restored its architectural elegance and upgraded its surroundings, the residence seamlessly blends heritage charm with modern sophistication, offering guests a distinctive living experience. Blending Shanghai-style Culture with Modern Spirit Haig Court, originally built in the 1920s, was first designed as a high-end apartment complex for expats in Shanghai. After the founding of the People's Republic of China, it became the office of the East China Bureau of the Communist Party of China and later housed the Shanghai Municipal Party Committee. In 1977, responding to the city's growing tourism sector, the building was transformed into Jing'An Hotel, welcoming the public and hosting numerous heads of state, government leaders, and dignitaries. Today, Haig Court stands as a living testament to Shanghai's rich cultural heritage. The renovation team expertly preserved its elegant Spanish architectural elements while integrating a serene garden setting, restoring the building with meticulous attention to detail. Inspired by the charm of Shanghai's traditional alleyway neighborhood, the redesign blends heritage aesthetics with contemporary sophistication. In addition, sustainability is at the heart of Haig Court's transformation, with eco-friendly initiatives such as environmental monitoring, coordinated control of smart air conditioning and ventilation systems, shaping it into a sustainable and culturally enriching space in the heart of Shanghai. Haig Court boasts 62 spacious residences, exceeding traditional hotel standards with well-defined functional areas that cater to diverse lifestyle needs, including socializing, leisure, cooking, bathing and storage. Apartment sizes range from 44m2 studio to a 257m2 penthouse, providing flexible living solutions for different residents. Each unit features independent living quarters, while communal areas are equipped with wellness and business facilities that rival those of high-end hotels. Haig Court also utilizes an advanced smart system to efficiently manage reservations, housekeeping, travel arrangements and concierge services, seamlessly integrating technology into daily life. Additionally, Haig Court provides a number of always-on services, including 24-hour security, dedicated butler service, and laundry, for a homely yet luxurious experience for every resident. The newly upgraded Haig Court is operated and managed by Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels, incorporating core renovation concepts of classic elegance, modern style, shared spaces, environmental consciousness, smart technology and privacy. Leading with Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels' brand philosophy of "Every Moment Matters", Haig Court is committed to providing high-quality accommodations tailored to long-term travelers in Shanghai. Industrial Upgrading and Urban Renewal Hand-In-Hand Haig Court, originally a residential apartment complex and later transformed into Jing'An Hotel to support cultural tourism development, has now reemerged as a luxury serviced apartment, continuing the legacy of Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels' world-class service standards and contributing to both industrial upgrading and urban renewal. By respecting the city's historical fabric and cultural heritage, the building enhancing the property's openness, accessibility, and functionality. This careful restoration maintains a balance between the old and new. Adhering to the principle of "restoring the old as it was", Haig Court elevates Shanghai's urban roots to new heights. By blending history, culture, community and modern lifestyle, it introduces a fresh perspective on travel and living, combining classic charm with modern sophistication in this international metropolis. Haig Court marks a new chapter for Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels in establishing its own serviced apartment product, perfectly aligning with China's urban renewal and industrial upgrading initiatives. This transformation underscores Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels' unwavering commitment to preserving historic architecture, enhancing the property with state-of-the-art amenities and services. Its unique design and cultural significance respond to the diverse needs of the market, setting a new benchmark in the industry. Looking ahead, Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels will remain dedicated to preservation-driven development of historic buildings, playing an important role in transforming Shanghai's precious memories into world-class modern living spaces. ABOUT JIN JIANG RADISSON HOTELS Established under Jin Jiang International Group, Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels is a business structure formed by Jin Jiang International Hotel Management Co., Ltd. and Radisson Hotel Group China. Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels provides a complete hospitality solution for luxury and high-end hotels, creating outstanding value and exceptional stay experience for guests while meeting the evolving needs of tourism industry. The portfolio of Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels comprises of 10 brands: J, Yan Garden, Kunlun, Jin Jiang, Radisson Collection, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, and Golden Tulip. Jin Jiang Radisson Hotels offers dual loyalty programs: Jin Jiang Rewards and Radisson Rewards, tailormade for domestic and international guests. Our loyalty programs are designed to deliver an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter, offering exclusive privileges and benefits to our valued members.

