E-COMMERCE-CENTRIC BLOCKCHAIN ABEY ANNOUNCES STARTLING ADOPTION

Infographic showing growth of e-commerce-centric fast blockchain aBey in first year of release. (Photo: Business Wire)

VADUZ, Lichtenstein, July 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- July 30, 2019-The aBey Foundation today announced adoption rates of the world’s first e-commerce-centric fast blockchain, on the one-year anniversary of its public release. Dr. Ciprian Pungila, chief scientist and co-creator of aBey said, “Since public launch of aBey on July 30, 2018, we have amassed more than 100,000 active users within the first twelve months of that date. aBey’s growth rate exceeds Bitcoin’s early growth by a factor of more than eight times.”

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190729005775/en/

Major early adopter, aPay Systems, based in Malta, a high-volume online payments processor, chose the aBey blockchain as the technical underpinning of the company’s service. Philipp Saurborn, CEO said, “As a payments processor with inter-chain operability and up to 100K transactions per second, our B2B and B2C users demand speedy transaction completions. Before we migrated to aBey’s blockchain, transactions written to popular blockchains would require hours, even days to complete. Now, with aBey, we can complete every single transaction in milliseconds. There is no other blockchain on earth which can deliver such speed and flexibility, which is demanded by business and consumers.”

Mr. Saurborn said, “One of the future’s great revenue models for any company relying on the provision of quality data is to reward audiences for providing data willingly, and for interaction on their platform. The aBey blockchain allows retailers to reward buyers for providing data, for sharing, for completing surveys, for using offers, for referrals, voting, comparing, reviewing, liking, promoting, testing, using — the possibilities are endless with aBey. They aBey blockchain empowers retailers to attract, retain and motivate their customers while building trust relationships, all of which are key for conversion and retention.”

aBey’s key features include speed, supporting up to 100K transactions per second (verified in SpringerNature and Academia.edu), refundable transactions (a world’s first), intrinsic lending, including on-the-spot lending with instant compliance checks using Vault Lending Gateways (a world’s first), support for affiliate marketing referrals and payment of commissions using Trusted Payments Gateways (a world’s first), payment processing on chain and a simple crypto wallet. Optional account names that can replace long cryptic numbers are intrinsic to aBey and are not a paid service as with other blockchains, greatly enhancing users’ discovery of other permissionless users in their networks. A richly-featured WordPress plugin, aBeyWPP, will be released in early 2020, bringing click-to-buy and transaction status functionality to more than 75 million websites.

Mr. Saurborn said, “Integrating aBey’s permissionless blockchain and distributed ledger technology into our permissioned aPay blockchain service means peace of mind for us, our clients and regulators.”

“aBey was designed and built to be the world’s fastest and most flexible open-source blockchain,” Pungila said. “We’re seeing spectacular adoption, and we can’t wait to see what other applications will be built on aBey.”

The non-profit aBey Foundation, based in Lichtenstein, provides governance for the free open-sourced aBey blockchain. http://abey.org

Please download the aBey media backgrounder kit in English http://bit.ly/abey3 or Chinese http://bit.ly/abey5 and visit http://abey.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190729005775/en/

Contact

Simon Cousins, +1 347 850-3360

Source : aBey Foundation

--BERNAMA

AN EXCLUSIVE PBS INDUSTRIAL TALK ON 'LIVING THE MAYBANK BRAND' WITH ADJUNCT PROFESSOR NORA A MANAF

SERDANG, July 31 (Bernama) -- Putra Business School (PBS) organized its industrial talk with Adjunct Professor Nora A Manaf, Group Chief Human Capital Officer, Maybank on ‘Living the Maybank Brand’. The talk was held on 27^thJuly 2019 at Putra Business School Auditorium. The event had successfully attracted more than 70 postgraduate students. Also present were the President & CEO of PBS, Prof. Dr. Zulkornain Yusop and PBS faculty member, Prof. Dr. Abu Bakar Sade. The speaker graciously shared her expansive experience on building its Maybank brand and her concern for millennials in keeping abreast with the demand of IR 4.0. She has also emphasized that every employer needs to have employees who are digital literate and be a problem solver to spearhead the current development.
 
She notably made it clear from her ideas in building a humanized workplace through various initiatives whereby she implemented the up to one-year maternity leave for female staff. This was to enhance the employees working engagement, commitment and performance.
 
