OTC GLOBAL HOLDINGS KICKS OFF 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH EXPANSION INTO ASIA PACIFIC

OTC Asia office in Singapore to offer European and Asian crude swaps, distillate swaps and cracks, and physical fuel broking; completes leading independent commodities interdealer broker’s global service model

 
SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- OTC Global Holdings (OTCGH) today announced the formation of OTC Asia in Singapore. The new office and expansion into the Asia Pacific region marks a significant milestone for the leading independent commodities interdealer broker, which is celebrating its 10^th anniversary in 2017, as it completes the company’s global service model. Through OTCGH’s Aalpha Energy desk, which serves every major global crude swaps market via offices in Houston, London, New York and now Singapore, clients can speak with a live broker at any time during the global workday.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28362

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF FIDELITY LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Fidelity Life Assurance Company Limited (Fidelity Life) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect Fidelity Life’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and favorable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28361

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF FMG INSURANCE LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of FMG Insurance Limited (FMGIL) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) remains stable. The ratings reflect FMGIL’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, consistently positive operating performance and well-established profile in the rural sector of New Zealand’s general insurance market. The ratings also reflect FMGIL’s low underwriting leverage, high-quality investment portfolio and direct distribution network capability. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28353

Netflix Launches Fortune Microsite

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 27 (Bernama) -- Netflix, an internet television network, has launched Netflix Fortune microsite, newyear.netflix.io that allows people to create memorable new moments with their loved ones.

Netflix Inc. in a statement today said the site allows people to discover their fortune while navigating the year of the fire rooster.

"By simply entering your date of birth on the site, you can see personalised zodiac predictions inspired by your favourite Neflix original characters for you and your family.

"For instance, take the Rooster Patriarch in your family, Netflix predicts that they will enjoy abundance as their dreams become a reality through sheer determination and perseverance, just like Titus of Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," the statement said.

Netflix is an internet television network with over 93 million members in over 190 countries.

-- BERNAMA

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF MEIJI YASUDA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company (Meiji Yasuda) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The rating affirmations reflect Meiji Yasuda’s strong capitalization, strong business profile and stable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28354

Dreams Of Couple To Step Foot On Holy Land Becomes A Reality After Winning Umrah Package

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The dreams of a husband and wife couple to step foot on the holy land of Makkah, became a reality after winning the grand prize 'Umrah' package' in the Thohir 2016 Campaign organised by the Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP) and Zakat Collection Centre, here today.

Aduni Ambar @ Ahmad, 49, winner of a package for two to perform 'Umrah' with her husband said she had participated in the campaign simply to fulfill her obligation to pay Zakat as a Muslim, without expecting the 'gift'.

"I did not expect to win the grand prize but praise to Allah, my dream of stepping foot on the holy land will become a reality," she told reporters when met here today.

Zulkifli Samsudin, 43, winner of the second prize took home a holiday package worth RM5,000 while third place winner Hasnah Mohamad, 56, received a 50" TV set worth RM3,000.

PPZ-MAIWP chief executive officer Mohd Rais Alias said the campaign which was organised for the first time to encourage more people to pay Zakat, had received overwhelming response.

"We will continue to encourage participation in the campaign by going down to the ground to meet the people and brief them of the benefits plus open information counters to interact with the Zakat officers in their respective areas," he said.

Also present was CIMB Islamic Bank chairman Datuk Dr Syed Muhammad Syed Abdul Kadir.

The campaign which encourages those paying Zakat to adopt the salary deduction payment method through online using the Thohir scheme.

From October to December last year, 2,143 people participated in the campaign.

-- BERNAMA

PBS Signs MoA With MIHRM To Introduce MBA In Human Potential Management

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Putra Business School (PBS) signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the Malaysian Institute of Human Resource Management (MIHRM) to nurture future leaders to practise human governance values by introducing Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Potential Management.

PBS in a statement today, said the MBA programme also catered to the needs of top managers, focusing on human potential management and leadership skills.

"The collaboration with MIHRM is essential to achieve PBS' objective of nurturing human leaders," it said.

The MoA was signed by PBS president and chief executive officer Prof Dr Zulkornain Yusop and MIHRM deputy president Dr Henry Yeoh at the Putra Business School, Universiti Putra Malaysia in Serdang yesterday.

According to the statement, PBS is one of the elite business schools in the region, having received the respected Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation.