2025-03-11

BloombergNEF: World's No.1 Inverter Bankability Rating in 2024 for Sungrow

HEFEI, China, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BloombergNEF (BNEF) has published the results of its 2024 PV Module and Inverter Bankability Survey, naming Sungrow the only inverter supplier to receive a global No.1 rating. This marks the fifth time Sungrow has been recognized as the most bankable inverter brand, underscoring its exceptional track record and position as a trusted partner in the global solar industry. Sungrow Ranked NO.1 in Inverter Bankability for 2024 This prestigious rating indicates that banks are more likely to approve term loans for solar projects using Sungrow inverters, ensuring long-term financial stability and benefits for stakeholders. As the global solar market continues to expand, securing project financing remains one of the key challenges. BloombergNEF's inverter bankability survey serves as a vital source for stakeholders, offering critical insights into the financial viability of renewable energy projects. Sungrow attributes much of this honor to its unwavering commitment to fulfilling its mission of "Clean power for all". With the industry's largest R&D team and 28 years of proven excellence, the company consistently introduces cutting-edge product portfolios designed to meet the surging global demand for clean energy. Sungrow leads the way in future-proof technologies including 2000V PV and energy storage high-voltage advanced technology, grid-forming PV and energy storage technologies, all of which contribute to a more affordable, accessible, and reliable clean energy planet. Sungrow's PV inverters have achieved a remarkable feat by being exported to over 180 countries and regions worldwide. As a testament to its global standing, Sungrow has been ranked as the global No.1 in PV inverter shipments for years, according to S&P Global Commodity Insights. Notably, in the energy storage bankability rankings released by BloombergNEF in 2024, Sungrow ranked first in the world in both energy storage systems and PCS. Therefore, Sungrow has achieved global leadership in the bankability ratings of both energy storage and inverters. About Sungrow Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy technology, has pioneered sustainable power solutions for over 28 years. As of December 2024, Sungrow has installed 740 GW of power electronic converters worldwide. The Company is recognized as the world's No. 1 on PV inverter shipments (S&P Global Commodity Insights) and the world's most bankable energy storage company (BloombergNEF). Its innovations power clean energy projects in over 180 countries, supported by a network of 490 service outlets guaranteeing excellent customer experience. At Sungrow, we're committed to bridging to a sustainable future through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled service. For more information, please visit www.sungrowpower.com. Media Contact Mina Zhangmina.zhang@cn.sungrowpower.com

2025-03-11

Agoda Survey Reveals: Strong Interest in Family Travel and New Destinations Among South Korean Women

SEOUL, South Korea, March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- To mark International Women's Day which took place on March 8, digital travel platform Agoda unveiled travel insights about South Korean women. The findings revealed that while both men and women plan to travel more in 2025, South Korean women are leading the way in exploring new destinations and prioritizing shared adventures. Exploring New Destinations The survey showed that 67% of South Korean women expressed interest in visiting unfamiliar destinations. This figure is higher than the Asia-wide average of 60%, highlighting their strong desire to experience diverse cultures and landscapes. Women in South Korea are venturing beyond familiar travel spots, embracing the joy of exploring new markets firsthand. Preference for Family Travel The survey also found that 39% of women preferred traveling with family, while 22% chose to travel with their partners. By creating unforgettable memories with loved ones, women in South Korea are adding deeper meaning to their journeys through shared experiences. Short Travel Experiences The majority of South Korean women (52%) showed a preference for short trips lasting 2–5 days. These brief escapes provide an opportunity to immerse themselves in culture and adventure while taking a refreshing break from their busy routines. Short trips have become a popular choice for balancing daily life with the thrill of new experiences. Lee Jun-hwan, Country Director, South Korea at Agoda stated, "Our survey reveals that South Korean women are leading changes in travel trends, particularly with their adventurous spirit and focus on meaningful journeys with family. Agoda remains committed to helping women in South Korea explore new destinations with great deals on accommodations, flights and activities." Agoda's extensive offerings include over 5 million vacation properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities, all bookable in one place. Customers can discover the best deals and plan unforgettable trips by visiting agoda.com/deals or using the Agoda mobile app.

