Thursday 30 June 2016

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF DPL INSURANCE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, June 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of B+ (Good) and the issuer credit rating of “bbb-” of DPL Insurance Limited (DPL) (New Zealand). The outlook for each rating is stable.
 
DPL is a small insurance provider of life and non-life insurance products within the New Zealand market. Its ultimate parent is Turners Limited (formerly Dorchester Pacific Limited), a financial services company listed on the New Zealand Stock Exchange.
 
The ratings reflect DPL’s adequate risk-adjusted capitalization, favorable claims experience and high return on net assets.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27078

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES ILLUMINATION LED DRIVER IC WITH SINGLE-WIRE INPUT

- Built-in LDO and daisy-chain pins realize downsizing of LED modules

TOKYO, June 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of "TB62D786FTG", a new LED driver IC with single-wire input and 9-channel output, for amusement equipment and LED illumination applications. Full-scale production is scheduled to start this autumn.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27086

CUTENESS ALERT! THE NEW ADVENTURES OF DEREK THE WOMBAT

FLINDERS ISLAND, Tasmania, June 29 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- Since Derek the wombat hit international stardom, he's been frantically busy. He's an adolescent now and being a savvy business-wombat he has a new line of tea towels and t-shirts out. If that's not enough to keep this Flinders Island local run off his paws, he's the proud big brother of orphan-siblings April and May.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27072

Tuesday 28 June 2016

VOLTAGE INC. WILL BE MAKING ITS FIRST APPEARANCE AT C3 CHARAEXPO 2016!

TOKYO, June 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Voltage Inc. (TOKYO:3639) (Shibuya, Tokyo, CEO: Yuzi Tsutani) will be hosting a booth at Singapore's C3 CharaExpo2016 from July 9th (Saturday) until July 10th (Sunday).

Singapore's C3 CharaExpo had its first convention last year, and with visitor numbers expected to rise, it will no doubt become a huge event for both anime fans and game fans alike. This year marks Voltage Inc.'s first appearance at this event. Visitors will be able to demo popular titles, and take photos with our gorgeous characters.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27067

UMW COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS' EVENING WITH THE HOMELESS

KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Bernama) -- UMW Corporation Sdn Bhd (UMW) has collaborated for the first time with KASEH4U, a non-governmental organisation that was established to provide basic meals every Tuesday at a homeless centre in Medan Tuanku.

40 UMW Community Champions that consist of employees from UMW Group of companies braved the peak hour traffic after work to the homeless centre in Medan Tuanku, to arrive there before sunset. After a quick buka puasa and prayer, the volunteers set out to work, packing hygiene packs, arranging dinner, drinks, fruits and sahur packs.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27063

Queueing for food after collecting their hygiene packs

SMIC ACQUIRES LFOUNDRY AND ENTERS INTO GLOBAL AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS MARKET

AVEZZANO, Italy & SHANGHAI, June 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation ("SMIC"; NYSE: SMI; SEHK: 981), one of the leading semiconductor foundries in the world and the largest and most advanced foundry in mainland China, jointly announces with LFoundry Europe GmbH ("LFE") and Marsica Innovation S.p.A. ("MI"), the signing of an agreement on June 24, 2016 to purchase a 70% stake of LFoundry for a consideration of 49 million EUR. LFoundry is an integrated circuit wafer foundry headquartered in Italy, which is owned by LFE and MI. At the closing, SMIC, LFE and MI will own 70%, 15% and 15% of the corporate capital of the target respectively. This acquisition benefits both SMIC and LFoundry, through increased combined scale, strengthened overall technology portfolios, and expanded market opportunities for both parties to gain footing in new market sectors. This also represents the Mainland China IC foundry industry's first successful acquisition of an overseas-based manufacturer, which marks a major step forward in internationalizing SMIC; furthermore, through this acquisition, SMIC has formally entered into the global automotive electronics market.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27055

KEMBARA RAMADHAN UMW 2016


UMW Community Champions with Four Wheelers For Charity (4W4C)

SHAH ALAM, June 27 (Bernama) -- UMW Community Champions, the staff volunteers of UMW Corporation Sdn Bhd (UMW), had made the 450-kilometre journey to Laloh, Kelantan to distribute 'Ramadhan Packs' and household items last weekend 17 June 2016. 

Laloh is a small town in Kuala Krai severely affected by the catastrophic flood that ravaged the east coast in 2014 with Kelantan being the worst-hit state. Many of the villagers in Laloh are still struggling to make ends meet since their homes were damaged and washed away by the worst flood in history.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27062

UBS, CREDIT SUISSE, JULIUS BAER & FUNDINFO LAUNCH FUND DATA DISSEMINATION STANDARD "OPENFUNDS"

Consistent description of mutual fund static data aids distribution
 
ZURICH, June 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- After two years of intensive collaboration, two dozen financial institutions led by UBS, Credit Suisse and Julius Baer together with fundinfo AG have agreed on publishing the openfunds standard, version 1.0, onwww.openfunds.org

The non-profit initiative has defined openfunds as an efficient, cost-free and extendible standard which characterises typically used investment fund attributes, a list that today approaches 200 identifiers. 