Bringing an industry player is an excellent exposure to have greater understanding on the real-life practices in industry. “The talk allows me to understand the challenges that the most organizations are facing today, this is truly a beneficial knowledge for both my studies and work” said Elizabete Kalnozola, an MBA student. The talk ended with a token of appreciation presented to Puan Nora and a group photo session.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=35104

GROUNDBREAKING HYPERLOOP POD HITS THE ROAD ACROSS AMERICA

National Roadshow Will Stop in Columbus, Arlington, Kansas City, and Other Cities Over the Next Few Months
 
LOS ANGELES, July 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Virgin Hyperloop One (VHO), today launched a first-of-its kind U.S. roadshow to bring its XP-1 hyperloop pod to communities across the United States and start a dialogue about the power of this new form of mass transportation.
 
“When government and investor delegations come to our test site, seeing the technology makes it real for them. Not everyone can come to the Nevada desert, so we’re bringing our technology to the people – the American people who will be riding this new form of transportation within a decade,” said Jay Walder, CEO of Virgin Hyperloop One.
 
On May 11, 2017, XP-1 completed the world’s first full-system hyperloop test – what VHO calls its “Kitty Hawk” moment. This was the first time any company had integrated all of the components of a hyperloop including a highly efficient motor, power electronics, magnetic levitation, vacuum pumping systems, and an aerodynamic vehicle as a single unified system. During testing, XP-1 set the full-scale hyperloop speed record of 240 miles per hour on just 550 yards of track.
 
The national roadshow kicks off as states and cities across the world are competing to be the first to implement hyperloop technology, realizing the significant socio-economic benefits of early adoption. Nine states are exploring the technology and the federal government has created the Non-Traditional and Emerging Transportation Technology (NETT) Council to advance safety and regulatory certification.
 
The roadshow will give local communities the chance to see first-hand the historic test pod and learn more about their states’ progress in bringing hyperloop to fruition in a matter of years. Below are the scheduled stops along the national roadshow route:
 
COLUMBUS, OHIO: August 4, 2019
 
The first stop will be in Columbus, Ohio on Sunday, August 4^th. VHO has partnered with The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) to host a STEM outreach day – featuring the XP-1 vehicle and hyperloop-related, hands-on activities for all ages. The event is free and open to the public from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM at COSI (333 West Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215).
 
As part of the Rapid Speed Transportation Initiative, the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission is conducting a feasibility study of hyperloop technology along a Chicago-Columbus-Pittsburgh corridor, followed by components of an environmental impact statement along the same route. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome Virgin Hyperloop One CEO Jay Walder and his team to Columbus. Since being named a winner of the Hyperloop One Global Challenge in 2017, we’ve been proud to work with VHO in advancing our ‘Midwest Connect’ corridor,” said William Murdock, executive director of the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. “Showcasing VHO and the XP-1 pod in Columbus as the first stop on the U.S. roadshow offers the opportunity for our businesses, community leaders, and residents to see the impact this emerging technology could have on the future success of Central Ohio – and the entire Midwest.”
 
ARLINGTON, TEXAS: August 8 -10, 2019
 
From Columbus, VHO will head to Arlington, Texas, where they’ve partnered with the Dallas Cowboys and the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) to unveil XP-1 at AT&T Stadium, the 4^th largest in the NFL. The vehicle will be viewable during the scheduled stadium tours at AT&T Stadium (1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011). Make sure to get your tickets here.
 
The Dallas-Fort Worth region has focused its program on students of all ages interested in careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The stadium will be open on August 9^th from 2:30 to 4:00 PM for an invitation-only event featuring students from area school districts and other campuses for demonstrations of technologies related to the hyperloop project.
 
The Dallas-Fort Worth Regional Transportation Council announced their intent to evaluate hyperloop technology in Texas. The agency has begun a hyperloop feasibility study of a Fort Worth to Laredo route and an environmental impact study along a Dallas to Fort Worth corridor, which would include an Arlington station with access to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.
 
“Our region is going to gain 3 million new residents within 25 years. In order to handle this mass influx of people, we need to explore projects that will modernize our transportation infrastructure,” said Michael Morris, P.E., Director of Transportation for the North Central Texas Council of Governments. “We are exploring hyperloop as a potential project that would connect millions of Texans faster, safer, and more efficiently.”
 
KANSAS CITY,  KANSAS: September 14, 2019
 
After a short hiatus, XP-1 will be back on the road. Thanks to the KC Tech Council and Am Law 100 firm Polsinelli, XP-1 will be speeding into the Kansas Speedway during the famed American Royal World Series of Barbecue – the world’s largest barbecue and Kansas City’s biggest party! On September 14^th, better known as “Smokin’ Saturday,” XP-1 will be on display alongside other family-friendly programming like live music, BBQ demos, food trucks, a classic car show, and the Cowtown Family Fun Fest. The vehicle will be viewable from starting at 11:00 AM at the Kansas Speedway (400 Speedway Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66111). Tickets can be found here.
 