2025-03-11

Visitor pre-registration is opening now for productronica China 2025 in March

SHANGHAI, March 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- productronica China 2025 will be held on March 26-28, 2025 at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (Halls E1-E5, W1-W4), with a scale of nearly 100,000 square meters and feature over 1,000 exhibitors. These exhibitors will showcase a full range of products and technologies from the electronic manufacturing supply chain, including electronic chemical materials, dispensing and bonding solutions, automated electronic assembly, testing and measurement tools, quality assurance services, electronic manufacturing services, surface mount technology (SMT), cable processing, component manufacturing, motion control and drive technology, sensor technology, robotics, AGVs, intelligent warehousing, etc. The visitor registration is going on heatedly, please register now! Cable processing industry will face new challenges In the rapidly evolving global science and technology industry, the cable processing industry is experiencing a significant transformation, spanning from the smart upgrading of automotive manufacturing to advancements in industrial automation. The productronica China 2025 will strategically expand the display area for cable processing and connector manufacturing, showcasing various advanced cable processing equipment and connector products such as automated cable processing machines, crimping machines, and connector molds. These machines are capable of improving production efficiency and product quality, catering to the needs of various industries. The exhibition will bring together outstanding domestic and international manufacturers, including Komax, Schleuniger, JAM, ShinMaywa, Wuxi Airstorm, KM Digitech, Hiprecise, Bozhiwang, Hacint Intelligence, Hongsheng Intelligent, Linquan Technology, E-Plus Technology, Schunk Sonosystems, Riyan Precision, LAZPIUR, HACINT, Fu Brothers, XUNYE, Telsonic Ultrasonic, WINGUD, DASENLIN, Z•X SCIENCE, Yixin, ZOMAX, HUAXUTECH, CHAORI, HARI-TECH, Zetai Technology, HOSVER, True Soltec, Cynthia Electric, Elink, RaySun, ZOKO, Guanju, Shunkeda, Defeng, JMK, Canu, Xinya, SBT, Bonne Ultrasonic, Zhongyao, Ruiling, Huirun, Liuxu, CREATION, Himinsen, Ruixin Automation, Hechang, Keweisi, Yantai, DELTECH, Juhai, Wen Lian Electronic Technology, Ruiyafeng, XINYIDE, Zeta Automation, HySum, AEG, Zhongli Automation, and BiaoXin Intelligent. The automation and robotics industry is growing by leaps and bounds Currently, collaborative robots have expanded into high-difficulty applications such as assembly, gluing, welding, and polishing, with the range of application industries continuously growing. In the meantime, the motion control system is also one of the core technologies in modern industry. Its development has witnessed the continuous progress of human industrial civilization. productronica China 2025 will serve as an excellent platform to experience the charm of automation and robotics. This exhibition will bring together companies such as Omron, SIASUN DUCO, CGXi, ELITE ROBOTS, Estun Codroid, Passion, KinTN Intelligent, Guomai Intelligent, INSPIRE-ROBOTS, and Ti5robot, among others in the field of robots and intelligent warehousing. Industrial sensor companies like Pepperl+Fuchs, ELCO, Banner Electronics, CONTROLWAY, SENPUM, Flexem, Bojke, and others will also participate. Additionally, motion control enterprises such as HIWIN, AirTAC, igus, PMI, Golytec Automation, item, TPA, JWIPC, and Augmented Intelligence will be present. This event offers the opportunity to closely engage with innovative product solutions from these brands. Whether you are an industry expert with years of experience in manufacturing or a newcomer eager to immerse yourself in the intelligent industry, productronica China is a valuable-attend event. Click: https://pc.global-eservice.com/?lang=en&channel=mts to register now and click : https://www.productronicachina.com.cn/en/ to know more about exhibitors' and products' information. For further information, please contact Ms. Xing via email sinsia.xing@mm-sh.com

2025-03-10

Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia and Huawei Jointly Launch the Global Smart Village Showcase, Exploring New Digital Transformation Modes for Villages