Monday 27 June 2016

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF UNION MEDICAL BENEFITS SOCIETY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, June 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating of “a” of Union Medical Benefits Society Limited (UniMed) (New Zealand). The outlook for each rating is stable.
 

The ratings reflect UniMed’s very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, which results from the company’s low underwriting leverage, favorable liquidity and high quality of assets. In addition, UniMed has a good performance track record, with an average combined ratio of approximately 95% and a compounding annual growth rate in policyholders’ surplus of approximately 10% over a five-year period. 

NASDAQ CLOSING CROSS CALCULATES U.S. RUSSELL INDEXES FOR THE 13TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

NEW YORK, June 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nasdaq (Nasdaq:NDAQ) today announced the Nasdaq Closing Cross was used for the 13th consecutive year to rebalance Nasdaq-listed securities in the entire family of U.S. Russell indexes during its annual reconstitution. Approximately 933 million shares representing $20.6 billion were executed in the Nasdaq Closing Cross in 0.8 seconds across some 2,464 Nasdaq-listed stocks.
 
Nasdaq official closing prices (NOCPs) determined by the Nasdaq Closing Cross are widely used throughout the industry, by firms such as Russell Investments, S&P, Dow Jones, and many mutual funds across the country. The Nasdaq Closing Cross mechanism provides market participants with transparency and consistent prices with the dissemination of imbalances, indicative, and likely clearing prices every five seconds via the Net Order Imbalance Indicator. Nasdaq’s INET technology platform processes accurate closing prices for the industry in milliseconds. 


ASIA'S TOP COSMETICS REVIEW SITE @COSME ANNOUNCES THE BEST COSMETICS AWARDS 2016 MID-YEAR NEW PRODUCTS

TOKYO, June 23 (Bernama) -- 
 

- @cosme, One of Asia's Largest Cosmetics and Beauty Review Sites, Recognizes Users' Favorite New Products -

istyle Inc. (TSE First Section, Company Code: 3660), which is the Tokyo-based operator of @cosme, one of Asia's largest beauty and cosmetics information sites, announced "@cosme The Best Cosmetics Awards 2016 Mid-Year New Products," on June 22, 2016. These awards recognize the most popular new products in the first half of 2016.

About @cosme
@cosme is one of Asia's largest beauty websites, with a loyal user base of Japanese women. The information and reviews posted on @cosme make it useful for women's daily beauty, earning it widespread support.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27032

​A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF THAIRE LIFE ASSURANCE PUBLIC COMPANY, LIMITED

SINGAPORE, June 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating of “a-” of Thaire Life Assurance Public Company, Limited (Thaire Life) (Thailand). The outlook for each rating remains stable.
 
The ratings reflect Thaire Life’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, favorable operating performance and good business profile in Thailand’s life reinsurance market.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27053

Friday 24 June 2016

IN-GAME PURCHASES AND CONSTRUCTION TOYS DRIVE GLOBAL GROWTH FOR TOYS AND GAMES IN 2015

CHICAGO, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global Market Research Company Euromonitor International released today new toys and games industry data. According to the new research, global sales of toys and games reached USD $179.7 billion in 2015 with in-game purchases and construction toys accounting for 30 percent of sales across the industry.

In-game purchases were the biggest driver of revenue growth for video games, increasing 21 percent in 2015 to reach USD $44.6 billion. Mobile games reliant on purchases and the proliferation of smartphones was the main driver, but in-game purchases are becoming common in console and computer games.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27025

COUNTERINTELLIGENCE AGAINST CANCER

KUALA LUMPUR, June 21 (Bernama) -- Parkway Cancer Center in collaboration with Great Eastern Life Assurance (Malaysia) Berhad will be hosting the ‘Fight against Cancer with Immunotherapy’ Seminar which is open to the public’s participation on 25th June 2016 in Kuala Lumpur from 9am to 1pm.

The educational seminar against cancer is aimed at creating awareness of new insights into the treatment of oncology patients and their Cancer Journey.

KIOSKED 360 PANORAMA EXPERIENCES LAUNCHES AT CANNES LIONS

Virtual reality platform of choice for premium publishers and global brands 
SINGAPORE & CANNES, France & LONDON & NEW YORK, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) --Kiosked, the leading, global Advertising Automation platform, today unveiled its 360° Panorama experiences at Cannes Lions. Empowering the world’s largest publishers and brands with the ability to extend virtual reality experiences to consumers, the new Kiosked offering is available today worldwide. With more than 15,000 delegates from 100 countries in attendance at Cannes Lions, this represents a landmark launch for the company.

“The demand for Kiosked’s immersive panorama ad units is astonishing as the appetite for delivering richer creative experiences continues to grow. Our Kiosked launch has exceeded all expectations, and our participation at Cannes will enable us to connect with the smartest minds in the ad world to further improve the ultimate user experience,” said Antti Pasila, Chief Strategy Officer and Co-Founder of Kiosked. “While the results of Google’s latest study of its own display advertising platforms reveal 56.1% of impressions are not seen, we know the only impression worth an advertiser’s money is a viewable impression. With Kiosked’s new immersive 360 advertising unit we are committed to a 100% viewable impression.” 