Following completion of the first hyperloop feasibility study in the U.S., House Speaker Elijah Haahr announced the formation of the Blue Ribbon Panel headed by Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, which will explore next steps and funding mechanisms for the Missouri Hyperloop project. The panel will report back with recommendations by September 2019.
 
“On behalf of Greg Kratofil, Jr. of Polsinelli and the KC Tech Council, we are thrilled to welcome the Virgin Hyperloop One XP-1 hyperloop vehicle to our great city of Kansas City,” said Ryan Weber, President of the KC Tech Council. “There has been so much excitement and interest in this technology, and we know the Kansas City tech community and general public will be receptive to the demonstration and learning more details. We encourage the community’s attendance at the American Royal World Series of Barbecue to view this cutting-edge vehicle in person, as we are confident it will play a key role in the future of our transportation.”
 
Beyond these cities, XP-1 also will be stopping throughout the heartland - at diners, hotels, museums, parks, state houses, and stadiums - to share the progress and promise of hyperloop technology.
 
This 4,000 mile route across the United States will today take 70 hours driving. With hyperloop, it would take about six.
 
About Virgin Hyperloop One
Virgin Hyperloop One is the leading hyperloop company launching the first new mode of mass transportation in over 100 years. The company successfully operated a full-scale hyperloop vehicle using electric propulsion and electromagnetic levitation under near-vacuum conditions, realizing a fundamentally new form of transportation that is faster, safer, cheaper, and more sustainable than existing modes. The company is now working with governments, partners, and investors around the world to make hyperloop a reality in years, not decades. They currently have projects underway in Missouri, Texas, Colorado, North Carolina, the Midwest, India, KSA, and the UAE. Learn more about Virgin Hyperloop One’s technology, vision, and ongoing projects here.
 
Media Assets
To download high-resolution route maps and visuals of VHO technology, please click here.
 
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f65ae916-191c-47a1-9bae-174a5171d944
 
Media Contact
Nicole Kolinsky
BerlinRosen
hyperloop@berlinrosen.com
+1-646-263-1527
 
Source: Virgin Hyperloop One
 
--BERNAMA

Fusionex hackathon nurtures students in data analytics industry

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- Almost 100 students from seven universities recently participated in the Fusionex Data Challenge at the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) in Bukit Jalil here.

Fusionex founder and group chief executive officer, Datuk Seri Ivan Teh said the company made continuous efforts to guide youths towards their career paths and future.

“We hope this competition will spur students to create even more innovative digital and data-driven solutions that will help advance many industries for the future.”

Other than APU, participants also came from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Multimedia University, Tunku Abdul Rahman University College, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and Monash University Malaysia.

The hackathon saw 32 competing groups, and prizes were awarded to the top five groups for their display of creativity and innovative excellence.

All five groups were also immediately shortlisted to pursue their career with Fusionex to develop revolutionary and cutting-edge technologies that will help enhance and transform industries.

They will also be treated to the Superhero Experience of exploring Fusionex’s Office of Superheroes, which won the ‘Most Innovative and Sustainable Design’ award at the Asia Recruitment Awards 2019.

Team O(1) from Monash University emerged champion, receiving RM9,600 in prizes, including RM3,000 cash, a professional training course worth RM6,000, and RM600 worth of 8excite reward points.

-- BERNAMA

Chengdu selected as venue for 18th World Police and Fire Games

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) -- Chengdu Municipal People's Government will organise The 18th World Police and Fire Games (WPFG) from August 8 to 18.

To date, athletes from 34 countries and regions have registered for a seat in the competition.

WPFG is an international event that is held every other year, and the first WPFG was held in 1985 in San Jose, California, a statement said.

“Chengdu was chosen for this year’s event as it has greater enthusiasm, commitment, professionalism and venue preparation,” said WPFG Association’s executive committee member, Danny Burdikter.

“As it is the first time a WPFG kicks off in Asia, we'd like to engage more countries and cities in the event. With intriguing culture and world-renowned cuisine, Chengdu will attract flocks of visitors from surrounding countries and regions,” added Burdikter.

Apart from WPFG, other world-class sports events that will take place in Chengdu include the Summer Universiade 2021 and the World Games 2025.

From 2018 to 2020, there will be 67 international sports events to be held in Chengdu, where 50 per cent comprise the category of intercontinental championship or above, and 40 per cent are of self-owned brands and local cultural characteristics.

-- BERNAMA

PUTRA BUSINESS SCHOOL WELCOMES POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME ENROLMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- Putra Business School (PBS) wants qualified prospects to enrol in its postgraduate programmes by attending a Preview Day on July 27, at the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) Office Building, UPM Serdang.