BARCELONA, Spain, March 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- During MWC Barcelona 2025, the Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia joined hands with Huawei in launching the global showcase of Zambia's smart village at the government industry forum titled Secured, Sovereign & Synergized Network-Cloud Strategy Accelerating National Digitalization. Over 200 industry leaders and technical experts in public services gathered at the event to discuss national transformation paths driven by digital technologies. Ministry of Science and Technology of Zambia and Huawei Launch the global Smart Village Showcase (Left to right: Victor Guo, President of Sub-Saharan Africa Enterprise Business, Huawei; Li Junfeng (Wind), CEO of Global Public Sector BU, Huawei; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, Zambia; Brilliant Habeenzu, Permanent Secretary of Technology and Science, Zambia; David Wang, Vice President of Corporate Communications, Huawei ) In July 2024, the first smart village site in Zambia was successfully delivered after 30 days of construction. This project has provided electricity and Internet access to the village as well as achieving telemedicine and remote teaching. Governments worldwide are accelerating the shift toward AI-driven intelligent public service upgrades. During his speech, Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, emphasized that the digital transformation of governments is crucial for enhancing national capabilities and improving the well-being of citizens. AI is emerging as a key driver in this digital transformation. The extensive use of the DeepSeek model signifies not just a technological advancement, but also a fundamental shift in production dynamics. Huawei collaborates with international partners to capitalize on opportunities and propel digital government towards a smarter and more sustainable future. Li Junfeng (Wind), Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, delivering his speech At the forum, Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist of Huawei, invited various guests to discuss national digital transformation. Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science of Zambia, mentioned that the Smart Villages Project aligns seamlessly with Zambia's vision 2030. Through smart education, we are not only empowering the next generation with knowledge but also equipping them with the digital skills required to thrive in the fourth industrial revolution. The digital transformation of Zambia is not only about technology — it is about the people, progress, and potential. It is about empowering the communities, bridging inequalities, and creating a future where every Zambian can contribute meaningfully to national development. Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist interacting with guest speakers (Left to right: Rose Pola Pricemou, Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and the Digital Economy, the Republic of Guinea; Vito Epis-copo, Deputy Mayor of the City Council of Granada, Spain; Dr. Erol Özgüner CTO of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, Türkiye; Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, the Republic of Zambia; Koh Hong-Eng, Chief Scientist of Huawei Global Public Sector BU ) Huawei adheres to the concept of "Accelerating the Intelligence of Governments and Public Services, Building a Cognitive Society Together", and is constantly broadening its business scenarios, advancing the extensive use of digital technologies to achieve the vision of "excellent governance, better livelihood, and heightened economy", and support governments globally in establishing an equitable, efficient, and sustainable digital society.

2025-03-09

LK Technology Debuts at Global GIGA-Casting Congress 2025 with Keynote Speech by LK Europe General Manager Gao Zhan about GIGA CASTING 2.0

KASSEL, Germany, March 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- LK Technology (stock code: 00558.HK), a global leader in die casting solutions, made a notable appearance at the prestigious Global GIGA-Casting Congress 2025 in Kassel, Germany. This event, dedicated to advancing the application of integrated die casting in Europe, featured a keynote speech by Gao Zhan, General Manager of LK Europe. He introduced GIGA CASTING 2.0, emphasizing its core attributes: Competence, Evolution, Full Stack Cost, and Flexibility, which are set to transform the die casting landscape. These evolutions are specifically designed to upgrade for more powerful machine and flexible solution to combine with agile module "TPI". This allows for the use of both aluminium and magnesium on the same machine. And for the giga body structure parts, LK introduced new innovative cross-origin manufacturing processes to enhance machinery performance and easier integration. Most impressively, the 'full stack concept' was first proposed at this meeting, directly addressing current market pain points and needs, stemming from a deep understanding of this technology. In a comprehensive consideration, GIGA CASTING 2.0 represents a new exploration not only of technical issues but also of a brand-new manufacturing capex investment concept, marking a significant step forward in the industry. In the speech, Gao Zhan emphasized, "The next phase of giga casting manufacturing is about solving complex problems with simplified technology. As pioneers in the field, we are not just leveraging LK and GIGA CASTING technology; we are at the forefront of driving global change through technological advancement. Our vision extends beyond traditional supplier relationships as we actively seek deep, collaborative partnerships that foster innovation and growth." The GIGA CASTING 2.0 platform is designed with a strong focus on customer benefits and cost-effectiveness. From the design phase to process implementation, infrastructure considerations, and dedicated machinery performance, LK Technology ensures that complex technologies are accessible, easy to use and flexible for more variant needs. This approach highlights the company's dedication to achieve efficiency while pushing even higher standards of quality. Over the past 46 years, LK Technology has continuously developed a comprehensive intelligent manufacturing system and a new supply chain framework for die-casting equipment. Under its "Globalization 2.0" strategy, LK Technology is expanding into new markets, concentrating on smart manufacturing solutions across various industries. At the same time, the needs and solutions of each local market will be highlighted in strategy and followed in pragmatic operations. The establishment of multiple international production bases is helping LK to bolster its global influence and market presence worldwide. About L.K. Technology Founded in 1979 and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in 2006, L.K. Technology Holdings Limited is a leading global manufacturer of die-casting machines, one of China's top five injection molding machine manufacturers, and a major CNC machining center producer. With a team of over 500 R&D professionals. For more information about LK Technology, please visit http://www.lk.world Contact details:Phone : +852 3412 5500Email : sales@lk.world / sales@lkmachinery.com.hk