STATEMENT BY AMBASSADOR RAMLAN IBRAHIM PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL BRIEFING ON UNITED NATIONS ASSISTANCE MISSION IN AFGHANISTAN (UNAMA)


Mr. President, 

I wish to first thank SRSG Haysom for his extensive briefing and Ambassador Saikal for his statement. We value SRSG Haysom’s insights on the enormous security, political and economic challenges faced by Afghanistan and his persistent and untiring efforts to work with the Afghan partners for peace.

We are supportive of the Afghan government’s unwavering commitment and ongoing efforts towards achieving national unity and lasting stability, as rightly underscored by Ambassador Saikal.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27040

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO HOLDS THE 36TH "SUMMER FESTIVAL OF ARITA/IMARI PORCELAINS," CELEBRATING 400TH ANNIVERSARY OF JAPANESE TRADITIONAL ART

TOKYO, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo(KPH), one of Japan’s most prestigious international hotels located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will jointly host the 36th “Summer Festival of Arita/Imari Porcelains,” to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Japan’s long tradition of porcelain art. The spectacular complimentary exhibition will be held in the lobby from July 1st to August 7th, 2016, with the sponsorship of Saga Prefectural Government. In addition, artworks of other various Arita/Imari’s contemporary artists will also be displayed and available for sale during this exhibition. This exhibition is designed to provide overseas visitors with opportunities to gain a better understanding of Arita/Imari porcelain, which is one of Japan’s traditional and representative art forms. Moreover, restaurants within the hotel will also accentuate delicious and specially prepared menu items by serving them in Arita/Imari porcelain dishes.
 

Arita/Imari porcelain artwork started 400 years ago in the Arita town and Imari city in Saga prefecture and has been highly esteemed in Japan and abroad. Keio Plaza Hotel has been hosting a special event of Arita/Imari Porcelains for the past 36 years, allowing hotel guests to experience the unique artwork and its history. This year’s theme of the exhibition is “Modern Art, Reflections of the Future.” A spectacular “Porcelain Tree” monument will be displayed in the main lobby, measuring 9.5 meters long and 3 meters wide. This decorative exhibition consists of Arita porcelain artworks by three renowned porcelain artists, Inoue Manji, the 14th Imaizumi Imaemon and the 15th Sakaida Kakiemon -two of whom are National Living Treasures- whose Arita porcelain overturn conventions and challenge perceptions. 

Thursday 23 June 2016

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES THE INDUSTRY'S LEADING-CLASS LOW ON-RESISTANCE SMALL-SIZE N-CHANNEL MOSFETS FOR LOAD SWITCHES IN LED DRIVER APPLICATIONS

AEC-Q101 qualified for automotive applications

TOKYO, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation’s (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of N-channel MOSFETs in small packages for load switches in LED driver applications, including automotive dashboard meters and headlights and LED TV backlights, that are in the industry’s leading-class[1] for low on-resistance. Shipments of the new products start from today.



ASIA SUPERSPORTS GROUP SECURES SPONSORSHIP DEAL WITH KYT

KYT Offers 2016 Overall Champion
A Golden Ticket to World Championship

KUALA LUMPUR, June 23 (Bernama) -- Satheswaran Mayachandran, chief executive officer of Asia Sports Group (ASG) confirms a sponsorship deal with KYT, one of the world's largest helmet production manufacturing company, in conjunction with the upcoming FIM Asia Supermoto Championship 2016. Amongst the sponsorship deal, the Indonesian-based helmet producer will offer a lucrative prize for the overall race champion – a full-expense wildcard entry to contend in a world championship race.

"With the surging supermoto market in Asia, KYT plays a pivotal role in elevating the race's standard in the eyes of our fans and enthusiasts. We are pleased that a major brand as such has entrusted our race as the epitome for motorsport marketing to further enhance sales, marketing and brand positioning in the Asia market," said Mayachandran.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27038

FIRST PROGRAMMATIC 360° ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN IN ASIA PACIFIC; HONG KONG AIRLINES LANDMARK LAUNCH BY KIOSKED AND MEC

Campaign proved 35 X more effective and 9 X longer viewing time vs traditional display

SINGAPORE, 23 June (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- World leading Advertising Automation platform Kiosked, global media agency MEC, and Hong Kong Airlines debut the first programmatically run digital advertising campaign that utilizes 360° advertising units.




​SUNDANCE ENERGY AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF EAGLE FORD ASSETS

DENVER, June 23 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sundance Energy Australia Limited (ASX:SEA) (“Sundance” or the “Company”), a U.S. onshore oil and gas exploration and production company focused in the Eagle Ford and Greater Anadarko Basin, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Purchase and Sale Agreement for the acquisition of approximately 5,050 net acres targeting the Eagle Ford in McMullen County, Texas for $16.0 million. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27033

TORETA ASIA OFFICIALLY RELEASES CLOUD-BASED RESTAURANT RESERVATION AND CUSTOMER LEDGER SERVICE DOMESTICALLY

Company sets sights on building a reservation infrastructure in Asia

TOKYO, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- TORETA ASIA Pte. Ltd., the Singapore subsidiary of Toreta, Inc., which is a provider of restaurant reservation and customer ledger services, announces the official release of an English localized version of their reservation and customer management service focused on food and drink establishments in Singapore.