PBS is the country’s first postgraduate business school to earn the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and is well known for its outstanding contribution in nurturing human leaders through its postgraduate programmes.

The preview is an ideal platform for the prospects to interact with PBS faculty members and get the feel of being a postgraduate student. Prospective students will have the privilege to have personalised coaching during the meeting.

Prospects will also have the privilege of getting waivers on the processing and acceptance fee worth RM360 (local applicant) and RM450 (international applicant). The waivers will be given only to those attending the event.

The programmes offered include MBA (General Management), MBA (Corporate Governance), MBA (Marketing), MBA (Human Potential Management), MBA (Finance), MBA (International Business), Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).

Prospects are advised to submit the completed documents within two weeks after the Preview Day. The new student registration for the September intake will be held on Sept 14. For more information, contact http://putrabusinessschool.edu.my.

-- BERNAMA

3+ DAYS | 30+ MASTER PRESENTERS | 60+ WORKSHOPS | 100+ EXHIBITORS

Be Well & Empower Yourself from the 8^th -10^th November 2019(Friday to Sunday) at MURFEST!

Fantastic World-class Presenters | Market place of Food & Drinks, Wellness products + Services | NEON GLO Ecstatic Dance Party | FREE Community Workshops and much more! 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) --  The annual Malaysian Urban Retreat Festival (MURFEST) returns with its 6^th “DREAMLAND” Edition, featuring an amazing line-up of world class presenters, an incredible market place of health and wellness, with the Just Be Markets @ MURFEST, and much more, all happening at the majestic Palace of The Golden Horses, Mines Wellness City, from 8^th to 10^th November, 2019.
 
The three-day MURFEST 2019, dubbed as Asia's Premier Wellness Festival, offers participants a once in a lifetime experience where they will have the chance to learn from and practice with the best yogi’s and various other top wellness instructors in the world, dance to fantastic music, play different instruments and sing with professional vocalists while enjoying healthy meals and relaxing with various therapeutic massages, in the quiet and tranquil comfort of the Palace of Golden Horses.
 
More than 70+ facilitators will be conducting various live workshops, programmes, talks and classes during the three day retreat. Among the highlights this year are Zenthai Shiatsu by Gwyn Williams from Australia, Ultimate Connect Yoga by Olivia Mercado from Bolivia, Power Yoga by Paul Teodo from the USA, Conscious Breathwork by Alsu Kashapova from Russia, Yoga Anatomy by James Wong from Malaysia and Goddess Awakening by Cladia Gallo from Costa Rica. Also among the facilitators are popular Malaysian singer Atilia Haron and highly regarded Filipino conscious deejay & music producer Crisanto Santa Ana from Orange County, California. There will also be masterclasses conducted by  James Wong (Sound Healing), Dr Andrea Page (Epigentics) and Levi Banner (Astrology) among many others, targeted at experienced practitioners and professional  instructors.  
 
A strategic collaboration between MURFEST and GHHS Wellness will see more Urban Retreats and Corporate Wellness engagements in months to come.  GHHS Wellness is a world-class preventive healthcare centre in Malaysia, complete with Western diagnostic technology and Eastern traditional treatment. On top of that, there is myriad of health tourism and wellness programs designed for a holistic healthier lifestyle which will be developed to further explore the growing market share in the region.
 
Throughout the years, MURFEST has placed Malaysia into the global wellness map by promoting Malaysia as Asia's No. 1 Health & Wellness destination. MURFEST is also proud to support "Visit Malaysia 2020", an important initiative that has received the support and endorsement of the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad.
 
By the year 2020, Malaysia will welcome a total of 36 million tourists and register RM168 billion in tourist receipts. Wellness Tourism is undoubtedly a key focus. Moreover, MURFEST is earmarked as a pivotal platform to assist in fulfilling this promising fact.
 
MURFEST has been described as the ultimate “URBAN RETREAT” that should not to be missed in this region. Lets Explore & Experience with MURFEST.
 
Many corporations and businesses are taking a different approach to stress management within the workforce and are encouraging its employees to be more mindful of their well being whilst still empowering them to make positive shifts in their lives. MURFEST is proud to be able to provide this platform of service to the people seeking alternatives to team building exercises, but not in a typical way, but rather via a 3 day Urban retreat through an established and proven wellness platform.
 
MURFEST also looks forward to mindful collaborations with Brands and Companies that focuses towards wellness, fitness, beauty and health not just in Malaysia but regionally.
 