2025-03-07

Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud Develop AI and Cloud Solutions to Enhance Customer Experience

Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on AI and cloud-based solutions at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona on March 5 2025. Under the collaboration, Telkomsel will harness B2B and B2C solutions such as AI Generated Content (AIGC), AI Translation, and eKYC solutions like Palm Verification, and other AI capabilities. Tencent Cloud will support the cloud cost optimization for Telkomsel, including public and hybrid cloud collaborations with Telkomsel. JAKARTA, Indonesia, March 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud signed a strategic partnership on AI and cloud-based solutions development at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona on 5 March 2025. Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud Develop AI and Cloud Solutions to Enhance Customer Experience The partnership between Indonesia's leading digital telecommunications service provider company and one of the world's leading cloud companies will see Telkomsel harnessing various B2B and B2C solutions such as AI Generated Content (AIGC), AI Translation, and electronic know-your-customer (e-KYC) solutions like Palm Verification, and other AI capabilities. Tencent Cloud will also support cloud cost optimization for Telkomsel, including public and hybrid cloud collaborations with Telkomsel. Wong Soon Nam, Director of Planning and Transformation of Telkomsel, said, "The partnership demonstrates Telkomsel's commitment to optimizing our business operations and enhancing customer experiences through innovative digital solutions. It also aligns with our vision to accelerate Indonesia's digital transformation and improve its technology sector." Poshu Yeung, Senior Vice President, Tencent Cloud International, added, "We are excited to expand our partnership with Telkomsel in the area of AI, cloud, and eKYC solutions. We hope the partnership will accelerate the adoption of more efficient and secure digital solutions to support digital transformation across various use cases." The Telkomsel-Tencent Cloud partnership covers three main items: 1. eKYC solution development in the form of Palm Verification for B2B segment Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud now provide Palm Verification technology for the B2B segment that can improve the security and reliability of their digital identification systems. 2. AI-Generated Content (AIGC) and AI Translation Development Both companies are developing AI-Generated Content (AIGC), AI Translation, and other AI-based capabilities for B2B and B2C segments. 3. Cloud Cost Optimization Tencent Cloud will support cloud cost optimization for Telkomsel, including public and hybrid cloud collaborations with Telkomsel. This partnership allows Telkomsel to improve its operational efficiency and digital infrastructure scalability to provide faster, more stable, and cost-effective services. The partnership is a continuation of their previous digital innovation efforts. Telkomsel and Tencent Cloud previously succeeded in pilot testing the Palm Verification technology for B2C customers at Telkomsel's GraPARI outlets in 2024. Today's partnership will see this technology extended to the B2B enterprise segment as part of Telkomsel's business solutions strategy. By leveraging the expertise and technology of both companies, the partnership is expected to provide efficient, intelligent, and value-added services for Indonesian customers. About Tencent Cloud: Tencent Cloud, one of the world's leading cloud companies, is committed to creating innovative solutions to resolve real-world issues and enabling digital transformation for smart industries. Through our extensive global infrastructure, Tencent Cloud provides businesses across the globe with stable and secure industry-leading cloud products and services, leveraging technological advancements such as cloud computing, Big Data analytics, AI, IoT, and network security. It is our constant mission to meet the needs of industries across the board, including the fields of gaming, media and entertainment, finance, healthcare, property, retail, travel, and transportation. About Telkomsel (www.telkomsel.com) Telkomsel is the leading digital telecommunications service provider in the region, empowering Indonesians to make better today and excellent tomorrow by delivering innovative and superior connectivity, services, and solutions for everyone, every household, and every business, to achieve more. Aligned with Indonesia's spirit for digitalizing the nation, Telkomsel plays a pivotal role as the largest provider of convergence services, consistently expanding its 4G network coverage, developing 5G technology, and implementing the latest fixed broadband technology to enhance customer experience quality. Additionally, Telkomsel is evolving its digital services portfolio, encompassing Digital Lifestyle, Digital Advertising, Digital Enterprise Solutions, and Internet of Things. With 29 years of establishment, Telkomsel operates with support from over 269,000 BTS and serves more than 158.4 million mobile customers and over 9.4 million fixed broadband customers (IndiHome-B2C) across the nation. In pursuit of sustainable corporate operations, Telkomsel also upholds ESG principles to generate positive impacts on the corporate ecosystem. More information and customer services are available through the website: www.telkomsel.com, Facebook.com/Telkomsel, Twitter @telkomsel, Instagram @telkomsel, and Telkomsel's virtual assistant on the MyTelkomsel application