MICHAEL KORS ANNOUNCES NEW LIFESTYLE PARTNERSHIP WITH MCLAREN-HONDA

LONDON, June 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Michael Kors (NYSE:KORS), a global luxury lifestyle brand, is delighted to announce a new partnership with McLaren-Honda, becoming the official lifestyle partner of the world championship Formula 1 team. Both McLaren-Honda and Michael Kors celebrate design and speed, with the partnership strengthening and amplifying both brands’ embodiment of a fast, jet-set lifestyle.
 
“Michael Kors and McLaren-Honda are pioneers in their respective spaces, and we firmly believe that McLaren-Honda is the right partner for our entry into the Formula 1 racing world,” says John D. Idol, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Michael Kors. “This is an exciting moment for us, especially as we continue to grow as a men’s lifestyle brand.”


Wednesday 22 June 2016

DAYMON WORLDWIDE RELEASES "THE NEXT WORLD: HOW MILLENNIALS WILL SHAPE RETAIL"

PORTO SALVO, Portugal, June 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global consumer retail leader and private brand pioneer, Daymon Worldwide, today released "The Next World: How Millennials Will Shape Retail," a worldwide Millennials market research study. The research explores the nuances and values of this generation to gain a better understanding of how they will shape the future of retail. Conducted in April 2016, the global research project surveyed more than 7,000 Millennials and Generation Xers in five continents and 14 countries across the globe.

"By the year 2030, there will be more Millennials than any other generation, including Baby Boomers, in the United States," said Daymon Worldwide Vice President Vasco Brinca. "We have never experienced a generation like this, in large part because they have grown up with economic uncertainty, high unemployment, and are always-on digitally. It is critically important to study this generation and their culture today to discover the impact they'll have on the world's future."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27017

DAYMON WORLDWIDE RELEASES "THE NEXT WORLD: HOW MILLENNIALS WILL SHAPE RETAIL"

PORTO SALVO, Portugal, June 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global consumer retail leader and private brand pioneer, Daymon Worldwide, today released "The Next World: How Millennials Will Shape Retail," a worldwide Millennials market research study. The research explores the nuances and values of this generation to gain a better understanding of how they will shape the future of retail. Conducted in April 2016, the global research project surveyed more than 7,000 Millennials and Generation Xers in five continents and 14 countries across the globe.

"By the year 2030, there will be more Millennials than any other generation, including Baby Boomers, in the United States," said Daymon Worldwide Vice President Vasco Brinca. "We have never experienced a generation like this, in large part because they have grown up with economic uncertainty, high unemployment, and are always-on digitally. It is critically important to study this generation and their culture today to discover the impact they'll have on the world's future."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27017

Tuesday 21 June 2016

CHINA CIGARETTES MARKET DECLINES FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OVER TWO DECADES

LONDON, June 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Market Research Company Euromonitor International announces today the release of new tobacco industry data.
 

According to the new research, cigarette volumes in China declined in 2015 for the first time in over two decades. Driven by a wholesale excise rise, increased government control on production and greater health awareness in some regions, the cigarette market in China fell by 2.4 percent since 2014. 

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY SPECIALTY INSURANCE COMPANY EXPANDS INTO ACCIDENT & HEALTH INSURANCE IN ASIA, NAMES PHILLIP BRAIN TO LEAD NEW PRODUCT LINE

BOSTON, June 21 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (BHSI) today announced that it is entering the Accident & Health (A&H) market in Asia, and appointed Phillip Brain as Head of A&H in the region.
 
“Phillip has extensive experience in all aspects of the A&H space, from product underwriting and innovation, to technology,” said Marc Breuil, President, BHSI, Asia. “With his leadership, we look forward to establishing an A&H team that will provide employees and employers throughout Asia with meaningful tailored solutions, backed by BHSI’s service, stability and financial strength.”



Monday 20 June 2016

HERBALIFE PARTNERS WITH GLOBAL FOOTBALL STAR CRISTIANO RONALDO TO LAUNCH NEW CR7 DRIVE SPORTS DRINK

Over 11,000 independent Herbalife members witnessed the launch at Herbalife’s annual Asia Pacific Extravaganza in Seoul, Korea

SEOUL, South Korea, June 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Herbalife, a global nutrition company, officially launched its new sports drink, CR7 Drive, at its annual Asia Pacific Extravaganza 2016, held in Seoul, Korea from June 17-19.
 
Developed in collaboration with global football star Cristiano Ronaldo, CR7 Drive, which is part of the Herbalife24 sports nutrition range, was created to optimize sports performance and address the specific nutritional needs of casual fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes.


ASEAN CHARACTER AWARD 2016 OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS

TOKYO, June 20, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

The ASEAN-Japan Centre has opened the call for applications for the ASEAN Character Award 2016. Content-related companies from ASEAN member states are encouraged to apply before July 22, 2016.
  