Whether you are a yogi, dancer, music-lover, healthy-eating enthusiast or simply on a path of self-discovery, searching for something fun, new, and exciting to experience MURFEST is the place to be this November! Tickets are priced from RM175.

For more information, surf over to the Murfest website and/or social media pages.

·         www.murfest.com
·         www.facebook.com/murfest
·         INSTAGRAM: @mymurfest

Source: XHale Asia (M) Sdn Bhd

A CELEBRATION OF "ENTREPRENEURSHIP EMPOWERMENT"

● Award ceremony to be held on 8^th of November 2019 at Grand Ballroom, The Palace of the Golden Horses.
● New award categories recognising the health, wellness and beauty sector to be introduced

KUALA LUMPUR, July 26 (Bernama) -- The SME & Entrepreneurship Business Award 2019 | SEBA 2019 is back again for the fourth consecutive year and will take place on 8^th of November 2019 at the Grand Ballroom, Palace of the Golden Horses. Calls for nominations are currently open via www.seba.asia

This year, under the auspices of Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia both the SEBA 2019 & MURFEST 2019 will be held consecutively at Palace of the Golden Horses.

SEBA is an annual initiative set up by Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia and is supported by the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development (MED) Malaysia to recognise Malaysia's most outstanding entrepreneurs and enterprises while uncovering growing talents and upcoming companies that are transforming the industries they operate.  Some of the past award recipients includes Tony Fernandes (Air Asia), Patrick Grove (Catcha Group), Anthony Tan (Grab), Bernard Chandran and Leslie Gomez of Olive Tree Group many others.

"It is critical for SMEs to connect and collaborate on a synergistic platform for mutual benefit. Not just an award, SEBA 2019 is a catalyst for entrepreneurs to grow together with their team members and to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs through our year-long programmes that are in place to educate, train and mentor entrepreneurs,” says Nitesh Malani.

SEBA 2019 will also see a special focus in the wellness industry as part of the on-going collaboration with MURFEST. The wellness industry which is reported to be worth over RM13 trillion globally, is also one of the fastest-growing sectors in Malaysia with a spending of RM 20.5 billion per annum.  SEBA 2019 will introduce several new categories to recognise entrepreneurs in the health, beauty & wellness industry.

Several Memorandum-of-Understanding (MOUs) were signed at the launch yesterday with key strategic stakeholders.

The MoUs signed were between:

● Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia & RAM Credit Information Sdn Bhd (RAMCI);
● Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia & Cheng & Co Sdn Bhd;
● Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia  & Malaysian Association of Professional Trainers & Coaches (MAPTaC)
● Xhale Asia (M) Sdn Bhd & GHHS Wellness Sdn Bhd

This year’s SEBA will also feature a new vibrant advisory board that will be providing strategic counsel to the SEBA 2019 award committee. Board members include Nitesh Malani (Chairman of Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia), YBhg. Datuk Wan Suraya Mohd Radzi (Secretary General of the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development, Malaysia), Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew (Founder & Executive Chairman Country Heights Holding Bhd), Lyndia Wong (Organising Chairperson of SEBA 2019), Zhariff Afandi (Malaysian Youth Icon & International Motivator), Kishva Ambigapathy (Chairperson of Commonwealth Youth Council), Dato’ Lee Chung Han (Chairman of Guardian Group), Tom Wong (CEO of Cheng & Co.) and Dato’ David Gurupatham (Lawyer &  Advisor to Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia)

More information and latest updates on both the events can be found here:

MURFEST:
Official Site: www.murfest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MURFEST/

SEBA:
Official Site : www.seba.asia
Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/sebasmeawards/ 

About Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia (MyPreneurship)

 

Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia (MyPreneurship) is a non-government organisation that strives on the frontier of gathering, creating and developing sustainable companies with strong entrepreneurship traits. The organisation builds credibility on serving as a platform that supports the development of companies across all businesses. It offers programmes that are tailored with their best interest in mind to ensure that they can achieve their goals while sustaining core values.

VMO, AI Collective improve F&B merchants´ business insights

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- VMO has partnered with AI Collective to offer ARKANA, a predictive analytics of next week’s sales to food & beverage (F&B) merchants.

ARKANA early users have managed to reduce food wastage to below two per cent and benefit from an accurate predictive analysis of as high as 86 per cent accuracy.

AI Collective chief executive, Aloysius Liang said: “Our users, ranging from chain restaurants to individual outlet owners, have experienced an improvement in reducing their food wastage and predicting their future sales.

“ARKANA simplifies the process of data analysis and management from months to a mere few clicks, allowing our users to understand their business a lot better and optimising their productivity to a whole new level.”

ARKANA is now available free to all registered VMO merchants.