-- BERNAMA

BUDDHIST LEADER'S ANNUAL PEACE PROPOSAL STRESSES POWER OF YOUTH IN BUILDING GLOBAL SOLIDARITY, CALLS ON CIVIL SOCIETY TO PLAY ACTIVE ROLE IN NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT TALKS

TOKYO, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- 

Daisaku Ikeda, president of the Soka Gakkai International (SGI) Buddhist association, issued his 35th annual peace proposal titled “The Global Solidarity of Youth: Ushering in a New Era of Hope” on January 26, 2017. While acknowledging numerous global challenges from armed conflict to the refugee crisis, Ikeda rejects pessimism, citing his faith in young people who embody hope and can catalyze chain reactions of positive change in their communities. He states: “Young people and their energetic engagement represent the solution to the global challenges we face.” He also sees youth as the key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations toward 2030. He emphasizes that globally shared action, as seen in recent efforts to fight climate change, is essential in promoting these goals. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28348

PubMatic Records Adjusted EBITDA Margin Of Over 30 Pct For FY2016

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- California-based PubMatic, Inc., today announced its financial year 2016 results, marked by the highest levels of revenue, profit and free cash flow performance in its ten-year history.

The automation solutions company for an open digital media industry also posted an adjusted EBITDA margin of over 30 per cent.

In a statement, PubMatic said the key drivers of the results include an increased adoption of header bidding, increased mobile and video monetisation and its renewed commitment to customer satisfaction.

Currently, the header bidding technology represents over 75 per cent, of all of PubMatic's available impressions since it launched globally in 2012.

According to its recently released 2016 Quarterly Mobile Index (QMI), PubMatic's advanced mobile monetisation strategies such as private marketplaces and header bidding, resulted in average PubMatic mobile eCPMs increasing by over 30 per cent for mobile web and 16 per cent for mobile app year-over-year.

As such 75 per cent of PubMatic's impressions were generated via mobile devices, while the company realised over 25 per cent of marketer spend, placed against video in the fourth quarter (Q4) 2016.

"Our focus on sell side digital media execution enables publishers and app developers to take control of their advertising decisioning.

"Header bidding and corresponding wrapper technology, maximises the value of demand through increased access to buyers and competitive CPMs," said Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Rajeev Goel.

-- BERNAMA

DEEJAYS PROVE YOU CAN GO CASHLESS WITH CIMB PETRONAS DEBIT MASTERCARD!

Three-day, three-city cashless challenge proves ease of purchases for petrol, hotel, food and more, with new debit card

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- "Now anyone can go cashless!" Two radio deejays lived this concept in the "Go Cashless" Challenge (Cabaran Tanpa Tunai) during a three-day trip covering Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang by simply using the CIMB PETRONAS Debit Mastercard as their challenge "partner".

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28351

THE WORLD'S TOP CITY DESTINATIONS REVEALED BY EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL

LONDON, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Market research company Euromonitor International released today the Top 100 City Destinations Ranking for 2015 international arrivals.

 
Despite falling arrivals, Hong Kong remained the top city destination in the world for the seventh consecutive year, with 26.7 million international visitors in 2015. Bangkok overtook London as the world’s second most visited city, with 10 percent growth in international arrivals. London moved down to the third spot in the global ranking but remained the top European city destination with international arrivals growing 7 percent in 2015.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28349

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES BIPOLAR STEPPING MOTOR DRIVER IC THAT NEEDS NO CURRENT DETECTION RESISTORS

TOKYO, Jan 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TB67S508FTG,” a bipolar stepping motor driver offering 40V high voltage and 3.0A current with no need for external current detection resistors. Sample shipment starts today.

 

Printers, office automation equipment, surveillance cameras, banking terminals such as ATMs, banknote identification machines, amusement machines, and home appliances are being downsized to save space and improve design. Low power consumption is also growing in importance as a means to scale down IC boards and reduce internal heat in products. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28331

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE DAI-ICHI LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED

HONG KONG, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited (DL) (Japan), a wholly owned subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect DL’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, strong market position and favorable operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28345

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES CAR AUDIO CURRENT-FEEDBACK POWER AMPLIFIER IC WITH BUILT-IN FULL-TIME OFFSET DETECTION

TOKYO, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TCB502HQ,” a 4-channel power amplifier IC that detects output offset voltage, a factor in speaker burnout. Mass production starts today.