(Photo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/opn/release/201606201726/)
  
The ASEAN Character Award was established by the ASEAN-Japan Centre and LLP ASEAN Creative Supporters in 2014 in order to bring to light excellent content creative capacities possessed by ASEAN member states which are hitherto less known in Japan. This is an annual contest focusing on characters created by content-related companies of ASEAN member states operating in the fields of animations, games, and merchandising.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27012

A.M. BEST WITHDRAWS RATINGS OF BOC GROUP LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HONG KONG, June 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength of A (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating of “a” of BOC Group Life Assurance Company Limited (BOCGL) (Hong Kong). The outlook for each rating is stable. Concurrently, A.M. Best has withdrawn the ratings of BOCGL upon management’s request to no longer participate in A.M. Best’s interactive rating process.
 
The ratings of BOCGL reflect its good risk-adjusted capitalization and solid competitive position in Hong Kong’s life insurance market. The ratings also recognize the continued capital and operational support provided by its banking parent, BOC Hong Kong (Holdings) Limited (BOCHK).




Friday 17 June 2016

NTT COMMUNICATIONS LAUNCHES LARGE-VOLUME NETWORK THAT CONNECTS ITS DATA CENTERS WORLDWIDE AND ENTERPRISE CLOUD

TOKYO, June 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NTT Communications Corporation (NTT Com), the ICT solutions and international communications business within the NTT (NYSE: NTT) Group, announced today that it will launch a max 10Gbps large-volume network to connect NTT Com's Enterprise Cloud high-quality cloud service for enterprises and customers' enterprise systems collocated at more than 30 data centers around the world. The launches will be rolled out sequentially from June 15.

The network comprises Nexcenter Connect™ Global, which connect major data centers worldwide, Nexcenter Connect™ Metro, which connects data centers within major areas of each country, and Data Center Inter-Connect, which connects the Enterprise Cloud and major data centers worldwide.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27003

International Arbitration Demands Addresed In Appeal Court Judge's New Book

KUALA LUMPUR, June 17 (Bernama) -- Appeal Court judge Datuk Dr Hamid Sultan Abu Backer has published his latest book on the Malaysian Arbitration Act 2005.

Chief justice Tun Arifin Zakaria and Kuala Lumpur Regional Centre for Arbitration (KLRCA) director Datuk Sundra Rajoo launched the book, titled, "International Arbitration with a Commentary on the Malaysian Arbitration Act 2005".

The book was authored to address the challenges faced when securing an international arbitration award and reveals intricacies within The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model law and its importance towards ensuring awards rendered by the tribunal in achieving recognition and enforcement under the New York convention.....

--BERNAMA


Justice Datuk Dr. Haji Hamid Sultan at the launch of his new book at the KLRCA (L-R): Datuk Professor Sundra Rajoo, Yang Amat Arif Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Md Raus bin Sharif, Yang Amat Arif Tun Arifin bin Zakaria, Justice Datuk Dr. Haji Hamid Sultan, Yang Bahagia Tun Zaki bin Tun Azmi and Yang Amat Arif Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Zulkifli bin Ahmad Makinuddin

GENTING HONG KONG TO PROVIDE STAR CRUISES BRAND GUESTS WITH INDUSTRY LEADING FLEET CONNECTIVITY FROM HARRIS CAPROCK

HOUSTON, June 16 ( Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Genting Corporate Services (HK) Limited has selected Harris CapRock Communications (HCC) to transform communication services onboard the Star Cruises' fleet of six ships. Star Cruises is one of the largest cruise lines in the world and is the leading cruise line in the Asia Pacific region.

Harris CapRock will use its advanced technologies and equipment to boost bandwidth nearly 300% onboard Star Cruises' Superstar Virgo, Superstar Gemini, Superstar Libra, Superstar Aquarius, Star Pisces and Taipan ships. The solution uses Harris CapRock's uncontended Time Divisional Multiple Access (TDMA) network. Unlike traditional TDMA networks, the uncontended network ensures access to committed bandwidth levels at all times, providing an innovation over conventional TDMA networks.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27002

Thursday 16 June 2016

TILLMAN GREEN LLC AND GLOBAL TOWER SOLUTIONS TO INVEST $500 MILLION IN JOINT VENTURE TO BUILD TELECOM INFRASTRUCTURE IN EMERGING MARKETS

Tillman GTS to Leverage Renewable Energy and Battery Storage Solutions in Diesel Displacement Market
 
NEW YORK & LONDON, June 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Tillman Green, LLC ("Tillman") and Global Tower Solutions ("GTS") announced the formation of Tillman GTS, a global joint venture that will redefine how power is consumed by the telecom tower industry. The new enterprise unites Tillman's experience building telecom infrastructure businesses in emerging and developed markets with GTS' experience with renewable energy.

Tillman GTS plans to invest $500m over the next three years by providing capital to the mobile telecom tower market. Its efforts will focus on diesel displacement market by leveraging its renewable energy and battery storage solutions. This will help to reduce operating expenditure, cut carbon emissions and provide guaranteed fixed price reliable energy across the world. Tillman GTS has a financing solution that allows for large programme energy as a service delivery. It is exploring opportunities in Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia.