VMO is an instant booking platform for event venues and services with over 2,000 merchant listings across Malaysia, covering event spaces for a wide range of ‘life events’.

More information at vmo.rocks

-- BERNAMA

OKEX DONATES $4.5 MILLION TO FOSTER PERPETUAL SWAP MARKET

VALLETTA, Malta, July 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OKEx, a world-leading cryptocurrency exchange, has donated $4.5 million-worth of Bitcoin to its perpetual swap market insurance fund to foster customers’ confidence in trading cryptocurrencies.
 
Last year, OKEx introduced perpetual swap trading along with the new risk management system which their customers widely benefited from. Since the adoption of the new risk management system, the exchange has recorded zero clawback for the futures and perpetual swap markets, even under extreme volatility. The donation to the perpetual swap insurance fund will now provide an extra layer of protection to the customers, further ensuring that all customers’ interests are safeguarded.
 
“We strive for developing a healthy trading environment. No clawback has occurred on OKEx perpetual swap since its launch. We introduced a new risk management system to strike a better balance between avoiding early liquidation and maximizing traders’ benefits,” said Andy Cheung, Head of Operations of OKEx. “We believe the $4.5 million donation can give extra confidence for customers trading on our platform. Developing a robust crypto marketplace where everyone can trade freely in a fair manner is something that has always been our mission."
 
OKEx’s world-leading crypto marketplace serves millions of users globally, offering hedging and arbitrage instruments, such as futures and perpetual swaps, to help traders optimize their trading strategies. With a comprehensive security system, no major security issues, hacks, and asset losses have ever taken place on OKEx.
 
“Customer satisfaction is the core of our service. The key to delivering the best user experience to our customers is security,” added Andy Cheung. “Our founding members and executives are all tech and internet experts, allowing us to lead in product and technology development. As believers in Bitcoin and blockchain, we are dedicated to bringing more positive changes to the existing financial system, bridging the traditional and crypto markets with our technologies.”
 
Please stay tuned to OKEx’s Press Room and Twitter for latest updates.
 
About OKEx

OKEx is a world-leading digital asset exchange headquartered in Malta, offering comprehensive digital asset trading services including fiat-to-token trading, spot trading, futures trading, and perpetual swap trading to traders globally with blockchain technology. Currently, the exchange offers over 400 token and futures trading pairs enabling users to optimize their strategies.
 
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44976272-2390-48f8-974a-3bd991292751
 
media@okex.com
 
Source: OKEx
 
--BERNAMA

Virgin Hyperloop One to build world´s longest hyperloop test track in Saudi Arabia

KUALA LUMPUR, July 23 (Bernama) -- Virgin Hyperloop One recently announced a development partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Economic City Authority (ECA) to conduct a study to build the world’s longest test and certification hyperloop track.

The world’s only hyperloop company to successfully test its hyperloop technology at scale will also build a research and development centre, as well as hyperloop manufacturing facility in north Jeddah.

The study will focus on the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), located 100km north of the Red Sea port of Jeddah.

The project will include a 35km test and certification track and create opportunities for the development of specific hyperloop technologies and develop local expertise in Saudi Arabia.

The study will also facilitate the development of localised hyperloop supply chains and acceleration of innovation clusters across the Kingdom.

Secretary-General, Mohanud A. Helal said: “Having hyperloop at KAEC is going to act as catalyst for a Saudi Silicon Valley effect and galvanise our software development, high technology research and manufacturing industries.”

Virgin Hyperloop One chief executive officer, Jay Walder said a hyperloop system could enable Saudi Arabia to become a global transportation powerhouse, nurture the nation’s innovation and entrepreneurial culture, and grow an innovative knowledge workforce.

The company’s technology features depressurised tubes that carry on-demand passenger or cargo ‘pods’ at speeds of up to 1,080km per hour.

With speeds three times faster than high-speed rail and on-demand, direct to destination experience, hyperloop technology can reduce journey time across Saudi Arabia.

-- BERNAMA

Online Muslim counsellors now available in United States

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) -- TherapyLine enters the United States (US) market today to help bring online professional therapy to over 3.4 million Muslims in the country.

Launched in Canada a few months ago, TherapyLine is an online platform that provides unlimited anonymous direct messaging therapy from professionally licensed Muslim counsellors.

With US$179 (RM737.28) monthly fee, users can choose a therapist for depression, anxiety, addiction, marriage counselling and others by text. (US$1=RM4.12)

The first state which TherapyLine will enter is Michigan, and there are plans to expand it to New York, Illinois and Minnesota.

More details at www.therapyline.org.

