TRM LABS APPOINTS ZIQING ANG TO LEAD APAC POLICY EFFORTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- TRM Labs (TRM), an artificial intelligence (AI)-focused provider of solutions for combating financial crime and national security threats, has appointed Ziqing Ang as Head of Policy, APAC.

In this role, Ang will work with regulators, policymakers, law enforcement agencies and private institutions across Asia-Pacific (APAC) to strengthen efforts against illicit networks and address emerging threats.

“Ziqing brings deep expertise and experience working across both the public and private sectors, and the credibility to bring regulators and industry together around this work,” said TRM Labs Global Head of Policy, Ari Redbord.

TRM in a statement said APAC is becoming an increasingly important region for digital asset and AI policy as criminal networks use the technologies to operate at greater speed and scale.

The company tracked adjusted crypto crime volume rising from approximately US$123 million in 2020 to over US$103 billion in 2025, while investment scams accounted for 62 per cent of fraud inflows last year. (US$1=RM4.02)

Meanwhile, Ang said APAC is at an important stage in how it regulates technology in the age of AI, and the decisions made over the next few years will shape the safety of the ecosystem.

Ang brings more than a decade of experience spanning policy, financial markets, digital assets and institutional business development. She spent more than eight years at the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), working on financial markets development and reserve management before moving into the digital asset industry.

Ang's appointment reflects TRM's continued investment in APAC and follows last month's appointment of former MAS regulator Claudia Hui as Head of Compliance Advisory, APAC, as part of the company's broader expansion of its policy and compliance presence in the region.

-- BERNAMA

Defiance ETFs Launches CAPA, the First U.S.-listed Capacitor & MLCC ETF

 

MIAMI, Aug 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Defiance ETFs, a leading provider of thematic and income ETFs, today announced the launch of the Defiance AI Capacitors Leaders ETF (Cboe: CAPA), the first U.S.-listed ETF targeting the capacitor supply chain powering AI infrastructure. CAPA seeks to track the BITA AI Capacitors Leaders Index and provides targeted exposure to publicly listed companies that seek to generate significant revenue from the design, manufacture, and supply of advanced capacitors and passive electronic components used in AI infrastructure.

Every AI accelerator, server board, and hyperscale data center depends on capacitors and passive components to condition power, regulate voltage, filter signals, suppress noise, and store energy. As AI chips draw more current at lower voltages, the passive component content per system continues to climb. Industry reporting indicates that a single AI server built on Nvidia's GB300 platform can require roughly 30,000 multilayer ceramic capacitors, with a full rack consuming hundreds of thousands of units. Murata, the largest MLCC manufacturer, has said it expects MLCC shipments into AI servers to grow at approximately 30 percent annually through 2030, reaching more than three times 2025 levels.

“The market has spent three years pricing the chips. CAPA is about what powers them,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CIO of Defiance ETFs. “Capacitors are the least appreciated layer of the AI buildout. Without high-performance passive components, the most advanced GPU in the world cannot hold a stable voltage. As rack power architectures move from 12 volts to 48 and even 800 volts, we believe the companies supplying this layer sit at a structural demand inflection, and CAPA gives investors a single-ticker way to access them.”

The BITA AI Capacitors Leaders Index holds companies across multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), conductive polymer capacitors, and server-grade aluminum electrolytic and polymer hybrid capacitors used in AI servers, accelerators, networking equipment, and hyperscale data centers. Constituents must derive at least 50 percent of revenue from these segments or demonstrate material involvement in the ecosystem, are weighted by free-float market capitalization with a 20 percent maximum weight per issuer, and the index is reconstituted and rebalanced quarterly.

Index Components (as of August 24, 2026)

Name	Weight
TDK Corp	23.0%
Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co	20.2%
Murata Manufacturing Co Ltd	18.3%
Kyocera Corp	15.5%
Yageo Corporation	14.9%
Taiyo Yuden Co Ltd	4.4%
Maruwa Co Ltd	1.8%
Walsin Technology Corp	1.5%
Samwha Capacitor Co Ltd	0.3%
Nippon Chemi-Con Corp	0.1%

Index components as of 08/24/2026. Index composition is subject to change and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

The Index brings together companies at the forefront of the global capacitor supply chain. Constituents include Murata Manufacturing, the world's largest MLCC maker, alongside fellow Japanese leaders TDK, Taiyo Yuden, and Kyocera, a national industry that supplies the majority of the world's high-grade MLCCs; Samsung Electro-Mechanics in Korea; and Yageo and Walsin Technology in Taiwan, with focused specialists including Maruwa, Samwha, and Nippon Chemi-Con rounding out the Index. Index constituents and Fund holdings are subject to change; the Fund's complete holdings are published daily at www.defianceetfs.com/capa.www.defianceetfs.com/capa

About Defiance ETFs

Founded in 2018, Defiance is a leading ETF issuer specializing in thematic, income, and leveraged ETFs. Our first-mover leveraged single-stock ETFs allow investors to take amplified positions in high-growth companies, providing precise leverage exposure without the need to open a margin account.

Media Contact
Brenda Hentschel
bhentschel@gregoryagency.com
201.705.3758

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

Tidal Investments LLC ("Tidal" or the "Adviser"), a Tidal Financial Group company, serves as the Fund's investment adviser. Defiance ETFs, LLC ("Defiance") serves as the Fund's sponsor pursuant to a fund sponsorship agreement with the Adviser and is not the Fund's investment adviser. The Fund is a series of Tidal Trust II.