ALPHA PAYMENTS CLOUD RECEIVES INVESTMENT BY WELLS FARGO STARTUP ACCELERATOR

Alpha Payments Cloud valuation now stands at USD $100 million.

DUBLIN, June 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alpha Payments Cloud, a global leader in providing access to payment, risk and commerce solutions to international banks and merchants, today announced it was selected by Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC) for investment through its Startup Accelerator program. During the next six-months through the Startup Accelerator program, Wells Fargo will collaborate with Alpha Payments Cloud on its global payments network technologies for merchants.
 



WIPRO LAUNCHES DATA DISCOVERY PLATFORM

An analytics solution for generating pertinent insights, thereby enabling faster decision-making
 
BANGALORE, India & EAST BRUNSWICK, N.J., June 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Wipro Limited (NYSE: WIT, BSE: 507685, NSE: WIPRO), a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company, today announced the launch of its analytics solution, Data Discovery Platform. The solution provides pertinent business insights across the value chain of an industry through pre-defined “apps.”
 
Relevant and actionable insights are imperative to making faster and informed decisions. However, organizations today across industries face the challenge of bridging the gap between what the business wants and what information is offered. Businesses grapple with the inability of traditional systems to provide the contextual insights needed to differentiate and drive the business in a hyper-competitive and digitally-driven world.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27001

Wednesday 15 June 2016

INTREPID UNVEILS NEW BRAND IDENTITY

STAMFORD, Conn., June 15 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Intrepid today unveiled a new brand identity, symbolized by the introduction of a new logo that signifies its transformation as a business.

"The unveiling of our new brand, logo and website launches a new era that speaks to who we are as a company," says Olaf Sachau, Intrepid's CEO. "We are proud to show the evolution of Intrepid reflecting the strength and growth of the firm."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26993

ENECO PRODUCES OXYHYDROGEN GAS & PURE HYDROGEN GAS WITH WATER & SELF-DEVELOPED MEDIUM, CREATING WORLD'S FIRST PLASMA R HYDROGEN GAS


TOKYO, May 30 (Bernama) -- 

- Without Using Energy during Reaction Process -

Eneco Holdings, Inc. (https://www.eneco-hd.co.jp/en/), which earlier developed state-of-the-art emulsion technology, has now succeeded in applying the water-modifying reaction technology that has been the target of recent research to develop a type of gas known as Eneco Plasma R Hydrogen Gas that can be changed into normal LPG gas with a next-generation ecological gas device.

This invention involves technology that uses low-temperature reaction heat generated through contact between modified water and a medium developed in-house from waste to efficiently produce both oxyhydrogen gas and pure hydrogen gas at low energy levels without the use of an external energy source.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26908

NRI LAUNCHES NEW ASP MULTIPURPOSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

System provides due day management for structured bonds and OTC derivatives and cash management
 
TOKYO, June 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Nomura Research Institute, Ltd. (NRI), a leading provider of consulting services and system solutions, today announced the launch of VOLCS, an ASP (Application Service Provider) multipurpose management system for financial institutions. VOLCS provides two functions such as due day management for structured bonds and OTC derivatives as well as cash management, and the former is usually not available in an existing enterprise system. Each function can be used independently and thus can be used by non-financial firms depending on their purposes.

Most recently, structured bonds and OTC derivatives have been receiving more attention due to the effects of stock price changes and Japan’s negative interest rates. Both financial products are complicated and require detailed calculation and settlement day management, causing a major operational and financial burden to financial institutions. VOLCS enables its users to reduce the operational burden significantly, resulting in increased trading volume. They can also reallocate their resources from due day management to strategic division for more sales power.

MDEC CELEBRATES COMMUNAL SPIRIT WITH BOBOIBOY AND DIDI & FRIENDS

Orphanages treated to a night of fun and prosperity at a special “buka puasa” event

CYBERJAYA, June 13 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) organized their annual “buka puasa” charity event at the Raja Haji Fi Sabilillah. About 200 children and their guardians from 6 organizations attended the event along with MDEC staff, honoured guests from MSC companies and local authorities. It was truly an event that showcased the ‘muhibbah’ spirit that Malaysia is famously known for.

The event was also Tan Sri Sidek Hassan’s first public appearance as MDEC Chairman since his appointment in April. He was quoted saying, “This is a special night for all of us at MDEC as we celebrate the arrival of Ramadan with the orphans, friends and families. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to reconnect with our communities and brighten the children’s evening.”



YBhg Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communications & Multimedia Malaysia was also in attendance as seen here greeting some of the orphans during the event


MYCC HOSTS SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON COMPETITION

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 (Bernama) -- The Special Committee on Competition spearheaded by the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC), recently convened a meeting to discuss various competition issues cutting across sector regulators.