2025-03-07

Smiles SuperApp partners with Tencent Cloud to enable smarter digital commerce in the UAE

Cloud integration will allow partner brands to seamlessly onboard as 'mini apps' Consumers will benefit from a plethora of services, deals and rewards across global & local brands BARCELONA, Spain, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smiles, e& UAE's SuperApp, has partnered with Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of Tencent – the global technology powerhouse behind Weixin/WeChat, the world's largest SuperApp –to enhance digital commerce in the UAE. Announced during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, this partnership reinforces Smiles' commitment to driving customer-centric innovation. Smiles SuperApp partners with Tencent Cloud to enable smarter digital commerce in the UAE As part of the agreement, Smiles will leverage Tencent Cloud Super App as a Service (TCSAS) solution to create an open, dynamic digital ecosystem, making it the first in the region to leverage this technology. This integration will allow partner brands to seamlessly onboard as "mini apps" within Smiles, mirroring the highly successful WeChat model. By doing so, businesses can establish a digital presence with ease, whereas consumers can choose from a broader selection of services and rewards, all within a unified SuperApp experience. With 5.5M+ registered users Smiles is the UAE's leading rewards-driven SuperApp, offering a vast range of deals and services across food and grocery delivery, home services, dining, retail, entertainment, travel, and more. By adopting Tencent's proven cloud-based solution, Smiles is set to transform into a fully-fledged "Super-Mall," allowing brands to quickly and efficiently onboard their services. "Our partnership with Tencent marks a strategic moment in Smiles' evolution from a rewards platform to becoming a full-scale digital commerce enabler in the UAE," said Khaled Elkhouly, Chief Consumer Officer, e& UAE. "We're bringing the expertise behind the world's largest SuperApp, WeChat, to create a more accessible digital ecosystem with Smiles. This means businesses, from global brands to local merchants, can integrate faster and reach customers more effectively without heavy investment or complexity. For consumers, it's about making everyday life simpler—whether it's discovering great deals, completing everyday chores, accessing services, or enjoying rewards—all in one place. Ultimately, this integration is set to reshape digital commerce in the UAE, a market driven by speed and convenience, by seamlessly connecting businesses and consumers in a more frictionless economy." Dan Hu, Vice President of Tencent Cloud International for the Middle East, shared, "We are thrilled to partner with e& UAE to power Smiles as it is evolving into an everyday app for millions, whether it is for accessing essential services, retail, shopping or gaming entertainment. TCSAS is a proven, modular platform designed to be versatile and intuitive, supporting our partners to meet their user expectations for a seamless experience." TCSAS is powered by Tencent Cloud's Mini Program framework, which has been instrumental in the success of Weixin/WeChat, one of the world's largest digital ecosystems with over 1.1 billion monthly active users. Through this partnership, Smiles aims to replicate that success in the UAE, offering partner brands a plug-and-play solution to enhance engagement, boost customer retention, and drive higher returns on investment. For businesses, the integration will allow brands to swiftly onboard their services into the Smiles ecosystem, driving customer engagement and revenue growth without extensive development costs. Whereas Smiles' consumers will have access to an even wider network of businesses – ranging from top global brands to local favorites- offering deals, services, and rewards. Whether it's shopping, dining, entertainment, online food or grocery ordering or booking services, consumers will benefit from a seamless, all-in-one experience within the Smiles SuperApp. With a network of 6,500 participating brands and 15,000 partner outlets, Smiles continues to evolve as the go-to SuperApp, delivering value, convenience, and rewards to millions of users. About Tencent Cloud: Tencent Cloud, one of the world's leading cloud companies, is committed to creating innovative solutions to resolve real-world issues and enabling digital transformation for smart industries. Through our extensive global infrastructure, Tencent Cloud provides businesses across the globe with stable and secure industry-leading cloud products and services, leveraging technological advancements such as cloud computing, Big Data analytics, AI, IoT, and network security. It is our constant mission to meet the needs of industries across the board, including the fields of gaming, media and entertainment, finance, healthcare, property, retail, travel, and transportation. About Smiles: Smiles is e&'s full-service lifestyle SuperApp and one of the largest one-stop shops for the everyday needs of UAE residents and visitors. With 6,500 participating brands and over 15,000 partner outlets in the UAE, Smiles offers deals and rewards on food and grocery deliveries, home services booking, e& services as well as dining, shopping, entertainment, wellness and travel benefits, making it a premier lifestyle SuperApp. Smiles is currently one of the most downloaded apps in UAE on both the playstore as well as the app store. Smiles currently has over 5.5 million registered members and is open to all UAE citizens, residents, and visitors. New customers can download the Smiles SuperApp from the iOS app store, Android Play store, or Huawei AppGallery to enjoy great benefits immediately.