The Fund's investment objective, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read the prospectus and/or summary prospectus carefully before investing. Hard copies can be requested by calling 833.333.9383 or by visitingwww.defianceetfs.com.

Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. There is no guarantee the Fund will achieve its investment objective, and an investor may lose some or all of its investment. The Fund is a recently organized investment company with no operating history. The Fund is non-diversified and will concentrate its investments to approximately the same extent as the Index, which is expected to be concentrated in the technology hardware industry or group of industries and may have significant exposure to the industrials sector. The Fund is passively managed and is subject to index methodology, index provider, third-party data, and tracking error risk. The Fund may invest in derivatives, including options and swaps, and may seek to replicate Index exposure synthetically, which involves risks greater than investing directly in securities. Because certain holdings trade on foreign exchanges that are closed when the Fund's listing exchange is open, the Fund may experience premiums and discounts greater than those of ETFs holding only U.S.-listed securities.

Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures, and their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. Competition is intense, products may become obsolete quickly, these issuers depend heavily on intellectual property rights, and they are subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may materially affect profitability. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

Technology Hardware Risks. Technology hardware companies are subject to competitive and pricing pressure, rapid technological change and product obsolescence, cyclical demand, evolving industry standards, and dependence on the availability and price of components. Success depends substantially on the timely introduction of new products, and there is no assurance these companies can protect their proprietary technology or that competitors will not develop superior technology.

Concentration Risk. The Fund's exposure will be concentrated in the same industry or group of industries as the Index. A portfolio concentrated in a particular industry, sector, or country, or in a small number of holdings, may be subject to a higher degree of risk, and the value of Shares may rise and fall more than that of a more broadly invested fund.

Industrials Sector Risks. Heavier investment in a given sector makes Fund performance especially sensitive to developments affecting it. Industrials issuers are affected by supply and demand, product obsolescence from rapid technological change, government regulation, world events, economic conditions, exchange rates, commodity price trends, and liability for environmental damage and product claims.

Equity Market Risk. Common stocks are generally exposed to greater risk than preferred stock and debt obligations because common stockholders have inferior rights to payment. Equity holdings may experience sudden, unpredictable drops or prolonged declines in value, whether from market-wide factors or factors affecting specific issuers, industries, or sectors.

Foreign Securities Risk. Non-U.S. investments involve risks not present domestically and may change in value more rapidly and extremely. Foreign markets are often less developed, efficient, or liquid, adverse political and economic developments including sanctions may occur, and reliable issuer information is less available due to less rigorous disclosure, accounting, and regulatory practices. Additional risks include:

Currency Risk. Adverse changes in exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar may erode or reverse gains or widen losses. Currency liquidity and value may be affected by inflation, interest rates, trade balances, and the actions of governments and central banks.

Depositary Receipt Risk. Depositary receipts held as a substitute for underlying shares may not deliver a return corresponding precisely with those shares.

Derivatives Risk. Derivatives derive their value from an underlying reference asset and pose risks greater than investing directly in securities, including leverage, imperfect correlation with the Fund's other holdings, higher volatility, lack of availability, liquidity, valuation, and legal restrictions. Because they often require only a limited initial investment, derivatives may expose the Fund to losses exceeding the amounts invested. Additional risks include:

Options Contracts. Option prices are volatile and influenced by the value and volatility of the underlying instrument, time to expiration, and market and policy events. Positions may expire worthless, an option's value generally does not move at the same rate as the underlying security before expiration, and a liquid secondary market may not exist.

Swap Agreements. Swaps are highly specialized, and success depends on the Adviser's ability to structure them consistently with the Fund's objective. Associated financing and borrowing costs may lower returns, and over-the-counter trading offers less transparency than exchange-traded derivatives.

Counterparty Risk. The Fund's derivatives investments expose it to the risk that a counterparty fails to perform, whether due to financial condition or other reasons, which may cause significant loss with limited, delayed, or no recovery. Using a limited number of swap counterparties increases this risk, and suitable counterparties may not be willing to transact with the Fund.

Passive Investment Risk. The Fund does not attempt to outperform the Index or take defensive positions in declining markets, so its performance may be adversely affected by a general decline in the relevant market segments.

Index Strategy, Index Provider, and Third Party Data Risk. The Index Provider exercises complete control over the Index and may delay or add a rebalance date, adversely affecting Fund performance and Index correlation. There is no guarantee the methodology will achieve its intended result, and the constituent count will vary over time, potentially contributing to concentration and tracking error risk. Errors in Index data, computation, or construction may occur and go uncorrected, including errors originating with the independent third-party calculation agent on which the Index depends, and the Fund's portfolio can be expected to reflect them. Continuous availability and timeliness of the Index cannot be guaranteed, and a significant delay may cause trading in Shares to be suspended.

Tracking Error Risk. Fund and Index performance may differ because the Fund incurs operating expenses and transaction costs the Index does not, may not be fully invested in Index components, and may hold securities outside the Index.

Non-Diversification Risk. The Fund may invest a greater percentage of assets in a single issuer or smaller number of issuers than a diversified fund, so a decline in one or a few issuers could reduce the Fund's value more than a diversified portfolio would experience.

New Fund Risk. The Fund is recently organized with no operating history, so prospective investors have no track record on which to base their investment decision.

Market Capitalization Risk. Large-capitalization companies may grow more slowly during expansions and respond less quickly to competitive challenges, while mid- and small-capitalization companies may be more vulnerable to adverse developments, trade in lower volumes, experience greater and less predictable price changes, and have less publicly available information.