The Special Committee on Competition was formed in 2011 essentially to share common issues on competition laws and policy and to ensure there is consistency in the application of the law. The Special Committee on Competition comprises of representatives from the sector regulators, namely the Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), the Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM), the Energy Commission (EC), the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), the Securities Commission (SC) and Malaysia Aviation Commission (MAVCOM).
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Monday 13 June 2016

A.M. BEST UPGRADES RATINGS OF CBL INSURANCE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, June 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has upgraded the financial strength rating to A- (Excellent) from B++ (Good) and the issuer credit rating to “a-” from “bbb” of CBL Insurance Limited (CBL) (New Zealand). The outlook for each rating remains stable. 
The rating actions reflect significant improvement in CBL’s capital position and risk-adjusted capitalization in 2015, due to continued strong earnings and additional capital contributions from its parent company. In addition, the initial public offering of its ultimate parent company, CBL Corporation Limited (CCL), which occurred in October 2015, has vastly improved the insurance group’s financial flexibility. 


A.M. BEST DOWNGRADES RATINGS OF MACAU LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED; PLACES UNDER REVIEW WITH DEVELOPING IMPLICATIONS

HONG KONG, June 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has downgraded the financial strength rating to B++ (Good) from A- (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating to “bbb” from “a-” of Macau Life Insurance Company Limited (MLIC) (Macau). Additionally, A.M. Best has placed the ratings under review with developing implications.
 
The ratings downgrade reflects the anticipated diminished implicit and explicit support that MLIC will receive from its immediate parent company, Macau Insurance Company Limited (MIC), and both companies’ ultimate parent, Dah Sing Financial Holdings Limited (DSFH), following the June 2, 2016, announcement that DSFH and MIC have entered into an agreement for the divestment of 100% of MLIC’s shares. The acquirer is Fujian Thai Hot Investment Co., Ltd. (Thai Hot), a Fujian, China-based company that invests in China’s property, health care and financial services sectors. The under review status reflects the limited information A.M. Best has on Thai Hot and the heightened uncertainty surrounding the company’s credit profile and how future business plans could impact MLIC.



A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF THE TOA REINSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED AND THE TOA REINSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA

HONG KONG, June 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A+ (Superior) and the issuer credit ratings of “aa-” of The Toa Reinsurance Company, Limited (Toa Re) (Japan) and its subsidiary, The Toa Reinsurance Company of America (TRA) (headquartered in Morristown, NJ). The outlook for each rating is stable.
The ratings reflect Toa Re’s robust risk-adjusted capitalization and strong business profile in Japan. Toa Re maintains a robust level of capitalization owing to conservative risk management in its underwriting and investment practices. Toa Re has enhanced its enterprise risk management over the past five years. Additionally, the company has expanded its life and health reinsurance segments over the past five years and has reduced its exposure to catastrophe risks in order to achieve stable profitability. Also, Toa Re tightly controlled risk exposure in investment assets during the same period, particularly in stocks. As a sole domestic reinsurance company, Toa Re has a strong relationship with the major cedants in Japan, which are its major shareholders, enabling the company to maintain a stable market share in the domestic market. 


Sunday 12 June 2016

A WORLD OF DIFFERENCES: FIVE SHIFTS SET TO SHAPE THE ENTERTAINMENT AND MEDIA FUTURE


As entertainment and media companies seek to tap into pockets of growth and value in an increasingly complex and competitive global marketplace, surging demand from young consumers is opening up fresh areas of opportunity for incumbents and new entrants alike

LONDON, June 8 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Total worldwide entertainment and media revenues will rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% in nominal terms over the coming five years, from US$1.72 trillion in 2015 to US$2.14 trillion in 2020, according to PwC’s Global entertainment and media outlook 2016–2020.

This growth rate represents a slowdown from last year’s 5.5% growth in industry revenues, and will lag behind overall global economic growth during the five years. But a closer examination brings a different picture into focus. Entertainment and media is a dynamic, diverse industry with steady and sustainable growth. And while its strong aggregate growth is not shared equally by all participants, impressive growth and opportunities can be found in many areas of the industry. Drastic slowdowns in some areas and stagnation in others coexist with spectacular expansion in “hot” countries, regions, and sectors, creating a multi-shifting global media landscape.

Thursday 9 June 2016

PARAMOUNT GROUP UNVEILS NEW GENERATION ARMOURED VEHICLE FOR THE GLOBAL DEFENCE MARKET

Mbombe armoured vehicle showcases world-class technologies from leading African defence group

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, June 9 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --Paramount Group (www.ParamountGroup.com), the African-based global defence and aerospace company, unveiled a new generation 8x8 (eight wheeled) armoured vehicle in Astana, during the annual Kazakhstan Defence Exhibition. The technologically superior Mbombe 8 infantry combat vehicle represents the pinnacle of land system innovation; it was designed to meet the world-wide demand for sophisticated and affordable military equipment that provides unrivalled protection for land forces personnel, in an era of unprecedented asymmetrical threats and conflict. 



MOCA ENTERS BROADBAND ACCESS MARKET

ANGA, COLOGNE, Germany and SAN RAMON, Calif., June 9 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MoCA® is developing a specification targeting multiple dwelling units (MDUs) called MoCA Access™.  The specification will be based on the current MoCA 2.0 standard which is capable of 1 Gbps net throughputs.
 
“Our move into access applications is driven by operators worldwide who told us they need one Gbps actual throughputs with a long-term migration path and want to use the existing coax infrastructure,” said Charles Cerino, president of MoCA. “Our performance and reliability attributes are proving to be a great solution in broadband applications as well as the home network backbone.”