2025-03-06

Smartpay Announces Japan's First "Embedded Insurance Service" in BNPL in Partnership with Chubb

~ Launching New Insurance Experience Integrating Payments and Insurance in Summer 2025 TOKYO, March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Smartpay Corporation (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Sam Pemberton-Ahmed, CEO and Founder of Smartpay; hereinafter "the Company"), provider of the "Smartpay" Buy Now Pay Later service, announces the launch of embedded insurance products in the Japanese market, following one year of partnership with Chubb Insurance Japan (Headquarters: Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo; President: Edward Kopp; hereinafter "Chubb Japan"), the Japanese subsidiary of Chubb Group, a world leader in insurance. Current Challenges in the Insurance Industry The traditional insurance industry faces challenges in meeting the evolving needs of modern consumers. Insurance contracting still largely relies on paper-based analog processes, leaving significant room for improvement in digitalization, personalization, real-time capabilities, and security. According to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry survey[1], cashless payments now account for approximately 50% of consumer monthly spending, with widespread adoption of diverse payment methods including credit cards and electronic money. The insurance industry has an opportunity to enhance consumer experience by embracing digitalization to capitalize on this trend. Changes in the insurance industry are becoming evident across various sectors. For example, Japan's travel insurance market reached $678 million (approximately ¥101.7 billion) in 2023 and is projected to grow to $1.523 billion (approximately ¥228.5 billion) by 2028[2]. Furthermore, post-pandemic surveys indicate that 47% of Japanese travelers are seeking new ways to purchase travel insurance that differ from traditional methods[3]. Additionally, Generation Z consumers tend to prioritize convenience and speed in payment experiences and dislike complicated procedures[4]. These changes in young consumers' behavior are driving the demand for embedded insurance that can be completed with simple operations. What is Embedded Insurance? Embedded insurance is a mechanism that provides insurance seamlessly integrated into the payment process when consumers purchase products or services. For example, this includes options to purchase travel insurance simultaneously when buying airline tickets online. This method simplifies the insurance application process and enables appropriate coverage to be provided at the optimal timing for consumers. Through its partnership with Chubb Japan, Smartpay is bringing innovation to the insurance industry. By providing solutions at the moment of need, we are transforming the nature of insurance. Our embedded insurance technology is seamlessly integrated into the payment process, providing appropriate coverage instantly when customers need it. Growth Outlook for the Embedded Insurance Market The global embedded insurance market size is projected to grow CAGR of 11.6% from 2024 to 2030, reaching approximately $175.25 billion (about ¥26.3 trillion) by 2030[5]. Another report predicts the embedded insurance market will grow at an annual rate of 4.8% from 2025 to 2032[6]. By region, the Asia-Pacific region is the largest market, accounting for approximately 39% of share. This is followed by Europe at 32% and North America at 21%. By product type, life insurance is the largest segment, accounting for 51% of share. By application, the automotive sector is the largest, accounting for approximately 26% of share. These data suggest that the embedded insurance market will continue to show steady growth. Fusion of Technological Innovation and Customer-Centric Design Embedded insurance goes beyond simply incorporating insurance at the point of payment, achieving comprehensive fintech innovation. It combines the following: Real-time Risk Assessment and Dynamic Pricing - A system that provides optimal coverage and pricing for each customer, often making it possible to keep insurance premiums lower Highly Secure Complex Infrastructure - Integration of Smartpay's payment system and Chubb's insurance infrastructure Seamless Customer Experience - Eliminating complicated procedures, enabling appropriate insurance enrollment at the time of purchase with intuitive and user-friendly experience. Strategic Partnership with Chubb Chubb is a global company with a track