High Portfolio Turnover Risk. Frequent trading of a significant portion of the portfolio increases transaction costs, which may increase Fund expenses, and may create adverse tax consequences through increased short-term capital gains.

Cash and Cash Equivalents Risk. Holding cash rather than portfolio investments, even strategically, may cause the Fund to miss market appreciation and produce lower returns than remaining fully invested, and will negatively affect performance in rising markets.

Economic and Market Risk. Increasingly interconnected global markets raise the likelihood that events in one region adversely affect issuers elsewhere. Fund holdings may underperform due to inflation or deflation, interest rates, global demand, market and financial system instability, debt crises, tariffs, sanctions and other trade barriers, regulatory and geopolitical events, war, terrorism, natural disasters, and epidemics or pandemics.

Operational Risk. The Fund is subject to human error, processing and communication errors, errors by service providers or other third parties, inadequate processes, and technology or systems failures. It relies on third parties for services including custody, and delays or failures may affect its ability to meet its objective; controls and procedures cannot eliminate these risks.

ETF Risks. Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed. The Fund has a limited number of Authorized Participants, market makers, and liquidity providers; if they withdraw and are not replaced, Shares may trade at a material discount to NAV and face delisting. Cash rather than in-kind redemptions may cause the Fund to recognize capital gains, increasing distributions, investor taxes, and brokerage costs. Buying and selling Shares involves commissions, other broker charges, and bid-ask spreads that vary with volume and liquidity. Shares may trade at an intra-day premium or discount, particularly during volatility, steep declines, or limited secondary market activity, and there is no assurance Shares will trade with any volume; in stressed conditions, liquidity of both Shares and portfolio holdings may deteriorate.

The BITA AI Capacitors Leaders Index is a rules-based index, weighted by free-float market capitalization subject to a 20% maximum weight per issuer, owned, calculated, administered, and disseminated by BITA GmbH (the "Index Provider"), which is not affiliated with the Adviser or Defiance. Constituents must derive at least 50% of total revenue from the eligible segments or demonstrate material involvement in them, assessed on the basis of strategic importance to the theme ecosystem, supply chain impact, disclosed investments, R&D activity, strategic partnerships, government contracts, or patent filings. Only ordinary shares and American Depositary Receipts are eligible, and securities with a market capitalization below $100 million, a three-month average daily traded value below USD 100,000, or a free-float percentage below 10% are excluded. The Index is reconstituted and rebalanced quarterly.

As of August 24, 2026, based on a review of SEC EDGAR filings and publicly available ETF issuer, index provider, and exchange listings, Defiance ETFs has identified no U.S.-listed exchange-traded fund currently trading whose name, underlying index, or stated principal investment strategy is focused on capacitors and passive electronic components, and accordingly believes the Defiance AI Capacitors Leaders ETF is the first U.S.-listed ETF targeting the capacitor supply chain powering AI infrastructure; this finding is corroborated by third-party financial media (Yahoo Finance, July 9, 2026). One competing product, filed June 17, 2026 as the Roundhill MLCC & PCB ETF (CIRQ) and since renamed the Roundhill MLCC & Electronic Components ETF (CCML), remains in registration with an earliest possible effective date of August 31, 2026, after CAPA's scheduled August 26, 2026 listing, and combines capacitors with printed circuit boards and semiconductor packaging rather than focusing exclusively on capacitors and passive components.

Statements regarding future industry growth, including projected unit volumes, component content per system, and shipment growth rates, reflect third-party estimates and forward-looking views that are subject to change and are not guarantees of future results. References to third-party industry reporting and manufacturer statements are provided for informational purposes, are not independently verified by Defiance or the Adviser, and should not be relied upon as a projection of Fund performance. Nothing herein constitutes a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Fund holdings are subject to change and should not be considered investment advice.

Brokerage commissions may be charged on trades.

Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/52a7f451-4b9f-4b2d-ab53-65a09232f926  

SOURCE: Defiance ETFs

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

NORAINI CALLS FOR GREATER INNOVATION AND MARKET ACCESS TO STRENGTHEN MALAYSIA’S RUBBER PRODUCTS INDUSTRY

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 21 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s rubber products industry must accelerate innovation, strengthen supply chain resilience and expand market access to remain competitive in a rapidly changing global economy, said Minister of Plantation and Commodities, YB Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad.

Speaking at the inaugural Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC) Industry Leadership & Networking Dinner, she said the industry must build on its manufacturing strengths while responding to growing market expectations for sustainability, traceability and technology-driven solutions.

“We must build on our existing strengths and reinforce Malaysia’s position as a preferred global supplier of innovative, sustainable and high-quality rubber products. This is essential to securing the long-term growth and resilience of our industry,” she said.

Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini outlined three key priorities for the industry. These include accelerating innovation, automation and digital transformation, strengthening sustainable and resilient supply chains, and expanding market access for Malaysian rubber products.

She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing a conducive policy and regulatory environment while continuing to engage closely with industry to understand operational challenges and develop practical solutions.

The Minister also welcomed MRC’s commitment to eliminating forced labour in the Malaysian rubber industry as part of its collaboration with the International Labour Organization. She called on industry players to support responsible labour practices and participate actively in MRC’s social compliance initiatives.

The event also saw MRC exchange five memoranda with its strategic partners to accelerate innovation, support the commercialisation of new technologies and develop higher-value rubber products.

Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini also presented the MRC Scholarship Awards and congratulated the recipients. She encouraged them to make full use of the opportunity and contribute their knowledge and leadership to Malaysia’s rubber industry.

The inaugural dinner brought together key industry stakeholders and reinforced the importance of close Government-industry collaboration, strategic partnerships and talent development in strengthening the future of Malaysia’s rubber products industry.

About MRC

The Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC), formerly known as the Malaysian Rubber Export Promotion Council, was incorporated on 14 April 2000 under the Companies Act 1965 as a company limited by guarantee under the Ministry of Plantation and Commodities (KPK). MRC is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by KPK. MRC is tasked with undertaking market promotion of quality Malaysian rubber and rubber products in world markets. In getting more Malaysian rubber products to penetrate local and international markets successfully, MRC also provides various commercialisation supports to the industry. MRC has overseas offices in the US and India serving as hubs for information on Malaysian rubber and rubber products. These offices support Malaysian companies in expanding their business abroad, promote Malaysian rubber exports, monitor policy changes and regulations affecting rubber imports and usage, as well as facilitate joint ventures, and R&D collaborations.

SOURCE: Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate Communications Division
Malaysian Rubber Council (MRC)
Tel: +603 2782 2100
Email: comms@myrubbercouncil.com
Visit our website: www.myrubbercouncil.com

Media Contacts
Name: Angela Chan
Tel: +60 16 280 7703
Name: Thania Ammanena
Tel: +60 19 218 3564
Name: 'Aisyah 'Izzati
Tel: +60 17 739 1219

--BERNAMA

MIDF SUPPORTS GAPIMA’S EXPANSION WITH RM13.4 MILLION ISLAMIC FINANCING FOR NEW LOGISTICS FACILITY

Azizi Mustafa, Chief Executive Officer of MIDF

PETALING JAYA, Aug 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (“MIDF”) has provided RM13.4 million in Islamic financing to GAPIMA Sdn Bhd (“GAPIMA”) under the Soft Financing Scheme for Automation and Modernisation (SFSAMi) to part-finance the acquisition of a new industrial property in Klang, Selangor.

The financing will support GAPIMA’s purchase of a semi-detached industrial building and factory located at 2A, Jalan Anding 3/KU5, with a total purchase price of RM14.896 million. The new facility forms part of GAPIMA’s ongoing upgrading and expansion programme, aimed at enhancing logistics efficiency, strengthening its warehousing capabilities and providing additional capacity to support the company’s continued growth.

Established in 1974, GAPIMA has evolved from its beginnings in forwarding and stevedoring at Penang Port into an integrated logistics provider offering project logistics, freight forwarding, multimodal transportation and warehousing solutions. Today, the company operates a network of 10 offices and warehouses nationwide, with its headquarters owned by the company and its other locations leased from third parties.

The acquisition represents an important step in GAPIMA’s efforts to strengthen its physical infrastructure alongside the continued development of its business. With operations spanning key locations across Peninsular and East Malaysia, the company continues to expand its operational capabilities while investing in its people and digital skills to support greater efficiency.

Azizi Mustafa, Chief Executive Officer of MIDF, said “GAPIMA’s investment in a new logistics facility is a good example of how strategic financing can help Malaysian businesses build the capacity required for sustainable growth. At MIDF, we remain committed to supporting businesses as they modernise their operations, strengthen their competitiveness and invest in the infrastructure and capabilities needed to capture future opportunities. We are pleased to support GAPIMA as it continues to expand its logistics capabilities and strengthen its presence across Malaysia.”

The RM13.4 million financing is provided under MIDF’s SFSAM-i, which supports eligible companies in modernising and upgrading their operations and capabilities, including the acquisition of commercial property.

Muhammad Taufiq bin Johari, Chief Executive Officer of GAPIMA Sdn Bhd, said “The acquisition of this new facility marks an important milestone in GAPIMA’s continued growth journey. As our operations and service capabilities expand, having the right infrastructure in place is increasingly important to support our customers and our people. This investment will strengthen our warehousing and logistics capabilities, improve operational efficiency and provide us with additional capacity as we continue to grow. We are incredibly grateful to MIDF for believing in our vision and helping us to take this next big step”

The new facility will complement GAPIMA’s nationwide network while strengthening its warehousing and operational capabilities. The investment supports the company’s continued growth as an end-to-end logistics provider, with expertise spanning oil and gas, infrastructure cargo, freight forwarding, warehousing and multimodal transportation.

About MBSB Berhad

MBSB Berhad (MBSB) is a dynamic financial services group with a longstanding role in supporting the nation’s financial system and economic development. MBSB is the holding company of MBSB Bank Berhad, MBSB Investment Bank Berhad, and Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF). MBSB Bank Berhad is a progressive Islamic bank offering comprehensive Shariah-compliant banking solutions to retail, SME, and corporate customers, with a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainable financing. MBSB Investment Bank Berhad serves as the Group’s investment banking and capital markets arm, providing advisory, research, equity brokerage, and capital markets services. MIDF plays a pivotal role in supporting business and industrial development through development finance, nurturing a resilient and thriving SME ecosystem.