APTEAN EXPANDS EXPERTISE TO PUBLIC SECTOR MARKET WITH THE ACQUISITION OF ADVANCED PUBLIC SAFETY

ALPHARETTA, Ga., June 9 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aptean, a leading provider of mission critical enterprise software solutions, announced today the acquisition of Advanced Public Safety Inc. (APS), a business of Trimble (NASDAQ:TRMB), which provides software solutions that increase safety and productivity for law enforcement and public safety agencies across the United States.
 
“The acquisition of APS brings Aptean new opportunities to expand in the public sector space,” said Kim Eaton, Aptean CEO. “The electronic citation software APS provides to the law enforcement community is a good strategic fit with our portfolio of vertically-focused mission critical enterprise software solutions. We look forward to supporting the growth of APS through Aptean’s experience in bringing relevant and trusted technology solutions to our customers across the globe.”


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF WING LUNG INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HONG KONG, June 9 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of A- (Excellent) and the issuer credit rating of “a-” of Wing Lung Insurance Company Limited (WLI) (Hong Kong). The outlook for each rating remains stable.
 
The rating affirmations reflect WLI’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), favorable operating results and adequate reinsurance protection.
 
WLI’s capital and surplus strengthened to HKD 945 million (USD 122 million) at year-end 2015, representing a year-on-year increase of 13.5% and five-year compound average growth of 16.5% per annum. This capital improvement is due to full profit retention over the past few years. Despite intense competition in Hong Kong’s employees’ compensation and motor lines segments, which are WLI’s key business lines, the company has maintained pricing discipline and delivered positive and improving underwriting results since 2010. WLI also has achieved stable investment income from its diversified investment portfolio.


​MENARINI GROUP AND MSD EXTENDS GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP TO THE ASIA-PACIFIC REGION

SINGAPORE, June 9 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Singapore-based A. Menarini Asia-Pacific Holdings Pte Ltd (“Menarini Asia-Pacific”) and MSD have embarked on a multi-year partnership for Menarini Asia-Pacific to assume the sales, marketing and distribution of a number of MSD’s pharmaceutical brands in Asia-Pacific since January 2016.

The partnership involves six (6) countries, namely Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Hong Kong, Brunei and Macao with annual sales in excess of USD70 million1 that could potentially extend to other key Asia-Pacific markets. The partnership covers a portfolio of highly recognized brands among physicians and patients, ranging from Cardiology, Respiratory and Women’s Health to Central Nervous System and Dermatology. Prior to this agreement, Menarini and MSD had already developed similar partnerships in several other markets in Europe.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26970

IDC MARKETSCAPE REPORT NAMES MACH7 A LEADER IN U.S. HEALTHCARE PROVIDER VNA/AICA UNSTRUCTURED DATA PLATFORMS FOR INTEGRATED CARE

Mach7 recognized for its’ patient-centric design, proven interoperability, functional flexibility, and collaborative customer approach.
 
BURLINGTON, Vt., June 8 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Mach7 Technologies (ASX:M7T), a global provider of enterprise imaging solutions, today announced it has been named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: U.S. Healthcare Provider VNA/AICA Unstructured Data Platforms for Integrated Care 2016 Vendor Assessment (doc # US41287215, May 2016).

This study focuses on Vendor Neutral and Application-Independent Clinical Archive (VNA and AICA) platforms that allow providers to manage and provide access to disparate types of unstructured content among multiple departments, across the entire integrated delivery network (IDN), and between affiliated providers in the community. 

Wednesday 8 June 2016

MASKARGO CUTS OVER TO CLOUD-BASED LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

     
     
KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 (Bernama) -- MAB Kargo Sdn Bhd (MASkargo) has
successfuly cut over to Unisys' cloud-based Logistics Management System (LMS) to
manage its domestic and international cargo services to replace its legacy cargo
management system.

MASkargo said all of its core system functions from the previous mainframe-based system were transitioned to the LMS and the cutover included 
customisations to integrate with the carrier's automated warehouse system.

 In a statement today, MASkargo Chief Executive Officer Ahmad Luqman Mohd
Azmi said due to the nature of the company's daily operations, a heavy-duty
system that is accessible system-wide is needed.

"Being a cloud-based system, it will enable us to access regular updates and
enhancements in the future.

"The Internet-based system provides global access in a direct and
cost-efficient manner and enables users to make reservations anytime and
anywhere based on controls built into the system," he said.

Unisys Vice President Logistics Solutions Christopher Shawdon said LMS is
used by leading airlines worldwide to manage their air cargo business.

The cloud-based delivery model allows airlines to reduce costs compared to
running traditional software systems, and speeds the pace of change as
enhancements are deployed each month for all clients, said Shawdon.

The cloud model also helps members work collaboratively on developments, he
added.

MASkargo is the cargo division of Malaysia Airlines Bhd, and processes
approximately 1.5 million master and house air waybills per year.

 It is the largest ground handling agent in Kuala Lumpur and acts as the
agent for more than 30 foreign airlines at its Advanced Cargo Centre to accept,
process and deliver cargo shipments which are carried on foreign carriers'
flights.

    -- BERNAMA