-- BERNAMA

Alibaba.com opens platform to globally empower US businesses

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) -- Alibaba.com, one of the world’s largest B2B e-commerce marketplaces has opened its platform to empower United States (US) businesses to sell their products to millions of Alibaba.com buyers in the US and globally.

Currently, nearly 30 million small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the US, including manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors are able to access the US$23.9 trillion global B2B e-commerce market, an opportunity that is six times larger than the global B2C e-commerce market.

“With 10 million active business buyers in over 190 countries and regions, we are reshaping B2B commerce by providing the tools and services needed for US SMB companies to compete and succeed in today’s global marketplace,” said Alibaba Group, head of North America B2B, John Caplan.

Alibaba.com is also unveiling an enhanced ecosystem of participants which include anchor sellers and B2B service providers who share the company’s mission to make it easier for SMBs to do business.

The company is also co-producing a series of ‘Build Up’ workshops and webinars with local chambers of commerce and B2B organisations across the country, including SCORE, one of the nation’s largest non-profit networks of volunteer, expert business mentors.

Launched in 1999, Alibaba.com is a business unit of Alibaba Group, which is engaged in services covering all aspects of commerce. For more information, contact https://www.alibaba.com.

-- BERNAMA

This summer, indulge in Hong Kong's 3-day e-Sport & Music Festival

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will organise the third edition of e-Sports & Music Festival Hong Kong, presented by Cyberport from July 26 to 28, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The event includes international tournaments, 2019 League of Legends International College Cup and CS:GO World Invitational, as well as regional and local tournaments of popular mobile games, EMFHK - e-Sports Tournaments ‘Honor of Kings’ Official City Tournament and PUBG Mobile Hong Kong Tournament.

The tournaments will be live-streamed via key online platforms in three languages, namely Cantonese, Mandarin and English, according to a statement.

The festival will also highlight the Experience Zone, showcasing retro arcade machines, along with VR experiences and professional e-racing equipment for trial.

The all-inclusive admission tickets are priced at HK$50. Ticket holders of the e-Sports & Music Festival Hong Kong will also be entitled to free admission to the Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong on the same day. (HK$10 = RM5.27)

For more information, contact https://emfhk.com.

-- BERNAMA

Mandela Day: UEM Sunrise´s community library programme raises knowledge sharing awareness

KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) -- Inspired by the Nelson Mandela International Day (Mandela Day) which is observed on July 18, UEM Sunrise Berhad (UEM Sunrise) staff volunteered to sort out thousands of books donated by the public after the launch of its BukuDrive.

BukuDrive is UEM Sunrise’s initiative for its community library programme, BukuHub, according to a statement.

“On this day of reflection on Dr Mandela’s life and work, we embrace the true spirit of his legacy and aspire to emulate his example,” said UEM Sunrise chief marketing officer, Kenny Wong.

“We do this by taking action and volunteering our time, hoping to raise awareness and support for his values of helping people in need and in doing so, share the power of knowledge through donated books.”

Mandela Day was initiated by the United Nations in 2009 after Dr Mandela’s global call to action that celebrates the idea that everyone has the power to transform the world, and the ability to make an impact in every community.

BukuHub represents UEM Sunrise’s small but powerful strides towards Mandela Day’s focus area and goal of Education and Literacy. This is very much in line with its CSR strategy of Education Enhancement and Community Engagement.

UEM Sunrise’s BukuDrive initiative in Publika mall will continue until Dec 31. For more information, contact https://uemsunrise.com.

-- BERNAMA

152 MALAYSIANS PUT COUNTRY ON THE MAP AS THEY ARE NAMED GLOBAL TOP ACCA PRIZE WINNERS

·      Abdurrahman Apandi is the highest ranked CAT Management Accounting student in the world having scored 100% in his exam

KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 (Bernama) -- There was elation in the air as the discipline, dedication and tenacity shown by 152 Malaysian students in preparing for their ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) examinations were rewarded when they were named  prizewinners at the ACCA Malaysia Top Achievers Ceremony. This celebratory event recognised outstanding students for the achievements in the 2017, 2018 and March 2019 examinations.

Students from diverse background and education system who are pursuing this internationally recognised professional qualification have not only excelled and obtained the highest scores in Malaysia but also across the world. Top international scorers from Malaysia were bestowed the award as “Global Prizewinners” at this event as they surpassed the achievements of fellow ACCA students from 179 countries.
 
Of the winners, 117 are from ACCA learning providers. Among the group of Global Prizewinners, one student in particular shone brightest when he scored a perfect 100% for the ACCA Certified Accounting Technician (CAT) Management Accounting (MA 1) paper. Abdurrahman Apandi, aged 19, a  Yayasan Peneraju-Perbadanan Nasional Berhad scholar who is currently pursuing the ACCA Qualification at INTEC Education College (INTEC), has once again put Malaysia on the map as a country with  high calibre and outstanding accounting talents the world needs.