SOURCE: MBSB Berhad (MBSB)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Norsiah Juriani Johari
Group Head
Group Communications & Marketing Department
Group Corporate Strategy
Tel: +6012 900 1907
Email: norsiah.johari@mbsb.com

Name: Arna Farisa Binti Mohamad Isa
Senior Manager
Group Communications & Marketing Department
Group Corporate Strategy
Tel: +6013 394 2590
Email: arna.farisa@mbsb.com

--BERNAMA

ASIA PACIFIC SHOWS STRONGEST GOVERNANCE IMPROVEMENT, SINGAPORE TOPS CHANDLER INDEX

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 (Bernama) -- Asia Pacific recorded the strongest improvement of any region in the latest 2026 Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI), with 79 per cent of governments in the region recording higher scores, while Singapore retained the top global ranking for the fourth consecutive year.

The CGGI, now in its sixth year, assesses the capabilities and effectiveness of 133 governments across seven pillars, namely Leadership & Foresight, Robust Laws & Policies, Strong Institutions, Financial Stewardship, Attractive Marketplace, Global Influence & Reputation, and Helping People Rise.

The findings were presented by Chandler Governance Group (CGG) Director (Knowledge), Dinesh Naidu, at a joint session on future-ready governance in Asia and the Pacific, held as part of the OECD-UNDP-OPDC “Transforming Public Services in Thailand” programme in Bangkok.

Naidu said the region's progress demonstrated that sustained investment in institutions and public service delivery could deliver improvements despite a difficult global environment.

“The region improved across six of the Index's seven pillars since 2021, which suggests deliberate, sustained capability building in areas that matter most to citizens,” said Naidu in a statement.

The 19 Asia Pacific countries assessed recorded the largest improvement in average overall score of any region since 2021, with five countries ranking among the global top 20, namely Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Japan.

The region's strongest gains were recorded in the Strong Institutions and Helping People Rise pillars, although progress was uneven. Thailand ranked 58th globally, with its Financial Stewardship performance ranking 18th.

The session also introduced the Future-Ready Governance Index (FRGI), a new benchmarking tool being jointly developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and CGG to help governments across Asia Pacific respond to uncertainty, structural transformation and growing complexity.

Naidu said the CGGI provides governments with an evidence base to identify areas requiring stronger capabilities, while the FRGI is intended to help governments build capabilities to prepare for future challenges.

-- BERNAMA

IDFC FIRST Bank Secures Its First International Rating With Investment Grade From S&P Global Ratings

 

MUMBAI, India, Aug 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- IDFC FIRST Bank is pleased to announce that S&P Global Ratings has assigned the Bank its inaugural international investment-grade issuer credit ratings of ‘BBB-’ long-term and ‘A-3’ short-term, with a Stable Outlook.

Commenting on the rating, Mr. Sudhanshu Jain - Chief Financial Officer & Head Corporate Centre, said, "We are delighted to receive our first international investment grade Rating from S&P with a Stable Outlook.

We view this rating as an important milestone in our progress. The investment-grade rating is expected to enhance the Bank's standing with global investors and financial institutions, support access to international funding markets, facilitate Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC) lines, strengthen foreign currency funding at the Bank's GIFT City International Banking Unit, support mobilisation of FCNR(B) deposits, and deepen correspondent banking and cross-border trade finance relationships.”

Key excerpts from S&P Global Ratings' rating rationale:

• Expects IDFC FIRST Bank to maintain strong capitalization over the next 18-24 months, with its Risk-Adjusted Capital (RAC) ratio projected at 10.0%-10.5%, supported by regular capital raising, improving profitability and a low dividend payout policy.
• The agency also noted the Bank's demonstrated ability to access equity markets and raise capital to support growth.
• S&P Global Ratings expects further improvement in the Bank's profitability, supported by healthy revenue growth, declining credit costs and improving operating leverage. The agency expects the Bank's cost-to-income ratio to improve to 65%-70% from 75% in FY2026 over the next two years.
• S&P expects the Bank's asset quality to remain stable, supported by technology-driven underwriting, portfolio diversification and a growing focus on lower-risk lending segments. The Stable Outlook reflects the agency's expectation that the Bank will maintain strong capitalization, manageable asset quality risks and a granular retail funding profile over the next two years.
• S&P noted the Bank's experienced management team and strong digital capabilities, which have supported the expansion of a scalable retail banking franchise with nationwide reach.
• S&P further highlighted the Bank's strong funding profile, with a CASA ratio of 50.8% as of June 30, 2026.

The investment-grade rating is expected to strengthen the Bank's access to international markets and funding sources, support trade and SBLC lines, foreign currency funding, FCNR(B) deposit mobilisation, correspondent banking relationships and cross-border trade finance activities.