The new IC integrates a newly developed, full-time offset detection circuit that detects output offset voltage even during sound reproduction, preventing speaker burnout.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28343

COVISINT RECOGNIZED AS SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR BY SAIC GENERAL MOTORS

DETROIT and SHANGHAI, China, Jan 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Covisint Corporation (Nasdaq:COVS) today announced it has been recognized as a supplier of the year by SAIC General Motors for the second consecutive year during the Annual Suppliers’ Conference and 2016 Suppliers’ Awards Ceremony, held in Wuhan City, January 21, 2017.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28335

SUPERIOR IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE AND GLOBAL COVERAGE SEDUCES ELITE CHINESE TRAVELLERS

VistaJet voted Business Jet Operator Star Performer at Hurun Research Institute’s "Best of the Best" Awards

• Voted for by 449 High Net Worth individuals from more than 40 cities in China
• Second time VistaJet has won the award
• Company was also given the Best Charter Operator Award by Asian Business Aviation Association in November 2016

HONG KONG, Jan 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VistaJet, the first and only global aviation company, received the Business Jet Operator Star Performer accolade for the second time at the Hurun Research Institute’s “Best of the Best” awards in Shanghai. The awards are based on the results of the Hurun Report Chinese Luxury Consumer Survey 2017. This is the thirteenth consecutive year Hurun Research has produced a report on the brand preferences, consumption habits and lifestyle trends of China’s wealthiest individuals; considered a benchmark for the luxury sector.
 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28334

"RETAILTECH JAPAN" AND "SECURITY SHOW": JAPAN'S LARGEST EXHIBITIONS SPECIALIZING IN RETAIL INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND SECURITY SOLUTIONS TO BE HELD

TOKYO, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Nikkei Inc. will hold two popular exhibitions simultaneously. The first, "RETAILTECH JAPAN", will showcase the very latest in IT equipment and systems designed to drive forward marketing and supply chain activities in the retail and distribution industry. Held at the same time, "SECURITY SHOW" will feature a wide range of products and services that contribute to public safety such as security cameras and access control systems.

"RETAILTECH JAPAN" is Japan's largest exhibition dedicated to introducing information systems designed for the retail and distribution industry. This exhibit will introduce the latest in information equipment and systems that cater to a wide range of retail and distribution business formats. Among the many products and services available will be POS (point-of-sale) and other payment systems, head office systems, logistics, mobile sales promotion, omni-channel retailing, big data, IoT, artificial intelligence, cloud services, distribution industry robots, online shopping systems, and more. There will also be a special zone set up to focus on introducing digital signage and POP systems.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28326

ARYAKA SECURES $45 MILLION IN SERIES D FUNDING FROM THIRD POINT VENTURES AND DEUTSCHE TELEKOM CAPITAL PARTNERS

First investment from a major telecommunications company into global SD-WAN technology

MILPITAS, Calif., Jan 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aryaka®, the leading global SD-WAN provider, announced today that it has completed a $45 million Series D round of financing. The investment, led by Third Point Ventures, adding new investor Deutsche Telekom Capital Partners (DTCP), and with participation from existing investors, represents a powerful validation of Aryaka’s global SD-WAN platform and marks the first investment in global SD-WAN technology by a major telecommunications company. The new funding round will help Aryaka aggressively expand its global reach.

The Series D financing builds on an exceptional year for Aryaka. The company has delivered over 100 percent year-over-year growth for five consecutive quarters and now has more than 500 global enterprise customers with sites in 63 countries around the world.  

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28325

INNOVATORS, FINANCIERS, INDUSTRY LEADERS AND ENTERPRISES GATHER IN SINGAPORE FOR THE INAUGURAL DATACLOUD ASIA 2017, 23 FEBRUARY

BroadGroup’s world-renowned forum for data center and cloud offers insights into enterprise infrastructure opportunities in Asia Pacific

LONDON & SINGAPORE, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- As mega-clouds fuel massive scale data center growth across the Asia Pacific region BroadGroup, the international event and consulting group, will stage the first ever Datacloud Asia (http://www.datacloudasia.com/) the world-renowned forum for data center and cloud on February 23^rd in Singapore. The inaugural event brings innovators, investors, industry leaders and enterprises to debate the Asia drivers, challenges and enterprise infrastructure opportunities in the world’s premier networking and business deal-making congress for data center and cloud.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28327

XAXIS NAMES ARSHAN SAHA PRESIDENT, ASIA PACIFIC

Arshan Saha succeeds Michel de Rijk, who is now serving as APAC president at GroupM’s [m]PLATFORM, with immediate effect

 

SINGAPORE, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Xaxis, the world’s largest programmatic media and technology platform, announced today the promotion of Arshan Saha to President, Asia Pacific (APAC). Saha was previously Vice President, South and Southeast Asia. As one of the founding members of Xaxis APAC, Saha helped established offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam and India.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28328