His fellow INTEC coursemate, 23 year old Nur Amira binti Arifin also did the country proud by becoming  the No.1 scorer in Malaysia and fourth in the world for the Strategic Business Leader (SBL) paper. SBL is one of two new papers ACCA introduced last year as part of its efforts to future proof it’s accreditation and groom top global leaders by incorporating strategic business thinking module into its qualifications.

“ACCA has been a great support to my professional development. I appreciate the different opportunities to learn and network with professionals that help keep me intact with the industry” said Tiffany Tan, a former student from Sunway TES who is currently completing her postgraduate degree in Australia. She was named the No.1 Top Affiliate in Malaysia and second in the world for the December 2017 examinations.  Tan Lin Fang, 21, who was also a student from Sunway TES received recognition as bronze Top Affiliate in the recent March 2019 examinations.

ACCA Malaysia Country Head, Edward Ling said, “Obtaining the ACCA qualification is by no means an easy feat. It takes a certain amount of verve, commitment, and determination for one to become an ACCA graduate. Not only have these students accomplished this, they have done so with distinction on a global scale. Adding on to that, I am very proud to share that today, ACCA has more than 36,000 outstanding students pursuing our professional qualification in Malaysia.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=35042

Positive outlook for DPL Insurance Limited, says AM Best

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- The outlook of DPL Insurance Limited (DPL) New Zealand has been revised to positive from stable, according to AM Best.

The positive outlook reflects an improving trend in DPL’s balance sheet fundamentals, including risk-adjusted capitalisation and the size of its absolute capital base.

These factors, coupled with AM Best’s expectation of controlled growth and robust underwriting performance over the medium term, could lead to positive rating actions.

Moreover, the global rating agency also affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of B+ (good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of ‘bbb-’ of the insurance company.

The ratings reflect DPL’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best has described as adequate, as well as its adequate operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The ratings also factor in a neutral impact from the company’s ultimate ownership by Turners Automotive Group Limited, a motor vehicle retailer and financial services group in New Zealand.

Going forward, AM Best expects improved underwriting performance to support a greater balance of overall earnings.

More details at www.ambest.com

-- BERNAMA

Madison Realty Capital loans US$225 million to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, Boca Raton

KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 (Bernama) -- Madison Realty Capital, a real estate private equity firm has provided a US$225 million construction loan on The Residences at Mandarin Oriental in Boca Raton. (US$1 = RM4.11)

The project is a planned 12-storey, 580,000 sq ft luxury condominium tower, according to a statement.

The financing will allow owner/developer Penn-Florida Companies to complete the project with an additional 22,000 sq ft of retail.

The construction of the condominium tower commenced several months ago, along with the new 164-room Mandarin Oriental Hotel, which will give condo owners unparalleled access to the hotel and Via Mizner (a world-renowned resort destination) extensive amenity package.

The Residences will offer a collection of 92 custom homes with breathtaking ocean and golf course views. Condo owners will be given preferred access to the Mandarin Oriental and its plethora of amenities and membership to the Via Mizner Golf & City Club.

The Residences will be connected to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel by way of a two-story underground parking garage, as well as an upper-level bridge featuring a fitness centre, spa and meeting space.

-- BERNAMA

European Society of Cardiology heartbeat away from providing doctors latest findings

KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 (Bernama) -- The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) has joined forces with the Asian Pacific Society of Cardiology (APSC) and the Asean Federation of Cardiology (AFC) to launch the three-day ESC ASIA with APSC & ASC, beginning Nov 8 in Singapore.

“This new congress will showcase the very latest, most important lessons so that physicians can provide their heart patients with the best possible care,” said organising committee chair, Prof Michel Komajda.

This cutting-edge event will help explain the new, all important ESC Clinical Practice Guidelines on Diabetes; Pre-diabetes & Cardiovascular Diseases; Acute Pulmonary Embolism; Chronic Coronary Syndromes; and Dyslipidaemias.

The pioneering event builds on ESC’s reputation in the region as a renowned and trusted learned society.

Tens of thousands of healthcare professionals in Asia already turn to the ESC for its prestigious journals, scientific congresses and unique membership opportunities.

The event will offer physicians of all sorts an opportunity to exchange ideas, with some of the most respected cardiovascular researchers from Europe and the Asia Pacific region, according to a statement.

ESC is the world’s largest organisation of healthcare professionals dedicated to fighting heart disease. For more information, contact https://www.escardio.org.

-- BERNAMA