About the Bank

1. Vision: To build a world-class Bank in India, founded with principles of Ethical, Digital, and Social Good Banking.
2. Scale: IDFC FIRST Bank is one of India’s fast-growing private banks, building its UI, UX, and tech stack like a fintech. As of June 30, 2026, the Bank serves 39 million customers, with a customer business at Rs. 6,04,776 crore ($65.9b) comprising customer deposits of Rs. 2,99,405 crore ($32.6b) and loans & advances of Rs. 3,05,370 crore ($33.3b). Customer deposits grew 16.6% YOY and loans 20.6% YOY. We reach over 60,000 cities, towns, and villages, operating through 1,155 branches.
3. Scope: We are a universal Bank offering a complete range of services, including Retail, MSME, Rural, Startups, Corporate Banking, Cash Management, Credit Cards, Wealth Management, Deposits, Government Banking, Working Capital, Trade Finance, and Treasury solutions.
4. Ethical Banking: We are committed to doing right even when customers are not watching. We have simplified descriptions, calculations, and legal jargon to avoid confusing customers.
5. Digital Banking: The Bank's modern technology stack delivers high-quality services across all channels like mobile, branch, internet banking, call centers and relationship managers. Built on cloud-native, API-led, microservices architecture, supported with data, analytics, AI, and fine aesthetics, we strive to deliver fintech-grade experiences on banking platform.
6. Social Good: We work for society. We have impacted over 40 million lives including 3.6 million women entrepreneurs. We have financed over 7.5 million lifestyle improvement loans (for laptops, washing machines, refrigerators etc. that enhance the quality of life of the middle class), 2.5 lakh electric 2W and 3W vehicles, 2.7 lakh water, sanitation, and hygiene loans, 2 million livelihood (cattle) loans, and 300,000+ SMEs. On deposits, we provide access to premium investment research, which is usually reserved for the wealthy, even to those holding balances as low as Rs. 5,000. Our ESG scores are high and improving.
7. Customer Friendly Banking: We make banking easy by having a customer first approach. We have waived fees on 36 essential savings account services which are commonly charged in the market, the first and only bank in India to do so. We create “pull” products that customers actively seek out.
8. Governance: We adhere to regulatory guidelines in letter and spirit and actively work with regulators to make things better. We take pride in maintaining highest levels of corporate governance.
9. Shareholders: We are building a well-diversified universal banking portfolio designed to deliver consistent ROE of 16%+.
10. Employees: IDFC FIRST Bank is designed to be a happy place to work, with cutting-edge roles, meaningful growth opportunities, and a culture of meritocracy. Compensation is healthy, efforts are recognized, and employees experience the pride and excitement of creating a world-class Bank in India.

View source version on businesswire.com:
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260814899061/en/

Contact

Media Contact: Media.queries@idfcfirst.bank.in

Source : IDFC FIRST Bank

Northern Trust Expands Fund Administration Mandate With First Sentier In Singapore

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- Northern Trust has expanded its relationship with First Sentier Group after being appointed fund administrator for First Sentier Investors Global Growth Funds, a Singapore unit trust offering.

Under the expanded mandate, Northern Trust will provide custody, fund accounting and transfer agency services for the funds, combining its local Singapore transfer agency capabilities with its global operating platform, according to a statement.

Northern Trust Country Head of Singapore, Yen Leng Ong said the expanded mandate strengthens the company's fund administration support for retail investors in the region and represents an important milestone for its Singapore operations and local transfer agency capabilities.

Meanwhile, First Sentier Group Chief Operating Officer, Amanda Gazal said the appointment supports the continued simplification of the group's global operating model and strengthens service consistency across its fund ranges.

The appointment expands a broader global relationship between the two firms that began in 2006, further broadening the scope of services Northern Trust provides to First Sentier Group.

Northern Trust provides asset servicing solutions to global investment managers, including fund administration, global custody, investment operations outsourcing and data solutions across various asset classes.

-- BERNAMA

SBC MEDICAL REPORTS 13 PCT RISE IN Q2 REVENUE, NET INCOME JUMPS 335 PCT

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 (Bernama) -- SBC Medical Group Holdings Inc (SBC Medical) reported a 13 per cent year-on-year (yoy) increase in consolidated revenue to US$49 million for the second quarter (Q2) of fiscal 2026 ended June 30. (US$1 = RM4.08)

Net income attributable to SBC Medical surged 335 per cent yoy to US$11 million, while adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased 32 per cent to US$20 million.

Basic earnings per share jumped 400 per cent year-on-year to US$0.10, while net income margin increased 16 percentage points to 22 per cent and adjusted EBITDA margin climbed six percentage points to 41 per cent.

In a statement, SBC Medical Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Yoshiyuki Aikawa said the company was increasingly confident that its growth reacceleration reflected strengthening underlying fundamentals, with the convergence of healthcare and artificial intelligence (AI) becoming a source of competitive advantage.

He said the company is leveraging more than 26 years of accumulated management data to develop AI-enabled services, including AI-powered call centres, AI-driven marketing and AI-assisted site selection for new clinics.

The company said the quarter marked a reacceleration in growth, supported by the expansion of its points business following a change in operating policy and higher service fees driven by enhanced AI-enabled support capabilities.

The medical corporations supported by SBC Medical also continued to expand, with the number of locations increasing by 34 yoy to 287 as of end-June. Last-12-month patient visits reached 6.9 million, up 10 per cent yoy, while average spending per visit rose nine per cent to US$287.

The company said fee revisions for call centre services provided to five affiliated medical corporations, together with separate fee revisions reflecting expanded support for Rize Clinic and Gorilla Clinic, are expected to increase annual service fees by approximately US$15 million if their impact is realised for a full year.

Looking ahead, SBC Medical said it will deepen its multi-brand strategy in aesthetic dermatology in Japan, expand its non-aesthetic business and accelerate international growth through its collaboration with OrangeTwist in the United States and expansion in Southeast Asia, anchored in Thailand. The company also plans to enter the longevity market.

-- BERNAMA

IHERB MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY WITH GLOBAL SALE, PLATFORM EXPANSION

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- iHerb, a global eCommerce retailer of vitamins, minerals, supplements and health and wellness products, is celebrating its 30th anniversary with its biggest sales event of the year and the addition of 10 newly supported languages to its shopping platform.

In a statement, the company said the milestone comes as it serves well over 16 million customers across approximately 180 countries, reflecting growing consumer interest in proactive health and wellness.