INTERNATIONAL COALITION FILES LAWSUIT IN DISTRICT COURT OF ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS, FOR DAMAGES CAUSED BY ALLEGED CORRUPTION AND FRAUD PERPETRATED BY PETROLEO BRASILIERO, CERTAIN AFFILIATES AND ITS EXECUTIVES

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- An International coalition announced today that a lawsuit was filed in Dutch Court yesterday on behalf of institutional investors who suffered billions of dollars in losses in their investments in Petroleo Brasiliero SA (“Petrobras”). Seeking declaratory relief as a result of the alleged corruption of the company and its executives, the coalition represents investors who purchased Petrobras securities on the BM&FBOVESPA exchange in Brazil and other securities purchased via transactions outside of, and not covered by, litigation in the United States. The damaged investor group believes the Netherlands is the optimal jurisdiction for pursuing legal action, as this is where Petrobras Global Finance B.V. and several other Petrobras entities and divisions are domiciled. In addition, the Dutch legal system has an established global settlement precedent for international investors who seek compensation pursuant to damages caused by fraud and violations of international securities laws.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28330

MQA Takes Over PSD's Tasks Of Assessing, Accrediting Tertiary Courses

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has taken over the duties of the Public Service Department (PSD) in assessing and accrediting courses offered in tertiary institutions locally and abroad.

MQA chief executive officer (CEO) Prof Datuk Dr Rujhan Mustafa said the take over took effect early this year.

"Previously, assessing and accrediting an education programme either locally or abroad were the duties of the Standing Committee for Assessment and Qualification Recognition under the PSD.

"Now, the tasks had been taken over by the MQA to improve the effectiveness of extending quality assurance for tertiary institutions as well as to enhance communications with the general public," he told a press conference after attending the MQA CEO Aspiration & Media Appreciation event today.

At the event, the MQA also presented tokens of appreciation to media practitioners who helped convey information on the agency to the public.

Rujhan also advised Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) holders to check with the MQA the accreditations of courses offered to them by tertiary institutions before pursuing their studies.

He said most candidates were easily duped by false information that these programmes were offered with the collaboration of the MQA.

"They can refer to our website mqa.gov.my, or download the application myMQR on their smart phones or come to our agency to check if the course offered is registered with the MQA," he said.

As of December last year, the MQA had accredited 11,380 academic programmes in registered tertiary institutions across the country.

-- BERNAMA

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE HOLLARD INSURANCE COMPANY PTY LTD

SINGAPORE, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a-" of The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (HIC) (Australia). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect HIC's strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and good operating performance.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28319

9TH BUNKA FASHION GRADUATE UNIVERSITY FASHION WEEK SET FOR JAN. 30-FEB. 3

TOKYO, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Bunka Fashion Graduate University (BFGU), a professional graduate school in Japan, will hold the Bunka Fashion Graduate University Fashion Week (BFGU FW) from January 30 to February 3. The ninth annual event features a symposium by Keisuke Imazaki (PLASTICTOKYO designer), Chisung Ihn (IHNN designer), Mari Odaka (malamute designer), Junya Satou (saat designer) and Takayuki Chino (CINOH designer).

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28323

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO POSITIVE FOR NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA AND AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a-” of Nippon Life Insurance Company of America (NLB) (Des Moines, Iowa, USA). Concurrently, A.M. Best has affirmed the FSR of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term ICR of “aa-” of its parent, Nippon Life Insurance Company (Nissay) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

 
The ratings reflect Nissay’s robust risk-adjusted capitalization, sound business profile and favorable operating results.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28320

                                                                               

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES 800V SUPER JUNCTION N-CHANNEL POWER MOSFETS FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY POWER SUPPLIES WITH IMPROVED LOW ON-RESISTANCE AND HIGH SPEED SWITCHING

TOKYO, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of 800V super junction N-channel power MOSFETs for high efficiency power supplies with improved low on-resistance and high speed switching. By utilizing the super junction structure, the eight new MOSFETs of the "DTMOS IV series" achieve approximately 79% reduction in on-resistance per area (RON x A) compared to Toshiba's previous "π-MOSVIII series." Its improved high speed switching can also contribute to the efficiency of the power supplies of the sets that it is used in. The MOSFETs are suited for use in industrial power supplies, standby power supply for servers, adaptors and chargers of notebook PCs and mobile devices, and in power supplies for LED lighting. Shipments start from today.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28314

DONATION AND ZAKAT DISTRIBUTION FOR MADRASAH HASHIMIAH TAHFIZ AL-QURAN & ANAK YATIM SELAYANG, KUALA LUMPUR

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- In the spirit of caring and giving, Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Berhad (EXIM Bank) today brought cheer to the orphans at Madrasah Hashimiah Tahfiz Al-Quran & Anak Yatim. Among these 171 muslim orphans, 4 of them are local while the rest are Rohingya refugees ranging from the age of 4 years old up to 17 years old.

 
Chairman of EXIM Bank Malaysia, Y. Bhg. Datuk Mat Noor Nawi gave away the cheque to the founder, Ustaz Al-Hafiz Hashim B Kasim. Apart from the cheque, EXIM Bank Malaysia had also contributed the home with basic necessities for their keeping and daily expenses valued at RM10,000.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28312

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL COMPLETES US$700 MILLION REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

New unsecured structure increases financial capacity and flexibility to fund future growth

TORONTO, Jan 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) ("Colliers") announced today that it has expanded and extended its multi-currency revolving credit facility (the "Facility") to reinforce its already strong financial position and increase its flexibility for future growth. Borrowing capacity has been expanded to US$700 million, from US$525 million, and the maturity date extended to January 2022 from June 2020. The new unsecured Facility reflects Colliers' proven long-term growth strategy, increased scale, geographic and service line diversification, high level of insider ownership, and investment-grade balance sheet.

TD Securities acted as Lead Arranger for the financing. The Toronto-Dominion Bank acted as Administration Agent. HSBC Bank and Bank of Montreal acted as Syndication Agents while JP Morgan Chase Bank, The Bank of Nova Scotia and U.S. Bank acted as Documentation Agents. Additional bank participants include Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of America, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, National Bank of Canada, and Wells Fargo Bank. Torys LLP acted as legal counsel to Colliers in connection with this financing.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28302

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO STABLE FOR NEW INDIA ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to stable from positive, and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of New India Assurance Company Limited (New India) (India).

 
While the company remains profitable overall, its pretax margin has weakened, as underwriting performance for the 12 months to March 2016 and the six months to September 2016 has deteriorated and fallen behind its projections.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28310

HARKNESS SCREENS TO POWER MBO CINEMAS NEW FLAGSHIP ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX IN MALAYSIA

BANGALORE, India, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global screen technology leader Harkness Screens has been selected by MBO Cinemas - a leading cinema chain in Malaysia currently with 207 screens and a seating capacity of over 32,721 seats - for its new flagship entertainment hub in Kuala Lumpur, thus providing its viewers with an ultimate and enthralling cinema experience. The new Kuala Lumpur screen will use the DP4K-30L flagship laser projector by Barco. This partnership between Harkness Screens and MBO Cinemas makes Harkness Screens the exclusive screen provider for all future projects by MBO Cinemas.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28307

ABEONA THERAPEUTICS RECEIVES ORPHAN DRUG DESIGNATION IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR ABO-101 GENE THERAPY IN SANFILIPPO SYNDROME TYPE B

NEW YORK and CLEVELAND, Jan 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 

• ABO-101, Abeona’s third AAV gene therapy program to receive EMA Orphan Designation
• Clinical trials anticipated to begin enrolling in second quarter 2017
• Natural History Study in 25 patients has established efficacy outcome measures
• FDA previously granted Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease Designations   

Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq:ABEO), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing gene therapies for life-threatening rare diseases, announced today that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products has granted Orphan Drug Designation (EMA/OD/226/16) for Abeona’s gene therapy program ABO-101 for children impacted by Sanfilippo syndrome type B (MPS IIIB), a rare autosomal recessive disease that causes neurocognitive decline, speech loss, loss of mobility, and premature death in children.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28311

SURIA KLCC USHER IN THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH 'PERANAKAN HOME COMING REUNION' THEMED FESTIVE DECORATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 (Bernama) -- The essence of Chinese New Year is reuniting family members on the eve of the celebration.  Families congregate for a reunion dinner and eat dishes with auspicious names.  With that in mind, Suria KLCC’s decoration this year is themed, ‘A Peranakan Homecoming Reunion’ where a replica of the dining hall of an opulent double storey ‘Peranakan’ manor had been constructed at the centre court. “We wanted to showcase to shoppers and visitors, a glimpse of the rich ‘Peranakan’ community opulent lifestyle and their mixed customs and traditions during this Chinese New Year. Some of the unique elements of ‘Peranakan’ community can be seen through the choice of furniture and ornaments decked out at this centre court,” said Andrew Brien, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd. Besides bringing family members together, the Lunar New Year is also an essential time to unite Malaysians irrespective of religion, creed and background.   In its effort to celebrate the unique ness of Malaysia and to bring Malaysians together during the festive season, Suria KLCC once again constructed the tallest Chinese lantern made of small Chinese lanterns and cherry blossom ornaments at KLCC Esplanade.  This majestic structure is 72 feet high and 40 feet wide.  Visitors can take pleasure in the structure and take photos with friends, loved ones or family members from today until 5 February. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28305

​A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF SOUTH CHINA INSURANCE CO., LTD.

HONG KONG, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of South China Insurance Co., Ltd. (South China Insurance) (Taiwan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect South China Insurance’s sound risk-adjusted capitalization, track record of favorable operating performance and its diversified distribution capabilities, which include direct, agents and brokers, car dealers and financial institutions. The company also benefits from synergies with its publicly traded parent, Hua Nan Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. (HNFH), in risk management and cross-selling opportunities.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28309

FINALCAD APPOINTS AEC INDUSTRY VETERAN EMMANUEL SAMUEL TO ACCELERATE GROWTH IN ASIA

SINGAPORE, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- FINALCAD, a global leader in mobile construction apps and predictive analytics for the field, today announced appointment of Emmanuel Samuel as Vice President Sales, Asia.

 
Emmanuel brings more than 25 years of experience in IT Business Development, Sales and Marketing, with particular strength in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) market. He will be responsible for expanding FINALCAD’s revenue in the Asian region, based out of the Singapore office.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28303

A STRATEGIC COLLABORATIONS BETWEEN KADA AND AGROBANK TO SERVICE THE AGRICULTURE COMMUNITY BETTER

A symbolic ceremony was held with YB Datuk Md Alwi Che Ahmad, Chairman of KADA receiving a mock card by Tan Sri Mohamad Zabidi Zainal, Chairman of Agrobank. The event was witnessed by YB Dato' Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 18 (Bernama) -- Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) and Agrobank  today celebrated the completion of their cash management project. The ceremony was held in conjunction with monthly assembly of the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro Based Industry (MOA)  at Wisma Tani, Putrajaya.

A symbolic was held with  YB Datuk Md Alwi Che Ahmad, Chairman of KADA  receiving a mock card by Tan Sri Mohamad Zabidi Zainal, Chairman of Agrobank. The event was witnessed by YB Dato' Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, Dato' Wan Mohd Fadzmi Wan Othman, President / CEO of Agrobank and Encik Mohd Ridzuan Ismail, General Manager of KADA.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28299

ASSOCIATION OF INTERNATIONAL CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS URGES SOUTH AFRICA'S AUDIT REGULATOR TO REJECT MANDATORY AUDIT FIRM ROTATION

NEW YORK & LONDON, Jan 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (the Association) has voiced its strong opposition to a plan by South Africa’s Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA) to implement mandatory audit firm rotation (MAFR).   In a written response to IRBA’s Consultation Paper, the Association, which has offices in locations including Johannesburg, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, London, New York and Shanghai, wrote that MAFR “may have a negative impact on audit quality, increase market concentration to a more limited number of auditing firms, and will hinder, rather than promote, transformation of the profession.”   http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28288

GENEA AND MERCK OPEN FERTILITY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

BANGKOK, Thailand, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- 

Australian fertility group Genea and German science and technology company Merck have today opened The Centre of Excellence for Fertility in Bangkok. The Centre of Excellence for Fertility has been developed with the goal of creating a global benchmark for fertility treatment by standardising clinic management and laboratory protocols in IVF and therefore increasing success rates for patients worldwide. Located close to Genea's joint venture clinic Superior ART in Bangkok, the Centre of Excellence for Fertility is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility. It includes laboratory space modelled on Genea's leading Embryology and Andrology labs, lecture rooms for theoretical sessions as well as quiet areas for trainee study and reflection. The close proximity to Superior ART means trainees will have exclusive access to the clinic and the opportunity to see first-hand how Genea and Merck's leading science and technology works in a clinical setting. http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28283

PWC: CEO CONFIDENCE RISES DESPITE NEW RISKS AND UNCERTAINTY

-Confidence in company growth rises

-Fifty two per cent of CEOs plan to increase number of jobs

-Concerns about over regulation and lack of key skills at record levels

-CEOs feel globalisation has done little to solve income inequality

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While CEOs around the world feel they have plenty to worry about in the year ahead, their confidence in their own growth prospects and their outlook for the global economy are back on the rise.