record of successful partnerships with major financial institutions worldwide. In 2018, it partnered with Grab, Southeast Asia's largest super app, to provide insurance products to millions of Grab users. Additionally, it has led digital transformation and technological innovation in the insurance industry, such as partnering with Nubank, Brazil's largest digital bank, to provide fully digitalized life insurance. In this context, Chubb's selection of Smartpay as its first embedded insurance business partner in Japan demonstrates strong confidence in our innovative approach, technological capabilities, and market potential. Smartpay to Launch First Embedded Insurance Product in Summer 2025 Smartpay and Chubb Japan plan to provide their first embedded insurance product in BNPL in partnership with Fútbol Opción, a soccer cultural exchange program provider operated by Actif LLC, in summer 2025. While soccer cultural exchange programs represent a significant investment for families, Smartpay's installment payment option makes it possible to realize children's dreams while reducing the burden on household finances. Additionally, having insurance coverage during international travel is a crucial element for parents' peace of mind. Through this partnership, families can now handle both program fee installments and insurance enrollment in one process, making soccer exchange opportunities accessible to more young people. Additionally, Smartpay announced details of this initiative at the "Global Financial Technology Network Forum" held in March 2025. About Smartpay Smartpay is a fintech company that develops and provides smart solutions to help consumers manage their daily expenses and improve their financial well-being. In addition to realizing Japan's first one-click credit card-based BNPL solution, Smartpay was the first in Japan to introduce "Smartpay Bank Direct" enabling immediate withdrawals from bank accounts[8]. Through Smartpay Bank Direct, developed in partnership with the Japan Electronic Payment Promotion Organization (JEPPO), we provide payment services accessible to 90% of the population with bank accounts, partnering with 20 major banks including megabanks and over 200 credit unions in Japan. For more information, please visit https://smartpay.co/. In addition, Smartpay is also focusing on unprecedented initiatives, such as being the first BNPL solution in Japan to establish processor agreements with both Adyen and Stripe[9], in order to pursue convenience for both businesses and consumers. About Chubb Japan Chubb Japan provides innovative property and casualty insurance products to both individuals and corporations, based on innovative thinking and Chubb Group's global network. With a history in Japan reaching its 100th anniversary in 2020, it has the longest presence among foreign property and casualty insurance companies. It has received an "AA-" rating for both insurance financial strength and issuer credit rating from U.S. rating agency Standard & Poor's (as of March 2025). About Chubb Group and Chubb Limited Chubb is a world leader in insurance. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. The company is defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb employs approximately 43,000 people worldwide. 1: Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Commerce and Service Group Cashless Promotion Office, "Consumer Survey Analysis Results" https://www.meti.go.jp/shingikai/mono_info_service/cashless_future/pdf/005_05_00.pdf 2: Japan Travel Insurance Market (2023-2028) https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5566829/japan-travel-insurance-market-2023-2028-by 3: Research shows Japanese travelers desire embedded protection and improved claims experiences in a post-pandemic world https://covergenius.com/embedded-insurance-travel-japan/ 4: Deloitte Tohmatsu Group, "2024 Domestic Generation Z Awareness and Purchase Behavior Survey" https://www2.deloitte.com/jp/ja/pages/consumer-business/articles/cp/generationz-behavior-survey.html 5:Global Embedded Insurance Market Size, Share, and Trend Analysis Research Report 2024-2030 https://newscast.jp/news/5752394 6: Global Embedded Insurance Market Research Report 2024 https://www.reliableresearchtimes.com/embedded-insurance-r1837378 7,9: As a BNPL service in Japan that utilizes credit card's credit limit (as of November 2021) 8: As a "BNPL service that connects with Bank Pay and allows for immediate withdrawal from bank accounts in Japan" (as of December 2022)

2025-03-06