The anniversary promotions will begin on Aug 19 ahead of the company's September anniversary, offering discounts of up to 30 per cent across more than 600 brands, alongside daily flash deals and other customer rewards.

iHerb Chief Executive Officer, Emun Zabihi said the company's 30-year milestone reflects the growth of its customers and team members, adding that it remains focused on improving the customer experience and investing in trust, access and convenience.

The platform's newly supported languages include European Spanish, European Portuguese, Georgian, Bosnian, Azerbaijani, Kazakh, Armenian, Farsi, Hindi and Cantonese, bringing its total language offerings to 46.

iHerb said each language experience is localised to enable customers across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia to browse products and complete purchases in their preferred language.

Founded in 1996, iHerb has grown from selling its first supplement online from an apartment in Pasadena, California, into a global direct-to-consumer wellness platform, supported by a logistics network of climate-controlled and GMP and/or ISO-compliant facilities.

-- BERNAMA

Axi announced as Official Trading Partner of the DP World Tour

SYDNEY, Aug 11 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axi, a leading global online broker, is proud to announce its new partnership with the DP World Tour, becoming the Tour’s Official Online Trading Partner.

The collaboration marks another milestone in Axi’s global growth strategy, bringing together two internationally recognised brands united by a commitment to precision, performance and excellence on the world stage.

As one of professional golf’s premier competitions, the DP World Tour reaches millions of fans across multiple continents each season. Through the partnership, Axi will strengthen its global brand presence while connecting with audiences who value strategy, discipline and continual improvement. These are qualities that also underpin the company’s approach to innovation and client experience.

Rajesh Yohannan, Chief Executive Officer at Axi, commented:

“Golf and trading share the same DNA: success comes down to preparation, discipline, and the fine margins that separate good from great. That's what Axi's Edge is all about. Partnering with the DP World Tour — a truly global Tour with a truly global audience — allows us to tell that story on one of the biggest stages in sport. We're proud to be the first online trading company to partner with a professional Golf Tour, and we can't wait to bring fans and our clients closer to the game through innovations like DP World Tour Fantasy Powered by Axi.”

Guy Kinnings, CEO of the DP World Tour, added:

“Axi are a global platform with big ambition, and we’re delighted that they have chosen the DP World Tour for their first partnership in golf. Our audience is affluent, financially savvy and come from all four corners of the globe—giving Axi the perfect marketing platform to build from. Together, we will create compelling multi-channel brand campaigns and networking opportunities that elevate their presence in priority markets as we travel around the world each season.”

The announcement builds on Axi’s growing portfolio of global sports partnerships, reflecting the company’s continued investment in building meaningful connections with audiences through world-class sporting properties.

Further details on partnership activations and upcoming initiatives will be announced during the season.

About Axi

Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, serving thousands of clients across 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers OTC derivatives across a range of asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, and more.

Media enquiries: mediaenquiries@axi.com

Promoted by AxiTrader LLC. CFDs carry a high risk of investment loss. This content may not be available in your region.

SOURCE: Axi Financial Services (UK) Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article. 

--BERNAMA

Fortude's AI-Driven Delivery Model Shortens ERP Implementation Timelines

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- Fortude, a global digital solutions company, has introduced its artificial intelligence (AI)-driven delivery model for Infor CloudSuite implementations.

The model combines industry accelerators, a suite of AI agents and human-led project governance to reduce repetitive effort across the implementation lifecycle and shorten the time required for customers to build a working enterprise resource planning (ERP) foundation.

“ERP is the digital foundation every business builds on, and it needs to be delivered and upgraded faster and more affordably so that companies can focus on data, automation, and AI initiatives that support their growth.

“By bringing agentic AI into the heart of how we deliver Infor solutions, we believe we are disrupting the paradigm on implementation costs. This is a genuine breakthrough for the ecosystem,” said Fortude President and Chief Executive Officer, Arjuna Sirinanda.

Fortude in a statement said its AI agents collect and organise project knowledge, generate implementation artefacts, and automate repeatable steps.

The company said the model also reduces the consulting footprint, enabling a faster and more affordable ERP foundation, while AI is also being applied to transform core business processes and create additional value for customers.

At the core of the offering is a three-layered model. The first layer comprises pre-built assets that encode Fortude's delivery patterns, configuration templates and best-practice guidance by industry vertical.

The second is an AI-driven delivery layer, where multiple agents organise project knowledge, draft implementation artefacts and automate repeatable build steps, while the third layer provides governance assistance by supporting progress tracking, status reporting and risk visibility.

According to Fortude, the delivery model is currently available in the food and beverage, manufacturing, fashion and distribution sectors, with additional industry accelerators under development.

-- BERNAMA

How India’s automotive rise could reshape competition in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- As Malaysia’s automotive market becomes increasingly diverse, India’s growing strength in engineering, manufacturing and mobility could introduce another source of global competition, giving consumers more reasons to expect better. 

For much of Malaysia’s modern automotive history, the competitive map was relatively easy to read. National marques occupied a unique position, Japanese manufacturers built deep consumer trust, European brands dominated much of the premium segment, while Korean automakers steadily gained ground through design, technology and value.

More recently, Chinese manufacturers have transformed that landscape, bringing greater competition, accelerating electric vehicle adoption and raising expectations around technology, features and pricing.

Long recognised as one of the world's largest automotive markets, India is increasingly evolving beyond its reputation as a cost-efficient manufacturing hub. Today, its competitive advantage lies not only in production scale, but also in engineering talent, software expertise, advanced components and a sophisticated supplier ecosystem, positioning the country as a growing source of globally competitive vehicles and mobility solutions.