Graphics accompanying this announcement are available at

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28285

PERFECTUS FILES CLAIM TO RECOVER LOSSES RELATED TO ALUMINUM SEIZURE

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. filed today a claim against the U.S. government seeking monetary damages. In its claim, Perfectus seeks reimbursement for millions of dollars in storage costs that it incurred as a result of the government’s wrongful conduct in detaining its export shipment of aluminum pallets at the Long Beach Port in California. In accordance with applicable government regulations, this claim is being made in the first instance in an administrative proceeding before the U.S. Customs Border Protection agency (the CBP), which is a prerequisite to suing for damages in federal court. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28287

UBS SIGNS STRATEGIC MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH EPAM TO BOOST INNOVATION

NEWTOWN, Pa., Jan 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), a leading global provider of product development and software engineering solutions, today announced that UBS AG, the world's largest wealth manager, has signed a multi-year strategic framework agreement. For the past nine years, UBS and EPAM have collaborated to stay at the forefront of technology, positioning UBS as a global leader in innovative financial products and services. The agreement, which is valued at over $300M, supports the bank’s strategic cost reduction program. This commitment to efficiency allows EPAM to continue to focus on innovative, end-to-end solutions, reducing time-to-market and improving ROI on technology investments.
 
“Over the past nine years, EPAM has become a key supplier in helping us meet our clients’ expectations by working closely together with UBS, while maintaining commitments to productivity and quality of delivery,” said Mike Dargan, Group Head of Information Technology, UBS. “We now look forward to evolving this valued relationship further over the coming years.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28296

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF HONG LEONG INSURANCE (ASIA) LIMITED

HONG KONG, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Hong Leong Insurance (Asia) Limited (HLIA) (Hong Kong). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable. The ratings reflect HLIA’s very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, consistently profitable operating performance and low product risk profile. HLIA maintains very strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). This is reflective mainly of its low underwriting leverage, strong quality of capital and favorable liquidity position. In addition, with a conservative gross leverage ratio, the company is not considered to be highly dependent on reinsurance.  http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28277

UPDATE ON PERFECTUS' SHIPMENT FROM PORT OF LONG BEACH

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. would like to clarify recent reports regarding export of our product at the Port of Long Beach in California.

Perfectus has learned this morning through media reports of the seizure of formerly detained product by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of Long Beach. We are surprised to learn about this development as CBP-after inspection-previously released a significant portion of previously detained shipments containing identical product.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28279

WELCOME TO GUANGDONG TO SPEND THE LUNAR NEW YEAR OF 2017, THE YEAR OF THE ROOSTER 400 ACTIVITIES ARE WAITING FOR YOU TO EXPERIENCE

GUANGZHOU, China, Jan 13 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- "Welcome to Guangdong to Spend the Lunar New Year of 2017, the Year of the Rooster!" On the morning of January 10th, Guangdong sent her invitation to the world. It is understood that during the Spring Festival period, all the cities around Guangdong Province are going to hold a series of activities on the theme of "Welcome to Guangdong to Spend the Lunar New Year of 2017, the Year of the Rooster". Nearly 400 theme activities have been prepared to welcome the guests and friends from all over the world.

Guangdong is located in the south of China. It is a developed province in the economically active region of the Pearl River Delta, about two hours drive from Hongkong, China. The weather here is very agreeable, like spring all the year round, you can enjoy the nice sunshine even in winter. Here you can visit the flower markets, study the south of the Five Ridges folk, tour the Theme parks, taste nice food, enjoy the hot springs and swim in the sea.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28274

SAMMY NETWORKS STARTS DISTRIBUTING "RAMEN SOUL," ENGLISH VERSION OF ITS POPULAR SMARTPHONE RAMEN SHOP MANAGEMENT GAME "RAMEN TAMASHII" WITH OVER 5 MILLION DOWNLOADS

TOKYO, Jan 13 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

In response to the ramen boom overseas in recent years, Sammy Networks Co., Ltd. started distributing on Jan. 12, 2017, the English version of its popular smartphone ramen shop management game "Ramen Tamashii," which has hit five million downloads in Japan, simultaneously for iPhones (through the App Store) and Android devices (through the Google Play Store) under the title of "Ramen Soul."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28273

MFPC Programme To Provide Grads Opportunities To Learn Financial Planning Process

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Financial Planning Council's (MFPC) Financial Planning Internship Programme will provide opportunities for graduates to learn the financial planning process, office administration and interaction with clients in the capital market.

In a statement Tuesday, MFPC said, it was for students graduating from various local institutions and universities.

Its Vice President of External Relations and Publicity, Phang Kar Yew, said the programme emphasised both practical and educational aspects of the financial system.

"It allows interns to experience what they have learned in universities while gaining personal knowledge of the financial process.

"This is a great opportunity for them to enhance their skills and knowledge in financial literacy," he said.

Interested applicants must be a registered member of MFPC and have good command of English and Bahasa Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA

SHOPPERS AT THE OCEANIA MALL TAKE ELEVATOR THROUGH WORLD'S TALLEST CYLINDRICAL AQUARIUM DESIGNED AND BUILT BY INTERNATIONAL CONCEPT MANAGEMENT

MOSCOW, Jan 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The world’s tallest cylindrical aquarium housing an elevator ride and walk-through tunnel debuted at the new Oceania Mall in Moscow, Russia. The 24 meter tall acrylic aquarium designed and built by International Concept Management (ICM), is now the focal point for the state-of-the-art shopping center in Russia’s capital city. Photo: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82154eae-d021-4cfa-afb6-8ec9942fa03c  ICM designed the aquarium to offer an engaging experience and serve as the centerpiece for shoppers at the mall. To achieve this, ICM designed and built an aquarium that would be architecturally stunning, yet completely immerse guests in an underwater environment.  http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28258

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS IN DENMARK

Acquires market-leading Colliers Denmark affiliate to strengthen global platform

TORONTO, Jan 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading global commercial real estate services firm Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) announced today that it has acquired a controlling interest in Colliers International Denmark (“Colliers Denmark”). Senior management of Colliers Denmark will retain the balance of the equity under Colliers International’s unique enterprise partnership model. The acquisition of Colliers Denmark further strengthens Colliers International’s operations in Europe and provides a strong platform for future growth in the important Nordic region. The terms of the transactions were not disclosed.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28268

Need For Smart, Creative Strategy To Draw Youngsters To Islamic Teachings

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 12 (Bernama) -- Religious institutions need to employ a smart and creative strategy in line with the needs of young people in bringing them closer to Islamic teachings.

Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) director-general, Prof Datuk Dr Azizan Baharuddin said with the world becoming increasingly challenging now, creativity in doing missionary work was important to ensure that Islamic teachings could be delivered effectively.

--BERNAMA

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/newsindex.php?id=1319366

RADWARE RESEARCH FINDS DATA LOSS IS TOP CYBER-ATTACK CONCERN

Radware's Global Application and Network Security Report 2016-2017 Finds Ransom Was The #1 Motivation Behind Cyber-Attacks, Malware Was the Most Frequent Type of Attack, and IoT Botnets are a Major Concern

MAHWAH, N.J., Jan 11 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radware® (NASDAQ:RDWR), a leading provider of cyber security and application delivery solutions ensuring the digital user experience for applications in virtual, cloud, and software-defined data centers, has found that hackers and companies agree on one thing: Data is lucrative. Radware's Global Application and Network Security Report 2016-2017 revealed that 49% of businesses confirmed being the subject of a cyber-ransom campaign in 2016. What's more, 27% of IT professionals surveyed chose data leakage or loss as a key concern when faced with a cyber-attack, while only 19% chose service outage, 16% selected reputation loss, and just 9% cited customer or partner loss.

The full report identifies 2016's major attack trends, outlines industry preparedness, and gives insider views from the front lines to the corner office. Among the biggest trends identified for the current report coverage period:

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28248

DAVOS 2017: JOIN PWC'S CEO SURVEY PRESS BRIEFING & WEBCAST 18:30 CET MONDAY 16TH JANUARY 2017

LONDON, Jan 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PwC’s Global Chairman Bob Moritz will present key findings of PwC’s annual survey of international business leaders at a press briefing in Davos, Switzerland, at 18:30 Central European Time on Monday 16^th January 2017 (17:30 GMT/12:30 EST).
 
The press briefing will also be webcast live allowing journalists who are not in Davos to take part.
 
The PwC Global CEO Survey has established itself as one of the media highlights of the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos. It includes nearly 1,400 interviews with CEOs from 79 countries, conducted during the last quarter of 2016.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28257

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES 100V N-CHANNEL POWER MOSFETS SUPPORTING 4.5V LOGIC LEVEL DRIVE FOR QUICK CHARGERS

TOKYO, Jan 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation’s (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today expanded its line-up of low-voltage N-channel power MOSFETs with the addition of 100V N-channel power MOSFETs supporting 4.5V logic level drive for quick chargers. The two new MOSFETs of the “U-MOS VIII-H Series”, “TPH4R10ANL” and “TPH6R30ANL,” start shipments from today.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28254