This matters for Malaysia. A broader pool of credible automotive players has the potential to sharpen competition, raise industry standards and ultimately deliver greater value for consumers.

In the 2024–25 financial year, India exported more than 5.3 million vehicles while passenger vehicle exports reached a record of around 770,000 units. McKinsey also projects strong growth for India's automotive components sector, driven by increasing global demand, skilled talent and shifting international supply chains.

Modern automotive competitiveness is no longer measured solely by the number of vehicles produced. Increasingly, it depends on the quality of engineering, software integration, electronics, safety technologies and the ability to meet diverse consumer expectations across international markets. As Indian manufacturers invest in these capabilities, they are seeking to compete not only on affordability, but also on technology, quality and overall ownership experience.

Companies such as Tata Motors illustrate this broader evolution.

Part of the Tata Group, one of India's largest and most established global enterprises, Tata Motors has grown into an international automotive company with operations spanning passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles and electric mobility. Its presence across multiple international markets reflects decades of engineering development and manufacturing experience rather than a first attempt at overseas expansion.

While speculation occasionally surrounds the company's potential interest in new markets, any future success would ultimately depend on the same fundamentals expected of every automotive brand — products that meet local needs, dependable after-sales support and the ability to build lasting consumer confidence. Its significance lies less in representing a single company than in demonstrating how India's automotive sector has evolved into one capable of producing globally competitive manufacturers.

Malaysia's increasingly competitive automotive landscape has made these considerations more important than ever. As India's automotive industry continues to mature, its manufacturers will increasingly be judged against these same expectations. Engineering capability may attract attention, but lasting success will depend on product quality, customer experience and sustained investment in local markets.

Ultimately, greater competition is rarely about having more brands alone. It is about creating better products, higher standards and more meaningful choices for consumers.

SOURCE: GO COMMUNICATIONS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Celine Lau
Tel: 016-292 2111
Email: celinelau@gocomm.com.my 

--BERNAMA 

Bitget Signs Cooperation Agreement with Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority to Explore Licensed Digital Asset Presence in Bhutan

VICTORIA, Seychelles and GELEPHU, Bhutan, Aug 7 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the world’s leading Universal Exchange, has signed a cooperation agreement with the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority, marking a step toward establishing a local presence in Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan.

The agreement sets out a framework for Bitget to establish a legal presence in GMC, prepare an application for the relevant Financial Services Licence under the regulatory framework administered by the Gelephu Financial Services Office, and work with GMCA on operational, regulatory and ecosystem-building workstreams. The cooperation is intended to support the growth of the digital asset ecosystem in GMC, subject to the required approvals.

“Bhutan is approaching digital assets with a rare mix of long-term thinking, clean-energy advantage and regulatory clarity,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “GMC is the emerging hotbed for digital finance, and Bitget looks forward to contributing exchange experience, infrastructure knowledge and local talent development as this ecosystem grows.”

Bhutan has become one of the most closely watched sovereign stories in digital assets. The country has used its hydropower resources to support green cryptocurrency mining as part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth, create new employment pathways and retain young talent.

GMC adds a new dimension to this story. As a Special Administrative Region in southern Bhutan, GMC is being developed as a next-generation international financial and innovation hub. Its financial services and virtual asset regime is governed by the Financial Services Act 2025 and subsidiary rulebooks, with firms carrying on regulated financial services or virtual asset activities in or from GMC required to obtain a Financial Services Licence from the GFSO.

“Our objective is to build a world-class digital asset ecosystem founded on robust regulation, institutional standards and long-term economic value. Partners such as Bitget play an important role in bringing global expertise while contributing to the development of local capabilities and the broader financial ecosystem,” said Jigdrel Singay, Board Director of Gelephu Mindfulness City.

Bhutan’s broader openness to responsible digital innovation has already drawn international attention. In Dec 2025, through the Bitcoin Development Pledge, Bhutan has signalled its long-term commitment to responsibly integrating digital assets into its economic development strategy, while fostering an ecosystem built on sound regulation, institutional participation and long-term value creation.

Through this cooperation, Bitget intends to contribute global exchange experience, market infrastructure knowledge and digital asset industry expertise to GMC’s emerging ecosystem. The planned local setup includes local hiring and office presence over time, helping support GMC’s wider focus on substance, talent development, knowledge transfer and long-term capability building.

About Bitget

Bitget is the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), serving over 125 million users and offering access to over 2M crypto tokens, 500+ tokenized stocks, ETFs, commodities, FX, and precious metals such as gold. The ecosystem is committed to helping users trade smarter with its AI agent, which co-pilots trade execution. Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships such as MotoGP™. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. Bitget currently leads in the tokenized TradFi market, providing the industry's lowest fees and highest liquidity across 150 regions worldwide.

For more information, visit: Website | X | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

About Gelephu Mindfulness City

The Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region is a visionary initiative creating a world-class economic hub in southern Bhutan, centered on mindfulness, sustainability, and innovation. The SAR integrates traditional Bhutanese values with globally recognized legal frameworks, cutting-edge design and technology, while harnessing the Kingdom’s abundant renewable energy resources to serve as a global exemplar of holistic development.

For more information, visit www.gmc.bt or contact info@gmc.bt

Investment inquiries: invest@gmc.bt

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9844bc4e-17d8-4724-af40-c4fa909e340a 

SOURCE: Bitget Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA